ABOUT JHAMMONDC

Hammond Chamberlain

With over a decade of interviews and more than 750 conversations with artists spanning all genres styles and disciplines, Hammond has carved out a unique space in the world of podcasting. As the creator and host of Beyond the Playlist, Hammond has dedicated himself to spotlighting not only well-known figures but also lesser-known talent, bringing fresh and authentic voices to the forefront of the music world.

Before diving into podcasting, Hammond spent years in fields where asking the right questions and understanding the human experience were paramount—working as a crisis counselor, rehab counselor, and liaison for court-mandated releases. This background has deeply influenced his interview style, allowing him to go beyond the surface and dive into the deeper, more nuanced aspects of his guests’ lives and careers. His interviews are known for their authenticity, thoughtful depth, and the genuine connection he shares with each artist.

Since launching Beyond the Playlist, Hammond has interviewed a vast range of musicians—from progressive rock icons like Jordan Rudess of Dream Theater to operatic talents like tenor Omar Najmi and soprano Sangeeta Kaur. His ability to engage with artists across such a wide spectrum of styles and levels of fame has made the show a favorite among listeners who appreciate the sincerity and passion behind the music.

One of Hammond’s guiding principles is the belief that music isn’t just a product—it’s a deeply personal expression of the artist’s journey. He’s often said that the most compelling stories aren’t always the ones about fame and success, but about the struggle, sacrifice, and perseverance that come with pursuing a life in music. His guests, no matter their genre, share this bond—a love for the craft and the unrelenting drive to evolve while staying true to their art.

In his conversations, Hammond taps into the complexities of being an artist—balancing growth and authenticity while navigating the pressures of an ever-evolving industry. Whether speaking to a legendary musician or an up-and-coming artist, he consistently uncovers the raw, unfiltered truth behind the music and the people who make it.

Beyond just being a podcast host, Hammond has built a community where both listeners and guests feel seen and heard. His dedication to preparation and his ability to ask thought-provoking, often introspective questions has earned him respect from guests and fans alike. Many have called the experience “therapeutic” as they open up about their creative processes and personal journeys.

Ultimately, Beyond the Playlist is a celebration of the people behind the music—musicians, storytellers, and creatives who dare to communicate their most authentic selves through their art. For Hammond, it’s never just about the music—it’s about the stories that make it meaningful.

When Hammond was younger he worked in theater building sets, hanging lights, and running shows. In college he played harmonica professionally and for the last few years he has been been working to learn how to play the Chapman Stick. Hammond has interviewed many “Stick Players” and even the inventor of the instrument, Emmett Chapman. He has written short stories and plays, but they have rarely been shared.  The need to be creative brings him peace and joy.

Beyond the Playlist with JHammondC is a podcast created to explore that need to create. Hammond talks with creative people in all disciplines. Guest have been writers, podcasters, artists, filmmakers, actors, musicians and even a professional wrestler or two. Hammond feels that there seems to be an intrinsic need to create that can be found in everyone, it just needs to be nurtured.

Brian Ibbott and Hammond joined forces in 2015 to create Soundography. The show is billed as a crash course in music one band at time. Hammond and Brian take their combined love and vast knowledge of music and explore a band’s or artist’s history and albums. They give honest, unfiltered and humors takes on whoever they have been tasked to listen to that week.  

Hammond now works as an editor and producer on Women Kick Ass, Current Geek Chronicles, The Meredith Patterson Podcast and many many others.