Podcast
Tony Mantor's : Almost Live..... Nashville
Hosted by Tony Mantor · EN
Nashville based veteran music producer Tony Mantor’s Almost Live… Nashville podcast takes its listener on a journey through the business of music and entertainment. Following the success and popularity of his top-rated podcast on Autism & Mental Health awareness - Why Not Me? - Mantor hosts thought-provoking conversations and behind-the-scenes stories from various celebrity guests from the world of music, television and entertainment. With more than 30 years as an accomplished music producer based in Nashville, Mantor welcomes a worldly guest list of musicians, actors and entertainers who share their unique stories about the roles they’ve played in creating and sustaining what we know as popular American culture. Conversations and stories that also give a deeper understanding on what it takes to achieve success in the entertainment industry for aspiring entertainers who are currently pursuing their own dreams of being a star someday. Whether listening for the entertainment or storytelling factor alone, or for tips on how his guests faced their life’s challenges, Almost Live… Nashville will have a story for anyone who has been a fan of popular culture in music, movies and television over the last few decades.
41episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Richard Hewson’s RAH band: Journey From Bedroom Demos To Global Streams
1w ago00:29:02Summary readyWe sit down with Richard Hewson, the creative force behind the Ra Band, to trace how an under-credited arranger turns frustration over fees into a self-made recording legacy. We get the real stories behind “Clouds Across The Moon,” Abbey Road sessions, vintage studio gear, and what it feels like to be rediscovered through Spotify and TikTok decades later. • arrangers paid a fee without royalties, pushing Richard toward writing his own songs • building early Ra Band tracks as a one-person “bedroom band” on multitrack tape • jazz influences shaping a pop sound, plus the Paul McCartney connection that opens doors • turning an “international operator” memory into the sci-fi story of “Clouds Across The Moon” • writing lyrics by creating a story scene, starting with simple phrases and expanding them • “Messages from the Stars” going viral on streaming and reigniting the back catalog • receiving the Roland SH-5 as a first synthesizer and sticking with vintage gear • analog warmth vs digital sameness, plus why hiss and tape feel “timeless” • favorite string arrangements and the craft of writing orchestration by hand • Abbey Road memories, Phil Spector’s massive orchestra request, and McCartney’s reaction • praising session musicians as the real heroes who can nail anything first take • seeing the Ra Band performed live by his son and a nine-piece touring lineup • where to find the music on major platforms and hopes for a vinyl run If you haven't already, take a quick second to tap the follow button. It really helps the show reach more people who love music and entertainment. INTRO/OUTRO Music: T. WildMantor Music BMI
SummaryHoward Jones On Synths, Stardom, And Staying Authentic
2w ago00:24:58Summary readyWe sit down with Howard Jones to talk about the long arc of an electronic pop career that stays grounded in optimism, craft, and real human connection. He shares how he balances evolving music technology with live performance energy, and why authenticity is still the thing audiences can feel. • writing new music while still touring and chasing the next creative spark • blending great playing with smart technology for a powerful live show • building songs around big questions like love, meaning, and being human • how “Things Can Only Get Better” comes from thinking about singalongs • staying relevant by staying true to values like kindness and self-belief • what analog gear still does that software cannot fully copy • the 1985 Grammys moment that helped legitimize synth-based music • why the stage forces you into the present moment • learning from early fearless performances and bringing that spirit back • underestimating “No One Is To Blame” and watching it grow with fans • the near-miss record deal choice that changed everything • favorite synth pick and the message he hopes lasts for decades • turning a power cut into a once-in-a-lifetime show memory If you haven't already, take a quick second to tap the follow button. It really helps the show reach more people who love music and entertainment.INTRO/OUTRO: T. WildMantor Music BMI
SummaryThomas Dolby On Touring, Storytelling, And Staying Ahead Of Music Tech
3w ago00:24:28Summary readyWe sit down with Thomas Dolby to talk about touring with a full band, reshaping classic songs, and telling the stories behind a career that spans synthpop, songwriting, production, and music technology. He shares why emotion matters more than gear, how constraints can sharpen creativity, and what it takes to keep reinventing yourself without losing your voice. • touring plans and building a show around memoir-style storytelling • why great production starts with song and arrangement • musical “magic” and the shared human response to harmony • the many versions of 1980s music and the darker reality behind the nostalgia • using radio hits as a gateway to deeper, longer-lasting work • analog vs digital shifts with distribution as the real disruptor • why limitations can push invention and stronger decisions • chasing new horizons from samplers to AI without a “user manual” • founding Beatnik and the logic behind MIDI and samples on the early web • polyphonic ringtones and building mass-market music tech • staying an acquired taste and creating without chasing charts • teaching creativity by removing shortcuts and forcing originality • why inside-out performance matters more than copying trends • a final push to see the new live direction while there’s time Before we jump in, if you haven't already, tap the follow button. Take two seconds to do that now. It really helps the show reach more people. INTRO/OUTRO Music: T. WildMantor Music BMI
SummaryJuliet Dawn: Songs of Strength, Hope and Healing
4w ago00:28:08Summary readyJuliet Dawn's Journey: From Trauma to Triumph In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, host Tony Mantor speaks with Juliet Dawn, a former X-Factor contestant and performer at the Royal Albert Hall. Juliet shares her remarkable journey of overcoming decades of trauma, including abuse, miscarriages, and health issues, with the help of her Christian faith. Despite immense personal hardships, she has channeled her struggles into her new album 'Born To Be', aimed at providing hope and healing. Juliet also discusses her path in the music industry, her ventures into writing, and her plans for the future, including her aspirations to tour and connect deeply with audiences through her compelling music and poetry. Introduction to the Podcast Meet Juliet Dawn: From X-Factor to Royal Albert Hall Juliet's Journey Through Trauma and Healing The X-Factor Experience Opening a Boutique in Cornwall Juliet's Musical Evolution and Future Plans How to Follow Juliet Dawn Conclusion and Final Thoughts INTRO/OUTRO: T. Wild Mantor Music BMI
SummaryHue and Cry: The Evolution of Brothers in Harmony
Apr 2100:26:38Summary readyPat Kane of Hue and Cry on New Single “Stronger,” Post-Post-Punk Authenticity, and Keeping Imperfection in the Music Host Tony Mantor introduces his podcast Almost Live Nashville and welcomes Pat Kane of Hue and Cry, the late-1980s duo known for blending pop, jazz, and sophisticated songwriting, including the hit “Labor of Love” from Seduced and Abandoned. Kane discusses promoting the new single “Stronger” and an upcoming album (out March 29), describing it as an optimistic electronic departure that reconnects with the band’s earlier electric phase while keeping their “post post-punk” core. He cites influences including The Human League, jazz, big bands, and classic soul, and reflects on unexpected success, the political-romantic metaphor and production of “Labor of Love,” and the intensity and intuition of writing with his brother Greg. Kane shares lessons about empathy in the music business, moments of renewed visibility via Grand Theft Auto and TV, resisting commercial pressure, valuing authenticity amid AI, embracing machine quirks in recording, and where to find the band online. 01:51 New Single and Album 02:28 Post Post Punk Vision 03:21 Influences and Sound 04:21 Breakout Success Stories 05:41 Why Labor of Love 06:38 Brothers in the Band 07:27 Hard Lessons in Music 08:21 Pop Culture Comeback 10:53 Staying Authentic 12:31 Start With Stronger 13:43 Fighting for Art 15:13 What Keeps Fans Hooked 16:22 Songs That Heal 18:09 AI and Real Performance 20:20 Machines and Happy Accidents 23:34 Advice for Creators 24:28 Stadiums vs Intimate Gigs 25:25 Where to Find Hue and Cry 26:25 Final Thanks INTRO/OUTRO: T.Wild Mantor Music BMI
SummaryBand of Heathens:Harmony, Grit, and the Art of Creating a Lasting Sound
Apr 1400:26:21Summary readyBehind the Music: The Band of Heathens - A Journey of Harmony and Brotherhood Tony Mantor hosts an engaging conversation on 'Almost Live Nashville' with Ed and Gordy from the acclaimed roots rock band, The Band of Heathens. The discussion delves into the band's origin story, their lack of initial vision, and how a loose collective of musicians evolved into a celebrated group known for their rich harmonies and collaborative spirit. Ed and Gordy share insights into their songwriting and recording processes, reflecting on their growth as a band and the influence of iconic musicians on their sound. The band also talks about challenges and dynamics of being on the road, the importance of staying creative and independent, and their hopes for connecting with audiences through both recorded music and live performances. The episode is filled with candid moments and reveals the passion and camaraderie that have kept The Band of Heathens thriving for over 20 years. Introduction to the Podcast Meet Ed and Gordy from Band of Heathens The Origin of the Band Name Early Days and Vision of the Band Songwriting and Recording Process Touring and Band Dynamics Rapid-Fire Questions: Between the Beats Final Thoughts and Future Plans INTRO/OUTRO: T. Wild Mantor Music BMI
SummaryTommy D : His 15 year battle with Live Nation
Apr 700:27:12Summary readyDavid vs. Goliath: Tommy D's 15-Year Battle Against Live Nation In this episode of 'Almost Live Nashville,' host Tony Mantor interviews Tommy D., a fearless concert promoter from New Jersey and founder of Juice Entertainment, who has been entangled in a 15-year legal battle against Live Nation. Tommy shares his journey from the pinnacle of the EDM scene to being blacklisted and nearly homeless after Live Nation intervened in his plans to launch the biggest EDM festival on the East Coast. He delves into his unwavering fight against the industry giant, revealing the mafia-like tactics, antitrust issues, and inflated costs used to monopolize the market. Despite the challenges, Tommy's relentless pursuit for fairness and transparency aims to lower ticket prices, support independent promoters, and give artists the freedom to choose where they perform. Tune in to hear his compelling story and the long-awaited quest for a trial date. Introduction to the Podcast Meet Tommy D: The Concert Promoter The Battle with Live Nation Begins The Festival Dream Shattered Legal Struggles and Homelessness The Long Legal Battle Hopes for Justice and Industry Change Support and Challenges Conclusion and Final Thoughts INTRO/OUTRO Music: T.Wild Mantor Music BMI
SummaryTenille Towns: Music, Independence, and Honesty in songwriting
Mar 3100:31:03Summary readyTenille Towns on Going Independent Again, The Acrobat, and Writing Songs That Help People Feel Less Alone Host Tony Mantor introduces his podcast Almost Live Nashville and interviews singer-songwriter Tenille Towns, who moved from Grand Prairie, Alberta to Nashville and became an ACM New Female Artist of the Year and Juno Award winner. Towns discusses returning to independence after nearly eight years with Sony Nashville, producing her new record The Acrobat herself for release on April 10, and regaining creative autonomy. She reflects on small-town roots, homesickness, touring highs, and the pressures of the industry that led to feeling lost, depression, therapy, and reframing identity beyond career. T owns explains how fan connections encourage vulnerability, how her songwriting has become more personal, and highlights songs including Somebody’s Daughter, Jersey on the Wall, Villain in Me, and Enabling. She shares rapid-fire answers and closes with a message about allowing feelings to pass through and seeking connection. 00:00 Show Mission 01:16 Meet Tenille Towns 02:00 New Album The Acrobat 02:39 Going Independent Again 04:09 Small Town to Nashville 06:58 Songwriting Freedom Shift 08:31 Storytelling and Craft 10:04 Sharing Personal Truths 11:32 Fans and Song Impact 13:02 Hope and Mental Health 14:44 Growth Under Pressure 16:29 Hardest Songs to Release 17:51 Escaping the Hamster Wheel 20:43 Between the Beats 22:30 Breathing and Contentment 26:18 Rapid Fire Round Two 28:38 Final Message and Wrap INTRO/OUTRO: T.Wild Mantor Music BMI
SummaryMarcus Hummon: Songs,Stories, and his journey from L.A. to Nashville
Mar 2400:26:33Summary readyMarcus Hummon's Musical Journey: From Nashville Honky Tonks to Grammy Wins In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, Tony Mantor interviews Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Marcus Hummon. Hummon shares insights from his extensive career, which includes songwriting, theater compositions, and scoring operas. Discussing his experience from his early days performing at Nashville's iconic Bluebird Cafe to crafting hits for major artists, Marcus reveals the dynamic evolution of the music industry. They delve into his new projects, including collaborating with his son’s label and creating an album inspired by Emily Dickinson’s poetry Hummon also provides thoughtful commentary on the challenges faced by modern artists and the impact of streaming on the music business. Introduction to the Podcast Meet Marcus Hummon: Grammy-Winning Singer-Songwriter Marcus Hummon's Current Projects and Collaborations The Evolution of the Music Industry Theater and Family: Marcus Hummonn's Diverse Talents Challenges and Triumphs in the Music Business Marcus Hummonn's Personal Journey and Reflections Staying Relevant in a Changing Industry Collaborations and Future Endeavors Closing Remarks and Contact Information INTRO/OUTRO : T. Wild Mantor Music BMI
SummaryProtomen: Music that defines Rock Opera, Rebellion, and Rhythm
Mar 1700:30:16Summary readyBehind the Scenes with The Protomen: A Rock Opera Odyssey In this episode of 'Almost Live Nashville,' host Tony Mantor delves into the fascinating world of The Proto Man, a Nashville-based band known for their unique blend of rock opera, sci-fi storytelling, and raw energy. T he band members, who go by the names Murphy, Commander B. Hawkins, and Panther, share insights into their creative process, the evolution of their concept albums, and their journey from humble beginnings to their ambitious endeavors today. They discuss the intricate storylines of their music, their experiences performing live, and their aspirations for the future, including playing in Japan and potentially creating a Broadway play. Listeners will get an in-depth look at the band's influences, the themes of rebellion, sacrifice, and legacy in their work, and the strong connection they share with their fans. Introduction to the Podcast Meet the Protomen The Concept and Evolution of Their Music The Storyline and Themes Live Performances and Audience Reactions Future Aspirations and Goals Animation Opportunities Upcoming Shows and Events Reflecting on the Band's Legacy Fan Interactions and Inspirations Quickfire Questions: Between the Beats Favorite Songs and Tour Memories Dream Collaborations Heartfelt Message to Fans INTRO/OUTRO Music: T. Wild Mantor Music BMI
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