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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 ...
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This week, JJ Wilde sits in to discuss her 2024 single "Best of Me," offering an intimate look into the song's creation and the personal journey that inspired it. JJ dives deep into the duality of embracing chaos and striving for self-growth, sharing how her experiences with recklessness and resilience shaped the song’s lyrics. She also explores th…
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This week, Anberlin guitarist Joseph Milligan joins Chris DeMakes to discuss the writing and recording of their hit 2008 single "Feel Good Drag." The song, which was initially intended as a fun re-recording of a track from an earlier album, wasn't even meant to be on the New Surrender album. However, it went on to become the band’s widely acclaimed…
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This week, Mike Edwards sits in to discuss the writing and recording of the 1991 hit single from Jesus Jones, “Right Here, Right Now." The conversation explores the creation and impact of the song, including the inspiration behind it and the cultural context of the time. Mike opens up about the poignant lyrics, highlighting references to Tracy Chap…
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This week, Frank Portman — better known as Dr. Frank — sits in to dive into the creation of the fan favorite 1996 single "Ba Ba Ba Ba Ba" by The Mr. T Experience. Inspired by The Partridge Family, the song was initially imagined as a folk tune arranged by a rock band. Dr. Frank discusses how the lyrics explore themes of doubt and finding a place fo…
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In this episode, guitarist Pete Koller of Sick Of It All dives deep into the writing, recording, and inspiration behind the band's classic fan favorite song "Injustice System!" This enduring anthem was born from a violent run-in with crooked law enforcement in the late '80s, and it continues to resonate long after the events that inspired it. Pete …
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In this special sneak preview episode of The After Party, Chris DeMakes reports back on the European Less Than Jake tour, while Chris Fafalios challenges him with music trivia questions about all the places he visited. If you'd like to get episodes like this every week, PLUS a giant back catalog of HUNDREDS of After Party episodes, head to http://w…
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This week, A Wilhelm Scream guitarist Trevor Reilly sits in to discuss the creation of their fan-favorite 2013 single, “Boat Builders.” Trevor dives into the song’s seamless blend of metal, punk rock, and thrash, revealing how its diverse influences come together to create a powerful and unique sound. He also shares the personal connection behind t…
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Ep. 220: Tracyanne Campbell discusses Camera Obscura's "Lloyd, I'm Ready to Be Heartbroken"
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This week, Chris is joined by Tracyanne Campbell of the Scottish indie pop band Camera Obscura to explore the creation of their fan-favorite 2006 single, "Lloyd, I'm Ready to Be Heartbroken." Tracyanne shares the story behind the song, a heartfelt response to Lloyd Cole & The Commotions' 1984 track "Are You Ready to Be Heartbroken?"—a band she had …
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In this episode, Jose Prieto of MakeWar opens up about the creation of their 2019 fan favorite single, “Oh, Brother.” He discusses how the song’s unorthodox structure results from the song just flowing out of him, inspired by a deep connection to both his younger self and his younger brother. Jose also sheds light on collaborating with Brett “The R…
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In this episode, host Chris DeMakes and producer Chris Fafalios reminisce about The Outfield's unforgettable 1986 hit single, "Your Love." They pay tribute to guitarist and backing vocalist John Spinks and lead singer/bassist Tony Lewis, highlighting their immense talent and the lasting impact of their music despite their untimely passing. The duo …
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In this episode, Aaron Bruno discusses the creation of AWOLNATION's 2011 hit single "Sail," offering an inside look at his songwriting process during a challenging period in his life. Aaron shares how he was in a very low place when he wrote the song, using it as an opportunity to break free from traditional songwriting constraints and express hims…
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In this episode, Voodoo Glow Skulls bassist Jorge Casillas offers a look into the making of their beloved 1995 track "Shoot The Moon". Known for its explosive energy and eerily prophetic lyrics about societal stagnation, Jorge discusses the band's early songwriting instincts and their attitude of not knowing or caring about formulaic approaches. He…
