Big Al – Allen "Big Al" Tate

A Conversation with Joe Smith of Joe’s Records

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.

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The Sound That Haunts You: A Beginner’s Companion to Fleetwood Mac

Big Al

December 15, 2025

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Season 1, Episode 31: https://www.youtube.com/TimsVinylConfessions

Tim Durling returns to the podcast to discuss his new book “The Sound That Haunts You: A Beginner’s Companion to Fleetwood Mac” which explores the band’s different eras and lineup changes through detailed coverage of their albums and discography. He shares insights about his writing process, challenges in organizing the band’s early recordings, and his personal preferences for various Fleetwood Mac eras, while also discussing his appreciation for the band’s cover versions. Tim also provided information about his other music-related books and projects.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/vO1kvsCuafU

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5l3lSF0qz1sfGkYNZ0texK?si=WmnevhlhQEiCUv1BWHz2Pg

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

Tom Petty: The Life and Music by Gillian Gaar

Big Al

December 8, 2025

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Season 1, Episode 30: https://www.facebook.com/GillianGaarWriter/

Veteran rock author Gillian Gaar returns to the podcast to talk about her book “Tom Petty: The Life & Music,” which covers Petty’s life and career, from his birth to after his death, including his breakthrough with “Damn the Torpedoes” and the unsolved arson attack on his house. The book concludes with Petty’s posthumous success, including a song featured in a popular video game that gained renewed popularity. She also briefly discusses the differences between approaching her publisher to pitch a book idea, in this instance the Queen book we discussed in a previous episode, and being asked to write this book.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/gZS_HXaIJh0

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5ZIaQksdTOBEgD34eM0HHH?si=AK5ROzzAQBOMZdvy-SsoFg

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

Christian Shields Discusses His New Single “Fall Like Rain”

Big Al

November 17, 2025

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Season 1, Episode 29: https://www.christianshields.net/

In this episode, Christian Shields shared details about his new single “Fall Like Rain” and his musical journey, including discussions about his full-length rock album “This Is Rock and Roll.” Christian also discuss3eed his focus on releasing singles rather than albums, upcoming projects, and technical challenges encountered during tours, while also providing information about where fans can find his music online. (Apologies for my audio. I forgot to bring my headset mic with me.)

YouTube: https://youtu.be/CS491hpyz3U

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5imKOm304OmCckqsKqV2fB?si=veAAFcD3RNqxvvfMZ4GzxQ

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

Adam DeGraide Discusses ADAM Music Project

Big Al

November 10, 2025

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Season 1, Episode 28: https://adammusicproject.com/

In this episode I chatted with Adam DeGraide about his partnership with Dameon Aranda called “A.D.A.M. Music Project” and their newest single “They Are Here.” It is a song inspired by iconic alien-themed video games like Half-Life and Halo. We also discussed the upcoming album “Knockdown,” which features a blend of rock styles and includes songs inspired by video games like “Pitfall,” “Mega Man,” and “Galaga.” Adam also explained the collaboration with his Damien and highlighted the involvement of various vocalists and musicians in the project.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/3LxuwwMAIaA

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6TF2gE4LOFLByItfpMYU8N?si=Bh0aT80eSmy86BBmKyKTKg

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