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Off The Beat & Track
Special Guest - The Hold Steady / Craig Finn
Welcome to Off The Beat and Track, the iTunes chart-topping podcast where host Stu Whiffen delves deep into the world of music, culture, and life stories with some of the most influential figures in the industry.
In this special episode, we are thrilled to welcome special guest Craig Finn of The Hold Steady.
Craig Finn is a renowned singer, songwriter, and storyteller best known as the frontman of The Hold Steady. With a distinctive narrative-driven songwriting style, Finn has crafted vivid, character-driven lyrics that explore themes of hope, struggle, and redemption. His work, both with The Hold Steady and as a solo artist, has resonated deeply with fans and critics alike, earning him a place as one of the most compelling voices in modern rock.
In this conversation, we explore Craigās journeyāfrom his early musical influences to the formation and evolution of The Hold Steady. We discuss his songwriting process, the themes that shape his music, and what the future holds for both his solo career and the band.
Tune in for an insightful and inspiring chat with a truly unique artist as he shares his experiences, influences, and the passion that fuels his storytelling.
I hope you enjoy listening to our conversation as much as I enjoyed recording it. If you'd like to support the podcast and help us continue bringing you these great discussions, you can do so through the links below:
www.buymeacoffee.com/stuwhiffen
Patreon.com/offthebeatandtrack
Donāt forget to subscribe to the Off The Beat & Track podcast and follow us on social media so you can stay updated and never miss an episode:
Twitter: @beatandtrackpod
Facebook: Off The Beat & Track Podcast
#OffTheBeatAndTrack #CraigFinn #TheHoldSteady #MusicPodcast #BehindTheMusic #RockMusic #Songwriting #Podcast #MusicFans #SubscribeNow
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588. Special Guest - Iwan Rheon
37:47||Season 1, Ep. 588š„ Welcome to Off The Beat and Track! š„In this special episode, host Stu Whiffen sits down with the multitalented Iwan Rheonāactor, musician, and singer-songwriterāto talk about his deep love of music and his brand-new album.Known to many for his powerful performances in shows like Game of Thrones and Misfits, Iwan is just as passionate about music as he is about acting. With a sound rooted in acoustic storytelling and emotional honesty, his songwriting offers a raw and personal glimpse into a different side of his creative world.š¶ In this episode, we cover: ā Iwanās musical beginnings and influences ā The creative journey behind his new album ā How acting and music intersect in his life ā His thoughts on songwritingš Hit LIKE if you enjoy the episode and SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring conversations with artists who do it all!š„ Support the Podcast: ā Buy Me a Coffee ā https://buymeacoffee.com/stuwhiffen š§ Patreon ā Patreon.com/offthebeatandtrackš Stay Connected: š Website ā www.offthebeatandtrackpodcast.com š¦ Twitter ā @beatandtrackpod š Facebook ā Off The Beat & Track Podcast#OffTheBeatAndTrack #IwanRheon #NewMusic #SingerSongwriter #ActorMusician #AcousticFolk #GameOfThrones #MusicPodcast #BehindTheMusic #IndieFolk #SubscribeNow587. Special Guest - Blue Foundation
33:15||Season 1, Ep. 587š„ Welcome to Off The Beat and Track! š„In this special episode, host Stu Whiffen sits down with the incredibly talented Tobias Wilner from the acclaimed band Blue Foundation.Known for their cinematic blend of dream pop, electronica, and indie rock, Blue Foundationās haunting soundscapes have featured in major films like Twilight and Miami Vice, as well as countless TV shows. Tobias, the band's founder and creative force, brings a unique perspective on songwriting, production, and building mood-driven music that resonates globally.š¶ In this episode, we cover: ā The evolution of Blue Foundation and their signature sound ā Tobiasās influences and approach to cinematic songwriting ā Working in film, TV, and across artistic disciplines ā Whatās next for Blue Foundation and Tobiasās solo projectsš Hit LIKE if you enjoy the episode and SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring conversations with brilliant musicians and creators!š„ Support the Podcast: ā Buy Me a Coffee ā https://buymeacoffee.com/stuwhiffen š§ Patreon ā Patreon.com/offthebeatandtrackš Stay Connected: š Website ā www.offthebeatandtrackpodcast.com š¦ Twitter ā @beatandtrackpod š Facebook ā Off The Beat & Track Podcast#OffTheBeatAndTrack #TobiasWilner #BlueFoundation #DreamPop #Electronica #IndieRock #MusicPodcast #BehindTheMusic #Soundtracks #CinematicMusic #SubscribeNow586. Special Guest - Dunstan Bruce / Chumbawamba
01:02:28||Season 1, Ep. 586š„ Welcome to Off The Beat and Track! š„In this special episode, host Stu Whiffen is joined by the one and only Dunstan Bruceāformer frontman of Chumbawamba and the creative mind behind the powerful one-man show and documentary, "I Get Knocked Down."Dunstan has spent decades challenging the status quo through music, activism, and storytelling. From anarcho-punk roots to mainstream success with āTubthumpingā, and beyond into bold new creative ventures, he continues to inspire with his unapologetic voice and relentless energy.š¤ In this episode, we cover:ā The rise and wild ride of Chumbawambaā Dunstanās journey from chart-topping fame to political theatre and filmmakingā The story behind I Get Knocked Down and reclaiming the narrativeā His views on activism, art, and staying loud in a world that wants you silentš Hit LIKE if you enjoy the episode and SUBSCRIBE for more powerful conversations with fearless creatives!#š„ Support the Podcast:ā Buy Me a Coffee ā https://buymeacoffee.com/stuwhiffenš§ Patreon ā Patreon.com/offthebeatandtrackš Stay Connected:š Website ā www.offthebeatandtrackpodcast.comš¦ Twitter ā @beatandtrackpodš Facebook ā Off The Beat & Track Podcast#OffTheBeatAndTrack #DunstanBruce #Chumbawamba #IGetKnockedDown #PunkRock #PoliticalArt #MusicPodcast #BehindTheMusic #AnarchoPunk #ActivismInArt #SubscribeNow585. Live Show - Artists Starting With The Letter J
49:26||Season 1, Ep. 585Welcome to Off The Beat & Track Podcast with me Stu Whiffen.This episode is the 20th of a series of online live shows with our Patreons. On this episode i chat to them about artists beginning with the letter J, this is an unstructured and fun chat.Hope you enjoy this chat and if you do please feel free to support the podcast herehttps://supporter.acast.com/offthebeatandtrack orwww.patreon.com/offthebeatandtrackorwww.buymeacoffee.com/stuwhiffenPlease also subscribe and follow the podcast on the social media links belowOff The Beat & Trackhttps://twitter.com/beatandtrackpodhttps://www.facebook.com/offthebeatandtrackpodcast/584. Special Guest - Gaz Whelan (Happy Mondays)
54:43||Season 1, Ep. 584š„ Welcome to Off The Beat and Track! š„In this special episode, host Stu Whiffen sits down with the legendary Gaz Whelan, drummer and founding member of the iconic Happy Mondays.As part of one of the most influential bands to emerge from the Madchester scene, Gaz helped shape a sound that fused acid house, indie rock, and psychedeliaāforever changing the musical landscape of the late '80s and early '90s. From the wild tours to the groundbreaking albums, heās seen it all.š„ In this episode, we cover:ā The rise of Happy Mondays and life in the Madchester eraā Stories from the road, studio, and stageā Gazās musical influences and evolution as a drummerā Reflections on the legacy of the Mondays and whatās nextš Hit LIKE if you enjoy the episode and SUBSCRIBE for more legendary conversations from the world of music!š„ Support the Podcast:ā Buy Me a Coffee ā https://buymeacoffee.com/stuwhiffenš§ Patreon ā Patreon.com/offthebeatandtrackš Stay Connected:š Website ā www.offthebeatandtrackpodcast.comš¦ Twitter ā @beatandtrackpodš Facebook ā Off The Beat & Track Podcast#OffTheBeatAndTrack #GazWhelan #HappyMondays #Madchester #AcidHouse #Britpop #MusicPodcast #BehindTheMusic #DrummerLife #UKMusicHistory #SubscribeNow583. Special Guest - Ditz
52:48||Season 1, Ep. 583Welcome to Off The Beat and Track, the iTunes chart-topping podcast where host Stu Whiffen delves deep into the world of music, culture, and life stories with some of the most influential figures in the industry.In this special episode, we are thrilled to welcome special guest Ditz.Ditz is an explosive post-punk band known for their intense live performances and uncompromising sound. Blending heavy distortion, visceral energy, and socially conscious lyrics, Ditz has carved out a unique space in the alternative music scene. Their music, defined by its raw aggression and sonic experimentation, has gained them a dedicated following and critical acclaim.In this conversation, we explore Ditzās journeyāfrom their early days in the underground scene to their rise as a formidable force in modern post-punk. We discuss their creative process, the themes driving their music, and what the future holds for the band.Tune in for an insightful and inspiring chat with a truly unique band as they share their experiences, influences, and the passion that fuels their music.I hope you enjoy listening to our conversation as much as I enjoyed recording it. If you'd like to support the podcast and help us continue bringing you these great discussions, you can do so through the links below:www.buymeacoffee.com/stuwhiffenPatreon.com/offthebeatandtrackDonāt forget to subscribe to the Off The Beat & Track podcast and follow us on social media so you can stay updated and never miss an episode:Twitter: @beatandtrackpodFacebook: Off The Beat & Track Podcast#OffTheBeatAndTrack #Ditz #PostPunk #AlternativeMusic #Podcast #MusicPodcast #BehindTheMusic #NewMusic #MusicFans #MusicIndustry #SubscribeNow582. Special Guest - Ian Prowse
57:23||Season 1, Ep. 582š„ Welcome to Off The Beat and Track! š„In this special episode, host Stu Whiffen sits down with the brilliant Ian Prowseāsinger-songwriter and frontman of Amsterdam and Pele.A true troubadour of British music, Ian has spent decades crafting powerful, heartfelt songs that blend rock, folk, and Celtic influences. With a career spanning from the anthemic sound of Pele to the deeply personal storytelling of Amsterdam, Ianās music has won the hearts of fans and fellow musicians alikeāincluding support from legends like Elvis Costello.šø In this episode, we cover:ā Ianās journey through the music industry and his enduring passion for songwritingā The stories behind some of his most iconic songsā His influences, creative process, and approach to storytelling through musicā Whatās next for Ian Prowse and his take on the current music landscapeš Hit LIKE if you enjoy the episode and SUBSCRIBE for more amazing conversations with incredible musicians!š„ Support the Podcast:ā Buy Me a Coffee ā https://buymeacoffee.com/stuwhiffenš§ Patreon ā Patreon.com/offthebeatandtrackš Stay Connected:š Website ā www.offthebeatandtrackpodcast.comš¦ Twitter ā @beatandtrackpodš Facebook ā Off The Beat & Track Podcast#OffTheBeatAndTrack #IanProwse #AmsterdamBand #PeleBand #IndieRock #FolkRock #SingerSongwriter #MusicPodcast #BehindTheMusic #BritishMusic #SubscribeNow581. Special Guest - Saul Adamczewski (Fat White Family / Insecure Men)
29:46||Season 1, Ep. 581š„ Welcome to Off The Beat and Track! š„In this special episode, host Stu Whiffen sits down with the brilliant Saul Adamczewskiāmusician, songwriter, and creative force behind Fat White Family and Insecure Men.Known for his raw, unpredictable energy and boundary-pushing songwriting, Saul has been a key figure in the UKās underground music scene. From the anarchic spirit of Fat White Family to the lush, melancholic sounds of Insecure Men, his work continues to challenge, provoke, and inspire.šø In this episode, we cover:ā The rise of Fat White Family and its chaotic journeyā The inspiration behind Insecure Menās dreamlike soundā Saulās creative process and approach to songwritingā Thoughts on the current state of music and whatās nextš Hit LIKE if you enjoy the episode and SUBSCRIBE for more amazing conversations with groundbreaking musicians!š„ Support the Podcast:ā Buy Me a Coffee ā https://buymeacoffee.com/stuwhiffenš§ Patreon ā Patreon.com/offthebeatandtrackš Stay Connected:š Website ā www.offthebeatandtrackpodcast.comš¦ Twitter ā @beatandtrackpodš Facebook ā Off The Beat & Track Podcast#OffTheBeatAndTrack #SaulAdamczewski #FatWhiteFamily #InsecureMen #IndieMusic #AlternativeRock #MusicPodcast #BehindTheMusic #PsychedelicRock #SubscribeNow580. Special Guest - Jonny Polonsky
49:05||Season 1, Ep. 580Welcome to Off The Beat and Track, the iTunes chart-topping podcast where host Stu Whiffen delves deep into the world of music, culture, and life stories with some of the most influential figures in the industry.In this special episode, we are thrilled to welcome special guest Jonny Polonsky.Jonny Polonsky is a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist whose career has spanned decades, blending raw energy with deeply introspective songwriting. Having worked with legends such as Johnny Cash, Tom Morello, and The Pixies, Jonny has continuously evolved his sound while maintaining a distinct and compelling artistic voice. His music, characterised by its haunting melodies and lyrical depth, has earned him a dedicated following and praise from fans and critics alike.In this conversation, we explore Jonnyās journeyāfrom his early days recording music in his bedroom to collaborating with some of the biggest names in the industry. We discuss his approach to songwriting, the stories behind his most iconic tracks, and what continues to drive his passion for music.Tune in for an insightful and inspiring chat with a truly unique artist as he shares his experiences, influences, and the creative force behind his music.I hope you enjoy listening to our conversation as much as I enjoyed recording it. If you'd like to support the podcast and help us continue bringing you these great discussions, you can do so through the links below:www.buymeacoffee.com/stuwhiffenPatreon.com/offthebeatandtrackDonāt forget to subscribe to the Off The Beat & Track podcast and follow us on social media so you can stay updated and never miss an episode:Twitter: @beatandtrackpodFacebook: Off The Beat & Track Podcast#OffTheBeatAndTrack #JonnyPolonsky #IndieRock #SingerSongwriter #Podcast #MusicPodcast #BehindTheMusic #NewMusic #MusicFans #MusicIndustry #SubscribeNow