Chris DeMakes A Podcast

Chris DeMakes
  • 4.9 (865)
  • MUSIC COMMENTARY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Chris DeMakes A Podcast, hosted by Chris DeMakes of the legendary punk rock band Less Than Jake, features guests who have written iconic songs, exploring their backstory, creation, inspiration, and significance. Each episode offers an in-depth exploration into a specific track from renowned artists, with guests providing untold stories and fascinating details. From chart-toppers to hidden gems across various genres and eras, the podcast offers a rich listening experience. Chris's passion for music and songwriting fuels engaging discussions on lyrics, melodies, production techniques, and cultural context. Combining informative storytelling, interviews, and analysis, the podcast appeals to music lovers, die-hard fans, and anyone curious about the songwriting process. It provides insight into the artistry behind timeless songs, making it perfect for those seeking inspiration or simply wanting to immerse themselves in musical magic.

  1. 1D AGO

    Pete Steinkopf discusses The Bouncing Souls “Ghosts On the Boardwalk”

    This week, Bouncing Souls guitarist Pete Steinkopf sits in to unpack the writing and recording of the band’s fan favorite 2009 single, “Ghosts on the Boardwalk,” a song steeped in the spirit of their hometown of Asbury Park, New Jersey. What started as a quiet sleeper has since become a full-on set list staple, and Pete explains how his eerie EBow lines helped shape the song’s emotional pull while sharing the behind-the-scenes story of how it all came together. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at ⁠http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at ⁠http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/⁠ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    56 min

  2. 5D AGO

    Throwback Thursday: Holly Knight discusses Pat Benatar’s “Love Is A Battlefield”

    This week’s Throwback Thursday, which was originally released as Episode 94 on March 14th, 2022, features acclaimed songwriter Holly Knight discussing the writing of Pat Benatar’s hit 1983 single, “Love Is A Battlefield.” Holly is a Grammy Award winning member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame who has written for everyone from Aerosmith to Tina Turner, and this episode is a fascinating look into her mind and process.  Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at ⁠http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at ⁠http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/⁠ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 10m

  3. FEB 9

    Christian “MC Bat Commander” Jacobs discusses The Aquabats! “Fashion Zombies!”

    In this episode, Christian “MC Bat Commander” Jacobs of The Aquabats! dives into the writing and recording of “Fashion Zombies!”, the fan-favorite single from the band’s 2005 album Charge!! that marked a sharp turn in their sound. The conversation traces the group’s early struggles, the collaborative and experimental approach that shaped the song, and how blending solid musicianship with absurd humor became their secret weapon. Christian breaks down the song’s playful but pointed commentary on fashion and youth culture, and the instantly memorable “whoas” in the chorus that made it explode with live crowds. This episode captures how “Fashion Zombies!” fit into a pivotal moment for The Aquabats!, proving they could evolve while staying true to what made them unmistakably themselves. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at ⁠http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at ⁠http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/⁠ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 12m

  4. FEB 5

    Throwback Thursday: KT Tunstall discusses her song “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree”

    This week’s Throwback Thursday was originally released as Episode 141 on February 6th, 2023, and it features KT Tunstall discussing the writing and recording of her hit 2004 single “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree.”  Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at ⁠http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at ⁠http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/⁠ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 15m

  5. FEB 2

    Tom McFaull discusses The Bar Stool Preachers “Pick a Side”

    In the first of four episodes leading up to the Less Than Jake UK Winter Circus Tour, vocalist Tom McFaull discusses the writing and recording of the brand new 2026 single from The Bar Stool Preachers, “Pick a Side.” He and Chris talk about how a moment of personal disappointment turned into one of the band’s most lyrically direct songs yet, unpacking its heavy real-world themes and the challenge of separating the art from the artist. They also get deep into the choices made during recording that helped shape this aggressive yet danceable track.  The Bar Stool Preachers are raising money to help those in need of medical aid in Palestine. If you'd like to help, you can contribute HERE. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at ⁠http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at ⁠http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/⁠ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 14m

  6. JAN 29

    Throwback Thursday: Dan Estrin discusses Hoobastank’s “Crawling In The Dark”

    This week’s Throwback Thursday, which was originally released on February 28th, 2022, as Episode 92 of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, features Hoobastank guitarist Dan Estrin discussing the writing and recording of the band’s hit 2002 single “Crawing In The Dark.”  Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at ⁠http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at ⁠http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/⁠ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 14m

  7. JAN 26

    Mike Harder discusses Pulley’s “Insects Destroy”

    In this episode, guitarist Mike Harder discusses the writing and recording of “Insects Destroy,” Pulley’s 2004 single born from a combination of frustration and observation. Mike breaks down how his time working in the corporate world shaped the song’s lyrical perspective, as well as a real-life run-in with insects in his home. He also opens up about how producer Matt Hyde helped refine Pulley’s sound and the many lessons the band took away from their experience working with him. Tune in for a fascinating look at a song that continues to resonate with Pulley fans decades later. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at ⁠http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at ⁠http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/⁠ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 4m

  8. JAN 22

    Throwback Thursday: Ace Enders discusses The Early November’s “Decoration”

    This week’s Throwback Thursday episode was originally released on July 15th, 2024, and features Ace Enders of The Early November discussing the writing and recording of the fan-favorite single “Decoration,” from the band’s ambitious 2006 triple album The Mother, The Mechanic, And The Path, which is an album the band will be touring in celebration of this February and March 2026 alongside Hellogoodbye and Punchline. Hailing from that sprawling concept record, “Decoration” captures a raw, vintage essence that continues to resonate deeply with listeners, and Ace dives into how the song came together both lyrically and sonically.  It’s a thoughtful, behind-the-scenes look at one of The Early November’s most beloved songs and a Throwback Thursday episode you won’t want to miss. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at ⁠http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at ⁠http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Follow Chris DeMakes A Podcast on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/chrisdemakesapodcast/⁠ Join the Chris DeMakes A Podcast community on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/2643961642526928/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 6m
See All (422)

Trailer

Hosts & Guests

4.9
out of 5
865 Ratings

About

Chris DeMakes A Podcast, hosted by Chris DeMakes of the legendary punk rock band Less Than Jake, features guests who have written iconic songs, exploring their backstory, creation, inspiration, and significance. Each episode offers an in-depth exploration into a specific track from renowned artists, with guests providing untold stories and fascinating details. From chart-toppers to hidden gems across various genres and eras, the podcast offers a rich listening experience. Chris's passion for music and songwriting fuels engaging discussions on lyrics, melodies, production techniques, and cultural context. Combining informative storytelling, interviews, and analysis, the podcast appeals to music lovers, die-hard fans, and anyone curious about the songwriting process. It provides insight into the artistry behind timeless songs, making it perfect for those seeking inspiration or simply wanting to immerse themselves in musical magic.

Information

  • Creator
    Chris DeMakes
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    422
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Chris DeMakes
  • Show Website
    Chris DeMakes A Podcast

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