Send us a text Dan Shinder reflects on the complexity and brilliance of “Awaken” by Yes—a song that changed the way he listened to music. From hearing it at just 13 to eventually performing it himself, the track became a guidepost in his musical journey. He shares how this 15-minute epic shaped his relationship with rhythm, deepened his appreciation for storytelling in music, and reminded him that drumming is about more than keeping time—it's about feeling the spaces between. Full Show Notes

Send us a text I sat down with country singer-songwriter Stephen Quinn to talk about the story behind his patriotic anthem Stand Up—a song born from personal values, national pride, and a desire to inspire unity and kindness. From his tight-knit family roots to performing on big stages like American Idol and the Little League World Series, Stephen opened up about music, faith, and finding purpose in the chaos. Whether you’re a country fan or just someone looking for a little inspiration, this...

Send us a text James Campion, author of Revolution: Prince, the Band, the Era, remembers the first time he heard “When Doves Cry” and how it spread through his band like wildfire. He reflects on the song’s weirdness—no bassline, a haunting guitar, and Prince’s poetic metaphors—and why it still sparks something in him decades later. He also reads three vivid paragraphs from his book, capturing the intensity, emotion, and complexity of the track. From liner notes to Prince’s fusion of sexuality...

Send us a text Reeya Paulose traces her love for The Beatles back to one of the earliest influences in her life—her mom. Before Reeya turned 12, her mom passed away, but not before passing down a deep appreciation for the band and their music. “Eight Days a Week” reminds Reeya of the way her mom talked about The Beatles—not just the songs, but who they were and why they mattered. It wasn’t about one moment, but about many little ones. Reeya shares how her mom’s enthusiasm helped shape her und...

Send us a text Kevin Waugaman is the founder of Momentors, LLC—a business and life coaching firm that helps professionals unlock growth, navigate change, and elevate their impact, drawing on his experience rising from “busboy to CEO.” Despite loving everything from Wu-Tang Clan to Green Day, “Forgiveness” by Matthew West broke through during one of the most painful seasons of his life, helping him see that forgiveness isn’t approval—it’s release. He opens up about the moments where the lyrics...

Send us a text At 16, Miki Hellerbach got his first job bussing tables at Clementine, a cozy BYOB restaurant in Baltimore. He was the youngest on staff, but the older servers took him under their wing and made him feel like part of the crew. One night, Auto Pilot by Queens of the Stone Age came on over the speakers—he hadn’t heard it before, but it stuck. That track became linked to the early days of figuring out who he was. It was also where his love of food began. We talk about first jobs, ...

Send us a text She left Disneyland with a one-way ticket and a gut feeling. A homeless man's subway advice sent Salisha to New York City, where a Broadway show, a backstage invite, and a soulful duet would change everything. The song You're All I Need to Get By became the thread that ran through her move, her first major tour, and even her walk down the aisle years later. Find out how one Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell classic became the soundtrack to a life-altering leap—and how it continues ...

Send us a text When a dream of pro baseball fizzled, Darryl found himself staring at a blank wall in his college dorm—until Curtis Mayfield’s “Give Me Your Love” filled the silence. That one track set a new course, reshaping his identity and fueling a passion for music that’s taken him from Napster downloads to EA Sports and ultimately launching his own platform for creatives, Bass Parlour. Hear how one song became a soundtrack to reinvention, love, and life’s unexpected second acts. Full Sho...

Send us a text In this episode of Memories with a Beat, Katrina Mendez reflects on how the hymn Amazing Grace became a meaningful part of her life—from learning it in Catholic school to performing it at family memorials and auditions. She talks about her musical upbringing, her connection to her grandmother, and how music has always been a natural part of her world. The conversation offers a warm, personal look at how one song can carry so many stories over the years. Tune in now to see why t...

Send us a text We're recapping our night at Pesca by Michael’s in Vilano Beach — a stylish rooftop hideaway with cozy blankets, moody lighting, and standout Brussels sprouts (yes, really!). But the real spotlight belongs to Vegas Gray — a powerhouse trio made up of a father, daughter, and her boyfriend. Their chemistry, killer vocals, and crowd connection made it feel more like a private concert than a casual night out. You don’t just hear them — you feel every note. If you missed it… we’re s...

