Best JD Wooten Podcasts (2025)

1
Michael Bland: The Heartbeat of Prince's New Power Generation 2:05:35

16h ago2:05:35

2:05:35

Michael Bland, renowned drummer known for his work with Prince and the New Power Generation, engages in an insightful conversation with Joe Kelley on the 'Musicians Reveal' podcast. This episode delves deep into Bland's illustrious career, highlighting his experiences as a musician who has performed alongside legends such as Chaka Khan and Soul Asy…

1
Heatwave's ELLIOT LEVINE: The Artistry of Funk and R&B Keys 1:01:18

2d ago1:01:18

1:01:18

Elliot Levine, the talented keyboardist from Heatwave, joins Joe Kelley on "Musicians Reveal" for an engaging conversation about his musical journey and experiences. The episode highlights Levine's unique position in the band, where he stepped into the shoes of the legendary Rod Temperton, contributing to hits like "Boogie Nights" and "Always and F…

1
Eddie M (Prince, Sheila E) and John Paris (Earth, Wind & Fire) 1:18:45

6d ago1:18:45

1:18:45

Saxophonist Eddie M, known for his work with Prince and Sheila E, along with drummer John Paris from Earth, Wind and Fire, join Joe Kelley on the "Musicians Reveal" podcast to discuss their exciting new band, Back 2 Basics. The duo shares insights into their long-standing friendship and musical journey, reflecting on their early days in the Bay Are…

1
Paul Altamirano: The Visionary Behind FUNKCLONE Radio’s Epic Sound 52:41

13d ago52:41

52:41

Paul Altamirano, founder and host of Funkclone Radio, joins Joe Kelley on "Musicians Reveal" for a captivating conversation about the vibrant world of funk music and its evolution. The episode highlights Paul's dedication to showcasing new and emerging funk artists who often go unheard in mainstream media. Throughout their discussion, Paul shares h…

1
Monte Moir: The Time, Prince, and Janet Jackson Producer 59:54

17d ago59:54

59:54

Monte Moir, the original keyboardist for The Time and a renowned producer for artists like Janet Jackson and Alexander O'Neal, joins Joe Kelley on the "Musicians Reveal" podcast to share his insights and experiences from an illustrious career in the music industry. Monty reflects on the vibrant Minneapolis sound and the creative energy that shaped …

1
Boogie Cindy: Funk, Bass and Boogie Wonder Band 56:50

17d ago56:50

56:50

Cindy, the talented bassist and founder of Montreal's Boogie Wonder Band, joins Joe Kelley on the "Musicians Reveal" podcast to discuss the dynamic world of disco and funk music. With over 25 years of experience, Cindy emphasizes the importance of delivering an authentic live performance, showcasing the band's commitment to musicianship without rel…

1
Surrendering to Creativity: Jann Klose's Musical Evolution and New Collaborations 1:02:39

1M ago1:02:39

1:02:39

Jann Klose joins Joe Kelley to discuss his journey as a musician and the challenges of navigating the modern music industry. They delve into the importance of physical fitness for performers, emphasizing how it impacts stamina and stage presence during long shows. Klose shares personal experiences, including a recent trip to Kenya to manage his fat…

1
Damon Dickson - Prince and The New Power Generation 1:20:52

1M ago1:20:52

1:20:52

Damon Dickson, a talented member of Prince and The New Power Generation, shares his incredible journey working alongside one of music's greatest legends. He offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the creative process that fueled some of the most iconic music of the '90s, detailing unforgettable studio sessions and life on tour. Damon reflects on t…

1
Matt Blistan aka Atlanta Bliss - Prince and The Revolution 59:58

1M ago59:58

59:58

For six years Matt "Atlanta Bliss" Blistan was the trumpet player for the famed rock artist “Prince” in the historic “Purple Rain Revolution” band. While performing under the “Prince-given” stage name of “Atlanta Bliss,” he performed in four world tours, three movies and 12 videos. In addition to his Grammy award Atlanta has also earned 12 gold and…

