Lifestyles Entertainment

Listen to the Michael Shnayerson Special on The Paul Leslie Hour (HIS SONG: Harry Belafonte, a Series)

2011-11-06T22:13:00.000-08:00

This is a radio series entitled HIS SONG: Harry Belafonte, where we take a look at the life and recordings of Harry Belafonte through a series of interviews.

On this first episode of the series, we welcome our special guest Michael Shnayerson. Michael Shnayerson is a journalist and a longtime contributor to Vanity Fair magazine. Shnayerson has written several books, including the recent book with Harry Belafonte: MY SONG, A Memoir. MY SONG tells the story of Harry Belafonte, called one of the greatest entertainers of our time. MY SONG takes the reader from Belafonte's early days as a child growing up in Harlem and Jamaica, to his careers in acting and music. However, MY SONG is about more than Harry Belafonte the singer. Harry Belafonte was the first recording artist in history to sell one million copies of an album. MY SONG is also about Harry Belafonte the activist and Humanitarian. Harry Belafonte is an important figure in the American Civil Rights Movement, but Belafonte's passion has extended beyond the borders of the United States. Belafonte has been involved in political, social and Humanitarian causes around the world. It is my pleasure to welcome Michael Shnayerson, co-author of Harry Belafonte's MY SONG: A Memoir on The Paul Leslie Hour.

Enjoy the story! Enjoy the music!

To listen to the entire radio special:

To listen to the interview only:

Listen to Don McLean on The Paul Leslie Hour

2011-10-25T23:05:00.001-07:00

2011 is the 40th Anniversary of Don McLean's classic American Pie album. We also celebrate our eighth year of broadcasting!

Don McLean is a singer-songwriter, guitarist, recording artist and concert performer. We celebrate the 40th anniversary of the American Pie album, featuring some of Don McLean's most famous songs including Vincent and the title cut: American Pie. The American Pie single was a number 1 US hit for four weeks in 1972. The song "American Pie" was listed as the number 5 song on the Recording Industry Association of America's Songs of the Century list for the song's cultural and historical signifcance. Don McLean has never stopped. He has amassed over 40 gold and platinum records worldwide. In 2004, Don McLean was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. His songs have been recorded by recording artists in every genre including Madonna, George Michael, Julio Iglesias, Weird Al Yankovic, and even Fred Astaire. Don McLean has recorded over 40 studio and live albums. He continues to tour worldwide and his songs are continuously heard on the radio.
Don McLean's songs are a part of our collective memory. It is an honor we welcome Don McLean for an interview as we celebrate 40 years of American Pie and bring in another year of The Paul Leslie Hour.

To listen to The Full Hour:

To Listen to the Interview Only:

Don McLean Online: The Official Website of Don McLean and American Pie
The Paul Leslie Hour
Jeff Pike Studios
Bill Lampton's Championship Communication

Listen to the Lori Lieberman Special on The Paul Leslie Hour

2011-10-22T15:18:00.000-07:00

Our special guest is singer-songwriter, performing and recording artist Lori Lieberman. Lori Lieberman is best known for her song "Killing Me Softly" written during her Troubadour days in Los Angeles when she saw the legendary Don McLean in concert. Lori Lieberman was born in California, but raised in Switzerland. She was influenced by Francoise Hardy, Tom Rush, Cat Stevens and other American singer-songwriters. Lori Lieberman went on to attend University in Boston and signed her very first record deal with Capitol Records. Lori Lieberman toured the United States with artists like Randy Newman, Billy Joel, Leonard Cohen, John B. Sebastian and Rick Nelson. Her most recent and fourteenth album is entitled "Bend Like Steel." The CD features songs Lieberman wrote along with songs others wrote like Paul Simon's "Cecilia." Lori Lieberman is a part of the great American songwriting tradition. It is a pleasure to welcome her on The Paul Leslie Hour and to take a look at her music.

Listen to the Full Hour:

Listen to the Interview Only:

The Official Lori Lieberman Website
The Paul Leslie Online

Tamela D'Amico is a Special Guest on The Paul Leslie Hour

2011-10-09T19:13:00.001-07:00

It is our great pleasure to welcome singer, actress and filmmaker Tamela D'Amico for an interview. Tamela D'Amico has released an album on the LML Music Label, executive produced by actor/producer Peter Krause. The album was produced by Grammy award-winner Jimmy Hoyson.
Tamela D'Amico is a singer in the jazz genre. With her beautiful voice she interprets songs from the American songbook as well as songs written by artists like Barry Manilow, Harry Connick, Jr. and even the Beatles. Her voice is unique, at times sexy and sometimes cozy. We hope you enjoy the interview and her music!

The Paul Leslie Hour
Tamela D'Amico
LML Music

Listen to the Sean McDermott Special on The Paul Leslie Hour

2011-10-03T20:11:00.002-07:00

Broadway actor and singer Sean McDermott is a special guest on The Paul Leslie Hour! Accomplished concert artist Sean McDermott joins us to discuss his fourth and latest album "You're Not Alone" on the LML Music label. Sean McDermott was one of four Broadway singers selected by Barbra Streisand to sing alongside her on her 2007 European tour. He has traveled all over the world performing with symphony orchestras. Sean McDermott has shared the stage with Bernadette Peters, the late Robert Goulet, Johnny Mathis, and Mandy Patinkin just to name a few. Sean McDermott is recognized as one of Broadway's leading performers having starred in Miss Saigon (opposite of Lea Salonga), Falsettos (opposite of Mandy Patinkin), Starlight Express (opposite of Jane Krakowski), and Grease (opposite of Lucy Lawless). He has also starred in major productions of Carousel, Chicago, Jekyll and Hyde, Show Boat and West Side Story.

Our special guest Sean McDermott has had the privilege of singing to the President of the United States at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. on three separate occasions. He made his solo debut garnering glowing reviews at New York's prestigious Joe's Pub, at the Public Theater and he has performed at Carnegie Hall and Radio City Music Hall. It is our pleasure to welcome him here on The Paul Leslie Hour.

David Burnham is a Special Guest on The Paul Leslie Hour

2011-09-24T14:21:00.000-07:00

David Burnham just returned from New York where he played Fiyero in the Broadway production of "Wicked" having created the role in the original Los Angeles workshop productions. David was a member of the original Broadway cast of the 6-time Tony Award winning musical "The Light In The Piazza", performing on both the "Tony Awards" and the PBS telecast "Live From Lincoln Center". David was the 2007 recipient of the prestigious "Helen Hayes Award" for best actor as well as the 2007 best actor "Garland Award" for his portrayal of Fabrizio Nacarelli in the national tour of "The Light In The Piazza".
In New York City he lent his talent to the Actor's Fund production of "On The 20th Century" at The New Amsterdam Theatre and performed his solo concert at the famed New York jazz club "Birdland" and the "Metropolitan Room".

David first gained critical acclaim when, after a two year search, he was chosen to replace Donny Osmond in the national tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber's "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" (Dramalogue Award) a role which he has subsequently played 4 more times in productions all over the country.

At Boston's North Shore Music Theatre he created the role of Tom in the new musical "Tom Jones" as well as the role of Billy (opposite Maureen McGovern) in the new musical "Letters from 'Nam", a role which he reprised at The Kennedy Center and Seattle's Village Theatre. In Chicago he originated the role of Charlie in the world premiere of "Peggy Sue Got Married", after touring the country as Peter in the national tour of "Jesus Christ Superstar" (opposite Ted Neeley).

Other stage productions include the L.A. premiere of The Road Theatre production of "The Woman In Black" (the Actor) directed by Ken Sawyer, "Assassins" (John Hinckley) at Reprise - with members of the original Broadway cast, "Children of Eden" (Caine - Robby Award) at Musical Theatre West, "Godspell" (Jesus) at the St. Louis MUNY, and "Pirates of Penzance" (Fredrick) at The Sacramento Music Circus.

On film, David was the voice of the Prince in the Warner Bros. animated feature "The King & I", and can also be heard as "Willy" in Disney's "Home On The Range". Recordings include the soundtracks to "Ghepetto", "The King & I", and "Home on the Range". Also the recordings "Strouse, Schwartz, & Schwartz", "Lerner, Loewe, and Lane" and "Lee Lessack's - In Good Company".

For more information on David Burnham:
http://www.davidburnham.com
For more information on LML Music:
http://www.lmlmusic.com
For more information on The Paul Leslie Hour
http://www.thepaulleslie.com

Listen to the Paul "Wix" Wickens Special (Part 2 of 2) on The Paul Leslie Hour--Paul McCartney Band Series

2011-09-16T21:09:00.001-07:00

This is the eighth episode in an 8-part in-depth series profiling the four fabulous musicians who make up the most famous backing band in music today--Paul McCartney's Band.

It is my extreme pleasure to welcome you to the eighth and final episode (or is it?) of our series profiling the musicians in Paul McCartney's band. We're welcoming back Paul "Wix" Wickens for part 2 of a very rare interview. Paul "Wix" Wickens has been Paul McCartney's keyboard player and musical director for many years. He joined Paul McCartney's band in 1989. He's appeared on most studio albums since then and all of the live Paul McCartney albums. Most recently, Paul "Wix" Wickens appeared on the live album "Good Evening New York City" from the Hear Music label. He also appeared on the studio album "Memory Almost Full." Paul "Wix" Wickens is more than just a keyboard player. He is also a composer and producer. Paul "Wix" Wickens also plays accordion, some guitar, some bass guitar, harmonica and lends his vocal talents. He has performed and recorded with many artists in addition to Paul McCartney: Elton John, Joni Mitchell, Bon Jovi, Bob Dylan, Nik Kershaw, Edie Brickell, Tim Finn, John Kilzer, David Gilmour, and Bill Payne...too many artists to list.

On this episode, it is my pleasure to bring you the conclusion...or what is possibly the conclusion of our in-depth look at the musicians in Paul McCartney's band.

For more information Paul McCartney:
http://www.paulmccartney.com
For more information on The Paul Leslie Hour:
http://www.thepaulleslie.com
For more information on Real 2 Reel Studios:
http://www.reel-life.net

Listen to the Paul "Wix" Wickens Special (Part 1 of 2) on The Paul Leslie Hour--Paul McCartney Band Series

2011-09-16T20:59:00.000-07:00

This is the seventh episode in an 8-part in-depth series profiling the four fabulous musicians who make up the most famous backing band in music today--Paul McCartney's Band.

This is the first episode of two parts featuring Paul "Wix" Wickens who joins us for a rare interview. "Wix" Wickens has worked with artists like Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Tim Finn, David Gilmour and many others. Today, "Wix" Wickens is the keyboard player and musical director for Paul McCartney. He began touring with Paul McCartney in 1989. He appeared on the 1990 live album "Tripping the Live Fantastic." He followed this by appearing on the Paul McCartney album "Unplugged" and in 1993 he appeared on both the studio album "Off the Ground" and the live album "Paul is Live." With the current lineup of Paul McCartney's band: Rusty Anderson, Brian Ray, Abe Laboriel, Jr. he appeared on the albums "Back in the US," "Back in the World," and most recently the studio album "Memory Almost Full" and the latest live album "Good Evening New York City."

