Behind The Sound

Behind The Sound
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Music Interviews
  • Updated Biweekly

Brian Johnson is a music fan who loves digging into the stories and creative spark behind the songs. On Behind the Sound, he trades stiff interviews for relaxed, curious conversations that feel like talking shop with a friend. When he’s not chasing down great stories, he’s out running trails, writing poetry, or hunting for his next favorite playlist. This is your backstage pass. Behind the Sound goes where most music interviews don’t — into the creative decisions, the risks, the doubts, the accidents, and the moments that make the music work. We talk process, not press releases—craft, not clichés.

  1. 22h ago

    Corduroy Brown - Behind The Sound

    Behind the Sound welcomes singer-songwriter Corduroy Brown for a deeply personal conversation about music, mental health, family, creativity, and the road that shaped his sound. In this episode, Corduroy opens up about learning guitar in 2008, growing up around church music, and finding his early influence in rock and worship before building the comforting indie-pop sound he’s known for today. He shares the story behind his songwriting approach, and why authenticity matters more to him than writing for clicks or trends. The conversation also goes into some powerful personal territory. Corduroy reflects on 2017 as the darkest period of his life, the role therapy and medication played in helping him survive, and how songs like “To My Younger Self,” “Secret War,” “Rest,” “Survivor’s Guilt,” “Watercolors,” and “Doing My Best” became part of that healing process. He also talks about his near-death experience from a rare post-COVID illness, the days in the hospital, ECMO treatment, and the emotional aftermath of surviving something that changed everything. There’s also plenty of joy in the episode. Corduroy talks about his parents’ support, their role in his merch and live shows, his love for playing live, his unexpected Britney Spears cover, the meaning of “Fourth Avenue,” and the creative visuals that accompany his music. From touring snacks to road-trip playlists to gardening, the episode paints a vivid portrait of an artist who is honest, grounded, and fully himself. If you’ve ever connected with music that feels real, vulnerable, and human, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Listen now and hear why Corduroy Brown’s music resonates so deeply with listeners.

    Corduroy Brown - Behind The Sound

  2. Jul 26

    Shannon Clark - Behind The Sound

    Join us for a special live episode of Behind the Sound, recorded at Crafted and Cured in Troy, Ohio, where host Brian sits down with Shannon Clark for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about music, songwriting, family, and the stories behind the songs. Shannon opens up about his early days making music, the role his wife Brittany played in his band history, the artists and genres that shaped his sound, and the creative process behind albums like Marks on the Wall, This Old World, and his newest release, All You Need to Know. Along the way, he shares memorable stories about recording live, writing through grief, finding his artistic voice, and what it means to make music that feels true. This episode also features live performances, including “Postcards” and “Hard Living,” giving listeners a front-row seat to Shannon’s heartfelt storytelling and soulful delivery. If you love Americana, soul, honest songwriting, and great behind-the-scenes conversation, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

    Shannon Clark - Behind The Sound

  3. Jul 19

    Amanda B. Perry - Behind The Sound

    In this deeply personal conversation, Amanda takes us behind the scenes of her latest album List of Lovers, released late in 2025 . You'll discover how her songs are inspired by diverse chapters of her life, each representing a different lover with its unique flavor—whether Latin-inspired guitar, cinematic ballads, or pop-rock anthems. Amanda shares how her songwriting process — starting with melody and refining lyrics — allows her to craft stories that resonate, whether inspired by her experiences or someone else's.  We break down the innovative sequencing behind the album, designed to take listeners on an emotional journey, and Amanda reveals the thought she puts into every track’s sound—from lush reverb techniques to digital production quirks that elevate each song’s mood. You’ll hear how collaborations with musicians like Lightning Joe Petersen and producers like Eric Blomquist unlock new creative dimensions, shaping the album’s dynamic soundscape. Perfect for aspiring artists, music lovers, or anyone facing setbacks, this episode highlights resilience, the power of storytelling, and the artistry behind creating music that touches the soul. Amanda’s transparency about her vocal recovery, mixed with insights into her songwriting and merchandise strategies—bracelets and to-do lists that connect fans to her stories—makes this a must-listen for anyone passionate about music and authenticity. If you believe your voice and your story are worth fighting for—a lesson Amanda embodies—you’ll want to hear how she turned her challenges into artistic triumphs, releasing an album that’s as diverse and vibrant as her journey. Get ready for a compelling mix of vulnerability, technical mastery, and undeniable talent.

    Amanda B. Perry - Behind The Sound

  4. Jul 12

    Peppermint Kicks - Behind The Sound

    Most bands dream of that perfect blend of chemistry, creativity, and fun — but Dan and Sal of The Peppermint Kicks make it look effortless. Their secret? Trust, spontaneity, and a shared love for music that’s as playful as it is powerful. On this episode, discover how two legends from Boston’s vibrant scene turned a pandemic chance encounter into a musical partnership that’s redefining what a band can be. You’ll hear how the duo’s unique mix of roots, from the British Invasion to Japanese anime, fuels their eclectic sound. Dan shares the story behind their album Pop Rocks and My Chewing Gum, a title inspired by candy, nostalgia, and a bubblegum production style that’s both sweet and spicy. Sal reveals how their songwriting evolves, blending witty humor with heavier themes — all while keeping that signature Peppermint Kicks magic intact. We break down their collaborative process: how they seamlessly layer guitar parts in minutes, rebuff ego, and resist standard rules to make music that’s vibrant, fun, and authentic. Learn how their deep musical history shapes their approach, why they’re more open-minded than most, and how they pick the perfect drummer for each track from Nashville to Boston. Plus, get a sneak peek into their upcoming singles and plans for a new album in 2026. This episode isn’t just about music — it’s a masterclass in creative trust, collaboration, and staying true to your sound. Perfect for musicians, fans of playful rock, and anyone looking for a blueprint to produce joyful, compelling music with agility and heart. Tune in to catch a glimpse of what makes The Peppermint Kicks a truly special act — proof that when passion and friendship collide, the music (and the magic) flows freely.

    Peppermint Kicks - Behind The Sound

  5. Jul 5

    Paid Leave - Behind The Sound

    Most bands dream of breaking into the scene, but few pull off what Paid Leave did — winning a fierce battle of the bands against 26 competitors in just 20-minute sets. They share the inside story of how they went from a casual Dayton group to a band with a winning streak, a killer EP, and big plans for the future. Join us as these young rockers reveal their journey — from the chaos of their first cover gigs to mastering four-hour sets, tight studio recordings, and strategic songwriting. Learn how their thoughtful approach, clear goals, and band camaraderie fueled their rapid growth, and hear the secret behind their electrifying live performances and eye-catching vintage logo.You'll discover: The unconventional way Paid Leave formed and evolved — including their serendipitous name choice from a McDonald's drive-thru How winning the Dayton Battle of the Bands opened a floodgate of studio time and professional recording opportunities The mindset shifts that helped them transition from loud, grungy beginnings to their current clean, energetic sound Their strategies for writing, recording, and balancing covers with original music in marathon sets The intimate stories behind their favorite gigs, gear, and the legendary venues they dream of playing, like Red Rocks and Billy Bob’s This episode is for emerging bands, DIY musicians, and fans craving authentic, behind-the-scenes insights into growing quickly without sacrificing your vision. If you're curious about the real journey from local gigs to national ambitions — with some epic Rock references along the way — you won’t want to miss this. Paid Leave’s members are dedicated Dayton musicians who’ve already tasted victory and are hungry for more — more shows, more recordings, and eventually, legendary stages. Their story proves that with the right mix of passion, planning, and a little bit of luck, even a small-town band can reach the big leagues. Tune in to find out how they’re building on their win, chasing new venues, and dreaming of the next chapter — and maybe even booking that legendary Red Rocks gig. Perfect for aspiring artists and seasoned musicians alike, if you love honest talk, great music stories, and the power of camaraderie, this episode is your front-row seat.

