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Mandatory Music

Mandatory Music

By: Michael Heide and Sebastian Kwapich
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About this listen

Welcome to Mandatory Music! A podcast about the craft of music.
Join Mike and Sebastian as they unravel the depths of song writing, musicianship and great artists. Each season centres on one particular band, with a deep dive into specific songs that delve into their creation, sound and complexity. It is within song and harmony, melody and rhythm that our emotional heartbeat echos.
It has been said that "Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything. - Plato
So, come for the ride.

© 2025 Mandatory Music
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Episodes
  • Prison, Prairie, Poetry: Wheat Kings by The Hip
    Jul 5 2025

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    In this episode, the hosts celebrate Canada Day by discussing the Tragically Hip's song 'Wheat Kings,' which tells the story of David Milgaard, a man wrongfully convicted of murder. They explore the song's themes of injustice and the poetic nature of Gord Downie's lyrics, emphasizing the band's impact on Canadian culture. The conversation then shifts to the anticipation of Black Sabbath's final concert, reflecting on the significance of the event and the evolution of music and film over the years. The hosts also touch on the Terrifier horror movie series, highlighting its cultural impact and the nature of horror films today.


    Mandatory Music is proudly hosted and produced by Michael Heide and Sebastian Kwapich

    Contact Mandatory Music:
    email us at mandatorymusicshow@gmail.com
    find us on Facebook search mandatory music
    Instagram: mandatory_music1
    Twitter(X) @mandatory_music

    Thanks for listening and keep on rocking

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    33 mins
  • To Live Is To Die – A Tribute Etched in Metal
    Jun 25 2025

    We would love to hear from you!! Send us a text

    n this episode, Michael and Sebastian delve into Metallica's iconic song 'To Live Is To Die,' exploring its significance as a tribute to Cliff Burton, its emotional depth, and the intricate musical composition. They discuss the song's lyrics, the guitar techniques used, and the drumming choices that shape its sound. The conversation also touches on the evolution of Metallica's music, the contrasting styles of James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett, and the rarity of live performances of this poignant track. Ultimately, they reflect on the song's ability to encapsulate the stages of grief and its lasting impact on fans and musicians alike.

    Mandatory Music is proudly hosted and produced by Michael Heide and Sebastian Kwapich

    Contact Mandatory Music:
    email us at mandatorymusicshow@gmail.com
    find us on Facebook search mandatory music
    Instagram: mandatory_music1
    Twitter(X) @mandatory_music

    Thanks for listening and keep on rocking

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    37 mins
  • Episode 63.5 Top 5 Guitarists Part II
    Jun 24 2025

    We would love to hear from you!! Send us a text

    🎸 Part 2 is here! On this episode of Mandatory Music, we reveal the final two picks in our Top 5 Guitarists of All Time. Narrowing it down wasn’t easy — and these top spots sparked some real soul-searching.

    If you caught Part 1, you already know our #5 through #3… now it’s time to crown the ultimate guitar heroes. 🎖️

    Do our top two match yours? Or did we leave out your favorite entirely? Tune in, debate us in the comments, and let us know who you’d put on your Mount Rushmore of guitar gods.

    Mandatory Music is proudly hosted and produced by Michael Heide and Sebastian Kwapich

    Contact Mandatory Music:
    email us at mandatorymusicshow@gmail.com
    find us on Facebook search mandatory music
    Instagram: mandatory_music1
    Twitter(X) @mandatory_music

    Thanks for listening and keep on rocking

    Show more Show less
    28 mins
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