
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

Sep 11, 2023 • 1h 15min
Ep. 172: Devon Kay discusses Devon Kay & The Solutions "Millenial Homesick Blues"
Devon Kay's enthusiasm and sense of humor shine through both in this episode's conversation and in the 2023 Devon Kay & The Solutions single "Millenial Homesick Blues" (yes, he knows that "millenial" is misspelled!). Together with Chris, they explore the relatable inspiration behind the song and dive into the DIY recording approach that brought this lively track to life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 4, 2023 • 53min
Ep. 171: A discussion on Christine McVie and Fleetwood Mac's "Don't Stop"
In this episode, host Chris DeMakes and producer Chris Fafalios engage in a thought-provoking discussion about the legendary musician and songwriter Christine McVie and her iconic Fleetwood Mac hit, "Don't Stop." They explore the fascinating complexity of the song, which, despite its seeming simplicity, manages to convey an uplifting message about breakups, defying conventional norms for such themes. Reflecting on Christine McVie's profound impact on music and culture, the conversation becomes even more poignant following her passing in November 2022, solidifying her legacy as a trailblazing artist whose music continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.To support Chris DeMakes A Podcast and get weekly bonus episodes, sign up for the Supporting Cast at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 31, 2023 • 1h 5min
Throwback Thursday: Tom Higgenson discusses Plain White T's "Hey There Delilah"
This Throwback Thursday episode is from December 27th, 2021 (Episode #83), in which Tom Higgenson takes listeners on a journey through the creation of the beloved Plain White T's hit single, "Hey There Delilah." Unraveling the intriguing story behind the song's writing and recording, Tom sheds light on the emotional process that led to its creation. With over 5 million copies sold and multiple award nominations, "Hey There Delilah" stands as a testament to the band's artistry and remains an enduring favorite among fans.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

Aug 28, 2023 • 1h 3min
Ep. 170: Alexia Roditis discusses Destroy Boys "Fences"
In this episode, guitarist and vocalist Alexia Roditis delves into the process behind the writing and recording of "Fences". The song captures the essence of remaining trapped in despair due to its familiarity, prompting introspection on life's deeper meaning with the thought-provoking question, "is this all?" With her candid insights, Alexia offers listeners a glimpse into the emotional depth and creative journey that birthed this powerful and relatable track.If you'd like to support Chris DeMakes A Podcast 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

Aug 21, 2023 • 1h 13min
Ep. 169: Andrew Dost discusses Fun.'s "We Are Young"
In this episode, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Andrew Dost details the writing, recording, and release of Fun.'s "We Are Young," a song that spent 6 weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and won the 2013 Grammy for Song of the Year. Andrew shares never-before-heard demos of the song and offers fascinating insights into the creative process of one of Fun.'s brilliant creators, making it an enlightening look into the making of a Grammy-winning hit.Want to support Chris DeMakes A Podcast and get weekly bonus episodes? Head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com and sign up for the Supporting Cast (which is just like a Patreon). You'll get instant access to an ENORMOUS back catalog of episodes of The After Party, with new episodes dropping every Monday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 17, 2023 • 38min
SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party "The Biggest Songs of the 1950s" episode
Get ready for a sneak preview of The After Party podcast, the exclusive bonus episode available to members of the Chris DeMakes A Podcast Supporting Cast each week. In this episode, Chris and Chris dive into the biggest songs of the 1950s, offering a delightful mix of learning and laughter. With a new episode released every week and a vast back catalog to explore, subscribing to The Supporting Cast at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com is the ultimate way to show your support for Chris DeMakes A Podcast and gain access to these entertaining and informative After Party episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 14, 2023 • 1h 7min
Ep. 168: Mike Herrera discusses MxPx's "Stay Up All Night"
Bassist and vocalist Mike Herrera takes listeners behind the scenes of MxPx's latest single "Stay Up All Night," diving into the story of its creation and recording process. Mike candidly shares what keeps him inspired to write new songs and reveals the profound influences that sparked the inception of this dynamic and heartfelt new single.To support Chris DeMakes A Podcast and get weekly bonus episodes (plus a giant back catalog of them), head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast (it's just like a Patreon). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 10, 2023 • 54min
Throwback Thursday: Huey Lewis discusses Huey Lewis & The News "The Power Of Love"
In this special Throwback Thursday episode of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, released originally on January 24, 2022, listeners are treated to an incredible conversation with music icon Huey Lewis. The episode delves into the captivating journey behind the creation of the timeless #1 hit from 1985, "The Power Of Love," by Huey Lewis & The News, which gained fame as the theme song for the iconic movie Back To The Future. With Huey Lewis's firsthand insights, the discussion covers the song's writing, recording, release, and enduring legacy, offering fans a nostalgic glimpse into the magic that made this track an everlasting part of pop culture history.If you'd like to support Chris DeMakes A Podcast 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

Aug 7, 2023 • 1h 13min
Ep. 167: Howard Jones discusses his song "New Song"
Legendary singer-songwriter Howard Jones is a pioneer of electronic music, and he made his first mark on the world with the release of "New Song" in 1983. A string of hits and a remarkable career would soon follow, as would countless artists and producers who were influenced by his work. In this episode, Howard breaks down the writing, recording, release, and legacy of the song that started it all.To support Chris DeMakes A Podcast and get weekly bonus episodes, visit http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to join the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 31, 2023 • 1h 15min
Ep. 166: Howi Spangler discusses Ballyhoo!'s "Walk Away"
Howi Spangler is the guitarist and vocalist of Maryland beach rock legends Ballyhoo! In this episode, he breaks down the writing, recording, and release of the fan favorite 2011 single "Walk Away", which is an uplifting song about a mutual agreement to end a toxic relationship.To support Chris DeMakes A Podcast and 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices