Ron Artis II: Crafting Soulful Stories Through Music, Connection, and Truth

10/11/24 • 33 min

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, Steven Roby sits down with the ever-inspiring multi-instrumentalist Ron Artis II to explore the intersection of music, spirituality, and authenticity.

With an upcoming show at the Hop Monk Tavern in Novato, Ron opens up about the creative process behind his latest release, We Are Not Machines, offering insights into the layers of influence that shape his sound—from Delta blues to gospel, rock to R&B. Raised in a musical family in Hawaii, Ron’s journey is as soulful as his music. In this interview, he shares the stories that have paved his way as an artist who defies boundaries.

During the conversation, Ron dives deep into how he approaches songwriting, why staying true to yourself is essential for artistic success, and the emotional weight of playing music that connects people. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his work, this episode will resonate with anyone who believes in the transformative power of music.

Episode Highlights:

Ron shares the meaning behind We Are Not Machines and how the project reflects modern societal challenges.
A deep dive into Ron’s multi-genre approach, including his R&B, Delta blues, and gospel roots.
How growing up in a musical family shaped his worldview and creative journey.
Ron’s thoughts on performing live and why it's a spiritual experience for him.
Insights on staying authentic in a world that often pushes for conformity.

Featured Songs:

We Are Not Machines - Ron Artis II
Soul Street - Ron Artis II
The Truth - Ron Artis II

Links:

Social Media Hashtags: #RonArtisII #WeAreNotMachines #BackstageSonoma #SoulMusic #LivePerformance #HopMonkNovato #StevenRobyInterview #MusicPodcast #SpiritualMusicJourney

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, Steven Roby sits down with the ever-inspiring multi-instrumentalist Ron Artis II to explore the intersection of music, spirituality, and authenticity.

Episode Highlights:

Ron shares the meaning behind We Are Not Machines and how the project reflects modern societal challenges.
A deep dive into Ron’s multi-genre approach, including his R&B, Delta blues, and gospel roots.
How growing up in a musical family shaped his worldview and creative journey.
Ron’s thoughts on performing live and why it's a spiritual experience for him.
Insights on staying authentic in a world that often pushes for conformity.

Featured Songs:

We Are Not Machines - Ron Artis II
Soul Street - Ron Artis II
The Truth - Ron Artis II

Links:

Social Media Hashtags: #RonArtisII #WeAreNotMachines #BackstageSonoma #SoulMusic #LivePerformance #HopMonkNovato #StevenRobyInterview #MusicPodcast #SpiritualMusicJourney

Previous Episode

The Young Dubliners: 30 Years of Celtic Rock and Still Driving Forward!

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby welcomes Keith Roberts, The Young Dubliners's charismatic lead vocalist and guitarist. With 30 years of electrifying performances, The Young Dubs have become legendary for their unique fusion of Celtic music and rock, captivating audiences worldwide. In a candid conversation, Keith opens up about the band's incredible journey from their humble beginnings as a duo in Santa Monica to headlining international stages. Along the way, they’ve crafted a distinctive sound, blending Irish traditional influences with the raw energy of American rock.

Keith shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from their extensive discography, highlighting songs like "Rosie," a fan favorite, and "We The Mighty," a powerful anthem that resonates with their audience's spirit. The discussion also dives into the band's latest single, "Drive," reflecting their forward-thinking ethos in life and music. As they prepare for their 10th studio album, produced by longtime collaborator Tim Boland, Keith talks about how crowdfunding has provided the band with creative freedom, offering fans a direct role in shaping their new music. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering the band for the first time, this episode is filled with energy, insight, and a celebration of three decades of Celtic rock.

Episode Highlights:

The story behind The Young Dubliners’ formation and how a Santa Monica bar was pivotal in their rise.
A deep dive into the inspiration behind "Rosie," "We The Mighty," and "Drive."
How the band embraces crowdfunding for their 10th studio album and what fans can expect from it.
Keith's reflections on the band's 30-year career, their influences, and how they've maintained their unique blend of Irish and American musical elements.
The excitement around their upcoming show at Sweetwater Music Hall and their popular Irish tours with fans.
The band's continued evolution, including new members and how their dynamic has shaped their latest work.

Featured Songs:

"Rosie"
"We The Mighty"
"Drive"

Links:

Tickets for The Young Dubliners at Sweetwater Music Hall: Sweetwater Music Hall
Support The Young Dubliners’ new album through crowdfunding: Young Dubliners Pledge Page

Social Media Hashtags:
#BackstageSonoma #YoungDubliners #CelticRock #Rosie #WeTheMighty #Drive #30YearsOfMusic #SweetwaterMusicHall #FanPoweredMusic #CrowdfundingMusic #TimBolandProductions #LiveMusic #MillValleyConcerts

Next Episode

The Smooth Jazz Alley: A Fresh Take on Contemporary Jazz Fusion

Show Notes:
In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby sits down with the core members of Smooth Jazz Alley—keyboardist and producer Marco Montoya, drummer and producer Kevin Lewis, and saxophonist Otoe Mori. Together, they share the journey behind the band's unique sound and their efforts to push contemporary jazz's boundaries. With years of experience and collaboration, these talented musicians open up about the dynamics of their creative process and the inspiration behind their latest work.

The trio discusses their studio experiences, the synergy that fuels their music, and the importance of evolving while staying rooted in the jazz tradition. They also reveal what fans can expect from their upcoming Blue Note performance in Napa and the exciting new music they plan to release in the coming months.

For smooth jazz and instrumental fusion fans, this episode offers a deep dive into the minds of three accomplished musicians making waves in the genre.

Episode Highlights:

Marco Montoya and Kevin Lewis talk about their production roles and how they build the band's sound.
Otoe Mori shares insights on blending classic saxophone techniques with modern jazz elements.
The making of their latest project and standout tracks.
The collaborative spirit between band members and guest artists.
What's next for Smooth Jazz Alley in terms of music and live shows.

Featured Songs:

Let’s Ride
Here’s The Thing
Brisa Del Mar
Deep Into You

Related Links:

Social Media Hashtags: #SmoothJazzAlley #MarcoMontoya #KevinLewis #OtoeMori #BackstageSonoma #JazzFusion #ContemporaryJazz #MusicInterviews #JazzGroove