Podcasts about country music news

Fresh off the release of his new album Handmade Horsepower, Colby Acuff joins the Whiskey Riff Raff podcast to talk about winning Whiskey Riff Raff Madness, the viral origins of "Dunk That Shit," why social media is breaking country music, and why some of the most talented artists in the genre still aren't getting the recognition they deserve.Colby dives into his frustrations with modern country music, explains why he believes Nashville is still the place to be for aspiring artists, and shares why Handmade Horsepower is the record he wants to be remembered for. He also discusses writing every song on the album himself, the short film that accompanies the project, and the impact artists like Sturgill Simpson have had on his career.Listen now and subscribe for more conversations with the artists shaping country music.whiskeyriff.comshop.whiskeyriff.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Elizabeth Nichols joins the Whiskey Riff Raff podcast to talk about her unconventional path to country music, going viral on TikTok, and the new music she's working on.We dive into everything from dropping out of law school and accidentally finding a music career, to reading through the good and bad comments on social media, her love for Toby Keith, and why country music needs more fun songs again.Elizabeth also shares the story of having Dog The Bounty Hunter show up at her house for Easter, explains how a Talladega Nights star ended up playing in her band, talks about her first-ever headlining show selling out overseas, and gives some hilarious insight into her dating life.Topics include:• Going viral with "I Got A New One"• Reading social media comments• Toby Keith's influence on her music• Dog The Bounty Hunter at Easter• New music and upcoming album plans• Her sold-out headlining show overseas• Dating stories and fan reactions• Moving to Nashville for law school before finding musicSubscribe for more episodes of Whiskey Riff Raff and interviews with your favorite country artists.whiskeyriff.comshop.whiskeyriff.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your weekly country news update for the week of 6/15 featuring an interview with Jenny Tolman!

BONUS EPISODE! NASCAR driver Ryan Preece sat down with us on Whiskey Riff Raff to talk about his career, his famously aggressive racing strategy, what it's like to drive a stock car, the preparation that goes into it, and how he feels about his nicknames (like "Flyin' Ryan.")The driver of the No. 60 car also gave his thoughts on the Nashville Speedway, how great it is to have a race in Music City, balancing his home life and his work life, and described how heartbroken he and the NASCAR community are over the loss of the late, great Kyle Busch.whiskeyriff.comshop.whiskeyriff.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your weekly country news update for the week of 6/8 featuring an interview with Just Jayne!

Country music and Braves baseball go hand in hand.In this special collection of interviews from the Whiskey Riff Raff Podcast, Atlanta Braves stars Austin Riley and Kyle Farmer, along with Braves broadcaster Ben Ingram, sit down separately with the Whiskey Riff Raff crew to talk all things country music and baseball.Austin Riley discusses his favorite country artists, who controls the locker room aux cord, growing up in the South, and why he'd love to spend his entire career with the Atlanta Braves.Kyle Farmer shares his love for Luke Combs and Morgan Wallen, explains why "Still Going Down" became his walkout song, reflects on joining his hometown team, and reveals why the Braves clubhouse is full of "Ella Fellas."Meanwhile, Braves broadcaster Ben Ingram talks about the crossroads of country music and baseball, critiques the team's music taste, names the most country player on the roster, and tells the story of trying to get Ella Langley in the broadcast booth but ending up with Jason Aldean instead.From locker room playlists and walkout songs to hunting season and hometown pride, these conversations showcase the strong connection between country music and Braves baseball.whiskeyriff.comshop.whiskeyriff.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your weekly country news update for the week of 6/1 featuring an interview with Alana Springsteen!

Your weekly country news update for the week of 5/26 featuring an interview with Ben Chapman!

This episode is sponsored by Carolina Country Music Fest. Get your tickets now: https://carolinacountrymusicfest.com/Singer songwriter Channing Wilson stops by the podcast to discuss staying true to his influences in today's Nashville. From writing with Luke Combs and hearing “She Got The Best Of Me” take off, to refusing to write Bro Country songs during that era, Channing opens up about the highs and frustrations of the music industry. He also talks about writing for Yellowstone and Landman, competing on The Road, his upcoming album, and why authentic music still matters more than social media numbers.whiskeyriff.comshop.whiskeyriff.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Creekers join the Whiskey Riff Raff podcast this week sponsored by Rock The Country. Get your tickets now at https://rockthecountry.com/The guys break down why they don't really see themselves as a traditional bluegrass band, explain the controversy behind using a cajon in bluegrass music, and tell the unbelievable story of their banjo player suffering a heart attack just minutes before their first show and still performing the entire set.They also talk about recording their album in the back of a record shop, surviving Nashville's ice storm with an impromptu hotel concert, dealing with imposter syndrome, and finding out Luke Combs was a fan of “River Rat.”It's packed with music stories, chaos, laughs, and a look into what's next for the band.whiskeyriff.comshop.whiskeyriff.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your weekly country news update for the week of 5/18 featuring an interview with Owen Riegling!

Paul Cauthen dives into his latest album, ‘Book Of Paul,' why he sees the record as scripture he wrote about himself, and how the project arrived at the perfect moment in his life. He opens up about his relationship with God, his cancer journey, and why he truly believes cancer saved his life.whiskeyriff.comshop.whiskeyriff.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your weekly country news update for the week of 5/11 featuring an interview with Cody Lohden

Your weekly country news update for the week of 5/4 featuring an interview with Cody Webb!

Your weekly country news update for the week of 4/27 featuring an interview with Brooke Lee!

Koe Wetzel sits down with Whiskey Riff to talk about the biggest shift of his life. From becoming a dad and naming his daughter Woods, to growing deeper in his faith and stepping into a new version of himself, this is Koe like you've never heard him before.He opens up about how fatherhood changed everything, why he feels like a completely different man, and how that transformation is shaping his upcoming album The Night Champion. Plus, he talks yacht rock, dirty sax, Parker moments, and still keeping that rowdy edge fans love.It's honest, unfiltered, and a look into the next era of Koe Wetzel.This episode is brought to you by Gulf Coast Jam. https://gulfcoastjam.com/tickets/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your weekly country news update for the week of 4/20 featuring an interviews with Zach John King, Hannah McFarland, Braxton Keith and Corey Kent!  

Your weekly country news update for the week of 4/13 featuring an interview with Taylor Austin Dye!  

Rocker Steiner and Kade Bruno join the podcast to talk all things rodeo, adrenaline, and country music. From the reality of climbing into the chute knowing things could go wrong, to the brotherhood behind the scenes, they break down what life as a professional bareback and saddle bronc rider is really like.They also dive into how Yellowstone and Taylor Sheridan helped push rodeo and country culture into the spotlight, why Nashville is becoming a hub for rodeo events, and how the lifestyle compares to touring as a country artist. Plus, stories involving Koe Wetzel, Trace Adkins, Kid Rock, and even a jab from Post Malone.This episode is brought to you by Music City Rodeo. Get your tickets now at musiccityrodeo.com.whiskeyriff.comshop.whiskeyriff.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Twenty-three seasons of American Idol later, a weird question still cuts through the noise: how many winners do we actually remember? We put “most memorable” on trial and rank every champion from the names that vanish the second the confetti falls to the artists who still feel like cultural landmarks. Along the way, we talk about why “winning” and “lasting” are two different skills, how contracts can shape careers, and why the audience sometimes loves the competition more than the artist's post-show music.Then we shift into a packed country music news rundown with the stories we can't stop thinking about. Ella Langley's surge with “Choose In Texas” sparks a bigger conversation about label friction, co-producing, and why fans are tired of songs that all sound the same. We also hit the ACM Awards performance lineup, Ray Stevens' recovery after a serious fall, Morgan Wallen launching his own SiriusXM channel, and Chris Young building a Nashville sports bar that turns fandom into a full experience.We keep it interactive with the question of the day (songs with women's names in the title), run through the latest chart moves and indie chart picks, and time-travel to 1987 for a fast, fun look at what ruled country and rock. The mailbag closes it out with real talk on playlists, industry mimicry, and a producer's answer to the question every creator faces: when do you stop tweaking a track before it goes lifeless?Subscribe for more music news, country charts, and behind-the-scenes industry talk, then share this with a friend and leave us a review. Who is the most memorable Idol winner to you?Episode LinksBob Bullock: https://jayfranze.com/episode28/Avery Glenn Crabtree: https://jayfranze.com/episode77/Billie Jo Jones: https://jayfranze.com/episode98/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark Badolato: https://jayfranze.com/episode140/Send us Fan MailSupport the showLinksJay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ContactContact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/SocialsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranzeTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranzeX: https://x.com/jayfranzeYouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranzeServicesServices: https://jayfranze.com/services/BooksBooks: https://jayfranze.com/books/MerchandiseMerchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/SupportSupport: https://jayfranze.com/support/Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

