In this episode of The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast, host James Cox interviews Robin Jackson, a talented musician and new dad from Portland, Oregon. They discuss the impact of fatherhood on songwriting, the inspiration behind Robin's music, and his experiences with various bands. Robin shares insights into his journey as a musician, the importance of creating space for inspiration, and his involvement in the Songwriter Soiree community.

Key Topics:

• The influence of fatherhood on Robin's songwriting
• Robin's background in ethnomusicology and its impact on his music
• The formation and experiences with bands like March 4th and Vagabond Opera
• The Songwriter Soiree: A supportive community for songwriters of all levels
• Robin's collaboration with artists like Reggie Watts
• The vibrant music and creative scene in Portland, Oregon
• Robin's latest album, "Silver Lining," and his approach to releasing music

Guest Information:

• Name: Robin Jackson
• Location: Portland, Oregon
• Website: songwritersoiree.com
• Social Media: TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram

Music Featured:

• "October Rain" from the album "Dust Stars"
• Latest album: "Silver Lining" (2025)

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on social media for updates and more inspiring content.
• Visit our website for more episodes and information.

Closing Remarks:

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast. Remember, when words fail, music speaks. Join us next time for more inspiring conversations and musical journeys.

In this episode of The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast, host James Cox interviews musician Michael Strange. They discuss Michael's journey from a military upbringing to becoming a musician, the influence of his experiences on his songwriting, and the importance of storytelling in music. Michael shares insights into his creative process and the inspiration behind his singles "Only One" and "Black and Blue."

Key Topics:

• The impact of a military upbringing on Michael's music
• The storytelling tradition in country music
• Michael's experiences with artists like Sara Evans and Dwight Yoakam
• The creative process of songwriting and collaboration
• Michael's aspirations for his music in film and television

Guest Information:

• Michael Strange
• Website: https://bigrecords.world/michael-strange/
• Instagram: @themichaelstrange
• Facebook: Michael Strange

Music Featured:

• "Only One" by Michael Strange
• "Black and Blue" by Michael Strange

Release Date: July 4th

Call to Action:

Download Michael Strange's latest single "Black and Blue," available now. Follow him on social media for updates on his music and upcoming releases.

Closing Remarks:

Thank you for tuning in to The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast. Remember, when words fail, music speaks.

In this episode of The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast, host James Cox interviews Howard Levinson, a talented musician with a diverse background. Howard shares his journey from being a paramedic and law enforcement officer to becoming a songwriter and performer. He discusses how his experiences have influenced his music, which spans genres from rock to country. Howard also talks about his songwriting process, his influences, and the impact of storytelling in music.

Key Topics:

• Howard Levinson's varied career and transition to music
• The influence of personal experiences on songwriting
• The importance of storytelling in country music
• Howard's musical influences, including Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, and Tom Petty
• Upcoming performances and potential tour plans
• The role of writing and creativity in Howard's life

Notable Quotes:

• "Songwriters, we write what we know and we write what we see."
• "It's the melodies and the lyrics, don't get too complicated, but they make you think, and they paint a picture."

Connect with Howard Levinson:

• Website: howardlevenson.net
• Music available on: Apple Music, Spotify, iTunes, Amazon Music, and more

Follow Us:

• Stay updated with The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast for more interviews and discussions on the healing power of music.

Closing Note:

Thank you for tuning in! Remember, when words fail, music speaks.

Join us in this captivating episode of the When Words Fail Music Speaks podcast as host James Cox interviews Josh Simons, founder of Vampr and CEO of Rhino Group. Discover Josh's journey from being a musician in Buchanan to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the music industry. Learn about the innovative platform Vampr, which connects musicians globally, and explore Josh's insights on the healing power of music.

Sponsored by:

BetterHelp - Get 10% off your first month of therapy at betterhelp.com/music speaks.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The importance of mental health and therapy
• Josh Simons' musical background and journey with Buchanan
• The creation and impact of Vampr, a geosocial network for musicians
• Insights into the music industry and entrepreneurship
• The role of music in battling depression and life's challenges
• Josh's favorite musical instruments and artists

Guest Information:

Josh Simons

• Founder of Vampr
• CEO of Rhino Group
• Former musician in Buchanan

Links Mentioned:

• Download the Vampr app: Available on iOS and Android
• Visit Vinyl Group: vinyl.group
• Explore Vampr, Jaxta, Rhino Media, and Serenade

Closing Remarks:

Thank you for tuning in! Remember, when words fail...music speaks! See you next time!

In this episode of the When Words Fail Music Speaks podcast, we explore the healing power of music and its role in battling depression. We are thrilled to have Mr. Grodius Maximus from the band GWAR join us for an engaging and humorous conversation. Amanda is back with us as well, and together, we dive into a variety of topics, including the origins of Grodius, his favorite Girl Scout cookies, and his journey from Los Angeles to the world of GWAR.

Key Topics:

• The importance of mental health and how BetterHelp can assist.
• Grotius Maximus's unique background and his connection to GWAR.
• A lighthearted discussion on favorite foods and drinks.
• Grotius's experiences and memories, including his time in Los Angeles.
• A fun Q&A session with fan questions about GWAR and Grotius's past bands.

