Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Country Music Made Me

A final goodbye from Country Music Made Me!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all of the amazing artists who have joined me and to all of you who have followed along on this amazing adventure. I hope to see you all again in the future!

If you or anyone you know is looking for a podcast host please reach out to me at countrymusicmademe@gmail.com.

Chris Blair is the owner of the popular Nashville venue The Listening Room Café. Chris joins Country Music Made Me to discuss his music inspired youth growing up in St. Louis, how singing at his Grandpa's funeral as a teenager helped guide him towards a career in music, and the memories he has of his early band days during High School and College. Chris and Brendan talk about his move to Nashville and diving into the songwriting community where he discovered a lack of quality venues that were helping showcase songwriters, and how that turned into the creation of The Listening Room. Finally, Chris explains how he's navigated the ups and downs of his journey within the world of music and business, the joy he finds in watching artists grow within the venue, and how he manages the stress of everyday life by following his passion through music but also focusing on the more businesses minded and analytical paths towards success.

Katelyn Clampett is a Nashville based singer, songwriter and producer. Katelyn joins Country Music Made Me to discuss her punny nature and comedic, lighthearted approach to life, the many fun memories she carries with her from growing up in a fun-loving and musical family, and how that musical backdrop helped inspire her love of music and the desire to create it on her own. Katelyn and Brendan talk about her move from small town North Carolina to attend Berklee College of Music in Boston, the events that led to chasing a career in Los Angeles after graduation, and what she learned about herself as a backing musician for Selena Gomez and Victoria Justice. Finally, Katelyn explains why she moved to Nashville, what she's learned about herself since diving into the Country Music genre, and what's next as she works to create a solo career in Country Music.

Anna Vaus in an up-and-coming Nashville based singer/songwriter. Anna joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the influence her Dad, Grammy-winning children's Country artist Steve Vaus who is known by his stage name Buck Howdy, had on her journey, how her artistic focused youth helped propel her towards a career in music, and the inspiration she's taken from the songwriting of Taylor Swift. Anna and Brendan talk about her journey to Nashville to study songwriting at Belmont University, what some key moments meant for preparing her for a career after graduation, and what it was like to have the world shut-down in 2020 shortly after opening for Willie Nelson and right before she was set to hit the studio with her dream producer Luke Laird. Finally, Anna talks about her journey out of the pandemic and towards her newest EP "Younger Version of Myself" which was once again produced by Luke.

Kasey Tyndall is an up-and-coming artist based in Nashville. Kasey joins Country Music Made Me to discuss her early love of music while watching the Grand Ole Opry Broadcast with her Grandma, how living within a divorced family inspired her love of both Rock and Country music, and how she developed her love of performing at local shows like the Colgate Country Showdown. Kasey and Brendan talk about how singing a duet with Keith Urban at a show in Raleigh, North Carolina inspired her journey towards a career in Country Music, the events that led to her dropping out of school and moving to Nashville, and what the first few years were like after her debut music didn't hit as well as she had hoped. Finally, Kasey explains what it was like to see the success of her single "Middle Man" in 2021, which she wrote with Lainey Wilson, how it felt to finally release her fan favorite track "Jesus and Joan Jett", and how she balances her time between being an artist and a songwriter after singing with River House/Sony Music Publishing.

Five Roses in a Canadian Country Music duo made up of Jade-Savannah Godin and Zachary Ouimet. The duo joins Country Music Made Me to discuss their new EP JukeBox Vibrations, what is was like working with producer Danick Dupelle, and how their music has evolved since forming in 2016. Jade, Zachary and Brendan talk about their journeys towards music which included artistic and musical parents as well as interesting travels through Figure Skating, Law and Pop/Punk, how quickly they clicked after jamming in Zachary's parents basement, and what they see as the roadmap to becoming a successful male/female duo in Country Music. Finally Jade and Zachary explain what it's been like playing bucket list shows like lasso Montreal and Boots and Hearts with Shania Twain, and their focus on creating a lasting career with Five Roses while also enjoying other exciting adventures within their lives.

Jennifer Hart burst onto the Country Music scene in 2020 with the release of her viral hit "Half the Man", a song dedicated to her Dad. Jennifer joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the musical moments that inspired her from a young age, like her Dad singing "The Dance" by Garth Brooks at bedtime and fighting with her sister over who would get to use the toy microphone. Jennifer and Brendan talk about her struggles with Tourette's Syndrome, OCD and Social Anxiety, the moments that helped her overcome the struggles and rebuild her confidence, and what is was like competing in and becoming Miss Arizona. Finally, Jennifer talks about beginning her career in Nashville, becoming more comfortable opening her heart in the writers room, what it was like when "Half the Man" went viral, and how her new EP "1992" came together to help tell a personal story about her own journey.

Katie Rox is the Banjo player and vocalist with all female Country Music group Nice Horse. Katie joins Country Music Made Me to discuss how her country inspired upbringing in the rural community of Airdrie Alberta helped lead her towards a career in Country Music, how playing guitar and singing took a backseat to her love of performing at a young age, and how poems about her beloved pony Jenny were early signs of songwriting. Katie and Brendan talk about the importance of College and hearing someone else other than her parents tell her she was good at music, what it was like getting a job at the world famous Warehouse Studios in Vancouver only a few months after moving there, and what it was like when Dave Ogilvie approached her and asked if she'd like to front the Indie pop/rock group Jakalope. Finally, Katie explains how a trip to Hawaii with a group of like minded female artists led to the formation of Nice Horse, how being surrounded by three other Type A musicians helped drive the group to places they had never expected, and what it's like to receive CCMA nominations and play big summer festivals after navigating their way through the pandemic.

Rachel Wammack is a singer/songwriter signed to RCA Records Nashville. Rachel joins Country Music Made Me to discuss her early musical memories while growing up in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, the importance that local musician Harvey Thompson Jr. had on her musical journey when starting to play local shows in high school, and how one of the very first songs she wrote dedicated to Ramen Noodles made it on her debut album. Rachel and Brendan talk about the moment she was approach by the Executive Vice President of A&R with Sony Music Nashville after a local show at the age of 17, why she decided to attend university rather than move to Nashville after High School, and what she learned about inner beauty after becoming Miss UNA at the University of North Alabama. Finally, Rachel talks about the no-pressure meeting when she officially signed with Sony in 2018, what she re-learned about herself after taking a break from social media in 2021, and how those events inspired her new music including her most recent single "Like Me".

Noah Hicks is an up-and-coming artist in Nashville who is set to release his debut "Tripping Over My Boots". Noah joins Country Music Made Me to discuss his stereotypical country upbringing on a 100 acre chicken farm in rural Georgia, how a game with his best friend of "who can learn it faster" helped him discover his love of music and performing, and how everything changed after getting up to sing for the first time when he was 17. Noah and Brendan talk about how a performance of Luke Combs "Hurricane" when opening for Riley Green at the Back 40 Bash cemented his path towards a career in Country Music, what it was like when he began working with hit producers and songwriters in Nashville, and the amazing full circle moments he's already experienced, like singing "Cruise" on stage with Chase Rice and playing the tailgate party at Luke Combs stadium show in Seattle. Finally, Noah explains the process of writing for his new EP "Tripping Over My Boots", the hard work approach he brings to his career as he works towards selling out arenas across the country, and what it's been like to experience so many amazing moments, like signing his first record deal with RED Creative, so early in his career.

Pillbox Patti is the alter-ego of hit songwriter Nicolette Hayford. Pillbox joins Country Music Made Me to discuss her less than ideal childhood growing up with divorced parents in different parts of Florida, how her Dad's musical background helped inspire her own artistry at a young age, and how attending the Durango song festival, which her Dad was a part of, inspired her to focus on being a better songwriter rather than an artist. Pillbox and Brendan talk about the 4th of July when she packed up her car and left home for the bright lights on Nashville, how she navigated the first few years in Music City as she developed as a songwriter, and how important relationship were with other up and coming artists like Ashley McBryde and John Pardi. Pillbox explains how a songwriter record she recorded in 2020 helped inspire her to create the Pillbox Patti persona, how important Ashley McBryde's hit song "One Night Standards" was in allowing her to focus on her artist career, and what fans can expect from her upcoming album which was heavily influenced by the tumultuous events of her childhood.

Kolby Cooper is an up-and-coming artist out of Texas who recently released his new album "Boy From Anderson County to the Moon". Kolby joins Country Music Made Me to discuss growing up in a small farming community with a population of 30 people, the impact his Dad had on his love of Country Music, and how important music was in allowing him to overcome the pain of losing his father to brain cancer when he was 14. Kolby and Brendan talk about the memories he has from long drives with his Dad hauling cattle, his progression as an artist after learning the guitar in his early teens, and how quickly his career took off after the release of his debut EP only a few months after high school. Kolby explains the process of creating his new album "Boy From Anderson County to the Moon", what it's been like working with producer Philip Mosley ever since his debut single in 2017, and what it means to be making his Grand Ole Opry debut.

Carter Faith is an up-and-coming Country Music artist and songwriter who released her debut EP "Let Love Be Love" in 2021. Carter joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the impact her grandfather had not only on her love of Country Music but also her confidence to perform on local stages in her hometown of Davidson, North Carolina, how songwriting at the age of 16 created a spark that helped carry her to Belmont University, and the performance at an Open Mic during her first trip to Music City that inspired her to chase a career in music. Carter and Brendan talk about how she balanced being an artist and a student after her debut music caught fire, the confidence boost she received after winning the ASCAP Songwriters Showcase in 2019, and how she's evolved as a songwriter since moving to Nashville. Carter explains what it was like signing with Universal Music Publishing, the importance of continuing to be thankful for the career she's created, what it's been like playing iconic venues like the Ryman Auditorium and Grand Ole Opry, and what the future holds as she continues to live her dreams.

