Claim OwnershipMusicians Reveal with Joe Kelley
Subscribed: 3Played: 29
Subscribe
© Copyright 2026 Joe Kelley | Musicians Reveal Podcast
Description
Since 1982, Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley has spotlighted iconic and rising artists in funk, soul, R&B, and Prince’s musical family.
From its roots on NPR affiliate WVOF 88.5 FM to its thriving YouTube channel (17.2k subscribers, 8.1 Million views), the show delivers soulful, in-depth interviews with legends and unsung pioneers alike.
🎤 Hosted by Veteran music host and interviewer Joe Kelley, the show has featured:
Rock & Roll Hall of Famers & Grammy winners
Larry Graham, Mavis Staples, Patrice Rushen, Victor Wooten, Cyndi Lauper
Members of Prince’s Revolution, New Power Generation, The Time, and more
Icons from Zapp, Cameo, P-Funk, and beyond
🎶 In 2004, Prince featured Musicians Reveal on his NPG Music Club and invited Joe to premiere his One Nite Alone… box set in 2002—before any other media outlet.
New interviews weekly.
🎧 Listen and Watch now and explore music history with the artists who shaped it.
🎧 More from Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley:
YouTube (Full Interviews + Daily Content): https://www.youtube.com/@musiciansreveal
🎶 NEW! Musicians Reveal Radio on Live365 (24/7 Artist Music & Archives): https://live365.com/station/Musicians-Reveal-Radio-a25049
Website (Episodes, Guest Info, and Contact): https://musiciansreveal.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rQAZZtdU2cZB6EeleSZ8J
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/musicians-reveal/id1545165178
From its roots on NPR affiliate WVOF 88.5 FM to its thriving YouTube channel (17.2k subscribers, 8.1 Million views), the show delivers soulful, in-depth interviews with legends and unsung pioneers alike.
🎤 Hosted by Veteran music host and interviewer Joe Kelley, the show has featured:
Rock & Roll Hall of Famers & Grammy winners
Larry Graham, Mavis Staples, Patrice Rushen, Victor Wooten, Cyndi Lauper
Members of Prince’s Revolution, New Power Generation, The Time, and more
Icons from Zapp, Cameo, P-Funk, and beyond
🎶 In 2004, Prince featured Musicians Reveal on his NPG Music Club and invited Joe to premiere his One Nite Alone… box set in 2002—before any other media outlet.
New interviews weekly.
🎧 Listen and Watch now and explore music history with the artists who shaped it.
🎧 More from Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley:
YouTube (Full Interviews + Daily Content): https://www.youtube.com/@musiciansreveal
🎶 NEW! Musicians Reveal Radio on Live365 (24/7 Artist Music & Archives): https://live365.com/station/Musicians-Reveal-Radio-a25049
Website (Episodes, Guest Info, and Contact): https://musiciansreveal.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1rQAZZtdU2cZB6EeleSZ8J
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/musicians-reveal/id1545165178
348 Episodes
Reverse
Dwayne Kerr, flutist with Erykah Badu, joins Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley to share his journey through music, touring, and artistic growth.From recording in London to performing at Paisley Park and major international festivals, Dwayne reflects on the experiences that shaped his sound and career. He also discusses writing deeply personal music, including a piece dedicated to a friend battling cancer, and how those moments influence his creative process.This is an insightful conversation about discipline, independence, and building a musical identity in today’s world.
Music meets purpose in this powerful conversation with Greg Chastain, founder and president of Voices of Hope Boston—a nonprofit using live performance and community to raise funds for cancer research and patient care.Greg shares the deeply personal story behind the organization, inspired by his mother’s battle with cancer, and how a one-night show turned into a movement that has raised over $1 million for life-saving research.We also dive into:How music and theater bring hope during difficult timesPerforming national anthems for the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics & moreThe impact of funding real cancer treatments and patient programsThe power of volunteers, community, and purpose-driven artThis is a conversation about resilience, music, and making a real difference.🎙️ About Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley Featuring legendary and emerging funk, R&B, and Prince-associated artists, Musicians Reveal has been on the air since 1982 and now spans five decades. The show was personally recognized by Prince and continues to spotlight the stories behind the music.
