When I think of Scotty Mac & The Nugs, I think of high energy. I think of a bunch of cool dudes having the time of their lives on stage and indulging every audience member in their reachable force field. Their vibrancy is infectious, their setlist is varied to perfection, and each of their individual talents placed together is something of magic. Every member of Scotty Mac & The Nugs has a genuine air about them. They are down-to-earth, kind men with an affinity for making everything around them a good time. They love their fans, they love Idaho and the people that inhabit this beautiful state. Their bond is strong; it’s incredibly evident on stage or off. This is why it works so well, combined with each of their undeniable talent, work ethic, and respect for each other. Every one of their shows is a gift from their rock star hearts. They’re doing what they love and pouring their souls into every performance.

I caught up with Scotty Mac & The Nugs at Heritage Social for an “all country” night. They were on at prime time, so I took each of them aside pre-show to discuss their musical backgrounds, what they love about it all, and how they maintain balance within the band.

Scotty Mac – The Lead Nug

Scotty was born and raised in Idaho. He spent his youth in sports and gives credit to his time as a high-level wrestler for teaching him how to lose but still remain vigilant in life and what he wants out of it. While he always appreciated music, observing his dad in bands growing up, he didn’t start playing until the age of 21. This is when he first picked up a guitar and started working on his vocals. He and his dad started playing duo sets around the valley. During this time, he met Max at an open mic. They became instant friends, creating a trio and propelling Scotty into the love of performing. He had caught the bug at that point, wanting nothing less than to be a musician and do this for the rest of his life. He found pleasure in being on stage and the adrenaline rush that accompanies it. With encouragement from his family and friends, he dialed in his sound and kept at it. Fast forward to today, and they’re playing for crowds of 1000+ and getting recognition all over Idaho and beyond. Earlier this year, the group got to open up for Sara Evans for a crowd of over 3000 people. It was a “special night.”

Scotty is forward thinking; he’s always got something going on to build on his musicianship or presence in the Idaho music community. He recently started Inspired Talent, an entertainment booking agency for artists in the Treasure Valley. He also hosts weekly open mics and will be starring in a short musical film to be released in September. Through all of this, Scotty remains humble and hardworking. The band and how they operate is always the priority. He’s excited about the band growing closer and revitalizing the buzz around writing, their community presence, and playing bigger shows. When I asked what advice he would have for anyone wanting to follow in his footsteps, he had this to say: “Shed the need for validation; just search within yourself for joy within what you are doing. Connect with people and know it’s going to be a journey. It can be fun, or it could be a bitch—it’s how you perceive it.”

Max – Guitar Nug and OG

Max is the guitarist and original member of Scotty Mac & the Nugs. His first ever gig was at Crescent Brewery in 2021, where he also ended up hosting an open mic. This is where Max and Scotty first met and started playing music together. Max fell in love with guitar and the thrill of it all in his early 20s. He played the trumpet all throughout middle and high school and drew inspiration for his music from bands like Def Leppard, Avenged Sevenfold, and Guns n Roses. He recalled hearing Def Leppard when he was 8 or 9 and it being a definitive moment of realization for him. A before and after. He was destined to play loud. His grandpa was the bass player in a band called Boney Jello in the Teton Valley, which also influenced his exposure to music early in life.

The energy is always a big difference maker for him at venues, and it can change often. The band is the priority, and, like the rest of the Nugs, he focuses on maintaining their friendships with each other. His advice for anyone wanting to follow in his footsteps would be to “play your instrument a lot, more than you think you need to.” At the same time, he advises getting out there and doing it. Go to open mics, network, and meet other musicians. This is exactly how Max and Scotty went about playing and growing the band…and it propelled them to where they are now.

Victor – Bassist Nug

When Victor was a kid, his dad would play the “guess the band” game. He would play him a song and be quizzed on whoever was performing. It’s when he first became aware of music and what a difference it would make in his life. He loved the Beatles and Ozzy Osbourne. When he was about 11, he and his sister were listening to Green Day’s Longview. He heard the bassline and decided he wanted to play that immediately. For his birthday, his parents gifted him a bass, and the start of a beautiful future began. Ever since he conceived it was possible to play bass professionally, he never considered anything else. He was born and raised in New Jersey, attending a performing arts high school where all of his teachers were well versed in various musical abilities and instruments. It gave him the skill set and confidence to take music seriously. He was offered a scholarship at Catawba in North Carolina but ended up taking a band gig instead. Victor learned so much during this period of time about performing and being on stage. He recalled one of his favorite places to play in Atlantic City, Boneyard Bar and Grill. He came out to Boise two years ago and joined the Nugs. While he misses some aspects of the East Coast, he loves the people here. The crowds and other musicians are kind and much cooler about things; it’s less competitive. He likes to keep it cool when things don’t go as planned, knowing that things never go as planned—’tis life, right?

