The Hook with Johni & Jess

Jess Ellett & Johni Baird
  • 4.8 (11)
  • Music Interviews

Hosted by Jess and Johni, The Hook features candid conversations with musicians, artists, entertainers, and creatives of all kinds. We go beyond the surface to explore the real stories behind the art — the first spark, the turning point, the doubt, the obsession, and the moments that changed everything. Just like a hook in a song stays with you, every creative has something that grabbed hold and shaped who they became. This isn’t just about what artists create.  It’s about why they couldn’t stop. 🎙 Interviews 🎸 Live performances 🎣 Real stories behind the craft Once you’re in, you’re in.

  1. 5d ago

    Ben Guidry: From Nashville Bass Player to Dancing Internet Sensation

    Send Johni & Jess a text Have you seen the guy on TikTok dancing in his yard while his neighbor plays drums across the street? Meet Ben Guidry — and trust us, there's a whole lot more to this Nashville musician than his viral dance moves! We're coming to you LIVE from Nashville! In this special episode of The Hook with Johni & Jess, we sit down with Ben for one of our funniest, most honest, and surprisingly heartfelt conversations yet! After spending roughly 25 years in Nashville, including more than two decades playing bass behind other artists, Ben is finally stepping into the spotlight with his own music. And his journey has been anything but ordinary! We talk about the accidental viral videos that brought him a whole new audience, the realities of making a living in Music City, and the unexpected phone call from Wynonna Judd that helped set his recording journey in motion. But there's so much more to Ben's story. He opens up about divorce, therapy, losing his father, raising three boys, and how songwriting became a way to process life's hardest moments. We also get the hilarious stories that could only come from a musician who's spent decades playing Nashville honky-tonks, including one particularly unfortunate incident involving a tip jar at Tootsie's! And yes, Ben treats us to two live acoustic performances of "Dance Slow" and "These Two Hands!" With more singles on the way and a full album planned for February 2027, Ben is proving that sometimes the best things happen when you stop trying to be who everyone expects and just start being yourself. This is one of our special Live from Nashville episodes, and you won't want to miss it! Follow Ben Gidry: TikTok, Instagram & Facebook: @BonafideBenGidry Find Ben's original music on Spotify, Apple Music, and other streaming platforms by searching Ben Gidry. Support the show Thanks for getting hooked with Johni & Jess! The Hook is where music, art, and passion come together! We go beyond the spotlight to share the real stories behind musicians, artists, and creators — the moments that hooked them, the journeys that shaped them, and everything in between. We're passionate about giving independent artists a voice and introducing you to incredible talent you might not have discovered yet! Stay Connected & Get Hooked!  Visit www.johniandjess.com for guest features, episode highlights, and more. Have a story worth sharing? We'd love to hear from you! Follow us for new episodes, behind-the-scenes fun, and more! Facebook: The Hook with Johni & JessInstagram: @thehookwithjohniandjessTikTok: @johniandjessLove what you're hearing? Follow the show, leave us a review, and share your favorite episodes! Every listen and share helps us shine a bigger spotlight on the artists and stories that deserve to be heard. The Hook with Johni & Jess — Where passion begins with a moment.