Join us on Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley as we sit down with Curt Jones—founding member of Slave, Aurra, and Deja—and one of the most influential architects of funk and R&B’s golden era.In this deep-dive conversation, Curt shares the real stories behind the music that shaped a generation. From the explosive success of Slave’s iconic hit “Slide”, to the formation of Aurra and their chart-topping sound, Curt takes us inside the creative process, the business decisions, and the personal moments that defined his legendary career.We also explore:The origin and impact of “Slide” and Slave’s early successThe transition from Slave to Aurra and building a new identityThe evolution into Deja and navigating the changing music industryBehind-the-scenes stories from the funk and R&B circuitCurt’s reflections on legacy, creativity, and longevity in musicIf you love classic funk, behind-the-scenes music stories, and hearing directly from the artists who lived it—this episode is essential listening.📻 ABOUT THE SHOWMusicians Reveal with Joe Kelley features legendary and emerging artists from the worlds of funk, R&B, and beyond—many with direct ties to Prince and the Minneapolis sound.On air since 1982 and now spanning five decades, the show was personally spotlighted by Prince on his official website in 2004. In 2002, Prince also gifted the show the One Nite Alone box set—before any other media outlet.Each episode delivers in-depth, first-hand stories from the musicians who created the soundtrack of our lives.
Damon Dickson opens up about his life inside Prince’s inner circle—and the personal journey that nearly broke him.From the stage with New Power Generation to deeply personal life lessons, this is one of his most revealing interviews ever.Best known as a dancer, choreographer, and percussionist with Prince & The New Power Generation, Damon Dickson joins Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley for a powerful conversation about music, life, and legacy.Dickson shares:What it was really like working closely with PrinceBehind-the-scenes stories from the NPG era and live performancesThe emotional journey behind The Damon Dickson Story memoirGrowing up, family struggles, and life lessons from his motherHis path from basketball dreams to the world stageWhy he stayed silent on certain truths—until nowHe also reflects on fame, fan interactions, and the discipline it takes to survive both the music industry and life itself.This is more than a Prince interview—it's a story of resilience, growth, and finding purpose beyond the spotlight.Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley features in-depth conversations with legendary artists, Prince collaborators, and top musicians—sharing the real stories behind the music.From inside Prince’s world to the broader legacy of funk, R&B, and performance, each episode uncovers the moments, mindset, and untold experiences that shaped the sound.
Michael Bland reveals what it was really like playing with Prince at the height of the New Power Generation era.In this rare 2001 interview, he shares untold stories from inside Prince’s band.Best known as the powerhouse drummer behind Prince & The New Power Generation, Michael Bland joins Joe Kelley for a deep dive into one of the most iconic eras in funk and R&B.Bland reflects on:Life inside Prince’s bandThe Minneapolis music sceneHis work with Sons of AlmightyThe mindset and discipline behind elite musicianshipThis is a rare, unfiltered conversation with one of the defining drummers of Prince’s NPG era.___Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley features in-depth interviews with legendary artists, Prince collaborators, and top session musicians—sharing the real stories behind the music.From inside Prince’s world to the broader legacy of funk, R&B, and rock, each episode dives into the musicianship, moments, and untold stories that shaped the sound.
Chris Calzone reveals how discovering Prince’s deeper catalog transformed his approach to bass, groove, and songwriting.A look at how the Minneapolis sound is influencing a new generation of funk artists.Multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and producer Chris Calzone joins Joe Kelley to break down the musical DNA behind his sound—blending funk, punk, ska, and synth-driven influences.Inspired by artists like Prince, André Cymone, Larry Graham, and Sly Stone, Calzone shares how digging beyond the hits reshaped his playing and creative direction.In this episode:Discovering Prince’s deeper catalog and its impactThe legacy of the Minneapolis sound todayThe making of Let’s RockBlending punk, ska, and funk influencesGroove, bass, and songwriting philosophyBuilding an audience as an independent artistThis conversation explores how Prince’s influence continues to evolve through modern musicians.____Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley features in-depth interviews with legendary artists, Prince collaborators, and emerging musicians—sharing the real stories behind the music.
Starr Cullars reveals how she went from connecting with Prince’s camp to working in the world of George Clinton and P-Funk. A deep dive into the journey of a modern funk bassist building her own sound.Bass player, bandleader, and songwriter Starr Cullars joins Joe Kelley to share her path through the funk universe—from early influences to carving out her own identity as an artist.From her introduction to Prince’s circle to experiences within the extended P-Funk collective, Cullars reflects on the moments that shaped her musical direction.In this episode:Her early journey and commitment to the bassBreaking into Prince’s camp as a young musicianWorking within the orbit of George Clinton and P-FunkBuilding Starr Cullars & EnterpriseCreating Welcome to the Universe of Starr CullarsThe mindset behind sustaining a career in musicThis conversation highlights how the next generation is carrying forward the legacy of funk.Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley features in-depth interviews with legendary artists, Prince collaborators, and emerging musicians—sharing the real stories behind the music.
