Rock & Roll High School With Pete Ganbarg
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Season 5 Out Now!
Rock & Roll High School is an interview series that tells the story of contemporary music one artist at a time - in their own words.
Hosted by Pete Ganbarg
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About Pete:
Pete Ganbarg has been doing major label A&R for over 35 years. He's a 2X Grammy award winning record producer as well as a member of the board of directors of the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Pete has held senior A&R positions at Atlantic, Arista, Epic and SBK/EMI and is currently the president of Pure Tone Music.
As a music publisher, Pete operates Songs With A Pure Tone and Margetts Road Music, joint ventures currently in partnership with Warner Chappell Music. Songs published by Pure Tone include 2024's Grammy winning Record of the Year, "Flowers" by Miley Cyrus, the global #1 "Ordinary" by Alex Warren, as well as hits by Benson Boone, Justin Bieber, Maroon 5, Katy Perry, OneRepublic, Charli XCX, Lewis Capaldi, Ed Sheeran, Andy Grammer, Lizzo, Beyoncé, and more.
Pete is the recipient of two Grammy Awards for his role as producer on the Original Broadway Cast Recording of Dear Evan Hansen and the Original Broadway Cast Recording of Jagged Little Pill. At Atlantic, among the artists and projects that Pete has overseen are twenty one pilots, Halestorm, Jason Mraz, Christina Perri, Melanie Martinez, Skillet, GAYLE, Brett Eldredge, Matchbox Twenty & Rob Thomas, Theory Of A Deadman, and Icona Pop; as well as the Original Broadway Cast Recordings of Hamilton, Mean Girls, Jagged Little Pill, Dear Evan Hansen, and the multi-platinum Billboard No. 1 soundtrack album The Greatest Showman.
Pete began his A&R career in 1989 at SBK Records. In 1997, he joined Clive Davis at Arista Records, where, as Senior Director of A&R, he conceived and A&R’d Santana’s 30x platinum worldwide, nine-time GRAMMY-winning album, Supernatural.
Additionally, Pete was named International Music Person Of The Year in 2023 by the music industry organization MUSEXPO.
88 Episodes
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Noel Paul Stookey is a founding member of one of the most iconic trios of all time, the legendary folk group Peter, Paul and Mary.From helping ignite the 1960s folk revival to introducing the songs of Bob Dylan to a mass audience with their era-defining recording of “Blowin’ in the Wind,” and carrying anthems like “If I Had a Hammer” and “Puff, the Magic Dragon” into the cultural bloodstream, Noel’s voice became a soundtrack to a generation navigating protest, hope, and change. The trio’s performance at the 1963 March on Washington — where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his historic “I Have a Dream” speech — placed their harmonies at the very heart of the Civil Rights Movement, underscoring music’s power to both reflect and shape history.Beyond the trio’s monumental success, Noel has sustained a solo career grounded in faith, social conscience, and musical craftsmanship — highlighted by his enduring wedding anthem “There Is Love (The Wedding Song).” His commitment to service continues through Music to Life, the nonprofit he founded to mentor artists using music as a force for positive social change.In this conversation, Noel reflects on the power of harmony, the responsibility of artists in turbulent times, and what it means to keep singing with purpose more than six decades into a remarkable career.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Elliot Scheiner and Frank Filipetti are two of the most legendary recording studio figures of all time. As producers, engineers and mixers, they've worked on thousands of successful award-winning projects over the past 50+ years. Together with fellow studio legends George Massenburg, Chuck Ainlay, Jimmy Douglass, Niko Bolas and Sylvia Massey, Elliot and Frank run the Music Engineering and Technology (or MET) Alliance, an organization that looks to preserve the quality and secure the future of audio recording.These seven studio geniuses are responsible for producing or engineering over 7000 recordings - racking up hundreds of Gold and Platinum records, nearly 75 Grammy Awards and a ton of priceless stories about how they recorded iconic artists - from The Eagles to Neil Young to Pavarotti to George Michael; from Steely Dan to Dire Straits to Bjork to Prince.They're now taking these stories on the road for an Off Broadway show called Studio Confidential which is currently running in New York City with future dates planned for other cities around the US.In this episode with Elliot and Frank, we discuss their careers, their approach in the studio, how to deal with temperamental artists as well as the new show Studio Confidential.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
As a pioneering architect of British folk-rock and one of the most distinctive guitarists of his generation, Richard Thompson has spent more than five decades redefining musical storytelling. As a founding member of Fairport Convention, he helped shape a new sound that fused traditional British folk with rock instrumentation — effectively launching an entire genre — while his intricate guitar work and emotionally precise songwriting quickly marked him as a singular voice. From landmark recordings like Liege & Lief to later classics such as I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight and Shoot Out the Lights, his catalog has become foundational listening for generations of musicians.After leaving Fairport Convention, Thompson built a far-reaching career that included his celebrated recordings with singer Linda Thompson — his former wife and creative partner — as well as decades of acclaimed solo work, including defining albums like Rumor and Sigh. Widely honored for both songwriting and guitar mastery, his compositions have been recorded by artists ranging from Elvis Costello, R.E.M., Bonnie Raitt, Graham Nash, and Linda Ronstadt — underscoring an influence that stretches across genres and eras. Equally compelling in intimate acoustic settings and electrifying full-band performances, he remains a defining presence in folk, rock, and Americana.Still recording and touring deep into his sixth decade as a performer, Thompson continues to explore new creative ground while extending a legacy defined by craft, curiosity, and emotional depth. In this conversation, he reflects on songwriting, guitar expression, and the balance between tradition and innovation — offering a window into the perspective of one of music’s most respected and enduring artists.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
