Summary

Back in 2011, we chatted with the guys from Dawes. Sloane Spencer kicks things off with an easygoing chat with Dawes, and it’s anything but your average interview. They dig into the band’s musical origin story, tracing it back to a family that didn’t just play music, they lived it. Picture jam sessions in the living room, with dad laying down the soulful grooves that sparked a lifelong love for sound.

As they swap stories of sun-soaked California days and the wild mix of influences that shaped the band’s vibe, one thing becomes crystal clear: collaboration isn’t just part of Dawes’ process: it is the process. They dive into how songs evolve on stage, sometimes turning into something completely unexpected (and even better) than what was captured in the studio.

Sprinkled throughout are laughs about life on the road, local food gems, and the never-ending hunt for a decent cup of coffee. It’s a conversation that proves music isn’t just about the notes; it’s about the ride, the stories, and the people you meet along the way.

Links

• REMINDER: IGNORE ANY LINKS OR DATES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE
• Dawes
• You may enjoy this conversation from 2015 with Lilly Hiatt
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Show Notes

In this episode, it’s less of an interview and more like a jam session with friends. Here’s what goes down:

• The hosts sit down with a musician whose roots run deep in R&B, funk, and soul, thanks to a dad who could play piano like nobody’s business.
• Growing up in a household where family dinners came with a side of singing, music wasn’t just around, it was a way of life.
• They talk about how California’s rich and eclectic music scene helped shape his sound from the very beginning.
• The conversation flows from early influences to the evolution of his band, Dawes.
• Songwriting? It’s a team effort. He brings in the bones—chords and lyrics—and the rest of the band helps build it out into something that truly connects.
• Live shows are a different beast altogether. He shares how songs take on a whole new energy on stage, sometimes changing entirely from the studio version.
• They swap stories about memorable gigs, unpredictable venues, and the unique energy each audience brings.
• And of course, there’s plenty of humor, warmth, and behind-the-scenes moments that show the human side of being a working musician.

At its core, the episode is about more than just music. It’s about collaboration, creativity, and what happens when you grow up with rhythm in your bones.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Country Fried Rock

00:19 The Influence of Family on Musical Journey

05:20 Exploring the Road: Food and Music

11:32 Transitioning to New Beginnings

15:26 The Resurgence of Vinyl and Gear Maintenance

Takeaways

• The guest grew up in a home where R&B and funk were just part of the daily soundtrack. That early exposure shaped who they are as an artist today.
• Dawes isn’t a one-person show. Songwriting is a full-band effort, with everyone bringing something to the table to shape the final sound.
• Playing live is where things really come alive. Songs often shift and evolve on stage, making every performance feel fresh and unpredictable.
• Life on tour isn’t just about the music. They’re also big on checking out local food spots. They aim to eat healthy...but they’re not skipping the good stuff...