Episode 25 opens like a family room. Nigel’s voice drops in from the road, Lettuce dates on the horizon, and a heavy moment reflecting on losing heroes and what that does to musicians our age. Julian “Juice” joins as guest host, part New Orleans memory book, part announcement of a new chapter.
Juice talks about leaving the comfort of a longrun band to build his name, why authenticity beats trends, and how the business only starts to make sense when you claim ownership. He traces a path from marching bands and brass culture to songwriting, rapping, and teaching. As musical director at the Trombone Shorty Foundation he’s drilling scales, stagecraft, and realworld habits that keep a band together when there’s no director counting you in. The conversation turns to the local scene: promoters who import “fantasy” lineups, clubs that prize bar sales over lineage, and the ongoing work of protecting New Orleans music so it still sounds like New Orleans.
There’s joy in the details. Juice’s record Be Intentional gets love, along with tracks like “Colors,” “DKNY,” “Guestless,” and “Black Jobs,” plus the kid choir story that reminds everyone why we do this. Dates get stamped for the folks who want to pull up in person: Washington, DC on November 2 at Songbird and New Orleans on November 14 at Sweet Lorraine’s. Brown Hound Sounds holds the room together, sE Electronics mics do their part, and the signoff feels like it always does here—gratitude, a little mischief, and plans for next time.
Timestamps
00:06: Cold open and Episode 25 roll call
00:40: D’Angelo remembrance and how loss hits musicians our age
03:20: Guest host introduction for Julian “Juice” and what he’s building
06:36: Standing your ground as an artist and tuning out the peanut gallery
11:01: New Orleans roots, Michael Jackson influence, and crossing lanes
28:53: Teaching at Trombone Shorty Foundation and real stage habits
38:04: Local scene talk, club bookings, and protecting New Orleans authenticity
41:38: Juice announces shows and plans, then album talk with favorite tracks
50:40: “Black Jobs” story and flipping a negative into community fuel
54:05: Sign-off, studio love, and what’s next
Nigel Live from Barcelona: Jazzy Jeff Sessions, Lettuce’s “Rising to the Top,” + SE Mic LoveNigel checks in from Europe with road stories, studio heat, and a little airline chaos. From recording with DJ Jazzy Jeff, Corey Fonville, and rising vocalist Ronnie Lux, to Lettuce’s new take on Kenny Burke’s “Rising to the Top,” this one’s a music-nerd feast.
Derrick holds it down at Brown Hound Sounds on our brand-new sE Electronics DCM8 mics (they sound ridiculous, thank you sE 🙏). We also talk Delta vs. an ARP synth (yikes), Saints realism vs. fandom, why “less is more” still wins, and why George Porter Jr. needs to come through the pod (because he asked!)Shout to Crescent Canna and to sE Electronics for the DCM8s.
Next: Nigel’s back stateside around Oct 8 before Australia/Tokyo runs—expect an in-studio reunion.Subscribe for musician-insider stories, good-faith hot takes, and New Orleans flavor every episode.Timestamps0:04 — Roll call: Ep. 24 kicks off; Nigel beams in from Spain1:45 — Studio report: Sessions with DJ Jazzy Jeff, Corey Fonville & discovery of Ronnie Lux2:52 — “Put me on the show”: George Porter Jr. requests an appearance6:14 — Airline adventures: Delta vs. the ARP (and a heroic tour manager fix)22:42 — New gear: First impressions of the sE DCM8 mics at Brown Hound Sounds23:31 — Lettuce covers “Rising to the Top”: one-take feel, why minimalism slaps33:02 — The biz today: respect, discipline, and not chasing empty clicks42:09 — Travel & schedule: Nigel’s return, next tours, and closing shout-outs
What happens when you hand the mic to Jelly on her birthday, invite Yolanda Ross fresh off her run on The Chi, and let Derrick cook? You get one of the most heartfelt and funniest episodes yet.Yolanda opens up about growing up in Omaha, chasing fashion before acting found her, and the unlikely path from SNL background work to starring in HBO films and working with Denzel Washington. She breaks down how she grieved her Chi character Jada as if she’d lost a friend, and why she’s now pouring her energy into directing, photography, and new creative projects.Meanwhile, Jelly brings birthday chaos, champagne, and Cash App jokes while Derrick threads it all together in true Shadow People fashion.This one’s got it all: behind-the-scenes New York randomness, New Orleans film war stories, the stringer bell effect, and the tender side of an actor who’s given life to unforgettable characters.🕒 Key Timestamps0:17 – Jelly takes the mic on her birthday 🎂0:41 – Welcoming Yolanda Ross: actress, writer, director1:16 – Random New York alleyway reunion story2:02 – Growing up in Omaha: quietness and stillness in her characters5:57 – From fashion school to SNL background work6:38 – First audition: New York Undercover10:42 – HBO’s Stranger Inside and Denzel’s Antwone Fisher16:04 – Why actors often make better directors17:04 – Avoiding the “hood movie” trap19:16 – Filming in New Orleans: magic and mayhem23:43 – Landing The Chi and building Jada over 7 seasons27:03 – How it feels when your character dies32:29 – Grieving Jada as if she were real34:01 – Go For Sisters and indie acclaim36:05 – What’s next: directing, photography, Brooklyn Museum collab38:09 – Closing love, birthday wishes, and champagne
