Episode 78: Live From Rock Camp with Johnny Martin, Monte Pittman and Phil Demmel

Recorded on day three of Rock Camp Masters of Rock Camp Volume Two in Los Angeles, the Rock Camp podcast features hosts Britt Lightning and Tommy London with past campers George and Hank, who flew in from the East Coast and are being inducted into the third annual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremony at the Whisky A Go Go on Monday. George and Hank recount meeting at their first camp in Florida with guests including Dave Mustaine, Nico McBrain, Steve Morse, Rudy Sarzo, John Moyer, and Tony Franklin, describing band disruptions from COVID protocols and how Rock Camp created lifelong bonds, revived their musicianship after long breaks, and led to playing in multiple bands. They share standout memories like playing with Rob Halford and Nico McBrain, discuss bucket-list future guests (Metallica members), and talk about returning to guitar with modern learning tools like YouTube. The conversation previews the Hall of Fame event hosted by Tommy and Britt, featuring inductees and honorees including Sebastian Bach, Stephen Perkins, Mike Kroger, Tony Franklin, Ashley Reeve, Valerie Franco, and camper Ed Oates, with proceeds going to benefit charity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode David, Tommy and Britt catch up on the upcoming camps celebrating the 30th Anniversary of Rock N Roll Fantasy Camp, and they chat with father and son camper duo Bryce and Todd Gillman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Rock Camp Podcast, Jason Scheff shares his journey as a member of the band Chicago. Scheff talks about succeeding Peter Cetera, his unexpected rise to fame in the 1980s, and his experiences writing and performing iconic hits. He reflects on his vocal training with Seth Riggs and shares techniques for voice maintenance. Scheff also recounts personal stories about his father, bassist Jerry Scheff, and memorable encounters with music legends. Audience questions touch on his favorite album to record with Chicago, the evolution of the band's music, and his collaborations with Bill Champlin. Scheff emphasizes the importance of vocal coaching and perseverance in achieving success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join David Fishof, Britt Lightning and Tommy London talking with Liberty DeVitto, David Rosenthal and Carl Fischer of the Billy Joel Band during their Q&A at Rock N Soul Fantasy Camp in Miami, FL. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We go live with two campers, one first timer, Art, and one repeat offender Chad, as they go into their experiences at Camp and what they have learned and overcome. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we talk with counselors Johnny Martin (L.A. Guns), Monte Pittman (Madonna, Ministry) and Phil Demmel (Machine Head) live at the Welcome to My Rock Camp in Scottsdale, AZ. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Rock Camp at the podcast, we welcome Joel Hoekstra, a highly versatile and respected guitar player known for his work with Whitesnake, Night Ranger, Trans Siberian Orchestra, Cher, and Dancing With the Stars. Joel discusses his busy schedule, time management strategies, and the importance of preparation and planning in managing his extensive commitments in music. He shares his experiences with various acts and highlights his involvement in music education and rock camps. Joel elaborates on the challenges and rewards of maintaining a diverse musical career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Rock Camp Podcast, the team welcomes Scott Keller, a New York Times bestselling author and senior advisor at McKinsey & Company. Scott shares his journey of transforming Rock Camp into a profitable business and saving it from financial troubles with strategic advice. He also talks about his personal life, including his extensive travel to every country in the world and his inspiring work with his special needs son, Jackson 'JJ Raw Power' Keller. Jackson, who overcame profound brain damage to become a musician, joins the podcast to share his experiences and aspirations. The episode touches on themes of perseverance, adaptability, and the emotional highs of achieving one's dreams at Rock Camp. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Fretless Monster Tony Franklin shares insights into his early musical career, including collaborating with iconic artists like Lou Gramm and Jimmy Page. The hosts celebrate the 30th anniversary of Rock Camp and discuss potential headliners for the milestone event. The episode also touches on Franklin's inspirations, memorable gigs, and the formation of the supergroup The Firm. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of Rock Camp features Grammy Award-winning songwriter and vocal coach Autumn Rowe, who shares her approach to songwriting by focusing on crafting songs that are specific to an artist’s identity and story. She discusses the importance of getting to know artists deeply, the challenges of working with new or directionless talent, and the process of knowing when a song is truly finished, sometimes requiring rewrites or fresh perspective. Autumn highlights her musical influences, including Stevie Wonder, Mariah Carey, and her formative experience in the New York City Housing Authority Choir. She addresses the difficulties of writing across genres, the need to work with artists she genuinely believes in, and the unique challenges women face in the music industry. Autumn also recounts her experiences as a vocal coach on X Factor and America’s Got Talent, describing the emotional intensity and pressure of preparing contestants for live TV. Her advice to aspiring songwriters is to pursue music only if it is a true passion, as the industry demands immense dedication, persistence, and sacrifice, but offers the reward of making music for a living. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices