Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: May 28, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S8: E6: Graham Bonnet & Beth-Ami Heavenstone - The Legend and the Forever Friend


SHOW SUMMARY:
Rock legend Graham Bonnet and bassist/manager Beth-Ami Heavenstone invite listeners into their world for an intimate conversation about music, recovery, and what's next for the Graham Bonnet Band. Fresh from battling COVID-19, the pair reflects on the unique challenges vocalists face—a sentiment Bonnet captures perfectly when he states, "The voice is the hardest instrument to play... the guitar is easy compared to this."

The conversation weaves through exciting announcements about their upcoming live DVD recorded at the historic Whiskey a Go Go, a venue deeply meaningful to both artists as their first performance space together. Fans will be thrilled to learn about the band's fourth studio album in progress, featuring a special collaboration with Iron Maiden's Bruce Dickinson. Bonnet shares his creative process, including a touching tribute song to the underappreciated guitar virtuoso Rory Gallagher, revealing the thoughtful songwriter behind the powerful voice.

Some of the most compelling moments emerge when Bonnet opens up about his remarkable past—from his early connection to the Bee Gees (his cousin Trevor Gordon was originally part of the group in Australia) to his heartfelt remembrance of drummer Cozy Powell, whose 1998 passing still visibly moves him. The emotional gravity in Bonnet's voice as he recalls seeing two rainbows touch the hillside after learning of Powell's death demonstrates that behind the legendary rock persona is a deeply feeling human being who treasures these connections.

Between European tour preparations, managing multiple projects, and their life together raising chickens in LA, Bonnet and Heavenstone offer a refreshingly authentic glimpse into their world. Their playful banter and surprising personal revelations—Graham's unexpected love for figure skating and Antiques Roadshow, Beth-Ami's bird watching hobby—create a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes listeners feel like they're sitting in their living room. Whether you've followed Graham's career for decades or are discovering his extraordinary voice for the first time, this conversation captures the spirit of a rock legend who remains humble, creative, and utterly passionate about music.

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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
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Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com

Artist(s) Web Page

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Randy Hulsey

Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: April 30, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S8: E5: Lorraine Lewis - (Femme Fatale / Vixen) - Sunset Strip Survivor


SHOW SUMMARY:
From jumping out of classroom windows in Albuquerque to commanding stages worldwide, Lorraine Lewis embodies the fearless spirit of rock 'n' roll in its purest form. In this candid, high-energy conversation, the former Femme Fatale and Vixen vocalist pulls back the curtain on her remarkable musical journey that began with Linda Ronstadt covers in local bands and led to the glitz and mayhem of the Sunset Strip during hair metal's heyday.

With disarming honesty, Lorraine recounts how she assembled Femme Fatale through sheer force of will, sharing both the exhilaration of being signed to MCA Records and the frustrations of never quite reaching the platinum-selling status she envisioned. Her reflections on why some bands exploded while others stalled reveal the complex interplay of talent, timing, and industry support that defined the era.

The conversation takes unexpected turns as Lorraine discusses her recent collaboration with Foreigner's Lou Graham (a dream thirty years in the making), her successful career as a television casting director, and her latest venture into OnlyFans, which she approaches with the same unapologetic authenticity that's defined her entire career. At 66, she dismisses conventional limitations, declaring, "The older I get, the more fearless I am."

What emerges is the portrait of an artist who has weathered industry upheavals without losing her passion or perspective. Lorraine's infectious laugh punctuates stories of rock star encounters and personal reinventions, offering wisdom on survival and self-reinvention in an industry notorious for chewing people up. "I've had the most fascinating life/career ever," she reflects, with the conviction of someone who's still writing exciting new chapters.

Subscribe to hear more unfiltered conversations with the personalities who've shaped rock history, and follow Lorraine's current projects at LorraineLewisRocks across all platforms.

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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com

Artist(s) Web Page
Lorraine Lewis - Facebook

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Randy Hulsey

Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: April 2, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S8: E4: Julia Lage (Bass Player - Vixen / Smith/Kotzen) A Magnificent Musical Migration


SHOW SUMMARY:
Julia Lage's musical journey crosses oceans, genres, and expectations. The current touring bassist for iconic all-female rock band Vixen opens up about her unexpected path from classical beginnings to rock stardom.

Growing up in São Paulo, Brazil, Julia's first musical love wasn't the bass but the flute. Attending an arts-focused Waldorf school, she developed her ear playing classical instruments but failed an orchestra audition because she couldn't sight-read. This disappointment became a turning point when her mother introduced her to rock music – Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Aerosmith – opening a world of possibility that would shape her future.