For more information Paul McCartney:
http://www.paulmccartney.com
For more information on The Paul Leslie Hour:
http://www.thepaulleslie.com
For more information on Real 2 Reel Studios:
http://www.reel-life.net

Listen to the Abe Laboriel, Jr. Special (Part 2 of 2) on The Paul Leslie Hour--Paul McCartney Band Series

2011-09-16T20:41:00.001-07:00

This is the sixth episode in an 8-part in-depth series profiling the four fabulous musicians who make up the most famous backing band in music today--Paul McCartney's Band.

We are welcoming back Abe Laboriel, Jr. for the second part in his profile. According to the official book Paul McCartney: On Stage, Off Stage and Back Stage, Abe Laboriel, Jr. got his first drum set at age four. Abe has been touring and recording with Paul McCartney for over 10 years now. Abe Laboriel, Jr. was mentored by percussionists like Jeff Porcaro and Alex Acuna who started the band Koinonia with Abraham Laboriel, Sr.-a legendary bassist and the father of our special guest. Abe Laboriel, Jr. has worked as both a session drummer and a performing drummer. He has recorded and performed with B. B. King, Eric Clapton, French artist Johnny Hallyday, Steve Winwood, Les Paul, and many others. His first live performance with Paul McCartney was at the concert for New York City in 2001. He has been playing drums on Paul McCartney's albums since then and has appeared on every McCartney tour.

For more information Paul McCartney:
http://www.paulmccartney.com
For more information on The Paul Leslie Hour:
http://www.thepaulleslie.com
For more information on Real 2 Reel Studios:
http://www.reel-life.net

Listen to the Abe Laboriel, Jr. Special (Part 1 of 2) on The Paul Leslie Hour--Paul McCartney Band Series

2011-09-16T20:24:00.001-07:00

This is the fifth episode in an 8-part in-depth series profiling the four fabulous musicians who make up the most famous backing band in music today--Paul McCartney's Band.

Our special guest is Abe Laboriel, Jr.; drummer for Paul McCartney. Abe Laboriel, Jr. is the son of the legendary bassist Abraham Laboriel, Sr. Abe Laboriel, Jr. toured with guitarist Steve Vai then he went on to tour with k. d. lang when recording artist Sting saw him perform and asked Laboriel to join his touring band. Abe Laboriel, Jr. has worked with the likes of Sheryl Crowe, Fiona Apple, Eric Clapton, Jewel, Vanessa Carlton, Steve Lukather, Chris Isaak, Johnny Hallyday, Natalie Cole, and many others. Over the past decade, Abe Laboriel, Jr. has been touring and recording with Paul McCartney starting with the 2001 McCartney album "Driving Rain," followed by "Back in the US," "Back in the World," "Chaos and Creation in the Backyard," "Memory Almost Full" and the most recent live Paul McCartney album "Good Evening New York City."

For more information Paul McCartney: http://www.paulmccartney.com
For more information on The Paul Leslie Hour: http://www.thepaulleslie.com
For morei information on Real 2 Reel Studios: http://www.reel-life.net

Listen to the Brian Ray Special (Part 2 of 2) on The Paul Leslie Hour-- Paul McCartney Band Series

2011-09-16T13:23:00.000-07:00

This is the fourth episode in an 8-part in-depth series profiling the four fabulous musicians who make up the most famous backing band in music today--Paul McCartney's Band.

On this episode we are welcoming back recording artist, singer-songwriter and recording artist Brian Ray. In addition to his solo guitar, he also plays lead and rhythm guitar and sometimes the bass for Paul McCartney. His association with Paul McCartney began with a performance with Paul McCartney at the half-time ceremonies at NFL Super Bowl XXXIX in 2002. He has appeared on the Paul McCartney studio albums "Chaos and Creation in the Backyard" and "Memory Almost Full" as well as the live albums "Back in the US," "Back in the World" and the most recent album on the Hear Music label, "Good Evening New York City."

Brian Ray has worked with countless artists including the late folk and songwriting legend Steve Goodman, and many other greats like Etta James, Smokey Robinson, Rita Coolidge and French superstar Johnny Hallyday.

However, what makes Brian Ray so unique is his incredible songs. In 2006, he released his debut album "Mondo Magneto." The sophomore release, "This Way Up" was released in 2010. Brian Ray is going to talk about his illustrious musical career and also perform a live acoustic song from the new album.

Listen to the Brian Ray Special on The Paul Leslie Hour --Paul McCartney Band Series

2011-09-16T12:49:00.000-07:00

This is the third episode in an 8-part in-depth series profiling the four fabulous musicians who make up the most famous backing band in music today--Paul McCartney's Band.

On this episode we are proud to welcome a guitarist, singer-songwriter and session musician from Southern California. Brian Ray may be most known for his work as the lead and rhythm guitarist and sometime bassist for Paul McCartney, but he has also released two solo albums. "Mondo Magneto" was released in 2006 and most recently in 2010, he has released his sophomore album "This Way Up." In addition to an interview, Brian Ray will be performing one of his songs on the acoustic guitar just for all of you listeners on The Paul Leslie Hour.

Listen now to the Rusty Anderson Special (Part 2 of 2)--The Paul McCartney Band Series

2011-09-16T12:20:00.000-07:00

This is the second episode in an 8-part in-depth series profiling the four fabulous musicians who make up the most famous backing band in music today--Paul McCartney's Band. We will be spotlighting Rusty Anderson, Brian Ray, Abe Laboriel, Jr. and Paul "Wix" Wickens. Together they make up McCartney's Band.

Our special guest on this episode of The Paul Leslie Hour is Rusty Anderson. Rusty Anderson is a Rock 'n Roll guitarist, singer-songwriter and recording artist. Rusty Anderson is also known as Paul McCartney's lead guitarist and joins us for an exclusive interview to discuss his illustrious music career and his latest solo album "Born on Earth."

Listen now to the Rusty Anderson Special (Part 1 of 2) --The Paul McCartney Band Series

2011-09-16T12:06:00.001-07:00

This is the first episode in an 8-part in-depth series profiling the four fabulous musicians who make up the most famous backing band in music today--Paul McCartney's Band. We will be spotlighting Rusty Anderson, Brian Ray, Abe Laboriel, Jr. and Paul "Wix" Wickens. Together they make up Paul McCartney's Band.

The special guest on this episode is Rusty Anderson. Rusty Anderson is most known as the lead guitarist with Paul McCartney, an association which began when Rusty Anderson contributed to the 2001 Paul McCartney album "Driving Rain." Rusty Anderson has since appeared on the Paul McCartney albums "Back in the US," "Back in the World," "Chaos and Creation in the Back Yard," "Memory Almost Full," and the latest release on the Hear Music label "Good Evening New York." Rusty Anderson has worked with an extensive list of artists from Cat Stevens, Meat Loaf, Neil Diamond, Elton John and Santana. He joins us for a two part interview where we'll be talking not only about his career with Paul McCartney, but also his solo career. Rusty Anderson has two solo albums full of songs. Rusty Anderson's songwriting is creative and exceptional full of thought-provoking lyrics and limitless styles. His debut record "Undressing Underwater" was released in 2003 receiving positive critical acclaim. His recent sophomore album "Born on Earth," features another selectin of songs that are distinctly Rusty Anderson.

Listen now to the interview and hear the magic of the music come alive.

Listen now to the Adrienne Anderson Special on The Paul Leslie Hour (Part 2 of 2)

2011-09-12T12:57:00.000-07:00

Joining us for the second part of an in-depth interview is lyricist Adrienne Anderson. Adrienne Anderson has written songs that have been recorded and performed by a variety of artists including Frank Sinatra, Dionne Warwick, Peter Allen, the band Pablo Cruise, Melissa Manchester, Diane Schuur, and Donna Summer. Adrienne Anderson received Grammy nominations for her lyrics for Dionne Warwick’s hit Dèjá Vu as well as Peter Allen’s hit "I go To Rio," both of which would be covered by other artists. However, Adrienne Anderson is perhaps most known for the songs she co-wrote with Barry Manilow. Her songs have been appearing on Manilow's records since the very first album: Barry Manilow I in 1973 and have continued to the most recent album 15 Minutes. In fact, the very first release of Barry Manilow (under the name Featherbed) was of "Amy," a song Adrienne Anderson composed and wrote the lyrics for.

Adrienne Anderson is a true artist. She continues to write lyrics and on this interview she discusses some of her recent work writing the book and lyrics for theater, including "City Kid, the Musical." Listen to the music and the conclusion of our interview with this very talented lyricist!

For more information on The Paul Leslie Hour: http://www.thepaulleslie.com

Listen now to the Adrienne Anderson Special on The Paul Leslie Hour (Part 1 of 2)

2011-09-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

Adrienne Anderson is a lyricist and a very passionate, creative woman. Her songs have been recorded and performed by some of the greatest artists in music including Frank Sinatra, Donna Summer, Dionne Warwick, Peter Allen, Diane Schuur, Sheena Easton, the band Pablo Cruise and Melissa Manchester. However, Adrienne Anderson is known to many for the catalog of songs she wrote with singer, composer and performer Barry Manilow. As you will hear in this interview, her work with Barry Manilow goes back even before his debut album! Adrienne Anderson wrote the lyrics to two of Manilow's most beloved classic songs: "Could It Be Magic," and "Daybreak."

We invite you to listen in as we share the story and music written by a woman whose creativity and drive has never stopped!

Master Class with Marty Panzer (Writing Lyrics that Succeed and Endure)

2011-09-04T23:31:00.000-07:00

Hello folks!

A lot of people wrote to me over the past couple of months expressing an interest in lyricists after our interviews with Enoch Anderson and Marty Panzer. A few wrote to say they were lyricists or interested in the art of lyric writing. As promised, we will be featuring more interviews with lyricists in the near future, but in the mean time I wanted to share with you some news regarding Marty Panzer.

I just heard from Marty Panzer that his lyric master class is coming to New York City. He has been doing the workshop for 17 years now at UCLA, but now those of us on the East Coast will have an opportunity to attend. I have included a link for more information: http://martypanzermasterclass.eventbrite.com/

The class sounds very fascinating to me. I imagine anyone who is fascinated by song lyrics or wants to learn how to be a better songwriter would not want to miss the class!

Listen now to the Lee Lessack Special on The Paul Leslie Hour!

2011-08-29T11:24:00.001-07:00

The Paul Leslie Hour is proud to present a one-hour special with Lee Lessack. Our special guest is an MAC and Bistro award winning recording artist. Lee Lessack has released his seventh CD, "Chanteur" a celebration of the songs from the French Songbook. Lee Lessack sings the songs on "Chanteur" in both English and French, taking you the listeners from the streets of Paris to the Broadway stage. BILLBOARD magazine called "Chanteur" : "Cabaret Romanticism of a higher order." Lee Lessack hails from Philadelphia and attended the American Academy of the Dramatic Arts. In 1996, he founded the record label "LML Music," the home of many vocal recording artists and performers.

We hope you enjoy the interview and the beautiful music!

