Rants, Raves & Rock ’n Roll

Rocking Asheville - Stone Whiskey, Music & Mountain Magic

In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Adventures in Asheville" Podcast, hosts Steve and Karen Wilson spotlight Asheville’s creative spirit through a conversation with Alan Rueda, lead singer and founder of the North Carolina–based rock band Stone Whiskey.
Stone Whiskey recently filmed their powerful music video “Nowhere to Go” at The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast and other iconic Asheville locations, using music and storytelling to help bring positive exposure to the city following Hurricane Helene. The video captures Asheville’s mountain magic, artistic energy, and sense of place — turning the city itself into part of the band’s story.
Alan shares insights into the band’s creative process, their commitment to producing visually engaging music videos, and how Asheville’s vibrant music scene continues to inspire artists. The conversation also explores how the music industry has evolved post-COVID, the importance of live performances, and why staying relevant and connected to audiences matters more than ever.
This episode celebrates how music, travel, and community intersect — and how artists like Stone Whiskey are helping amplify Asheville’s voice through creativity and collaboration.
🎬 Watch Stone Whiskey’s music video “Nowhere to Go”:https://youtu.be/DZAXo_ogzsg?si=vF0V1w5MNUpoBPj5 
Featured Links- Stone Whiskey Band: https://stonewhiskeyband.com/ - The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast: https://www.lion-rose.com/ 
LISTEN - New episodes air every 1st Tuesday – Listen: https://adventures-asheville.podbean.com/ - This episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio’s “Toast to The Arts" and "Rants, Raves & Rock 'n Roll" podcast channels! Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Film Director Michael Premo - Homegrown: A Portrait of a Nation Divided

Award-winning filmmaker Michael Premo joins Big Blend Radio to discuss "Homegrown," his critically acclaimed documentary examining the human stories behind the January 6 U.S. Capitol attack. Shot with unprecedented access, the film follows three conservative activists during the volatile months leading up to the insurrection, offering an observational, non-judgmental look at political identity, belief, and belonging in America.
Rather than reducing individuals to headlines or stereotypes, "Homegrown" seeks to humanize those at the center of a deeply divisive moment, exploring how personal motivations, media influence, and mob mentality can converge with profound consequences. The conversation also reflects on the role of documentary filmmaking in turbulent times, the responsibility of bearing witness, and how storytelling can deepen public understanding of complex social movements.
Premiering with newly updated 2025 footage, "Homegrown" anchors its narrative in a moment that continues to shape the national conversation about democracy, violence, and the unresolved tensions defining American life.
Beginning January 6, "Homegrown" will be available to rent via the Direct To Audience℠ (DTA) platform GATHR. Audiences can head now to https://homegrown.film/ to preorder the film and learn more.
Trailer courtesy of Storyline Media.

Music for a Fresh Start: Welcoming 2026 with Joey Stuckey, Johnny Schaefer & Anna Karney

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Music Talks with Joey Stuckey (airing every 4th Sunday), Joey is joined by award-winning California-based singer-songwriters Johnny Schaefer and Anna Karney for a meaningful conversation centered on Music for a Fresh Start as we welcome the New Year 2026.
Together, they explore how music supports healing, gratitude, and emotional release, while fostering community connection and global unity. The discussion delves into the intersection of sacred and secular music, the power of live performance, and how music can even serve as a form of pain management. Through personal stories and shared reflections, this episode highlights authenticity, hope, and the role music plays in helping us move forward with intention and positivity.
🎧 Spotify Playlist – Music for a Fresh Start (featuring songs discussed in this episode):https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1yhrM7NTyIVZuOSPxuQOtM?si=d77818cbba524f5c 
🎶 Learn more about the artists:* Joey Stuckey: https://www.joeystuckey.com/ * Johnny Schaefer: https://hearjohnny.com/ * Anna Karney: https://karney.org/ 
🎙️ This episode is featured on Big Blend Radio’s Toast to The Arts, Rants, Raves & Rock ’n Roll, and Big Daily Blend podcast channels. Explore the network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

One True Song: Anna Karney on The Power of Music and Connection

In this episode of Big Blend Radio, we welcome back Bay Area singer-songwriter, educator, and activist Anna Karney for a heartfelt conversation about music as a force for connection, healing, and social change.
Anna discusses her latest album "One True Song," a powerful collection of soulful folk rock and alternative singer-songwriter music rooted in themes of justice, hope, and collective action. Co-produced by Michael Rosen (Rancid), the album features an impressive lineup of Bay Area musicians including James DePrato (Chuck Prophet Band), Phillip Bennett (Jefferson Starship), Uriah Duffy (Fantastic Negrito, Whitesnake), and more. From the gentle “Suspended” to the driving “Out of Body” and the socially charged “Freedom Summer,” the album blends raw acoustic songwriting with the full energy of a rock band.
The conversation also explores Anna’s work as a choir and guitar teacher in San Francisco, the healing power of music, the importance of community, and how art bridges culture, history, and human connection. We also highlight her new holiday single, “Ring In the Holidays,” a joyful celebration of togetherness through music.
Beyond recording and performing, Anna’s career spans composing music for video games like Star Wars Galaxies and SimCity, scoring ballet and modern dance, and earning the prestigious “Dreamcatcher” Award for her impact on youth through music education.
🎶 Learn more, stream, and explore Anna Karney’s music:https://karney.org/ https://karney.bandcamp.com 
This episode is featured on Big Blend Radio's "A Toast to The Arts," "Rants, Raves & Rock 'n Roll," "Big Daily Blend," and "Women Making History" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork Photos: Tanja Nixx

Damage the Pearl: Third of Never’s Creative Leap from Album to Film

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Rants, Raves & Rock ‘n Roll" show, we jam with Jon Dawson of Third of Never about their brand new album and soundtrack, “Damage the Pearl.” The project grew from a collection of songs into a full-on road-movie film collaboration with director Brent Clark — a creative leap that celebrates the band’s instinct, individuality, and unstoppable drive.
Jon shares the serendipitous (and sometimes hilarious) chain of events that shaped Third of Never: chance meetings, cross-state collaborations, legendary guest musicians, and the fearless blending of genres that gives the band its signature sound. We talk creative process, surviving the modern music landscape, turning life into art, and how music becomes both escape and emotional anchor.
This conversation spotlights how embracing your creative instincts leads to unexpected magic — whether you’re scoring a film, building a band, or crafting songs that hit straight to the soul.
Learn more at: https://www.thirdofnever.com 
A perfect fit for Celebrate Your Unique Talent Day (Nov 24), this episode is also featured on Big Blend Radio's "Big Daily Blend" and "A Toast to The Arts" Podcast Channels. Explore the Network:  https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

Mark Storey: Behind His Dark Voodoo Magic Album

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s "Music Talks" Show with Joey Stuckey (airing every 4th Sunday), Joey welcomes his friend and fellow musician Mark Storey, whose debut album “Dark Voodoo Magic” released October 31, 2025. They dive into Mark’s creative process, the emotional storytelling behind his songs, and the unique blend of blues-rock energy that defines his sound.
Mark shares what it was like to write, perform, and produce the entire album himself—from vocals and guitar to drums, bass, and blues harp—along with creating his own visuals and music videos. Joey, who mastered the album, highlights Mark’s honesty, groove, and swampy voodoo vibe that makes this project stand out.
📌 Key Takeaways- Mark Storey’s debut album “Dark Voodoo Magic” showcases his talent as a multi-instrumentalist and producer.- Joey Stuckey’s collaboration and mastering work played a key role in the final sound.- Mark performs every instrument on the album.- Slide guitar and swampy rhythms help define his dark voodoo blues-rock style.- Honesty and emotional storytelling sit at the heart of his songwriting.- Visual creativity—videos, artwork, atmosphere—enhances the music’s impact.- Influences include blues, classic rock, Detroit rock ’n’ roll, and voodoo-groove aesthetics.- The album reflects years of growth, craft, and personal exploration.
💻 Learn more about Mark Storey & follow his music:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Gcnv5nWpV/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markstoreymusic YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mark271058TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@markstorey562  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@markstorey562?  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0k25jI1a2Z8N2fQdBRuIRu?si=ell6w8a6TG66XzkT0y6aTw Bandcamp: https://markstorey1.bandcamp.com/album/dark-voodoo-magic-3 
🎶 Learn more about Joey: https://www.joeystuckey.com/ 
📺 Follow Big Blend Radio: https://www.youtube.com/@bigblendradio 

Legendary Bassist Greg T. Walker: The Rise of Two Wolf

In this engaging episode of Big Blend Radio’s “Rants, Raves & Rock ‘n Roll” podcast, legendary bassist Greg T. Walker — founding member of Blackfoot and former member of Lynyrd Skynyrd — joins the show to talk about his latest musical adventure: Two Wolf. The band’s debut self-titled album, out June 6, 2025 through Cleopatra Records, delivers a ferocious modern take on classic Southern rock grit, blending soul, blues, and hard-edged rock ‘n’ roll.
Greg discusses the formation of Two Wolf, the year-long recording process, and the importance of dynamics and connection in live performances. He shares stories from his musical journey, the band’s creative chemistry, and how nature and authenticity continue to shape his art. From the warmth of vinyl to the spirit of the South, this episode dives deep into what keeps real rock alive.
🎸 Learn more: https://www.twowolfrocks.com/ 
🎧 This episode is part of Big Blend Radio's Arts & Humanities Month programming and is also featured on "A Toast to The Arts" and "Big Daily Blend" Channels. Explore the full Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork 

The Art of Performance Preparing for Gigs and Connecting Through Music

On this episode of Big Blend Radio’s Music Talks with Joey Stuckey (airing every 4th Sunday), we celebrate Arts & Humanities Month with an insightful conversation about the art and craft of live performance. Joey and Lisa dive into what it takes to prepare for gigs, the importance of rehearsals, and how musicians can build confidence, adaptability, and professionalism on stage.
They also explore the deeper significance of music as a universal language—one that tells human stories, connects communities, and reflects the beauty and resilience of the human spirit.
📌 Key Takeaways- Music connects people across cultures and emotions.- The arts mirror the beauty and struggles of human life.- Preparation and rehearsal build confidence and consistency.- Open mic nights are great for learning and growing.- Mistakes are part of becoming a better performer.- Building a genuine audience connection is essential.- Professionalism means being prepared, punctual, and adaptable.- Humor and authenticity can turn performance challenges into memorable moments.- Every performance offers lessons that shape the artist’s journey.
Learn more at: https://www.joeystuckey.com/ Follow Big Blend Radio: https://www.youtube.com/@bigblendradio