In our latest Green Chili Chisme sit-down, we welcome Jack Pledge—an Air Force kid turned global troubadour.

He met his father for the first time after Korea in ’52. Went to grade school in Japan. Picked up the guitar in ’59. By ’71, he was busking in Spain and Africa.

Now, after losing his voice, Jack supports the singers he plays for—still carrying the groove, still building legacy.

This episode is a testament to resilience, rhythm, and the stories behind the strings.

Born in Corpus Christi, youngest of five boys, Allen Huff was raised on Czech roots and piano keys. His mom made every son take music—he chose the ivories. His first band didn’t have a name. His accordion just played Nissan Stadium.

We talk Flaco Jimenez, Dwight Yoakam, and the circles that keep expanding. We riff oldies, Engelbert Humperdinck, and the hook that’s been stuck in his head for 15 years. He got his GED at 40 after leaving high school to chase the road. His first record? Named after his mom—Elizabeth Jean—with her prom photo on the cover.

And did I mention? He sounds a whole lot like Jeff Bridges. This one’s emotional. This one’s legacy.

From Miami Beach to Hollywood lights, Karissa Barcelo Montoya’s story is a rhythm of reinvention. She filmed her father’s salsa sessions, interviewed stars on Dish Nation, and now reflects on legacy, loss, and Lucille Ball. Catch the full episode—plus a bonus riff on Tito Puente.