
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

Jan 23, 2023 • 1h 1min
Ep. 139: Vaden Todd Lewis discusses Toadies "Possum Kingdom"
In this episode, Toadies vocalist and guitarist Vaden Todd Lewis discusses the writing, recording, and release of the band's 1994 hit single "Possum Kingdom". The song's eerie lyrical content matched with its unique composition made it stand out in an era of inventive rock music, leading to a long and storied career for the legendary Fort Worth band.To support Chris DeMakes A Podcast and get weekly bonus episodes, you can sign up for the Supporting Cast at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 16, 2023 • 1h 7min
Ep. 138: Joe Lynn Turner discusses Rainbow's "Street of Dreams"
In this episode, legendary vocalist Joe Lynn Turner discusses the wild true story behind Rainbow’s 1983 hit single “Street of Dreams”.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

Jan 9, 2023 • 1h 4min
Ep. 137: Justin Currie discusses Del Amitri's "Roll To Me"
Justin Currie, bassist and lead vocalist of Scottish rock band Del Amitri, dives into the magic behind their iconic hit 'Roll To Me.' He shares how the song transformed from an overlooked track into a major success in the U.S. The conversation explores the band’s evolution from their post-punk roots, production challenges, and the distinct melody and lyrics that define 'Roll To Me.' Currie also reflects on the complexities of live performances and how personal experiences shaped the song's creation, all while sprinkling humor about vaping.

Jan 2, 2023 • 1h 5min
Ep. 136: Neil Sanderson discusses Three Days Grace's "I Hate Everything About You"
Neil Sanderson is much more than just the drummer of Three Days Grace. Aside from providing the hard-hitting backbone of the band's signature sound, Neil's songwriting ability and proficiency at multiple instruments makes him a true force in the world of rock music. In this episode, he breaks down the writing, recording, and release of the band's 2003 breakout hit single "I Hate Everything About You".For weekly bonus episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, visit http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 26, 2022 • 59min
Ep. 135: Yotam Ben Horin discusses Useless ID's "State of Fear"
Useless ID's 2005 single "State of Fear" combines infectious melodies with punk rock spirit to create an anthem that speaks to fans around the world. In this episode, guitarist and vocalist Yotam Ben Horin discusses the writing, recording, and release of a song that tells the story about his own personal experience of living in Israel.To support Chris DeMakes A Podcast and get weekly bonus episodes, visit http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 19, 2022 • 1h 11min
Ep. 134: Tony Scalzo discusses Fastball's "The Way"
A newspaper story about a missing couple sparked the idea for Fastball's 1998 hit single "The Way". In this episode, bassist and vocalist Tony Scalzo details the writing, recording, and meteoric rise of this unique and catchy track.Visit http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Chris DeMakes A Podcast Supporting Cast, where you'll get weekly bonus episodes of The After Party podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 12, 2022 • 1h 9min
Ep. 133: David Paich discusses Toto's "Africa"
Generation after generation has enjoyed the feel-good sound of Toto's "Africa", making it one of the most beloved songs of all time. In this episode, vocalist and keyboardist David Paich discusses the writing, recording, release, and legacy of this 1982 smash hit single.For weekly bonus episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, sign up for the Supporting Cast at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 5, 2022 • 1h 11min
Ep. 132: Keith Buckley discusses Every Time I Die's "Planet Shit"
Every Time I Die's 2021 single "Planet Shit" is an intense commentary on the current state of society. In this episode, vocalist Keith Buckley details the writing. recording, and release of this brutal, no holds barred track.If you'd like to get weekly bonus episodes AND support Chris DeMakes A Podcast, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 28, 2022 • 1h 9min
Ep. 131: Vinnie Caruana discusses I Am The Avalanche's "Brooklyn Dodgers"
When a demo of the song leaked on the internet, I Am The Avalanche's "Brooklyn Dodgers" became a fan favorite before it was even released. In this episode, vocalist Vinnie Caruana discusses the writing and recording of the band's hard-hitting 2011 single.To support Chris DeMakes A Podcast, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Subscribers will receive a giant back catalog of bonus episodes of The After Party podcast, plus a new episode every week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 21, 2022 • 1h 21min
Ep. 130: Fletcher Dragge discusses Pennywise's "F**k Authority"
Pennywise guitarist Fletcher Dragge is not a fan of being told what to do, and the band's 2001 single "F**k Authority" became a rallying cry for fans all over the world who felt the same way. In this episode, Fletcher discusses the writing, recording, release, and legacy of one of punk rock's most in-your-face anthems.To support Chris DeMakes A Podcast and get weekly bonus episodes of The After Party, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com and sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices