Country Music Made Me

Shawn Austin is a Canadian Country musician with popular singles, What Do I Know, You Belong, and Paradise Found. Shawn joins Country Music Made Me to talk about his late start as a professional country musician after years of cutting his teeth playing bars, coffee shops and restaurants. He reminisces about working as a Financial Advisor and giving himself a year to kick-start a career and the moment he met Dallas Smith, signed with SteelHead Music and released his debut single Paradise Found and became an "overnight" success. Finally, he talks about the crazy year he had in 2019 and what the past year has been like in preparing for what's next in his budding career including his new single Tailgate To Heaven Ft. Chris Lane. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Matt Koziol is a Nashville based singer/songwriter. Matt joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the important role family has played within his journey, and why he never wanted to share his musical talents (even with his family) until performing during a local Open Mic event at the age of 14. Matt and Brendan talk about his time studying music in University, a time that included more classical and operatic music than the classic rock he was inspired by growing up, his years spent trading time between his home in New Jersey and the bright lights of Los Angeles chasing a career in music, and why he chose to move to Nashville in 2015. Matt explains why he moved away from a solo career to focus on songwriting and playing for others after his move to Music City, the importance of his friendship with producer Matthew Odmark, and the process of creating his new album "Wildhorse" in secret with Matthew before handing it to his label, Prescription Songs. Finally, Matt talks about the future and continuing to chase a career that has been his main focus for the past 20 years. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Grant Gilbert is a Country Music Singer/Songwriter who splits his time between Texas and Nashville. Grant joins Country Music Made Me to discuss how being raised in a community with less than 400 people in Texas influenced his journey, what life was like on the families 1000 Acre property, and how listening to the Country Legends radio station while doing chores around the farm helped shape his love of music. Grant and Brendan talk about the Jerry Jeff Walker guitar song book that inspired his love of guitar playing, why it wasn't the smoothest transition when he began singing along, and how a show at the local Taco Shop in High School helped create his love of performing. Grant explains why music became the goal during his time at Texas Tech University, how a show at the Blue Light helped change his path after meeting Texas artist Josh Abbott, and the up and down journey he's been on over the past three years during the beginning of his career. Finally, Grant talks about mixing the new sounds of Nashville with the classic sounds of Texas and the new music he has coming, produced by Music City Producer Jonathan Singleton. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Halle Kearns is a rising Country musician originally from Columbia, Missouri and currently building a career in Nashville. Halle joins Country Music Made Me to talk about her early love of music, which included creating "homemade" stages to perform for family, learning the guitar and soon after finding her voice and learning to write. She then takes us along the journey from chasing a musical career in Kansas City after high school and what it was like moving to Nashville and working hard to find the voice she wanted to have within Country Music. Finally, she takes us through the process of recording and releasing her debut Ep "Finally" late in 2020 and what life has been like since. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Brandon Davis is a Country Music Singer/Songwriter known for his singles Step By Step and What Cowboys Are For. Brandon joins Country Music Made Me to discuss his early love of music created within a musical family, the path his Dad took within Country Music that included opening for Garth Brooks in 1988, and the lessons he learned from his Dad from within the music industry that kept him from chasing a career. Brandon and Brendan talk about his early songwriting, his failed attempt to shop his songs, the happiness he found within his family and a steady day job, and the moment that changed everything. Brandon explains what happened when he was hit head-on by a distracted driver, why it caused him to rethink his entire life, and the path he's taken since towards chasing his dreams within Country Music. Finally, Brandon talks about how amazing it is to be creating original music, what it's like knowing he's going on tour with Tim McGraw, and the excitement he has for releasing his debut album "Heart's Don't Rust" through Big Yellow Dog Music. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Karli June is a Canadian Country Music singer/songwriter who recently released her debut EP "Where You Come From". Karli joins Country Music Made Me to talk about her rural upbringing, how important her family has been within her journey, and the church and school performances that made her fall in love with performing. Karli and Brendan talk about her time studying music at Wilfrid Laurier University, what is was like learning the business of music, and how she managed to get a foothold within the music industry after graduation. Karli explains what it's like writing with established songwriters like Scott Chesak, Derek Ruttan, and Karen Kosowski, the time she took during 2020 to find her true sound, and working with Kosowski in producing her debut EP "Where You Come From". Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Niko Moon is a Country music singer/songwriter best known for his hit single "Good Time". Niko joins Country Music Made Me to talk about his early musical inspirations which included his musically talented parents. He looks back on grabbing his dad's "no not touch" guitar to learn his first chords which instantly turned into song writing. He tells us about his days running track in high school and how everything changed in College when he became obsessed with music and dropped out of school after one year to pursue the dream of becoming a country music musician. He talks about meeting Zac Brown and forming a relationship that would turn into a 10 year writing partnership before Niko decided it was time to launch a solo career, which he did in 2019 with the release of his hit single "Good Time". Finally he talks about his debut full length album Good Time. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Joe Nichols is known for hits like Brokenheartsville, Tequilla Makes Her Clothes Fall Off, Sunny and 75, and Yeah. Joe joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the uniqueness of his 20 year career, how he's stayed relevant while staying true to the traditional country sound inspired by many of the greats like Hank Williams Jr, Merle Haggard, Keith Whitley, and Don Williams. Joe and Brendan talk about the ups and downs within a career that took off in 2002 with his album "Man With A Memory" and the 2003 award for ACM New Vocalist of the year, how he's overcome addiction and ego, and how he continues to stay positive as he becomes a "veteran" within the industry. Joe explains how encouraged he is with the positive feedback from his new album "Good Day For Living", the inspiration it offers towards the goal of another 20 years with in the industry, and how proud he is when looking back on the music he's created. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Cleto Cordero is the lead singer of Country music outfit Flatland Cavalry. Cleto joins Country Music Made Me to talk about his musical journey that began as a kid in Midland, Texas and has taken him around the world. He talks about his musical beginnings as a teenager during Lent, the first song he wrote for a high school event and the beginnings of the band after high school playing with long time friend Jason Albers (the drummer for Flatland Cavalry). He reminisces about the places and events that helped lead him to where he is today and the importance of staying humble and never forgetting where you've come from. Finally, Cleto talks about the bands new album "Welcome to Countryland" and what it was like to co-write with a number of new writers for the album. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Nicole Rayy is a Canadian Country Music Singer/Songwriter. Nicole joins Country Music Made Me to discuss her early love of performing which included Dance, Musical Theatre and Livingroom performances for her family with her Spice Girls Sing-a-Long microphone. Nicole and Brendan talk about her time in University, dropping out after one year to pursue a musical career, and the homemade music video that led to her very first studio experience. Nicole describes what it's like building a career in music as an independent artist, the stress and mental health set-backs it can create, and the importance of constantly evolving and pushing yourself outside your comfort zone in an effort to grow and succeed within the industry. Finally, Nicole talks about her new single "House of Cards", recorded with Brian Howes at Armoury Studios in Vancouver, and the Female first initiatives she's created in an effort to help support other females in Canadian Country Music, including a regular All Women Showcase and an All Women Music Festival called HarmoniaFest. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ashley Cooke is a Country Music singer/songwriter and founder of the 615 House in Nashville. Ashley joins Country Music Made Me to talk about how music inspired her growing up and how a move to Los Angeles in her teens allowed her to see music as something more. During that time she teamed up with her sister to create a musical duo and their first single "Beach Weekend" would become the song that Miley Cyrus sang for her Hannah Montana audition. Ashley also talks about attending Belmont University in Nashville and how winning the Belmont Country Showcase would inspire her to chase a career in Country Music. Finally, she talks about the success she saw in 2020 thanks to social media and how she's turned that into the release of her debut EP and an opening gig on tour with Breland. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Caitlyn Smith is a Country Music singer/songwriter who is signed with Monument Records and Universal Music Publishing Group. Caitlyn joins Country Music Made Me to discuss her early musical memories of performing at the Minnesota State Fair Talent Competition, writing her first original songs and recording her first album using her college fund. Caitlyn and Brendan talk about her years spent travelling back and forth from her home in Minnesota to Nashville developing her songwriting, signing her first publishing deal, and receiving cuts with artists like Jason Aldean, Rascal Flatts, Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Trisha Yearwood, Meghan Trainor and Lady A. Caitlyn explains what life has been like since releasing her album Supernova in 2020, the opportunities that have led to opening for George Strait, Eric Church, Chris Stapleton, Old Dominion and Little Big Town, and how exciting it was to be nominated for New Female Artist of the Year at the 2022 ACM Awards. Finally, Caitlyn talks about self-producing her latest album which will be released in two parts, the first in April of 2022 named “High”, and the second half being added later in the year to create a full album aptly named “High Low”. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Tyler Braden is a Country Music singer/songwriter known for singles like Thank Me for That, Secret, What do They Know and his current single Ways to Miss You. Braden joins Country Music Made Me to talk about his rock band past, the very first shows he played as a musician, leaving music to join the Fire Service and the local talent contest that re-ignited his passion for music and led him to Nashville. He also talks about developing as an artist in Music City and the crazy path to success he's travelled since the release of his very first single "Little Red Wine" in 2017, including the upcoming release of his debut EP and touring with Brantley Gilbert. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Nate Haller is a Canadian Country music singer/songwriter. Nate joins Country Music Made Me to talk about his first experiences with the guitar, when he began playing with Kira Isabella and how an acoustic tour with Kira opening for Terri Clark turned into many years of touring and living the band life. He then talks about his move to playing with The Reklaws, when the itch to turn solo first began and what life has been like since the release of his debut single "Lightning in a Bottle". Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Chase Wright is a singer/songwriter originally from Lebanon, Indiana now living in Nashville. Chase joins Country Music Made Me to talk about growing up with a mom who was a music teacher as well as a player in the city band and how that influence didn't exactly relate to musical chemistry at a young age. He also talks about his time in College when music began to take hold and the experiences that helped lead him towards a move to Nashville after graduation. Finally, he talks about the past 2 years in Nashville as he's moved from songwriter to artist and the success he's seen with the release of singles like  "Lying with You", "Why Should We", "Drive" and "Missing You". Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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

