After The Gig with Jesse Humphrey

Well it seems like my last podcast struck a nerve. But, it’s for good reason. Let me be clear... Not all AI is bad. It’s an incredible tool, and i’d be a big fat lier if I said I didn’t use it for some things. I feel like this video/podcast is necessary to clearly state where I draw the line. Some artists/creatives are 100% against it, and some can’t get enough. It’s a spectrum. With anything new,...

In this episode I let out a little bit of frustration after hearing a (now viral) comment from Suno CEO, Mike Shulman. While Suno marks a historic change in growth to how we create music as a tool. Suno is going in a direction that is destructive to real artist everywhere. I’m VERY curious of your thoughts. Am I crazy? Am I just old man Jesse that isn’t ready to adapt to the times. I’m legitimatel...

Recorded live on the Rock Boat, this conversation with singer-songwriters Barry Privett and Eric Hutchinson is one of the most wide-ranging and fun episodes we’ve done. Jesse, Jon Markel, and Barry Privett of Carbon Leaf get the show started. Joining them about halfway through the show is singer-songwriter Eric Hutchinson, known for his sharp, hook-driven pop and a devoted live following. We cover...

This week’s episode is very special. Available here, youtube, and all podcast platforms. It’s the first ever live After the Gig in front of an audience! We truly had a blast recording this, and I hope you thoroughly enjoy it. Thank you to everyone who showed up and brought the energy. This episode features an amazing performance by NEEDTOBREATHE, and a big announcement by Scott Terry and Will Hoge...

Jason Anick is a violinist, educator, and Berklee College of Music professor specializing in jazz improvisation. In this conversation, we explore the art of teaching improvisation, building a sustainable practice routine, and Jason’s unique approach to helping students master the fingerboard. In this episode: * How Jason’s teaching philosophy has evolved over 14 years at Berklee * The concept of “...

On this episode of After the Gig, Jesse sits down with Dave Brophy, one of Boston’s most respected drummers and producers. Known for his skillful touch and dedication to serving the music, Dave shares insights from his notable career, including his early drumming days in Michigan, international tours, and his transition to full-time producing. Recorded at Q Division Studios, their conversation cov...

In this episode of After the Gig, Jesse delves into the upcoming Grammy Awards, focusing on the controversy surrounding the country music category. He discusses the impact of Beyonce’s win for Best Country Album last year, the evolution of country music, and the changes the Grammys are making this year by introducing separate categories for Traditional and Contemporary Country Albums. Jesse examin...

Jon Markel stops by the studio and we end up talking about everything—First Amendment audit videos (and why Jon’s obsessed with them), sovereign citizens, getting frisked by cops as teenagers, and why I will never forgive my neighbor for the BB gun incident. We also get into stage accidents, Jon’s ongoing feud with his neighbor over backyard fires and asthma complaints, and what happened when Lola...

Inside Zildjian’s historic building, I sit down with Eric Gross (Head of Artist Relations at Zildjian/Vic Firth) to trace the winding path from Berklee days to backstage access—how internships, chance meetings, and a few well-timed risks opened real doors. We compare notes on choosing “music business” over a pure performance track, surviving Nashville on hustle, and the mentors who changed everyth...

In this episode, Jesse and Katie sit down for a conversation about what it really takes to build a sustainable music career in today’s world. From the role of side hustles and self-awareness to navigating feedback, fan expectations, and the shifting streaming landscape, this discussion dives deep into the modern creative grind. They explore: * Why chasing viral fame rarely builds real careers * Wh...

Today I’m answering your questions from the After the Gig Facebook group. It’s been a minute since the last podcast, and I’m super happy to be back after the summer hiatus. I hope you and all your families are doing well and had a great summer. Onward to fall! I am currently sitting in the green room of our first tour stop in Crawfordsville, IN. It’s great to be back on the road, and I’m excited t...

In this episode of After the Gig, Jesse sits down with Patrick McAloon, an integral member of the Pat McGee Band and an artist relations professional at Sixthman. The discussion delves into Patrick's multifaceted career in music, from his early influences and family support to his current roles. Highlights include Patrick's journey in the music industry, the unique experience of working for Sixthm...

In this episode, Jesse discusses the often overlooked but crucial aspect of musicians' lives—side hustles. Sharing his personal experiences from bartending to delivering packages during the pandemic, Jesse highlights the importance of having flexible side jobs to sustain a career in music. He emphasizes that there's no shame in having secondary jobs and encourages all aspiring artists to find side...

