Podcast Summary: All Of It – "Get Lit: Reeve Carney Performs New Music"

Episode Information

• Title: Get Lit: Reeve Carney Performs New Music
• Host: Alison Stewart
• Guest: Reeve Carney
• Release Date: June 2, 2025

Introduction In this episode of All Of It, hosted by Alison Stewart, the spotlight is on the multifaceted artist Reeve Carney. Known for originating the role of Orpheus in the Tony Award-winning musical Hadestown and for his work as a solo musician and band frontman, Carney brings a rich blend of acting and musical prowess to the conversation. This episode delves into his creative process, the interplay between his acting and musical careers, and features exclusive live performances of his new music.

Live Performance: An Anthem for America [01:43 – 05:33] The episode kicks off with a powerful live performance by Reeve Carney. His original song, a poignant commentary on American ideals and societal challenges, sets the tone for the discussion. The lyrics reflect a deep contemplation of America's identity, encapsulated in lines like:

“America, oh my sweet America
May you come to be all that you aim to be”
[01:43]

Carney's performance captures the essence of his introspective songwriting, blending personal emotion with broader cultural themes.

Interview with Reeve Carney

Balancing Acting and Music [05:50 – 07:38]

Alison Stewart explores how Carney's dual careers as an actor and musician influence each other. Carney explains:

“Being an actor has certainly helped me as a musician, and vice versa. Writing is the hardest part of what I do. It’s very isolating as well...”
[06:21]

He emphasizes the importance of creativity in both fields and how engaging in one art form can enrich the other.

The Writing Process and Auditions [07:53 – 08:37]

Discussing the challenges of character development and auditions, Carney shares insights into his approach:

“With auditions, it gives you the opportunity to say, maybe this one's not for me, or, yeah, I can pull this off.”
[07:53]

He highlights the balance between quickly adapting to roles and taking the necessary time to develop a character fully.

Upcoming Projects: Green Room 42 and Queen Tribute [08:43 – 09:37]

Carney reveals his upcoming performances, including a tribute to Queen at Green Room 42:

“I love Queen, and I'm doing, like, a tribute to them, and they're one of my favorite bands of all time.”
[08:56]

He discusses his preference for intimate venues that foster a strong connection with the audience, contrasting them with larger, more distracting settings.

Maintaining Vocal Health [09:37 – 09:41]

When asked about managing his vocal demands, Carney responds succinctly:

“I guess you just gotta practice a little bit every day, and that helps.”
[09:33]

Live Performance: "Checkmate" from Youth is Wasted [09:43 – 13:25] Carney returns with "Checkmate," a track from his 2017 solo album Youth is Wasted. The song delves into themes of love, vulnerability, and emotional struggle. Notable lyrics include:

“When love is the power play, checkmate. We're losers in the game of love.”
[10:19]

His rendition showcases his ability to convey complex emotions through music, resonating with listeners on a personal level.

Final Thoughts and Second Performance [13:53 – 18:20]

In the concluding segment, Carney reflects on the support and inspiration he draws from others:

“When I'm lost, you bring me back. When I crash, you make me glad.”
[13:53]

He expresses gratitude for his collaborators and audience, highlighting the reciprocal nature of artistic creation.

Closing Performance: Original Song [14:45 – 18:20]

Carney performs another original piece, further illustrating his talent as a songwriter and performer. The song emphasizes themes of perseverance and emotional resilience, leaving listeners with a sense of hope and introspection.

Conclusion Alison Stewart wraps up the episode by highlighting the summer break for the Get Lit series and teasing upcoming events, including a discussion on the life of Mark Twain with biographer Ron Chernow. Reeve Carney's blend of heartfelt performances and insightful conversation provides a compelling exploration of the intersection between music and acting, embodying the spirit of All Of It as a celebration of culture in all its forms.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• "Being an actor has certainly helped me as a musician, and vice versa. Writing is the hardest part of what I do. It’s very isolating as well..."
  — Reeve Carney [06:21]

• "With auditions, it gives you the opportunity to say, maybe this one's not for me, or, yeah, I can pull this off."
  — Reeve Carney [07:53]

• "I love Queen, and I'm doing, like, a tribute to them, and they're one of my favorite bands of all time."
  — Reeve Carney [08:56]

• "When love is the power play, checkmate. We're losers in the game of love."
  — Reeve Carney [10:19]

• "When I'm lost, you bring me back. When I crash, you make me glad."
  — Reeve Carney [13:53]

Upcoming Episodes Listeners can look forward to the continuation of Get Lit in September, featuring a deep dive into Mark Twain's life with Ron Chernow, promising more engaging discussions and cultural insights.

All Of It continues to serve as a vibrant platform for exploring the diverse facets of culture, bringing together creators and consumers in meaningful dialogue. This episode with Reeve Carney is a testament to the show's commitment to showcasing the interconnectedness of different artistic disciplines.