Jannie Rawlinson Show, season 2

1. Kristin Amarie, Jay Dref & David Lanz

In this episode, Jannie talks to the powerhouse team behind the new release AMAR — award-winning Norwegian soprano and composer Kristin Amarie, masterful New York tenor Jay Dref, and Grammy-nominated composer and pianist David Lanz, with Emmy-winning composer Kurt Bestor conducting members of the Utah Film Orchestra. Together they discuss the emotional depth and creative process behind this highly charged duet. Jay Dref, a Juilliard-trained classical crossover tenor with over 100K Spotify listeners in 157 countries, shares highlights from touring with Sarah Brightman and performing at the International Opera Festival in Riyadh. The conversation captures the magic of bringing together world-class talents for a single, unforgettable recording.

2. Fiona Joy Hawkins

In this episode, Jannie talks with Fiona Joy Hawkins, an acclaimed Australian vocalist and pianist whose collaborations have included five albums produced by legendary guitarist and producer Will Ackerman. Fiona shares her creative process, the evolution of her sound, and the stories behind her most memorable recordings. From her roots in Australia to international recognition in the new age and contemporary instrumental world, Fiona reflects on the power of the piano as a storytelling instrument and the deep connections formed through musical collaboration. It’s a thoughtful conversation with one of Australia’s most respected musical artists.

3. David Franklin

In this episode, Jannie is joined by self-taught composer David Franklin to discuss his deeply personal album One Day In Spring — a collection of improvisations and interpretations capturing the themes of a single spring day: rain, birdsong, sunrise, and awakening thoughts. The vast majority of the music was composed and recorded in one sitting, without any advance planning. David opens up about the vulnerability of creating an album he initially believed no one else would ever hear, and how that freedom from expectation led to some of his most honest and evocative work. It’s an intimate look at what happens when a composer lets go of control and trusts entirely in the moment.

4. Sharon Lia

In this episode, award-winning pianist, songwriter, recording artist and producer Sharon Lia speaks to Jannie about her new album EXPANSE and gives the audience an insight into her life and musical journey. Described as sci-fi, cinematic, symphonic rock — raw, open, authentic, and real — Sharon’s sound defies easy categorization. Often likened to a modern-day Evanescence, Heart, and Pat Benatar wrapped in the soulfulness of Adele, the Sharon Lia Band has built a devoted following through powerful live performances and uncompromising artistry. Sharon reflects on what drives her creative vision and why EXPANSE marks a bold new chapter in her career.

5. Catrina Scullion

In this episode, Irish soprano Catrina Scullion joins Jannie to discuss her charity single “You’ll Never Walk Alone” for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association. Catrina shares the deeply personal story behind the campaign — her cousin Sinéad, a 42-year-old mother of three, who was diagnosed with MND and is deteriorating rapidly from this life-shortening disease with no cure. Catrina’s mission is to use her beautiful voice to raise funds and awareness for IMNDA, the primary care and support organisation for people living with MND in Ireland. She puts out a heartfelt call for orchestras, recording studios, and anyone who can help make this release a reality and amplify the fundraising effort.

6. Louis Anthony DeLise

In this episode, Jannie speaks to composer, arranger, and conductor Louis Anthony DeLise about his life and musical journey — from learning jazz drums as a youngster in rural Bucks County, Pennsylvania, to self-teaching piano and building a career spanning concert halls and recording studios. His debut album Natural Light achieved a top-ten chart position on Zone Music Reporter and was nominated as Best Neoclassical Album. Louis shares stories from performing with Tony Bennett, Luciano Pavarotti, Diana Ross, and Bob Hope, as well as his work as arranger and conductor on Patti LaBelle’s Grammy-winning number-one album. With additional credits alongside Carlos Santana, Kanye West, CeCe Winans, and the Grammy-winning band Halestorm, Louis reflects on a career that bridges classical elegance with pop and rock’s biggest stages.

7. Alan Talking

In this episode, Jannie talks to Alan, manager of the Irish Rock & Roll Museum, about his experiences preserving Ireland’s rich musical heritage. Alan shares captivating stories of meeting iconic artists like Sinéad O’Connor and many others who rose to fame from Ireland’s vibrant music scene. He reflects on the museum’s vital role in celebrating Irish talent, the unforgettable encounters with legendary musicians, and the inspiring journeys of the artists who’ve shaped Irish rock and roll. It’s a fascinating look behind the scenes of Ireland’s music history, full of anecdotes, nostalgia, and insight.

8. The Amore Twins

In this episode, Jannie sits down with the sensational Ukrainian duo The Amore Twins to talk about their musical journey, international success, and what inspires their unique sound. From their early beginnings in Ukraine to building a global fanbase, the twins open up about career highlights, their creative process, and the challenges they’ve overcome along the way. The conversation also explores exciting insights into upcoming projects and what’s next for this dynamic pair. It’s a warm, engaging discussion about resilience, artistry, and the power of family harmony on the world stage.

9. Des Tong

In this episode, Jannie sits down with Des Tong, the longest-serving member and current leader of legendary British rock band Sad Café, known for his role as bassist, vocalist, producer, and author. Des reflects on his incredible career in music, sharing stories from life on the road, the band’s rise to fame, and the timeless songs that defined an era. He talks about the creative process behind the music, the friendships formed along the way, and what it was like being part of one of Britain’s most distinctive melodic rock bands. It’s a nostalgic conversation packed with insight, humour, and behind-the-scenes memories from a true music industry veteran.

10. Leah Barniville

In this episode, Jannie is joined by acclaimed Irish soprano Leah Barniville, who gained international attention at age 14 by reaching the semi-finals of Britain’s Got Talent Series 11 in 2017 with her stunning operatic rendition of “Caruso,” earning millions of views and widespread acclaim. Leah shares how her passion for music first began, the training and dedication that shaped her voice, and the milestones that have defined her career. From performing on prestigious stages to developing her own artistic identity, she reflects on the challenges, triumphs, and inspirations that continue to drive one of Ireland’s most exciting vocal talents forward.