In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby speaks with Karen Barajas of Karen y Los Remedios, the trailblazing trio redefining the boundaries of cumbia. Karen shares the group's origin story, from early collaborations with Jonathan Muriel (Jiony) and the addition of guitarist Guillermo Berbeyer (Z.A.M.P.A.) to their evolution into one of the most innovative acts in Latin music today.

In this episode, we sat down with Sam An, the artist behind Lana Del Rabies, to explore the intersection of myth, music, and survival. Known for her genre-defying sound that blends industrial, gothic noise, and experimental metal, An discusses the creative process behind her critically acclaimed album STREGA BEATA, from the apocalyptic themes of “Apocalypse Fatigue” to the empowering mythology of “Queen of the Black Muses,” Sam shares how grief, humanity’s destructive impulses, and her existential reflections shape her art.

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby chats with two-time Grammy-winning violinist and composer Mads Tolling to explore the art of collaboration and musical reinvention. Mads shares the stories behind his groundbreaking work with celebrated jazz pianist John R. Burr and acclaimed vocalist Kenny Washington, including their reinterpretations of classics like "Blackbird" and "What a Wonderful World."

In this captivating episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with South African guitarist and composer Derek Gripper to discuss his groundbreaking collaboration with Malian kora master Ballaké Sissoko. Known for his ability to translate the kora’s 21 strings onto a six-string guitar, Derek shares the stories behind their self-titled album, recorded in just three hours, and the unique synergy that defines their performances.

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby interviews Grammy-winning bassist and global music ambassador Richard Bona. Known for his dynamic blend of jazz, Afropop, and the vibrant traditions of his Cameroonian heritage, Bona shares insights on his creative process, the challenges and triumphs of being an independent artist, and his latest projects. Listeners will hear about his upcoming single, Piel Canela, a soulful collaboration with Alfredo Rodríguez, and his January concerts with the Asante Trio at Yoshi's Oakland.

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, we’re thrilled to feature Nyles Lannon, the visionary behind Nyte Skye, a band that blends atmospheric dream-pop with shimmering shoegaze textures. Formed during the pandemic, Nyte Skye is a family-driven project founded by Nyles and his son Skye.

In this festive episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with Emilio Castillo, founder and tenor saxophonist of the legendary East Bay soul band Tower of Power. Emilio shares the story behind the band’s very first Christmas album, It’s Christmas, a soulful and funky collection that brings new life to beloved holiday classics.

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby dives into a fascinating conversation with singer-songwriter Vienna Teng. Known for her boundary-pushing approach to chamber folk and indie pop, Vienna discusses her latest album, We’ve Got You, an ambitious project featuring mashups that reflect the dualities of modern life.

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with acclaimed singer-songwriter Sean Hayes, whose music bridges folk, soul, and introspective grooves. They delve into the creative journey behind Sean's latest album, Be Like Water, exploring its thematic inspirations drawn from the I Ching and the funky influence of James Brown.

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby dives into the mind-bending world of The Third Mind with bassist and co-founder Victor Krummenacher. Known for his work with Camper Van Beethoven and Monks of Doom, Victor shares the story behind the band’s formation, their freeform creative process, and the making of their upcoming live concert album, Live Mind.

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby chats with Emily Turner, bassist and vocalist of the genre-bending trio Free Creatures. Hailing from Southern Oregon, Free Creatures fuses alt-hip-hop, indie, psych-rock, and EDM to create what they call "the umami of music."

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby interviews Miles and Teo Quale, the talented brothers behind the Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band. Known for their electrifying fusion of bluegrass, jazz, and modern acoustic styles, Crying Uncle has become a rising force in the acoustic music scene. They recently signed with Engelhardt Music Group, solidifying their place as emerging stars in the genre.

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby interviews singer-songwriter Jennifer Greer about the deeply personal journey behind her new album, Speaking with Ghosts. From her transition from poetry to songwriting to navigating grief and loss, Jennifer talks about how life’s “tidal waves” shaped her music.

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby interviews Noah Sierota, bassist and producer of the multi-platinum alt-pop trio Echosmith.  Noah also offers a glimpse into the band’s creative process and what fans can expect from their upcoming West Coast tour, including an intimate performance at San Francisco's Brick-and-Mortar Music Hall.

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby interviews six-time Grammy-nominated jazz fusion guitarist Mike Stern. Known for his legendary collaborations with icons like Miles Davis and the Brecker Brothers, Mike shares insights into his creative process for his latest album, Echoes and Other Songs.

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby sits down with Carolyn Kendrick, a Stockton-born singer-songwriter, fiddler, and producer, to discuss her highly anticipated album, Each Machine, which will be released on December 6th.

In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby engages in an insightful conversation with Njioma Chinyere Grevious of the Abeo Quartet, a dynamic group of musicians redefining chamber music with passion and precision.

On this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steve Roby welcomes Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, fiddler, and a bluegrass icon Laurie Lewis for an intimate conversation about her latest album, Trees. Laurie shares insights into creating music without her longtime collaborator, Tom Rozum, and how her songs' themes of loss and hope are interwoven.

In this episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby sits down with Jimmie Herrod, the sensational vocalist celebrated for his breathtaking performances and unique artistry. Known for his work with Pink Martini and his memorable run on America’s Got Talent, Jimmie shares personal insights into his journey as a musician, his creative process, and the transformative power of jazz.

In this inspiring episode of Backstage Sonoma, host Steven Roby welcomes jazz and blues vocalist Marina Crouse for an intimate conversation about her musical journey, her passion for honoring jazz greats like Ernestine Anderson, and how she connects with audiences through her soulful performances. Marina shares her thoughts on preserving jazz traditions while adding her unique voice to the genre.