When Words Fail...Music Speaks

In today’s episode host James Cox sits down with veteran rocker David Ellefson—a guitarist whose love affair with music began at eleven, when the bass line of Bachman‑Turner‑Overdrive’s Not Fragile sparked a lifelong obsession. From those early needle‑drops to the thunder of KISS‑era amps, David walks us through the soundtrack of his life: the grind of marching‑band sax, the thrill of early cover‑band gigs, and the relentless quest to chase the songs that saved him from the darkness of depression.We dive deep into David’s recent projects—his “No Cover” collection of beloved cuts, the hard‑rock collaboration with Jeff Scott Soto on the new album Unbreakable, and the behind‑the‑scenes stories from legendary Battery Studios in London, the very rooms that birthed Iron Maiden, Def Leppard, and even the original Nevermind console. Along the way, we hear anecdotes about the Trans‑Siberian Orchestra, Megadeth’s “Big Four” saga, and a poignant moment recording a video right as the world mourned Ozzy Osbourne’s passing.If you’ve ever found solace in a guitar solo, a soaring vocal, or the simple act of pressing play, this conversation is for you. Tune in as we explore how music not only fuels a career but also becomes a lifeline—one chord at a time. 🎸✨

In this episode, host James Cox— himself a resilient, hands‑on survivor of depression—welcomes a multifaceted friend, Tommy Giorlando. Tommy’s journey threads together three passions that seem worlds apart yet perfectly in sync:A lifelong love of music – From teen garage‑band mischief with Opus Podunk, through the folk‑pirate vibes of Boca Musica, to newly‑released pop‑punk tracks like “Bad Intentions.” He’ll share the wildest tour memories—like a dreamy canal cruise in Giethoorn, the spontaneous shanty sing‑alongs with international musicians, and the hypnotic crowd‑choreography of his old Opus Podunk finale.The science of sound – Tommy explains how certain frequencies can coax the brain into alpha‑ and theta‑states, making the stage feel like a trance. He’ll reveal how he weaves droning ambience, chimes, and even the Benny Hill theme into his comedy‑hypnosis shows, turning ordinary listeners into foot‑tappers, face‑dancers, and even accidental Irish river‑dancers.A faith‑based take on hypnosis – As a committed Christian, Tommy has wrestled with the theological controversy surrounding mind‑work. He’ll discuss his newly published book Transformed: Hypnosis Through the Lens of Scripture, the ethical line suggestion and control, and how modern research (even a Harvard study on bone‑healing) proves hypnosis is a neutral tool—like a hammer—shaped by the hands that wield it.Carrying the torch of the Tom Silver Foundation – After a poignant mentorship with the late hypnosis pioneer Tom Silver, Tommy now serves on the board of the nonprofit dedicated to spreading scientifically‑backed hypnotherapy to underserved communities, funding free pain‑relief sessions, and training medical professionals worldwide.Go to the Tom Silver Foundation website here:https://www.tomsilverfoundation.orgVisit Tommy's website here:https://www.likeahypnotist.comAll of this is wrapped in genuine friendship, a few off‑the‑cuff jokes about favorite bands (Beatles, Nirvana, Korn, Linkin Park), and a heartfelt moment when Tommy reveals the one song that still brings him to tears—Chris Tomlin’s “Holy Forever.”Tune in to discover how music can crack open the doors of the subconscious, lift the weight of depression, and turn a simple beat into a bridge between science, spirituality, and pure human connection. When words fail, music—and a good dose of hypnotic rhythm—speaks. 🎧✨

