Almost Famous Enough

Canadian singer-songwriter Ken Yates returns to discuss fatherhood, touring logistics, and his signature sonic evolution. We dive into how he scaled back to a live trio format , his collaborative work with producers Jim Bryson and Daniel Ledwell, and how a late bloomer to indie-folk songwriting defined his unique guitar tunings and raw vocal identity. From DIY house concerts to upcoming Massey Hall performances with Kathleen Edwards , this conversation explores what it really means to cultivate a dedicated, word-of-mouth audience in the modern music industry.
ep45 Ken Yates has range 
released May 21, 2026 
1:31:46
Key Moments
The Unexpected Trio Transformation: 
Ken explains how a "logistical nightmare" of using six different regional backing bands across the country forced him to strip his live sound down to a trio format, helping him discover a live sound that he now prefers over solo performances.
The Nashville Vocal Accident: 
As a self-proclaimed "late bloomer" who went to Berklee for guitar rather than songwriting, Ken reveals he originally planned to stay behind the scenes writing for other artists in the Nashville style. He only sang his own song for the first time because his lead vocalist fell sick before a performance, sparking his career as a frontman.
Embracing Creative Limitations: 
In a highly candid moment, Ken admits he still doesn't consider himself a traditional singer and doesn't even sing around the house or in the car. He explains how having a limited vocal range actually acts as a creative superpower, forcing him to be much more inventive with his melodies.
The "Traveling Salesman" Burnout: 
Ken reflects on the exhausting pre-COVID era of driving his Honda Civic to DIY house concerts and carrying a vintage briefcase of merchandise. While financially positive, he realized playing living rooms wasn't building a sustainable, dedicated audience, prompting a massive shift in his career direction.
Redefining Success Outside of Fame: 
Ken shares how "failing" to reach the mainstream metrics of fame and fortune for over a decade ultimately set him free. He reached a peaceful realization that even if his career never grew past its current size, he would still happily choose to make records because it fulfills him creatively and financially.
Dismantling the Tortured Artist Trope: 
The conversation shifts to how fatherhood and aging have softened Ken's perspective. He notes that he has actively stepped away from trying to be a "tortured artist" all the time, allowing himself to recognize when he is genuinely feeling good and simply enjoying being a dad.
https://www.kenyates.com/
https://www.instagram.com/kenyatesmusic/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqkNO32U_cF0bQDmb79-PoQ

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
AFE website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
AFE Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480
Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction
00:04:13 Getting Re-acquainted with Ken Yates
00:06:08 Parenthood and Its Impact on Music
00:09:04 Logistical Challenges of Touring with a Baby
00:11:56 Finding a New Band and Live Performance Dynamics
00:14:29 Transitioning from Solo to Full Band Performances
00:17:21 Songwriting Journey and Overcoming Limitations
00:20:01 The Evolution of Sound and Collaborations
00:22:45 Berklee Experience and Early Musical Development
00:25:28 Defining a Unique Sound and Voice in Music
00:28:19 Future Directions and New Music Releases
00:36:32 The Struggles of DIY Music
00:38:25 Finding Clarity in Sound
00:42:14 Personal Growth Through Parenthood
00:52:07 Building an Authentic Audience
01:09:48 Post-Fame with Alexi

Discover the inspiring story of Jake Vaadeland, a young Saskatchewan musician blending traditional prairie country roots with rockabilly and bluegrass influences. Jake shares his journey from small-town beginnings to international stages, winning a Juno Award and self-promoting rural tours, while emphasizing the importance of authenticity, showmanship, and staying true to oneself.
ep44 Jake Vaadeland is a continuation
released May 14, 2026
1:30:51
Key Topics:
Jake Vaadeland's background and family roots in Scandinavian and rural Saskatchewan culture
The influence of early musical experiences, bluegrass, and pioneer music on his style
His unconventional path out of small-town Saskatchewan into music, including early performances and self-branding
The significance of live performance professionalism, tight showmanship, and entertainment value
How touring in small communities built his audience outside traditional music industry channels
The creative process behind his upcoming album, focused on heritage and traditional folk sounds recorded with vintage equipment
The importance of simplicity in songwriting and authenticity in performance
Balancing artistic passion with career sustainability and growth strategies informed by legendary artists like Willie Nelson
Overcoming societal pressures to stand out and living authentically in a small-town environment
The role of patience, steady growth, and trusting the natural flow of his career and art
https://www.jakevaadeland.com/
https://www.instagram.com/jake_vaadeland/
https://www.youtube.com/@jakevaadeland1712

hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
AFE: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
AFE Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480
Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction
00:03:07 Family Names Ancestry Discussion
00:07:36 Jake's Musical Journey Begins
00:12:36 Growing Up in Rural Saskatchewan
00:17:13 Musical Influences and Family Background
00:19:38 Niche Music Style and Identity
00:26:18 Finding an Audience and Showmanship
00:26:41 Nostalgic Roots of Music
00:29:11 The Evolution of Live Performance
00:32:13 Building a Touring Career
00:34:36 The Road to Recognition
00:37:32 Breaking Free from Conventional Paths
00:42:29 Embracing Individuality and Authenticity
00:49:00 The Art of Songwriting and Performance
00:51:53 The Roots of Songwriting
00:57:16 Exploring New Musical Directions
01:03:07 The Magic of Imperfection in Music
01:09:02 Navigating Career Anxiety and Future Aspirations
01:15:00 Post-Fame with Alexi

Design is the silent partner of every great record, yet the path to becoming a creative director in the music industry is rarely linear. From navigating the Montreal art scene to designing for icons like Tegan and Sara and Arcade Fire, Becca McFarlane shares her journey of "Type A" creativity. We dive into the merch economics of stadium tours, why authenticity beats the algorithm, and how to build a visual brand that resonates long after the music stops.
ep42 Becca McFarlane is a swan
released April 30, 2026
1:44:45
Highlights
The Swan - on imposter syndrome and hidden effort: Becca uses the swan metaphor to illustrate the hidden struggles of ADHD creatives who appear confident but are constantly working hard beneath the surface.
The quarter-life crisis that changed everything: At 25, Becca leaves a stable career to rediscover her creativity, taking a prep cook job and returning to school to study illustration.
"Just because you're good at something doesn't mean it's what you should do": Becca shares the insight that skill alone doesn't dictate career choice, echoed by Glen's record label experience.
Working with musicians vs. corporate clients: Becca contrasts musicians' self-awareness with corporate clients' indecision, highlighting differences in creative collaboration.
https://beccamcfarlane.com/
https://www.minifists.com/
https://www.instagram.com/minifists/
hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
AFE website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
AFE Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480
Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction and Technical Insights
00:01:55 Becca McFarlane
00:04:03 Navigating the Job Market and Personal Branding
00:07:02 The Journey into the Music Industry
00:10:00 Creative Pursuits and Career Crossroads
00:12:56 The Balance of Supporting Others vs. Personal Creation
00:16:09 The Transition to Full-Time Creative Work
00:19:17 The Challenges of Being a Type A Creative
00:22:11 Imposter Syndrome and the Creative Process
00:25:10 Finding Your Path in the Arts
00:33:14 Transitioning from Production to Creative Design
00:34:48 The Role of Design in the Music Industry
00:40:14 Collaboration with Artists and Art Directors
00:45:12 The Ease of Working with Musicians
00:51:44 Building a Brand as an Artist
00:56:26 The Importance of Authenticity in Creativity
01:00:54 AI's Impact on Creativity and the Industry
01:04:23 Generative AI and the Human Element
01:07:40 Art vs. Design: Understanding the Differences
01:09:51 The Return to Analog: A Trend in Music and Art
01:14:15 Navigating the Economics of Creativity
01:20:14 Finding Your Creative Collaborators
01:25:00 Post-Fame with Alexi