Jade Eagleson is a Canadian Country Musician best known for his #1 hits "Lucky" and "All Night to Figure it Out". Jade joins Country Music Made Me to talk about growing up in a musical family and the influence both his mom and his Grandpa had on his early musical aspirations. He also talks about playing bars around his home town in his early 20's and the meeting late one night outside one of those bars that would turn into winning the Emerging Artist Showcase as the Boots and Hearts Musical Festival. Finally, he talks about the success he's found in Canadian Country Music and what's next in his career, including his new single "More Drinkin' than Fishin'" Ft. Dean Brody. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Tim Neufeld is the lead singer of cross-genre Canadian group Tim and the Glory Boys. Tim joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the early memories within his musical family, how regular family hoedowns and musicality found within church helped influence his love of music and a desire to chase a career within it. Tim and Brendan talk about forming the Christian Worship group, "Starfield", with his younger brother, their 12 years as a band, the amazing memories he carries with him from that time, and the hiatus that brought about the formation of Tim and the Glory Boys. Tim explains what it's been like creating music with one foot within the Blue-Grass/Country genre and the other in Contemporary Christian, and finding a place within Country Music with the release of singles, When you Know you Know, Without a Prayer, Right Back Atcha, Me Without You and Bloodlines. Finally, Tim talks about how a love of performing doesn't always mean wanting to be in the spotlight, continuing to evolve as a musician even after 20 years in the industry, and what's next for Tim and the Glory Boys. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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

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

Canaan Cox is a talented up and coming artist who is currently working towards big things in Nashville. Canaan joins Country Music Made Me to talk about his musical past which included more theatre than country music, the first song he wrote for a high school sweet heart and the path that helped pave towards a career in music. He also talks about the business side of being an independent artist in Music City, the pros and cons of doing it on your own and the big things he has mapped out for the next year. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Matt Roy is a singer/songwriter signed to BMG Music. Matt joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the influence of his musical Grandpa during his formative years, how receiving a guitar for his communion gift at the age of 8 helped him develop a passion that would only grow, and what he learned during his years taking part in the local School of Rock in New Jersey. Matt and Brendan talk about his early years in Nashville, attending Belmont University, performing and writing as much as possible, and making friends with like minded artists like Taylor Philips and Adam Doleac which would lead to co-writes on cuts with Kane Brown, Chris Young and Chris Janson on his #1 hit Done. Matt explains what the past two years have been like as he launches his career as a Country Music artist, including the release of his debut EP "Wildflower".  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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

