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.

In this episode, the mic flips as the host of Minnesota Music Note steps into the guest seat to share the real story behind the show. From his early days in garage bands and overseas gigs to building deep connections through open jams, he breaks down how the podcast was born and where it’s going next. And it isn’t just about music.

You’ll Hear About:

• How his journey started, from school band to global gigs
• The wild story behind his band days
• Why open jams became the foundation of real connections
• The REAL reason he started Minnesota Music Note
• His vision to build a platform that connects the entire music scene

In this episode, Gordy shares his unconventional journey into music and how an unplanned path led him to become a working musician in the Minnesota music scene. From starting in choir to picking up instruments later in life, his story is a reminder that there’s no single blueprint for success in music.

Gordy reflects on how unexpected opportunities, like stepping in when a bass player was needed, shaped his path and opened doors he never originally set out for. Through saying yes, learning on the go, and staying consistent, he carved out his place performing, collaborating, and growing within the local scene.

You’ll Hear About:

• How he started in choir and didn’t pick up instruments until later in life
  
  
  
• The moment he unexpectedly became a bass player
  
  
  
• What it looks like to step into opportunities before feeling fully ready
  
  
  
• His experience navigating and growing within the Minnesota music scene
  
  
  
• The reality of balancing passion, gigs, and everyday life as a musician
  
  
  

🎧 Tune in to hear how an unplanned journey turned into a real music career and why sometimes the best opportunities are the ones you never saw coming.

In this episode, two lifelong musicians share the story behind their decades-long collaboration, from high school songwriting sessions to producing hundreds of original songs and evolving with the music industry along the way.

Keyboardist Drew Hayes and guitarist Eric Menge reflect on how their partnership began, how technology changed the way they create music, and how their project Blue Rain continues to bring together talented artists from across the Minnesota music scene.

You’ll Hear About:

- How their musical journey started in high school and grew into a 40-year creative partnership

- The evolution of their band Blue Rain and how they’ve written 300+ songs together

- How technology, from 4-track tapes to modern production software, transformed their process

- The power of collaboration and bringing other talented musicians into their projects

🎧 Tune in to hear the full story behind decades of songwriting, friendship, and the passion that keeps these musicians creating after all these years.

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Scott Otis, a talented drummer from Minnesota, shares his musical journey, influences, and experiences in the music scene. He discusses his transition from playing guitar to drums, the nuances of classic rock, and the importance of live performances. Scott reflects on his early inspirations, the evolution of music, and the joy of collaborating with other musicians. He also highlights memorable festival performances and the unique challenges of playing live. The conversation concludes with Scott nominating future guests for the podcast, showcasing his connections within the music community.

Takeaways

· Scott Otis prefers to be called Otis due to the commonality of his first name.

· He has played in various bands, including the Ellen Warren Band and Menace.

· Otis transitioned from heavy metal to classic rock during his time in Tennessee.

· He emphasizes the importance of feel and nuance in classic rock drumming.

· Otis has played guitar in bands but primarily focuses on drums now.

· He enjoys playing live music, regardless of the audience size.

· His early inspirations include Bonham, Ringo Starr, and Alex Van Halen.

· Otis appreciates the differences in live performances compared to studio recordings.

· He has played at festivals, including the midsummer music festival, and values the experience.

· Otis believes in giving 110% in every performance, no matter the crowd size.

In this conversation, Nate Burge, a seasoned drummer from the Minnesota music scene, shares his journey through music, from his first gig at a young age to his current projects and collaborations. He discusses the importance of live performance, the evolution of his musical style, and the creative aspects of branding and design in his career. Nate also offers valuable advice for aspiring musicians, emphasizing the significance of stepping out of the basement and engaging with audiences. The conversation highlights his passion for music, the camaraderie among musicians, and the joy of creating and performing together.

Takeaways

· Nate has been playing drums for nearly 15 years.

· His first gig was at a friend's birthday party.

· He emphasizes the importance of enjoying music and performances.

· Nate has memorable experiences playing at First Avenue and Lakefront Music Fest.

· He has a background in creative design and branding.

· Nate is involved in multiple music projects, including Vintage Revival and County Line.

· He believes in the importance of live performance for learning and growth.

· Nate created a suitcase drum for small gigs and performances.

· He has transitioned from disliking country music to embracing alternative country.

· Nate encourages musicians to step out of their comfort zones and perform live.