Ever wondered how an actor makes the leap from the Hollywood hills to the heart of country music? Our guest, Richard Banker, takes us on his incredible journey from starring in NBC’s "Love Bites" to serenading audiences in Texas honky-tonks. Richard shares his childhood moments in South Dakota, his bold move to Los Angeles, and the fascinating transformation that saw him step off the screen and onto the stage. This episode is a treasure trove of stories, from his early acting roles to his pivot into the music scene, and how the pandemic became a turning point for his solo career.

Picture this: a man with just $300 and a guitar decides to leave Los Angeles and try his luck in Texas. Richard Banker recounts his adventures as he navigated small towns, sought out gigs, and eventually set up an eight-show tour across North Texas. We explore the vibrant Texas music scene through Richard's eyes, hearing about legendary venues like the Broken Spoke in Austin and historic locations in Fort Worth and San Antonio. Through his unique "cosmic country" style, he blends 70s country with rock influences, creating a sound that's both nostalgic and refreshingly original.

In the final part of our conversation, Richard opens up about his songwriting process and the inspirations behind his music. You'll get an insider look at his latest song, "Beetles in the Morning, Stones at Night," and learn how his musical tastes have evolved over the years. From the gritty tales of his early audition days in Los Angeles to his ongoing passion for acting, Richard provides a heartfelt reflection on his artistic journey. Tune in to hear about his plans for a new 12-song album, his work with Grassroots Promotions in Nashville, and the delightful spontaneity that fuels his creativity.

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What if musical genres were as fluid as emotions? Join us in an inspiring conversation with the multi-talented Rebecca Correa, as she uncovers the magic behind her latest single "Rose-Colored Glasses" and her eclectic musical journey. From her childhood in Dartmouth, Massachusetts to her vibrant performances along the Northeast coast and the iconic music scene of Nashville, Rebecca takes us on a captivating tour of her life's musical tapestry. We explore her summer gigs on islands like Martha's Vineyard and her plans to return to Nashville for an intense writing and recording season.

Rebecca's story is a tapestry of diverse influences and early passions. She reflects on her music, which blends folk, rock, Americana, pop, R&B, soul, and country, and the impact of her varied musical upbringing. Rebecca offers a fascinating take on the blurring lines between genres, with a nod to Post Malone's successful crossover into country music. We also dive into her roots: starting with piano, transitioning to guitar, and eventually collaborating with Grammy winner Keb' Mo'. Her journey is a testament to the power of early songwriting as an emotional outlet and the significant role Nashville connections have played in her career.

Beyond the chords and melodies, we uncover Rebecca's life off the stage. She shares her passion for running, highlighting the communal spirit of both the music and running communities. With twelve half marathons under her belt, including the Nashville Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon, Rebecca draws striking parallels between these two worlds. We touch on her experiences recording in prestigious studios and her love for local sports, particularly Nashville Predators games. Our conversation wraps up with a powerful note on female representation in the music industry, celebrating Rebecca's determination and positivity as she continues to make waves with "Rose Colored Glasses.

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What if one month could transform your understanding of a vibrant culture? Join us as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the dynamic Fanny Villarreal, a beloved Latino leader in Central New York. This episode is an enlightening journey through the rich tapestry of Hispanic and Latino contributions, set against the backdrop of the independence days of several Central American countries. Fanny shares her personal anecdotes which highlight the beautiful cultural exchanges within our community.

Over her 33 years in Central New York, Fanny has made a significant impact, particularly through her work at a local radio station now celebrating its 31st anniversary. We discuss how Hispanic culture has enriched mainstream American culture, likening it to a vibrant, diverse salad. Fanny clears up common misconceptions about Cinco de Mayo and Mexican Independence Day, and the terms Hispanic and Latino. She passionately talks about the importance of non-Hispanic participation in Hispanic Heritage Month, fostering a deeper cultural appreciation and understanding.

In the final segment, we celebrate the infectious energy of Hispanic music and dance, showing how they bring unity and joy to community gatherings. Fanny details her role in educating others about Latino cultures through her radio show, Nosotros Radio, which features community events, music, and spiritual well-being segments. As we wrap up, Fanny shares her gratitude for the opportunities she's received and her hopes of reconnecting with her roots in Peru. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to the diverse and vibrant Hispanic community in Syracuse and beyond.

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What if you could trace your musical roots back to a legendary jazz guitarist? That's exactly what our guest, Macartney Reinhardt, shares with us on this enchanting episode of Skip Happens. Hailing from the vibrant city of Nashville, Tennessee, Macartney takes us through her musical journey, heavily influenced by her father, a musician with his own home studio. With her father playing bass in her band and her mother managing the business side of her career, Macartney reveals the unique insights and loving support that have shaped her path in the music industry.

Macartney's small-town upbringing in Georgia comes to life as she recounts touching stories of her grandparents, whose legacy is beautifully woven into her songs. From her grandmother's cherished flower shop to her grandfather's auctioneering, these personal anecdotes provide a heartfelt backdrop to her music. We also dive into her unexpected nomination for Teen Artist of the Year at the 2020 Georgia Country Awards and her unforgettable moments at local events like the Crazy Bowl in Macon. Despite facing health challenges and the pandemic, Macartney's dedication to connecting with her fans shines through, highlighting the importance of personal interactions in her career.

Join us as Macartney shares her surreal experiences performing at iconic Nashville venues like the Bluebird Café and the Commodore. From her early days playing on Broadway at just 16 to balancing her social media presence and performing alongside her boyfriend, a guitarist at the Opry for Neon Union, Macartney's journey is nothing short of inspiring. We wrap up this episode with a heartfelt thank you to our listeners and an invitation to subscribe to Skip Happens for more captivating stories from both new independent artists and well-established musicians. Don't miss this deeply personal and inspiring episode with the talented Macartney Reinhardt!

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Crystal Gale, the iconic voice behind "Don't Make My Brown Eyes Blue," takes us on a heartfelt journey through her storied career in country music. From her humble beginnings performing at local rodeos to receiving prestigious awards like the CMA Female Vocalist of the Year in 1977 and 1978, and the American Eagle Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2017, Crystal opens up about the moments that shaped her path. She shares touching memories of her induction into the Grand Ole Opry, a special event graced by her sister, Loretta Lynn, and reflects on her family's significant influence on her success.

Crystal's passion for music is as strong as ever, and she talks about her busy tour schedule, including upcoming stops in Glen Falls, New York, and Rhode Island. We celebrate her enduring impact on country music and the authentic emotion she brings to each performance, which continues to resonate with fans across generations. This episode is a warm tribute to Crystal's remarkable legacy and a testament to her genuine connection with her audience. Join us for this special conversation with a true legend of country music.

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Can unpredictable weather make a live performance even more electric? Find out as we chat with Brian Kelly, who opens up about the thrill of performing at the New York State Fair and his recent headline show in Rhode Island. Brian takes us behind the scenes, sharing how he transitioned from a successful duo to establishing himself as a solo artist. He reflects on the inspiring journey that began when he moved to Nashville in 2007, and he promises us an exclusive look into the creative process fueling his upcoming solo album set to release later this year.

Join us for a heartfelt discussion where Brian's passion for songwriting and collaboration with his band members shines through. From his unfiltered take on the joy of making music that resonates with fans to his deep appreciation for their unwavering support, Brian's story is both inspiring and engaging. This episode promises to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the artistry and dedication that goes into every performance. Whether you've followed Brian for years or are just discovering his work, this conversation is one you won't want to miss.

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Ever wondered how an artist transitions from a small-town dreamer to a U.S. headlining sensation? Join us as we sit down with the incredibly talented Josh Ross at the New York State Fair. From his roots in Ontario, Canada to his brave move to Nashville six years ago, Josh shares his journey with us—highlighting his memorable Christmas show performance last December and his experiences on his first headlining tour in the U.S. We dive deep into the personal stories behind his hit singles "Trouble" and "Single Again," and explore the dynamics of performing with his band. Josh also opens up about his exciting collaboration with Julia Michaels on "I Want This Beer" and teases his upcoming plans to tour in Australia.

Beyond the music, we uncover the vital role of collaboration in the industry, focusing on the strong bond between artists and The Wolf radio station. Reflecting on the joy of engaging with fans and the mutual appreciation that fuels future events, we recount the fun-filled moments from last December's event. This episode is a heartfelt celebration of music, community, and the shared excitement for what's to come. Don't miss out on these behind-the-scenes stories and the genuine connections that make the music world so special.

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What happens when a celebrated pop and rock star from Israel decides to pursue his country music dreams in Nashville? This episode takes you through the extraordinary journey of Omer Netzer, who swapped his life in Israel for the musical heartland of the U.S. Hear about his transformative experience of opening for Bon Jovi, a pivotal moment that steered his path towards songwriting and a new musical ambition. We delve into Omer's courageous service as a combat medic and police officer, reflecting on the emotional toll of tragic events, including the harrowing impact of October 7th.

Discover the profound resilience and healing power of music as Omer shares the deeply personal story behind his song, "God Works in Mysterious Ways," inspired by a friend's dying note. Learn how music provided him with a lifeline during times of loss and how his performances across Europe and the U.S. have helped him bridge cultural divides. Omer's story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the unifying power of country music.

Join us as we explore the cultural richness of Israel and the indomitable spirit of an artist who continues to rise in the music industry. Omer talks about his dream collaborations, his travels across the U.S., and the unwavering support of his family. This episode is a celebration of dreams, perseverance, and the incredible journey of a musician who refuses to be defined by borders. Tune in to be inspired by Omer Netzer's story and his unwavering commitment to his art.

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