Local Rock Stars

Tune into Local Rock Stars, a podcast born from the vibrant and often overlooked music scene of Bakersfield, California. Hosts Mikee Lee and Jordan Rude, lifelong friends and working musicians themselves, built this show as a dedicated platform for the creative gifts found in their own backyard and beyond. Each long-form conversation goes far beyond a simple interview, unfolding into a deep and meandering dive into the real work of making music. You’ll hear detailed talk about songwriting quirks, production choices, and the specific gear that shapes a band's sound, all grounded in practical experience. The hosts are just as interested in the stories from the road-the van breakdowns, the strange gigs, the small triumphs-that define a life in local music. Because Mikee and Jordan are participants, not just observers, the discussions naturally follow unpredictable paths, often landing on insights about community and support that are as valuable as the technical advice. This podcast is thoughtfully enhanced with photos, music clips, and video elements that bring the stories and sounds directly to your ears, creating a rich, immersive listen. It’s a celebration of the artists, the engineers, the venue owners, and every fan who shows up, arguing that the next rock star isn’t always on a stadium stage; sometimes they’re loading gear into a club down the street.