Send us a text I got to hang out with my friend Kaden Collins and chat about a song that really means a lot to him—Time Has Made a Change in Me by the Oak Ridge Boys. His love for the Oaks runs deep and this song took on a whole new meaning after he lost his grandma. We talked about how certain lyrics just hit differently when life changes, and how that connection to music helped him through some tough moments. He shared the sweetest story about how his school honored his grandma, how he star...

Send us a text A last-minute invite. Four hours of sleep. A road trip to Daytona Beach during Bike Week. Tiffany and Anna Marie barely knew each other—but a shared love for live music led them to an unforgettable night with the band SIRSY. From valet parking mishaps to misty oceanside tacos and a two-person band that sounds like five, this one’s full of surprises, laughs, and connection. Hit play—you’ll feel like you were. Full Show Notes

Send us a text The sound of Pearl Jam takes Tom straight back to high school—late nights with MTV, learning guitar riffs from CDs, and rushing to the mall on release day. “Corduroy” hit him so hard he used a lyric in his graduation speech. Tom shares memories of figuring out the song by ear, dragging friends to concerts, and why this track still holds up decades later. If you loved Pearl Jam, grew up in the ‘90s, or ever wore out a CD trying to learn every word, you’ll want to hear this one! ...

Send us a text In this episode of Memories with a Beat, host Tiffany Mason and her new co-host, Rachel Steele, share their experience of a fun night of live music at Palm Valley Outdoors. With the perfect waterfront backdrop, they break down the laid-back atmosphere, Robby and Felix's music (the talented musicians who set the vibe), and the moments shared with friends. Love live music? Join us at our next outing!! Full Show Notes

Send us a textRachel Steele shares how Rise Up by Andra Day became her lifeline during high school. Struggling with anxiety, depression, and anorexia, she found solace in the song’s powerful lyrics, using it as a reminder to keep pushing forward. Whether blasting it in the car with her best friend or leaning on it during tough moments, Rise Up became more than just a song—it was a source of strength and resilience.Full Show Notes

Send us a textWho loves Christmas Music? Nicole loves Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas because she experienced a similar move as the little girl in this movie. She comforted herself, alone in FL, with this song as she worked through a lost relationship and moved on to new opportunities! Who knew she’d meet someone so special by staying in Florida in faith? Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas: https://youtu.be/CreWsnhQwzYNicole: @nicolecrangle (FB) @ncrangle_ltd (IG)...

Send us a textJessica Houle shared her cherished memories associated with the timeless Christmas songs 'Hallelujah Chorus' and 'Silent Night.' She recounts her family's unique tradition of singing 'Hallelujah Chorus' together at church, a beautiful, chaotic, and impromptu choir experience. Jessica also talks about the serene and meaningful tradition of ending the Christmas Eve service with 'Silent Night,' candles in hand, creating a peaceful and reflective atmosphere. Perfect for anyone nosta...

Send us a textDiane Freeman shared the deep-seated memories associated with the classic Christmas song, 'Silent Night'. Diane shares how the song instantly transports her back to the days of attending midnight mass with her mother and grandmother, reflecting on the serene church ambiance filled with poinsettias, stained glass, and candlelight. The song 'Silent Night' serves as a poignant reminder of her mother, who passed when Diane was only four years old, and her grandmother who owned a che...

Send us a textJoel Bouchard shares his profound connection to the Jack Johnson song 'Adrift' and reflects on its soothing vibes and layered lyrics. From his early days listening with friends to revisiting the song during pivotal moments like the loss of loved ones or the start of a new school year, Joel highlights how the song's themes of growth and change resonate deeply throughout his life. Full Show Notes

Send us a textDebra Cohen shares her touching connection to Christina Aguilera's song 'Beautiful.' She reflects on how it helped her heal from childhood trauma and panic attacks after a car accident, and talks about her rock and roll days in the 80s, including opening for Joan Jett, and struggling with issues of shame and promiscuity tied to her upbringing. Deborah continues her journey by finding strength in the lyrics of 'Beautiful' to overcome self-doubt and build self-esteem. She discusse...