Episode 911: Director Skylar Lawson (Whelm), Irish Country Band Hurricane Highway

Podcast Version

Episode 911: Director Skylar Lawson (Whelm), Irish Country Band Hurricane Highway

We pulled out too early!  We should have stayed in longer!  We didn’t ejaculate in the correct order!  Sounds like a gym locker room—NOPE! That’s America’s exit strategy for Afghanistan. Welcome to the season nine finale of the Chris Collins Show. 

Do WE need to protect the collegiate model?  The ACC, Big Ten and Pac-12 announced ALLIANCE plans.  Seems like we’re congratulating each other on a pass that wasn’t thrown—BUT we’ll received?  We’ve got bad news FAM!

Marissa is leaving the CHRIS COLLINS SHOW and has decided to start her own Only Fans page after receiving massive DM’S!  LATE BREAKING NEWS!  Only Fans has banned pornographic material!  UPDATE on that story.  Marissa is back on the show!  Wait!  The banks stepped in and Only Fans has reversed its decision.  Marissa now what? 

Kanye and Drake have reunited in their BROMANCE drama but fans called Kanye out for posting Drake's home address.  Kim Kardashian interrupts the disputing rappers—“what about me and the non-affair I had?”

Indie Film Director Skyler Lawson joins JUST TALKING to promote his latest film, Whelm. When indie directors set their minds to make a movie they pull all cards and favors—“it’s like trying to take the SAT’s while riding a bull!” Skyler went back to his home town in Indiana, gathered local community support, networked talent and researched 1930’s celebrity bank robber legends to create the film Whelm. Whelm shot on 35mm film is beautiful cinematography.  It embraces the “warmth of the Midwest” with a great sense of humor—it’s a unique take on the Great Depression crime lore.  Watch Whelm streaming on Amazon Prime https://www.amazon.com/Whelm-Delil-Baran/dp/B098TVWBMN. More info at https://www.endrowpictures.com

Ed Holland lead singer from the 4 time Grammy Nominated Irish country band Hurricane Highway joins STRIKE A CHORD.  Like many music artists working remotely over the past year during the pandemic, the band used online tools to produce music with top players in Nashville—sending ideas back and forth till the magic happens.  Most if not all country bands are expected to have guitarists but Hurricane Highway went full circle with their track Sha La La featuring a ukulele!  A testament to Hurricane Highway’s place in country music is their odd cover track of Lionel Richie’s—Dancing on the Ceiling “It’s just a crackin song.”  Listen and you’ll see why the people love it!  Follow Hurricane Highway at https://www.hurricanehighway.net.

Episode 910: Producer Jessica Devaney (Pray Away), Critic Elizabeth Kim (Gen Z Critics) and Singer Phreckle$

Podcast Version

Episode 910: Producer Jessica Devaney (Pray Away), Critic Elizabeth Kim (Gen Z Critics) and Singer Phreckle$

Global warming is real FAM! — feels like we’re living in Satan’s ball sack! Free speech is back or at least anonymous cyberbullying is back on a smart device near you - Yik Yak! Yup. Marissa hits 24% body fat with her beach body ready for bikini COVID — the “young terrorist organization” the Girl Scouts responded back with checkout our new Adventurefuls; indulgent brownie-inspired, caramel-flavored cream, chocolate drizzle cookie. Say hello to cookie curves. Men of the world have decided to share “guy secrets” online and women are mortified or at least Marissa is. Chris uses his “hotrod” to pee off the poo sticking to the bowl. Come on guys, we’ve all done that a few times.

Critic Elizabeth “Betsy” Kim (Gen Z Critics) joins Just Taking. Betsy’s an advocate for the younger generation to start critiquing film and tv without barriers. Betsy gives the Oscar’s a kick and reboot, Gen Z Critics is having their own Oscar’s nominations vote. Like COVID we’re all butt hurt over the way Game of Thrones ended. Her top vote during our this lockdown is to “run into the arms of Korean Drama’s (K-Drama’s)”, they’ve got drama, comedy, tons of episodes and are incredibly fun to watch. There’s one under the radar sketch comedy show Betsy recommends, Ziwe (Zee Way) on Showtime “nails Gen-Z humor” but “too cool” for the Emmys and snubbed. Matt Damon predicts the pandemic is the enemy of modern cinema with so many films going straight to streaming services — Gen Z Critics, hopes not, filmmakers need to show films in theater, “I want the experience”. Scarlett Johansson, just responded with that’s my point Disney! Submit your film critique at https://genzcritics.com/

