The Sonny Melendrez Show

Listen as Sonny reaches into his radio archives to share one of his most treasured interviews with an American music icon: Bobby Vee. Their visit took place on Sonny's show at KMPC Radio in Los Angeles in 1974. Bobby shares his journey of being catapulted into the world of popular music and then looking back, a decade later, as he set out to reinvent himself. He was born Robert Velline in Fargo, ND, and, although he started playing music when he was just a young teenager, it was country music, not rock. However, he, his brother and some friends eventually formed a rock band, "The Shadows", and began to attract some attention in the Fargo area. His big "break" came when rock legends Ritchie Valens, The Big Bopper and Buddy Holly died in a plane crash in 1959 en route to a concert in Minnesota. The concert's promoters decided to put on the show anyway, and asked for help from local talent. Bobby, who knew the words to all of the songs that were to be played, found himself on stage and, at 15 years old, began his career as a rock star. He and his group had a local hit with "Susie Baby", which came to the attention of executives at Liberty Records in Hollywood, and he and The Shadows were signed to the label. The next few records they cut went basically nowhere, however, and Liberty was all set to cancel their contract when a DJ in Pittsburgh played the "B" side to one of their records, a remake of an old ballad by The Clovers called "Devil or Angel". It became a hit in Pittsburgh and then spread throughout the Northeast, eventually hitting #6 on the national pop charts. Liberty then signed Vee to a five-year contract. He had a string of hits for the label, such as "Take Good Care of My Baby", "Rubber Ball", "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes" and "Come Back When You Grow Up, Girl". The rest, as they say is history. *Bobby died on October 24, 2026 from complications of Alzheimer's disease, but not before leaving a legacy unforgettable music, lasting friendships and wonderful memories as a husband, father and grandfather. May he rest in peace.

In the early 1980’s my radio home was KMPC Radio in Los Angeles and it was my honor to lend my talents to the efforts of the Los Angeles Department of Children and Family Services. It was at one of the annual Christmas parties for foster children that I had the pleasure of interviewing some of the stars who had come out for the event. In this episode, you'll hear my conversation with these very special celebrities, beginning with a very young, Melissa Gilbert. Next up, one of the most familiar voices in the history of television, Ed McMahon It’s been said that being affectionately insulted by my next guest can be considered a badge of honor. I agree! Enjoy my conversation with Mr. Warmth, himself…Don Rickles My final guest conversation from 1980 is with the one and only, Cher! Merry Christmas!

For 18 Thanksgiving seasons, it has been my honor to serve as an MC for a compassionate and joyful event, sponsored by the generosity Lana Duke and Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in San Antonio. Each year, up to 100 children from the Roy Maas Youth Alternatives, a facility that provides comprehensive residential care and counseling services for children who have suffered from physical or emotional trauma, are treated to an unforgettable Thanksgiving meal. The theme for this year’s event was, “Onward and upward!” You see, at Roy Maas Youth Alternatives, children are taught to dream again! One of those dreamers is a young man who entered Roy Maas at a young age, after being separated from his family. He shared his remarkable and inspirational story with the children at this year’s event and I’ve asked that he share it with you.

Daniel Gomez is an award-winning motivational keynote speaker, business coach, corporate trainer, and executive coach. He has over 20 years of experience in leadership development. He speaks at events around the world. Gomez is also the author of the international best-selling book You Were Born to Fly. The book is designed to inspire people to be the leaders of their own destiny. Gomez is a John Maxwell Certified Speaker. He has experience in: Leadership development, Sales training, Coaching, Team building. In this episode, you'll learn about the thinking necessary to have "The Makings of a Millionaire Mind," as found in Daniel's latest book by the same title. For show notes and links, visit: https://SonnyRadio.com/daniel-gomez

To say that Stephanie and Susannah Scheller are extrodinary entrepreneurs is an understatement! Stephanie is CEO and founder of Grow Disrupt, a company that produces next-level personal growth events that support small business growth. One of those events is the annual Grow Retreat, featuring world-class presenters. Susannah is the technology director on the team working closely with Stephanie to execute marketing strategies and engagement across all platforms. For the annual retreat, Stephanie and Susannah have combined their musical talents to write, perform and produce a brilliant entrepreneural anthem which makes it's radio premiere on this fast-paced episode! GrowDisrupt.com Show notes: https://sonnyradio.com/fly