By 17, Julia was touring Brazil with a successful band for 13 years, playing to massive crowds (once performing for 2.5 million people!) and appearing on major TV shows. But despite commercial success, she felt creatively unfulfilled. Her life transformed when she met guitarist Richie Kotzen (now her husband), leading to her relocation to Los Angeles and fresh musical opportunities. Through connections and remarkable talent, she joined Vixen in 2021, collaborates with Adrian Smith (Iron Maiden) and Richie in their Smith/Kotzen project, and creates compelling solo material in her home studio.

What shines through our conversation is Julia's authenticity and genuine passion. While discussing her various projects – including upcoming Vixen music, Smith/Kotzen's new album featuring her bass on five tracks, and her solo singles – she reveals the challenges of balancing creative work with the business side of music. Her advice to aspiring musicians comes from hard-earned wisdom: know what you want to accomplish, focus on that path, and pursue it with genuine passion.

Follow Julia's musical adventures on all platforms under Julia Lage (L-A-G-E) and discover why this classically-trained flautist-turned-rock-bassist continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com

Artist(s) Web Page
www.julialage.com

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Your Host,
Randy Hulsey

Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: March 12, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S8 E3: Holly Knight - (Hall of Fame Singer, Songwriter, Musician, Author) - I Am The Warrior


SHOW SUMMARY:
Meet Holly Knight, the songwriting force behind some of the most iconic rock and pop anthems of all time. From "Love is a Battlefield" to "The Best," Holly crafted lyrics and melodies that defined the MTV era and continue to resonate today.

Starting as a classical piano prodigy at age four, Holly's path took a dramatic turn when she left home at 15 to pursue her rock and roll dreams. What followed was an extraordinary journey from performing in clubs to writing chart-topping hits that would be recorded by legends like Tina Turner, Pat Benatar, Aerosmith, and Rod Stewart.

Holly shares the fascinating story of her musical evolution - from her early days in the band Spider to her pivotal meeting with producer Mike Chapman that launched her songwriting career. With refreshing candor, she reveals the organic nature of her creative process, describing how melodies seem to flow through her fingers "like a Ouija board" when she sits at a piano or guitar. This approach has yielded an astonishing legacy: Holly currently ranks in the top 1% of songwriters globally with over 2.3 billion streams in 2024 alone.

Beyond the hits themselves, our conversation explores the changing music industry landscape, from the analog days of liner notes to today's digital streaming world where songwriters often remain invisible. We discuss Holly's 2013 induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame (one of only sixteen women among 400+ male inductees at that time), her bestselling memoir "I Am the Warrior," and her passion for black and white photography. If you've ever wondered about the creative mind behind some of rock's most empowering anthems, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and work of a true songwriting legend.

Sponsor Link:
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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com

Artist(s) Web Page
www.hollyknight.com

www.hollyknightphoto.com

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Randy Hulsey

Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: January 29, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S8: E2: Sadie Williams (The Kaleidoscope Project / The Skinz) - Keeping Live Music Alive


SHOW SUMMARY:
Join us as we welcome Sadie Williams, a phenomenal guitarist from Houston, who's been nominated for Best Local Guitarist at the 8th Annual SLM Awards. Sadie takes us on a sonic journey from her roots in Conroe, Texas, to her rise as a rock and roll sensation inspired by legends like Led Zeppelin. With her stories of becoming the "family rock star" despite having a non-musical background, and her experiences performing in Cypress, Kehma, and Galveston, Sadie paints a vivid picture of the Houston music scene's vibrant landscape.

In our conversation, we uncover the magic behind Sadie's songwriting and recording process. Discover how a spontaneous guitar riff can transform into a hit track through the synergy of band dynamics and creative collaboration. Sadie shares insights into the band's eclectic repertoire, revealing how they stand out by choosing unique covers and infusing them with a fresh, nostalgic vibe. You'll also get a sneak peek at their new track "Moon Gypsy" and learn about the organic development of their music that appeals to a diverse audience.

Reflecting on the challenges musicians face today, we discuss the impact of COVID-19 on live music and audience engagement. Sadie offers heartfelt acknowledgments to her fans for their unwavering support, emphasizing the importance of keeping the live music tradition alive. We also touch on her musical influences, dream collaborations, and her exciting journey with The Kaleidoscope Project. From balancing full-time jobs to navigating unexpected gigs at events like Sturgis, Sadie’s story is a testament to pursuing passion with flexibility and gratitude.

Sponsor Link:
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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com

Artist(s) Web Page
The Skinz | Facebook
The Kaleidoscope Project | Facebook


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Randy Hulsey

Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: January 15, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S8: E1: - Phil Soussan (Ozzy Osbourne / Billy Idol / Last In Line) - Rock Legends & New Horizons


SHOW SUMMARY:
Legendary bassist Phil Soussan, renowned for his iconic work with Ozzy Osbourne and Billy Idol, joins us to share captivating stories from his remarkable career. From his unforgettable audition for Ozzy’s band to the vibrant music scene of Las Vegas, Phil offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of rock music. Discover how the climates of Las Vegas and Houston impact daily life, and what's exciting on the horizon for Phil's ongoing music ventures.