As the iconic voice behind one of arena rock’s most enduring bands, Lou Gramm helped define the sound of late-’70s and ’80s rock radio. As the frontman of Foreigner, his powerful, unmistakable vocals drove a run of classic albums and singles including Cold as Ice, Hot Blooded, Juke Box Hero, Waiting for a Girl Like You, and I Want to Know What Love Is — songs that blended hard rock muscle with melodic sophistication and emotional directness.With a career spanning more than four decades, Gramm’s influence reaches far beyond his chart success, shaping generations of rock singers and cementing his place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as one of the great voices of his era. His work set a standard for how arena rock could be both tough and tender, commercial and deeply personal.Now, Lou Gramm enters a new chapter with the release of his forthcoming album Released, arriving March 27 — his first full-length collection of original music since 2009. The album features previously unreleased tracks originally written for solo albums in the 1980s and for his band Shadow King in 1991, but never fully completed until now. These songs offer a rare window into Gramm’s creative evolution, reconnecting his classic-era songwriting with a renewed sense of purpose and reflection.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
As one of the most respected guitarists and songwriters in American roots rock, Warren Haynes has helped carry the traditions of blues, soul, and Southern rock into the modern era. Best known for his work with The Allman Brothers Band, Gov’t Mule, and The Dead, Haynes has built a career defined by emotional depth, virtuosic playing, and a fearless commitment to live performance.Blending extended improvisation with deeply personal songwriting, Warren's voice and guitar work have become touchstones for a generation of musicians seeking authenticity in an ever-changing musical landscape.With a career spanning more than three decades, Warren Haynes’ influence reaches far beyond the jam band world — connecting the legacy of the Allman Brothers to contemporary blues and rock while earning him recognition as one of the most enduring and soulful storytellers in American music.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
As one of the most powerful and influential voices in American popular music, Darlene Love helped define the sound of early rock and soul while shaping the language of modern pop singing. Rising to prominence in the early 1960s, her unmistakable voice powered a string of era-defining recordings including He’s a Rebel, The Boy I’m Gonna Marry, Da Doo Ron Ron, and the holiday classic Christmas (Baby Please Come Home).Working closely with producer Phil Spector during the height of the Wall of Sound era, Darlene became the emotional engine behind some of the most enduring records in music history — even when her contributions went uncredited. Her voice bridged gospel, R&B, and pop, influencing generations of artists who followed, from soul singers to rock frontmen.After stepping away from the spotlight, Darlene Love’s career experienced a remarkable second act, championed by artists like Bruce Springsteen and celebrated through film, television, and Broadway. Her story — one of resilience, artistry, and long-overdue recognition — culminated in her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, cementing her legacy as one of the great American singers.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
As the godfather of shock rock and one of the most enduring figures in American music, Alice Cooper helped redefine what a rock frontman could be. Blending hard rock, theatrical spectacle, and unforgettable hooks, he's delivered a run of iconic albums and singles including School’s Out, I’m Eighteen, No More Mr. Nice Guy, and Billion Dollar Babies. With a career spanning more than five decades, Cooper’s influence extends far beyond the stage — shaping generations of artists while earning induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and maintaining his status as one of rock’s most compelling storytellers.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
All new episodes every week - starting Thursday, January 15th!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
As a key architect of the Eagles’ classic sound and the band's lead guitarist from 1974 - 2001, Don Felder co-wrote and performed on some of rock’s most enduring anthems, including “Hotel California,” “Victim of Love,” and “Those Shoes.” His signature guitar work helped propel the band to worldwide superstardom and earned multiple Grammy Awards. His latest album, The Vault 1975-2025 Fifty Years Of Music, is out now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Legendary songwriter Carole Bayer Sager joins us to reflect on a remarkable career that includes co-writing timeless hits like “Nobody Does It Better,” “That’s What Friends Are For,” and “Arthur’s Theme.” A Grammy, Oscar, and Tony winner, Carole shares stories of her collaborations - both personally and professionally - with legends like Burt Bacharach and Marvin Hamlisch—as well as her friendships with icons from Hollywood to Broadway. It’s a candid, inspiring look into the life of one of pop music’s most gifted lyricists.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