Keith Killgo reveals what it was like playing drums during a Miles Davis performance at just 10 years old.A rare firsthand look at the roots of jazz-funk and the rise of The Blackbyrds.Drummer and bandleader Keith Killgo joins Joe Kelley to share extraordinary stories from his career at the intersection of jazz and funk.From studying under Donald Byrd to helping build The Blackbyrds into one of the defining jazz-funk groups of the 1970s, Killgo offers a firsthand account of a pivotal era in music history.In this episode:Playing with Miles Davis at age 10Learning under Donald ByrdThe formation and success of The BlackbyrdsTouring and musical influences from Motown to rockPreserving the legacy through remasters and live showsThis is a rare, inside perspective on the evolution of jazz-funk from someone who lived it._____Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley features in-depth interviews with legendary artists, Prince collaborators, and influential musicians across funk, jazz, and R&B—sharing the real stories behind the music.
Papa Guyo reveals how Days of Wild was born from a deep influence of Prince and the Minneapolis sound.A rare 2003 interview capturing the energy of the New York City funk scene.In this archive episode, Papa Guyo of Days of Wild joins Joe Kelley alongside Jonathan Fritz and Tanya Michelle to share the story behind one of NYC’s most electrifying funk bands.From late-night performances at iconic venues like the Bitter End to building a loyal following, Guyo reflects on how a spontaneous collaboration turned into a powerful live act rooted in Prince’s musical legacy.In this episode:The origins of Days of WildPrince’s influence on their sound and directionThe NYC live music scene and performing at the Bitter EndSharing stages with artists like Sly StoneThe importance of preserving live music cultureTanya Michelle’s journey as a vocalistThis conversation captures a moment in time when live funk music was thriving—and the artists pushing it forward.______Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley features in-depth interviews with legendary artists, Prince collaborators, and emerging musicians—sharing the real stories behind the music.
Tom McDermott reveals what it was like recording and performing “Super Freak” with Rick James.A rare inside look at the Stone City Band during funk’s peak era.Founding guitarist of Rick James & the Stone City Band, Tom McDermott joins Joe Kelley to share firsthand stories from one of funk’s most electrifying periods.From recording Street Songs to touring at the height of Rick James’ fame, McDermott breaks down the moments that defined the band’s sound and legacy.In this episode:The making of “Super Freak”Recording Street SongsTouring with Rick JamesSoul Train appearances and live performancesShaping the Stone City Band soundThis is an inside perspective on funk history from someone who lived it.______Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley features in-depth interviews with legendary artists, Prince collaborators, and influential musicians—sharing the real stories behind the music.
Gary Hines—founder and musical director of Sounds of Blackness—joins Joe Kelley in this powerful 2012 archive interview.He shares stories about Prince, Stevie Wonder, and the Minneapolis music scene, along with the group’s NAACP Image Award win and their global impact across four decades.This is a deep conversation on legacy, leadership, and the sound that helped define an era.🎙️ About Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley Legendary and emerging voices from funk, R&B, and Prince’s musical world. On air since 1982, with rare interviews and untold stories.▶️ Full interviews: YouTube.com/@musiciansreveal 🎧 24/7 radio: Live365 (Musicians Reveal Radio) 🌐 More: musiciansreveal.com
Seth Neblett—author and filmmaker of Mothership Connected: The Women of Parliament-Funkadelic—joins Joe Kelley for a powerful conversation on legacy, family, and funk history.He shares rare stories about his mother Mallia Franklin (Parlet, Brides of Funkenstein), Prince’s admiration for her, and the deep connections between Prince, Apollonia, Vanity, and Jill Jones—including a personal story surrounding Denise Matthews.This episode explores the untold impact of the women behind P-Funk and their lasting influence on the Minneapolis sound.🎙️ About Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley Legendary voices from funk, R&B, and Prince’s musical world. On air since 1982 with rare interviews and untold stories.▶️ Full interviews: YouTube.com/@musiciansreveal 🎧 24/7 radio: Live365 (Musicians Reveal Radio) 🌐 More: musiciansreveal.com
Keith “Chop Chop” Harrison joins Joe Kelley for a deep dive into a legendary funk and R&B career.From co-creating “Riding High” with Faze-O to touring the world with Heatwave and The Dazz Band, Keith shares the real stories behind the music—including working with Rod Temperton, learning the studio craft behind Off the Wall, and winning a Grammy for “Let It Whip.”He also opens up about lost publishing, the realities of the music business, and why Dayton, Ohio became a powerhouse for funk.A must-listen for fans of classic R&B, funk history, and the truth behind the hits.🎙️ About Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley Legendary voices from funk, R&B, and Prince’s musical world. On air since 1982 with rare interviews and untold stories.▶️ Full interviews: YouTube.com/@musiciansreveal 🎧 24/7 radio: Live365 (Musicians Reveal Radio) 🌐 More: musiciansreveal.com
