Metal Mayhem ROC: Your go to source for everything metal.

In this episode of Metal Mayhem ROC, we’re joined by Bones from the UK heavy metal band Tailgunner. Bones joins us as the band prepare to release their second album, Midnight Blitz, and reflects on a period of rapid growth and forward momentum. We discuss how Tailgunner developed a working relationship with KK Downing, how that connection evolved, and what it was like having KK involved as producer on the new record. The conversation also covers Tailgunner’s role in the No Life ’Til Leather Metallica tribute album, including the exposure that came with kicking off the release, and how extensive touring helped sharpen the band both musically and professionally. Bones also looks back on discovering heavy metal growing up, the early influences that shaped his musical path, and what he’s seeing from audiences today as Tailgunner continue touring in the UK with Fozzy and prepare for major European festival dates this summer, including Download. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Tease 02:08 – Why they call him Bones 02:30 – When KK Downing noticed Tailgunner 04:32 – Why KK got involved 05:41 – KK Downing as a producer 07:38 – How touring shaped the second album 10:08 – New songs: War In Heaven, Midnight Blitz, Eulogy 14:46 – Opening the No Life ’Til Leather Metallica tribute 17:52 – Discovering heavy metal growing up 19:08 – Who’s in the crowd at Tailgunner shows 20:24 – Touring now and playing Download Festival Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Few artists get the opportunity to revisit their first solo album with the benefit of time and perspective. In this conversation, Warren Haynes reflects on the 30-year reissue of Tales Of Ordinary Madness and why revisiting the record mattered now. Haynes discusses defining his solo voice outside of his band work, choosing a metal-leaning label for a deeply personal album, and why the previously unreleased track “Tear Me Down” was left off the original release. He also reflects on Chuck Leavell’s role in shaping the record and how distance from the era allowed the album to be heard as originally intended. The conversation expands into writing “Desiree” for the TV series Landman, building theme-based live shows (including an all-Black Sabbath night in Atlanta), playing with Roger Glover and Deep Purple, honoring Bob Weir’s musical legacy, the current state of Gov’t Mule in 2026, and life outside music — including Warren’s growing appreciation for hockey. 00:00 Intro Tease03:20 Defining His Solo Voice on Tales Of Ordinary Madness05:48 Choosing a Metal Label for a Solo Album09:57 Why “Tear Me Down” Was Left Off the Original Release11:40 Chuck Leavell’s Role in Shaping the Record18:47 Writing “Desiree” for the TV Series Landman24:34 Theme-Based Live Shows & Playing Black Sabbath in Atlanta26:01 Playing with Roger Glover & Deep Purple26:37 Honoring Bob Weir’s Musical Legacy29:46 Gov’t Mule in 2026: Lineup, Health & Future Plans33:10 Life Outside Music & Discovering Hockey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this in-depth conversation, Darryl McDaniels sits down with Metal Walt to explore the heavy metal and hard rock roots that have been part of his musical identity since childhood. Growing up in New York City, DMC discovered rock and metal through radio, hearing bands like Black Sabbath and Judas Priest at a formative age. He explains how those sounds were already embedded in early hip-hop culture, from DJs digging through crates to the attitude and energy that shaped Run-DMC from the very beginning. The discussion revisits key moments such as “Rock Box” and “Walk This Way,” why rock was always part of Run-DMC’s DNA, and how those records opened creative doors that still matter today. DMC also talks about his decision to actively create rock and metal music himself, leading to projects like HellRaisers and his 2026 solo metal single “She Gets Me High.” Additional topics include NYC hardcore roots, playing with Agnostic Front, sharing stages with Sammy Hagar, opening for Lou Reed, and how creativity, authenticity, and curiosity continue to guide his work. 00:00 Show Open & Pre-Roll Tease 04:23 