Lead Singer Syndrome with Shane Told

Joey Cape, frontman and songwriter of the legendary band Lagwagon, shares his unexpected journey into singing, admitting he originally wanted no part of it. He reflects on the emotional impact of losing bandmates, including original drummer Derrick Plourde. Joey reveals the inspiration behind the beloved song 'May 16,' now celebrated as 'Lagwagon Day,' and discusses the 'Joey Chord' that shapes their unique sound. His candid anecdotes about songwriting and the music industry offer a heartfelt glimpse into the punk rock world he navigates.

Aaron Pauley, the dynamic frontman of Of Mice & Men and former member of Jamie's Elsewhere, dives deep into his musical journey. He shares the challenges of stepping into the lead vocalist role and the intense demands of live performances. Pauley reflects on his evolution from bass player to frontman, mixing clean vocals with screams. His nostalgic storytelling includes childhood musical moments and the shift in music consumption in the digital age, revealing the emotional ties musicians have with their craft.

Morgan Lander, the fierce frontwoman and guitarist of Kittie, dives into her band's groundbreaking journey in the metal scene. She shares stories from their teenage years, securing a record deal, and the emotional weight of losing guitarist Trish Doan. Their conversation highlights Kittie's innovative sound, upcoming DVD, and a live album celebrating over 20 years in music. Lander also discusses her unique family background and the trials they faced within the industry, revealing valuable insights into resilience and artistic integrity.

Shane talks with Justin Sane, the frontman of Anti-Flag, renowned for his politically charged punk rock. They discuss the challenges and disappointments of performing at legendary venues, the influence of his Irish-American upbringing on his activism, and the realities of life on the road. Justin shares insights from collaborating with icons like Tom Morello and Benji Madden, and they dive into the band's latest album, 'American Fall,' highlighting its evolution and the importance of maintaining an authentic voice in music.

Chris #2, the charismatic bass player and hype man for Anti-Flag, shares his wild journey from super fan to band member. He discusses a legendary beef with Dropkick Murphys that honed his frontman skills and led to an epic tour. The conversation also dives into how Anti-Flag swindled their major label for cash, which was funneled into meaningful causes. Chris reflects on the struggles of authenticity in music, the balance of activism and artistry, and his exciting plans for the future, including a new hockey-themed bar.

Robb Flynn, the charismatic frontman of Machine Head, dives into the metal world with a flair that's hard to ignore. He discusses being labeled a 'legend' in the genre, the pressure of lengthy live performances, and the backlash from his provocative 'racism in metal' video. Flynn also teases the upcoming release of their new album, 'Catharsis,' revealing insights about evolving fan communication in the age of social media. It's an engaging exploration of creativity, authenticity, and the challenges faced by artists in today's landscape.

Donovan Melero, the talented singer and drummer of Hail The Sun, shares his journey from underground success to signing with Equal Vision Records. He discusses the challenges of balancing drumming and vocal duties during live shows and his dual role as a booking agent. The conversation reveals insights into their creative process, recording with Beau Burchell, and the excitement surrounding their upcoming tour plans. Melero also reflects on their evolution and the importance of passion in their music career.

Awsten Knight, the charismatic frontman of Waterparks, dives into a whirlwind of topics, showcasing his humor and candid nature. He shares how his band got discovered in unexpected ways and reflects on his collaborations with Good Charlotte's Benji and Joel. Awsten also dishes on his quirky hip-hop project,

Garrett Russell, the charismatic lead singer of Silent Planet and a savvy band manager, returns to share his latest adventures. He talks about their recent APMA award win and the hustle for free food on tour. Navigating touring challenges, he offers laughs about Warped Tour in a van and the search for authentic cuisine. Garrett also reflects on the balance between artistic integrity and the business side of music while highlighting the importance of community and empathy in the industry. Get ready for insights and humor from the metalcore scene!

Tobi Duncan, the frontman of Trash Boat, joins for a lively chat about the band’s whirlwind rise and the pressures of crafting their next album. He shares how living his dream of selling out the London Underworld feels surreal, and reflects on working with his idol, Dan 'Soupy' Campbell. Tobi dives into humorous touring stories and the cultural quirks of fast food in Europe. Additionally, he discusses the challenges of balancing personal growth and songwriting authenticity, teasing exciting new projects ahead.