Welcome back to When Words Fail, the podcast that battles depression one riff at a time. James Cox—a self‑styled “handicapped” guide on a mission to prove that music can be the therapy we all need.In today’s episode we sit down with the ever‑mysterious Jeff Tuttle—known for his work with The Dillinger Escape Plan, the post‑hardcore outfit Old Gods, and the lightning‑fast super‑group Shock Narcotic. Jeff walks us through his winding road from a small‑town Michigan kid who grew up with the eclectic bassist and became a songwriter behind some of the most relentless, under‑a‑minute tracks in modern metal.We’ll unpack:The “Super‑Group” Myth – Jeff’s take on why labels like “supergroup” can feel limiting, and why the chemistry of a true unit matters more than star power.Songwriting in the Abyss – How he wrestles with riffs that won’t fit, splits them into new songs, and finally lets the creative flow take over.From Old Gods to Shock Narcotic – The evolution of his sound, the freedom he finally found writing his own heavy material, and the collaborative dance with vocalist Sean.A Time‑Travel Tour Fantasy – If Shock Narcotic could crash any era, which one would it be and why?Personal Passions Outside the Stage – Jeff’s love of classic horror (the Evil Dead forever), his admiration for John McLaughlin’s jazz‑fusion vision, and his secret devotion to Sleep Token.Whether you’re a metalhead craving ferocious riffs, a fan of genre‑blending experiments, or simply looking for a reminder that angry music can still be a soundtrack for happy souls, this conversation will hit all the right notes.So crank the volume up, tighten those headphones, and get ready for a raw, honest, and unapologetically heavy dive into the mind of Jeff Tuttle—only on When Words Fail. Let the healing begin.

Welcome to the When Words Fail Music Speaks podcast that fights depression one chord at a time.In today’s episode, host James Cox, sits down with seasoned songwriter‑producer Dennis Welch—a nearly‑70‑year‑old journeyman who’s penned over 500 songs, toured the world, and been nominated on five Grammy ballots.From the first spark of a melody that woke James up in the middle of the night, to Dennis’s secret weapon—restorative sleep and a steadfast daily power‑nap—the conversation drifts through a lifetime of creative breakthroughs, health hacks, and the raw, unglamorous moments that shaped a career.Listeners will hear the origin story of Dennis’s debut album, the serendipitous restaurant encounter that birthed the Grammy‑track “Why Not Me,” and the heartbreaking yet uplifting tale of Mark Houser, a prolific lyricist who battled metastatic pancreatic cancer while still delivering two full albums.The duo also pulls back the curtain on the rise of house concerts, the quirky anecdotes that turned into hit songs (think “Uncle Joe”), and the deeper purpose behind Dennis’s music; writing what people need to hear, not just what they want.Whether you’re a songwriter hunting inspiration, a fan craving authentic storytelling, or anyone looking for the healing power of music, this episode offers a heartfelt roadmap—proving that even when life gets “bigger than us,” a good song can still light the way.Stay tuned, press play, and let the music speak. 🎙️✨

Welcome to “Music Speaks,” the When Words Fail Music Speaks podcast where we battle depression with the power of music.In today’s episode we kick things off with a quick shout‑out to our sponsor, BetterHelp—your affordable, on‑your‑schedule mental‑health ally offering listeners 10 % off the first month of therapy.We dive straight into a lively conversation with Milwaukee’s own Alan Hales—radio host, founder the independent‑music hub Breaking and Entering, and the mastermind behind the tongue‑in‑cheek “Bad Pitches Only” series that spotlights the most cringeworthy artist submissions. Allen walks us through:The gritty reality of band‑to‑radio submissions (missing ISRC codes, un‑licensed MP3s, and why a simple artist bio is a must).How his weekly “Love Local Radio” hour on FM 101 gives Milwaukee’s DIY talent a dedicated airtime—and the art of curating an hour‑long, genre‑spanning playlist that keeps listeners tuned in.The evolution of the indie music landscape from the 90s to today’s streaming‑driven world, and why the internet may actually be a bigger equalizer than any record label ever was.The rise of merch on Amazon, t‑public, and the challenges of quality control when you’re a one‑person shirt empire.We also explore the future of music creation, tackling the hot‑button debate around AI‑generated—sharing Allen’s own viral AI‑track that racked up millions of plays before anyone realized it wasn’t human‑made.All of is threaded together with humor, personal anecdotes about skate‑boarding, Tony Hawk video games, and Allen’s ultimate “Mount Rushmore” of musical influences—from the Ramones to the Beastie Boys and local legend Twan Mac.Stay tuned for actionable tips for aspiring artists, a glimpse into the Milwaukee‑vs‑the‑world music scene, and a reminder that when words fail, music always speaks.Grab your headphones, hit play, and let the conversation—and the beats—begin.