Krista and Kendra are the sister duo that make up Tigirlily. They join Country Music Made Me to talk about their musical past which includes singing together from a young age and forming a band in order to chase their Country Music dreams long before they even graduated high school. They also talk about their move to Nashville, what their first few years in Music City were like and the success that has come about thanks to their single "Somebody Does". Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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

Bear Rinehart is a founding member and front-man of NEEDTOBREATHE. Bear joins Country Music Made Me to talk about growing up in the small town of Possum Kingdom, South Carolina and how a house filled with music didn't necessarily create the desire to peruse it at an early age. We also talk about his teenage years when music began to inspire him, how that inspiration and passion grew during college, and the formation of NEEDTOBREATHE following graduation. Finally we talk about the success of the band, and the ambitious year and a half they've had by releasing 2 albums, including the most recent "Into the Mystery" featuring the single "I Wanna Remember" ft. Carrie Underwood. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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

Matt Thomas is the lead singer of Parmalee. Matt joins Country Music Made Me to talk about his early days of receiving his first guitar, his first band (Early Timez), and the influence his dad had on the formation of his early musical aspirations. He also talks about Parmalee's early days rehearsing in a small barn on the property of a family friend, playing whatever venue they could book and travelling back and forth to Nashville in the hopes of living their dreams of being more than just a small town band. Finally Matt talks about the bands first #1 single "Carolina" from their debut album, the recent success of "Just the Way" featuring Blanco Brown and their new album "For You". Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jordana Bryant is a talented up-and-coming singer/songwriter. Jordana joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the success she's found at the young age of 16, what she's already learned about the business of music, and how she balances the good vs the bad sides of social media. Jordana and Brendan talk about early musical experiences with her Dad, what she learned about songwriting while singing along to his guitar playing, and the love for songwriting that has taken her into rooms with some of Nashville's most talented writers. Jordana explains what it was like to be contacted by Nashville Producer Seth Mosley and what it's been like working with him to produce her debut music. Finally Jordana talks about graduating high school early to move to Nashville and attend Belmont University while at the same time working to advance her career in Country Music. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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

Gord Bamford is a Canadian Country Musician known for his hits Blame it On That Red Dress, When Your Lips Are So Close and Dive Bar. Gord joins Country Music Made Me to talk about his early musical experiences which included jumping on stage with Rod Stewart at the age of 4 and providing noon hour entertainment at his high school. He also talks about the talent competition that spring boarded him towards a career in country music and the simplistic approach he continues to take in building success. Finally he talks about what the future holds including a deluxe addition of his album "Diamonds in a Whiskey Glass". Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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

Drew Baldridge in a Nashville based Singer/Songwriter singed to Sony Music Publishing. Drew joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the moment he discovered the power of performing while on the dance floor at weddings as a 5 and 6 year-old, the evolution into talent show performances as Elvis, Michael Jackson and Danny Zuko from Grease, and when music turned from something fun into something that could make money. Drew and Brendan talk about the special relationship he had with his Grandpa, what his support meant when Drew first arrived in Nashville, and how important family continues to be on his journey, including his wife, who he married in 2021. Drew explains why he passed on the opportunity to play College baseball in order to move to Nashville and chase a career in music, the inspiring moments that have motivated him to keep pushing, and the importance of always appreciating the wins that transpire amongst the ups and downs of the musical journey. Finally, Drew talks about his new music and what's instore for the future. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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

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

Karissa Ella is a rising Country singer/songwriter. Karissa joins Country Music Made Me to discuss how a mix of confidence and shyness kept her from sharing her musical talents as a youngster, the power and emotion that drew her to music at a young age, and developing a love for Country Music in High School that would carry her to Nashville after Graduation. Karissa and Brendan talk about her time at Belmont University and how her early experiences at the school prepared her for dealing with the many up's and down's of a career in Music. Karissa explains what made her choose a career in Music, what the first few years have been like in developing her sound within the industry, and what's next following a successful tour with industry veteran David Nail in 2021 and the recent release of her single "Whiskey Whispers Your Name". Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Brandon Lancaster is the lead singer of American country band LANCO. Brandon joins Country Music Made Me to talk about his musical upbringing, growing up just outside of Nashville, and how that shaped his musical aspirations. He reminisces about his early trips into the Bluebird Café, how that helped shape his love for songwriting, and why he always knew he wanted to be in a band rather than going solo. He then talks about approaching producer Jay Joyce at a Keith Urban concert and the major success the band experienced after producing their debut album with him. Finally he talks about the bands new EP Honky-Tonk Hippies. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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

