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Explore every episode of the podcast Ten Year Town

Dive into the complete episode list for Ten Year Town. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Dasha on Writing "Austin," Trusting Her Roots, and What She'd Tell Her Younger Self | Ten Year Town Ep. 13706 oct. 202600:28:07

🎟️ Ten Year Town: A LIVE Episode with Jessie Jo Dillon. Monday, October 19, Analog at Hutton Hotel. Doors 5:00, show 5:30.

Tickets: https://ffm.link/tenyeartownlive

Dasha is a California-born, Nashville-based singer-songwriter whose 2023 single "Austin (Boots Stop Workin')" became a viral breakout and a member of the Spotify Billions Club. She was nominated for New Female Artist of the Year at the 2026 ACM Awards. Her latest single, "82 Chevy," is out now.

In this episode, we discuss the ex-boyfriend who sent her back to country music, the freestyle that became "Austin," and what she'd tell her younger self about surviving the spotlight. There are, of course, many other stops along the way.

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Jamie Moore on Muscle Shoals, "May We All," and "Chasin' You"29 sept. 202600:52:30

LIVE SHOW TICKET LINK: https://ffm.link/tenyeartownlive

Jamie Moore is a four-time Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer from Muscle Shoals, Alabama. His songs have been recorded by Carrie Underwood, Blake Shelton, TobyMac, Mackenzie Carpenter, Florida Georgia Line, and Tim McGraw. They include the #1 "May We All" and Morgan Wallen's diamond-certified "Chasin' You," which earned him NSAI's "10 Songs I Wish I'd Written" award. He's an elected board member of NSAI and signed with Spirit Music in 2026.

In this episode, we discuss growing up blocks from FAME Studios, how one co-write got his foot in the door at EMI, finding out "May We All" was the next single from Tim McGraw in a Whole Foods, and the day Craig Wiseman walked out of a write and came back with the first verse of "Chasin' You."

There are, of course, many other stops along the way.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Joybeth Taylor on "Choosin' Texas," "Weren't for the Wind," and Three Songs a Day | Ten Year Town Ep. 13522 sept. 202600:36:32

Joybeth Taylor is a Nashville songwriter from Pelham, Alabama. She's written for Morgan Wallen, Jordan Davis, Kane Brown, and Hudson Westbrook, co-wrote Ella Langley's "Weren't for the Wind" and Langley and Wallen's "I Can't Love You Anymore," and is a writer on "Choosin' Texas," the 2026 ACM Song of the Year and the longest-running non-holiday No. 1 in Billboard Hot 100 history. She has Corey Kent's "Empty Words" climbing at radio now. She is currently published by Sony Music Publishing and Verse 2 Music, with TAYCAN Entertainment as a creative partner.

In this episode, we discuss 4 a.m. lifeguard shifts and writing three songs a day for five years before she signed, writing "Weren't for the Wind" on a stranded tour bus in Wyoming, the dinner conversation that turned into "Choosin' Texas," and why that song has been the best and worst thing that's ever happened to her.

There are, of course, many other stops along the way.

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Danny Myrick on "She's Country," "Truck Yeah," and the Demo That Became the Record | Ten Year Town Ep. 13415 sept. 202600:56:14

Danny Myrick is a Nashville songwriter from Laurel, Mississippi. He's written for Tim McGraw, Jason Aldean, Craig Morgan, and Joe Cocker, co-wrote Craig Morgan's "International Harvester" and Tim McGraw's "Truck Yeah," and had 2009's most-played country song with Jason Aldean's "She's Country." Before writing full time he sang lead in Western Flyer and cut hundreds of demos and background vocals.

In this episode, we discuss a life-changing call from Bobby Braddock, how a run-in with Jeffrey Steele changed everything, why "International Harvester" has a half-verse, and how a goof-around demo with his engineer became a hit for Jason Aldean.

There are, of course, many other stops along the way.

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.


New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Dan Alley on Quitting the Day Job, "Country Song Came On," and "House Again" | Ten Year Town Ep. 13308 sept. 202600:42:43

Dan Alley is a Nashville songwriter from Miamisburg, Ohio. He's written for Lainey Wilson, Luke Combs, Jon Pardi, and Drake Milligan, co-wrote Hudson Westbrook's "House Again," and landed his first country radio #1 with Luke Bryan's "Country Song Came On." He's a writer on Luke Combs' current single "Be By You," and is releasing his own music through River House Artists.

In this episode, we discuss walking away from a city job, making the leap to write songs in Nashville, Luke Bryan cutting "Country Song Came On,", co-writing "House Again" with Hudson Westbrook, and quitting drinking and finding "High and Dry" on a back porch in Fort Myers. There are, of course, many other stops along the way. 

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Zane Williams on Being 10% Better, Building for the Long Term, and The Wilder Blue | Ten Year Town Ep. 13201 sept. 202600:46:25

Zane Williams is a Texas singer-songwriter and the frontman of The Wilder Blue. He spent years as a college coffeehouse performer and a staff songwriter in Nashville, where he wrote "Hurry Home," a top 20 hit for Jason Michael Carroll, before moving back to Texas and building a grassroots following as a solo artist. He formed The Wilder Blue in 2019, and when the band's debut landed in the middle of the 2020 shutdown, a tweet from Luke Combs changed everything. The band just released their new album, Cinco, recorded at Sonic Ranch in Tornillo, Texas.

In this episode, we discuss his journey from Texas to Nashville and back, how a book jacket about making his product 10% better changed his life, making his new record at Sonic Ranch, and many other stops along the way.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Little Big Town on their new record, what makes a Little Big Town Song, and our first ever LIVE Episode | Ten Year Town Ep. 13125 août 202600:28:18

Little Big Town is Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Phillip Sweet and Jimi Westbrook — the same four people since they started singing together in 1998. Along the way: "Boondocks," "Pontoon," "Girl Crush," "Better Man," three Grammys for Best Country Duo/Group Performance, six straight CMA Vocal Group of the Year wins, and Opry membership since 2014. Their new record is called It's a Dying Art.

