“AI, when used correctly, will just be another tool in the toolbox of creativity.”
Welcome Pete Ganbarg:
We’re joined on the Starline by a truly talented man. He’s done A&R, educator, music publishing, podcaster and serves as a board member for the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Season 5 of his podcast “Rock & Roll High School” is now out. We welcome Grammy award winner Pete Ganbarg.
Pete, let’s go Beyond the Mic. For season 5 of “Rock & Roll High School” you have gotten a who’s who of talent with Alice Cooper, Kevin Cronin, Darlene Love and aouch more. Why is it important for people, especially A&R staff to understand the roots of contemporary music?
You’re sharing the stories of contemporary music via the artists own words. Which episode revealed something that even shocked you?
Who is the most underrated songwriter of all time?
What was the first album you bought and how did it change your life?
The Rockin’ 8:
Host of “Rock & Roll High School” Pete Ganbarg joins us for the Rockin’ 8, 8 random questions, just trust your first instinct. No Pressure.
1. Last Broadway show you saw live?
2. Who would you want to sing a song you’ve written?
3. Do you know where your first Grammy is right now?
4. Best place to go on vacation?
5. What was the name of your show on WESU?
6. Best New York Mets game you’ve ever seen live?
7. What was the best home cooked meal from growing up, and who made it?
8. Best thing about being a girl dad to Peri and Julia?
The Impossible Question:
Who is on your Mount Rushmore of Songwriters?
The Back Half:
Host of “Rock & Roll High School” podcast Pete Ganbarg joins us for the Back Half.
How has streaming and social media made finding artists easier and yet harder for A&R reps?
In 90’s country once you had one hat act, everyone was searching for a hat act. Once LeAnn Rimes came out, you had Lila McCann and Jessica Andrews. As music has evolved, how have trends kept up?
What was the first concert you saw live?
As you have these conversations with stars such as Warren Haynes, Clive Davis, Peter Frampton and more, how important is it for you capturing their stories before they are gone?
What’s the one overarching thing you want people to take away from Rock & Roll High School?
Who in music business now has the “it factor”, I’m not talking about artists but about behind the scenes?
Why are those invisible people behind the scene sometimes more important in the industry?
Most underappreciated artist in your opinion?
How hard is it to pick for the Songwriters Hall of Fame?
How many members do you put out on the ballot?
Who’s your dream guest for “Rock & Roll High School” podcast.
Your artists have sold a combined 100 million + units. Who’s the star who has a special place in your heart?
How has the music industry declined since the shift of streaming and the loss of revenue for artists?
One Big Question:
Pete, how do you see the future of music with Suno and other AI changing the reality of “is it real or is it not”?
How has this podcast changed you?
Where can people listen to Rock & Roll High School and find you online?
The Wrap:
His favorite Mets game was game 6 of the ‘86 World Series, misses mom’s meatloaf and wants you to hear “Rock & Roll High School” podcast. Pete Ganbarg, thanks for taking the time to talk with us today.
And that my friends is Beyond the Mic.
Listen to other Beyond the Mic conversations with podcasters here.
Check out Rock and Roll Podcast here.
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