The Unstarving Musician Robonzo (Roberto R Hernandez)

Johnny Burgin has been making waves in the U.S. and abroad as a blues player entrenched in the Chicago blues style. He has performed and recorded with blues legends like Tail Dragger, Sam Lay, Billy Boy Arnold, and Pinetop Perkins. Johnny made a name for himself in the late 90s in Chicagoland blues clubs, a record deal with Delmark, and several European tours. He plays on average more than 200 shows a year, which is why he has such an appreciation for the stage, audiences, and other blues players.
 
I performed with Johnny in and around Queretaro last month, the pinnacle of which was a headlining performance at the Queretablues Festival. This week I received a message from Johnny to ask what I thought about doing some shows with him in Mexico City, so to be continued (possibly).
 
We recorded this conversation at the end of a busy ten days here in Queretaro while enjoying cervezas Bohemia, after which we went out for local cuisine. Johnny was feeling a little off and his last morning with us here in Queretaro, I think he was just experiencing a bit of exhaustion or perhaps still acclimating to our altitude. I've since gathered he made it home feeling great. Johnny is a lot of fun to perform and hang with. He's still showing me the ropes of Chicago blues, which is an exercise in restraint from my improvisational ways. But it's also an education in nuance.
 
We talk about Queretaro Mexico, The Queretablues Festival, his guitar masterclass (at the Queretablues Festival), his YouTube channel, moving to Memphis, leaving Chicago, and his forthcoming album. Please enjoy my tipsy conversation with Johnny Burgin.
Support the Unstarving Musician The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers.
Learn how you can offer your support.
This episode was powered by Music Marketing Method, a program for independent musicians looking to grow their music career.
Music Marketing Method was created by my good friend Lynz Crichton. I’m in the program and I’m learning tons! I’m growing my fan base and learning about many ways that I’ll be earning money in the new year. It’s also helping me grow this podcast. How cool is that?
To lean more and find out if Music Marketing Method can help your music career, visit UnstarvingMusician.com/MusicMarketing.
This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes. Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes.
Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives.
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Mentions and Related Episodes 285 Johnny Burgin (Rewind) – Chicago Blues, Music Festivals, The Magic Of The Stage, Pinetop Perkins
Johnny Burgin - Live from San Miguel de Allende, Mexico (Soundcloud)
Sunset Theater Presents: Johnny Burgin Live and Remastered! (Video)
Set Lusting Bruce: The Bruce Springsteen Fan Podcast (Feat. Robonzo)
ConvertKit – Create a deeper connection w/fans by reaching them directly in their inbox
Resources The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo
Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income
Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music
Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process.
More Resources for musicians
Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure)  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase us

Andy McCluskey is a founding member and lead vocalist of OMD (aka Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark). His band has sold over 40 million records worldwide. They are electronic synth pioneers and one of Britains' best-loved pop groups. OMD conquered the United States with their 1986 hit, "If You Leave" from the Pretty In Pink soundtrack. They have also achieved 12 top 20 hits on the UK Singles Chart and three top 20 hits on the US Billboard Hot 100.
 
Following the celebration of their 40th anniversary last year, OMD have released their first new studio album since the 2017 release of The Punishment Of Luxury, a record entitled Bauhaus Staircase. The new album dropped on October 27th, 2023. The press release says Bauhaus Staircase is OMD's most explicitly political record; however Andy tells me that art and politics have always been at the forefront of their songwriting themes.
 
Like many artists, Andy rediscovered his creativity, thanks to the boredom of lockdown. We talk about this, plus their new album, the band's stunning new music videos, memories of the first OMD gig, art, politics, OMD's participation in the forthcoming Dark Waves Festival, Liverpool F.C., and the longevity of his voice.
 
It was a great pleasure speaking with Andy. Our time went too fast, but what can we do. He's very busy with interviews, concerts and various media projects. 
 
