Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: November 5, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E9: Annika Catharina - Finding A Voice After The Fall


SHOW SUMMARY:
The high you chase onstage feels different after you’ve had to fight for your voice. That’s where our conversation with Canadian country artist Annika Catharina begins: a moped crash in Southeast Asia, a shattered jaw, months of silence, and a slow, stubborn climb back to singing. What could have ended a dream turned into perspective that colors every line she writes and every chorus she belts.

We walk through Annika’s roots on a BC farm—sports teams, family skits, and a house filled with Elton John and classic rock—then hit the turning point: discovering Patsy Cline’s delivery before she even called it “country.” From there, the sound evolved. Indie and alt-rock influences blend with modern Nashville polish, giving her debut EP, You and Me, a clean, hook-forward lift. She breaks down her hybrid writing process—ideas alone, voice memos and simple chords, then co-writes that unlock angles she’d never find solo. And we go deep on Love and Hate: the reality-TV spark, the teenage push-pull energy, the producers who heard a hit in a bare demo, and the radio momentum that followed.

Annika also shares how national recognition changed the game. As a Top 8 artist in SiriusXM’s Top of the Country, she recorded at Bryan Adams’ Vancouver studio, shot a pro performance video, and saw doors swing open across Canada. She lights up describing the first time a friend texted “You’re on the radio,” and the community pride that came with it. Then we look ahead: Undercovers, the new single Better Hands that finally lets her sing about the love she’s living, and the next era of confident, sassy, stage-ready tracks. There’s a dream stage, too—Vancouver’s Commodore Ballroom on February 14—proof that the grind, the gut checks, and the gratitude are paying off.

If you love country storytelling with a modern edge, honest lyrics, and choruses that land clean, you’ll connect with Annika’s journey. Hit play, save your favorite song, and tell us which lyric hit hardest. And if you’re feeling the show, subscribe, leave a rating, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder to keep going.

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Artist(s) Web Page

www.annikacatharina.com

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Randy Hulsey

Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: October 18, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E8: Jim Odom (LeRoux) - The Presonus Matermind


SHOW SUMMARY:
Ever wonder how a touring guitarist becomes a tech founder, sells to Fender, then jumps right back into producing records? That’s the arc we trace with Jim Odom—guitarist for Louisiana’s LeRoux and co‑founder of Presonus—who opens up about the craft of recording, the grit of the Gulf Coast scene, and the magic that only happens when players share a room and a downbeat.

We dig into the making of a new album with blues powerhouse Jonathan “Boogie” Long, why Jim still chases the sound of a real console, and how a smart session band can lift a song in a single take. Jim pulls back the curtain on Studio One’s origins, the rocket ride of a NAMM breakthrough, and the decision to sell Presonus to Fender after years of global growth. The stories stretch from pine‑lined Studio in the Country, where Kansas and Dirty Dancing cuts took shape, to present‑day plans with Miracle Media, his label focused on honest performances and songs built to last.

LeRoux fans get a feast: memories of Jeff Pollard’s soaring voice, Fergie Frederiksen’s effortless high notes, and the late Tony Haselden’s razor-sharp lyrics. Jim teases a vintage live release from the late 70s, and shares why the band is refreshing its show toward the rock energy of Up and So Fired Up with current singer Jeff McCarty. We also wade into AI’s impact on music—training on copyrighted catalogs, the uncanny feel of generated tracks, and why listeners will keep seeking the human touch in phrasing, tone, and time.

If you love the crossroads where songwriting, recording, and innovation meet, you’ll feel right at home. Tap play, follow LeRoux on Facebook and www.leroux.band, and if the conversation hits a chord, share it with a friend and leave a quick review—what LeRoux era do you want to hear live next?

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Artist(s) Web Page

www.leroux.band

Call to action
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Randy Hulsey

Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: October 3, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E7 - Russ DeLeon - Sticks & Kicks


SHOW SUMMARY:
The visual timekeeper sits back on his throne, reflecting on a life measured in beats, fills, and grooves. "Every show I ask myself what am I doing?" confesses Russ DeLeon, drummer for tribute bands Double Vision and Miracles. "I should be at home, but after we play—oh yeah, it was great."

This profound duality defines Russ' musical journey, which began in Houston's Northside neighborhoods, where his siblings brought home Led Zeppelin and Kiss albums that sparked his percussion passion. From witnessing Metallica's Kill 'Em All tour at legendary Cardi's to joining metal band Hellstar and touring Europe where they "treated us like rock stars," Russ' story traverses four decades of Houston's vibrant music scene.

With refreshing candor, Russ discusses the physical demands of drumming at 56, the surprising joy of performing drum solos he once dismissed, and the technological evolution that's transformed how musicians learn. "Kids these days have it made," he observes. "You can see a 10-year-old that is so awesome." Yet there's wisdom in his approach to balancing music with family life—returning home from tours to take out garbage and walking the dogs with his supportive wife Shelly, who surprises him with personalized drumsticks and understands his need to perform.

Now splitting his time between Double Vision (Foreigner tribute) and the newer Miracles (Jefferson Starship tribute), Russ finds renewed purpose in each performance. "We're getting older, let's keep jamming as much as we can," his bandmate reminds him—words that resonate with musicians everywhere who refuse to set down their instruments despite life's mounting responsibilities. Because when that final cymbal crash fades and the crowd roars, the answer to "why keep doing this?" becomes crystal clear.

Tune in for an intimate conversation about perseverance, passion, and finding balance between the spotlight and everyday life. The beat goes on—and so does Russ De Leon.

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Artist(s) Web Page
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/russell.shelley.deleon
Miracles - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557569377448
Double Vision HTX - https://www.facebook.com/doublevisionhtx

Call to action
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Randy Hulsey

Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: September 17, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E6: Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal (Guns & Roses, Asia, Sons of Apollo, Art of Anarchy) - Guitar Wizardry Unleashed


SHOW SUMMARY:
Guitar virtuoso Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal takes us behind the curtain of his creative process, sharing the fascinating story of his latest instrumental album "Bumblefoot Returns" and the innovative techniques that have defined his distinctive sound. Released in January 2024, this album marks his first fully instrumental release since his 1995 debut and features collaborations with legendary musicians including Brian May of Queen, Steve Vai, and Guthrie Govan.

The conversation delves deep into Bumblefoot's journey with the fretless guitar – an instrument he describes as "learning a different language" that transformed his approach to melody and expression. He reveals the origin of his signature metal thimble technique, which allows him to access notes beyond the traditional fretboard limitations. These innovations began when a 12-year-old Ron first heard Eddie Van Halen and realized "there are no limits to how you could make a string vibrate and make it speak."

Beyond his musical innovations, Bumblefoot shares insights into the challenges facing touring musicians today, where merch sales and direct fan support have become essential for survival. He's found creative ways to make his album release an event rather than just another digital drop – offering vinyl with special artwork, CDs with fold-out posters, cassettes, transcription books with backing tracks, and even a free retro video game based on the album's artwork.

The conversation takes unexpected turns as Bumblefoot discusses his award-winning hot sauce line, including the infamous "Bumblefucked" – once ranked the third hottest sauce in the world at 4-6 million Scoville units. He hints at plans for new hot sauce flavors named after songs from his album and a forthcoming comic book project that will bring the album's artwork to life in new ways.

For aspiring musicians and longtime fans alike, Bumblefoot's passion for experimentation and artistic growth shines through every story. Whether he's discussing his upcoming performance at a festival in Jakarta or his role as a counselor at Rock and Roll Fantasy Camp, his enthusiasm for connecting with other musicians and fans remains as vibrant as his innovative playing style. Tune in for a master class in creative thinking from one of guitar's most original voices.

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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
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Artist(s) Web Page
Web - www.bumblefoot.com

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Randy Hulsey

Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: September 3, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E5: Little Bihlman (John Fogerty, Jelly Roll, Grinder Blues) - Sonic Evolution


SHOW SUMMARY:
Ever wonder what happens when a multi-instrumentalist with four Emmy Awards decides to channel Pink Floyd through a modern rock lens? Little Bihlman's upcoming album "Heavy Head" answers that question with authority.

Returning to Backstage Pass Radio, Little Bihlman shares the creative journey behind his darkest, most ambitious record to date. Having toured and recorded with legends spanning from BB King to Ted Nugent, Hank Williams Jr. to Jelly Roll, and even Pink, Little Bihlman brings decades of musical expertise to this Floyd-influenced collection. "I'm a rocker," he admits, despite his versatility across blues, country, and other genres.

The conversation takes us deep into the making of "Heavy Head," set for release through V13 Music with its first single dropping August 8th. Little Bihlman previews "Fade Away," a straight-ahead rocker featuring guitar work from Shrapnel Records founder Mike Varney, while explaining why his favorite track remains the Floyd-esque title song. For an artist who's played countless sessions and toured extensively, this record represents a personal milestone—one where he follows his "goosebumps" rather than chasing trends.

Beyond music, Little Bihlman reveals his recent role as a mobster in the upcoming Nicolas Cage film "Spider-Man Noir" and discusses his forthcoming memoir. He offers candid insights about the modern music industry, advocating for independent approaches over traditional record deals unless "they're gonna blow you out." It's a masterclass in artistic sustainability from someone who's survived and thrived across decades of industry changes.

Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering him for the first time, Little Bihlman's blend of technical prowess, storytelling, and authentic rock energy promises something special with "Heavy Head." Follow him on Instagram and Facebook, or visit scottbihlman.com to stay updated on release dates, tour information, and merchandise availability. Ready to hear what happens when classic influences meet modern production? This is your invitation.

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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
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Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com

Artist(s) Web Page
Web - www.scotbihlman.com

Call to action
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Randy Hulsey

Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: August 20, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E4: Lee Newton- Standing in the Circle


SHOW SUMMARY:
When Lee Newton's father told his young daughter she would one day stand on the Grand Ole Opry stage while he watched from the front row, neither could have imagined how prophetically those words would manifest. Fast forward decades later to Lee performing her song "Carolina" at the Opry House with her father's cab driver hat placed on the microphone stand and an empty seat in the front row – a powerful full-circle moment that exemplifies her extraordinary journey.

The North Carolina native's path to musical success has been anything but conventional. Growing up in "Paper Town, USA" with limited resources, Lee found early musical inspiration riding in her father's taxi cab where he'd play guitar between fares. Despite facing poverty, family struggles, and eventually escaping domestic violence with her young son on her hip, Lee's resilience never wavered. Just four and a half years ago, she restarted her musical career from nothing – no money, no connections, just raw talent and unwavering determination.

What she's accomplished in that short time defies typical industry trajectories. Lee has opened for country legends like Randy Travis, Ronnie Millsap, and Gene Watson. Her albums feature collaborations with Pam Tillis, Joe Bonsall of the Oak Ridge Boys, T. Graham Brown, and Rhonda Vincent – established artists who embraced her as a peer rather than a newcomer. As an independent artist handling her own management and promotion, she's earned multiple prestigious awards, including Traditional Country Artist of the Year at the Josie Awards and Entertainer of the Year from the International Singer-Songwriting Association.

Beyond her musical achievements, Lee's story resonates because of her authenticity and heart. Her song "Strength of a Woman" has inspired nearly 60,000 TikTok videos from people sharing their own stories of overcoming adversity. Between recording sessions for her upcoming album featuring Georgette Jones, she prioritizes being "that mom" who attends school lunches and field trips with her nine-year-old son, and dedicates time to benefit concerts for causes close to her heart.

Discover more about this remarkable artist's journey and music at leenewtonofficial.com and follow her on all social media platforms to stay updated on upcoming performances and releases.

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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
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Artist(s) Web Page
Web - www.leenewtonmusic.com

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Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: August 6, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E3: Rod Roddy (LeRoux)- The Cajun Swampers


SHOW SUMMARY:
Pull up a chair on the bayou as Rod Roddy, founding member and keyboard master of Louisiana rock legends LeRoux, opens his home and memory vault for an intimate conversation about a musical journey spanning five decades.

The humble piano player whose band earned the nickname "The Steely Dan of the South" takes us from his earliest days learning to play by ear to touring alongside rock royalty like Journey and Kansas. With characteristic Cajun warmth, Roddy reveals how LeRoux evolved from local favorites playing cover tunes to acclaimed recording artists and the house band at the legendary Studio in the Country in Bogalusa.

In a poignant reflection on bandmates and friends, Roddy shares the spiritual awakening that led vocalist Jeff Pollard to walk away at the height of the band's success, and honors the recent losses of founding members Leon Medica and Tony Haselden. Through tales of their commercial breakthrough with "So Fired Up" and their 2020 return to their funkier roots on "One of Those Days," Roddy paints a vivid portrait of a band whose sound embodied Louisiana's rich musical gumbo.

Perhaps most moving is Roddy's vulnerability when discussing the hearing issues that have changed his relationship with music, and his philosophical approach to LeRoux's uncertain future. "When we get together on stage, it's magic," he muses, "and we miss that part of it." For fans of regional rock history, studio musicianship, or anyone who's ever been moved by "New Orleans Ladies," this conversation offers rare insights into the creative spirit that kept LeRoux's musical flame burning for over four decades.

Check out LeRoux's music and follow their journey at www.larueband.com as they determine what the next chapter holds for this beloved Southern rock institution.

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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com

Artist(s) Web Page
Web - www.leroux.band
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/louisianasleroux

Call to action
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Randy Hulsey

Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: July 23, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E2 - Mary Kutter - From Bootlegging to Nashville


SHOW SUMMARY:
What does it take to stand out in the crowded Nashville music scene? For Mary Kutter, it's about being the splash of red paint on a wall of white—creating music that cuts through the noise with authenticity and purpose.

Born and raised just outside the Bourbon Capital of the World in Springfield, Kentucky, Mary's journey to Nashville began with an unexpected opportunity hosting a radio variety show. This serendipitous break led to a life-changing connection with legendary songwriter Kim Williams, who recognized something special in the young artist and opened doors that would transform her career. As Mary shares, "That job offer changed my life."

When the pandemic shut down the music industry in 2020, Mary faced a pivotal moment. Rather than stepping back, she doubled down on her craft, writing seven days a week, two to three sessions daily, for nearly two years straight. This relentless work ethic yielded her first gold record and substantial placements in movies and commercials—all created through Zoom sessions with collaborators she couldn't meet in person.

What truly distinguishes Mary's artistry is her willingness to explore complex, personal narratives. Her viral hit "Devil Wore a Lab Coat" confronts the pharmaceutical industry's role in the opioid epidemic that devastated her Kentucky hometown. "Devil's Money" tells the remarkable true story of her bootlegger great-grandfather who used his illicit earnings to build a church. These songs resonate deeply because they speak truth, regardless of commercial appeal.

From unexpected collaborations with rapper Project Pat to her disciplined creative routine beginning at 5 AM daily, Mary embodies the modern artist who forges her own path. Her approach to songwriting combines raw authenticity with strategic savvy, sharing snippets on social media that connect so deeply with fans they're singing unreleased verses at her shows.

As Mary prepares for headline performances, festival appearances, and new music releases, her advice to aspiring artists remains straightforward: "Put your blinders on and keep the pedal down." Through every challenge and triumph, she's remained true to herself—creating music that matters and leaving an indelible mark on the Nashville landscape, one honest song at a time.

Subscribe now to hear more compelling stories from artists who are redefining the boundaries of their craft and building careers on their own terms.

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Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
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Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com

Artist(s) Web Page
Instagram - @marykutter
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mary.kutter
Web - www.marykutter.com

Call to action
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