Recorded live in front of an audience in Nashville, the four of them join Troy to talk about making their new record, chasing a song that was already on hold for somebody else, and the early-career night they had to go on in George Strait's place in front of a stadium that came for him.

Ten Year Town is a podcast about the songwriter's journey, hosted by Troy Cartwright. New episodes weekly.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Thoughts on My Grand Ole Opry Debut 18 août 202600:10:55

There's a circle of wood in the middle of the stage at the Grand Ole Opry House. They cut it out of the floor of the Ryman and carried it over when the Opry moved, so that anybody standing in the middle of that stage is standing on the same boards Hank stood on.

This week, I get to stand on it.

These are a few thoughts I have about that. About my ten years in Nashville, an Opry debut, and the two songs I'm playing — including one called "Shoulders," which is about the fact that I didn't get anywhere by myself. It's about my dad, who's been a fan since before there was anything to be a fan of. It's about a kid at home who was born in May and is going to learn what a life looks like by watching mine.

Somebody carries it forward so you can stand on it. Then it's your turn to carry it on.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Michelangelo, the Sistine Chapel, and Why the Bullsh*t Is Ancient | Ten Year Town Bonus Episode11 août 202600:07:24

Michelangelo didn't wake up one morning wanting to spend four years painting a ceiling. He was a sculptor. But the Pope had a ceiling, and the Pope had money.

In this bonus episode, Troy Cartwright reads an essay about an artist named Aaron Reese, who bought a newsstand at 39th and 4th in New York City to sell his ceramics — and about the uncomfortable, ancient intersection of art and commerce that every working artist has had to figure out.

There was never an Eden where artists made exactly what they wanted and everybody showed up. Aaron Reese has an old newsstand. Michelangelo had a pope. And I have an Instagram.

This piece started as a letter I wrote for my newsletter, Letters to Myself, at https://troycartwright.substack.com — short things like this, whenever they come to me. All free.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Wyatt Flores on Stillwater, Music Row, and his new album Scared of Heights | Ten Year Town Ep. 13004 août 202600:33:09

Wyatt Flores is a country artist and songwriter from Stillwater, Oklahoma. He has over 1.4 billion career streams, RIAA certifications including 2x Platinum for "Please Don't Go," and a debut album, Welcome to the Plains, released in 2024. His new album, Scared of Heights, produced by Charlie Handsome, Jacob "JKash" Hindlin, and Gian Stone, is out now via Island Records and MCA. 

In this episode, we discuss Wyatt's journey from his first paid bar gig in Oklahoma — and writing "Travelin' Kid" in a barn that same night, then refusing to play it for nearly a year — to dropping out of school without telling his parents, getting labeled a TikTok artist and touring into debt to prove it wrong, and the Music Row co-writes where he felt like a box someone had to check. We also get into the making of the new record. There are, of course, many other stops along the way.

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

#WyattFlores #ScaredOfHeights #CountryMusic #RedDirt #Songwriting #Nashville #Oklahoma #Stillwater #DriveAllNight #HateMyself #HalfTheMan #TenYearTown #TroyCartwright #MusicPodcast #NewMusic

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Dylan Scott: From Bastrop, Louisiana to Seven #1 Hits | Ten Year Town Ep. 12928 juil. 202600:43:01

Dylan Scott is a country artist and songwriter from Bastrop, Louisiana. He is a multi-Platinum artist with seven number one singles at country radio, including the triple-Platinum "My Girl," "Nobody," "New Truck," "Boys Back Home" (with Dylan Marlowe), and his most recent chart-topper, "What He'll Never Have." He has nearly 5 billion career streams, a CMT Music Award for Breakthrough Video of the Year, and a GMA Dove Award. He is currently signed to Curb Records.

In this episode, we discuss Dylan's journey from signing a record deal while still in high school — and learning the hard way that a deal doesn't "make it happen" for you — to almost quitting after three failed singles, until a phone call with his future wife convinced him to keep going and inspired him to write "My Girl," his first number one. We also get into the question his wife asked him on the way to a t-ball game that changed how he measures success, and his brand new single, "Dear Big City." There are, of course, many other stops along the way.

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

#DylanScott #TenYearTown #CountryMusic.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

The Engagement Trap: Why Great Art Doesn't Chase Attention21 juil. 202600:11:21

What happens when a company—or an artist—starts optimizing for engagement instead of trust?

In this solo episode, I unpack why Netflix's biggest competitive advantage isn't its algorithms or its catalog, but the relationship it has with its audience. That same tension exists in music, where creators are constantly tempted to simplify, explain, and optimize their work for platforms that reward attention over originality.

We talk about the difference between commodities and premium brands, why record labels used to function as curators, how streaming changed the value of recorded music, and why the best songwriters refuse to sand off the very edges that make their work memorable.

Ultimately, this episode is about resisting the pressure to make art that's easier to consume—and instead making work that's harder to forget.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Brice Long on Writing No. 1 Hits for Gary Allan, Jon Pardi & His New Album All I Ever Wanted | Ten Year Town Ep. 12814 juil. 202600:48:11

Brice Long is a songwriter and artist from Hopkinsville, Kentucky. As a songwriter, he has written No. 1 hits including Gary Allan's “Nothing On But The Radio” and Jon Pardi's “Heartache On The Dance Floor,” along with Randy Houser's “Like A Cowboy,” which was nominated for CMA Song of the Year. As an artist, Brice recently released his new album, All I Ever Wanted.

In this episode, Brice shares the story of leaving Kentucky for Nashville, the years it took to land his first major hit, and the lessons he's learned from a career spanning decades in country music. 

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.



#BriceLong #CountryMusic #Songwriting #AllIEverWanted #JonPardi #GaryAllan #RandyHouser #TenYearTown #Podcast #Nashville

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Shane McAnally (Part 2) on TONY Awards, SMACK Publishing, Sobriety and Advice For His Younger Self | Ten Year Town 12730 juin 202600:36:01

Shane McAnally is a songwriter, producer, and publisher originally from Mineral Wells, Texas. He is a 4x Grammy Winner, 2x ACM Songwriter of the Year, a Tony-nominated composer, and has written and/or produced over 50 number one songs. Some of his hits include Body Like a Back Road, recorded by Sam Hunt, American Kids, recorded by Kenny Chesney, and Merry Go Round, recorded by Kacey Musgraves. Recently, he was named as one of the New York Times’ 30 Greatest Living American Songwriters.

