Sound of History Podcast

The Cosmic Composer

This episode is about a mystic pianist who believed music could unlock unseen forces, saw color in sound, and dreamed of a symphony so powerful it might end the world (or start a new one).
From his ancient noble ancestry to the wild metaphysical philosophies that shaped his work—and even the strange fate of his children—this is the story of a man whose life was as strange and otherworldly as the music he composed.

Phantoms of the Opera

This episode is about three very different opera singers - the world's most famous superstar from 100 years ago, an eerie relic from the past (⚠️trigger warning) and lastly an opera diva with delusions of grandeur who has one of the worst singing voices in history.

Bohemian Harmony

Exploring the lives of two composers who reshaped classical music forever — two opposites in every way.
One was a notorious heartbreaker, the other a reclusive outsider. Yet in the bohemian circles of 1890s Paris, their paths intertwined in a friendship that evolved into artistic rivalry — one that would leave an undeniable mark on music history.
This is the story of Claude Debussy and Erik Satie.

From Rags to Jazz

A musical journey through the evolution of ragtime, from its first published pieces in the 1800s to its transformation into early jazz by the 1920s.
We also delve into the ragtime revival of the 1970s and the story of a World War I hero, along with other fascinating discoveries.

I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray

In this episode, we delve into an important piece of music history, exploring some of the very first African American groups ever recorded.
Along the way, I uncovered some incredible songs that deserve to be heard. And what better time to share them than during Black History Month.

Early Sounds

In this episode, we go back to the basics, exploring the origins of sound recording.
I also talk about France in the 1860s and one of the songs played as the Titanic sank, among other things.
 
 

The Rise of America’s Cultural Influence

In the very first episode of Sound of History, I talk about Europe at the beginning of the 20th century, the events that led up to World War I, the aftermath of WWI and how America became the country that dominated western pop culture influence.