Bobby Bones Presents: The BobbyCast

At the 58th ACM Awards, people were introduced to the married duo, The War and Treaty, when they performed their song "Blank Page." Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter talk to Bobby about their unusual start in the music industry, their resilience as a couple working together and the turning point that changed everything for them. Michael, who served in the army, shared how he learned to play piano while in the military and how it inspired him to start writing songs for the fallen. The War and Treaty also reveals what their duo name stands for and gives an inside look to their incredible love story that led them to make their latest album, Lover's Game, and more! 

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Fresh off the heels of his first number one song, "Wild As Her," rising country star, Corey Kent (@CoreyKent), talks to Bobby about his winding road to success in the music industry. When the pandemic started and live music stopped, Corey started working at a pavement company to make money and support his wife and kids. During that time, he got sent a demo of a song Morgan Wallen wrote, which he recorded while still working at the paving company until it went viral. He shares his journey from moving to Nashville at 17, getting dropped from his publishing deal, moving back home in Texas to landing a record deal. Corey also recalls the time he ended up on stage with Willie Nelson when he was 16 and what Willie gave him. He also shares how much his life has changed in the last year, the process of making his new album, how he's preparing to go on tour with Jason Aldean this summer, and more! 

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Patrick Hicks (@PatrickHicks82) has become a TikTok star for his music storytelling videos where he shares stories on musicians' background, how they got their start, and fun facts about their life. He joins Bobby for a conversation about why he started making videos, how he knows a bunch of music info and how he gained a massive social media following.  He also discusses the challenges of working a normal 9-5 job and doing social media full time on the side. Patrick will also share his thoughts on the legalities of AI music creation and how he thinks it will affect music in the future. And he'll share what's next for him in his career!  

Check out his Podcast: Good Measure with Patrick Hicks - HERE

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Shannon Ella and Kevin O'Connell give their initial reaction following Thursday night's 58th ACM Awards. From their initial thoughts, to running through every award and giving their biggest surprise, Shannon and Kevin cover it all immediately following the show! You can follow Shannon @ShannonElla_ & Kevin @kickoffkevin

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Meghan Patrick (@MeghanPatrickMusic) is unapologetically herself in this conversation with Bobby. Meghan is a Canadian country music superstar, and the back-to-back winner of the Canadian Country Music Associations Female Artist of The Year. But finding her way in the American country music scene hasn't been easy. She talks about how she turned to music after she got into a serious snowboarding accident, and focused on it so much that she dropped out of college to pursue it as a career, which her parents weren't too pleased with. Meghan also shares how she and Mitchell Tenpenny met and what married life is like with them both on tour and away from each other. She also discusses her latest project, Greatest Show On Dirt, and how she was brutally honest with herself and her struggles while creating the songs for the EP. 

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In the final episode of the first batch of season 2, Kevin sits down with independent artist Royale Lynne. Royale is originally from Canada, and she and Kevin talk about the Visa she has to obtain in order to stay in Nashville! Plus, Royale talks about creating her own genre which she calls 'Punktry', playing as a Hannah Montana cover as a child, opening for Luke Combs this summer, and much more! 

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Since his new album comes out next week, Bobby takes a look back at the first time he met Bailey Zimmerman. Just a few years ago, Bailey Zimmerman was working at the gas pipeline…fast forward to this year and he just signed his first record deal! Bailey talks to Bobby about how he never sang his entire life until one day at the opportunity at a basketball court then decided he wanted to drop everything  to pursue music! He started out in 2020 on TikTok just posting videos of his custom lifted trucks and then got attention from record labels and management after one of his songs went viral.  Bailey talks about how he’s had to learn everything in such a small amount of time, getting to play his first shows and how his biggest inspirations are rock star frontmen. 

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Jessie Jo Dillon (@JessieJoDillon) has penned songs recorded by some of the biggest names in today’s music, including Dan + Shay, Maren Morris, Old Dominion, Cole Swindell & many more. She's had 21 cuts since January 2023, and 32 in the last 12 months. She talks to Bobby about how some people were mean to her because her father, Dean Dillon, was a famous songwriter, and how she wasn't taken seriously in the beginning. Jessie Jo Dillon also shares what it was like getting her first major cut recorded by George Strait, and now having some of country's biggest artists record her songs. She'll also explain why even though she was the 2019 winner of Songwriter of The Year, she doesn't like to perform at writers rounds and why she once ran away from the idea of becoming a songwriter. Jessie also shares what needs to go into a song to make it a hit and more! 