Find the new album and all things OMD at omd.uk.com. Please enjoy my conversation with Andy McCluskey of OMD.
Support the Unstarving Musician The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers.
Learn how you can offer your support.
This episode was powered by Music Marketing Method, a program for independent musicians looking to grow their music career.
Music Marketing Method was created by my good friend Lynz Crichton. I’m in the program and I’m learning tons! I’m growing my fan base and learning about many ways that I’ll be earning money in the new year. It’s also helping me grow this podcast. How cool is that?
To lean more and find out if Music Marketing Method can help your music career, visit UnstarvingMusician.com/MusicMarketing.
This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes. Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes.
Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives.
Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime.
Mentions and Related Episodes OMD.UK.com
Darker Wave Festival
Resources The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo
Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income
Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music
Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process.
More Resources for musicians
Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure)  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support!
Visit UnstarvingMusician.com to sign up for Liner Notes to learn what I'm learning from the best indie musicians and music industry professionals.
Stay in touch!
@RobonzoDrummer on Twitter  and  Instagram
@UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube 

My guests, Chris Raspante and Jesse Spradlin, are The Vintage Yell. Chris appeared in episode 2 and episode 186 of The Unstarving Musician, which are among the most popular for the podcast. Chris and Jesse joined forces to form The Vintage Yell somewhat recently and have a lot of new music coming soon. You can find their new single "Goin' On Swinging" at TheVintageYell.com. 
 
Jesse, Chris and I had a great conversation. I especially enjoyed their discussion of The Vintage Yell launch party and their coming-out strategy. We also discuss working together as a new band, writing and recording new music, release strategy, Mesquite Street Records, and more.
 
On a side note, Chris performed on, recorded and mastered my singles "On Top Of The World" and "New Gods Part 2." You can hear both songs at Robonzo.com. He is a talented guy, as is his new bandmate Jesse Spradlin.
 
Here's me talking with Chris and Jesse of The Vintage Yell.
Support the Unstarving Musician The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers.
Learn how you can offer your support.
This episode was powered by Music Marketing Method, a program for independent musicians looking to grow their music career.
Music Marketing Method was created by my good friend Lynz Crichton. I’m in the program and I’m learning tons! I’m growing my fan base and learning about many ways that I’ll be earning money in the new year. It’s also helping me grow this podcast. How cool is that?
To lean more and find out if Music Marketing Method can help your music career, visit UnstarvingMusician.com/MusicMarketing.
This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes. Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes.
Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives.
Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime.
Mentions and Related Episodes TheVintageYell.com
 
Lucky Beats Good Sometimes – Chris Raspante Rewind 
 
Guitarist and Studio Engineer In Demand–Chris Raspante (Ep 186) 
 
Mesquite St. Records 
 
Landin Spradlin 
 
On Top Of The World (feat. Chris Raspante) 
 
New Gods Part 2 (feat. Chris Raspante) 
Resources The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo
Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income
Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music
Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process.
More Resources for musicians
Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure)  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support!
Visit UnstarvingMusician.com to sign up for Liner Notes to learn what I'm learning from the best indie musicians and music industry professionals.
Stay in touch!
@RobonzoDrummer on Twitter  and  Instagram
@UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube
 