Filmmaker - director, Andrew Gonzales shares his inspiring story with Sonny, telling what it took to become an award-winning filmmaking professional. Andrew also talks about his exciting new project, "American Sons," slated to air on PBS in 2024. About Producer / Director – Andrew Gonzales Andrew Gonzales is a documentary filmmaker, director and commercial cinematographer. Andrew’s lens is usually focused on stories of underdogs on their journey to fight for their survival. This theme is strong in his recent projects: Standing Rock: A New Nation, a vignette about The Dakota Access Pipeline Protests, HERE: The Garrett Scott Story, which follows MMA Fighter Garrett Scott in his climb to compete in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu regardless of the handicap and Right In Front of Us, which highlights the current US-Mexico Border Crisis and its impact on the communities affected by it. Commercially, Andrew produces content for agencies working primarily with corporate responsibility, promotion of green technology, progressive political movements and social change organizations. In 2019 he traveled the country producing content for Julian Cástro’s Democratic Presidential Campaign. In 2018, he took home several honors from film festivals including Brooklyn’s Latino Short Film Festival, The Hollywood International Moving Pictures Film Festival, The Festigious International Film Festival, The Top Shorts Online Film Festival, and The IndieFest Film Awards. In 2015, he and producer Laura Varela took top prize in the City on The Rise Film Competition at The San Antonio Film Festival.

'S not every day that you get to dig deep into a little or never talked about subject: boogers. Children's author, Paula Schechter, has come up with a fun way to teach your little ones good nose manners by creating The Snot Monster! Don't be surprised, if after listening to this episode, you might discover your own Snot Monster. And, in case you don't know how to make a tissue dance, ask your 5-year-old! Show Notes: https://sonnyradio.com/paula-schechter-the-snot-monster

Mateo Lopez began his professional career at age 4, earning him a designation in the Guinness Book of World Records as the World's Youngest Mariachi. After a chance meeting in San Antonio, Sonny was so inspired by his talent and story that he invited him to be a special guest and tell his story on the show. At age 8, Mateo has a clear vision of his entertainment roadmap, using his gift to lift spirits nationally and internationally. (He traveled to Milan, Italy where he performed at the prestigious, Le Show De Records and brought the house down with his voice and innocent charm. When Sonny asks, "Do you ever get nervous?", his response is priceless! This is a very special show with a very special young man. Enjoy, and stick around for a very touching surprise at the end. Viva, Mateo! Show notes and links: SonnyRadio.com/Mateo-Lopez

When multi-talented CJ Emmons left Houston for the West Coast to follow his dream at age 18, he had no idea of the adventure that awaited him. CJ shares his amazing journey with Sonny, filled with serendipitous opportunities, including landing a dream job as a Principle Singer on ABC TV’s “Dancing with the Stars.” You’ll learn why CJ has been turned down by America’s Got Talent, American Idol and other shows. The reason will surprise you! Listen and be inspired by this remarkable young man. His story must be heard to be believed!

Grow Disrupt is the brainchild of super-entrepreneur, Stephanie Scheller. Stephanie helps businesses approach business differently (from mindset to implementation) in order to not just survive, but also thrive, working with businesses around the globe to help them flourish. One of the ways Grow Disrupt keeps members focused on what is important is to organize major mental breaks from their business with unusual adventures. Join us and we go up, up and away with Stephanie and her crew of over-achievers, taking to the skies over San Marcos, Texas!

Izabela Lundberg has a rare combination of experience, education, and talent. Her energy, passion and engaging storytelling ability is nothing short of transformative. In this fascinating episode, Izabela walks us through a childhood filled with curiosity and a gift given by her grandmother that has led to a life of philanthropy and leadership. If you've needed a nudge to finding and delivering your message to the world, Izabela Lundberg may be just what the universe ordered. Listen and be inspired to take action, give freely and live a life of gratitude.

