NCD Writers Room

Jim Casey talks with Carly Pearce about: releasing her self-titled sophomore album on Feb. 14 finding confidence over the last few years the evolution of her music since releasing her 2017 debut project, Every Little Thing her friendship with writer/producer busbee, who passed away in September 2019 the responsibility of keeping busbee's music alive the success of Top 20 single, "I Hope You're Happy Now," which features Lee Brice songwriters featured on the new album, including Little Big Town, Kelsea Ballerini, Luke Combs, Thomas Rhett, Shane McAnally and more making her vocals the focal point of the new album finding and recording "Finish Your Sentences," which is a duet with husband Michael Ray co-writing "Halfway Home," which highlights Carly's vocal talent learning from past tours with Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, Blake Shelton and more upcoming tour with Old Dominion the importance of the younger generation performing on the Grand Ole Opry Podcast Participants: Carly Pearce Jim Casey, editor in chief of Nash Country Daily

Jim Casey talks with Joe Diffie about: attending this year's CMA Awards performing more than 100 shows in 2019 tearing his MCL while performing topping the charts with "Pickup Man," "Home" and more in the 1990s his signature hit, "John Deere Green" recording his new vinyl album, Joe, Joe, Joe Diffie, which features many of his past hits recording Stevie Ray Vaughan's "Pride & Joy" on the new album, which features vocals from Marc Broussard celebrating his 26th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry Podcast Participants: Joe Diffie Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Craig Morgan about: his family business, The Gallery at Morgan Farms, in Dickson, Tenn. the passing of his 19-year-old son, Jerry Greer, in 2016 the therapeutic nature of woodworking writing his new single, "The Father, My Son and the Holy Ghost," in honor of Jerry the impact the song has had on people around the world the song reaching No. 1 on the all-genre iTunes chart after a social media push by Blake Shelton, Kelly Clarkson, Ellen and more the physical and emotional toll of performing the song live his upcoming album reuniting with his old label, Broken Bow touring in November plans for Thanksgiving and Christmas his message for his brothers and sisters serving in the military Podcast participants: Craig Morgan Jim Casey, Nash Country Daily editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Jon Pardi about: creating his new album, Heartache Medication, which dropped on Sept. 27 the success of his previous album, California Sunrise, which spawned three No. 1 hits the thought process behind selecting the 14 "feel-good" songs for the new album co-writing seven of the 14 tracks on the new album selecting "Heartache Medication" as the album's lead single making the video for "Heartache Medication," which co-stars Jon's girlfriend recording "Don't Blame It On Whiskey," which features Lauren Alaina and was co-penned by Miranda Lambert and Eric Church closing the album with "Starlight," which has a personal meaning for Jon kicking off his Heartache Medication Tour on Oct. 1 at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium Podcast Participants: Jon Pardi Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Brantley Gilbert about: preparing for the arrival of his first daughter in September releasing his fifth studio album, Fire & Brimstone, on Oct. 4 growing musically with the new album co-writing all 15 songs on the new album releasing the new album's lead single, "What Happens in a Small Town," featuring Lindsay Ell, which is Top 15 on the charts recording new song, "Welcome to Hazeville," featuring Colt Ford, Willie Nelson and Lukas Nelson, on the West Coast in Tupac's old studio recording new song, "Fire & Brimstone," featuring Alison Krauss and Jamey Johnson writing new song, "Man That Hung the Moon" the spiritual journey behind new song, "Lost Soul's Prayer" the biblical themes in his album titles hitting the road for his Not Like Us Tour with Lindsay Ell and Michael Ray Podcast Participants: Brantley Gilbert Jim Casey, Nash Country Daily editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with singer/songwriter Ingrid Andress about: the genesis of her name growing up in Denver being home-schooled until high school learning to play the piano as a six-year-old singing at a young age going to college at the Berklee College of Music in Boston moving to Nashville after college making connections in Music City by booking writer's rounds releasing her debut single, "More Hearts Than Mine" co-penning the single with Sam Ellis and Derrick Southerland working on her upcoming album her Nashville "class" making national TV appearances on Late Night With Seth Meyers and the Today show playing shows in Europe this summer  Podcast Participants: Ingrid Andress Jim Casey, Nash Country Daily editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with singer/songwriter/actress Clare Bowen and her husband, Brandon Robert Young, about: releasing her self-titled debut album in the U.S. on July 12 releasing the album in Germany, U.K. and Australia over the last year starring as Scarlett O'Connor on Nashville for six season growing up in Australia speaking with a Southern U.S. accent on Nashville working and touring with Charles Esten overcoming cancer as a four-year-old drawing from childhood experiences for her new album opening the album with new single, "Let It Rain" featuring Buddy Miller on new song, "Tide Rolls In" the tender new song, "All the Beds I've Made," which Clare and Robert co-penned about each other closing the album with the gut-wrenching ballad, "Warrior" performing the album live upcoming acting projects Podcast Participants Clare Bowen Brandon Robert Young Jim Casey, editor-in-chief of NCD