What Music Sounded Like in DMC’s House Growing Up 05:58 Discovering Rock on WABC and the First Metal Obsession (Black Sabbath) 09:11 Rock and Early Hip-Hop Culture — DJs, Crates, and Crossover 11:23 “Rock Box” and Why Rock Was Always in Run-DMC’s DNA 14:16 “Walk This Way” — History, Impact, and the Permission Moment 25:25 When DMC Decided to Start Making Rock Music 28:10 DMC and the HellRaisers — Live Reactions and Reality 31:25 Rock DNA Across Classic Run-DMC Songs (King of Rock, It’s Tricky, Mary, Mary, Why You Buggin’) 36:17 “She Gets Me High” — DMC’s Solo Metal Direction and Lineup 47:13 Hardcore Roots — Agnostic Front, NYC, and Underground Energy 56:22 Legacy, Creativity, and What DMC Is About Today 01:09:22 Wrap-Up & Where to Follow DMC Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

JJ French has lived the full arc of American heavy metal — from club-level survival to global legacy. As guitarist, co-founder, and longtime strategist behind Twisted Sister, JJ French reflects on what it actually takes to last 50 years in a business designed to burn artists out. This is not a nostalgia interview. It is a candid conversation about discipline, reinvention, timing, and truth. JJ discusses the early definition of success, why the UK embraced Twisted Sister before the U.S., the cultural divide between punk and metal at CBGB, the PMRC hearings and their real-world consequences, lineup decisions for the current era, and why the band is returning in 2026 for select 50th-anniversary performances. The conversation also covers milestone performances — including post-9/11 New York City shows, Sweden Rock 2022, and the Morristown Twisted Christmas concert — along with reflections on legacy, music licensing, health, and perspective earned the hard way. Chapters are included for easy navigation.   CHAPTER MARKS 02:59 – Did You Ever Expect Twisted Sister to Last 50 Years? 04:03 – What “Success” Really Meant in the Early Years 06:00 – When the Band Shifted from Survival to the Long Game 12:12 – Was the Live Album Recorded at That Legendary Show? 13:09 – Why the UK Embraced Twisted Sister Before the U.S. 14:31 – Why Twisted Sister Was Never Accepted at CBGB 19:22 – Why the 2026 Twisted Sister 50th Anniversary Shows Are Happening 21:25 – Choosing the Lineup: Joey Franco & Russell Zuto Explained 22:15 – Why Mark Mendoza Isn’t Part of This Version 23:10 – Setlists Today: Deep Cuts or Greatest Hits? 29:57 – Why the Rochester Show Was Recorded for King Biscuit Flour Hour 33:00 – Reflections on 9/11 NYC, Sweden Rock 2022 & the Final U.S. Christmas Show 35:17 – PMRC 40 Years Later: JJ French Looks Back 38:09 – Are “We’re Not Gonna Take It” & “I Wanna Rock” the Most Licensed Metal Songs? 39:22 – What JJ French Hopes This Tour Adds to the Legacy   LINKS Official Twisted Sister Website https://twistedsister.com JJ French Official Website https://www.jayjayfrench.com Metal Mayhem ROC https://www.metalmayhemroc.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alycen Rowse joins Metal Mayhem ROC for a wide-open, unfiltered conversation about life inside the rock ’n’ roll world — beyond the myths and stereotypes. Alycen shares firsthand stories from decades spent backstage and on the road, offering rare insight into groupie culture, navigating relationships, personal boundaries, and the realities behind rock’s most extreme moments. From encounters with David Lee Roth and James Hetfield to reflections involving Nikki Sixx, Robert Plant, and the tragic John Entwistle incident she witnessed firsthand, Alycen delivers a perspective few ever hear. She also discusses her book We've Got Tonight: The Life and Times of Notorious Groupie Alycen Rowse and her YouTube channel Cocktails & Rock Tales, where she continues preserving rock history in her own voice. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Alycen Rowse 05:05 Defining a Groupie 07:53 Navigating Relationships on the Road 10:02 Family Reactions and Personal Boundaries 12:42 Rock and Roll Rivalries 15:12 Memorable Encounters and Friendships 19:20 Life Beyond the Stage 22:24 Reflections on Aging Rock Stars 24:23 Intimate Rock Star Moments 30:46 Drugs and Rock ’n’ Roll 33:01 Rock and Roll Rivalries and Relationships 33:38 The John Entwistle Incident 37:31 AC/DC Concert Tragedy 39:23 The Book and Future Plans Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Sweet of STRYPER joins Metal Mayhem ROC for an inspiring and a wide-ranging conversation about the band’s new Christmas album, The Greatest Gift of All, the importance of keeping faith at the center of the season, and the powerful message behind STRYPER’s music. Michael also discusses recent health challenges, the band’s enduring brotherhood, and how new Generations of fans continue to discover STRYPER. He goes deeper into the creative process behind reimagining Christmas classics, writing new holiday originals, and preparing for STRYPER’s upcoming studio album and future touring plans. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the band, this episode delivers honesty, heart, and hope.   ⏱️ CHAPTERS (FINAL MEGAPHONE VERSION) 00:00 – Show Open & Vernomatic Intro 04:11 – Introduction to Michael Sweet 05:23 – STRYPER’s 40th Anniversary Reflections 06:23 – Brotherhood, Tension & Band Dynamics 07:29 – Michael Sweet’s Health Update 09:24 – New Generations Discovering STRYPER 13:32 – What Christmas Really Means to Michael 17:02 – Reimagining Classic Christmas Songs 24:34 – What’s Next: New STRYPER Music & Projects 26:04 – Final Thoughts & Holiday Wishes   🔗 LINKS Metal Mayhem ROC https://metalmayhemroc.com/ STRYPER Official Website https://stryper.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join The Vernomatic, Metal Walt, and Ian O’Rourke (Motorlord), and Bill “The Rager” for another chapter of The History of Metal. This time, they revisit 1999 and 2000 — a defining turning point when Nu-Metal and Post-Grunge ruled MTV, Napster upended the industry, and legendary icons stormed back into the spotlight. Hear how Slipknot, Korn, and Limp Bizkit reshaped the scene, why Woodstock ’99 went off the rails, and how Bruce Dickinson, Rob Halford, Dio, and Alice Cooper reignited traditional metal. From Metallica’s S&M experiment to Linkin Park’s Hybrid Theory explosion, this episode chronicles how heavy music survived Y2K — and came back louder than ever. CHAPTERS 00:00 Show Open and Introduction Segment – Vernomatic welcome, show setup, and call-to-action 04:23 Setting the Stage – Metal’s identity crisis at the turn of the millennium 08:10 Ozzfest Ignites a New Era – The rise of Nu-Metal and post-grunge power 10:06 Slipknot, Korn & Chaos – The new generation of heavy shocks the scene 12:00 Mainstream Invasion – Creed, Buckcherry & Filter bring hard rock to radio 20:07 Woodstock ’99 Erupts – The day metal was blamed for everything 26:12 ’99 in Review – Favorite albums and overlooked gems of the year 34:27 Y2K Awakening – Guitars, melody, and tradition return in 2000 38:11 Godsmack & Disturbed – New blood defines the sound of a decade 40:02 Women Take the Stage – Kitty, Otep & Lacuna Coil reshape heavy music 43:04 Linkin Park Explodes – Hybrid Theory and the next-gen crossover 46:34 Legends Reborn – Maiden’s Brave New World and Halford’s Resurrection 50:45 Dark Reinvention – Alice Cooper, Dio & Pantera reforge their sound 59:48 Mega Tours of 2000 – Ozzfest, Kiss Farewell & the summer of comebacks 64:56 Napster Changes Everything – Metallica vs. file sharing and fallout METAL MAYHEM ROC: https://metalmayhemroc.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marco Mendoza, the seasoned rock bassist known for his work with Blue Murder, Thin Lizzy, Ted Nugent, Whitesnake, and as a solo artist, joins Metal Mayhem ROC to reflect on his remarkable career. He opens up about life on the road, the discipline of sobriety, and the powerful bonds he’s formed with icons like John Sykes, David Coverdale & Neil Schon. From global tours to personal transformation, Marco shares heartfelt stories, insights from decades in rock, and a glimpse into his current projects - an inspiring conversation with one of rock’s most passionate and enduring artists, and a true unsung hero of the music world. 