
Chris DeMakes A Podcast
Chris DeMakes A Podcast, hosted by Chris DeMakes of the legendary punk rock band Less Than Jake, features guests who have written iconic songs, exploring their backstory, creation, inspiration, and significance. Each episode offers an in-depth exploration into a specific track from renowned artists, with guests providing untold stories and fascinating details. From chart-toppers to hidden gems across various genres and eras, the podcast offers a rich listening experience. Chris's passion for music and songwriting fuels engaging discussions on lyrics, melodies, production techniques, and cultural context. Combining informative storytelling, interviews, and analysis, the podcast appeals to music lovers, die-hard fans, and anyone curious about the songwriting process. It provides insight into the artistry behind timeless songs, making it perfect for those seeking inspiration or simply wanting to immerse themselves in musical magic.
Latest episodes

Feb 29, 2024 • 29min
SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party "Leap Year, Leap Day, Leaplings, and Toast" episode
The After Party is a weekly bonus episode for members of the Chris DeMakes A Podcast Supporting Cast (which is basically just like Patreon). Head to ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up! You'll get a giant back catalog of episodes, and a new episode each week.Sign up for the Supporting Cast: http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 26, 2024 • 1h 3min
Ep. 195: Jonathan Higgs discusses Everything Everything's "Cold Reactor"
In this episode, Jonathan Higgs of Everything Everything shares the story behind the writing and recording of "Cold Reactor," the lead single from the band’s 2024 album Mountainhead. The narrative behind the song is intricately woven into the album’s overarching concept, offering a look into Jonathan’s vision of a strange dystopian world. All aspects of both the song and the band’s overall sound are explored, including Jonathan’s signature use of falsetto vocals.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes of The After Party, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 19, 2024 • 58min
Ep. 194: Jonathan Anastas discusses D.Y.S. "Wolfpack"
Sitting in this week is Jonathan Anastas, bassist of the influential Boston straight edge hardcore band D.Y.S. Jonathan recounts the writing and recording process of their seminal track "Wolfpack" from the 1983 album Brotherhood, which was recorded when he was just 15 years old. He shares anecdotes about the youthful energy and passion that fueled the music of D.Y.S. as he offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the band’s most iconic songs, as well as an exploration of the lasting impact of their contribution to the hardcore punk scene. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 12, 2024 • 55min
Ep. 193: Rob "Bucket" Hingley discusses The Toasters "2-Tone Army"
Rob "Bucket" Hingley is not only the founding member of The Toasters but also the visionary behind Moon Ska Records, which played a crucial part in cultivating and promoting ska music in the US and beyond. In this episode, he shares insights into the creative process behind the writing and recording of the classic 1996 fan favorite song from The Toasters, "2-Tone Army." What started as an idea for a cartoon theme song became a beloved ska anthem, and in this episode, Rob opens up about every aspect of this upbeat single with a positive message.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast (which is just like Patreon if you're not familiar). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 5, 2024 • 1h 7min
Ep. 192: Geoff Rickly discusses Thursday's "Signals Over the Air"
This week, Thursday frontman Geoff Rickly sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the band’s 2003 single “Signals Over the Air”. Taken from the band’s third album War All the Time, the song is a dynamic amalgamation of melody and aggression, and it’s much rawer than the polished productions that most people would expect from a major label release. In this episode, Geoff dives deep into the inspiration and creation of this landmark single.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show and get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 29, 2024 • 1h 4min
Ep. 191: Jonah Matranga discusses Far's "Mother Mary"
Far's 1998 album Water & Solutions is considered an influential record by a number of beloved bands. Filled to the brim with haunting melodies, powerful guitar hooks, and thought-provoking lyrics, this album is a significant piece of music history. In this episode, vocalist Jonah Matranga discusses the writing and recording of the band's most well-known single, "Mother Mary" – a moody rocker that packs a huge punch for a relatively short song.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to get weekly bonus episodes of The After Party (plus an ENORMOUS back catalog of past episodes), head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. It's just like a Patreon. You'll be supporting the podcast you love, and also getting TONS of bonus episodes. It's a win-win. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 22, 2024 • 1h 11min
Ep. 190: Keith Buckley discusses Many Eyes "Revelation"
Keith Buckley returns to the show, this time to discuss the writing and recording of Many Eyes' 2023 single, "Revelation." Deeply personal lyrics delivered with a mix of ferocity and melody over heavy grooves make this song a memorable debut. In this episode, Keith breaks down every aspect of its inception.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show (and get weekly bonus episodes), head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 15, 2024 • 1h
Ep. 189: Andy Jackson discusses Hot Rod Circuit's "The Pharmacist"
Hot Rod Circuit guitarist and vocalist Andy Jackson sits in this week to discuss the writing and recording of the band’s 2002 single “The Pharmacist”. While it may seem that the song is detailing a story of love gone wrong, the actual story behind the lyrics is as unexpected as it is heartbreaking. Andy also opens up about the organic recording experience that led to a sound that remains powerful and timeless.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to get weekly bonus episodes (plus a GIANT back catalog of bonus episodes), head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast (it's basically a Patreon, just a different name!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 8, 2024 • 1h 1min
Ep. 188: Mitchy Collins discusses lovelytheband's "broken"
Mitchy Collins from lovelytheband discusses the origins and success of their hit single 'broken', revealing personal lows turning into meteoric highs in the music industry. The episode explores song quality, composition, and the journey of a chart-topping hit, showcasing the band's independence in navigating the music industry on their own terms.

Jan 1, 2024 • 1h 1min
Ep. 187: Mark Tremonti discusses Creed's "Higher"
In this week's episode, guitarist and vocalist Mark Tremonti discusses the writing and recording of Creed’s iconic 1999 single, "Higher." This rock anthem soared to the top of the charts, solidifying the band as one of the era’s defining acts. Having already achieved success with their debut album, the astronomical rise of "Higher" from their sophomore effort, Human Clay, made Creed a household name. In this episode, Mark tells the story behind the creation of this timeless modern rock classic.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to both support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices