In this episode, I get into it with Brooklyn-based artist Tony Oso; someone who’s built his music career from the ground up without chasing trends or compromising his sound. From working in music tech by day to playing late-night shows, Tony’s journey is a testament to trusting your instincts and letting the art lead. We talk about the path that led him to full-time musicianship, the values that keep him grounded, and why he believes music should feel like a good meal. Whether you’re growing your audience or just trying to create something honest, Tony’s story will speak to you.

We Chat About:

• His transition from behind-the-scenes music tech to front-stage artistry
• How working in customer support shaped his empathy as an artist
• Developing a genre-fluid sound and learning to follow his instincts
• Why music “should feel like a good meal”
• Touring nationally while building grassroots momentum
• Balancing real life with the dream of being a full-time musician
• His advice for artists feeling lost or behind

About Tony Oso:

Tony Oso is a Florida music artist with a mission to inspire and uplift through songs born from his experiences with love, pain, mental health struggles, and personal loss. Drawing from his own journey, Tony crafts music that resonates deeply, offering both solace and motivation to those facing life’s challenges. He’s shaping a new genre by blending the emotive vocals of 80s new wave with the raw energy of 70s classic rock, infused with a modern alternative twist. His sound evokes bands like Talking Heads, The Who, and The Killers—creating something fresh yet familiar for multiple generations of rock lovers.

After enduring debilitating spinal conditions in 2019, Tony transformed his pain into a powerful creative force. His music is a testament to resilience, encouraging listeners to persevere through even the hardest seasons. Originally from Melbourne, Florida—a city known for engineering—Tony brings that same precision and dedication to his work. He’s shared the stage with acts like Sister Hazel and The Goo Goo Dolls, competed on America’s Got Talent, and surpassed 100,000 streams across platforms. His voice and message are more vital than ever.

Connect with Tony:

Website: https://tonyosomusic.com

Store: https://tonyosomusic.com/store

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyosomusic/

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@tonyosomusic?xmt=AQGzQ1XdQVs1qnYOW5krTSIlOL2vXNIJlGTmFjq9JNETkek

Connect with Julian:

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

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Shameika Rhymes wears many hats, but every one of them comes with heart. In this episode, I sit down with the award-winning journalist, producer, and creator behind Check the Rhymes TV, Solebration, and the Ladies Edition podcast. We talk about how her storytelling roots began in television news, how she built lasting relationships with icons like Ananda Lewis and Will Downing, and what it really takes to run multiple media platforms as a team of one. From going viral to growing tired, Shameika shares what keeps her grounded in the work—and in her love of music.

We Chat About:

• The origins of Check the Rhymes TV and how a pandemic birthed a platform
• Her storytelling magic: from BET carpets to booking Barry Sanders
• Why Solebration bridges the gap between health, soul, and celebration
• How she builds rapport with guests and honors their vulnerability
• Her deep love for Michael Jackson, H-Town, Prince, and the Jacksons
• Why music always finds a way into every season of her life

About Shameika Rhymes:

Shameika Rhymes is an award-winning journalist, producer, and host based in North Carolina. A storyteller at heart, she’s the founder of Check the Rhymes TV, Solebration on BlackDoctor.org, and the Ladies Edition podcast. Known for her charisma, connection, and curiosity, she’s interviewed cultural icons across music, TV, and wellness—including Ananda Lewis, Ernie Hudson, and Method Man’s kids—often from behind the camera with just a mic and a dream. Whether she’s spotlighting public health or pop culture, Shameika leads with empathy, hustle, and a whole lot of heart.

Connect with Shameika:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mofochronicles/

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@mofochronicles?xmt=AQGzQ1XdQVs1qnYOW5krTSIlOL2vXNIJlGTmFjq9JNETkek

Connect with Julian:

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Buy my book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL

In this episode, I sit down with Theo Smith, the creative force behind the viral street interview series Please Don’t Irk Me. We talk about everything from growing up in a musical family and finding his voice in church, to building an online brand that blends humor, heart, and healing. Theo opens up about the mission behind his content, the realities of monetizing social media, and how he stays grounded on the tough days. If you’ve ever wondered how to stay yourself in a world that wants you to package your personality, this one’s for you.

We Chat About:

• How Please Don’t Irk Me went from a catchphrase to a full-fledged show
• His creative process behind filming, scripting, and editing every episode
• What he’s learned about monetizing content on TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook
• Why he always leads with joy, professionalism, and presence
• Navigating burnout and staying focused on the big picture
• The musical roots that still influence his content
• Artists he loves across gospel, R&B, pop, indie rock, and more

About Theo Smith:

Theo Smith is a Philadelphia-based creator, singer, and host of Please Don’t Irk Me, a viral street interview show known for its infectious energy, quick wit, and deep heart. A lifelong musician and natural performer, Theo uses his platform to spotlight everyday people, spread joy, and bring laughter to strangers across social media. Whether he’s cracking jokes on TikTok or sharing his love of music on YouTube, Theo leads with presence, playfulness, and purpose. He’s proof that with passion and persistence, a phone and a dream can take you far.

Connect with Theo:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pleasedontirkme/reels/

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@pleasedontirkme?xmt=AQGzQ1XdQVs1qnYOW5krTSIlOL2vXNIJlGTmFjq9JNETkek

Latest YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dal7S1EhidE

Connect with Julian:

Check out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417

Buy my book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RL