From air guitar in the mirror to sold-out local shows, this is what happens when passion turns into obsession.

In this episode, Shad Christensen shares his journey from teaching himself guitar by ear to leading multiple bands, including Seattle Rain and his acoustic project, Shevin. What started as a last-minute acoustic gig quickly turned into a growing demand, proving that raw energy and authenticity always win.

We dive into how he builds his sound, recreates the 90s grunge experience, and why having the right people in your band matters just as much as talent.

In this episode, we get into:

• How it all started with air guitars and figuring it out by ear
• The story behind his acoustic project and how it unexpectedly took off
• What goes into creating a true 90s grunge experience live
• Why band chemistry matters more than just talent
• How small opportunities can turn into something way bigger

If you are part of the music scene or have a story to share, hit us up and come be part of the conversation.

This interview explores the vibrant music scene in Minnesota, focusing on Ziggy's transition to Max's Social House, the importance of live music, and how to revive community engagement through music and events.

#minnesotamusicscene #minnesotamusicians #live #communityevent #local #youthmotivation

Key Topics

- The evolution of Ziggy's to Max's Social House
- The importance of live music for community engagement
- Strategies to attract younger audiences to local venues

"Music heals all life events."
"Music fills you with a lot of emotions."
"Music speaks to us and evokes memories."


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Minnesota Music Scene
00:25 Meet the Venue Managers: Megan and the GM
01:04 The Healing Power of Music
01:57 Music's Role in Emotional and Social Connection
03:15 The Decline of Live Music and How to Revive It
04:34 The Impact of Modern Music and Its Evolution
06:05 The Need for Authentic Voices in Music
06:34 Engaging Youth Through Live Performances and Riff-offs
08:37 Expanding Venue Capacity and Community Draw
11:20 Adapting to Modern Music Consumption Trends
12:57 Changing Venue Hours to Boost Attendance
16:52 The Rebranding to Max's Social House
20:35 The Vision for Max's Social House and New Spaces
22:54 Creating a Destination for All Ages
24:34 The Future of the Hudson Music Scene
26:21 The Legacy of Ziggy's and Community Impact
27:38 Changes in the Local Music Scene Since 2018
32:13 The Power of Cover Songs and Musical Innovation
37:35 The Importance of Diverse Music Repertoire
41:40 Reviving Old Songs and Hidden Gems
47:38 Music as a Memory and Emotional Anchor
51:04 Supporting the Next Generation of Musicians

resources

Max's Social House Website - https://maxssocialhouse.com
Ziggy's Venue - https://ziggys.com
The Minnesota Music Scene Podcast - https://theminnesotamusicnote.buzzsprout.com

Some musicians play bass because the band needed one. Shane Twohy chose bass because it was the only instrument that felt right from the very beginning.

In this episode, Will sits down with Shane Twohy to talk about the decades-long journey that took him from learning bass at 14 to playing in bands across Minnesota today. From ska bands and jazz influences to balancing family life, a corporate job, and a packed performance schedule, Shane shares what it really looks like to build a life around music without losing the passion for it.

• Why bass immediately felt like “his thing” and how bands like Pink Floyd and Steely Dan shaped the way he plays
• The story behind his first ska band, years at Perpich, and meeting the drummer he's been playing with for 25 years
• How stepping back to raise a family actually helped him reconnect with the music scene in a bigger way
• What makes Blackout different from other cover bands and why the band is “firing on all cylinders” right now
• Shane’s honest take on chasing the dream of touring full-time versus building a more balanced life around music
• The songs, bands, and deep cuts that still get him excited to step on stage every night

If you've ever wondered what keeps someone playing music for decades, even without the fame, the tours, or the money, this conversation is proof that passion alone can still be enough.