Rants, Raves & Rock ’n Roll

Getting to Know Joey Stuckey, Part 1: Music, Macon & Finding Your Artistic Identity

In Part One of this special Big Blend Radio “Music Success Insider” series, we celebrate the launch of BigBlendMediaHouse.com and its Front Porch News newsletter by putting acclaimed musician, producer, and educator Joey Stuckey in the spotlight.
Known as Macon, Georgia’s official Music Ambassador, Joey shares his inspiring journey through the music industry as a blind artist, producer, podcaster, and entrepreneur. The conversation explores the importance of artistic authenticity, community, eclectic musical influences, and finding your audience in an ever-changing media landscape.
Joey also discusses Macon’s legendary music history, the evolution of music discovery through the internet, and why honesty, courage, curiosity, and dedication are essential for long-term creative success.
Joey Stuckey is cohost of Big Blend Radio's "Music Talks" Podcast every 4th Sunday. Learn more about Joey Stuckey: https://www.joeystuckey.com/ 
Explore Big Blend Media House & Subscribe to Front Porch News: https://bigblendmediahouse.com/ 

Beyond the Stage: Jada’s Priest, Knoxville’s Judas Priest Tribute Band

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Beyond the Stage" episode features the full lineup of Jada’s Priest, a powerhouse tribute band dedicated to the legendary music of Judas Priest.
Recorded onsite at Mars Theatre Brewing Company in Mars Hill NC — a restored 1940s theater transformed into a brewery and live music venue — this episode of the Beyond the Stage series dives into the passion, musicianship, and energy behind one of Tennessee’s premier metal tribute acts.
Hosts Mr. & Mrs. Wild sit down with all members of the band including “Jada” Leslie England (vocals), Bruce England (guitar), Ella Marston (guitar), Pepper TN (bass), and Karman Gossett (drums) to talk about their musical backgrounds, performing iconic Judas Priest songs, and what it takes to recreate the sound and spirit of one of heavy metal’s most influential bands.
Based in Knoxville, Jada’s Priest is committed to honoring the Metal Gods through electrifying live performances that celebrate the raw energy, soaring vocals, and twin-guitar attack that helped define classic heavy metal.
Hosted by Mr. & Mrs. Wild — owners of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast and cohosts of Big Blend Radio’s Adventures in Asheville Podcast — this episode celebrates live music, tribute artistry, and the enduring power of metal culture.
LINKS & RESOURCESJada’s Priest: https://jadaspriest.com/ Jada’s Priest on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/774224932435854/ Jada’s Priest on YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=NJM-NrUZNx0 Mars Theatre Brewing Company: https://www.marstheatrebrewingco.com/ The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast: https://www.lion-rose.com/ 

All That Jazz! Exploring Roots, Styles & Improvisation with Joey Stuckey

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Music Talks" Show, Joey Stuckey celebrates Jazz Appreciation Month by diving into the vibrant world of jazz, exploring its rich cultural roots, diverse styles, and the improvisational spirit that defines this uniquely American art form.
From swing and bebop to fusion, Latin jazz, and beyond, Joey shares insights into how jazz evolved through cultural exchange and musical innovation. He discusses the importance of improvisation, the role of dissonance and expression, and how jazz reflects the blending of traditions that shape American music.
This engaging conversation also highlights jazz as both an intellectual and emotional experience—one that invites listeners to explore sound, structure, and storytelling in new ways. Whether you're new to jazz or a longtime fan, this episode celebrates the genre’s depth, freedom, and enduring influence.
🎧 Spotify Playlist – All That Jazz: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1NSjJwCe9AgtcjR2BhFxz3?si=12a88d18f414460a
🎸 Joey Stuckey is Macon, Georgia’s official Music Ambassador, an award-winning blind guitarist, producer, and owner of Shadow Sound Studio. His passion for music education and storytelling shines through every episode. Learn more: https://www.joeystuckey.com/

Zoso – The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Tribute Experience

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Beyond the Stage" Music Series features members of ZOSO one of the most respected and long-running tribute bands dedicated to the legendary sound of Led Zeppelin.
Recorded backstage at The Orange Peel, in Asheville, North Carolina, hosts Mr. & Mrs. Wild sit down with Jon Conver (temporary lead vocalist), Bevan Davies (drums), and Holston Rainero (guitar) to explore the band’s journey, influences, and live performance experience.
Celebrating over 31 years of touring in 2026, Zoso has performed more than 4,900 shows worldwide, earning a reputation as one of the most authentic and electrifying Led Zeppelin tribute acts. Their performances capture the raw energy, technical precision, and spirit of Zeppelin’s legendary live shows — from iconic hits to deep cuts.
In this conversation, the band shares stories from the road, memorable venues, musical influences, and the gear and techniques behind recreating some of rock’s most challenging songs. They also discuss side projects, future plans, and the realities of life in a touring band.
At the time of this interview, original lead singer Matt Jernigan is recovering from a serious medical event after experiencing a brain bleed on stage. The band shares updates and continues to rally support as he focuses on recovery.
Hosted by Mr. & Mrs. Wild — owners of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast and cohosts of Big Blend Radio’s "Adventures in Asheville" Podcast — this episode highlights the passion, resilience, and musicianship behind one of rock’s most iconic tribute experiences.
LINKS & RESOURCES- Zoso (Tour Dates & Info): https://zosoontour.com/ - Zoso on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zosoontour/ - Zoso on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zosoontour/ - Support Matt Jernigan’s Recovery: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-matt-jernigans-road-to-recovery - The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast: https://www.lion-rose.com/ 

