Sleaze Roxx New Year’s Podcaster Forum

Posted on January 26, 2022 by Ruben Mosqueda in Uncategorized // 0 Comments

SLEAZE ROXX NEW YEAR’S PODCASTER FORUM

Date: December 2021 / January 2022
Interviewer: Ruben Mosqueda
Photos: Courtesy of respective podcasters

The past couple of years, we’ve featured a year end Q&A with past interviewees. This time around, we wanted to do something a little different. We wanted to feature some of my favorite podcasters. You won’t see the guy that swiped the catch phrases from George Takei or the late Eric ‘The Actor’ on this list. You will get personalities that are charismatic, do their homework, and ask the questions and give their guests the time and space to give a complete answer before moving on to the next. Enjoy this one.

We’d like to thank every one of the personalities that participated. Please support them by subscribing, liking and sharing their work, if you aren’t doing so already.

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CHUCK SHUTE of the CHUCK SHUTE PODCAST

A little something on the next guy, Chuck Shute. I enjoy listening to his ‘smooth’ approach to podcasting. Sure he’s always prepared, but he doesn’t dictate the flow of the interview. He lets them be and the results are a top notch, informative, fun experience. Check out The Chuck Shute Podcast.

Sleaze Roxx: Who or what inspired you to get into podcasting? Who are some of your favorite interviewers?

Chuck Shute: I’ve always loved entertainment and watching / listening to good interviews of people who I’m a fan of. When I discovered podcasts, I remember listening to some and thinking “I could do this.” I grew up watching Conan O’Brien and was a big fan of his quick wit in interviews. I also think Howard Stern is one of the best interviewers, as well as Joe Rogan. I also listen to tons of rock podcasts — probably too many to name but Eddie Trunk and Chris Jericho are a couple of names.

Sleaze Roxx: You’ve had a wide range of guests on your show. What’s been one of your personal highlights and what’s been one of the most challenging and why?

Chuck Shute: Interviewing Erik Turner of Warrant was definitely one big highlight for me. Also Joey Allen of Warrant, Rachel Bolan of Skid Row and John Corabi [ex-Mötley Crüe]. I grew up huge fans of all of them so that was kind of surreal. Geoff Tate of Queensrÿche was a bit of a tough interview for me. I was sick at the time and for whatever reason he didn’t seem too interested in doing the interview but I powered through.

Sleaze Roxx: Your interviews have been picked up by all the usual suspects in rock media and major news feeds. What’s been an interview that was picked up, that had you wondering why a more ‘news worth’ item in the interview wasn’t mentioned?

Chuck Shute: I’m so bad at predicting what’s going to picked up and what won’t. I just try to be grateful for any press of my show because you guys really help us out a ton. I’m fascinated by the well known people who almost became members of other well known bands. The interview with Kevin Martin of Candlebox and how he almost joined Velvet Revolver stands out as one.

Sleaze Roxx: 2021 was more or less 2020 lite. We’ve had a number of losses in the world of rock and metal. What’s a loss in 2021 that has impacted you the most and why?

Chuck Shute: Gerri Miller of Metal Edge was really sad because I grew up with Metal Edge and without that magazine, I probably wouldn’t be talking to you right now. They were the only ones mentioning any of the bands I loved as a kid. Also, comedian Norm MacDonald was heartbreaking because I was a big fan and wanted to have him on my show.

Sleaze Roxx: In 2021, there were many acts that recorded albums. Some got a chance to tour or play some shows. What were some shows that really stand out for you in 2021?

Chuck Shute: Guns N’ Roses was amazing because they are my favorite band and I got to be front row. Normally I think those tickets would be impossible to get but because of Covid, it was affordable and less crowded so I could work my way to the front with a general admission ticket. I also saw Steel Panther and they’re always great as well as a local band here The Black Moods. I’m likely going to see John Corabi and Sebastian Bach as well so that should be fun.

Sleaze Roxx: As I mentioned, the floodgates opened in 2021 with just about everyone releasing albums. What are your top five albums of the year and why?

Chuck Shute: ‘Checkered Past’ by L.A. Guns — This is a band that is really nailing it and hitting on all cylinders since the reunion. I continue to look forward to every release they have. ‘Dirty Honey’ by Dirty Honey — Just great, straight ahead rock n’ roll. They are one of the best new young bands and I look forward to seeing their growth. ‘Typhoons’ by Royal Blood — Another stellar younger band with a modern sound that is super talented. I really think bands like this will be the future of rock. ‘Death By Rock ‘n’ Roll’ by The Pretty Reckless — Taylor Momsen is great and I think fans of metal and rock should love this band. ‘Mammoth WVH’ by Mammoth WVH — I got to see these guys live opening for Guns N’ Roses and I really enjoyed them. Everything on this album sounds great — the drums, guitars, bass, vocals, production, etc. And most importantly, great songwriting.

Sleaze Roxx: What do you think is more likely to happen? An L.A. Guns reunion with the classic line-up? A Ratt reunion with ⅗ of the classic line-up? Or a reunion between Donnie Vie and Chip Z’Nuff?

Chuck Shute: I think a semi-reunion with Donnie and Chip has already happened. They did some songs together. I think the Ratt thing definitely has a chance to happen, as that’s Stephen Pearcy’s band and he’s basically said he would want to do that to record an album at least. I don’t think the L.A. Guns thing ever happens. The main two players in the band are Phil [Lewis] and Tracii [Guns] and I don’t think they have any benefit in letting the other guys back in the fold. But never say never.

Sleaze Roxx: What’s the worst trend of 2021 according to Chuck Shute?

Chuck Shute: Canceled shows. I’m sure we can all agree. I’m so sick of the “due to unfortunate circumstances” Facebook posts. I don’t blame the bands or the venues. This is just a shitty time for live events but I am optimistic for the future and I hope that the worst is behind us.

Sleaze Roxx: Who is someone that you’d like on the podcast, but haven’t on yet?

Chuck Shute: Sebastian Bach is my next big target, and after that, it’s Axl Rose.

Sleaze Roxx: What are you looking forward to in 2022?

