Afleveringen

  • ep11 Matthew Willox has a spark
    released April 3, 2025
    1:34:43

    Guest website: https://matthewwillox.art/
    Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewwillox/

    hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
    AFE website
    AFE instagram
    AFE Spotify playlist

    Matthew Willox, an electronic musician and creative technologist, dives into his unique journey through the music industry. Known for his ability to blend analog warmth with digital precision, Willox shares insights on using unconventional tools like Super Nintendo controllers to create music. The discussion touches on his early career in the late '90s, from scoring projects for MIT students to the Oilers scoreboard, and addresses the validation and challenges of working in a niche genre. Willox opens up about the highs and lows of his career, the intense emotional experiences during major personal achievements such as winning a national laptop battle championship, and the perpetual pursuit of genuine artistic expression. This conversation is a thoughtful exploration of how digital and analog elements can coexist in art and life.

    Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

    00:00 Introduction to Matthew Willox

    02:34 Analog vs Digital Debate

    04:23 Early Musical Influences

    07:24 The Creative Journey

    10:53 The Rise of Electronic Music

    17:36 Navigating the Music Industry

    22:55 The Role of Technology in Music

    29:46 Finding Community and Validation

    36:29 Challenges and Reflections

    48:04 A Moment of Victory

    48:26 The Essence of Art

    49:43 Inspiration from a Live Performance

    51:16 The Journey of an Artist

    01:00:30 The Laptop Battle Experience

    01:05:41 Reflections on Success and Misalignment

    01:13:54 Creative Innovations with Technology

    01:17:48 The Importance of Music Theory

    01:23:25 Post-Fame with Alexi

  • ep10 Chris Wynters is authentic af
    released March 27, 2025
    1:19:13

    Chris Wynters is the frontman of 90s indie band Captain Tractor and manager of current indie-folk-bluegrass band The Dead South. Chris and host Glen Erickson discuss the shifts in the music industry from the 90s to today, focusing on the importance of authenticity, the evolution of music distribution, and the impact of digital platforms like Spotify and TikTok. Chris shares stories from his career, talks about managing a successful indie band, and offers insights into how artists can reach international audiences. Tune in for a deep dive into the business of music and the timeless value of being genuine in this ever-changing industry.

    Guest website: https://www.chriswynters.com/
    Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriswynters/
    Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIcv0xejnQyrqMBkEmqqu_Q

    hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
    Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
    AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
    Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

    Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

    00:00 Introduction
    02:59 Glen and Chris: almost podcast partners
    04:41 Chris Wynters' Career Highlights
    06:19 The Early Days: From Theater to Music
    09:57 Building a Music Career: The Role of Relationships
    21:34 The Dead South: Managing a Modern Band
    32:46 The Golden Age of Indie Bands
    44:49 The Early Days of Media and Newsletters
    45:38 The Impact of Digital Platforms on Music
    46:41 Challenges and Opportunities in the Music Industry
    49:44 Evolution of Music Distribution and Revenue
    51:46 Navigating the Modern Music Landscape
    54:18 The Role of Social Media and Data Analytics
    58:39 International Opportunities for Canadian Artists
    01:04:42 Post-Fame with Alexi

  • ep9 Brandi Sidoryk is in Nice Horse
    released March 20, 2025
    1:47:56

    Brandi Sidoryk is a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, bassist, guitarist, french horn-ist - a musician in The Royal Canadian Navy, and founding member of Alberta country band Nice Horse, a band who has garnered steady praise and awards for their music and creative efforts, both locally and nationally with the Canadian Country Music Association, over the span of multiple albums and singles in the past 10 years. Brandi discusses the unique journey of Nice Horse, their swift rise in the country music scene, the impact of the pandemic on their career trajectory, and candidly shares the hurdles they've faced being referred to as an “all-female band”. There are inspiring moments on the themes of leaving a legacy of authenticity and perseverance. The conversation is filled with insights into the music industry, the importance of self-belief, and the joys and challenges of a creative career.

    Guest website: https://www.nicehorsemusic.com/
    Guest Instagram: http://instagram.com/nicehorsemusic
    Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/nicehorsemusic

    hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
    Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
    AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
    Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

    Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

    00:00 Introduction: The Power of Biopics
    00:50 Guest Introduction: Brandi Sidoryk of Nice Horse
    02:17 Band Dynamics and Personal Stories
    04:17 Formation of Nice Horse
    17:45 Challenges and Changes in the Band
    27:27 Overcoming Industry Perceptions
    52:19 Achievements and Recognition
    53:30 Fighting for Artistic Integrity
    54:30 Industry Challenges and Gender Bias
    55:51 Legacy and Meaning in Music
    56:48 The Struggle and Triumph of Recording
    59:36 Belief in Yourself as an Artist
    01:02:48 Epic Anthem Performances
    01:06:11 Military Career and Music
    01:12:26 Future Plans for Nice Horse
    01:17:47 Reflections on the Music Industry
    01:24:04 Post-Fame with Alexi

  • ep8 Leeroy Stagger is a light

    released March 13, 2025

    1:24:14

    In this engaging episode, Glen Erickson sits down with roots rock and Americana singer-songwriter Leeroy Stagger. Leeroy shares candid thoughts about overcoming alcoholism, the struggles within the music industry, and the importance of mentorship. They explore his 20-year career, his musical influences like Steve Earle and Ryan Adams, and his evolution from punk bands to solo artist. This conversation reveals Leeroy's journeys, from his early days listening to radio under the covers to becoming a light for emerging artists. As he discusses his latest album '3 AM Revelations,' Leeroy emphasizes the importance of personal contentment, staying grounded, and his enjoyment of producing music for others. The discussion highlights the variability of success in the music industry, the significance of community, and the dedication required to sustain a long-term creative career.

    Guest website: https://leeroystagger.com/
    Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leeroystagger/
    Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/officialeeroystagger/featured

    hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
    Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
    AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
    Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

    Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

    00:00 Introduction

    03:01 Early Life and Punk Rock Beginnings

    15:25 Transition to Roots Music

    23:03 Navigating the Music Industry

    33:53 Sobriety and Career Resurgence

    43:08 Mentorship and Personal Growth

    46:27 Navigating the Music Industry's Noise

    47:05 Creating a Sincere Record

    48:19 The Journey of Making the Album

    50:48 Finding Peace in the Process

    52:33 Inspiration and Evolution

    53:22 Balancing Fame and Personal Fulfillment

    56:59 Touring and Producing in a New Era

    59:29 Reflections and Future Plans

    1:04:12 Post-Fame with Alexi

  • ep7 Adaline is a bad believer

    released March 6, 2025

    1:46:42

    In this heartfelt episode of 'Almost Famous Enough,' Glen Erickson reconnects with his old friend, Shawna Beesley, who performs under the stage name Adaline. Shawna discusses the criticisms artists receive for stepping outside perceived boundaries, emphasizing that being an artist inherently involves integrating personal and societal aspects into their work. With a career spanning over 16 years, Adaline has released five albums, made significant TV and film placements, and built a community around religious trauma through her music. The conversation delves into their first meeting, artistic struggles, and how Adaline has balanced commercial work with creative authenticity. The episode provides an intimate look at Shawna's journey, including her experiences of coming out, dealing with body image issues, and blending her personal evolution with her artistic career. This episode is a testament to the complexities of pursuing an artistic career while staying true to oneself.

    Guest website: https://adalinemusic.com/

    Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adalinemusic

    Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/adalinemusic

    Bad Believer Community: https://www.instagram.com/badbelievercommunity/

    hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson

    Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough

    Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

    Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

    00:00 Introduction to Adaline

    02:04 Reconnecting with Old Friends

    02:43 Memories of Meeting and Early Career

    08:13 Shared Backgrounds and Early Bonding

    11:28 Navigating the Music Industry

    18:55 Commercial Success and Artistic Integrity

    38:08 The Fluidity of Creativity

    39:14 Navigating Industry Pressures

    40:23 Facing Societal Expectations

    41:20 The Power of Collaboration

    42:54 Embracing Authenticity

    47:00 Exploring Sexuality Through Music

    50:39 The Intersection of Personal and Artistic Growth

    52:32 Overcoming Religious Trauma

    57:31 The Evolution of an Artist

    01:15:16 Navigating Creative Discipline

    01:15:39 Personal Development and Family

    01:16:29 The Bad Believer Community

    01:18:37 The Importance of Sharing Stories

    01:20:50 The Vulnerability of Releasing Music

    01:23:31 Reflections on Personal and Artistic Growth

    01:25:56 Post-Fame with Alexi

  • ep6 Kurt Dahl is lawyerdrummer
    released February 27, 2025
    1:28:45

    In this engaging conversation, Glen Erickson interviews Kurt Dahl, an entertainment lawyer and drummer for the Canadian rock band One Bad Son. Kurt shares his unique journey of balancing dual careers in law and music, including the challenges and rewards of being both a lawyer and a musician. The discussion delves into how he adopted the moniker 'Lawyer Drummer,' the importance of self-criticism in creative growth, and the dynamics of life on the road. Kurt also touches upon his activism, particularly a social media campaign promoting feminism, and offers practical advice for aspiring musicians. This episode is a rare look into the complexities of pursuing dual passions and the life lessons that come with it.

    Guest website: https://lawyerdrummer.com/
    Guest Instragram: https://www.instagram.com/lawyerdrummer/

    hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
    Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
    AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
    Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

    Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

    00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer

    00:40 Meet Kurt Dahl: The Rock and Roll Daredevil

    01:44 Kurt's Dual Life: Lawyer and Drummer

    03:35 Early Career and Inspirations

    04:23 Balancing Two Demanding Careers

    06:27 The Lawyer Drummer Identity

    13:32 The Struggles and Triumphs of One Bad Son

    23:32 The Road to Success: Hard Work and Self-Analysis

    32:33 Touring Challenges and Personal Life

    39:06 Defying Expectations and Balancing Life

    43:50 Balancing Two Careers

    44:29 The Rock and Roll Dream

    46:42 Marriage and Major Life Changes

    48:20 Touring and Family Life

    49:06 The Reality of the Music Industry

    53:59 The Feminist T-Shirt Story

    58:47 Lessons from Two Decades in Music

    01:06:28 Navigating the Music Business

    01:10:56 Post-Fame with Alexi

  • ep5 Cris Derksen does her job
    released February 20, 2025
    1:41:08

    In this episode, Glen Erickson interviews Cris Derksen, an accomplished two-spirit, Juno-nominated artist from Treaty 8 Territory in Northern Alberta. The conversation delves into Cris’s unique life journey, blending a Mennonite and Cree heritage, and creating a distinctive career as both an artist and musician. Known for combining classical music with traditional Indigenous sounds using her electronic-fused cello, Cris shares insights from her experiences, including how she turned down Cirque du Soleil to focus on her own music. She discusses her work with symphonies, her involvement in diverse creative projects such as scoring for National Geographic, and developing the original work ‘Orchestral Powwow’. Cris’s story is one of resilience, optimism, and breaking norms within the music industry, all while maintaining a strong sense of her heritage and identity. This episode is rich with lessons in self-confidence, perseverance, and the importance of community in artistic endeavors.

    Guest website: https://www.crisderksen.com/
    Guest Instragram: https://www.instagram.com/cris_derksen
    Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYw7C-YCx_LTvsoIYLirtUw

    hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson

    Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
    AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
    Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

    Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

    00:00 Introduction to Cris Derksen

    00:37 Cris Derksen Background and Heritage

    02:40 Early Musical Influences and Upbringing

    05:19 Navigating Identity and Racism

    16:23 Discovering the Cello and Musical Journey

    18:02 Challenges and Determination in Music Education

    24:12 Busking and Early Career Struggles

    26:55 Touring with Tanya Tagaq

    31:03 Composing and Performing with Orchestras

    39:38 Blending Classical and Indigenous Music

    52:18 Navigating the Music Industry Independently

    52:29 Building a Team for Success

    53:27 The Importance of Relationships in the Music Business

    54:40 Embracing Tokenism and Diverse Opportunities

    55:51 Challenges and Lessons in Touring

    56:49 Finding Balance and Avoiding Burnout

    57:43 Leadership Roles and Industry Involvement

    59:14 The Power of Self-Awareness and Authenticity

    01:06:32 The Move to Toronto and Its Impact

    01:09:23 Personal Life and Career Highlights

    01:14:56 Advocacy and Community Building in Classical Music

    01:17:23 Reflections on Positivity and Resilience

    01:19:55 Current Projects and Future Plans

    01:22:26 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

    01:27:05 Post-Fame with Alexi

  • ep4 The Royal Foundry are OK
    released February 13, 2025
    1:36:46

    In this episode of Almost Famous Enough, host Glen Erickson talks with Jared Salte of The Royal Foundry, a Canadian husband-and-wife modern rock duo. The conversation delves into the band's evolution from their folk-rock beginnings in 2013 to their current alt-rock success. The discussion touches on their resilience, having navigated an 18-month displacement from their home due to a fire, while also celebrating the birth of their first child and recording their latest album, 'Be Kind.' Jared shares insights on the band's DIY approach, the challenges and benefits of handling many aspects of their music career themselves, and the impact of their Christian upbringing on their musical journey. They also discuss the significant moments that shaped their trajectory, the risks taken in switching musical styles, and the importance of finding balance between personal artistry and commercial success. This episode provides a comprehensive view of the trials, triumphs, and ongoing growth of The Royal Foundry, offering valuable lessons for aspiring musicians.

    Guest website: https://www.theroyalfoundry.com/
    Guest Instagram: http://instagram.com/theroyalfoundry
    Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1DghtCC2GulQtIxJwj5Bog

    hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
    Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
    AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
    Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

    Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

    00:00 Introduction to The Royal Foundry

    00:57 Formation and Early Success

    02:44 Personal Reflections and Milestones

    07:25 DIY Approach and Industry Changes

    10:24 Musical Evolution and Genre Shifts

    22:36 Navigating the Christian Music Scene

    41:00 Peak Performance Project Experience

    52:46 Digital Marketing and Music Industry Insights

    53:32 Songwriting Contests: A Revenue Stream

    54:59 The Reality of Quick Fame

    56:58 Balancing Career and Creativity

    01:01:08 Changes in the Music Business

    01:04:02 Exploring Musical Inspirations

    01:15:43 Post-Fame with Alexi

  • ep3 Tamara Beatty sees your voice
    released February 6, 2025
    1:47:56

    In this episode, host Glen Erickson sits down with renowned vocal coach Tamara Beatty to discuss the moments that shaped her career and the intricate world of vocal coaching. Tamara shares personal stories from her early days, the diverse challenges faced by aspiring and professional singers, and her impactful behind-the-scenes work as a voice coach consultant on high-profile TV shows like 'The Voice' and 'The Masked Singer.' They dive into the importance of vocal fitness, the evolution of the music industry, and Tamara's upcoming VoiceFit app designed to help singers maintain their vocal health. Don't miss this insightful conversation filled with anecdotes, expert advice, and an in-depth look at the artist's journey.

    Guest website: https://www.tamarabeatty.com/
    Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voicefitapp/
    Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/TamaraBeatty

    hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
    Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
    AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough

    Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

    00:00 Introduction

    01:51 Catching Up with Tamara

    05:02 Tamara's Journey: From Canada to Coaching

    08:25 The Evolution of a Voice Coach

    11:11 The Influence of Sports on Coaching

    14:33 The Art of Vocal Coaching

    19:20 The Voice: A Career-Changing Opportunity

    24:08 Navigating the Competitive World of Vocal Coaching

    36:58 The Impact of The Voice on Tamara's Career

    44:34 Navigating the Blind Auditions

    45:47 The Reality of TV Show Delays

    46:17 Coaching Under Pressure

    48:02 The Evolution of Singing Competitions

    48:31 Common Threads in Aspiring Artists

    52:35 The Changing Music Industry Landscape

    01:01:01 Stages of an Artist's Career

    01:05:31 Maintaining Vocal Health on Tour

    01:08:40 The Importance of Vocal Warm Downs

    01:09:28 Voice Fit App: A Toolkit for Singers

    01:13:59 Celebrity Encounters and Inspirations

    01:19:06 The Best Vocal Takes and Live Performances

    01:21:52 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

    01:26:43 Post-Fame with Alexi

  • ep2 Grant Lawrence is my DJ
    release date: January 30, 2025
    run time: 1:49:27

    In this episode, we sit down with Canadian music personality Grant Lawrence to explore his multifaceted career. Starting with an overview of his unique presence in the music industry, the conversation touches on his early days with the band The Smugglers, their impact in the '80s and '90s, and his transformative transition to a host at CBC Radio. We delve into the significance of Canadian indie music's booms in the '90s and 2000s, the creation of the CBC Radio 3 community, and its lasting influence on the Canadian music scene. Grant shares personal anecdotes from his career, including his serendipitous introduction to Dan Mangan and his views on the evolving role of curation in music. The discussion also covers Grant’s pivot to writing, including his successful book 'Adventures in Solitude', and how it helped forge a new chapter in his life. We also discuss his success in the literary community and the challenges of balancing his creative endeavors while being a dedicated father. Lastly, Grant highlights fresh new music talent like Cat Clyde, exemplifying his undying passion for music exploration.

    guest website: https://grantlawrence.ca/
    guest youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0c97cgwbwOZbH96B5I6F4Q
    guest instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grantlawrencecbc

    hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
    Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
    AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough


    00:00 Introduction and Greetings
    01:15 Fashion and Canadian Culture
    05:30 Music Career Beginnings
    06:54 The Evolution of Friendships in Music
    08:23 Family and Music Legacy
    09:28 Technological Advances in Music Promotion
    14:14 Transition to CBC Radio
    19:05 Navigating the Music Industry
    25:03 The Boom and Bust of Indie Music
    28:59 The Rise of CBC Radio 3
    34:30 Building a Community Through Radio
    42:27 Innovative Ideas from Sports Radio
    44:34 Ken's Influence and the Canadiana Connection
    46:07 The Infamous Christmas Party and Dan Mangan's Breakthrough
    51:19 Building an Indie Community Across Canada
    56:59 The Radio 3 Era and Its Impact
    01:04:24 Transition to Writing and Adventures in Solitude
    01:17:30 Balancing Family Life and Artistic Pursuits
    01:23:48 Final Thoughts and New Discoveries

  • ep1 Dan Mangan is still nice
    published January 23, 2025
    01:47:55

    In this episode of Almost Famous Enough, Glen Erickson hosts a candid conversation with Dan Mangan, an acclaimed singer-songwriter from Vancouver, British Columbia. The discussion covers Dan's decorated music career, his life balancing fatherhood, and his hands-on approach to managing merchandise and content creation. They explore the evolution of Dan's artistic style, the impact of social media on music marketing, and reflect on significant milestones like winning Juno awards and being shortlisted for the Polaris Music Prize. Mangan candidly shares his experiences with industry expectations, disappointing tours, and the challenges of staying genuine in a career that oscillates between public acclaim and personal fulfillment. They also dive into Dan's personal strategies for maintaining hope and gratitude amidst the struggles, emphasizing the importance of being genuine and making meaningful connections with fans. The episode wraps up with Glen reflecting on Dan's influence in the music industry and their shared experiences, providing a heartwarming end to an insightful dialogue.

    Guest website: https://danmanganmusic.com/
    Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danmanganmusic
    Guest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/danmanganmusic

    hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
    Almost Famous Enough website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
    AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
    Almost Famous Enough Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480

    Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.

    00:00 Introduction to Dan Mangan

    01:10 A Day in the Life of Dan Mangan

    02:15 The Reality of Being an Artist Today

    06:18 Early Career Struggles and Breakthroughs

    08:15 The Journey to Success

    10:07 The Relentless Pursuit of Success

    11:32 Navigating the Music Industry

    16:01 The Challenges of Sustaining a Music Career 21:06 Reflections and Lessons Learned

    30:54 The Impact of Club Meds

    35:52 Struggles and Uncertainty in Music

    37:24 Questioning Artistic Purpose

    38:56 Finding Authenticity in Music

    40:51 The Power of Authenticity

    41:47 The Struggle with Self-Worth

    42:26 Embracing Vulnerability and Connection

    43:07 Finding Fulfillment in Music

    46:54 Rediscovering 'Robots'

    54:19 Evolution of Vocal Style

    01:02:26 The Importance of Kindness

    01:09:23 Hope and Mindfulness in Life and Music

    01:10:09 Finding Hope in Everyday Moments

    01:16:09 Contemplating the Universe and Our Place in It

    01:16:49 Finding Beauty and Value in Everyday Life

    01:18:00 The Importance of Making Others Feel Good

    01:19:33 Reflections on Personal Encounters and Generosity

    01:26:43 Post-Fame: Discussing Music and Personal Conne

  • My name is Glen Erickson. I'm the host of Almost Famous Enough, a new podcast where we have conversations with incredible guests from in, around and from the music industry. Now the algorithm wants me to say interviews, but I like conversations. These aren't publicity tour notes. These are deep dives into the lives of people who have chased the dream.

    What are the challenges that they faced? Ageism, sexism, racism, geography, no money, no drummer, no blueprint. Or what are the opportunities? Where do you find opportunities? Is it all just luck? Is that why they call it a dream?

    Almost Famous Enough is available Thursdays, wherever you get your podcasts.