His advice to aspiring musicians would be to keep practicing. “If your goal is to play music, you have to cut out whatever in your life that holds you back. The number one thing is to keep having fun. Stop playing with people that don’t make it fun and be comfortable on stage for the energy of the crowd.”

Kaleb – Guitar Nug

Kaleb is a Mississippi boy. The first band he was ever obsessed with was AC/DC, which propelled him down a rabbit hole. He originally started playing drums as a kid but picked up the guitar at age 13. The world became a better place because of it. He was inspired by a lot of 60’s music—the Stones, the Beatles, the Doors, and Jefferson Airplane—getting into Zeppelin and Hendrix later. He set out to be a trucker for his profession in life but realized his guitar skills could allow him to do it professionally. He came to Idaho to play with Tularosa after Casey Sheldon’s exit. He eventually left that project to go play guitar in Casey’s band. After a little hiatus, he was chatting with Scotty after several glasses of wine up in Idaho City when he agreed to play with the band.

He’s quick to give compliments to everyone that inspires him in the Treasure Valley—Noble Holt, Kevin Littrell, Casey Sheldon, Buddy DeVore, and the guys in Prairie Blue. He’s happy at the moment, enjoying life with the Nugs and playing, joking that he has a well-functioning writer’s block and no need to write music at the moment. He praises the band for how well they’re all able to function and specifically wanted a shout-out to the lighting guy at the Heritage—shout-out to Greg! (I paid attention to this during the show… and it really doesn’t get much better than what magic that guy was churning out). His best advice for anyone wanting to get into music is a Richard Pryor joke I’ll leave out for young readers. Hehe. He advises any musicians to not get complacent. Complacency will halt innovation. Also—don’t be judgmental and listen to everything.

Morgan Mason – The drummer Nug

Morgan is the newest member of the Nugs, joining in spring of 2025. He moved to the Boise area from Bend, Oregon, last year and has already made a name for himself. He started drumming when he was just 8 years old; he felt compelled to play music. His dad was a huge musical influence on him, sharing the love of Led Zeppelin, Metallica, and Rush. He and his dad got to see Rush live, and he notes Neal Peart as one of his biggest influences musically.

Morgan originally met Scotty at the Heritage. He started playing with the Nugs when they needed a replacement drummer and consequently joined the band. This came just in time to play a big show opening for Creed Fisher. He’s always wanted to be a musician; there was never a question in his mind about being or doing anything else. His advice for anyone following in his footsteps is to “put your head down and act like you already made it.” He’s the youngest member of the Nugs but fits in seamlessly. Morgan noted that he’s never felt more comfortable or appreciated in a band setting before. Being with the Nugs makes him feel grounded. They got to know each other quickly, and it has been the perfect opportunity for him to grow with a band.

You can follow Scotty Mac & the Nugs on Instagram and Facebook to catch an upcoming show. You can also listen to their originals on Spotify or Apple Music.

Stay up to date with live music events in the Treasure Valley with Treasure Valley Notes, and be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook! Also, don’t miss the complete photo gallery from Rick Walters.

Rita Hill is a rockin’ lady who has fulfilled many titles over the course of her life: abuelita, mom, law enforcement public information officer, photojournalist, business owner, and, what brought me to interview her, singer/songwriter. I met with her and her husband in downtown Nampa at Whiskey River. They were having their weekly open mic night, and I was eager to check it out. Rita and her husband, Mike, greeted me warmly upon entering the lively bar. We got right into the thick of living life and the thrill of a musical existence…while Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” played overhead. Fitting, somehow.

Rita and her husband moved to the Boise area two years ago from Lodi, California. They had fallen in love with Idaho years ago while on an RV trip and decided it would be their retirement destination. When they arrived in Boise, Rita connected with the music community immediately by joining the Idaho Songwriters Association and attending local open mics.

Music inspired Rita from a young age, spurred by a musically talented family. Her father was a musician in the local Tejano scene, and her brothers formed their own band. She recalled observing her two older brothers’ band practice while hiding under their bed to listen. She later found a beat-up guitar in an alleyway that those same brothers helped her restring and repair. She then taught herself how to play at the local library. By junior high and high school, Rita was writing songs regularly. She won a talent contest with one of those songs. It ended up being featured within the cheerleaders chant routine at games.

As life progressed, Rita grew into the ever-shifting life roles of mother and wife, setting her music aside to give her energy to her family. A writer’s mind can never lie completely dormant, however. Rita jotted down lines of songs between the demands of life and work that she would eventually revisit. When writing, her inspirations come in many forms. Movies or life events will spark ideas that come to her sometimes in the middle of the night. She loves feel-good songs but can spin a heartbreaker just as well.

After witnessing the terror of 9/11/2001, Rita felt compelled to write a song about the national tragedy. The very next day, she had a heartfelt tribute about being strong in light of the attacks. “Got to Be Strong” was picked up by the Fox network, and it was featured against a montage of footage alongside Rita performing it live within the news studios.

Rita met her current husband, Mike, while working for the sheriff’s department in Madera. She was hired to photograph his band, and the rest is history! He inspired her to continue writing and performing. She looks to him for encouragement and reassurance in times of self-doubt. Support like that goes a long way!

I was so happy we were in a setting where I could also see her perform. Her friendly personality comes alive onstage. She has a natural-born ability to weave words together in catchy melodies. Her lyrics flow in and out of English and Spanish, adding a distinctive sound and unexpected highlight when listening. I loved her unapologetic song, “Mama’s Rockin.” It’s a genre I’m deeming “classy mama wine rock.”

She is starting to take her songs more seriously, entering songwriting contests and looking to perform more throughout the Treasure Valley. She played in an all-female band called the ‘Cover Girls’ in Lodi. She would love to start something like this in Idaho (shoutout to any lady rockers looking for a band). Her heart is set on performing original songs, as covers feel a little foreign to her songwriter’s mind. Most recently, she has been playing at Nazca Coffee on the occasional Sunday. Rita also frequents Treasure Valley open mics.

When I asked Rita what advice she would have for someone wanting to follow in her footsteps, she quickly responded. “Write from the heart. Don’t try to be like someone else.” We discussed how authenticity is important when writing and performing. Audiences connect to lyrics that have been felt by the artist.

Rita is a gem of a human with a warm personality and a playful perspective on life and music. You can find her music on YouTube and follow her on Facebook to stay up to date on what’s in store!

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On the western edge of our beloved Treasure Valley, The Frosty Badger is a beacon for all things creative. With humble beginnings as a run-down building, Lee and Lisa Newman combined their passions and experience with renovation to create this beautiful event space in Ontario, Oregon.

The facility has over 9,000 square feet of space and includes a professional recording studio, art studio, full kitchen, lobby, outdoor courtyard, and main event area. It can accommodate medium-sized weddings, parties, concerts, or small get-togethers at a reasonable fee. Musicians can also book recording sessions in the studio space at a reasonable price. Darren Reynolds, a veteran engineer in recording and live audio, oversees the recording space.

The name “Frosty Badger” comes from a combination of conversations the couple had while living on the coast of Oregon. Lee used to point out “badger holes” to Lisa while hiking, and Lisa mistakenly thought the ocean mist was “frost” after spending most of her life in Michigan. They playfully made fun of these little naiveties in the name of their creative passion project. While The Frosty Badger name has a fun, personal meaning, I also think it’s a hell of a catchy name. Who will forget “The Frosty Badger”?

Both Lee and Lisa have creative aspirations. Lee is a singer/songwriter who had a goal of creating a welcoming, robust recording studio. Lisa is a visual artist, so it was equally important to the couple to include an art studio in the venture. Guests can observe the art gallery and purchase items while attending a show!

The restoration of the building was not all sunshine and rainbows. There were broken windows and evidence of squatters. The entire building had to be renovated. It was a huge project for the couple, but they were up to the task. As a result, they’ve provided an excellent space for Ontario and beyond to celebrate music, art, and life’s parties.

Lee and Lisa invited us out to The Frosty Badger for their recent concert hosting of the lovely Margo Cilker. I was immediately impressed. Lee and Lisa are welcoming hosts with a genuine, caring energy. It is evident how much love and passion went into renovating the building and creating a shared space for their neighbors, fellow Oregonians, Idahoans, and the creative collective to thrive. Upon entering, the lobby is large and inviting. It has space for artist merch and a host desk for greeting. The stage itself, lighting, and sound are dialed in perfectly. Lee gave a brief but heartfelt introduction to the band; he had been trying to get Margo out for quite some time and has been a fan for years. While introductions are typical at live music venues, this felt more personable. Lee and Lisa were present and engaged with the band, guests, and their employees. It was lovely to witness. The Frosty Badger feels like a local, 2nd home; a place for creatives to feel valued and praised.

In addition to the live music, a local food truck named Curb Appetit was present and able to utilize the kitchen space for guests. We munched on a teriyaki chicken bowl that was fabulous. Lee and Lisa have also gained a liquor license to serve beer and wine at events.

