Travis McNamara was last week's guest as well. I split this conversation up into two episodes because most of the first half of the conversation was about Travis' new album and his career as a touring artist and front-person. The second half delves into a topic that piques the interest of almost every creative on the planet... crowdfunding. Travis is the founder of Arthouse Consulting, where he uses his experience to help mid-level artists raise $25K or more on Kickstarter for their upcoming projects. Over the last few years, he's already helped artists raise upwards of $1.1 million.

If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review!

IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow

Guest Links:
https://arthouseconsulting.co/

Episode Music:
Original music by Andy Sydow

Contact me: middleclassrockstar@gmail.com (or) andysydowmusic@gmail.com

Middle Class Rock Star

140. Tips For A Successful Kickstarter

My guest this week is singer-songwriter and performer, Travis McNamara. His music bridges on several different styles, but if you're looking for a common thread, start with bluegrass. McNamara, the longtime front-person for CO based, Trout Streak Revival, spent his covid time like many of us, writing and creating. "Moon Calendar" (2023) is McNamara's first plunge into the solo artist world. 

He is also the founder of Arthouse Consulting, where he uses his extensive background in nonprofit fundraising (he held down jobs at PBS and the Denver International Film Festival) to help artists raise money for Kickstarter.

Please note, the majority of this episode is about Travis McNamara the artist, and the majority of next week's episode delves more into crowdfunding. Tune in next week to check that out!

If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review!

IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow

Guest Links:
https://www.travis-mcnamara.com/

Episode Music:
Original music by Andy Sydow

Contact me: middleclassrockstar@gmail.com (or) andysydowmusic@gmail.com

139. Travis McNamara

This week, I’m joined by bluegrass virtuoso Martin Gilmore - a powerhouse songwriter and performer who’s had a banner year, taking home top honors at the Kerrville, Telluride Troubadour, and Folks Fest songwriting contests.

In this episode, we dig into:
	•	The impacts of entering and winning songwriting contests
	•	The impact of Billy Strings on the bluegrass and Americana world
	•	How Spotify has reshaped the landscape for independent artists
	•	A live guitar demo where Martin breaks down beginner, intermediate, and advanced bluegrass rhythm styles

If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review!

IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow

Guest Links:
https://www.martingilmore.com/

Episode Music:
Original music by Andy Sydow

Contact me: middleclassrockstar@gmail.com (or) andysydowmusic@gmail.com

143. From Flatpicking to Spotify: Martin Gilmore's Journey Through Modern Bluegrass

On this weeks episode of Middle Class Rock Star, I sit down with Colorado-based bassist, songwriter, and producer Ace Engfer, who just released his new solo album, Time Drifts Away (June 6).

Ace has spent years holding down the low end in the Colorado music scene as a longtime member of Grant Farm, and touring with acts like Madeline Hawthorne (Montana) and Kind-Hearted Strangers (Nashville). But in this episode, we go beyond the stage.

We talk about:
 • Ace’s journey with sobriety, and how it’s shaped his creativity and career
 • His approach to writing great charts and being a reliable sideperson
 • Navigating the music industry and release strategies in a streaming era
 • What exactly is Cosmic Americana?

If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review!

IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow

Guest Links:
https://www.acengfer.com/

Episode Music:
Original music by Andy Sydow

Contact me: middleclassrockstar@gmail.com (or) andysydowmusic@gmail.com

#cosmicamericana #cosmiccountry #countrymusic #bass #sideman #musician #musicbusiness #musicpodcast

141. Ace Engfer on Sobriety, Being a Reliable Sideperson, and New Album

This week, I chat with Nashville’s own Zach Allen - a multi‑Grammy-winning recording engineer, producer, and mix engineer whose credits span Americana, blues, rock, country, and beyond. With nearly 20 years in the music industry, Zach brings a rare blend of technical mastery, creative sensitivity, and a studio presence that helps artists realize their vision￼.

Some highlights of our conversation include:
	•	His journey from graduating Full Sail University and interning at The Tracking Room and eventually becoming the head engineer of the studio.
	•	Working on award-winning projects including engineering Grammy-winning albums for legends like Keb’ Mo’, Taj Mahal, Buddy Guy, and Christone Kingfish Ingram
	•	Philosophy on vocal production
	•	Thoughts on AI in the music industry
	•	Helpful tips for recording a live show

Whether you’re an aspiring artist, indie producer, or just music-curious, this episode offers a rare inside look at the mind and methods of someone who’s helped shape some of the most compelling recordings coming out of Nashville.

If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review!

IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow

Guest Links:
https://zachallenaudio.com/

Episode Music:
Original music by Andy Sydow

Contact me: middleclassrockstar@gmail.com (or) andysydowmusic@gmail.com

144. Grammy Award Winning Engineer and Producer Zach Allen

Music has a way of attaching itself to moments in our lives. A song can instantly transport us back to a place, a person, or a feeling — becoming part of our own personal soundtrack.

In this special episode, I reflect on how Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train” became permanently linked in my memory not just to Ozzy, but to Colorado Rockies legend Larry Walker. When Walker stepped to the plate at Coors Field in the 90s, “Crazy Train” echoed through the ballpark — fusing music and baseball into one unforgettable soundscape of childhood summers in Denver.

We trace the story from Ozzy’s final live performance and passing in 2025, through Larry Walker’s journey from Canadian hockey hopeful to Rockies MVP, to the history of walk-up songs in Major League Baseball. Along the way, we explore how music has always been woven into the game, from “Tessie” and the 1903 Boston Americans to the stadium anthems that defined the modern era.

This episode is part memoir, part baseball history, and part reflection on the universal power of music to connect us across time, place, and emotion.

Mentioned in this Episode
 • Ozzy Osbourne’s Blizzard of Ozz (1980)
 • Larry Walker, Colorado Rockies outfielder (1995–2004)
 • The May 21, 1996 Rockies vs. Pirates game at Coors Field
 • The history of walk-up songs in Major League Baseball
 • “Tessie” and the Royal Rooters, 1903 World Series
 • Books:
 • Lawrence S. Ritter – The Glory of Their Times
 • Bob Ryan – When Boston Won the World Series
 • Mike Vaccaro – The First Fall Classic

Resources
 • Baseball Reference: baseball-reference.com
 • SABR (Society for American Baseball Research): sabr.org
 • Baseball Almanac: baseball-almanac.com
 • Purple Row (Colorado Rockies coverage): purplerow.com
• Lawrence S. Ritter – The Glory of Their Times
 • Bob Ryan – When Boston Won the World Series
 • Mike Vaccaro – The First Fall Classic

#musicpodcast #ozzyosbourne #larrywalker #baseball #baseballpodcast

Connected by a Song: Ozzy Osbourne, Larry Walker and the 90s Rockies

This episode stemmed from Andy’s viral video about the difference between a gig and a show, which sparked a wider conversation about how musicians define success and stand out in today’s music industry.

In this engaging 48-minute conversation, Andy Sydow and Johnny Fiaconni dig into the realities of the modern music industry. They explore the balance between cover gigs and original shows, the role of intentionality, and the strategies musicians can use to stand out in an increasingly noisy landscape.

From the challenges of touring and relocating, to the importance of branding and building a strong online presence, the conversation offers honest insights and practical takeaways for musicians at every stage of their careers.

🔑 Key Takeaways

Consistency in posting builds a strong online presence.

Moving to a new location can open unexpected opportunities.

Balancing gigs and personal life is crucial for long-term success.

A memorable brand (like a signature item) helps you stand out.

Quality over quantity elevates a band’s status.

Social media is essential for discovery today.

Intentionality in music cuts through the industry noise.

Performing in new markets is an investment in future success.

Feedback from diverse sources drives improvement.

Niche markets reward unique branding.

🗂️ Chapters

00:00 – Introduction & Background
10:00 – The Move to California
20:00 – Balancing Gigs and Personal Life
30:00 – The Importance of Branding
40:00 – Social Media & Music Discovery
50:00 – Intentionality in Music
1:00:00 – Touring & New Markets
1:10:00 – Feedback & Growth

💬 Sound Bites

“Consistency is key to online success.”

“Opportunities arise from unexpected moves.”

“Balance gigs with personal life for success.”

“Branding makes you memorable.”

“Intentionality cuts through industry noise.”

If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review!

IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow

Guest Links:
Johnny Instagram: @johnnyfiacconi
Johnny YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JohnnyFiacconi
Band Instagram: @thedreamboats
Band Website: https://www.thedreamboatsband.com

Episode Music:
Original music by Andy Sydow

Contact me: middleclassrockstar@gmail.com (or) andysydowmusic@gmail.com

145. Gigs Vs Shows with Johnny Fiaconni

This episode was done in front of an audience as a part of a panel at SWRFA (Southwest Regional Folk Alliance) conference in Austin, TX. 