Tipitina’s is home court for working musicians, and the room feels it. LBJ sets the table, Derrick and Nigel bring the friendly chaos, and the Shadow Band turns the stage lights into a living room. What follows is pure New Orleans: road stories and weather jokes, a tender moment about fathers and sobriety, and the reminder that music is the family business even when life gets heavy.Ivan Neville drops in straight from the bus to talk about the unglamorous glamour of touring, comfort TV between soundcheck and downbeat, and what it was like to be stuck abroad as Katrina unfolded while the city held its breath. Whistle Monster barrels onstage to argue Saints quarterback hopes and to test the decibel ceiling, because of course he does. HW wanders in for some surreal backstage color. Danny Abel closes things out with local news, shout-outs, and love for the crew that keeps this circus rolling.It is a live taping in an iconic room, with musicians who know the room well. If you are new here, this is the show: laughter, truth, and the stories behind the songs.#Timitinas #NewOrleans #ShadowPeoplePodcast #IvanNeville #WhistleMonster #LBJ #Dumpstaphunk #NOLAMusic #LivePodcast #MusicianLifeTimestamps (chapters):00:00 Cold open, LBJ warms up the room00:29 LBJ intro, first live taping at Tipitina’s02:27 Derrick and Nigel welcome, the origin story and thank-yous05:57 Sponsor shout and Shadow Band intro07:15 Travel, weather, and NOLA in August11:04 Nigel on family, sobriety, and perspective18:22 Band break, LBJ back on the mic19:02 Guest intro: Ivan Neville20:30 Bus-tour life, rest on the road23:02 Side trip with the Dead family show24:49 Marathon travel day, still playing the gig25:56 Sleeping in transit, the art of the pre-show nap27:10 Comfort shows: The Sopranos and The Godfather29:10 Katrina week memories, stuck in Brazil together33:36 Post-storm touring, Saints in Baton Rouge34:44 Surprise guest: Whistle Monster enters41:00 Quarterback talk, Saints therapy session50:02 Zen of fandom and keeping perspective52:18 Surprise guest no. 2: HW appears56:26 HW’s snack saga and backstage weirdness1:00:11 After HW, reset and housekeeping1:01:14 Guinness whistle PSA1:02:08 The whistle1:02:14 Bring up DA Danny Abel1:05:05 Shout-outs to friends and supporters1:06:00 Summer at Tips, Rick James tribute story1:10:43 Closing thanks1:11:20 Sign-off and where to subscribe
Corey Glover — legendary frontman of Living Colour, actor in Platoon, and Broadway’s Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar — joins Derrick Freeman and Nigel Hall for a raw, hilarious, and inspiring deep-dive into his career.
From grinding in Brooklyn rehearsal spaces with Vernon Reid to scoring a global hit with “Cult of Personality,” Corey breaks down the birth of the Black Rock Coalition, the struggle for Black artists in rock, and what it means to keep fighting for creativity after decades in the game.
He also shares behind-the-scenes stories from Platoon, his unexpected audition twists, time with Galactic in New Orleans, and the lifelong brotherhood of musicians that keeps him going.
⏱️ Timestamps
0:00 – Intro / Catching up with Corey
1:00 – The grind of staying creative & relevant
4:30 – Early 80s NYC & the birth of the Black Rock Coalition
8:20 – Landing Platoon & juggling acting with Living Colour
11:00 – The untold story of Corey’s audition & Mark Ledford choosing Steve Winwood
14:00 – CBGB’s, Brooklyn rehearsals, and the rise of Living Colour
19:00 – Fishbone, Bad Brains, and the fight for recognition in rock
23:00 – Michael Jackson, MTV, and breaking barriers
33:00 – How “Cult of Personality” was written in one night
37:30 – Jesus Christ Superstar & finding his dream role as Judas
46:00 – Commercials, The Wiz, and other hidden gems of Corey’s career
50:00 – Life in New Orleans & connecting with Galactic
55:00 – Brotherhood, artistry, and surviving the industry together
In a beautifully introspective episode, legendary musician and composer Patrice Rushen joins Nigel Hall and Derrick Freeman to discuss the artistry, humor, and profound wisdom behind her prolific musical journey. Renowned for her iconic hit "Forget Me Nots," Patrice's groundbreaking career spans jazz, funk, R&B, and film scoring. Tune in as she shares candid insights into the meticulous craft of composing for film and TV, stories from her transformative experience scoring "Hollywood Shuffle," and hilarious backstage anecdotes involving Prince at the Grammys.
Reflecting on influences ranging from Herbie Hancock to Stevie Wonder, Patrice eloquently explores what it truly means to innovate musically, highlighting the crucial balance between imitation and individuality. Whether you’re a vinyl enthusiast, seasoned musician, or simply love the magic behind great music, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into the mind of one of music’s most revered artists.
00:00 Intro: Welcoming the iconic Patrice Rushen
01:22 Touring Japan & backline blues
06:18 "They gave me a Casio!" - Musicians vs. Promoters
18:02 Film scoring & Patrice’s creative approach
25:23 Hollywood Shuffle: Patrice's big break34:55 Patrice reveals her top piano influences
38:15 Recording "Remind Me" & James Gadson's magic
45:02 Navigating music industry bias & breaking barriers48:42 Patrice’s early days dancing on Soul Train
1:05:34 Hilarious Grammy backstage story with Prince & Beyoncé
#PatriceRushen #FilmScoring #HollywoodShuffle #VinylCommunity #MusicPodcast #JazzFunk #ShadowPeoplePodcast #MusicianLife #BehindTheMusic
Listening to DJ Soul Sister talk about music feels like stumbling upon a secret library filled with records you've only ever dreamed existed, each groove worn deep by a thousand loving spins. In this episode of The Shadow People, hosts Nigel Hall and Derrick Freeman sit down with the beloved New Orleans DJ, whose encyclopedic knowledge of funk, soul, disco, and R&B is matched only by her passion for the craft.From her earliest days falling in love with Kool & The Gang as a child, to lugging crates of irreplaceable records across airports and clubs around the globe, DJ Soul Sister shares stories and insights that capture the rare thrill of analog authenticity. She reflects on her teenage years obsessing over Parliament Funkadelic, dressing as George Clinton for Halloween, and why “feeling the feeling” of the music--barefoot, bass-heavy, and blissful—is fundamental to her performance style.(00:40) Nigel and Derrick introduce the legendary DJ Soul Sister, calling her “the greatest DJ on planet Earth,” a compliment she humbly accepts while the hosts insist on its truth.(04:55) DJ Soul Sister explains how her lifelong love of records began at age five, sharing charming anecdotes of early record-store adventures with her father.(07:20) She opens up about the physical art of DJing with vinyl, describing the sweat, skill, and sacrifice required to blend two records into one seamless musical experience.(12:50) DJ Soul Sister recounts her pivotal Cool & The Gang discovery, a happy accident that set the tone for her musical journey.(17:00) High school memories surface as she reveals her deep teenage fandom for Parliament Funkadelic, including dressing up as George Clinton and recruiting classmates into "Uncle Jam’s Army."(21:45) Her first real DJ gig in 1997 is remembered fondly, crediting her friend Sarah Fritz for pushing her from radio airwaves onto the live stage.(23:15) The philosophy of “feeling the feeling” is unpacked, emphasizing her barefoot performances and the spiritual need to physically feel the bass vibrations.(27:10) Nigel and Derrick discuss the crossover between musicians and DJs, with Soul Sister offering friendly wisdom for those venturing into her territory: "love the music, and no train wrecks!"(32:45) An illuminating discussion unfolds around the age-old DJ dilemma: playing for the crowd versus playing for oneself, with DJ Soul Sister firmly defending artistic authenticity.(42:00) Essence Fest’s recent controversies prompt a conversation on professionalism in music events and the importance of treating artists properly—lessons everyone in the industry could benefit from revisiting.(54:30) The hosts challenge Soul Sister to pick her desert-island top five albums, leading to a vibrant exploration from Grover Washington Jr. to Slave and the Meters.(1:03:00) The episode then dives into favorite film soundtracks, touching on classics like Shaft, The Wiz, and the moody brilliance of Three Days of the Condor.(1:10:00) A passionate tribute to Washington D.C.’s Go-Go music follows, highlighting cultural parallels between DC and New Orleans, especially their shared commitment to community-driven live performance.(1:19:00) The show wraps up with laughter and gratitude as DJ Soul Sister receives an exclusive Shadow People t-shirt, fittingly described as "one-of-one" for a DJ whose record crates overflow with singular treasures.This episode of The Shadow People celebrates music as an ongoing conversation between artists, listeners, and those hidden grooves where the truth lives and dances. It’s a rich, funny, sometimes absurd exploration of why music matters, delivered through stories and perspectives as rare as the records spun by DJ Soul Sister herself.#djvinyl #neworleansmusic #funk #gogo #vinylcommunity #ShadowPeoplePodcast #DJSoulSister