In Part 2, we discuss his TONY award winning musical, his publishing and record company SMACK, sobriety, and his advice for his younger self. 


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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------


Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.


#ShaneMcAnally #CountryMusic #Songwriting #TenYearTown #NashvilleSongwriters #CreativeProcess #MusicPodcast #KaceyMusgraves #HitMaker #MusicBusiness #Songwriter #BluebirdCafe

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Shane McAnally (Part 1) on Kacey Musgraves, Why Chasing #1 Hits is a Mistake & His 14-Year Grind | TYT 12723 juin 202600:40:36

Shane McAnally is a songwriter, producer, and publisher originally from Mineral Wells, Texas. He is a 4x Grammy Winner, 2x ACM Songwriter of the Year, a Tony-nominated composer, and has written and/or produced over 50 number one songs. Some of his hits include Body Like a Back Road, recorded by Sam Hunt, American Kids, recorded by Kenny Chesney, and Merry Go Round, recorded by Kacey Musgraves. Recently, he was named as one of the New York Times’ 30 Greatest Living American Songwriters.

In Part 1 of this two-part episode, we discuss Shane’s early days, including dropping out of college to chase the Nashville dream in his grandmother's borrowed minivan, his unique philosophy on songwriting, including why he believes Nashville's obsession with chasing #1 hits can be a mistake, and the magic of his very first co-write with Kacey Musgraves. There are, of course, many other stops along the way.


--------------------------------------------------


This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------


Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.


#ShaneMcAnally #CountryMusic #Songwriting #TenYearTown #NashvilleSongwriters #CreativeProcess #MusicPodcast #KaceyMusgraves #HitMaker #MusicBusiness #Songwriter #BluebirdCafe

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Charles Wesley Godwin on Trusting the Tip Jar, The High of Songwriting, Making Seneca & his new album Christian Name | Ten Year Town Ep. 12616 juin 202600:56:26

Charles Wesley Godwin is a country music artist and songwriter born and raised in Morgantown, West Virginia. He first discovered his passion for music in college, picking up a guitar after realizing his WVU football dreams weren't going to pan out and watching the Avett Brothers perform at the 2011 Grammys. He spent years developing his sound by playing small bars, cafes, and breweries across the country—often sleeping in his car—before breaking through with his independent 2019 debut album, Seneca. He is currently signed to Big Loud and Warner Chappell, and following the success of albums like How the Mighty Fall and Family Ties, he is preparing to release his newest record, Christian Name, on July 24th. 

In this episode, we discuss Charles’s journey from playing his very first paid gig at a lingerie show in Estonia to building a nationwide audience. We dig into his early years trusting the tip jar on the road, the freezing winter studio sessions that shaped Seneca, navigating the pressures of the music business, and the night he almost quit music entirely. We also talk about why he considers songwriting to be his true creative high, his five-year wait to co-write with Lori McKenna, and many other stops along the way.

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

#CharlesWesleyGodwin #CountryMusic #TenYearTown #Songwriting #AltCountry #AmericanaMusic #CWG #ChristianName #Seneca #IndependentArtist #MusicPodcast

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Brad Tursi on Old Dominion, His new solo album Colorado & Trusting Your Gut | Ten Year Town Ep. 12509 juin 202600:51:01

Brad Tursi is a songwriter, guitarist, and member of Old Dominion. As a songwriter, he has penned hits for artists including Kenny Chesney, Dierks Bentley, and Luke Bryan, including Chesney's “Save It For A Rainy Day.” As a member of Old Dominion, he has helped create some of the band's biggest songs, including “Snapback,” “No Such Thing As A Broken Heart,” and “One Man Band.” He has a new solo album, Colorado, available everywhere June 12.

In this episode, Brad shares his journey from finding his dad's guitar in the attic in Connecticut to landing in Nashville, the chance encounter that led to writing “A Guy Walks Into A Bar,” and how he ended up joining Old Dominion almost by accident. We dig into the creative process behind his upcoming solo record Colorado, the difference between writing for yourself versus writing for other artists, and why following your gut is the most important skill you can develop in this business.

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This episode is sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys (https://thegraphicguitarguys.com) They create custom guitar wraps used by artists and festivals across the industry. A great option for pre-sale bundles, VIP packages, or one-of-a-kind gear.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright (troycartwright.com) is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

#BradTursi #OldDominion #Colorado #CountryMusic #Songwriting #TenYearTown #Podcast #Nashville #KennyChesney #SaveItForARainyDay#SaveItForARainyDay

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Jake Worthington on Texas Country, Traditionalism & Touring with Luke Combs | Ten Year Town Ep. 12412 mai 202600:45:40

Jake Worthington is a country music artist and songwriter raised in La Porte, Texas. He first gained national attention as the runner-up on Season 6 of NBC’s The Voice before spending years developing his sound playing dance halls and honky-tonks across Texas. His latest record, When I Write The Song, was released in 2025, and he is currently signed to Big Loud Texas. Worthington has shared stages with artists including Stoney LaRue and Post Malone, and is currently an opener on Luke Combs’ Growin’ Up and Gettin’ Old stadium tour.

In this episode, we discuss Jake’s journey from garage bands in Texas to national touring stages, growing up on George Strait and Keith Whitley records, his early years in Nashville, the call from Seth England that helped change the trajectory of his career, and many other stops along the way.