    Paid Leave - Behind The Sound

  6. Jun 28

    USPOP - Behind The Sound

    Most bands shy away from stepping into persona and parody simultaneously — USPOP turns that on its head with unapologetic British swagger plus a surprising Minnesota twist. They’ve crafted a Britpop experience filled with fake accents, real music, and a playful arrogance that screams confidence while keeping it polite. If you’ve ever wondered what happens when Minnesotans embrace British culture with a dose of humor, this episode is your front-row seat. Discover how USPOP channels 90s Britpop icons like Oasis and Blur, all while staying rooted in Minnesota’s cultural quirks. They share the hilarious story of how a weather obsession inspired their mission to revive Britpop in America, refusing to let it stay a British secret. Learn about their creative process—crafting original songs that pay homage but stand out on their own, with layered guitar sounds and an arena-worthy wall of sound. Plus, get exclusive insights into their approach to live performances, mixing 10 guitars without sounding muddy, and turning venue volume into an art form.

    USPOP - Behind The Sound

  7. Jun 21

    Don Brewer - Behind The Sound

    Uncover the secrets behind the iconic sound of Grand Funk Railroad with legendary drummer Don Brewer—an artist who's been redefining rhythm for over 57 years. Ever wonder what it takes to make a song like "We're an American Band" unforgettable? Or how a drummer manages playing complex beats while singing lead vocals? This episode goes deep into the mind of a rock legend, revealing how Don's unique approach to rhythm, his collaboration with producers like Todd Rundgren, and his adaptive songwriting kept the band at the top for decades. You'll discover how Don’s early days as a "singing drummer" shaped his ability to juggle rhythm and melody seamlessly—no matter if he's standing behind the kit or performing on stage. Get insider insights on crafting hit songs, the art of filling space as a three-piece band, and whether notable studio decisions—like the legendary cowbell—were fan-service or artistic necessity. Plus, hear how the band navigated changes in radio, evolving their songwriting to stay relevant, and how their fusion of R&B and rock turned them into a powerhouse on steroids.

    Don Brewer - Behind The Sound

  8. Jun 14

    Brian Leighton - Behind The Sound

    Unlock the secret to a sustained, independent music career that defies the odds. Brian Lehighton—frontman of G.B. Lehighton—shares how he's sold over 100,000 albums without a label, performs 200 shows a year, and stays true to his own path. You won’t believe how he kept growing through countless personal struggles, including surviving cancer, and what it truly takes to connect with fans deeply in a digital age.In this episode, Brian reveals the mindset that fuels his relentless hustle, from playing over 200 shows annually to building a loyal following that spans the globe—from Minneapolis to Mexico and beyond. Discover how his unique approach to songwriting, live performance, and fan engagement has made him a beloved icon on his own terms. We dive into tales of hitting the road at 15, rewriting old songs with fresh energy, and the powerful stories behind hits like "You Better Not Run" and the animated video that symbolizes life's struggles and triumphs. You'll get concrete insights on how to thrive independently, including the importance of live performance, authentic storytelling, and building tangible relationships with your audience. Brian shares bold opinions on the future of music, social media struggles, and why live music remains the ultimate connection—no AI or automation can replace the human element. Perfect for artists, entrepreneurs, or anyone daring to forge their own path, this episode will energize your mindset and inspire you to keep pushing no matter what life throws at you. Whether you're an aspiring musician or a seasoned performer, Brian’s honest stories and practical advice will motivate you to reimagine your approach to artistry, resilience, and fan loyalty. Get ready to learn from a true Midwest icon who's built his career on authenticity, grit, and an unwavering love for music.

    Brian Leighton - Behind The Sound
See All (26)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Brian Johnson is a music fan who loves digging into the stories and creative spark behind the songs. On Behind the Sound, he trades stiff interviews for relaxed, curious conversations that feel like talking shop with a friend. When he’s not chasing down great stories, he’s out running trails, writing poetry, or hunting for his next favorite playlist. This is your backstage pass. Behind the Sound goes where most music interviews don’t — into the creative decisions, the risks, the doubts, the accidents, and the moments that make the music work. We talk process, not press releases—craft, not clichés.

Information

  • Creator
    Behind The Sound
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    Behind The Sound