Hailey Whitters is a singer/songwriter from Nashville best known for her breakout single Ten Year Town. Hailey joins Country Music Made Me to talk about growing up in small town Iowa, when the dream of becoming a country musician began and why the only thing she wanted after graduating high school was to move to Nashville. She also talks about the struggles she faced over the years of finding a voice within Music City and the moment all of that went away and she took the biggest step of her career, self producing her album "The Dream". Finally, she talks about the success she's had since the release of her single "Ten Year Town" and what it's like to finally be living the life she dreamed of when moving to Nashville 14 years ago. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Danielle Bradbery is a Country Music singer/songwriter who won Season 4 of The Voice in 2013. Danielle joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the importance of family throughout her journey, how shyness during her early teenage years kept her from sharing her musical talents, the freedom she discovered by singing alone in her bedroom, and the feelings that arose when being encouraged to audition for The Voice. Danielle and Brendan talk about the passion she discovered for performing during her time on The Voice, what life was like after winning, and discovering her true voice as a Country Artist during the 4 years between her debut and sophomore albums. Danielle explains the importance of staying positive within her journey, using her voice to help support others, the excitement of releasing her new single "Break My Heart Again", and what the future holds. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jesse Frasure is a popular songwriter from Nashville who has written more than 15 #1 hits for the biggest names in Country music. Jesse joins Country Music Made Me to talk about growing up in Detroit and the influence both Motown and classic rock had on his upbringing. He details his progression into DJ'ing while attending college and why he moved to Nashville rather than L.A. after graduation. Finally he talks about his years working on the corporate side of the music industry, what finally drew him to songwriting in the country music genre and what it's taken to find success in the industry. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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

Kameron Marlowe is a country music singer/songwriter who appeared on The Voice in 2018 and has since built a burgeoning career in Nashville. Kameron joins Country Music Made Me to talk about his musical aspirations earlier in life, his move back to his hometown to work a 9-5 job and settle down, the opportunity to audition for The Voice and the breakup that inspired him to write "Giving You Up". He also talks about what it was like when he first started to write with some of the best writers in Nashville, how taking a leap and releasing his music independently paid off in a big way, and what it's been like since signing a record deal and releasing his debut EP in 2020. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Conner Smith is an up-and-coming singer/songwriter from Nashville who just released his debut EP "Didn't Go Too Far". Conner joins Country Music Made Me to discuss how a guitar he received at the age of 4 created a love for music and helped him overcome his shyness, how his Mom's career as an entertainment reporter in Nashville influenced his interest in songwriting, and how a trip to the Grand Ole Opry to see Hal Ketchum at the age of 6 inspired his first songwriting experience. Conner and Brendan talk about a very important meeting with Clay Bradley at BMI at the age 9 when Conner signed an entry level deal with the music company, signing his first publishing deal at 16 when he would go to school in the morning, song write in the afternoon, and head to baseball practice in the evening, and the moment he posted a Sam Hunt cover at 17 which led to working with Zach Crowell and signing with Tape Room Music. Conner explains how important the pandemic was in allowing him to find his true sound before releasing his debut EP "Didn't Go Too Far" in 2022, what it was like picking the 6 sings for the album, and what it's like releasing his debut after so many years of working within the industry, even though he's only 21. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Randy Rogers is the lead singer and founding member of the Randy Rogers Band. Randy joins Country Music Made Me to discuss his beginnings in music as a youngster, learning piano along side his Great Grandmother, being inspired by his Dad's record collection, and spending his teenage years teaching and playing music in his hometown of Cleburne, Texas. Randy and Brendan talk about the many amazing artists who inspired his journey, how fortunate he's been to work with many of them over his 20 year career, the influence Cheatham Street Warehouse owner Kent Findlay had on his journey, and the events that led to the formation of the current Randy Rogers Band line-up for their 2004 album Rollercoaster. Randy explains the journey he's been on towards rediscovering the passion that led him to forming the band, how reconnecting with Producer Radney Foster, whom the band worked with in producing Rollercoaster, has helped in that journey of rediscovery, and how it's helping shape the group's new music. Finally Randy talks about his evolution as a performer, the band's new single Picture Frames, and what's next. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jimmie Allen is an American country music singer/songwriter with the #1 singles "Best Shot" and "Make Me Want To". Jimmie joins Country Music Made Me to talk about his early musical influences, his high school bands, trying to make a name for himself on the streets of New York City and his move to Nashville. He also talks about the moment that changed everything when he met Ash Bowers at a songwriting round. Finally he talks about his new album Bettie James the Gold Edition which features collaborations with LOCASH, LANCO, Pitbull, BRELAND, Monica, Little Big Town, Keith Urban. Nelly, Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley, Charley Pride and more! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Andrew Jannakos is a Country Music Singer/Songwriter signed to Sony Music and Spirit Music Publishing Nashville. Andrew joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the influence his family had on developing his love for music, including his Grandpa who was a Bluegrass Player and bought Andrew his first guitar. Andrew and Brendan talk about the song lyrics that first caught his attention, what it's meant to create music that builds emotion within the listener, just like songs did for him growing up, and what it's meant to have fans convey that emotion back to him. Andrew details the moments along his journey that have led him to a career in music, most importantly the moment he met the two people who would save his life, his wife and son, and where he would be without them. Finally, Andrew talks about his time on The Voice, what gave him the confidence to perform during the blind auditions, even though he'd never performed in front of anyone as a solo artist, and the drive and determination he has to make music a career and provide a comfortable life for his family. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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