lisa Fiorillo shares what it was really like touring and recording with Prince—from intense rehearsals to the discipline required to perform at his level.A revealing look inside Prince’s world from someone who lived it.🎧 Full interview available on YouTube: Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley
Soul artist Rufus Wonder joins Joe Kelley to discuss his album Stitched to Your Hip and the stories behind the music.He shares insights on songwriting, the inspiration behind “Cut You Loose,” and his journey through the Bay Area music scene.A soulful conversation on creativity, collaboration, and a lifetime in music.(Originally recorded in 2008)🎙️ About Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley Legendary voices from funk, R&B, and Prince’s musical world. On air since 1982 with rare interviews and untold stories.▶️ Full interviews: YouTube.com/@musiciansreveal 🎧 24/7 radio: Live365 (Musicians Reveal Radio) 🌐 More: musiciansreveal.com
Bernie Worrell is joined in studio by Chris Frantz and Tina Weymouth of Talking Heads and Tom Tom Club in this rare 1999 radio vault interview.An unplanned moment featuring three iconic musicians reflecting on life after legendary bands, creative evolution, and the musical connections that shaped funk, rock, and new wave.A unique snapshot of music history.(Radio vault archive — musical segments edited where required)🎙️ About Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley Legendary voices from funk, R&B, and Prince’s musical world. On air since 1982 with rare interviews and untold stories.▶️ Full interviews: YouTube.com/@musiciansreveal 🎧 24/7 radio: Live365 (Musicians Reveal Radio) 🌐 More: musiciansreveal.com
Guitarist and songwriter Stew Cutler returns to Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley to discuss his album Undercover Mostly.He shares insights on reimagining songs, blending blues, jazz, funk, and gospel, and staying creative as a working musician over decades in the New York music scene.A thoughtful conversation on artistry, risk-taking, and longevity in music.🎙️ About Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley Legendary voices from funk, R&B, and Prince’s musical world. On air since 1982 with rare interviews and untold stories.▶️ Full interviews: YouTube.com/@musiciansreveal 🎧 24/7 radio: Live365 (Musicians Reveal Radio) 🌐 More: musiciansreveal.com
Caravan of Thieves join Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley to discuss their album Bouquet, the evolution of the band, and their deep dive into gypsy swing and acoustic music.Recorded live in-studio, the conversation explores songwriting, instrumentation, and the chemistry behind their sound—featuring Fuzz and Carrie SanGiovanni, violinist Ben Dean, and bassist Brian Anderson. They also share stories behind fan favorites like “Rattlesnake,” “The Butcher’s Wife,” and “Freaks.”An intimate look at a band leaning fully into acoustic energy, dark humor, and collaborative musicianship.🎙️ About Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley Legendary voices from funk, R&B, and Prince’s musical world. On air since 1982 with rare interviews and untold stories.▶️ Full interviews: YouTube.com/@musiciansreveal 🎧 24/7 radio: Live365 (Musicians Reveal Radio) 🌐 More: musiciansreveal.com
Max Fink (I.AM.MAX), producer and son of Matt “Dr. Fink” from Prince & The Revolution, joins Joe Kelley to talk about growing up around Prince’s musical world and building his own sound across hip-hop, EDM, hyperpop, and indie music. Max shares stories about Prince’s influence, modern production culture, analog vs digital gear, and forging his own creative identity.The conversation explores Detroit collaborations, late-night studio sessions, the reality of being labeled an “industry plant,” and why authenticity still matters for modern artists navigating today’s music industry.Topics Discussed Prince, Dr Fink, The Revolution, Minneapolis Sound, music production, hip hop producers, EDM producers, hyperpop, analog vs digital recording, independent artistsMusicians Reveal with Joe Kelley features conversations with legendary and emerging funk, R&B, and Prince-associated artists. On air since 1982, the show explores the stories behind the music from the artists who lived it.
The Bossa Nova Beatniks — Tim Stapleton, Tom Gould, and Annie O’Hara — join Joe Kelley for a studio conversation about the roots of Bossa Nova music, their songwriting process, and the influences that shaped their sound. The trio discusses melody, rhythm, and the emotional storytelling that defines their approach to Bossa Nova–inspired music.Recorded during a 2004 studio visit, the group reflects on collaboration, the inspiration behind songs like “Haunted,” and their vision for creating intimate and expressive recordings leading into their album Moonlit Bossa.Topics DiscussedBossa Nova, Bossa Nova music, songwriting, studio collaboration, jazz influences, acoustic music, independent artistsMusicians Reveal with Joe Kelley features conversations with legendary and emerging funk, R&B, and Prince-associated artists. On air since 1982, the show explores the stories behind the music from the artists who lived it.
Comments
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States