Anyone Can Play Guitar
178 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 2 months ago - ★★★★★ - 3 ratingsAnyone Can Play Guitar podcast - the show which gives you, the listener, a look behind the scenes of some of your favourite artists. If you're trying to make it it in this business, it will give you a series of hints and pointers on your journey as a musical artist, via some great interviews with a wide range of people from the world of music.
Interviews cover established artists, publicists, radio DJ’s, academics, promoters, and many more as we delve behind the scenes of making music. Along with our own experiences, Ben and James shine some light on the many pitfalls and opportunities that being a musician has to offer.
We bring you regular fresh episodes and some great stories to enjoy.
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Episodes
ACPG 027: Duncan Lloyd - Maximo Park - talks song writing, writers block and writing songs for live audiences
April 24, 2018 05:00 - 45 minutes - 23.4 MBThis week Ben meets up with Duncan Lloyd of Maximo Park to talk song writing, writers block and writing songs for live audiences. Having had Paul Smith, the singer of Maximo on episode 001, it was great to get to speak with Duncan to get his perspective as the guitarist of the band on some similar (and some new) topics. The good cause this week is St Oswald’s hospice. More info and show notes at www.acpgmusic.com/episode027
ACPG 026: Jamie McCredie - Band Leader - talks mastering your equipment, band leaders, and playing the west end
April 17, 2018 05:00 - 49 minutes - 24.4 MBThis week is our final instalment of the trilogy with guitarist and band leader Jamie McCredie. Here we move on mastering your equipment, band leaders, and playing the west end. The level of dedication Jamie gives to mastering his equipment makes it clear as to why he gets opportunities such as playing the Book of Mormon on the West End. And what is a band leader? We find out. The good cause is the British Association for Preforming Arts Medicine. More info and show notes at www.acpgmu...
ACPG 025: Jamie McCredie - Band Leader - talks replicating things you hear on the guitar, moving to a big city and being professional.
April 10, 2018 05:00 - 46 minutes - 21.7 MBThis week we continue to the middle slice of the trilogy with Jamie McCredie by moving on to discuss how to replicate things you hear on a guitar, moving to a big city and being professional. Jamie has made a few key decisions during his career. Moving to London was one of them, however that was just the start. How he conducts himself whilst there is equally important. The good cause for this trilogy is British Association for Preforming Arts Medicine. More info and show notes at www.a...
ACPG 024: Jamie McCredie - Band Leader - talks learning the guitar; covering self-study vs formal education
April 03, 2018 11:50 - 45 minutes - 22.1 MBThis week we start a one off three part special with band leader and session musician Jamie McCredie. We kick this off by discussing how he learnt the guitar; covering self-study vs formal education. Jamie’s passion is clear, whether obsessing over learning a song, moving cities to chase his dream, or simply how long he can enthusiastically talk about music. The good cause for this trilogy is British Association for Preforming Arts Medicine. More info and show notes at www.acpgmusic.co...
ACPG 023: Willy Mason - Singer Songwriter - talks intimate venues, song writing, recording, and building relationships
March 27, 2018 05:00 - 48 minutes - 25.8 MBThis week we’re at The Cumberland Arms in Newcastle with singer songwriter Willy Mason. Here we discussed intimate venues, song writing, recording, and building relationships. Willy was first championed by Zane Lowe in the early noughties, and it was via the radio he became huge in the UK before being widely known in his home country the US. The good cause is this week is Age UK. Info and show notes at www.acpgmusic.com/episode023
ACPG 022: Paul Langley - Photographer - talks the importance of a good photo, why to use a professional and what musicians should consider.
March 20, 2018 05:00 - 49 minutes - 25.3 MBThis week we stay at the Cluny in Newcastle speaking to the man with boundless energy, Paul Langley. In a shift of direction we move onto Paul’s other passion, photography. Here we cover the importance of a good photo, why to use a professional and what musicians should consider. Growing up in Manchester during the days of the Hacienda, Paul has been amerced in the music scene for decades. That has led him to photograph some big names, and knows the value of a good shot. The good cause is...
ACPG 021: Paul Langley - Tour Manager - talks the importance of tour management, what it involves, and who can do it.
March 13, 2018 05:00 - 55 minutes - 28.8 MBThis week we’re at the Cluny in Newcastle with the bolt of energy that is Paul Langley. With Paul we’re talking about tour management; the importance of the role, what it involves, and who can do it. We first met Paul in this capacity, managing Mark Radcliffe’s tour, and it was clear then that he’d make a great guest…which he did. As a man with a great deal of experience, he provides some top insight into this part of the music industry. Info and show notes at www.acpgmusic.com/episode021
ACPG 020: Shopping - Band - talk band ethos and decision making, self-releasing vs label and control over image
March 06, 2018 06:00 - 40 minutes - 21.1 MBThis week Ben is at The Cluny in Newcastle speaking to Shopping at the start of their 2018 tour. They have a real drive that lead us to discuss band ethos and decision making, self-releasing vs label and control over image. The British punk trio are rising to providence with their ‘get stuff done’ attitude and latest release ‘The Official Body’. The good cause is this week is Transmission, an artist run organisation in Glasgow. Info and show notes at www.acpgmusic.com/episode020
ACPG 019: Mike Livesley (Part 2) - Pedal Maker - talks pedal combinations, software emulation and multi effects boxes.
February 27, 2018 06:00 - 51 minutes - 27.8 MBThis week we continue up in Edinburgh with Mike Livesley, AKA ‘Made by Mike’. In this second part of the episode we cover pedal combinations, software emulation and multi effects boxes. This was a fantastic delve into the world of guitar pedals, particularly as they are so fundamental to so many artists. I both loved and hated Ben’s use of them. Whether a distraction or a game changer, they’re here to stay. The good cause for the week is Food Banks. Info and show notes at www.acpgmusic...
ACPG 018: Mike Livesley (Part 1) - Pedal Maker - talks about his fascination with guitar pedals, building them, and why musicians want to use them
February 20, 2018 06:00 - 50 minutes - 28.9 MBThis week Ben is up in Edinburgh speaking to Mike Livesley AKA ‘Made By Mike’ where we cover all things guitar pedals. In this first of a double header, we cover Mike’s fascination with guitar pedals, building them, and why musicians want to use them. Another guest with a real DIY ethos, Mike brings a real passion and enthusiasm to the show. A genuine bonus to the music community. The good cause mentioned next week is Food Banks. Info and show notes at www.acpgmusic.com/episode018
ACPG 017: Nick Helm - Comedian Songwriter - talks song writing for TV shows, cramming detail into short songs, and how to start the song writing process
February 13, 2018 06:00 - 56 minutes - 29.5 MBThis week we’re in the green room at the Stand in Newcastle with comedian, musician and actor, Nick Helm where we discuss song writing for TV shows, cramming detail into short songs, and how to start the song writing process. He may portray a certain persona on stage, however we met the compassionate (shh, don’t tell!) and interesting personality that sits behind the act. The good cause this week is Shelter, supporting those who sleep rough. Info and show notes at www.acpgmusic.com/epi...
ACPG 016: Kathryn Williams - Artist - talks song writing for yourself vs. others, song writing classes and stage fright
February 06, 2018 06:00 - 59 minutes - 31.5 MBThis week Ben is in Newcastle’s Bridge Hotel with Mercury prize nominated singer songwriter and adopted Geordie Kathryn Williams. With Kath we discuss song writing for yourself vs. others, song writing classes and stage fright. We could listen to Kath for hours. She is a true gem and the honesty and openness of her music also comes through in the interview. The good cause is Percy Hedley Foundation who provide support to disabled people and their families. More info and sho...
ACPG 015: Pete Dale (Part 2) - Musician & Ex label Owner - talks vinyl, the costs of releasing a single, and the time involved in running a record label
January 30, 2018 06:00 - 48 minutes - 26.7 MBThis week we stay in Manchester with musician, author, ex-label owner and music lecturer Pete Dale, where we move on to discuss vinyl, the costs of releasing a single, and the time involved in running a record label. There’s a lot to consider, and as Pete stated, it shouldn’t be entered into lightly when considering setting up a label. This week’s good cause is Care UK charity, who collect and distribute practical items for refugees in need. More info and show notes at www.acpgmusic.co...
ACPG 014: Pete Dale (Part 1) - Musician & Ex label Owner - talks the benefits of self-releasing music, the importance of physical song releases, choosing which acts are on a label, and label identity
January 23, 2018 06:00 - 48 minutes - 25.9 MBThis week we head to Manchester to speak with musician, former label owner and now music lecturer Pete Dale. Here we cover the benefits of self-releasing music, the importance of physical song releases, choosing which acts are on a label, and label identity. Pete has a rich and varied background which was referenced in episode 003 with Ross Millard. The good cause this week is Care UK, collecting and distributing practical items to refugees in need. Info and show notes at www.acpgmusic...
ACPG 013: Mark Morriss - The Bluetones - talks repartee, crowdfunding and the importance of musicians getting paid
January 16, 2018 06:00 - 49 minutes - 25.5 MBThis week we talk to Mark Morriss of The Bluetones about repartee, crowdfunding and the importance of musicians getting paid. Whether solo, or as part of the band, Mark is superb at engaging his audience during a live set. We discuss this, along with his experiences of crowdfunding an album. The good cause is Re-think your mind, a charity aimed at promoting mental well-being. More info and show notes at www.acpgmusic.com/episode013
ACPG 012: Joy Ike (Part 2) - Singer Songwriter - talks house concerts; what you need to know, how to put them on and things to watch out for.
January 09, 2018 06:00 - 48 minutes - 26.6 MBThis week we stay in Philadelphia, USA with Joy for part 2, where we get into the nuts and bolts of house concerts, how to put them on, and things to think about when both playing and hosting these great events. Joy describes how they tick many boxes that any DIY musician would look to get out of a show. Our interest is peaked and we’re ready to attend. The good cause this week is Food for the Hungry, which Joy is actively involved with. More info and show notes at www.acpg...
ACPG 011: Joy Ike (Part 1) - Singer Songwriter - talks promoting yourself, how much to share, and what exactly are house concerts
January 02, 2018 06:00 - 46 minutes - 26.2 MBThis week we head to Philadelphia in the USA for the first of a two part episode with singer songwriter Joy Ike where we discuss promoting yourself, how much to share, and then start the conversation about what exactly house concerts are. Backing up the advice from Sari Delmar in episode 005, it was great to hear how a successful artist approaches promotion. We then set the scene for part 2, by touching on what house concerts are all about. More info and show notes at www.acpgmu...
ACPG 010: Mr B - The Gentleman Rhymer - talks creating and living a persona, DIY management and tailored merchandise
December 26, 2017 06:00 - 55 minutes - 29.6 MBThis week we enter the world of Chap Hop talking to Mr B the Gentleman Rhymer, about creating and living a persona, DIY management and tailored merchandise. In a world with so much musical choice, Mr B has created a truly unique genre. This episode provides some great things to think about for anyone looking to be slightly different, which probably covers a decent proportion of all musicians out there. The good cause this week is Mencap, which comes with a fantastic story. ...
ACPG 009: Nicola Milan - Vocal Coach - talks breathing, placing your muscles, vocal tone and conveying emotion
December 19, 2017 06:00 - 50 minutes - 24 MBThis week we talk to vocal coach Nicola Milan about breathing, placing your muscles, vocal tone and conveying emotion. This is a great episode that provides some really practical things for vocalists to start thinking about and practising. Something we could have done with back in the day! The good cause is World Animal Protection. Nicola put it brilliantly – ‘give a voice to those who don’t have one’. More information and show notes at www.acpgmusic.com/episode009
ACPG 008: Mark Duffett (Part 2) - Chester University - talks being a star, being a fan, entertaining people, ideas and values and collaboration.
December 12, 2017 06:00 - 51 minutes - 27 MBThis week we continue with lecturer and esteemed author Mark Duffett for the final part of our double header on fandom. In this episode we talk to Mark about being a star, being a fan, entertaining people, ideas and values and collaboration. All of which provide interesting insight. The good cause this week is the Penny Brohn, providing free integrative care to those affected by cancer. More information and show notes at www.acpgmusic.com
ACPG 007: Mark Duffett (Part 1) - Chester University - talks tradition, consistent image, being memorable, playing your audience as an instrument and using your music.
December 05, 2017 06:00 - 48 minutes - 25.1 MBThis week we have the first part of what is a really brilliant delve into music fandom with Mark Duffett of Chester University, who has recently been quoted in the New York Times and Rolling Stone magazine. All musical artists need fans. Here Mark provides some great insight into tradition, consistent image, being memorable, playing your audience as an instrument and using your music. The good cause covered next week in Part 2, which is Penny Brohn. Show notes at www.acpgmusic.com
ACPG 006: Roddy Woomble - Idlewild - talks support slots, middle men, and having a creative space
November 28, 2017 06:00 - 55 minutes - 29.1 MBThis week Ben hits new levels of excitement as he speaks to Roddy Woomble of Idlewild, the Scottish indie rock band who have released seven full-length studio albums to date. Also a respected solo artist, we speak to Roddy about the pros and cons of support slots, middle men and the value of having a creative space. The good cause this week is Amnesty International’s Give a Home, which Idlewild have performed Sofar Sounds gigs for in support of the world’s refugees. Show no...
ACPG 005: Sari Delmar - Concord Music Group - talks how to promote your music, publicists, having a story and vision, and being unique
November 21, 2017 06:00 - 50 minutes - 23 MBThis episode we head over to Beverly Hills to speak with Sari Delmar of the Concord Music Group. Here we cover how to promote your music, the importance of having a story and vision for your music, as well as the value of being unique. We also cover publicists, including what they look for when taking on a band. The good cause this week is Women in Music, a non-profit organisation Sari is involved with to challenge what has always been a male dominated industry. www.acpgmusic.com for s...
ACPG 004: Ross Millard (Part 2) - The Futureheads - talks set lists, recording, external perspectives, record labels and being allowed to fail
November 21, 2017 05:30 - 49 minutes - 26.1 MBThis week we continue in the pub with Ross Millard of The Futureheads for the second part of this double header. Here we discuss set lists, recording, external perspectives, record labels and being allowed to fail. We finish with a bit on Sunderland’s city of culture bid, and the overall message of how culture is for everyone. For show notes, links, our blog and more, visit our website www.acpgmusic.com
ACPG 003: Ross Millard (Part 1) - The Futureheads - talks learning guitar, forming a band, practice, being honest and band manifestos.
November 14, 2017 08:00 - 53 minutes - 27.8 MBThis week we head to a familiar place for many musicians, the pub, where we meet Ross Millard from The Futureheads for part one of a two part episode we have with Ross. Here we discuss learning guitar forming a band, their approach to practice sessions, the importance of being honest, as well as band manifestos. For show notes, links, our blog and more, visit our website www.acpgmusic.com
ACPG 002: Mark Radcliffe - BBC Radio - talks radio, demos and Glastonbury
November 14, 2017 07:00 - 58 minutes - 29.8 MBWe’re back stage at the Sage in Gateshead speaking to one of the most recognisable voices from UK radio, Mark Radcliffe. We cover the value of radio and why curation of music is so valuable, along with demo songs, and the various pitfalls musicians fall into with them. We then go into Mark’s time covering Glastonbury and what draws him to folk music. The good cause is The Joshua Tree, a childhood cancer charity. Mark also makes us jealous about knowing David Bowie www.acpg...
ACPG 001: Paul Smith - Maximo Park - talks song writing, stage craft and image
November 14, 2017 06:00 - 53 minutes - 32.1 MBThis week Ben is back stage at the Centre For Life in Newcastle speaking to Paul Smith from Maximo Park. In this opening episode, we discuss how Maximo go about their song writing process, whilst touching on how the lyrical content has evolved since the early days. Paul has boundless energy on stage, which he explains flows through into their practice sessions as well, and how stage craft is something important to him, whether it’s something as simple as holding a book up as part...
ACPG 000: Introductory Episode - Ben and James - discuss what the podcast is all about
October 26, 2017 17:03 - 13 minutes - 7.74 MBBased on a shared love of music and now podcasts, we give a brief introduction on why we have started on this journey, and what you can expect from us each week. Having been in a band what feels like many years ago now, we have missed being creative and speaking with other artists. We also know that there are plenty of things that we would have done differently if we had the luxury of hindsight, so thought what better way to give something back to the music community than to interview ...