In Episode 18 of The Shadow People Podcast, Grammy-winning musician Nigel Hall welcomes back the beloved Anjelika "Jelly" Joseph, who fills in while Derrick enjoys a much-deserved vacation in Mexico. Nigel and Jelly conduct an honest, heartfelt, and often hilarious conversation covering music, parenthood, and the creative journey toward finding your artistic identity. From Nigel’s emotional Father’s Day spent with his son in Maine to Jelly’s recent performances with Big Freedia and Galactic, this episode explores deep reflections on life, creativity, and friendship.Nigel shares personal insights about fatherhood, navigating the highs and lows of touring, and the importance of authenticity in music. Jelly reveals her excitement about working on a new solo project, taking her mom overseas for the first time, and how her experiences have influenced her evolution as a vocalist and individual. The discussion also touches on Nigel’s newfound passion for bowling, travel nightmares, cannabis culture in New Orleans, and the relatable joys of simply providing groceries for your family.Join the conversation for another authentic, entertaining, and insightful episode of The Shadow People.Timestamps:0:23 – Welcoming special co-host Anjelika "Jelly" Joseph2:33 – Reflections on LBJ’s memorable Juneteenth visit and humorous band stories4:58 – Nigel’s emotional Father's Day week spent with his son13:37 – Jelly’s Pride weekend performance with Big Freedia and upcoming France trip with Galactic15:11 – Jelly announces working on a solo project and discovering her artistic voice26:16 – Jelly discusses the journey to finding your identity as an artist32:47 – Nigel’s song "Groceries" and the value of authenticity in music42:18 – Danny's News: The worst travel day ever and memorable life-on-the-road adventures#ShadowPeoplePodcast #AnjelikaJoseph #NigelHall #Fatherhood #BlackMusicMonth #NewOrleansCulture #PodcastLife
In this very special episode of The Shadow People, we welcome the esteemed Lebron Joseph aka LBJ to the studio to discuss New Orleans' complicated historical handling of Juneteenth, the ways in which the media game has changed, and the legacy of Sly Stone (RIP). LBJ has been a broadcaster in New Orleans for over 40 years. He’s the anchor of Good Morning New Orleans on WGNO and hosts New Orleans Music Playlist on NOLA 38. LBJ is also an announcer on iHeart Radio’s WYLD-FM.
His range of humor, practicality, our city’s musical history, and local charm puts him right at home with the Shadow People.
We were thrilled to have him as a guest and are excited to share this episode with the Shadow People family!
In Part 2 of our conversation with the legendary DJ Jazzy Jeff, we examine more deeply the truth behind the music industry: mastering myths, artistic ego checks, and what it really means to create music that moves people.Jeff talks candidly about the modern music landscape, why mixing and mastering are often misunderstood (and overpriced), and how emotion, not perfection, is what listeners really want. Plus, he breaks down what makes a great DJ set, the difference between performance and overkill, and the importance of surrounding yourself with groove-first collaborators.Also in this episode: Derrick and Nigel celebrate the retirement of Saints QB Derek Carr and get inspired by Jeff’s unapologetic creative process, pandemic-era breakthroughs, and his mission to build real community through music.Whether you're an artist, DJ, producer, or just a fan of creative honesty: this one’s for you.Timestamps0:00 – Intro & DJ Jazzy Jeff Pt. 2 Setup1:00 – Saints Fans Celebrate Derek Carr’s Exit4:00 – Jeff on the Collapse of Industry Barriers6:40 – The Truth About Mixing, Mastering & the “Compression Scam”12:00 – DJ Sets as Emotional Storytelling: Planes, Not Rockets16:20 – Jeff’s Musical Roots & Letting Go of the Drums19:00 – Real Production Means Letting Others Shine24:00 – The Struggle to Release Music in the Streaming Era27:00 – Building Fanbases in the Age of Algorithmic Gatekeeping30:00 – Jazzy Jeff on Twitch, “The Lunch Break,” & His New App33:00 – Nigel’s Reflections on Creative Validation & Stockpiling36:30 – Be a Musician First: Final Thoughts & FarewellHashtags#djjazzyjeff #ShadowPeoplePodcast #musicindustry #MixingMyths #neworleansmusic #phillymusic #podcastinterview #creativeprocess #producerlife #GrooveFirst #behindthemusic