For more information on Lee Lessack:
http://www.leelessack.com
http://www.lmlmusic.com

For more information on The Paul Leslie Hour:
http://www.thepaulleslie.com

Listen NOW to the Lea Salonga Special on The Paul Leslie Hour

2011-08-23T22:40:00.001-07:00

On this episode of The Paul Leslie Hour, we are welcoming Lea Salonga. Lea Salonga is a singer and actress from the Philippines. She is well known for her records as well as Broadway and concert performances. Lea Salonga is known for originating the lead role of Kim in the musical "Miss Saigon." She is a Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics and Theater World award winner. Lea Salonga also provided the singing voice of Jasmine in the Disney animated film "Aladdin" and Fa Mulan in "Mulan" and "Mulan II." On August 19, 2011, Lea Salonga was honored as a Disney Legend.
Lea Salonga made her professional debut at age 7 in the musical "The King and I" by Repertory Philippines. She became the lead star in "Annie" and was also featured in the production of "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof," "Fiddler on the Roof," "The Rose Tattoo," "The Sound of Music," "The Goodbye Girl," "Paper Moon," and "The Fantasticks."
She began her career in recording at age with the album "Small Voice." She followed that with the album "Lea," and many others followed.
As a young entertainer, Lea Salonga received a Filipino Academy of Movie Arts & Sciences Award as well as three wins from the Aliw Awards for Best Child Performer. Lea Salonga continues to record and perform in the United States and the Philippines. She records albums in both English and in Tagalog. She joins us to talk about her new Cabaret album recorded live at Cafe Carlyle in Manhattan. Lea Salonga's new album is entitled "They Journey So Far." It is our pleasure to welcome her on The Paul Leslie Hour. Enjoy!

For more information on Lea Salonga:
http://www.leasalonga.com http://www.lmlmusic.com
For more information on The Paul Leslie Hour:
http://www.thepaulleslie.com

Listen NOW to the Tom Wopat Special

2011-08-15T09:45:00.001-07:00

Tom Wopat has recorded his latest album, "Consider it Swung," featuring standards and songwriter favorites ranging from "That's Life" to "Ode to Billy Joe" as well as an original song, all sung by Tom Wopat and performed by New York City's top jazz musicians.

Tom Wopat has performed in countless Broadway shows, on film and on television. He is known to many for his portrayal of Luke Duke from the 1979 television series, "The Dukes of Hazzard." Tom Wopat is a singer in several genres, from rock and country to jazz. Wopat says jazz is his true passion. He joins us for an interview and we take a look at his latest record "Consider it Swung."
For more information on Tom Wopat: http://www.tomwopat.com
For more information on The Paul Leslie Hour: http://www.thepaulleslie.com

Listen NOW to the Oleg Frish Special on The Paul Leslie Hour!

2011-08-10T12:01:00.000-07:00

Oleg Frish is a unique personality. He is a TV and Radio host, a singer, a journalist and a peppy, sunny, positive man. Oleg was born in the former Soviet Union and during his childhood fell in love with American music.

20 years ago he came to the United States to embark on a career in television and radio. He started his TV show "Time Out" on NTV, a leading Russian TV channel headquartered in the United States. Through the years he interviewed the likes of James Brown, B.B. King, Connie Francis, Engelbert Humperdinck, Paul Anka, Al Martino, John Kander, Petula Clark, Whoopie Goldberg and Gloria Gaynor.

Many of his program's guests noted his passion for singing and encouraged him to record an album. Backed by the Patrick Williams Big Band, his album BRING ME SUNSHINE is a collection of songs from the great American Songbook. Patrick Williams arranged and conducted both of Frank Sinatra's Duets albums. The album was recorded at the Capitol Studios in LA.

We invite you to listen to our interview with Oleg Frish, but most of all, the positive tunes and Oleg's pleasant voice.

Listen NOW to the Marty Panzer Special (Part 3 of 3)

2011-08-03T00:53:00.000-07:00

Our special guest Marty Panzer is a lyricist who has written songs loved by many for decades. Marty Panzer continues to to write songs for singers and many of his songs are being found in Disney animated movies, but the greatest testament to the strength of Marty Panzer's songs is the longevity of his work. Marty Panzer wrote the Barry Manilow classics "New York City Rhythm," "Even Now," "Beautiful Music," "It's a Miracle," "This One's For You," and "Even Now." He's written songs for other artists. He wrote "Through the Years" for Kenny Rogers, "The Last Time" for Julio Iglesias, "Where Did We Go Wrong?" for Frankie Valli, "Life is Good" for Diane Schuur, and many more. We have heard from listeners all over the world who have shared with us their opinions, thoughts and feelings on Marty Panzer's lyrics. In almost 8 years of radio interviews, I cannot recall ever having received such an emotional response from the listeners.

Listen NOW to the Marty Panzer Special (Part 2 of 3)

2011-07-26T23:06:00.001-07:00

(Left to right: Bruce Sussman, Clive Davis, Marty Panzer, Adrienne Anderson, and Barry Manilow)

Marty Panzer is a celebrated lyricist who has written songs recorded by legends like Kenny Rogers, Diane Schuur, Dionne Warwick, Frankie Valli, and many others. His songs have been featured in Disney animated films. He is known in the world of Barry Manilow for writing some of Barry Manilow's most famous songs...songs like "It's a Miracle," "This One's for You," "Even Now," and the list goes on and on. Marty Panzer joins us for the second in a three-part in-depth interview on The Paul Leslie Hour. Listen now!

Listen NOW to the Marty Panzer Special (Part 1 of 3) on The Paul Leslie Hour

2011-07-18T00:14:00.001-07:00

Marty Panzer is a great lyricist who has songs known all over the world. He began writing songs with his friend Barry Manilow when they started working in the CBS-TV mailroom. They wanted a career in music so they began writing commercial jingles. From there, you could say Marty Panzer's songs have more than taken off--he wrote songs for Barry Manilow like "It's a Miracle," "This One's for You," "All the Time," and "Even Now." Not only has Marty Panzer written songs for Barry Manilow, but he wrote the Kenny Rogers classic "Through the Years." His songs have been recorded by the likes of Dionne Warwick, Frankie Valli, Gladys Knight, Julio Iglesias, Dusty Springfield, and others. Marty Panzer has 35 gold and platinum records, four BMI million play awards, a 3 million play award, and record sales in excess of 70 million units.
"An Evening with Marty Panzer," featuring songs, stories and performances by many guest composers and artists (including Diane Schuur and a special guest performance by Barry Manilow), had it's world premier at the Coronet Theatre in Los Angeles, benefitting the Academy For New Musical Theatre.
For 17 years Marty Panzer has taught a workshop on songwriting at UCLA. His songs are loved by many, and the host of this show is no exception. It is our pleasure to welcome a great and passionate lyricist, a man who says he is about "things that last." It is our pleasure to present part 1 of the Marty Panzer special on The Paul Leslie Hour.

Listen NOW to the Conal Fowkes Special on The Paul Leslie Hour

2011-07-03T09:16:00.000-07:00

Conal Fowkes is the pianist and sometimes double bassist for The Eddy Davis New Orleans Jazz Band featuring Woody Allen. He is also a recording artist who released a solo album entitled "Dizzy Fingers." With Eddy Davis he is a member of the Eddie Davis & Conal Fowkes duo. Davis & Fowkes have released a new DVD: "Eddy Davis & Conal Fowkes Live in Concert," filmed in the Café Vienes at the Hotel Casa Fuster in Barcelona, Spain.

“Midnight in Paris,” the new Woody Allen film in theaters now features Conal Fowkes singing and playing Let’s Do It, You Do Something To Me and You’ve Got That Thing all by Cole Porter, also featured is Conal playing piano with the Yerason Trio.

Along with the songs from the new live DVD, we're going to share an interview with Conal Fowkes, a man who makes for a delightful interview!

Listen NOW to the Ray Hildebrand Special on The Paul Leslie Hour

2011-07-03T09:10:00.001-07:00

We welcome Ray Hildebrand, known to many as "Paul" of Paul and Paula, a duo affectionately known as "The Sweethearts of the Sixties." Paul and Paula were a pop duo best known for the 1963 million-selling #1 hit record "Hey Paula," a romantic song that reached the top of the chart in the US, Europe and Japan. Worthy of note is that the duo Paul and Paula were #1 on the charts with "Hey Paula" on Valentine's Day, February 14. The song was one of Elvis Presley's favorites according to Priscilla Presley. Country singer Kenny Rogers named his twins "Paul" and "Paula" after the song and Karen Carpenter of the Carpenters credits the song as being inspiration and encouragement to get into the music business. "Hey Paula" has been featured in television shows like Cheers, Married...With Children, Dharma and Greg and That 70s Show as well as in movies like Hotel De Love, Family of Strangers and of course Animal House. Countless people have fallen in love and gotten married because of the song or have said they were named after the song or that they named their children for the song. Radio and television royalty statements indicate the song has been played somewhere in the world daily since 1963. Paul and Paula still perform once in a while for special events.

Today Ray Hildebrand is a contemporary Christian artist and continues to perform.

Justin Bieber article written by Ashton Pike, a young writer

2011-06-27T14:51:00.000-07:00

WHO IS ASHTON? Ashton Pike is sixteen years old. She does not aspire to be a writer. She IS a writer. Her articles have been published and she wrote and sent this to me. She wants to write for magazines and possibly write a book someday. I believe she will.
I want to thank her for sending this to me. I am glad she was so inspired.

It’s More Than Just a Saying, It’s A Lifestyle
By Ashton PikeJune 15, 2011

Everyone knows the hair flip. Everyone knows that angelic voice as it sings the catchy words to “Baby.” No matter how much some people may deny it, everyone knows Justin Bieber. It’s the Bieber Fever, and it spreads. Fast. In just four short years, the small town Canadian hockey player went from below the poverty line to above and beyond everything he could’ve imagined. Now seventeen years old, Justin Drew Bieber released his first-ever documentary film of his long journey on February 11, 2011. Never Say Never being the title shows Justin’s true charisma for doing what he loves.
Being a true Belieber myself, I was in line the day it came out, dragging my friends along with me. It wasn’t easy trying to get in to see it. I figured if I went around five in the afternoon, the lines wouldn’t be as bad. Wrong. I got to the movie theater around four –thirty, and didn’t see the movie until seven o’clock later that night. Three times I went to buy tickets, and each time it was sold out. Most people would’ve gone home and come back later, but I was determined. I sat on the bench until the next show time, and raced to the ticket booth, and finally on the fourth try, I was holding the official ticket to Justin Bieber: Never Say Never 3D and my heart couldn’t have been beating faster. I was excited!
The opening was phenomenal and creative. It shows the one thing that helped Justin climb to the top of stardom: the internet. Justin was discovered on YouTube after him and his mother, Pattie, posted videos of him singing in a local singing contest, Stratford Idol, so his family who couldn’t attend the shows could watch his amazing performances. Scott “Scooter” Braun was one of the many who happened to stumble upon the videos of Justin performing to artists such as Alicia Keys and Chris Brown. Scooter happened to be looking for new talent under which he could manage, and when he found Justin, he looked no further. Scooter tried everything in his might to get a hold of Justin’s mother, but she was skeptical about the situation. Finally, when the two were able to talk, Justin was on an airplane, his first one ever, to a recording studio in Atlanta, Georgia.
The movie counts down the days until Justin is to perform at Madison Square Garden, which is a major step in any artist’s career. The auditorium sold out in 22 minutes. It holds 22,000 seats. That is 1,000 seats per minute. Absolutely amazing. Justin knows how much his fans do for him, and he is always finding ways to give back. He never forgets where he came from, and is constantly making sure he surrounds himself with people that keep him grounded. Justin connects with his fans mostly through Twitter. Me being a frequent follower in a totally non-creepy way, I’ve witnessed how he asks his fans what they think of things, and how he personally takes the time to follow them. Currently, he is following over 115,000 Beliebers and has over 10,400,000 Beliebers following him. Three years ago, barely anyone knew who he was, now over ten million people have been struck with Bieber Fever.
Never Say Never truly inspired me. After I left the theater, I felt like I could do anything. Some artist say things like “never give up on your dreams,” but they have no real proof of how doing that will get you somewhere. But Justin Bieber is living proof of how anything can happen. One day he’s sitting in his living room strumming to Cry Me a River by Justin Timberlake, and the next Justin Timberlake and Usher are fighting over him. All because Scooter Braun happened to click on his YouTube link.
Ever since that movie, now whenever I compete in swim team or cheerleading, Never Say Never is blasting through my headphones. It gives you the message that you CAN do anything if you believe in what you do. Even though I am only a sixteen year old girl writing on her laptop and no professional critic, Never Say Never earns five stars in my book. Unlike any other movie I’ve seen, it SHOWS people what can happen when you believe in yourself and never say never.

