The Asa Park Podcast

Andy Timmons is legendary guitarist known for his soulful playing and technical mastery. We explore Andy’s journey in the music industry, from his early days as a session musician to his rocking days as a Danger Danger member, to his success as a solo artist. He shares invaluable advice for young musicians, emphasizing the importance of staying true to your unique voice and believing in your art, even when trends shift. We also dive deep into the state of the guitar in modern music. Is the guitar solo truly dead, or has the instrument evolved into something new? Andy shares his take, explaining why he believes the guitar is far from fading. Plus, we break down the rise of “GuitarTok” — the phenomenon of guitarists reaching massive audiences through TikTok and social media. Follow Andy: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andytimmonsofficial Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndyTimmonsOfficial YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AndyTimmonsOfficial Website: https://andytimmons.com/ Text me if you have ideas for guests or topics: I'm @asaparked, everywhere. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@asaparked Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asaparked TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asaparked X: https://x.com/asaparked Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asaparked Website: https://www.asapark.co In this episode: Andy Timmons interview, guitar solo debate, GuitarTok, TikTok guitarists, guitar in pop music, music industry insights, young musicians advice, self-belief in music, staying true to your sound.

Ray Heffernan is an Irish singer-songwriter. Together we dig into the craft of songwriting and the challenges songwriters face in today’s industry, where many feel undervalued and exploited by an outdated business model. Ray shares the story behind his infamous encounter with Robbie Williams and the creation of the hit song Angels, discussing why he wasn’t credited as a writer and what this says about the state of the music business. We also debate the MVP of a hit song: is it the writer who crafts the lyrics and melody, the artist who brings the song to life, or the promoter who ensures it reaches the masses? Follow Ray Heffernan: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RayHeffernan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rayjheffernan/ X: https://x.com/rayheffernan Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Heffernet/ Text me if you have ideas for guests or topics: I'm @asaparked, everywhere. Main channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UCxs87BsBSzw8FC7IlvfQ5kA  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asaparked TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asaparked X: https://x.com/asaparked Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asaparked Website: https://www.asapark.co In this episode: Songwriting, Robbie Williams Angels controversy, songwriter credit disputes, music publishing, music industry challenges, max martin, irish

Wolfgang Plagge is an acclaimed Norwegian composer, pianist, and music educator, known for his deep understanding of musical composition and performance. In this episode we explore the iconic music of the original Super Mario Bros. soundtrack. Sitting at his grand piano, Wolfgang helps us break down the musical genius of Koji Kondo, the composer behind the timeless melodies of Super Mario Bros. We discuss how Kondo's use of rhythm, harmony, and dynamic composition helped create music that is as iconic as the game itself. Wolfgang demonstrates key musical themes from the game, showing how the soundtrack’s simplicity and adaptability changed the course of video game music forever. In this episode: Super Mario Bros. music, Koji Kondo, video game soundtrack analysis, Nintendo music history, retro game music, Wolfgang Plagge piano, game music breakdown, iconic video game themes.

Eric Alper is a renowned music publicist, industry expert, and self-proclaimed music nerd with a deep love for all things rock 'n' roll. In this episode, we discuss the evolution (and alleged demise) of the guitar solo, an art form that defined rock music for generations. We share our Guitarist Mount Rushmore—our picks for the four greatest guitarists of all time—and dive into what makes a solo timeless. We also look ahead to the future of the guitar and its role in modern music, exploring how technology, cultural shifts, and new generations of players may redefine the instrument’s legacy. Follow Eric: Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThatEricAlper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatericalper YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EricAlper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EricAlperPR/ Website: https://www.thatericalper.com/ In this episode: guitar solo, rock 'n' roll, Eddie Van Halen, Jimi Hendrix, guitar legends, music trends, Eric Clapton, Slash, mateus asato, achmad satria, matteo mancuso, rick beato

Ryan Schmidt is a Partner at Bowen Schmidt Entertainment Attorneys. Ryan is dubbed 'The Music Lawyer' due to his specific knowledge about the music industry. In this episode we explore the intricate world of copyright. We delve into what every songwriter, producer, and artist needs to know about protecting their work, the challenges of proving ownership, and how modern trends like AI and TikTok are reshaping intellectual property law. From high-profile plagiarism cases to tips on securing your rights, Ryan offers invaluable insights to help creatives navigate the ever-evolving legal landscape of music.  In this episode: copyright, blurred lines, pharrell williams, robin thicke, marvin gaye, ed sheeran, suno

Few bands have had a career as unpredictable as Sub-Radio. They are more than just a band, they're a community. We learn how Sub-Radio has used the internet to connect with their fans, and win new ones. Today's music industry demands innovation for a band to succeed. Learn about their journey from being a struggling indie band to now getting mainstream success. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the music Industry and want to know how to promote your music in this new age.  

Rob Cavallo is a legendary music producer behind some of the biggest hits in rock and alternative music. Known for his work with Green Day, My Chemical Romance, and Goo Goo Dolls, Cavallo shares behind-the-scenes stories from the making of iconic albums like American Idiot and The Black Parade. We also dive into his production techniques, the evolution of the music industry, and his experiences working with superstar artists like Dave Matthews and Alanis Morisette. Whether you're a fan of rock music, a budding producer, or simply curious about the magic behind chart-topping hits, Rob Cavallo is the man.