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Very happy to put this episode back up after some drama with A-p-p-1-e over copyright concerns. It’s one of my favorites! I recognized Bob Walkenhorst, front man of The Rainmakers, as a true talent the first time I heard him at a coffee shop with my uncle here in Kansas City where he’s from. Don’t let that throw you, though–he’s had a successful rock career with several albums, touring, the whole bit, and his old group is back together! Here’s my talk with him with of course some of his music. |
9 Replies to “Episode 9: Bob Walkenhorst”
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This was a lovely interview with a local musical genius who I have gratefully enjoyed for the past 20 years here in KC. I have watched his evolution, and think his self admission of “he is as famous as he is meant to be” carries the weight of maturity. While, I am sure there are many musicians as talented as Bob who never got their moment in the sun, I am glad his music made its way around the world, and he is so worthy of that. It is clear he is not jaded by smaller venues these days, and has the drive to continue. Thanks.
(BTW, Ron…who?)
Nice interview, I’m always in the need of good date-night spots, I’m going to check Bob out live in the next couple of weeks. thanks for the heads up.
Great interview! Of course I’m a fan and a friend, so my opinion may be skewed.
I wish I lived in Kansas City, so I could catch a show.
Ron Butler. Of Butler C&D fame–best place to get your auto body work done (I-35 and Johnson Drive).
Well, his stuff grew on me. Some of it’s a bit to choppy and twangy for my tastes, some of it belongs on a Chevy commercial. And some of it is darn good. I like his comment, “I’m about as famous as I should be.” I think this really means that he’s content with his level of “fame”. This makes him a happy musician and we all need more of those in the world.
The music just gets better. I wish we could catch a show. Bob is the kind of person we would have as a friend.
Clayton, what a well-done interview. Thoughtful questions, both about Bob and his music. I’ve been a fan since I caught Small Circles on MTV back around 1988 or so. Has there ever been a better songwriter than a guy who wrote “The generation that would change the world is still looking for it’s car keys” ? Maybe Springsteen, back in the 70’s, early 80’s, before he nosedived into the political arena.
Walkenhorst and the Rainmakers (Steve Phillips, Pat Tomek, Rich Ruth) were a rare jewel. My family and I journey up to KC every summer to see Bob, we’re so glad he’s still writing new stuff and performing. Keep it up, Bob!
I only wish he were more famous so more folks could share the music and enjoy it as much as we do.
Clayton, I want to congratulate you on such a touching interview. Your really did your homework. Also your insight and take on Bob’s songs was refreshing and heartfelt.
Thank you for helping share Bob’s true talent with a wider audience. He is now “famous”.
Keep up the good work, and don’t lose your passion!