Listen NOW to the Enoch Anderson Special on The Paul Leslie Hour

2011-06-22T20:44:00.001-07:00

15 Minutes is the new album from the legendary Barry Manilow. Over the past 10 years, Barry Manilow has been wildly successful releasing collections of his renditions of popular songs, including The Greatest Songs of the Fifties, Sixties, Seventies and Eighties. He's recorded songs that make the whole world sing, but his last album of original music was the 2001 release Here at the Mayflower. In 2011, Barry Manilow has shown he's willing to take a chance again. He's released his latest album 15 Minutes, on his own independent label, Stiletto Entertainment. 15 Minutes is a concept album about a 23 year old guitar player who gets caught up in the world of fame. Because it is about a guitarist, the album is more guitar and rock oriented than Manilow's normally piano-driven albums. The album title 15 Minutes is a reference to the 1968 Andy Warhol quote saying "In the future, everyone will be world-famous for 15 minutes."

Barry Manilow co-wrote the songs on 15 Minutes with lyricist Enoch Anderson. Enoch Anderson, or Nick as Barry calls him, has been writing lyrics for Barry Manilow since almost the very beginning of Manilow's career as a recording artist. He wrote songs like "I Want to Be Somebody's Baby" and "Sandra" from the album Barry Manilow II, "Break Down the Door" from the album "If I Should Love Again," as well as four songs from the Here at the Mayflower, among others. We are very honored to welcome lyricist Enoch Anderson as our special guest. He joins us to share his story and to talk about the new Barry Manilow album 15 Minutes.

Listen NOW to the Diane Schuur Special

2011-06-08T09:47:00.000-07:00

Jazz legend Diane Schuur has released her new album "The Gathering," on Vanguard Records. Although Diane Schuur is one of jazz's leading singers, "The Gathering" is a collection of country songs mostly written during the 1960s. Produced by Steve Buckingham, the album features Alison Krauss, Vince Gill, Larry Carlton, Mark Knopfler, and Kirk Whalum. Diane Schuur or "Deedles" as she is called by fans and friends alike, has a career spanning almost 30 years. She's collaborated with the likes of jazz trumpeter Maynard Ferguson, the Count Basie Orchestra, the Caribbean Jazz Project, Stevie Wonder, Barry Manilow, Ray Charles, and bluesman B. B. King. She is a two time Grammy award-winner and it is our pleasure to welcome her on The Paul Leslie Hour.

Listen NOW to the Larry Carlton Special on The Paul Leslie Hour

2011-06-01T19:31:00.000-07:00

It is a great honor we welcome a very special guest known for both his solo records and his guitar session work. Larry Carlton is one of the greatest guitarists alive. He is a 4-time Grammy winner and 19-time Grammy nominee. He is a recipient of the George Benson Lifetime Achievement Award. He was named one of the 10 Greatest-Ever Session Guitarists by Gibson. Larry Carlton has been playing guitar since he was six years old. He began listening to to jazz music in Junior High School. In 1968, at 20 years old, Larry Carlton recorded his first album entitled "With a Little Help From My Friends." From 1971 to 1976 he played with jazz rock group The Crusaders. In 1973 he released his second solo project "Singing | Playing," featuring not only his guitar work, but also vocals. While still touring with the Crusaders, he contributed as a guitar session player to albums from Sammy Davis, Jr., Herb Alpert, Quincy Jones, Paul Anka, Michael Jackson, John Lennon, and Jerry Garcia just to name a few.

Over time, Larry Carlton appeared on o ver 3,000 studio sessions. His accomplishments are many. He has written and co-written theme songs for TV shows including the hit sitcom "Who's the Boss?" and the drama "Hill Street Blues." He has written and recorded a film score and has appeared on more than 100 Gold Albums. He was voted the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences "Most Valuable Player" 3 consecutive years. NARAS then named him Player Emeritus and he became retired from eligibility. Larry Carlton's mesmerizing guitar playing has appeared in 4 videos, 6 DVDs and 28 solo records.

It is our pleasure to welcome him on The Paul Leslie Hour for an interview. We also take a listen to his incredible recorded music.

Listen NOW to the Percy Sledge Special on The Paul Leslie Hour

2011-06-01T19:16:00.000-07:00

It is our pleasure to present a special featuring music and an interview with Percy Sledge on The Paul Leslie Hour.

Percy Sledge is a true legend in Soul and R&B. His song "When a Man Loves a Woman" was a hit song in 1966 and has been receiving continuous radio airplay ever since. The song reached #1 in the US and went on to become an international hit. Percy Sledge was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame, the Delta Music Museum, the Carolina Beach Music Hall of Fame and he was an inaugural Rhythm and Blues Foundation Pioneer Honoree.

Rolling Stone magazine lists Percy Sledge's "When a Man Loves a Woman" 54th in their list of the 500 greatest songs of all time. Some of his other classic songs include "It Tears Me Up," "Take Time to Know Her," "Love Me Tender," and "Cover Me." At the age of 69, he continues to record and perform to this day.

Dr. Douglas Young on CONVERSATIONS (With Paul Leslie)

2011-05-24T11:23:00.001-07:00

Dr. Douglas Young
When? May 11, 2011
Where? His office at Gainesville State College campus

In an incredibly in-depth conversation, Dr. Young discusses his history, morality, and philosophies on life. I hope you will find it as inspiring as I did.

Davi Masi on Conversations (With Paul Leslie)

2011-05-24T11:15:00.001-07:00

Davi Masi
WHEN? May 10th
WHERE? Midtown Atlanta, on the street

Davi Masi lives in Atlanta and works for the Q100 radio station. She is also the leader of Davina and the Harlots a burlesque troupe. Enjoy our conversation where she shares all.

Listen NOW to The Poet's Words: The Kodac Harrison Special on The Paul Leslie Hour (Part 4 of 4)

2011-05-19T11:32:00.000-07:00

Kodac Harrison is a renowned singer-songwriter, recording artist, poet, spoken word artist, painter and acoustic guitarist. He has released many live and studio records. 2011 celebrates 30 years of his recorded works which began with the 1981 EP entitled simply "Kodac." His most recent studio album "Dreams and Nightmares" received positive critical acclaim. This was followed by his most recent live album "Reach for the Moon." Currently, Kodac Harrison is working on a retrospective book of his lyrics and poetry which is tentatively entitled The Tortoise and the Hare. In addition to his recordings, Kodac Harrison has toured the world including 7 tours of Europe. On this fourth part, Kodac Harrison shares his story with an in-depth interview, accompanying solo acoustic/vocal performances as well as spoken word poetry performance. This is the most in-depth look at Kodac Harrison yet.

Listen NOW to The Poet's Words: The Kodac Harrison Special on The Paul Leslie Hour (Part 3 of 4)

2011-05-19T11:30:00.000-07:00

Kodac Harrison is originally from Jackson, Georgia. He has lived in New Orleans, Texas, California, New York City and West Virginia. All of those places have influenced his music, which he calls Beatnik Blues. He is a singer-songwriter, recording artist, poet and acoustic guitarist. Kodac Harrison has released 14 recordings and performs solo and with a band ranging from 3 to 10 pieces. His music has been featured in motion pictures and he has done voice over work for Turner South and Turner Classic Movies. Kodac Harrison has made 7 tours of Europe and has performed for President Jimmy Carter. Kodac Harrison joins us for an in-depth interview as well as music and spoken-word poetry performances. Along with the performance, we play key selections from his expansive discography to paint the picture of one of the most talented songwriters we've ever had the opportunity to profile.

Listen NOW to The Poet's Words: The Kodac Harrison Special on The Paul Leslie Hour (Part 2 of 4)

2011-05-19T11:28:00.001-07:00

It is our pleasure to welcome back the revered singer-songwriter, recording artist, poet, spoken word artist and painter Kodac Harrison. Kodac joins us for the second part in a four-part in-depth interview with accompanying spoken word and musical performances. This is the most in-depth look at Kodac Harrison's music yet.

Listen NOW to The Poet's Words: The Kodac Harrison Special on The Paul Leslie Hour (Part 1 of 4)

2011-05-19T11:23:00.000-07:00

Singer-Songwriter, Recording Artist, Poet, and Spoken Word Artist Kodac Harrison joins us for an in-depth interview, musical performances and spoken word pieces on The Paul Leslie Hour.

Kodac was named "Best Spoken Word Artist" (Critic's Choice in 2002 and Reader's Choice in 2003, 2004 & 2010) in Atlanta's Creative Loafing. was named Poet of the Year in Creative Loafing. In 2007 he embarked on his 7th tour of Europe.In Sept. 2007, Kodac Harrison released his 11th studio recording of original music and spoken word, In the fall of 2004, he performed at the Prague International Jazz festival. In 2004 Kodac was named Chairman of the community board of "Poetry Atlanta."

2011 celebrates 30 years of his recordings, which began with an independently released 4 song EP entitled (simply) "KODAC." In addition to his rich discography of live and studio recordings, there

Shawn Williams on CONVERSATIONS (With Paul Leslie)

2011-05-10T10:17:00.000-07:00

Shawn Williams
WHEN? April 28, 2011
WHERE? Shawn's shelter.

Shawn Williams lives in Georgia (for a little while longer) and is a radio personality. She is an up and coming actor having been featured in the music video format. She is the founder and guitarist of The Pelvis Breastlies, the world's foremost all female Elvis Presley Tribute Band.

In this conversation, Shawn shared the story of her unique and adventurous life. They sipped coffee while birds chirped and the sun shined. All was right with the world. Enjoy!

Listen now to the Johnny Farina Special (Part 2)

2011-05-09T13:30:00.000-07:00

Santo and Johnny were the duo of brothers who brought the #1 instrumental song "Sleepwalk" to the world. Johnny Farina continues to keep the flame of Santo and Johnny burning by performing and recording.
"Sleep Walk" was recorded at Trinity Music in Manhattan. "Sleep Walk" entered Billboard's Top 40 on August 17, 1959. It rose to the number-one position for two weeks in September (the 21st and the 28th) and remained in the Top 40 until November 9. "Sleep Walk" also reached number four on the R&B chart.[3] It was the last instrumental to hit number one in the 1950s and earned Santo & Johnny a gold record.
The song has been featured in countless motion pictures, television commercials and on the radio. It is playing continuously somewhere on the planet with MILLIONS of spins. It is our great pleasure to welcome back Santo and Johnny's Johnny Farina!

