
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

Nov 2, 2023 • 45min
Throwback Thursday: Blake Schwarzenbach discusses Jawbreaker's "Boxcar"
This week's Throwback Thursday episode comes from April 19th, 2021, when Blake Schwarzenbach sat in to discuss the writing, recording, release, and legacy of Jawbreaker's classic track "Boxcar".If you enjoy 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

Oct 30, 2023 • 1h 29min
Ep. 179: Spencer Charnas discusses Ice Nine Kills "Hip To Be Scared"
Ice Nine Kills vocalist Spencer Charnas makes his triumphant return to the show, this time to discuss the creative process behind the 2021 single "Hip To Be Scared." The spine-tingling track was inspired by the iconic book and film American Psycho, and the song is filled with just as many unexpected twists and turns, all held together by a massive singalong chorus. Just in time for Halloween, this can't-miss episode is a wicked good time.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to get weekly bonus episodes (plus an ENORMOUS back catalog of them), head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 26, 2023 • 39min
SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party "Halloween #1 Hits" episode
First released on October 31st of 2022, this episode of The After Party dives into an array of songs from over the years that sat at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on Halloween Day.To get weekly episodes of The After Party just like this one (and a GIANT back catalog of past episodes), head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 23, 2023 • 1h 4min
Ep. 178: Chris Freeman discusses Hot Mulligan's "*Equip Sunglasses*"
In this episode, Hot Mulligan guitarist Chris Freeman dives into the creation and recording of the fan-favorite track "*Equip Sunglasses*". While producer Brett Romnes played a pivotal role in bringing the song to life, the track's structure remained remarkably faithful to its original demo. Beyond its catchy melodies, "*Equip Sunglasses*" serves as a lyrical expression of frustrations directed at those who attempt to confine the band within a predetermined box or enforce standards they never intended to uphold.If you enjoy Chris DeMakes A Podcast and would like to support the show, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. By joining, you'll get weekly bonus episodes, plus instant access to a giant back catalog of episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 19, 2023 • 51min
Throwback Thursday: Mummy Cass discusses Here Come The Mummies "Pants"
This Throwback Thursday, we're taking it back to October 11th, 2021, when Mummy Cass sat in to discuss the writing and recording of the 2008 Here Come The Mummies single "Pants". This hilarious and insightful look into the track is the perfect listen for the Halloween season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 16, 2023 • 1h 6min
Ep. 177: Rou Reynolds discusses Enter Shikari's "(pls) set me on fire"
In this episode, Enter Shikari vocalist Rou Reynolds takes center stage as he unravels the compelling story behind the writing, recording, and release of their 2023 hit single "(pls) set me on fire," hailing from the chart-topping album A Kiss for the Whole World. As both the album's producer and visionary artist, Rou dives into the intricacies of their groundbreaking sound, shedding light on the band's unique identity as creators of a dance, punk, and hardcore hybrid sound.To support Chris DeMakes A Podcast and get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast! You'll get instant access to an enormous back catalog of episodes of The After Party, as well as a new episode each week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 9, 2023 • 1h 12min
Ep. 176: Efrem Schulz discusses Death By Stereo's "Forever and a Day"
Death By Stereo frontman Efrem Schulz takes center stage in this episode as he unveils the backstory of Death By Stereo's 2005 single, "Forever and a Day." With a fervor that matches the song's intensity, Efrem guides listeners through the process of writing, recording, and releasing this deeply personal anthem, which revolves around a heartfelt promise to stand by a cherished friend through thick and thin. A sonic departure from much of the band's catalog, "Forever and a Day" allowed him to explore a whole new dimension of his vocal prowess, making this episode a must-listen for fans eager to uncover the layers behind this musical masterpiece.To support Chris DeMakes A Podcast and get weekly bonus episodes (plus a GIANT back catalog of episodes), head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 2, 2023 • 59min
Ep. 175: Wheeler Walker Jr. discusses his song "Fingerblast"
This week, Wheeler Walker Jr. sits in to discuss the making of his daring new single, "Fingerblast". All aspects of this raunchy and rockin' song are explored, with insights into its creation and musical influences. Wheeler also opens up about the song's provocative inspiration, making this episode a must-listen for those who appreciate boundary-pushing music and unfiltered artistic expression. Tune in for a wild ride into the world of "Fingerblast" and its fearless creator.If you'd like to support Chris DeMakes A Podcast 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

Sep 25, 2023 • 1h 5min
Ep. 174: Joe Jack Talcum discusses The Dead Milkmen's "Punk Rock Girl"
In this episode, vocalist and guitarist Joe Jack Talcum provides an engaging look into the creation of the timeless classic from The Dead Milkmen, "Punk Rock Girl". He shares the story of how so many iconic Philadelphia landmarks became part of the song's lyrics, all of which immerse the listener in the city's unique atmosphere. He also reveals how Minnie Pearl and Mojo Nixon made their way into this punk rock gem, making this a must-listen for Dead Milkmen fans and music enthusiasts alike.If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and would like to help support the show, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. You'll get weekly bonus episodes of the After Party podcast (plus a GIANT back catalog of episodes), and you'll be helping the show continue on! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 18, 2023 • 1h 7min
Ep. 173: Brandon Hardesty discusses Bumpin Uglies "Island Time"
This week, Bumpin Uglies guitarist and vocalist Brandon Hardesty discusses the creative process behind the fan-favorite song "Island Time." Brandon reveals the intimate inspiration behind the track: his wife's cherished connection to a family island retreat. Despite an injury that left him somewhat incapacitated when he was writing the song, the emotional depth and personal stories shine through in this conversation.If you'd like to support Chris DeMakes A Podcast 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