This is a rewind episode featuring blues guitarist Johnny Burgin. What is a rewind episode? It's a previously published episode, one of my favorites, and one that I think merits re-publishing. I give these episodes a fresh edit, which means you will find it even more enjoyable from a listening perspective.
Johnny Burgin, the coast-to-coast (intercontinental) Chicago blues man, first appeared in episode 31 back in December of 2017. We performed a house concert on February 11 2020 at Tranquilo Retreat in Panama. He's coming to Querétaro to perform the 9th annual Querétablues Festival, which you can find on Facebook @BluesFestQro. I have the honor of being part of his band for the festival. We'll also do some private shows and one secret show while he's here. 
My conversation with Johnny was truly great. I'm so happy I re-listened to it for this special rewind edition. Johnny is the real deal where blues guitar is concerned. We discuss his history as a musician, and his philosophy on blues, music, and the stage. We also talk about some of his international tour adventures, relationships with blues players in Chicago, Silicon Valley, and around the world, Pinetop Perkins, the Chicago Blues Festival, and more.
Find Johnny's upcoming tour dates and music at JohnnyBurgin.com. Please enjoy this rewind conversation with Johnny Burgin.
Support the Unstarving Musician The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers.
Learn how you can offer your support.
This episode was powered by Music Marketing Method, a program for independent musicians looking to grow their music career.
Music Marketing Method was created by my good friend Lynz Crichton. I’m in the program and I’m learning tons! I’m growing my fan base and learning about many ways that I’ll be earning money in the new year. It’s also helping me grow this podcast. How cool is that?
To lean more and find out if Music Marketing Method can help your music career, visit UnstarvingMusician.com/MusicMarketing.
This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes. Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes.
Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives.
Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime.
Mentions and Related Episodes JohnnyBurgin.com 
Robonzo w/Johnny Burgin at the Quéretablues Festival 
New Gods Part 2 (Unstarving Musician theme track)
Johnny Burgin's first appearance on The Unstarving Musician (episode 31) 
Listening for That Phrase—Johnny Burgin Part 2 (Ep 138) 
Spooky Mugs 
Resources The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo
Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income
Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music
Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the process.
More Resources for musicians
Pardon the Interruption (Disclosure)  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means I make a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase using those links. Thanks for your support!
Visit UnstarvingMusician.com to sign up for Liner Notes to learn what I'm learning from the best indie musicians and music industry professionals.
Stay in touch!
@RobonzoDrummer on Twitter  and  Instagram
@UnstarvingMusician on Facebook  and  YouTube
 

One of the best voices in rock has been used to describe J.R. Richards. He's the original singer of Dishwalla, one of my favorite bands to emerge in the 90s. Richards has sold millions of records, written some chart-topping hits and has toured globally. Perhaps his most noteworthy accomplishment was writing "Counting Blue Cars," which he performed and recorded with Dishwalla. That song won the Billboard "Rock Song of the Year" award in 1996 and two ASCAP awards for "Song of The Year" in 1997 and 1998.
 
Richards has also recorded a few solo albums and is on the cusp of releasing his next album, the 10th in his career. I only recently became acquainted with his solo work because I was looking for an acoustic cover of "Counting Blue Cars" for an acoustic 80s/90s covers project. I found an acoustic version, but when I saw the singer on that acoustic version, it occurred to me that it wasn't the original guy. Down the rabbit hole, I went. I don't know who the new singer is. He's good, but I'm definitely partial to Richards' voice. So I found his solo work, website and lots of other info about him that I never knew. I loved Dishwalla, but I'm not what you'd call a super fan. I lost track of the band after they stopped releasing new stuff.
 
But I am a big fan, so I was stoked when JR agreed to an interview. Speaking with him was kinda weird. The time passed so quickly! I spend most of our time nerding out with him about e-commerce, the importance of email lists and other topics I typically pursue on the podcast. I ended up with several questions that we never got to. The other thing is that he's a 'normal' person, a dad and husband; a very talented normal person, but just a guy. 
 
I don't know what I expected, but I enjoyed speaking with him. Richards is as kind and humble as any other indie musician I've ever had on the podcast. We talked about Dishwalla, his forthcoming record, email marketing, e-commerce, touring, adapting to changes in music, Spotify Discovery Mode, SOME of his work as a producer, what he's got cooking in the near future, and more. 
 
