Franklin's Garage to Stage

Jay Ball shares the story behind his metal project Gospels of Odin, a creative outlet that evolved into a powerful father-son collaboration when his 15-year-old son Levi revealed unexpected vocal talents. The project has gathered nearly 9,000 streams in just four weeks since release, demonstrating how digital platforms have revolutionized music distribution.

• Founded Gospels of Odin about 18 months ago after 40 years in t...

When four musicians with a shared passion for grunge and heavy guitar-driven rock come together, something electric happens. That's exactly what we discovered when UK band Ego Trip joined us on Franklin's Garage to Stage podcast.

Beginning at a brewery open mic night when guitarist Bean and vocalist Will decided they needed a band name rather than having their individual names written on the board, Ego Trip has e...

Rob and Dana Franklin welcome Daz from the UK-based Motorhead tribute band Loser to discuss his unique approach to tribute performances and supporting the local music scene.

• Loser is a relatively new Motorhead tribute band that tours across England, Wales, and Scotland playing mid-sized venues
• Rather than just performing Motorhead covers, Daz creates full evenings of entertainment with a comedian and original bands...

Rob and Dana Franklin share their 30+ year journey as musicians in hard rock, metal, and blues, offering insights from both sides of the podcast mic. The brothers discuss their musical beginnings, touring experiences, and how they've maintained their passion while navigating the industry's challenges.

• Rob was inspired to become a drummer after seeing a live performance at his aunt's wedding
• Dana foll...

Martin Motnik shares his remarkable journey from practice sessions in his parents' basement to becoming the bassist for legendary metal band Accept, with over 1,000 recording credits to his name.

• Journey from bedroom practice to professional touring musician
• Auditioning for Accept and the importance of personal chemistry with bandmates
• Bass technique adaptations for playing aggressive metal music
• ...

Connor Small, also known as Quiet Son, shares his journey as a Los Angeles-based producer and mix/mastering engineer for both Grass-Fed Music and independent artists worldwide.

• Originally from Philadelphia, Connor discovered his passion for music early, banging on pots and pans as a child
• Gained initial studio experience through high school recording programs and internships
• Approaches production as a collabo...

Rob and Dana explore the magical moment when musicians stop playing notes and start feeling the music, sharing their recent band practice experience where everything finally clicked. They discuss how finding the right bandmates creates chemistry that transforms practices from work to pure enjoyment.

• Update on their new project and recent lineup changes
• Reflections on interviews with Robin Brumfield and Nile Atway f...

Nael Atweh, founder of Grass-Fed Music, shares his journey and insights on artist management, the evolving music landscape, and the essential qualities for new artists. He emphasizes building trust, maintaining authenticity, and utilizing social media effectively to grow an audience.

• Nael's inspiring story from Toronto to success in the music industry 
• Importance of a strong online following for artists 
•...

Robin Brumfield, an up-and-coming musician from Los Angeles, discusses his journey and influences in the music industry, highlighting his dual role as an artist and producer. He emphasizes the importance of emotional connection through performance, networking, and the creative process behind producing music for others. 

• Discusses the emotional impact of live performances 
• Shares insights on navigating the LA music ...

The episode reflects on key insights from previous discussions, emphasizing the importance of rehearsal spaces, auditioning musicians, and band dynamics. Rob and Dana explore the significance of image in music versus musicianship, encouraging aspiring musicians to engage with their passion genuinely. 
• Recap of previous guest insights 
• Importance of secure rehearsal environments 
• Strategies for successful auditions...

Remember the rush of your first live performance? Join us as we revisit that exhilarating moment with our brother and fellow musician, John Franklin, sharing our early gigs at places like Duke's Wild Goose Bar in Reno. Get ready to uncover the secrets of live music success, from negotiating set times and mastering sound checks to the art of written contracts that keep your band protected. Aspiring musicians won't want to ...

Eric Bogumil might have been just 17 when he joined our band, but his journey from garage rehearsals to the stage is nothing short of inspiring. With a little encouragement from friends and perhaps a touch of liquid courage, Eric found his footing in our musical ensemble back in 1987. Together, we revisit those electrifying early gigs, sharing tales of our debut at Duke's Wild Goose Bar and the unforgettable camaraderie of pla...

Ever felt like managing a band is like juggling flaming guitar picks? Welcome to Franklin's Garage to Stage podcast, where we bust the myth that band life is all rock 'n roll glam. This week, we tackle the nitty-gritty of practice schedules, the art of set list organization, and the marriage-like dynamics that can make or break a group. Rob shares his own adjustment story of swapping Arizona's sun for North Carolina&...

Picture this: a freezing Reno garage, a propane heater trying its best, and a practice session that feels more like a scene from a sitcom than the birth of a band. Our journey from Garage to Stage starts with tales like these—missteps, misadventures, and a lot of music-making in between. Whether you're striking out on your own or joining the ranks of an established group, we promise insights into the realities of band formatio...

What happens when a snare drum borrowed from a sibling and a mesmerizing wedding band performance become the sparks that ignite a lifelong passion for music? Join us, Rob (aka Wardrums Franklin) and Dana Thunder Bass Franklin, as we take you on a personal journey from our humble beginnings to rocking the stage. Discover how Dana's early attempts at guitar led him to find his true calling with the bass guitar, thanks to some br...