Producer Jessica Devaney joins Just Talking. Pray Away is available on NETFLIX, exposes Exodus International, the largest and most controversial conversion therapy organization in the world. It’s about Gay conversion therapy, it’s a sensitive subject — the themes, the topics, the people. Jessica describes producing this film as “we wanted to draw attention to the fact that this still is ubiquitous across the country and around the world… it’s still the evangelical and christian churches main response to LGBTQ folks.” It’s alive and thriving, certain states in the U.S. are implementing laws and regulations that allow this practice to proliferate. Pray Away is a deeply compassionate approach to portraying people discovering their gender/sexual identity in the context the modern church without weaponize the message. It’s a powerful documentary, available on NETFLIX, https://www.netflix.com/title/81040370.

Phreckle$ joins Strike a Chord from #909! What’s good! A model, a singer, a rapper, perfect hair, has freckles, a mom and the list goes on. Once known as Female (Femm maalee), she left a life of addiction, toxic relationships, parting and reinvented herself as Phrecke$ the powerhouse artist today. Artist grow over the years, rather than hold on to old party music she went in a new direction, rebranded herself, “something that has it’s own lane” google Phreckle$. Remember when Prince got sober, he wouldn’t perform any of the stuff that made him famous from the past, it wasn’t his story anymore. Phreckle$ isn’t an artist you can place in genre, “I don’t want to be in box, get me out of the box.” She was band nerd, playing trumpet in high school, then bass guitar in various bands, then having a baby, modeling and finally circled back to music. “My music is a mesh between hip hop, pop, a little bit of a rock edge in a way.” Phreckle$’ track Because Of You, “All because of you, I can finally see the light, since you came into my life, I think it’s going to be alright.” is tribute to her daughter, a powerful and sobering example of changing your life in a positive direction. Listen and follow Phreckle$ at https://www.iamphreckles.com.

Episode 909: Comedian Marcus Hawkins and Band Dummy

Podcast Version

Episode 909: Comedian Marcus Hawkins and Band Dummy

Happy Birthday to all the fine Wizards and Witches born on Friday the 13th. Holy bisexuality Batman! The cape crusaders long time sidekick Robin (Tim Drake), swings out of the closet- BAM, BOOM, SLURPE! Roger Goodell’s No Fun League (NFL) has decided player celebration is unsportsmanlike conduct because it hurts the losing teams feelings. With COVID easing up and bands performing live again, the Foo Fighters get it and give back to the people, Dave Grohl invites a fan on stage to play lead guitar on a Foo Fighters classic track Monkey Wrench.   

Comedian Marcus Hawkins joins JUST TALKING from the COVID security of his car. “If y'all don’t get your punk ass shots, we can’t do nothing!”  OK CDC there’s your next advertising campaign.  Marcus stands up for comic book character equality.  “Batman can’t eat out Catwoman but Robin can take penis?”  “My heroes eat pu**y!”  So Marcus what say you? To bathe or not to bathe? … “Wash your ass!”

From demo tracks to dummy tracks the Indie Rock band Dummy joins STRIKE A CHORD from New Jersey.  Dummy members are Matt, Chris, Ben, Jeffery and Carlee, all with assorted musical backgrounds. You wouldn’t know looking at them—BUT Dummy’s roots are in Heavy Death Metal!  The band’s latest track Afterthought has a music video straight out of a Dawson’s Creek episode.  The band’s music is a mix of romance and 80’s nostalgia vibes—AND suddenly you want to dance!  Follow Dummy at https://dummytheband.com. Shout out to film crew “Manic Hour Pictures” !

Episode 908: Actor/Playwright Catherine Barnes, Band Punk Rock Factory

Podcast Version

Episode 908: Actor/Playwright Catherine Barnes, Band Punk Rock Factory

Maybe means NO? No means maybe YES? Maybe means MAYBE? Chris still isn’t sure.  Actress/Playwright Catherine Barnes joins JUST TALKING to share her insight on consent and why we all suck at it. Yes? No? Maybe So? is part musical with a mix of inner social justice warrior jazz hands—AND a strong millennial message—“No one gets to grab my boobs if I don’t give consent!”  Millennial dating is hard and confusing.  Catherine practices LOVE ISLAND “negging” on Chris.  While Marissa opens a maybe surprise just to get a “dick in the face?” Visit Catherine’s website at www.queenmabmusic.com. 