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On this week's episode of Unsigned & Independent, Kevin sits down with a familiar face around the Bobby Bones Show studio - Canaan Cox. Kevin and Canaan talk about the first time he ran into Bobby while working as a waiter, and why he's done with playing on Broadway. Plus, Canaan talks about his fitness journey of losing close to 100 pounds, why his love story sounds like a movie, and how all of that has led him to living his best life as an artist. 

Twitter & IG: @Canaancox

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Podcast Description:

Unsigned and Independent is a six episode season podcast hosted by Kevin O’Connell that features unsigned and independent artists and bands in Nashville. The purpose of this podcast is to highlight the journey and grind musicians go through trying to make it in the industry; the journey most fans don’t see leading up to national success. People move to music city from all over the country to chase something they have only dreamed of – making music and performing for a living. This podcast will dive into stories on the road, late nights and early mornings on the infamous Broadway, their background story, and if there is an ultimate goal for each artist or band. The artists featured on this podcast don’t have the backing of a label or sometimes even management, or a publishing team to handle their bookings, travel, etc.… But what they all have in common is a genuine passion for the love of music and performing. There is hidden talent spread throughout music city and the aim of this podcast is to give this hidden talent an opportunity to have a platform for an audience to hear their story, what the process is really like in the industry, and hopefully gain a new fan or two.  

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Songwriter, producer and lead singer and founding member of Better Than Ezra, Kevin Griffin (@kevinmgriffin) is now adding author to his long list of accomplishments. His first book  ‘The Greatest Song: Spark Creativity, Ignite Your Career and Transform Your Life’ is out today (April 25) and he shares with Bobby how the many ups and downs of his career inspired it. Kevin also talks about the many songs he's written like Howie Days "Collide," Train's "I Got You," and Sugarland's "Stuck Like Glue," and explains why radio stations refused to play it. He also shares how he started the band Better Than Ezra and how he made their first album for only $5,000! Kevin also shares stories with Bobby of when Peyton Manning would bring his Colts teammates to his concerts, why he started and co-founded The Pilgrimage Festival, and more! 

*The Pilgrimage Festival is happening September 23 & 24, 2023. Tickets are available here: https://pilgrimagefestival.com/tickets

**Kevin Griffin's book ‘The Greatest Song: Spark Creativity, Ignite Your Career and Transform Your Life’ is out now! https://www.kevingriffinmusic.com/the-greatest-song

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On this week's episode of Unsigned & Independent, Kevin has on Australian native Zoee! Kevin and Zoee talk about growing up in the middle of nowhere Australia with no tv, no phones, just radio and records that made her fall in love with music. Plus, Zoee is accompanied by James House - who has written number ones for Martina McBride and Dwight Yoakam - as he unexpectedly hopped on to give his perspective on the growth he has seen in Zoee in just a few short years. Kevin and Zoee also talk about her #1 in Australia, why it's been so hard to get back there, and what else she has in the works.

Check out Zoey on Instagram @ZoeeMusic

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Podcast Description:

Unsigned and Independent is a six episode season podcast hosted by Kevin O’Connell that features unsigned and independent artists and bands in Nashville. The purpose of this podcast is to highlight the journey and grind musicians go through trying to make it in the industry; the journey most fans don’t see leading up to national success. People move to music city from all over the country to chase something they have only dreamed of – making music and performing for a living. This podcast will dive into stories on the road, late nights and early mornings on the infamous Broadway, their background story, and if there is an ultimate goal for each artist or band. The artists featured on this podcast don’t have the backing of a label or sometimes even management, or a publishing team to handle their bookings, travel, etc.… But what they all have in common is a genuine passion for the love of music and performing. There is hidden talent spread throughout music city and the aim of this podcast is to give this hidden talent an opportunity to have a platform for an audience to hear their story, what the process is really like in the industry, and hopefully gain a new fan or two.  

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Alana Springsteen (@alanaspringsteen) is a rising country singer-songwriter whose passionate and relatable songs have made her stand out. Bobby learns more about how she got her start in music, including how she started singing The National Anthem at Chicago Cubs Games at only 9 years old, and getting a publishing deal at 14. Part one of her debut album, TWENTY SOMETHING: Messing It Up, is out now and she shares the inspiration behind the album and why she chose to make it a three-part project. Alana also discusses how Taylor Swift inspired her to be a songwriter and what it was like to work with Liz Rose, who co-wrote many of Swift's early songs. She also shares why she believes in signs and how having bad taste in guys has helped her songwriting. Alana also clears up any misconceptions that she is related to Bruce Springsteen, and more! 

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Episode 2 of this season on Unsigned & Independent features a Texas native named Megan Ashley. Kevin and Megan talk about COVID hindering her from moving to Nashville but ultimately making her a better artist. They also dive into her Texas roots, going from a Kinesiology major to playing music, being a life coach part-time which helps her own career and much more! 

