During rehearsal/media night of Gamma Phi Circus, we chatted with executive director Marcus Alouan about the 2024 theme - The Magic of Musicals. The show opened with a song from 'Burlesque' with a live singer. The night will also include live musicians to accompany the performers. Marcus tells us the 'wheels are already turning' for next year's theme much like it was this time last year. The ISU students put in over a 100 hours in training and practice for this weekend's performance and it truly showed by what we saw (watch a preview here). Many of these students will go on after graduation to careers in performance. Past graduates currently hold roles with Cirque Du Soleil, Marvel stunt shows, and on Broadway. Here is our complete conversation Marcus about this weekend's performances. Get your tickets here.

This year’s Slow Art Day on Route 66 is set for Saturday, April 13th from 10a to 2p. I sat down with Aianna Zachary and Santino Lamancusa to talk about the 2024 event that spans both Bloomington and Normal and features 20 locations. Hear how the art community came together to create the first city wide event of its kind for Slow Art Day, how the event continues to grow, and so much more about the art scene in our area.   Participating Locations (10am – 2pm): 410 Sculpture Park, 410 S. Madison St. Angel Ambrose Fine Art Studio, 101 W. Monroe St., Suite 201 Art Vortex Studio & Gallery, 101 W. Monroe St., Suite 210 Beluga Press Art Gallery, 313 N Main St. Side B. Children’s Discovery Museum, 101 E Beaufort St., Normal Dave Fulghum Photographer, 415 N. Main St. Ste. 1 Herb Eaton Studio and Gallery, 411 N. Center St. Illinois Art Station, 101 E. Vernon Ave., Normal Inside Out: Accessible Art, 200 W. Monroe St. Joann Goetzinger Studio and Gallery, 313 N. Main St. Main Gallery 404, 404 N. Main St. Mandy Roeing Fine Art Studio & Gallery, 105-A W. Monroe St. McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. McLean County Museum of History, 200 N. Main St. The Hangar Art Company, 105 W. Jefferson St. The House on Garling, 1905 Garling Dr. The Painted Wraith Curiosity Shoppe, 106 W Monroe St. Three Square Art Studio, 104 W. Monroe St. Threshold To Hope, 200 W. Monroe St. University Galleries of Illinois State University, 11 Uptown Circle #103, Normal There’ll also be a ‘Closing Reception,’ which all are welcome, happening at The Hangar Art Co. from 2p to 4p.

Nickelback are no strangers to 'hate' when it comes to the internet. In fact, it's a center point of their documentary 'Hate to Love.' There's a lengthy section of the film dedicated to internet's hate of the band, how they each dealt with it personally and within the band itself. 'Hate to Love' also looks at the band's story from Hannah, Alberta to becoming one of the biggest selling artists in the world. I sat down with Ryan Peake, guitars, to talk about the documentary and how it started as an EPK (electronic press kid) for their Feed The Machine album in 2017: We saw a small clip from the EPK. They shot it really well. I had it in my head, we're talking about our biography why not make a full documentary on the band. As we kept filming somebody went should we talk about this? Ok. Should we talk about this? And go it kind of grew into this monster that it's kind of become without necessarily knowing we were doing this. When talking about the various things throughout the band's history, there's obviously some deep things that needed to be touched upon. I asked Ryan what that was like for him: You have to be honestly willing to it and as honest as you can. That's the hard thing because you can be all f****** happy and everything is great if you want you or kind of show people there's four human beings in this band and not just this behemoth Nickelback. There's people behind that. Out of the finished produced, Ryan says his proudest part was: It's the near the ending. It's kind of that we've been through been a bunch of stuff. But we still find a place to come together and still want to do this. I'm pretty proud we can get past any differences we have and still kind of stick together and want to do this. Hate to Love is in theaters this week for special screenings. Find out more at https://www.nickelbackfilm.com/.

From time to time, I'm going to rewind to some past interviews with folks who've either stopped by the studio or chatted with us on the phone/video/etc. For this Throwback we're going to 2019 and when Shallow Side swung by our old studios in Downtown Bloomington. Actually they were one of the final bands to make a stop there before the pandemic and our move. We talked about album Saints & Sinners (new at the time), almost signing with a major label, throwing hot dogs out to a crowd, a Facebook bellybutton challenge video, and played a couple of rounds of MIXTAPE Card Game.

Jake Segura, lead vocals, of Citizen Soldier joined me ahead of their performance at the Castle Theatre on October 12, 2023. The band is currently on an acoustic tour, which Jake says was simply due to them having some 'time off' from recording their next album in Nashville. The band's producer was unable to be in studio for a string of dates so the band decided to hit the road and play acoustic for their fans. Jake and I dive into stripping down their songs for acoustic performances, how & why they make the VIP fan experience extra special, the human connection of being at a concert, and much more. We also talk about their viral song 'Bottom of the Ocean,' which is an unfinished track for the band but they are performing during their VIP experience on this tour.  For more on Citizen Soldier, check out https://www.citizensoldierband.com/ Follow me on Instragram/TikTok/Facebook/X/Threads @WesStylesRadio

Before their show on September 27, 2023 at Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington, IL Wes Styles sat down with Megadeth's Dave Mustaine. Dave touched on what it takes to put the band's setlist together these days, the energy level in the band's performance, taping their shows for review purposes, starting fresh with a whole team behind the scenes for the band, and what their legacy will be. Follow Wes Styles on Instagram, X, and Threads @WesStylesRadio.

September 19 was a special night at The Castle Theatre. Not only was it a packed house for Atreyu, Memphis May Fire, and Catch Your Breath... but we also had an engagement in the crowd! I chatted with Sarah, who's boyfriend of three years proposed to her while Atreyu was on stage performing 'When Two Are One.' She explained that she felt a tap on her back and then saw Logan going down to one knee. I was thought I was gonna pass out. I was freaking out. No one else knew this was going to happen. According to Sarah They [our friends] only found out that night. The only person he told was my mom. Brandon Saller, Atreyu's singer, almost stopped performing once he realized what was happening. After the song, Atreyu brought further attention to the newly engaged couple by opening up the pit so the Sarah and Logan could slow dance to the next song, The Theft. I'm introvert so I was panicking. There was hundreds of people watching me... I was freaking out. I mean he's my best friend, so it was just us in that moment. Less than 24 hours later, has Sarah had time to process it all? I posted it on Facebook this morning and there's been a huge reaction... from everybody. I haven't really had a chance to decompress from everything. Is there a date set for a wedding yet? Our anniversary is September 27 and in 2 years that'll be a Saturday. So we were thinking of having a nice 2 year engagement and figuring out then. We wish the couple all the best and a huge congratulations on their engagement! What a special moment it was!

Jan Lancaster, who's better known as Mama, owns The Bistro in Downtown Bloomington. She's the creator of the annual Pridefest which hosts its fifth event on Saturday, July 29 (2023). This year will take place on the 300 block of North Main Street, right between Jefferson and Monroe, will be filled with vendors, artists, music, drag performances, food, and more! The stage will feature Shuga Deatz (4:00pm), Pride Idol (6:00pm), and the Outdoor Drag Show (7:00 to 10:00pm). Plus indoor, 21+ events after 11pm. We sat down with Mama to talk about the creation of Pridefest, history of The Bistro and looking back over the its 30 years, plus what it means to be called a true leader and advocate in the community. 

Ready for a challenge? Get your stomach ready for a gladiator of a challenge thanks to the Barrel House in Bloomington! Ray Ceresa from the Barrel House caught up with Styles to talk about their challenge including how many of attempted it and how few how have fully completed it. For perspective, the 'Gladiator Burger' includes  3 black angus patties with cheese 2 deep fried Nashville hot tenders Cheese Curds Bacon Onion Strings Fried Jalapenos BBQ Sauce Piled High on a Brioche Bun Topped with a Deep Fried Jalapeno ...AND THAT'S JUST THE BURGER. Then you have two sides that are a ½ pound of Barrel Fries on the side and a ½ pound of sweet potato waffle fries on the side. The challenge is complete all of this in 30 minutes or less! Got what it takes? The meal is $49.99, but if you finish in the allotted time then it's free.

The VisitBN Gift Shop, located inside Grossinger Motors Arena, is celebrating it's first anniversary. A hidden gem in Downtown Bloomington, the store highlights and sells products from area vendors that you might not be able to get elsewhere. We chat with store manager DeAnne Ziemer about what the store brings to the community, how they are celebrating one year, and how you can find them. 

Hector from Central Parked Bar & Grill, located inside the Parke Regency Hotel and Convention Center, talks with Wes Styles about what patrons can expect from the newest restaurant in town. With a newly renovated space and made from scratch menu, nothing is frozen, stop out for the 'friendly neighborhood' place where you can 'Sleep here, meet here, eat here!' 

Miller Park Zoo curator Pearl Yusuf and director Jay Pratte talk about "Puddles” the Chilean pudu and “Chili” the giant anteater joining the zoo, how that came to be, adapting to their new homes, and how the staff is leaning the animals habits. The new South America habitats are now open for visitors to see thanks to a $1.1 million project by an Illinois Department of Natural Resources grant, the Miller Park Zoological Society, and the Ewing Zoo Foundation.

Miller Park Zoo curator Pearl Yusuf discusses what "Puddles” the Chilean pudu and “Chili” the giant anteater are. The new South America habitats are now open for visitors to see thanks to a $1.1 million project by an Illinois Department of Natural Resources grant, the Miller Park Zoological Society, and the Ewing Zoo Foundation.

Cogs & Corsets: A Central Illinois Steampunk Happening is in its sixth year as the event takes place in Downtown Bloomington June 2 to 4, 2023. Amy O’Neal and Melanie Shellito are two of the organizers of the event. They sat down with Wes Styles to talk about the beginnings of Cogs & Corsets, it's growth into a premiere event for fans of the genre, and what spectators can expect this year. Plan your adventure for Cogs & Corsets at their website https://www.cogsandcorsetsil.com/

Tracy Fulcher, Communications Manager for Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, talks about their 'Tell Us Your Story' giveaway. It's done in conjunction with National Travel and Tourism Week. Head over to the CVB's social media accounts to talk about a different area business each day for a chance to win the prize pack that includes 2 tickets to Tailgate N Tallboys, 2 $25 DESTHIL gift certificates and 2 hats, 4 passes to Radar Farms, quart of Funks Grove Pure Maple Syrup,  2 passes to Wild Harvest Glow Night, and more. National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) is an annual tradition to celebrate the U.S. travel community and travel’s essential role in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, creating quality job opportunities, inspiring new businesses and elevating the quality of life for Americans every day. (Source: U.S. Travel Association) *Winner will be announced on Monday, May 15, 2023*

Matt Hawkins, President of Sports & Events with Bloomington-Normal Area CVB, talks about the 2023 Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor. This year is the first time Bloomington-Normal will be apart of the festival that celebrates the America's classic highway route.  The festival will features events throughout May 6 and 7 along the 100 miles stretch of Route 66 between Bloomington-Normal and Joliet. For Bloomington-Normal, our events will take place on May 6.  In Normal stop at Ryburn Place at Sprague’s Super Service, 305 Pine St., which is a 1930’s gas station, garage, and café. It is a restored Tudor- style building, with a photo op at the replica gas pumps. Vintage cars that will be showcased too. The shop will hold special hours are 9am-5pm Saturday and Sunday. For Bloomington, Downtown is where it's at from 4pm to 10pm with live music, food vendors, car show, and more!  CLICK HERE for full details

2023's Gamma Phi Circus theme is 'Dance On' with various dance styles across the entire show that spans over two hours. We were there for their dress rehearsal on April 19 and talked with Gamma Phi Circus director Marcus Alouan about this year's theme, the student performers, their summer camps, and more.  See the Gamma Phi Circus over three performances including Friday, April 21 at 7pm Saturday, April 22 at 1pm and 7p 

Bloomington Gold's president Guy Larsen talks about the group's 50th anniversary and what it's meant to bring their premiere event to their birthplace. Bloomington-Normal played host last year for the first time in nearly three decades and welcomed the thousands of car enthusiasts to the town as they descended on the Illinois State University campus. The 2023 event will feature a gold collection in the Bone Student Center along with swap meet, indoor/outdoor vendors, special displays, seminars, and thousands of cars on display throughout the campus. There'll also be the 'Gold Tour' on Route 66 that will end with a Block Party in Uptown Normal on Saturday, June 3rd. For more about the 2023 event, visit BloomingtonGold.com

Taking Steps to End Child Abuse Color Run (5k and 1 Mile Walk) is Saturday, April 21 at Fairview Park in Normal. The walk benefits Children's Home & Aid's Family Visitation Center. It's the only one of its kind in the McLean County region. The center provides a safe, neutral, child-friendly environment for supervised visitation and exchanges for families. Laura Cordero, Senior Development Specialist at Children's Home & Aid, joined us to talk about the Color Run. She talks about what runners (and walkers) can expect on the course, how to register (aka HERE), and that the run is in memory of young Jack and Duncan Leichtenberg, victims of 2009 domestic violence. We hope to see you at Fairview Park on April 21.

Slow Art Day is an annual global event created to help more people discover the joy of looking at and loving art. Bloomington is the largest hosts of the event and makes international headlines for it. Everyone is invited to visit our local studios and galleries free of charge from 10am to 2pm on Saturday, April 15. There'll also be a special closing reception at The Hangar Art Co. from 2-4pm, featuring a cash bar and small bites courtesy of The Mystic Kitchen & Tasting Room, along with conversations with the artists. Wes Styles sat down Pam & Herb of Eaton Studio & Gallery, Janean of Art Vortex Studio & Gallery, Santino of The Hangar Art Co., and Micaela of McLean County Museum of History. Together the group discusses the importance of art, the growth of Bloomington-Normal’s art community, what Slow Art Day has meant to Downtown, and their plans to grow not only Slow Art Day, but additional art events for our area. Be sure to head Downtown and take in some art. Find out more about Slow Art Day HERE. Participating Locations (10am – 2pm) 410 Sculpture Park, 410 S. Madison St. Angel Ambrose Fine Art Studio, 101 W. Monroe St., Suite 201 Art Vortex Studio & Gallery, 101 W. Monroe St., Suite 210 Three Square Art Studio, 104 W. Monroe St. Mandy Roeing Fine Art, 105-A W. Monroe St. Inside Out: Accessible Art, 200 W. Monroe St. Eaton Studio Gallery, 411 N. Center St. Illinois Art Station, 101 E. Vernon Ave. The House on Garling, 1905 Garling Dr. Joann Goetzinger Studio Gallery, 313 N. Main St. Main Gallery 404, 404 N. Main St. McLean County Museum of History, 200 N. Main St McLean County Arts Center, 601 N. East St. BCAI Cultural Arts & Humanities, 107 E. Chestnut St., Suite 100 The Hangar Art Company, 105 W. Jefferson St.

The annual Taking Steps to End Child Abuse Color Run is in memory of young Jack and Duncan Leichtenberg of LeRoy, victims of 2009 domestic violence. Wes Styles talks with their mother Amy on the anniversary of the last day she saw both boys to tell their story and how important this run is to help the Family Visitation Center at Children's Home & Aid. The run is April 22, 2023 at Fairview Park in Normal. Pre-register and get additional info HERE.

Fozzy frontman & podcaster Chris Jericho checks in ahead of their show March 23 at The Castle Theatre. Some of the topics covered include: The recent honor Chris was given of a street named after him in Winnipeg, his hometown. Fozzy's 'Save The World' tour that kicks off in Bloomington. Is there new music from Fozzy coming? What the song 'Judas' means for Fozzy The recovery from his 'severely bruised larynx' last year Chris' new graphic novel 'The Painmaker.' What it's like being the host versus the guest with his podcast 'Talk is Jericho.' His time on The Masked Singer And much more

Before the season 3 of Superman & Lois on the CW, we caught up with Wolé Parks. He tells us their still in production and will wrap on the day of the premiere! Wolé talks about what to expect this season, what it's like to wear the suit on set, if he's taken any mementos yet from set, cast pranks, his desire to become a director, and offers some positive words to those on their journey to sobriety. 

Chef Dale MacKay checked in as Top Chef World All Stars has kicked off on Brave (Thursdays 8pm ET / 7pm CT). We talked about what inspired him to return to the series after a decade from his winning season on Top Chef Canada, what the filming days are life, how chaotic the trips are the grocery store in the show, as well as the life lessons he and his son have taught each other.

Wes Styles caught up with Mr. Giovannie of Giovannie & The Hired Guns on a day off recently. They covered how the name 'Hired Guns' came to even though the guys are actual members of the band, Giovannie's early introductions to rock music, signing with country label Warner Nashville, reaching No.1 on both the rock and alternative airplay charts at the same as an independent artist, and much more.

She's the self-proclaimed 'Queen of Extreme' in WWE, Liv Morgan has been on a roll as of late with great showings in the Elimination Chamber and Royal Rumble, entering at No.2 and being the last person eliminated.  Liv and I talked about how she's giving fans a treat at live events by selecting one in an official Liv shirt and giving them a personalized message complete with autograph. We also touch creating her ring gear, recent venture into acting, WWE 2k23, gaming in general, and her journey as a WWE Superstar. Subscribe for more interviews and follow on YouTube.

Birds Give Back is the Illinois State's fifth annual giving day. For 24 hours the school is raising money to help fund programs and scholarships to help students along with providing state of the art facilities. The event starts at midnight (CT) Thursday, February 23 and ends at 11:59 that day. Birds Give Back Director Jillian Nelson talks about the campaign from how you can choose where your donation goes to special challenges set throughout the day and more. It's a fun chat about the students, faculty, and more. Find out more about Birds Give Back at https://birdsgiveback.illinoisstate.edu/ Subscribe for more interviews and check out Styles Cast on YouTube

WWE's Road to Wrestlemania comes to State Farm Center February 25 (get tickets HERE) and Drew McIntyre jumped on the phone with me to talk all things Wrestlemania. Drew talks about his Wrestlemania moments and chasing down one more along with other monumental moments that stick out for him over the course of the show's history. We also chat about the potential of Wrestlemania happening in the UK since Clash at the Castle happened in '22 and Money in the Bank will happen this year. We also find out what's in Drew's playlist when he hits the gym and what he's watching at home.

The World Championship Ice Racing Series returns to Grossinger Motors Arena February 10 after a 5 year break. I caught up with promoter Ken Remer to break down what to expect from what vehicles you’ll see on the ice, the races themselves, what the drivers was looking to win including the ‘Bloomington Belt’ which looks just like a pro-wrestling championship belt, and more. Ken also talks about how he got involved with the World Championship Ice Racing Series and what led him to become the owner of it.  It was interesting to hear Ken talk about his work as a stuntman on shows like Chicago Fire & P.D. plus films like Man of Steel and Batman.

Braun Strowman talks about his time away from WWE and how that changed his mindset about life, advocating mental help and what it's meant to help others, his charity work, along with his sense of pride being about to work with any superstar no matter their size.

Before their show at the Castle Theatre on December 6th, From Ashes to New singer Matt Brandyberry and I chatted at length about a lot things concerning the band. We talked about their new album which doesn't have a release date yet, when we could expect to see it, how long has it been done and having to wait to release it. Matt says the new music is 'the best version of themselves' and explains what that means. Also we dive into his views on how artists should release their material (singles, eps, or full albums). 

Help Tentac Gives Back make sure local kids have a wonderful Christmas this year! They are hosting a Happy Hour for Toys for Tots at the Deep End Tap at Eastland Suites in Bloomington IL on December 7th from 5 PM to 7 PM! Toy donations are being accepted during the event and there will be raffles featuring some AMAZING prizes from local sponsors! Tentac Enterprise's Hillarie Hamblin talks about the event and gives some cool info about what the Deep End Tap used to be

WWE star Rhea Ripley joined me to talked about the fun she’s having with The Judgment Day saying the group’s chemistry backstage lends itself on camera. She also like to have fun with fans at Live Events like untying a random person’s shoe, stealing their drinks, and how she was recently caught by WWE cameras doing so. For her new theme song, Demon in Your Dreams, Chris Motionless of Motionless In White lent his vocals for the track. Rhea says she messaged Chris about doing it and he felt honored. She worked with him and the WWE team to put together the song to fit her entrance. Rhea told me how she felt and where she was the first time she heard the song. I asked Rhea what it’s like having Triple H in charge of creative of WWE since he was such a huge backer of hers in NXT. She said Hunter has been like a father figure to her in WWE and it’s great having him there through the curtain and before the show. Rhea spoke about having fans dress as her and how she never thought to be looked at as a role model. She says it’s important for women and men to have someone to look up to and relate to and she’s proud to be that someone. We also talk about Wrestlemania moments and her desire to one day have a dream match with Beth Phoenix.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony happened on November 5. HBO will air a special condensed version of the event on Saturday, November 19 at 8 PM ET / 7 PM CT. Then it will stream on HBO Max. Rock Hall CEO & President Greg Harris called in to talk about the greatest moments of the ceremony, including Judas Priest singer Rob Halford getting his much desired selfie with Dolly Parton plus a duet with her. Also we talk about how the show gets produced. Speaking of Judas Priest they were inducted under the 'Musical Excellence Award,' I asked if that meant a 'full induction' for the group. Moving on to the Class of 2023, Greg discusses how their committee meets and determines the nominees, if fan petitions get consideration, and who is on that committee.  #rockhall #rocknrollhalloffame #hbomax 

