Mitten Music

Mitten Music

Discovering what goes into making the local music scene possible in the great state of Michigan. Episodes include interviews with local bands/artists, industry experts, venues, recording studios, and anything else that contributes to the success of music in the Mitten state. In addition, each episode will wrap up with a few songs from artists highlighted in our discussion.

  1. 4d ago

    From Hip Hop Church to 140 Million Streams: Steven Malcolm’s Rise

    Steven Malcolm⁠ shows how he went from grinding after work in a Grand Rapids hip hop church to signing with ⁠Curb Records⁠, earning 140M+ streams, and building a career without losing sight of the business. He breaks down the lessons he learned the hard way about artist contracts, publishing, ⁠SoundExchange⁠, and why hiring your own attorney can change everything. If you’re an artist, songwriter, or creative trying to turn talent into a real career, this conversation gives you the playbook and the warning labels. Steven also shares how The Edge, his youth-driven "hip hop church," shaped his artistry, leadership, and faith, and why that environment gave him the space to write, record, lead worship, and teach the next generation. You’ll hear how those early opportunities helped launch his path from local open mics to major stages like ⁠Van Andel Arena⁠ and beyond.We break down: How Steven built momentum by showing up daily while working a day jobThe publishing mistake he made early on and what he would do differently nowWhy royalty streams, co-pub, and legal representation matter more than most new artists realizeHow his story of fatherlessness, healing, marriage, and fatherhood fuels his songwritingWhy he’s expanding into mentorship, creative development, and Christian hip hop promotion If you need proof that consistency, business literacy, and a clear mission can change everything, this episode delivers. Perfect for artists, producers, managers, and anyone serious about building something that lasts in music.

    From Hip Hop Church to 140 Million Streams: Steven Malcolm’s Rise

  2. Aug 6

    Ficus: A Psychedelic Rock Band's Evolution

    Imagine a band so dedicated to pushing their creative limits that they embrace every talent within their circle—from synths and percussion to innovative video design. That’s the story of Ficus, whose recent lineup changes and fearless experimentation are redefining what it means to grow as a band. This episode gives you an insider look at their journey—from swapping instruments on stage, working with legendary venues like The Pyramid Scheme, to planning a debut full-length album set for 2027. Ben, Nick, Michael, and Mikey reveal how their collective approach, fueled by diverse artistic talents, keeps their sound fresh and emotionally resonant. You’ll discover behind-the-scenes stories of integrating cutting-edge visuals, navigating lineup shifts, and choosing to prioritize quality over rushing releases. Their dedication to community—even from small towns—shines through as they share how they support Michigan’s local scene and foster artistic growth amidst a complex busy schedule. Highlights include their upcoming performance with psychedelic legends Acid Mother's Temple, the intriguing process behind writing new material, and innovative strategies to create a cohesive, eclectic sound without sacrificing artistic integrity. Whether you're an aspiring musician, artist, or just craving a story of resilience and creative freedom, this episode offers a blueprint for soulful, collaborative artistry that thrives through diversity and shared vision. Perfect for fans of experimental rock, indie music, and passionate DIY artists—listen in and learn how to cultivate your own artistic freedom, embrace change, and turn your band into a thriving creative family. Discover why true collaboration isn’t just about making music—it's about building a community where every talent shines.

    Ficus: A Psychedelic Rock Band's Evolution

  3. Jul 30

    Matt McCalpin on The Alluvion, Music, Grooves, and the Mitten

    Discover how a passionate musician turned operations leader is shaping the Michigan live music scene — and why venue staff might be the true unsung heroes of your favorite songs. When Matt McCalpin moved back to Traverse City, he saw a missing piece in the local music puzzle: a venue that truly supports artists and community alike. Fast forward to today, he’s not only running operations at The Alluvion—a part of a groundbreaking community-focused complex—but also helping revive Michigan’s vibrant live scene from the ground up. In this episode, Matt shares the journey behind creating a space where musicians thrive, from crowdfunding to studio secrets, all driven by a deep love of groove-based funk and soulful rock. Join us and get inspired to keep the music playing—because every great gig begins with a community that cares.

    Matt McCalpin on The Alluvion, Music, Grooves, and the Mitten

  4. Jul 16

    From Garage Bands to Gig Venues: The Boltcutters' Musical Journey

    Most garage bands dream of turning their passion into something more—and for Mike D and The Boltcutters, they are gaining momentum toward their next goal. From starting out as a Craigslist project to packing their storage unit with all sorts of influences—from thrash metal to fuzzy garage rock—they’re proof that dedication and a little creative chaos can lead to something special. This episode reveals how a band with a rotating lineup and a storage yard rehearsal space is building momentum, outlining their unfiltered journey from humble beginnings to upcoming recordings. Mike shares the behind-the-scenes story of their recent EP, lineup changes, and the ambitious plan to hit the studio again this May. You’ll discover the real struggles and creative tactics involved in writing original music, ripping off your favorite bands, and staying persistent through setbacks—all while having a damn good time. We break down: How The Boltcutters transformed from a casual Craigslist gig to a band recording an EPThe unique approach of blending influences from T-Rex to Slayer, plus cover adaptationsWhy lineup consistency and friendship are the secret sauce to their sound and performanceTheir strategy for leveraging local shows, open mics, and festival slots to growThe surprisingly affordable, no-frills setup at their storage yard that keeps their noise alive Perfect for anyone chasing a band, a side gig, or just trying to make more noise—this is the story of grit, friendship, and the relentless pursuit of musical dreams.

    From Garage Bands to Gig Venues: The Boltcutters' Musical Journey

  5. Jul 9

    Making Music Live and Embracing Creativity — An Inside Look with Marcus AK and Friends

    Most artists waffle about whether their live sound matches their recordings—Marcus AK took a different route. He’s proof that you don’t need a massive band or endless backing tracks to deliver a compelling, authentic performance. Instead, a creative mindset, strategic deadlines, and a passion for experimentation can transform solo projects into electrifying live acts. In this episode, Marcus shares how he turned his basement solo projects into a dynamic band experience, all without losing that essential electronic vibe. You’ll discover how embracing flexibility, setting strict deadlines like The Stray's Battle of the Bands competition, and blending diverse genres — from surreal electronica to indie pop — can lead to memorable live shows. We break down the behind-the-scenes of translating complex layered recordings into raw, engaging performances that truly connect with audiences. Marcus and his bandmates reveal how their background in cover band chops, high school friendships, and relentless experimentation fuel their authenticity and creative growth. Why does this matter? Because many musicians get stuck in a trap—trying to replicate their studio perfection live, only to fall short or lose the magic. This episode shows you a different path: build your live identity from the ground up, prioritize genuine musical expression, and leverage the power of improvisation. Whether you’re a solo artist, band, or music lover dreaming of pushing boundaries, you’ll leave inspired to rethink what’s possible with your live set. Perfect for emerging artists, seasoned performers seeking a fresh angle, or anyone craving authentic musical connection. Marcus’s journey proves that with intentionality and a little chaos, you can craft a live experience that is just as raw and layered as your recordings — maybe even more so. Hit play and learn how to turn your solo project into a vibrant, unmissable live show. Timestamps:00:05 - Welcome to Mitten Music and introduction to Marcus AK00:32 - Marcus shares his project background: solo roots and supporting band members01:32 - Challenges with backing tracks and live adaptation strategies02:51 - How band members met and their shared musical journey03:33 - Acknowledging their achievement in reaching The Stray's Battle of the Bands finals04:10 - The benefits of deadlines for musical growth and performance preparation05:06 - Musicians' perspectives on genres, influences, and blending styles06:49 - Live versus recorded sound: maintaining musical flexibility and experimentation07:47 - Setlist planning for live shows and expanding their repertoire08:37 - Future plans: new music and upcoming performances09:44 - Evelyine's discography and recent accolades in music reviews10:49 - Local talent scene: inspiration from peers and upcoming musicians11:29 - Side projects: visual art and other musical endeavors12:18 - Nostalgic media references and past experiences in Battle of the Bands13:08 - Transitioning from basement recordings to live stage performance14:05 - What keeps musicians inspired: the fun, failures, and successes of creating music15:31 - The influence of live performances in reigniting songwriting and creativity16:53 - The impact of witnessing talented local bands and the next generation of musicians17:27 - Reflection on the event, camaraderie, and future musical pursuits18:00 - Routine adjustments before performances: balancing practice, beer, and creativity18:33 - Wrapping up: stay connected through social media and upcoming episodes Resources and Links: Revue Magazine Evelyine Burn Out Bright Creative

