Acoustic Alternatives with Sam Robbins and John Bommarito

·1 hr 6 min·5 clips

After losing his radio job in the pandemic, the host started this podcast to keep discovering new music for listeners.

This episode features host John Bo interviewing singer-songwriter Sam Robbins at Grove Studios in Ypsilanti. John Bo started this podcast after losing his radio job during the pandemic to continue sharing new music. Sam Robbins is a musician whose live performance prompted John to invite him on the show. The conversation centers on Robbins's artistic journey and his latest album released in August. They discuss his song "Hard to Hate," which Robbins identifies as his favorite track from the new record. Robbins explains the song has a three-panel structure and took a considerable time to write. He shares that the song's origins relate to his non-musical parents and his early uncertainty about pursuing music. Robbins recounts starting his career by playing repeated open mic nights at a bar in New Hampshire with only a few original songs. The episode includes a live performance of "Hard to Hate" with its introductory remarks. A key insight is how Robbins's lack of a musical family background shaped his initial, self-directed path into the industry. The detailed account of his persistent open mic performances illustrates a grassroots approach to building a career. Robbins's description of "Hard to Hate" as a complex, multi-part composition reveals his songwriting process. The host's decision to feature Robbins based on a single compelling live show underscores the podcast's focus on genuine artistic discovery. The tone is warmly conversational and supportive, reflecting a shared admiration for the craft of music. The style is informal and interview-based, punctuated by live musical performance. This episode would appeal to listeners interested in the personal stories and creative processes of emerging singer-songwriters. Those seeking highly produced interviews or debates on music industry trends might find it less engaging.

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from Acoustic Alternatives