In today’s episode we’re thrilled to have Reeya Banerjee—writer, vocalist, voice‑over artist, and the raw, honest storyteller behind the critically‑acclaimed album The Way Up—joining host James Cox for a deep‑dive into the healing power of music.We kick things off with a quick word from our sponsor, BetterHelp, reminding listeners that affordable, flexible online therapy is just a few clicks away (and you can snag 10 % off your first month at betterhelp.com/music‑speaks).From there, James and Reeya wanders through the musical landscape that shapes her art:the Beatles’ “Something,”Springsteen’s “Thunder Road,”U2’s “The Sweetest Thing,”Fiona Apple’s “Criminal,”Peter Gabriel’s “Sledgehammer,”and Eminem’s “Lose Yourself.”Reeya reveals how each of these tracks inspired her own songwriting, and why certain songs—like her own “The Way Up,” “Deep Water,” and the childhood‑memory‑laden “Snow”—feel easier to say when they’re sung. She also opens up about the mental‑health crisis she faced in 2019, the intensive therapy that helped her reclaim her voice, and the way music became her conduit for processing grief, insomnia, and the restless energy of a night‑owl musician.Listeners get a sneak peek at Reeya’s upcoming August release “This Place,” a concept album that maps nine cities to nine core emotions, and we hear about the stories behind singles such as “Misery of Place,” “For the First Time,” “Runner,” and the soon‑to‑drop “Upstate Rust.”The conversation rounds out with playful cover‑quiz challenges, a nostalgic look at the Hudson‑Valley bar that sparked her creative community, and a heartfelt promise that when words fail, music always speaks.Stay tuned, grab your headphones, and prepare for an episode packed with candid conversation, lyrical insights, and a reminder that—no matter how dark the night—there’s always a melody waiting to lift you up.And remember: when you need a mental‑health boost, BetterHelp is just a click away at betterhelp.com/music‑speaks.

Welcome back to When Words Fail, Music Speaks, the show that battles depression one riff at a time. In today’s episode we’ve got a jam‑packed hour that’s part heartfelt sponsor shout‑out, part deep‑dive into the creative process, and part quirky tech‑savvy brainstorming session.First, a quick word from our sponsor, BetterHelp, the affordable, on‑demand therapy platform that lets you match with a licensed counselor via text, chat, phone or video—and gives our listeners 10 % off the first month.Then we roll into the main event: a conversation with the members of the up‑and‑coming rock outfit Human Race— bassist Jeff, guitarist Heath, and their ever‑curious crew. We unpack the story behind their brand‑new single Human Race, a track born from Jeff’s post‑Berlin‑Wall reflections and a tour of war‑torn Croatia, exploring themes of closed societies, police‑state paranoia, and personal selfishness.The band walks us through the nitty‑gritty of getting the song out there:Distribution: Why they chose TuneCore over DistroKid and how the release timeline works.TikTok Blitz: 200+ videos ranging from live takes to AI‑generated art (including a homage to Wire’s Pink Flag), global pronunciation challenges, and fan‑generated clips.AI Experiments: From bizarre Bigfoot chats to horse‑sized chicken battles, we hear the team’s love‑hate relationship with generative tools.We also get a behind‑the‑scenes look at their DIY marketing machine—Fiverr editors, chat‑GPT analytics, and a rotating posting schedule that lets the “universe decide” which clips stick.Finally, the band shares future plans: a six‑week single release cadence, a full‑album wrap‑up by year‑end, merch drops (CDs, tees, stickers), and the dream of a live session at Sun Studios.All of this is wrapped in the usual banter, weather‑talk, and spontaneous anecdotes that make the Music Speaks family feel like a living, breathing jam session.So grab your headphones, settle in, and let the conversation—and the music—speak for itself. 🎸✨

Episode Summary: In this insightful and uplifting episode, host James Cox sits down with UK-based electronic artist MarQ Electronica (aka Mark Dickinson) for an open conversation about music’s healing power, battling depression, and creating during turbulent times. MarQ Electronica discusses his journey from band life to solo artistry, the nuances of electronic music, his creative rituals, and offers practical advice for aspiring musicians. The episode is filled with stories about musical discovery, cross-genre appreciation, and how music communities support one another through tough times.Key Topics:Mental Health & Music:James opens with a message about the importance of mental health and introduces the episode’s sponsor, BetterHelp. Both James and MarQ Electronica reflect on how music is vital in facing life’s ups and downs.MarQ Electronica’s Story:From playing in bands to launching a solo career during the pandemic.The origins and meaning behind the artist name "MarQ Electronica".Growing up in Teesside and now living in Newcastle, England.UK Music Scene:The vibrant and diverse genres appreciated in the northeast of England — from metal to grime, house, and dance.Experiences performing at multi-genre venues and the inclusive spirit of UK audiences.Electronica vs. EDM:MarQ Electronica explains the differences, creative process, and the emotional depth that electronica brings to modern electronic music.Songwriting & Inspiration:Using personal and political struggles as songwriting fuel.The origin of his album Savage Times and single "Next to Nothing," focused on the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis.Balancing heavy lyrical themes with uplifting, danceable beats.Navigating COVID as a Musician:The challenges of lockdown, caring for family, and keeping creativity alive.Transitioning to virtual performances and leveraging platforms like TikTok.Creative Rituals:Insights into MarQ Electronica’s studio set-up, workflow, favorite creative snacks and drinks, and his process for building tracks from sample packs.Musical Influences:Love for late-80s/90s dance, acid house, R&B, and artists like Janet Jackson, Eurythmics, Brand New Heavies, Human League, and Goldfrapp.The importance of keeping an open mind and exploring genres outside your comfort zone.Charity Projects:Involvement with Musicians Against Homelessness, collaborating with local artists and contributing to charity compilation albums.Fun Questions & Rapid Fire:Dream festival experiences.Karaoke favorites ("Don’t You Want Me" by Human League).Music snobbery and promoting inclusivity in the music community.Vinyl vs. streaming, favorite beverages, and musical pet peeves.Upcoming Releases & How to Connect:MarQ Electronica teases upcoming music blending deep house, trip-hop, and grime influences, and invites listeners to follow him for new releases.Resources & Links:BetterHelp Offer: Get 10% off your first month: BetterHelp.com/MusicSpeaksMarQ Electronica’s Music & Links:Website: marqelectronica.comSongWhip: Search "SongWhip MarQelectronica" for all streaming platformsLinktree: "linktr.ee/marqelectronica" for all media and socialsListener Takeaways:Keep an open mind to new genres—you never know what will resonate!Music and mental health go hand-in-hand; don’t be afraid to seek help or express yourself through art.Community and collaboration are key in music, especially during hard times.Support independent artists by purchasing music directly when you can.Connect & Subscribe: Follow When Words Fail Music Speaks for more interviews, insights, and music discoveries.Remember: When words fail, music speaks.