Follow: @KickOffKevin

Podcast Description:

Unsigned and Independent is a six episode season podcast hosted by Kevin O’Connell that features unsigned and independent artists and bands in Nashville. The purpose of this podcast is to highlight the journey and grind musicians go through trying to make it in the industry; the journey most fans don’t see leading up to national success. People move to music city from all over the country to chase something they have only dreamed of – making music and performing for a living. This podcast will dive into stories on the road, late nights and early mornings on the infamous Broadway, their background story, and if there is an ultimate goal for each artist or band. The artists featured on this podcast don’t have the backing of a label or sometimes even management, or a publishing team to handle their bookings, travel, etc.… But what they all have in common is a genuine passion for the love of music and performing. There is hidden talent spread throughout music city and the aim of this podcast is to give this hidden talent an opportunity to have a platform for an audience to hear their story, what the process is really like in the industry, and hopefully gain a new fan or two.  

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gary Mule Deer's (@Gary_MuleDeer) unique comedy and music career have set him apart for over six decades. His path to starting in music to getting into comedy by accident is one of the most unconventional stories that Bobby has been able to dive into. Gary talks about once being roommates with Steve Martin and how he wrote his first joke. Also how he used to hangout with Johnny Carson and was at David Letterman's very first comedy set. Bobby also explores Gary's musical background and how he once shared the stage with Frank Sinatra and Willie Nelson on the same night, and we find out why Sinatra told him he was unusual. Gary also shares how he was surprised by his recent Grand Ole Opry induction, and more!

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Unsigned & Independent is back with 16 new episodes for season 2. Episode 1 features an artist from St. Louis named Tera Fister. Kevin and Tera talk about her first visit to Nashville and how getting called on stage by a band led to her ultimately moving to music city. Tera has been in Nashville for a decade, and she tells Kevin why trusting her own path during this time has been the backbone to get her through the good and bad days. Plus, Tera talks about some upcoming shows, and much more!  

Follow: @KickOffKevin

Podcast Description:

Unsigned and Independent is a six episode season podcast hosted by Kevin O’Connell that features unsigned and independent artists and bands in Nashville. The purpose of this podcast is to highlight the journey and grind musicians go through trying to make it in the industry; the journey most fans don’t see leading up to national success. People move to music city from all over the country to chase something they have only dreamed of – making music and performing for a living. This podcast will dive into stories on the road, late nights and early mornings on the infamous Broadway, their background story, and if there is an ultimate goal for each artist or band. The artists featured on this podcast don’t have the backing of a label or sometimes even management, or a publishing team to handle their bookings, travel, etc.… But what they all have in common is a genuine passion for the love of music and performing. There is hidden talent spread throughout music city and the aim of this podcast is to give this hidden talent an opportunity to have a platform for an audience to hear their story, what the process is really like in the industry, and hopefully gain a new fan or two.  

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Multi-platinum selling songwriter and producer Sam Hollander (@SamHollander) stopped by Bobby's house to talk about his new book '21 Hit Wonder,' how his career started in the music industry, the odd side gigs he did and more! Sam Hollander has over 21 hit singles and has written and produced for artists like Panic! At The Disco, One Direction, Katy Perry, Ringo Starr and many more! But the road to making it in the music industry wasn't easy. He talks about getting a record deal as a rap artist to only be dropped two weeks later, and all the side gigs he had to take like making beats on Kids Bop Records before he made it. Sam also shares how Andy Warhol became his babysitter and the artist who gave him confidence to chase his dreams. He also explains why he wants to give back to others who want a career in the music industry by sharing his knowledge, failures and success stories! 

Get Sam's Book by clicking HERE!

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Benji (@TheBenjiChord) stopped by Bobby's house to do an interview and shared how commenting on country music posts landed him a job in the industry! He also talks about how he built an online following to create his own brand! Benji gives an inside look of what it means to do A&R and the difference between a music and publishing deal. Plus, how he got into country music as a first generation American. He also shares some behind the scenes about your next favorite song and the advice Dan of Dan + Shay gave him! 

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Sunny Sweeney stopped by Bobby's house to talk about her journey as a singer songwriter coming from Texas and trying to make it in Nashville. She talks about getting discovered on Myspace and signing her first record deal, to only be dropped from it, to three months later being nominated for an ACM Award. Sunny also discusses how she thought about quitting music until she kept receiving signs to keep going, like her most recent one of being featured in the Country Music Hall Of Fame. She also talks about the ups and downs of her personal life and the advice she'd give to people who want to pursue a music career. Sunny recently released a cover of Emmylou Harris song "Red Dirt Girl," and she talks about the seven-year process of recording that song and writing a letter to Emmylou asking if she'd sing harmonies on it! 

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Martina McBride (@MartinaMcBride) recently stopped by Bobby's house to discuss her over 30-year career of being one of country music's most powerful voices, how she got her start, her passion for cooking, the secret to her 35 year marriage and explains the joke Loretta Lynn made inducting her into The Opry. Martina moved to Nashville in1990 to pursue a career in music, and since then has gotten 20 Top Ten hits and 6 number-one songs, won four CMA Female Vocalist of The Year Awards and three ACM Top Female Vocalist honors. But, success didn't always come easy.

She shares how she called around to radio stations to fight for her song "Independence Day '' and how she received resistance for it. She also shares what it was like coming from a small town in Kansas with only a population of 200, to moving to Nashville and performing in front of thousands of fans. Martina also talks about her love for cooking and what led to her releasing multiple cookbooks and reveals the secret to her 35 year marriage. She also discusses the moment Loretta Lynn inducted her into The Opry and the joke she made backstage. 

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Chase Rice (@ChaseRice) recently released his new album "I Hate Cowboys & All Dogs Go To Hell" and he stopped by Bobby's house to discuss his new music, mindset and answer some personal questions. Chase moved to Nashville in 2010 and almost immediately found success when he co-wrote Florida Georgia Line's hit song "Cruise." But why his early success didn't lead him where he wanted to go in his career. He talks about how for years he wasn't making the music he truly wanted to, until now with his most recent record. Chase shares how he's being more honest with his work, but at the same time, isn't fully happy with where he is in his career and what he hopes to achieve in the future. He also talks about overcoming depression and the new mindset he has and why he's choosing to be single right now for the first time in years. 

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Luke Combs turns 33 today! We want to take a look back at when he stopped by the BobbyCast back in 2020. Luke was fresh off of his SNL debut when we sat down to record this. He talks about finding out he was the musical guest just a week and a half out. Luke tells the story of the guy at a record label who told him he needed to go back and write better songs after meeting him. Luke then turns all the songs he played for him that day into No. 1. He also talks about why he is vegan for the next 3 months, his 7 No. 1 songs and why he was hiding cash around his house. 

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Hailey Whitters (@HaileyWhitters) first single at country radio "Everything She Ain't" is climbing the charts and she stopped by Bobby's house before going on her new headlining Raised Tour. Hailey moved from a small town in Iowa to Nashville 15 years ago to pursue a career in country music but kept facing struggles. She talks about all the difficulties she had and ways she tried to make it, the jobs she had to take to survive, and the moment she got her publishing deal and first big song recorded by another artist but was still so broke she had to sleep in the airport one night. Hailey shares how she self-funded her 2020 album 'The Dream' that lead to her first breakthrough before getting her record deal. She also talks about the country artists who have slept on her couch and watching them all become successful before she did, and how it feels to finally have a song on radio. Plus cool moments like getting to perform on Jimmy Kimmel and Kelly Clarkson covering her song.

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Chris Shiflett just released a new solo song “Black Top White Lines” which he recorded in Nashville and stopped by Bobby’s house while he was in town to play the Ryman as a solo artist. Chis joined the Foo Fighters as lead guitarist in 1999. He talks about how he first joined the band, the dynamic between the band in the studio and the largest crowd they’ve ever performed in front of. Chris shares how he got started playing guitar, his days playing in punk bands such as No Use for a Name, touring with the Foo Fighters, and how he got started with his solo career and writing and recording music in Nashville. Chris talks about what the transition is like from playing lead guitar in a famous rock band to being the front man on his own shows. Chris also sets a internet rumor straight that has been falsely reported for years. 

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Bobby was just in Oklahoma so wanted to revist his visit with the legend herself, Reba McEntire. They talk about it all! Reba shares stories behind her new project Revived Remixed Revisited including a new version of “Does He Love You” with Dolly Parton. She talks about the time she made her Opry debut and had her set cut short because of Dolly. She addressed all the biggest Urban Legends about her turning down role in Titanic, and if Faith Hill really didn’t get the part as her backup singer. She also talks about where her love of corn dogs came from, how she goes grocery shopping and to Starbucks by herself and the first time she realized she was famous!

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For King and Country (@forkingandcountry) are made up of two Brothers Joel & Luke Smallbone. They stop by Bobby’s house fresh off their trip to the Grammys after earning a nomination with their friend, Hillary Scott of Lady A. Joel shares why he was depressed days after the trip. They share their amazing story of how their family moved from Australia with nothing to the United States and how they got by living in a house without furniture. They got their start touring with their famous sister Rebecca St. James and how they didn’t want anyone to know they were related when they became, For King and Country. They also share stories about their large family, what it’s like working as brothers, their new movie, and their perception as Christian artists.