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This episode is sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys (https://thegraphicguitarguys.com) They create custom guitar wraps used by artists and festivals across the industry. A great option for pre-sale bundles, VIP packages, or one-of-a-kind gear.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright (troycartwright.com) is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

#JakeWorthington
 #TexasCountry
 #TraditionalCountry
 #LukeCombs
 #CountryMusic
 #BigLoudTexas

 #GeorgeStrait
 #Nashville
 #TenYearTown
 #TroyCartwright

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Lessons from Tom Petty on Songwriting, Simplicity, and Staying True | Ten Year Town Bonus Episode05 mai 202600:15:13

In this bonus episode, we take a look at the songwriting and philosophy of Tom Petty—what made his songs work, why simplicity matters, and what artists can learn from the way he approached music and career.

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If you want to read the Mundanity of Excellence you can find the PDF here:
https://academics.hamilton.edu/documents/themundanityofexcellence.pdf

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This episode is sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys (https://thegraphicguitarguys.com) They create custom guitar wraps used by artists and festivals across the industry. A great option for pre-sale bundles, VIP packages, or one-of-a-kind gear.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright (troycartwright.com) is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

#TomPetty
#Songwriting
#Songwriter
#RockAndRoll
#MusicTheory
#CreativeProcess
#TenYearTown
#TroyCartwright
#AmericanMusic
#WriteSongs

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Randy Montana on Writing No. 1 Hits for Luke Combs & Parker McCollum, his Songwriting Approach, and More | Ten Year Town Ep. 12328 avr. 202600:53:24

Randy Montana is a songwriter and artist raised in Nashville, Tennessee. He has written songs recorded by artists including Luke Combs, Parker McCollum, Justin Moore, Riley Green, and many others. His No. 1 hits include “Beer Never Broke My Heart,” “I Hope You’re Happy,” “Pretty Heart,” and “Sleepless In A Hotel Room.” On March 16, 2026, Montana claimed the No. 1 spot on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.

In this episode, we discuss Randy’s path growing up in Nashville, the stories behind some of his biggest songs, his approach to songwriting, and many other stops along the way.

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.


New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Zach Abend on “Hometown Home” + HARDY’s “Favorite Country Song” | Ten Year Town Ep. 12214 avr. 202600:50:28

Zach Abend is a songwriter and producer originally from Syracuse, New York. He has co-written songs for artists including Morgan Wallen, HARDY, LOCASH, Kenny Chesney, and Blake Shelton. His #1 songs include writing Kenny Chesney’s “Take Her Home,” LOCASH’s 2025 single “Hometown Home,” and most recently as a writer on HARDY’s “Favorite Country Song.” He is currently published by Relative Music Group.

In this episode, Zach talks about his path from Syracuse to Nashville, his approach to songwriting and production, and his philosophy behind creating songs that connect with artists and audiences.

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Mitchell Tenpenny on “Drunk Me,” Songwriting & Nashville | Ten Year Town Ep. 12107 avr. 202600:57:46

Mitchell Tenpenny is a singer-songwriter from Nashville, Tennessee. He broke through with his multi-Platinum No. 1 hit “Drunk Me” and has since earned additional chart success with songs like “Truth About You,” “At The End Of A Bar” (with Chris Young), and “We Got History.” He has released multiple albums including Telling All My Secrets and This Is The Heavy, and has toured with artists like Jason Aldean, Luke Combs, and Jordan Davis. He is currently on his Speed Of Light Tour.

In this episode, Mitchell talks about growing up in Nashville, his path to his first No. 1, the reality of sustaining success in country music, and how he approaches songwriting in a town built on great songs.

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

#MitchellTenpenny #CountryMusic #Songwriting #Nashville #TenYearTown #Podcast #CountryArtist #MusicIndustry #DrunkMe

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Kip Moore on Craft, Live Shows, Breaking in South Africa, and Doing It His Way 31 mars 202600:54:56

This episode originally aired on January 20th, 2025. 

Kip Moore is an artist and songwriter originally from Tifton, Georgia. He has several multi-platinum records including songs like “Somethin’ ‘bout a Truck,” “More Girls Like You,” and “The Bull.” He is also known for his live show and a rabid touring audience that spans the US, the U.K., Australia, South Africa, and Europe. “Solitary Tracks” was February 28th, 2025; he is currently signed to Virgin Music Group. 

In this episode we discuss the level of songwriting craftsmanship in Nashville, why the live show is so important, making records, breaking in South Africa, and many other stops along the way.

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

Steam his new EP Etc. All The Rest here. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Parker McCollum on Texas Country, Songwriting & Making His New Record | Ten Year Town Ep. 12024 mars 202600:50:01

Parker McCollum is an artist and songwriter originally from Conroe, Texas. He has earned multiple No. 1 hits including “Pretty Heart,” “To Be Loved By You,” “Handle On You,” and “Burn It Down,” and was named ACM New Male Artist of the Year in 2022. His 2025 self-titled album PARKER MCCOLLUM marked his fifth studio release, and he just released a deluxe edition on March 20th, 2026.

In this episode, we discuss Parker’s upbringing in Texas, the making of his latest record, the pressure and expectations that come with success, and many other stops along the way.

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

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This episode is also sponsored by Sensa Pens. Sensa creates premium writing instruments designed for comfort and performance, featuring their patented Plasmium® gel grip that molds to your hand to reduce fatigue during extended writing sessions. Originally introduced in 1995 and developed with ergonomic specialists, Sensa pens are built for writers, creators, and anyone who still values putting pen to paper. 

Check them out at sensapensofficial.com and use code TENYEAR25 for 25% off your order.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Lee Brice, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.


#ParkerMcCollum
 #TexasCountry
 #CountryMusic
 #Songwriting
 #BurnItDown
 #HandleOnYou
 #Nashville
 #TenYearTown
 #TroyCartwright

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Ben Chapman on Peach Jam, Nashville, New Fatherhood, and "How Everything's Different, but Ain't Nothin' Changed" | Ten Year Town Ep. 11917 mars 202600:59:19

Today’s guest is songwriter and artist Ben Chapman. Originally from Lafayette, Georgia, Ben is now based in Nashville and has written songs for artists including Muscadine Bloodline, Brent Cobb, Hayes Carll, and Flatland Cavalry, among others. He is also the founder of Peach Jam, a quarterly live series at The Basement East that features his band and a rotating lineup of guest artists.

He has a new record, Feet On Fire, set for release in May, with the title track dropping Tuesday, March 24th.

In this episode, Ben talks about his path from Lafayette to Nashville, Peach Jam, his new-found fatherhood, and how “Everything’s Different”… but ain’t nothing changed.

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.


#BenChapman #TenYearTown #Songwriting #Nashville #PeachJam #CountryMusic #Americana #Songwriter #MusicPodcast #BrentCobb #FlatlandCavalry #HayesCarll #MuscadineBloodline #IndependentArtist #NewMusic

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Chase McGill on writing "20 Cigarettes" for Morgan Wallen, CMA Triple Play Awards, and Loving the Process | Ten Year Town Ep. 11810 mars 202600:57:12

Chase McGill is a songwriter originally from Columbus, Mississippi. He has written multiple No. 1 songs, including “Break Up in the End” recorded by Cole Swindell and “Lose It” recorded by Kane Brown. His songs have also been recorded by artists including Luke Combs, Sam Hunt, and Morgan Wallen. McGill is a multiple-time CMA Triple Play Award winner, including in 2026 for the songs “Happen To Me” (Russell Dickerson), “I Got Better” (Morgan Wallen), and “20 Cigarettes” (Morgan Wallen). He is currently published by Universal Music Publishing Group.

In this episode, we discuss Chase’s journey from Mississippi to Nashville, the stories behind some of his biggest hits, his approach to writing in the room, and many other stops along the way.

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.


#ChaseMcGill
 #Songwriting
 #MorganWallen
 #RussellDickerson
 #KaneBrown
 #ColeSwindell
 #NashvilleSongwriters
 #CountryMusic
 #CMAawards
 #TriplePlay
 #TenYearTown
 #TroyCartwright

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Lee Thomas Miller on “In Color,” No. 1 Hits & The Grammys | Ten Year Town Ep. 11703 mars 202600:54:21

Lee Thomas Miller is a GRAMMY-nominated songwriter born in Nicholasville, Kentucky. He has written multiple No. 1 songs, including “The Impossible” (Joe Nichols), “You’re Gonna Miss This” (Trace Adkins), and “In Color” (Jamey Johnson). “In Color” earned both the CMA and ACM Song of the Year awards. Miller currently serves as President of the Board of Directors for the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI). He has cuts with artists including Brad Paisley, Terri Clark, George Strait, Randy Travis, and many others.

In this episode, we discuss Lee’s path into songwriting, the stories behind some of his biggest hits, his role with NSAI, and many other stops along the way.

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

#LeeThomasMiller
 #InColor
 #CountrySongwriter
 #NSAI
 #Nashville
 #Songwriting
 #CMAawards
 #ACMawards
 #JameyJohnson
 #TraceAdkins
 #TenYearTown
 #TroyCartwright

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

How The Listening Room Became a Nashville Staple with Chris Blair | Ten Year Town Ep. 11624 févr. 202600:36:49

Chris Blair is the founder and owner of The Listening Room Cafe, one of Nashville’s premier songwriter venues. Since opening its doors in 2006, The Listening Room has become a cornerstone of the city’s songwriting community, hosting hit writers, rising artists, and industry showcases while giving audiences an up-close experience with the stories behind the songs.

In this episode, we discuss Chris’s path to opening The Listening Room, the role songwriter venues play in Nashville’s ecosystem, building a sustainable live music business, and many other stops along the way.

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

#ChrisBlair
 #TheListeningRoom
 #Nashville
 #Songwriters
 #LiveMusic
 #MusicBusiness
 #WritersRounds
 #CountryMusic
 #TenYearTown
 #TroyCartwright

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Art, Aura, and The Algorithm & Why The Mountain Conquers You17 févr. 202600:07:16

Why I Listened to 2,000 Minutes of Tchaikovsky Last Year

We are living in the age of "frictionless" music. The algorithms know what we want before we do, the dopamine is cheap, and the content is served to us on a silver platter. But as Charles Bukowski once said of classical music: "It washes the crap right out of me."

Lately, it feels like there’s a lot of crap to wash out.

In this episode, I’m stepping away from the "business" of music to talk about the Aura and the Sublime. I’m breaking down why I spent more time with a 19th-century Russian composer than anyone in the Top 40, and why I believe the "smoothness" of modern digital life is actually making us bored, exhausted, and artistically numb.

In this episode, we explore:

The "Loss of Aura": Why music feels less valuable when it stops being a "hunt" and starts hunting you.

The Sublime vs. The User-Friendly: Lessons from Walter Benjamin and Theodore Adorno on why great art should be a little bit terrifying.

The Tchaikovsky Antidote: How complex, uncomfortable, and "loud" art reminds us that we aren’t the center of the universe.

Breaking the Algorithm: Why the most successful artists of the future will be the ones who refuse to be "mathematically certain."

If you’ve been feeling a specific kind of creative exhaustion lately, this one is for you. It’s time to stop trying to conquer the mountain and let the mountain conquer us.

RESOURCES & LINKS

📧 Get in touch: troycartwright.music@gmail.com
📝 Read the full essay on Substack: Letters to Myself 
📸 Follow on Instagram: @troycartwright

#Songwriting #MusicIndustry #Tchaikovsky #ClassicalMusic #MusicPhilosophy #Algorithm #CreativeProcess #NashvilleSongwriters #WalterBenjamin #TheSublime #ArtVsContent #MusicPodcast #TroyCartwright #LettersToMyself #Authenticity #IndieArtist

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Isaac Gibson of 49 Winchester on Making Records with Dave Cobb, Appalachian Roots, Touring, and What’s Next10 févr. 202600:50:45

Isaac Gibson is a songwriter, vocalist,and guitarist originally from Castlewood, Virginia, and the frontman of 49 Winchester. Formed in Appalachia, the band has released five studio albums while building a devoted fanbase through constant touring. In 2025, 49 Winchester signed with MCA and Lucille Records, where they are currently working with Dave Cobb on a new full-length album scheduled for release in 2026. The band recently released a cover of Black Sabbath’s “Changes” as their first new music under the partnership.


In this episode, we talk about Isaac’s upbringing in Appalachia, the evolution of 49 Winchester, building a career on the road, signing with MCA, working with Dave Cobb, and what this next chapter looks like for the band—along with many other stops along the way.

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

#IsaacGibson
 #49Winchester
 #CountryMusic
 #Americana
 #SouthernRock
 #Songwriting
 #Nashville
 #DaveCobb
 #MusicPodcast
 #TenYearTown

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Nashville Snowpocalypse Check In, Kelly Archer, and Chasing A Dream 03 févr. 202600:53:20

Kelly Archer is a songwriter originally from Vancouver, British Columbia, and is currently signed as a writer with RED Creative and Sony Music. Kelly has written hits for many country artists, including number 1 songs with Brett Young, Justin Moore, Corey Kent, Travis Denning. Her song “I’m Gonna Love You”, recorded by Cody Johnson featuring Carrie Underwood, is Cody's current radio single. 

In the episode, Kelly shares how she moved to Nashville from Canada to pursue songwriting, advice she’d give her younger self, her journey to her first #1, how her last two singles were over 5 years old and many other stops along the way. 

New Episodes every Tuesday

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Jerry Roe: Recording, Touring, and Advocacy in Modern Music | Ten Year Town Ep. 11420 janv. 202600:57:49

Jerry Roe is a Nashville-based session and touring drummer. He has played on records for artists including Morgan Wallen, Luke Combs, HARDY, and many others, and is also a member of the heavy duo Frendship Commanders. Roe is regarded as an A-list session drummer and has built a career recording and touring at the highest level of the music industry.

In this episode, we discuss Jerry’s approach to recording sessions, how he prepares (or doesn’t prepare) for studio work, his advocacy for musicians’ rights and union membership, and many other stops along the way.

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

#JerryRoe #SessionDrummer #NashvilleMusicians #StudioDrummer #MorganWallen #LukeCombs #HARDY #FrendshipCommanders #MusicIndustry #UnionStrong #MusiciansRights #Drumming #TenYearTown #TroyCartwright

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Josh Osborne on Body Like a Back Road, Songwriting Longevity & Creativity | Ten Year Town Ep. 11313 janv. 202600:59:02

Josh Osborne is a songwriter originally from Virgie, Kentucky. He has written numerous No. 1 songs, including “Body Like a Back Road” (Sam Hunt), “Drunk Last Night” (Eli Young Band), “Merry Go ’Round” (Kacey Musgraves), “Come Over” (Kenny Chesney), and “Get Along” (Kenny Chesney). Osborne has been nominated five times for Songwriter of the Year by the ACM and has received multiple CMA Triple Play Awards. In 2020, he won the ACM Song Of The Year for "One Man Band." 

In this episode, we discuss Josh’s journey into songwriting, how he approaches the craft, staying inspired over a long career, the evolution of the music business, and many other stops along the way.

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.


#JoshOsborne #Songwriter #CountryMusic #BodyLikeABackRoad #MerryGoRound #KennyChesney #SamHunt #EliYoungBand #KaceyMusgraves #Songwriting #MusicBusiness #Nashville #TenYearTown #TroyCartwright

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

AI, Swiss Watches, And Craftsmanship08 janv. 202600:13:10

The music industry is panicking about AI in 2025, and I get it. But before we spiral, let's look at history. In this episode, I break down the "Quartz Crisis" of the 1970s—when Swiss watchmakers faced extinction from cheaper, more accurate Japanese technology—and how they not only survived but thrived by doubling down on craft and human artistry.

The parallels to Nashville's songwriting community are striking. AI can churn out background music and sync tracks, but it can't replicate the human stories, the cultural legacy, or the one-of-one artistry that makes music matter.


In this episode:
• The Swiss watch industry's comeback strategy and what songwriters can learn from it
• Why derivative music is most at risk (and how to avoid making it)
• The case for treating music like treasure, not content
• 3 things new artists should focus on to AI-proof their careers

If you're a songwriter, artist, or just someone who cares about the future of music, this one's for you.

📧 Email me: troycartwright.music@gmail.com
📝 Read more on my Substack: Letters to Myself 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Tom Douglas on Life, Writing "The House That Built Me," and Staying Inspired 06 janv. 202600:48:04

Tom Douglas is an ACM Award-Winning and Grammy nominated songwriter signed to Sony Music Publishing. Tom has had his songs cut by many legendary artists including Tim McGraw, Lady A, Keith Urban, Eric Church, and more. His song “The House That Built Me,” recorded by Miranda Lambert, went on to win the Song of the Decade Award at the Academy of Country Music Awards. 

On this episode, Tom shares his journey, from moving to Nashville two different times, to having his first Number 1 be a solo-write, how he stays inspired, and much more.

#countrymusic #tomdouglas #mirandalambert #musiccomposition #songwrtiing


New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

The Drunken Poet's Dream: Hayes Carll on Finding Meaning and the Process of Songwriting16 déc. 202500:52:14

Hayes Carll is a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter originally from The Woodlands, Texas. He has written and recorded multiple albums, including KMAG YOYO, Lovers and Leavers, and Trouble In Mind. The 2010 film Country Strong featured his song “Hard Out Here,” and artists like Kenny Chesney, Lee Ann Womack, and Brothers Osborne have recorded his work. His song “Chances Are” was nominated for Best Country Song at the 2016 Grammy Awards.

In this episode, we discuss Hayes’ upbringing, how his time in Crystal Beach helped shape him, the influence of songwriters like Ray Wylie Hubbard on his career, and many other stops along the way.