Welcome back to *When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast that battles depression with the healing power of music. In today’s episode we’re joined by rising indie rocker‑pop‑punk talent Zack King We kick off with a quick word from our sponsor, BetterHelp, reminding listeners that affordable, flexible online therapy is just a click away—plus a special 10 % discount for our audience.From there, host James “the professional handicapped” Cox dives into Zack’s personal journey: why escaping Minnesota’s bleak, long winters for Los Angeles’s perpetual sunshine transformed his mental health, how a loyal dog and daily walks became his daily dose of vitamin D, and why that sunny vibe now powers his new album Text‑Way‑Into‑Your‑Heart (dropping September 12).Zack breaks down his genre‑spanning sound—rock, pop, and punk rolled into a fresh pop‑punk hybrid—while sharing his biggest musical influences, from Matchbox 20 to Paramore, and the role of writing, therapy, and honest lyricism in navigating anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts.We also explore the modern music‑maker’s toolkit: Zack’s love‑hate relationship with AI, his DIY production experiments in Ableton, the grind of being an independent artist (merch, gigs, social media, and the relentless hustle of juggling day jobs), and why he’s staying indie for now.Fans will hear Zack’s favorite cover stories, his hot‑take on music legends (Creed over Nickelback, Metallica over Megadeth), and a rapid‑fire round of “hardest questions” that reveal his guilty‑pleasure tracks and secret inspirations.Finally, Zack teases upcoming tour plans on the West Coast, new merch drops, and where listeners can find his music, TikTok, Instagram, and more.Tune in for a raw, authentic conversation about creativity, mental health, and the relentless pursuit of a song that truly resonates—because when words fail, music speaks. 🎧✨

Sponsor – BetterHelpQuick pitch + 10 % off code: betterhelp.com/music‑speaksShow Intro Host explains the podcast mission – fighting depression with music.Guest Intro Kathy Bell (“Ma Bell”) welcomed; brief bio, multi‑genre musician.Recording Roots Works with producer Bob McGilpin at Tone Slinger Studio (Nashville) while living in Indiana.Musical Influences Janis Joplin, The Beach Boys, early folk, wide‑range DJ knowledge (40s‑now).Fishing Blues StoryOrigin of “Little Deuce Coupe” inspiration, fishing‑lure hat, humorous lyric anecdote.Comedy + MusicKathy blends humor with music; community‑based mentoring, “humor‑and‑music” format.Unexpected Inspiration – “Freedom Truckers”Writing/performing for truck‑driver rallies during COVID; feeling of historic unity.COVID ImpactPersonal COVID infection, shift to virtual/Zoom, stress of losing live gigs.Suicide Attempt & Musical RescueHealth battles, 30+ surgeries, a night at the piano, writing “Oh What a Friend” (later “It Matters to the Master”) that saved her life.Mentorship, Karaoke & DJingHow friends pushed her into karaoke contests, costume scoring, DJ mentorship with Tammy  Lynn.Faith & Higher PowerKathy credits God/higher power for the moment she didn’t follow through with suicide.Mental‑Health TalkHost & guest discuss depression, suicide ideation, why sharing stories matters.Piano RootsGrandfather was a pastor; church & prison‑ministry piano work; playing Johnny Cash’s piano.Dream InstrumentKathy wishes to magically master the guitar (acoustic & electric).Guitar CollectionShows off PRS guitars; loves the acoustic sound.Fan Interaction – Assisted‑LivingTwo residents tried to “adopt” her; funny anecdote.Upcoming Album – “Dreams Are Made in the USA”Release slated early July; story behind “Nashville Dreams” & message of perseverance.Pre‑Show Ritual Prays before each show; quick vocal warm‑up.Vocal Warm‑UpsSings, drinks water/tea/Coke for energy.All‑Time Favorite ArtistsReba McEntire, Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn (country royalty).Deep‑Feeling Song“It Matters to the Master” – how it moves her soul and listeners.

Host intro – “Music fights depression” & brief show premiseMeet Orville Stoeber – Composer for Let’s Scare Jessica to Death, The Year of the Flood, etc.Politics & songwriting – why lyrics often reflect culture even when we try to stay “just music.”Guitar talk – Taylor vs. nylon strings, why Orville prefers a nylon for his playing.Story of Orville’s first Baby Martin & how a pawn‑shop moment shaped his early career.Songwriting process – Voice first, then guitar, then words. The “Story Moon” vibe & why it feels “joyful.”Scoring horror TV/film – How Freddy’s Nightmare and Let’s Scare Jessica to Death landed; director‑composer dynamics.Money & royalties – The surprise of a $60 M franchise, the early $500 checks, and learning the business the hard way.Speed‑writing a hit – The five‑minute song that became a movie staple; the role of inspiration.Synesthesia & color – Orville sees colors when he writes; how black & white paint the song In Rehab with Persephone.Alien‑theory question – What Orville hopes extraterrestrials would learn about humanity from his music.Teenage room & early influences – No poster walls, a transistor radio, the love of solitude for writing.Hardest‑to‑describe song – Jeff Buckley’s “Hallelujah” & the emotional punch of Grace (Jeff Buckley).Merch & shout‑outs – Orville’s shirts, hats, website (yearoftheflood.com) and where to find his music (Apple Music, Spotify, Deezer, YouTube).Wrap‑up, gratitude, and reminder to “when words fail, music speaks.”

In this episode, James Cox sits down with artist Sophia Warren to discuss the healing power of music and her personal journey with mental health. Sophia shares her experiences growing up with Hashimoto's disease, the role music played in her life, and the evolution of her music from her EP "Bloodstone" to her latest project "Adesso." They also delve into the nuances of musical genres, the impact of living in different cities like Austin, Texas, and Asheville, North Carolina, and the creative process behind their songs. The conversation touches on the challenges of navigating the music industry and the importance of authenticity.Key Themes Discussed:Mental Health and Music: How music serves as a coping mechanism and a source of comfort during difficult times.Hashimoto's Disease: Sophia's experience with the autoimmune disorder from a young age, including the challenges of diagnosis and living with an invisible illness.Musical Evolution: The growth and development of Sophia's sound between her EP "Bloodstone" and her project "Adesso."City Influence: How growing up in Austin, Texas, and Asheville, North Carolina, shaped her musical style and storytelling.The Creative Process: Sophia's journey in finding her musical voice and working with producers.Artist Identity: Exploring themes of self-discovery, insecurity, and maturing as an artist.The Power of Connection: How music helps listeners feel less alone and understood."Static" by Sophia Warren: A song that was cathartic to write and perform, dealing with anxiety and intrusive thoughts.Dream Collaborations: Sophia's ideal collaborations with artists like Nat King Cole.Superpowers: Discussing what superpower music would have and its impact on the world.Fictional Dinner Party Guests: Steven Universe, Shaggy from Scooby-Doo, and Johnny Test.Mount Rushmore of Artists: Twelve Rods, The Cranberries, Kate Bush, and Radiohead.Musical Influences: The impact of movie posters and specific artists on her room decor and music taste.Unexplainable Feelings: The song "Illusion" by Henry Mancini as a piece of music that evokes feelings she can't articulate.Guest Information:Sophia Warren: Artist, songwriter, producer.Find Sophia Online:YouTube: Sophia Warren Music (link may be under construction)Instagram: @SophiaWarrenMusic (or similar)TikTok: @SophiaWarrenMusic (or similar)Website: Sophia Warren Music (if available)Sponsor Information:BetterHelp: Offering listeners 10% off their first month of therapy. Visit betterhelp.com/music speaks to get started.Connect with When Words Fail Music Speaks:Follow them on their journey as they discuss the healing power of music, interview artists and bands, break down genres and music news, review artist biographies, and much more.Podcast Tagline: "When words fail, music speaks."

In this episode of the When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast, host James Cox sits down with all four members of the band Jane Doe. The band members, Jake (drummer), Charlie (bassist), Izzy (singer and guitarist), and Zephry (guitarist), share insights into their creative process, the story behind their band name, and their experiences on tour. They discuss the dynamics of songwriting as a collective unit and the inspiration behind their music. The band also delves into their favorite artists and bands, sharing personal anecdotes and influences that have shaped their musical journey.Key Topics:Introduction to Jane Doe and the origin of their band nameThe collaborative songwriting process and contributions from each band memberThe influence of nature and personal experiences on their musicDiscussion on favorite musicians and bands that inspire themInsights into their music videos and the creative process behind themUpcoming projects and new music in the worksConnect with Jane Doe:Website: JaneDoe.bandInstagram: @OfficialJaneDoeTikTok: @OfficialJaneDoeBandYouTube and Facebook: Search for Jane DoeMusic Featured:"Desperado" (Rihanna cover) available on iTunes and SpotifyCall to Action:Check out Jane Doe's music on Apple Music and SpotifyFollow them on social media for updates on new releases and tour datesClosing Remarks:Thank you for tuning in to the When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast. Remember, when words fail, music speaks.

