AthCastMusic: The Music of Athens GA, Now and Then | Podcast on RSS.com

AthCastMusic: The Music of Athens GA, Now and Then

AthCastMusic: The Music of Athens GA, Now and Then

by Marlene Sokol Stewart

Music History Music Interviews

THE SINGLES SERIES

Hello All, this is Marlene Sokol Stewart trying to do some special podcast until I can put together Season 4 that should kick off by the end of April or early May, I’ve got something special coming your way… I will be introducing The Singles Series—where I sit down with the sons and daughters of prolific musicians to hear what it was really like growing up with a parent in the spotlight. The music, the madness, the memories—how did it shape them? And what do they want the world to know? Hopefully, ask them and they will come! I’ll also be releasing episodes whenever something interesting comes my way, such as a special show, a musician releasing a new project or some news about the music industry that would be of interest to my listeners. So stay tuned! Be sure to follow, rate, and share the AthCastMusic podcast as it is a great way for me to get more listeners coming to this podcast. Thank you all for listening! Remember...If you don't listen, you can't hear! Show AthCastMusic (©): The Music of Athens Georgia, Now and Then. TRAILER: SINGLE SERIES Length 1:26 PUBLISHED: Every now and then until Season 4 Engineer: Kayla Dover UGA Music Business intern: Timi Meade Recorded at Tweed Recording Audio Production School https://tweedrecording.com CONTACT FOR ATHCASTMUSIC: marlene@athcastmusic.com instagram: AthCastMusic FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550294283019

Jorma Starratt: A Child of the Squalls Ken Starratt

Jorma Starratt grew up in Athens, GA, spending his early years immersed in the vibrant music scene at the legendary 40 Watt Club by the age of 10. His father, Ken Starratt, was a member of the iconic band The Squalls. It was through these experiences Jorma was on the cusp of something truly groundbreaking. Athens was producing bands such as R.E.M, The B'52's, Pylon, Elf Power, Of Montreal, Five Eight, Wide Spread Panic, Drive by Truckers and so many more. Once he finished high school, it was inevitable he would take his upbringing straight into the music scene He put together the band Prozak, which became very popular and reached impressive heights. Unfortunately, some of the band members chose different paths, and the band eventually dissolved. As the old adage says, when one door closes, one door opens. Into that door comes an exciting new direction for Jorma. Flag pole writes, "In the early aughts, outsiders viewed the Classic City as the home of redneck rap, thanks to Bubba Sparxxx scoring a 2001 MTV hit with “Ugly.” In 2003, Herb and Skills set the record straight. Under the direction of producers Jorma Starratt and Hano Leathers, rappers Bird, Ishues, Jawz of Life, Fort Knox and more laid down stone-cold classics with a Wu-Tang sword style. For proof, look no further than Ishues’ razor-sharp verses on “The Saga Continues.” It’s forgotten history now, but press play on Spotify and the lyrical depth, full-bodied production and cinematic samples weave together a disarmingly profound time capsule from a sophisticated era of Southern hip hop. Jorma talks to me about these exciting days, going out to L.A. and how he wishes he could go back to some of those times again. Who knows......maybe he will. Here is my conversation with Jorma Starratt. Show AthCastMusic (©): The Music of Athens Georgia, Now and Then. A Child of the Squall: Jorma Starratt Length: 45:28 PUBLISHED: March 6, 2025 The Singles series is spontaneously published. Engineer: Kayla Dover UGA School of Music Business Program Recorded at Tweed Recording Audio Production School https://tweedrecording.com info@tweedrecording,com CONTACT FOR ATHCASTMUSIC: marlene@athcastmusic.com instagram: AthCastMusic FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550294283019 Prozak YouTube Channel: @prozak96 Ishues YouTube Channel: @ishues Herbs and Skills YouTube Channel: @herbsandskills

Season 1

Introducing AthCastMusic

Meet Me! Marlene Sokol Stewart, the Host of AthCastMusic, The Music of Athens GA, Now and Then. Throughout this podcast series, I'll be bringing you conversations with some remarkable guests, each with their own unique insights into the music scene. From these conversations, we'll create a comprehensive view of the music landscape, both historic and contemporary. Athens, GA, holds a special place in music history, especially during the 80s when it created a new sound that reached far beyond its small-town boundaries. I'll dive deep into the stories of how this town became a breeding ground for musical innovation, changing the way musicians from Athens approached their music and influenced musicians worldwide. This podcast offers a distinctive perspective – that of an outsider looking in on this extraordinary place. We'll explore the ever-evolving music scene in Athens, GA, and its enduring impact on the music industry. Join me on this journey as we uncover the past and present of a town that continues to shape and inspire the world of music.

Meet Marlene Stewart, Your Host

Join Marlene in the kick-off episode of "AthCast Music" as she shares her personal story and connection to the music industry. You’re in for an adventure of exploring Athens' music scene and the way it's rocked through the years, especially in the 80s and 90s! Hosted by Marlene Stewart. Produced by Kayla Dover

Tweed Recording Audio Production School (ANDREW RATCLIFFE)

Marlene and Joe sit down with Andrew Ratcliffe, the mastermind behind Tweed Recording Audio Production School in Athens, GA. Andrew’s story takes us from being a student in Oxford to creating a thriving music school in Athens. Tune in as we delve into the creation of his groundbreaking program, the assembly of his award-winning staff and the exciting future that awaits Tweed Recording. Hosted by Marlene Stewart and Joe Hill. Thanks again to Andrew for joining us this episode. Learn more about Tweed Recording at https://www.tweedrecording.com.

Mr.Jordan Mr.Tonks (TOMMY JORDAN & WILLIAM TONKS)

Tune in to the latest episode of AthCast Music where Marlene and Joe sit down for a chat with Athens music legends, William Tonks and Tommy Jordan. With a musical camaraderie that has flourished over 15 years, their story begins in a Boy Scout Troop. Join us as we uncork the tales behind their extensive discography, experience in the Athens music scene and enjoy a couple beers. Hosted by Marlene Stewart and Joe Hill. Thanks again to Mr. Tonks and Mr. Jordan for joining us this episode. Learn more about them at https://www.mrjordanmrtonks.com.

Music and Politics (MAYOR KELLY GIRTZ)

Beyond the political podium, Mayor Girtz is a music aficionado who has not only served two terms but has also been a tireless advocate for the Athens music scene. Join Marlene as she chats with Mayor Girtz about his political journey, how he merges the love of music with the love of politics, and his commitment to the musicians who define the cultural heartbeat of Athens. So much thanks to Mayor Kelly Girtz for joining this week! To get in touch, email kelly.girtz@accgov.com or call 706-613-3010.

Great R&B history from one of Athens' Own! (DONNY WHITEHEAD)

Step back in time with us in the latest episode of AthCast Music featuring the remarkable Donny Whitehead, a true Athenian who has witnessed the city's musical evolution for over six decades. From learning to play the piano in first grade to sharing the stage with iconic bands like The Platters and Temptations, Donny takes us on a musical history lesson. Join Marlene as she dives into the rich history of Athens' music scene and uncover the memories that shaped Donny's illustrious 64-year career. Thanks again to Donny for joining us this week! To get in touch with him, email donnywhitehead@gmail.com.

See Spencer Play (SPENCER THOMAS)

Dive into the musical and personal world of Spencer Thomas in this episode of AthCastMusic. A Jackson, MS native, Spencer has become an integral part of the Athens music scene. His work with “The Future Birds” and the Spencer Thomas Band echoes influences like Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty, blending working-class themes with deeper explorations of mental health and emotional complexities. His album “The Joke of Life” showcases his evolving artistry, with contributions from notable musicians. Join Marlene as she uncovers how Spencer navigates life and music in Athens, striving to be both a better musician and a better man. Thank you again Spencer Thomas for joining us! Direct: spencerthomassongs@gmail.com Booking: https://champagnesundaybooking@gmail.com Management: drewbeskin@gmailcom Instagram: @Spencerthomassongs FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=spencerthomassongs

Mary Mary (MARY SIGALAS)

Join us as we discuss the enchanting world of jazz with Mary Sigalas, an extraordinary jazz vocalist. In this episode of AthCastMusic, we will explore Mary's journey in reviving the captivating music of the 30s and 40s with her band, the Hot Hotty-Hots. Beyond her performances, Mary passionately leads Jazz Athens (JAGA), aiming to make Athens a jazz hub. Her conversation with Marlene radiates her deep love for hot jazz, which was strongly influenced by her grandfather. Mary's music is a dance-inducing, soul-stirring tribute to a timeless era. facebook.com./mary.sigalas www.marysigalas.com facebook.com/jazzathens Instagram: @marysigalas

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