In this episode, Sonny reconnects with Pat Vegas, who, along with his brother Lolly began a musical journey that took them around the globe as the internationally acclaimed band, Redbone. Pat describes the night the band was discovered while playing at Gazzarri's on the Sunset Strip. You'll hear how a Pat and Sonny met, as a result of a unique national radio contest that centered around Redbone's unusual hit, Only You and Rock and Roll. Pat shares the story of the song that has become Redbone's anthem, Come and Get Your Love. All this and so much more as Sonny pays tribute to an American music icon, Pat Vegas and Redbone. Show notes: https://SonnyRadio.com/redbone

Steve O’brien is a professional voiceover artist, whose work has been heard on countless national commercials, narrations, audio books, station imaging, and more. He is the host of the Voice Over Hustle Podcast and his introduction to working behind a microphone came from many years spent in radio. During that time, he began doing freelance voice work. Over time, Steve’s voice over business grew to point that he could no longer continue in radio. He said goodbye, with a full heart, to the industry that gave him his start as a storyteller. He’s never looked back. If you've ever thought about what it takes to make it as a professional voice over pro, you won't want to miss this episode! Show Notes: SonnyRadio.com/show

Lou Diamond is an energetic, humorous and inspirational speaker, business development strategist and performance mentor. For over 25 years he has delivered winning tactics that have increased results of leading performers from companies all over the world. He is the CEO of THRIVE, a company focused on helping brands become even more amazing through the power of connecting. Connect with Lou at ThriveLOUD.net

Dion Flynn is a writer, speaker, improvisor, comedian, actor, and army veteran. You may have seen one of his over 100 appearances on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” Listen as Dion and Sonny talk improv, comedy, voice artistry and how to apply "The Improvisor's Mindset" to your daily life. Dion also reveals how he developed his most famous character impression of Obama for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Listen. Think. Laugh. Show notes & links: https://SonnyRadio.com/show

Katie Chonacas is a globally outstanding Greek-American actress with over two decades of experience in the Hollywood entertainment industry. She began her career as a classically trained actor, model, poet, producer, painter, and philanthropist at an early age. After dominating in modeling, appearing on television, and working with famous stars in cinema. Katie opted to pursue her love of music and landed a deal with 50 Cent and G-Unit, superstars in the music industry touring with them throughout Spain and South Africa. She made her television debut on CBS's CSI: NY, Cold Case, FX Network's It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Law & Order SVU to name a few. She appeared in films such as A Perfect Getaway, and the Port of Call New Orleans with Nicolas Cage/ Katie works as a professional voice-over actor specializing in cartoon animation voices with her branded name Cartoon Katie. She brought to life characters such as Soup from the popular international video game Minecraft. It is safe to say that, no matter the medium, Katie Chonacas is a force to be reckoned with! For more on Katie, visit Chonacas.com

Laura Wellington shares her life changing experiences and how she weathered the most difficult time of her life. Laura's joy comes shining through and I know you will be inspired by her strength, determination and love of life! Laura is a TEDx speaker, a successful media and technology entrepreneur, award-winning television creator, best-selling author of "Be Careful What You Wish For," a major media blogger, and media-entertainment-technology consultant.

In her second appearance on the show, Stephanie Scheller shares her 5 year adventure, from leaving a high-paying job to growing one of the most successful small business retreat in the country. Not matter the size of your dream, Stephanie's courageous story is bound to inspire you to visualize, grow and disrupt! Stephanie also delivers a powerful business connection she learned from her violin.

I am beyond excited to have Joe Serio as my first guest of Season 3! Joe is a most entertaining motivational leadership conference speaker. We met at a National Speakers Association event in Austin and the more I learned about his impressive background, more intrigued I became. I invite you to eavesdrop on a conversation between two relentless optimists. As a child, Joe felt like nothing he dreamed of was possible, until one day he was able to finally "get the nerve" to succeed! Listen now to learn his remarkable secret. This quote from Joe, says it all, "A head full of fears has no space for dreams." ~Sonny. Show notes: https://SonnyRadio.com/JoeSerio

It's been said that on the stage of life, there is a great performance within us all. Listen as five of my friends and brilliant performers deliver just that. You'll hear award-winning, singer/songwriter, Laura Marie share a poignant song she wrote to comfort her husband while he was going through a rough time. Next, multi-talented speaker/singer, Rick Lozano, delivers a hilarious tune that chronicles his improbable life, "How To Be Like Me." Then, I know, you'll be amazed as you listen to world-class classical pianist, Silvia Santinelli's performance of Ravel's "Concerto for the Left Hand. Our forth great performance is presented by singer/songwriter/teacher, Juan Ortiz and one of the top mariachi groups in the world, The Campanas de America. Their rendition of "La Negra," will bring a smile to your heart. Finally, treat your ears to an unexpected musical moment, when I asked the legendary Johnny Mathis to sing a few bars of his iconic romantic song, "Chances Are." Learn more at: https://SonnyRadio.com/great-perfomances