1
Michael Bland: The Man Behind the Beat with Prince and Soul Asylum 42:49

2M ago42:49

42:49

"Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley" Podcast features an insightful conversation with drummer Michael Bland, renowned for his work with Prince and The New Power Generation, as well as Soul Asylum. The episode delves into Bland's journey in the music industry, highlighting his transition from being a reluctant tech user to establishing a professional …

1
Fred Wesley on Funk, James Brown and Parliament-Funkadelic 18:08

2M ago18:08

18:08

Fred Wesley is an iconic American trombonist, composer, and bandleader, best known for his groundbreaking work in the world of funk music. As a key member of the James Brown Orchestra during the late 1960s and 1970s, Wesley played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of funk with his innovative brass arrangements and electrifying performances. His c…

1
Rhonda Smith: Playing Bass on Prince's "The One" 6:31

2M ago6:31

6:31

Bassist Rhonda Smith (Prince and The NPG, Jeff Beck) tells "Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley: Podcast about working in the studio and playing bass on Prince's song "The One" from the NewPowerSoul album. "Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley" Podcast Bio "Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley" has been a fixture on the radio airwaves since 1982, earning reco…

1
Vote: So We Can Have Nice Things Again! 25:04

3M ago25:04

25:04

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by State Senator Sydney Batch of Wake County to talk about the 2024 elections and which races to watch in the coming weeks Learn More About Sen. Batch: sydneybatch.com Contact Us: jd@carolinademocracy.com Follow Us: Facebook: @CarolinaDemocracy Instagram: @carolinademocracy Support the show Pl…

1
A Salamander With a Top Hat! 34:23

3M ago34:23

34:23

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by Woodson Bradley, candidate for North Carolina Senate District 42 in Mecklenburg County. Our conversation ranged from her personal and professional experiences, to her prolific volunteerism and her positions on issues critical to North Carolinians, and of course what she's going to do to fig…

1
Milo Z: New York City Funk Music Legend 1:04:53

3M ago1:04:53

1:04:53

Musicians Reveal welcomes New York City funk music legend Milo Z, who shares his insights on the vibrant music scene and his journey through the industry. Milo discusses his latest single, “Stand Up,” which addresses the current political climate and the importance of unity in a divided America. He reflects on his early experiences in music, includ…

1
Vance: Giving Bearded JD's a Bad Name (and Other Elections Updates) 16:41

3M ago16:41

16:41

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! This week we catch up on important election updates and deadlines, news from around North Carolina impacting democracy and the elections, and wrap up with some reminders about how you can still pitch in to help individual races and ways to get involved in the home stretch. Just 29 days left until the election! Pa…

1
Unlocking the Blues: Ronnie Baker Brooks on His New Album 'Blues In My DNA' 57:24

4M ago57:24

57:24

Join us for an unforgettable conversation with Chicago guitar legend Ronnie Baker Brooks as he discusses his new CD "Blues In My DNA." Ronnie shares heartfelt stories about his father, the late blues great Lonnie Brooks, and reflects on their deep musical connection. He also opens up about his friendship with Jellybean Johnson and his experiences r…

1
Business Mind, Educator Heart & Hands for Service! 26:57

4M ago26:57

26:57

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by Safiyah Jackson, candidate for the North Carolina House, District 37 in southern Wake County. We had a great chat about her career in early childhood development and how she plans to bring her wide range of educational and professional experiences to the General Assembly to benefit all Nort…

1
Saxophonist Aaron Liddard (Amy Winehouse, Prince, Bob Geldof) 1:04:33

4M ago1:04:33

1:04:33

Born and raised in rural Hertfordshire, Aaron Liddard began his musical journey with the tuba, later exploring piano and guitar before finding his true passion for the saxophone. His early musical education under classical composer Nicholas Sackman and choral director Dr. Charlie Beale ignited his enthusiasm, but it was the Buntingford Jazz Club th…

1
Judges Work for You! (ft. Justice Riggs) 29:51

4M ago29:51

29:51

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're bringing back another cut of our interview with Justice Allison Riggs from last winter. Justice Riggs is running to keep her seat on the North Carolina Supreme Court, and is this is one of the most important races on the NC ballot in 2024! Please DO NOT forget the judges!!! Learn More About Justice R…

1
Fighting for Rural NC! 31:52

4M ago31:52

31:52

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by Dr. Steve Luking, candidate for North Carolina Senate District 26. We had a great chat about his experiences in family medicine in rural North Carolina and what we should do next to help all North Carolinians live their best lives. Learn More About Dr. Luking: www.steveluking4nc.org Contact…

1
Razor Thin Margins & Voting! 28:18

4M ago28:18

28:18

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by Jennifer Rubin, President of the League of Women Voters of North Carolina. We had a great chat about democracy and voting in North Carolina, the upcoming general election, and everything you need to know to make voting the best experience possible! Learn More About LWVNC: lwvnc.org Contact …

1
Impacting the Bigger Picture 34:44

5M ago34:44

34:44

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by Representative Lindsey Prather, representing North Carolina House District 115 in Buncombe County. We talked about her time growing up in Wake County, what led her to calling Buncombe County home--including her career in education--and what she plans to keep fighting for in Raleigh. Learn M…

1
I Accept Your Nomination! 35:08

5M ago35:08

35:08

2024 NC Judicial Slate: Support Here! Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we've got Vice President Kamala Harris's DNC Convention acceptance speech. This is a must listen! Contact Us: jd@carolinademocracy.com Follow Us: Facebook: @CarolinaDemocracy Instagram: @carolinademocracy Support the show Please consider supporting the 2024 NC Judicial…

1
Book Review: "How to Raise a Citizen" (ft. Prof. Lindsey Cormack) 33:42

5M ago33:42

33:42

2024 NC Judicial Slate: Support Here! Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by Professor Lindsey Cormack to talk about her upcoming book How to Raise a Citizen (And Why it's Up to You to Do It). As in her book, we talk about how and why parents must help their children to learn about politics and government. Learn More About Prof.…

1
Not Sitting on the Sidelines 23:51

6M ago23:51

23:51

2024 NC Judicial Slate: Support Here! Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by Ed Eldred, candidate for the North Carolina Court of Appeals. We chat about everything from his early lessons learned clerking for judges at the NC Court of Appeals as a young lawyer to his appellate practice and what he hopes to bring to the bench when…

1
And that Time and Place is Now! 25:37

6M ago25:37

25:37

2024 NC Judicial Slate: Support Here! Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we catch up on some of the major national events impacting democracy over the last two months, and then we've got President Biden's July 25th Oval Office address. Also, reminder -- we’ve launched a fundraising effort to help pro-democracy, state-wide North Carolina jud…

1
ANDRE CYMONE (Prince, Jody Watley) Resurrection of Funk 1:06:12

6M ago1:06:12

1:06:12

Andre Cymone is a renowned musician, producer, and songwriter who first made his mark as the bassist for Prince's early band. Born in Minneapolis, Cymone played a pivotal role in shaping the Minneapolis sound, a unique fusion of funk, rock, and new wave. His contributions to Prince's groundbreaking early albums helped define an era and set the stag…

1
Exciting News - 2024 NC Judicial Slate!!! 1:35

6M ago1:35

1:35

2024 NC Judicial Slate: Support Here! We’re launching a fundraising effort to help pro-democracy, state-wide North Carolina judicial candidates via ActBlue. The slate includes all four state-wide Democratic judicial candidates: Justice Allison Riggs, North Carolina Supreme Court; Judge Carolyn Thompson, North Carolina Court of Appeals; Ed Eldred, N…

1
My First Love: Being in the Courtroom 30:56

6M ago30:56

30:56

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by Judge Stephanie Reese, who is running to hold on to her seat as a North Carolina Superior Court Judge. More about Judge Reese: Website: reesefornc.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/electstephaniereese Facebook: www.facebook.com/ReeseforNC Contact Us: jd@carolinademocracy.com Follow Us: Faceb…