Jim Casey talks with Aaron Watson about: scoring his first Top 10 hit with "Outta Style" in 2017 releasing his new 20-song album, Red Bandana, on June 21 writing all 20 songs on the new album by himself the "purposeful" nature of the new project preparing to make the new album by listening to records by Pink Floyd, the Beatles and the Beach Boys kicking off the album with "The Ghost of Guy Clark" the notion of "selling out" by trying to get played on country radio titling the new album and writing the title track, "Red Bandana," as an ode to his father, who was a disabled Vietnam veteran choosing "Kiss That Girl Goodbye" as the album's lead single the depth of new song, "Trying Like the Devil" what fans can expect on his Red Bandana Tour, which launches on June 28 Podcast Participants: Aaron Watson Jim Casey, Editor of Nash Country Daily

Jim Casey talks with Thomas Rhett about: the anticipation of releasing his new album, Center Point Road, on May 31 moving from Valdosta, Ga., to Hendersonville, Tenn., as a 5-year-old in 1995 his first memory of his house on Center Point Road building the new 16-song album finding the centerpiece for the album, "Remember You Young" his nostalgic, old-soul nature writing the majority of the record while on the road his new song, "That Old Truck," which was inspired by his first truck, "Fergie" selecting "Look What God Gave Her" as the album's lead single collaborations on the new album, including Kelsea Ballerini, Jon Pardi and Little Big Town the range of emotions created by sequencing the songs on the album how being a father the last two-plus years influenced the album his Very Hot Summer Tour with Dustin Lynch, Russell Dickerson and Rhett Akins performing at Bridgestone Arena during CMA Fest on June 8 Show Participants:  Thomas Rhett Jim Casey, editor in chief of NCD

Jim Casey talks with Hunter Hayes about: life-living and self-discovery as a 27-year-old releasing his first single in three years to country radio, "Heartbreak" the genesis of "Heartbreak," which set the tone for his upcoming album trying to stay optimistic in the face of negativity releasing his self-titled debut album in 2011 growing up in the industry as a young artist finishing his upcoming fourth studio album removing the filters—lyrically and musically—from his new songs working with producer, Sam Ellis, on the upcoming album after working with Dann Huff on previous albums headlining his Closer to You Tour playing new songs during his live show Podcast Participants: Hunter Hayes Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Jake Owen about: creating his sixth studio album, Greetings From . . . Jake what ties the album together picking the 14 songs for the new album the all-star group of Nashville songwriters who have cuts on the album the success of singles "I Was Jack (You Were Diane)" and "Down to the Honkytonk" earning a nomination for ACM Single of the Year for "Down to the Honkytonk" selecting "River of Time" for the new album having fun and "drifting through life" hitting the festival circuit this spring and summer Podcast participants: Jake Owen Jim Casey, editor in chief of Nash Country Daily

Jim Casey talks with Chris Janson about: scoring his third Top 10 hit with "Drunk Girl" in 2018 a chance encounter with Neil Young that led to his first paycheck as a musician releasing his new single, "Good Vibes," on Feb. 8 co-writing "Good Vibes" with Ashley Gorley and Zach Crowell the positive message behind "Good Vibes" playing new songs at his concerts before releasing them releasing his upcoming album in September celebrating his one-year anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry in March joining Chris Young's Raised On Country Tour in May becoming a brand ambassador for Hohner Harmonicas Podcast Participants: Chris Janson Jim Casey, editor in chief of Nash Country Daily

Jim Casey talks with Scotty McCreery about: getting married in June 2018 his Top 5 single, "This Is It" the video for "This Is It," which features footage from his wedding and has more than 30 million views thinking about his next single working to become a better songwriter headlining his Seasons Change Tour with support from Jimmie Allen and Heather Morgan upcoming shows at Billy Bob's Texas and Stagecoach his new puppy, Moose rooting for the Patriots in the Super Bowl watching "This Is It" continue to climb charts Podcast Participants Scotty McCreery Jim Casey, editor in chief of Nash Country Daily

Jim Casey talks with Levi Hummon about: being born and raised in Nashville watching the city change over his 27 years growing up with a successful songwriting father, Marcus Hummon being influenced by all genres of music, including the Ramones and the Clash the homegrown singer/songwriters coming out of Nashville, including Thomas Rhett and Tucker Beathard studying sculpture and painting in college before transitioning to music building a songwriting catalog by co-writing with his dad stepping away from his record deal with Big Machine finding his voice, both literally and figuratively releasing his new six-song EP, Patient opening shows for Dwight Yoakam, Kelsea Ballerini, Sam Hunt and more hitting the road, including a stop at War Memorial Auditorium on Dec. 6 for the Nashville House Concerts the non-profit his mother Becca Stevens started called Thistle Farms Show Participants: Levi Hummon Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Kane Brown about: staying cool under pressure getting married in October releasing his new sophomore album, Experiment, on Nov. 9 learning from the process of making his debut album in 2016 growing as a songwriter working with producer Dan Huff on the new album choosing current Top 10 hit, "Lose It," as the new album's lead single the inspiration behind new song, "Homesick" hitting the road for his first headlining tour in 2019 learning from Jason Aldean's live show setting the Guinness World Record for becoming the first country artist to simultaneously top five different Billboard charts Show Participants: Kane Brown Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Dillon Carmichael about: growing up in the small town of Burgin, Kentucky his musical pedigree, including uncles John Michael Montgomery and Eddie Montgomery getting offered a publishing deal as a 17-year-old moving to Nashville as a 19-year-old working with producer Dave Cobb on his debut album, Hell on an Angel, which was released on Oct. 26 writing or co-writing eight of the 10 songs on the new album creating a traditional-sounding record making his Grand Ole Opry debut on Aug. 21 performing more than 100 dates this year playing the Nashville House Concerts at War Memorial Auditorium on Nov. 1 Show Participants: Dillon Carmichael Jim Casey, editor of NCD

Jim Casey talks with Chris Lucas and Preston Brust of Locash about: new additions to their families signing a new record deal with Broken Bow Records releasing new single, "Feels Like a Party" being known for their feel-good vibes and energetic shows working on their new 11-song album, which is expected to drop in January the pressure of keeping their momentum going writing songs for the new album and for other artists embarking on the Pepsi Tailgating Tour playing the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas in December playing the National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 28 going to Australia in March Show Participants: Chris Lucas of Locash Preston Brust of Locash Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Cody Johnson about: growing up in the small town of Sebastopol, Texas learning the drums from his father at a young age the advantage of having a background in drums being surrounded by gospel music from his family members early musical influences, from Elvis to Billy Joe Shaver gaining respect from his Texas/Red Dirt contemporaries like Wade Bowen, Cory Morrow and Cody Canada releasing six independent albums signing a major-label record contract with Warner Brothers Nashville in June having success with his major-label debut single, "On My Way to You" releasing his upcoming major-label debut album, Ain't Nothing to It, on Jan. 18, 2019 making music that translates to his live show working with producer Trent Willmon covering Charlie Daniels' "Long Haired Country Boy" on the new album Show Participants: Cody Johnson Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Randy Houser about: releasing his debut album 10 years ago making a living doing what he loves the catalyst for his new album, Magnolia, which drops on Nov. 2 hitting the reset button and simplifying things on the new album co-writing all 12 tracks on the new album with a bevy songwriters, including Dallas Davidson, Hillary Lindsey, John Osborne, Jaren Johnston and more the significance of the album's title co-producing the new album with Keith Gattis writing and releasing the new single, "What Whiskey Does" letting his voice shine throughout the album without overproduction touring the West Coast visiting Australia in December to spend time with his wife's family Participants: Randy Houser Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with singer/songwriter Tenille Townes about: growing up in a small Canadian town her early musical influences, including Shania Twain, Dolly Parton, Elvis, Fleetwood Mac and more asking her parents to take singing lessons as a small child getting her first guitar from her grandparents as a 14-year-old moving to Nashville in 2014 as a 19-year-old playing songwriting rounds and listening rooms in Nashville signing a publishing deal with Big Yellow Dog and a record deal with Sony Nashville co-writing her new single, "Somebody's Daughter," with Luke Laird and Barry Dean working with producer Jay Joyce on her upcoming album touring with Miranda Lambert and Little Big Town playing six shows in Europe in October her charitable work with Big Hearts for Big Kids Podcast Participants: Tenille Townes Jim Casey, editor in chief of NCD