This week, I sit down with legendary Texas singer-songwriter Bob Livingston — founding member of The Lost Gonzo Band and a central figure in the Austin “Cosmic Cowboy” movement.

Bob shares vivid stories from his decades on the road with Jerry Jeff Walker, Michael Martin Murphey, and the Austin outlaw country scene. We talk about his adventures as a world traveler and cultural ambassador, and the way he continues to blend Texas songwriting with global influences.

In a special moment, Bob also reads an excerpt from his forthcoming book, Gypsy Alibi: A Gonzo Memoir — giving us a taste of the humor, honesty, and wild tales that have defined his career.

Whether you know him from Viva Terlingua, his award-winning solo records (Gypsy Alibi, Up the Flatland Stairs), or his cross-cultural projects (Cowboys & Indians), Bob Livingston embodies the spirit of Texas music: rooted in storytelling, but unafraid to wander.

IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow

🔗 Guest Links:
boblivingstonmusic.com

Episode Music:
Original music by Andy Sydow

Contact me: middleclassrockstar@gmail.com (or) andysydowmusic@gmail.com

My music and upcoming shows: andysydow.com

#cosmicamericana #cosmiccountry #countrymusic #texascountrymusic #musicpodcast

146. Cosmic Cowboys & Gypsy Alibis with Bob Livingston LIVE from SWRFA in Austin, TX

Jackson Emmer returns to Middle Class Rock Star (previously featured on episode 112) to discuss his latest album, 'Battle Hymn of the Early Riser' - exploring themes of parenting, songwriting, and the balance between family life and touring. He shares insights into his creative process, the importance of co-writing, and the emotional impact of music. The discussion also touches on promotion strategies for indie artists, Spotify, the evolving music industry landscape, and the potential impact of AI on creativity. Throughout, Jackson expresses gratitude for his audience and the opportunity to create meaningful music.

If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review!

IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow

Guest Links:
https://www.jacksonemmer.com/

Episode Music:
Original music by Andy Sydow

Contact me: middleclassrockstar@gmail.com (or) andysydowmusic@gmail.com

#music #songwriting #touring #promotion  #ai #indieartist #spotify  #musicbusiness

147. Songcraft and Life Balance with Jackson Emmer

In this episode, Andy Sydow interviews Nikki Gauthier, the artistic and creative director at the Acorn Center for the Performing Arts. They discuss the importance of community building through music, the unique role of the Acorn Theater in fostering local talent, and Nikki's journey from education to the arts. The conversation also delves into the challenges and strategies of booking in the music industry.

If you enjoy the podcast, please let others know, subscribe, or write a review!

IF YOU'D LIKE TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST IN A MONETARY WAY, I'M NOW ON PATREON! Please note: new Patreon members get to pick a cover song for me to record especially for them! www.patreon.com/andysydow

Guest Links:
https://www.acornlive.org/
https://www.facebook.com/share/1GDfMpdzUQ/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Episode Music:
Original music by Andy Sydow

Contact me: middleclassrockstar@gmail.com (or) andysydowmusic@gmail.com

#music #songwriting #touring #promotion #community #musicvenue #tributeband #originalmusic #indieartist #musicbusiness

148. Building Community Through Music: Inside the Acorn Theater with Nikki Gauthier

Alex Mackenzie-Low aka "A-Mac" is my guest this week. He is a true entrepreneur in the Denver music scene and beyond. He fronts his alternative/reggae/hip-hop/rock outfit, A-Mac & The Height and books/runs Spread The Word Music Festival, which happens every spring in Denver. 

In this episode, we talk about everything that goes in to running a music festival including liquor licenses, contracts and finding venues and sponsors. We also get an insight into touring as a DIY artist. Near the end of the episode, we chat about the difficulties of feeling like the music business side sometimes seems to distract us from actually making music.

If you enjoy the episode, please rate, review and share. Also, feel free to reach out to me directly at middleclassrockstar@gmail.com or message me on facebook: www.facebook.com/andysydowmusic (or) 
instagram: www.instagram.com/andysydowband

Show Links:
https://amacandtheheight.com/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7AurlI32RE6eHqqc4Dz9T6

https://moesdenver.com/englewood-bbq-restaurant-sports-bar/
https://spreadthewordfest.com/

22. Running a Music Festival and Touring as an Indie Artist with A-Mac

Middle Class Rock Star

Related tracks