Tony Mantor's : Almost Live..... Nashville

Show Notes John Tesh has lived a life unlike almost anyone else. Millions knew him as the co-host of Entertainment Tonight. Basketball fans know his legendary "Roundball Rock" theme that became synonymous with the NBA. Music lovers have filled concert halls around the world to hear his compositions. But behind the success is an incredible story of resilience. In this heartfelt conversation, John shares how a garage full of cassette tapes launched his music career, the unlikely return of his i...

Show Notes Drummer and founding driving force behind Modern Romance, Andy Kyriacou, joins Tony Mantor for an entertaining and revealing conversation about the rise of one of Britain's most recognizable pop bands and the journey that has kept the music alive for more than four decades. Andy shares the incredible story of joining Modern Romance just as the band faced its final opportunity with its record label, the creative idea that helped launch "Everybody Salsa" into the charts, and how gras...

Show NotesIndependent singer-songwriter Shweta Harve joins Tony Mantor for a heartfelt conversation about creating music that goes beyond entertainment to inspire reflection, compassion, and positive change. Originally from India and now based in the United States, Shweta has built an international creative team that spans three continents, collaborating with an Italian composer and a Ukrainian mixing engineer to produce music that resonates across cultures and generations. From Billboard Top...

Show Notes Rock & roll pioneer Marty Wilde joins Tony Mantor for a remarkable conversation about being at the birth of modern rock music and building a career that has lasted more than six decades. Inspired by the arrival of Bill Haley & His Comets and "Rock Around the Clock," Marty shares how one song changed the course of his life and launched him into the emerging world of rock & roll. From those early days to writing timeless hits and producing music for future generations, hi...

Show NotesGrammy-nominated composer, producer, and immersive artist James Hood joins Tony Mantor for a fascinating conversation about pushing the boundaries of music and storytelling. From performing with legendary artists like The Pretenders and collaborating with icons including Jeff Beck, to creating breathtaking immersive experiences like Mesmerica and Astronomica, James shares how his career evolved from drummer to visionary composer. In this episode, James discusses the power of ...

Show Notes Rock and blues legend George Thorogood joins Tony Mantor for a candid conversation about a career that has spanned decades and continues to inspire generations of music fans. From his early days studying the blues legends who shaped his sound to becoming one of rock's most recognizable performers, George shares the stories behind the music, the challenges of staying authentic, and the moments that defined his remarkable journey. The conversation explores the unexpected succes...

We sit down with Jonathan Antoine to talk about the moments after Britain’s Got Talent that reshaped his life, from sudden global attention to a deeper understanding of success. We get honest about doubt, adrenaline, family support, and why music still feels like the strongest bridge between people. • recording a new album from a home studio and sharing release details • the chain of life-changing moments from a standing ovation to international gigs • redefining succ...

We sit down with Victoria Perks to trace how Fuzzbox went from Birmingham school friends “forming for a laugh” to chart success, touring, and a legacy that still surprises her. We talk honestly about sexism, branding, major-label pressure, and why she’s still building new projects through music and well-being work. • Fuzzbox’s origin story, reunions, and the biography that opens a new chapter • Where the name “Fuzzbox” comes from and why it landed differently in the US&nbsp...

We sit down with Richard Hewson, the creative force behind the Ra Band, to trace how an under-credited arranger turns frustration over fees into a self-made recording legacy. We get the real stories behind “Clouds Across The Moon,” Abbey Road sessions, vintage studio gear, and what it feels like to be rediscovered through Spotify and TikTok decades later. • arrangers paid a fee without royalties, pushing Richard toward writing his own songs • building early Ra Band tracks as a on...

We sit down with Howard Jones to talk about the long arc of an electronic pop career that stays grounded in optimism, craft, and real human connection. He shares how he balances evolving music technology with live performance energy, and why authenticity is still the thing audiences can feel. • writing new music while still touring and chasing the next creative spark • blending great playing with smart technology for a powerful live show • building songs around big questions...

We sit down with Thomas Dolby to talk about touring with a full band, reshaping classic songs, and telling the stories behind a career that spans synthpop, songwriting, production, and music technology. He shares why emotion matters more than gear, how constraints can sharpen creativity, and what it takes to keep reinventing yourself without losing your voice. • touring plans and building a show around memoir-style storytelling • why great production starts with song and ar...

Juliet Dawn's Journey: From Trauma to Triumph In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, host Tony Mantor speaks with Juliet Dawn, a former X-Factor contestant and performer at the Royal Albert Hall. Juliet shares her remarkable journey of overcoming decades of trauma, including abuse, miscarriages, and health issues, with the help of her Christian faith. Despite immense personal hardships, she has channeled her struggles into her new album 'Born To Be', aimed at providing ho...

Pat Kane of Hue and Cry on New Single “Stronger,” Post-Post-Punk Authenticity, and Keeping Imperfection in the Music Host Tony Mantor introduces his podcast Almost Live Nashville and welcomes Pat Kane of Hue and Cry, the late-1980s duo known for blending pop, jazz, and sophisticated songwriting, including the hit “Labor of Love” from Seduced and Abandoned. Kane discusses promoting the new single “Stronger” and an upcoming album (out March 29), describing it as an optimistic electronic depart...

Behind the Music: The Band of Heathens - A Journey of Harmony and Brotherhood Tony Mantor hosts an engaging conversation on 'Almost Live Nashville' with Ed and Gordy from the acclaimed roots rock band, The Band of Heathens. The discussion delves into the band's origin story, their lack of initial vision, and how a loose collective of musicians evolved into a celebrated group known for their rich harmonies and collaborative spirit. Ed and Gordy share insights into their songwriting and recor...

David vs. Goliath: Tommy D's 15-Year Battle Against Live Nation In this episode of 'Almost Live Nashville,' host Tony Mantor interviews Tommy D., a fearless concert promoter from New Jersey and founder of Juice Entertainment, who has been entangled in a 15-year legal battle against Live Nation. Tommy shares his journey from the pinnacle of the EDM scene to being blacklisted and nearly homeless after Live Nation intervened in his plans to launch the biggest EDM festival on the East Coast. H...

Tenille Towns on Going Independent Again, The Acrobat, and Writing Songs That Help People Feel Less Alone Host Tony Mantor introduces his podcast Almost Live Nashville and interviews singer-songwriter Tenille Towns, who moved from Grand Prairie, Alberta to Nashville and became an ACM New Female Artist of the Year and Juno Award winner. Towns discusses returning to independence after nearly eight years with Sony Nashville, producing her new record The Acrobat herself for release on April 10,...

Marcus Hummon's Musical Journey: From Nashville Honky Tonks to Grammy Wins In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, Tony Mantor interviews Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Marcus Hummon. Hummon shares insights from his extensive career, which includes songwriting, theater compositions, and scoring operas. Discussing his experience from his early days performing at Nashville's iconic Bluebird Cafe to crafting hits for major artists, Marcus reveals the dynamic evolution of the music industr...

Behind the Scenes with The Protomen: A Rock Opera Odyssey In this episode of 'Almost Live Nashville,' host Tony Mantor delves into the fascinating world of The Proto Man, a Nashville-based band known for their unique blend of rock opera, sci-fi storytelling, and raw energy. T he band members, who go by the names Murphy, Commander B. Hawkins, and Panther, share insights into their creative process, the evolution of their concept albums, and their journey from humble beginnings to their ambit...

Almost Live Nashville: A Journey Through Music with Alison Limerick In this episode of 'Almost Live Nashville,' host Tony Mantor delves deep into the career of celebrated UK singer-songwriter Alison Limerick. Alison shares her journey from performing in London's pubs and bars to collaborating with music legends like Frankie Knuckles and David Morales. Known for her timeless club anthem 'Where Love Lives,' Alison discusses the evolution of her music, the impact of her hit tracks in the nine...

In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, host Tony Mantor interviews Fred Mollin, a renowned songwriter and producer, about his extensive career in the music industry. They discuss the production of Mollin's first big hit, 'Sometimes When We Touch,' his long-working relationship with Jimmy Webb, and his experiences with other legendary musicians. Mollin also talks about his book 'Unplugged,' detailing his behind-the-scenes stories and professional journey. Listeners gain insights into the...