Let’s live in a world where your favorite classic cartoons and TV shows are covered by a Punk Rock band.  UK TikTok sensation Punk Rock Factory joins STRIKE A CHORD—AND has already done it!  Their new album Masters of the Uniwurst takes on 21 classic theme songs including: Cars—Life is a Highway, Power Rangers, The Flintstones, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Pokemon and many more.  It’s trippy when you hear the opening theme song to the 90’s TV show Mighty Morphin Power Rangers as a punk metal, drum smashing, head banger! Go! Go! Power Rangers! Pick up the latest Punk Rock Factory album and merch at https://punkrockfactory.com

Episode 907: Actor Kevin Neighbors, Versatile and Singer/Song Writer Alexandra Kay

Podcast Version

Episode 907: Actor Kevin Neighbors, Versatile and Singer/Song Writer Alexandra Kay

Kevin Neighbors joins JUST TALKING to discuss the versatility of his one man show Versatile—AND share some Slam Poetry. He’s a BLACK man.  He’s a GAY man.  He’s a FOSTER CHILD.  BUT most of all he’s Kevin!  His show is a personal timeline—searching to define himself through a series of reflective but tragic experiences.  “We walk around and we’re looked at… for me people just try to figure me out.” Follow Kevin Neighbors on IG @kevin_neighbors. https://www.instagram.com/kevin_neighbors

With over 2 million TikTok followers Nashville Country Singer Alexandra Kay joins STRIKE A CHORD.  Alexandra started off playing competitive league softball.  There were college scholarships lining up, sports agents and promising future ahead—BUT she decided to pursue a career in music—AND she caught Nelly’s it's Hot In Herre attention and signed a deal.  GOOD CALL!  Alexandra’s track I Kinda Don’t reached the number one spot on iTunes Country Charts.  Music, tours and more on Alexandra Kay at https://www.alexandrakayofficial.com

Episode 906: Sports Matters and R&B/Soul Artist Ashton Edminster

Podcast Version

Episode 906: Sports Matters and R&B/Soul Artist Ashton Edminster

CCS Contributor SPORTS MATTERS with Kevin Drake joins in on JUST TALKING to discuss the Tokyo Summer Olympic Games. It’s about time Skateboarding and Surfing were part of the games.  As Tony Hawk would say "I consider skateboarding an art form, a lifestyle and a sport." PLUS—name drama in Cleveland—Guardians? The next Babe Ruth?—Shohei Ohtani?  AND the world of NIL rights for collegiate athletics?  OK young millennial athletes it’s time to use your NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) and bring in the endorsement cash—that is, if there’s any left after Bryce Young’s deal!

What’s the secret to 15 million streams on Spotify?  STRIKE A CHORD guest Singer-Songwriter Ashton Edminster decided to put her personality on social media and sing to her followers—“the cool thing about social media is it lets you have an inside on people's lives.” Ashton’s track Break the Distance describes the experience of having internet friendship/relationships—AND within the first 24 hours was charted #9 on iTunes!  Ashton’s single Seem Okay features previous STRIKE A CHORD guest Dezmond Walker on vocals. This track describes the difference between men and women in the most open and complimentary way, love is intoxicating.  Ashton Edminster is available on all major streaming services: http://www.ashtonedminster.com

Episode 905: Punk Band Weatherworn

Podcast Version

Episode 905: Punk Band Weatherworn

The boys of Weatherworn join STRIKE A CHORD to discuss farming a band from New York to Virginia, losing band members—AND what the hell does “Weatherworn” mean? Some people argue that the drummer is the sexiest member of a band—BUT band member Steven completely challenges that notion with his clarinet—“it’s all in the way you use those fingers!” What’s better than playing Guitar Hero—“get a real guitar you nerd” — the coolest parent-to- son story you’ll ever hear. The band’s latest track Head in Hands argues the duality of being a kid and the adult expectations to conform to societies predetermined “design of life.” Weatherworn is available on all major streaming services: https://www.weatherwornva.com/

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Episode 904: R&B Singer Jus True

Podcast Version

BIO

Jus True is an all American R&B/Pop recording artist, musician, model and actress. Born and raised in Youngstown, OH, the young starlet was introduced to her talents at the tender age of 3. Officially launching her professional career in 2010, Jus True kept herself active in the local scene, performing at lounges, community events and opening for national acts such as Jeremih, August Alsina, and Mario. To date, the ambitious artist has performed for many notable regional events such as the Ohio Hip Hop Awards, Ohio Entertainment Awards and the Cleveland Film Fest.

Episode 904:  R&B Singer Jus True

Jus True R&B singer from Atlanta Georgia joins STRIKE A CHORD and brings her puppies—Pugs are lickers! The singer keeps it real when it comes to finger nails and X-boyfriends. Every music artist has a breakup/makeup song inspired by a true personal event. WTFYM (What The Fuck You Mean) Jus Trues’ new single is another anthem to the arsenal.  Her X-boyfriend’s infidelity was all she needed to crank out fire on this track! Her music is honest, emotional and inspired by the hits of the 90’s.  AND with 2 reality TV shows in the future and an upcoming music video—it’s true!—She’s true!  Listen to Jus True on all major streaming services:  https://www.instagram.com/officialjustrue/

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Episode 903: Film Director D.W. Thomas and Country Pop Artist Amanda Cooksey

Podcast Version

Episode 903: Film Director D.W. Thomas

Director D.W. Thomas joins JUST TALKING to discuss her new Horror Comedy Too Late.  D.W. started off as video editor "polishing turds" and then one day decided to become a director so she could polish her own! Inspired by classic childhood 80’s flicks like Gremlins and her husband’s standup comedy career D.W. wanted to tell a campy horror story—but with a message. Films with scripted stand up jokes can feel forced.  D.W. gambled and won big.  She let the comedians use their own jokes and routines and it pays off.  Watch this film on all streaming services, select theaters and VOD. Visit https://toolatethemovie.com/

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Episode 903:  Country Pop Artist Amanda Cooksey

That gorgeous Nashville looker Amanda Cooksey joins STRIKE A CHORD to talk about her new track In Denial—and Chris “can’t help but fall in love with an artist who can sing and play guitar.” GUSH!  Cooksey finds “millennial love is tough.” Chris reminds Amanda “you don’t want to swipe right and regret later!”  In Denial is about going through the stages of a break up.  Amanda got over her break up—AND you can too!  Just don’t stay “in denial.” Listen on all major audio streaming services. Visit https://amandacooksey.com/

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Episode 902: Eric Silvera and Sean Kenealy, In Action (Film) and NY Based Hip Hop Group, Re'Sounding!

Podcast Version

Episode 902: Eric Silvera and Sean Kenealy, In Action (Film)

Co-writers! Co-directors! Co-actors! Co-everything! Sean Kenealy and Eric Silvera join JUST TALKING to discuss their comedy thriller IN ACTION.  The world's first 2-person action movie! Take Sean’s theater and Eric’s standup background, combine them as two idiot screenwriters—and a real life NSA investigation—and you have ridiculousness.  In Action is available on all streaming services—visit: www.inactionmovie.com

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Episode 902:  NY Based Hip Hop Group, Re'Sounding!

Queens New York and Philly team up to create Hip Hop group Re’Sounding! The 4 member team, LTR4 (Later Four), Kiki Corona, E-Note and Kid Galactic join up on STRIKE A CHORD to rage against the machine!  Re’Sounding opening track—BOONDOCKS hits hard!  Powerful lyrics, globally self-aware and a banging beat. LTR4—“Our best music to me is when we write how we feel in the moment”.  Follow Re’Sounding—visit: www.weareresounding.com

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Episode 901: Royals

Podcast Version

Episode 901: Royals

Pop Punk band the Royals joins STRIKE A CHORD from Southampton UK and drops new track Jaded!   The pandemic has taken its toll—but the Royals found inspiration to reform with a new band member, self- produce, write new songs and release an EP. There’s a new Pop Punk renaissance happening and the Royals are taking the charge! Alternative Press lists the Royals as one of the TOP 10 rising UK Pop bands.  Royals single Worldwide Catastrophe sets the tone for improving our world—the lyrics give us a hint—“There’s got to be a better way than just watch the world go down in flames; we could be the tidal wave!”

Royals brand new EP “A Spark to Ignite” and single with video “GONE”, listen now, visit: www.royalsofficial.com.

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