In Episode 8 of Backstage Unplugged, Cassidy sits down with guitarist and songwriter Joel Hoekstra, known for his work with Whitesnake, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Night Ranger, and his own project, Joel Hoekstra’s 13. With a career spanning rock stages, Broadway, and the recording studio, Joel has built a reputation for his dynamic playing, versatility, and passion for music.

Join Cassidy for a backstage look at the musician behind the guitar and a career that has taken him across different bands, projects, and stages around the world.

Sit back, relax, and go backstage with Joel Hoekstra.

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ngha75Gnxw4

And listen everywhere you enjoy podcasts: https://ffm.bio/backstageunplugged

In Episode 7 of Backstage Unplugged, Cassidy sits down with Harry Hess, vocalist, songwriter, producer, and founding member of Canadian melodic rock band Harem Scarem. Known for his unmistakable voice, powerful melodies, and decades of memorable songs, Harry has helped shape the band’s signature sound while building an enduring connection with rock fans around the world.

In this episode, Cassidy and Harry look back on the journey of Harem Scarem, from the band’s early years and evolving sound to the songwriting and creative process behind the music. They also discuss the lessons Harry has learned throughout his career, the experience of making music that continues to resonate across generations, and what keeps him inspired after decades in the industry.

Sit back, relax, and go backstage with Harry Hess.

If you’d like to see the episode, watch it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4LzzHBkkFY4

In Episode 6 of Backstage Unplugged, Cassidy sits down with Steph and Paul O’Sullivan of Greywind, the sibling alt-rock duo from Killarney, Ireland. Known for their emotionally charged songs, cinematic storytelling, and soaring melodies, Greywind have built a deeply devoted global following while transforming some of their most difficult experiences into music filled with honesty, resilience, and hope.

In this episode, Cassidy, Steph, and Paul talk about the long and often unpredictable road behind Greywind, from early success and major setbacks to the viral resurgence that introduced their music to an entirely new audience. They also dive into the creative world of their 2026 album, Severed Heart City, the bond that comes with making music as siblings, and the importance of holding onto your vision even when the industry seems ready to move on.

It’s a candid and inspiring conversation about perseverance, creativity, and finding light in the darkest parts of the story.

Sit back, relax, and step inside Severed Heart City.

If you'd like to see the episode, watch it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Gzge3A7RCek

In Episode 5 of Backstage Unplugged, Cassidy sits down with Leah Martin-Brown, the Australian rock vocalist, songwriter, and artist behind her October 2025 solo album, 'Love & Other Crimes', and the powerhouse band Evol Walks. Known for her gritty vocals, fearless presence, and unapologetic rock-and-roll energy, Leah has carved out a space for herself as an artist who brings both edge and honesty to everything she does.

In this episode, two Aussie music artists talk shop about music, life, creativity, and what it’s like to be women in the music industry, especially in the world of rock. From the realities of building a career to the passion that keeps artists pushing forward, Cassidy and Leah bring a candid, down-to-earth conversation full of perspective, experience, and heart.

Sit back, relax, and give this one a listen. 🎸🔥

In Episode 4 of Backstage Unplugged, Cassidy sits down with Hannes Kett from Shiraz Lane, the energetic Finnish hard rock band from Finland. Known for revitalizing the classic ’80s hair metal and sleaze rock sound, Shiraz Lane blends the swagger of bands like Guns N’ Roses and Skid Row with modern melodic rock and pop-metal energy, creating a sound that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly current.

With explosive live performances, infectious hooks, and a growing international fanbase, Shiraz Lane has become one of the standout names in today’s modern rock scene. Their passion for the genre and fearless approach to songwriting continue to push the boundaries of contemporary hard rock while staying true to its roots.

In this episode, Hannes talks about the band's album, In Vertigo, which came out October, 2025. Get it here: https://ffm.bio/invertigoalbum

Sit back, relax, and give this one a listen. 🎸🔥

In Episode 3 of Backstage Unplugged, Cassidy sits down with Phil X, the electrifying guitarist known for his high-energy playing and unmistakable tone as a member of Bon Jovi.

A prolific session musician, Phil has lent his talents to an incredible range of artists, including Chris Cornell, Tommy Lee, Methods of Mayhem, Avril Lavigne, Kelly Clarkson, Orianthi, Rob Zombie, Chris Daughtry, Alice Cooper, and Thousand Foot Krutch, among many others. From the studio to the stage, his versatility and passion have made him one of rock’s most in-demand players.

In this episode, Phil talks all things music with Cassidy.

Sit back, relax, and give this one a listen.

In Episode 2 of Backstage Unplugged, we sit down with Michael Sweet, the legendary singer, songwriter, and guitarist best known as the frontman of Stryper.

A pioneering voice in Christian metal, Michael has spent decades shaping the sound of hard rock with his powerful vocals, melodic songwriting, and unmistakable guitar work.

In this episode, Michael talks all things music with Cassidy.

Sit back, relax, and give this one a listen.

In our first episode of Backstage Unplugged, we kick things off with Nashville-based blues-rock powerhouse Jared James Nichols — a guitarist and singer known for his high-energy sound and unmistakable style.

A Gibson Global Brand Ambassador and the man behind the iconic “Old Glory” Les Paul, Jared blends traditional blues roots with the thunderous edge of 1970s hard rock.

In this debut episode, Jared talks all things music with Cassidy.