Beyond the Stage: Unleashed – A Judas Priest Tribute Experience

This episode of Big Blend Radio's "Beyond the Stage" music series features members of Unleashed, a powerhouse tribute band dedicated to the legendary sound and spirit of Judas Priest.
Hailing from Charlotte, North Carolina, Unleashed delivers an electrifying live experience that captures the raw power, soaring vocals, and iconic twin-guitar attack that defined Judas Priest’s late ‘70s and early ‘80s era — from Sad Wings of Destiny to Screaming for Vengeance and British Steel.
In this episode of the Beyond the Stage music series, hosts Mr. & Mrs. Wild sit down with band members including Jace Weddington (vocals), Gil Bush and Robbie Norris (guitars), and Owen Teague (bass) — with Joe Costa (drums) holding down the rhythm section, even if he’s missing from the conversation — to explore the band’s journey, musical influences, and the challenges of performing some of heavy metal’s most technically demanding songs. Recording was done on-location at Amos' Southend in Charlotte NC.
They also discuss the passion behind tribute performance, the dynamics of playing as a band, favorite tracks, and what fans can expect from their upcoming shows across the East Coast. With razor-sharp musicianship and a high-energy stage presence, Unleashed keeps the spirit of classic metal alive for a new generation of fans.
Hosted by Mr. & Mrs. Wild — owners of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast and cohosts of Big Blend Radio’s "Adventures in Asheville" Podcast — this episode celebrates the enduring power of live music and tribute artistry.
LINKS & RESOURCES- Unleashed (Tour Dates): https://unleashedjudaspriesttribute.com/ - Unleashed on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnleashedJudasPriestTribute/ - Unleashed on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unleashedtribute - Unleashed on YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/@unleashed5544 - The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast: https://www.lion-rose.com/ 
Unleashed photo by Haily Weddington, courtesy Unleashed.

Beyond the Stage: Stone Whiskey’s Rise with Alan Rueda

This episode of Big Blend Radio features Alan Rueda of the rising rock band Stone Whiskey, in conversation with music lovers and interview hosts Mr. & Mrs. Wild.
As part of the ongoing Beyond the Stage series, this episode dives into the band’s momentum in today’s rock scene — from upcoming tours and new music to their highly anticipated appearance on the Monsters of Rock Cruise.
Alan shares insights into Stone Whiskey’s latest projects, including new songs and album plans, as well as an exclusive EP tied to the cruise experience. He also discusses the excitement of touring — including dates with Enuff Z’Nuff — and what it means to perform for fans in unique environments like a rock cruise in the middle of the ocean.
The conversation also explores the business side of being in a band today, from merchandise and branding strategies to networking within the music industry and building a loyal fanbase through live performances and social media.
Hosted by Mr. & Mrs. Wild — owners of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast and cohosts of Big Blend Radio’s "Adventures in Asheville" Podcast — this episode goes beyond the stage to highlight the drive, creativity, and hustle behind today’s rock artists.
LINKS & RESOURCES- Stone Whiskey Band: https://stonewhiskeyband.com/ - The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast: https://www.lion-rose.com/ 

Women Guitar Legends: Trailblazers Who Shaped Music

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Music Talks" Podcast with Joey Stuckey, we celebrate Women’s History Month by honoring the trailblazing women guitarists who have shaped music across generations.
From foundational pioneers like Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Mary Ford, Elizabeth Cotten, and Mary Ford, to influential artists such as Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez, Dolly Parton, and rock icons like Joan Jett, Nancy Wilson, and Lita Ford, Joey explores their lasting impact.
The conversation also spotlights modern innovators and genre-bending artists including Bonnie Raitt, Susan Tedeschi, Samantha Fish, Sheryl Crow, St. Vincent, Orianthi, and H.E.R..
Together, these artists represent the depth, diversity, and innovation of women in guitar—from blues and folk to rock, Americana, and beyond—while also highlighting the challenges they’ve overcome and the legacy they continue to build.
🎧 Listen to our Women Guitarists Spotify Music Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4B3OAVC0AW60wF3i5SjLsZ?si=8ce204f42cb34fb2 
🎶 Learn more about Joey Stuckey: https://www.joeystuckey.com/ 
Artist images courtesy of Wikipedia and Wikimedia Commons. All images are used under their respective Creative Commons licenses. Photographers include Mandi Hall, Penguinstorm, Justin Higuchi, Skyerise, Stevie Rae Gibbs, Truejustice, Chris Hakkens, Jim Summaria, Zoran Veselinovic, David Gans, and Heinrich Klaffs.

Breaking Democracy’s Chains: Metin Pekin on Reforming Politics Without Parties

Is modern democracy truly serving the people—or has it become controlled by powerful party systems?
In this episode of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Wednesday “Books & Authors” Show with Books Forward, we talk with author and entrepreneur Metin Pekin about his thought-provoking new book, "Breaking Democracy’s Chains: Freeing and Fortifying Democracy Against Hidden Capture."
Drawing from political theory, history, and real-world experience, Pekin explores how political parties have evolved from representative institutions into powerful gatekeepers that can centralize authority, deepen polarization, and limit genuine democratic participation. He discusses the historical roots of party politics, the influence of money and media on elections, and why he believes meaningful reform may require moving beyond traditional party structures.
The conversation examines ideas such as independent candidates, decentralized governance, local accountability, transparency in campaign financing, and empowering citizens through more direct representation. Whether listeners agree or disagree with his conclusions, Pekin’s arguments invite thoughtful discussion about the future of democratic systems around the world.
Learn more: https://www.metinpekin.com/ 
🎧 This episode is part of Big Blend Radio’s 2nd Wednesday “Books & Authors” series with Books Forward, highlighting new and thought-provoking books and the authors behind them. Visit: https://booksforward.com/