00:00 — Open: Show intro & housekeeping 04:05 — Intro – Marco Mendoza (Blue Murder, Thin Lizzy) 05:32 — Work–Life Balance on the Road 09:17 — New Studio Work & Tour Updates (Iconic; Satriani/Vai) 14:02 — Solo Career: Challenges, DIY Logistics & Wins 27:18 — Gratitude & Sobriety — Marco’s Turning Point 39:31 — Early Breakthrough with Bill Ward (Sabbath) 46:00 — Meeting John Sykes — Forming a Bond 51:05 — Joining Thin Lizzy (Japan Reunion Era) 54:09 — John Sykes — Health, Privacy & Later Years 01:00:50 — Ted Nugent Era — Trio Power & Road Stories 01:02:20 — Whitesnake & Journey — Big Stages, Big Lessons 01:13:24 — Favorite Moments & What’s Next   Metal Mayhem ROC: https://metalmayhemroc.com/ Marco Mendoza Official Website: https://marcomendoza.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bobby ‘Blitz’ Ellsworth and producer Carl Canedy join Metal Mayhem ROC to celebrate 40 years of Overkill’s debut album, Feel The Fire. They revisit the early New Jersey club days, the Ithaca, NY recording sessions, and the DIY hustle that helped launch East Coast thrash. Hear behind-the-scenes stories about working with Johnny Z of Megaforce Records, the album’s iconic cover shoot, and early tours with Anthrax and Slayer — plus what’s next for both Overkill and The Rods. A powerful and nostalgic look back at the spark that lit Overkill’s unstoppable fire. CHAPTERS: 00:00 – Introduction to Bobby ‘Blitz’ Ellsworth and Carl Canedy 00:46 – Early Days and Formation of Overkill 01:37 – The Journey to Recording Feel the Fire 03:00 – Self-Promotion and Breakthrough 05:01 – Recording Challenges and Studio Stories 10:33 – Living Arrangements During Recording 14:29 – Reflecting on Iconic Tracks and Imagery 19:25 – The Iconic Album Cover 21:59 – The Mascot and Touring 25:28 – Reflecting on the Singing Style 27:44 – Band Chemistry and Songwriting 29:53 – Lessons Learned and Moving Forward 33:08 – Future Plans and New Projects LINKS: Metal Mayhem ROC:https://metalmayhemroc.com/ Overkill Official Website:https://wreckingcrew.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From winning a songwriting mentorship at 19 to recording with Rush legend Alex Lifeson, Maiah Wynne has become one of modern rock’s most captivating new voices. In this Metal Mayhem ROC exclusive, she opens up about the making of Envy of None’s haunting new album Stygian Wavz, her creative bond with Lifeson and Andy Curran (Coney Hatch), and how the project evolved from a mentorship into a genre-bending collaboration. Maiah discusses the band’s cinematic sound, introspective lyrics, and the visual identity behind their videos and artwork — plus she shares her emotional reaction to the Rush 2026 reunion announcement. Chapters 00:00 – Show Open / Host Intro & Setup 02:11 – Maiah Wynne Introduction 03:05 – Formation of Envy of None 04:59 – Musical Style & Influences 07:16 – Vocal Dynamics & Recording Process 10:04 – Album Themes & Imagery 13:04 – Lyric Writing & Contributions 15:24 – Visual Identity & Music Videos 20:58 – Charitable Efforts & Latest Single 25:22 – Rush Reunion & Future Plans 27:52 – Solo Project Links Metal Mayhem ROC → https://metalmayhemroc.com Envy of None → https://envyofnone.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s been five years since the passing of Eddie Van Halen — one of the most influential and groundbreaking guitarists of all time. In this special episode, radio veteran and musician Keith Roth joins hosts The Vernomatic and Metal Walt to celebrate Eddie’s life, music, and legacy. Keith shares his personal experiences meeting Eddie and Van Halen over the years, offering a rare, first-hand look at the man behind the guitar hero. Along the way, Vernomatic and Walt recall their own run-ins with Eddie, swapping stories about the first time they saw Van Halen live, the unforgettable riffs that changed their lives, and the moments that still give them chills today. Many fans also know Keith as the co-host of Rockstrap on the Pantheon Podcast Network, where he and Don Jamieson discuss their love of heavy metal with sports legends. Tonight’s conversation taps into that same passion — music, memory, and the spirit that keeps Eddie’s influence alive for generations. 🎸 Eddie Van Halen changed rock forever. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to his genius and a reminder of why his magic can never be replaced. 