Tony Mantor
Nashville based veteran music producer Tony Mantor’s Almost Live… Nashville podcast takes its listener on a journey through the business of music and entertainment. Following the success and popularity of his top-rated podcast on Autism & Mental Health awareness - Why Not Me? - Mantor hosts thought-provoking conversations and behind-the-scenes stories from various celebrity guests from the world of music, television and entertainment. With more than 30 years as an accomplished music producer based in Nashville, Mantor welcomes a worldly guest list of musicians, actors and entertainers who share their unique stories about the roles they’ve played in creating and sustaining what we know as popular American culture. Conversations and stories that also give a deeper understanding on what it takes to achieve success in the entertainment industry for aspiring entertainers who are currently pursuing their own dreams of being a star someday. Whether listening for the entertainment or storytelling factor alone, or for tips on how his guests faced their life’s challenges, Almost Live… Nashville will have a story for anyone who has been a fan of popular culture in music, movies and television over the last few decades.
2d ago
We dive deep into the journey of Boomtown Saints, the dynamic duo of Chris and Ben who've been crowned Music Row Magazine's 2024 Independent Artist of the Year and CDX Nashville's 2025 Group of the Year. Their authentic approach to country music and commitment to positive messaging is winning over fans across demographics. • Chris and Ben met at a Nashville gym, forming an unexpected musical partnership that evolved from a cover band to signed recording artists • The name "Boomtown Saints" reflects both unexpected prosperity and their faith background • Their music consistently carries positive messaging, even in heartbreak songs • Live performances feature a carefully crafted set designed to maintain high energy throughout • Their primary motivation is building a legacy for their daughters while remaining present as fathers • They've planned releases every six weeks through early 2026 but prioritize family time • The band includes diverse talent: a Marine drummer, a former Voice contestant, and a "Viking-like" guitarist • They approach songwriting with humility, recording the best songs whether written by themselves or others Find Boomtown Saints on Instagram and TikTok @BoomtownSaints, on Facebook and their website at Boomtown Saints Music, and follow them on streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music INTRO/OUTRO: T. Wild Mantor Music BMI Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Dec 2
David Paul Brooks, known as DPB, takes us through his journey from gospel singer to Billboard-charting gospel rap artist, sharing how he seamlessly blends powerful hip-hop rhythms with uplifting Christian messages. • Born into a musical family where his mother opened for Elvis Presley and James Brown before dedicating her life to gospel • Grew up in New York during the birth of hip-hop, balancing church life with an emerging passion for rap • Joined Grammy and Dove-nominated group Disciples of Christ (DOC) for nearly 10 years, developing his songwriting skills • Transitioned to a successful solo career with Billboard charting hits despite limited resources • Created "the world of DPB" encompassing music, books, clothing, animation, and motivational speaking • Maintains a foundation of faith that informs his music and message about overcoming life's challenges • Practices and teaches practical applications of biblical principles for mental health and positive living • Released a bestselling book "No Bad Days" offering solutions for depression, ADHD, and PTSD • Aims to conduct a worldwide hope tour with the goal of positively impacting 50 million lives • Believes in addressing problems with solutions rather than just highlighting the negative Check out DPB's music including "American Strong," "Undefeated," "I Feel So Good Today," and "Let It Go" at worldofdpb.com and on all social media platforms under "World of DPB." Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Nov 25
From Music to Novels: Brent Mayer's Journey with The Night of the Orphan Train In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, host Tony Mantor sits down with Grammy-winning producer and songwriter Brent Maher to discuss his new venture as an author. Brent shares the fascinating journey behind his new musical novel, 'Night of the Orphan Train,' inspired by a road sign he saw during a vacation. The novel blends historical fiction with original music and delves into the lives of orphaned children transported across the U.S. in the early 20th century. Brent describes the process of creating the book, developing characters, and the rewarding experience of stepping into a new creative role. The episode also highlights insights into the entertainment industry and the resilient human spirit. Meet Brent Mayer: From Music to Literature The Inspiration Behind 'Night of the Orphan Train' The Orphan Train Era: A Historical Insight Creating the Musical Novel Bringing Characters to Life The Journey of Writing and Producing Final Thoughts and Future Endeavors INTRO/OUTRO: T.Wild Mantor Music BMI Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Nov 18
British singer-songwriter Tasman Archer shares her journey from chart-topping success with "Sleeping Satellite" to her current independent music career. She discusses her upcoming album release, creative rebirth during the pandemic, and finding freedom outside the major label system. • Working independently on a new album "A Cauldron of Random Notes" releasing September 12th • Discovering hundreds of unfinished songs during the pandemic sparked her creative revival • Creating music without pressure led to more authentic expression and artistic satisfaction • The challenges and rewards of managing all aspects of music creation as an independent artist • Finding freedom after feeling like a "commodity" during her time with EMI Records • Growing up in Bradford surrounded by diverse musical influences from Nat King Cole to Sex Pistols • Overcoming initial shyness about her voice to eventually win a BRIT Award • Planning future releases including a rockier EP following the album Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Nov 4
