Recent Episodes
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Recent Reviews
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loeirghwjrtpoihjt[š„š„š„I really like your show. I thought it was just me that likes these kind of details, and what it is that makes a song so tasty. Now I know Iām not crazy.
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lenore228Awesome podcast for all music lovers!Iāve never really been a podcast person, but being a fan of Chris DeMakes drew me towards this one. And Iām so glad because itās EASILY one of my favorite things to listen to. The way Chris dissects the songs and pulls things out of them that most people would never even notice is just fascinating, and I love hearing the backstory on each song from the guests. Listening to episodes of some of my favorite ska and punk songs is great, but I also love the breakdowns of songs I havenāt thought about in ages from the 90s! All around great podcast that I always recommend to all my friends that love music.
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Anthony _Man86Love this podcastI get really excited every week to hear what song is going to be broken down and what artist will be featured. Getting insight on all the amazing songs is a real treat and makes me like them even more. Maybe one day Chris could get David Knudson from Minus the Bear on the show to nerd out about guitars and pedals! Keep up the great work!
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Blaine138Love this show!Listening to the artists describe and tells the stories behind great songs is really rad! One of my favorite shows I listen to each week!
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Jen corsAmazing writing deep divesHave been enjoying this podcast since 2020. Really informative and appreciate Chris and Chris diving into the nuances of how the songs were written, the influence of the producers working on each project and also on how the concepts for the songs came to be. Highly recommend, especially for any musician looking for some insight into the song writing process.
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punkrockplayer1Same old crowd that does not bring me down!Great podcast! Cool guests. Great hosts. Love the song breakdowns and discussion with the artisans of the music. A treat for pop punk and punk rock fans and also a bonified listen for all music enjoyers.
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ironchefirelandLike an old friendIn fact, it is. Met Chris DeMakes close to 30 years ago while running a radio station at Eckerd College. We interviewed LTJ in the van, had a blast, booked them a few times for shows, and now itās memory lane with a bunch of episodes. For the ā80s playlist show, I was hoping for one song for the hard list. While about to go to a soundcheck at Janus Landing, Chris left the Pelican Pub (dive bar behind the stage), dropped $20 in the jukebox, and put āLive Wireā by Motley Crue on repeat until they couldnāt take it anymore. Thought that would be a lock for the summer of ā82. Keep up the great shows guys, I really enjoy it.
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slothbuddyTop notch podcastChris and Chris have made an amazing podcast. It is impressive how much thought and analysis go into each episode. Itās awesome to hear guests shocked and impressed at the depth of analysis of their own songs. Chris Demakes both has a gifted ear for breaking down songs and a impressively accurate and detailed memory, and shares awesome stories from his own experience. If you guys wind up reading this out loud, just want to say āhelloooooo!!!ā And if you like this review, please give it 5stars because thatās what helps keep me writing reviews.
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J-RodGThis podcast is the bomb diggity!I have enjoyed all episodes I have listened to. Chris treats his guests with such respect and dissects each song with a child like wonder. Some highlights have been Aaron Barrett and Scott Klopenstein (RBF), Jeff Rosenstock, Butch Walker, Anthony Raneri (Bayside), and Shane Told (Silverstein). Keep it up guys!! Stay Groovy, J-Rod
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Joel ReaderGreat insight into the creative processOne of my first listens every Monday ā an outstanding production, and the conversations about the craft of songwriting & the insights into the recording process behind these tracks is fascinating. I always learn something new!
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Jack RobidouxHitsThere are so many songs I hadnāt heard of from artists I already enjoyed. āThe YMCA down the street from the clinic,ā ādrag my body,ā just as a few examples. And the fact that John Oates was brought on to talk about Hall And Oates, my favorite band. 5 stars across the board. Keep the hits coming.
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College Radio DJCollege Radio DJGreat podcast! I love the breakdowns of the music that are interesting and thorough, but in a friendly, non-intimidating way. The new episode on The Outfieldās āYour Loveā is really terrific. Maybe feature the Judybats on a future show?
