Gritty History is the new podcast from the City of Hamilton and Hamilton Civic Museums, taking you beyond the physical museums and diving into fascinating stories from the City’s past and present. In this audio series, we’ll explore the people and places that make Hamilton, Ontario so special. Our first series “Liner Notes” digs into the work of Hamilton music.
2026 marks the 50th anniversary of the Festival of Friends. To celebrate this milestone, Russ, Meredith and Megan are joined by Rob Rakoczy, General Manager of the Festival to chat about the past, present and future of one of Hamilton's premiere annual music events. The 50th edition of the Festival takes place in Gage Park on July 31, August 1 and 2, 2026 and features four stages of live music, along with over 100 vendors.
In this episode, Meredith and Russ talk with Raquel McIntosh, the 2026 MusiCounts Teacher of the Year award winner. Raquel is a music teacher at Adelaide Hoodless Elementary School in Hamilton and a musician herself. A tireless advocate for access to music education, she has transformed the school’s music program through student-led choirs, performances, and inclusive initiatives like Beyond the Soundtrack, creating opportunities for students to explore identity, creativity, and connection through music.
9 Mar 2026
Liner Notes Episode 1: Catherine North Studios
In this episode hosts Meredith and Russ are joined by the team from Catherine North Studios to talk about the role of recording studios in Hamilton's music industry. Will Crann, Tristan Miller, and Emma Whale chat about the history and evolution of the studio, notable artists and songs recorded there, and its significance within the local music community. The conversation delves into the technical roles of audio engineers and producers, shares memorable studio anecdotes, and offers insightful advice for those looking to pursue a career in audio production.
9 Mar 2026
Liner Notes Episode 2: Mark Furukawa (Dr. Disc)
In this episode, hosts Meredith and Russ delve into the fascinating world local record shops, with Dr. Disc owner, Mark Furukawa. Mark, also known as DJ Mark, shares his journey to becoming a pillar of Hamilton's vibrant music community and discusses the history and evolution of Dr. Disc, the resurgence of vinyl records, the unique atmosphere of his store, and the integral role he plays as a connector and facilitator within the local music scene.
9 Mar 2026
Liner Notes Episode 3: Lou Molinaro
In this episode Meredith and Russ discuss Hamilton's rich music scene with Lou Molinaro, a prominent live music booker and former co-owner of the iconic venue, This Ain't Hollywood. Meredith and Russ chat with Lou about his early beginnings in music promotion and the role of live music venues in fostering community and supporting local artists. Lou shares personal anecdotes about memorable concerts and his ongoing passion for promoting diverse genres of music.
9 Mar 2026
Liner Notes Episode 4: Joe Cacioppo and Nate Nash
In this episode, Meredith and Russ delve into the intricacies of music touring with industry experts Joe Cacioppo, tour director at 410 Management, and Nathan Nash, professional music photographer. They discuss the diverse career paths in the music industry, the skills required to manage and capture live events, and a few fun stories along the way. The conversation covers everything from planning and logistics to the value of content creation and the unique aspects of Hamilton’s music scene. Joe and Nate also offer advice for aspiring professionals and share stories from the road.
9 Mar 2026
Liner Notes Episode 5: Dejehan "Luckystickz" Hamilton
This episode explores the career of musician Dejehan Hamilton, better known as LuckyStickz, the founder and executive director of the Tune In Foundation. Dejehan discusses his musical journey, starting from his upbringing in Hamilton, his exposure to music in the church, and his transition to playing steel pan. He shares his experiences at Berklee College of Music, the founding of the Tune In Foundation, and its various programs like Musicapalooza and The Blueprint, aimed at nurturing young musical talent.
9 Mar 2026
Liner Notes Episode 6: Gillian Alexander
In this episode Meredith and Russ chat with Gillian Alexander, Executive Director of the award-winning Hamilton Children's Choir. Gillian shares her journey from singing with Celine Dion at the 1999 Junos as a 10-year-old choir member to leading the organization today. She discusses the choir's 50th anniversary, international competition wins, the dedication required from young singers, and how music education builds confidence and lifelong friendships.
9 Mar 2026
Liner Notes Episode 7: James Kahane
In this episode, hosts Meredith and Russ explore the world of orchestral music with James Kahane, Music Director of the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra. James reflects on his journey from France to Hamilton, explains the role of a conductor, and shares insights into the inner workings of a professional orchestra. He discusses collaboration, career pathways in classical music, and his impressions of Hamilton’s arts scene, offering listeners a behind the scenes look at how orchestral music is created, led, and experienced in Hamilton.
9 Mar 2026
Liner Notes Episode 8: Jamie Tennant
In this episode, hosts Meredith and Russ are joined by Jamie Tenant, musician, author, and program director at 93.3 CFMU FM at McMaster University. Jamie discusses the fundamentals of community radio, the unique opportunities it offers, and its significance in amplifying local voices and music. The conversation includes anecdotes from Jamie's extensive experience in the industry, the station’s role in fostering emerging talents, and the influential Hamilton artists making waves in the music scene. Their discussion sheds light on the inner workings of a community radio station, while celebrating its essential role in the cultural fabric of Hamilton.
9 Mar 2026
Liner Notes Episode 9: Ben Rispin
In this episode Meredith and Russ dive deep into Hamilton's music scene with Ben Rispin, a veteran in Canadian music and media. Ben shares his journey from discovering punk rock, to founding Rispin Productions and working with companies like Sony and Dine Alone Records. He discusses his early days as a concert promoter and the DIY ethos that shaped his career. Ben also reflects on the importance of community, the impact of the pandemic on live music, and the continuous evolution of the music industry. Insights into iconic local bands, festival stories, and Hamilton's far reaching influence in music history underscore this engaging conversation.
9 Mar 2026
Liner Notes Episode 10: Lisa La Rocca
In this episode Meredith and Russ are joined by Lisa La Rocca, Director of Operations at Sonic Unyon Records to chat all things labels and music event management. Lisa discusses her role in organizing major festivals like SuperCrawl, her experiences growing up around music, and the various responsibilities within a record label and management company. She also shares insights into the Hamilton music community, offers career advice for aspiring music industry professionals, and celebrates the collaborative efforts that make Hamilton's music scene thrive.
9 Mar 2026
Liner Notes Bonus Episode: Meredith Leonard
In this episode of Gritty History hosts and exhibit curators Meredith Leonard and Russ "StereoRuss" Piva, discuss the creation of the 'Punching In' exhibit, which celebrates Hamilton's rich musical heritage through collaborations with local musicians, studios, and venues. The conversation covers the genesis of the exhibit, the community's role in shaping it, and the unique challenges of exhibition design. The episode also features our first Hamilton Music Quiz!
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Contact Gritty History
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Gritty History?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