Vinyl Nation takes a deep dive in the revival of vinyl and cultural around it. The documentary features interviews with fans, collectors, manufactures, and artist alike. You get a history of the audio format and see how it's made from the disc themselves to the artwork. Co-Director/Producers Kevin Smokler & Christopher Boone talk about catalyst for making the doc, storyboarding the film, gathering their interview subjects, and much more. It's great chat about all things vinyl

Mark Tremonti's new album 'Tremonti Sings Sinatra' gets released May 27 and benefits the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) as part of his new organization Take A Chance For Charity. This is in honor of his daughter Stella who was born with Down Syndrome.  The album features 14 classic Sinatra songs: song the traditional way and others with special new arrangements. Mark talks about working with Sinatra's band leader as well as members of his touring band to record the album, what it was like warming up within earshot of them, and more.  Mark's Take A Chance For Charity wants to challenge everyone to step out of their comfort zone to raise money for charity. Some names to be featured soon are Black Stone Cherry, Chris Daughtry, and even WWE superstar Edge.  Find out more about the album and charity at www.tremontisingssinatra.com There's a lot covered here. Enjoy. #TremontiSingsSinatra #TakeAChanceForCharity

Vivian Campbell joined me to talk about Def Leppard's new album 'Diamond Star Halos' (out May 26). The band wrote and recorded during the pandemic and all in their own home studios. While each member worked on it from home the situation presented new challenges but also a fresh take on how to make an album. Vivian gives insight on his experience from having issues at the start with setting up the programs to working vocals and guitar parts. In the end Vivian says the band is extremely happy with the album and they will play a good number of songs from it on this summer's Stadium Tour with Motely Crue. This is the full, unedited chat.

America Says is in it's 5th season on Game Show Network and host John Michael Higgins joined me to chat about it. The famed actor has been in the host role since the beginning in 2018 and has now filmed over 500 episodes. One thing he prides himself on is not knowing the answers to each round in advance to keep the show fresh and the element of surprise with the audience. We talk about the joy he has making the show, the pressures of being a contestant, and much more. Catch America Says weeknights on the Game Show Network.

This week I chatted with Halestorm drummer Arejay Hale about his recent birthday celebrations, including the entire Halestorm team doing a karaoke version of ‘House of Pain’s Jump Around.’ (We’re awaiting video of this) Arejay spoke a lot about Halestorm’s new album ‘Back From The Dead.’ Saying this is the album where you’ll hear the [drum] playing that he’s always wanted to do. He credits both producers Nick Raskulinecz & Scott Stevens for helping him to ‘find his voice as a drummer.’ Halestorm is on tour for most of 2022 in support of ‘Back From The Dead’ and Arejay is happy about it. He say he’s used to living a ‘3 ounce life,’ living out of suitcase and toiletries in 3oz bottles, so the time off due to the pandemic took some adjusting. Video version of the interview HERE.