While live performances are limited, Lee and Lisa stay busy throughout the year with the space being rented out for businesses, parties, weddings, baby showers, dance classes, and a myriad of other community events. Our experience with The Frosty Badger was wonderful, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for Lee and Lisa!

Follow The Frosty Badger to stay up to date on any upcoming music events!

Book The Frosty Badger for a private event HERE!

Interested in booking recording studio time? Call or email The Frosty Badger for available rates and times!

Stay up to date with live music events in the Treasure Valley with Treasure Valley Notes and be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook! Also, don’t miss the complete photo gallery from Rick Walters.

On a sunny morning in late May, I caught up with Matty J and his sweet doggie, Mable. He rescued her 12 years ago, and she’s been his right-hand buddy ever since. We strolled the Boise greenbelt chatting about music, life, and what makes it all important.

Formally known as Matt Jantz, Matty J is an Idaho native singer, songwriter, and performer. Growing up in Idaho Falls, he drew musical inspiration from his oldest brother, aspiring to be a musician just like him. At just 12 years old, drums became his first love and instrument of choice. In school, he played in jazz and pep band while looking up to bands like 311 and Goldfinger. After spending some formative years in Idaho Falls, Matty came to Boise to attend BSU, earning a marketing degree in 2008. He continued to play music as a hobby, and it was during this work/life period that he picked up the guitar. Soon after, he realized he could also carry quite a tune vocally after a few karaoke nights.

In 2018, Matty left his corporate job as a marketing director after some soul-searching and his father’s passing. “Life’s short, and I’m not doing what I want to do. I better get after this.” He set out on a 5-week trip all over the western United States to market his new drumming product, CajonAlone, and figure out what was next. After returning to Boise and dabbling in a few working ventures, he started gigging around the valley. 2020 propelled Matty into booking more venues amidst concerns and hesitations regarding public health. Many venues remained open during the pandemic and needed musicians so it became the perfect opportunity for Matty to take it to the next level. 

It takes a myriad of mental gymnastics to simultaneously sing, pick or strum guitar, and play the cajon with your feet, but Matty does so effortlessly. His solo act is unique to the Treasure Valley, offering a dynamic performance with his ability to “Cajon Alone.” CajonAlone is his solo act name and the name of his hands-free cajon invention. It was an idea Matty formed in 2016 when searching for a way to incorporate drums while performing solo. He worked on a prototype to create a hands-free drumming system consisting of an attachment plate, a short bass drum beater, and a long bass drum beater attached to a traditional cajon. The CajonAlone became a major addition to Matty’s style and dynamics when performing. 

After playing several solo sets, he realized he could start booking bigger venues with the accompaniment of a full band. Matty J and the Grays formed as a result, and the bigger stages started becoming available. Earlier this year, Matty J and the Grays opened for ZOSO, a Led Zeppelin tribute band, at the Knitting Factory. I was fortunate enough to be there in that electric crowd. When I asked Matty about it, he said, “It was my first time debuting most of my originals; the crowd was so supportive. It also came on the heels of two awful tragedies for me that week, and it showed me a little about my own resilience.” To date, this has been his favorite show. It was the largest crowd the band had played in front of and became a special moment for everyone involved. For solo sets, Matty likes places like Mother Earth Brewery for their hospitality and the Lowman Inn for its remote location and good times.

When he writes, he draws influences from genres that resonate with the 90s: nostalgic punk, grunge, and reggae Sublimish tunes. He likes to layer lyrical melodies with guitar riffs and let it marinate over time with practice and live shows. He enjoys meddling with original songs at band rehearsal, allowing them to take the shape they’re meant to be. Matty has a robust list of well-known covers on his website for song requests during his solo sets. You’ll see him bust out a harmonica for several songs and interact with the crowd as much as possible. 

When asked what pointers he would give to someone wanting to follow in his footsteps, he had some sound advice: “Be patient, work hard, put in practice, and DON’T take booking personally.” 

Matty is a kind-hearted, humble dude with a lot of heart and practice in everything he does. He is quick to perform wherever and whenever he can and is accommodating to crowds with several song request options. He is a collaborator and enjoys jamming with other local musicians whenever possible. He loves the Treasure Valley. “I’ve traveled the country, and I haven’t met more friendly, amazing, open, sweet people than in Idaho.” I’m biased, but I couldn’t agree more! 

Follow Matty J on Facebook, Instagram, and Spotify! Also follow his band, Matty J and the Grays, on Instagram or Facebook. 

You can also see song requests and buy a CajonAlone HERE!

Check out this awesome Matty J photo gallery from photographer Rick Walters. Subscribe to Treasure Valley Notes to stay up to date on all of Matty’s upcoming shows!

Interested in being featured in a “Deep Dive”? Contact us HERE!