This week on Whiskey Riff Raff, we sit down with rising country artist Ty Myers to talk about what it's really like blowing up at just 18 years old. From writing nearly all of his songs in his childhood bedroom to navigating life on the road while still living with his parents, Ty opens up about the pressure, the chaos, and the growth that comes with early success.We get into his fear of evolving his sound and whether fans will follow, what it's like being an “old soul” who started writing full songs at just 7 years old, and the wild energy of his shows filled with young, passionate fans. Ty also shares how he balances the party lifestyle of touring while staying grounded.Plus, we talk about his brand new album, collaborating with Marcus King, and how artists like John Mayer have shaped his sound and inspired where he's headed next.It's an honest look at a young artist figuring it out in real time and building something that's entirely his own.whiskeyriff.comshop.whiskeyriff.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your weekly country news update for the week of 4/6 featuring an interview with Rhys Rutherford!

The “started from nothing” story is a great hook, but country music history is full of artists who started with money, famous parents, or industry access. We dig into nine country stars who grew up rich, from Kid Rock's comfortable Detroit-area upbringing to Taylor Swift's early ties to Big Machine, plus other names where songwriting families and serious resources shaped the path. The point isn't to cancel anybody, it's to understand how runway and risk change when your first steps are funded.Then we jump into country music news and industry chatter: the iHeartRadio Music Awards and what major wins mean for where the genre is headed, the rise of Ella Langley, the continued dominance of Morgan Wallen, and the constant push and pull of genre blending with artists like Shaboozey. We also hit fresh releases, big festival lineups, and why crossovers like Darius Rucker joining NASCAR ownership make sense when artists think beyond radio and touring.From there, we get interactive. We read your answers to our question of the day, “five artists or bands that define your musical taste,” and the lists are all over the map in the best way. We also tackle listener mailbag questions about streaming making albums disposable, whether record labels still matter when TikTok can break an artist, if radio is still worth chasing for indie artists, and why backing tracks and click tracks can drain the life out of live shows. If you like country music podcast conversation that feels like classic radio with real opinions, charts, and community, you'll feel right at home.Subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review, then come tell us what defines your taste: which five artists or bands are you picking today?Episode LinksDalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Keith Sensing: https://jayfranze.com/episode202/Send us Fan MailSupport the showLinksJay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ContactContact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/SocialsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranzeTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranzeX: https://x.com/jayfranzeYouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranzeServicesServices: https://jayfranze.com/services/BooksBooks: https://jayfranze.com/books/MerchandiseMerchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/SupportSupport: https://jayfranze.com/support/Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Your weekly country news update for the week of 3/30 featuring an interview with Atlus!

The fastest way to get your feelings wrecked is to dance to a song you never actually listened to. We kick things off by pulling apart “sad country songs that sound happy,” where bright melodies hide breakups, regret, loneliness, and all the little bad decisions that country music turns into a hook you can't stop singing. It's part comedy, part lyric therapy, and it might permanently change how you hear a few classics.Then we rip through the country music news cycle with the kind of stuff fans actually talk about: Kacey Musgraves surprising a room with a “Neon Moon” tribute, Dolly Parton stepping back into the spotlight, cryptic teasers that send the internet into detective mode, and big live moments that prove touring still matters. If you're searching for country music news, Nashville updates, and what's happening right now, this segment is built for you.From there, the crew answers our question of the day on underrated artists, we run the countdown plus a full indie charts roundup, and we bring in recording engineer Keith Sensing for a trivia showdown that gets competitive fast. The mailbag lands the big takeaway: streams and followers can look huge, but filling a room is a different game. We talk practical music industry advice like networking, moving to a music mecca, playing live everywhere, and finding a way to stand out without chasing the same sound.Subscribe for more, share this with a friend who overanalyzes lyrics, and leave us a review. What's the happiest sounding song you know with the saddest story?Episode LinksDave Jackson: https://jayfranze.com/episode53/Mark Badolato: https://jayfranze.com/episode140/Jesse Barton: https://jayfranze.com/episode200/Send us Fan Mail Support the showLinksJay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ContactContact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/SocialsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranzeTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranzeX: https://x.com/jayfranzeYouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranzeServicesServices: https://jayfranze.com/services/BooksBooks: https://jayfranze.com/books/MerchandiseMerchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/SupportSupport: https://jayfranze.com/support/Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Traditional country is “gone” until you actually look around. We go artist by artist through a list of modern performers proving the classic country sound still works, from boots-and-buckle traditionalists to cleaner-cut storytellers who keep the twang but update the edges. Along the way, we argue (lovingly) about what makes music feel traditional in the first place: the writing, the instruments, the stage look, or the attitude behind it all. Then we pivot into fast-moving country music news: new album buzz, touring milestones, and a serious reminder that concert culture can get ugly when fans treat the stage like a target. We also talk mental health in the music industry and why stepping back from the road can be a smart, brave call, not a career-ending one. If you follow country music headlines, this is the kind of week where the little stories say a lot about where the genre is headed. We keep it interactive with the question of the day on great artists not from the U.S., plus our mainstream countdown and indie country charts for anyone who wants new playlist fuel beyond what radio keeps looping. The mailbag gets real about streaming payouts, where the money actually comes from now (live shows, merch, direct-to-fan sales), and whether social media still matters for breaking an artist in 2026. We even get into country music fashion psychology, because yes, your hat, jeans, and boots are telling a story before you sing a word. If you like country music podcasts that mix laughs with real industry talk and genuinely useful discoveries, hit subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a quick review so more listeners can find us.Episode LinksJeff King: https://jayfranze.com/episode6/Matt McClure: https://jayfranze.com/episode15/McBride & The Ride: https://jayfranze.com/episode87/Dalila Maya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Lee Newton: https://jayfranze.com/episode198/Jesse Barton: https://jayfranze.com/episode200/Send us Fan Mail Support the showLinksJay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ContactContact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/SocialsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranzeTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranzeX: https://x.com/jayfranzeYouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranzeServicesServices: https://jayfranze.com/services/BooksBooks: https://jayfranze.com/books/MerchandiseMerchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/SupportSupport: https://jayfranze.com/support/Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Tyler Halverson on avoiding the norm, keeping his sound raw, and building “Amerijuana” into his own lane. From calling the harmonica a “nasty” instrument to trademarking “Amerijuana,” gatekeeping South Dakota, and saying some artists are just making playlists, not albums… this one goes everywhere.This Whiskey Riff Raff episode is brought to you by Rock The Country. Get your tickets here: https://rockthecountry.com/whiskeyriff.comshop.whiskeyriff.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your weekly country news update for the week of 3/23 featuring an interview with  Madden Metcal!

Country music can feel like it's changing every week, but the best nights are when the stories all connect. We kick things off with a surprisingly fun rabbit hole: country singers who rode into Western movies and TV, from Kenny Rogers and Glen Campbell to the Yellowstone universe and “1883.” It's not just nostalgia, it's proof that country has always been built for characters, scenes, and big emotions.Then we hit a tight country music news rundown with the stuff you actually want to know: Jelly Roll reaching a new milestone at the Grand Ole Opry, tour and festival updates, country artists popping up on-screen, and why Morgan Wallen's vocal rest is a reminder that your voice is your livelihood. After that, we throw it to the crew with the question of the day: who is the most talented up-and-coming artist? The comment section turns into a discovery feed, and we add our own rising-artist picks before running through the latest mainstream chart and indie chart highlights.The mailbag is where we get real about the Nashville music industry. We talk about overproduced records, the brutal math of streaming royalties, why touring and merch still carry so much weight, and the new version of gatekeeping through playlist culture. If you're an aspiring artist, we also share the biggest career killers we see early on, and a smarter way to study great records by following producers like Dan Huff, Bob Bullock, and Jay Joyce.Subscribe for more country music news, music business talk, and artist discovery, then share this with a friend and leave us a review so more listeners can find the show.Episode LinksBob Bullock: https://jayfranze.com/episode28/MacKenzie Leigh: https://jayfranze.com/episode153/Mary Kutter: https://jayfranze.com/episode197/Lee Newton: https://jayfranze.com/episode198/Send a text Support the showLinksJay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ContactContact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/SocialsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranzeTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranzeX: https://x.com/jayfranzeYouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranzeServicesServices: https://jayfranze.com/services/BooksBooks: https://jayfranze.com/books/MerchandiseMerchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/SupportSupport: https://jayfranze.com/support/Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Your weekly country news update for the week of 3/16 featuring an interview with Erin Enderlin!

Your weekly country news update for the week of 3/10 featuring an interview with Thomason!