Explore the intersection of turntablism, indigenous culture, and electronic music with Juno-winning artist Shub. From his early days as a DMC Canada champion to pioneering the powwow step genre with A Tribe Called Red, Shub discusses the technical evolution of his craft and the importance of representation. We dive into his prolific production process, the realities of streaming royalties, and his latest collaborative project, Heritage, which continues to redefine the boundaries of modern Canadian music.
ep42 Shub has timing 
released April 30, 2026 
1:23:24
Key Topics:
His older brother's influence and getting his first turntables
The DMC DJ battle circuit - how it works, the politics, and representing Canada at the world finals in England (6th place out of 32)
Discovering the Electric Powwow scene in Ottawa and how "Powwow Step" was born
Joining A Tribe Called Red, winning a Juno, and touring internationally
The importance of management for indigenous artists and controlling your own narrative
Going solo and sustaining a career through royalties, licensing, and live shows
AI in music - useful tool or threat?
War Club and the Heritage album series — 40 songs, split into two parts to maximize reach
His son following in his footsteps as a DJ
https://www.djshub.ca/
https://www.instagram.com/djshub/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6GnlFX64_y-D7A4I8XVQRA
hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
AFE website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
AFE Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480
Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction
00:03:26 Buffalo Roots and Early Influences
00:06:44 From Turntables to Battle Champion
00:15:45 Inside DMC Battles and World Finals
00:23:32 Electric Powwow and A Tribe Called Red
00:33:20 Powwowstep Breakthrough
00:34:32 Management And Narrative
00:41:07 Touring Abroad Perspectives
00:44:10 Culture In The Music
00:48:01 Making A Living Solo
00:54:45 Heritage Collabs Rollout
01:04:20 Album Plug and Farewell
01:05:06 Post-Fame with Alexi

Danielle McTaggart has navigated a fascinating evolution from the early days of Dear Rouge and winning the Peak Performance Project to her evocative new solo venture, Larkk. We explore her roots in Red Deer , the transition from Christian music culture to the indie-rock scene , and the vulnerability of processing infertility and grief through songwriting. Danielle shares veteran insights on maintaining a full-time music career , the importance of creative control , and collaborating with poets to find a raw, mature voice.
ep41 Danielle McTaggart is Larkk
released April 23, 2026
1:16:24
Key Topics
The importance and power of vulnerability in music and artistry
Transitioning from band success to solo experimentation
The influence of Christian roots and artistic grief on songwriting
The evolving voice and style from Dear Rouge to Larkk
The role of collaboration with poets and mental health in music creation
The significance of intentional, curated live performances
The challenge of navigating social media and attention in modern music
The importance of mentorship and education opportunities in Canada
https://www.larkkmusic.com/
https://www.instagram.com/larkkmusic
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqGUgS1XUiEvWUqTVBAdcmA
hosts: Glen Erickson, Alexi Erickson
AFE website: https://www.almostfamousenough.com
AFE instagram: https://www.instagram.com/almostfamousenough
AFE Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1o1PRD2X0i3Otmpn8vi2zP?si=1ece497360564480
Almost Famous Enough is a series of conversations centered around the music industry, pulling back the veil on what it really means to “make it”. Our podcast features guests who know the grind, who have lived the dream, or at the very least, chased the dream. Through these conversational biographies, truth and vulnerability provide more than a topical roadmap or compile some career advice; they can appeal to the dreamer in us all, with stories that can teach us, inspire us, and even reconcile us, and make us feel like we made a new friend along the way.
Chapters
00:00:00 Introduction
00:04:22 Career Beginnings
00:07:04 Influences and Early Music
00:09:59 Transition to Indie Rock
00:19:04 Challenges in the Music Industry
00:21:29 Finding Joy in Music
00:37:39 Larkk's Creative Process
00:54:36 Writing with a Poet
00:57:51 The Meaning of Larkk
01:00:28 Post-Fame with Alexi