Austin Music People

#29 - Bevis M. Griffin - Part 2 - Segregation, Music, and Finding Identity in Texas

Bevis. M. Griffin, "the Black Rock Maverick of Texas," is regarded as a pioneer of black rock music for his contributions to the scenes of Austin, New York City, and beyond.
In this episode, we discuss his relocation from Los Angeles to Wichita Falls, navigating the segregated south for the first time, becoming part of the Krackerjack's (Tommy Shannon/Uncle John Turner) inner circle, and his first trip to Austin while tagging along with Gary P. Nunn.
We continue with a discussion around local venues like the Vulcan Gas Company and Armadillo World Headquarters and how the eclectic mix of artists at these venues that would later shape Bevis' life and sound. 

#28 - Bevis M. Griffin - Part 1 - Life in Los Angeles

Bevis. M. Griffin, "the Black Rock Maverick of Texas," is regarded as a pioneer of black rock music for his contributions to the scenes of Austin, New York City, and beyond. 
In celebration of Black History Month, and the achievement's of Bevis, I am proud to offer this multi-part series documenting his life and work.
Over the next few episodes, you will get to know an important figure in the Austin music scene, enroll in a music history class spanning numerous decades, genres, and artists, hear some first hand accounts from the Austin and New York City music scenes, and most importantly, hear a story of how curiosity, tragedy, passion, and purpose can come together to form one beautiful life. 
In this episode, we discuss Bevis' childhood in South Central Los Angeles, experiencing the Watts Riots, how music was used as a common ground to bridge differences, and his journey to Texas.

#27 - Greyson Turner and Kenny Sharretts

Greyson Turner is a fast rising force in the Austin music scene, and since our last conversation, has headlined venues across town, expanded his brand, and released a wave of new music.
Kenny Sharretts is the drummer for local band So Called Underground and the drum tech for Mickey Hart of Dead & Company.
In this episode, we dive into the idea of fate, the art of songwriting, and what the Live Music Capital of the World means to both of them. Kenny also shares stories from Austin’s music scene in the ’90s and highlights from his career working as a drum tech for artists like Stevie Wonder, Janet Jackson, Dead & Company, and the Antone’s 50th Allstars sessions. 
Catch So Called Underground, Greyson Turner, and Nico Little and the North Americans live at Antone’s on Tuesday, January 27th! Support these incredible musicians and support Austin music!

#26 - Joining All Musicians - Noelle Bugaj and Dan Parseghian

Noelle Bugaj and Dan Parseghian are the co-founders of Joining All Musicians (JAM), a platform and organization designed to bring musicians together and shine a light on the people and opportunities that make up Austin’s music scene.
In this episode, we dive into Noelle and Dan’s individual journeys as a musician and a live audio engineer, respectively, and what inspired the creation of JAM. They also share examples of how JAM supports meaningful connections through in person networking and open mic events. 
Whether you’re a bedroom musician looking for someone to jam with, an established band looking for a new member, searching for a consolidated list of open mics, or seeking resources to grow as an artist, JAM exists to foster collaboration and awareness within Austin’s music community.
https://joiningallmusicians.com/

#25 - Resolute Media - Ramon Mejia

Ramon Mejia is a photographer and videographer from Riverside, California.
In this episode, we discuss Ramon’s journey from playing drums in a band to landing his first professional media role with Silencer Shop - an opportunity that ultimately pushed him to launch Resolute Media, his own photo/video production company capturing musicians, individual creators, organizations, and anyone else with a story to tell. 
We also dive into Ramon’s podcast, Pints and Professionals, where he sits down with a wide range of guests; from Austin musicians, venue owners, attorneys, and other professionals across countless industries, capturing the stories behind the work.
Having both documented and participated in some of the best that Austin music has to offer, Ramon has a unique perspective on the scene. If you want to see Austin through a professionally captured lens, and discover the people shaping its creative culture, keep an eye on what Ramon is up to.

#24 - HAAM - Rachel Blair and Stephanie Bergara

Rachel Blair, Chief Strategy Officer, and Stephanie Bergara, board member and leader of local Selena tribute Bidi Bidi Banda, both serve at the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM).
In this episode, we explore Stephanie and Rachel’s paths to the organization, dive into HAAM’s mission, and break down who they serve, how to access care, and the full range of services they offer. We also highlight how HAAM supports general healthcare navigation within the program, ways to get involved, and real success stories from HAAM’s 20 years of supporting the Austin music community.
To my musician friends, HAAM’s 2026 open enrollment wraps up December 15th! If you’ve ever wondered how HAAM can support you, now’s the perfect time to find out.

#23 - Kids in a New Groove - Karyn Scott and Dorian Colbert

Karyn Scott and Dorian Colbert are the founder and program coordinator, respectively, of Kids in a New Groove (KING). As a program under Partnerships for Children, KING provides mentorship and music lessons to Austin area children who are part of the child welfare system.
In this episode, we discuss Karyn's inspiration for creating KING, the mentee-mentor experience, and the KING Sings for A Dream contest - where KING students, local Austin artists, and the greater community come together to support a great cause. We also get a glimpse of Dorian’s own musical background, including his years as a drummer for numerous Austin bands.
Public voting for the contest is now LIVE on the Partnerships for Children website, with Round 1 closing on November 22nd and Round 2 on November 28th. Discover local talent, cast your vote, make a donation, and then join KING students, the contest winner, and other Austin artists at Antone’s on Thursday, December 4th for the Holiday Hope concert.

#22 - Under the Rock - Dr. Aaron Rochlen

Dr. Aaron Rochlen is a Psychologist, Professor of Psychology at the University of Texas, and creator of Under the Rock, a one-of-a-kind live experience that blends music and psychology into an introspective journey for artists and audiences alike. 
In this episode, we dive into Dr. Rochlen’s work in men’s mental health, masculinity, and alternative means of therapy. We also get into the inspiration behind Under the Rock, what audiences can expect at a show, his take on what the Austin music scene is missing, and working with local musicians and organizations to continue the bond between artists and the community that supports them. 
Catch Under the Rock’s next show with the Louisiana Surf Department this Friday, November 14th, at The Saxon Pub!

#21 - Louisiana Surf Department - John Core, Brian Bounds, James T Carter, Markus "Shudawgy" Williams

The Louisiana Surf Department is made up of John Core, Brian Bounds, James T Carter, and Markus "Shudawgy" Williams.  
In this episode, we get into the creation of the band, their music, and their identity. This is an authentic story of how a lively group of friends came together to create amazing tunes all while serving the musical community they are a part of. Let's not forget the stories that span from stages in Dubai to C-Boys.
Do yourself a favor and a catch a show at Continental Club, Kinda Tropical, or anywhere else around town - you will not be disappointed. 
Be on the lookout for their new album THANK YOUUU coming out in December!

#20 - Jamie McKenzie

Jamie McKenzie is a singer-songwriter, frontwoman, and music community organizer from Tucson, Arizona. 
In this episode, we talk about her journey from living and making music in the Bay Area to finding her community in Austin. We get into her experience joining the Austin Songwriters Group, starting her band Ginny Hall, and launching Warren Records - an organization born from the frustrations many new artists face and built to provide a more welcoming, professional, and supportive space for Austin’s marginalized, underrepresented, and emerging musicians. 
Catch Ginny Hall's next show December 18th at Hole in the Wall with Lapdog and Jess Ledbetter and the Vision. 
Check out Ginny Hall music and Warren Record compilations on all streaming platforms!