Chuck Shute: So many great things! We may be seeing new music from Sebastian Bach, Metallica, Ugly Kid Joe, Guns N’ Roses, Dangerous Toys, and more. Plus The Stadium Tour, Tom Keifer / L.A. Guns / Faster Pussycat, the Whitesnake farewell tour and so many more. New bands are popping up all the time. We just need to make sure we shine the light on them. 2022 will be a great year for rock!

Sleaze Roxx: Can you share what you have in store for the podcast in 2022?

Chuck Shute: I’m constantly evolving and trying to improve everything about my show. I hope to make significant strides this year. One of my main goals will be to improve the visuals so that it’s more YouTube friendly. I’m also looking to do more episodes, have bigger guests on and improve my interview skills as well. There will be a lot to look forward to — including some surprises — so make sure to follow the show and subscribe to the YouTube channel. Thanks!!

The Chuck Shute Podcast‘s interview with Warrant guitarist Erik Turner (September 2020):

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JIMMY KAY of THE METAL VOICE

I’m new to The Metal Voice, having just become a fan two years ago. The Metal Voice was founded by Jimmy Kay and Alan Dixon in Montreal, Quebec, Canada 11 years ago. I love Jimmy Kay’s passion for hard rock and heavy metal. I love his style, he’s really one of us. He and The Metal Voice have really established themselves as one of the premier rock and metal podcasts.

Sleaze Roxx: Who or what inspired you into getting into podcasting? Who are some of your favorite interviewers?

Jimmy Kay: Alan Dixon [co-host of The Metal Voice] and myself would sit around talking for hours at friends get togethers about metal. We cleared the room quickly. So, my wife said you guys should do a show about metal on YouTube. Keep in mind 11 years ago, there were very few YouTube channels that had a continuous metal show. So Bam!!

Sleaze Roxx: You’ve had so many great guests on ‘The Metal Voice.’ I haven’t seriously been watching / listening to the show until about two years ago. What’s been one of your personal highlights and what’s been one of the most challenging interviews and why?

Jimmy Kay: There’s too many great ones to name. Highlight will always be interviewing Kelle and Kathy Rhoads [Randy Rhoads’ siblings] at the school [Musonia] where Randy Rhoads taught. It was quite moving and haunting at the same time. And of course, King Diamond. Challenging? Not too many and usually those don’t get posted for whatever reason… oops!!! We forgot to turn the camera on… What do you mean the mic was off? Then there was late Sanctuary singer Warrel Dane, who made us wait for him a few hours and never showed up but heh, that’s show biz…

Jimmy Kay: It’s quite the opposite. The news feeds, the good ones like Sleaze Roxx and a few others who don’t copy and paste sometimes find these nuggets that I’m surprised were even there! Alan and I the rest of the guys do our thing, and it will be what it will be. We have this saying, motto, creed, from the beginning; “We do whatever we want to do!”

The Metal Voice‘s ‘Rhoads Mini-Documentary‘ video:

Sleaze Roxx: 2021 was more or less 2020 lite. We’ve had a number of losses in the world of rock and metal. What’s a loss in 2021 that has impacted you the most and why?

Jimmy Kay: 2020 that affected me more than 2021. The start of Covid 19 took the life of former Riot guitarist and good friend Lou Kouvaris. Lou was fired from Riot, 40 something years ago, and was trying to make a comeback ever since and just when he started making an impact again in a big way, out of nowhere he dies of Covid 19. Still tears me up to this day. For 2021, I would say Eddie Van Halen, one of the greatest guitarists of my generation.

Sleaze Roxx: In 2021, there were many acts that recorded albums. Some got a chance to tour or play some shows. What were some shows that really stand out for you in 2021?

Jimmy Kay: Living in Canada, I did not see any live shows in 2021 other than live virtual stream shows. For me, the two that stuck out were Voivod and Anvil — terrific virtual shows. Also, the Metal Hall of Fame virtual gala was a highlight for, ’cause I am part of the committee and I had the opportunity to induct one of the greatest bands of all time in Canada — Triumph. The show should be on Amazon Prime soon for everyone to watch again, heads up.

Sleaze Roxx: As I mentioned the floodgates opened in 2021 with just about everyone releasing albums. What are your top five albums of the year and why?

Jimmy Kay: Number one — Iron Maiden’s ‘Senjutsu.’ The greatest metal band of all time with one of their best post 2000 album. I love their songwriting, I love the epic tracks. I love the themes and vocal melodies. The guitar solos are also quite moving and thought out this time around. Number two — Flotsam and Jetsam’s ‘Blood In The Water.’ The most underrated thrash band and the best kept secret that everyone needs to know about. Number three — Todd La Torre’s ‘Rejoice In The Suffering.’ Todd is expanding his musical styles and vocal abilities. A harsher/melodic Queensrÿche vibe wise. Number four — KK’s Priest’s ‘Sermons of The Sinner.’ It’s a grower. Great production, melodic and a fun album. I love Ripper’s vocals. [It’s] the album Priest should have made. Number five — Exodus’ ‘Persona Non Grata.’ The band is at their creative peak with a wall of thrash sound. It has it all — anger, sneering vocals, riffs, good hooks. Might be one of their best.

Sleaze Roxx: What do you think is more likely to happen an L.A. Guns reunion with the classic line-up? A Ratt reunion with ⅗ of the classic line-up? A reunion with K.K. Downing and [Judas] Priest? A Dokken reunion album with Don [Dokken], George [Lynch], Jeff [Pilson] and ‘Wild’ Mick [Brown]?

Jimmy Kay: Dokken — not gonna happen in any big way. I don’t see K.K. and Priest, maybe just maybe a one off but I doubt it. L.A. Guns does not seem likely and does anyone really care? I would pick Ratt. Stephen [Pearcy] is a smart guy and [Bobby] Blotzer might be desperate according to the news feeds. Monies on Ratt…

Sleaze Roxx: What’s the worst trend of 2021 according to Jimmy Kay?

Jimmy Kay: Too many podcasts. Every day, I turn on the computer, jump on the net and a new podcast is being announced. Over saturation at this point and Covid boredom, I guess. All the power to every single person who wants to do it. Good luck! After doing this for 11 years, I have seen podcasts come and go, and the few have remained. It’s all cool and fun at first but it is 24-7 non-stop and basically no money. To most, the fun factor wears off as soon as people realize it takes tons of work to get hits and momentum, to keep it going and the results are not always instant.