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KeithHopkinInspires Aspiring MusiciansThis podcast has completely reinvigorated my love for music, music production, and songwriting. Not only have I gained huge respect for artists I wouldāve completely dismissed as a younger self (specifically the Mark McGrath episode, go have a listen!), these interviews are reaffirming a lot of my own instincts about songwriting. Chris picks such an amazing cross section of artists to interview and I love the depths that he dissects the songs. Side note: The first episode I heard was the Jawbreaker episode which had always been my all time favorite band. I was immediately hooked!
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Taptaptap''Learn so much about song writters and the process!Goes so in depth to lyrics, writting styles, instrumentation, and everything!
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ijoemonacoLearning to rockIām taking up music as a hobby and Iāve loved LTJ since the 90s. This podcast is so much more than I expected. Chris talks about song structure, production and even musical highlights unique to the interviewed guest. I think if youāre a fan or even wanting to learn about how music is made, you need to subscribe. RIP HJR. My favorite show of all time was LTJ in State College PA at the Crowbar in the early 2000s. A powerful packed room and I swear, everyone in the joint was pumping their fists and singing along. As the stage lights flickered and I could see everyone having a great time, I was filled with joy and Iāve never forgotten this moment and the way LTJ has affected my life. Thank you Chris, Roger and the band for the last 30 years of motivational music and relatable lyrics that will never make you feel alone.
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ybb08_Absolutely stellar podcast for music lovers!Since the start of "Chris DeMakes a Podcast," my appreciation for music has reached new heights. Chrisās deep dives into songs by bands I love, such as Alkaline Trio, Descendents, and The Gaslight Anthem, have been nothing short of enlightening. The episodes featuring legends like John Oates and Huey Lewis are equally fantastic, offering rich insights into the creative process of these iconic musicians. What I love most about this podcast is how it caters to a broad audience. There's truly something for everyone. Even if a song isn't your usual cup of tea, Chrisās thoughtful breakdowns and the artistsā unique perspectives will make you see it in a new light. I encourage everyone to listen, as you're guaranteed to find something to appreciate in the artistās approach to songwriting. The highlight for me is hearing countless artists express genuine gratitude for how in-depth Chris goes into dissecting their songs. Itās clear this isnāt just another interview for them; itās a meaningful exploration of their work. This sets the podcast apart from the rest and makes each episode a must-listen. Highly recommend "Chris DeMakes a Podcast" for anyone who loves music and wants to deepen or rediscover their understanding and appreciation of it!
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Kaiser DBCMy Favorite podcastI look forward to this podcast every week and so will you. Chris & Chris effortlessly educate and entertain their audience each episode. Donāt believe me? Listen to the Mark McGrath episode. Youāll learn about the great David Kahne, pegging, and the importance of āDonāt bore us get to the chorus.ā A podcast ever music fan should subscribe to!
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_jjNDo yourself an easy favor and listen to this utter gem in a sea of noiseNo need for preamble, this podcast is so exceptional that it has made listening to any of the podcasts I previously enjoyed virtually impossible. Believe me, I have tried, and I soon find myself pivoting to a back-episode of Chris DeMakes a Podcast instead and being glad I did. Letās start with Chris DeMakes. The guy is so genuine, high-spirited, and extremely likable that you could listen to him interview anyone about any subject and it would be compelling. But as the frontman of a band thatās been going strong for over thirty years, heās got a deep rolodex of widely-represented musicians to bring on as guests with the one constant remaining the same ā these guests truly love the guy. And theyāre very often floored at the depth of understanding he has about the songs they wrote and/or arranged and are frequently surprised to learn things they didnāt even realize about their own songs. We also canāt overlook Chrisā co-host and producer Chris Fafalios, whoās the perfect complement to Chris D and whose research and dedication here shines, greatly contributing to the infinitely-rewarding listening experience. Iām a huge music fan, but by no stretch a musician, and the way these guys break down songs is so insightful and rich that it never feels too inside baseball for a non-musician like me. If a podcast that spends an hour breaking down a single song sounds like it could come off clinical, wipe away that notion because in these guysā hands it is anything but. And as a final token of just how wonderful these guys are, they consistently finish the show with a segment called Band You May Not Know, where they showcase smaller bands with big dreams and give them a generous showcase by playing whatever song the band considers their best track. Though itās certainly music-focused, this podcast is really for everyone. You listen to an episode and walk away feeling good. Every time. And that is a powerful gift these guys endlessly provide their listeners.