Jim Casey talks with Walker Hayes about: losing his newborn daughter, Oakleigh Klover, in June 2018 some of the therapeutic things he's doing to deal with the family tragedy getting support from the country music community the highs and lows of the country music industry meeting Tim McGraw for the first time interacting with fans at his concerts releasing his new single, "90's Country" co-writing "90's Country" two years ago working on his upcoming album with producer Shane McAnally making the new video for "90's Country" playing upcoming shows in Ireland and the U.K. Show Participants: Walker Hayes Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Brent Rupard and Anthony Olympia of the duo Everette about: their breakout year in 2018 growing up in Kentucky Kentucky's rich history of country and bluegrass music forming a duo playing the bar scene in Bowling Green, Ky. the origin of the duo's name signing a record deal with Broken Bow releasing their debut EP, Slow Roll, in June watching their crowds grow since the EP's release making the video for their debut single, "Slow Roll" working on their upcoming full-length album balancing family life with life on the road hitting the road this fall for a number of shows Show Participants: Brent Rupard of Everette Anthony Olympia of Everette Jim Casey, editor of Nash Country Daily

Jim Casey talks with Dylan Scott about: the success of his 2017 No. 1 single, "My Girl" the birth of his first child, son Beckett, in December 2017  scoring another Top 5 hit with his current single, "Hooked" working on his upcoming sophomore album growing his fan base by playing more than 100 shows a year getting a tour bus what he's learned from touring with Lee Brice and Justin Moore  taking a couple of months off in November and December to hunt and travel Show Participants: Dylan Scott Jim Casey, editor in chief of Nash Country Daily

Jim Casey talks with Cole Swindell about: releasing his third studio album, All of It, on Aug. 17 the success of lead single, "Break Up In the End" co-writing five of the 12 songs on the new album listening to a lot of outside cuts for the new album carving out time to write songs putting a little bit of everything on the new album, from "Both Sides of the Mississippi" to "Dad's Old Number" kicking off his six-date All of It Tour on Aug. 17, where Cole will perform every track on the new album teaming with Dustin Lynch and Lauren Alaina on Oct. 4 for more than 20 dates on the Reason to Drink . . . Another Tour Show Participants: Cole Swindell Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Morgan Evans about: the excitement surrounding his career right now growing up in Australia forming his first band with his brother and best friend being inspired by Keith Urban at a young age the six records that influenced him the country music scene in Australia visiting Nashville for the first time 10 years ago using a loop pedal onstage scoring his first Top 5 single with "Kiss Somebody" releasing his new self-titled EP, which dropped on Aug. 10 releasing his upcoming album this fall working with producer Chris DeStefano on the new EP and album joining Chris Young's Losing Sleep World Tour on Sept. 13 Show Participants: Morgan Evans Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Jordan Davis about: the success of his No. 1 debut single, "Singles You Up" having a hand in writing every track on his debut album, Home State releasing his new single, "Take It From Me" co-writing "Take It From Me" with Jason Gantt and his brother, Jacob getting support from his big brother, who is also a singer/songwriter making his Grand Ole Opry debut in May touring with Jake Owen joining Kip Moore's After the Sunburn Tour this fall honing his performance skills by playing summer festivals Show Participants: Jordan Davis Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Aaron Tippin about: turning 60 years old on July 3 staying active in the gym dropping his debut album, You've Got to Stand for Something, in 1991 going on his first USO Tour with Bob Hope continuing to perform for the troops for almost 30 years the hardest job he's ever had getting branded as a "working man" by his label in the early ’90s his career ambition of flying picking up a guitar for the first time after his brother was killed his favorite song, "He Believed" a new crop country of stars like Michael Ray and Jimmie Allen who cite Aaron as an influence the possibility of releasing new music his love of songwriting his busy summer tour schedule teaming with Tennessee-based Stonehaus Winery for his Kiss This Sweet Cherry Wine Show Participants Aaron Tippin Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Lee Brice about: spending Father’s Day with his three kids: Takoda, 9, Ryker, 4, and Trulee, 1 celebrating his 39th birthday on June 10 the goal of getting into the best shape of his life by his 40th birthday earning membership into the Pandora Billionaire Club by getting 2 billion career spins releasing new single, “Rumor,” on July 16 co-penning the single with Ashley Gorley and Kyle Jacobs deciding to release “Rumor” as the follow-up single to Top 20 hit, “Boy” putting 15 songs on his 2017 self-titled album hitting the road this summer for a busy tour schedule some of the cool places he has visited while touring, including Alaska Show participants: Lee Brice Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Little Big Town about: hosting the CMT Music Awards the standout performance from the CMT Awards, including Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Kelsea Ballerini and Dan + Shay winning Group Video of the Year at the CMT Awards for "When Someone Stops Loving You" the chart success of past singles releasing new single, "Summer Fever," which Karen Fairchild co-penned working with producers Shane McAnally and Jesse Frasure for the first time Shane's only fault, according to Phillip shooting the video for "Summer Fever" along Florida's 30-A Highway working on a new album the possibility of a future Christmas album hitting the road with Miranda Lambert on the Bandwagon Tour in July headlining a show at Red Rocks Amphitheater on Sept. 20 Show Participants: Karen Fairchild of LBT Kimberly Schlapman of LBT Jimi Westbrook of LBT Phillip Sweet of LBT Jim Casey, NCD Editor in Chief

