So What’s Been Happening?

EP167 - So What's Been Happening? - Rowan Smith

Celebrating Music with Rowan Smith: A Journey Through Kintsugi
Welcome to episode 167 of "So What's Been Happening," where we celebrate the spirit of Christmas and the universal language of music. Join us as we dive into an enlightening conversation with the remarkable musician, Rowan Smith — not from the Western Bulldogs, but the celebrated artist with an extraordinary melodic journey.
In this episode, Rowan shares his early musical influences, from learning piano on his father's knee to the moment that Rick Wakeman's "Journey to the Centre of the Earth" opened his world to prog rock. Discover how his music is both informed by the past and dynamically contemporary with his latest album, In the Key of Kintsugi. The album uniquely ties Rowan's vast experience into a perfect metaphor of mending and celebrating life's cracks through the ancient Japanese art of Kintsugi.
Enjoy live performances and a deep dive into several tracks from his new album. Explore themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the artistry of turning unfinished business into celebrated work. Rowan's compelling storytelling and candidness offer an inspiring narrative not only for budding musicians but for anyone who cherishes music and its impact on life.

EP166 - So What's Been Happening? - Jeremy Beggs

Jeremy Beggs Talks Music and Mental Health
In episode 166 of "So What's Been Happening?", we dive into a captivating discussion with musician Jeremy Beggs. Jeremy shares insights into his creative process and the inspiration behind his music, including themes of light and darkness. We explore the powerful role music plays in his life, especially in navigating mental health challenges.
Jeremy’s stories of personal growth, supported by his family, offer a moving perspective about overcoming struggles and finding solace in music.
Listeners are encouraged to reach out to those they haven’t spoken to for a while, as a reminder of the season’s importance in connecting and supporting one another. Join us for an uplifting episode filled with heartfelt stories, live music, and a reminder of the power of human connection.

EP165 - So What's Been Happening? - Kerry Goulet

Catching Up with Kerry Goulet on Mental Health and Sports Challenges
Welcome to episode 165, where we catch up with Kerry Goulet, a favourite guest and great friend. The episode takes an inspiring turn as we discuss Jack Hanley aka The Crazy Running Man's incredible journey of running 100 kilometers daily for 100 days, advocating mental health awareness. Unfortunately, Jack is unable to join us today, but we highlight his groundbreaking achievements and his essential role in promoting mental health dialogues. We will have Jack on for a chat very soon.
Later on, we dive into an engaging conversation with Kerry, who shares his personal experiences and views on mental health challenges, the importance of support, and tackling loss. Kerry also opens up about the magic of friendship and the power of sharing emotional stories, especially amidst challenging times. We shed light on the emotional and mental tolls faced by many, highlighting the significance of compassion, empathy, and seeking support.
Finally, we explore the remarkable achievements of Kerry in the field of sports and philanthropy. From promoting ice hockey in Australia to creating mental awareness campaigns through his initiatives, Kerry's commitment to encouraging open conversations about mental health never ceases to inspire. Tune in and join us for an eye-opening discussion led by passion and care, exploring the intertwined worlds of mental health and sports.

EP164 - So What's Been Happening? - PJ Orr

Discovering PJ Orr's Musical Journey and New Album
In this episode, we welcome PJ Orr, an intriguing artist with a unique music journey and a new album titled "Wake Me Up When I'm Thirsty." PJ shares insights into his musical evolution, from starting as a solo project to evolving into a collaborative endeavor. We explore the story behind his catchy new album title, which pays touching homage to his late father.
PJ takes us through the fascinating creation of the music video for "Bread," a stop-motion masterpiece driven by creativity and collaboration with his partner's artistic family. He also discusses the significance of live music and the importance of supporting local venues and artists in today's ever-changing musical landscape.
Throughout the conversation, PJ delves into his musical influences, his journey with the guitar, and how his sound has evolved over time. We also get a glimpse into his offbeat song "April 23rd," and the emotional, yet whimsical narrative behind it.
Furthermore, PJ expresses gratitude for the ongoing support of his publicist Chris Familton and talks about upcoming projects and performances. Join us as we unravel the world of PJ Orr, his inspirations, and his candid reflections on the life of a musician.
Video Episode - https://bit.ly/3OoDIqw

EP163 - So What's Been Happening? - 24:1700 Virtual Music Festival

Around the World in 24 Hours: A Global Virtual Music Extravaganza
Join us for an extraordinary 24-hour virtual music festival organised by 122 Music Management, featuring 24 bands from around the globe. Kicking off on December 21st, this innovative event connects artists and fans in a unique online experience.
In this episode, we discuss the festival's inception and logistics with Mark, who shares the challenges and excitement of bringing such a diverse lineup together. The festival transcends time zones, allowing performances at 7 PM local time worldwide, creating a synchronized global celebration of music.
Featured artists include Big League representing Australia and we had a chat to Samantha Josephine representing New Zealand with insights into her creative process and set preparations. Discover how pre-recorded sets and live chats with artists enhance the virtual experience, offering fans a chance to interact and support independent musicians.
Don't miss the chance to secure early bird tickets at a discounted price before November 30th, and enjoy access to the festival until January 20th. Discover new music, support indie artists, and be part of a groundbreaking global music event!

EP162 - So What's Been Happening? - North Arm - Roderick Smith

Journey Through Sound: Northarm's Musical Evolution
In episode 162 of "So What's Been Happening," we welcome the talented Roderick Smith, the creative force behind Northarm. As time flies by and the podcast inches closer to its 200th episode, we take a deep dive into Roderick's musical journey and the stories behind his fourth album. Released over a decade since his first self-titled album in 2014, Roderick shares the challenges and triumphs of creating music in today's world.
Roderick opens up about his songwriting process, the ease he finds in making music, and the joy of collaborating with long-time partners Robin Waters and Jay Walker. He reflects on the evolving music industry and the nostalgia that fuels his work. Listeners will get a taste of Northarm's latest sounds with tracks like "Your Attention" and "Stay Young," exploring themes of youth and acceptance.
Join us as we explore Roderick's influences, from Charli XCX to Fontaine's DC, and his thoughts on the transformative power of music. Whether reminiscing about his first concert experiences or discussing potential collaborations with dream artists, Roderick's passion for music shines through. As he looks forward to future projects, we celebrate the enduring magic of Northarm's soundscapes and the inspiration they bring to listeners old and new.

EP161 - So What's Been Happening? - Jack Nolan

Melodies and Memories: Jack Nolan's Musical Journey
Welcome to episode 161 of "So What's Been Happening," where we dive into the captivating world of music with the talented Jack Nolan. In this episode, host Aaron sits down with Jack to explore his life and journey in music, focusing on his latest album, "The Songs for Hemingway."
Jack shares insights into his creative process, the magic of songwriting, and the inspiration behind his new tracks, including the emotive single "Hold On" and the powerful "Mother of All Storms." He reflects on the influence of literary giants like Hemingway and how they shaped the theme of his album.
The conversation also touches on Jack's experiences recording in Nashville, his collection of cherished guitars, and the evolving landscape of the music industry. With anecdotes from his past collaborations and thoughts on balancing tradition with the digital age, this episode is a must-listen for music lovers and aspiring songwriters alike.
Join us for a heartfelt chat filled with stories, melodies, and the wisdom of a seasoned musician. Don't miss the chance to discover Jack Nolan's enchanting world of music.

EP160 - So What's Been Happening? - Justine McAllister

Romantic Rebellion: A Journey Through Art and Self-Discovery
In this captivating episode of "So What's Been Happening Tonight," we delve into the world of art with Justine McAllister, exploring her latest exhibition, "Romantic Rebellion." Set against the backdrop of Melbourne's vibrant art scene, Justine invites us into the unique gallery space at 45 Flinders Lane, reminiscent of a New York gallery, where her bold and transformative works come to life.
Justine shares the inspiration behind her exhibition, a personal rebellion against perfection and a celebration of self-acceptance. With a diverse collection of 16 pieces, including prints, textiles, and paintings, "Romantic Rebellion" showcases a medley of chaos, calmness, and vibrant colours. Justine's art is a fusion of her life's influences, from childhood memories to the iconic 1991 Versace fashion show, brought together in a harmonious blend that speaks to her individuality.
The episode also touches on Justine's journey through the art world, her struggles with self-doubt, and the ultimate triumph of expressing her unique voice. From the importance of having a companion, whether a person or a beloved pet, to the challenges and joys of creating art in a commercial landscape, Justine's story is one of resilience and creativity.
Join us as we explore the depths of Justine's artistry, the intricacies of her creative process, and the profound impact of art in connecting with others. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious about the creative journey, this episode promises to inspire and ignite your passion for the arts.

EP159 - So What's Been Happening? - Skyscraper Stan

EP159 - So What's Been Happening? - Skyscraper Stan
Skyscraper Stan and his longtime touring band and collaborators the Commission Flats have generated a body of work that has attracted a loyal, and more recently global fanbase drawn to Stan’s easy lyrical style, inventive arrangements and deft genre twists and turns.
Join us for an engaging conversation with Stan Woodhouse aka Skyscraper Stan in episode 159 of "So What's Been Happening." As we approach Halloween, we delve into the world of this towering musical talent, exploring his journey, influences, and the story behind his unique moniker. Discover how Skyscraper Stan, alongside his band "The Commission Flats," crafts their soulful and groovy tunes, including their latest release, "Talk To Me."
Stan shares insights into his songwriting process, the band's dynamic, and the challenges of touring in today's music landscape. We also touch on the importance of community in the music industry, the role of publicists, and the magic of live performances. With an upcoming album "Those Were Days" set to release on Valentine's Day February 14, Skyscraper Stan is ready to hit the road with exciting gigs lined up across Australia.
Tune in to hear Stan's anecdotes, from his childhood music memories to his love for soul music, and get inspired by his unwavering passion for creating and performing music. Don't miss the chance to catch Skyscraper Stan live and experience their captivating sound firsthand!

EP158 - So What's Been Happening? - Big League

EP158 - So What's Been Happening? - Big League
Welcome to episode 158 of "So What's Been Happening," where we reconnect with Trav and Marie from the dynamic band Big League. It's been almost a year since their last appearance on episode 122, and much has happened since then. Join us as we delve into their latest album, "Heathen Sound," which has been met with great enthusiasm and is hailed as their best work yet.
In this engaging episode, we explore Big League's journey over the past year, including their tours and the joy of performing live again post-COVID. We discuss the challenges and triumphs of releasing new music and how the band has creatively navigated the ever-changing music landscape, including unique marketing initiatives like giving away CDs to connect directly with fans.
Trav and Marie also share insights into their songwriting process, the inspiration behind their music, and the importance of having a supportive team, including their publicist, to help spread the word. We also highlight upcoming gigs, including their headlining performance at Fuzzy Sunday and their involvement in the innovative global online event, 24:1900.
Tune in to discover more about Big League's exciting plans, their love for live performances, and their commitment to creating authentic, powerful music that resonates with fans. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their sound, this episode offers a deep dive into the heart and soul of Big League.