Waterproof Records with Jacob Givens

On this episode of Waterproof Records, I sit down with Rome Ramirez—the voice behind Sublime with Rome, collaborator with The Dirty Heads, and a musical force embarking on a brand new chapter of his career. Rome opens up about his journey from growing up in Northern California to becoming a central figure in Sublime’s legacy. We talk about the moment he discovered Sublime’s self-titled album, what that record meant to him as a kid, and how it changed the trajectory of his life. But we go deeper than music—we talk about the hustle of LA, fatherhood, what inspires him now as a solo artist, and the joys (and challenges) of passing down our musical obsessions to our kids. This is one of the most heartfelt, honest, and inspiring conversations we’ve had yet. Let’s go! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Waterproof Records, we revisit the groundbreaking debut of one of the most unforgettable voices of the '90s—Fiona Apple. From the haunting vulnerability of “Sullen Girl” to the lyrical fire of “Sleep to Dream,” we explore how Tidal introduced us to a teenage prodigy with wisdom beyond her years. We dive into the cultural impact of the Criminal video, the controversy surrounding her MTV VMAs speech, and the maturity packed into lyrics written when she was just 14. This isn't just an album review—it's a reflection on trauma, self-expression, and the raw power of art. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Punk rock is alive and well — and Teen Mortgage is leading the charge! In this episode of Waterproof Records, I sit down with the gritty DMV based duo as they pass through LA on tour. We talk about their journey from Craigslist connections to pink furry drums and their killer new album Devil Ultrasonic Dream. From childhood influences to chaotic tour stories, this convo is packed with raw energy, DIY ethos, and deep dives into the punk spirit that fuels their music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"It can't rain all the time..." unless you're living in the '90s and wearing your teenage angst like a badge of honor. In this episode of Waterproof Records, I explore the iconic soundtrack of The Crow—an unforgettable mix of goth, grunge, and industrial that defined a generation. From The Cure’s haunting “Burn” to Stone Temple Pilots, Nine Inch Nails, Rage Against the Machine, and more—this is a love letter to the music that helped us brood in our bedrooms and feel every ounce of heartache. 🖤 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From garage band dreams to headlining stages, Ian Shelton of Militarie Gun joins me for a raw, hilarious, and insightful chat about his journey through music. We get into his pop punk roots, pandemic creativity, and how a 50-hour work week and an iPhone helped launch one of the most exciting bands of the 2020s. We also talk about male lingerie, drumming egos, and what it really means to “do it faster.” Plus, Ian shares the story behind his Waterproof Record—the album that lit the fuse and made him want to start a band in the first place. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is a special one—The Dumes are here! I met this band around a year ago when they opened for Louise Post at the Troubadour, so it was so cool to finally sit down and chat with the band. So welcome singer Elodie Tomlinson, guitarist Peter Recine, and bassist Liam McCormick to talk about their journey, their influences, and the music they’ve been working on. From the bands that shaped their sound to what’s next on their horizon, we cover it all in this epic conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Time's up! No, seriously—let’s jump headfirst into Time's Up, the second album from the legendary New York band Living Colour! This episode is all about the groundbreaking 1990 record that blew my mind as a kid and still holds up today with its powerful mix of rock, funk, metal, jazz, and thought-provoking themes. I share my personal connection to the album, my first experiences hearing it, and why Time's Up was the first rock record to open my eyes to politics, race, and social issues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I sat down with Kevin Martin to talk about Candlebox’s journey—from their explosive debut in the Seattle grunge scene of the ‘90s to their farewell album, The Long Goodbye. Kevin shares stories about the band’s rise, their biggest influences, and what it was like finding his voice. We also geek out about the modern music scene, female rock powerhouses, and why some songs never get old. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I sit down with Shawna Potter, the powerhouse lead singer of War on Women—a fierce punk band from Baltimore, Maryland. We talk about her journey, the impact of music, the fight for social justice, and, of course, the record that changed everything for her. A groundbreaking 90s album that inspired her to pick up a guitar and set her on the path to fronting a band that blends activism with raw energy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re sitting down with Cody Hanson, drummer and founding member of Hinder, to talk about 20 years of rock, life on the road, and what’s next for the band. Cody talks about Hinder’s journey, from their breakout album Extreme Behavior to their upcoming tour and new music. We dive into Cody’s musical influences, growing up in Oklahoma, and what he feels is his personal 'waterproof record.' Plus, a funny discovery about hidden rap skills! Hinder is hitting the road for their Back to Life Tour—catch them live in 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices