Born in Detroit, Roger covered rock as an entertainment writer for the Omaha World-Herald before becoming rock critic for the Hartford Courant for 12 years. In that time, he's gotten to interview Paul McCartney, David Bowie, Ray Davies, Elvis Costello, Keith Richards, Ray Charles and Brian Wilson. He is currently a freelance arts writer for the Washington Post, and writes largely about TV on his blog rogercatlin.com.
Willie NileThe singer-songwriter talks about his Steve Earle duet "Blood On Your Hands," and explains why he refused to sue The Stones over "She's So Cold."
The Top 5 Tower of Power Horn RiffsGroup leader Emilio Castillo picks the five top Tower of Power horn riffs, including songs by Elton John, Little Feat and Linda Ronstadt.
Mark Farner (ex-Grand Funk)Mark Farner talks about some highlights from his time with Grand Funk, like working with Todd Rundgren and Frank Zappa, and getting some help from the divine for "I'm Your Captain."
David Johansen of the New York DollsDavid Johansen on the early influences of the New York Dolls, heading to China when they reunited, and going folk with his band The Harry Smiths.
Chris Hillman (The Byrds, The Flying Burrito Brothers)Chris Hillman on how Miles Davis helped The Byrds land a record deal, and how a session with Hugh Masekela got him writing songs like "So You Want To Be A Rock 'N' Roll Star."
Mac DavisA previously unpublished interview with Mac Davis, who tells the story behind the song "A Little Less Conversation," which he wrote for Elvis on very short notice.
Roger Manning (Jellyfish, Lickerish Quartet)Catching up with Jellyfish founder Roger Manning, who explains how they persevered with a psychedelic pop sound in the age of hair metal and grunge.
Kathy MatteaKathy Mattea talks about her work on the Ken Burns Country Music documentary (including where Garth and Taylor fit in), and how she found her voice as a Nashville hitmaker.
Johnny MathisMathis talks about his fitness regimen, what music is most important to him, and his album with Chic.