Australian country artist Wade Forster joins the Whiskey Riff Raff podcast to talk about growing up in the Australian outback, rodeo life, and the long road to country music.Before pursuing music, Wade worked just about every job you can imagine, including rugby player, rodeo cowboy, HVAC tech, and ranch hand while living nearly 22 hours from the nearest major city. He shares what life is really like in rural Australia, from dealing with kangaroos and dangerous wildlife to the culture differences between Australia and the United States.Wade also talks about getting bullied growing up for listening to country music, having a crush on Reba McEntire, why he never connected with pop country, and how rodeo culture shaped who he is today.Plus we dive into some hilarious differences between Australia and America including why Australians tailgate after events instead of before and the truth behind some of the stereotypes.Subscribe for more conversations with your favorite country artists and rising stars.www.whiskeyriff.comwww.shop.whiskeyriff.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ever wonder why certain songs follow you from ballparks to bar bands to late-night TV finales? We take a playful but pointed run at the “most overplayed song” ever with a live listener bracket that pits Free Bird, Don't Stop Believin', Sweet Caroline, Brown Eyed Girl, and more in a ruthless showdown. Along the way, we unpack what repetition really means, how stadium anthems, wedding playlists, and radio gold become rituals that comfort some of us and exhaust the rest. You'll leave with your hill to die on and a few hot takes from fellow fans to test your case.Before the sparks fly, we open with a rapid-fire look at Ella Langley, state champion dancer, voice-shifting surgery, a pellet gun for pests, bangs born from a bad haircut, and a one-pickle pre-show ritual that weirdly works. That personal color tees up a high-energy country news sweep: Lainey Wilson teams with Kevin Costner on The Grey House soundtrack beside titans like Willie Nelson and Shania Twain; Riley Green stretches into acting with a Yellowstone-adjacent series; Rascal Flatts hit RodeoHouston; Meghan Moroney and Ella Langley notch a chart milestone for women in country; Thomas Rhett welcomes baby number five; Luke Combs and Dierks Bentley map new tours; and LeAnn Rimes and Rodney Crowell drop fresh tracks. We also spotlight the Recording Academy's new Best Traditional Country Album category debuting in 2026—an overdue nod to classic songwriting and instrumentation.We round things out with a tight chart countdown spanning radio favorites and indie gems, a March 2016 flashback that tracks how we got here, and a lively mailbag: production vs. songwriting first impressions, dream guests (from Rick Beato to Mutt Lange and Kelly Clarkson), and the gear that changed everything as studios moved from tape to Pro Tools. It's a full-spectrum listen for country fans, music nerds, and anyone who has ever yelled “Free Bird!” at the wrong time.Episode LinksBob Bullock: https://jayfranze.com/episode28/Dave Jackson: https://jayfranze.com/episode53/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark Badolato: https://jayfranze.com/episode140/Send a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

What happens when you feel too rock for country and too country for rock? We put that identity to the test with a rapid-fire breakdown of 35 tracks that blur the lines, from Hardy and The Cadillac Three to CCR, Eric Church, and Lynyrd Skynyrd. We wrestle with what truly makes a crossover—songwriting grit, backbeat, guitar tone, or that undeniable chorus—and call out the picks that earned their place, plus a few that surprised us.Then we hit the headlines shaping the scene. Jason Aldean announces a 2026 Songs About Us Summer Tour and drops fresh tracks. CMA Fest lines up rising voices like Ella Langley and Shaboozey, while big festivals keep the season packed from Panama City Beach to Florida's Gulf Coast. Kane Brown builds a four-story Broadway hub, and Dolly Parton tips her hat to Son of Jolene, proving legacies grow when new artists answer the canon. A Ronnie Milsap tribute reminds us why the Opry remains a North Star.We open the floor to you with a walk-up song throwdown—Jukebox Hero to Tom Sawyer, the Rocky theme to One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer—and share our own entrance anthems. Expect a practical mini-masterclass on intros, tempo, and how to build energy before a first lyric. Charts get their due as we compare mainstream risers and indie breakthroughs, showing why a sticky hook can outlast any hype cycle.The mailbag pulls no punches: are record deals still worth it for mid-level artists, is radio failing because it won't take risks, and what gets more valuable as AI music improves? We make a strong case for live performance, brand voice, and community as the true moat. We also talk long game—the “ten-year town” reality—and how to measure progress without losing heart.If you're chasing better playlists, smarter career moves, or just need a gateway between steel strings and power chords, this one's for you. Subscribe, share with a friend, and drop your walk-up song in the comments—what track announces you to the world?Episode LinksDalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Send a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Your weekly country news update for the week of 3/2 featuring an interview with SJ McDonald!

Leon Majcen and Sam Stoane are both stepping into defining years and they're doing it their own way.Leon opens up about being raised by Bosnian refugee parents, the promise to retire his mom with music, almost quitting after 2020, and why he plans to release two to three albums a year for the next five years.Sam shares what could be the biggest year of her life with a debut album, a wedding and a baby all at once. She talks defending California country, being one of the only Greek artists in the genre, and the legendary influences shaping her sound.https://www.whiskeyriff.comhttps://shop.whiskeyriff.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Your weekly country news update for the week of 2/23 featuring an interview with Angie Kay!

Ever argued over what makes a voice truly unique? We go all-in on that question and discover why “unmistakable” beats “perfect” almost every time. From Cher and Sinatra to Tom Waits, Stevie Nicks, and Bob Dylan, we debate tone, phrasing, range, and the magic test: can you spot them in one note?We kick off with a left-field warm-up on Texas Roadhouse—founder geography, 34-degree cutting rooms, 36-degree beer, fresh-daily bread, and how grassroots roll drops double as smart local marketing. Then it's a tight country news sweep: Ella Langley's triple-chart moment, Jason Aldean's milestone perspective against legacy greats, the Country Music Hall of Fame's American Currents signal, the Braves Country Fest lineup, new drops from Luke Combs to Charlie Crockett, a classic country tour package, and a Lee Brice single stirring up “country nowadays” debate. The throughline is clear: country's center is widening and listeners are picking winners across lanes.Our chart check balances mainstream and indie, spotlighting why a hold at number three means something different than a quick climb to one, and how pop-country crossovers, storytelling, and rock edges share the same field. Then a rapid-fire trivia duel (rock and country) transforms fun facts into a map of genre evolution—Zeppelin's first name, Master of Puppets in 1986, who ripped the Beat It solo, Opry induction stats, Chris Gaines, and more.The mailbag brings the sharpest industry insights. Can an artist be “outlaw” with label money? What's smarter today: 20-track albums or a disciplined singles drip? Is vinyl a real revenue lane or a nostalgia-forward merch play? Who owns the masters when singers go solo—and what can they do about it? We unpack strategy, contracts, and fan behavior without the fluff.Episode LinksVonray: https://jayfranze.com/episode1/Jason Hale: https://jayfranze.com/episode55/Kyle Fields: https://jayfranze.com/episode79/Lucy Becker: https://jayfranze.com/episode86/Mark Badolato: https://jayfranze.com/episode140/Send a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Your weekly country news update for the week of 2/17 featuring an interview with Caroline Jones!

What makes a halftime show unforgettable: fireworks or feeling? We put country's biggest names under the stadium lights and ask who can truly command 12 minutes seen by the world. From Carrie Underwood's precision to Garth Brooks's jet-fueled stagecraft, Dolly Parton's sparkle to Taylor Swift's era-spanning spectacle, we break down who has the catalog, pacing, and production sense to turn a giant field into a living music video without losing the heartbeat of live performance.We also dig into a wild Super Bowl weekend of music: Brandi Carlile's goosebump take on America the Beautiful, the All-American alternative halftime stacked with country heavyweights, and the ongoing tug-of-war between lip sync polish and live grit. Then there's Kid Rock hinting at a “Robert Ritchie” narrative pivot and a cross-genre tour that could pull fresh ears into country's orbit. Add festival news, a wave of new releases from Eric Church, Carter Faith, and Koe Wetzel, and Cody Johnson teasing collaborations with Luke Combs and Brothers Osborne, and you've got a snapshot of where country is leaning next.Our listener question spins into a masterclass on reinvention: Bruce Dickinson, Brian Johnson, and Sammy Hagar all lifted their bands by changing the center of gravity. The takeaway for artists is simple and hard—evolve without losing soul. We cap it off with chart rundowns, indie gems, and real talk on artist development, time triage, and why most “opportunities” only matter if they move the craft forward.Hit play, argue with our halftime picks, and tell us who you'd book for the big game. If this episode got you thinking, follow, share with a friend, and leave a quick review—your note helps more music lovers find the show.Episode LinksBob Bullock: https://jayfranze.com/episode28/Dave Jackson: https://jayfranze.com/episode53/Kate Stanton: https://jayfranze.com/episode83/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/John Mason: https://jayfranze.com/episode191/Send a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Think the Grammys always reward the biggest voices? We put that idea on trial. From Luke Combs and Blake Shelton to Eric Church and Martina McBride, we map the stunning list of country heavyweights with multiple nominations and zero wins—and ask what those numbers really say about merit, timing, and taste. Then we widen the lens: Jelly Roll's breakout sweep, Zac Top's historic Traditional Country win, and how a single new category can rewrite a career's story overnight.We keep the momentum with a packed news slate: Lainey Wilson's cryptic “Can't Sit Still” teasers and possible Netflix tie‑in, Hardy's cinematic multi‑generational collab featuring Tim McGraw, Eric Church, and Morgan Wallen, Tim McGraw's Pawn Shop Guitar tour routing through Fenway Park, and The Voice's two‑hour season launch after the Winter Games. Along the way, we talk performance versus polish, the role of auto‑tune in modern crossovers, and why some artists soar on stage even if the trophies never land.Our community brings the heat with the Question of the Day: name an artist who left a famous band and built a real solo legacy. From Michael Jackson, Phil Collins, Stevie Nicks, and Peter Gabriel to Darius Rucker and Peter Cetera, your picks fuel a rapid-fire tour through rock, country, pop, and beyond. We balance it with a transparent look at the business: do labels still help, or are they just advances with branding? Is touring truly profitable for rising acts in vans and trailers? And how do indie artists build durability when playlist spikes fade?We round it out with a sharp chart rundown—main and indie—plus a 2006 flashback to Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts, Keith Urban, Sugarland, Miranda Lambert, and George Strait, showing how yesterday's storytelling still shapes today's sound. If you love country music, industry strategy, and a lively back-and-forth that doesn't hedge, this one's for you.Enjoyed the show? Subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review with your pick for the greatest solo career after a famous band—we'll feature favorites next week.Episode LinksTom Harding: https://jayfranze.com/episode30/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark Badolato: Send a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Your weekly country news update for the week of 2/9 featuring an interview with Frankie Ballard!

