No Hassles or Bad Attitudes: Dave Katz on 30 Years of Әkoostik Hookah

No Hassles or Bad Attitudes: Dave Katz on 30 Years of Әkoostik Hookah

Author: Nate Riggs April 11, 2025 Duration: 49:09

In this episode of the Music Festivals Podcast, I had the chance to sit down with Dave Katz, founder and maestro behind one of my all-time favorite jam bands, Әkoostik Hookah.

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Dave shares the unexpected beginnings of Hookahville, and discusses how Hookah's music and the changing band dynamics have significantly shaped their sound as well as their music festival's vibe over the years. We touch on the unique connection between Hookah and the Grateful Dead, and Dave reminisces on stories and key moments in Hookahville's history. Throughout the conversation, Katz underscores the importance of community and camaraderie at Hookahville, explaining what makes the festival a special experience for its dedicated attendees.

Find Әkoostik Hookah🫠

Find Dave Katz on Facebook 🎹

Official Band Website

Official Band Facebook Page

Listen on Spotify

About Hookahville Music Festival ⛺️

YouTube Channel

Hookahville Festival Website

About Roost on the River 🔥

Flyover Venue Tour

Venue Website

Key Moments in the Podcast ⏯️

04:48 Emotional Complexity in Relationships

07:21 Nine-Song Set Creation

10:58 Naming the Band's Origin Story

16:17 Contrasting John's and Ed's Songwriting

17:23 Reality-Inspired Storytelling

22:17 "Reflecting on Ticket Giveaway Days"

24:29 Overzealous Law Enforcement at Festivals

28:23 "Trial Period for New Band Member"

30:47 Sweeney's Memorable Performance

34:07 Festival Venue Change Explained

38:22 Reunion Tribute in Hugoville

41:16 Music Festival Experience Lost Connection

45:27 Hookahville 60 Music Festival Preview

46:55 How to Win Festival Tickets

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Production Credits 🙏

Music Festivals Podcast is a Production of NRMedia Group, LLC

Intro Bed Music — Holly Bowling from Dark Star Jubilee 05/25/24.

Closing Bed Music — Ekoostik Hookah - Fly

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#davekatz #hookah #hookahville #MusicFestival #FestivalCulture #johnmullins #edmcgee #ericlanese #jsglive #NeighborN8 #LegendValley #hookahheads #FestivalCommunity #GratefulDead #MusicPodcast #LiveMusic #bobwier #jerrygarcia #roostontheriver #newarkohio


Nate Riggs hosts Music Festivals Podcast, a weekly conversation for anyone who feels most at home in a field with a lineup and a schedule. This isn't just about dates and headliners, though. Instead, each episode feels like a backstage pass, built on genuine conversations with the people who make these events happen-from organizers and artists to the dedicated crews. You'll hear stories that never make it to the official recap videos and get practical advice that turns a good trip into an unforgettable one. The aim is to give you a richer understanding of the culture and logistics behind the scenes, whether you're a seasoned veteran mapping out your summer or someone curious about attending your first event. By focusing on these insider interviews and deep dives, the podcast helps you discover hidden gems and approach your next festival with a new perspective. Tune in for a regular dose of that community feeling and the detailed planning talk that fuels the journey between festivals.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 69

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