Essex native and outgoing Paramount Chief Technical Officer Phil Wiser tells Nestor about his childhood friendship with the late and legendary singer of Child’s Play, Brian Jack, and his role in the band’s reunion on Saturday, May 30th at Reckless Shepherd Brewery in Columbia, Maryland with John Allen, Nicky Kay and lots of old friends from the Seagull Inn days.
Nestor Aparicio interviews Phil Wiser, former CTO of Paramount, about his return to Baltimore for a Child’s Play reunion concert honoring Brian Jack. Phil, who knew Brian since elementary school, will play bass in the band. The concert is set for Saturday, May 30, at Reckless Shepherd Brewery in Columbia. Phil discusses his transition from music to academia, founding Liquid Audio, and his current involvement in AI. He also shares his role on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame board and his efforts to get Judas Priest inducted. The band will perform a mix of original songs and covers, including AC/DC’s “High Voltage.”
- [ ] @Nestor Aparicio – Restart the Maryland Crab Cake Tour and get it back out on the road (promised by host).
- [ ] @Nestor Aparicio – Provide and publish event details for the Child’s Play / Brian Jack memorial concert and promote the show to get attendees.
- [ ] Travel from New York to attend and participate in the band’s rehearsals (pop down for rehearsals, using train or plane as needed).
- [ ] Provide or arrange Child’s Play / band merchandise for Nestor (hook him up with a band’s shirt/merch).
Child’s Play Reunion and Phil Wiser’s Background
- Nestor Aparicio introduces the show, mentioning his partnership with Farnham and Dermer and the Maryland Crab Cake Tour.
- Nestor talks about his rock and roll hair and his band, Child’s Play, reuniting to honor Brian Jack.
- Phil Wiser joins the conversation, discussing his long-standing friendship with Brian Jack from elementary school.
- Phil shares his early days in Child’s Play, playing in various bands and eventually joining Child’s Play in high school.
Phil Wiser’s Academic and Professional Journey
- Phil explains his transition from music to academia, focusing on neuroscience and audio engineering.
- He describes his time at Stanford, where he studied at the Center for Computer Research and Music and Acoustics.
- Phil founded Liquid Audio, a company that sold music over the internet, during the rise of Napster.
- He discusses his entrepreneurial journey and his current involvement in AI and technology.
Child’s Play Reunion and Phil’s Role
- Phil talks about his return to Child’s Play in 2022, initially filling in on guitar and later moving to bass.
- He mentions the positive response to their shows and the decision to continue reuniting for tribute concerts.
- Phil shares his current involvement in producing shows and supporting the local music scene.
- Nestor and Phil discuss the legacy of hair metal and its enduring popularity, especially in South America.
Phil’s Involvement with AI and Future Plans
- Phil discusses his interest in AI and its potential impact on various industries.
- He emphasizes the importance of being AI literate and encourages everyone to engage with the technology.
- Phil shares his excitement about the future of AI and its potential to revolutionize content creation.
- He mentions his plans to spend more time in Silicon Valley, leveraging his entrepreneurial roots in AI.
Child’s Play Reunion Details and Brian Jack’s Legacy
- Nestor and Phil discuss the upcoming Child’s Play reunion at Reckless Shepherd Brewery in Columbia.
- Phil highlights the importance of honoring Brian Jack and the fun they have at their shows.
- Nestor shares a personal story about Brian Jack joining his band, Ridgemont High, to play Rebel Yell.
- Phil reflects on Brian’s unique talent and the special bond they shared throughout their lives.
Phil’s Contributions to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
- Phil talks about his role on the board of trustees of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
- He shares his efforts to get Judas Priest inducted into the Hall of Fame.
- Phil recounts his experience attending the induction ceremony with his friends from Child’s Play.
- He emphasizes the importance of preserving American music history and the impact of the Hall of Fame on the industry.
Phil’s Invention of Internet Music
- Phil reveals that he invented internet music through his company, Liquid Audio.
- He explains how Liquid Audio sold music over the internet before Napster exploded the market.
- Phil shares a fun fact that John Allen’s band, Star Seed Speed, was released on the internet through Liquid Audio.
- He discusses the ties between his tech startups and his roots in Baltimore music.
Phil’s Commitment to Music and Child’s Play
- Phil expresses his love for music and his admiration for the creativity of his friends in Child’s Play.
- He mentions his support for Charm City Devils and his attendance at their shows.
- Phil talks about the importance of maintaining close friendships and supporting local music.
- He reflects on the enduring legacy of Child’s Play and the joy of reuniting for tribute concerts.
Phil’s Personal Reflections and Future Plans
- Phil shares his personal reflections on his journey from Essex to Silicon Valley and back.
- He discusses the importance of hard work, loyalty, and honor in his life and career.
- Phil talks about his plans to continue supporting the music industry and exploring new opportunities in AI.
- He expresses his gratitude for the support and friendship he has received throughout his life.
Final Thoughts and Farewell
- Nestor and Phil discuss the importance of the Child’s Play reunion and the impact it has on their fans.
- Phil shares his excitement about the upcoming show and the special moments they create together.
- Nestor encourages listeners to support Child’s Play and attend their reunion at Reckless Shepherd Brewery.
- Phil thanks Nestor for the opportunity to share his story and expresses his appreciation for the support from his friends and family.
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