Guy Talk

Welcome back to another thrilling episode of "Mick Unplugged"! Today’s guest is none other than the powerhouse of pop music, April Diamond. Known for her electrifying vocals, magnetic stage presence, and a journey that began in church, April has taken the music world by storm. She’s not just a singer and performer but also a dedicated vocal coach mentoring the next generation of artists.

In this compelling conversation, Mick and April delve into overcoming challenges, staying motivated, and the authentic stories behind her hit songs like "Feel So Good" and "I Got a Secret." Whether it's her early days singing reluctantly under her grandmother's watchful eye or crafting dance-floor anthems that make you want to get up and groove, April’s journey is all about persistence, passion, and the power of giving back.

Join us as we uncover the secrets behind her success and the incredible energy she brings to every performance. Buckle up for an episode filled with raw insights, bold moves, and inspiring stories. Let's dive in!

Takeaways:

• April's journey in music began in church, influenced by her grandmother.
• Success comes with challenges that teach valuable lessons.
• The importance of having a 'because' that drives you forward.
• 'I Got a Secret' explores the complexities of relationships.

Questions & Answers:

Question:

Mick Hunt: April, your song "Feel So Good" has become a fan favorite. What's the story behind its creation?

April Diamond: "Feel So Good" is about celebrating the feeling of achievement. It embodies the joy that comes from overcoming obstacles and seeing dreams become reality. It's a reminder that after every struggle, there's a moment where it genuinely feels so good!

    2. Question:

Mick Hunt: Your journey from singing in church to performing on big stages is incredible. What advice do you have for aspiring artists?

April Diamond: Trust your journey and stay authentic. Embrace every opportunity, learn from the setbacks, and build a supportive tribe around you. Remember, every talent you possess has a place in your success story.

    3. Question:

Mick Hunt: You’re known for your energy-packed performances. How do you prepare for your live shows?

April Diamond: Preparation is key! I spend hours rehearsing with my choreographers and vocal coaches. It's about blending authenticity with professionalism, ensuring every performance feels fresh and electrifying for the audience.

Sound Bites

• "I want to see everyone reach their greatness."
• "It takes time to make a love worthwhile."
• "There are people that did it for me."

Connect and Discover

LinkedIn:                          linkedin.com/in/

Instagram:                       Instagram.com/aprildiamondmusic

Facebook:                        facebook.com/

Website:                           aprildiamond.com

                                          Letthevoiceout.com

Youtube:                          @aprildiamondofficial

X:                                      lmaprildiamondmusic

Streaming Show:             LIVE with April Diamond

Latest Song:                   “I Got The Music In Me”

 

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In this episode, Mick Hunt delves into DeeAnn DeMaio's prosperous musical career, exploring the roots of her passion and the personal triumphs and challenges that have shaped her as an artist. DeeAnn discusses the nuances of her musical evolution, her emotional ties to the songs she performs, and her approach to creating music that touches the soul.

DeeAnn DeMaio's Background: Known for blending jazz, blues, and soul into her heartfelt songs, DeeAnn shares her lifelong passion for music, heavily influenced by her early family life and personal experiences.

Defining Moments: DeeAnn recalls a critical moment when she performed "You Are My Sunshine" in tribute to her son, highlighting the emotional depth music can reach.

Discussion Topics:

• DeeAnn's earliest memories of music and her initial fears of performing solo were overcome by the transformative power of hearing her voice fill an auditorium.
• The pivotal influence of her father, a jazz musician, and how his singing around the house shaped her musical taste and career.
• She went from performing country music to embracing jazz and blues, finding her true voice in genres that resonated deeply with her soul.

Key Quotes:

• "Music isn't just about the notes; it's about the story it tells and the emotions it evokes."
• "Each song I perform reflects a personal journey, an emotional expression I share with my audience."

Next Steps:

• Listen: Dive into DeeAnn DeMaio's music to experience her powerful vocals and deep emotional resonance.
• Reflect: Think about how music has influenced your own life and emotions.
• Engage: Share how DeeAnn’s story and songs inspire your musical appreciation using #MickUnplugged.

