True House Stories interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana

Lenny Fontana
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True House Stories® is a interview podcast series hosted by dance music icon, Lenny Fontana. It features candid and often untold stories from influential figures within the realm of house music. The show delves into personal anecdotes, pivotal moments, and behind-the-scenes tales from various DJs, producers, and other individuals who have made an impact in the house music scene. The podcast offers listeners an insider’s perspective on the history, evolution, and culture of house music through firsthand experiences shared by its key players like Carl Cox, Simon Dunmore, Kathy Sledge...

  1. Charles Dixon interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 156 True House Stories®

    38M AGO

    Charles Dixon interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 156 True House Stories®

    TRUE HOUSE STORIES® W/ CHARLES DIXON # 156 INTERVIEWED BY LENNY FONTANA The acclaimed True House Stories® podcast, hosted by legendary DJ Lenny Fontana, presents a landmark new episode featuring Sir Charles Mixin Dixon, one of the music industry's most celebrated pioneers and innovators. In this comprehensive conversation, Dixon shares his remarkablethree-decade journey through the music business, from his early days as a college DJ to revolutionizing radio programming and discovering international recording artists. The episode offers listeners unprecedented insight into Dixon's transformative career, which began in 1983 at the University of Maryland, College Park, where he was inspired by Grand Master Flash's hip-hop sound and the house music of O'Dell's, a local Baltimore club that rivaled New York City's infamous Paradise Garage. Under the moniker "Sir Charles"– initially describing his preppy British style but soon denoting his royal turntable skills – Dixon began DJing at campus parties, developing his signature ability to mix current hits with fresh new songs while never missing a beat. "Charles's story is truly remarkable because he represents someone who didn't just participate in the evolution of radio and DJ culture – he fundamentally changed it," says Fontana. "From creating the first mixshow mailing list in the music industry to developing programming formats that were copied by over 40 stations nationwide, Charles has been atthe forefront of innovation for over three decades. His journey from college DJ to discovering Che'Nelle and winning a Japanese Gold Disc Award is incredibly inspiring." Throughout the conversation, Dixon details his groundbreaking work at OMAP Record Pool in 1985, where he served as Assistant Urban Pool Director, reviewing and compiling charts of 75 of the hottest DJs across multiple formats in the Washington DC area. This experience laid thefoundation for his revolutionary approach to record promotion and artist development. Listeners will hear how he implemented a multi-musical format at The Dome nightclub that encompassed hip-hop, R&B, Pop, Dance, go-go, and house music, creating an unparalleled style that appealed to the masses and earned the venue Night Club of the Year honors from Washingtonian Magazine. The episode delves into Dixon's historic radio career, including his move to WPGC-FM where his distinctive style helped take the station from number 22 to number 1 on the Arbitron chart within three years. His innovative primetime mixshow format was ultimately adopted by over 40 stations nationwide, including major markets like KBXX in Houston, KPWR in LosAngeles, and WQHT in New York. Dixon shares stories of introducing American audiences to British imports like Soul II Soul's "Keep On Moving," Lisa Stansfield's "All Around the World," and Rick Astley's "Never Gonna Give You Up" before their US releases. Dixon's move to New York in 1990 as National Club Promotions director for Tommy Boy Records marked the beginning of his impact on the national stage. The conversation explores his work at WBLS, where he hosted "The Thunderstorm" and brought Grandmaster Flash to the station. His contributions to major record labels including Tommy Boy, Pendulum/Elektra Records, TVT Records, and Columbia Records revolutionized mixshow promotions and created industry standards that continue today. Listeners will gain valuable insights into Dixon's entrepreneurial journey, including founding Sir Charles Independent Productions (SCIP) in 2003 and discovering Australian talent Che'Nelle in 2005. The episode details how he secured a deal with Virgin Records CEO Jason Flom in just one week, leading to Che'Nelle's debut album "Things Happen For A Reason," which went Gold in Japan and won the prestigious Japanese Gold Disc Award for Best New Artist of 2008.

    1h 11m
  2. John Ceglia interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 155 True House Stories®

    FEB 4

    John Ceglia interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 155 True House Stories®

