Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris

On this episode of the MusicMatters Podcast, host Darrell Craig Harris sits down with acclaimed guitarist, songwriter, and indie rock artist Ali Handal for an in-depth conversation on creativity, tone, and the modern music journey.

Ali shares insights into her approach to songwriting, developing a signature guitar sound, and navigating the ever-changing landscape of the independent music scene. The discussion also dives into her work with Venus Guitars, exploring how the instrument you choose can shape your voice as an artist and influence your performance both in the studio and on stage.

From touring experiences to artistic inspiration, this episode offers a candid look at what it takes to build a lasting career as a guitarist and songwriter in today's industry.

Website www.alihandal.com

www.instagram.com/alihandalmusic

www.venus-guitars.com 

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/5JG9RkDazTt64kyVpQDc5N?si=Hb_wHXEWSACf6voEc10shQ

About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris

The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Sports Illustrated photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, over 1,000,000 global downloads in 40 countries.

Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh

For inquiries, contact: [email protected]

Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell

 voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer

In this episode of Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris, we sit down with music industry powerhouse Laura B Whitmore founder of the She Rocks Awards, and Senior Marketing Director for Positive Grid. Laura is a highly respected marketing executive who has worked with some of the biggest brands in music.

Laura shares her incredible journey through the music business, offering insight into what it takes to build a lasting career behind the scenes. We dive into her work supporting women in music, the impact of the She Rocks Awards, and how artists and industry professionals can position themselves for success in today's evolving landscape.

From branding and marketing to navigating major industry shifts, this conversation is packed with valuable advice for musicians, creatives, and anyone looking to better understand the business side of music.

• Tune in for an inspiring and informative discussion with one of the most influential voices in the music industry today.

www.thewimn.com (She Rocks Awards)

www.positivegrid.com 

www.Instagram.com/laurabwhitmore 

About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris

The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Sports Illustrated photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, over 1,000,000 global downloads in 40 countries.

Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh

For inquiries, contact: [email protected]

Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell

 voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer

Indie artist Michael Isaak joins Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris to talk about his unique Arabesque folk sound, blending cultural influences with modern songwriting.

In this episode, Michael shares insights into his musical journey, creative process, and how he developed a distinctive style that sets him apart in today's indie music scene. From inspiration to production, this is a must-listen for fans of indie, folk, and world-influenced music.

Social Media www.Instagram.com/michaelisaakmusic

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/559rQJZL0GYH9lVU6zi5ey?si=e1mnhy_ZTxSF579uMLpWWg 

Website www.MichaelIsaak.us 

About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris

The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, 870,000 global downloads in over 40 countries.

Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh

For inquiries, contact: [email protected]

Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell

 voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer

About our guests Jake and Shelby

Jake & Shelby write songs about love in all its forms: falling in, falling out, chasing it, questioning it, and learning to let go. Their music blends the intimacy of heartfelt storytelling with the pull of hook-driven pop, layering rich harmonies over a sound that feels both organic and elevated.

The duo began by sharing simple acoustic covers online, and what started as a creative experiment quickly turned into a global following. Today, they have surpassed 18 million streams and 1.6 million followers across all socials, with fans drawn to their emotional honesty, dynamic performances, and undeniable chemistry.

jakeandshelby.komi.io

www.instagram.com/jakeandshelbyofficial

On Spoyify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0JdBmLuhVC8l8dE7f0rVjS?si=rQdFT_bhSOyXcFuvLsNp9w

About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris

The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, 870,000 global downloads in over 40 countries.

Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh

For inquiries, contact: [email protected]

Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell

 voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer

Music Matters host Darrell Craig Harris interviews The Builders and The Butchers frontman/lead vocalist Ryan Sollee from his home in Portland Oregon to talk about the bands new releases, upcoming shows, and more in this new interview!

About the band 

The Builders and the Butchers were formed in the fall of 2005 in Portland, Oregon. The band's first two years consisted of busking, playing house shows, and showing up unannounced anywhere around Portland where people were gathered.

Folks began to take notice and the band transitioned slowly, going from playing on the floor of venues unplugged to gradually adding a mic here, an amp there, until they organically grew into one of the most exciting live acts in the Pacific Northwest. Even when plugged in, a cornerstone of almost every builders show is playing on the floor at some point during the set.

Touring relentlessly from 2007-2012 The Builders gathered a cult dedicated fan base across the US and Europe. Playing dozens of music festivals like Sasquatch and Lollapalooza, as well as supporting artists like Portugal. The Man, Amanda Palmer, Murder By Death, and Heartless Bastards.

Website www.TheBuildersAndTheButchers.com

Social media www.Instagram.com/thebuildersandthebutchers 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3fwCB7lIrdjKWiFN4vz99j?si=M9kPfkDgTQqviA0ihXYe5g

About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris

The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Getty Images photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, 870,000 global downloads in over 40 countries.

Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com Follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh

For inquiries, contact: [email protected]

Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell

 voice over intro by Nigel J. Farmer