Connect & Discover:
LinkedIn: linkedin/in/deeann-kimeo-1075b8150
Instagram: instagram.com/deeann_dimeosings
Facebook: facebook.com/deeann.dimeotompkins
Website: deeannmusic.com

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 In this episode, Mick Hunt dives into Jesse Thompson's melodic life, exploring his early exposure to music through a talented family and the vibrant local scene of Dayton. Jesse shares insights on how his upbringing and environment nurtured his passion for music, leading him to become a multi-talented musician recognized for his versatility and depth.

Jesse Thompson's Background: From a young age in Dayton, Ohio, Jesse was immersed in a rich musical heritage, learning from family members deeply rooted in gospel, jazz, and R&B.

Defining Moments: Jesse recounts pivotal experiences like playing his father's jazz drum set at age five and the familial teachings that guided his early musical education.

Discussion Topics:

• Jesse's early experiences with music, as part of a family of musicians, influenced his diverse skill set across multiple instruments.
• The profound impact of local funk legends and community music scenes shaped his musical style and career.
• His journey of mastering over 13 different instruments by age 12 and the discipline involved in his music education.

Key Quotes:

• "My gift comes from God, and my parents were my first teachers in the music world."
• "Being around the vibe of Dayton's music scene was like being in our version of Hollywood."

Next Steps:

• Discover: Explore Jesse Thompson's music and delve into his diverse discography.
• Reflect: Consider how your environment and upbringing influence your passions and pursuits.
• Engage: Share your thoughts on the episode and how music shapes your life using #MickUnplugged.

Connect & Discover:

• Instagram: instagram.com/jtjazz
• Facebook: facebook.com/jtjazz
• Website: jtjazz.com
• Youtube: @JesseJTJazzThompson

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In this captivating episode, Mick Hunt delves into Patrick Leonard's artistic journey. From his early days influencing the pop music landscape to embracing a solo path, Patrick shares the deep connection between his life experiences and his music. He offers a glimpse into the creative process behind his new album, emphasizing the personal and emotional depth that defines his work.

Patrick Leonard's Background: Renowned for his collaborations with Madonna, Elton John, and other stars, Patrick enters a new chapter with his solo album.

Defining Moments: Patrick discusses vital turning points in his career, including his decision to prioritize his music following notable collaborations.

Discussion Topics:

• Insights into Patrick's illustrious career and his creative evolution over the years.
• The inspiration behind his solo album was driven by changes in his environment and personal growth.
• The transition from working with legendary musicians to focusing on his music.

Key Quotes:

• "Music connects us to emotions directly, unlike anything else."
• "Leaving a successful path to follow my artistic voice was liberating and challenging."

Next Steps:

• Listen: Explore Patrick Leonard's new album to experience his latest musical expressions.
• Reflect: Consider how environmental changes have influenced your creative or professional pursuits.
• Engage: Share your favorite Patrick Leonard collaboration or solo piece using #MickUnplugged.

Connect & Discover:

• Website: patrickleonardmusic.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/patrickleonardig
• Vimeo: vimeo.com/954492896

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

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Mick Hunt engages with Amanda Cole in a profound discussion about her music career, principles, and commitment to authenticity. Amanda shares her journey through the music industry, her approach to overcoming challenges, and her aspirations to positively impact the industry. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of staying true to one's values and the transformative power of music.

Amanda Cole's Background: Celebrated for her versatile singing career, from Envogue to solo performances, focusing on authenticity and positive influence in the music industry.

Defining Moments: Reflecting on her choice to step away from traditional music paths to forge her own, focusing on her work's personal and emotional resonance.

Discussion Topics:

• Amanda is dedicated to creating music that remains true to her identity and values rather than conforming to industry norms.
• Insights into her decision to prioritize family and personal integrity over fame, including her departure from Envogue.
• The impact of digital platforms like YouTube in offering artists the freedom to explore and express their musical talents without industry constraints.

Key Quotes:

• "I think having positive and beautiful images is important, and I feel very responsible as an artist."
• "It's about being true to yourself, no matter the external pressures.

Next Steps:

• Explore: Listen to Amanda Cole's music to experience her unique blend of passion and authenticity.
• Reflect: Consider how personal values and professional choices align in your own life.
• Engage: Share how Amanda's approach to music and integrity inspires you using #MickUnplugged.

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

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In this profound episode, Mick Hunt engages with Brenda Russell to explore her journey as a musician and songwriter. Brenda discusses her creative process, the stories behind her most cherished songs, and her philosophy on music and life. This episode offers an in-depth look at the artistry that has made Brenda a beloved figure in the music industry.

Brenda Russell's Background: Celebrated for her deep musical heritage and iconic songs that have resonated across generations.

Defining Moments: Brenda shares her approach to songwriting, including the spontaneous creation of "So Good, So Right" and insights into maintaining creativity and authenticity in her work.

Discussion Topics:

• The inspiration and emotional depth behind her hit song "If Only For One Night."
• Her songwriting process and how she captures complex emotions and stories in her music.
• Collaborations with legendary artists like Maurice White and experiences that shaped her music career.

Key Quotes:

• "Many writers write about our heartbreaks, and those sometimes are the best songs."
• "Write from your heart for yourself because that's your highest point."

Next Steps:

• Listen: Explore Brenda Russell’s music to experience her powerful storytelling.
• Reflect: Consider how you can bring more authenticity and heart into your creative endeavors.
• Engage: Share your favorite Brenda Russell song and how it has impacted you using #MickUnplugged.

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

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In this inspirational episode, Mick Hunt delves into the remarkable journey of Kendra Erika from a tone-deaf child to a successful music artist. Kendra shares her experiences with vocal training, her passion for songwriting, and her approach to staying unique in a competitive industry. She discusses her challenges and the creative processes behind her top hits, offering listeners an intimate look at the life of a rising music star.

Kendra Erika's Background: Overcame tone deafness to become a chart-topping singer-songwriter.

Defining Moments: Kendra's experiences with classical training, her entry into professional music, and her rise on the Billboard dance chart.

Discussion Topics:

• Kendra's unique journey from overcoming tone deafness to achieving musical success.
• The evolution of her musical style and influences over the years.
• Insights into her songwriting process and collaborations in the music industry.

Key Quotes:

• "With tenacity and conviction, you can overcome any obstacle."
• "My parents taught me the way to be successful, not the way to be famous."

Next Steps:

• Listen: Check out Kendra Erika's latest tracks and watch for her upcoming releases.
• Reflect: Consider how personal challenges can be transformed into artistic strength.
• Engage: Share how Kendra's story inspires you using #MickUnplugged.

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

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Mick Hunt engages in a profound conversation with Tandy Weems, a pivotal figure in hip-hop. They delve into the roots and evolution of hip-hop, its cultural significance, and the importance of staying true to its essence. Tandy emphasizes the need for reeducation about the true nature of hip-hop beyond just music. She discusses her role in shaping the industry and her initiative to start the World Hip Hop Awards to honor authentic hip-hop talent globally.

The episode is filled with insights on maintaining integrity and excellence in an ever-changing industry.

Tandy Weems' Background: Over 25 years in the industry, worked with icons like Notorious B.I.G., Wu-Tang, Mary J. Blige, Method Man, Redman, and Mike Tyson.

Defining Moments: Tandy Weems shares her journey in the hip-hop world and her experiences working with major artists.

Discussion Topics:

• The essence and culture of hip hop.
• Importance of authenticity and knowledge in hip hop.
• The negative impact of commercialization on hip-hop culture.
• Tandy Weems' vision for the World Hip Hop Awards.
• Strategies for maintaining relevance and authenticity in the industry.

Key Quotes:

• "Hip hop is not just a music genre. It's a culture."
• "We created a worldwide billion-dollar industry without a dime."
• "The most important element of hip hop is knowledge."
• "If your music or your art doesn't possess knowledge, it's not hip hop."

Next Steps:

• Visit: World Hip Hop Awards for more information.
• Support: Help fund the World Hip Hop Awards and promote authentic hip hop culture.
• Engage: Share and discuss the episode using #MickUnplugged and #AuthenticHipHop.

