Rants, Raves & Rock ’n Roll

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/ 

Inside The Burrito Brothers’ The Magic Time Machine of Love Album

On this episode of Big Blend Radio, we’re joined by Chris P. James, front man of the legendary The Burrito Brothers, to dive into the band’s bold new album, The Magic Time Machine of Love.
Rather than leaning on nostalgia, the Burritos are bending time—fusing recordings spanning 1983–2024 into a genre-blurring journey where jazz motifs inspired by Charles Mingus collide with cosmic country, prog-psych textures, and honky-tonk grit polished for the future.
Chris P. James shares insights into the creative process behind the 12-track release, including:- The album’s “time machine” concept- Innovative recording approaches inspired by The Beatles- Reimagining classics from artists like Procol Harum and Quicksilver Messenger Service- Honoring the legacy of country-rock pioneer Gram Parsons- Blending vintage Burritos spirit with modern sonic innovation
The album also features remarkable moments, including archival contributions from original Flying Burrito members Jon Corneal and Ian Dunlop, a fiery guest turn from former Burrito Brothers guitarist Bob Hatter, and even two tracks featuring Gram Parsons’ vocals brought forward through groundbreaking AI technology.
Formed in Los Angeles in 1968 as the The Flying Burrito Brothers, the Burritos helped pioneer country-rock with landmark albums like The Gilded Palace of Sin. Today’s Nashville-based lineup—Chris P. James, Steve Allen, Tony Paoletta, and Peter Young—continues that legacy while fearlessly pushing forward.
Learn more: https://www.theburritobrothers.net/ 

AI and the Future of Music with Joey Stuckey

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Music Talks with Joey Stuckey," Joey shares key insights from his recent experiences at industry events including the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Show and The Recording Academy’s Grammy Week. The conversation explores how artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming music creation, performance, and accessibility.
Joey discusses the growing role of AI in the music industry, from tools that support musicians with disabilities to emerging concerns around copyright, ownership, safety, and environmental impact. He emphasizes the importance of transparency in AI training data, protecting digital identity, and balancing innovation with ethical responsibility.
This forward-looking episode offers valuable perspective for musicians, creators, and music lovers navigating the evolving intersection of technology and artistry.
🎸 About Joey StuckeyJoey Stuckey is Macon, Georgia’s official Music Ambassador, an award-winning blind guitarist, producer, and owner of Shadow Sound Studio. He is a passionate advocate for accessibility and innovation in music. Learn more: https://www.joeystuckey.com/  

Beyond the Stage: The Elvis Experience with Matt Stone

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Rants, Raves & Rock ’N Roll" Podcast features Matt Stone, a talented Elvis tribute artist and vocalist who has been performing as Elvis Presley since the age of 12.
Now 22, Matt Stone has been internationally recognized by the Elvis Presley Estate, featured on SiriusXM Elvis Radio, and praised by many of Elvis’ closest friends and family. He has performed on some of the very same stages Elvis played in the 1950s — sometimes by chance, including the historic Memorial Auditorium (now the Martin Marietta Center) in Raleigh, North Carolina, where Elvis performed in 1955.
Recorded by Mr. & Mrs. Wild — music interview hosts, concertgoers, and owners of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, as well as cohosts of Big Blend Radio’s "Adventures in Asheville" Podcast — this conversation dives beyond the jumpsuit and into the artistry behind the performance.
Matt shares his journey into becoming an Elvis tribute artist, his musical influences, unforgettable (and sometimes wild) fan interactions, the craftsmanship behind his costumes and vintage equipment, and what it means to perform in historically significant venues. He also reflects on his international performances, favorite Elvis songs and films, and what’s next in his career.
After the interview, Mr. & Mrs. Wild had the opportunity to experience Matt Stone’s authentic and captivating live show — further underscoring the power of live music and creative performance.
LINKS & RESOURCES- Matt Stone: https://www.mattstoneaselvis.com/ - The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast: https://www.lion-rose.com/ - Mr & Mrs Wild on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1KWhk3hzhX/ - Mr & Mrs Wild on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@mrandmrswildmusic  - Adventures in Asheville Podcast: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/ 
This episode is part of Big Blend Radio’s Elvis Month (Memphis) programming and also celebrates International Creativity Month, honoring creative expression through music, performance, and storytelling. It is also featured on the Big Daily Blend and Toast to The Arts Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Beyond the Stage with Mr & Mrs Wild

This episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Rants, Raves & Rock ’N Roll" Podcast features Steve and Karen Wilson — better known as Mr. & Mrs. Wild — lifelong music lovers, dedicated concertgoers, and the newest rock music interview hosts joining the network.
Beyond the stage, they are also the owners of The Lion and The Rose Bed & Breakfast and cohosts of Big Blend Radio’s "Adventures in Asheville" Podcast. In this conversation, the focus is on music and creativity — from the power of live performances and evolving concert culture to the lasting influence of Southern rock, hard rock, and metal.
The discussion explores why tribute bands play a vital role in preserving music history through creative interpretation, how early musical influences shape lifelong expression, and why supporting live music remains essential. 
This episode sets the stage for Mr. & Mrs. Wild’s upcoming musician interviews, including their conversation with Elvis tribute artist Matt Stone, airing January 28.
They recently interviewed Alan Rueda of the Stone Whiskey band, which is available here: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/e/rocking-asheville/ 
This episode is part of Big Blend Radio’s International Creativity Month programming and is also featured on the "Big Daily Blend" and "Toast to The Arts" Podcast Channels, celebrating creative expression through music, performance, and storytelling.
LINKS & RESOURCES- The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast: https://www.lion-rose.com/ - Mr & Mrs Wild on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1KWhk3hzhX/ - Mr & Mrs Wild on YouTube:  https://youtube.com/@mrandmrswildmusic  - Adventures in Asheville Podcast: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/ - Explore the Big Blend Radio Podcast Network:https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork