WMP 146: From Late Bloomer to Jazz Crooner: The Musical Journey of CP Chris Pepas

Wisconsin Music Podcast

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Episode 146
Chris CP Peppas

Welcome back to another episode of the Wisconsin Music Podcast, where we bring you the vibrant sounds and stories of Wisconsin-based musicians. I'm your host, Zach Fell, and today we're diving deep into the inspiring journey of CP Chris Pepas, a versatile vocalist and conga player performing around the greater Milwaukee area.

Chris is not your typical musician; he started his music career at the age of 58, proving that it's never too late to chase your dreams. Known for his performances with various trios that focus on jazz standards, classic rock, and blues, Chris has also delved into songwriting and recording projects.

In this episode, Chris shares his incredible story, from overcoming health challenges to becoming a beloved figure in Milwaukee's music scene. He talks about his collaborations with Joe Toronto, a Milwaukee native and multi-instrumentalist with an illustrious career. Joe has worked with legends like Ricky Lee Jones, Michael Bolton, Tina Turner, and Aretha Franklin, and was the music director for Grammy-winning jazz legend Al Jarreau.

Chris and Joe co-wrote a new song, with Joe composing the music and Chris contributing the main lyrics. The recording process was a collaborative effort with sound engineer Gary Tannen, another past guest on our show. Chris describes the joy of seeing his lyrics come to life with Joe's musical genius and the emotional connection he feels when performing live.

For those new to our show, the Wisconsin Music Podcast is dedicated to showcasing the incredible talent of Wisconsin's music community. Our episodes drop every Tuesday on all streaming platforms and YouTube. You can also catch our episodes on Fox City's Indie Radio every Thursday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m.

Don't forget to follow Chris Peppas on Facebook, X, and Instagram to stay updated on his musical journey. Now, without further ado, let's get right into our conversation with Chris Peppas. Trust me, you don't want to miss this heartfelt and inspiring story.

Enjoy the episode and see you next week with another fantastic guest on the Wisconsin Music Podcast!