by Michael Shapiro | Feb 27, 2012 | Blog, Interviews, Music, Stories
I recently interviewed a founding member of the South African vocal group Ladysmith Black Mambazo who told me the band started as a dream – see excerpt below. The band plays March 2 at Napa’s Uptown Theater – here’s the excerpt: Mambazo’s...
by Michael Shapiro | Feb 27, 2012 | Blog, Interviews, Music, Stories
Leo Kottke is a quirky and genuine as you’d guess from his music – here’s an excerpt from our interview which ends with him talking about music being a type of home for him: Renowned acoustic guitarist Leo Kottke says the guitar didn’t just...
by Michael Shapiro | Aug 22, 2011 | Blog, Interviews, Music, Stories
I spoke with the genius behind the Beach Boys, Brian Wilson, in August 2011. The man who penned hits such as “California Girls” and “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” has suffered terribly from mental illness but is back on the road and performing...
by Michael Shapiro | Jun 17, 2011 | Interviews, Literature, Music
The Press Democrat, Santa Rosa June 17, 2011 Lucinda Williams’ music a blessing for all By Michael Shapiro Lucinda Williams has struck a nerve. The title track of her new album “Blessed,” has sparked a movement of people wanting to share why they feel blessed....