Texas country icon Pat Green pulls up a chair on this episode of DownStage Center with host John Zaskoda—and nothing’s off limits. From the road stories that shaped his career to the moments that nearly broke it, Pat gets real about the highs, the grind, and what keeps him coming back to the stage. Whether you’ve followed him since the early days or just discovered his sound, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

Episode 4 of Season Two of DownStage Center welcomes Mike Ryan, one of Texas country’s most authentic and respected voices. Known for his honest songwriting and melodic sound, Mike sits down for a laid-back, behind-the-scenes conversation that dives deeper than the stage lights.

Hosted by John Zaskoda, Production Manager for Billy Bob’s Texas, this episode explores Mike’s journey from small-town roots to becoming a staple in the Texas music scene. He opens up about the stories behind his songs, the realities of life on the road, and how he’s stayed true to his style in an ever-changing industry.

Season 2, Episode 3 of DownStage Centerfeatures powerhouse blues vocalist and bassist Danielle Nicole.Known for her soulful voice, commanding stage presence, and deeply rooted blues sound, Danielle joins host John Zaskoda and talks about her journey from growing up in a musical family to becoming one of the most respected voices in modern blues.

In Episode 2 of Season 2, host John Zaskoda sits down with Randy Rogers, front man of the legendary Randy Rogers Band.Randy talks about the early days of grinding it out on the Texas circuit, the stories behind the songs, and what it takes to keep a band moving forward after decades of touring, recording, andselling out dance floors across the country.Recorded in the heart of the world’s largest honky-tonk, this episode pulls back the curtain on the realities of life in a working band, the evolution of Texas music, and the passion that keepsartists coming back to the stage night after night.

We’re kicking off Season 2, Episode 1 with the incredible Kaitlin Butts. From her rapid rise in country music to the hard work and discipline behind her fitness journey, Kaitlin opens up about what it really takes to keep climbing while staying grounded. She’s not only one of the most exciting voices in country music right now, but genuinely one of the nicest and most humble people in the business! Enjoy!

In vlog #5, we’re taking you right into the heart of Billy Bob’s Texas for a night that was anything but ordinary. Friends, music, and a packed house came together to celebrate one of our own — Robert Gallagher’s 80th birthday — and the party did not disappoint.

From backstage moments to side stage antics, clips of unforgettable performances and a whole lot of Texas-sized fun, you’ll get an inside look at the party of the year!

Episode 12: Giovannie of Giovannie & The Hired Guns — Season Finale
DownStage Center brings you an unforgettable conversation with Giovannie of Giovannie & The Hired Guns. This season-closing installment features exclusive live performances from the Billy Bob’s Texas stage, behind-the-scenes moments from backstage, and a wide-ranging discussion with host JZ that moves from the band’s early days to their current momentum.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering their sound, this episode delivers the energy, honesty, and transparency that define Giovannie & The Hired Guns. A perfect finale to a standout first season. Tune in and step backstage with us one more time before Season #2 begins!

This week on DownStage Center, John Zaskoda sits down with the one and only Charlie Starr of Blackberry Smoke for a laid-back, behind-the-scenes conversation abut his life on the road, songwriting, musical influences, and the stories that shaped him.Charlie brings his signature warmth, wit, and Southern soul straight to the studio at Billy Bob's Texas.