We're back for 2026

Two truths can coexist in country music: rebellion built the house, and strategy keeps the lights on. We kick off with the spirit of outlaw country—not noise for its own sake, but independence from industry molds—then map how that 70s ethos shows up today. From Waylon and Willie to modern names making savvy moves, we explore what “outlaw” means when radio is crowded, playlists pay pennies, and authenticity has to outlast trends.We also dive into hot headlines shaping the scene. Carrie Underwood hits pause on touring without an album cycle, George Strait goes intimate with in-the-round shows in Austin, and Laney Wilson's new Netflix doc promises a closer look at her rise. Alongside the news, we unpack chart momentum, indie standouts, and why some songs land hard when they close with a line that lingers. It's all connected: the brand you build, the rooms you play, and how you keep fans close enough to feel it.The mailbag brings the heat with smart questions. Are playlists more important than radio? Short answer: both matter—playlists help with discovery and micro income, radio still confers status and community. Are showcases worth it? Absolutely, because decision-makers want to feel your live energy. How do you avoid burnout? Schedule joy and protect the parts of the work that make you come alive. We also shout out the unsung roles—engineers, managers, A&R—who carry artists farther than most realize. Episode LinksScotty Simpson: https://jayfranze.com/episode3/Bob Bullock: https://jayfranze.com/episode28/Dave Jackson: https://jayfranze.com/episode53/Bruce Reiter: https://jayfranze.com/episode67/Avery Glenn Crabtree: https://jayfranze.com/episode77/Mike Skill: https://jayfranze.com/episode78/Bruce Tarletsky: https://jayfranze.com/episode81/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark Badolato: https://jayfranze.com/episode140Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

What if the songs that still feel new are actually twenty years old? We kick off with a nostalgia gut-punch as Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts, early Taylor Swift, and more hit the 20-year mark—then use that time warp to ask what truly lasts in music. From there, we swing into a high-energy news sweep: Zach Brown's album debuting at No.1 across all genres, Ella Langley's record-setting run on UK country airplay, leadership changes at the CMA, and a wave of new releases that balance story-first songwriting with cinematic promos.The heart of the show is a listener-fueled 80s showdown. Names fly—George Strait, Reba, Randy Travis, Journey, Queen, U2, Depeche Mode—and we unpack why Michael Jackson's studio innovation, Quincy Jones' production, and Toto's session muscle still shape how pop and rock are made. Along the way, we break down what makes today's country hooks stick, from Ella Langley's vocal scoops to Riley Green's easy swing, and count down the current charts with sharp, no-fluff commentary on what's climbing and why.We also open the hood on career arcs. Our “Where Are They Now?” segment revisits Gretchen Wilson, Easton Corbin, The Band Perry, and others to reveal how radio trends, label friction, burnout, and smart pivots steer longevity. The mailbag gets practical: labels act like banks and networks; independence is freedom plus workload; inputs beat vanity metrics. Measure what you control—releases, gigs, writing sessions—and let the audience decide what endures. Stick around to hear about our Podfest weekend, meet a few friends of the show, and grab a handful of behind-the-scenes gems that keep the community tight.Episode LinksVaughn Rhea: https://jayfranze.com/episode1/Garrett Landers: https://jayfranze.com/episode66/Avery Glenn Crabtree: https://jayfranze.com/episode77/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark Badolato: https://jayfranze.com/episode140/Stephanie Rabus: https://jayfranze.com/episode149/Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Power, ownership, and timing decide more careers than any single hook—and this episode shows why. We pull back the curtain on country music's biggest label battles, from unpaid digital royalties to shelved albums and surprise re-releases. Kenny Rogers, Brad Paisley, and the Chicks wrestle with reporting and payouts; Tim McGraw challenges an “unfair” contract and wins; and Garth Brooks redefines royalties with a bold 50-percent deal. Then there's Taylor Swift, turning re-recordings into a masterclass on leverage and fan alignment, and Morgan Wallen calling out reissued early work that tests the ethics of timing and brand control.We keep the pace quick with a news sweep that actually matters: Margo Price aiming for Grammy glory, Jelly Roll judging a Star Search reboot, Zach Bryan's deeply personal wedding tribute, and Garth teasing a tour that will melt ticket sites. We talk duets that blur the line between home and studio, why CRS still sets the tone for country radio and industry strategy, and how authenticity cuts through the noise when new and legacy artists share the same stage.Listeners jump in with their favorite music documentaries and create a watchlist worth saving: Sound City, It Might Get Loud, History of the Eagles, and the ever-quotable Spinal Tap. We fold that into our country chart rundown and indie spotlight, highlighting songs on the rise and the artists betting on craft over hype.Episode LinksScotty Simpson: https://jayfranze.com/episode3/Bob Bullock: https://jayfranze.com/episode28/Dave Jackson: https://jayfranze.com/episode53/William Lee Golden: https://jayfranze.com/episode72/John McEuen: https://jayfranze.com/episode85/McBride & The Ride: https://jayfranze.com/episode87/Billie Jo Jones: https://jayfranze.com/episode98/Dalila Mya: https://jayfranze.com/episode102/Mark Badolato: https://jayfranze.com/episode1Send us a text Support the showLinks Jay Franze: https://jayfranze.com/ JFS Country Countdown: https://jayfranze.com/countdown/ Contact Contact: https://jayfranze.com/contact/ Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayfranze TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayfranze X: https://x.com/jayfranze YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jayfranze Services Services: https://jayfranze.com/services/ Books Books: https://jayfranze.com/books/ Merchandise Merchandise: https://jayfranze.com/merchandise/ Support Support: https://jayfranze.com/support/ Sponsor the Show: https://jayfranze.com/sponsor/

Braxton Keith, honky tonk country singer and rising star, joins us to talk life on the road, music, and finding balance in a crazy schedule. He shares what it's been like performing 150 shows a year, how his band became like family, and the story behind his hit song “Cozy.” Braxton also opens up about embracing traditional country, navigating the modern music world, including his thoughts on AI in music, and creating his character Kick Stanley and the “Tonk News” brand. Plus, he clears up the Toby Keith question, talks about his family of dentists, and shares how he avoids burnout while staying busy offstage.WARNING: This product contains nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive chemical. Underage sale prohibited. This episode is presented by Nicokick.Use code WHISKEYRIFF for 20% off logged-in orders at Nicokick.com.Download the podcast on iTunes by searching “Whiskey Riff Raff."We're also available on Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, and wherever else you can find us.https://www.whiskeyriff.comhttps://shop.whiskeyriff.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week's episode is brought to you by ZBiotics. Go to https://zbiotics.com/RIFFRAFF and use RIFFRAFF at checkout for 15% off any first time orders of ZBiotics probiotics.Larry Fleet, country singer and Black Buffalo ambassador, joins us to talk new music, faith, sobriety, and some downright wild stories. He shares what to expect from his upcoming February record, how he connects with fans around the world, and why he still writes drinking songs despite stepping away from alcohol. Larry also opens up about the role God plays in his music… and tells us about the UFO he saw, his ghost encounter, and why he believes in Bigfoot.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week's episode is brought to you by ZBiotics. Go to https://zbiotics.com/RIFFRAFF and use RIFFRAFF at checkout for 15% off any first time orders of ZBiotics probiotics.Isaac Gibson, lead singer of 49 Winchester, details the bands success over the last few years as they've come a long way from Virginia while building a loyal fan base. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week's episode is brought to you by ZBiotics. Go to https://zbiotics.com/RIFFRAFF and use RIFFRAFF at checkout for 15% off any first time orders of ZBiotics probiotics.Benjamin Tod opens up about faith, songwriting, and staying grounded while country keeps changing. He talks about walking away from the darkness, leaning into Christianity, and why staying true matters more than chasing streams.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.