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

#hayescarll #Songwriter #TenYearTownPodcast #TroyCartwright #TexasCountry #Americana #SingerSongwriter #FolkMusic #CrystalBeach #Galveston #TheWoodlands #OldQuarterAcousticCafe #TexasMusicRevolution #KHYI #LostHighwayRecords #RayWylieHubbard #DrunkenPoetsDream #TroubleInMind #LittleRockAlbum #ChancesAre #DownTheRoadTonight #JimmyBuffett #BobDylan #WillieNelson #TownesVanZandt #JohnPrine #SongwritingProcess #CreativeOutput #CoWriting #MusicCareerAdvice

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

J.T. Harding on Writing No. 1 Hits for Kenny Chesney, Blake Shelton & More | TYT Ep. 11209 déc. 202500:52:43

J.T. Harding is a songwriter originally from Grosse Pointe, Michigan. He has written multiple No. 1 hits, including “Smile” recorded by Uncle Kracker, “Somewhere With You” recorded by Kenny Chesney, and “Sangria” recorded by Blake Shelton. His catalog also includes cuts by artists such as Keith Urban, Darius Rucker, Jake Owen, and others. In addition to his songwriting career, Harding released a memoir in 2022 titled Party Like a Rockstar, chronicling his path into the music business. He is currently published by Sony Music Publishing Nashville.

In this episode, we discuss J.T.’s journey from Michigan to Nashville, the stories behind some of his biggest hits, his creative process, and many other stops along the way.

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

#JTHarding #Songwriter #KennyChesney #BlakeShelton #UncleKracker #SomewhereWithYou #Sangria #CountryMusic #Nashville #Songwriting #HitSongs #PartyLikeA Rockstar #TenYearTown #TroyCartwright #MusicBusiness #CountrySongwriter

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Stephen Wilson Jr. on Son Of Dad, The Power of Slowing Down, and Going from Scientist to Rockstar02 déc. 202500:55:08

We’ll be back with a new episode next week. In the meantime… here is a replay of one our favorite Ten Year Town stories. 

Stephen Wilson Jr. is a country singer and songwriter originally from Southern Indiana. He is signed to Big Loud Records and has toured with HARDY, Brothers Osborne and more. Stephen’s debut album “Son of Dad” was released in September 2023 to critical acclaim. In addition to his success as an artist, Stephen has had cuts as a writer with Old Dominion, Brothers Osborne, Caitlyn Smith and others. 

In this episode we discuss Stephen’s journey from rural Indiana to middle Tennessee, his previous career as a scientist, his career change to songwriter, and the inspiration behind his record.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Ben Rector on Independent Touring, The Attention Economy & Burnout | Ten Year Town Ep. 91 25 nov. 202501:02:36

Happy thanksgiving everyone! We’re off this week. This is a re-airing one of our favorite episodes from this year. 

Ben Rector is a singer songwriter originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma. Over the past decade, he has built a dedicated fanbase through consistent touring and a catalog of self-written, self-released albums. His 2015 album Brand New debuted in the Billboard Top 10, with the title track going RIAA Platinum. He is currently on tour and just released his new album The Richest Man In The World.

In this episode, we talk about Ben’s journey from indie beginnings to chart success, the business of being a fully independent artist, the pitfalls of the attention economy, and many other stops along the way.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Katie Dean on Radio Promotion, Leo33 & Breaking Zach Top | Ten Year Town Ep. 11118 nov. 202500:55:40

Katie Dean is a music executive originally from Augusta, Georgia, with over two decades of experience in country radio promotion. She previously served as Senior Vice President of Promotion at Universal Music Group Nashville, where she helped lead radio campaigns for artists including Parker McCollum, Jordan Davis, Jon Pardi, and many others. In 2023, she became the label head of Leo33, where she has played a key role in developing CMA Award nominee Zach Top.

In this episode, we discuss Katie’s path through the music industry, how radio promotion really works, her role at Leo33, the rise of Zach Top, and the current landscape of country music labels.

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

#KatieDean #Leo33 #RadioPromotion #CountryMusic #ParkerMcCollum #JordanDavis #JonPardi #ZachTop #MusicIndustry #Nashville #TenYearTown #TroyCartwright #CountryRadio #MusicBusiness #ArtistDevelopment

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Ward Davis on Cody Jinks and Going His Own Way in Country Music | Ten Year Town Ep. 11011 nov. 202500:48:38

Ward Davis is a singer, songwriter, and musician originally from Monticello, Arkansas. As a songwriter, his work has been recorded by Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Cody Jinks, Trace Adkins, and many others. He has several critically acclaimed records in his own right, including Black Cats and Crows and songs like "Get To Work Whiskey" and "Another Bad Apple."

In this episode of Ten Year Town, we talk about Ward’s path from Arkansas to Nashville, his evolution as an artist, and the stories behind some of his most powerful songs.

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Lee Brice on Songwriting, Nashville, and his new single "Killed The Man" | Ten Year Town Ep. 10904 nov. 202500:51:17

Lee Brice is a GRAMMY-nominated country artist, songwriter, and producer originally from Sumter, South Carolina. Over the course of his career, he has earned multiple No. 1 singles as both a performer and songwriter, including “A Woman Like You,” “I Drive Your Truck,” “Hard to Love,” “Rumor,” and “Memory I Don’t Mess With.” As a writer, his songs have also been recorded by Garth Brooks, Jason Aldean, Tim McGraw, and the Eli Young Band — whose version of “Crazy Girl” became a multi-week No. 1 hit. Brice has received multiple CMA and ACM Awards, and just released a new single “Killed The Man.” 

In this episode, we discuss Lee’s journey from South Carolina to Nashville, his creative process as both a songwriter and artist, the stories behind some of his biggest hits, and many other stops along the way.

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Laura Veltz on Writing “The Bones,” “Speechless,” and the Art of Great Songwriting | Ten Year Town Ep. 10828 oct. 202500:56:56

Laura Veltz is a four-time GRAMMY-nominated songwriter and artist originally from New York City. Her credits include hit songs for Maren Morris (“The Bones,” “I Could Use a Love Song”), Dan + Shay (“Speechless”), Lady A (“What If I Never Get Over You”), and Demi Lovato (“29”). In 2023, she was nominated for Songwriter of the Year, Non-Classical at the GRAMMY Awards. She is currently published by Big Machine Music.

In this episode of Ten Year Town, we talk about Laura’s journey through Nashville, her creative process, the evolution of modern country songwriting, and the stories behind some of her biggest songs.

