Bobby Bones Presents: The BobbyCast

Dan + Shay sit down with Bobby Bones and share an inside look of everything going on in their lives. They get vulnerable and share why they almost broke up, the moment they hit rock bottom and started to resent music, until a 3am talk saved the duo and their friendship. Dan also shares why he cut his hair and Shay details how getting sober and cutting sugar out of his diet changed his life. They also give a behind the scenes look of them joining 'The Voice' and what it's like being the first duo chair, and they talk about their new album Bigger Houses, out September 15th and more! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Part 2 of Behind the Scenes of the Music Industry, you'll hear from country music reporter & journalist, Marcus K Dowling, legendary music exec, Joe Galante, Grammy award winning producer, Nathan Chapman, General Manager of Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood's record labels, Lesly Simon, Luke Bryan and Cole Swindell's manager, Kerri Edwards and more! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on YoutubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This special episode of the BobbyCast is all about the Behind The Scenes of the Music Industry. How does a song get on the radio? What exactly does a producer and an artist manager do? How do record labels work? All of these questions will be answered. Throughout the years, Bobby has sat down with some of the biggest and most influential industry execs to hear about their roles in the business. In this episode you'll hear from Luke Combs' manager, Kappy, the former CEO of Warner Music Nashville, John Esposito, legendary producer, Dann Huff, the Head of iHeartCountry, Rod Phillips and more! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on YoutubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brandy Clark (@thebrandyclark) joined Bobby Bones to share some updates in her life. She recently won a Tony award for the music she wrote for the musical 'Shucked.' She talked about having to re-work most of the songs after getting mixed-reviews and how it took her 10 years to get it done. Brandy also opens up about her life growing up and how she went to college on a basketball scholarship, why she chose to give that up to pursue music, and her love for Magic Johnson! She also shared the stories behind the songs on her new self-titled album, what it was like working with Brandie Carlie as her producer, and more! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thomas Rhett (@thomasrhettatkins) sits down with Bobby Bones for an hour-long therapy session! He gets into why after he saw Taylor Swift's Era's Tour how he felt inspired but also jealous. Thomas also talks about why he hasn't been on social media since January, how it affected his mental health and why he started to not feel like himself anymore. He also discusses the importance of the charity he and his wife Lauren have started called Love One. Thomas also gets honest about his music journey as he reflects on the 20 Number One songs he's had, the new way he's approaching making music and why he hasn't listened to his songs in two months, and more! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bear Rinehart of NEEDTOBREATHE stopped by Bobby's house to talk about the journey he and the band have been on, how they manage to still get along after 9 albums and reflected on the time he thought the band was over. Bear also recalls what it was like to open for artists like Taylor Swift and One Republic. He also clarifies the Christian-Rock band title the band have been given, and the new musical direction they went in while creating their new album, Caves, that will be out September 15th! Bear also talks about his football days and how he used to make the band watch tape and more! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kix Brooks (@KixBrooks) of Brooks & Dunn hangs out with Bobby to talk about his extremely impressive career. Brooks & Dunn is the best-selling country duo of all time, and even though they got their start in the '80s, Kix shares how they are currently playing their biggest shows right now! He'll also share inside details on why they broke up and what Merle Haggard told them that caused him to have an issue with them. Kix has also been hosting the 'American Country Countdown' since 2006, and he'll share how he had to go to interview school to get better at radio. Kix also recalls getting discovered at The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, the first song he wrote that was special to him and more! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lily Rose (@LilyRoseMusicOfficial) joins Bobby Bones to share how she got her start in music and how she doesn't want to be defined by one genre. She shared how when she was working at the mall she would listen to BobbyCast episodes to learn more about being an artist. Lily looked back on the day she made the decision to move to Nashville, and how no one would give her the time of day until her song went viral on TikTok. She also shares how she and her wife met and why she does not want to be known as the 'gay' or 'TikTok' artist. Lily also talks about how she met Diplo, and they started working together and more! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Ray (@michaelraymusic) sits down with Bobby Bones to give a candid look on his public divorce and how he's grown personally and professionally from it. He'll share what he learned from it and what he wishes he had done differently. He gets vulnerable talking about the steps he took in therapy and how while he was going through that process he had the number one song on country radio. Michael will also share how he was diagnosed with depression and the healthy steps he's taking in his every day life to get better. He'll also talk about his new music, what it's like being on tour and why he feels like he's back in 2019 again. Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the finale of Season 2, Kickoff Kevin sits down with Spencer Crandall. Spencer and Kevin talk about their days of playing college football but being forced to retire early due to injuries, and how it led to new careers. Plus, Spencer dives into the advantages social media can give an independent artist, now that he has over 2.5 million TikTok followers. Spencer and Kevin also talk about him being on the road with Morgan Wallen in 2016 and much more! IG: @SpencerCrandall TikTok: @SpencerCrandall 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.

