In this inspiring episode, we celebrate women who have shaped the world of audio engineering. Our guest host is Cato Zane, an accomplished audio engineer and founder of Lost & Sound Foundry in San Diego. With a background in both music and physics, Cato brings insight, passion, and a strong commitment to mentorship. She guides us through powerful interview segments with pioneering engineers including Lenise Bent, Fela Davis, Sylvia Massy, Leslie Ann Jones, and Apogee President Betty Bennett—each sharing their personal stories and contributions to the craft, culture, and future of sound.

If you’ve ever watched a Disney movie or visited a Disney park, chances are you’ve heard the unforgettable music of Richard Sherman. As one half of the legendary Sherman Brothers, Richard helped create some of the most beloved songs in film history. In this podcast replay, he reflects on his remarkable career writing music with his brother Robert for classics like Mary Poppins and The Jungle Book, including their iconic song, “It’s a Small World (After All).” Heard by millions each year, his music continues to bring joy around the world.

In this special episode, we explore the influential legacy of The Ventures, the iconic instrumental rock band that shaped generations of musicians with their driving sound and distinctive style. Joining us is guest host Jeff Schermer—lifelong music advocate, NAMM volunteer, and oral history contributor—who brings personal insight and passion to the conversation. The episode features interviews with Ventures members Don Wilson, Nokie Edwards, and John Durrill, along with Mosrite Guitar co-founder Andy Moseley. We’re also thrilled to include Jeff’s recent interview with Fiona Taylor, wife of drummer Mel Taylor, now part of the NAMM Oral History collection.

Tune in to this week’s podcast replay: Composer Suzanne Ciani began her musical journey with the piano, but after discovering Don Buchla and the world of electronic music, she never looked back. Ciani has been a pioneering force in bringing electronic instruments into mainstream pop culture, shaping film, television, and music along the way. Join Dan, Mike, and Ashley as they dive into the remarkable career of one of America’s trailblazing female synth icons.

Digging deep into the NAMM Oral History collection, our podcast team unearthed some remarkable jazz treasures we’re excited to share with you! In this special episode, we’re joined by Father Doran Stambaugh, priest at St. Michael’s Church in Carlsbad and host of a unique weekly jazz service called Evening Song. Together, we’ll explore powerful interview moments from some of jazz’s most iconic voices, including Miles Davis’ bassist Ron Carter, Louis Armstrong’s trombonist Trummy Young, Clora Bryant of the International Sweethearts of Rhythm, New Orleans trumpeter and composer Terence Blanchard, and legendary Blue Note recording engineer Rudy Van Gelder.

Folk singer-songwriter and one-third of the legendary group Peter, Paul and Mary, Peter Yarrow, passed away earlier this year. In honor of his memory and his profound contributions to music, we’re reposting the podcast episode of Peter's full NAMM Oral History interview we conducted with him in June 2017. We remain grateful for the time he shared with us and for his friendship. He is deeply missed.

To celebrate the bass players we have interviewed over the years, the podcast team called on NAMM’s Membership Coordinator and bassist Malcom Holman. Join us as we hear from Verdine White, Victor Wooten, Mohini Dey, Stanley Clarke and the legendary Ron Carter.

Join the Music History Project podcast team for a special episode discussing guitar effects and looping. Our guest is musician, songwriter, looper and former music retailer David Jenson. We will highlight a few Oral History interviews related to effects including Mike Porter, Del Casher, Thomas Blug and enjoy David presenting a looping demo!

This episode of The Music History Project highlights the important philanthropic work of the Otis Redding Foundation — launched in 2007 by Otis’ wife, Zelma, to honor his memory. Otis’ grandson Justin Andrews, director of special projects and outreach, and his daughter Karla Redding-Andrews, vice president and executive director, describe the foundation’s music and arts education programs, which are designed to empower, enrich and motivate young people through music, writing and instrumentation. As a special treat for all Otis Redding fans, Justin and Karla gracefully share their insights about Otis Redding as a father, his music and his support for education.

Joining the Music History Project podcast team for a special episode dedicated to the band Yes with our guest longtime musician, arranger and our friend Mr. Bill Kilpatrick! Together we will explore the incredible talents of those in the band we have interviewed over the years including Jon Anderson, Bill Bruford, Rick Wakeman and Trevor Rabin!