Jim Casey talks with Dan + Shay about: marrying their wives in 2017 enjoying the little things about marriage creating their "Speechless" video, which features footage from their weddings writing Top 10 lead single, "Tequila" the innovative concept behind the video for "Tequila" self-titling their upcoming third studio album, which drops on June 22 the strategy behind releasing four songs from the new album interacting with their fans through social media their collaboration with Kelly Clarkson on the upcoming song, "Keeping Score" joining Rascal Flatts' Back to Us Tour for more than 25 dates this summer playing Nissan Stadium at CMA Fest Show Participants: Dan Smyers of Dan + Shay Shay Mooney of Dan + Shay Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Luke Combs about: his single, “One Number Away,” reaching No. 1 scoring three consecutive No. 1 singles showing different sides of his artistry with his singles using his live shows as a focus group releasing his new deluxe album, This One’s For You Too his love of songwriting how his life has changed in the last two years his “average Joe” mentality working hard to achieve his dreams touring with Jason Aldean on his High Noon Neon Tour Participants: Luke Combs Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

On this episode of the My Video Is Totally Awesome Podcast, NCD editor in chief Jim Casey sits down with Aaron Tippin to talk about the video for his 1995 No. 1 hit, "That's as Close as I'll Get to Loving You." Check out the full video breakdown at NashCountryDaily.com.