    Ben Guidry: From Nashville Bass Player to Dancing Internet Sensation

  2. Oct 7

    Grayson Walsh: From Virginia Roots to the Nashville Dream

    Send Johni & Jess a text Virginia roots. Nashville dreams. And a bass-baritone voice made for country music. At just 26, Grayson Walsh is building his place in Nashville with a sound that blends traditional country storytelling, neon-bar energy and a little cinematic heartbreak. Raised in Glen Allen, Virginia, Grayson went from singing in choir to performing with JMU’s Exit 245, studying opera, writing his own music and eventually packing up for Music City to chase the career he knew he wanted. Grayson joins Johni and Jess to talk about finding his sound, why heartbreak has been pretty good for his songwriting career, and the reality of trying to stand out in a city overflowing with talent. He takes us behind songs including “Fall In Fall Out,” “I-81” and “New Pontoon,” shares how an unexpected connection landed him an opportunity to perform at a VIP pre-show event for Luke Bryan’s Farm Tour, and gives us a preview of what he's working toward next. He also gets very real about what it actually takes to make it in Nashville: showing up, staying determined and refusing to change your musical identity just to please someone else. And, because this is The Hook, we also uncover the important stuff — including his Diet Dr. Pepper obsession, inability to throw a football, and a level of Marvel fandom that includes Captain America pajamas. And when you hear what Grayson considers the ultimate sign that he's finally “made it,” you might understand exactly why we're excited to see where this story goes next. Find & Follow Grayson Walsh Instagram & TikTok: @GraysonWalshOfficial Listen to Grayson Walsh on Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube and Amazon Music. Grayson says to start with “New Pontoon” — then, after you “run through a wall,” follow it up with “Fall In Fall Out.” Support the show Thanks for getting hooked with Johni & Jess! The Hook is where music, art, and passion come together! We go beyond the spotlight to share the real stories behind musicians, artists, and creators — the moments that hooked them, the journeys that shaped them, and everything in between. We're passionate about giving independent artists a voice and introducing you to incredible talent you might not have discovered yet! Stay Connected & Get Hooked!  Visit www.johniandjess.com for guest features, episode highlights, and more. Have a story worth sharing? We'd love to hear from you! Follow us for new episodes, behind-the-scenes fun, and more! Facebook: The Hook with Johni & JessInstagram: @thehookwithjohniandjessTikTok: @johniandjessLove what you're hearing? Follow the show, leave us a review, and share your favorite episodes! Every listen and share helps us shine a bigger spotlight on the artists and stories that deserve to be heard. The Hook with Johni & Jess — Where passion begins with a moment.

    Grayson Walsh: From Virginia Roots to the Nashville Dream

  3. Oct 1

    Mark Damon of The Pretty Reckless: Behind the Bass

    Send Johni & Jess a text From dive bars to stadiums packed with 100,000 fans, Mark Damon has lived just about every version of the musician's life. This week on The Hook with Johni & Jess, we're joined by Mark Damon of The Pretty Reckless for an unforgettable conversation about life on the road, the evolution of the band, and what it's like sharing the stage with some of rock's biggest legends. Mark takes us behind the scenes of touring with AC/DC, opening for The Rolling Stones, and the incredible story of how The Pretty Reckless came together. He also shares what makes Taylor Momsen such a powerful performer, the musical chemistry that keeps the band together, and the challenges of recording their album Dear God while touring the world. With stories about Soundgarden, Foo Fighters, his decades in ska and jazz, and a hilarious speed round, Mark reminds us that even after years in the music business, it's still all about the love of music. From backstage stories to the secrets behind the bass, this is one episode you don't want to miss. Follow Mark Damon & The Pretty Reckless Keep up with Mark Damon and The Pretty Reckless for the latest music, tour dates, behind-the-scenes moments and more! The Pretty Reckless Website & tour dates: theprettyreckless.comInstagram: @theprettyrecklessFacebook: The Pretty RecklessTikTok: @theprettyrecklessYouTube: @TPROfficialMark Damon Facebook: Mark Damon Music Instagram: @markdamonbass 🎸 Artists & Bands Mentioned in This Episode: The Pretty Reckless | Taylor Momsen | AC/DC | The Rolling Stones | Soundgarden | Foo Fighters | Dave Grohl | New York Ska-Jazz Ensemble | The Toasters Clark Terry | Jazz legend with ties to UNH's jazz program | Listen Count Basie Orchestra | Musicians from the orchestra visited the program | Listen Duke Ellington Orchestra | Another source of visiting jazz musicians | Listen Joe Williams | One of the artists Mark recalls playing with | Listen Bob Mintzer | Among the musicians Mark names | Listen Frank Wess | Among the musicians Mark names | Listen Frank Foster | Among the musicians Mark names | Listen Bob Brookmeyer | Among the musicians Mark names | Listen Al Grey | Gave Mark a trombone lesson in his hotel room | Listen Support the show Thanks for getting hooked with Johni & Jess! The Hook is where music, art, and passion come together! We go beyond the spotlight to share the real stories behind musicians, artists, and creators — the moments that hooked them, the journeys that shaped them, and everything in between. We're passionate about giving independent artists a voice and introducing you to incredible talent you might not have discovered yet! Stay Connected & Get Hooked!  Visit www.johniandjess.com for guest features, episode highlights, and more. Have a story worth sharing? We'd love to hear from you! Follow us for new episodes, behind-the-scenes fun, and more! Facebook: The Hook with Johni & JessInstagram: @thehookwithjohniandjessTikTok: @johniandjessLove what you're hearing? Follow the show, leave us a review, and share your favorite episodes! Every listen and share helps us shine a bigger spotlight on the artists and stories that deserve to be heard. The Hook with Johni & Jess — Where passion begins with a moment.

    Mark Damon of The Pretty Reckless: Behind the Bass

  4. Sep 15

    Coming to Richmond: RIFF 2026 + The Launch of Lightmakers with Heather Waters

    Send Johni & Jess a text What happens when film, music and storytelling become more than entertainment — and start bringing people together? This week on The Hook, Johni and Jess sit down with Heather Waters, Founder and Producer of the Richmond International Film Festival (RIFF), as the festival celebrates its 15th anniversary September 22–27. Heather takes us inside the incredible story of RIFF — from launching the festival just one week after moving to Richmond to building it into an international event featuring 180+ films from 30 countries and 60 events. She also introduces Lightmakers, her newest venture using music, film and dialogue to build bridges across cultures and borders. We get into the story behind this year’s theme, “Story Is Our Blueprint,” the films and experiences you won’t want to miss, and the special Lightmakers pre-launch featuring panels, a VIP mixer and live music from Rodney the Soul Singer, Kyle Davis, The Joey Davis Band,  plus appearances from Elana Lisa.  Heather also opens up about her own unexpected path — from performing and touring to filmmaking, international relations and peacebuilding — and how the pieces that once seemed completely unrelated ultimately led her exactly where she was supposed to be. 🎬 Richmond International Film Festival September 22–27, 2026 🎟️ View the festival schedule & purchase tickets/passes: riff.aventive.org 🎥 Learn more about RIFF: RVAfilmfestival.com From red carpets and international films to live music and conversations that cross borders, this is a look at the woman behind one of Richmond’s biggest arts events — and what she’s building next. Heather Waters, you’re on The Hook. Support the show Thanks for getting hooked with Johni & Jess! The Hook is where music, art, and passion come together! We go beyond the spotlight to share the real stories behind musicians, artists, and creators — the moments that hooked them, the journeys that shaped them, and everything in between. We're passionate about giving independent artists a voice and introducing you to incredible talent you might not have discovered yet! Stay Connected & Get Hooked!  Visit www.johniandjess.com for guest features, episode highlights, and more. Have a story worth sharing? We'd love to hear from you! Follow us for new episodes, behind-the-scenes fun, and more! Facebook: The Hook with Johni & JessInstagram: @thehookwithjohniandjessTikTok: @johniandjessLove what you're hearing? Follow the show, leave us a review, and share your favorite episodes! Every listen and share helps us shine a bigger spotlight on the artists and stories that deserve to be heard. The Hook with Johni & Jess — Where passion begins with a moment.

    Coming to Richmond: RIFF 2026 + The Launch of Lightmakers with Heather Waters

  5. Sep 11

    Christos DC: Roots, Rebellion & Reggae

    Send Johni & Jess a text What happens when a kid raised by opera singers finds his voice in reggae? For Christos DC, the answer became a life that has crossed genres, cultures and continents. From his Greek-American roots in Washington, D.C., to years on the road with reggae legends including Don Carlos and The Itals, Christos has built a career around something increasingly rare: making the music he believes in, on his own terms. On this episode of The Hook with Johni & Jess, Christos opens up about the loss of his brother that changed the course of his life, finding his place in a culture different from his own, the lessons learned from decades of touring, and why staying independent matters more to him than fame. We also get into Honest Music, his collaborations around the world, the unexpected connection between opera and reggae, the deeply personal song he may never perform live, and why he believes music can carry people through some of the hardest moments of their lives. Plus — India, Brad Pitt with dreadlocks, a reggae song born from a very unfortunate case of food poisoning, and a Reverse Cowgirl that somehow gets us into politics, Madonna, Michael Jackson and James Brown. This is reggae without borders — and Christos DC is on The Hook. Listen to Christos DC https://open.spotify.com/artist/6JI815CBvvt4BZAmdRw8e4 Follow Christos DC on Social Media: www.facebook.com/ChristosDC12 www.youtube.com/@christosdc5983 www.instagram.com/christosdcofficial Support the show Thanks for getting hooked with Johni & Jess! The Hook is where music, art, and passion come together! We go beyond the spotlight to share the real stories behind musicians, artists, and creators — the moments that hooked them, the journeys that shaped them, and everything in between. We're passionate about giving independent artists a voice and introducing you to incredible talent you might not have discovered yet! Stay Connected & Get Hooked!  Visit www.johniandjess.com for guest features, episode highlights, and more. Have a story worth sharing? We'd love to hear from you! Follow us for new episodes, behind-the-scenes fun, and more! Facebook: The Hook with Johni & JessInstagram: @thehookwithjohniandjessTikTok: @johniandjessLove what you're hearing? Follow the show, leave us a review, and share your favorite episodes! Every listen and share helps us shine a bigger spotlight on the artists and stories that deserve to be heard. The Hook with Johni & Jess — Where passion begins with a moment.

    Christos DC: Roots, Rebellion & Reggae

  6. Aug 18

    Plunky Branch: Smooth Groove with Richmond Music Legend

    Send Johni & Jess a text Richmond music legend James “Plunky” Branch joins The Hook with Johni & Jess for a wide-ranging conversation about more than five decades of music, creativity and cultural impact. From his early years in Richmond and time at Columbia University to the evolution of Juju and Oneness of Juju, Plunky shares how jazz, African rhythms, funk, soul and R&B shaped his unmistakable sound. He also opens up about his connection to the early development of go-go music, his path as an independent artist and label owner, and the experiences that have taken his music around the world. Along the way, we talk about creativity, family, race, community, technology and why Plunky continues to seek out new sounds and new ideas after all these years. It’s a thoughtful, surprising and often funny conversation with an artist whose influence reaches far beyond Richmond—and whose connection to his hometown remains as strong as ever. Mentions: Lonnie Liston Smith Melvin Ras Mel GloverMighty Joshua WHUR 96.3 / The Daily Drum Experience Unlimited (E.U.) / Sugar Bear 725 Arts Connect with Plunky: 🌐 Website: www.plunkyone.com 📘 Facebook: www.facebook.com/PlunkyandOneness 𝕏 X (Twitter): https://x.com/plunkyone ▶️ YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/plunkyb 🍎 Apple Music: music.apple.com/us/artist/plunky-oneness/6315845 🟢 Spotify: open.spotify.com/artist/0zeMpqW3Y0hyDOV6iQ6U9p?si=YYw70XuoQD6l8vKsp-MBgg&nd=1&dlsi=f660f15c79fa454b Support the show Thanks for getting hooked with Johni & Jess! The Hook is where music, art, and passion come together! We go beyond the spotlight to share the real stories behind musicians, artists, and creators — the moments that hooked them, the journeys that shaped them, and everything in between. We're passionate about giving independent artists a voice and introducing you to incredible talent you might not have discovered yet! Stay Connected & Get Hooked!  Visit www.johniandjess.com for guest features, episode highlights, and more. Have a story worth sharing? We'd love to hear from you! Follow us for new episodes, behind-the-scenes fun, and more! Facebook: The Hook with Johni & JessInstagram: @thehookwithjohniandjessTikTok: @johniandjessLove what you're hearing? Follow the show, leave us a review, and share your favorite episodes! Every listen and share helps us shine a bigger spotlight on the artists and stories that deserve to be heard. The Hook with Johni & Jess — Where passion begins with a moment.

    Plunky Branch: Smooth Groove with Richmond Music Legend

  7. Aug 6

    Jordan Rein: Building the Sound of REIN

    Send Johni & Jess a text What happens when three incredibly talented musicians share a studio, trust each other completely, and set out to make the best music they possibly can? You get JORDAN REIN. In this episode of The Hook with Johni & Jess, Jordan Rein, Peter Wellman, and Maddox Bruce join us for an unforgettable conversation about the evolution of their Richmond-based power trio, their collaborative creative process, and the friendships that fuel their music. The band shares how they came together, why performing as a trio pushes each of them to new creative heights, and how every member leaves their fingerprint on the music. Jordan reflects on receiving his first guitar as a surprise Christmas gift, Peter talks about unexpectedly becoming a drummer before performing at the Grand Ole Opry with his high school show choir, and Maddox shares how playing bass during the pandemic and performing in church shaped his musical journey. We also dive into Jordan Rein's ambitious new concept album, 65432, a deeply personal project exploring the five stages of grief through music, accompanied by an upcoming short film. Jordan opens up about the healing process behind the record, while Peter and Maddox discuss how emotionally invested they became in bringing the songs to life. Along the way, the conversation takes plenty of unexpected turns—from Jordan's experience performing at the legendary Whisky A Go Go alongside rock icons, to touring with musicians like Oliver Anthony and Joey Davis, the future of authentic rock music in the age of AI, Jordan's lifelong fascination with sharks, and the hilarious true story of building the world's fastest flying lawnmower. The episode also features three tracks from Jordan Rein, a live performance of The Star-Spangled Banner at Carmax Park and an always entertaining speed round, making this a must-listen for music lovers, creatives, and anyone who appreciates the stories behind passionate artists. Featuring: Jordan Rein (vocals/guitar), Peter Wellman (drums, keys, multi-instrumentalist), and Maddox Bruce (bass). Follow Jordan Rein on Social Media IG ww.instagram.com/rein.rocks FB www.facebook.com/ReinRadio TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@rein.rocks River City ConsultingRiver City Consulting is the the official website agency for The Hook podcast. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show Thanks for getting hooked with Johni & Jess! The Hook is where music, art, and passion come together! We go beyond the spotlight to share the real stories behind musicians, artists, and creators — the moments that hooked them, the journeys that shaped them, and everything in between. We're passionate about giving independent artists a voice and introducing you to incredible talent you might not have discovered yet! Stay Connected & Get Hooked!  Visit www.johniandjess.com for guest features, episode highlights, and more. Have a story worth sharing? We'd love to hear from you! Follow us for new episodes, behind-the-scenes fun, and more! Facebook: The Hook with Johni & JessInstagram: @thehookwithjohniandjessTikTok: @johniandjessLove what you're hearing? Follow the show, leave us a review, and share your favorite episodes! Every listen and share helps us shine a bigger spotlight on the artists and stories that deserve to be heard. The Hook with Johni & Jess — Where passion begins with a moment.