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In this episode, Ace Enders sits in to discuss the creation of The Early November's fan-favorite single, "Decoration." Hailing from their ambitious 2006 triple disc concept album, The Mother, The Mechanic, And The Path, "Decoration" captures a raw, vintage essence that resonates with listeners. Ace shares insights into the writing and recording pro…
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Michael "Fitz" Fitzpatrick sits in this week to discuss the writing and recording of the hit 2013 single from Fitz and The Tantrums, "Out of My League." In this episode, Fitz opens up about his long road to success in the music industry, a journey initially met with substantial rejection. He du=ives into how he carved his own path, honing his produ…
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In this episode, host Chris DeMakes sits down with John Kastner to dive into the writing and recording of the 1993 Doughboys single "Shine". As Chris’s favorite band, this conversation is a true delight for him and listeners alike. Kastner reveals the surprising inspiration behind the song, while reflecting on how Doughboys crafted a sound that was…
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In this episode, listeners are invited to join Greg Camp, the musical maestro behind Smash Mouth's iconic 1999 hit single "All Star," as he takes them on a journey back to the song’s origins. As the episode unfolds, Greg shares exclusive insights into the writing and recording process of the beloved anthem, treating fans to the never-before-heard d…
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In this episode of The After Party, Chris DeMakes and Chris Fafalios take a nostalgic trip down memory lane as they create the ultimate summer playlist. Each Chris picks a standout song from every summer of the 1980s, with DeMakes choosing hard rock anthems and Fafalios selecting soft rock classics. Tune in to hear their dynamic discussion as they …
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In this episode, Alan Benjamin Thomas and Steven Rutherford sit in to shed light on the creative process behind joan’s infectious 2021 single “want u back”. The indie-pop duo out of Little Rock provide insight into the crafting of the uptempo anthem that resonates with audiences worldwide. By fearlessly incorporating any musical element that lends …
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Join host Chris DeMakes and co-host/producer Chris Fafalios as they embark on a musical exploration of Andrew Gold's iconic 1978 single "Thank You for Being a Friend" in this week's episode. While most listeners may recognize it as the beloved theme song from The Golden Girls, DeMakes and Fafalios dive into the rich layers of this timeless track, u…
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In this episode, Alkaline Trio guitarist and vocalist Matt Skiba takes listeners behind the scenes of the band's fan favorite 2005 single, "Time to Waste". Matt opens up about the writing and recording process, shedding light on the band's bold approach to incorporating big production elements, exemplified by the haunting piano intro that sets the …
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P.O.D. vocalist Sonny Sandoval sat in for this episode in which listeners are invited to explore the creation of their iconic 2001 hit single, "Youth of the Nation." Against the backdrop of tragedies like Columbine and other shootings that shook the nation, Sandoval shares how the band was inspired to craft a powerful and inspiring anthem that reso…
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In this episode, Taylor Rice and Ryan Hahn of Local Natives unveil the behind-the-scenes journey of crafting their 2019 single, "When Am I Gonna Lose You." They reveal that the song underwent a staggering 57 different versions, each a labor of love to achieve perfection. From Taylor's raw personal inspiration to Ryan's lyrical contributions and pro…
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Embark on a journey of musical innovation with Craig Wedren as he unravels the mysteries behind Shudder To Think's iconic 1994 single, "X-French Tee Shirt.” From the band's relentless pursuit of originality to the song's jarring yet hypnotic structure, Craig takes listeners deep into the creative process, offering unparalleled insights into its unc…
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In this episode, Papa Roach vocalist Jacoby Shaddix shares insights into the inspiration, creation, and recording of the band's enduring 2000 hit single, "Last Resort." Drawing from a deeply personal experience where a friend faced a crisis, Jacoby discusses the song's emotional origins and its lasting resonance with listeners. With humility, he re…
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In this episode, Vandoliers vocalist and guitarist Joshua Fleming takes listeners behind the scenes of the band's 2021 single "Every Saturday Night." Written during the height of the pandemic as a means to uplift his friends, Joshua shares the heartfelt story of its creation. With fans' support, the band secured a day in the studio to record the so…
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