Special Guest: Grotius Maximus from GWAR

Highlights:

• Grodius shares his humorous take on Girl Scout cookies and his favorite alcohol.
• A deep dive into Grotius's past and his journey to becoming part of GWAR.
• Amanda and James engage Grodius in a lively discussion about music, life, and more.

Listener Offer:

BetterHelp is offering our listeners 10% off their first month of therapy. Visit betterhelp.com/musicspeaks to get started.

Connect with Us:

• Follow our journey as we discuss the healing power of music.
• Stay updated with the latest music news, artist interviews, and more.

Thank You:

A big thank you to Grotius Maximus for joining us and sharing his unique perspective. And thank you to our listeners for tuning in!

In this episode of the When Words Fail Music Speaks podcast, host James Cox interviews emerging country artist Sophia Renee. Sophia discusses her journey as a musician, her influences, and her songwriting process. She shares insights into her debut single "He Has Had Enough" and her latest release "Pressed Flowers," which blends 70s and modern sounds. Sophia also talks about the challenges and rewards of being an independent artist and her experiences performing live.

Key Topics:

• The inspiration and process behind Sophia's music, including her singles "He Has Had Enough," "On Again, Off Again," and "Pressed Flowers."
• The influence of 70s music and personal experiences on her songwriting.
• The challenges of promoting oneself as an independent artist and the role of social media.
• Insights into creating music videos and collaborating with directors.
• Sophia's advice for aspiring musicians, including learning basic guitar chords and choosing songs that inspire you.

Guest Information:

• Sophia Renee is a country artist known for her authentic storytelling and blend of 70s and modern sounds. Follow her on social media:
• Instagram
• Facebook
• TikTok
• YouTube

Connect with Us:

• Follow the When Words Fail Music Speaks podcast on social media for updates and more content

Closing Remarks:

Thank you for tuning in to this episode. Remember, when words fail...music speaks. See you next time!

In this episode of The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast, we dive into the world of music and mental health with our special guest, Michael Cagle. Michael is a nationally recorded artist with Universal/Version Records and has been named Entertainer of the Year six times. Join us as we explore his journey through the music industry, his experiences in Nashville and Seattle, and his passion for music as a tool for healing.

Key Topics:

• BetterHelp Sponsorship: Learn about the benefits of online therapy with BetterHelp and how it can fit into your busy schedule.
• Michael Cagle's Journey: Discover Michael's path from New York to Seattle, his time in Nashville, and his role as an entertainment director.
• The Healing Power of Music: Explore how music has helped Michael and many others through life's ups and downs.
• Michael's Musical Influences: Hear about the artists who have inspired Michael, including Reba McEntire, Patti LaBelle, and more.
• Genres and Vocal Range: Understand Michael's classification as an adult contemporary, pop, and vocal artist, and his impressive vocal range as a tenor.
• Songwriting and Inspiration: Get insights into Michael's songwriting process, including his powerful anthem "I Rise" and his approach to recording music.
• Challenges in the Music Industry: Discuss the financial and logistical challenges artists face when performing at events and festivals.
• Favorite Artists and Songs: Michael shares his favorite singers and the songs that have deeply impacted him.

Connect with Michael Cagle:

• Website: Balladbelter.com
• Facebook: Michael Cagle
• Instagram: @michaelcagle
• Streaming Platforms: Available on Spotify, Apple Music, and more.

Special Thanks:

A big thank you to BetterHelp for sponsoring this episode. Visit betterhelp.com/musicspeaks for 10% off your first month of therapy.

Closing Remarks:

Thank you for tuning in to The When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast. Remember, when words fail, music speaks. Join us next time for more inspiring stories and musical journeys.

Join us for an inspiring episode of the "When Words Fail, Music Speaks Podcast" as we welcome back the talented duo, Mission Road, featuring Christina Alexander and Elliot Simon. In this episode, we dive into their journey of fighting depression with the power of music, their recent nominations, and their exciting plans for the future.

Key Highlights:

• Sponsor: A special thank you to BetterHelp for sponsoring this episode. BetterHelp offers affordable online therapy that fits into your busy schedule. Get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/musicspeaks.
• Guest Introduction: Meet Mission Road, the dynamic duo of Christina Alexander and Elliot Simon, who are making waves in the music industry with their heartfelt country music.
• Award Nominations: Discover the impressive list of nominations Mission Road has received, including Entertainer, Vocalist, Rising Star, and more at the International New Songwriters Association and the Josie Music Awards.
• New Music: Learn about their latest song, "Take My Hand," and the inspiration behind it. Christina and Elliot share their personal stories and the creative process that brought this song to life.
• Musical Journey: Christina and Elliot discuss their evolution as artists, the formation of their backing band, and their experiences in the music industry.
• Upcoming Projects: Get a sneak peek into their future plans, including a potential Christmas album and their next EP release.
• Personal Insights: The duo shares their musical influences, favorite artists, and the impact of music on their lives.

Connect with Mission Road:

• Website: MissionRoadMusic.com
• Email: missionroadduo@gmail.com
• Social Media: @MissionRoadDuo on all platforms

Closing Remarks:

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of "When Words Fail, Music Speaks Podcast." Remember, when words fail, music speaks. Stay connected with us for more inspiring stories and music insights.