SoCal Soundcheck

In this episode of SoCal Soundcheck, I sit down with singer-songwriter Faith Belle to talk about her journey into music, the power of authentic songwriting, and the influences that shaped her sound.Faith shares how she balances a full-time career in finance while pursuing music, why she refuses to be boxed into a single genre, and how personal experiences have shaped songs like Just Believe. We also dive into her early musical influences, her connection to the legendary Bon Jovi story from her hometown in New Jersey, and the importance of vulnerability in songwriting.We also talk about the evolving role of social media for musicians, performing live versus studio recordings, and the incredible community of artists involved with Nashville on the Coast.Faith also shares the story of meeting one of her musical inspirations, Gary LeVox of Rascal Flatts, and how that moment reaffirmed her commitment to creating music that is real, honest, and impactful.If you love discovering new artists, hearing the stories behind the songs, and learning what drives musicians to create, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.In This Episode We Discuss:Faith Belle’s journey from New Jersey to the Southern California music sceneBalancing a full-time career in finance with musicMusical influences including jazz, blues, and countryThe power of authentic songwritingHer song Just Believe and writing from personal experiencesThe Nashville songwriting communityWhy she left Nashville to create her own soundSocial media and the modern musicianThe importance of live performancesMeeting Rascal Flatts' Gary LeVoxThe community behind Nashville on the CoastWhere to Find Faith BelleFollow Faith Belle on social media and catch her at upcoming live performances. Her music is available on major streaming platforms, and she frequently performs with the Nashville on the Coast songwriter community.

How do you go from busking on the Seal Beach Pier to becoming one of the most talked-about artists in the Temecula music scene in just five months?In this episode of SoCal Soundcheck, host Brian Jensen sits down with singer-songwriter Bella Popa to talk about her musical journey - from a musical-theater-inspired homeschooling childhood to building a social media following of over 35,000 and writing her debut album.In this episode, we discuss:Growing up immersed in music and musical theater Teaching herself piano and guitar • Moving to Temecula and finding her place in the local music scene The realities of being a working musician The power of authenticity on social media Why song selection, stage volume, and dynamics matter at live gigs • Hosting open mic nights at Cougar Winery Writing and releasing her debut albumBella also opens up about songwriting, faith, and how artists can grow by staying consistent and building real connections.Follow Bella Popa: Website: https://bellapopa.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellapopaofficial/If you're in Temecula or the surrounding area, catch Bella live at her Wednesday open mic nights at Cougar Winery - and don’t miss her album release show at Crush & Brew on March 20th.

In this episode of SoCal Soundcheck, host Brian Jensen sits down with a friend and longtime bandmate Gene Kennedy, to talk about the importance of song selection in a cover band.

In this episode of SoCal Soundcheck, host Brian Jensen sits down with a friend and longtime bandmate from both past and present projects to talk about the transition from playing in a young, active original band to navigating life, aging, and the shift into the cover band world.