Ep. 239: Nick Diener discusses The Swellers "The Best I Ever Had"

Chris DeMakes A Podcast

Chris DeMakes

Music History, Music Commentary, Music, Music Interviews

4.9 • 923 Ratings

🗓️ 6 January 2025

⏱️ 87 minutes

🔗️ Recording | iTunes | RSS

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Summary

In this episode, Nick Diener of The Swellers joins Chris to discuss the writing and recording of the band’s 2011 fan-favorite single, "The Best I Ever Had." Nick shares the unlikely inspirations behind the track, from the storytelling style of Meat Loaf to the influence of Lynyrd Skynyrd's use of slide guitar. The conversation dives into the song’s rapid creation and evolution, its nostalgic lyrics, and the emotional depth it captures. They also reflect on working with producer Bill Stevenson, the band’s DIY punk rock roots, and the lasting legacy of The Swellers. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes If you love Chris DeMakes A Podcast and you'd like to support the show AND get weekly bonus episodes of The After Party podcast, head to http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com to sign up for the Supporting Cast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcript

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0:00.0	This episode is brought to you by Distro Kid.
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0:27.2	Sign up for your $1 a month trial at Shopify.com slash setup.
0:33.2	It was a young in English summer. A song has changed my mind.
0:38.3	I heard it on the radio.
0:40.3	Hey everyone.
0:41.3	Today's guest is Nick Deener,
0:42.3	guitarist and lead vocalist for Flint, Michigan melodic punk rockers, the Swellers.
0:47.3	Nick and I break down the writing, recording, and inspiration behind the fan favorite song.
0:52.3	The best I've ever had.
0:54.2	Taken from their 2011 full-length album, good for me.
0:58.5	Man, this was a fun one.
1:00.2	Nick's been a dear friend forever, and I learned so many things today, namely the fact
1:04.8	that this song was inspired by Meatloaf and Leonard Skinnerd.
1:08.2	Huh? You ask?
1:10.1	Well, that's right, and hearing Nick talk about those parallels is awesome.
1:13.6	Bill Stevenson produced the record, and the stories were amazing as usual.
	...

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