Explore the dynamic evolution of the music industry with us as we chat about the art and business of music production. Phil's insights take us back to his early days with The Firm and the memorable interactions with legends like Paul Rogers and Tony Franklin. We delve into the shifting landscapes of music cities, with rock artists gravitating towards Nashville and the burgeoning community of musicians in Las Vegas, all while reflecting on the audition processes even seasoned musicians undergo.

Phil also provides an engaging look into his solo projects, drawing inspiration from everyday life and offering a sneak peek at his upcoming autobiography. From tribute bands to his work with Last in Line, he highlights the importance of versatility in the music scene. Join us as we discover how technology has transformed music collaboration, and learn about Phil's creative processes that continue to shape his illustrious career. Prepare to be entertained and enlightened by the magic behind the melodies and the personal stories that have shaped Phil Soussan's journey in rock and roll.

Sponsor Link:
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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com

Artist(s) Web Page
https://www.philsoussan.com


Call to action
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Randy Hulsey

Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: December 11, 2024
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S7: E11: Paul Dyck - A Tale of Canadian Roots and Texan Ice


SHOW SUMMARY:
Join me, Randy Hulsey, as we explore the untold stories of hockey with the remarkable Paul Dyck, who takes us back to his days with the Houston Aeros in the 90s. Experience the surprising growth of hockey in a warm city like Houston and learn how a team once breathed life into an unexpected hockey scene. Paul shares the perks of being a player in such an environment, from the joy of year-round golfing to the unique camaraderie that defined their journey, all while contrasting the Canadian influence with the Texan landscape.

Paul takes us on his personal journey from Steinbach, Manitoba, showcasing his path from a passionate young player to being drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins. Reliving his early days, Paul opens up about his grandfather’s impactful role in nurturing his love for hockey, and the awe-inspiring moment of joining a team filled with legends like Mario Lemieux and Jaromir Jagr. Along the way, he offers insights into the evolution of hockey dynamics, the modern versatility of defensemen, and the pivotal role work ethic plays in shaping a player’s career.

Dive into Paul’s transition from player to coach, drawing lessons from influential figures like Dave Tippett, while examining the decline of the once-dominant fight culture in hockey. This episode isn't just about the game; it's a heartfelt journey filled with personal anecdotes, leadership lessons, and advice for aspiring athletes and coaches. We wrap up with a trip down memory lane, celebrating the rich history of hockey legends and the off-ice hobbies that have shaped our lives, leaving listeners with both nostalgia and inspiration.

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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com

Artist(s) Web Page
https://www.steinbachpistons.ca/


Call to action
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Randy Hulsey

Let Us Know What You Think of the Show!

Date: November 27, 2024
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S7: E:10 - America (Gerry Beckley & Dewey Bunnell) - From London Roots to Global Fame


SHOW SUMMARY:
Get ready for an unforgettable conversation with the legendary musicians Gerry Beckley and Dewey Bunnell from the iconic band America. Join us as we journey back to their formative years in London, where their love for music and shared influences like Crosby, Stills, Nash, and the Beatles sparked the creation of unforgettable hits like "A Horse With No Name." Discover how their unique blend of harmonies and acoustic sounds catapulted them to international fame, earning them accolades such as a Grammy award and a prestigious star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Gerry and Dewey also open up about their current lives, balancing time between California, Australia, and Wisconsin, while staying connected to nature and creativity.

Ever wondered about the story behind the band's name, America? We'll explore this intriguing tale, inspired by a trend of naming bands after places and a nostalgic reference to a jukebox called the Americana. Listen as Gerry and Dewey reminisce about their high school band days and their enduring love for acoustic guitars, which have defined their sound over the years. Reflect on the evolution of band names and the sentimental value of liner notes, offering a glimpse into the legacy that names and music leave behind.

Dive into the creative minds of Gerry and Dewey as they unveil their songwriting process, breaking down how their hits came to life without a one-size-fits-all formula. Hear about the surprising success of "You Can Do Magic," penned by another songwriter, and how it reignited their career in the 1980s. From unexpected collaborations to writing soundtracks that found popularity in far-flung places, this episode is a celebration of America's enduring legacy and their remarkable impact on the music world.

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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
Facebook - @backstagepassradiopodcast @randyhulseymusic
Instagram - @Backstagepassradio @randyhulseymusic
Twitter - @backstagepassPC @rhulseymusic
Website - backstagepassradio.com and randyhulsey.com

Artist(s) Web Page
www.venturahighway.com


Call to action
We ask our listeners to like, share, and subscribe to the show and the artist's social media pages. This enables us to continue pushing great content to the consumer.

Thank you for being a part of Backstage Pass Radio

Your Host,
Randy Hulsey