Sleaze Roxx: Who is someone that you’d like on the podcast, but haven’t had on yet?

Jimmy Kay: Fish from Marillion — I keep asking him and he keeps ignoring me. Maybe he doesn’t like the world ‘metal’ in Metal Voice. Other than that, I think Tony Iommi would be fantastic. It would be a good chat. I like good chats. I don’t like restrictions. People say they want to interview popular singers like Axl Rose as an example, but [what] they don’t realize is people like Axl, there’s question restrictions. So, what’s the point? Mind you, I would still do it and sneak one in.

Sleaze Roxx: What are you looking forward to in 2022?

Jimmy Kay: Seeing Iron Maiden in Ottawa, Judas Priest and my buddy Todd La Torre in Queensrÿche opening. Also, Chris Holmes who will be on tour in Canada in May 2022. Looking forward to hanging out with him and his wife, and watching his performances.

Sleaze Roxx: Can you share what you have in store for the podcast in 2022?

Jimmy Kay: Funny you say that. Right now… Some amazing new guests that have not been on before. But I say nothing until the interview is in the bag. That’s how I roll. FYI, I am booking artists for January and February right now, off the charts!!!!

Follow The Metal Voice on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and/or its own website.

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CHRIS AKIN of THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW

Who doesn’t know The Classic Metal Show? We got Chris Akin on board which is half of the team that also includes Wendell Neeley. The duo is unafraid to share their true feelings on social issues, relationships and everything and anything rock ‘n’ roll and metal. Akin is hysterical, quite the character and a throwback to the ‘outlaw’ era of shock jocks. Check out The Classic Metal Show if you don’t already.

Sleaze Roxx: Who or what inspired you into getting into podcasting? Who are some of your favorite interviewers?

Chris Akin: The interesting thing is that we’ve been around as long as anyone doing it. We were podcasting in 2005, I think. It was so long ago that I used to have to manually code the RSS feed, upload it, and then send a “ping” to iTunes so they would know to update our feed. When we started, the rock/metal genre only had us, Talking Metal and a very small selection of other shows that were out there. I was more interested in internet radio, actually. I was doing commercial radio on WMMS in Cleveland, and I started doing the occasional appearance with Neeley on The Classic Metal Show, then hosted at WSTB in Streetsboro, Ohio [USA]. We knew immediately that we had chemistry doing it, and I liked it. When Neeley moved to Chicago from Ohio, he took the show to the internet on the old Live365. We struggled and figured out how to do a show together in those early days using whatever software I could find. My day job is as a tech, so I have always been good with that part. We made it work.

What I liked was that I could swear and be as filthy as I wanted to be on the internet, which was a far cry from the commercial radio thing I was also doing at the time. At some point, I got into a feud with the Talking Metal guys while doing The Classic Metal Show, and I said things so heinous in the commercial station’s eyes that they fired me. While that would be a blow to some, to me, it just opened the door to really concentrate on doing the CMS more full-time and focused. As a note, the Talking Metal guys and I are all good now. We worked it all out about 10 years ago. Anyway, once I wasn’t doing commercial radio anymore, it was onto internet radio stations, but I hated not being able to share the bits we were doing except on replays with those stations, so I figured out podcasting. Now, here we are!

Sleaze Roxx: Neeley and you have been working together for so long, you’re on the same wavelength. What makes it such a great partnership?

Chris Akin: I think you hit the nail on the head — time. We’ve done it so long that we know when one is going to rant, when they are going to stop, what pushes the right buttons, and what doesn’t. Further, we both are in situations where our real jobs can’t really be canceled. I own several businesses myself, and Neeley’s gig is insulated better than an igloo in Alaska in January. This allows us to say whatever we want, whenever we want to say it without fear of repercussions. That helps to grow a show that breaks all the “rules” of the modern day as far as speech, attitudes, etc.

Sleaze Roxx: You’ve had so many great guests on ‘The Classic Metal Show.’ What’s been one of your personal highlights and what’s been one of the most challenging interviews and why?

Chris Akin: As a rock kid, I’ve done so many great ones — Megadeth, Metallica, Ratt, Dokken, Rolling Stones, Slayer, Killswitch Engage, the Pantera boys, etc. Really, my “bucket list” is damn near empty. My personal highlights have very little to do with moments in interviews. For me, I just love that I’ve become friends with so many from doing this for so long. A great highlight for me was Philip Anselmo thanking me for the chapter in my book ‘Call Me Chris’ about Pantera. Becoming friends with guys like Dimebag or David Ellefson have been big moments for me. I was that idiot kid in the mosh pit screaming lyrics to “Peace Sells” on the ‘Rust In Peace‘ tour, and now every once in a while, I get a text that says “David Ellefson,” and I’m every bit the excited kid I was 30 years ago. It’s just cool to be considered a part of the industry that I wanted to be in for as long as I can remember.

Most challenging — hmmm, every interview is not great, but I don’t really have many that I look back and think, “Man, why couldn’t I connect with that guy?” I can talk like no other, and I make sure I know what they are promoting when they call, so generally things work easily. I guess if I had to stretch and reach for one, I’d point to one I did five years or so ago with Chris Bowes of Alestorm. What happened was that it was a total scheduling mixup with the publicist who crossed two interviews I had scheduled. So I go into the start of the interview and announce Joey Z from Life of Agony, and it’s really the guy from Alestorm. You can hear that neither of us knew what the hell was going on, but I had to adjust in a rapid hurry to do a decent interview with Alestorm that I was totally not prepared for…

The Classic Metal Show‘s ‘The Strangest Alestorm Interview Ever‘:

Sleaze Roxx: Your interviews have been picked up by all the usual suspects in rock media and major newsfeeds. What’s been an interview that was picked up, that had you wondering why a more ‘news worth’ item in the interview wasn’t mentioned?

Chris Akin: There’s a lot of those. It happens all the time, really. I’m not the best at marketing my stuff to various sites. I’ve had several where the interviewee shit talked someone in their band or a competing band and it didn’t get picked up, and probably ten times as many where I think something is a home run and it gets no traction at all. I’m always humbled when the news sites pick up anything I do because I actually work pretty hard on my interviews to make sure I don’t ask terrible “what’s it like” questions and avoid repetitive questions that will be asked 700 times in an interview cycle. I do try to be honest and tell people when I don’t like something, or I’ve shit talked them on the CMS.