Listen now to the Johnny Farina Special (Part 1)

2011-05-09T13:26:00.001-07:00

Santo and Johnny were an Italian-American rock 'n roll duo from Brooklyn, best known for their song "Sleepwalk." "Sleepwalk" is an instrumental steel guitar-based song recorded in 1959. It has been called by many the most famous instrumental song of all time having been featured on radio, television, movies and in commercials. Countless versions have been recorded by many artists. In 1999, "Sleepwalk" earned BMI's Millionaire Award symbolizing 2 million airplays on the radio. In 2002, Santo and Johnny were inducted into the International Steel Guitar Hall of Fame.
Our special guest is Johnny Farina. Johnny Farina has a gold record for not only "Sleepwalk," but also the Santo and Johnny cover of the theme song for "The Godfather." It is with great pleasure we welcome a true legend who continues to perform and record to this day. The one and only Johnny Farina!

Listen NOW to the Charlie Sheen Musical Documentary!

2011-03-22T18:21:00.000-07:00

A One Hour Musical Biographical Radio Special on The Paul Leslie Hour

For the first time ever on The Paul Leslie Hour, we tell the story of Charlie Sheen...one of the most celebrated Actors in motion pictures and television...through music!

Narrated by Paul Leslie, we present a musical radio documentary about one of the biggest media sensations of 2011.

Listen NOW to the Jeff Daniels "Keep It Right Here" Special on The Paul Leslie Hour

2011-03-22T12:39:00.000-07:00

Jeff Daniels joins us yet again on The Paul Leslie Hour to talk about his NEWEST (and best) album...KEEP IT RIGHT HERE, featuring Brad Philips and Dominic John Davis. We take an in-depth look at the album playing many of the albums tracks and welcome Jeff for an interview!

Laura Berkobin on CONVERSATIONS (With Paul Leslie)

2011-03-10T19:59:00.000-08:00

Laura Berkobin
WHEN? March 8, 2011
WHERE? Alon's Bakery and Market at 4505 Ashford Dunwoody Road Northeast, Atlanta, GA

Laura studied public relations and has a profound love for horses. She admitted to being a daddy's girl while Paul enjoyed milk and cookies at Alon's.

Chad War Döbler on CONVERSATIONS (With Paul Leslie)

2011-03-10T19:33:00.000-08:00

Chad War Döbler.

When? March 4, 2011
Where? The Porter Beer Bar, 1156 Euclid Avenue; (Little Five Points) Atlanta, GA 30307

Chad is into a hip, new music style known as Dubstep. He enjoyed a cold beer and we gained some great insight into this unique, cool, crisp and refreshing young man.

Cody Morris on CONVERSATIONS (With Paul Leslie)

2011-03-10T18:59:00.001-08:00

Cody Morris
When? March 2011
Where? Paul's house

Cody recalls his favorite smell and talks about the end of the world as we sit at a kitchen table.

Mili Santaniello on CONVERSATIONS (With Paul Leslie)

2011-03-10T18:48:00.001-08:00

Mili Santaniello

WHEN? February 24, 2011
WHERE? On the Street in front of The Hard Rock Cafe, 215 Peachtree St. NE Atlanta, GA 30303

Mili is originally from Peru and is married to Tommy.

Ashley Carter on CONVERSATIONS (With Paul Leslie)

2011-03-10T18:31:00.001-08:00

Ashley Carter
WHEN? February 24, 2011
WHERE? On the Street in front of The Hard Rock Cafe, 215 Peachtree St. NE Atlanta, GA 30303

Ashley likes kid's cereal and is the booking agent for Life and Limb.

The Marshall Chapman Special on The Paul Leslie Hour

2011-03-03T09:23:00.001-08:00

Marshall Chapman is a guitarist, singer-songwriter, published author, actor, performer, spoken word artist and recording artist. Marshall Chapman has written and performed with the likes of Willie Nelson, Emmylou Harris and John Hiatt and her songs have been covered by people ranging from Conway Twitty, Joe Cocker and Irma Thomas. Marshall Chapman joins us to talk about her latest album “Big Lonesome,” which she produced with Michael Utley. “Big Lonesome” is her 12th album, the sixth release on Tallgirl Records. “Big Lonesome,” is in our opinion her finest record, dedicated to the late Tim Krekel. Tim Krekel was planning to record a duet album with Chapman, when Krekel was diagnosed with cancer. Three months later he passed away. “Big Lonesome” was inspired by Tim Krekel, whose voice and guitar appear on the album.

As anyone who listens in will hear, Marshall Chapman makes for an entertaining and interesting interview. She interviewed a number of artists herself, for her second and latest book “They Came to Nashville,” wherein Music City Legends share their stories with Chapman. Marshall Chapman is also a contributing editor for Garden & Gun magazine and appears in the film “Country Strong” playing Gwyneth Paltrow’s character’s road manager.

The music from “Big Lonesome” is as real as it comes…her pleasant, unique speaking voice coupled with her storytelling background make for one of the most unique interviews we’ve ever featured.

Listen NOW to the Elliot Mintz Special (Part 4 of 4)

2011-02-19T22:14:00.000-08:00

"Elliot Mintz" an original painting by April Dukes We invite you to join us for part four of the 4-part Elliot Mintz Special on The Paul Leslie Hour. Elliot Mintz began his career in media and the world of broadcasting as a radio disco jockey and later as a television personality interviewing people like Jack Lemmon, John Wayne, Salvadore Dali, Alan Watts, Bob Dylan, Yoko Ono, John Lennon and many others - about 2,000 in all. From 1988 to 1992 he hosted a syndicated radio program called The Lost Lennon Tapes that featured rare, unreleased, recorded demos, rehearsals and composing tapes of John Lennon. Elliot Mintz followed that by hosting a program called "The Beatle Years."

Elliot Mintz then became a publicist and media consultant representing Paris Hilton, Don Johnson, Christie Brinkley, Melanie Griffith, Sean Lennon, Yoko Ono and the estate of John Lennon. Elliot Mintz's relationship with John Lennon began in 1971, having interviewed John Lennon and Yoko Ono on the radio. His relationship with Yoko Ono and Sean Lennon continue to this day. Elliot Mintz has expressed a desire to move to a more rural area away from his longtime home of Los Angeles, get married and begin offering his expertise in public relations pro bono for causes he supports.

On this episode, we meet "the Real Elliot Mintz," in a special that coincided with the week of his birthday.

Listen NOW to the Elliot Mintz Special (Part 3 of 4)

2011-02-13T19:05:00.000-08:00

We are pleased to welcome media consultant and publicist Elliot Mintz back for the third episode in our four part radio biographical documentary, The Elliot Mintz Special. Elliot Mintz is a former radio and television personality and the past host of the syndicated programs "The Lost Lennon Tapes" and "The Beatle Years." His clients as a publicist have included people like Bob Dylan, Sean Lennon, the Estate of John Lennon, Yoko Ono, Don Johnson, Paris Hilton, Melanie Griffith, and many others.

On the last episode he joined us to talk about his friendship and association with the late John Lennon. On this episode, we continue our conversation with Elliot Mintz to talk about Elliot Mintz Today and Tomorrow. As he says in this interview, "I'm in the third act of my life right now."

Listen NOW to the Elliot Mintz Special (Part 2 of 4)

2011-02-06T09:43:00.000-08:00

The interview was recorded in Beverly Hills, California at the home of Elliot Mintz. Your host Paul Leslie had flown from Atlanta to Los Angeles to interview Mintz after years of correspondence. In the past, Elliot Mintz was a radio and television personality having interviewed over 2,000 people ranging from Mick Jagger, Timothy Leary, R. D. Laing, Jack Nicholson, Donovan, Salvador Dali, Joan Baez, and a couple who would change his life. Yoko Ono and John Lennon.

John Lennon and Yoko Ono became friends with Elliot Mintz. As a publicist, he went on to represent Yoko Ono and the Estate of John Lennon and a long list of other celebrities including Boby Dylan, Christie Brinkley, Paris Hilton, Diana Ross, Don Johnson, Melanie Griffith and many others. From 1988 to 1992 he hosted "The Lost Lennon Tapes," a radio program featuring rare and unreleased recordings of John Lennon as well as interviews with John Lennon. The show had millions of listeners every week.

On this episode of The Paul Leslie Hour, and the second of a four part series featuring an interview with Elliot Mintz, we will be talking with Elliot Mintz about his opinions and recollections having to do with John Lennon.

Listen NOW to the Elliot Mintz Special! (Part 1 of 4)

2011-01-30T13:53:00.001-08:00

Elliot Mintz is a Special Guest on The Paul Leslie Hour

It is our pleasure to present the first episode in our 4-part series "The Elliot Mintz Special" featuring an in-depth interview with Elliot Mintz, our first ever four part series. With accompanying music, we will be answering the question-- "Who is Elliot Mintz?" The answer depends on who you ask...

For readers of glossy celebrity magazines or viewers of the television program TMZ or followers of websites like PopTV.com, Elliot Mintz is a Hollywood publicist and media consultant for clients past and present ranging from Paris Hilton, Nicky Hilton, Don Johnson, Shauna Sands, Yoko Ono, Sean Lennon, Bob Dylan and the estate of John Lennon as well as companies like Planet Hollywood Hotel and Casino and Bijan Fragrance.

Elliot Mintz is also known in the world of broadcasting as a past radio and television personality, having interviewed over 2,000 people as a radio talk show host and later as a television correspondent and host. He went on to host "The Lost Lennon Tapes," a syndicated weekly radio program that ran from 1988 to 1992. The Lost Lennon Tapes broadcasted previously unreleased tracks, rehearsals, composing tapes, interviews and home recordings of John Lennon whom Mintz first met in 1971.

In the world of John Lennon and his living legacy, Elliot Mintz is known as a confidante and friend of John Lennon. His memoirs of John Lennon appear in the book Memories of John Lennon, compiled by Yoko Ono available from Harper Collins.

Undoubtedly, Elliot Mintz is a man whose life has been an incredible journey. We invite you to join us for the interview and the music that has played a major role along the way.

Listen NOW to the Maya Angelou Special!

2011-01-23T12:01:00.001-08:00

On the Paul Leslie Hour we explore music and interview the most creative and iconic people of our time. On this episode of The Paul Leslie Hour, it is our honor to present CALYPSO AND POETRY: A Celebration of Maya Angelou. This episode features an interview with the one and only Dr. Maya Angelou. Maya Angelou is one of the most influential voices in poetry, literature and our popular culture. She has gathered fame as a poet, memoirist, novelist, educator, dramatist, spoken word artist, producer, actress, historian, filmmaker, and civil rights activist. Maya Angelou has written several books that are required reading in schools and universities including her series of six autobiographical volumes including the highly popular I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. In 1993, Dr. Angelou recited her poem "On the Pulse of Morning" for Clinton's Presidential Inauguration. In 1995, she was recognized for having the longest running record for the Paperback Nonfiction Best Seller List for the New York Times.

The New York Times Book Review once wrote that Maya Angelou "writes like a song, and like the truth. The wisdom, rue, and humor of her storytelling are borne on a lifting rhythm completely her own. This interview, among other things will explore what is perhaps a connection between the rhythm of words and the rhythm of dance. In Dr. Angelou's case, you may notice some interesting parallels... Many may not realize that the foundation for Dr. Angelou's beginnings in the arts were with dance and music.