Jim Casey talks with Dustin Lynch about: going back to his hometown of Tullahoma, Tenn., to spend time with his family some of the cool places in the U.S. that he has visited, including Bend, Ore., and New Hampshire visiting Australia for the first time celebrating his 2017 smash hit, "Small Town Boy" documenting his accomplishments online his growing social media following the surprise release of his new single, "Good Girl" writing, recording and releasing the new single having fun writing songs without plans for an upcoming album playing Nissan Stadium at this year's CMA Fest hitting the road this summer for a number of festivals and fairs Show Participants: Dustin Lynch Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with singer/songwriter William Prince about: growing up on the Peguis reservation in Manitoba, Canada the music he was exposed to on the reservation being influenced by Kris Kristofferson and Willie Nelson      singing funeral hymns at this father's church traveling to events as part of his parents' DJ service pursuing music as a career after applying to medical school embracing his baritone voice releasing his debut album, Earthy Days, in 2015     winning the Juno Award for Best Contemporary Roots Album connecting with producer Dave Cobb, who is helming his new album visiting Nashville for the first time in 2018 what to expect from his new album the re-release of his debut album in the U.S. on May 11 with a new version of his single, "Breathless," produced by Dave Cobb hitting the road this spring and summer  Participants: William Prince Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Morgan Wallen about: his whirlwind week, including an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live growing up in the small town of Sneedville, Tenn. dreaming big as a kid getting his start singing in church shifting his interest to baseball in high school how an arm injury led him back to music getting on The Voice in 2014 scoring a Top 10 hit with his current single, “Up Down,” which features Florida Georgia Line co-writing Jason Aldean’s No. 1 single, “You Make It Easy” releasing his debut album, If I Know Me headlining his own tour after opening for FGL in 2017 joining Luke Bryan’s upcoming What Makes You Country Tour Participants: Morgan Wallen Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Maddie & Tae about: their 2014 breakout single, "Girl in a Country Song" trying to enjoy their successes in the moment growing as artists over the last four years the transition between being 18-year-old girls to 22-year-old women the inspiration from Maddie's little sister for writing their new single, "Friends Don't" releasing "Friends Don't" and the impact they hope it has Tae's "psychic" abilities working with producers Jimmy Robbins and Derek Wells creating their upcoming 14-song concept album co-writing 13 of the album's 14 songs learning from Lee Brice and Dierks Bentley while on their tours Participants: Maddie Marlow Tae Dye Jim Casey, NCD editor in chie

Jim Casey talks with Walker Hayes about: being an "overnight" success how his life has changed in the last nine months after being in Nashville for 14 years breaking through with Top 10 hit, "You Broke Up With Me" raising six kids, with a seventh on the way this summer how close he came to quitting music working at Costco to pay the bills signing a publishing deal with Shane McAnally, who produced his album, Boom how Music Row can be unforgiving the catalyst for writing "You Broke Up With Me" being sober for two years the parallels between his sobriety and success releasing his debut album, Boom using the word "boom" not taking the safe route when making music the story behind his new single, "Craig" Show Participants: Walker Hayes Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Jason Aldean about: • his four-month-old son, Memphis • taking a break from the road to spend time with his family • the goals for his upcoming album, "Rearview Town," which drops on April 13 • taking a risk by releasing an outside-the-box single like "You Make It Easy" • his musical influences, including The Allman Brothers and Alabama • high-energy songs on the new record, including "Set It Off" and "Gettin' Warmed Up" • teaming with Miranda Lambert for the new duet, "Drown the Whiskey" • including 15 songs on his albums • kicking off his High Noon Neon Tour in May • convincing Darius Rucker to reassemble Hootie & the Blowfish for his tour stop in Atlanta on July 21 • partnering with Field & Stream as an ambassador Participants: • Jason Aldean • Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Trent Harmon about: • winning "American Idol" in 2016 • his musical influences growing up in Amory, Mississippi, including Elvis and Marty Robbins • learning piano and guitar at a young age • losing his hats in Memphis • studying history in college • his label struggles after "American Idol" • focusing on songwriting • releasing his new single, "You Got ’Em All"  • his longtime girlfriend moving to Thailand and back • working on his upcoming debut album • touring and playing summer festivals • the possibility of appearing on the re-booted "American Idol" Show Participants: • Trent Harmon • Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Scotty McCreery about: • getting up early and staying up late • scoring his first No. 1 single, "Five More Minutes" • keeping a positive outlook despite some career setbacks • releasing his new album, Seasons Change, on March 16 • the apropos title of the new album • picking his new single, "This Is It, which he penned with Frank Rogers and David Lee Murphy about his fiancée, Gabi Dugal • planning his upcoming wedding • the personal aspect of co-writing all 11 songs on the new album • the most un-Scotty song on the new album, "Barefootin’” • growing up around "beach music" • hitting the road this spring and summer Participants: • Scotty McCreery • Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Cole Swindell about: • the release of his new single, "Break Up in the End," which was penned by Jon Nite, Chase McGill and Jessie Jo Dillon • the imagery in the new song • the first time he heard the song • the new single being indicative of what's to come from the new album • the healing power of music • shooting the new video for the single • working on his upcoming third studio album • kicking off his first headlining Reason to Drink Tour with openers Chris Janson and Lauren Alaina Participants: • Cole Swindell • Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Randy Rogers about: • his very successful 2017 • writing his first songs as an 11-year-old • the best song he's ever written, "In My Arms Instead" • the healing power of music • getting his start singing in the church choir • picking up the guitar for the first time as a 12-year-old • the path that Robert Earl Keen blazed for Texas singer/songwriters • today's up-and-coming crop of talented songwriters, including Parker McCollum, William Clark Green and Red Shahan • graduating from Texas State University in San Marcos in 2001 with a degree in Mass Communications • removing himself from social media • the family aspect of his band, including having the same crew and bus driver • using a number of producers over his career, including Radney Foster, Paul Worley, Jay Joyce, Lloyd Maines and Buddy Cannon • working on his upcoming album, which is being produced by Dave Cobb and tentatively slated to drop this fall • making "Hold My Beer: Vol. 2" with Wade Bowen and touring together in 2018 • his charitable work with Cheatham Street Live  Participants: • Randy Rogers of Randy Rogers Band • Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Zac Brown, Niko Moon and Ben Simonetti of trio Sir Rosevelt about: • the genesis of Sir Rosevelt • Zac, Niko and Ben working together on Zac Brown Band's 2015 album, "Jekyll + Hyde" • Mr. Hyde becoming Sir Rosevelt • co-writing together on the bus while on the road with ZBB • taking Sir Rosevelt to an international crowd • creating the self-titled album, which dropped in December 2017 • Sir Rosevelt not being a side project • the visual aspects of Sir Rosevelt, including using acrobats and dancers on tour • naming the trio after Teddy Roosevelt • the mysterious Robert Baker, who is the subject of Track 7 • the new single, "Something ’Bout You" Quote Worthy: • "Sir Rosevelt is not a side project, this isn’t a Chris Gaines. This is unapologetically exploration and creativity and art. And the way it’s presented, we can take it all over the world.”— Zac Brown Participants: • Zac Brown • Niko Moon • Ben Simonetti • Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks to Jimmie Allen about: • growing up in Delaware • his early musical influences, including country and gospel • the ripped nature of Aaron Tippin • singing in the church choir • his musical theater background • making his YouTube docu-series, "Jimmie Allen: All In" • living in his car for a few months after moving to Nashville • going to writers' rounds and making connections • being an African-American man in the country music industry • getting his first big break from publisher Ash Bowers • releasing his self-titled EP in October 2017 • the healthy chip on his shoulders • developing his onstage charisma • releasing his new single, "Best Shot," to country radio on Feb. 20 • his songwriting process • working on his debut album Participants: • Jimmie Allen • Jim Casey, NCD editor

Jim Casey talks to Mike Ryan about: • having a very successful 2017 • growing up in San Antonio, Texas • his musical family, including parents and grandfather • singing in the school and church choirs • his musical influences, including country and rock • catching Elton John in concert in Las Vegas • going to college at the University of North Texas • visiting Nashville to co-write with other artists • co-writing Brad Paisley’s Top 20 single, “Last Time for Everything” • releasing his new album, "Blink You’ll Miss It" • writing and recording one of his favorite songs, “New Hometown” • recording the Chris Stapleton-penned song, “One Way” • learning to play piano on “Sad Song” • playing an upcoming show at ACL’s Moody Theater Mike performs: • “Blink You’ll Miss It” Participants: • Mike Ryan • Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks to Natalie Stovall about: • attending the Dwight Yoakam concert at the Ryman • being raised in Columbia, Tenn. (45 miles south of Nashville) • Columbia's claim to fame, Mule Day • getting her first violin as a 3-year-old • entering fiddle competitions as an 8-year-old • singing for the first time at Opryland Themepark  • moving to Boston after high school to attend Berklee College of Music • moving back to Nashville, putting a band together and hitting the road • auditioning for "The Voice" • joining Team Blake • the time commitment of being on "The Voice" • the new fans she has gained • what she learned about herself after being on "The Voice" • her new single, “Wine or Whiskey,” which was co-penned by Andrew Dorff, Little Big Town’s Jimi Westbook and Lori McKenna • making a new video for the single • working on a new album • going to Mexico for week in February for the Island Time Music Festival Show participants: • Natalie Stovall • Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Montgomery Gentry's Eddie Montgomery about: • the death of his longtime friend and duo partner Troy Gentry • the little things that remind him of Troy • the good times he and Troy shared during their early days onstage • the first time he met Troy • putting the Montgomery Gentry duo together • MG's new album, "Here's to You," which drops on Feb. 2 • playing "Better Me" at Troy's celebration of life at the Grand Ole Opry • Troy's vocals on the new album • recording his first love song, "All Hell Broke Loose" • quintessential MG song, "Needling a Beer" • his working-class mentality • some of the great songwriters featured on the album • going through thousands of songs to pick the album's 12 songs • kicking off his Here's to You Tour in February • performing onstage without Troy • carrying on the Montgomery Gentry name Participants: • Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry • Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush of Sugarland about: • working on individual projects during their five-year hiatus from Sugarland •their surprise reunion at the CMA Awards in November • the changing sonic nature of country music over the last five years • writing and recording their new single, "Still the Same" • working on their upcoming album • letting the songs drive the album • performing together on Dec. 31 on "Dick Clark's New Years Rocking Eve With Ryan Seacrest" • playing Europe's C2C Festival in March • putting together a tour in 2018 Quote Worthy: • “Normally, it takes 100 songs to write three good ones, but it’s different if you’re working with Jennifer. It takes one song to write one good one. That’s cool. You can’t ever underestimate the power of that.” — Kristian Bush Participants: • Jennifer Nettles • Kristian Bush • Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Wade Bowen about: • his 2002 debut album, "Try Not to Listen" • his musical upbringing as a kid in Waco, Texas • getting serious about music as an 18-year-old • discovering his soulful voice • starting his first band, West 84, while at Texas Tech • earning a Public Relations degree from Texas Tech • working at the family company, Bowen Electric, for two years • focusing on songwriting over the last 15 years • being influenced by artists like Guy Clark and Bruce Springsteen • making his new album, "Solid Ground," which will drop on Feb. 9 • the "Texas feel" of his new album • working with songwriters Andrew Combs, Keith Gattis, Charlie Worsham, Angaleena Presley and more on the new album • working with producer Keith Gattis on the new album • choosing to hone his craft in Texas instead of moving to Nashville • his new single, "Acuna," reaching the Top 5 on the Texas Radio chart • getting Jack Ingram and Miranda Lambert to contribute vocals on new song "So Long 6th Street" • writing "Couldn't Make You Love Me" with Audley Freed and Keith Gattis • the melting pot of talent on the new album • teaming with Randy Rogers and Kip Moore for the Tall Tales and the Truth Tour • playing MusicFest at Steamboat, Colorado, for the 16th year in 2018 • spending time with his two sons and wife over Christmas Participants: • Wade Bowen • Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief Performance: • "Acuna" and "Day of the Dead" from upcoming album, "Solid Ground" • Wade Bowen: vocals, guitar, harmonica • Will Knaak: lead guitar, background vocals

