Living in the Limelight: Recent Episodes
Living in the Limelight
A podcast for fans of artists of all types! Tune in to each episode to get a personal, behind the scenes look at what singers, musicians, actors, and more are up to and what drives them to produce their work!
Emma Mowery has spent her whole life honing her sound through different eras of life and committing to her craft in order to unlock her most authentic artistic voice. Now settled in Nashville, Mowery is officially ready to introduce herself to the world. Somewhere in the venn diagram of pop-punk and singer-songwriter is Emma Mowery. Her personality noticeably shines through in her music, where she embraces storytelling balanced with her characteristic wit, playfulness, and sarcasm. Check out her new release, “Control Freak,” on your favorite streaming service and, of course, in its entirety, at the end of this episode! Let’s welcome Emma Mowery to Living in the Limelight.
With a diverse musical upbringing spanning country, rock, pop, red dirt, blues, and 90s rock, Danny Spiro showcases his unique take on country music through high-octane performances that captivate audiences with infectious enthusiasm, igniting the crowd. With his slightly rough-around-the-edges yet charismatic southern charm, this blue-collar musician is one you can't help but root for.
Hailing from humble roots in Mobile, Alabama, and with aspirations to one day grace the legendary Grand Ole Opry stage, Danny made the bold move to Nashville, TN, to carve out his path to success. A defining moment at the age of 14 was witnessing an electrifying performance by a local band that had achieved success: 3 Doors Down. Feeling the pulsating energy of the venue and witnessing the intense engagement of the crowd left a lasting impression, igniting Danny's desire to evoke similar emotions in others.
Teaming up with acclaimed drummer and producer Grady Saxman, whose credits include Luke Combs, Dustin Lynch, Trey Lewis, Muscadine Bloodline, Kassi Ashton, and Uncle Kracker, Danny is poised to make waves with his upcoming music.
From intimate songwriter rounds where Danny showcases his storytelling prowess to being a sought-after performer on Nashville's famed Broadway strip, he dazzles audiences at renowned establishments such as Blake Shelton’s Ole Red, Miranda Lambert’s Casa Rosa, Tootsies, Big Machine, Bus Call Showcase - Tin Roof Midtown, FGL House, Johnny Cash, Alan Jackson's, Kid Rock's, and Jason Aldean’s. And this is just the beginning.
Excited to listen to Danny Spiro's music? Keep an ear out for his highly anticipated EP, slated for release later in 2024. In the meantime, check out his single "Ecstasy," available on all major streaming platforms.
In a music industry aching for authenticity, Thomas Hinds is a hard-touring troubadour surviving on raw talent and a heartfelt folk-rock repertoire. His exquisite third full-length Where Do We Go From Here, recorded at Alabama’s legendary FAME Studios (Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding etc.), has him poised to gatecrash the mainstream. “I want people to get a sense of comfort from my music, knowing that they’re not alone,” he mulled during a roadside pit stop. “There’s always hope, and there’s beauty even in hard times.” Like most great artists, Hinds’ work is largely autobiographical. It’s simply him: his heart and his life experience laid bare. A songwriter since age 16, he put music on hold when he married young and prioritized parenthood. When the relationship fell apart, Hinds plunged into a dark chapter when only an ultra-prolific, pent-up return to songwriting kept him going. With his kids grown, Hinds began planning to become a full-time touring musician. Following warm receptions for his 2015 debut album Ghosts and Lamentations and follow-up EP Barbwire Bouquet, he hit the road in earnest in 2019 and soon was playing almost 150 shows a year. Noting that many of the wineries, distilleries, festivals, and house parties he plays were within a 5-hour radius of Atlanta, he gambled on a move from New Mexico to north Georgia. “I just stepped off the ledge and things just came together to make it happen,” Hinds recalls. “That was confirmation that I was doing the right thing.” Also an author, Hinds’ poetic soul infuses the blues-based Americana that scales new heights on Where Do We Go From Here, which he self-released in June 2023. Recorded with producer Spencer Coats at the storied FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, the album features an A-list band led by former Bonnie Raitt guitarist Will McFarlane and steel guitar from longtime Garth Brooks bandmate Bruce Bouton. “I often had the hair on my neck standing up or a tear in my eye, because I was listening to something that had been in my head for years, but I just couldn’t explain,” he recalled. Hinds is supporting Where Do We Go From Here with evocative video content, showcases at SXSW 2024 and, of course, more countless miles in his trusty van. As he converts fans one-by- one, show-by-show, his hard-fought career is already a success by its very existence. “I always want there to be a silver lining at the end of things,” he concluded, recalling an epiphanous evening drive. “I was in the southern Pennsylvania hills, windows down, in that golden light. And I’m thinking, man, I would never in a million years have imagined this!”
