Throwback Thursday: A discussion on Tony Sly and No Use For A Name’s “International You Day”
It’s July 31st, and fans around the world are observing Tony Sly Day in remembrance of the late Tony Sly, beloved frontman of No Use for a Name, who passed away in 2012. This year marks the first official Tony Sly Day, and to honor the occasion, this Throwback Thursday episode revisits Episode 144, originally released on August 1st, 2022, which takes a deep dive into every aspect of “International You Day,” Sly’s standout track from the 2002 album Hard Rock Bottom. The episode explores the song’s heartfelt lyrics, unique arrangement, and emotional resonance—offering a tribute to Sly’s timeless influence as both a songwriter and human being.
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Ep. 268: Jason McMaster discusses Dangerous Toys “Scared”
On this episode, Jason McMaster of Dangerous Toys takes us behind the scenes of the band’s 1989 hit “Scared,” a track born from fear, adrenaline, and a deep love for theatrical rock. Inspired by Alice Cooper and crafted in a quirky home studio setting, “Scared” blends personal storytelling with pounding percussion and a structure that wastes no time getting to the hook. Jason shares how the lyrics were shaped by real-life anxieties, how spontaneous moments and misheard lines sometimes added unexpected charm, and how collaboration played a key role in bringing the song to life. Along the way, he and Chris reflect on the nostalgic glory of late '80s rock, the emotional weight that music can carry, and what keeps the creative fire burning decades later.
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On this Throwback Thursday episode, originally released as Episode 150 on April 10th, 2023, Josh Caterer of Smoking Popes joins the show to discuss “Megan,” a fan-favorite deep cut from the band’s 1997 major label debut Destination Failure. Though tucked near the end of the album, the song found a lasting connection with listeners thanks to its tender melody and emotionally elusive lyrics. Josh shares the story behind writing “Megan,” dives into its ambiguous narrative, and reflects on how a seemingly understated track became one of the most beloved in the Smoking Popes catalog.
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Ep. 267: Nick Wheeler discusses The All-American Rejects “Gives You Hell”
In this week’s episode, Nick Wheeler of The All-American Rejects joins Chris to unpack the wild and rewarding process behind their 2008 chart-topper “Gives You Hell.” From its uncertain beginnings to becoming the band’s biggest hit, Nick shares how quirky chords, a tongue-in-cheek lyrical edge, and a shift from punk roots to pop polish shaped the track’s identity. He reflects on recording to tape at Skywalker Ranch, the calculated choices that made the song stick, and the unforgettable, booze-fueled gang vocal session that gave it raw energy. And yes—producer Eric Valentine even brought a paint can into the mix.
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Throwback Thursday: Brett Gurewitz discusses Bad Religon’s “Stranger Than Fiction”
This week, Chris DeMakes A Podcast is throwing it back to Episode 104 from May 23rd, 2022, when Brett Gurewitz of Bad Religion joined the show to talk about the writing, recording, and legacy of their 1994 single "Stranger Than Fiction." Taken from the album of the same name, the song showcases Brett’s sharp lyrical voice and knack for melody, and in this conversation, he opens up about everything from the first line to the final mix. It's an honest, insightful, and sometimes funny look into one of Bad Religion’s most iconic tracks—definitely worth a listen whether you're a die-hard fan or just someone who loves hearing how great songs come together.
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Chris DeMakes A Podcast, hosted by Chris DeMakes of the legendary punk rock band Less Than Jake, features guests who have written iconic songs, exploring their backstory, creation, inspiration, and significance. Each episode offers an in-depth exploration into a specific track from renowned artists, with guests providing untold stories and fascinating details. From chart-toppers to hidden gems across various genres and eras, the podcast offers a rich listening experience. Chris's passion for music and songwriting fuels engaging discussions on lyrics, melodies, production techniques, and cultural context. Combining informative storytelling, interviews, and analysis, the podcast appeals to music lovers, die-hard fans, and anyone curious about the songwriting process. It provides insight into the artistry behind timeless songs, making it perfect for those seeking inspiration or simply wanting to immerse themselves in musical magic.
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