Bret Michaels & Geoff Tate
Digest
Eddie Trunk's podcast features two main interviews. First, Bret Michaels discusses his upcoming performance at the NFL Draft, the evolution of the event, and his love for football. He also touches on Poison's legacy and potential reunion. The conversation then shifts to Geoff Tate, who shares details about his life in Italy, his wine brand, and his new album "Operation: Mindcrime 3." Tate reflects on the concept behind the album, his collaborations, his relationship with former Queensrÿche bandmates, and the changing music industry. The premiere of the song "Power" from "Operation: Mindcrime 3" is also featured.
Outlines

Podcast Introduction and Cruise Updates
Eddie Trunk introduces his podcast, noting new episodes every Thursday and that interviews are from his Sirius XM show. He mentions his current location on the Monsters of Rock cruise and upcoming participation in the Summer of '99 cruise.

Upcoming Guests: Bret Michaels and Geoff Tate
Eddie Trunk announces the upcoming podcast guests: Bret Michaels, who will perform at the NFL Draft, and Geoff Tate, discussing his new "Operation: Mindcrime 3" album.

Bret Michaels on NFL Draft Performance and Football Fandom
Bret Michaels expresses excitement about performing at the NFL Draft in his hometown, discussing the event's blend of music and sports. He and Eddie Trunk share their passion for football and how sports podcasts have become part of their fandom. They also reminisce about childhood football memories and high school connections to the NFL.

Bret Michaels' Music Career and Poison's Legacy
Bret Michaels discusses his current tour, sold-out shows, and the possibility of a Poison reunion in 2027 for their 40th anniversary. He reflects on the enduring appeal of Poison's debut album and the potential for a reissue.

Geoff Tate's Life in Italy and Wine Ventures
Eddie Trunk introduces Geoff Tate, who shares details about his move to Italy, his life in the Umbria wine region, and his enjoyment of the local culture. He discusses his wine brand, "Insania," and his hands-on involvement in winemaking.

Geoff Tate on "Operation: Mindcrime 3" and Ronnie James Dio
Geoff Tate explains the concept behind "Operation: Mindcrime 3," focusing on the character Dr. X. He recounts his experience working with Ronnie James Dio on "Operation: Mindcrime 2" and shares memories of Dio's generosity and impact, including his involvement in "Hear 'n Aid."

Queensrÿche's Early Days and Musical Evolution
Geoff Tate discusses the significance of Queensrÿche's early song "Queen of the Reich" and their beginnings as "The Mob." He reflects on his personal growth as a musician, embracing adaptability, and discusses vocal warm-up routines.

"Operation: Mindcrime 3" Collaborations and Band Dynamics
Geoff Tate details the collaborative process for "Operation: Mindcrime 3," highlighting key writing partners and other contributors. He discusses his current bandmates and his lack of contact with most former Queensrÿche members, while acknowledging a positive interaction with the current singer.

Ownership of "Operation: Mindcrime" and Independent Production
Geoff Tate clarifies that he retained the rights to "Operation: Mindcrime," enabling him to perform the album and create a third installment. He expresses enjoyment in the freedom of independently producing "Operation: Mindcrime 3" without label pressures.

The Changing Music Industry and "Operation: Mindcrime 3" Release
Eddie Trunk and Geoff Tate discuss the dramatic shifts in the music industry, from physical media to streaming and reduced artist revenue. Tate announces the release date for "Operation: Mindcrime 3" and confirms touring plans. He also discusses his extensive touring philosophy and setlist strategies for the "Operation Mindcrime 3" tour. The world premiere of the song "Power" from the album is announced, with Tate offering insight into its meaning from Dr. X's perspective. The host reflects on the interview, reiterates album details, and discusses the legacy of "Operation: Mindcrime" and Tate's solo work.
Keywords
NFL Draft
An annual event where NFL teams select eligible college football players, crucial for team roster building and player career beginnings.
Bret Michaels
Lead singer of the rock band Poison, also known for his solo career and reality TV appearances.
Operation: Mindcrime 3
Geoff Tate's concept album, the third in the series, exploring the character Dr. X.
Geoff Tate
Former lead singer of Queensrÿche, recognized for his distinctive vocals and songwriting.
Poison (Band)
American rock band famous for their late 80s and early 90s hits and energetic performances.
Ronnie James Dio
Influential heavy metal singer known for his work with Rainbow, Black Sabbath, and Dio.
Queensrÿche
American progressive metal band known for concept albums like "Operation: Mindcrime."
Music Industry Changes
Transformations in the music business from physical sales to streaming, impacting artist revenue and promotion.
Jeff Tate
Prominent American musician, original lead vocalist of Queensrÿche, known for "Operation: Mindcrime" albums.
Operation Mindcrime 3
Jeff Tate's upcoming album, continuing the concept series, set for release on May 3rd.
Q&A
What is Bret Michaels performing at the NFL Draft?
Bret Michaels is performing at the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, combining rock music and football with artists like Wiz Khalifa.
What is Geoff Tate's new album about?
Geoff Tate's "Operation: Mindcrime 3" explores the story from the perspective of the character Dr. X, delving into his motivations.
What was Ronnie James Dio's contribution to Queensrÿche?
Ronnie James Dio voiced Dr. X and performed "The Chase" on Queensrÿche's "Operation: Mindcrime 2."
How has the music industry changed according to Geoff Tate and Eddie Trunk?
Both acknowledge dramatic industry shifts from physical sales to streaming, resulting in minimal artist revenue and a focus on live shows.
What is Geoff Tate's current relationship with former Queensrÿche bandmates?
Geoff Tate has had no contact with most former band members for years but had a positive interaction with the current singer, Todd La Torre.
What is the significance of "Operation: Mindcrime" in Queensrÿche's history?
"Operation: Mindcrime" was a landmark concept album that boosted Queensrÿche's popularity. Geoff Tate retained the rights, allowing him to create "Operation: Mindcrime 3."
What is Jeff Tate's approach to touring?
Jeff Tate's philosophy is to bring music directly to fans through extensive touring, playing numerous dates in various venues.
Will Jeff Tate perform all three Operation Mindcrime albums in a single show?
Tate believes a three-to-four-hour show playing all three albums would be too long for the audience, so current shows feature selections.
When is the album "Operation Mindcrime 3" and its lead single "Power" being released?
The lead single "Power" is available on Friday, and the full album "Operation Mindcrime 3" is scheduled for release on May 3rd.
What is the song "Power" about?
Jeff Tate suggests "Power" is from the perspective of Dr. X, exploring his feelings and thoughts about power.
Show Notes
Bret Michaels joins Eddie Trunk to share his excitement about performing at the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, where he'll collaborate with Wiz Khalifa on a mashup of 'Black and Yellow' and 'Nothing But a Good Time.' As a lifelong Steelers fan, Michaels discusses how meaningful it is to combine his two passions - rock music and football - in his hometown. He also reflects on his football-playing days, hints at a possible Poison reunion in 2027, and contemplates the 40th anniversary of Poison's debut album 'Look What the Cat Dragged In.' Also on this week's podcast, Geoff Tate discusses the creation of Operation: Mindcrime III, which explores the story from Dr. X's perspective, and reflects on his musical journey post-Queensrÿche. Tate candidly recounts attending a Queensrÿche show as an audience member, his interactions with Todd La Torre, and his memories of working with Ronnie James Dio.
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