👉 Visit MetalMayhemROC.com to sign up for the newsletter and enter our Kings of Thrash ticket giveaway — October 21st at Photo City Music Hall in Rochester, NY. Two pairs of tickets are up for grabs. While you’re there, browse the merch store and catch up on recent episodes with James Rivera of Helstar, Ian Hill of Judas Priest, and Glenn Hughes of Deep Purple. 👉 Connect with Keith Roth: https://www.dekoentertainment.com/inthesquare/keith-roth 👉 Listen to Keith Roth’s Rockstrap Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rockstrap/id1757444948 ⏱ Episode Chapters 00:00 – Opening tribute: Eddie Van Halen, 5 years later 05:12 – Where were you when you heard Eddie died? 08:06 – Keith Roth’s first Van Halen memory at Macy’s 12:01 – First Van Halen concerts we’ll never forget 19:00 – Meeting David Lee Roth & Eddie Van Halen at the Parker Meridian 25:00 – Walt’s crazy Café Wha? 2012 story — listening from the street 27:18 – Vernomatic’s near misses with Eddie (Golden Girls & Buffalo softball game) 35:22 – What made Eddie Van Halen a once-in-a-century guitarist 43:00 – Why Eddie always put the song before the solo 48:00 – Keith Roth on Rockstrap, Dictators & keeping Eddie’s legacy alive Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Courtney Cox of the all-female powerhouse metal band, Burning Witches, joins Metal Mayhem ROC to discuss the band’s latest album, Inquisition, her journey from L.A. to Europe, and integrating into the band as the only American member. We dive deep into the making of their latest album, including thematic elements such as empowerment, mysticism and rebellion, and touring plans for 2025–2026. She also shares her experiences touring with KK’s Priest and L.A. Guns in 2024, and what it means to be part of a globally respected metal band. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction and show open 04:40 Courtney Cox joins Metal Mayhem ROC 09:12 Life in Europe as the only American Witch 13:18 Creating the new album Inquisition 18:27 Themes of empowerment, mysticism and rebellion 23:44 Touring with KK’s Priest and L.A. Guns in 2024 28:56 Burning Witches’ 2025–2026 touring plans 33:21 Reflections on global fanbase and legacy 37:40 Closing thoughts and wrap-up LINKS: Metal Mayhem ROC: 👉 https://metalmayhemroc.com/ Burning Witches Official Website: 👉 https://burningwitches.ch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Texas power metal veterans Helstar return with their first album in eight years — The Devil’s Masquerade (Massacre Records). Frontman James Rivera joins Metal Mayhem ROC to share the creative spark with guitarist Larry Barragan, the horror-inspired songwriting behind the record, and what fans can expect from upcoming tours in Europe and the U.S. Rivera also reflects on Helstar’s legacy, lineup changes, side projects, and the future of physical formats like vinyl, digipacks, and media books. 🌐 More episodes, radio shows & merch: [https://www.metalmayhemroc.com](https://www.metalmayhemroc.com) Episode Chapters (Preview) 00:00 — **Introduction and Show Opening** 03:25 — **Success of *Clad In Black*** 07:10 — **Why the 8-Year Wait for *The Devil’s Masquerade*** 12:36 — **Inspiration Behind the Title Track** 15:45 — **Collaborations with Texas Metal Icons** …plus more chapters on lineup changes, touring plans, side projects, industry politics, and Helstar’s future. Connect with Helstar Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Helstar.Metal/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/helstarofficial/ YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuDsFClVuye2X6KhM-g89Uw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Metal Mayhem ROC welcomes Judas Priest founding bassist Ian Hill to discuss the band’s enduring legacy, the upcoming US “Shield of Pain” Tour with Alice Cooper and Corrosion of Conformity, and the 35th anniversary of Painkiller, a defining album in heavy metal history. Ian reflects on the 1990 Nevada legal trial, the addition of Richie Faulkner and Andy Sneap to preserve the band’s iconic guitar sound, and how Judas Priest continues to evolve with deep cuts and fresh setlist changes. He shares memories from the early years, the 1983 US Festival, the Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens era and what it means to carry the torch after five decades of heavy metal dominance. https://metalmayhemroc.com/ Judas Priest Official Website: https://judaspriest.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Glenn Hughes, The Voice of Rock, joins Metal Mayhem ROC to discuss his legendary career. From Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Black County Communions, and more, to his new solo album ‘Chosen’, he opens up about his spiritual journey and writing songs about the human condition, collaborations with Tony Iommi and other icons, and the making of his latest music. Glenn also reflects on the brotherhood he had with the late Ronnie James Dio and Ozzy Osbourne, his bond with Tommy Bolin, and shares plans for his upcoming European tour with hopes of U.S. dates. An insightful conversation with one of rock’s most enduring and dynamic voices. 00:00: Introduction to Glenn Hughes 00:29: Stevie Wonder Inspiration 02:28: Spirituality and Higher Power Importance 03:30: Classic Deep Purple Live, Black Country Communion, Satriani Vai Project 07:00: New ‘Chosen’ Solo Album and Songs 15:15: Touring Plans to Promote New Album 17:22: Reflections of Black Sabbath’s ‘Seventh Star’, Iommi Hughes ‘Fused’ 20:46: Remembering Ronnie James Dio and Tommy Bolin 24:43: Discovering Andrew Watt, His Enduring Friendship With Ozzy Osbourne Metal Mayhem ROC: https://metalmayhemroc.com/ Glenn Hughes Official Website: https://glennhughes.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sam Spade of The Midnight Devils joins Metal Mayhem ROC to share the chaos behind their new single "Shock the World." 🎸⚡ From the wild video shoot at Cincinnati’s Kenny Oz Fest to their upcoming Fall 2025 Australian tour with Boulevard of Eyes (featuring Chloe Trujillo), this episode dives into what makes the Devils one of the most exciting DIY glam-rock bands on the scene. Chapters 00:00 – Open 00:41 – Sam’s wedding & new beginnings 01:17 – The backstory of Shock the World video 02:06 – Why it became the single & video 04:01 – Highs and lows from filming 05:48 – Fan & critic reactions 06:47 – Kenny Oz Fest + upcoming Fall 2025 Australia tour 🇦🇺 10:26 – New music & special releases 16:00 – U.S. touring hurdles & DIY spirit 19:26 – Florida tour plans & Monsters of Rock dream Links: The Midnight Devils: Instagram | YouTube | Official Website Watch Shock The World Video: https://youtu.be/MY_JbSos3tg?si=SSWMG9_sPxQNpawQ More Episodes: MetalMayhemROC.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, the Metal Mayhem ROC crew relives unforgettable run-ins with rock royalty. Ever wondered what it’s like to meet your heroes? Metal Walt, Bill the Rager, and The Vernomatic share firsthand encounters with legends from Mr. Big, Iron Maiden, Metallica, Motörhead, Slayer, Judas Priest, Black Sabbath, Saxon, Van Halen, Queensrÿche, and more—plus surprise meetings with Pamela Anderson, Ron Jeremy, and other pop-culture icons. From in-store signings and backstage passes to tour bus hangouts, airport sightings, and unexpected face-to-face moments, these stories take you behind the curtain for the pure adrenaline rush of meeting your idols—complete with the unforgettable tales that come with them! 02:40: Starstruck Moments with Queensryche, Mr. Big, Bad English 06:43: Stardom Encounters with Clive Burr and Kerry King 09:49: Motorhead at House of Guitars 12:37: Rob Halford Run-Ins & Walking Into His Dressing Room 16:02: Creative Ways to Get into Concerts Without a Ticket 20:59: Unexpected Encounters and Stories, Highs and Lows 27:53: David Lee Roth Outside a Tour Bus 29:43: Observing James Hetfield Backstage 32:41; Damn Yankees Soundcheck Experience 35:03: Metal Walt's Name Origin 36:27: Private Backyard Gig with Glenn Hughes 38:02: Singing on-stage with Mandy Lion 39:33: Introducing Anvil at the Gasworks 41:45: Meeting Thurman Thomas and Pamela Anderson 45:00: Hanging with Raven, Saxon, John Bush, Rick Ventura 50:22: Encountering Ron Jeremy in Las Vegas Metal Mayhem ROC: https://metalmayhemroc.