258 episodes

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.

Chris DeMakes A Podcast Chris DeMakes

    • Music
    • 4.9 • 760 Ratings

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.

    Zac Barnett discusses American Authors "Best Day of My Life"

    Zac Barnett discusses American Authors "Best Day of My Life"

    In this episode, American Authors vocalist and guitarist Zac Barnett invites listeners behind the curtain of their 2013 smash hit single "Best Day of My Life." He shares stories about the song's creation and recording process, offering insights into its enduring popularity over the past decade. Despite its lasting presence in commercials and its ability to resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, Zac surprisingly reflects back on aspects he would approach differently in the recording today. This episode captures the infectious joy of the song itself, making it a must-listen for music enthusiasts everywhere.

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    If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast.
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    • 1 hr 10 min
    You Might Also Like: The New Yorker Radio Hour

    You Might Also Like: The New Yorker Radio Hour

    Introducing The Attack on Black History, with Nikole Hannah-Jones and Jelani Cobb from The New Yorker Radio Hour.
    Follow the show: The New Yorker Radio Hour
    Across much of the country, Republican officials are reaching into K-12 classrooms and universities alike to exert control over what can be taught. In Florida, Texas, and many other states, laws now restrict teaching historical facts about race and racism. Book challenges and bans are surging. Public universities are seeing political meddling in the tenure process. Advocates of these measures say, in effect, that education must emphasize only the positive aspects of American history. Nikole Hannah-Jones, the New York Times Magazine reporter who developed the 1619 Project, and Jelani Cobb, the dean of the Columbia University School of Journalism, talk with David Remnick about the changing climate for intellectual freedom. “I just think it’s rich,” Hannah-Jones says, “that the people who say they are opposing indoctrination are in fact saying that curricula must be patriotic.” She adds, “You don’t ban books, you don’t ban curriculum, you don’t ban the teaching of ideas, just to do it. You do it to control what we are able to understand and think about and imagine for our society.”

    DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.

    Page Hamilton discusses Helmet's "Unsung"

    Page Hamilton discusses Helmet's "Unsung"

    Helmet frontman Page Hamilton sits in this week to share the writing and recording process behind the band’s iconic 1992 single “Unsung.” He vividly recounts the genesis of the track, even recalling the exact desk where he crafted its unforgettable riffs. Page also unravels the often abstract lyrics that have sparked intrigue and interpretations for decades, shedding light on their true meaning. Tune in for a deep exploration of one of the most influential hard rock songs of the early 90s.

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    If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast.
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    • 1 hr 23 min
    A discussion on Kurt Cobain and Nirvana's "Heart-Shaped Box"

    A discussion on Kurt Cobain and Nirvana's "Heart-Shaped Box"

    In honor of the 30th anniversary of Kurt Cobain's passing, this week's episode pays homage to the legendary songwriter by dissecting Nirvana's monumental hit single "Heart-Shaped Box”. Joining as co-host is Chris Fafalios, the producer of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, who brings his unique perspective to unravel the unconventional brilliance of the song. "Heart-Shaped Box" stands as another testament to Nirvana's defiance of conformity, with its dark and enigmatic lyrics perfectly complementing the raw intensity of the music. Together, the hosts explore the intricacies of Cobain's songwriting and reflect on the enduring impact of Nirvana's legacy.

    If you like movies, check out Regal Unlimited: https://regmovies.onelink.me/4207629222/dq0q30co (Use the code DEMAKES24 to get 10% off!)

    If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast.
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    • 54 min
    Too Much Effing Perspective: Less Than Jake's Chris DeMakes - Winning the Rock 'n' Roll Lottery

    Too Much Effing Perspective: Less Than Jake's Chris DeMakes - Winning the Rock 'n' Roll Lottery

    Chris DeMakes was recently the guest on Too Much Effing Perspective, another great podcast on the Evergreen Podcasts network. The show is hosted by Allen Keller and Alex Hofmann, and together they dive deep into their guests' harrowing, humbling, and hilarious Spinal Tap moments on the road. If you enjoy this episode, be sure to subscribe to Too Much Effing Perspective wherever you get your podcasts!

    Check out the Too Much Effing Perspective website at https://tmepshow.com , and follow them on IG at @tmepshow .

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    • 40 min
    Chris Ballew discusses The Presidents of the United States of America's "Peaches"

    Chris Ballew discusses The Presidents of the United States of America's "Peaches"

    To celebrate 200 episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, Chris Ballew makes his triumphant return, this time to discuss the writing and recording of The Presidents of the United States of America’s 1996 hit “Peaches”. He recalls the fascinating journey behind this iconic track, from the spark of inspiration while tripping under a peach tree in the early 90s to a chance encounter with a muttering man in the street years later. As is always the case with the creative force that is Chris Ballew, the memories and anecdotes are just as fun and unique as the songs themselves, making this episode a must-listen for songwriters and music fans alike.

    If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to help support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast.
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    • 1 hr 10 min

Customer Reviews

4.9 out of 5
760 Ratings

760 Ratings

Tycin J ,

This Show Does Not Fail

I’ve appreciated this show to the fullest amount. I grew up listening to punk, ska, emo in So Cal in the late 90s/00s. As a teen I wasted too much time hating on the music that wasn’t in my rotation but secretly enjoyed. This podcast truly opens up your mind and allows you to put down your guard to what makes a song so great, even the artists that you would not give a chance, you find are actually good people, great artists, and enjoy the common thread of putting your blood, sweat and tears to the love of music. 10/10 recommend.

The Green day kid ,

This is awesome

This is the best podcast I’ve ever heard especially since I listen to reel big fish Nofx also pls make one with Green Day but honestly hearing some of my heroes on this podcast has been crazy.

kingtony23 ,

Simply wonderful

Some of my favorite songwriters have been on this show and some of my favorite songwriters (de)make it. Couldn’t ask for much more out of a podcast but it’d be kinda cool if you all just started talking about sports betting on occasion!!!

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