ep15 Arlo Maverick planting seeds
released May 1, 2025
1:45:17

Arlo Maverick, Edmonton-based MC and community builder, discusses his extensive career in hip hop, celebrating over 20 years in the industry. Beginning with his early inspirations and the formation of the group Politic Live, Marlon Wilson, aka Arlo Maverick, details his journey from regional recognition to national success. Glen Erickson engages with Marlon about his unique approach to music, including working with a live band and fostering a collective art creation environment. The conversation delves into Black Every Day and the ongoing racial barriers in the Canadian music industry, the systemic challenges, and the lack of infrastructure for Black musicians. Marlon also shares insights on the critical roles of mentorship and allyship in developing the music scene and challenges faced due to changing formats and radio station policies. Highlights include Marlon’s reflections on collaborations, the impact of support networks, and how aspiring artists can navigate their careers amidst systemic barriers.

Guest website: https://arlomaverick.ca
Guest Instagram: http://instagram.com/arlomaverick
Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/arlomaverick

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

00:00 Introduction

03:04 Arlo Maverick's Musical Journey and Style

10:11 The Formation and Evolution of Politic Live

18:41 Navigating the Canadian Hip Hop Scene

25:49 Breaking Out: From Local to National Recognition

33:41 The Evolution of Music Videos

35:03 Transitioning Eras in Music

36:26 The Solo Journey Begins

37:38 Overcoming Doubts and Finding Success

41:39 The Importance of Collaboration

59:21 Addressing Racism and Privilege in Music

01:11:08 Challenges in the Music Industry

01:11:51 Funding Disparities and Genre Bias

01:13:15 Gatekeeping and Systemic Issues

01:16:21 Success Stories and Missed Opportunities

01:21:07 The Role of Community and Representation

01:34:14 Reflections and Future Directions

01:38:50 Post-Fame with Alexi

ep14 Lyle Bell will shout secrets
released April 3, 2025
1:16:45

Lyle Bell, a multifaceted career artist from Edmonton, is renowned for his extensive contributions to music, art, photography, and video production. In this engaging conversation, Bell recounts his journey through various musical projects, showcasing his unique talent for integrating diverse creative disciplines into cohesive and impactful works. He describes his roles in bands like Molly's Reach, Whitey Houston, Shout Out Out Out Out, and The Wet Secrets, highlighting their evolution and the challenges faced along the way. Amidst the successes and setbacks, Bell reflects on his decision to remain in Edmonton rather than relocating to cities like Toronto, emphasizing the city’s distinctive, blue-collar artistic vibe. He also delves into his current endeavors in photography and video work, working with high-profile clients and maintaining an undying passion for learning and innovation. Throughout, Bell’s story is one of relentless creativity, collaboration, and a deep love for his craft, underscoring the importance of pursuing art for art's sake rather than chasing external validation.

Guest website: https://www.shoutoutoutoutout.com/
Guest website: http://www.thewetsecrets.com/
Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poppaneedsanap

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

00:00 Introduction

02:52 Lyle Bell's Artistic Home and Personal Life

05:55 Early Musical Journey: Molly's Reach

10:24 Transition to Whitey Houston and The Wet Secrets

13:42 Shout Out Out Out Out: The Dance Punk Era

20:35 The Challenges and Rewards of Touring

36:41 Reflecting on Bombastic Performances

39:39 The Creative Process Behind the Scenes

40:37 Staying True to Edmonton Roots

41:56 The Challenges and Rewards of Ambition

44:30 Memorable Music Video Productions

47:43 Balancing Multiple Creative Endeavors

48:43 Sustaining a Music Career

55:58 The Role of Photography and Side Jobs

01:02:44 Inspiration and Optimism in the Arts

01:05:27 Post-Fame with Alexi

Ryan Boldt of The Deep Dark Woods reflects on his twenty-year music career, emphasizing the importance of emotional connection in songs, his transition from traditional to a blend of blues, country, and storytelling, and the evolution of his sound. He discusses personal and professional challenges, including band lineup changes, geographic relocations, and finding a way to process the loss of his close friend and tour manager while also expecting the birth of his first child. Boldt shares his experiences of being influenced by both positive and negative comments, and the conversation explores the impact of public opinion on an artist's trajectory while celebrating the resilience needed to sustain a long-term music career.

Robin Cisek is a Métis pop artist not just dipping her toes into the music industry, but fully submerged, learning the roles from agent to producer. Following the release of her single 'Play Dirty,' Robin Cisek talks about her resolute commitment to her music career, working with top PR teams, and the meticulous efforts she’s put into self-production for her forthcoming album 'Tempered,' launching in May 2025. Robin shares insights into overcoming personal health struggles, which sidelined her early athletic pursuits, but steered her into music. She also delves into the importance of her Métis heritage, speaking candidly about reclaiming and celebrating her identity. From technical sound-savvy to creative songwriting, Robin reveals her method of turning vulnerability into a powerful narrative. Explore her journey, goals, and influences as she breaks ground for authenticity and representation in the music industry.

ep11 Matthew Willox has a spark
released April 3, 2025
1:34:43

Guest website: https://matthewwillox.art/
Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewwillox/

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
AFE website
AFE instagram
AFE Spotify playlist

Matthew Willox, an electronic musician and creative technologist, dives into his unique journey through the music industry. Known for his ability to blend analog warmth with digital precision, Willox shares insights on using unconventional tools like Super Nintendo controllers to create music. The discussion touches on his early career in the late '90s, from scoring projects for MIT students to the Oilers scoreboard, and addresses the validation and challenges of working in a niche genre. Willox opens up about the highs and lows of his career, the intense emotional experiences during major personal achievements such as winning a national laptop battle championship, and the perpetual pursuit of genuine artistic expression. This conversation is a thoughtful exploration of how digital and analog elements can coexist in art and life.

Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

00:00 Introduction to Matthew Willox

02:34 Analog vs Digital Debate

04:23 Early Musical Influences

07:24 The Creative Journey

10:53 The Rise of Electronic Music

17:36 Navigating the Music Industry

22:55 The Role of Technology in Music

29:46 Finding Community and Validation

36:29 Challenges and Reflections

48:04 A Moment of Victory

48:26 The Essence of Art

49:43 Inspiration from a Live Performance

51:16 The Journey of an Artist

01:00:30 The Laptop Battle Experience

01:05:41 Reflections on Success and Misalignment

01:13:54 Creative Innovations with Technology

01:17:48 The Importance of Music Theory

01:23:25 Post-Fame with Alexi

ep10 Chris Wynters is authentic af
released March 27, 2025
1:19:13

Chris Wynters is the frontman of 90s indie band Captain Tractor and manager of current indie-folk-bluegrass band The Dead South. Chris and host Glen Erickson discuss the shifts in the music industry from the 90s to today, focusing on the importance of authenticity, the evolution of music distribution, and the impact of digital platforms like Spotify and TikTok. Chris shares stories from his career, talks about managing a successful indie band, and offers insights into how artists can reach international audiences. Tune in for a deep dive into the business of music and the timeless value of being genuine in this ever-changing industry.

Guest website: https://www.chriswynters.com/
Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriswynters/
Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIcv0xejnQyrqMBkEmqqu_Q

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

00:00 Introduction
02:59 Glen and Chris: almost podcast partners
04:41 Chris Wynters' Career Highlights
06:19 The Early Days: From Theater to Music
09:57 Building a Music Career: The Role of Relationships
21:34 The Dead South: Managing a Modern Band
32:46 The Golden Age of Indie Bands
44:49 The Early Days of Media and Newsletters
45:38 The Impact of Digital Platforms on Music
46:41 Challenges and Opportunities in the Music Industry
49:44 Evolution of Music Distribution and Revenue
51:46 Navigating the Modern Music Landscape
54:18 The Role of Social Media and Data Analytics
58:39 International Opportunities for Canadian Artists
01:04:42 Post-Fame with Alexi

ep9 Brandi Sidoryk is in Nice Horse
released March 20, 2025
1:47:56

Brandi Sidoryk is a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, bassist, guitarist, french horn-ist - a musician in The Royal Canadian Navy, and founding member of Alberta country band Nice Horse, a band who has garnered steady praise and awards for their music and creative efforts, both locally and nationally with the Canadian Country Music Association, over the span of multiple albums and singles in the past 10 years. Brandi discusses the unique journey of Nice Horse, their swift rise in the country music scene, the impact of the pandemic on their career trajectory, and candidly shares the hurdles they've faced being referred to as an “all-female band”. There are inspiring moments on the themes of leaving a legacy of authenticity and perseverance. The conversation is filled with insights into the music industry, the importance of self-belief, and the joys and challenges of a creative career.

Guest website: https://www.nicehorsemusic.com/
Guest Instagram: http://instagram.com/nicehorsemusic
Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/nicehorsemusic

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

00:00 Introduction: The Power of Biopics
00:50 Guest Introduction: Brandi Sidoryk of Nice Horse
02:17 Band Dynamics and Personal Stories
04:17 Formation of Nice Horse
17:45 Challenges and Changes in the Band
27:27 Overcoming Industry Perceptions
52:19 Achievements and Recognition
53:30 Fighting for Artistic Integrity
54:30 Industry Challenges and Gender Bias
55:51 Legacy and Meaning in Music
56:48 The Struggle and Triumph of Recording
59:36 Belief in Yourself as an Artist
01:02:48 Epic Anthem Performances
01:06:11 Military Career and Music
01:12:26 Future Plans for Nice Horse
01:17:47 Reflections on the Music Industry
01:24:04 Post-Fame with Alexi

ep8 Leeroy Stagger is a light

released March 13, 2025

1:24:14

In this engaging episode, Glen Erickson sits down with roots rock and Americana singer-songwriter Leeroy Stagger. Leeroy shares candid thoughts about overcoming alcoholism, the struggles within the music industry, and the importance of mentorship. They explore his 20-year career, his musical influences like Steve Earle and Ryan Adams, and his evolution from punk bands to solo artist. This conversation reveals Leeroy's journeys, from his early days listening to radio under the covers to becoming a light for emerging artists. As he discusses his latest album '3 AM Revelations,' Leeroy emphasizes the importance of personal contentment, staying grounded, and his enjoyment of producing music for others. The discussion highlights the variability of success in the music industry, the significance of community, and the dedication required to sustain a long-term creative career.

Guest website: https://leeroystagger.com/
Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leeroystagger/
Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/officialeeroystagger/featured

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

00:00 Introduction

03:01 Early Life and Punk Rock Beginnings

15:25 Transition to Roots Music

23:03 Navigating the Music Industry

33:53 Sobriety and Career Resurgence

43:08 Mentorship and Personal Growth

46:27 Navigating the Music Industry's Noise

47:05 Creating a Sincere Record

48:19 The Journey of Making the Album

50:48 Finding Peace in the Process

52:33 Inspiration and Evolution

53:22 Balancing Fame and Personal Fulfillment

56:59 Touring and Producing in a New Era

59:29 Reflections and Future Plans

1:04:12 Post-Fame with Alexi