1
Chris Jasper (Isley Brothers) Delivers The Funk 47:32

6M ago47:32

47:32

Chris Jasper, a renowned musician, songwriter, and producer, is best known for his integral role in the legendary soul and funk group, The Isley Brothers. Born on December 30, 1951, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Jasper's musical journey began at a young age, heavily influenced by classical training in piano and his immersion in R&B and soul music. As a key …

1
Rage Walks! 30:00

6M ago30:00

30:00

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by Liz Morrell, a public school educator and co-founder of Never & Now. We talk about her background, how Never & Now got started, and what they're doing this year to help elect pro-choice candidates and break the supermajority in the N.C. State Senate! More From Never & Now: Instagram: www.in…

1
A Seat Up For Grabs? Let's Take It! 28:14

6M ago28:14

28:14

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by Beth Helfrich, candidate for the North Carolina House District 98 in Mecklenburg County. We talk about her background, being a 3rd generation Davidson native running for office, and what she hopes to see change in Raleigh after she wins! Learn More About Beth Helfrich: Website: https://www.…

1
I'd Vote for a Tomato Can Over Donald Trump 35:39

7M ago35:39

35:39

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by Martin Moore, candidate for the North Carolina Court of Appeals. We also kick off with a short recap on two important U.S. Supreme Court decisions from last week and an honest assessment assessment of that debate. In a word: woof. Learn More About Martin Moore: Website: www.martinforjudge.c…

1
A Hollerin' Good Time! 41:53

7M ago41:53

41:53

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by the hosts of The Hometown Holler podcast, Daniel Ayers and Quinn Ray. To say we had fun with this interview would be an understatement. Don't miss it! Other Resources: Carolina Forward: carolinaforward.org Hometown Holler: www.thehometownholler.com New Branchhead Substack: newbranchhead.sub…

1
Prince and The Revolution Keyboardist DR. FINK | Purple Rain 40th Anniversary 1:03:40

7M ago1:03:40

1:03:40

Matt "Dr." Fink, keyboardist for Prince and The Revolution stops by "Musicians Reveal with Joe Kelley" podcast for an in-depth interview. Dr. Fink talks about the 40th anniversary of Purple Rain, many Prince tours, Prince's humor and band practical jokes, current shows with The Revolution and present projects Matt Fink is working on. Matt "Doctor" …

1
Thick Skin, Short Memory! 32:45

7M ago32:45

32:45

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by Congressman Wiley Nickel to talk about a bill he recently introduced to combat partisan gerrymandering -- the FAIR MAPS Act. While we focused on partisan gerrymandering and the harms it causes to the country and to democracy, we also spent a little time chatting about memories of past campa…

1
Reckless. Dangerous. Irresponsible. 20:24

8M ago20:24

20:24

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we've got some reflections on the major democracy happenings of the past week and President Biden's remarks on the Trump verdict and the Israeli-Palestinian cease fire negotiations and proposal. New Branchhead Substack: newbranchhead.substack.com Contact Us: jd@carolinademocracy.com Follow Us: Facebook: @C…

1
David Anania: Reinventing The Feel (Greazy Meal, Blue Man Group) 24:46

8M ago24:46

24:46

David Anania is an accomplished drummer known for his dynamic playing style and versatility across various musical genres. Born with a natural rhythm, he began drumming at an early age, quickly demonstrating a unique talent that set him apart. Anania's formal education includes a degree in music performance from Berklee College of Music, where he h…

1
Bobbi "Funkee Boy" Tammaro Smooth Jazz and Soul Interview 20:02

8M ago20:02

20:02

International Recording Artist, Songwriter, Producer Bobbi “Funkee Boy” Tammaro has amassed an impressive amount of credits throughout his music career using SONAR. He has scored numerous chart hits across multiple music genres including several top Billboard Chart Top 5 Smooth Jazz hits.He has also enjoyed great success with licensing deals on tel…

1
"I Would Rather Walk Across Cut Glass!" 32:23

8M ago32:23

32:23

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by the Chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party, Anderson Clayton. Plus updates on the latest from the General Assembly and U.S. Supreme Court. North Carolina Democratic Party: https://www.ncdp.org/ Contact Us: jd@carolinademocracy.com Follow Us: Facebook: @CarolinaDemocracy Instagram: @ca…

1
A Petition for Change! 40:06

8M ago40:06

40:06

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by Shelane Etchison, an Army combat veteran and independent candidate for North Carolina's 9th Congressional District. We also kick off with the latest on the Voter ID trial and private school vouchers. Learn More About Shelane: Website: https://etchisonforcongress.com/ Facebook: https://www.f…

1
Fighting for the Courts: "I've never stopped, let's go!" 29:31

8M ago29:31

29:31

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by Judge Carolyn Thompson who is running to hold on to her seat on the North Carolina Court of Appeals. We also kick off with the latest on the Voter ID trial and a tough few weeks for public education in North Carolina. Learn More About Judge Thompson: Website: https://judgecarolynthompson.co…

1
SIR WALDO WEATHERS (James Brown Saxophonist, Da Pope of Funk) 1:00:33

8M ago1:00:33

1:00:33

Sir Waldo Weathers, your guide to a sensational journey through Dance, Funk, and Soul! Formerly gracing the stage with the legendary James Brown Band, Sir Waldo's musical odyssey began in 1992, lending his electrifying saxophone solos to iconic albums like "James Brown Live at the Apollo 1995," "Gonna Have a Funky Good Time," "Living in America," a…

1
Keep Squeezing the Cactus! 23:05

9M ago23:05

23:05

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today we're digging back into our archives to share a version of a 2022 interview with progressive fundraising guru Sarah Squire. Sarah and I discuss her experiences involved politically, how that translated into political fundraising, and the importance of a good team. It's just as timely today as it was then! O…

1
Democracy: A Team Sport! 33:37

9M ago33:37

33:37

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by State Senator Lisa Grafstein of District 13 in Wake County. Plus, we kick off with some updates from around North Carolina and various legal battles across the country. Learn More About Lisa Grafstein: Website: https://lisagrafstein.com/ Democracy Docket: Federal Judge Strikes Down North Ca…

1
Getting North Carolina Back on Track, Starting with Senate District 7! 42:01

9M ago42:01

42:01

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we're joined by Dr. David Hill, Democratic candidate for District 7 of the North Carolina Senate in New Hanover County. We also kicked off the episode with updates on several of the lawsuits here in North Carolina focusing on gerrymandering and the latest power-grabs by the GOP-led General Assembly. Learn …

1
Funk Pioneer Bernie Worrell: Musical Innovator 25:39

9M ago25:39

25:39

Bernie Worrell (1944–2016) was a pioneering musician known for his innovative contributions to funk and rock music. Born in Long Branch, New Jersey, Worrell began playing piano at a young age and later studied at Juilliard and the New England Conservatory of Music. He rose to prominence as a founding member of Parliament-Funkadelic, where his groun…

1
Nick Moss: Chicago Blues Guitarist Extraordinaire | Musicians Reveal 30:02

9M ago30:02

30:02

Nick Moss is a name synonymous with the raw, soulful sound of the blues. Born and raised in the heart of Chicago, Moss was steeped in the rich musical traditions of the city from an early age. His journey through the blues world began when he first picked up a guitar, a moment that would set the course for his life's passion and career. Growing up …

1
Listening to Change Lives & Communities! 37:46

9M ago37:46

37:46

Welcome back to Carolina Democracy! Today, we welcome back Cynthia Wallace, co-founder and Executive Director of the New Rural Project to talk about the NRP's work in rural communities to increase civic and electoral engagement. We caught up on all their great work over the last several years and what to expect this election cycle! If you haven't h…

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JD Wooten Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

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