Warren Zeiders (@warrenzeiders) never intended to become a singer, until a sports injury changed his plans. He sits down with Bobby Bones to talk about his life before music, how he had a lacrosse scholarship in college, and how he got seven concussions while playing. He shares how the pandemic derailed his plans, so he posted a video of himself singing on TikTok that went viral. Warren also recalls the time he posted a video of himself singing on YouTube that he was bullied for, to then having industry people message him. He also reveals why he hired his mom to be his business manager, what fans can expect from his new album Pretty Little Poison coming out in August, and more! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on YoutubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On season 2, episode 9 of Unsigned & Independent, Kevin sits down with Fort Smith, Arkansas native - JD Clayton. JD talks about losing his job during COVID and having to work for a landscaping company to make ends meet, but this ultimately led to him writing his first album while on the job. Kevin and JD also talk about his upbringing and not growing up on traditional country music like the rest of his fans, and much more! Socials: IG: JDClaytonOfficial Twitter: JDClaytonofcl 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.

Amanda Shires (@amandapearlshires) talks to Bobby about her project, Loving You, a covers album with the late Bobbie Nelson. She explains how Bobbie was her hero and what it was like working with her and how she will keep her legacy alive with their joint album. Amanda also shares how she got her start in music, how she expresses herself through playing the fiddle, and details the time she wrote a letter to Tyrese Gibson. She also tells us how Billy Joe Shaver convinced her to move to Nashville after she found success with her music in Texas. Amanda will also share how she met her husband, Jason Isbell, when he invited her to play with him, why she stopped smoking marijuana to help her singing, how she's still getting over stage fright and more! To celebrate the release of Loving You, Amanda is playing two special shows in Texas honoring Bobbie Nelson’s legacy and the rich history of Texas music. She’ll be playing at two legendary dance halls, accompanied by the iconic band, Asleep At The Wheel on July 8th at The Longhorn Ballroom in Dallas and July 9th at Gruene Hall in New Braunfels. Tickets: HERE Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bobby saw Jelly Roll earlier this week at the Opry and wanted to revisit his original interview. He came by in May 2022 to share his life. Jelly Roll has a very inspiring story that he loves to share in hopes of connecting with people. He comes from a middle lower class community where he was the youngest child of 4. His dad was a meat salesman for his own family company called DeFord Wholesale Meats, and his mom struggled with addiction and mental health. He spent about 12 years in and out of the jail system until he had an awakening moment sitting in his jail cell. A guard knocked on his cell door to tell him that he had a daughter. Check out the full interview! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Unsigned & Independent, Kevin sits down with married duo The Dryes. Katelyn and Derek have been married for 11 years and began dating before deciding to become a duo and chase their dreams together. They talked about some of the challenges that being a married duo and traveling the country can bring, and how their friends were the ones who set them up 15 years ago. Plus, the couple talks about being the modern day Johnny and June, the big year they've had so far after playing at the CMA Fest and being on tour with Jo Dee Messina. Socials: IG: TheDryes Twitter: TheDryesMusic 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.

From credit cards to credit scores and everything in between, “Grown-Up Stuff: How to Adult” digs into the good, bad, and prudent ways to build and use credit. We talk to Sara Rathner, a senior writer, travel, and credit card expert at NerdWallet, about why making purchases with a credit card (instead of a debit card) is safer, how we can build our credit back up from a less-than-perfect past, and how to effectively use your credit card to build up a personal rewards savings account! Cited Sources: Board of Governors of The Federal Reserve Sustem - Economic Well Bing of U.S. Households in 2021 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Richard Marx talks to Bobby Bones about his incredible career and how he feels like he has two versions: one has a singer-songwriter, and one writing hit songs for artists like NSYNC, Keith Urban and more! He talks about how he got his start in music, moving to LA right after high school to chase his dreams, and the adversity has he faced. He also shares the time he became a backup singer for Kenny Rogers and went up to him in the studio and pitched him a song he wrote. Richard also reveals the song he was told would never work but ended up becoming a huge hit and more! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Unsigned & Independent, Kevin brings on a Tennessee native in Emily Ann Roberts. Emily Ann was once a finalist on The Voice at just age 15, but quickly learned that was only the beginning of her journey. Kevin and Emily dive into her playing at the Opry 16 times, how her worst tour day became her best, her YouTube channel that she has with her husband, and so much more! Socials: IG & Twitter: Emilyann_Music 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.

Morgan Evans (@MorganEvansMusic) talks to Bobby Bones about the sudden success of his song "Over For You" and the impact it's made on his career and in his fans' lives. He also explains how after the first time he played it, it felt like a weight was lifted off his shoulders, but it was a weird time in his life when it went viral. Morgan also talks about his love for jeeps, surfing and being outdoors, and shares the time he beat Dierks Bentley in pickleball. We'll also hear how he got his start as a pop artist in Australia, the transition to country music in America, and more about his new music on the way! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Another batch of Unsigned & Independent season 2 with Kevin O'Connell is back! This time with an artist who has made the transition from pop to country. Originally from Tennessee, Shaylen was once in a pop group as a teenager, even signed to Young Money Cash Money Records and moved to LA! Shaylen talks about making the transition from pop to country and how moving to Nashville last year has allowed her to fall in love with making music again and much more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Sykes, the chairman of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Co-Founder of MTV and VH1 and the current President of iHeartMedia Entertainment Enterprises, joined Bobby Bones to talk about his incredible career that has made a lasting impact on music on television. He explains the process of who gets voted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the note he wrote Dolly Parton to convince her to accept her nomination. John also shares how he got his start as one of the founding people at MTV and how he later created VH1 and 'Behind The Music,' and Pop-Up videos! We treat this episode as if it were a Pop-Up Video episode with fun facts behind all of the artists John mentions! He also details the importance of knowing the story being the music, what his role at iHeart now entails and more! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Legendary songwriter and lead singer of McBride and The Ride, Terry McBride (@TerryMcBrideMusic), talked to Bobby Bones about how he formed McBride and The Ride and shares the origin story of their name. Plus, he talks about how Brooks & Dunn have recorded over 25 songs he's written, and what it's like to be a songwriter in Nashville. Terry also recalls how his dad didn't want him to pursue music and shares the story about why his grandparents once called the cops on him. He also shares stories from when he toured with John Fogerty and Huey Lewis in the 80s and how trying to get George Strait to record a song he wrote landed him a record deal. Terry will also reveal why McBride and The Ride got back together and released new music for the first time in 20 years, and more! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The lead singer of Counting Crows, Adam Duritz (@CountingCrows) talked to Bobby about how he discovered he was a good singer and started a band at 13 but didn't write his first song until he was a freshman in college. He shared how songwriting took over his life so much that it affected his schoolwork and when he was one credit away from graduating college and didn't care to get his degree. He also talked about the years he spent struggling to make it in music that led him to go to Europe and quit for a little while. Adam also recalled what inspired their song "Mr. Jones" and how after they performed it on SNL their careers blew up and he started to get mobbed at places. Adam is very passionate about music and shared how he got asked to create a song for the 'Shrek' movie called "Accidentally In Love," and why he was so excited to have a song in an animated movie, and more! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on YoutubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 @kickoffkevinSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 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.

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 Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 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.

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! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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! Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on YoutubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on Youtube See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. Follow on Instagram: @TheBobbyCast Follow on TikTok: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on YoutubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. Follow the BobbyCast @TheBobbyCast Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel - Youtube.com/BobbyCastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. Follow the podcast: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on YoutubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. Follow the podcast: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on YoutubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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! Follow the podcast: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on YoutubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. Follow the podcast: @TheBobbyCast Watch this Episode on YoutubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.