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The Bandwich Tapes
Brad Williams
78 episodes
1 day ago
Welcome to The Bandwich Tapes, where host Brad Williams sits down with his friends and musical heroes for candid conversations about life, music, and everything in between. Join us as we dive deep into the stories behind the songs, explore the highs and lows of the music industry, and celebrate the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite us all. Whether you're a seasoned musician, a die-hard music fan, or simply someone who loves a good story, The Bandwich Tapes has something for everyone. So, come along for the ride as we explore the magic of music and the incredible journeys of the people who bring it to life.
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Music Interviews
Music
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All content for The Bandwich Tapes is the property of Brad Williams and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Welcome to The Bandwich Tapes, where host Brad Williams sits down with his friends and musical heroes for candid conversations about life, music, and everything in between. Join us as we dive deep into the stories behind the songs, explore the highs and lows of the music industry, and celebrate the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite us all. Whether you're a seasoned musician, a die-hard music fan, or simply someone who loves a good story, The Bandwich Tapes has something for everyone. So, come along for the ride as we explore the magic of music and the incredible journeys of the people who bring it to life.
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Music Interviews
Music
Episodes (20/78)
The Bandwich Tapes
From Music to Recovery: Arnold McCuller's Journey

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with the legendary vocalist Arnold McCuller, whose voice has graced stages and recordings alongside artists such as James Taylor and Phil Collins, among others. While we reflect on some of his most iconic musical moments, our conversation centers on his current mission as a recovery coach and interventionist, as well as his involvement with Harmonium. This powerful organization supports creatives in recovery.


We talk about the unique pressures musicians face, how addiction weaves into the culture of performance, and the courage it takes to rebuild a life and career on new terms. I also share some of my own journey of sobriety — nearing one year — and Arnold offers wisdom on moving past shame, reclaiming creativity, and finding freedom through community.


This is a conversation about music, resilience, and hope — one that every artist (and human) will find something in.

Music from the Episode:
Witness (Arnold McCuller)
Chances Are (Arnold McCuller)
Hard Times (Arnold McCuller)
You'll Never Leave Harlan Alive (Arnold McCuller)
Above the Rain (Arnold McCuller)

To learn more about Arnold and his incredible work, please visit his website. 


Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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6 days ago
51 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
Exploring the World of Percussion with Todd Meehan

On this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with Todd Meehan, Professor of Percussion and Associate Dean of Graduate Studies at Baylor University. Todd is a dynamic performer, educator, and advocate for contemporary percussion, whose career blends artistry, scholarship, and leadership.


We talk about his journey as a percussionist, including what first drew him to the instrument, his time as a student and performer, and the ways he continues to push the boundaries of what percussion can be. Todd also shares insights into his role as an educator, mentoring the next generation of percussionists at Baylor, and how he balances the dual roles of professor and associate dean.


Along the way, we dig into topics such as innovation in percussion repertoire, the importance of cultivating curiosity in students, and how higher education is evolving for young musicians. Todd’s perspective offers a unique look at how percussion performance, teaching, and leadership intersect.


This conversation is both inspiring and practical, perfect for musicians, educators, and anyone fascinated by the craft of percussion and the pathways it can open.

To learn more about Todd and the Baylor University percussion studio, visit Todd's website or the Baylor percussion studio website.

Music from the Episode:
Gardens (Excerpt) (Ivan Trevino - Baylor University Percussion Ensemble)
Gardens (2024) was commissioned by the Baylor Percussion Group in celebration of Todd Meehan's 20th year of teaching at Baylor University. The piece is scored for six percussionists who perform on piano, two vibraphones, one 5.0 octave marimba, and glockenspiel.

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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2 weeks ago
59 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
The Musical Journey of Ray Herndon

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I had the pleasure of talking with Ray Herndon, a musician whose story stretches from Scottsdale’s legendary Handlebar J to the road with Lyle Lovett and the harmonies of McBride & The Ride.


Ray and I start by digging into his family’s club, Handlebar J, which has been a Scottsdale institution for 50 years. We talk about the balance of being both a musician and a restaurant owner, and what it means to carry on the legacy of a place that has hosted countless nights of music.


From there, our conversation winds through his other passions, like competitive poker, and the surprising similarities he finds between playing cards and improvising on the guitar. Ray also reflects on his lifelong love of learning, including his in-depth exploration of Barry Harris’s concepts, his admiration for Pat Martino, and what he learned from lessons with greats like Joe Pass and Ted Greene.


We spend time swapping stories about the incredible steel guitar community, remembering players like Buck Reid, Paul Franklin, Gary Morse, Bruce Bouton, Joe Rogers, and Johnny Cox. And of course, we trace Ray’s path from nights at Mr. Lucky’s with J. David Sloan and the Rogues, to that fateful Luxembourg trip where his band first connected with Lyle Lovett, and how those relationships eventually led to McBride & The Ride.


Ray also discusses finding his own voice as a singer and songwriter, including the enduring impact of “Me and You,” a song that has remained a staple in weddings and playlists worldwide. We close by talking about what it’s like to reunite with McBride & The Ride these days and how the music has only gotten better, the pressure is gone, and the laughter comes easy, as well as his recent work with Don McLean’s band.


It was such a joy to hear Ray reflect on the twists and turns of his career, the people who shaped it, and the music that continues to inspire him.

Music from the Episode:
Amarillo Sky (McBride & the Ride)
Lovin' Her Was Easier (Ray Herndon)
Me and You (Ray Herndon)

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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3 weeks ago
56 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
Noah Young: Percussion, Piping, and Finding His Voice

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I catch up with my former student and friend, Noah Young. Noah’s a versatile musician: drum set player, former Baylor University snare drummer, and a committed bagpiper with the Atlanta Pipe Band (where he also serves as VP). We trace his path from a Cajun-rooted musical home and an elite youth piping program, through Wesleyan School drumline and chapel band, to the intensity of a Big 12 college drumline—and how all of it shaped his musicianship, character, and career.

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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4 weeks ago
1 hour 2 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
Reconnecting with Striking Matches: A Musical Journey

On this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I catch up with the powerhouse duo Striking Matches (Sarah Zimmermann and Justin Davis). Our conversation weaves together their incredible journey, from garage jams in Georgia and formative years at Belmont University to charting their own artistic path on international stages.


We talk about the early sparks: how a chance pairing at Belmont led to instant musical chemistry, their first gig at the Bluebird Café, and how harmonies, slide guitar, and raw energy shaped their sound.


They share stories from their European tours, traveling light with only two acoustic guitars, and the magic of making a full band’s worth of sound as a duo. We also delve into the impact of having nine original songs placed on ABC’s hit show Nashville, a career-launching moment that opened doors to the Grand Ole Opry, the UK, and even collaborations with T-Bone Burnett and the late, great Michael Rhodes.


We reflect on the craft of songwriting: from following Nashville’s “rules” early on to breaking them with honesty and authenticity. Sarah and Justin discuss chasing their best song yet, recording and producing on their own terms, and creating studio records that capture the energy of their live shows.


There’s nostalgia too, remembering jam sessions with the Rosson family, watching musical heroes like Tommy Emmanuel, and feeling the support of mentors who helped shape their artistry. And, of course, we share plenty of laughs about gear disasters, sushi metaphors, and why less is often more when it comes to making music.


Whether you know them from Nashville, their stirring live performances, or their new releases, this is a deep, heartfelt conversation about growth, partnership, and what it means to create music that connects.

To learn more about the duo, visit their website.

Music from the Episode:
Six-String Baby (Striking Matches)
Insincerely (Striking Matches)

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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1 month ago
1 hour 7 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
The Journey of a Drummer: Insights from Matt Starr

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with drummer Matt Starr, the acclaimed Canadian-born, Los Angeles–based musician currently touring with Sarah McLachlan.

We talk about Matt’s unique musical journey, from starting violin lessons at age five through the Suzuki method to eventually discovering his lifelong calling behind the drum kit. Matt shares how his early orchestral training shaped his listening skills, ensemble awareness, and approach to sound, lessons that continue to inform his playing today.


Our conversation explores the real-world practicalities of drumming, teaching, and recording. Matt reflects on the vision behind his YouTube channel, where he offers transparent, practical insights for working drummers navigating everything from gigging and recording to building a career in today’s music world.


Matt also discusses his experiences touring internationally with Sarah McLachlan, including the upcoming Canadian tour and U.S. dates, as well as the freedom and trust she gives her band on stage. We explore the balance between leading and supporting in musical settings, the concept of playing to the song, and the importance of knowing when to “drive the bus” versus when to defer.