Corky G. (Corky Gainsford) chats about the current 2022 North American BLUE MAN GROUP tour: what fans can expect, adjusting the show as the tour continues, the fun of playing with the Blue Men, and more. Corky also shares some of his favorite memories from 20+ years of playing with Blue Man Group. Be sure to check out Corky's band CODE RED RIOT - https://coderedriot.com/ 

Judas Priest bassist Ian Hill joined Styles to chat about… Their thoughts on being nominated for the Rock Hall The new leg of 50 Years of Metal tour + dusting off old songs Essentially emptying the vault for the ’50 Metal Years of Music’ box If they’ve thought about selling off the rights to their music for a nice payday That weird ‘Breaking The Law’ cover featured in a recent Super Bowl ad. (Which he hasn’t seen)

On the release of their new single Planet Zero, Shinedown's Brent Smith joins Wes Styles to discuss it and much more. Smith talks about the album, various tricks used while recording it, Eric producing the band again and the respect they have for one another while in the studio, and his dream of having a #1 debut on the Billboard albums chart. Get a preview of Shinedown's spring 'The Revolution's Live' tour and who's creating the pieces. Planet Zero the single is out now on all platforms. Planet Zero the album drop April 22.

Nicole Johnson has been with the Butterball Turkey Talk Line for 20 years. As folks get back to a somewhat normal celebration this year, Nicole joins Styles to talk about how to prepare your turkey, how much to buy to ensure you have leftovers, how to store them properly, and some new recipes to try including the Stuffing Waffle Sandwich. You can reach out to the Butterball Turkey Talk via these methods Call 1-800-BUTTERBALL (1-800-288-8372) or Text 844-877-3456: Turkey Talk-Line experts will be available to answer questions and assist all holiday cooks. Social Media: Help and inspiration is available through the Butterball TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Pinterest channels. Butterball Skill for Amazon Alexa: Users can simply say, "Alexa, ask Butterball…" to enable the skill and hear trusted Talk-Line experts share answers to pressing turkey questions. Website: Chat live with the experts on Butterball.com to receive real-time suggestions and advice, plus find trusted recipes, ideas for leftovers, step-by-step how-to videos, and key tips for success. Email: Email Butterball using this form and receive helpful tips right to your inbox.

We caught up with Dustin Bates, and Ernie the Wicked Pup, in East Peoria just before the bands Acoustic Event on August 17. Dustin and I talked about the sound of the new album - due in the fall, the pressures of writing it so quickly after Divisions due to the pandemic, working 11 hour days at his hometown restaurant, and a whole lot more.

Boyd Quinton is Ozzy on stage as part of CRAZY BABIES: OZZY REBOURNE the nationally recognized tribute. They play Friday, August 20 at the Fairbury Fair. Styles and Boyd talk about taking on the Ozzy persona, putting the tribute together from scratch, getting mistaken for the icon in public, and more.  Find out more about the band at http://www.crazybabiesozzy.com/ 

Wendy Dio talks about Ronnie's autobiography 'Rainbow in the Dark,' his legacy, music in the vault, and some the cool stuff she has archived from his life.

Woodstock 99: Peace, Love, and Rage director Garret Price chats about what made him want to create a film about one of the biggest music festival failures un history. He also talks about the cultural tie-ins throughout the film to better understand what was going on inside and outside the festival walls. Official Synopsis: Woodstock 99: Peace, Love, and Rage tells the story of Woodstock 99, a three-day music festival promoted to echo unity and counterculture idealism of the original 1969 concert but instead devolved into riots, looting and sexual assaults. The grim outcome earned the event the infamous distinction of “the day the nineties died.” The film focuses a spotlight on American youth at the end of the millennium, in the shadow of Columbine and the looming hysteria of Y2K, pinpointing a moment in time when the angst of a generation galvanized into a seismic, cultural shift. Set to a soundtrack of the era’s most aggressive rock bands, the film also reappraises the 1960s mythos, revealing hard truths about the dangers of rose-tinted nostalgia in the age of commercialism and bottom-line profits.  Woodstock 99: Peace, Love, and Rage is on HBO July 23 then OnDemand via HBO Max July 24.

Our first in-studio band appearance since the pandemic began, Brian & Jesse of 10 Years stopped by on July 2, 2021. Styles and the guys chatted about what they did during their down time, prepping for a return to touring, what they've felt like the first couple of days in to the tour, stage vibes, most interesting places they've played in their career, and a whole lot more.  This is the complete, un-aired version of the conversation. 

Elias Soriano on new label 361 Degrees Records, going independent & what that means as an artist, teaming with AEW for 'Ruthless' release, the releasing of their songs leading up to a full EP, and more.

Dexter & Noodles talk songs in the band's vault, legacy of 'Pretty Fly,' and some of their earliest touring vehicles with stories