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Metal Mayhem ROC goes behind the music with legendary songwriter Russ Ballard, the creative force behind some of the most iconic rock and pop hits of the '70s and '80s! Russ reflects on his remarkable career, from his early days with Argent to penning smash hits made famous by Kiss, Ace Frehley, Rainbow, Santana, Roger Daltrey, America, and more, and shares the secret stories behind writing some of the most memorable tracks in music history. He also dives into his brand-new double album Songs From The Warehouse and The Hits Rewired, revealing the personal stories and insights behind the new tracks. Discover the emotional core of his songwriting, the shift from performer to producer, and how his creative process has evolved in today’s music world. Packed with nostalgia, insight, and inspiration, join us for an engaging conversation with this renowned hitmaker! 00:00 – Introduction to Russ Ballard 04:20 – The Concept of a Songwriter Super Group 05:34 – Leaving Argent and Going Solo 07:41 – Family Life and Career Choices 12:37 – Writing Philosophy and Inspirations 15:03 – Songs From The Warehouse Album Commentary 21:34 – Iconic Hits and Their Stories: “Winning” and “Since You’ve Been Gone” 30:50 – The Legacy of “God Gave Rock and Roll to You” 34:28 – The Story Behind “New York Groove” 39:59 – KISS and Ace Frehley: Rivalries and Relationships 43:17 – Collaborations with Roger Daltrey 49:59 – The Impact of “Voices” and “You Can Do Magic” 01:01:49 – Songs Interpreted by Night Ranger, Sampson, Bad English, and Uriah Heep 01:07:01 – Future Plans and Upcoming Tours Metal Mayhem ROC: https://metalmayhemroc.com/ Russ Ballard Official Website https://russballardmusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bassist Dennis Dunaway joins Metal Mayhem ROC to dive into ‘The Revenge of Alice Cooper’, the first new album in 50 years from the original Alice Cooper Band. As pioneers of shock rock and theatrical stagecraft, Dennis shares behind-the-scenes stories of the creative process with bandmates Alice Cooper, Michael Bruce, Neal Smith, and legendary producer Bob Ezrin. Hear how the album’s dark, haunting themes came together, the spontaneity that fueled the sessions, the enduring friendship that traces back to Dennis and Alice’s teenage years, and the deep camaraderie that has kept the band connected over the years. From the band’s legacy to Glenn Buxton’s posthumous contribution, learn about the new album's concept, songwriting and what the future holds for this legendary unit! Metal Mayhem ROC: https://metalmayhemroc.com/ Dennis Dunaway Official Website https://dennisdunaway.com Alice Cooper Official Website: https://alicecooper.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jon Larsen, drummer and founding member of Danish hard rock band Volbeat, joins Metal Mayhem ROC to talk about their latest album, God of Angels Trust, and their upcoming US summer tour with Halestorm. Hear insights into how Volbeat developed their signature blend of rockabilly, metal, country, and punk, and the origin behind the band’s unique name. Jon also dives into the creative process behind the new album and reflects on the major milestones that fueled their commercial breakthrough in the US, plus the career-defining impact of touring with Metallica, and others over the past two decades. Jon also reflects on navigating success, connecting with international audiences, and keeping their music fresh and dynamic across nine albums, along with the challenge of crafting a setlist that spans their expansive catalog. 00:00: Jon Larsen Introduction 00:38: Origin of Band’s Name 02:51: Developing Volbeat's Signature Sound 06:56: Volbeat's Rise to Fame 08:46: Achieving US Commercial Success 10:54: Early Days Impact of Touring with Metallica 16:06: Inside ‘God of Angels Trust’ Title and Imagery 19:00: New Album Songs & Videos Insights 28:28: Behind the Personal Lyrics of Michael Poulsen 32:26: US Summer Tour with Halestorm and Setlist Challenges 42:00: Perspective on Iron Maiden's ‘Run For Your Lives’ Setlist 45:33: Supporting Nicko McBrain’s Final Shows in Brazil 47:50: Danish Metal Legacy Metal Mayhem ROC: https://metalmayhemroc.com/ Volbeat Official Website https://volbeat.dk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices