This One Goes Out to The Wine I Love: Jay Boberg on Discovering R.E.M., The Go-Go’s, and Oregon Wine!

Jul 21, 2025

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On this episode of Beats, Vines & Life, host MJ Towler sits down with Jay Boberg—visionary music entrepreneur and co-founder of Nicolas J Winery—for a wide-ranging, personal conversation that bridges the worlds of music, wine, and following your passions. From co-founding the legendary IRS Records at just 21, to working with icons like R.E.M., the Go-Go’s, and the Police, Jay shares stories of the early days of MTV, concert promotion at UCLA, and his unique insider perspective on how great bands (and wines) are discovered.

Jay opens up about his California roots, his lifelong love affair with wine, and the surprising parallels between crafting albums and crafting Pinot Noir in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Whether he’s talking about meeting musical legends like Bob Marley or sharing wine with renowned Burgundian winemaker Jean Nicolas Méo, Jay’s path is a testament to living a full life driven by curiosity and creativity. Tune in for a fascinating journey through music history, wine country, and what it means to truly follow your avocations—wherever they might lead.

For more information about Nicolas-Jay Winery click the link!

Follow Nicolas-Jay on IG!

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Until next time, cheers to the mavericks, philosophers, deep thinkers, and wine drinkers!

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