Episode Highlights:Introduction:Host: James CoxFocus: Fighting depression with the power of music.Special Guests: Janne & Antti Wirman, former members of Children of Bodom and current members of Warman.Discussion Topics:Janne's journey from music to pursuing a career in architecture.The impact of AI on music and its potential future.Transitioning Warman from an instrumental band to having a lead singer.The unique chemistry and journey shared by the Warman brothers.Stage presence as a keyboardist and engaging with fans.Arranging music in melodic death metal and balancing guitar parts.Reflections on past creative decisions and cover songs.Designing a time capsule for Warman with non-musical items.Favorite bands and musical influences from their teenage years.Personal music preferences and guilty pleasures.Upcoming Release:Warman's new album "Band of Brothers" set to release on August 15th.Connect with Warman:Follow Warman on Instagram and Facebook for updates.Closing:Thank you to Janne & Antti Wirman for joining the show.Encouragement to listeners to explore the healing power of music.

In this episode of "When Words Fail, Music Speaks," host James Cox interviews Brian Tatler, a prominent figure in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, known for his work with Diamond Head and Saxon. They discuss the evolution of metal music since the 1980s, the creative process behind iconic songs like "Am I Evil," and Brian's experiences with both Diamond Head and Saxon.Key Topics:The evolution of metal music over the decadesThe creative process behind Diamond Head's musicBrian's role and experiences with SaxonThe resurgence of vinyl and recording techniquesPersonal anecdotes and influences from Brian's early yearsGuest: Brian Taylor, guitarist for Diamond Head and SaxonHighlights:Brian shares insights into the longevity and evolution of heavy metal music.Discussion on the impact of modern technology on music production.Brian's personal influences and favorite bands, including Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath.Reflections on the significance of Diamond Head's debut album, "Lightning to the Nations."Connect with Us:Follow us on social media for updates and more content.Visit our website for additional resources and episodes.Closing Remarks:Thank you for tuning in to this episode. Remember, when words fail, music speaks.

In this episode of The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast, host James Cox interviews Jennifer Alvarado, a redefining country musician known for her unique blend of 90s country storytelling and alternative rock. Jennifer shares her journey of overcoming personal struggles and emerging as a relentless independent artist. She discusses her music, the inspiration behind her songs, and her mission to connect with audiences worldwide.Key Topics:Introduction to Jennifer Alvarado and her music styleThe importance of mental health and therapyJennifer's journey in the music industry and her independent pathThe impact of music on mental health and battling depressionJennifer's experience with bullying and reclaiming her confidenceHer involvement in the Break into Darkness Christian music festivalThe significance of her first guitar and her love for Taylor guitarsJennifer's favorite artists and musical influencesFeatured Music:"Playing With Fire" album by Jennifer AlvaradoCover of "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" by The ProclaimersConnect with Jennifer Alvarado:Website: jenniferalvarado.comInstagram: @jenniferalvaradomusicSpotify: Jennifer AlvaradoFacebook: Jennifer Alvarado MusicTikTok: @jenniferalvaradomusicCall to Action:Follow The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast for more inspiring interviews and discussions on the healing power of music. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

