Is there anything more painful than a local "legend" trying to rewrite history with the confidence of a man who just found Wikipedia for the first time? In this segment, we dig into the bizarre world of Shadoe Steele and his absolute obsession with a band called Cinch.

Steele—billed as a "musicologist"—claims that Cinch was a Billboard powerhouse that only missed the #1 spot because of a "lack of technology" and "unhip" program directors in major markets. It’s the ultimate industry cope. He’s out here counting beats per minute and claiming "quasi-professional" recordings from Northumberland, PA, were actually global smash hits being suppressed by a massive conspiracy.

The reality? The track "Where Are You Now" sounds like a bargain-bin REO Speedwagon demo that REO would have laughed out of the room. We tear down the "Wilkes-Barre Billboard" fantasy and expose the hilariously desperate attempts to manufacture prestige out of thin air. It’s a masterclass in local radio delusion and the kind of industry "substance" that makes us want to drink heavily.

The version you’re seeing here is the "sanitized" edit. To hear the full, unfiltered, and legally dangerous deep dive—including the stuff that gets us banned elsewhere—join the Inner Circle at https://classicmetalshow.locals.com. Become a VIP and get the substance the mainstream won't touch.

In a refreshingly candid new interview, Megadeth frontman Dave Mustaine has taken a strong stand against celebrity political endorsements, urging fans to think for themselves instead of following the opinions of rock stars and entertainers.

Speaking to Chile's Teletrece, Mustaine was asked about the inspiration behind his iconic song "Holy Wars... The Punishment Due" and its potential connections to current global conflicts, including tensions in the Middle East. Rather than diving into partisan commentary, the metal legend pivoted to a broader message about personal responsibility and the dangers of celebrity influence.

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"I'm a songwriter, and I don't think people should listen to celebrities about stuff—what they should do or how they should vote," Mustaine declared. He emphasized that voting in America was once a private matter, something sacred and personal. "Nobody would go around and tell people who they voted for. It was important. It was your right."

Mustaine reflected on his own history with voter engagement, recalling his involvement in the nonpartisan "Rock the Vote" campaign alongside MTV. He helped push for the Motor Voter bill, making it easier for Americans to register while getting their driver's licenses. Yet he now questions the wisdom of musicians and actors using their platforms to sway votes.

"If I say I'm a Democrat, all the people who are Republicans are gonna be affected by that statement," he explained. "They may say, 'You know what? I like his music. I don't care if he's a Democrat.' Or they may say, 'You know what? Fuck him. He's a Democrat, and I don't wanna listen to his music anymore.'"

The Megadeth leader made it clear he doesn't align strictly with either major party. "I'm not a Democrat or a Republican. I have my viewpoints, which are pretty strict. But I'm what you would call an independent in America." He admitted limited expertise on complex international issues like the Middle East, suggesting fans turn to deeper sources for understanding rather than soundbites from musicians. "I do know that the Bible talks about it, and if you really wanna get an idea on what's going on in the world, maybe do some reading. Do some reading."

This latest statement fits into Mustaine's long-standing philosophy on keeping politics somewhat separate from his music career. In previous interviews, he has described himself as an independent voter who chooses "the least of two evils" and has criticized the modern trend of public figures broadcasting their affiliations. He believes it risks alienating fans and harming the connection between artist and audience.

Despite occasional media portrayals painting him as a right-winger, Mustaine has repeatedly pushed back, noting he's voted for candidates from both sides and remains guided by personal principles, faith, and observation. "I'm a Christian, and I answer to a different set of angels," he shared in a recent New York Times conversation. He distinguishes between religion and spirituality, describing the latter as something forged through real-life experiences.

Throughout his career, Mustaine has never shied away from controversy, whether discussing past White House visits, geopolitical theories, or encouraging civic participation without dictating outcomes. His message today feels particularly timely amid a polarized cultural landscape where entertainers often double as political commentators.

For longtime Megadeth fans, this comes as no surprise. The band has built a legacy on powerful, thought-provoking lyrics that tackle war, politics, and society without spoon-feeding answers. Mustaine's call for independence echoes the rebellious spirit of heavy metal itself—question authority, including the authority of celebrities like himself.

As metal continues to thrive as a voice for the disenfranchised and free-thinking, Mustaine's words serve as a reminder: the power ultimately lies with the listener, not the microphone. In an era of endless hot takes from the famous, his advice cuts through the noise—read, think, and vote your own conscience.

