AthCastMusic: The Music of Athens GA, Now and Then

Hank Sullivant is an American rock musician and record producer, who is known for his work as a co-founder of the Athens -based pop rock band The Whigs , his stint as touring guitarist for MGMT , and as leader of the rock band Kuroma. Marlene sat down with Hank to talk about his time with the Whigs, what touring with MGMT was like, to having a family and being the organist for his church as well a...

Marlene Sokol Stewart talks about her up and coming Season 2 of AthCastMusic. In season 2, Marlene has the opportunity to bring some of the best musician's and industry influencers in Athens Georgia. Whether her guests have been in Athens since the glory days of Athens, or some of the best bands and musicians that are making their mark not only in Athens but nationally and some internationally. Th...

On this episode of AthCastMusic, Marlene talks with Annie Leeth, a producer, engineer, and session violinist known for her work with Faye Webster, Kishi Bashi, Erasure, the Magic Gang, and Grouplove. Annie discusses how she discovered that her classical training did not align with the type of music she wanted to create. This realization led her to become a highly sought-after musician, known for h...

Join AthCastMusic as Marlene sits down for an insightful conversation with the musically versatile Freeman Leverett. Growing up in Elberton, GA, and attending school in Athens, Freeman faced social challenges that deeply influenced his musical journey. His exposure to diverse music led him to explore various genres and instruments, consqequentially leading him to shape a unique, stand-out sound. N...

This episode features Knowa and Mokah Johnson, a dynamic duo who have built a huge presence in Athens by promoting social change, diversity, and equality for people of color and multi-international cultures. Knowa and Mokah speak to Marlene about their unique story of meeting each other, how they created the United Group of Artists Entertainment, Athens Hip Hop Awards, the Athens Anti-Discriminati...

This episode features the remarkable Sarah Mootz, an artist who has triumphed over adversity to establish her unique voice in music. Born in Georgia, Sarah began her musical journey early, writing songs and performing gigs from her teens. Despite facing industry pressures and challenges, she stayed true to her artistic vision. Marlene explores Sarah's story of resilience and self-acceptance, highl...

In this episode of AthCastMusic, Marlene chats with Jim Benson, filmmaker of "Hwy 29 Revisited," a documentary capturing the influential music scene of Athens, GA in the 80s and 90s. Jim, also known for establishing the WORD X WORD Festival, shares his experiences in Athens, highlighting how the welcoming nature of local bands and venues extended his stay. Their discussion reveals shared goals and...

Join us as we discuss the enchanting world of jazz with Mary Sigalas, an extraordinary jazz vocalist. In this episode of AthCastMusic, we will explore Mary's journey in reviving the captivating music of the 30s and 40s with her band, the Hot Hotty-Hots. Beyond her performances, Mary passionately leads Jazz Athens (JAGA), aiming to make Athens a jazz hub. Her conversation with Marlene radiates her...

Dive into the musical and personal world of Spencer Thomas in this episode of AthCastMusic. A Jackson, MS native, Spencer has become an integral part of the Athens music scene. His work with “The Future Birds” and the Spencer Thomas Band echoes influences like Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty, blending working-class themes with deeper explorations of mental health and emotional complexities. His al...

Step back in time with us in the latest episode of AthCast Music featuring the remarkable Donny Whitehead, a true Athenian who has witnessed the city's musical evolution for over six decades. From learning to play the piano in first grade to sharing the stage with iconic bands like The Platters and Temptations, Donny takes us on a musical history lesson. Join Marlene as she dives into the rich his...

Beyond the political podium, Mayor Girtz is a music aficionado who has not only served two terms but has also been a tireless advocate for the Athens music scene. Join Marlene as she chats with Mayor Girtz about his political journey, how he merges the love of music with the love of politics, and his commitment to the musicians who define the cultural heartbeat of Athens. So much thanks to Mayor K...

Tune in to the latest episode of AthCast Music where Marlene and Joe sit down for a chat with Athens music legends, William Tonks and Tommy Jordan. With a musical camaraderie that has flourished over 15 years, their story begins in a Boy Scout Troop. Join us as we uncork the tales behind their extensive discography, experience in the Athens music scene and enjoy a couple beers. Hosted by Marlene S...

Marlene and Joe sit down with Andrew Ratcliffe, the mastermind behind Tweed Recording Audio Production School in Athens, GA. Andrew’s story takes us from being a student in Oxford to creating a thriving music school in Athens. Tune in as we delve into the creation of his groundbreaking program, the assembly of his award-winning staff and the exciting future that awaits Tweed Recording. Hosted by M...

Join Marlene in the kick-off episode of "AthCast Music" as she shares her personal story and connection to the music industry. You’re in for an adventure of exploring Athens' music scene and the way it's rocked through the years, especially in the 80s and 90s! Hosted by Marlene Stewart. Produced by Kayla Dover

Meet Me! Marlene Sokol Stewart, the Host of AthCastMusic, The Music of Athens GA, Now and Then. Throughout this podcast series, I'll be bringing you conversations with some remarkable guests, each with their own unique insights into the music scene. From these conversations, we'll create a comprehensive view of the music landscape, both historic and contemporary. Athens, GA, holds a special place...