When Words Fail...Music Speaks

When Words Fail...Music Speaks

"When Words Fail, Music Speaks" is your sonic sanctuary, a podcast dedicated to exploring the profound ways music shapes our lives, emotions, and connections. Join us as we dive deep into the melodies, rhythms, and harmonies that articulate what words simply cannot. This is more than just a music podcast; it's an exploration of the human experience through the universal language of music. Each episode features insightful conversations, captivating stories, and expert analysis, unraveling the power of music in all its forms. From classical compositions that stir the soul to contemporary anthems that define generations, we cover a wide spectrum of genres and artists. Discover how music influences everything from our mental well-being and cultural identities to our social movements and personal memories Whether you're a seasoned audiophile, a casual listener, or someone seeking solace and understanding, "When Words Fail, Music Speaks" offers something for everyone. Tune in to discover new artists, revisit old favorites, and gain a deeper appreciation for the art form that unites us all. Subscribe now and let the music speak to you. Join our community of music lovers as we explore the harmonies of life, one episode at a time. Because sometimes, when words fail, music speaks.

Episodes

October 9, 2025 59 mins

Welcome back to When Words Fail – Music Speaks, the show where we explore how melody, rhythm and lyrics become lifelines for anyone battling the ups and downs of life. I’m your host, James Andrew Cox, and today we’re diving deep with the powerhouse rock trio behind Lands Down—guitarist and co‑founder Shaun Lichtenstein and front‑man John Ritchie.


From their early days grindi...

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Welcome back to When Words Fail Music Speaks, the podcast where we battle the darkness of depression with the undeniable power of music. I’m your host, James Cox, a self‑declared “professional handicapped” champion of mental‑health advocacy, and today we’ve got a truly inspiring guest who lives the mission we preach.


Joining us is Craig Jamieson—the creative force behind the...

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Welcome back to When Words Fail Music Speaks, the show that proves that when words fall short, music says it all. In this episode, host James Cox sits down with longtime friend and blue‑grass powerhouse Carolyn Routh for a deep‑dive into the moments that shaped her life and career.


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In today’s episode host James Cox sits down with veteran rocker David Ellefson—a guitarist whose love affair with music began at eleven, when the bass line of Bachman‑Turner‑Overdrive’s Not Fragile sparked a lifelong obsession. From those early needle‑drops to the thunder of KISS‑era amps, David walks us through the soundtrack of his life: the grind of marching‑band sax, the thrill of early cover‑band gigs, and the relent...

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In this episode, host James Cox— himself a resilient, hands‑on survivor of depression—welcomes a multifaceted friend, Tommy Giorlando. Tommy’s journey threads together three passions that seem worlds apart yet perfectly in sync:


  • A lifelong love of music – From teen garage‑band mischief with Opus Podunk, through the folk‑pirate...
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Welcome to “When Words Fail, Music Speaks,” the podcast that turns melodies into medicine for the soul.


In today’s episode host James Cox sits down with Jastin Artis—a gold‑and‑platinum‑streamed indie producer, songwriter, A&R mentor, and relentless “chronic‑health warrior.” Fr...

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Welcome back to When Words Fail, the podcast that battles depression one riff at a time. James Cox—a self‑styled “handicapped” guide on a mission to prove that music can be the therapy we all need.


In today’s episode we sit down with the ever‑mysterious Jeff Tuttle—known for his work with The Dillinger Escape Plan, the post‑hardcore outfit Old Gods, and the lightning‑fast super‑group Shock Narcotic. Jeff walks us through h...

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Welcome to the When Words Fail Music Speaks podcast that fights depression one chord at a time.


In today’s episode, host James Cox, sits down with seasoned songwriter‑producer Dennis Welch—a nearly‑70‑year‑old journeyman who’s penned over 500 songs, toured the world, and been nominated on five Grammy ballots.


From the first spark of...

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Welcome to “Music Speaks,” the When Words Fail Music Speaks podcast where we battle depression with the power of music.

In today’s episode we kick things off with a quick shout‑out to our sponsor, BetterHelp—your affordable, on‑your‑schedule mental‑health ally offering listeners 10 % off the first month of therapy.


We dive straight into a lively conversation with Milwaukee’s own Alan H...

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In today’s episode we’re thrilled to have Reeya Banerjee—writer, vocalist, voice‑over artist, and the raw, honest storyteller behind the critically‑acclaimed album The Way Up—joining host James Cox for a deep‑dive into the healing power of music.


We kick things off with a quick word from our sponsor, BetterHelp, rem...

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Welcome back to When Words Fail, Music Speaks, the show that battles depression one riff at a time. In today’s episode we’ve got a jam‑packed hour that’s part heartfelt sponsor shout‑out, part deep‑dive into the creative process, and part quirky tech‑savvy brainstorming session.


First, a quick word from our sponsor, BetterHelp, the affordable, on‑demand therapy platform that...

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Episode Summary: In this insightful and uplifting episode, host James Cox sits down with UK-based electronic artist MarQ Electronica (aka Mark Dickinson) for an open conversation about music’s healing power, battling depression, and creating during turbulent times. MarQ Electronica discusses his journey from band life to solo artistry, the nuances of electronic music, his creative rituals, and offers practical advice for aspir...

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    Welcome back to *When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast that battles depression with the healing power of music. In today’s episode we’re joined by rising indie rocker‑pop‑punk talent Zack King 


    We kick off with a quick word from our sponsor, BetterHelp, reminding listeners that affordable, flexible online therapy is just a cli...

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    Sponsor – BetterHelpQuick pitch + 10 % off code: betterhelp.com/music‑speaks

    Show Intro Host explains the podcast mission – fighting depression with music.Guest Intro Kathy Bell (“Ma Bell”) welcomed; brief bio, multi‑genre musician. Read more

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    Host intro – “Music fights depression” & brief show premise

    Meet Orville Stoeber – Composer for Let’s Scare Jessica to Death, The Year of the Flood, etc.

    Politics & songwriting – why lyrics often reflect culture even when we try to stay “just music.”

    Guitar talk – Taylor vs. nylon strings, why Orville prefers a nylon for his playing.

    Story of Orvill...

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    In this episode, James Cox sits down with artist Sophia Warren to discuss the healing power of music and her personal journey with mental health. Sophia shares her experiences growing up with Hashimoto's disease, the role music played in her life, and the evolution of her music from her EP "Bloodstone" to her latest project "Adesso." They also delve into the nuances of musical genres, the impact of living in different cities like A...

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    In this episode of the When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast, host James Cox sits down with all four members of the band Jane Doe. The band members, Jake (drummer), Charlie (bassist), Izzy (singer and guitarist), and Zephry (guitarist), share insights into their creative process, the story behind their band name, and their experiences on tour. They discuss the dynamics of songwriting as a collective unit and the inspiration behind t...

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    Episode Highlights:

    • Introduction:
    • Host: James Cox
    • Focus: Fighting depression with the power of music.
    • Special Guests: Janne & Antti Wirman, former members of Children of Bodom and current members of Warman.


    • Discussion Topics:
    • Janne's journey from music to pursuing a career in architecture.
    • The impact...
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    In this episode of "When Words Fail, Music Speaks," host James Cox interviews Brian Tatler, a prominent figure in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, known for his work with Diamond Head and Saxon. They discuss the evolution of metal music since the 1980s, the creative process behind iconic songs like "Am I Evil," and Brian's experiences with both Diamond Head and Saxon.


    Key Topics:

    • The evolution of metal music over the deca...
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    In this episode of The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast, host James Cox interviews Jennifer Alvarado, a redefining country musician known for her unique blend of 90s country storytelling and alternative rock. Jennifer shares her journey of overcoming personal struggles and emerging as a relentless independent artist. She discusses her music, the inspiration behind her songs, and her mission to connect with audiences worldwide.

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