In a thrilling development for classic rock fans everywhere, guitar virtuoso Steve Morse of Deep Purple, Journey keyboardist Jonathan Cain, longtime Dio and AC/DC drummer Simon Wright, and current Rainbow vocalist Ronnie Romero have joined forces to breathe powerful new life into one of Rainbow's most beloved tracks. Their fresh take on "The Temple of the King" offers a tantalizing preview of the upcoming star-studded tribute album "Ride The Rainbow - The Ultimate Tribute To Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow," set for release on June 19 via Cleopatra Records.

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This isn't just another cover — it's a bold, sonics-packed reinvention that honors the imaginative spirit of Rainbow's groundbreaking 1975 debut album while pushing the song into exciting new territory. Fans have long celebrated "The Temple of the King" as a standout cut that helped define Rainbow's unique blend of melodic hard rock and atmospheric storytelling, even inspiring the title of a recent Rainbow box set. Now, this all-star lineup elevates the track with masterful performances that spark curiosity about how these rock titans have reinterpreted the original.

The lineup for this specific track features:

• Ronnie Romero on vocals
• Steve Morse on guitar
• Jonathan Cain on keyboards
• Simon Wright on drums
• Phil Soussan on bass
• Kevin James Morse on guitar

Romero, who has performed the song live with Ritchie Blackmore himself, shared his deep personal connection: "Being part of the Rainbow legacy... to record this song it means the world to me. I would never be grateful enough for the chance of being part of this legendary band, so here is a humble way to pay tribute to one of my favorite songs and my all-time favorite band."

Morse recalled being impressed by Rainbow's live prowess during his early days with the Dixie Dregs, while Cain expressed excitement about contributing his signature keyboard sound to a project celebrating the melodic metal magic of Rainbow featuring the late Ronnie James Dio.

The full album "Ride The Rainbow" assembles an incredible roster of Rainbow alumni and rock heavyweights across its 14 tracks, creating what many are calling the ultimate homage to Ritchie Blackmore's visionary band. Here's the complete track listing with performers:

1. Long Live Rock 'N' Roll - Bob Daisley, Graham Bonnet, Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal, Carmine Appice, Don Airey
2. Man On The Silver Mountain - Sebastian Bach, Doug Aldrich, Bob Daisley, Carmine Appice, Mick Box, Jonathan Cain
3. Stargazer - Derek Sherinian, Marty Friedman, Vinny Appice, Jürgen Engler, Joe Bouchard, Ronnie Romero
4. Lady Of The Lake - ANGEL
5. Rainbow Eyes - Mike Tramp
6. Since You Been Gone - Marty Friedman, Vinny Appice, Graham Bonnet, Jürgen Engler
7. Kill The King - Rick Wakeman, Bob Daisley, Vinnie Moore, Marc Lopes, Chris Adler
8. The Temple Of The King - Steve Morse, Phil Soussan, Ronnie Romero, Simon Wright, Jonathan Cain, Kevin James Morse
9. Jealous Lover - George Lynch, Vinny Appice, Andrew Freeman, David Ellefson, Jonathan Cain
10. I Surrender - Eric Gales, Tim "Ripper" Owens, Phil Soussan, Don Airey, Chris Adler
11. Catch The Rainbow - Doogie White, Derek Sherinian, Chris Poland, Vinny Appice, Bob Daisley
12. Street Of Dreams - Paul Shortino, Joel Hoekstra, Joe Bouchard, Fred Aching, Jonathan Cain
13. Stone Cold - Vivian Campbell, Joe Lynn Turner
14. I Surrender - Marcus Nand, Candice Night

This project celebrates Rainbow's rich legacy, from the fiery creativity of their early years through their chart-topping hits of the 1970s and 1980s. With contributions from legends like Graham Bonnet, Don Airey, Bob Daisley, Joe Lynn Turner, Doogie White, and more — including Blackmore's wife Candice Night — the album promises to be a must-listen for anyone who cherishes the golden era of melodic hard rock.

What makes this version of "The Temple of the King" stand out? Will it become the new definitive take for a new generation of fans? As anticipation builds toward the June 19 release, rock enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the full album to experience more of these inspired reinterpretations. One thing is certain: this tribute captures the adventurous essence that made Rainbow truly legendary.