Sunny Sweeney is an established Country Music artist who got her start in Austin Texas and has made close to 60 appearances at the Grand Ole Opry. Sunny joins Country Music Made Me to discuss her early trips to the Opry, why she didn't start playing the guitar until after college, and the instant connection she felt to the music and performing once she began songwriting. Sunny and Brendan talk about her musical beginnings playing small clubs in Austin, how her focus on creating music that strikes an emotional chord with listeners hasn't changed ever since the release of her debut album in 2007, and the important moments early in her career that lit a fire that has never burned out. Sunny explains why her latest album "Married Alone" is a true labor of love, and how it feels to finally release the record that has been two and a half years in the making.

Sykamore is an Artist and Songwriter who just released her new album "Pinto". Sykamore joins Country Music Made Me to discuss her western inspired upbringing in a small farming community in Canada, how the rodeo lifestyle of her parents influenced her youth, and the energy that was created when she picked up the guitar in her later teens. Sykamore and Brendan talk about her early growth as an artist in Canada, how a trip to the CCMA Awards in 2015 forever changed her path, and how a private message on Twitter from Rhett Akins turned into a publishing deal and new opportunities in Nashville. Sykamore explains how navigating the pandemic as a new artist helped shape her recent music, the excitement she has in sharing her new album, and the unapologetic approach she takes in creating pop/inspired Country Music.

Greylan James is a hit songwriter and artist best known for co-writing Kenny Chesney's "Happy Does" and Chris Young's "If That Ain't God". Greylan joins Country Music Made Me to discuss his early infatuations with Kenny Chesney, his love of music that began after receiving his first guitar from his Grandpa when he was 5, and how quickly his pursuit of a musical career began after getting his first electric guitar when he was 10. Greylan and Brendan talk about his journey from local musician in his hometown of Knoxville, Tennessee to a songwriter in Nashville working with legendary writer Bob Dipiero, his struggle to find his place as a songwriter in Music City, and how things changed once everything began to click within his writing. Greylan explains how his life changed after Kenny Chesney recorded his song "Happy Does", the confidence he found within his songwriting to chase an artist career, and what it's like to finally release his debut EP "I Hope She Hears These".

Landon Parker is a Country Music artist, songwriter and former member of the Country Music group "Chasin Crazy". Landon joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the life changing moment when his Dad bought him a guitar when he was 16, what the early days were like while building a following in his home state of North Carolina, and some of the fun stories from his teens, like earning the chance to tryout for America's Got Talent after winning a local talent contest, opening for Florida Georgia Line and hearing them sing Cruise during sound-check before it had been released, and visiting Nashville to record his first album "Country Side". Landon and Brendan talk about the moment he was contacted by Scott Siman, who happens to be Tim McGraw's manager, to join a new Country Music group, what it was like moving to Nashville and joining the band, and why he decided to leave after five years to pursue a solo career. Landon explains how producer Blake Chancey convinced him to stay in Nashville rather than move home to North Carolina, what it was like to see the world shut-down one day before he was set to head into the studio to record his debut music, and what the future holds following the release of his debut single "Good Beer Drinkin" earlier this year.

C.J. Solar is a Country Music singer/songwriter with writing credits on Morgan Wallen's #1 single "Up Down" and Jameson Roger's chart topper "Some Girls". He recently released his own album "The Future's Neon". C.J. joins Country Music Made Me to discuss how picking up his Dad's electric guitar inspired his dreams of a career in music, the events that led to him and his brother's forming a band, and how a trip to Nashville in Middle school where he saw Blake Shelton, Dierks Bentley and Brad Paisley perform at the Grand Ole Opry inspired his love of Country Music. C.J and Brendan talk about his foray into songwriting during high school, how that led to attending Belmont University, and the life changing moment when he was offered a publishing deal while interning at Sea Gayle Music. C.J. explains how his songwriting journey has led to two #1 hits, how he balances songwriting and being an artist, and the transitional phase of his career during 2021 that led to the creation of his new album "The Future's Neon".

David Nail is a Country Music artist best known for his hit singles Red Light, Let It Rain, Whatever She's Got and Night's On Fire. David joins Country Music Made Me to discuss his early years spent juggling music and sports, the impact his Granddaddy Lawson has had on his journey, and why he made the decision in high school to pursue a career in music rather than sports. David and Brendan talk about his move to Nashville, what it's been like navigating a successful career, the importance of long lasting relationships within the music industry, and immersing himself within the world of sports thanks to his success in music. David explains the jolt of inspiration he felt after listening to old demos in early 2022, how it re-ignited his passion for songwriting, and the creative energy he's carrying into the creation of his new music, including his latest single "Sunset Carousel".

Kimberly Kelly in a Country Music artist and songwriter who recently released her new album "I'll Tell You What's Gonna Happen". Kimberly joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the musical family member's who have inspired her journey, like her Grandpa who played in the Country Music outfit "Sterling Lee and the Hearts", and her Dad and Uncles who ran within the local music scene before they settled down to focus on raising their families. Kimberly and Brendan talk about her pageant days, the school performances that made her realize she could sing, and how attending the Commercial Music Program at McLennan Community College inspired her to chase a career in Country Music. Kimberly explains the events that led her to Nashville, like being discovered early on by Texas Country Music Hall of Fame member Billy Joe Shaver and singing background harmonies for her sister while on tour with the likes of Brad Paisley. Finally, Kimberly talks about the experiences in Nashville that have led to signing with Toby Keith's Show Dog Nashville record label, working along side and becoming friends with her hero's like Steve Wariner and Erin Enderlin, and releasing her latest album "I'll Tell You What's Gonna happen".

Jenny Tolman is a Country Music Songwriter and Artist who recently released her sophomore album "Married in a Honky Tonk". Jenny joins Country Music Made Me to discuss her musically inspiring family members, like her Grandfather who played drums in the infantry and later owned a dance hall where his big band "Will Tolman and the band that plays to please" would perform, as well as her Dad who played in the country music group "The Indian River Boys" who were discovered by Burt Reynolds and sang on Garth Brook's 1990 album "No Fences". Jenny and Brendan talk about how being born and raised in Nashville has influenced her musical journey, the events during her elementary and middle school years that helped her discover her love of music, and how attending Belmont University helped guide her towards seeking real world experience when stepping into a career in Country Music. Jenny explains how a chance meeting with Grammy nominated producer David Brainard not only helped guide her towards the release of her debut music but how it also turned into a life long romance after the couple were married in 2022 and are expecting their first child together. Finally, Jenny talks about the process of creating her sophomore album "Married in a Honky Tonk", what it's like to build a career as an independent artist, and how amazing it was to be recognized by Dolly Parton and Jeff Bridges after the release of her 2019 single "My Welcome Mat".

Anne Wilson is a Christian/Country artist who released her debut album "My Jesus" in 2022. Anne joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the role both Christian and Country music played in her upbringing, the influence she takes from both when creating her own music, and the memories that she's created through each genre. Anne and Brendan talk about growing up on the family farm in Kentucky, her journey in faith during that time, and how her life changed when she gave her life to Christ. Anne explains the immense pain and loss she experienced when her brother was tragically killed in 2017, how her life was forever changed after singing at his funeral, and the immediate calling towards music she felt within her soul at that moment. Finally, Anne talks about her musical journey that began in 2017, what it was like discovering who she was as an artist, and how amazing the response to her music has been.

Gable Bradley is a singer/songwriter who recently released his debut EP "Born Ready". Gable joins Country Music Made Me to discuss his musical beginnings, first on the piano in third grade and then onto the guitar and songwriting at 17, how recruiting his brothers to form a band in his early 20's led to the beginnings of a career in music, and the journey they took through their home state of Arkansas. Gable and Brendan talk about his move to Nashville in 2016 to chase his dreams on a much larger scale, his journey through Music City as he creates a tight knit community that has helped inspire his music, and the path he's taken towards the creation of his debut music in 2022. Gable explains how his free spirit has influenced his music, the draw he has towards the coast even though he was raised in middle America, and the passion that continues to drive him towards a fruitful career in Country Music.

Chris Colston is an up-and-coming artist from Texas who is following in the footsteps of artists like Parker McCollum and Koe Wetzel in gaining national notoriety. Chris joins Country Music Made Me to talk about the moments that led to his passion for chasing a career in music, like jamming with his friends at the local church, performing on the Texas Opry Circuit, earning a residency at the Republic Icehouse in Tyler Texas, and releasing his first album "Guitar Playin' Outlaw". Chris and Brendan talk about how important the support of the close knit community within the Red Dirt music scene has been, what it's been like playing with and getting to know his musical idols like Randy Rogers, Codey Canada, Cross Canadian Ragweed, Josh Abbot, William Clark Green and Stoney LaRue, and why things may have been much different if he hadn't met fellow musician Koe Wetzel early in his journey. Chris explains the process of entering the Nashville scene from Texas, what it's been like transitioning to the world of co-writing rather than always writing by himself, and the goals he has for his career outside of his home state. Finally, Chris talks about his new album "Boy Like Me" and how he hopes to develop as a songwriter and eventually co-write every track he records.

Dusty Saxton is a professional drummer who plays full-time with Granger Smith. Dusty joins Country Music Made Me to discuss his musical upbringing which began before he was born, kicking a little harder within his mom's womb when hearing live drums, how quickly he wore out his first real drum kit after only two years of playing it, and how his passion for music expanded after teaching himself the piano and guitar. Dusty and Brendan talk about his early years of chasing a career in music, the difficulty he had in learning how to become a professional drummer, and how everything changed when he joined rock band "Ember". Dusty explains the sacrifices he's made to live his dreams as a professional drummer, what it was like moving into the Country Music genre when he began playing for Granger Smith, and what it's been like growing with the band as they continue to reach new heights within their career's and experience new and exciting opportunities.

Scott Stevens is a Country Music Singer/Songwriter who recently released his album "Every Hat is a Cowboy Hat". Scott joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the influence his Dad, who also chased a career in music, had on his musical beginnings, the inspiration he gained from his Pappy and how important that relationship was in helping him become the person he is today, and how music helped him overcome his shyness while living in 6 different U.S. States throughout his childhood. Scott and Brendan talk about the upsetting story behind his first guitar, the music that was created on his Tascam Digital Audio Workstation, and how breaking his leg and arm in a snowboard accident during his senior year of high school helped plant a seed towards a career in music. Scott explains why he turned down a career as a lawyer to chase his dreams in Nashville, how important his law degree was during the pandemic in allowing him to earn a living, and the journey he's been on over the last three years in discovering who he truly is as an artist. Finally, Scott talks about his new album "Every Hat is a Cowboy Hat", the diversity of the 16 song album, and what it's been like discovering who he is as an artist and creating music he's most passionate about.

Brad Mates in the lead singer of Canadian Country Band Emerson Drive. Brad joins Country Music Made Me to discuss what he learned as a kid watching his Dad perform in his own local Country Music outfit "The Swinging Doors", the importance of the eleventh grade talent show when he jumped on stage to perform for the first time, and how the band was formed after he began jamming with other like minded musicians in his school. Brad and Brendan talk about the bands early days when they would play any show they could, how that benefited them after their move to Nashville, and what it was like to sign a major label record deal with DreamWorks in his early 20's. Brad explains what it was like to have their song "Moments" climbing the charts and hitting #1 as they were dealing with label issues, why they were content with taking a step back and slowing down their career in order to spend more time with their families, and how they were able to manage their career in a way that created longevity rather than simply chasing success. Finally, Brad talks about the group's latest single "Every Girl That Got Away", what the process is like in choosing their new music, and the positive view he continues to have on his career moving forward.

Jenna Paulette is a singer/songwriter who splits her time between her home start of Texas and new home in Nashville, Tennessee. Jenna joins Country Music Made Me to discuss her two biggest influences growing up, her Grandad William and her Grandpa Jerry, the roles they each played in helping inspire Jenna to chase her dreams in both Cattle Ranching and Country Music, and how they helped instill a love of music within her from a young age. Jenna and Brendan talk about her many musical adventures during Middle and High School, the life changing moment when she received a full-ride scholarship to Savannah College, and how important her marketing degree has become within her career. Jenna explains the importance of Cattle Ranching within her life, the plan she has for buying back her family's ranchland and also helping other families keep their land within their families, and the emotional connection she has with her hand-me-down truck. Finally, Jenna talks about her new music and the process of choosing songs that will support the narrative of her journey and her love of the Western lifestyle.

Jeff Hanna is the founding member of the Grammy Award winning country/rock group Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Jeff joins Country Music Made Me to talk about his musical beginnings after picking up the guitar in Middle School, the organic formation of his first jug band in High School, and how winning a local talent competition set the group of friends on a path towards forming the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band in 1966. Jeff and Brendan talk about the band's early years of hanging out with a group of young, like minded musician's, and what it's like to see them become the who's who of legendary artists within the industry. Jeff explains how the group has evolved and reinvented themselves over the years to remain relevant within in the industry, moving from jug band, to Americana and finally to Country with their #1 hit "Fishin' In the Dark" in 1987. Finally, Jeff talks about the bands new album "Dirt Does Dylan", a record filled with reimagined tracks from Bob Dylan's vast library of hit songs.

Jason Nix is a singer, songwriter and jack of all trades within the Country Music community. Jason joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the influence his musical father had on his early love of music, why being encouraged to become a musician never deterred him from chasing a career in music, and how his Dad's journey in Nashville helped shape his own path to Music City after high school. Jason and Brendan talk about his years at Belmont, how friendships with the likes of Tyler Hubbard, Ryan Hurd and Ryan Griffin during University helped shape his journey following graduation, and what his years spent in a cover band on Lower Broadway and playing for other artists like Ryan Griffin and Canaan Smith meant for his development as an artist. Finally, Jason explains the events that led to becoming a songwriter, how it helped lead him down a path towards releasing his own original music, including his newest single "Mary Wanna", and what the future holds within his developing career.

Abbey Cone is an up-and-coming singer/songwriter who is signed to The Valory Music Co. an imprint of Big Machine. Abbey joins Country Music Made Me to discuss her early love of music, her first public performances when singing the national anthem on the Rodeo Circuit her family competed on, and how she grew as both a performer and a musician while singing on the Opry Circuit in her home state of Texas. Abbey and Brendan talk about her first trip to Nashville at the age of 12, how that led to telling her parents she wanted to finish high school through online courses so she could move to Music City, and what it was like making the official move before she had turned 17. Abbey explains what's it been like navigating the mental and emotional challenges while chasing a Country Music career, what the process was like when signing with Big Machine, and the importance she places on evolving as an artist and as she learns more about herself and the story she hopes to tell within her music.

Steve Moakler in a Country Music Singer/Songwriter. Steve joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the importance of family within his journey, including his Grandfather, who built a popular neighborhood bar in his basement called "Siddle's Saloon", and his Grandmother, who lived with Steve and his family for much of his formative years and helped inspire him in many important ways. Steve and Brendan talk about his musical beginnings, which started thanks to the gift of a 1980's Alvarez acoustic guitar from his Grandmother's boyfriend, his first high-school band "Line of Reason", and what drew him to Nashville rather than chasing fame and fortune with the group. Steve explains how he's navigated the many ups and downs within his career, the focus he continues to put on the relationships built within his music, and the personal messages of growth as a father, husband and musician that have inspired his new album "Make A Little Room".

Morgan Johnston is an up-and-coming singer/songwriter based in Nashville. Morgan joins Country Music Made Me to discuss her two competing loves, Horses and Music, how her parents love of both animals and music helped inspire her to chase her dreams no matter where they led, and how learning about her Great Grandmothers past as a songwriter has inspired her journey in Nashville. Morgan and Brendan talk about Morgan's early musical experiences, first with her friends putting on "air band" performances for their family, to open-mic nights at small venues around her hometown of Sandwich Cape Cod, and finally to dropping out of University after a year to chase a career in Nashville. Morgan explains the feelings she had when making the official move to Music City, what it was like to have her debut single "Good Guy" do much better than she expected, and how she's navigated the up's and down's of the industry. Finally, Morgan talks about enjoying the small victories within her journey, the growth she's experienced as an artist that she's brought into her new single "The End", what it's been like working with long time friend, Producer Noah Needleman, and the excitement she has for the release of her debut album in late 2022.

Devin Cooper is a Canadian Country singer/songwriter. Devin joins Country Music Made Me to discuss his early love of music which included playing along on the self playing piano, cranking up The Beatles Anthology CD on his parents living room stereo, and begging for a guitar at the age of 5. Devin and Brendan talk about the moment he received his first guitar at the age of 7, the dedication he showed at a young age to learning the instrument, how his songwriting began to develop, and how he was caught between two worlds, writing storytelling lyrics routed within the Country genre but playing blues inspired music around it. Devin explains how a concert featuring Kip Moore and The Cadillac Three helped inspire him to combine the Blues/Rock music he had grown up on with his Country inspired songwriting to create his own unique brand of Country Music, what it's meant to have friendships with some of the most talents musicians and producers in Canada, and how regular trips to Nashville have helped him develop as a songwriter and an artist.

Ryan Griffin is a Country Music singer/songwriter originally from Ocala, Florida. Ryan joins Country Music Made Me to discuss his early love of music which began while listening to the Country greats in the family car and with his Grandpa on Sunday nights while watching the Grand Ole Opry Telecast, it was also inspired by the soulful tunes of Brian McKnight and the genre bending sounds of Keith Urban. Ryan and Brendan talk about how his time at Belmont helped guide him towards a career as an artist, including a stint as the tour manager for an up-and-coming artist by the name of Jason Aldean, and what the journey has been like towards finding his own unique sound within the genre. Ryan explains how he's been able to navigate the ups and downs of his career, including losing his mentor and friend, Busbee in 2019, being dropped by both his publisher and record label in 2021, how the support of his wife helped him move forward as an independent artist, and the amazing opportunities that have come thanks to the success of his single "Salt, Lime & Tequila", including being welcomed onto the Grand Ole Opry stage and signing as the flagship artist on the Jay DeMarcus led Red Street Records.

Sarahbeth Taite is a Country Music singer/songwriter originally from Fort Collins, Colorado. Sarahbeth joins Country Music Made Me to discuss her early musical memories on the piano with her Grandmother, the encouragement her parents offered in following whatever path she chose as long as she worked hard, and how writing musical poems at the age of six transformed into song writing in her early teens after picking up the guitar. Sarahbeth and Brendan talk about signing her first publishing deal at 14 after attending the NSAI Songwriter's workshop in Nashville, what it was like to feel on top of the world at such a young age, and how she's navigated the high's and low's of the industry over the last 10 years. Sarahbeth explains the importance of growth within herself as an artist since the release of her debut single "He Loves Me" in 2015, what it was like working within the unexpected success of her single "Long Way" in 2020, what she learned from her time on American Idol, and what fans can expect from her new EP "For My Own Good".

Raleigh Keegan is a Country Music singer/songwriter based in Nashville. Raleigh joins Country Music Made Me to discuss his unusual birth story, born to a single mom serving time in a state penitentiary and being adopted when he was only a few days old to a loving family in Cincinnati. Raleigh and Brendan talk about his early love of music which was developed on a Baby Grand Piano in the family home, some of his first bands including the rap/pop group The Queen City Kids, and what caused him to leave his day job behind after College to chase his dreams in Nashville. Raleigh talks about how he stays positive within the ups and downs of his career, how his music has evolved over the years, and the excitement he has for his new concept album, The Tale of 7 Cities, which fuses his passion for Jazz with his love of Country Music.