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Adam Wright on Songwriting, “Yellow Bird,” Alan Jackson & The Nature of Necessity | Ten Year Town Ep. 10721 oct. 202500:46:51

Adam Wright is a two-time GRAMMY-nominated songwriter, artist, and musician originally from Newnan, Georgia. His songwriting and musicianship have led to collaborations with some of Nashville’s most respected artists, including Alan Jackson, Lee Ann Womack, Trisha Yearwood, Garth Brooks, John Legend, Brandy Clark, Robert Earl Keen, and many others.

In this episode of Ten Year Town, we dive into the stories behind his songs “Billy Get Your Bicycle” and “Yellow Bird” from his new record Nature of Necessity, as well as his creative process, book recommendations, and more.

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Ben Johnson on writing "Truck Bed," Finding Inspiration, and Timing | Ten Year Town Ep. 10614 oct. 202500:52:07

Ben Johnson is a GRAMMY-nominated songwriter, producer, and artist originally from Meridian, Mississippi. He has earned 11 No. 1 songs, including “Truck Bed” recorded by HARDY and “One of Them Girls” recorded by Lee Brice. His songs have also been recorded by Morgan Wallen, Justin Timberlake, Charlie Puth, Jelly Roll, John Legend, Thomas Rhett, Kane Brown, and many others. 

In this episode, we discuss Ben’s journey from Mississippi to Nashville, his approach to writing across genres, the stories behind some of his biggest hits, and many other stops along the way.

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Brent Cobb on What Gives a Song Staying Power, His Journey To Nashville, and More | TYT Ep. 10507 oct. 202500:44:59

Brent Cobb is a Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and musician originally from Ellaville, Georgia. He’s released several critically acclaimed albums, including Shine On A Rainy Day, Keep ‘Em on They Toes, and his most recent endeavor, Ain’t Rocked In A While. In addition to his success as an artist, Cobb is also an accomplished songwriter, with songs recorded by Luke Combs, Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney, Miranda Lambert, Riley Green, and many more. His song “Snakebite” was recently featured in the Paramount+ series Landman.

In this episode, we discuss his unorthodox journey to Nashville, making a rock record, working with Dave Cobb, his mentors, and many other stops along the way.

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Matthew Ramsey on Old Dominion, Kenny Chesney, Trusting Your Instincts & More30 sept. 202500:49:55

Matthew Ramsey is an artist and songwriter originally from Buchanan, Virginia. As a founding member and lead vocalist of Old Dominion, Ramsey has contributed to the band’s string of chart-topping hits including “Break Up With Him,” “Written in the Sand,” “Hotel Key,” “One Man Band,” and “I Was On A Boat That Day.” The band has won the Academy of Country Music Award for Group of the Year a record breaking eight consecutive times. In addition to his success in Old Dominion, Ramsey has co-written songs recorded by Kenny Chesney, Sam Hunt, Keith Urban, Blake Shelton, Dierks Bentley, Kelsea Ballerini, Craig Morgan, Luke Bryan, and The Band Perry.

In this episode, we discuss Matt’s journey from small-town Virginia to the top of the country charts, how Old Dominion first came together, his approach to songwriting—both for the band and for other artists—and many other stops along the way.

--------------------------------------------------

This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

---------------------------------------------------

Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.


New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

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This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

A Field Guide for Going Slow | Making Music That Lasts Beyond the Algorithms23 sept. 202500:12:05

In today’s episode of Ten Year Town, Troy takes a step back from the noise of marketing hacks and algorithm tricks to talk about something deeper: the art itself. Making music can feel like pulling the lever on a slot machine: the lights flash, it feels like progress, but often it leaves you right where you started.

This episode, A Field Guide for Going Slow, explores what it means to create work that lasts and why slowing down might be the key to fulfillment in a fast-paced industry. Drawing from conversations with artists like Steven Wilson Jr. and inspired by voices like Charles Bukowski and Tom Petty, Troy shares a framework for building a career rooted in authenticity rather than quick wins.

If you’re looking for wisdom on how to make art that sustains, beyond the algorithms, this one’s for you.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Episode 103: John Strohm16 sept. 202501:00:09

John Strohm is a musician, songwriter, lawyer, and music industry executive originally from Bloomington, Indiana. He began his career as a drummer in Indiana’s punk scene before co-founding the indie rock band Blake Babies. He also played guitar and drums in The Lemonheads and has released several solo records, including his most recent in 2023.

Strohm became a prominent entertainment attorney in Nashville, representing artists like Bon Iver, The Civil Wars, and Alabama Shakes. He later served as President of Rounder Records from 2017 to 2022. Currently, he is a partner with Meitus Strohm. He also has a Substack called Ready For Nothing. 

In this episode, we talk about John's journey from musician to attorney, how he found his first big client, his thoughts on AI, what he's looking for in an artist, and many other stops along the way.

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

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Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.


New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Episode 102: Bear Rinehart09 sept. 202500:51:36

Bear Rinehart is a GRAMMY-nominated singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist originally from Seneca, South Carolina. He is the frontman and co-founder of the band NEEDTOBREATHE, and in 2019, he launched a solo project under the name Wilder Woods. Over the course of his career, he has released multiple charting albums and toured extensively across the U.S. and beyond.

In this episode, we talk about Bear’s journey through the music industry, how he balances solo work with band life, his best advice, and many other stops along the way.

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This episode is also sponsored by The Graphic Guitar Guys. They create eye-catching custom guitar wraps for some of the biggest artists and festivals in the music industry. Their work is perfect for adding a unique touch to album pre-sale bundles or VIP package items—check them out and discover how they can transform a guitar into a show-stopping work of art.

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Troy Cartwright is a Nashville-based artist and songwriter originally from Dallas, Texas. His songs have collectively garnered hundreds of millions of streams, and he is currently signed to Big Machine Music for publishing. Cartwright has written songs recorded by Cody Johnson, Nickelback, Ryan Hurd, Josh Abbott Band, and has upcoming cuts with several A-list artists.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram. 

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.  

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura. 

Artwork design by Brad Vetter. 

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

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