The first time I interviewed Dio, he read me back a review I wrote of ‘Angry Machines’ just trashing him, but instead of hanging up on me, he said, “Chris, I don’t think you understood what I was going for” and then we spent 45 minutes just chatting. It was great, and more to the point, it was a great lesson. The artists don’t want to be ass kissed all the time. A tough question to the artists will make the artist look that much more appealing if they answer it well. In the end, I’m not the star of the interview… just the facilitator. They are the star, the draw, the clickbait… the money. Too many guys go for the quick, negative quote. I love stuff that can be positive. I interviewed Steve Vai last week, and he said some great things about Eddie Van Halen’s passing and how he perceived being thought of as Eddie’s “replacement” back in 1986. Was it hard to ask a legend like Steve Vai about being a replacement player? You betcha! But his answer was fantastic, to the level that just about every publication that would care at all about Steve Vai ran it. That’s cool with me seeing my dumb face in a video interview chatting with a legend like that and having 10,000 people or more check it out. Again, I’m still that 15-year-old kid. I still love it!

Sleaze Roxx: 2021 was more or less 2020 lite. We’ve had a number of losses in the world of rock and metal. What’s a loss in 2021 that has impacted you the most and why?

Chris Akin: I can’t say one is better or worse than the other, but we’ve lost some big ones that I had great memories with. Joey Jordison was a big one for me, as early on in my commercial radio career, the Slipknot guys were through Cleveland constantly and we always did in person interviews, remotes, contests, etc. with them. I always got on well with Corey [Taylor] and Joey, so hearing he passed, while not surprising, was saddening. Johnny Solinger — I don’t care what people say, those Skid Row records he did were solid, and ‘Thick Skin’ would have been a ’90s classic if it didn’t say Skid Row on it. He was always gracious when I ran into him at shows or doing interviews; always acted like a local band guy I just hadn’t seen in awhile. Nice guy, never was given what he deserved because everyone held a bit too tightly to Sebastian Bach’s previous glory. Mike Howe — again, another nicer than nice guy. Always friendly, and always went the extra mile to give me what I needed as an interviewer / journalist. Metal Church will always be a powerhouse band for me in my collection.

Malcolm Dome — simple really. If you do what we do as metal journalists and you don’t feel loss when an amazing journalist like Malcolm passes away, you just don’t get it. Malcolm knew everyone, which was so evident upon his passing when all the very, very biggest names in the business gave him respect publicly. This guy came up in the age where he’d write something then mail it to a friend in the States that had a zine made on the company copy machine when people weren’t looking. At that time when metal was underground, the “devil’s music” and bad, he was a pioneer that grew it. I’m glad I knew him a little, and saddened that I didn’t know him enough.

Sleaze Roxx: In 2021, there were many acts that recorded albums. Some got a chance to tour or play some shows. What were some shows that really standout for you in 2021?

Chris Akin: Not a long list since I only went to one show in 2021. I saw Plush in Cleveland opening for Mammoth WVH. They killed it, as they have been doing at every stop all year. Moriah Formica has the best female voice in rock and metal… not just now, but I’ll go ahead and argue with anyone up for the challenge that there’s not been a better rock voice from a woman in our lifetime. And before you say Ann Wilson, you already lose because as great as she is, she doesn’t and never had the same range. Just check out Moriah’s karaoke version of Steelheart’s “Never Let You Go” on YouTube before sending your hate filled comments about how wrong I am. I defy anyone to watch that and say her talent isn’t amazing. Seeing Plush, four women under 21, there’s definitely hope for rock to make a comeback. All the elements are there.

Sleaze Roxx: As I mentioned the floodgates opened in 2021 with just about everyone releasing albums. What are your top five albums of the year and why?

Chris Akin: Blaze Bayley’s ‘War Within Me’, Thunder’s ‘All The Right Noises’, Plush’s ‘Plush’, Jerry Cantrell’s ‘Brighten’ and Leviathan Project’s ‘Sound of Galaxies.’ Blaze Bayley is just great solo. He just is. This album just smokes from start to finish. As for Thunder, they can announce retirement and come back as many times as they want, because they always come back and deliver a killer mix of ’80s arena rock and darker blues. Try the song “Destruction” if you want proof. Plush, I covered well in the last question, but the album is great. Again, there is hope after seeing them come from out of nowhere and launch. The same could be said for Mammoth WVH and Dirty Honey, who also had tremendous albums this year. Jerry Cantrell made us wait two decades and delivered like he never stopped recording after his last solo venture. Leviathan Project is the best release of the 500 or so Ripper Owens’ albums released this year, and it has some killer stuff in the songwriting department. Tommy Krash and Matt Nardo are very much underappreciated as writers, both with this band and their “other” band Infinity Rain.

Sleaze Roxx: What do you think is more likely to happen? An L.A. Guns reunion with the classic line-up? A Ratt reunion with ⅗ of the classic line-up? A reunion of Donnie Vie and Chip Z’Nuff? Or a new Dokken album with Don [Dokken], George [Lynch], Jeff [Pilson] and ‘Wild’ Mick [Brown]?

Chris Akin: That’s not fair asking me questions about bands whom I know much more of the “band business” than every other journalist! With L.A. Guns, I think you are more likely to see Phil [Lewis] and Tracii [Guns] split again before you’ll see Tracii and Steve [Riley] on the same stage again. Ratt with 3/5th – while that could happen for a gig, Stephen has been adamant that he wants nothing to do with it full-time unless Warren is the guitarist. I would not be surprised to see Blotz show up and jam with them in LA or something like that though. Donnie and Chip — so much talent, but in need of a full-time mediator to work together again. I truly like both guys, and consider Chip a pretty good friend, so I’ll be careful how I put this. I think, but it’s never been said to me by either guy, that they have a lot of other issues that they would need to work through before ever playing a show again. Dokken doing an original album? Again, I’m a bit too close to the players here. I do know this. It would take a fuck load of money to make it happen and considering that ridiculous money thrown at them for those Japan shows, as well as to do a new box set, hasn’t moved the needle with some member or members of the band to seize the opportunity.