Dallas Smith is one of the most successful Canadian Country Artists in history and the lead singer of rock band Default. Dallas joins Country Music Made Me to discuss his first musical memory of listening to The Beatles "Abbey Road Medley" on the radio, how his shyness kept him from singing in front of others as a youngster, and how a passion for music continued to burn deep within until his early 20's. Dallas and Brendan talk about stepping out of his comfort zone to perform Plush by the Stone Temple Pilots in his friends garage, how that quickly led to the formation of Default, and how working with Nickelback's Chad Kroger and producer Joey Moi helped launch them towards a successful career. Dallas explains the ups and downs that led him to reach out to Joey with the idea of recording a country record, how quickly the idea of a career in Country Music became a reality, and what his journey has been like over the past 10 years while becoming one of the biggest artists in Canadian Country Music history, which has included a record Twelve #1 singles. Finally, Dallas talks about how a shy kid grew up to be the 2 time CCMA Entertainer of the Year, and what's next within his decorated career.

Chayce Beckham is a Country Music singer/songwriter and the winner of Season 19 of American Idol. Chayce joins Country Music Made Me to discuss his early love of music after getting a guitar from his Grandma at the age of 3, how important his Grandpa was in helping him become the person he is today, and how singing along to George Strait in his truck as a teenager helped him find his voice. Chayce and Brendan talk about The Sinking Sailors, the reggae inspired band he formed with a group of friends after High School, his focus on making music a viable career in his early 20's, and the difficulty he had coming to grips with the loss of his Grandfather and the band in 2020. Chayce explains the deep hole he fell into during 2020, his efforts to mask the pain with alcohol, and the car crash that changed everything. Finally, Chayce talks about his time on American Idol, the inner healing he's experienced since winning in 2021, and the joy he's filled with as he lives his dream of sharing his music with the world.

Lexie Hayden is a Country Music Singer/Songwriter who recently competed on MTV's Becoming a Popstar. Lexie joins Country Music Made Me to discuss growing up in the Rock influenced suburbs of Washington but being drawn to Country Music thanks to regular trips to her Grandparent's farm in Pennsylvania, the influence her Grandpa and his love of classic country has had on her journey, and how she picked up the guitar thanks to inspiration from her young brother. Lexie and Brendan talk about her very first performance at the local venue "Jammin Java", posting the video to youtube, and how positive comments helped inspire her to continue sharing her music. Lexie explains how a summer internship with the Bobby Bones Show during College made her realize Nashville is where she wanted to be, what is was like moving to Music City only a few months after graduation, and how she's navigated the ups and downs within her journey. Finally, Lexie talks about working with hit songwriter Derek George since 2017, the positive momentum she's experienced over the past 2 years with skyrocketing streaming numbers and huge support from Bobby Bones and Women of iHeartCountry, and what's next within her burgeoning career.

Jillian Cardarelli is a country music Singer/Songwriter. Jillian joins Country Music Made Me to discuss her grandpa's Country Music influence, her love of Elvis and how he inspired her to sing and perform at a young age, and the first grade talent show when she sang a LeAnn Rimes song and realized that's what she wanted to do for the rest of her life. Jillian and Brendan talk about her move to Nashville to attend Belmont University, the amazing opportunities she had early in her career to open for artists like Alabama, Willie Nelson, Kenny Rogers, and Reba, and the many full-circle moments she's experienced since first hitting the stage in 2013. Jillian explains how she considers her debut single "Rerun" in 2017 to be her jumping off point as an artist, what it's been like working with producer Alex Kline from the beginning of her career, and the balance of promoting her debut self-titled EP and moving on to the creation of new music.

Shantaia is a Canadian born and raised singer/songwriter who is currently based in Nashville. Shantaia joins Country Music Made Me to discuss her early musical experiences growing up in Canada, the moments that led to her dreams of a career in Country Music in her early teens, and the business minded personality that has allowed her to thrive as an independent artist within the industry at a young age. Shantaia and Brendan talk about moving to Toronto from her small town in Saskatchewan to further her career, how important her first trip to Nashville was in showing her the opportunities that were available for growth within her career, how treating her career as a business has helped her growth both personally and professionally, and what it was like making the move to Music City in 2020. Shantaia explains what it's been like immersing herself within the Nashville culture, how encouraging it's been to play at iconic venues like The Listening Room and Whiskey Jam, the steps she's taking within her career to ensure she's creating the music she wants to create, and how excited she is for the success of her new single Broke To Brand New.

Adam Sanders is a Country Music Artist and Songwriter. Adam joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the moments that inspired his love of music, including one of the most important concerts he's ever attended, seeing Alan Jackson open for Randy Travis and meeting Alan backstage, a moment that would set him on a path towards a career in Country Music. Adam and Brendan talk about the moment he was encouraged by his Uncle Scotty, a session player in Nashville, to being songwriting, how that led to playing gigs all around Florida as a teenager, and how it inspired him to move to Nashville at the age of 21. Adam explains how songwriting helped him create early success in Music City, what it was like hitting #1 as a songwriter with Cole Swindell's "Ain't Worth The Whiskey" and "Hell of a Night" from Dustin Lynch, and the difficulty he had turning success as a songwriter into success as an artist. Finally, Adam talks about self-funding his debut full length album "What If I'm Right", and what it's been like to release music he feels is the most authentic of his career.