In this episode of The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast, host James Cox interviews Robin Jackson, a talented musician and new dad from Portland, Oregon. They discuss the impact of fatherhood on songwriting, the inspiration behind Robin's music, and his experiences with various bands. Robin shares insights into his journey as a musician, the importance of creating space for inspiration, and his involvement in the Songwriter Soiree community.Key Topics:The influence of fatherhood on Robin's songwritingRobin's background in ethnomusicology and its impact on his musicThe formation and experiences with bands like March 4th and Vagabond OperaThe Songwriter Soiree: A supportive community for songwriters of all levelsRobin's collaboration with artists like Reggie WattsThe vibrant music and creative scene in Portland, OregonRobin's latest album, "Silver Lining," and his approach to releasing musicGuest Information:Name: Robin JacksonLocation: Portland, OregonWebsite: songwritersoiree.comSocial Media: TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, InstagramMusic Featured:"October Rain" from the album "Dust Stars"Latest album: "Silver Lining" (2025)Connect with Us:Follow us on social media for updates and more inspiring content.Visit our website for more episodes and information.Closing Remarks:Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast. Remember, when words fail, music speaks. Join us next time for more inspiring conversations and musical journeys.

In this episode of The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast, host James Cox interviews musician Michael Strange. They discuss Michael's journey from a military upbringing to becoming a musician, the influence of his experiences on his songwriting, and the importance of storytelling in music. Michael shares insights into his creative process and the inspiration behind his singles "Only One" and "Black and Blue."Key Topics:The impact of a military upbringing on Michael's musicThe storytelling tradition in country musicMichael's experiences with artists like Sara Evans and Dwight YoakamThe creative process of songwriting and collaborationMichael's aspirations for his music in film and televisionGuest Information:Michael StrangeWebsite: https://bigrecords.world/michael-strange/Instagram: @themichaelstrangeFacebook: Michael StrangeMusic Featured:"Only One" by Michael Strange"Black and Blue" by Michael StrangeRelease Date: July 4thCall to Action:Download Michael Strange's latest single "Black and Blue," available now. Follow him on social media for updates on his music and upcoming releases.Closing Remarks:Thank you for tuning in to The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast. Remember, when words fail, music speaks.

In this episode of The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast, host James Cox interviews Howard Levinson, a talented musician with a diverse background. Howard shares his journey from being a paramedic and law enforcement officer to becoming a songwriter and performer. He discusses how his experiences have influenced his music, which spans genres from rock to country. Howard also talks about his songwriting process, his influences, and the impact of storytelling in music.Key Topics:Howard Levinson's varied career and transition to musicThe influence of personal experiences on songwritingThe importance of storytelling in country musicHoward's musical influences, including Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, and Tom PettyUpcoming performances and potential tour plansThe role of writing and creativity in Howard's lifeNotable Quotes:"Songwriters, we write what we know and we write what we see.""It's the melodies and the lyrics, don't get too complicated, but they make you think, and they paint a picture."Connect with Howard Levinson:Website: howardlevenson.netMusic available on: Apple Music, Spotify, iTunes, Amazon Music, and moreFollow Us:Stay updated with The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast for more interviews and discussions on the healing power of music.Closing Note:Thank you for tuning in! Remember, when words fail, music speaks.

Join us in this captivating episode of the When Words Fail Music Speaks podcast as host James Cox interviews Josh Simons, founder of Vampr and CEO of Rhino Group. Discover Josh's journey from being a musician in Buchanan to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the music industry. Learn about the innovative platform Vampr, which connects musicians globally, and explore Josh's insights on the healing power of music.Sponsored by:BetterHelp - Get 10% off your first month of therapy at betterhelp.com/music speaks.Key Topics Discussed:The importance of mental health and therapyJosh Simons' musical background and journey with BuchananThe creation and impact of Vampr, a geosocial network for musiciansInsights into the music industry and entrepreneurshipThe role of music in battling depression and life's challengesJosh's favorite musical instruments and artistsGuest Information:Josh SimonsFounder of VamprCEO of Rhino GroupFormer musician in BuchananLinks Mentioned:Download the Vampr app: Available on iOS and AndroidVisit Vinyl Group: vinyl.groupExplore Vampr, Jaxta, Rhino Media, and SerenadeClosing Remarks:Thank you for tuning in! Remember, when words fail...music speaks! See you next time!