★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

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Pitchfork’s parent company is folding the influential music site into GQ. Vulture’s Craig Jenkins explains how this is the end of an era. Bloomberg’s Ashley Carman says the robots are here to help. This episode was produced by Amanda Lewellyn and Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Patrick Boyd, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram. Transcript at vox.com/todayexplained Support Today, Explained by making a financial contribution to Vox! bit.ly/givepodcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ed Sheeran just won a big copyright trial. But he might not have even been in court if not for Robin Thicke and Pharrell’s “Blurred Lines.” Pitchfork’s Jayson Greene explains how the song of the summer from 10 years ago simply refuses to go away. This episode was produced by Hady Mawajdeh, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Matt Collette, engineered by Paul Robert Mounsey, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram. Transcript at vox.com/todayexplained   Support Today, Explained by making a financial contribution to Vox! bit.ly/givepodcasts  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gustavo Dudamel brought classical music to the masses in Los Angeles. Now he’s announced that he’s taking his talents to New York, which could revive classical music on one of its biggest stages. This episode was produced by Victoria Chamberlin, edited by Jolie Myers, fact-checked by Laura Bullard, engineered by Paul Robert Mounsey, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram. Transcript at vox.com/todayexplained   Support Today, Explained by making a financial contribution to Vox! bit.ly/givepodcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Comedian Dulcé Sloan and Emma give your playlists the side eye. Plus we ask Pitchfork Editor-in-Chief Puja Patel if you should be self conscious about your bad taste in music.

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I’m checking in on you and me. There's a lot going on in the world right now, and I am still reeling from the news that Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss died from suicide. If you had to ask me to list the 5 most positive people on the planet, The Rock would be #1, and tWitch would be #2. Having lost too many friends and people I love to mental health challenges like depression, addiction, trauma, and hopelessness – all of who died from suicide – I’m just so heavy with emotion. tWitch was beloved by millions for being Ellen DeGeneres’ executive producer, dance partner, and DJ on her talk show. He was a part of people’s lives 5 days a week, for years. He competed on So You Think You Can Dance and he had one of those million-dollar smiles that just lit up every room he walked into. He is followed by millions of people online who love the adorable dances that he, his wife Allison, and his 3 kids do. Seeing such a bright light like tWitch go out so suddenly at the age of 40, with 3 beautiful kids, a huge life, and adoring fans around the world… It just stirred up so much sadness inside of me, and this may be stirring up a lot inside of you. You don’t have to know tWitch personally (I didn’t – I am just a fan) to be profoundly impacted by the news of his death. This may be bringing up experiences of loss from your own life. It may also be reminding you of moments when you were really struggling, which is another reason why I felt the urgency to talk to you today. And I thought, maybe you’re sad too Or having a hard time processing how someone who seemed to “have it all” and “so much talent” could come to a point where this could happen. Or maybe you are going through a tough time yourself. Or maybe you just need a friend to tell you it’s going to be okay and give you a boost. So I wanted to connect. I decided to roll out of bed, get right on the mic, and share what I'm feeling and how I'm thinking about tWitch's death so we can process this together. Please take 14 minutes to listen to this powerful message. I share my thoughts about how to process news like this and I also emphasize something tWitch always said: Be kind. Today, be kind. You never know what another person is going through, so be kind. And always, be kind to yourself. One thing you can do today is reach out to people you love. You never know what it’s going to mean to someone. If you don’t know what to say, you can share this episode. And, if you are in pain right now. PLEASE. There’s a difference between wanting to end the pain you feel, and wanting to end your life. You can end the pain with support and by taking small steps forward every single day. It can and it will get better. Please, if you need help, pick up the phone. You deserve support. Trained volunteers are standing by to help you. Call the National Suicide Hotline, which is 988 in the US. Different languages are available – click here. Or, text HOME to 741-741 for the Crisis Text Line. Thanks for reading this and listening to this episode. And I just wanted to end by saying, I love you and it means more than you know that you are here.

Emma throws a family reunion! Uncle Dennis sings Elvis, her mom shares all her tips for avoiding bad luck, and Emma embarrasses her dad and little brother. Grab a plate, it's a party!

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Myles Stubblefield, the man behind Buffalo Worm Works, plays our game about ear worms. Joining him are panelists Alzo Slade, Maeve Higgins and Amy Dickinson.

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Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Kacey Musgraves plays our game called, "O, Say Can You See." Three questions about national anthems. She is joined by panelists Maz Jobrani, Helen Hong, and Emmy Blotnick.

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Kurt Metzger is a comedian, actor and writer.  He also has a podcast called “Can't Get Right" on Spotify. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kevin “The Soul Assassin” Ross is an artist, writer, and American Muay Thai kickboxer fighting with Bellator Kickboxing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tim Dillon is a comedian, tour guide, and host. His podcast "The Tim Dillon Show" is available on Spotify Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Annie Lederman is a stand up comedian. She is also the host of "MEANSPIRATION" podcast on Spotify. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices