Podcast – Allen "Big Al" Tate

Guns N’ Roses at 40 with Martin Popoff

September 30, 2025

Comments closed

Season 1, Episode 21: https://martinpopoff.com/html/bookslist

Martin and I discussed Martin’s book “Guns N’ Roses at 40,” which covers 40 career highlights of the band in a chronological format. We also explored Martin’s extensive writing process and experience authoring over 135 books, including his work on band biographies and historical accounts. The conversation concluded with discussions about Martin’s upcoming book releases and their availability through various retailers.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/fTHWF4zgBmA

Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/bigalrocks/episodes/Guns-N-Roses-at-40-with-Martin-Popoff-e38tkah

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

Spotify · YouTube · Apple Podcasts · Podchaser · Amazon Music · Goodpods · iHeartRadio · Pandora · Audible · TuneIn · Deezer · Podcast Addict · RadioPublic · Pocket Casts · Castbox · Listen Notes · Player FM

Bruce Springsteen and Born To Run: 50 Years

Big Al

September 22, 2025

Comments closed

Season 1, Episode 20: https://www.amazon.com/Bruce-Springsteen-Born-Run-Albums/dp/0760391734

This week I spoke to author Sean Egan about his new book “Bruce Springsteen and Born to Run: 50 Years,” which explores the making and impact of the landmark 1975 album on its 50th anniversary. The book, published by Motorbooks, provides context about Bruce Springsteen’s career and the challenging recording process that resulted in what many consider “the greatest record ever made.” Sean discussed how Springsteen’s songwriting style evolved for the album and the significant challenges faced during recording, including personnel changes and the artist’s perfectionism.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/8gKTKX7CXK0

Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/bigalrocks/episodes/Bruce-Springsteen-and-Born-To-Run-50-Years-e38c125

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

Consequence of Energy Guitarist Diego Sagredo

Big Al

September 15, 2025

Comments closed

Season 1, Episode 19: https://www.instagram.com/consequenceofenergy/

Diego Sagredo, guitarist from the Chilean rock band Consequence of Energy, joins me this week to promote their debut single “Freedom” and upcoming album “We Are One.” The band’s new conceptual album, produced by Gard Richardson, blends hard rock with ancestral sounds and features 12 tracks including “Freedom,” set for release in January 2026. The band shared their touring plans for South American festivals and potential tours in Europe and the United States, along with details about a special animated vinyl edition of the album with U.S. distribution.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/aFwbsLFLmqg

Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/bigalrocks/episodes/Consequence-of-Energy-Guitarist-Diego-Sagredo-e388t4t

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

Walter Cianciusi of Italian Prog Rock Band Headless

Big Al

September 8, 2025

Comments closed

Season 1, Episode 18: https://www.headlessofficial.com/

In this conversation, Walter discussed the Headless album “Transitional Objects” released on August 29, 2025, on the M-Theory Audio label. He described it as a 37-minute, 8-track album with meticulous production and a dystopian perspective, inspired by personal experiences and events like 9/11 and the loss of a close friend. Walter highlighted specific songs, such as “Weightless,” inspired by the birth of his son, and “Losing Power,” reflecting on 9/11, emphasizing the album’s diverse inspirations and emotional depth. Walter also discussed the history of the band.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/jNz-PJ1fzo4

Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/bigalrocks/episodes/Walter-Cianciusi-of-Italian-Prog-Rock-Band-Headless-e37vgdh

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

Derek Shulman Discusses His Book Giant Steps

Big Al

September 2, 2025

Comments closed

Season 1, Episode 17: https://gentlegiantband.com/

In this interview, Derek Shulman discussed his life journey from his Scottish upbringing to becoming a successful musician and later music industry executive. He shared his experiences with various bands, including Simon Dupree and the Big Sound and Gentle Giant, and detailed his transition from performing to working in A&R at Polygram Records. Derek reflected on the evolution of the music industry and advised emerging artists to focus on authenticity rather than fame, while also mentioning his upcoming book “Giant Steps” which explores these themes and the future of music.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/ewl4JwOz3kw

Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/bigalrocks/episodes/Derek-Shulman-Discusses-His-Book-Giant-Steps-e37iv3l

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