DJ Jazzy Jeff on Philly, Neo-Soul, & Why You Need to Release Your MusicIn this monumental episode of The Shadow People, Nigel and Derrick sit down with the legendary DJ Jazzy Jeff for an insightful and wide-ranging conversation. From his early production days in Philly to the birth of Jill Scott's iconic debut album, Jeff shares wisdom on music, legacy, and why creatives shouldn't die with unreleased work stuck on a hard drive.Topics include the origins of "Who Is Jill Scott?", the Philadelphia music scene, the importance of finishing and releasing your music, and how the music industry gatekeepers often miss greatness. Plus: reflections on the cycle of regional music scenes, the "Neo-Soul" label, and the magic of collaboration without interference.This is part one of a two-part episode. Stay tuned.Timestamps:0:00 - Intro & Birthday Surprise for Derrick6:20 - DJ Jazzy Jeff Joins the Show8:00 - "Die Empty": The Urgency of Releasing Your Music13:00 - Why You Can’t Wait for the Right Artist to Use Your Track14:50 - Thoughts on Licensing vs. Creation16:20 - You Have to Have Something Ready to Play17:00 - Jeff on Producing Jill Scott’s Debut Album20:00 - Spontaneous Collab That Led to "A Long Walk"22:30 - How a Hand-Burned Demo CD Took Over Sony24:00 - Hidden Beach's Trust in the Vision26:00 - The Industry Ignoring the Same Music They Later Celebrated27:10 - The Unspoken Divide in Philly’s Music Scene30:00 - Why Everyone Left Philly32:00 - How the Industry Exploits Division34:00 - The Rise and Fall of Neo-Soul as a Label36:00 - The On/Off Switch of Global Attention on Cities Like Philly and New Orleans38:00 - Outro & Shoutouts#DJJazzyJeff #ShadowPeoplePodcast #PhillyMusic #NeoSoul #JillScott #MusicIndustry #DieEmpty #NewOrleans #PodcastInterview #MusicProduction #musicindustry #musicianlife
Jazz Fest is over and The Shadow People are back—tired, reflective, and ready to speak on it. In this episode, hosts Derrick Freeman and Nigel Hall share raw, funny, and emotional stories from this year’s Jazz Fest, including a show-stopping set with Nikki Glaspie and their crew at the Maple Leaf. They get personal about sobriety, creative evolution, and what it means to perform with your real-life friends.
But it’s not all love and light—we also get real about the chaotic behavior of out-of-towners, including the now-infamous plaque theft incident at Tipitina’s. Plus: your comments on the Shedeur Sanders Short stirred up some heat, so we read them live and respond in classic Shadow People fashion.
This one goes deep—from musical brotherhood to American arrogance to why playing with your day-one people hits harder than any stadium tour ever could.
🎥 Filmed at Brown Hound Sounds Studio in New Orleans
🎧 Thanks to Crescent Canna
✉️ Contact: shadowpeoplepodcast@gmail.com
👇 Chapters / Timestamps:
0:00 – Opening disclaimer & sleepy introductions
1:22 – Jazz Fest reflections & gratitude
2:41 – Derrick praises Nigel’s unforgettable performance
4:50 – Singing with Nikki Glaspie & band chemistry
8:15 – Musical roots and deep bonds with longtime friends
11:45 – Why music with friends hits harder
13:50 – Why some musicians won’t be on this podcast
15:00 – Mental health, sobriety, and the podcast’s real mission
17:13 – Derrick’s Jazz Fest misadventures
20:00 – Losing your wife at a gig and finding yourself on Frenchmen
23:40 – Sobriety, gigs, and setting boundaries with promoters
25:40 – Derrick reflects on aging, exhaustion, and grace
27:04 – “Festing in Place” and missing the real Jazz Fest
28:06 – Shoutouts to Jameson Ross & singing drummers
30:00 – A live sip of Crescent Canna’s THC water ("Sexy Zexi")
31:40 – The New Yorker invasion & American behavior breakdown
34:00 – Respecting New Orleans vs. disrespecting the culture
36:00 – The Tipitina’s plaque theft scandal
39:00 – “Be Nice or Leave” and why it matters
40:50 – Tourists vs. humility: how to earn a place in NOLA
42:00 – Rage Fest or Jazz Fest? The cultural identity problem
44:00 – Playing Quincy Jones badly at 4 a.m.
46:00 – America’s image abroad & why we must do better
48:00 – Cultural preservation isn’t optional
50:00 – Closing the episode & looking toward future guests
51:30 – Reading the Shedeur Sanders backlash comments
57:00 – Final thoughts on Shedeur, Deion, and football media bias
1:03:00 – Wrapping up & gratitude for Jazz Fest performers (and slackers)
#JazzFest2024 #NewOrleansCulture #TheShadowPeoplePodcast #NigelHall #DerrickFreeman #NikkiGlaspie #CrescentCanna #ShedeurSanders #DeionSanders #MusicianLife #SoberMusician #NewOrleansMusic #PostJazzFest #JazzFestFails #AmericanTourists #RespectNewOrleans #MapleLeafBar #BehindTheScenesMusic #PodcastRealTalk #THCWater #ShadowPeople
Drummer, bandleader, and all-around powerhouse Nikki Glaspie (Dumpstaphunk, Beyoncé, The Nth Power) joins Derrick and Nigel for a raw, hilarious, and revealing episode of The Shadow People.
From playing stadiums with Beyoncé to mushroom-fueled tours through Colorado, Nikki shares the road-tested wisdom and wild memories that shaped her career. She and Nigel revisit their time in The Nth Power—including the moment he unceremoniously quit the band on Twitter mid-cocaine spiral—and reflect on the healing, awkward, and often ridiculous aftermath. There’s Jazz Fest hot takes, ghost stories, blown tires, cheese factory stops, and enough band drama to fill a Netflix docuseries.
If you’ve ever toured, been in a band, or just wondered what happens behind the curtain, this one’s for you.
🎥 Filmed at Brown Hound Sounds Studio in New Orleans
👇 Jump to your favorite moments:
⏱️ Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro & Who is Nikki Glaspie?
4:27 – Touring with Beyoncé & jumping into the deep end
9:12 – Nth Power days: cocaine, Twitter exits & awkward reunions
15:46 – Colorado tour stories: mushrooms, Cabot cheese & blown tires
21:05 – Band dynamics, trust, and the burden of leadership
25:10 – Jazz Fest chaos & why New Orleans is a different animal
29:02 – Do artists ever really get a day off?
32:59 – Tour ghost stories & classic Shadow People tangents
🔗 Links:
📸 Follow Nikki Glaspie @nikkidrums – Instagram
🎶 Produced by Brown Hound Sounds – @brownhoundsounds
📢 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT & SUBSCRIBE.
New episodes every week(ish).
#NikkiGlaspie #TheShadowPeoplePodcast #Dumpstaphunk #TheNthPower #TourLife #JazzFest2025 #NewOrleansMusic #PodcastLife #BehindTheScenesMusic #DrummerLife #BandStories #MushroomTrips #TourChaos #BeyonceBand #ShadowPeople
It’s Jazz Fest season in New Orleans, and The Shadow People are back with a heavy-hitting episode featuring trombonist, arranger, and all-around musical badass Alex Wasily—best known for his work with Dumpstaphunk, Earth Wind & Power, and the Very Good Mondays series.Alex joins Nigel Hall, Derrick Freeman, and Danny Abel for a full-on hang in the Brown Hound Sounds studio, talking everything from the importance of rehearsal, the legacy of horn sections, and learning to lead from within, and the deeper meaning of “no covers.”
🔥 Key Topics in this Episode:
How Wasily got called up to join Dumpstaphunk
The origins of Very Good Mondays, an original jam night with no covers allowed
The jazz school mindf*ck and finding your way back to music
Shoutouts to Earth Wind & Power, Natalie Cressman, Brad Walker, and Stevie Wonder
What it means to truly listen on a gig
How music can still be spiritual in an industry that often isn’t
Why Alex considers a “monetary loss a spiritual win”
Recorded deep in Jazz Fest madness, this episode is a love letter to New Orleans music, community, tradition, and transformation.
🎷 Produced at Brown Hound Sounds
📢 Like, share, and hit that subscribe button to support real musicians having real conversations.
📸 Follow us @ShadowPeoplePodcast for new episodes, behind-the-scenes, and Shorts.
❤️ Much love to Crescent Canna for the delicious seltzers and waters
📩 Email shadowpeoplepodcast@gmail.com for any concerns, comments, questions, or confrontations.
👇 Drop a comment below—especially if you’ve caught a Very Good Monday, a Dumpstaphunk set, or for whatever
⏱️ Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro & guest reveal: Alex Wasily joins the show
1:36 – Jazz Fest rehearsal stories & the importance of preparation
4:00 – Alex breaks down what a horn section leader really does
6:14 – Alex’s origin story: Egypt → Savannah → Dumpsterfunk
7:43 – First gig with Dumpsterfunk and getting invited to Jazz Fest
9:31 – Horn sections, arrangements, and the New Orleans tradition
13:10 – Cover bands vs. precision musicianship
14:42 – Earth, Wind & Power tribute: origins and chart arranging
16:04 – Jam Cruise memories & Earth Wind & Fire-level praise
18:33 – Artistic competition, social media, and the death of gratitude
21:47 – Nigel’s mantra: “I am unavailable for that project”
27:25 – Very Good Mondays: how the jam session series began
30:28 – No covers rule & the problem with jamfluencers
34:06 – How to move to New Orleans the right way
36:57 – Ivan Neville’s 5-word masterclass on restraint
38:43 – Social media clout vs. real musical chemistry
40:12 – Sampling vs. stealing — and calling out content thieves
44:08 – The reset button: jazz jams as workouts for musicians
46:04 – Mondays in New Orleans: a deep tradition revived
48:35 – Dungeons & Dragons? No—Do Not Disturb
50:51 – The Pope is dead? Political absurdity & betting on the next one
54:54 – Nigel holds back—for now: racial and social frustration builds
59:01 – Why the podcast exists: connection, healing, and brotherhood
1:02:25 – Final shoutouts: vintage Rhodes, Crescent 9, and Very Good Mondays
#ShadowPeoplePodcast #JazzFest2025 #AlexWasily #dumpstaphunk #VeryGoodMondays #neworleansmusic #TromboneTalk #HornSections #NoCovers #RehearsalFest #Crescent9 #thcseltzer #EarthWindAndPower #DannyAbel #nigelhall #derrickfreeman #brownhoundsounds #podcaststudio #MusicianPodcast #LiveMusicCulture
It’s Festival Season in New Orleans, and The Shadow People are back with another killer episode. Nigel Hall and Derrick Freeman dive into French Quarter Fest highlights, Jazz Fest prep, and the legendary hustle of gig life in the city.Then, things get funky as the crew holds the first-ever 70s Musician Draft, assembling dream bands from a curated list of groove masters, soul icons, and jazz-funk legends. 🥁🎹🎤 Who drafted the better band? Vote in the poll or drop your pick in the comments!Later, Danny joins the conversation—and the chaos—and the episode wraps with an intimate (and hilarious) video of Nigel indulging in a classic Philly cheesesteak.Produced by Andrew Meehan (aka Drew Meez on the Keys) of Brown Hound Sounds.⏱️ Timestamps: 0:00 – Festival season check-in & gig talk9:40 – Crescent Canna THC seltzer segment18:30 – Behind the scenes: Life as a working New Orleans musician25:00 – 🎸 The 70s Musician Draft begins52:00 – Clyde, Bernard, Duke, & Sly—Draft commentary1:06:00 – Political satire & New Orleans mayoral chatter1:11:55 – 🍽️ Nigel eats a Philly cheesesteak in an emotional finale💬 Vote in the poll and comment below: Who drafted the better band—Nigel or Derrick?Got a name idea for either of their fictional bands? Drop it in the comments.#ShadowPeoplePodcast #jazzfest #70sFunk #neworleansmusic #MusicianDraft #CrescentCanna #georgeduke #michaelmcdonald #slystone #podcastclips #nigelhall #derrickfreeman #PhillyCheesesteak #MusicNerdsUnite #festivalseason This episode contains a casual discussion of legal hemp-derived THC products compliant with the 2018 Farm Bill. These products are for adult use only (21+) and are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition. Please consume responsibly and in accordance with your local laws.
Episode 10 of The Shadow People Podcast is here, and Nigel Hall & Derrick Freeman have plenty to unpack—starting with Louisiana's wild recent election where Governor Jeff Landry’s proposed amendments were unanimously rejected. Find out why Derrick was baffled by receiving a personal voting reminder from none other than 50 Cent, who's apparently now a "Louisiana property and business owner."But the madness doesn’t stop there. The hosts pull no punches discussing controversial pastors like Marvin Sapp, who recently locked his church doors until congregants forked over $40K, and the infamous Brooklyn preacher flaunting stolen cash. Is church just another form of entertainment? And what’s lost when mega-churches replace real community connection?Nigel also opens up about personal creativity, sobriety, and why competition in music is toxic. Plus, Derrick shares hilarious yet disturbing insights into his vivid dreams when not using THC, and there's an emotional tribute to legendary jazz musician Lonnie Liston Smith.Authentic, raw, hilarious, and thought-provoking—tap in now for another ride with The Shadow People.Hosts: Derrick Freeman, Nigel HallProducers: Drew Meez, Danny Abel (Brown Hound Sounds)Shout out to Crescent Canna and their delicious seltzers!Subscribe and hit that notification bell for more real talk from NOLA's finest.#ShadowPeoplePodcast #50cent #louisianaelection #jefflandry #churchscandal #megachurch #marvinsapp #sobrietyjourney #LonnieListonSmith #jazzfest #neworleansculture #podcastcomedy #churchdrama #louisianapolitics #PastorGoneWildTimestamps: 0:00 – Intro & Shoutouts 2:16 – Louisiana's Election Madness & "Janky Jeff" Landry 3:12 – 50 Cent Texted Derrick to Vote?! 4:08 – Sneaky Election Shenanigans & Voter Suppression 5:46 – Derrick’s Epic Rant on St. Tammany Parish 8:38 – Nigel’s Netflix Pick of the Week 9:09 – Nigel’s Special Gig Announcement & Birthday Plans 10:11 – Shoutout to Crescent Canna 11:06 – Nigel’s Sobriety Journey & Dream Stories 15:30 – Derrick’s Dark Dreams Revealed 16:43 – Danny's Dark Side Appreciation 18:04 – Louisiana Politics & Trump's Influence on Jeff Landry 20:55 – Education Under Attack & The Importance of Voting Locally 21:34 – Want a LIVE Shadow People Show? 21:51 – Nigel's Emotional Experience with Lonnie Liston Smith & Butcher Brown 26:34 – Crescent Canna Intermission 26:44 – Reflecting on Episode 10 & Podcast Growth 30:08 – Marvin Sapp Locks Church Doors for $40K Donation 33:28 – When Church Turns Violent (Brooklyn Pastor Robbery) 34:04 – Mega-Church Commercialism vs. Real Community 35:35 – Remembering the “Cussing Pastor” (Thaddeus Matthews) 37:40 – Pastor Excess & Scandalous Church Leaders 38:12 – Nigel’s Deep Dive: Competition & Creativity in Music 52:47 – Derrick & Nigel Reflect on Artistic Authenticity & Sobriety 56:47 – Upcoming Jazz Fest Plans & Surprise Appearances 58:27 – Gratitude & Final Thoughts