Find everything JR is up to at JRRrichardsMusic.com. Please enjoy my conversation with JR Richards, the original singer of Dishwalla.
Support the Unstarving Musician The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers.
Learn how you can offer your support.
This episode was powered by Music Marketing Method, a program for independent musicians looking to grow their music career.
Music Marketing Method was created by my good friend Lynz Crichton. I’m in the program and I’m learning tons! I’m growing my fan base and learning about many ways that I’ll be earning money in the new year. It’s also helping me grow this podcast. How cool is that?
To lean more and find out if Music Marketing Method can help your music career, visit UnstarvingMusician.com/MusicMarketing.
This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes. Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes.
Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives.
Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime.
Mentions and Related Episodes Links for this episode on UnstarvingMusician.com
Resources The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo
Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income
Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music
Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save mone

Susan Rogers teaches Music Production and Engineering at The Berklee College of Music (Berklee Online). She holds a doctorate in psychology from McGill University, where she studied music cognition and psychoacoustics. Her research focuses on auditory memory, the perception of musical signals, and the influence of musical training on auditory development. 
For two decades before her science career, Rogers was one of the few women known for her work as a record producer, engineer, mixer, and audio electronics technician. Susan's career highlights include years (1983–1988) as a staff engineer for recording artist Prince, also working with Barenaked Ladies, David Byrne, Tricky, and Tevin Campbell.
My guest relations advisor sent me an NPR interview with Susan in which she talks about her book "This Is What It Sounds Like: What The Music You Love Says About You." After learning about the book and her career, I invited Susan to the podcast, and she graciously accepted.
My research for this interview involved checking out some of Susan's other interviews. I noticed she always gets guestions about Prince. Leading up to the interview, I figured she'd talked about Prince ad nauseam, but then I realized she loves discussing this part of her career. She feels lucky to have worked with Prince and wants to help keep his legacy alive. Even so, I didn't want to focus too much on Prince, but I did plan one Prince-question, so we did talk about him.
We also talk about the neuroscience of music preferences, analyzing the techniques of Frank Sinatra, the progression of production approaches, leaving the music business for academia, working with Barenaked Ladies, how music functions for listeners today, and much more.
Learn more about the book "This Is What It Sounds Like," by Dr Susan Rogers at ThisIsWhatItSoundsLike.com.
Please enjoy my conversation with Susan Rogers.
Support the Unstarving Musician The Unstarving Musician exists solely through the generosity of its listeners, readers, and viewers.
Learn how you can offer your support.
This episode was powered by Music Marketing Method, a program for independent musicians looking to grow their music career.
Music Marketing Method was created by my good friend Lynz Crichton. I’m in the program and I’m learning tons! I’m growing my fan base and learning about many ways that I’ll be earning money in the new year. It’s also helping me grow this podcast. How cool is that?
To lean more and find out if Music Marketing Method can help your music career, visit UnstarvingMusician.com/MusicMarketing.
This episode of the was powered by Liner Notes. Learn from the hundreds of musicians and industry pros I’ve spoken with for the Unstarving Musician on topics such as marketing, songwriting, touring, sync licensing and much more. Sign up for Liner Notes.
Liner Notes is an email newsletter from yours truly, in which I share some of the best knowledge gems garnered from the many conversations featured on the Unstarving Musician. You’ll also be privy to the latest podcast episodes and Liner Notes subscriber exclusives.
Sign up at UnstarvingMusician.com. It’s free and you can unsubscribe at anytime.
Mentions and Related Episodes What draws us to the music we love? A new book breaks it down (WBUR, Here & Now - interview) 
This Is What It Sounds Like by Susan Rogers 
Prince Engineer Susan Rogers: THE INTERVIEW. Live From Sunset Sound 
Musical anhedonia 
Sam Phillips 
Frank: The Voice, by James Kaplan 
Stunt, album by Barenaked Ladies 
Tennyson 
King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard 
Resources The Unstarving Musician’s Guide to Getting Paid Gigs, by Robonzo
Music Marketing Method – The program that helps musicians find fans, grow an audience and make consistent income
Bandzoogle – The all-in-one platform that makes it easy to build a beautiful website for your music
Dreamhost – See the latest deals from Dreamhost, save money and support the UM in the proc