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Jon Nite (@jnitewriter)is a Grammy-nominated, CMA and ACM award winning singer/songwriter with 15 No. 1’s and counting. He dealt with many struggles in his life growing up without much in Texas, getting his girlfriend pregnant when he was only 16 and the repercussions it had on his father who worked in the church. Jon talks about what motivated him to move to Nashville to study music and pursue songwriting even when everything in his world felt like chaos.  He talks about meeting Gabby Barrett for the first time and writing and recording “I Hope” together. He also reveals the real story of how Charlie Puth got added as a featured artist. And the first time he met Garth Brooks and why he apologized to Jon. 

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Kameron Marlowe (@kameronmarlowe) moved to Nashville 4 years ago at 21 years old. He started out playing on Broadway in order to make ends meet. After signing his record deal in 2020, his trajectory changed as the world shut down but that allowed him to take time to work on his debut album which came out last year. Kameron talks to Bobby about how his failed proposal led to his song “Giving You Up” then releasing it out of spite, how he found out his grandma smoked weed, and falling off stage opening up for Morgan Wallen. 

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In honor of his new album the mockingbird & THE CROW...Bobby wanted to revist the first time he met HARDY. In this first meeting they talk about Hardy's journey from songwriter to artist. Hardy talks about his success as a songwriter with songs like “God’s Country”, “Simple”, “More Than My Hometown” and his first No. 1!

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Jake Owen (@jakeowenofficial) returns to the BobbyCast to share all of his big life updates with Bobby. He shares how his perspective changed now that he is in his 40’s and what would be the reason he would retire from music. Jake looks back on the day he made the decision to move to Nashville, the conversation he had with his parents on dropping out of college, leaving his twin brother behind and the real reason he goes by Jake instead of his real name. Jake gives a health update after going to the hospital for exhaustion last year and being sober for over a year and a half.  He gets emotional talking about a story that came out recently about him letting a cancer patient borrow his tour bus to get to treatment safely. Jake also talks about why learning to adapt to life on the road is the hardest thing about being an artist.

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Dallas Smith (@DallasSmithMusic) has an origin story unlike any you’ve ever heard. His path from alternative to country music fame is one of the most unconventional stories that Bobby has been able to dive into. Dallas talks about growing up a really shy kid in Canada and not performing publicly until he was forming his first band, Default that went on to get a record deal and land hits at rock radio. Bobby and Dallas get into the hardships of the road, bankrupt record labels and what lead him to take a step away from Default to focus on a career in country music. Dallas talks about what fame is like in Canada, why he still hasn’t moved to the US and how his friendship with Chad Kroeger of Nickelback. 

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Tom Douglas returns! He has written No.1’s such as “I Run You” by Lady A, “The House That Built Me” by Miranda Lambert, “Raise Em Up” by Keith Urban + Eric Church and many more! Tom shares how he stays active and positive as he approaches his 70th birthday + how he has learned to be intentional with his time. He shares how the idea came about for his new documentary “Love, Tom”, how it started as a one man show and then ended up on Paramount+. Tom also shares stories with Bobby behind his biggest hits, which he has to perform live and how he got his start as a songwriter later in life.

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In this episode, we've compiled stories from past Bobbycast episodes on how various bands got their names.  You'll hear how Dan + Shay, Lady A, Rascal Flatts, Old Dominion, Little Big Town, Locash, NSYNC, Creed, Seaforth and LANCO decided on their names, some of the struggles they went through with their name, and what they called themselves before they made it big. 

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Mike D takes you along our favorite moments from the BobbyCast this year! In Part 2, you’ll hear stories from Ronnie Dunn of Brooks and Dunn, Sherly Crow, Gavin DeGraw, Rita Wilson and Billy Ray Cyrus! Stories of living with Johnny Cash, getting clean and what it’s like to be famous.

Check out Movie Mike's Movie Podcast HERE

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Mike D takes you along our favorite moments from the BobbyCast this year! In Part 1, you’ll hear stories from Bailey Zimmerman, Tyler Hubbard, Morgan Wade, Breland and JT Harding! Stories of falling into music by accident, getting to open for superstars, breaking up and more.

Check out Mike D on Movie Mike's Movie Podcast! HERE

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John Esposito is leaving the position as the Chairman & CEO Warner Music Nashville after 13 years. He has overseen the label and grown it exponentially since he began in 2009 with artists from Dan + Shay to Kenny Chesney.  He talks about taking Blake Shelton from a point of almost getting dropped to being a super star. Espo is already credited with jump starting the careers of Hunter Hayes, Brett Eldredge, Cole Swindell and many more. He talks about the behind the scenes of running a record label, the advice he offers artists and what he will do after leaving Warner. He also shares some great stories about meeting Frank Sinatra, Paul McCartney and going to Burger King with Jay Z. 

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Chris Tomlin sits down with Bobby to talk about the unconventional journey that has led him to be one of the most successful Christian artists. Chris has an impressive resume with 17 #1 single, 29 top ten hits (more than any other Christian artist), and 12 million albums sold. He is also 1 of only 4 artists ever to receive 1 Billion digital radio streams, alongside Justin Timberlake, Pitbull and Garth Brooks. Chris shares stories about growing up in a small town in Texas, how love of music began in the church and how nervous he was the first time he performed. Bobby and Chris talk about how he handles his success, how he deals with fame and how he sometimes gets treated differently by people because he’s a Christian artist.

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Joey Moi has changed the sound of modern country music. He has been a producer on 62 No. 1 Songs, over 35 albums and 450 songs. He got his start in the music business working with Nickelback. While attending Vancouver’s Center for Digital Imaging and Sound his audio production assignment included recording early demos of the band. Joey and Bobby talk about how he got started writing and producing music in Canada and what inspired the move to Nashville intro country music. Joey shares stories behind the biggest albums he’s worked on from artists like Morgan Wallen, Jake Owen, Florida Georgia Line, Ernest and more!

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Jordan Reynolds has quickly made a name for himself in Nashville. His songs have been cut by Thomas Rhett, Camila Cabello, Dan + Shay, Carrie Underwood, Justin Bieber, and more.  He 7 #1 singles, including 5 of the last Dan + Shay hits, “Tequila,” “Speechless,”“All to Myself” and “10,000 Hours" and "Glad You Exist." He talks about how he didn’t set out to be a songwriter but discovered it in college after going after a vocal degree. He shares how his relationship with Dan + Shay formed, the success they’ve had together and what they are working on now. Bobby and him share the pros and cons of being eternal pessimists and optimists which changes the way they view accomplishments in their life. Jordan also shares the joke Bobby played on him years ago that made him gain respect for him. 

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This bonus episode features an artist who is signed, but he is still new to the industry and his story is unforgettable. Shane saw Chris Janson at a restaurant one night, and decided to introduce himself to Chris and take a chance at having Chris listen to his music. Fast forward 12 months later and the 2 are best friends, with Chris supporting and helping Shane sign to a label and release an EP. Kevin and Shane also discuss Shanes upbringing, and how this is a staple in his music and life. 

Follow: @KickOffKevin

Podcast Description:

Unsigned and Independent is a six episode season podcast hosted by Kevin O’Connell that features unsigned and independent artists and bands in Nashville. The purpose of this podcast is to highlight the journey and grind musicians go through trying to make it in the industry; the journey most fans don’t see leading up to national success. People move to music city from all over the country to chase something they have only dreamed of – making music and performing for a living. This podcast will dive into stories on the road, late nights and early mornings on the infamous Broadway, their background story, and if there is an ultimate goal for each artist or band. The artists featured on this podcast don’t have the backing of a label or sometimes even management, or a publishing team to handle their bookings, travel, etc.… But what they all have in common is a genuine passion for the love of music and performing. There is hidden talent spread throughout music city and the aim of this podcast is to give this hidden talent an opportunity to have a platform for an audience to hear their story, what the process is really like in the industry, and hopefully gain a new fan or two.  

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This conversation with Bobby and The Warren Brothers will inspire you. Brett and Brad have written hit songs such as “If You’re Reading This”, “Highway Don’t Care” “Red Solo Cup”  and many, many more.  They got their start as a duo and after years of partying on the road and losing a record deal…they have now both been sober for 17 years. They talk about their struggles with addiction and how getting sober ignited their career as songwriters. Brad also shares how he is helping fathers who have lost children after recently losing his oldest son. Bobby also reveals the role they played in the process of him moving to Nashville to be the host of The Bobby Bones Show. 

Check out Brad Warren's podcast about grief at GOODGRIEFGOODGODSHOW.COM

Also on Instagram: @goodgriefgoodgodshow

Follow the podcast: @TheBobbyCast

Watch this Episode on Youtube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 6 features a former Bobby Bones Show intern - Lexie Hayden (@LexieHayden). Lexie moved to Nashville permanently after finishing up her internship and college to pursue her music career. Kevin and Lexie dive into the benefits of interning for the show, how much her life has changed since she moved to Nashville, and what it was like being on an MTV reality show. Plus, they discuss how much she enjoys being independent and constantly working on new projects - including a new one with Pepsi.

Follow: @KickOffKevin

Podcast Description:

Unsigned and Independent is a six episode season podcast hosted by Kevin O’Connell that features unsigned and independent artists and bands in Nashville. The purpose of this podcast is to highlight the journey and grind musicians go through trying to make it in the industry; the journey most fans don’t see leading up to national success. People move to music city from all over the country to chase something they have only dreamed of – making music and performing for a living. This podcast will dive into stories on the road, late nights and early mornings on the infamous Broadway, their background story, and if there is an ultimate goal for each artist or band. The artists featured on this podcast don’t have the backing of a label or sometimes even management, or a publishing team to handle their bookings, travel, etc.… But what they all have in common is a genuine passion for the love of music and performing. There is hidden talent spread throughout music city and the aim of this podcast is to give this hidden talent an opportunity to have a platform for an audience to hear their story, what the process is really like in the industry, and hopefully gain a new fan or two.  

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Madeline Edwards (@MakingMadeline) has had a big year after signing a record deal, making her Opry debut, performing on the Today Show and releasing her debut album called “Crashlanded”. Madeline talks about what it was like growing up in a mixed-race household, training her voice and making money singing Jazz in bars / restaurants, and finding her place in country music. Madeline talks about what it was like signing her record deal, having her dream come true making the music video for her latest single and getting to tour with Chris Stapleton that included a massie stadium date. 

WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO: Madeline Edwards - Mama, Dolly, Jesus

Follow the podcast: @TheBobbyCast

Watch this Episode on Youtube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 5 features Walker Montgomery - son of John Michael Montgomery. Kevin and Walker dive into Walker's upbringing and focus on his story, but also the influence his father had on him growing up. Walker didn't play an instrument consistently until his teenage years, and he only spent 9 weeks in college before making the decision to move to Nashville. Kevin and Walker also discuss Walker's recent EP and how he naturally keeps the 90's country sound alive!

Follow: @KickOffKevin

Podcast Description:

Unsigned and Independent is a six episode season podcast hosted by Kevin O’Connell that features unsigned and independent artists and bands in Nashville. The purpose of this podcast is to highlight the journey and grind musicians go through trying to make it in the industry; the journey most fans don’t see leading up to national success. People move to music city from all over the country to chase something they have only dreamed of – making music and performing for a living. This podcast will dive into stories on the road, late nights and early mornings on the infamous Broadway, their background story, and if there is an ultimate goal for each artist or band. The artists featured on this podcast don’t have the backing of a label or sometimes even management, or a publishing team to handle their bookings, travel, etc.… But what they all have in common is a genuine passion for the love of music and performing. There is hidden talent spread throughout music city and the aim of this podcast is to give this hidden talent an opportunity to have a platform for an audience to hear their story, what the process is really like in the industry, and hopefully gain a new fan or two.  

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Caroline Jones has recently joined the Zac Brown Band full-time as an official member, making her the only female in the 8-piece group. She talks to Bobby of what that entails and the conversation she had with Zac about also prioritizing her career as a solo artist. Caroline talks about some of the other amazing acts she has had the opportunity to open for and Bobby asks her the toughest question she’s ever been asked. Caroline talks about how her latest album Antipodes was inspired by an extended trip she took to New Zealand during lockdown. Caroline and Bobby also share their theories on traditionalists in country music and Caroline trusts to let her know if a song is good or not. 

Follow the podcast: @TheBobbyCast

Watch this Episode on Youtube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 4 features Tom O'Connor. Tom is a former Washington DC lobbyist who found his love for music in college and decided to leave a steady job to chase his dream. Tom has written and had a single with Luke Combs, and he talks about the influence Luke has had on his career. Tom also gives some memorable stories on the road for all the wrong reasons, and what his advice is for anyone who wants to chase a dream!  

Podcast Description:

Unsigned and Independent is a six episode season podcast hosted by Kevin O’Connell that features unsigned and independent artists and bands in Nashville. The purpose of this podcast is to highlight the journey and grind musicians go through trying to make it in the industry; the journey most fans don’t see leading up to national success. People move to music city from all over the country to chase something they have only dreamed of – making music and performing for a living. This podcast will dive into stories on the road, late nights and early mornings on the infamous Broadway, their background story, and if there is an ultimate goal for each artist or band. The artists featured on this podcast don’t have the backing of a label or sometimes even management, or a publishing team to handle their bookings, travel, etc.… But what they all have in common is a genuine passion for the love of music and performing. There is hidden talent spread throughout music city and the aim of this podcast is to give this hidden talent an opportunity to have a platform for an audience to hear their story, what the process is really like in the industry, and hopefully gain a new fan or two.  