Listeners will also hear stories of Matt’s studies with legendary drumming figures Joe Morello, Jim Chapin, and Bernard “Pretty” Purdie, the lasting influence of the Moller technique on his sound and stamina, and how those lessons continue to shape his teaching and performance today.


Whether you’re a drummer or love hearing about the craft of making music, this conversation is packed with insight, humility, and inspiration.

To learn more about Matt, visit his website.

Music from the Episode:
Wait (Sarah McLachlan)
Cold Heavy (Sabine and the Red Lotus)
Throw My Head Out the Window (Niia)
Voices Carry (Kate Hudson)

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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1 month ago
56 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
Nostalgia and Musical Influences: A Conversation with Jeremy Casella

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I reconnect with my old Belmont University neighbor and longtime friend, Jeremy Casella. Jeremy and I first met on the third floor of Pembroke Hall, and after nearly 30 years, it was a joy to sit down and trace the threads of music, friendship, and life that still connect us today.


Jeremy shares stories from his early days at Belmont, discovering artists like Béla Fleck and Brooks Williams, and crossing paths with classmates like Brad Paisley, while reflecting on how those formative years in Nashville shaped his career as a songwriter and performer. We talk about the folk scene of the early ’90s, the influence of Phil Keaggy (who has since become a close friend and collaborator), and the ways great music can inspire new creativity rather than imitation.


Our conversation also dives deep into the balance of being both a musician and a family man, and how perspective shifts as you approach 50. Jeremy opens up about what it means to leave a legacy through music, including his upcoming Christmas project, and how producing other artists has become an equally rewarding part of his creative journey.


Along the way, we touch on coffee rituals, songwriting discipline, the craft of production, and the inspiration of producers like Daniel Lanois. This is a rich, heartfelt conversation with a friend who embodies both authenticity and artistry.

Music from the Episode:
Autumn in Kingston Springs (Jeremy Casella)
Beauty Leads the Way (Jeremy Casella)
Love That Will Not Let Me Go (Jeremy Casella featuring The Blind Boys of Alabama)
On the Evening Train (Jeremy Casella)

To learn more about Jeremy, visit his website.

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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1 month ago
50 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
The Musical Journey of Brock Derringer

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I get to reconnect with my good friend and former colleague, Brock Derringer. Brock and I shared a lot of time on stage, in the pit, and the music department at Wesleyan School, and it was a blast to sit down and dig into his story.

We start with Brock’s roots in small-town Thomasville, Georgia, a place with an unexpectedly rich arts scene, and trace his journey from a 10-year-old piano student to becoming a versatile musician and educator. He shares about his musical family, the influential teachers who shaped him, and how early church gigs prepared him for a lifetime of accompanying, leading, and creating music.

Brock talks about his love of teaching, the decision to move from performance into music education, and his current work at Stillwell School of the Arts in Atlanta, where he teaches AP Music Theory and piano. We get into the challenges and changes in music education over the last two decades, the role (and limits) of technology in the classroom, and how he keeps evolving his teaching methods to meet students where they are today.

Of course, we reminisce about our time collaborating on musicals, choir projects, and the legendary “Sing-Off” events, including unforgettable Beatles and Billy Joel performances that brought students and faculty to their feet. Along the way, we swap thoughts on musical influences, Billy Joel, Keith Jarrett, Oscar Peterson, and the importance of process over product in mastering any craft.

This conversation is part reunion, part masterclass, and part trip down memory lane. Brock’s passion for music and dedication to his students are contagious, and I left this talk reminded of why making and teaching music matter so much.

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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1 month ago
51 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
Finding Your Sound: A Guitarist's Journey with Steve Cunningham

On this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I am thrilled to have a conversation with my friend, Steve Cunningham.  Born and raised in Rochester, NY, Steve Cunningham draws inspiration from a wide range of artists—Led Zeppelin, Pat Metheny, Yes, and the Brecker Brothers—blending their influence with his deep appreciation for all genres of music. After relocating to Atlanta, he picked up the lap steel guitar, diving into the styles of David Lindley, western-swing legend Tom Morrell, and Sacred Steel master Aubrey Ghent.

A Studio Pro with a Killer Resume. As a sought-after session musician, Steve’s guitar work has shaped hundreds of albums, TV and radio commercials, and movie soundtracks. His credits include Coca-Cola, Ford, Chevrolet, MLB, NFL, IBM, Cartoon Network, PBS, Microsoft, CNN, NASCAR, and even a recording session with the London Symphony Orchestra.

One of Atlanta’s most in-demand guitarists, Steve brings his signature sound to 150+ performances a year, effortlessly weaving through jazz, R&B, rock, funk, gospel, country, blues, pop, and western-swing in various venues around the globe.

To learn more about Steve, visit his website.

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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2 months ago
1 hour 23 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
Rita Bliss: From Family Roots to the Austin Stage

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with Rita Bliss, a fantastic musician, songwriter, and banjo player whose work blends old-time, Americana, and folk traditions with a fresh, personal twist. We discuss her musical journey, the deep roots of music in her family, and how growing up surrounded by instruments and storytelling influenced her voice and perspective. Rita opens up about her move to Austin, the vibrant music scene there, and how it’s influenced her as both a performer and a writer.


We dive into her songwriting process, the role of the banjo in her music, and the joy (and challenge) of recording and releasing new work. Rita shares some behind-the-scenes stories from recent singles and what it’s like to bring those songs to life in the studio. There’s also a lot of warmth in how she talks about live performances, that real-time connection with an audience that keeps the music breathing and evolving.


Originally from New York, Rita has carved out a unique voice in the Americana world with a sound that’s both grounded in tradition and deeply personal. Her thoughtful lyrics, intricate banjo work, and easygoing presence make her a compelling artist to watch. Toward the end of our conversation, we talk about what’s next, from upcoming shows to future releases, and it’s clear that Rita Bliss is just getting started.

To learn more about Rita, please visit her website.

Music from the episode:
Peaches & Apple Pie (Rita Bliss)
Drive You to Kentucky (Rita Bliss)
Best Bar in Texas (Rita Bliss)
We Will Sing (Rita Bliss)

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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2 months ago
48 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
Maeve Gilchrist: Tradition, Innovation, and The Harp Weaver

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with the incredible Maeve Gilchrist, a Scottish harpist, composer, and innovator whose work bridges folk traditions and contemporary sounds. Born and raised in Edinburgh, Maeve was immersed in Celtic music from a young age and later studied at Berklee College of Music, where she expanded her approach to the harp through jazz, improvisation, and world music influences.

Maeve and I talk about her journey as an artist—from her early exposure to traditional Scottish and Irish music to her boundary-pushing projects in the worlds of contemporary classical, jazz, and film scoring. She shares how motherhood has deepened her relationship to her craft, and how she continues to evolve her voice while remaining rooted in tradition.


We explore her role as Artistic Director of the Rockport Celtic Festival, and dig into her album The Harp Weaver, a deeply personal work inspired by poetry and memory. Maeve reflects on the creative process, the power of collaboration, and the delicate balance between honoring tradition and forging new musical paths.


This is a rich and thoughtful conversation with one of today’s most original voices on the harp.

To learn more about Maeve, please visit her website.

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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2 months ago
56 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
The Journey of Eddie Brumlow: From Stage to Studio

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I reconnect with my old friend and fellow musician Eddie Brumlow for a heartfelt and wide-ranging conversation. We talk about the unexpected turns life takes and how those shifts have shaped our paths as performers and educators.


Eddie opens up about the formative moments and mentors that helped shape his musical identity, the joy (and chaos) of memorable gigs, and the quiet victories of the classroom. We dig into what it means to teach music today, how collaboration fuels creativity, and why the communities we build through music might be the most essential part of the journey.


Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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2 months ago
1 hour 6 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
The Influence of Mentorship in Music Education with Dr. Brett Dietz

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Brett Dietz, Director of Percussion at LSU, and someone who had a tremendous impact on my own family. Brett taught my son Skyler throughout his college years, and I've long admired him as both an educator and an artist. This was a special and personal conversation.


We discuss Brett's journey from studying under Michael Burritt at Northwestern to his unexpected opportunity at LSU in 2003, where he has been teaching for over two decades. He reflects on the evolution of the percussion studio, the effects of the 2008 recession and the COVID-19 pandemic on student development, and how the landscape of music education has shifted over the years.


We delve into teaching philosophies and how Brett identifies the most minor technical issues that unlock major improvements, and why teaching is ultimately about remembering what it's like to struggle. We also cover the deceptively complex art of triangle and tambourine playing, and how Brett balances classical rigor with kindness and adaptability.


And then there's Brett the composer. He shares the backstory behind his works, such as Sharpened Stick and Headcase, and how his early days in a high school garage band with Doug Perkins (yes, that Doug Perkins) led to a lifelong love of composing. He discusses studying under legends like Stanley Leonard, David Stock, and J. Allen Yim, and how those mentors shaped his artistic voice.


Whether you're a percussionist, a teacher, or just someone who loves stories about finding your path and making an impact, this episode is packed with insight, warmth, and some great laughs.

To learn more about Brett, visit his website. 

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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3 months ago
48 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
From Belmont to the Big Stage: Chad Jeffers' Journey

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I reconnect with my longtime friend Chad Jeffers. We go back to our days at Belmont University, and it’s been incredible to watch his journey unfold, from growing up in East Tennessee playing in family bands to touring the world with some of the biggest names in music.

Chad shares stories from his early days performing with his dad and brother, forming the band Raney Nickel, and eventually making his way to Nashville. After double-majoring in music business and marketing at Belmont, he landed an internship with Reba McEntire’s company, which gave him a behind-the-scenes education in the industry. From there, his career took off, touring with The Wilkinsons, signing with RCA as part of Pinmonkey, and later joining Carrie Underwood’s band.

We discuss his experiences performing everywhere from Vegas residencies to overseas military tours, and the lessons he has learned along the way about professionalism, collaboration, and being someone others want to work with. Chad also shares how his creative energy has led him into real estate, where he now helps clients with the same focus and passion he brings to the stage.

He even tells us about a new online course he has developed to help entrepreneurs prepare for client meetings, drawing unexpected yet powerful parallels between stage presence and business success.

To learn more about Chat, visit his website at chadjeffers.com.

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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3 months ago
51 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
The Art of Music Production: Insights from Rachael Moore

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I talk with producer, mixer, and engineer Rachael Moore, whose work spans some of the biggest names in music and film. Rachael has been a major force in Nashville for over a decade, collaborating with legends such as Robert Plant, Alison Krauss, and T-Bone Burnett. She also produced and recorded all the music for the Showtime series George & Tammy, starring Jessica Chastain and Michael Shannon.


Rachael shares her journey from growing up in the South to becoming a trusted name in Nashville’s production scene. We discuss her beginnings as a session engineer, the lessons she learned from top producers, and how she built a career by combining technical precision with a deep understanding of artists’ needs. She talks about her work on TV and film projects, including George & Tammy, Nashville, The Old Man, and the indie film Downtown Owl.


What stood out to me in our conversation was Rachael’s clear commitment to collaboration and service. She sees music production as a people-first business and takes pride in delivering on an artist’s vision, sometimes in unconventional ways, but always with heart. From navigating the pandemic to shaping organic sounds across genres like country, Americana, indie, and rock, Rachael’s story is a testament to adaptability, creativity, and love for the craft.

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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3 months ago
1 hour

The Bandwich Tapes
The Rhythm of Life: A Percussionist's Journey with William James

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with William James, Principal Percussionist of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. We talk about his journey through the world of orchestral percussion, from early influences and summer programs to the high-pressure world of auditions. Will shares thoughtful insights on what it takes to succeed as a modern percussionist, both musically and administratively.


We dig into the evolving expectations placed on orchestral players, the challenges of recording and venue acoustics, and how creativity, flexibility, and technology are reshaping the field. We also reflect on the importance of great teachers, the value of building a strong repertoire, and the ongoing role education plays in both our lives.


Will’s passion for percussion extends far beyond performance—he’s a dedicated educator, chamber musician, and author. His contributions to the percussion community have had a lasting impact, and I was grateful for the opportunity to delve deeper into his story.


About William James:
William James is the Principal Percussionist of the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra. He won the position at just 25, following studies at Northwestern University and the New England Conservatory. A versatile performer and educator, Will has played with top orchestras across the country, given solo recitals, taught masterclasses nationwide, and authored The Modern Concert Snare Drum Roll.

You can learn more about William at: williamjamespercussion.com

Music from the Episode:
Scirocco (Michael Burritt)

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

Show more...
3 months ago
1 hour 7 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
Matt Rollings

In this conversation, I sit down with Matt Rollings to explore his incredible journey as a musician. We talk about the early family influences that helped shape his path, his time in Nashville, and the career milestones that followed. Matt opens up about the importance of feel and connection in music, and how those elements often outweigh technical precision.

