Tony Mantor's : Almost Live..... Nashville

Have you ever wondered how music and faith can transform a life bound by addiction?
On this inspiring episode of Almost Live Nashville, we sit down with Whey Jennings as he opens up about his harrowing battle with drug addiction and his remarkable journey to redemption.
Whey shares the pivotal moments that shaped his recovery, including the profound personal loss that spurred him to change and the unwavering support system that held him together.
His latest projects, the EP "If it Wasn't For the Sins" and the upcoming album "Sleeves," serve as a testament to his resilience and his desire to help others facing similar struggles.
Transitioning from personal battles to artistic evolution, Whey delves into the impact of his legendary grandfather, Waylon Jennings on his music and the challenges of maintaining artistic integrity in a commercial world.
We capture the essence of live performances where the energy of the crowd and the blend of nostalgic and contemporary sounds create unforgettable experiences.
Whey candidly discusses the complexity of the music industry, from navigating sponsorships to drawing inspiration without losing originality.
His stories offer a unique perspective on the delicate balance between staying true to one's roots and embracing modern influences.
Whey also reflects on the balance between his music career and family life, emphasizing the importance of leading by example.
He shares touching anecdotes about parenting, underscoring how his actions influence his children and vice versa.
His latest album, with standout tracks like "10 Day Run" and "Leaves," showcases his diverse themes and collaborative spirit.
Through heartfelt narratives and powerful messages, Whey Jennings inspires listeners to seek a better path, demonstrating that personal growth and redemption are possible, no matter how daunting the journey.

Can you imagine the whirlwind of emotions tied to a 60-year musical legacy?
This episode of Almost Live Nashville brings you an intimate conversation with Barbara Hawkins of the Dixie Cups.
In celebration of the 60th anniversary of their timeless hit "Chapel of Love," Barbara recounts the electrifying events in New Orleans, including performances at Loyola University and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.
She shares the honor of being featured on the festival poster, offering listeners an insider's view of the group's incredible journey and the profound appreciation from their community.
Ever wondered about the gritty realities behind the glamour of the music industry? Barbara takes us back to the early days of the Dixie Cups, revealing the pivotal moments and key industry figures like Larry McKinley and Joe Jones who helped catapult them to fame.
She narrates the serendipitous meetings, the relentless auditions, and the eventual collaborations with songwriting legends Jeff Barry and Ellie Greenwich.
This chapter paints a vivid picture of the challenges and triumphs that come with pursuing a career in music, highlighting the relentless determination that fueled their dreams.
Barbara's story also touches on personal resilience, as she shares her family's harrowing experience during Hurricane Katrina and their subsequent move to Tampa, Florida.
Despite the hardships, she reflects on the overwhelming support they received from the Tampa community, including organizations like Music Cares.
This heartfelt episode concludes with gratitude for Barbara’s courage and contributions, leaving listeners with a profound appreciation for the strength and tenacity of artists both on and off the stage.
Join us for a captivating journey through the life and legacy of one of music's enduring icons.

Ever wondered what it was like to work side-by-side with legends like John Lennon and Paul McCartney?
Join us as we sit down with the iconic Billy J Kramer, who shares the riveting story behind his stage name, a suggestion from Lennon himself.
Discover the fascinating behind-the-scenes tales of recording songs written by the Beatles exclusively for him, including his hit single "Little Children," which marked a pivotal moment in his career. Kramer also opens up about the thrill of touring across Europe and the United States, reminiscing about his electrifying performance on the Ed Sullivan Show.
Take a trip back to the 70s and 80s, an era of revival and reinvention in the music industry.
Billy reflects on the nostalgic joy of touring with fellow British Invasion bands and the dynamic changes that came with the reformation of the Dakotas.
We explore his unique ventures during the 80s, from creating a children's album to narrating books, and discuss the challenges he faced balancing international tours with recording commitments.
Hear firsthand how these experiences have shaped his illustrious career and solidified his place in music history.
In a heartfelt conversation, Billy opens up about his lifelong connection with the Beatles and his journey to maintain musical integrity over the decades.
Learn about his personal battles with alcohol and his triumphant path to sobriety, as detailed in his autobiography "You Want to Know a Secret?".
We also discuss his recent projects, including a new album recorded at Abbey Road and his active role in music festivals and historic interviews.
This is a must-listen for anyone eager to hear the untold stories of a true music industry legend.

Ever wondered how a left-handed guitar enthusiast transforms into a right-handed rock star? Join us as Mark Bryan, the founding member and guitarist of Hootie and the Blowfish, shares his captivating journey.
Mark opens up about how early lessons and a love for ACDC's "TNT" ignited his passion for music, and how he drew inspiration from legends like Pete Townsend and Bruce Springsteen.
Listen as Mark reveals his unique approach to songwriting and the creative process behind the instruments that bring his music to life.
Curious about the quirky origins of Hootie and the Blowfish's name? Discover the amusing backstory rooted in college friendships and how these early bonds at the University of South Carolina set the stage for the band's astonishing rise to fame. We explore their transition from intimate club performances to stadium arenas, and the innovative ideas, like placing a bar on stage, that helped them stay true to their roots.
Mark also shares insights on how the band has managed to stay grounded and authentic despite their overwhelming success.
The episode wouldn't be complete without a look at the band's musical evolution and memorable collaborations.
Hear about the unforgettable experience of working with David Crosby on "Hold My Hand" and Cyril Neville on a tribute to Rosa Parks. Mark provides technical insights into how incorporating elements like percussion and background vocals have shaped their sound.
Finally, join us as we discuss the highs and lows of touring, celebrating the diverse and enriching experiences that come with life on the road.
Don't miss out on this compelling conversation filled with rich stories and invaluable lessons from Mark Bryan's illustrious career.

Ever wondered how a classically trained pianist ends up playing alongside rock legends?

We had the pleasure of sitting down with the inimitable Felix Cavalieri, a cornerstone of the 1960s music scene and the soulful force behind the Rascals.

In our latest episode, Felix takes us through an extraordinary journey that began in Pelham, New York, under the influence of Beethoven and Bach, and unexpectedly swerved into the limelight of rock and roll, spurred by an unforgettable Beatles performance.

From family expectations to global stages, Felix recounts how each moment, including a fateful encounter with Joey D and the Starlighters, propelled him toward a life dedicated to music.

Through his eyes, you'll experience the transformative power of music and gain a front-row seat to the vibrant and revolutionary '60s music scene.
Beyond the melodies and the fame, Felix shares intimate reflections on the challenges he faced, both personally and professionally.

Internal band dynamics and the backdrop of the Vietnam War era presented obstacles along his path, but Felix illuminates how collaboration and inspiration from artists like Billy Joel, Elton John, and even Swami Satchidananda, shaped his musical narrative and personal well-being.

Hear about his impactful project with Dolly Parton to aid Lahaina fire victims, a testament to the enduring spirit of collaboration.

Wrapping up our conversation, we celebrate the joy of a shared musical passion and the potential for future collaborations.

Join us for insights that promise to leave you inspired and filled with a renewed appreciation for the complexities of life and music.