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$cotty 2 HottieHow have I lived this long without this in my lifeIām just gonna start with where has this Podcast been all my life??? I just found out about this last week and when I found out how old this is and how many episodes there are I felt like I found a treasure trove. If music means as much to you as it does to me then this is now your new favorite thing to listen to. Chris is intelligent creative and thorough in his approach to questioning his guest and breaking down the songs involved. Heās also thoughtful in his approach to conversation, heās super friendly and never cuts the guest off. Thereās no Podcast Iād recommend over this if youāre a music lover like me. My love for music grows more and more with every episode I listen to. Thank you Chris for doing this
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Mr..cap.Best podcast for anyone who loves musicI enjoy this podcast so much! It's the only one I listen to regularly. If you wanna learn more than you ever wanted to know about some of your favorite songs , or get introduced to new songs , as well as grow a deeper respect for many of the guest artists , then give this a listen. Plus Chris and Chris are great !
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Bennjammin0Always goodThis is a great podcast. Chris and Chris really care about their guests and are truly excited for every episode. If your a fan of LTJ, or Punchline for that matter, they bring the same energy to the podcast. Chris interviews very well known artists as well as more unknown artists. He gives others the chance to get bigger through his podcast. I could go on but Iāll stop there, I canāt say enough good things. But hey, maybe you wonāt like it! Whatever!
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Jlamb1ate2Donāt skip on thisIv been listening since day and and each Monday I get excited for the next episode! Makes me break out of my punk rock comfort zone and really dive into songs I never thought Iād actually like or give a chance being a punk rock only kid. Makes me excited for music all over again. Thanks Chris and Chris !! Rock on
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Katie the Killer MiloskiWarning: You will really like this podcastI have been listening to Chris DeMakes a podcast for a few months now, and even though i donāt know anything about song writing, I truly enjoy listening to how Chris does his research and breaks down the song with the musician. If itās a song I know, I love learning the story behind it and even songs I wasnāt familiar with I downloaded and like listening to now. Chrisā musical expertise, interest, and empathy to the guest truly shines through in every episode. Thank you guys for being a great listen, especially on long work road trips! Keep up the great workš¤š»š«¶
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Jimo70Something for all music lovers!Everyone likes music, right? This podcast has something for everyone who loves music. Chris DeMakes provides an entertaining and in-depth conversation with a musician about a chosen song every single stinking week! That alone is amazing, but Chris and producer extraordinaire, Chris Fafalios, make it a compelling listen every single week as well. I mean, check out the roster of guests and songs covered! Huey Lewis, Brian Fallon of Gaslight Anthem, and just recently, Zac Barnett of American Authors discussing āBest Day of My Lifeā, to name a very few! Come on! I have also discovered a lot of new music through this podcast and it has helped me appreciate the many elements that can make a song great! Hats off to Chris and Chris!!
