The Hook with Johni & Jess
Hosted by Jess and Johni, The Hook features candid conversations with musicians, artists, entertainers, and creatives of all kinds. We go beyond the surface to explore the real stories behind the art — the first spark, the turning point, the doubt, the obsession, and the moments that changed everything.
Just like a hook in a song stays with you, every creative has something that grabbed hold and shaped who they became.
This isn’t just about what artists create.
It’s about why they couldn’t stop.
🎙 Interviews
🎸 Live performances
🎣 Real stories behind the craft
Once you’re in, you’re in.
The Hook with Johni & Jess
Latest Episodes
Grayson Walsh: From Virginia Roots to the Nashville Dream
Virginia roots. Nashville dreams. And a bass-baritone voice made for country music.At just 26, Grayson Walsh is building his place in Nashville with a sound that blends traditional country storytelling, neon-bar energy and a littl...
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Mark Damon of The Pretty Reckless: Behind the Bass
From dive bars to stadiums packed with 100,000 fans, Mark Damon has lived just about every version of the musician's life.This week on The Hook with Johni & Jess, we're joined by Mark Damon of The Pretty Reckless for an unforgettable...
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Coming to Richmond: RIFF 2026 + The Launch of Lightmakers with Heather Waters
What happens when film, music and storytelling become more than entertainment — and start bringing people together?This week on The Hook, Johni and Jess sit down with Heat...
Christos DC: Roots, Rebellion & Reggae
What happens when a kid raised by opera singers finds his voice in reggae?For Christos DC, the answer became a life that has crossed genres, cultures and continents. From his Greek-American roots in Washington, D.C., to years on the road...
Plunky Branch: Smooth Groove with Richmond Music Legend
Richmond music legend James “Plunky” Branch joins The Hook with Johni & Jess for a wide-ranging conversation about more than five decades of music, creativity and cultural impact.From his early years in Richmond and time at ...