You may not know Russ Ballard's name but you certainly know his voice and his songs. From fronting Argent and singing lead on Hold Your Head Up as well as writing and singing lead on“God Gave Rock and Roll to You,” to writing chart-toppers like “New York Groove,” “You Can Do Magic,” “Winning” “I Know There’s Something Going On” and “Since You Been Gone,” Russ has left fingerprints on decades of rock history. His songs have been recorded by everyone from KISS to Santana, America to Rainbow—and his influence spans continents and generations.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Melissa Manchester is celebrating over 50 years in music and recently joined us in person to discuss her long, successful career. From winning a Grammy in 1982 to having massive hits with classics like “Midnight Blue,”“Don’t Cry Out Loud,” and “You Should Hear How She Talks About You,” Melissa's career is still reaching new heights with the release of her latest album RE:VIEW as well as a new stage show of her life and music, Fifty Threads: An Artist's Journey. From her early days with Bette Midler to writing hits with Carole Bayer Sager, Kenny Loggins and more, Melissa opens up about her creative process, career milestones, and what continues to inspire her after more than five decades in music.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Stan Lynch is a founding member and longtime drummer of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, a band he played in for close to 20 years. Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Stan's also written and produced for The Eagles, Don Henley and John Mellencamp. His new band, a collaboration with Texas singer songwriter Jon Christopher Davis, is The Speaker Wars who've just released their debut album. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Our guest this week is a legendary singer songwriter and musician -powerhouse frontman of Grand Funk Railroad: Mark Farner. As one of the original driving forces behind the band, —Mark is the the voice of anthems like “We’re an American Band” and the epic “I’m Your Captain (Closer to Home),” which he also wrote. Other Grand Funk hits include Bad Time/Some Kind Of Wonderful and their #1 cover of Little Eva’s “The Locomotion.”But Mark’s journey goes beyond the stage. From blazing trails in the heyday of ’70s rock to mentoring emerging artists, and even embracing life as a dedicated farmer, Mark’s story is one of passion, resilience, and reinvention. Mark’s new album, his first full length release in nearly tow decades is “Closer To My Home” — which is available everywere now See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Little Anthony helped define the sound of early rock and soul—and at the age of 84 years old, he's still going strong. In this revealing conversation, Anthony takes us through his extraordinary life and career—from doo-wop beginnings with The Imperials to stories of his best friends Frankie Lymon and Teddy Randzzo. From Vegas residencies to his Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, hear firsthand how one of soul and pop’s most distinctive voices has endured and evolved over seven decades.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Jim Peterik wrote the book on songwriting. Literally. He's the co-author of Songwriting For Dummies, now in its 2nd edition. More famously — he’s also the author of some of the best known songs of the last 50 years, including “Eye Of The Tiger,” which Jim co-wrote with Frankie Sullivan, for their band Survivor. Jim and Frankie co-wrote 6 more Top 20 hits for Survivor before Jim left the band in 1996.Prior to Survivor, Jim was the main songwriter and lead singer of the band Ides Of March whose smash “Vehicle” made it all the way to #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the spring of 1970.Jim’s also written hit songs with .38 Special, Sammy Hagar and The Beach Boys and continues to make music and tour with many of his different band projects today — including Ides Of March, World Stage and Pride Of Lions.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
On this episode of Rock & Roll High School, John Hall—founding member of Orleans, No Nukes pioneer, and former U.S. Congressman—shares the stories behind hits like “Dance with Me” and “Still the One,” his journey from rock stardom to Washington, and his fight for clean energy. Hall reflects on working alongside legends like Janis Joplin, Bonnie Raitt, Jackson Browne, Bruce Springsteen, and Graham Nash, offering a unique perspective on the power of music to inspire change. It’s a compelling conversation at the crossroads of rock, activism, and public service.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this special episode of Rock & Roll High School, we sit down with the incomparable William Bell, a true icon of soul music and one of the original architects of the legendary Stax Records sound. From writing timeless classics like "You Don’t Miss Your Water" and"Born Under a Bad Sign", to mentoring generations of musicians and winning a Grammy decades into his career, William Bell’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary.Join us as he shares stories from the golden era of Memphis soul, talks candidly about the birth of Southern R&B, reflects on working alongside legends like Otis Redding and Booker T. & the MG’s, and discusses how he continues to evolve as an artist today. It's a deep dive into the legacy, resilience, and creativity of one of soul music’s most enduring voices.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
For over 50 years, Danny "Kootch" Kortchmar has been rock music's secret weapon. As a guitarist and songwriter, he's collaborated with everyone from James Taylor, Carole King, and Jackson Browne to Jon Bon Jovi and Don Henley. Songs he's written include "All She Wants To Do Is Dance," "Somebody's Baby," "Dirty Laundry," and "Sunset Grill." His work as part of the sideman-supergroup The Immediate Family (with fellow superstar sidemen Leland Sklar, Russ Kunkel, Waddy Wachtel, and Steve Postell) can be seen in Denny Tedesco's documentary film of the same name.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
As the founder and frontman of The Lovin’ Spoonful, John Sebastian helped define the sound of the 1960s with classics like “Do You Believe in Magic,” “Daydream,” and “Summer in the City.” As a solo artist, he delivered a surprise acoustic set at Woodstock, wrote the #1 hit “Welcome Back” for Welcome Back, Kotter, and continued to craft songs that resonated across decades.A member of both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, John Sebastian stands among the greats—not just for his unforgettable songs, but for the heart and soul he brings to every note.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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