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Andream327Fall in love againSomehow Iām no longer a teenager, no longer a young adult. I woke up one day and Iām 40. I have seen LTJ countless times, amongst hundreds of other punk rock bands every weekend at the Rave, Summerfest and Warped tour in Milwaukee. I even worked security at Summerfest 2003-2005 because it was more cost effective for me to work basically minimum wage and see all the bands I wanted. It was amazing! I loved closeness to the music and being with so many people that loved the music as much as I did. You could always find me in the pit or body surfing. I finished college and started my career in biomedical research, became a manager, became a wife, then a mother. My son was 6 weeks old at the time I went to the last warped tour in 2018. While I think we all thought thereād be more, there werenāt. A pandemic came and sucked years from us. In addition, parenthood and careers can take over without you realizing your self becomes less of a priority in the mix, sometimes even lost. Last Dec, I was in a rare occasion riding alone in the car. I stumbled upon this podcast, trying to find something wasnāt Baby Shark and for just me. I binge listened until I caught up. Each episode allows you to reminisce about fantastic songs and times I hadnāt thought about in years but kinda miss sometimes. Back in the day of CD covers, Iād listen to songs over and over analyzing and memorizing lyrics to interpret them instead of doing homework. To be clear, I canāt read music. I have no understanding of music theory. I canāt play an instrument. None of this is needed to love this podcast. Chris and Chris work some sorcery to make you fall in love with the music all over again and bring it back to modern life. Love it! Thanks so much guys!
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Tycin JThis Show Does Not FailIāve 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 wasnāt 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.
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The Green day kidThis is awesomeThis is the best podcast Iāve 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.
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kingtony23Simply wonderfulSome of my favorite songwriters have been on this show and some of my favorite songwriters (de)make it. Couldnāt ask for much more out of a podcast but itād be kinda cool if you all just started talking about sports betting on occasion!!!
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blubby blaInformative & inspirationalSuch a great insight to how all these great songs are written. Very inspiring stuff here, Iāve learned a lot by hearing some of my favorite musicians going into detail talking about how they came up with the ideas behind their songs.
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Guacamole_JonThis show is entertainingChris is my favorite
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KrsurfAll my favorite bandsJust stumbled on this and I have hours of listening to cover.
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John ZarembaEssential listeningā¦ for anyone who loves music and anyone interested in songcraft. Chris is a great host because he guides the show along and lets his guests speak without making it all about himself. Very entertaining and informative.
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jerry arboretumGreat mix of songwriting, production and storiesJust found it and love it already after about 5 episodes. Chris is so enthusiastic and great at drawing out details from the artists about production choices, lyrics and structure. If heās covering a song you love (there are a lot here to choose from) and you geek out on this like I do, itās a great podcast.
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algnoLove these deep divesI listen to quite a few music podcasts, but none are like this. Chris interviews an artist extensively about one of their hits and then goes piece by piece through the song. I love hearing about how the songs came together and inside information about the band. Itās often quite a nostalgia trip because most of the bands are 90s pop punk and alt rock.
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WiggleWarmerIāve learned so muchSo many great episodes and volumes to learn from it all. Iāve found songs that I have not been able to get out of my head, and gotten incredible insight into songs I already loved. A must for any songwriter. If you are at all thinking of listening, get ready for a deep deep dive.
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Adam "Flawless" WallaceCreative and InformativeIāve been listening to Chris DeMakes a Podcast since episode 1. It scratches my itch for hearing any information on why and how my favorite artists write and record their songs, but itās also helped me as a songwriter myself with song structure, lyrical inspiration, and just what the magic is to writing a good song. They cover a wide variety of genres as well so you get the best of all music, not just one subculture. Since starting this podcast Iāve now gotten the courage to write and record around 20 songs. DeMakes and producer/co-host Fafalios have enough personal connections to the guests to really get their raw responses. Love love love!
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seanā¢ļøGreat podcastIām probably familiar with 50% of the songs discussed and it doesnāt matter. Even the episodes where Iām clueless about the artist are entertaining. Highly recommended if you are at all interested in songwriting and popular, punk-leaning music. Some highlights if youāre just getting introduced to the podcast - Dee Snyder talking about āWeāre Not Gonna Take Itā and every episode involving a song from the Descendents/ALL camp (the Bill Stevenson episode is one of the most heart-wrenching things Iāve ever heard.)
