Ever wonder how someone becomes a rock and roll star? Well, today you're going to find out. Steph Paynes, founder and lead guitarist of the all-girl powerhouse quartet Lez Zeppelin, shares her journey from rock journalist to leader of a band that captures the essence, spirit, power and seductiveness of Led Zeppelin.
Steph started the group in 2004, after touring as a "Ronette" with the "first bad girl of rock and roll," Ronnie Spector. Before donning the white satin dragon suit, she worked as a freelance writer, novelist and music journalist. Her stories and reviews have appeared in Rolling Stone, The NME, Musician, Guitar Player and Playboy among many other publications. She has shared the stage with Joey Ramone, Keith Richards and Chuck Berry.
So much gold in this episode. We go deep on:
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How boldly walking into the offices of The NME as a young 20-something propelled her early career as a music journalist
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The story of how she dined on ham sandwiches with Frank Zappa at the Waldorf Astoria and discussed the censorship happening in music
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Dealing with disappointment
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The importance of practicing, persisting and being a master at your craft
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How Ronnie Spector restored her spirit and what she learned about giving everything to your performances
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When Steph knew she was onto something big with her new band Lez Zeppelin
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You've got to love what you're doing because the audience can tell
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Navigating the art and challenge of a group playing in communion
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Channeling emotion and pulling your own essence out of your art
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