For over 25 years, guitarist Mark Grundhoefer has been a professional musician playing in numerous bands, devoting countless hours of session work, and developing a full-time teaching studio. He resides in Atlanta, Georgia where he continues to perform, record, and educate. His solo music, which is available on all digital platforms, has been streamed more than 6 million times in over 170 countries. Mark's sound is a reflection of his southern roots and his classical and jazz studies. He has a worldwide following of 60,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and about 30,000 on the other streaming services. Check out his new project, created with his musical partner David Brimer, that is dropping on May 17th, called “In Technicolor.”
Faith Alene is a teen singer, musician, and songwriter. She was born in Long Island, NY and currently resides in Central Florida’s East Coast. Faith has been singing and performing since elementary school. She began theater at age 7 and voice at age 8. Her drive and determination has lead her to create her own path in life. Frequent trips to Broadway in NYC with her Grandfather only sparked her interests in vocals even more.
Faith began in theater performing minor roles but quickly achieved the lead in countless shows including Adams Family, Pippin, Les Mis, Aladdin and many others. She continued to expand her skills and competed in local and state wide vocal competitions, where she performed live in front of large audiences and won first place multiple times. Faith was not only the lead vocalist in her church youth group, but was able to coordinate and organize logistics of song selection and musical composition.
Over time, Faith began to fall in love with country and folk music. In 2021, she began writing her own songs and taught herself how to play the guitar. Faith is in the process of recording some of her favorite originals and excited to share them with you! She currently performs at local restaurants and farmers markets in the area. Her music has a small town feel to reflect her love of nature and country life.
When not working on her music, you can find her shooting at the archery range, reading books, training on the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu mats or studying medicinal plants. She is a firm believer in Jesus and knows all her gifts, talents and opportunities she has been given come from Him.
Faith is looking forward to recording her original music and performing at live events throughout the nation.
For bookings, please visit www.faithalene.com and send her a message.
Hailing from the Midwest, Kirstie Kraus moved to Nashville in 2017 to further pursue her flourishing career as a solo recording artist and songwriter following her time in the midwest country-rock band Thirsty Jones (her fans are now nicknamed Thirsties as an homage to that period and a fun rhyming play on words to her name). Kirstie's music style is an original mix of modern country with Blues, Pop, and Rock undertones.
Since permanently relocating to Music City, Kirstie has toured across the US and opened for some of country’s biggest stars including Thomas Rhett, Kip Moore, LANCO, Eric Paslay, Brandy Clark, Walker Hayes, The Cadillac Three, Pam Tills, Brothers Osborne, and Randy Houser to name a few. In 2023 her breakout year in the UK arrived with her playing the coveted C2C Festival at the O2 Arena in London. Her fanbase in Britain has grown considerably and her name further rose up the ranks with her 2023 duet single ‘Who Am I Gonna Love’ with Thomas Kavanagh which rendered support from Apple Music, Absolute Radio, BBC Introducing, CountryLine Radio and many more radio and media outlets in the world.
2024’s growing success built on a standout 2022, which saw Kirstie Kraus releasing her debut album ‘Yes You Can’ which she supported with a six-month headline tour across America - the LP comprised 11 tracks including the hit singles ‘Bird’, ‘Thirsty’, and ‘Silver’. The LP was a roaring success and earned Kraus multiple accolades such as 7x nominations at the Best of Women of Country, and Josie Music Awards (the largest independent music award show).
Having been writing and playing music since the ripe age of 11, Kirstie Kraus understands the nuances of her vocals and through that, she is able to create songs that showcase her abilities and complement the tone she has. You only have to take a look at her back catalog and industry support to see that country music is where she belongs and that she is an artist who is rightly taking Nashville by storm.
Kirstie Kraus is right where she needs to be! She’s a Nashville-based standout artist with a heart of gold and a creative mind focused on her art. Currently, Kirstie Kraus is recording new music side by side with Grammy Winning BMG Studio A & Dolby Atmos Immersive Audio Producer Jeff Huskins at Sound Stage Studios in Nashville and has already dropped her two March singles 'Beaches Be Crazy' and her anthemic female duet 'Dab a Dolly' which found its way to BBC Breakfast, WSM, and hopefully in the hands of the Queen of country herself Dolly Parton!I had the honor of speaking with Kirstie for a second time (as my FIRST repeat guest) while she was touring over in the UK, so let’s catch up with Kirstie on Living in the Limelight!