This episode is especially meaningful because Matt played on my album when I was just 11 years old. Reconnecting and talking music with him all these years later was a full-circle moment I’ll never forget.

We delve into some of his most memorable collaborations, the evolution of his work as a producer and educator, and the joy he derives from mentoring the next generation of musicians. Throughout our chat, we discuss the art of musical collaboration, the emotional interplay between players, and how listening—really listening—is at the heart of great music-making.

We also share our reflections and journeys through sobriety, vulnerability's role in life and art, and why curiosity and flexibility have remained core to his creative process. I'm excited to share this inspiring, thoughtful, and profoundly musical conversation with you.

Learn more about Matt at: mattrollings.com.

Music from the Episode:
Groove With a View (Matt Rollings)
I'm Little But I'm Loud (Brad Williams)
El Padre de Papagallos (Matt Rollings)
North Dakota (Lyle Lovett)
Nobody Knows Me (Lyle Lovett)

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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3 months ago
1 hour 5 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
Mike Seal

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I talk with guitarist Mike Seal about his incredible musical journey. We dig into his early influences, the development of his unique fingerstyle technique, and his collaborations with some truly legendary musicians. Mike reflects on the impact of his teachers on his growth, the value of music education, and how music festivals have helped shape his sense of community and connection.

He also shares his personal life, including his incredibly talented wife, and the joys and challenges of life as a touring musician. We talk about what it’s like to transition from sideman to bandleader, the importance of staying authentic as an artist, and the excitement surrounding his current and upcoming projects.

This conversation highlights the deep relationships and growth that happen through music, and I came away inspired by Mike’s humility, insight, and passion for the craft. I’m thrilled to share this one with you.

Music from the Episode:
Trumpets (Jeff Sipe Trio)
Naima (Jeff Sipe Trio)
While My Guitar Gently Weeps (Jerry Douglas Band)

Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

Show more...
4 months ago
46 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
Tim Hamilton (Part 2)

In this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I talk again with my musical brother, the amazing Tim Hamilton. Tim's had such a rich and fascinating career that we absolutely needed to talk again. If you haven't heard the first interview with him, I encourage you to go back and listen. 

In this follow-up, Tim shares what life’s been like recently, including the highs and challenges of a packed summer gig schedule. We dig into the evolution of country music, especially the return of more traditional sounds in the '90s, and Tim reflects on how crucial it is for a musician to have a signature sound.

We also talk about his time playing in the house band at Cowboys in Kennesaw, Georgia—some great stories there—along with the memorable artists he worked with and the curveballs that come with live shows. From starstruck moments to behind-the-scenes stories about the camaraderie among musicians, Tim brings warmth, wisdom, and a lot of heart.

We also reflect on the lessons we’ve learned from seasoned players, the changes in the Nashville scene, and just how much community and connection shape our lives in music.

I hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed catching up with Tim. This one’s packed with stories, insights, and plenty of laughs.


Thank you for listening! If you have any questions, feedback, or ideas for the show, please contact me at brad@thebandwichtapes.com.

The theme song, Playcation, was written by Mark Mundy. 

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4 months ago
1 hour 14 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
Dylan Rosson

In this episode, I catch up with my longtime friend Dylan Rosson for a conversation full of music and memories. 


Dylan and I reflect on the evolving country music scene, the challenges and rewards of life on the road, and how our influences have guided us through it all. Dylan shares his work as a session musician, including his time touring with Scotty McCreery, and shares what he's learned about collaboration, harmony, and production.


Whether we’re trading stories or diving deep into the creative process, this episode is filled with humor, nostalgia, and insight. It’s a celebration of friendship, growth, and the music that keeps us moving forward.

Music from the Episode:


Thank you for listening! If you have any feedback or questions, or just want to say hi, reach out at info@thebandwichtapes.com — and please help spread the word about the show!


Theme music: "Playcation" by Mark Mundy

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4 months ago
1 hour 5 minutes

The Bandwich Tapes
Welcome to The Bandwich Tapes, where host Brad Williams sits down with his friends and musical heroes for candid conversations about life, music, and everything in between. Join us as we dive deep into the stories behind the songs, explore the highs and lows of the music industry, and celebrate the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite us all. Whether you're a seasoned musician, a die-hard music fan, or simply someone who loves a good story, The Bandwich Tapes has something for everyone. So, come along for the ride as we explore the magic of music and the incredible journeys of the people who bring it to life.