Podcast – Allen "Big Al" Tate

Author Daniel Bukszpan Discusses “Rush and 2112: 50 Years”

March 9, 2026

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Season 2, Episode 5: https://notoriousbuk.com/

Author Daniel Bukszpan joins the show again. This time he’s here to discuss his new book “Rush and 2112: 50 Years,” which explores the influential 1976 album and its impact on the band’s career. Daniel explained how the book’s three sections cover the album’s creation, musical analysis, and aftermath, while also revealing new insights about Mercury Records’ supportive role during the album’s development. The discussion included Daniel’s writing process, his other published works with Quarto, and his upcoming projects including a book about the Big Four metal bands.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/hMkGVMxjREA

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/70WW1dZBJQGGJHZ6mPt5mN?si=msRSS0osTvWTb-awUIVZKw

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Author Martin Popoff Discusses His New Book “KISS ’76”

Big Al

February 23, 2026

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In this episode, Martin and I discussed his latest book, “KISS 1976: 12 Months That Defined the Hottest Band in the Land,” which will be released on February 24th. Martin explained the book’s structure, which covers each month of 1976 with sections on KISS’ activities, world events, and music industry happenings. He described the research process and challenges he faced while writing the book. Martin also shared insights into his writing process and mentioned some of his other recent publications.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/GhJkEOYiWuk

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/70j5S3ZL2sZ4ocXaPxZZg8?si=2XAGw5Z6RXm4db0o4GjLRA

Find Big Al’s Rockin’ Podcast at any of the podcast outlets listed below.

Jeff and Kyle from “A Light Within” and Their New Single “Dying Clock”

Big Al

February 9, 2026

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Season 2, Episode 3: https://alightwithin.bandcamp.com/

In this episode talk with I Jeff and Kyle from “A Light Within” about their recent single “Dying Clock,” a 9-minute track inspired by Tool, Pink Floyd, and Alan Parsons. The band members discussed their approach to music creation, noting that while COVID-19 was challenging, it allowed them time to write new material. Jeff mentioned working on ideas for a 2026 album release. We also discussed their musical journey, starting with their first EP “Preface” in 2013, which they later remixed and remastered.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/49smy_LAcAY

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1DnkdTruM3tgiZyi1K9Xlj?si=yHPJZcOWQ1uwLJSaPPwp7Q

Find Big Al’s Rockin’ Podcast at any of the podcast outlets listed below.

Richrath Project REO Featuring Michael Jahnz

Big Al

January 12, 2026

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Season 2, Episode 2: https://www.richrathprojectreo.com/

In this episode, Michael Jahnz discussed the upcoming Richrath Project REO tribute show in Evansville on January 16th, which will feature three bands including Johnny Cash and Ozzy Osbourne tributes. Jahnz explained his history with Gary Richrath of REO Speedwagon, including their work together in the Richrath Band and Project 3:13, and how 3:13 became a significant symbol for their fans. The discussion covered the current state of REO Speedwagon following Kevin Cronin’s departure, the band’s evolving fan base across generations, and their commitment to performing authentic rock music.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/aTJ4Np9734M

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7q5Izq2mMI8VoYY0TCPFQV?si=LWbaYRm5TFWuSSL26LOVlg

Find Big Al’s Rockin’ Podcast at any of the podcast outlets listed below.

A Conversation with Joe Smith of Joe’s Records

Big Al

December 22, 2025

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Season 2, Episode 1: https://joesrecords.com/

Joe Smith, owner of Joe’s Records, shared his extensive career journey in the music retail industry, from his early days managing Coconuts Music Store to opening his own record shop in 2004. He discussed the challenges and opportunities of running an independent record store, including the impact of digital downloads, the revival of vinyl, and the role of online sales. Joe also highlighted the importance of building relationships with customers and suppliers, as well as adapting to changing market trends. The conversation touched on various topics such as pricing strategies, the impact of tariffs on imports, and the challenges of managing a business in the music industry.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/bNNdPXi8jDs

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5cxfOsYqP5SVIBUbQNPTXi?si=GloMMLUDRiClt5BknhDoxA

Find Big Al’s Rockin’ Podcast at any of the podcast outlets listed below.