Randall David is a New York-based playwright who originally hails from South Carolina. Off-Broadway: Sake with the Haiku Geisha ("Witty, Observant", New York Times), Fate's Imagination ("Entertaining... Tasty plot twists and some very funny lines", New York Times). Additional NYC: Shadows, a dance musical co-created with Tony-nominated director/choreographer Joey McKneely (nominated for two 2019 New York Innovative Theatre Awards); and Toto Talks (2019 Frigid Festival). Regional productions include: Southern Discomfort; Third Finger, Left Hand; Pomp & Circumstance; Kappa Kappa Scream; Death at Downton!; Open Call; Star of Wonder, Star of Night; and The Glass Dog. The Monument, a play co-created with Cheryl L. Davis and Gwynn MacDonald about Senator Strom Thurmond’s secret biracial daughter, Essie Mae Washington-Williams, was selected for the 2021 Orchard Project.
His one-act play Sushi and Scones was broadcast by the BBC and won the award for Best Play at the Southeastern Playwrights Conference, and he is a two-time winner of the award for Best Play at Centre Stage’s New Play Festival: in 2019 with his play Sharks and Other Lovers, and in 2022 with Four Seasons. Both plays subsequently premiered at Centre Stage, in 2021 and 2023, respectively.
Additional performances include an adaptation of Ibsen's John Gabriel Borkman (New York Theatre Workshop with Tony winner Len Cariou and Drama Desk winners Roberta Maxwell and Laura Esterman); In A Town Near Faith (Players Club with Academy Award nominee Barbara Barrie); and Hanky Panky (Davenport Theatre with Tony nominee Veanne Cox).
His work has also been developed and performed at Ars Nova, The Lark, the Cincinnati Museum of Art, the Japanese Embassy in New York City, Neighborhood Playhouse, Ensemble Studio Theatre, Guild Hall in East Hampton, the Valdez Theatre Conference in Alaska, the Warner Theatre International Playwrights Festival, and in the U.K., the Dartmouth Drama Festival and Dawlish Arts Festival. He’s been a two-time finalist for both the O’Neill Playwrights Conference and the Sundance Filmmakers Lab, and he’s received grants and commissions from the Duke Endowment, Broadway Across America, the University of Nebraska and the British Film Institute.
He holds a BA from Furman University, an IMBA from the Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina, and an MFA in Playwriting and Screenwriting from the University of Nebraska Omaha, where he received the Regents Award. A proud member of the Dramatists Guild, Randall David was an honorary inductee in Omicron Delta Kappa honor society for his leadership and achievements in the arts in 2016 and was inducted into the South Carolina Theatre Hall of Fame in 2017
Jennifer Alvarado is an international recording artist from Vale, North Carolina and has amassed over 1 million streams on Spotify alone. Her music has a country sensibility with a pop current running through it. Her sound is a mixture of country, pop and blues that reflect an eclectic blend of influences.
Some Awards and current Nominations include:
Nominated for 2023 Carolina Country Music Award for “Female Artist of the Year” - awards in January 2024
Nominated for 2023 WVIU Music Award for “Favorite Christian Country Song”
Awarded Silver “Entertainer of the Year” at the 2023 International Singer Songwriter Awards, where she was nominated for seven awards total
And on and on!
So sit back, relax, and enjoy this conversation with Jennifer Alvarado about songwriting, stage performing, storytelling, and sharing a message with others in a meaningful way.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Shawn Gavin Thomas (or known by some by his stage name SGT) has been singing and performing his entire existence. A member of the Barbershop Harmony Society since 2002, he is a four time International medalist in their Youth Quartet Contest, and two-time District Quartet Champion in the Mid-Atlantic and Sunshine District. Shawn has worked and met with many big name music professionals and famous people such as Omar Jose Cardona from NBC's The Voice, Pro Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan (where he won the first Inaugural Hogan's Hangout Mens Karaoke Championship), the Godfather of Contemporary A Cappella Deke Sharon, and Country Music Legend Kenny Rogers. Shawn is also an active vocal coach, and has participated in numerous Harmony Camp Workshops in Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida. Be on the lookout for his forthcoming single “Focused.”
Francesca Tarantino is a singer based in the Central Florida area. Francesca has always loved to sing, often belting out classic rock tunes while running around the house or riding in the car. She got her first taste for performing on stage in second grade, when she closed out her school’s talent show with “I Wanna Rock and Roll All Nite” by KISS. Shortly after, she moved to Florida and started in a new school that gave her the opportunity to learn about acting, singing, and musical theatre.
While theater has given her a stage and experience, Francesca was eager to expand her talents and grow as an artist. In December 2020, she joined Dreamwalker Music Evolution (DME Orlando). At DME, Francesca entered the recording studio for the first time and instantly loved it!
Francesca has played some local gigs in and around Orlando and has participated in several open mics. She has performed on stage at Hard Rock Live Orlando, The Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts, and Tin Roof Orlando. She has also sung the National Anthem at several charity events and sporting events including the Daytona Tortugas and two games for the Miami Marlins.
With a classic sound, freckled face, and a full heart, rising country artist, Krystal King, brings a voice to Nashville that we have all missed. Originally from Hickory, NC, Krystal King has a fresh take on a true country sound, with raw and emotionally laced vocals, and vivid songwriting.
Her sound has been described as classic, folky, with a little bit of blues and soul.. She pulls inspiration from 90's country artists such as Reba, Alan Jackson, Dixie Chicks, Lee Ann Womack and more. Other influences include Sugarland, Miranda Lambert, Eric Church, and Chris Stapleton. Krystal has performed on many iconic stages including the Bluebird Cafe, Tootsies Orchid Lounge, & Tennessee Tech University. Krystal tours nationally having visited Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Kentucky, Florida, Wisconsin, and Arizona in the past year! Enjoy our visit with this amazing artist! And.....enjoy her new single, "Red Wine" featured in part at the front of the episode and the complete song at the back!
Johnathon Heilbroun is a young artist who is quickly on the rise. He’s been singing since he could talk, but his passion really took hold a couple of years ago when he did a solo at a Christmas Chorus concert. He has been moving toward his dream ever since, having released 3 songs and played numerous shows. He has a tremendously supportive network and is incredibly thankful for everyone who has given him some encouragement.
In this episode, Johnathon shares his passion for music, performing, and for creating his art.
Jaclyn Kenyon was born to perform.
In 2009, at age 12, Kenyon performed at the Honey Jam showcase in Toronto, Ontario,receiving media attention for being hitherto the youngest performer at the event.
In 2012, Kenyon was named by Toronto Star music critic Ben Rayner as one of twelve "people to watch" in the Toronto area.
In 2015, Kenyon signed her first major production deal with producers Mike Plotnikoff and Igor Khoroshev. Her first album features performances from guitarist Phil X from Bon Jovi and drummer Gil Sharone from Marilyn Manson.
In June 2019, Kenyon signed a global distribution deal with Sony Music's Orchard subsidiary, along with Soundly Music. Her first release “When We Love” was released that month. In July of that year, Kenyon's debut video premiered on CMT.com.
Kenyon moved to Nashville to pursue her career in October 2022 and since that time has been featured on a brand new tv show called “Banded,” where she and her band, “Starland” competed along with other musicians for a recording contract. Amazingly enough, Jaclyn and her band mates took the prize for the first season of that show!
Only 2% of the population are redheads and Jayna Jennings makes music as unique as her fiery hair. At twenty two years, Jayna has over 80 copyrighted songs, has released 2 albums, an EP, and 11 singles, received 25 nominations in coveted music awards. She received the honor of Folk/Americana/Bluegrass Vocalist of the Year in 2019, 2020, and 2021 at the Josie Music Awards, amassed over 100,000 streams on Spotify alone, and has built a uniquely dedicated global fan-base. Jennings began singing in church at age 3, so it was fitting that her first release would be a project of traditional hymns. In 2016, Jennings released her debut EP, Safe & Sound, featuring one original song titled Lord’s Song, and 4 of her favorite hymns celebrating her musical origin and heritage. She made her radio debut the same year and began doing radio interviews to push the release. Jennings was busy promoting this passion project but behind the scenes she was working on her first album, a collection of Folk/Americana originals that would cement her as a songwriter. In 2017, Courtyards & Aviaries, Pt. 1, Jayna’s first collection of all original secular songs was released introducing her into the Folk/Americana genre. The album was well received and within the first year of its release, all 9 songs from that album received worldwide radio airplay building her following and introducing her to music enthusiasts across the globe. All singles from Pt. 1 were released after the album itself in a strange but effective release strategy. The singles from this album include Maybe Reprise and Hold on. Hold On was nominated for Song of the Year in the Nashville Universe Awards. She was also nominated for Female Vocalist of the Year, Rising Star, and Songwriter of the Year. Jennings hosted a sold-out release party for Pt. 1 and played a few unreleased songs that would later be released on her next album. “Even before I put out Pt. 1 into the world I was already thinking about the next chapter and what I wanted to say,” Jennings stated, “and I really wanted to push the envelope with the next release and explore new concepts to give a fresh musical makeover while still portraying the precepts laid out in Pt. 1.” After 2 years of writing, recording, and strategizing, Jennings announced her second album Courtyards & Aviaries, Pt. 2 would be released August 11, 2019. She released the accompanying single The Blue June 28. The single quickly became a fan and radio favorite. Fans made music videos, blogs shared announcements and reviews, and The Blue quickly became Jennings’ calling card. “The Blue was the perfect choice for a single as it was a wonderful hint of what Jengers (fans of Jennings) would expect from this album in general,” writes Lakisha Skinner of KlefNotes. The second single from Pt. 2 was To Narcissus and was released July 19. Jengers called To Narcissus Jennings’ most mainstream song and found the rhetorical metaphorical allegory a relevant and surefire hit. It quickly surpassed 10,000 streams on Spotify and was Jennings first single to be sent to country radio. An acoustic version of this song was filmed for an Off-Trail Originals video series. Jennings released an accompanying watercolor lyric video hinting at what would come next from her album. August 11, 2019 Jennings released her new album Pt. 2 to positive press and an interested audience while touring to promote the new works. “I had my first mini-tour which was super exciting. Pretty much every other weekend we were going out of town or out of state for a show,” Jennings told Jay Plyburn with 11 Alive. To Narcissus and Don’t Hurt Me, both songs from Pt. 2, debuted on Country Radio in 2020 and charted top 40. “I was doing a radio interview and Chuck Bryant, the DJ, said ‘you’re just climbing up the charts like crazy!’ which was news to me. I was so shocked and I called my publicist and she told me I was top 40 and I was beyond ecstatic!” Jennings shared. In late 2019, Jennings won 1st place in the Chattahoochee Mountain Fair talent show sponsored by 99.3 WCON for her unreleased original, Lost Time. In January of 2020 Jennings performed Lost Time at the Museum of Appalachia in the Tennessee Songwriters Week qualifying round and was 1 of 4 songwriters chosen to perform in the showcase round at the historic Bijou Theater. “To have the opportunity to perform on the same stage where big names like Dolly Parton performed was just insane,” Jennings stated. She had the same enthusiasm when she had the opportunity to perform at Eddie’s Attic in Atlanta. When she was one half of the Americana duo Copper River at 13, the two performed at the Velvet Underground at The Hard Rock Café Atlanta & the Peach Drop, and Jennings’ opportunities have blossomed since then. “I have no idea how two thirteen-year-old kids were able to even be in to The Velvet Underground, let alone perform there, so that has always been an incredible memory. I am so glad that nothing has slowed down since then and that I’m still performing and still making incredible memories in gorgeous venues. I take every chance I get to perform, it’s one of those things I just love to do.” In 2019, Jennings was the host of Canyon Rocks Concert Series at Little River Canyon Center and Jacksonville State University. Performers included Jan Smith & Peter Vogl, American Hope, Erin Kirby, Hunter Callahan, Payton Sells, and Canyonland Band. After completing her first tour across the South East, Jennings was looking forward to another great year of traveling meeting fans, and performing in 2020 but due to the global Covid-19 outbreak, Jennings was challenged with finding ways to continue performing and keeping in touch with her fans while she and the rest of the world were isolated. While being physically distant, Jennings did not put her music and her social relationship with her fans on hold. She organized a virtual tour during which she performed across all her social media platforms and other influencer Facebook pages through live-streams in a personal, laid back, living room setting conversing with her fans, answering questions, and performing fan favorites and new unreleased songs. She continued to do radio interviews talking about Pt. 2 with WOTG Radio and Country Gold Radio. Jennings was interviewed in 2019 for My Cumming News and in July of 2020 she did a follow up interview discussing making music during a pandemic, her recent engagement, and her 5 Josie Music Awards nominations. “Jennings is once again up for Folk/Americana/Bluegrass Vocalist of the Year, which she won in 2019. Her original song "The Blue" is up for Song of the Year, and her most recent album "Courtyards & Aviaries, Part 2" is up for Album of the Year. Jennings is also nominated for Folk/Americana/Bluegrass Artist of the Year and Entertainer of the Year,” Plyburn reported. The Josie Music Awards are the largest independent music award and a prestigious honor in the independent music industry. Jennings also received the Social Stars Contemporary, Inspirational Artist of the Year 2019. Her recent venture beyond the Folk/Americana music produced When I Hear God’s Call, a collaborative effort and her debut in the Contemporary/Gospel genre. After being added to many FM rotations, this track went to Number 1 on several Georgia and Tennessee radio stations and has become a favorite amongst her fans. You, Me, + a Ghost proved a triumphant return to her Folk roots and has had great Spotify success to match her previous singles and paved the way for her bluegrass release, Eliza, later that year. Eliza was nominated for JMA Song of the Year 2021.Jayna’s newest music has revealed her niche- southern gothic storytelling. Stay tuned for her next album- she is already releasing singles and small tastes of this new work. Her latest single, 10:43, exemplifies her songwriting, storytelling abilities, pulling in the listener with both hands into the world she describes. The coming year will feature many new releases, so follow Jayna on all social media platforms to stay up to date on her latest work!
Jennifer Barger is a singer-songwriter from Canton, GA. Inspired by many artists and many things in life, her original music and style of writing falls into the genres of folk, Americana, and easy listening. In 2014, she officially began her music journey and over the years has performed at venues all over North GA and surrounding areas. She loves writing music, getting in the studio to record, and collaborating with other local artists. Jennifer has always had music in her life and she hopes her art brings joy to every listeners ears.
Maddy Lee Ann is an American actor and country music singer & songwriter. She was born in Columbus, Ohio and moved to Florida when she was 11 years old. She began her acting and modeling career at the age of 14. Maddy has been in numerous short films and feature films and has been part of multiple modeling campaigns. In 2021, Maddy began pursuing a career as a country music singer & songwriter. Check out Maddy’s music on all streaming platforms.
Kentucky born and raised, singer/songwriter Will Wright has been making music (and noise) his whole life. Will started his musical career performing basement concerts for his family. He then progressed to singing in church and since 2019, has been entertaining crowds with his high-energy acoustic shows. Will combines his deep country roots with a little rock, bluegrass, and even a little pop for a fun crowd-pleasing performance.
Will wrote his first song, titled “The Ones That Fought for the Flag,” following an 8th grade school trip to D.C. His latest release, “Friday Night Buddies,” tells the story of a teenage boy in a small town hanging out with his friends. That song blew up on TikTok and gained Will a lot of attention as an up and coming songwriter and artist. Recently, he had the privilege of performing on stage at the Loretta Lynn Ranch in Hurricane Mills, TN. And, just last Fall, he headlined the Harvest Stage at “Pumpkins at Kentucky Kingdom.”
Jenna Howell, daughter of Kim and Tim Howell, is a well-rounded young lady from the Clayton Community in North Georgia. Jenna has performed at fairs and festivals, and most recently she was asked to open for Twitty and Lynn in March 2023 as well as being a contestant on Georgia Has Talent. But Jenna is more than just an entertainer. She is a dedicated student, loyal friend, well-rounded athlete, and a Jesus-loving teenager.
Aaron & Katrina Richard met at a local record shop and music venue in Cumming, GA. Both of them had fallen in love with music at an early age, and following their relationship, marriage, and the birth of their daughter, it's safe to say their individual melodies are now one collective song. Katrina owns and operates Let's Learn Music Academy, where she and Aaron both teach students of all ages in a wide range of instruments. Her unique talent for skillful vocal riffs and melodic variety breathes life into the duo's work. Aaron is a singer-songwriter in Georgia, specializing in improvisation and lyricism. His soft spot for the songwriting process and a good hook puts the sounds of a musical project into words. Together, they hope to share positivity, love, and hope with any audience they're able to perform for.
Ryan LittleEagle is a Native American singer-songwriter and musician from San Antonio, Texas, now living in Black Hills, South Dakota. Influenced by the likes of George Strait, Johnny Cash, and others, Littleeagle blends the rich storytelling of Country/Americana music with the cultural roots of First Nations music, creating a style called "Native Americana." Ryan is a multi-award-winning international performer and musician having won two Native American Music Awards and two Canadian Indigenous Music Awards. Ryan has enjoyed performing for diverse crowds throughout the United States, and internationally in the Caribbean and South America. He has released four albums as well several singles, including his most recent release, “Made for 2,” featured here on this podcast. Additionally, LittleEagle is a Native American cultural educator and traditional dancer, having spoken at private events, museums, schools, and colleges throughout the United States. His great respect for his culture and people is evident and represented in a positive way through his music.
Kirstie Kraus is thirsty for love and magic, for joy and sunshine. She’s thirsty for compassion and authenticity. And above all, she’s thirsty for anything that sets her soul on fire. She carries her thirst in her songwriting, her live shows, and in her everyday connection with other kindred spirits. Kirstie infuses this passion into her music, creating a perfect blend of country, funk, blues, and rock.
She’s a 2 time Women of Country and JMA Nominee and she’s releasing incredible music, including a new duet with Thomas Kavanaugh called “Who Am I Gonna Love,” the track featured here with her episode! Enjoy this conversation with Kirstie as we explore what her art means to her and what she wants for her fans to experience.
Jennifer Jess is a singer, songwriter and recording artist based in Atlanta, GA. She originally found her passion for music by listening to greats such as Celine Dion, Abba, Etta James, the Beatles, Fleetwood Mac and more. After studying Opera for a year, she decided she wanted to go a different direction and pursue pop music full time. She initially found her core fan base online on a platform called Twitch Tv and streams to her worldwide community of almost 18,000. Jennifer released her first single in 2019, garnering over 800,000 streams on Spotify and landing her first Spotify editorial playlist in 2022. She appreciates the ever-changing world of pop music and loves being able to create music that moves the soul.
Five Piece Kit is a FOUR member band based out of Woodstock, GA. They launched their debut EP, "Out of My Hands," in 2022 and JUST dropped a new single called "Say We're Right" on all major platforms. The group is comprised of Austin, Michael, Jared, and Josh (guitar, drums, bass, and singer). Enjoy this conversation where we explore what brought them together, what keeps them together, and what it takes for young musicians to try and gain some ground in the music business.
Emma-Charles Townsend is a 10 year-old country music singer and a HUGE Dolly Parton fan! She began singing during the pandemic in Pigeon Forge, TN at age 7, and was part of the 1% of performers in the world getting a paycheck. In 2021, she began working at Dollywood during the Christmas Season as a Youth Performer. She has completed 3 contracts at Country Tonite Theater and is still working at Dollywood as needed for each season. She has also released her first single, “Never go a day without a rainbow.” Can you believe all of that is happening from a 10 year old?
***If you are interested in being in an episode of our podcast, check out LivingintheLimelight.com for our easy questionnaire!
Ian Holmes is a vocal powerhouse. He’s a true artist with a heart of GOLD. Some highlights to mention include: American Idol contestant, a feature on the Lord’s Prayer Project in 2007 which reached the Top 50 on Billboard, and he has opened for Collective Soul, Dionne Warwick, Taylor Hicks, and more. Recently, Ian has played a fundamental role in stage vocals for the multi Latin Grammy winning group Camila, playing to audiences in the tens of thousands. He’s also a vocal coach and an entrepreneur. But, besides all the glitz and fame is a singer who wants to share his gift with you! By the way, stay tuned through the end of the episode so you can hear his newest song (released 2/14/23), “Everything About You,” which is a very appropriate release for Valentine’s Day as it is dedicated to his wife, Perla!
Kent Aberle is a first call drummer from Atlanta, GA. Kent is currently performing and recording with a number of artists. Kent’s ability to be a groove chameleon performing all styles of music as well as his harmonizing backing vocal ability has made Kent one of the busiest drummers in the U.S. for both live performance and sessions. Kent has over 20 years touring experience both in the US and Internationally including China, Japan, Australia, Canada, and others. Kent has performed on The Conan O’Brien Show, The Today Show with Kathy Lee and Hoda, The Talk, and has performed numerous times at the Grand Ole Opry as well as the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and numerous major festivals around the world.
“iLUVTOKYO” is a 25yr old artist/songwriter out of Warner Robins, Ga. Born Dianerra Smith in 1997, and originally from the Boogie Down Bronx, NY, iLUVTOKYO has always had a passion for the art of music as a whole. While music first started for her as a way to vent, it has now blossomed into a full time passion. Check out her latest MIXTAPE "Out Of Sight, In Mind" on all major streaming platforms!
Multi instrumentalist and award winning songwriter, Liliana Tani (Lulu) was born to share her passion for music. At only 14 years old Liliana has contributed to over 50 music videos with combined views in the hundreds of millions. She has recorded vocals on hundreds of tracks and performed on stages across the globe. In 2017 she became a member of the One Voice Children’s Choir. In 2018 she became a member of Kids America, a singing group that created original music together. In 2020 Lulu joined the Acapop! Kids, a music brand created by the minds behind Pentatonix. In 2022 she joined Far Out Record's girl group called Glotivation representing Far Out Toys Glo Up Dolls. She has been a guest performer on the news, radio stations, and podcasts with performances at venues as large as the MGM Grande in Las Vegas and has even done a tour in Japan. And behind all of this accomplishment is a young human with a dream of creating music that will inspire, uplift and bring people together.
Today we have the fortune to speak with Tah’Chon Mills, otherwise known as Lil’ Boss! This 7 year-old artist is not your typical kid! Rather, he’s an author, actor, model, and a singer! He has several movie credits under his belt and is the author of “I am a Superhero.” He has several songs currently streaming including “Lil Boss” and his most recent release, “He never fails.” Enjoy this conversation with Tah’Chon and his mom as we explore what makes him such a special artist and an inspiration to so many.
Today we are visiting with Olympia Papageorgiou – Olympia is an international singer and recording artist based in Atlanta, Georgia whose music is a mix of multiple styles, including R&B and International Pop. Her newest single, “No Titles” will have you dancing through the night! One super fun fact is that her music can be heard in over 25,000 retail stores around the nation! Let’s meet Olympia!
Perfect Animal is an Atlanta-based indie rock band that just recently formed in October of 2022, although the musical roots for the members run deep. They spend lots of time creating and recording new music and have an ambitious release schedule of a new song roughly every 6 weeks! The band prides itself on producing music that uses raw emotions and real life experiences that surely will resonate with their listeners. Look for their upcoming EP to be released on January 20th, 2023, titled “Handmade.” Enjoy this conversation with Eric (lead vocals, guitar) and David (lead guitar).
We discuss their music, gear, music videos and so much more. Tune in!
Ella Greenbaum, artistically known as ellakate, is an alternative pop singer-songwriter born, raised and based in Atlanta, Georgia. Growing up with musical parents and a knack for creating and performing, ellakate found a passion for music that went beyond forcing her brothers to listen to her melodies as a child. “When my dad first explained what the song ‘Brandy’ by Looking Glass was about, I discovered the magic of storytelling in song writing. I have been singing and making up songs for as long as I can remember,” said ellakate about her innate talents. She has written hundreds of songs since her childhood exploring topics that coincide with the journey of growing up and finding love, filling piles of notebooks in her room with song lyrics. ellakate’s songs recount stories and experiences that may have not happened to her, but are inspired by events that have impacted her. Her voice has been compared to a “young Amy Winehouse”, showing her vocal prowess - honest and sensual, with a hint of innocence. Her sultry vocals mixed with her haunting, bold and romantic sound is reminiscent of artists like Billie Eilish, Tove Lo and Lana Del Rey. She has plans to release music throughout 2022 and 2023 and perform live shows in addition to casual appearances. ellakate is a breath of fresh air in the musical climate, writing exactly what we’re all thinking and spinning it in a mature, yet cheeky way.
Sasha Hurtado is a rising independent recording artist and singer/songwriter from Georgia. Dubbed as "the Stolen One" on season 22 of The Voice, she began her journey with a two-chair turn by coaches Camila Cabello and John Legend during her blind audition and had chosen Camila as her coach. During her battle round, Sasha was then stolen by coach Gwen Stefani and John Legend having one steal left, and during the knockout rounds, he used it on Sasha saying "she was just too good to send home" which ultimately placed her within the top 16 for the live shows.
Sasha has become a seasoned performer with experience on stages and venues all over Georgia. Sasha’s Hispanic background lends to her love of blending genres and draws inspiration from a range of soulful, pop-filled, and indie artists that have helped carve out her own unique lane of artistic expression.
In 2020, Sasha released her debut single called “Mr. No Good Guy” and her follow-up single, “First” in 2021. Fresh off the heels of The Voice live shows, Sasha is excited to announce that her next single, "Going Through the Motions" is set to release on January 6, 2023!
Enjoy this candid conversation about her time on The Voice, songwriting, and so much more!
Cat is a local folk soul artist based out of North Georgia. As a recent graduate of Berklee College of Music, she uses her knowledge and expertise of live performance paired with her songwriting skills to create a unique experience at each of her shows she plays across the southern United States. Cat is unlike any other, and dabbles in many different realms of the music world such as live and studio production, writing music for herself as well as other artists, playing multiple instruments, and even teaches music on the side of her live performances at Melomania music and arts in Cumming, Ga.
A wonderful discussion with entertainment artist Coley Gilchrist. Coley is a multi-faceted performer with skills across the spectrum of entertainment. Enjoy listening to some tips about what to do and what not to do along with just getting to know what drives her every day to be her best. Don't forget to check out www.livinginthelimelight.com for full information about Coley and how to reach her! Also, please follow us on Instagram @living.in.the.limelight.show
Sarah is an artist-songwriter that builds her musical catalog and sound around her life’s experiences. As an independent Americana artist, Sarah has been strongly influenced by a diverse musical background, including blues and roots rock, folk, alt-country, and indie rock genres.
Sarah released her debut album, Lessons From The Archives, in June 2021. She is also the winner of Goodyear’s NATIONWIDE COMPETITION From Garage To Glory which afforded opportunities like performing twice at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, singing the National Anthem at the 2022 Cotton Bowl, and soooo much more. Intro music and closing music courtesy of Sarah, with her hit "I Can't."
A wonderful conversation with 16 year-old rising star Maria Deirisarri about her dreams, ambitions, accomplishments, and everything in between. Maria talks music, Lin-Manuel Miranda, gear, and a special project in the works! Be sure to head to www.LivingintheLimelight.com to find Maria's page and links to connect directly with her!