The Punk Rock MBA

Dive into the fascinating world of music production as 93feetofsmoke shares insights on balancing artistry and collaboration. Discover how emo rap has evolved, reflecting the struggles and growth of a generation. The conversation touches on the emotional journey of artists, highlighting music as a therapeutic outlet. Experience the humbling challenges of live performances while preparing for new tours. It's a dynamic exploration of creativity, personal growth, and the community that fuels the music scene.

Finn McKenty, a music journalist and creator behind The Punk Rock MBA, shares his insights on the evolving world of content creation, discussing his transition to Twitch and the launch of a new YouTube channel. He debates the significance of old versus new music and how social media encourages bad behavior among fans. The conversation dives into the emotional connections listeners have with music, the cultural dynamics within fandoms, and the challenges of maintaining authenticity while navigating the complexities of modern music criticism.

Skate Maloley, known as Sk8, is a dynamic musician carving his path in the music industry. He shares insights into his early days, the excitement of touring, and his journey from headlining shows to opening for big names like Lil Wayne. Sk8 reflects on the evolution of his sound, influenced by his experiences in Miami and Los Angeles, and emphasizes the importance of authenticity over clout in his art. He also discusses the power of social media in connecting with fans and the thrill of blending music genres.

Porcell, a legendary guitarist known for his work with Shelter, Judge, and Youth of Today, dives deep into his journey through the hardcore scene. He shares his early experiences with spirituality and Krishna consciousness, discussing the significance of being vegetarian before it became mainstream. The conversation touches on the roots of the hardcore punk movement, exploring its impact on youth culture and social issues. Porcell reflects on leadership, community, and the transformative nature of music, offering insights into balancing spiritual growth with artistic expression.

Tommy Green, the former lead singer of Sleeping Giant and xDEATHSTARx, is now a passionate advocate against human trafficking and has launched the social media platform Pyvott. In the conversation, he shares his inspiring journey from musician to activist, detailing how personal loss influenced his commitment to social causes. Green discusses the innovative features of Pyvott designed to create authentic connections and support anti-human trafficking efforts, while also reflecting on the impact of his faith and the complexities of navigating personal identity.

Is the rock band really on the decline? Technology, like 'desktop metal,' might suggest so, but is it truly the end? The challenges of modern music creation in costly urban settings push musicians to rethink collaboration. Band dynamics are explored, revealing issues that can stifle success in today's industry. Plus, the evolution of metal music opens doors for solo artists, while live drums continue to play a vital role in production, showing that some traditions endure amidst change.

Dive into the quirky charm of the 2000s with a humorous take on the worst songs of the era. From Afroman's 'Because I Got High' to Hinder's 'Lips of an Angel,' nostalgia mixes with sharp critique. The conversation hilariously examines the absurdity of music videos and pop culture trends like flash mobs, while also tackling the glorification of marijuana in lyrics. With playful jabs at Finger Eleven and a look back at hits like 'I Gotta Feeling,' this discussion reveals the cultural impact of these guilty pleasures.

Aaron Pauley and Tino Arteaga from Of Mice & Men dive into their journey of self-producing their new album, sharing how they adapted to writing over Zoom during the pandemic. The duo reflects on the shift towards EPs for greater artistic freedom and highlights the collaborative nature of their songwriting process. They discuss the balance between creative autonomy and constructive collaboration, all while expressing gratitude for their fans and the growth they've experienced in the metalcore community.

Ben Moyer, co-host of The Post America Podcast, dives into the vibrant world of 90s hardcore music with Finn McKenty. They explore the roots of the straight-edge scene and share personal tales from the Midwest hardcore community. The duo discusses the dynamic relationship between hardcore and hip-hop, emphasizing the need for open-mindedness in music. They also reminisce about iconic tours and the evolution of musical genres, highlighting the authentic sounds of the past versus today's digital practices.

Eyal Levi, CEO of URM Academy and Riffhard and former guitarist for Daath, shares his insights on music theory and its practical benefits for guitarists. He discusses the importance of motivation in mastering one's craft and emphasizes the value of constructive feedback. The conversation explores the evolution of music production and the balance between technical skill and mental resilience. Eyal also delves into the concepts of tension and release in songwriting, highlighting how music theory can unlock creativity and foster collaboration among musicians.