Sleaze Roxx: What’s the worst trend of 2021 according to Chris Akin?

Chris Akin: Recording at home. The videos of songs done at home with everyone trading tracks and some videographer mixing it together at the beginning of the pandemic made all these guys think that’s an acceptable way to make music. Stop it. The soul is stripped out of it when you don’t get together, jam, and as a unit find ways to improve things. It fleshes out in the studio. No one — not hardcore fans and certainly not casual ones — want music that lacks attachment to it. That’s literally a step away from having the computer just make music without people involved.

Sleaze Roxx: Who is someone that you’d like on the podcast, but haven’t had on yet?

Chris Akin: James Hetfield. Won’t happen though. He’s definitely a “doesn’t do anything with anyone that doesn’t do 50 zillion hits a month” on their site, so he’ll be relegated to a bunch of places like the LA Times that don’t know Metallica past the surface level, or maybe one or two of the biggest podcast players like Dean Delray, Eddie Trunk or Chris Jericho.

Sleaze Roxx: What are you looking forward to in 2022?

Chris Akin: Definitely looking forward to a new album from Testament. Metallica is making noise that there might be something in 2022. I’d be up for that, as ‘Hardwired[…To Self-Destruct]‘ was pretty strong. There’s a bunch of other stuff I will definitely check out when it comes — Dokken, Stephen Pearcy, Ron Keel Band, Jamey Jasta, Cage and the long overdue Meshuggah album. More than anything though, I’m looking forward to getting out to see a few shows. Not sure who, but I’ll definitely be seeing more than one show next year.

Sleaze Roxx: Can you share what you have in store for the podcast in 2022?

Chris Akin: Man, I have so much going on. The Classic Metal Show will be continuing to ruffle feathers and abusing those with weak spirits weekly from 9:00 pm to 3:00 am EST. www.theclassicmetalshow.com. Aftershocks TV is the show I do with Matt Hartnett that focuses more on stoner rock / metal stuff, as well as some cool industry talk. www.aftershockstv.com. I just recently signed on to be the co-host of Talk Toomey with Joshua Toomey. This will be cool to chat about the more modern metal stuff, and it’s provided by Knotfest.com, so the bands we are talking about are bound to be cool. www.talktoomeypod.com. ‘Chris Akin Presents…’ is my latest thing, which will be my interviews that don’t go on The Classic Metal Show. This will be interviews running the gamut from hair metal to death metal, and everything in between… maybe even some actors or mobsters or craziness like that. Heavy Metal Television. I relaunched that in 2021, and it’s pretty killer. All your favorite hard rock and metal from the past / present / future streaming 24/7/365. We also have shows that air each weekday at 8:00 pm (wherever you are), so you get great metal content there as well. www.heavymetaltelevision.net. I’m also working on a book solo, as well as two books with guys you’ve heard of but aren’t letting me say yet.

Last but not least, I plan on having a few more of my interviews featured on Sleaze Roxx! Eons ago under the old management, we did the weekly “Sleaze Roxx Song of the Week” on The Classic Metal Show, so our love for the site runs deep. Plus, it’s the only place I can come to find out what the old Badlands’ guys are doing these days, which is more than cool enough for me!

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WENDELL NEELEY of THE CLASSIC METAL SHOW

With 25 plus years of broadcasting experience, Wendell Neeley is the other half of ‘The Classic Metal Show.’ The duo aren’t afraid to tackle controversial topics in and out of the realm of music. We’ve caught up with Chris Akin, now it’s time to hear what Neeley has to say.

Sleaze Roxx: Who or what inspired you into getting into podcasting? Who are some of your favorite interviewers? You’ve been at it for a bit. You’ve entered your 27th year in 2022.

Wendell Neeley: The Classic Metal Show technically is not a “podcast”. It started as a live radio broadcast on a small FM radio station in the Akron, Ohio area in January of 1996. When I met my future radio partner Chris Akin in 1998, he was just getting into the IT business, working with the internet, building websites, etc. I had a very basic website for The Classic Metal Show at the time which was built and maintained by a friend of mine. Chris offered to take the site over and make a more professional presentation. The internet and websites were still in their infancy, so this was all pretty new technology. Around the year 2000 before there was even the term “podcast” Chris made the suggestion to record the live show which he would upload to The Classic Metal Show website and offer it as an audio download through an RSS feed.

Due to a career change, I moved to Chicago in 2003 and attempted to market The Classic Metal Show to terrestrial radio stations in the area. Since most radio stations were corporate owned there wasn’t any interest in hosting a show like The Classic Metal Show. The internet had made huge advances in technology, so Chris and I collaborated on the technical aspect of broadcasting The Classic Metal Show live on the internet. Through a lot of trial and error we were able to perfect a way to broadcast The Classic Metal Show live with the two hosts living in two different locations.

The Classic Metal Show is a live six hour show. Rather than offering the show as a large six hour download, we decided to use the popular concept of podcasting and break the show up into five one hour segments and offer it as a daily download through the week. If you missed the live six hour show on Saturday, you could catch all the segments throughout the week via the CMS Podcast.

I had an interest in broadcasting early on in life. A few of my favorite interviewers I enjoyed listening to were like Charlie Kendall of Metal Shop and Bob Coburn of Rock Line and more recently Ron Bennington. In the early ’90s, when I became aware of Howard Stern, that really fueled my interest in pursuing broadcasting and motivated me to attend broadcasting school and launch The Classic Metal Show.

Sleaze Roxx: You’ve had so many great guests on ‘The Classic Metal Show.’ What’s been one of your personal highlights and what’s been one of the most challenging interviews and why?

Wendell Neeley: I was a major fan of the band Dokken in the ’80s. Just months before I was set to begin broadcasting school, Dokken were on a reunion tour after being broken up for six years. I attended a Dokken show in Toledo, Ohio where I had the opportunity to meet and speak with Don Dokken. I told him how I was going to broadcasting school with the goal of starting my own radio show that featured bands like Dokken as well as other bands of that genre. He took a personal interest in what I had to say, gave me his contact information and told me to keep him informed on how that was going. Now 27 years later, Don and I continue to be good friends which is a personal highlight for me. To this day, I try to play at least one Dokken song every week during the live broadcast of The Classic Metal Show.