    Making Music Live and Embracing Creativity — An Inside Look with Marcus AK and Friends

  6. Jun 25

    Lunchbox Rachel: What "Daylight Savings Time" Taught Us About Disrupting Status Quo in Music

    Most musicians struggle to stay creatively inspired and true to themselves in a competitive industry — but Lunchbox Rachel and Alex Raeon are redefining what it means to make authentic, genre-agnostic music on their own terms. In this episode, we go behind the scenes with Rachel and Alex from Lunchbox Rachel, a band that’s as eclectic as their lunchbox-themed branding. You’ll discover how their playful approach to music — from variety-themed lyrics to spontaneous collaborations — keeps their creative spark alive. They share how reconnecting with their joy, embracing versatility, and staying true to their passion have allowed them to thrive outside the traditional industry grind. We break down: The surprising story behind Lunchbox Rachel’s quirky name and the significance of “the thermos” in their creative universeHow they craft different musical flavors — from indie rock to acoustic singer-songwriter — simply based on who’s involvedThe DIY recording process that’s more “studio magic” than expensive gear, including a hilarious story about recording a song with 37 different variations of one phraseThe importance of authenticity over algorithms, and why returning to why they started is their secret weaponHow community, friendship, and having fun fuel their ongoing projects and live performancesThis episode is perfect for independent artists, DIY musicians, or anyone feeling overwhelmed by “industry standards” — Lunchbox Rachel’s approach proves that staying true to your joy and experimenting fearlessly can lead to unexpected success and genuine artistry. If you’re tired of cookie-cutter music, this is your dose of inspiration to do it your way. Tune in and get inspired to think outside the box, have fun with your craft, and build your own musical lunchbox — because the best recipes come from authenticity and a little bit of breakfast-themed chaos.

    Lunchbox Rachel: What "Daylight Savings Time" Taught Us About Disrupting Status Quo in Music

  7. Jun 25

    Chelsea Whitaker: From Sneaking Cameras into Venues to Tour Bus Days: A Photographer’s Journey

    Most concert photos are missed opportunities—until Chelsea Whitaker reveals how she blends her DIY passion with professional finesse to make her images stand out. Since the age of eight, Chelsea’s been behind the camera, and her journey from point-and-shoot days to becoming a staple in West Michigan’s live music scene is nothing short of inspiring. Her story is a masterclass in turning a hobby into a multifaceted career—covering everything from concert photography and stage lighting to box office management and community outreach. In this episode, Chelsea shares her secret sauce for capturing compelling live music images and how she built trust with venues like The Pyramid Scheme, allowing her to shoot countless shows—often without direct commissions. You’ll discover her insider tips for excelling at local shows, her approach to learning stage lighting, and why the traditional online ticketing system creates barriers for dedicated fans. Plus, insights on navigating the logistics of concert promotion and the upcoming challenges—and opportunities—brought by new venues like the downtown amphitheater in Grand Rapids, MI. We break down Chelsea’s involvement in innovative projects like the New Moon Songwriting Challenge, where artists collaborate across genres—and she’s right there photographing the magic. She explains how her freelance work and staff roles complement each other, creating a versatile blueprint for artists and enthusiasts looking to expand their careers in music and event production. Her advice on community engagement, building a local network, and supporting independent venues is eye-opening for anyone wanting to be more than just an attendee. Why does this matter? As the live music scene grows more competitive and complex, understanding the behind-the-scenes forces can elevate your perspective—whether you're an artist, fan, or industry hopeful. Chelsea’s perspective reminds us that every concert, every photo, and every ticket sale contributes to a thriving creative economy. Missing out on these details means missing the chance to fully experience or support local music culture—and that’s a lost opportunity. Perfect for aspiring photographers, local fans, musicians, and anyone eager to demystify the live music world, this episode gives you actionable insights, inspiring stories, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it truly takes to thrive in the scene. If you’ve ever wondered how to get closer to the action or want to understand the hidden layers of event production, Chelsea’s journey will motivate you to get involved—because the scene needs more passionate people like you. Links: Local Spins The Pyramid Scheme Sound of the Zoo

    Chelsea Whitaker: From Sneaking Cameras into Venues to Tour Bus Days: A Photographer’s Journey

  8. Jun 18

    Ironwood: Metal Meets Wood Celtic/American Music to the Battle of the Bands at The Stray

    Most duo bands thrive on synergy—until they reveal the secret that keeps their sound full, their performances fun, and their relationship stronger than ever. Ironwood, a married folk duo influenced by Celtic and Americana sounds, shares how their bond, shared creativity, and even their foot-stomping stage presence make them a one-of-a-kind act—and why their dynamic is a blueprint for success in both music and love. In this lively episode, Mark and Anna from Ironwood take us inside their journey from separate musical worlds—metal and acoustic—to a powerful partnership shaped by their marriage and shared passion for authenticity. They explore how being a married couple makes rehearsals effortless, how their creative collaboration is fueled by nearly a decade of partnership, and why they intentionally keep the process fun over stressful. You’ll discover how their approach to songwriting, blending genres, and even improvising stage routines keeps their performances fresh, relatable, and full of energy. We break down their strategies for staying in sync, handling mistakes on stage with humor, and balancing their personal and musical lives. Plus, hear how their love for community, supporting other bands, and seeking inspiration from diverse genres shapes their evolving sound—from Celtic folk to jazz-themed Christmas tunes and beyond. They also reflect on why venues like The Stray are more than just performance spaces—they’re a vital part of their journey, representing quality, community, and artistic integrity. Why does this matter? In a world flooded with solo acts and overproduced recordings, Ironwood shows that genuine connection, shared values, and a sense of fun can amplify your music in ways that no studio effects can match. Whether you're a musician, a couple in business together, or simply craving authentic artistry, this episode is packed with insights—and plenty of laughs—that remind you that the best performances happen when you’re true to yourself and each other. Perfect for anyone navigating the creative collaboration, balancing personal relationships with art, or seeking inspiration to keep their musical journey joyful and authentic. Tune in, get inspired, and learn how a strong duo manages to sound like a full band—all while loving every minute of it.In this episode: How Mark and Anna developed the name Ironwood from their musical influences and the symbolism behind itThe challenges and benefits of working as a married couple in a duo configurationTheir approach to songwriting, live improvisations, and blending genres seamlesslyInsights into performing at the Battle of the Bands competition and what it means for local musiciansThe importance of community and quality venues like The Stray in supporting live musicTheir plans for a Christmas album and creating versatile, genre-crossing original musicTheir favorite musicians they'd love to tour with, including dream collaboration choicesResources & Links: Ironwood - Official WebsiteThe Stray - Community Venue

    Ironwood: Metal Meets Wood Celtic/American Music to the Battle of the Bands at The Stray
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4.4
out of 5
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About

Discovering what goes into making the local music scene possible in the great state of Michigan. Episodes include interviews with local bands/artists, industry experts, venues, recording studios, and anything else that contributes to the success of music in the Mitten state. In addition, each episode will wrap up with a few songs from artists highlighted in our discussion.

Information

  • Creator
    Mitten Music
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    135
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Mitten Music
  • Show Website
    Mitten Music