Follow: @KickOffKevin

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brett James  is a Grammy award-winning songwriter, has had more than 500 cuts, appearing on albums with combined sales of over 110 million copies, and 27 No. 1 hits. Brett had a fascinating journey to Nashville. He talks to Bobby about how he went from medical school to pursuing a career as a solo country artist in the 90’s. Brett shares how it all started with him writing one song that led to him getting major cuts for Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, Rascal Flatts, Dierks Bentley and more!

Follow the podcast: @TheBobbyCast

Watch this Episode on Youtube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 3, Kevin brings on an independent artist named Charly Reynolds. Charly has a popular social media presence, and she talks about how she had to get out of her comfort zone in order to use this to her musical advantage. Charly moved to Nashville from Florida after graduating high school and tells Kevin how important a supportive family was to get her through the days where she wanted to go back home. They also discuss her current single and future projects that are currently in the works. 

Podcast Description:

Unsigned and Independent is a six episode season podcast hosted by Kevin O’Connell that features unsigned and independent artists and bands in Nashville. The purpose of this podcast is to highlight the journey and grind musicians go through trying to make it in the industry; the journey most fans don’t see leading up to national success. People move to music city from all over the country to chase something they have only dreamed of – making music and performing for a living. This podcast will dive into stories on the road, late nights and early mornings on the infamous Broadway, their background story, and if there is an ultimate goal for each artist or band. The artists featured on this podcast don’t have the backing of a label or sometimes even management, or a publishing team to handle their bookings, travel, etc.… But what they all have in common is a genuine passion for the love of music and performing. There is hidden talent spread throughout music city and the aim of this podcast is to give this hidden talent an opportunity to have a platform for an audience to hear their story, what the process is really like in the industry, and hopefully gain a new fan or two.  

Follow: @KickOffKevin

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It hasn't been an easy road for Nate Smith, but he's proven that when you get knocked down, you have to get back up.  Guest host Abby sits down with Nate to talk about his journey from California to Nashville and how losing everything in a fire reignited his passion to pursue music full time.  Nate has a new album coming out soon, he's been on the road with Brett Eldredge and he made his Opry debut earlier this year. He's also super funny as you'll hear in this episode.  He shares the story behind his song "I Don't Wanna Go to Heaven," what his career goals are, his musical influences and he teases something huge for next year.  Nate and Abby talk about the struggles of dating, battling anxiety, and a creepy writing retreat.   To end the episode, he answers some rapid-fire questions and Abby embarrasses herself big time with one of the questions!

Follow Nate on Instagram @natesmith and on TikTok @natesmithmusic and Abby on Instagram @abby.anderson1_

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Keith Urban turns 55 years old today! In honor of his birthday, we wanted to share when Bobby and Keith sat down and dove into where his love of music started and how he discovered country music in Australia. Keith explains how his dad got him into country music and how their relationship led to him wanting to pursue it as a career. Keith talks about his early days starting out, his biggest inspiration as an artist, why he strives to make his live show so BIG and he also breaks down the day he wrote “Somebody Like You”. Bobby talks to Keith about how he and his wife Nicole Kidman seem like a normal despite each being huge stars. Keith confirms and debunks facts that you may have read about him online. Keith also talks about going to rehab for his struggles with addiction. 

Follow the podcast: @TheBobbyCast

Watch this Episode on Youtube

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 2, Kevin brings on a sibling trio band from South Dakota named Zeona Road. Kevin and Zeona Road dive into how much their mindset has changed since arriving in Nashville over 5 years ago, how he came across them 2+ years ago and was instantly hooked. Plus, Zeona Road talks about how growing up on the buffalo plains of South Dakota has prepared them for the grind of living in Nashville and trying to make it in the music industry.  

Podcast Description:

Unsigned and Independent is a six episode season podcast hosted by Kevin O’Connell that features unsigned and independent artists and bands in Nashville. The purpose of this podcast is to highlight the journey and grind musicians go through trying to make it in the industry; the journey most fans don’t see leading up to national success. People move to music city from all over the country to chase something they have only dreamed of – making music and performing for a living. This podcast will dive into stories on the road, late nights and early mornings on the infamous Broadway, their background story, and if there is an ultimate goal for each artist or band. The artists featured on this podcast don’t have the backing of a label or sometimes even management, or a publishing team to handle their bookings, travel, etc.… But what they all have in common is a genuine passion for the love of music and performing. There is hidden talent spread throughout music city and the aim of this podcast is to give this hidden talent an opportunity to have a platform for an audience to hear their story, what the process is really like in the industry, and hopefully gain a new fan or two.  

Follow: @KickOffKevin

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.