Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris

On this episode of Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris, we welcome rising R&B artist Aja Maria, a Baltimore-born singer whose soulful sound blends vulnerability, confidence, and timeless influences including Anita Baker, Sade, Brandy, and Tank. Aja began performing at an early age, making her Broadway debut at just 12 years old, and now steps into an exciting new chapter with her sultry new single "Congratulations." The hypnotic R&B slow-burn explores love, reconnection, and the hopeful belief that what's truly meant for you can find its way back.
We talk with Aja about her journey from Broadway to recording artist, the influences that shaped her musical identity, and the story behind "Congratulations." The single is part of her forthcoming debut full-length project, produced by King Midas, whose credits include Tory Lanez, Teyana Taylor, and Justin Bieber. With recognition from Ones to Watch, Earmilk, and more, Aja Maria is emerging as an exciting new voice in contemporary R&B-and she joins Music Matters to share the music, the journey, and what comes next.
Social Media
www.Instagram.com/iamajamaria
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7aLDrFJeq0frWc9RMKXWo4?si=CEAIv6NoSCOh7UXH0hTHOw
About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Sports Illustrated photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, over 1.2 million global downloads in 40 countries.
Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com
Follow us on
Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh 
Instagram: www.Instagram.com/musicmatterspodcastofficial
For inquiries, contact: musicmatterspodcastshow@gmail.com
Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell
Episode editing and Voice intro by Nigel J. Farmer of Voice Wrap Studios
Representation: 
Yvette Morales | YM & Associates PR
Beverly Hills, CA
YM-PR.com
Email: YMoralesY@ym-pr.com
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

On this episode of Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris, Darrell welcomes award-winning singer, songwriter, television personality, host, and
entrepreneur Ranella Ferrer. Based in Los Angeles, Ranella appeared on E!'s Revenge Body with Khloé Kardashian and has become nationally recognized for performing the National Anthem for major sports organizations including the Los Angeles Lakers, Dodgers, Rams, Chargers,
LA Kings, and LA Galaxy.
As a recording artist, Ranella has shared the stage with and opened for artists including Stevie Wonder, Keyshia Cole, Tyrese, B2K, Ne-Yo, Twista, and Nelly. A GRAMMY-considered recording artist, she continues to use her platform to advocate for greater representation and opportunities for Asian artists throughout the global music industry.
Ranella also serves as Director of Talent & Influencer Experience for Happy Group's
LA Block Party concert series, overseeing talent relations, artist interviews, and influencer activations. Darrell and Ranella talk about her journey through music and entertainment, performing on some of the biggest stages, navigating the industry, and building a multifaceted career while helping create opportunities for the next generation of artists.
Website www.RanellasRocks.com
Social Media www.Instagram.com/ranellaferrer 
About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Sports Illustrated photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, over 1.2 million global downloads in 40 countries.
Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com
Follow us on
Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh 
Instagram: www.Instagram.com/musicmatterspodcastofficial
For inquiries, contact: musicmatterspodcastshow@gmail.com
Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell
Episode editing and Voice intro by Nigel J. Farmer of Voice Wrap Studios
Representation: 
Yvette Morales | YM & Associates PR
Beverly Hills, CA
YM-PR.com
Email: YMoralesY@ym-pr.com
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Music Matters with Darrell Craig HarrisGuest: Matt Zarracina — Co-Founder & CEO of True Tickets
In this episode of Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris, Darrell sits down with Matt Zarracina, co-founder and CEO of True Tickets, for a fascinating conversation about the rapidly evolving world of live entertainment, digital ticketing, technology, and trust.
Matt's journey is anything but conventional.
Before entering the world of technology and entrepreneurship, he served nine years in the U.S. Navy, completing three deployments, including service as a pilot in the Western Pacific and as an advisor to the Ministry of Oil in Iraq. Those experiences helped shape his approach to leadership, innovation, teamwork, and building organizations with a lasting impact. 
Today, Matt is bringing that mindset to True Tickets, where his mission is to improve the live-event experience for venues, patrons, and performers. The company is developing digital ticketing technology designed to give venues greater control over their mobile tickets while helping create a more trusted and seamless relationship with audiences.
Matt also brings extensive experience from the corporate and technology worlds, including leadership roles with Deloitte Consulting and Thales Group, where his work touched emerging technologies including blockchain, artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles, augmented reality, and big data.
Darrell and Matt explore how technology is changing the way we experience live music and entertainment, why trust has become such an important issue in ticketing, and what the future could look like for artists, venues, and fans.
www.true-tickets.com
About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Sports Illustrated photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, over 1.2 million global downloads in 40 countries.
Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com
Follow us on
Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh 
Instagram: www.Instagram.com/musicmatterspodcastofficial
For inquiries, contact: musicmatterspodcastshow@gmail.com
Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell
Episode editing and Voice intro by Nigel J. Farmer of Voice Wrap Studios
Representation: 
Yvette Morales | YM & Associates PR
Beverly Hills, CA
YM-PR.com
Email: YMoralesY@ym-pr.com
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

On this episode of Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris, we welcome rising Northern California artist Shyra Sanchez for a conversation about her music, creative journey, and growing international audience.
Shyra is embracing joy, friendship, and self-expression with her latest single, "Dance With Me," accompanied by an upbeat music video that premiered on June 18.
The release follows the success of her debut single, "Operator," which climbed to No. 4 on the UK Official Big Top 40. The "Operator" music video has also surpassed 2.7 million views on YouTube, helping introduce Shyra and her music to listeners around the world.
Learn more at 
Website www.Shyra.music 
Social Media www.instagram.com/shyrasanchez 
About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Sports Illustrated photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, over 1.2 million global downloads in 40 countries.
Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com
Follow us on
Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh 
Instagram: www.Instagram.com/musicmatterspodcastofficial
For inquiries, contact: musicmatterspodcastshow@gmail.com
Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell
Episode editing and Voice intro by Nigel J. Farmer of Voice Wrap Studios
Representation: 
Yvette Morales | YM & Associates PR
Beverly Hills, CA
YM-PR.com
Email: YMoralesY@ym-pr.com
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

From blockbuster films to groundbreaking entertainment technology, Larry Kasanoff has helped shape modern Hollywood. In this episode of Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris, Larry shares the incredible journey that led him to become one of the industry's most influential producers, studio executives, entrepreneurs, and bestselling authors.
As the founder of Threshold Entertainment, Larry was instrumental in bringing iconic films including Mortal Kombat, Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, True Lies, Dirty Dancing, Terminator 2. Не also discusses his work alongside some of Hollywood's biggest filmmakers, including James Cameron, and his passion for pushing the boundaries of storytelling through film, animation, gaming, and emerging technology. 
Music has always played a major role in Larry's productions, and we explore how powerful soundtracks, composers, and artists help define the emotional impact of blockbuster films. He also reflects on the close relationship between the music and film industries, creative collaboration, and the art of producing unforgettable entertainment.
Larry also talks about his latest book, the lessons he's learned from decades in Hollywood, and the mindset that has fueled his remarkable career as a producer, executive, author, and innovator.
Whether you're a film lover, music fan, aspiring producer, or creative entrepreneur, this conversation offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the entertainment industry from one of its true visionaries.
Website
www.LarryKasanoff.com
www.threshholdentertainment.com 
Social Media
www.Instagram.com/larrykasanoff
About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Sports Illustrated photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, over 1.2 million global downloads in 40 countries.
Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com
Follow us on
Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh 
Instagram: www.Instagram.com/musicmatterspodcastofficial
For inquiries, contact: musicmatterspodcastshow@gmail.com
Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell
Episode editing and Voice intro by Nigel J. Farmer of Voice Wrap Studios
Representation: 
Yvette Morales | YM & Associates PR
Beverly Hills, CA
YM-PR.com
Email: YMoralesY@ym-pr.com
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

On this episode of Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris, we welcome Melvin C. Riley, the legendary lead vocalist, songwriter, and founding member of the iconic R&B group Ready for the World.
Melvin reflects on the band's remarkable journey, the success of timeless hits like "Oh Sheila," "Love You Down," and "Digital Display," and shares behind-the-scenes stories from one of the most influential acts of the 1980s. He also discusses his latest solo album "No AI", and his continued passion for creating music, and what inspires him as an artist today.
From his songwriting process to the evolution of R&B and the music industry, this is an engaging conversation with an artist whose music continues to resonate with fans around the world. 
Website 
www.iammelvinriley.com
Social Media
www.instagram.com/iammelvinriley
Spotify (new album "No AI")
https://open.spotify.com/album/0NpigavPvKelMeDWL7Wa6H?si=Qp2RLiXlSJa6kuPOpQ2XIg
About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Sports Illustrated photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, over 1.2 million global downloads in 40 countries.
Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com
Follow us on
Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh 
Instagram: www.Instagram.com/musicmatterspodcastofficial
For inquiries, contact: musicmatterspodcastshow@gmail.com
Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell
Episode editing and Voice intro by Nigel J. Farmer of Voice Wrap Studios
Representation: 
Yvette Morales | YM & Associates PR
Beverly Hills, CA
YM-PR.com
Email: YMoralesY@ym-pr.com
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Author, acclaimed singer-songwriter, and creator Wesley Stace joins Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris for a fascinating conversation about a career that has seamlessly blended music, literature, and storytelling. Known to music fans around the world as John Wesley Harding, Wesley reflects on his decades in the music industry, his transition into becoming an internationally acclaimed novelist, and the creative process that connects songwriting and writing.
Throughout his remarkable career, Wesley has shared the stage and recorded with legendary artists including Bruce Springsteen, Lou Reed, John Prine, Iggy Pop, Rosanne Cash, and members of R.E.M., The Decemberists, The Jayhawks, and Elvis Costello's band, The Attractions.
In this wide-ranging interview, Wesley discusses the art of storytelling, songwriting, his celebrated novels, and what continues to inspire him as an artist. Whether you know him from his music, his books, or both, this episode offers a thoughtful look at one of today's most versatile creative voices.
Website
www.wesleystace.com
Social Media
www.instagram.com/wesleystace 
Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, HeartRadio, Amazon Music, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts.
About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Sports Illustrated photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, over 1.2 million global downloads in 40 countries.
Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com
Follow us on
Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh 
Instagram: www.Instagram.com/musicmatterspodcastofficial
For inquiries, contact: musicmatterspodcastshow@gmail.com
Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell
Episode editing and Voice intro by Nigel J. Farmer of Voice Wrap Studios
Representation: 
Yvette Morales | YM & Associates PR
Beverly Hills, CA
YM-PR.com
Email: YMoralesY@ym-pr.com
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

This week on Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris, we're joined by Little Image, the Dallas-based alternative rock trio that's quickly becoming one of the most exciting new names in modern rock.
The band shares the story of how lifelong friendships evolved into a chart-topping career, their creative process, and the inspiration behind their emotionally charged music. We also dive into their latest album, Kill the Ghost, lite on the road, songwriting, and what's next as they continue to build a passionate fanbase around the world.
If you're a fan of modern alternative rock, honest songwriting, and the stories behind the music, this is an episode you won't want to mIss.
Follow Little Image:
@ Website: www.ittleimagemusic.com 
Social Media
www.Instagram.com/littleimage 
About Music Matters with Darrell Craig Harris
The Music Matters Podcast is hosted by Darrell Craig Harris, a globally published music journalist, professional musician, and Sports Illustrated photographer. Music Matters is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Podbean, and more. Each week, Darrell interviews renowned artists, musicians, music journalists, and insiders from the music industry. Currently, over 1.2 million global downloads in 40 countries.
Visit us at: www.MusicMattersPodcast.com
Follow us on
Twitter: www.Twitter.com/musicmattersdh 
Instagram: www.Instagram.com/musicmatterspodcastofficial
For inquiries, contact: musicmatterspodcastshow@gmail.com
Support our mission via PayPal: www.paypal.me/payDarrell
Episode editing and Voice intro by Nigel J. Farmer of Voice Wrap Studios
Representation: 
Yvette Morales | YM & Associates PR
Beverly Hills, CA
YM-PR.com
Email: YMoralesY@ym-pr.com