In Episode 9 of The Shadow People Podcast, Derrick Freeman and Nigel Hall sit down with legendary New Orleans musician Ivan Neville (Dumpstaphunk, Neville Brothers, The Rolling Stones). Ivan dives deep, sharing powerful stories from his wild early days, behind-the-scenes adventures touring with the Neville Brothers, and candid reflections on his journey to sobriety. From hilarious tales of local icons to confronting vulnerability through music, Ivan keeps it real, raw, and insightful. Plus, Nigel and Derrick unpack the sketchy economics behind music festivals, navigating tough conversations around race and culture, and why the music scene needs honest dialogues more than ever.Tap in for a heavy dose of authentic New Orleans swagger, laughter, wisdom, and music industry truths that only The Shadow People can deliver.Follow The Shadow People and stay tuned for more episodes!Hosts: Derrick Freeman, Nigel HallSpecial Guests: Ivan Neville, Danny AbelProducer: Andrew Meehan, Brown Hound SoundsTimestamps:0:00 Intro / Real Talk on Race & Controversial Situations07:28 The Sketchy Economics Behind Music Festivals15:28 Ivan Neville Joins the Show18:13 Early Days with Nick Daniels & Neville Brothers Stories27:03 Wild Times, Funny Memories, and Iconic Performances37:46 Sobriety, Personal Growth, and Music as Healing#IvanNeville #ShadowPeoplePodcast #NewOrleansMusic #Dumpstaphunk #NevilleBrothers #MusicPodcast #SobrietyJourney #JazzFest #MusicIndustry #NewOrleansCulture
Ever wonder what Mardi Gras is like for the musicians who keep the city moving? 🎷🎭In this episode, Angelika “Jelly” Joseph (Tank and the Bangas, Galactic) joins Derrick Freeman and Nigel Hall to talk about the real Mardi Gras experience—not just as locals, but as artists balancing the chaos, the gigs, and the celebrations.🍾 Navigating Mardi Gras as both a job and a party🎶 How New Orleans music crosses racial and cultural boundaries🚶🏾♂️ Making time for parades—Derrick & Nigel even squeezed in a trip to see Muses Uptown!📺 The best streaming shows right now (Sly Stone doc, Puff Daddy exposé & more)🫧 THC-infused seltzers, plus a few off-camera breaks 👀And of course, Jelly drops some gems about her upcoming Lundi Gras gig with Galactic and the unique energy that fuels this season for NOLA musicians.A rare inside look at Mardi Gras from the people making the soundtrack—tap in!
Nigel Hall is back in the studio after a long tour, reflecting on road life, the highs and lows of performing, and how self-care keeps him grounded. Derrick Freeman and Nigel discuss mental health in the music industry, losing loved ones, and how artists carry the weight of cultural responsibility in their work.Smoker and Nigel dissect:🎭 The grind of touring and why it’s not all glitz and glam💔 Coping with loss and the importance of telling people you love them🎷 JazzFest lineup talk + legendary performances we missed and ones we won’t!🎥 The new Sly Stone documentary – why it’s a must-watch for music fans💬 Reacting to our YouTube comments – the wildest takes & biggest trolls🔔 Hit that subscribe button, drop a comment, and share your thoughts!📧 Send your questions & hot takes to shadowpeoplepodcast@gmail.com🎧 Also available on Spotify & YouTube Podcasts#ShadowPeople #MusicPodcast #JazzFest #TourLife #SlyStone #MentalHealth #Comedy #Podcast
In The Shadow People Episode 6, Nigel Hall checks in from Miami before boarding Jam Cruise while Derrick Freeman holds it down at home. They dive into Kendrick Lamar’s cultural impact, the stupidity of Kanye, and the Super Bowl’s unexpected moments—from Philly’s domination to Trump’s awkward appearance.Special guest Danny Abel joins to break down the chaotic Super Bowl scene in New Orleans, where local businesses suffered while the city turned into a military zone and to share his perspective on the big game, celebrity trolling, and the bizarre spectacle of Trump Coin and Trump Shoes.Derrick's Food for Thought segment explores who’s really making America great, reflecting on music, sports, patriotism, and the people who truly represent American excellence.Hit LIKE & SUBSCRIBE and send us your thoughts at shadowpeoplepodcast@gmail.com !#TheShadowPeoplePodcast #KendrickLamar #SuperBowl #Trump #KanyeWest #NewOrleans #NFL #BlackExcellence