SixForty1 is a Country Music duo formed by Brooks Hoffman and Austin Gee. Brooks and Austin join Country Music Made Me to discuss their separate musical journeys growing up in Kentucky, how Country Music influenced them as youngsters, and the musical adventures, from musical theatre, lively living room performances and high school bands they enjoyed before graduating high school. The duo talk about attending Murray State University with the goal of securing day jobs, their chance meeting while taking part in the annual Mr. MSU competition, and their immediate connection when they began songwriting. Brooks and Austin explain the events that led to the formation of SixForty1, what it was like moving to Nashville, and the journey they've been on in finding their sound and place in Music City.

Eric Paslay is a Nashville based Singer/Songwriter who has scored numerous #1's as both a songwriter and artist. Eric joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the musical influence of his family growing-up, how music helped guide his journey but was never the main focus until College when he attended Middle Tennessee State to study Music Business and dove headfirst into the world of songwriting. Eric and Brendan talk about his early years in Nashville, how becoming a successful songwriter made it difficult to kick-start an artist career, and what it was like working within and learning the business behind becoming a successful artist. Eric explains what it's been like navigating the up's and down's within his journey, the importance of focusing on the positives within his career, and the excitement he has as he celebrates the release of his new album, Even if it Breaks Your Barefoot Friday Night, a record filled with his re-imagined hits as a songwriting and artist.

Corey Kent is a singer/songwriter who released his latest single "Wild As Her" in early 2022. Corey joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the hard-working principles passed down through the generations from his Great Grandfather that continue to help guide him through his journey, the early musical experiences at the Oklahoma State Fair and Cain's Ballroom that created a unique musical spark within him, and what he learned during his years fronting the Western Swing band Oklahoma Stomp during his teens. Corey and Brendan talk about the life changing moment when he was welcomed to sing on stage with Willie Nelson, how he was able to chase a career in music while at the same time earning a business degree from Oklahoma State, and what he learned during his early years in Nashville. Corey explains how difficult it was to navigate 2020 as an up-and-coming independent artist, the live changing moments that happened while on tour with the likes of Parker McCollum, Randy Rogers, Aaron Watson, Kolby Cooper and Cody Johnson in 2021, and how this year is setting up to be his biggest yet with the early success of his new single "Wild As Her".

John Jeffers is the Guitarist and background vocalist for American Rock/Country group Whiskey Myers. John joins Country Music Made Me to discuss his families musical past that he didn't become aware of until his teens, how natural ability shone threw when he first picked-up the guitar, and how his focus quickly turned from baseball to music in his later teens. John and Brendan talk about the early days of Whiskey Myers, how a focus on their live show from the very beginning has helped build a loyal following of fans, and why the group have stayed independent rather than taking an easier road. John explains how the band navigated through the pandemic, what they've learned from self-producing their last two albums, including their upcoming release Tornillo, and the excitement they have heading into their sold-out summer performance at Red Rocks.

Maggie Baugh is a Nashville based Singer/Songwriter. Maggie joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the moment she fell in love with Classical Music while watching the animated Disney show Little Einstein's, the journey she began at the age of 6 towards Julliard and a career in Classical Music, and how being bullied in school helped lead her towards Country Music as a way to heal. Maggie and Brendan talk about her development as an artist while playing shows around her home state of Florida as a teenager, how regular trips to Nashville during High School cemented her journey towards a career in Country Music, and how her focus of playing as many live shows as she could during her first two years in Nashville effected her music. Finally, Maggie explains how 2020 helped her evolve as a musician, why her focused shifted to creating music inspired by her emotions rather than her live performance, and what it means to see major growth within her career while being an independent artist.

Stephanie Quayle is a Country Music singer/songwriter. Stephanie joins Country Music Made Me to discuss how family helped influence her love of music at a young age, how music helped distract from the negativity and constant bullying she endured during middle school, and the important role a student exchange to Switzerland played in where she is today. Stephanie and Brendan talk about the events that led to joining a band during her time in Europe, the amazing feeling of freedom she felt during her very first performance and how it cemented her path towards a career in music. Stephanie explains how a decade long journey in Los Angeles helped shape her as an artist, how things changed after moving to Nashville, and how important it's been to stay true to herself within an industry that's constantly trying to change who she is.

Tyler Joe Miller is a Canadian Country Musician best known for his breakout singles Pillow Talkin' and I would Be Over Me Too. Tyler Joe joins Country Music Made Me to discuss his early musical memories with family, the work-ethic that was instilled within him at a young age, and how that continues to drive him forward within his Country Music career. Tyler Joe and Brendan talk about his first experiences on the stage within his Church's Youth group, the conversation that led to the formation of his first band, and walking away from music to chase other passions within his life. Tyler Joe explains the moment he was inspired to chase a solo music career, why he chose Country Music, and the amazing start he's had to his career, becoming the first independent artist to debut with back-to-back #1 hits on the Billboard Canada Country Charts.