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mikeyfrompasadenaChris Demakes A Podcast!Holy freaking cow!! How have I not listened to this yet??? I follow him on instagram and knew about this but never listened. I saw that he did āSanta Monicaā with Art from Everlclear and then āIn this Diaryā with Kris Roe. Two minutes in I was hooked. Chris is such and incredible host and MAN does he bring it! It so obvious he has put a ton of thought, time, and effort into each song they talk about. Itās so fun to geek out and notice things I knew and stuff I didnāt know. If you like music and you like to really break down a song this podcast is for you. I am SOOOOOO impressed with his research and his knowledge. Couldnāt think of a better host or a better musical podcast. Iāve literally downloaded over half the episodes and donāt want to listen to anything else. The only thing I donāt like is that I wasnāt listening from the beginning
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jv3155Great music podcast!I immediately subscribed to this podcast as a Less Than Jake fan and itās now my favourite podcast. I tune in every Monday, regardless of whether I know the song/band or not as itās always an interesting conversation about music. I also love the āwrapā segment at the end where Chris and Chris chat about the episode. Highly recommend this podcast to any music lover.
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Jerith CutestoryGame changing podcastThis podcast has changed how I listen to music. I have been a musician for a long time, but I have never been one to dive into songs and the lyrics and the arrangement. I have been a big fan of both LTJ and Punchline and that helped me find this podcast, but it really covers all genres. They have definitely found their footing more and more as the show goes on. Sometimes Chris seems to talk over guests or not let them get their full thoughts out. Overall an incredibly great podcast.
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tolastexitThe best songwriting and music podcastThis is the best songwriting, and possibly, best music podcast around. Chris takes a lot of time to research the songs and the subjects and has genuine enthusiasm for every song he covers, even if itās not his style. Itās very refreshing to listen to, and itās genuinely worth a listen (or a hundred).
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SayohatBest music podcast!I started listening because I love Less Than Jake, and I grew to seriously appreciate this show because of how Chris breaks down the lyrics of each song, talking to band members or song writers about the stories of how the songs came to be. So well-done and fascinating to hear from all of these artists. You can tell both Chrises love what theyāre doing and each show just keeps getting better. You feel like youāre in the audience having fun with them. One of my favorite podcasts of all time!
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KerBWFU90LOVE THIS PODCAST!!How did I not discover this sooner??!?! This is a genius idea and Iām having so much fun working my way through all the episodes. A must listen for any music fan.
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Cubsfan627Great podcast for music lovers!Chris is a great interviewer! I love hearing him reminisce with other people about hit songs, tours, telling stories, and really digging into how/why/where the songs were written. Iām not a songwriter or artist, so I love getting a whole new perspective and background on songs!
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Papio13HookedI came for the Cyrus Bolooki interview. Iāll be staying for everything else. Chris is every bit as personable here as onstage. Unsurprisingly.
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JDrummond8782Just keeps getting betterIāve been a huge fan of the podcast from day one. I love the fact that Chris goes deeper than just āso how did you come up with the title?ā Some of the stories behind the songs blow my mind, as well as the fact that so many hit songs were last minute additions or afterthoughts. As someone with an eclectic taste in music I also love the variety of guests Chris has. Five stars all day long!!!
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Br0seph SmithMy Favorite PodcastIāve been listening to this podcast for about 2 years now and it never gets old. If you grew up listening to punk or ska then you will immediately love this podcast. But you donāt have to just be a fan of punk/ska to enjoy it. People that love music in general will really appreciate hearing the song writing process and even learn new concepts about music and song writing.
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SlideSocietyHighly recommended!Look forward to the new episode every week! Very informative and quite interesting finding out how these songs came to be directly from the artists who created them! Great Job Chris & Chris! Side note, join the supporting cast! The after-party is well worth the $!
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nowisefxFor the Love Of MusicThis is hands down my favorite podcast. Each episode is awesome. I discovered it during a time when I wasnāt playing music, and listening to music just didnāt hit like it used toā¦. Itās safe to say this podcast reignited my love of music and songwriting. Thanks Chris & Chris!
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Enoch17AwesomeI love listening to this podcast and hearing all the little things that go into songs that I never have noticed and the stories behind the songs. Chris is a great host to put it all together. Highly recommended.
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