    TRUE HOUSE STORIES® W/ JOHN CEGLIA # 155 INTERVIEWED BY LENNY FONTANA Lenny Fontana, acclaimed DJ, producer, and host of the popular True House Stories® podcast, welcomes first generation disco pioneer DJ John Ceglia for an exclusive interview that delves deep into the golden age of dance music and reveals never-before-told stories from the nightclub revolution. In this compelling episode of True House Stories®, John Ceglia spens up about his remarkable journey as one of the youngest major DJs of the entire disco era. Starting his career at just 17 years old in Buffalo, New York, Ceglia quickly rose to prominence, eventually becoming a resident DJ at some of New York City's most legendary venues including Studio 54, Underground, River Club, Palladium, Limelight, and New York-New York. The interview provides an intimate look into Ceglia's experiences during the disco heyday of the late 1970s and early 1980s, offering listeners rare insights into the creative techniques, crowd psychology, and musical artistry that defined an era. Knownfor his innovative approach to mixing, Ceglia was famous for creating musical conversations between records, having vocals from different tracks answer one another in seamless, extended overlays that captivated thousands of dancers. "I was always drawn to music from a very early age," Ceglia shares in the episode. "I loved the thrill of hearing something new and wonderful on the dance floor. When I would prepare a program for an evening, I would ask myself certain questions – what would be exciting for me to hear following this record if I was out there dancing?” One of the episode's highlights is Ceglia's recounting of his historic performance at the 1979 "World's Largest Disco" event in Buffalo, where he represented the city and performed before 17,000 people alongside legendary DJs including Bobby "DJ" Guttadaro, Mike Lewis, and Charlie Anzalone. This landmark event, featuring live performances by Gloria Gaynor, the Trammps, and Edwin Starr, served as the springboard that launched Ceglia's New York City career. Lenny Fontana, himself a legendary figure in house music with decades of experience at venues like Studio 54 and performances at Pacha Ibiza, guides the conversation with deep understanding and genuine curiosity. Fontana's extensive background in the music industry, including his crossover hit "What You Need" and collaborations with artists like Octah'via of C+C Music Factory, makes him the perfect host to explore Ceglia's storied career. The interview also explores the unique atmosphere of different clubs and their distinct crowds highlighting on his new venture with party impresario Christina Visca called Come Together.

    42 min
  3. Ron Pullman interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 154 - True House Stories®

    JAN 14

    Ron Pullman interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 154 - True House Stories®

    TRUE HOUSE STORIES® W/ RON PULLMAN # 154 INTERVIEWED BY LENNY FONTANA NEW YORK – The acclaimed True House Stories® podcast, hosted by legendary DJ Lenny Fontana, presents an enlightening new episode featuring DJ Ron Pullman, widely revered as "Atlanta's Godfather of House." In this intimate and revealing conversation, Pullman shares his remarkable journey through the music industry, from his gospel-inspired Midwest roots to becoming a transformative force in Southern House Music over more than three decades.The episode offers listeners an unprecedented look into Pullman's evolution as an artist, beginning with his musical foundation laid by his musician father and his passion for vinyl collecting in the late 1970s. Pullman details his transformative period as a coast-to-coast clubber in the early 1980s, where he studied DJs and sounds from New York to Los Angeles, absorbing the diverse influences that would shape his signature "PullmanSoul" sound."Ron's story is truly inspiring because it represents the authentic journey of someone who lived through and helped shape house music's evolution in the American South," says Fontana. "His breakout moment at Houston's legendary Catch One club in 1984, followed by his move to Atlanta in 1986 where he became the heartbeat of the city's underground house scene, exemplifies the dedication and passion that defines true house music culture."Throughout the conversation, Pullman shares captivating stories about his experiences holding down the decks at iconic Atlanta venues including The Ritz Boys, Traxx, Frozen Paradise, Plastic, Crescent Room, Diamonds, and The Excelsior Mill (now The Masquerade). He discusses how he extended his reach to Atlanta's top airwaves with radio mixes for V-103 FM, KISS 104, and community stations like 88.5 WRAS and 89.3 WRFG, eventually hosting his own acclaimed show, Southern Deepness, on Handz On Radio. The episode delves into Pullman's philosophy that has guided his career: "What you put into it is what you will get out of it." This mantra, he explains, is not just a saying but the foundation of every set he plays and every endeavor he undertakes. Listeners will hear about his experiences sharing stages with some of the most respected names in global House music, including Tony Humphries, Ron Trent, DJ Camacho, Joe Claussell, Tedd Patterson, Larry Heard, Marques Wyatt, and Kevin Hedge. Beyond his DJ career, the conversation explores Pullman's multifaceted talents as a musician, songwriter, and financial expert who has combined these diverse experiences to create innovative concepts like "Harmoney," "Money in Motion," and "Moneterics." He shares insights from his work as a business manager guiding musical talent, applying his unique background in both finance and music to offer rare perspective for entertainment industryprofessionals. "This episode goes beyond just the music," Fontana adds. "Ron talks about the business side of the industry, his approach to talent management, and how his financial expertise has helped him navigate the complex landscape of entertainment business. It's this combination of artistic passion and business acumen that makes his story so valuable for aspiring artists and industry veterans alike." Pullman continues to innovate today, releasing music withrespected labels like Makin' Moves and CyberJamz while maintaining a monthly residency at Atlanta's Eagle. The episode captures his ongoing commitment to keeping the spirit of House alive and thriving, channeling decades of experience, culture, and soul into every moment. True House Stories® continues its mission of unveiling the true behind-the-scenes stories of how dance music legends succeeded and continue to survive in the industry. Previous guests have included Carl Cox, Louie Vega, David Morales, DJ Sneak, Norman Jay, Mousse T., Cerrone, and Danny Tenaglia, making the podcast a essential listening experience for house music enthusiasts and industry professionals.