Jim Casey talks with Danielle Bradbery about: • winning "The Voice" in 2013 as a 16-year-old • releasing her self-titled debut album five months after winning "The Voice" • moving to Nashville in 2015 • learning the songwriting craft • creating her new album, "I Don't Believe We've Met," which drops on Dec. 1 • coming up with the title for her new album • her early musical influences in country, pop and soul • growing vocally as a singer • getting "better" at being shy • writing "What Are We Doing" with Thomas Rhett, Emily Weisband and Sam Ellis • the possibility of "Worth It" being her next single • learning from other artists she's been on tour with, including Miranda Lambert, Brad Paisley and more Participants: • Danielle Bradbery • Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief

Jim Casey talks with Justin Moore about: • having his first son, Thomas South Moore, in June • why Thomas prefers mom over dad right now • how Thomas' three older sisters like the new addition to the family • scoring his seventh No. 1 single, "Somebody Else Will," in August • releasing the title track from his 2016 album, "Kinda Don't Care" • getting outside his comfort zone when creating his album, "Kinda Don't Care" • working on his upcoming fifth studio album, which Justin says will be his most traditional sounding album yet • writing songs for his upcoming album • kicking off his Hell on a Highway Tour, with opener Dylan Scott • balancing family life with life on the road Quote Worthy: • "[My son] is good, but I don't think he likes me. I like him." Participants: • Justin Moore • Jim Casey, NCD editor in chief