In 1954 and 1955, Maya Angelou toured Europe with a production of the opera Porgy and Bess. She studied dance with Martha Graham, danced with Alvin Ailey on television and in 1957 recorded her first record album entitled "Calypso Lady." She was Maya Angelou, Calypso singer. During this period there was something known as the calypso explosion. Harry Belafonte's album entitled "Calypso" was the first album to sell one million copies. Many of the songs were written by Irving Burgie or Lord Burgess as he was known. Although purists would sometimes dispute that those songs were not true calypso songs, two of the songs were Americanized covers of true Calypso songs. The album and Harry Belafonte created an interest in calypso music, which is a genre of Afro-Caribbean music that originated in Trinidad.

Maya Angelou was in fact a calypso singer and we are happy to present an interview about this overlooked passion of hers and it's role in her development. Listen in and enjoy the rare recordings and we invite you to read along with our typed transcript

Listen NOW to the Jimmy Webb Special (Part 2 of 2)

2011-01-23T11:59:00.001-08:00

Jimmy Webb returns to talk about his latest album "Just Across the River." He also shares his philosophy on songwriting and his belief on what we can do about the state of the music business.

Listen NOW to the Jimmy Webb Special (Part 1 of 2)

2011-01-23T11:57:00.001-08:00

Jimmy Webb is the writer of songs like "Up, Up and Away," "By the Time I Get to Phoenix," "Wichita Lineman," and "Galveston." Jimmy Webb's songs have been covered and performed by artists ranging from Glen Campbell, the 5th Dimension, The Supremes, Frank Sinatra, Joe Cocker, John Denver and Elvis Presley. According to BMI, his song "By the Time I Get to Phoenix" was the third most performed song from 1940 to 1990. Jimmy Webb is the only artist to have ever received Grammy Awards for music, lyrics and orchestration.

Jimmy Webb was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame by Actor Michael Douglas in 1999. He was inducted onto the Borad of Directors for the Songwriters' Hall of Fame in early 2000 and currently serves on the Board of Directors for ASCAP. In 2010, he released "Just Across the River," featuring many of his most well known songs and duets featuring the likes of Glen Campbell, Vince Gill, Billy Joel, Willie Nelson, Lucinda Williams, Jackson Browne, Michael McDonald, Mark Knopfler, J. D. Souther and Linda Ronstadt.

Listen NOW to the Merlo Podlewski Special!

2011-01-23T11:46:00.000-08:00

Join us as we have a conversation with Merlo Podlewski (aka J Radio) about his new 4 song EP "J Radio," described as Hip Hop Rock / Psychedelic. Merlo is also known as the bassist in Jack Johnson's band. From the East Coast, growing up on a steady diet of Rock, Hip Hop, Soul, Jazz and Reggae; Merlo now splits his time between California and New York. Merlo sat down to talk with us about his life touring around the world with Jack Johnson, how it all started and where it's going!

Listen NOW to the G. Love Special!

2011-01-23T11:41:00.000-08:00

This week's guest, G. Love, is a guitarist, harmonica player and singer-songwriter from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Garrett Dutton, better known as G. Love combines blues with hip hop, performing over 150 shows per year. G. Love has recorded 14 releases with an upcoming album Fixin' To Die coming in February of 2011. He has performed with many artists including Jack Johnson, and is signed to Johnson's Brushfire Records label. This is a full hour of music and an interview recorded backstage in Atlanta, Georgia.

Listen NOW to the ALO Special!

2011-01-23T11:31:00.000-08:00

Listen now to our backstage interview with ALO on The Paul Leslie Hour.

Maya Angelou Interview Transcript

2011-01-17T18:28:00.000-08:00

PAUL LESLIE
It is with great honor we welcome a true Renaissance woman, one of the most important people in literature, a poet, educator, historian, best-selling writer, actress, playwright, Civil Rights activist, producer, director and musician—the one and only Dr. Maya Angelou. On behalf of our reading audience thank you so very much Dr. Angelou for joining us. Everyone has a mentor so I was hoping you could tell us about Mrs. Bertha Flowers.
DR. MAYA ANGELOU:
Mrs. Flowers. I met her, I guess when I was very, very young, but I got to know her when I was about almost eight. I lived in a very small town and I had had an abuse and as a result I had stopped speaking. I thought my voice had been instrumental in killing a man and so I thought it was wiser not to speak. That was my seven year old logic. So Mrs. Flowers heard about me. She was a black lady in our town and she came to the store. My grandmother owned a small store. And she came and got me and took me up to the school and took me into the school library. Black school, there may have been 200 books. I don’t know, but I know I have more books in my small library today than in that little school. But, it seemed like millions of books and she said “I want you to read every one of them. Read through and then make notes and when I come back I’ll talk to you about it.” And then she took me to her house about twice a year. She’d make tea cookies and wonderfully sweet lemonade and then she’d read to me. She
introduced me to literature and really began my lifelong love of reading, of writing too and of being read to. I think every human being wants to be read to. I still like it and I’m 80 years old. I still like a person to read to me and that all began with Mrs. Flowers.
Very inspiring. In regards to you becoming an artist, there is a quote from you I appreciate. You said, “You can be truly accomplished at something you love.” Some of our readers may now know that you started in music and arts with dance. What attracted you to that?
Oh, I didn’t have to talk and I was very tall. My brother, who was older than I, was very short and he told me that I was a lady and I was supposed to speak softly and that he was to hold the door for me. I don’t know where he read that, but he read that he was supposed to push the chair when I sat down and because I was so tall I shouldn’t bend over. I shouldn’t slouch. I should stand straight up and he encouraged me to study dance. So when we returned to California, I was thirteen and about 5’10”. My brother suggested I study it. There was a Booker T. Washington community center in San Francisco, so I started studying there and went on to a California school and studied with adults and really fell in love with dance. I’m still in love with dance. See, Mr. Leslie, I think those loves we have…those first loves, never really leave you. We still fantasize. I believe I could become 800 years old and weigh 300 pounds. I would still be a dancer. It’s the only thing I ever loved, save, writing. I still love it. My bones will not let me forget, but I still love dance.
Very interesting. That brings us to calypso music. You became a great calypso singer. I was hoping you could tell us what it is you liked about calypso music.
I don’t know about great, I became known as a calypso singer and I have had no modesty—none at all. I pray I have humility. There is a difference. Modesty comes from the outside. Humility comes from inside and it says that there was someone before me who laid the path. My responsibility is to try to build a road. So, I was well known as a calypso singer and because I could dance, I would often dance in the middle of a song and I think that made me very unusual. I love calypso the way I love blues and country-western music because with calypso the lyrics tell stories. They are not just about “I love you baby” and “let’s make love”…something rawer than that. So the calypsos, each one, tell a story, and such a human story. So that’s what drew me to it.
It is a fascinating genre of music.
It is indeed.
In your book Singin’ and Swingin’ and Gettin’ Merry Like Christmas you write about singing in church services. What kind of music did you like growing up?
I loved all sorts, and still do. I love, when I can hear it, European classical music, and with American classical music, which must include jazz, the spirituals and folk songs, and country music. I loved it all. I had the pleasure of hearing Ms. Marianne Anderson on the radio. I couldn’t believe a human voice could be so beautiful. And my grandmother, loved to hear a song, a western country song called “You are my Sunshine.” It was the only non-religious song we ever sang and I can remember that husky voice of hers singing it around the house along with “Children of Sorrow” another spiritual song. As soon as I heard blues, I was about thirteen because I moved back to be with my mother and she loved the blues. As soon as I heard the blues, I loved them. Even today, I still want to have that song that tells a story, that has lyrics, whether traditional—our folk music, that is, or written by Irving Burgie, and I loved Lord Flea, and Lord Kitchener. Kitchener was so fascinating to me, but all of them. I just enjoyed them.
Dr. Angelou, some people may not know that the name of Maya Angelou was adopted around the time you started your singing career. Tell us how you got started in calypso on a professional level.
Well, I was a dancer and I met some very sophisticated people—artists and dancers and such and they would laugh at folk music. And I said, “Well, I think all music is folk music,” and I tried to defend it. Then they said that folk music was boring and I said “listen to this” and I sang “Run Joe”—[singing] Run Joe, fast as you can, run Joe, the police holdin’ me han’…Moe and Joe ran a candy store. Moe did something and the police came and they were brothers and so the one said “run Joe,” trying to hold the police and protect his brother and I just loved it. So when I sang it to them, they said they hadn’t ever heard calypso. So I sang another and I sang around So I had to quickly go and learn some more. I think I had maybe three, that’s not a very large repertoire. I went about learning some more and I opened at the Purple Onion in San Francisco as Maya Angelou, Calypso singer.
Well speaking of the Purple Onion where you performed during the time of the calypso explosion, I think calypso is a very overlooked genre of music today, I think it’s still very relevant. It’s a great blend of different styles of music. We had the opportunity to welcome Mr. Irving Burgie, you just mentioned and he told us a lot about the calypso explosion. You reviewed his autobiography. Why do you think America embraced calypso so much?
Well it was exotic, it had humor and also it was sung by one of the most handsome human beings we have ever produced and that was Harry Belafonte. Mr. Belafonte was not just handsome. He had an air, he had a presence and he was irresistible and with that voice and his rhythm. And then there was the genius of Irving Burgie. Lord Burgess as he was known. He really wrote some irresistible songs. It was time for it. It was just the time. The landscape needed
Those songs still stand up today. You later joined the “Porgie and Bess” tour and got to do a lot of traveling. You have said you regarded that tour as pivotal in your life. I was hoping you could tell us about that.
I learned among other things, that human beings are more alike than we are unalike. Very important knowledge by traveling. Travel broadens one. It literally does, especially if you keep your eyes open and your ears and your heart. Oh I see! In Yugoslavia, the people there think pretty much, we act the same way they act in Greece, and in Morocco. Okay, I didn’t know that. The people in Turkey act the same way as people in Mozambique and in Little Rock, Arkansas. My goodness. So, it was pivotal in that it opened my thinking to the extent that I cannot find myself a stranger if I’m among human beings, anywhere in the world.
What you just said reminded me of something I heard Barack Obama say. “We have that much more in common, than that what separates us.”
It’s true. Everybody in the world, Mr. Leslie, who wants a job wants a good job, wants to be paid a little more than he’s worth. Not enough to be embarrassed, just enough to say “Boy, am I really making it over now.” Everybody in the world wants to be needed, wants to be respected in the work he or she does and to be told, “This is really a good job you’re doing.” Everybody in the world wants to have safe streets, even the people who make the streets unsafe. Everybody in the world wants to fall in love and to have the unmitigated gall to accept love in return. Everybody! In Bosnia, in Berklee, in Boston. Everybody in the world wants to have someplace to appreciate God on a Sunday, Sunday morning, Saturday, whenever people meet—if they’re religious at all. Everybody wants to have children, if they want children that is, they want to have healthy children. Now, that’s true in Paris, Texas or Paris, France. You see?
So true.
And someplace to party on Saturday night. Everybody.
Jumping back to the music, when you returned from the tour you began performing calypso in California and you recorded a record called “Miss Calypso,” and you were featured in the musical film “Calypso Heatwave.” Could you tell us about the making of the album?
God, you’ve really done your homework. I was asked to make the album, I was invited, and then I was told I had to write some of the songs, and if I didn’t I couldn’t make the album. So I wrote, I think six of them. I myself haven’t heard that music in 20 years or more. I wrote the songs and sang them and did the whole album in a week. Probably a week, Liberty Records. I haven’t even thought about the album in those many years!
It’s still around.
Yes, I hear. I know you’re going to play some.
Going forward, you have written with the legendary Ms. Roberta Flack and you’ve worked on a number of music projects after your calypso album. You did an album with the great duo Ashford & Simpson, and recently a great writer Mr. Ben Harper, he changed a few of the words around, but he did a song called “I Still Rise,” I was hoping you could tell us about working with Ashford & Simpson on that album.
Oh, they’re brilliant. I love them so. I feel of them as if they are my children. They were visiting. They were down here in North Carolina. I think Nick went down on the ground floor and was playing around in the music room, and I went down and Val went down and we were just talking—talking through music. And then, Val sat down at the piano and Nick and I talked through the music and we sort of hmmm, had a song. And we just continued, really not thinking about doing an album or anything, CD, but continued. And then they came down to visit me in Georgia, in Atlanta and we continued, and before you know it we had music. It’s a good CD, it really is. I’m very proud of it. It’s unfortunate it never really caught on, because it didn’t get the exposure. We did “Oprah,” but the record company didn’t have the records out in the stores. They said they would, but they didn’t. So the people who rushed out to get the CD, they weren’t there and weren’t there for another two weeks. By that time, the fever had gone. There’s a rhythm in the affairs of men, and women and if that rhythm loses a beat, then alas the mind goes on to other things. But, it was grand doing it with Ashford and Simpson.
A great duo.
A great duo—great writers.
I’m always amazed at the power of words, whether in poem or song, and Dr. Angelou you are certainly a person who has harnessed the power of words. Can you point to any one poem in your life that you read, and related to greatly and you found to have that power?
Oh, there’s so many. Paul Laurence Dunbar, who still impresses me, who wrote the majority of his work in the late 1800s and a few things in the 1900s before he died at an early, early age. Mr. Dunbar, writing in Standard English, wrote about the human beings suffering, the laughter, the emotions, just everything. So he impressed me and impresses me still. In fact, his poem called “Sympathy,” from that poem I took the title, he wrote in 1893 or 1894. There’s just three verses. (Reciting):

I know what the caged bird feels, alas!
When the sun is bright on the upland slopes;
When the wind stirs soft through the springing grass,
And the river flows like a stream of glass;
When the first bird sings and the first bud opes,
And the faint perfume from its chalice steals –
I know what the caged bird feels!

I know why the caged bird beats his wing
Till its blood is red on the cruel bars;
For he must fly back to his perch and cling
When he fain would be on the bough a-swing;
And a pain still throbs in the old, old scars
And they pulse again with a keener sting –
I know why he beats his wing!

I know why the caged bird sings, ah me,
When his wing is bruised and his bosom sore, –
When he beats his bars and he would be free;
It is not a carol of joy or glee,
But a prayer that he sends from his heart's deep core,
But a plea, that upward to Heaven he flings –
I know why the caged bird sings!

And from that poem I took the title of my first autobiography, and the title of my sixth and the last on in the series—A Sung Flung Up to Heaven.
Thank you so much for reciting that poem, that was lovely.
Thank you so much for allowing me to say the whole thing.
What is it you like about poetry, whether it’s written, spoken or set to a melody in song?
It tells the human story. It tells about our weeping and our laughing and our cowardice and our courage. That’s what I like about it.
You’ve had the opportunity to meet some wonderful people. Who among them sticks out in your mind?
I would risk forgetting somebody or overlooking so is important. No, no. I’ve learned something from a number of people, some who meant me well and some who didn’t. I’m grateful to be alive and grateful to have friends, grateful to have students and a large family of every kind of person. When we have a family reunion, we have black and white and Asians. Our family reunions include Muslims, and Jews and Baptists. Pretty people and plain people. It is my blessing to have met and loved a lot, and still daring to love a lot. I dare not speak of any one person.
What would you, Dr. Maya Angelou like to say to the world?
I wish you peace. I believe in the heart of every human being, no matter how cantankerous he or she is, or how bellicose, and warlike, I believe in the secret heart, there’s a desire for peace. I believe we can be peacemakers. I believe we can even be peace bringers. We don’t have to wait until we arrive at the destination to make peace. I think we can bring it in our hearts and in our hands with us. I wish you peace and laughter and love.

Listen NOW to the Matt Costa special

2010-12-14T16:03:00.000-08:00

An Interview with Matt Costa on “The Paul Leslie Hour”

Recorded November 12, 2010 at the Loft at Center Stage in Atlanta, Georgia.

Like a troubadour in the days of old, Matt Costa wandered through the back of the Atlanta music venue called the Loft. He strummed his guitar and wailed on his harmonica while the musicians in his band played. They formed a straight line like a small marching band. Costa told me he wanted his listeners to feel a “sense of relation.” The crowd was already there and primed; ready to hear these “Songs We Sing,” the title Costa gave his first album. As the band pushed through the excited crowd, some sang along while most clapped. In keeping true to his goal, Matt Costa’s concert was as relatable as his music and the man himself. He started the concert from the audience as a reminder that they were as much a part of the show as he was.

I invite you to read the conversation we had backstage prior to Matt Costa’s show.

OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT

PAUL LESLIE:

Ladies and gentlemen, it’s a great pleasure to welcome our special guest Matt Costa here at the Loft at Center Stage. So first of all, thanks for making the time to do this.
MATT COSTA:
Yes, thanks for having me on the show.

Who is Matt Costa?
Well, I don’t know. I’ve been trying to figure that out my whole life. I guess that’s the challenge, but today—songwriter. Going to be doing some songs here in Atlanta, for the time being. Let’s see—28 years old and enjoying it.

You’ve got a new album out on Brushfire Records. It’s entitled “Mobile Chateau.” So for everyone that’s wondering—what exactly does “Mobile Chateau” mean?
Well, quite literally my wife had made a mobile—in the chateau we were staying at in France. From there the idea changed into a movable feast sort of thing—all of the people who were involved with making the record, playing on it and the artwork and stuff like that. So it’s my own movable feast.

Do you have a favorite song from the album?
Everyday is different, because you feel different ways everyday. I really liked the way “Drive” turned out. I like that song because it’s collaboration in a sense that I took the initiative to make. There’s a singer from the sixties named Bob Lynn who wrote a song called “Go Ask Your Man.” My uncle had turned me onto him. So anyways, it’s half of his lyrics, half of my lyrics. Then I rewrote all the music to it. So I essentially co-wrote and rewrote an old song that was half my idea and half the original idea. I like that one for that reason because I’ve never done that before. I never thought I could sing those songs, put it on a record and believe it. For some reason I felt a great parallel with him in that song. I never felt like another song like that was my own, until now. That was interesting, something new that I did on this record.

Matt, tell us about some of your influences.
John Steinbeck. The guys in my band, they’re influences. I think you put yourself around people that push you. Donavon, Airport Convention. A lot of sixties, British. I learned to play folk music because of their interpretations of it, and then finally I went back to American roots. But now I’m kind of going back. I always go back to those British, late sixties records for inspiration, at least on this record I did.

I wanted to ask you about one of the songs from the last album “Unfamiliar Faces,” the song is “Mr. Pitiful.” I really like that one, if you don’t mind going back and talking about one from the last record.
Sure, yeah. Well, I wrote that song. I bought a piano from a piano shop in Sacramento and I had just moved into a place up there that I was renting. I bought the piano. It was a nice piano shop, they had thousands of dollars of pianos—ya know, like hundred thousand dollar pianos, fifty thousand dollars, nice Steinways, nice ones. I found this one in the corner. I didn’t want to spend. I didn’t have enough money to buy a real nice piano, but I saw one in the corner. I asked the guy how much it was. “This one?” He was trying to get rid of it. The finish was all messed up on it, the keys were all jagged, wood was coming through on the black keys and he said “I’ll give it to you for 250 bucks.” “250 bucks?” “Yeah, you just got to get somebody to take it home.” I had a friend pull the truck up. I gave him 250 bucks and took that piano home. I started working on playing more piano. I always like working on piano, I think it’s a helpful tool when you can’t go any further on a guitar you can take a melody to the piano, chords and stuff like that and it can grow. You can’t get the full low end on the guitar, for the bass notes so you can’t hear how things play together. So I wrote “Mr. Pitiful” one day on that piano. That’s the first song I ever wrote on that piano. The feeling of how someone’s own character or something can make you feel like you did something personally that offended them. I guess on both ends, it just sounds almost ironic the way that the lyrics play with the upbeat thing. I like using subjects that juxtapose the music because I’m always drawn to upbeat melodies and upbeat sounds.

Is there a part of music that you’d say you like better than the other? You write songs. You record music and you perform. You’re in different modes when you’re doing each one, but they all interplay. Sometimes you try to emulate sounds from a live show on a recording or sometimes you do the opposite. Sometimes you try to emulate sounds from a recording on a live show. Sometimes you’re working on, you’re playing a song and you write a little riff to a song and you’re doing it during sound check or something like that and sometimes you’re during the middle of a show and you try something out, a song and you never thought of it that way just because in the moment it makes you think about it differently so you push yourself to play it. You discover something about it. I think they’re all intertwined, but I’d say I really like the writing process and the satisfaction of creating something new and writing a song. I like the creation aspect of it. That’s my favorite part, so writing a song and having that feeling afterwards that you released this feeling and now it has an identity. Older songs too, recreating those and making those evolve with your own musical abilities. As you play, you’re going to learn more. Recently on this record, I’ve wanted to do subtle changes in the songs—going to radio stations and things, when we do performances in the studios at NPR and stuff like that, incorporating things that weren’t on the original recording or on the record so those are documented at the time. You don’t want to go back and rerecord a whole record, but it’s cool to capture that moment again with an evolution. That’s something that only in the last month or so, on this tour, have really enjoyed the idea of trying to do.

When somebody goes and they hear you perform or when they listen to one of your records, what is it you want the listener to get out of that experience?
Wow. When someone listens to the music I think, a sense of relation. A lot of times there’s live lessons in music. You hear something and you go “Man I never knew that.” That that happened to someone else in their life or in the same way or how to deal with something. Or just a little bit of an escape from the monotony of something. That’s why you put on your headphones and could be anywhere and you could be someplace else. So I think I take the listener and try to create as much of an out of body experience as possible.

Now the latest album is “Mobile Chateau” and everyone can check out mattcosta.com. They can also check out brushfirerecords.com. Speaking of Brushfire, how did you find your way on the Brushfire Record label? I remember in 2005 you were performing with ALO. How did that happen?
Well, I put out the first record “Songs We Sing” with my friend Tom. We did it independently. Emmett Malloy and Jack Johnson heard that, they are the two main folks behind Brushfire Records. They asked me to come out on tour. In the middle of that tour, we’d been getting along so well they asked me if they wanted me to put my music out on their record label. So that’s how it came about. I said yeah, because I liked a lot of the ideas. I put so much time in the music. It’s nice when the music becomes a community and also gives back to good causes. The people’s motives are true and pure.

Is there anything you’d like to say before we leave?
Keep on keepin’ on. Make sure you enjoy things. Sometimes I think it’s easy to forget that. I have to remind myself all the time. In any circumstance it’s easy to take things for granted—the people around you and everything. Don’t take anything for granted because there’s always someone in a worse position. When you see someone in that position, you gotta help ‘em out.

Mr. Costa, thanks for the interview.
Yeah, my pleasure.

Copyright © 2010—Paul Leslie & Lifestyles Entertainment—All Rights Reserved

Listen NOW to the John Goodwin Special!

2010-11-28T21:52:00.000-08:00

John Goodwin is an incredible singer-songwriter who has recorded his most recent album "Goodwin." John Goodwin has recorded six albums, the newest record features a new direction with solo acoustic performances and duets with Jessica Andrews, Michael McDonald and Jeff Bridges. John Goodwin is also a visual artist--a painter and photographer. His songs have been featured in several major motion pictures including Crazy Heart, Surf's Up, The Amateurs, and Tideland.

Listen NOW to the Jeff Daniels Special!

2010-11-22T10:56:00.000-08:00

The Paul Leslie Hour welcomes Jeff Daniels

Joining us on The Paul Leslie Hour for a fascinating profile is Actor, Singer-Songwriter, Recording Artist and Playwright Jeff Daniels! Recorded on stage at Smith's Olde Bar in Atlanta, Georgia--the celebrated Motion Picture Star and Musician gave us an in-depth interview about his incredible songs. He even performed an unplugged, acoustic song just for the listeners. This will be one you do not want to miss!

Listen NOW to the Shari Belafonte Special!

2010-11-14T21:39:00.001-08:00

The Paul Leslie Hour welcomes Shari Belafonte

Shari Belafonte has been described as a Renaissance woman. In the entertainment world she has been credited as an actress, model, writer, singer and spokesperson. She is well known for her role as Julie Gillette on the prime time television series "Hotel" which was broadcast from 1983 to 1988. She has starred in several motion pictures and television programs. She co-hosted the syndicated series "Lifestyles with Robin Leach and Shari Belafonte" and a travel show called "Travels in Mexico and the Caribbean with Shari Belafonte" She is the international spokesperson for the Starlight Children's Foundation and was also named one of the top ten celebrity endorsers by the Wall Street Journal. There's more...Shari Belafonte is also an avid photographer. Her collections include "Postcards from Cuba" and most recently an acclaimed collection entitled "Italia" of photographs she took in Italy. She is also a recording artist with two albums to her credit: Eyes of Night in 1987 and her sophomore release "Shari" in 1989. Along with an in-depth interview, we are also pleased to feature selections of her recorded music in this fascinating profile. It's no wonder why she has been called a Renaissance woman.

Listen NOW to the Harry Nilsson special with Curtis Armstrong

2010-11-14T21:30:00.000-08:00

A Harry Nilsson Special with special guest: Actor Curtis Armstrong on "The Paul Leslie Hour.

Motion picture actor Curtis Armstrong is best known for the movies and television programs he has starred in, including his first major role as "Miles" in the 1983 hit "Risky Business." However, Armstrong is also known for being one of the foremost experts on the late musician Harry Nilsson. Join us as we celebrate the music of one of the greatest songwriters--Harry Nilsson!

Listen NOW to the Chubby Checker Special!

2010-10-18T19:04:00.000-07:00

Chubby Checker is an American singer and legend who popularized the Twist, a Hank Ballard song and an accompanying dance in 1960. 2010 is the 50th anniversary of the Twist, and it is with great pleasure we present a special and interview with the legendary Chubby Checker.

Chubby Checker is the only recording artist to place five albums in the Top 12 all at once. He changed the way we dance to the beat of music, Checker told Billboard, "Anyplace on the planet, when someone has a song that has a beat, they're on the floor dancing apart to the beat. And before Chubby Checker, it wasn't here."

Enjoy the show!

Listen NOW to the Walter Breuning special!

2010-09-26T22:24:00.000-07:00

On this episode, we are pleased to present an interview with Mr. Walter Breuning in celebration of Mr. Walter Breuning's 114th Birthday. He was born September 21, 1896 and according to the Gerontology Research Group, he is the oldest living human being in the entire world. Walter Breuning was born in Melrose, Minnestota. In 1918, he moved to Great Falls, Montana where he worked for the Great Northern Railway. He was married to Agnes, a woman who was a railroad telegraph operator from Butte. She passed away in 1957. They had no children and Mr. Breuning never remarried.

Walter Breuning has lived through part of the 19th Century, all of the 20th Century and lives into the 21st Century. He says he can remember his grandfather talking about his experiences in the American Civil War and recalls the day President William McKinley was shot in 1901 as the day he got his first haircut.

Mr. Breuning dresses in a suit and tie daily and exercises every day. We are pleased and honored to welcome him for a special interview. Along with a conversation, we will be playing music from every single decade of Mr. Breuning's long life. That's over 100 years of music. Join us as we watch the evolution of music and talk with a man who's message can be appreciated by all.

Listen NOW to the Pelvis Breastlies Special!

2010-09-26T21:57:00.000-07:00

Elvis Presley is known to all as the King of Rock 'n Roll. From his humble beginnings in Tupelo, Mississippi; Elvis Presley was one of the most popular singers and icons of the 20th Century. His influence continue to grow and Elvis Presley music is still loved by all ages around the world.

In Atlanta, Georgia there was a girl with a Rock 'n Roll Dream...Meet Shawn Williams, a girl who loves Elvis and knows that although the King is Gone, he still lives on...in the heart of the people. She decides to start an all female tribute band to perpetuate the King's music and in 2010, the Pelvis Breastlies are born.

Recorded at Real 2 Reel Studios in Atlanta, Georgia we invite you to meet Shawn, Erin, Davi, Katy and Elizabeth and enjoy live musical performances from their band: The Pelvis Breastlies. Listen in for a full hour of music and interviews. Viva Las Pelvis Breastlies on The Paul Leslie Hour!

Listen NOW to the John B. Sebastian special

2010-09-26T21:50:00.000-07:00

© Photography Catherine Sebastian/ CSP Images

"The Paul Leslie Hour" proudly presents an exclusive interview with the legendary John B. Sebastian of Lovin' Spoonful fame. His songs are loved all over the world - ("Do You Believe In Magic?" "You Didn't Have To Be So Nice" "Daydream.")

You'll hear the songs that changed a generation and an exclusive interview recorded backstage at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center.

Listen now!

Listen NOW to the Troy Allan special!

2010-09-26T21:42:00.000-07:00

Troy Allan is a singer/songwriter and musician from Vidor, Texas. He plays rhythm and some lead and does solo shows singing everything from originals to country to island music and classic rock. Troy was influenced as a kid by Willie and Waylon, and George Strait all the way to Van Halen...with a side of James Taylor.

Troy has released his first CD entitled ONE MAN ONE GUITAR, as well as his first full studio "Just South of Corpus" cd. That CD was the 2008 Texas Music Awards Top 5 Finalist for Male Vocalist, and Song of the Year for the title track. Troy has been the Bass player for a Tropical Rock band called Hannas Reef for 3 years. Troy learned he had a very rare stomach cancer--Linitis Plastica. It is the fastest growing cancer known to man and also the most deadly. Troy stumbled across this disease early and made a full recovery. Due to the silent growth and virtually no symptoms from this cancer, Troy has taken it upon himself to alert the masses. He has learned since his Stomach removal surgery in January 2010 that he is now the longest living person with Linitis Plastica. After learning this, Troy launched the "TROY ALLAN CANCER FREE 100 HOUSE CONCERT TOUR."

One of those house concert tour dates was in Georgia. He stayed at the home of Monte Tolar and we had the opportunity to catch up with Troy Allan and even have him perform a mini-concert for the benefit of all those who would like to listen in.

Listen NOW to the Rick Coleman Special (Part 2 of 2)

2010-09-26T20:36:00.000-07:00

Rick Coleman, author of Blue Monday: Fats Domino and the Lost Dawn of Rock 'n Roll returns to continue the discussion on the one and only Fats Domino!

Listen now!

Listen NOW to the Rick Coleman Special (Part 1 of 2)

2010-09-26T20:32:00.001-07:00

This episode is a tribute to a man who was once a guest on this program. He was one of the first inductees into the Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame and is also a member of the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame. Along with Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis and Chuck Berry he is one of the founding fathers of Rock 'n Roll. He is the legendary Fats Domino.

Who is Rick Coleman? Rick Coleman is the foremost authority on Fats Domino and the author of the critically acclaimed book "BLUE MONDAY: Fats Domino and the Lost Dawn of Rock 'n Roll." He also contributed articles for Rolling Stone, Billboard and Offbeat magaziine. His book BLUE MONDAY is the first ever biography of Fats Domino. Fats Domino is a somewhat reclusive rock 'n roll star--interviews are rare, but Rick Coleman's friendship with Fats allowed him the opportunity to interview Fats Domino on several occasions. The interview we present here and the music from Fats Domino may inspire you to Walk to New Orleans, find your Thrill on Blueberry Hill, or to be a Wheel Someday, Walk Someone Home or maybe just Let the Big Beat Keep You Rockin' In Your Seat...

Listen NOW to the Clarence "Frogman" Henry Special On-Demand

2010-09-26T20:29:00.000-07:00

Who is Clarence Henry? He's most known to the world as "Frogman" Henry who came into the world of music with his trademark croak in his debut song "Ain't Got No Home." Other hits including "You Always Hurt the One You Love" and "(I Don't Know Why) But I Do," both from 1961. The latter appeared in the 1994 major motion picture "Forrest Gump," sparking a revival to Frogman's career which has endured to this day.

In 1964, Clarence "Frogman" Henry opened 18 concerts for the Beatles in the United States and Canada, but his approximate two decades of performances on world-famous Bourbon Street in New Orleans, Louisiana have been seen by multitudes of tourists and locals alike. His recordings and performances have won him fans of all ages and backgrounds. Many famous musicians have cited Frogman as an influence including Paul McCartney, Paul Shaffer, Elton John, Jimmy Buffett, Bono of U2 and Mark Sandman of Morphine among many others.

Clarence "Frogman" Henry has been recognized by the Rockabilly Music Hall of Fame and in April 2007, "Frogman" was inducted into the prestigious Louisiana Music Hall of Fame. We invite you to listen to Frogman's story--in his own words, recorded in his home in New Orleans. We also invite you to listen to some of the best music we've ever heard!

Listen NOW to the Harry Connick, Sr. Special On-Demand!

2010-09-26T20:22:00.001-07:00

Who is Harry Connick, Sr.? It depends on who you ask! In the state of Louisiana, Connick was the district attorney of the Parish of Orleans from 1973 to 2003.

Harry Connick, Sr. is also a singer of many of those great classic songs the world seldom has the good fortune to hear these days. Like Harry Connick, Jr. his illustrious and talented son, Senior is also a crooner. Along with an exclusive interview recorded in his home, we will be featuring a variety of great songs including selections from Connick's two albums "New Orleans...My Home Town" and "All of Me." Tune in and hear some of the greatest songs ever written, sung by a man who can sing 'em!

Listen now!

ThePaulLeslie.com

2010-08-24T18:03:00.000-07:00

Aloha Friends!

Welcome to the home of Lifestyles Entertainment at thepaulleslie.com

Please make sure to make http://www.thepaulleslie.com a part of your online life. Please do not hesitate to connect with me. That's why I'm here.