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
Jul 24, 2023 • 1h 19min
Ep. 165: Kenny Vasoli discusses The Starting Line's "Island"
In this episode, bassist and vocalist Kenny Vasoli delves into the creative process behind "Island”, The Starting Line's highest ever charting single. The song is from the band’s 2007 full-length Direction, which was produced by the renowned Howard Benson. Kenny shares the never-before-heard demo — as well as tons of intriguing insight — into the creation of a song that sounds just as great now as the day it was released.To support the podcast and get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Chris DeMakes A Podcast Supporting Cast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jul 17, 2023 • 1h 11min
Ep. 164: Mikey Erg discusses The Ergs! "Pray For Rain"
Youthful desperation and exuberance shine through in the fan favorite song "Pray For Rain" from The Ergs! 2004 debut album Dork Rock Cork Rod. In this episode, drummer and vocalist Mikey Erg reminisces on the writing and recording of this heartfelt punk rock classic.To support Chris DeMakes A Podcast and get weekly bonus episodes of The After Party podcast, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jul 10, 2023 • 1h 39min
Ep. 163: Nick Wheeler discusses The All-American Rejects "Move Along"
The 2006 All-American Rejects single "Move Along" is an anthem of perseverance in the face of adversity. In this episode, guitarist Nick Wheeler details the writing and recording of this hit song that features everything from a world-renowned percussionist to a children's choir.If you'd like to support Chris DeMakes A Podcast AND get weekly bonus episodes (plus an entire back catalog of them), sign up for the Supporting Cast at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jul 3, 2023 • 1h 22min
Ep. 162: Aaron Barrett and Scott Klopfenstein discuss Reel Big Fish's "Sell Out"
In 1996, Reel Big Fish became the poster boys for the third wave of ska, as "Sell Out" propelled the band onto radio and MTV. In this episode, Aaron and Scott detail the writing, recording, release, and legacy of the classic song that still resonates hard with fans today.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
Jun 26, 2023 • 1h 10min
Ep. 161: Bill Stevenson discusses Descendents "Clean Sheets"
Legendary drummer, producer, and songwriter Bill Stevenson makes his return to the show to discuss the writing and recording of "Clean Sheets", the fan favorite song from the 1987 Descendents album All. From the song's inception in Bill's dreams to how he feels about the song's subject matter today, this episode dives into all aspects of the power pop classic.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
Jun 19, 2023 • 1h 9min
Ep. 160: Fat Mike discusses NOFX's "The Decline" (Part 2)
In Part 2 of a conversation with Fat Mike, the NOFX frontman dives into the writing, recording, release, and legacy of the epic punk rock masterpiece "The Decline".To support Chris DeMakes A Podcast and get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Chris DeMakes A Podcast Patreon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jun 12, 2023 • 1h 3min
Ep. 159: Fat Mike discusses NOFX's "The Decline" (Part 1)
In 1999, NOFX released "The Decline", an 18 minute punk rock opus that many consider to be the band's most ambitious and impressive feat. This is Part 1 of a conversation with vocalist and bassist Fat Mike about everything from the song's origins to the lyrical content.To support Chris DeMakes A Podcast and get weekly bonus episodes, sign up for our Patreon at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jun 5, 2023 • 1h 8min
Ep. 158: John Feldmann discusses Goldfinger's "Superman"
John Feldmann was the first ever guest on Chris DeMakes A Podcast, and to celebrate the 3 year anniversary of the show, he makes his triumphant return to discuss the writing, recording, release, and legacy of Goldfinger's iconic ska-punk classic "Superman".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
Jun 1, 2023 • 37min
SNEAK PREVIEW of The After Party "Time Capsule: June 1989" episode
Today marks the 3 year anniversary of the first episode of Chris DeMakes A Podcast! To celebrate, here is a sneak preview episode of The After Party podcast. In this episode, Chris and Chris take a look back at what was happening in June of 1989.To get weekly episodes of The After Party (plus a GIANT back catalog of them), just head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
May 29, 2023 • 1h 4min
Ep. 157: Sean "Slug" Daley discusses Atmosphere's "The Best Day"
Minneapolis hip hop duo Atmosphere have blazed a prolific musical path that has spanned decades. In this episode, rapper Sean "Slug" Daley breaks down the writing and recording of the fan favorite 2010 single "The Best Day", taken from the double EP To All My Friends, Blood Makes The Blade Holy. From the relatable lyrical content to the danceable beat, this standout track resonates now just as much as when it was released. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
