Tony Mantor's : Almost Live..... Nashville

Pat Kane of Hue and Cry on New Single “Stronger,” Post-Post-Punk Authenticity, and Keeping Imperfection in the Music

Host Tony Mantor introduces his podcast Almost Live Nashville and welcomes Pat Kane of Hue and Cry, the late-1980s duo known for blending pop, jazz, and sophisticated songwriting, including the hit “Labor of Love” from Seduced and Abandoned. Kane discusses promoting the new single “Stronger” and an upcoming album (out March 29), describing it as an optimistic electronic departure that reconnects with the band’s earlier electric phase while keeping their “post post-punk” core.

He cites influences including The Human League, jazz, big bands, and classic soul, and reflects on unexpected success, the political-romantic metaphor and production of “Labor of Love,” and the intensity and intuition of writing with his brother Greg.

Kane shares lessons about empathy in the music business, moments of renewed visibility via Grand Theft Auto and TV, resisting commercial pressure, valuing authenticity amid AI, embracing machine quirks in recording, and where to find the band online.

01:51 New Single and Album

02:28 Post Post Punk Vision

03:21 Influences and Sound

04:21 Breakout Success Stories

05:41 Why Labor of Love

06:38 Brothers in the Band

07:27 Hard Lessons in Music

08:21 Pop Culture Comeback

10:53 Staying Authentic

12:31 Start With Stronger

13:43 Fighting for Art

15:13 What Keeps Fans Hooked

16:22 Songs That Heal

18:09 AI and Real Performance

20:20 Machines and Happy Accidents

23:34 Advice for Creators

24:28 Stadiums vs Intimate Gigs

25:25 Where to Find Hue and Cry

26:25 Final Thanks

INTRO/OUTRO: T.Wild

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Behind the Music: The Band of Heathens - A Journey of Harmony and Brotherhood

Tony Mantor hosts an engaging conversation on 'Almost Live Nashville' with Ed and Gordy from the acclaimed roots rock band, The Band of Heathens.

The discussion delves into the band's origin story, their lack of initial vision, and how a loose collective of musicians evolved into a celebrated group known for their rich harmonies and collaborative spirit. Ed and Gordy share insights into their songwriting and recording processes, reflecting on their growth as a band and the influence of iconic musicians on their sound.

The band also talks about challenges and dynamics of being on the road, the importance of staying creative and independent, and their hopes for connecting with audiences through both recorded music and live performances.

The episode is filled with candid moments and reveals the passion and camaraderie that have kept The Band of Heathens thriving for over 20 years.

Introduction to the Podcast

Meet Ed and Gordy from Band of Heathens

The Origin of the Band Name

Early Days and Vision of the Band

Songwriting and Recording Process

Touring and Band Dynamics

Rapid-Fire Questions: Between the Beats

Final Thoughts and Future Plans

INTRO/OUTRO: T. Wild

Mantor Music BMI

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David vs. Goliath: Tommy D's 15-Year Battle Against Live Nation

In this episode of 'Almost Live Nashville,' host Tony Mantor interviews Tommy D., a fearless concert promoter from New Jersey and founder of Juice Entertainment, who has been entangled in a 15-year legal battle against Live Nation.

Tommy shares his journey from the pinnacle of the EDM scene to being blacklisted and nearly homeless after Live Nation intervened in his plans to launch the biggest EDM festival on the East Coast.

He delves into his unwavering fight against the industry giant, revealing the mafia-like tactics, antitrust issues, and inflated costs used to monopolize the market.

Despite the challenges, Tommy's relentless pursuit for fairness and transparency aims to lower ticket prices, support independent promoters, and give artists the freedom to choose where they perform. Tune in to hear his compelling story and the long-awaited quest for a trial date.

Introduction to the Podcast

Meet Tommy D: The Concert Promoter

The Battle with Live Nation Begins

The Festival Dream Shattered

Legal Struggles and Homelessness

The Long Legal Battle

Hopes for Justice and Industry Change

Support and Challenges

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

INTRO/OUTRO Music: T.Wild

Mantor Music BMI

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Tenille Towns on Going Independent Again, The Acrobat, and Writing Songs That Help People Feel Less Alone

Host Tony Mantor introduces his podcast Almost Live Nashville and interviews singer-songwriter Tenille Towns, who moved from Grand Prairie, Alberta to Nashville and became an ACM New Female Artist of the Year and Juno Award winner.

Towns discusses returning to independence after nearly eight years with Sony Nashville, producing her new record The Acrobat herself for release on April 10, and regaining creative autonomy.

She reflects on small-town roots, homesickness, touring highs, and the pressures of the industry that led to feeling lost, depression, therapy, and reframing identity beyond career. T

owns explains how fan connections encourage vulnerability, how her songwriting has become more personal, and highlights songs including Somebody’s Daughter, Jersey on the Wall, Villain in Me, and Enabling.

She shares rapid-fire answers and closes with a message about allowing feelings to pass through and seeking connection.

00:00 Show Mission

01:16 Meet Tenille Towns

02:00 New Album The Acrobat

02:39 Going Independent Again

04:09 Small Town to Nashville

06:58 Songwriting Freedom Shift

08:31 Storytelling and Craft

10:04 Sharing Personal Truths

11:32 Fans and Song Impact

13:02 Hope and Mental Health

14:44 Growth Under Pressure

16:29 Hardest Songs to Release

17:51 Escaping the Hamster Wheel

20:43 Between the Beats

22:30 Breathing and Contentment

26:18 Rapid Fire Round Two

28:38 Final Message and Wrap

INTRO/OUTRO: T.Wild

Mantor Music BMI

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Marcus Hummon's Musical Journey: From Nashville Honky Tonks to Grammy Wins

In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, Tony Mantor interviews Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Marcus Hummon.

Hummon shares insights from his extensive career, which includes songwriting, theater compositions, and scoring operas.

Discussing his experience from his early days performing at Nashville's iconic Bluebird Cafe to crafting hits for major artists, Marcus reveals the dynamic evolution of the music industry.

They delve into his new projects, including collaborating with his son’s label and creating an album inspired by Emily Dickinson’s poetry

Hummon also provides thoughtful commentary on the challenges faced by modern artists and the impact of streaming on the music business.

Introduction to the Podcast

Meet Marcus Hummon: Grammy-Winning Singer-Songwriter

Marcus Hummon's Current Projects and Collaborations

The Evolution of the Music Industry

Theater and Family: Marcus Hummonn's Diverse Talents

Challenges and Triumphs in the Music Business

Marcus Hummonn's Personal Journey and Reflections

Staying Relevant in a Changing Industry

Collaborations and Future Endeavors

Closing Remarks and Contact Information

INTRO/OUTRO : T. Wild

Mantor Music BMI

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