In this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G, listeners are treated to an engaging journey through the remarkable career of Joe Croyle, a veteran jazz vocalist and pianist whose life has been shaped by music, hard work, and unforgettable opportunities. Beginning in Pittsburgh, he reflects on early breakthroughs with nationally recognized musical groups, years performing on legendary stages, and collaborations with iconic entertainers. His stories include time with celebrated acts, surprising turns into dance, and work with Motown. He also shares how a move to the desert opened new musical connections and community, leading to steady performances and creative inspiration. With insights into his stylistic evolution, favorite repertoire, current shows, and personal philosophy for young performers, the conversation paints a vivid portrait of a seasoned artist who has embraced every chapter with passion and resilience. This warm, lively interview offers music lovers a behind-the-scenes look at a life devoted to performing.

Takeaways:

• Early professional experience included global touring and television appearances.
• Performed with major entertainers across Vegas and international venues.
• Contributed background vocals for Motown artists thanks to his high, rich tone.
• Spent decades performing with a historic five-part harmony group.
• Relocated to the desert for quality of life and community connection.
• Built a strong local presence through collaborations with top jazz musicians.
• Honors Mel Tormé’s legacy with a tribute album defining his current style.
• Believes aspiring musicians succeed by showing up, working hard, and learning from great players.

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #DougGraham #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #MutualBroadcastingSystem #JazzLife #LiveJazz #PalmSpringsMusic #JazzPianist #JazzSinger #MusicHistory #VegasEntertainment #ClassicJazz #SwingStandards #MusicianLife #DesertMusicScene #PianoBarStories #JazzCommunity #PerformanceLife

In this episode of The Desert Scene with Bonnie G, listeners are treated to an inspiring and candid conversation with vocalist and songwriter Gina Zollman, whose artistic path has traveled from childhood performances to national recognition. Gina reflects on her early start in music, her love of humor and parody, and her challenging family dynamics that shaped — and at times complicated — her creative ambitions. She shares how an unexpected career in stockbroking eventually led her back to the stage, where comedy clubs and cabaret became the gateway to her true artistic voice. Gina also discusses her evolution into songwriting, the mentors who shaped her craft, and the remarkable trajectory that brought her Canadian radio success and a coveted nomination at the Josie Awards in Nashville. With honesty, resilience, and an unshakable passion for storytelling through music, Gina’s journey offers insight, laughter, and inspiration to anyone pursuing a creative life.

Takeaways:

• Early performance talent emerged at age six
• Humor, parody, and musical comedy shaped her artistic foundation
• Family expectations initially limited creative pursuits
• Corporate and stockbroking years delayed her performance career
• Standup comedy led her naturally into cabaret performance
• A filmed “second-act comeback” reignited her artistic momentum
• Songwriting became a major focus, with over 80 pieces written
• Recent achievements include Canadian radio airplay and Josie Awards nomination

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #GinaZollman #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #MutualBroadcastingSystem #SingerSongwriter #CreativeJourney #IndieArtist #MusicInterview #PalmSpringsArts #RadioShow #DesertCulture #WomenInMusic #MusicInspiration #BehindTheMusic #ArtsCommunity #PodcastEpisode #SongwritingLife #AnneMurray #JosieAwards

In this inspiring episode, The Desert Scene spotlights a dynamic local effort to sustain the arts in Palm Springs. Entertainer and producer Doug Graham joins host Bonnie G. to discuss What a Feeling, the third annual fundraiser for the Palm Springs Cultural Center. This high-energy concert event celebrates the Oscar-winning songs of the 1980s, blending nostalgia, talent, and community spirit. Graham shares insights into the creative process of curating iconic hits from films like Dirty Dancing, Rocky III, and Back to the Future, while highlighting the importance of keeping the Cultural Center thriving as a hub for film, music, and live performance. Listeners will hear about the returning hosts, the talented cast, and how every dollar raised helps maintain this vital local arts institution. Tune in for a conversation filled with passion, creativity, and the joy of giving back through entertainment.

Takeaways:

• What a Feeling is a benefit concert for the Palm Springs Cultural Center.
• The show features Oscar-winning and nominated songs from 1980s movies.
• It follows two highly successful past fundraising events, raising over $90,000.
• Returning hosts Craig Ramsay and Catherine Wreford bring humor and heart.
• The cast includes local favorites and new talents discovered at open mics.
• Musical direction is by Alex Stanson, with a live combo band.
• Proceeds will help fund operations and new seating at the Cultural Center.
• The event celebrates creativity, community, and the power of performance to inspire.

#BonnieG #TheDesertScenePodcast #DougGraham #CoachellaValley #PalmSpringsCulturalCenter #MutualBroadcastingSystem #Fundraiser #LocalArts #PalmSpringsEvents #1980sMusic #OscarSongs #LivePerformance #BroadwayTalent #SupportTheArts #CulturalCommunity #EventSpotlight #CreativePalmSprings #EntertainmentNews #ArtsFundraiser #MusicAndFilm