Johnny from Hardwick Circus shares the band's transformative experience as the first UK band to tour Ukraine since the Russian invasion, playing eight shows in nine days across the country while raising money for emergency vehicles and recording a live album. • Formed with his brother Tom, Hardwick Circus is a six-piece rock band from Carlisle, England that has performed over 700 shows • When two members couldn't continue to Ukraine, they recruited an international lineup of musicians they met on the way • Ukrainian audiences were primarily women whose partners were serving on the front lines, showing remarkable resilience and positivity • The band recorded a live album in Kyiv called "One Hour Ahead of the Posse" with all proceeds supporting Ukraine • Their tour has inspired bands from Japan, USA, and Germany to follow in their footsteps • Songs took on new meanings in Ukraine, similar to their experience touring English prisons • Hardwick Circus plans to return to Ukraine in October while promoting their new single "Hollow" Check out our website at hardwickcircus.tv and listen to our new single "Hollow" on Spotify. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Oct 21
Rock icon Suzi Quatro joins us to discuss her seventh book, "Grave Undertakings," and reflects on her remarkable six-decade career in entertainment. She shares the fascinating creative process behind her latest psychological novel, her upcoming music projects, and her experiences as an actress on the iconic TV show "Happy Days." • Suzi discusses her new book "Grave Undertakings," which incorporates tombstone inscriptions collected from famous friends over 35 years • The book evolved from a collection of quotes into a psychological novel featuring six students and their Austrian professor • Creativity takes on a life of its own – Suzi often surprised herself when rereading her work • At almost 75, Suzi is working harder than ever with non-stop touring and recording • She calls her current phase "the gravy years" – enjoying her work without the pressure of early career • Her upcoming projects include a new rock album featuring Alice Cooper and her third poetry book • Suzi reflects on her role in "Happy Days" and how the cast helped her develop as an actress • Her ideal tombstone would read "Now I get it" on one side and "Too many dreams, too little time" on the other Find Suzi's new book "Grave Undertakings" wherever books are sold. Look for her upcoming rock album and catch her on tour across Europe and Australia this year Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Oct 7
Country music star Phil Vassar shares his remarkable journey of survival and rebirth after experiencing a near-fatal heart attack that stopped his heart for nearly 30 minutes. We explore his profound two-year recovery process and how this life-altering experience transformed his approach to music, creativity, and the entertainment industry. • Phil had to relearn basic functions including walking and playing piano after his "sudden death" episode • Despite being physically fit with healthy eating habits, Phil's heart attack was attributed to genetic factors • The recovery process included months at Shepherd Center in Atlanta followed by continued rehabilitation at home • Phil now feels more calm, focused, and confident in his musical choices after facing mortality • The health crisis shifted Phil's perspective from pleasing industry gatekeepers to creating authentic music he loves • Phil's illustrious career includes writing hits for Tim McGraw, Alan Jackson and meeting legends like Elton John • Nashville's Music Row has changed dramatically with iconic studios being replaced by condominiums • Phil is building a recording studio in his barn to create music on his own terms • The conversation touches on memorable encounters with Glen Campbell, BJ Thomas, and performances at the White House • Phil expresses gratitude for his second chance at life and the opportunity to reflect on his 35+ year career I'm doing fewer shows this year - only about 30-40 - which has given me time to reflect on everything that's happened. I really believe everything happens for a reason, and I'm definitely thankful to be here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Sep 23
Tony Christie shares his remarkable journey from performing in small UK nightclubs to becoming an international star touring worldwide after signing with MCA Records in 1971. His life transformed completely as hit songs like "Las Vegas" and "Amarillo" opened doors to global tours and changed his family's circumstances forever. • Career launched by manager Harvey Lisberg, who also managed Herman's Hermits • Experienced multiple career revivals, including when Peter Kay used "Amarillo" in his TV show • Recorded new albums in Nashville with top session musicians • Currently navigating a dementia diagnosis but continuing to perform extensively • Touring actively at age 81 with performances scheduled throughout the year • Recently released albums "We Still Shine" and "A New Life" • Hoping to perform in Amarillo, Texas, where he was given the key to the city • Maintains multi-generational appeal with families attending shows together Join us for this inspiring conversation about resilience, musical passion, and finding new beginnings at any age Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.