    Jordan Rein: Building the Sound of REIN

  8. Jul 23

    The Gary Green Story: Roads, Reeds & Rhythm

    Send Johni & Jess a text From hitchhiking the East Coast with a harmonica in his pocket to performing on some of the most iconic stages in America, Gary Green has lived a life that sounds more like a movie script than a résumé. In this episode of The Hook with Johni & Jess, Gary shares the incredible journey that took him from teaching himself harmonica on the side of the road to winning at the World Harmonica Championships, performing at the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium, and collaborating with musicians around the globe. Along the way, he opens up about playing alongside Jimmy Buffett, performing with the cast of The Dukes of Hazzard, working with Afghan musicians through a U.S. State Department cultural exchange program, and engineering sound for legends including B.B. King, Kris Kristofferson, Mavis Staples, George Thorogood, Yo-Yo Ma, Chick Corea, and many more. Gary's passion for music extends far beyond performance. Whether he's talking about the art of supporting songwriters, the magic that happens between performer and audience, or the unexpected lessons learned through travel and cultural connection, every story reveals a deep appreciation for the power of music to bring people together. This conversation is packed with road stories, behind-the-scenes music industry insights, harmonica geekery, and unforgettable moments from a career spent chasing great songs and meaningful connections. If you've ever wondered what happens when talent, curiosity, and a harmonica collide, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Links & Social Media Gary Green Official Website Gary Harmonica Green YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@cvilletunes Support the show Thanks for getting hooked with Johni & Jess! The Hook is where music, art, and passion come together! We go beyond the spotlight to share the real stories behind musicians, artists, and creators — the moments that hooked them, the journeys that shaped them, and everything in between. We're passionate about giving independent artists a voice and introducing you to incredible talent you might not have discovered yet! Stay Connected & Get Hooked!  Visit www.johniandjess.com for guest features, episode highlights, and more. Have a story worth sharing? We'd love to hear from you! Follow us for new episodes, behind-the-scenes fun, and more! Facebook: The Hook with Johni & JessInstagram: @thehookwithjohniandjessTikTok: @johniandjessLove what you're hearing? Follow the show, leave us a review, and share your favorite episodes! Every listen and share helps us shine a bigger spotlight on the artists and stories that deserve to be heard. The Hook with Johni & Jess — Where passion begins with a moment.

    The Gary Green Story: Roads, Reeds & Rhythm
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Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Hosted by Jess and Johni, The Hook features candid conversations with musicians, artists, entertainers, and creatives of all kinds. We go beyond the surface to explore the real stories behind the art — the first spark, the turning point, the doubt, the obsession, and the moments that changed everything. Just like a hook in a song stays with you, every creative has something that grabbed hold and shaped who they became. This isn’t just about what artists create.  It’s about why they couldn’t stop. 🎙 Interviews 🎸 Live performances 🎣 Real stories behind the craft Once you’re in, you’re in.

Information

  • Creator
    Jess Ellett & Johni Baird
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Hook with Johni & Jess
  • Show Website
    The Hook with Johni & Jess