In this episode, Jesse explores the deep passion and relentless drive behind playing music. Drawing parallels between music and hitting a perfect golf shot, we delve into the joy of playing an instrument or having a musical conversation with fellow musicians. The episode touches on the importance of connecting with your music, the audience, and the struggles young musicians face. We discuss the da...

2025 Grammy Highlights & Super Bowl Controversy: Kendrick Lamar's Bold Statement   In this episode of 'After the Gig,' Jesse delves deep into the 2025 Grammy performances, featuring reactions to standout artists like Dua Lipa, Billie Eilish, Lizzo, and more. He also discusses the much-talked-about Super Bowl halftime show by Kendrick Lamar, which sparked significant controversy due to its dire...

City Winery's $25 Minimum: A Deep Dive into the New Policy and Its Impact   In this episode, we explore City Winery's recent decision to implement a $25 minimum on food and beverage sales for concertgoers at their venues. Jesse shares personal thoughts and insights on the policy, its potential impact on patrons, and the reasons behind this move, including the desire to support artists by giving th...

Join Jesse as he drives through blizzard conditions from Providence to Boston, reminiscing about the days commuting to the Berklee College of Music. Jesse catches up with, drummer and a member of the Berklee Percussion Department, Jonathan Ulman, as they discuss their careers, share inspiring stories, and reflect on the music industry. Don’t miss this engaging conversation that touches on the impo...

This week on the podcast I talk about the New England Music Awards, Health on the Road, and Productivity as an artist.  Make sure you subscribe to the newsletter, and check out the links below. Enjoy   Music from the show: "Thruple Shuffle"   Newsletter:  https://jessehumphrey.substack.com/   Youtube! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6AhUzWzyCrTgffuNlTjLG3jEmj5h4pmZ   All links right here!!...

Ed Valauskas is a Boston legend.  He's played with everyone, and produced some of the cities best musical exports from the comfy confines of Q division studios in Cambridge, MA.  Ed and I met back when my former band Love in Stockholm recorded our 3rd release "Hold Back the Sun". You can listen to that here: https://open.spotify.com/album/669ssJgNDfL41GIIBg5Rw5?si=mnTRnlNRRKSFLLLIehaAJQ   Ed is th...

Today on the podcast I have the great Pat Murphy of Gaelic Storm.  The band was founded by Pat in 1996 and was featured in the record setting, blockbuster movie (one of the biggest films ever made) “Titanic”.  From then, they went on to a record deal and decades as a staple in the Irish music community.  Go to their website for tour dates.  You will not want to miss them when they come to your tow...

Today on the podcast I have my buddy Sean Quackenbush.  Sean is the Grammy-winning sound engineer for Brandi Carlisle, and various others.  Sean and I met and worked together on a tour with Stephen Kellogg, and having him on the show has been a long time coming.  Sean talks about his experience with mix recordings, the Grammys, touring stories, and lot more.  Enjoy!   To get more out of the After...

On this episode of After the Gig, Jesse sits down with the man behind the lens of the Sixth Man Cruises.  Will Byington is a photographer and all around amazing individual who shares his experience of photographing fast paced and demanding environments while out at sea.    To get more out of the After the Gig universe, sign up for the weekly newsletter here! https://jessehumphrey.substack.com/p/af...

Here he is.  The world’s sweetest sound guy.  It’s Billy Ferguson… I truly love Billy, and you should too.  He’s a hard worker, a great sound guy, and all around spectacular human being.  Billy was the former sound guy for Red Wanting Blue, and Carbon Leaf.  He’s a former fire fighter, and now holds the position of sound guy at The Harvester performance center in Rocky Mount, VA (I accidentally sa...

In this episode of After The Gig, Jesse continues his conversation with Gavin Castleton. They delve into Gavin's album 'Pattern Breaker', his move back to Rhode Island, and the impacts on his music and work-life balance. They also discuss the significance of fan loyalty, the use of AI in creating album artwork, and rethinking ambition. Additionally, Jesse shares insights about his own musical jour...

Exclusive Chat with Tim Lappin on His New Album 'Casual Male' In this episode of After the Gig, Jesse sits down with Tim Lappin to discuss his new album under the name Casual Male. They dive into the release strategy, the inspiration behind the songs, and the creative process involved. Tim shares insights on the importance of putting music out there, finding your audience, and connecting with fans...