    47 min
  4. Risk Assessment interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 153 - True House Stories®

    12/03/2025

    Risk Assessment interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 153 - True House Stories®

    TRUE HOUSE STORIES® W/ RISK ASSESSMENT # 153 INTERVIEWED BY LENNY FONTANA In a standout episode of True House Stories, we spotlight the extraordinary journey of UK producer and DJ icon Risk Assessment (Glyne Brathwaite) a commanding presence in global dance music since the early 1990s. From the legendary halls of Ministry of Sound and Pacha to the electrifying energy of Fabric and the Miami Winter Music Conference (WMC), his career has been etched across some of the most influential stages in club culture. In the early 2000s, Brathwaite spearheaded Rude Awakening Promotions, curating cutting-edge music through his promotion skills that helped shape a generation of nightlife. After stepping away in 2007 to dedicate himself to fatherhood, he made a powerful return in 2014 under his Risk Assessment banner quickly reestablishing his place in the scene with releases on Stereo:type, Househead London, Reel People Music, and other respected imprints. Today, Risk Assessment stands as a master craftsman of modern house his productions celebrated worldwide for their precision, depth, and unmistakable signature. Yet behind the global acclaim lies a profound personal narrative.This episode unveils the discipline, resilience, and unwavering devotion to family that have defined his path, offering a rare glimpse into the man behind the music.

    1h 7m
  5. Dr. Glenn Sweety G Toby interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 152 - True House Stories®

    11/12/2025

    Dr. Glenn Sweety G Toby interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 152 - True House Stories®

    TRUE HOUSE STORIES® W/ DR. GLENN SWEETY G TOBY # 152 INTERVIEWED BY LENNY FONTANA Dr. Glenn Toby, also known as Mr. Sweety G, is a hip-hop pioneer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist with a successful career that spans decades and industries. He has been involved in music, sports management, and charitable work. The Hip-hop legend:Beginning in the 1970s and 1980s, Toby was known as" Dr. Glenn Toby, also known as Mr. Sweety G, is a hip-hop pioneer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist with a successful career that spans decades and industries. He has been involved in music, sports management. Beginning in the 1970s and 1980s, Glennwas known as "Sweety G" and was one of the first rap pioneers. He worked alongside iconic artists such as Doug E. Fresh, Biz Markie, and Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five. The Universal Hip Hop Museum has honored him for his contributions to the culture. In House music: Glenn was also signed to Capitol Records in 1989 as a solo artist and continued his music career into the 1990s as a writer, producer, and remixer or house and dance music and began his journey with Cultural Vibe, producer Winston Jones andOwner Michael Gusick of Easy Street Records. He then became a studio owner, along with his brother, Randall Toby, and they built a recording studio in Queens Village, which attracted artists like Luther Vandross's band and Run (ofRun DMC). Glenn then ventures into Entrepreneurship and management where he has had a highly successful career as a talent and sports manager, working with numerous NFL players and entertainers. He is described as an international dealmaker and global business leader. He is also an author, TEDx speaker, and filmmaker. Dr Glenn Toby as the Philanthropist creating The Book Bank Foundation. As the head of this foundation for over 30 years, Toby has provided literacy resources, food, and assistance to hundreds of thousands of people annually. Advocacy for the poor. Having been homeless as a child, Toby is passionateabout addressing poverty. He has traveled the world to find solutions and works to empower and uplift those in need.  Thestory does not end there as he will tell you his best work has not been done yet.  Listen to him explain it all as it is a masterclass.

    1h 17m
  6. Abbie Adams interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 151 - True House Stories®

    10/29/2025

    Abbie Adams interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 151 - True House Stories®

    TRUE HOUSE STORIES® W/ ABBIE ADAMS # 151 INTERVIEWED BY LENNY FONTANA Abbie Adams started with a roller skating store, which was called (Movin), deep within a very urban area of (East Orange, NJ). They would make custom-built roller skates when roller skating was very popular. Abbie happened to open up a second store at The Roxy in New York City, but then, around 1983/84, roller skating started falling back a bit, so the owners of The Roxy started having a Hip Hop night there. That’s when Afrika Bambaataa, Jazzy Jay and Hip Hop were just starting to explode in New York City. Abbie was also starting to managesome breakdancers along with the store (in NJ). Naughty By Nature, Queen Latifah, CeCe Rogers, and Lauren Hill – all lived right in the neighbourhood and as teenagers used to come into the store all the time. So Abbie felt very fortunate to be around the birth of so much incredible music. At the Roxy,Danny Krivit and DJ Julio were the DJ’s, and she owes a lot to Danny – as he really schooled me. He was a good friend of Larry Levan’s, as well his father had been in the music world, and he had such extensive knowledge of R&B. So Abbie became knowledgeable from her time roller skating at the Roxy, and running a record shop , she became more knowledgeable with the music industry because of Danny and other roller skaters. Abbie started hanging out at theParadise Garage. One of Abbie's dear friends was dating Ron St. Germain the engineer of the Peech Boys. He and Larry Levan were mixing Jeffrey Osbourne's "Plane Love" in the studio one night, and they asked Abbie if she wanted to come along. Abbie ran to the studio and was fortunate enough to meet Larry, and not to soon after, he became a really good friend of hers. Larry offered her a comp card to the Garage, because it was very difficult for Abbie to get in to The Garage because she was not gay.  At the time, Abbie was around the age of 22, 23, and she just couldn’t walk in, but suddenly, with this gold card, Abbie could go whenever she wanted! Her skate shop gradually turned into a record store, sort of accidentally, because her boyfriend was a DJ and had Technics 1200s in the store, and we’d have all these breakdancers in there dancing as well and selling the skates. People would come in and ask what the music was that was playing in the background. Abbie saw the demand rise and would go to New York and buy vinyl from Frankie Ramos at Downtown Records or Charlie Grappone at Vinyl Mania.  Abbie would bring it back to NJ and resell it for 25 cents more. It became more and more:less skates, more sales of vinyl records!  So Movin organically went from a skate store to a record shop. Watch as Abbie tells it all right here on True House Stories.

    1h 11m
  7. Jimi Polo interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 150 - True House Stories®

    10/15/2025

    Jimi Polo interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 150 - True House Stories®

    TRUE HOUSE STORIES® W/ JIMI POLO # 150 INTERVIEWED BY LENNY FONTANA James Perri A.K.A. Jimi Polo is a Singer, Musician, Songwriter, Composer, Producer, Actor, and DJ. James started his career in Chicago as one of the pioneers of Chicago House Music scene. His breakout involvement in the song “Shake Your Body” by Jeanette Thomas became a cult classic in Chicago and New York. His life completely changed back in the late 1980s when he took a bold step to move to the UK and pursue writing and producing dance music. Listen to his story as he unfolds step by step his movements from then to now—an amazing, multi-talented, accomplished man.

    56 min
  8. Alex Savvides interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 149 - True House Stories®

    09/17/2025

    Alex Savvides interview podcast hosted by Lenny Fontana # 149 - True House Stories®

    TRUE HOUSE STORIES® W/ ALEX SAVVIDES # 148 INTERVIEWED BY LENNY FONTANA Mr Alex Savvides started his DJ career at the tender age of 16 years old back in 1988. He was helping one of the promoters of legendary Acid House club Zigis, in Streatham, South London, and was blessed to have witnessed a very young Trevor Fung and Carl Cox spinning almost every weekend, and because of that experience he was instantly hooked! Within months Alex became the warm up DJ for them both and in oncurrence he was promoting his own midweek events called 'Casablanca' and '303 Below Zero'. Alex then went on to become the resident DJ at 'The Stoned Crow' in Streatham on Thursday and Sunday nights from around 1989-1993. Not too soon after Alex decided to hang his headphone up for a brief moment. After taking many years out from the music, he decided to come back in 2015 with a strong party called 'We Are Balearic'. This club night now is in its tenth successful year. This year 2025 Alex will be focusing on playing out as a guest DJ, and looking to release his own music productions and edits that will be available to purchase on Bandcamp and Traxsource soon. ♫ SUBSCRIBE TRUE HOUSE STORIES® NEWSLETTER: ✚ https://truehousestories.com/subscribe-newsletter

    55 min
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About

True House Stories® is a interview podcast series hosted by dance music icon, Lenny Fontana. It features candid and often untold stories from influential figures within the realm of house music. The show delves into personal anecdotes, pivotal moments, and behind-the-scenes tales from various DJs, producers, and other individuals who have made an impact in the house music scene. The podcast offers listeners an insider’s perspective on the history, evolution, and culture of house music through firsthand experiences shared by its key players like Carl Cox, Simon Dunmore, Kathy Sledge...

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