Jordan Fletcher is a Country Music Singer/Songwriter who recently released his debut EP True Stories and is signed to Triple Tigers Records. Jordan joins Country Music Made Me to discuss the many emotions he experienced during his debut at the Grand Ole Opry, the importance of family within his musical journey, and what it's been like to become fully transparent within the writing room. Jordan and Brendan talk about his early years of developing a love for the drums, how his cousin helped inspire him to begin playing the guitar during his teenage years, and how music became the sole focus during his college years. Jordan explains why he dropped out of College to move to Nashville, the lessons he learned early on about never missing an opportunity to grow within the industry, and why he thinks it's important to never loose the adventurous feelings from early in one's career. Finally, Jordan talks about the journey towards his debut EP "True Stories", what is was like working with producer Dave Cobb, and the message to his son that flows throughout the entire album. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Tebey is a Canadian/American Country music singer/songwriter with hits like Who's Gonna Love You, Good Jeans and Happened on a Saturday Night. Tebey joins The Music Made Me to talk about his early days growing up in Ontario Canada, winning the Canadian Open Country Singing Contest and how that turned into a development deal in Nashville at the age of 15. He then talks about his multiple moves from Nashville to Canada and the successful career he's built thanks to hard work, determination and never giving up. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dalton Dover is an up-and-coming Country Music singer/songwriter who was named a 2022 Artist to Watch by both Spotify and Country Now. Dalton joins Country Music Made Me to discuss how singing in church and to instrumental tracks on YouTube inspired his early love of music, how influential his Grandpa has been within his musical journey and what it meant to win his 5th grade talent show with a performance of Justin Bieber's "Baby". Dalton and Brendan talk about his late brother-in-law Brandon, how important he was in helping inspire Dalton to pick up the guitar, and how a promise made in grade 8 continues to inspire Dalton in chasing his dreams of a career in Country Music. Dalton also talks about dropping out of High School in grade 11 to support his growing family and how important his family continues to be within his musical journey. Dalton discusses his time competing on the Voice in 2019 with Blake Shelton, how motivated he was to continue his upward trajectory after being eliminated in the battle rounds, and what it's meant to have producer Matt McVaney take Dalton under his wing after seeing his Kidd G cover on TikTok. Finally, Dalton talks about his new single Baby I Am, what Luke Combs has meant in inspiring his journey, and what the future holds in continuing to chase his dreams of Country Music stardom. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy