Nashville-based Andrew Leahey reveals which artists he’s toured with have the best catering, recalls borrowing a melody from the TV show “My So-Called Life” when he wrote his first song, and talks about finding friends in the music industry.
Alex Wong on Mixing Records and Teaching Martial Arts
Singer-songwriter Alex Wong talks about rehearsing above a tallow factory (and the odors that permeated the space) and the time that he played fake guitar in a TV commercial.
Jack Schneider on The Pursuit of Stillness and A Happy Childhood Moment
Nashville-based singer, songwriter, and guitarist Jack Schneider talks about why he rehearses out in nature, shares lessons that he learned while working at a guitar store, and why it’s important to stay true to yourself and not feel pressured to chase opportunities.
Daniel Donato Talks About the Difference Between “Playing” and “Thinking”
Daniel Donato reveals a key source of songwriting ideas and talks about holding band meetings in the Blue Flame Lounge, located in the back of his tour bus “The Snowman”.
Will Overman on Road Life and Traveling Songs
Nashville singer-songwriter Will Overman talks about being inspired to break guitar strings, working as a camp counselor, and the mysterious meaning behind an early composition.
East Nash Grass on Broken Strings and the Art of Songwriting
The members of award-winning bluegrass band East Nash Grass recall early gigs and day jobs and reflect on how the music industry has turned musicians into traveling apparel companies that play music to generate revenue.
Nicki Bluhm on Tour Bus Life and Caring for Horses
Singer-songwriter Nicki Bluhm talks about renovating her home studio and learning to to live on the constant ebb and flow of a musician’s income.
John Stirratt of The Autumn Defense on Borrowed Tour Vans and Avoiding the “New String” Sound
John Stirratt of The Autumn Defense and Wilco talks about why music has thrived when the music industry has collapsed and compares working in a restaurant kitchen to being in a band.
DUG on Rental Cars, Chipotle, and Living Room Rehearsals
Irish-American folk duo Dug talk about the band’s first gig outside a Burger King, powered by a car battery, and the benefit of flat wound guitar strings.
Rhett Miller on Old 97s First Tour Van, Working as a Maître D’, and Teaching Songwriting
Rhett Miller talks about the benefits that come with his role teaching undergraduates songwriting, the first song that he wrote, and Old 97s approach to rehearsals.