One of the most challenging interviews I’ve had was with W.A.S.P.’s Blackie Lawless. Blackie is very intelligent and can be a bit intimidating. During the tour in support of W.A.S.P.’s ‘Best of The Best’ release, I was given the opportunity to interview Blackie one on one in a locked room at the Odeon in Cleveland. I knew I had to bring my A game in order to gain Blackie’s respect. Since Blackie is well versed in politics, sports, and social issues, my strategy was to talk about everything except W.A.S.P., music, and the current tour.. Blackie and I had a very spirited discussion for over an hour in which he commented at the conclusion that it was one of the best interviews he had done.

Sleaze Roxx: Your interviews have been picked up by all the usual suspects in rock media and major news feeds. What’s been an interview that was picked up, that had you wondering why a more ‘newsworthy’ item in the interview wasn’t mentioned?

Wendell Neeley: I’ve conducted so many interviews over the last 27 years that one interview in particular doesn’t come to mind, When the media picks up and interview to feature, they’re not necessary looking for the most newsworthy part of the interview. They’re looking for the one statement in the interview that might make for an interesting headline to get the reader’s attention. It’s a part of the business and I completely understand, I’m just glad anyone is paying attention when The Classic Metal Show makes a contribution.

Sleaze Roxx: 2021 was more or less 2020 lite. We’ve had a number of losses in the world of rock and metal. What’s a loss in 2021 that has impacted you the most and why?

Wendell Neeley: Vocalist Mike Howe of Metal Church was a great loss. As a major fan of Metal Church, I was stoked when Mike rejoined the band after a 17 year hiatus. The albums Metal Church released with Mike after he rejoined fit comfortably in the Metal Church catalog. I had the good fortune of getting to know Mike over those years as well as attending numerous Metal Church shows. Mike was always very friendly, easy going, not to mention a fantastic vocalist and frontman. He’ll certainly be missed!

Sleaze Roxx: In 2021, there were many acts that recorded albums. Some got a chance to tour or play some shows. What were some shows that really standout for you in 2021?

Wendell Neeley: Due to all of the Covid restrictions in place, I didn’t attend too many live shows. I did however attend two events that took place at the legendary Whisky [A Go-go] in West Hollywood, California [USA]. In February, I attended the closed set for Stephen Pearcy’s band recording a live stream concert, which was a pay per view type of event. Bobby Blotzer joined Stephen’s band for a couple of classic Ratt songs to close out the show. Stephen also included the show in the Stephen Pearcy documentary that came out later in the year. I attended two Dokken shows at the Whisky in December, which also featured George Lynch joining Don on stage for three or four classic Dokken songs. The opportunity to hang out with my friends in Dokken and Ratt at one of the most iconic venues in the world is always a memorable time.

Sleaze Roxx: As I mentioned, the floodgates opened in 2021 with just about everyone releasing albums. What are your top 5 albums of the year and why?

Wendell Neeley: This isn’t “classic metal” but by far my favorite release of 2021 was the release of all eight shows that the band Chicago performed at Carnegie Hall in 1971. Previously an abridged edition of Chicago ‘Live at Carnegie Hall’ was released as a four album box set with various songs chosen from the weeks worth of recordings. The new ‘Chicago Live at Carnegie Hall Box Set’ included all eight shows in their entirety on 16 CD’s.

KK’s Priest[‘s ‘Sermons of The Sinner‘] — Always good to hear something new with Classic Metal Show friend Tim Owens as well as a welcome return of a metal icon like K.K. Downing. Iron Maiden’s ‘Senjutsu‘ — What can I say? It’s the legendary Iron Maiden. Thunder’s ‘All The Right Noises’ — Always have been a fan of Thunder’s blues based style. Dirty Honey’s self-titled album — Great classic [Led] Zeppelin style rock.

Sleaze Roxx: What do you think is more likely to happen? An L.A. Guns reunion with the classic line-up? A Ratt reunion with ⅗ of the classic line-up? A classic Dokken reunion or a reunion of Donnie Vie and Chip Z’Nuff?

Wendell Neeley: Having a personal friendship with all of the aforementioned bands, I can give you my thoughts on each. L.A. Guns — As far as I know, Tracii Guns and Phil Lewis have a good relationship and continue to play under the L.A. Guns banner. Due to the bad blood between Tracii and drummer Steve Riley, I don’t think you will see a full reunion of the classic line-up as the disdain Tracii has for Steve is pretty strong.

Ratt — I believe a reunion with the surviving members of Ratt is plausible. Bobby Blotzer has patched things up with Stephen Pearcy, and Stephen has been lobbying for a reunion and perhaps even recording one last record together. I think the one who would need some convincing is Warren DeMartini. You never know..

Dokken — Being close to the Dokken camp, I can tell you everyone from the classic line-up is on good terms. Don and George have been sharing the stage over the last two years and Jeff Pilson is willing to play with them when time permits. Unfortunately, I don’t think you will see a full reunion due to Mick Brown being retired and out of the music business altogether.

Chip Z’Nuff and Donnie Vie — Chip has said on many occasions that he would love to be able to patch things up and work with Donnie again. Donnie however has a strong dislike for Chip and the bad blood between them runs pretty deep. I don’t see them working together again anytime soon.

Sleaze Roxx: What’s the worst trend of 2021 according to Wendell Neeley?

Wendell Neeley: Censorship by the Big Tech companies. Big tech are in control of what information can be shared or disseminated through the use of social media platforms. Regardless of the validity of the information, if it doesn’t fit the narrative the information overlords are pushing, it’s liable to get censored or deleted altogether. This is a dangerous trend and it’s time for the people to rise up and push back against tyranny.

Sleaze Roxx: Who is someone that you’d like on the podcast, but haven’t had on yet?

Wendell Neeley: There are a few untouchable people in the business that don’t often give interviews or only speak with major media outlets when they do. I’d like to have an opportunity to interview Slash or Axl [Rose] of Guns and Roses, Gene Simmons of KISS, Jimmy Page, or even Ozzy providing he is coherent enough to do an interview.

Sleaze Roxx: What are you looking forward to in 2022?

Wendell Neeley: To be honest with you, since this “plan-demic” has had the entire world turned upside down for the last two years, sometimes it’s difficult to see beyond tomorrow. I always look forward to attending NAMM in Anaheim, California every year, It’s a great time to meet up with friends and reconnect with colleagues in the music world. It was canceled in 2021 and rescheduled from its usual January date in 2022 and moved to June of this year. I may attend only if there are no mandates or draconian restrictions being enforced to attend.

Sleaze Roxx: Can you share what you have in store for the podcast in 2022?

Wendell Neeley: The one thing about The Classic Metal Show broadcast is that nothing is pre-planned. Chris [Akin] and I have been doing the show together for so long and know each other so well that when the mics come on during the Saturday night broadcast, neither one of us knows what’s going to happen! As far as features or planned events, you’ll just have to tune in and find out for yourself!

The Classic Metal Show will be continuing to ruffle feathers and abusing those with weak spirits weekly from 9:00 pm to 3:00 am EST. www.theclassicmetalshow.com

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JASON GREEN of the WASTE SOME TIME WITH JASON GREEN PODCAST

I remember a few years ago, Jason Green appeared on The Classic Metal Show right after Bobby Blotzer’s Ratt imploded. I remember Green calling in and the next thing you know, he’s taken over the show with a one hour monologue on his time working with Bobby Blotzer’s Ratt Experience and then ‘fake’ Ratt. He’s gone on to start his very own podcast ‘Waste Some Time with Jason Green,’ which I’m a fan of.

Sleaze Roxx: Who or what inspired you into getting into podcasting? Who are some of your favorite interviewers?

Jason Green: I began studying broadcast journalism when I was still in high school, and then I spent some time working on the Geraldo Rivera show in New York City. I interviewed Geraldo for a school paper and I think he really inspired me. I always had the dream of hosting a talk show and my favorite interviewers were Howard Stern and David Letterman.

Sleaze Roxx: You’ve had so many great guests on ‘Waste Some Time with Jason Green.’ What’s been one of your personal highlights and what’s been one of the most challenging interviews and why?

Jason Green: My channel has well over 100 interviews now in just under a year, so it’s really hard to pick one. It’s an honor every time I get to talk to someone. I grew up watching as a fan. One highlight was to have the only modern interview with Carlos Cavazo, which has now reached over 76,000 views and really got my channel monetized. It’s always a challenge when I talk to someone I’m not that familiar with because the audience will call me out if I make one mistake.

Waste Some Time with Jason Green podcast’s interview with Carlos Cavazo:

Sleaze Roxx: Your interviews have been picked up by all the usual suspects in rock media and major news feeds. What’s been an interview that was picked up, that had you wondering why a more ‘newsworthy’ item in the interview wasn’t mentioned?

Jason Green: First off, I’m flattered when any media picks up something from one of my interviews and supports the channel. That said, I usually know when someone says something that will make a “headline,” but I would say the oddest one was when Blabbermouth ran “Foreigner/Ex-Dokken Bassist Jeff Pilson On Benefits Of Yoga.”

Sleaze Roxx: 2021 was more or less 2020 lite. We’ve had a number of losses in the world of rock and metal. What’s a loss in 2021 that has impacted you the most and why?

Jason Green: There were so many unfortunate losses, but I would probably have to say Sylvain Sylvain of the New York Dolls. I had worked with him on a few things and was in touch with him about making some hats for me [that was something he did] and playing with my band in Las Vegas right before he got sick. He was a really fun character and truly original.

Sleaze Roxx: In 2021, there were many acts that recorded albums. Some got a chance to tour or play some shows. What were some shows that really stand out for you in 2021?

Jason Green: The only show I saw in 2021 was The Rolling Stones, and I couldn’t imagine anything better. I always think they have to be done and they continue to be amazing.

Sleaze Roxx: As I mentioned, the floodgates opened in 2021 with just about everyone releasing albums. What are your top five albums of the year and why?

Jason Green: So I almost never listen to music anymore, especially anything new, but I did listen to a few things from guests on my show and so I’d say Resist & Bite featuring Tommy Skeoch’s ‘Resist And Bite’, Sami Yaffa-‘s ‘The Innermost Journey To The Outermost Mind’, Mark Knight & The Unsung Heroes’ ‘‘Days of A Dreamer’, and Steve Whiteman’s ‘You’re Welcome.’

Sleaze Roxx: What do you think is more likely to happen? An L.A. Guns reunion with the classic line-up? A Ratt reunion with ⅗ of the classic line-up or a reunion of Donnie Vie and Chip Z’Nuff?

Jason Green: This is a really difficult question. I don’t see L.A. Guns ever getting back together, and there’s really not enough money in it anyway. I also don’t see a really strong chance of three Ratt members getting along at the same time. This leads me to think Enuff Z’Nuff might be the best option if Chip can give up control. The line-up should be Donnie Vie, Chip Z’Nuff, Johnny Monaco, and Vic Fox. I don’t see any of these happening anytime soon…

Sleaze Roxx: What’s the worst trend of 2021 according to Jason Green?

Jason Green: Starting a podcast!

Sleaze Roxx: Who is someone that you’d like on the podcast, but haven’t had on yet?

Jason Green: Chevy Chase, lzzy Stradlin.

Sleaze Roxx: What are you looking forward to in 2022?

Jason Green: Staying alive, continuing to entertain people through the show, my band Sin City Rejects’ record ‘Death of A Nation’ receiving a formal release with vinyl too.

Sleaze Roxx: Can you share what you have in store for the podcast in 2022?

Jason Green: I’m about to announce a partnership with Golden Robot Records, and this will allow me to do much more with the show. There’s going to be many more interactive live shows and promos. Plus, to commemorate me reaching 10,000 subscribers, someone is even going to get a chance to get a single released through their label, and if it does well, a second single, and if that does well, a record deal. More details coming soon on that. The channel is just getting started!

Thanks so much for the questions, and I really want to thank everyone who has subscribed to ‘Waste Some Time with Jason Green.’ The response from people is so overwhelmingly positive, and it blows my mind and makes me want to continue.

Catch Waste Some Time With Jason Green via YouTube.

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IZZY PRESLEY of the METAL EDGE MAGAZINE’S ANOTHER F’N PODCAST

Izzy Presley has many irons in many fires — music, comedy, and podcasting. He launched his ‘Another F’N Podcast’ years ago and has joined forces recently with Metal Edge [Magazine] and the result is the best thing since peanut butter and jelly. The podcast has been rebranded as ‘Metal Edge Magazine’s Another F’N Podcast’. That’s a mouthful. That’s what she said… Anyway, here’s Izzy Presley!

Sleaze Roxx: Who or what inspired you into getting into podcasting? Who are some of your favorite interviewers?

Izzy Presley: I’ve been a fan of Adam Corolla since he started podcasting. I was working at a radio station in Saint Cloud, Minnesota [USA] called Rockin’ 101 and I loved doing interviews. I was also doing some print interviews too for RX Magazine, I was the sports and music director. I listened to a lot of Corolla and when I decided to move out here in 2015, I figured I’d just start a podcast! Ironically naming it ‘Another F’N Podcast’, because everyone had a podcast! It was Corolla. As far as interviewers go podcast wise, Corolla is king, Joe Rogan is great, I love the wrestling ones like Conrad who does the Eric Bischoff podcast and all of those podcasts. He’s really, really good. Eddie Trunk! Come on! Eddie is king as well. Those are the big ones for me.

Sleaze Roxx: You’ve had so many great guests on ‘Another F’N Podcast’ over the years. You’ve merged with Metal Edge, what led to that?

Izzy Presley: What led to that was the pandemic! I was doing these ‘drunken summits,’ which I was doing before the pandemic, but now everybody was home. We started doing them more often and Paul Gargano was on many of them. He just started co-hosting with me!

Sleaze Roxx: What interview has been one of your personal highlights and what’s been one of the most challenging interviews and why?

Izzy Presley: One of my personal favorites was a ‘tranny’ porn star named Morgan Bailey. We got into her story and how she transitioned and how she got into porn. Very, very interesting and fun stuff. That’s one of my favorite interviews that I have ever done. Another highlight was when I had Big John from Rock of Love. He’s a good friend from the Monsters of Rock Cruise. That one was really cool. All the porns stars that I have on have been great! Which was the most difficult? That’s hard. I don’t know and that’s an honest answer. Pretty much everyone that I’ve had has been great. Some have been better than others, but ‘difficult?’ Not really.

Sleaze Roxx: Some of your interviews have been picked up by the usual suspects in rock media and major newsfeeds. What’s been an interview that was picked up, that had you wondering why a more ‘news worth’ item in the interview wasn’t mentioned?

Izzy Presley: We’ll take the pub! We’ll take any press we can get!

Sleaze Roxx: 2021 was more or less 2020 lite. We’ve had a number of losses in the world of rock and metal. What’s a loss in 2021 that has impacted you the most and why?

Izzy Presley: Jeff Labar. That’s been the toughest musical loss that I have had. I had a personal relationship with Jeff. Jeff was a friend and that one really hurt. I think about him often and he was such a character. Ironically yesterday I received a Jeff Labar memorial pick that Dominique had made up for his ceremony and she was nice enough to send me one.

Sleaze Roxx: In 2021, there were many acts that recorded albums. Some got a chance to tour or play some shows. What were some shows that really stand out for you in 2021?

Izzy Presley: I didn’t get to go to many shows because of the pandemic, but for me the big one I’d have to say was Monsters On The Mountain, and getting back and seeing everybody from the Monsters of Rock Cruise family. Getting to see the bands and getting back in touch with everyone. It was great getting back in a room with people, seeing people in passing and giving somebody a hug that you haven’t seen in over a year! So, Monsters on the Mountain for me. I can’t wait to do that again.

Sleaze Roxx: As I mentioned, the floodgates opened in 2021 with just about everyone releasing albums. What are your top five albums of the year and why?

Izzy Presley: Wow! Now you’re really making me think! My top five? These are in no particular order… Faster Pussycat’s “NOLA” single, Smith/Kotzen’s ’Smith/Kotzen’, L.A. Guns’ ’Checkered Past’, Pretty Reckless’ ’Death By Rock And Roll’, and Mike Dawson and The Smokin’ Kills’ ’Last Honky Tonk Hero’.

Sleaze Roxx: What do you think is more likely to happen? An L.A. Guns reunion with the classic line-up? A Ratt reunion with ⅗ of the classic line-up or a reunion of the classic KISS?

Izzy Presley: I think your best bet is Ratt, but I don’t think that’s going to happen… but hey, crazier things have happened! I see that more likely to happen than with L.A. Guns with the classic line-up or Ace [Frehley] and Peter [Criss] coming back to KISS. I could see Ace, but Peter can’t do a full show.

Sleaze Roxx: What’s the worst trend of 2021 according to Izzy Presley?

Izzy Presley: The new normal!

Sleaze Roxx: Who is someone that you’d like on the podcast, that you haven’t had on yet?

Izzy Presley: Oh My God! The list is long, but Tom Keifer is on the list. Gene Simmons would be great. Peter Criss would be amazing. Lzzy Hale, Taylor Momsen would be so good. David Coverdale, Chris Jericho and ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin and there are more but that’s just some of the bigger names I’d love to come on the podcast.

Sleaze Roxx: What are you looking forward to in 2022?

Izzy Presley: I’m really looking forward to February because I can’t wait to get back on that boat! The Monsters of Rock Cruise is definitely the thing that I’m looking forward to the most in 2022. Ace Frehley shows, writing some more songs with Smokin’ Kills.

Sleaze Roxx: Can you share what you have in store for the podcast in 2022?

Izzy Presley: There’s going to be changes happening. There won’t be as many live shows. It’s going to change along with the relaunch of Metal Edge Magazine, so that’s what’s in store in ‘22. Also with that, there will be the return of The Izzy Presley Show and I will have people that I wouldn’t talk to with Metal Edge. Thank you for covering my stuff on the site over the years. Cheers everybody!

Follow Izzy Presley via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and/or his own website.

Another F’N Podcast‘s interview with transgender adult film star Morgan Bailey: