Songwriter Trysts: Recent Episodes
Rae Leigh
Songwriter Trysts is an intimate space where artists from all over the world gather to discuss the love of songwriting. Writing songs and the journey that one makes into this ancient art form is powerful stuff. Songwriters have something to say and this is a space to delve deeper into their songs, where they come from, and what they are creating & why?
In this episode of Songwriter Trysts, Rae Leigh sits down with the talented Malachi Gagnon to explore his inspiring journey as a singer-songwriter. Hailing from the serene and woodsy landscapes of New Hampshire, Malachi shares how his surroundings fuel his creativity and passion for music.
In This Episode:
- đïž Inspiration from Nature: Malachi talks about the calming influence of New Hampshireâs countryside on his songwriting process.
- đž Beginning in Music: Learn how Malachiâs musical journey started just four years ago, including his first time singing in front of his family during the pandemic.
- đ” Debut Release: Hear the story behind Malachiâs first song, "Craving Me," and how it marked a pivotal moment in his career.
- đ€ Artist Growth: Malachi discusses his transition from covering songs on social media to writing and releasing his own music as a verified artist.
Join us for an insightful conversation about overcoming fear, the joy of creating music, and what it takes to grow as an artist in todayâs world.
Connect with Malachi:
- TikTok
- YouTube
In this inspiring episode of Songwriter Trysts, Rae Leigh sits down with Nashville-based Grammy award winning singer-songwriter Tim James, whose journey to success is as unconventional as it is remarkable. Born and raised in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Tim shares his path from sales jobs in Los Angeles to becoming a successful songwriter in Nashville. Despite setbacks, including painting houses after a publishing deal fell through, Tim took a leap of faith and committed to his passion for music. This decision led him to sign with a publishing company owned by Toby Keith, which resulted in his first single, "My List," hitting number one and being featured on over 11 million albums. Tim's story of risk-taking, perseverance, and eventual success in the music industry offers hope and motivation to all aspiring songwriters. Tune in to hear more about his journey, the challenges he faced, and the lessons learned along the way.
Connect with Tim:
- â Websiteâ
- â Instagramâ
- â Facebook
In the latest episode of the Songwriter Trysts podcast, host Rae Leigh sits down with two of New Zealand's rising country music stars, Miranda Easten and Steffany Beck. These talented artists open up about their journey in the music industry, their aspirations, and what lies ahead for them.
As New Zealand's country music scene continues to grow, Miranda and Steffany are eager to take their talents across the Tasman Sea. Australia, with its thriving music culture, is at the top of their list. "We really want to come to Australia," says Steffany Beck, sharing their plans to connect with Australian fans and immerse themselves in the country music community.
Connect with Steffany:
- â YouTubeâ
- â Instagramâ
- â Facebook
Connect with Miranda:
- â Websiteâ
- â YouTubeâ
- â Instagramâ
Join us as we sit down with the remarkable Tyla Rodrigues, a rising star in old-school country music. With her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics, Tyla has made a name for herself at prestigious festivals like Groundwater, Tamworth, and Gympie Music Muster. She has also shared the stage with renowned artists such as Tori Darke, Jeremy Turner, Andrew Swift, and Lane Pittman.
In this episode, Tyla shares her journey, her passion for traditional country sounds, and how she blends them with her unique style. Discover the stories behind her emotive songs inspired by personal experiences, love, heartbreak, and the simple joys of life. Don't miss this inspiring conversation with a true artist dedicated to preserving and evolving the spirit of country music.
Tune in and get to know Tyla Rodrigues, a name to watch in the country music scene!
Connect with Tyla:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Welcome to another episode of Songwriter Trysts. Today, we have the privilege of featuring a rising pop-rock sensation who's making waves with her poignant and deeply relatable music. Melanie Cowmeadow is here to discuss herupcoming single 'Empath,' set to release on today, July 19th.
'Empath' is an introspective track that delves into the struggles of anxiety and the emotional challenges faced by people pleasers. Melanie's distinctive sound shines through in this song, blending her emotive vocal delivery with heartfelt lyrics and powerful dark pop-rock instrumentation. This vulnerable open letter speaks to anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by their own empathy and the weight of othersâ expectations.
With its raw honesty and relatablethemes, 'Empath' promises to be an anthem for those navigating the complexities of anxiety and the need to please others. âAs someone who feels deeply and often puts othersâ needs before my own, I wanted to capture the emotional toll that can take,â Melanie shares.
This release follows the success of her previous single, 'Dear Dad,' which has been praised for its unique ability to channel personal experiences into music and storytelling. With close to 200,000 collective streams, Melanie continues to solidify her place as an artist to watch.
Hailing from Adelaide, Melanie Cowmeadow is known for her powerful vocals and emotive songwriting. Her music blends introspective lyrics with infectious melodies, drawing inspiration from a diverse array of genres. Seamlesslyinfusing pop with rock, folk, and country influences, she creates a unique and captivating sound. With a growing fan base and a string of successful releases,Melanie Cowmeadow is poised to make a significant impact on the music scene. Tune in to hear more about Melanie's journey, the inspiration behind 'Empath,' and her future plans in the music industry.
Connect with Melanie:
- Tripple J Unearthed (Review and listen to Empath here)
- YouTube
- TikTok
In this special episode of the Songwriter Trysts podcast, Rae Leigh sits down with an incredible vocal coach who reached out earlier today with some pressing questions about grant writing. Rather than keeping this valuable conversation private, they decided to share the insights on air for the benefit of our audience. Together, they delve into the top 5 things to think about when applying for an arts grant in Australia, focusing on music development, skill enhancement, and touring opportunities.Listen in as they discuss essential tips, provide expert advice, and highlight key considerations to help you navigate the grant application process successfully. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable guidance to elevate your grant proposals and maximize your chances of securing funding for your musical projects.Don't miss out on this informative and engaging conversation, packed with practical advice and real-world examples to inspire and assist you in your grant writing journey.Tune in now and learn how to turn your musical dreams into reality with the support of Australian arts grants!Connect in with Rebekah Axe through her facebook page HEREor email her on Rebekah.axe@hotmail.com
In this episode of Songwriter Trysts, we sit down with Vanessa Lawless, an inspiring singer-songwriter from Grafton, deeply connected to the Northern Rivers. Vanessa shares her journey of discovering her artistic identity, starting from her early inspirations like Shirley Temple to her high school days where she began to realize her potential in songwriting. She reflects on her father's influence, the encouragement she received, and her struggles with self-doubt and perfectionism.
Vanessa opens up about her transformative path, which includes a detour into healing and spirituality as a massage therapist before fully embracing her musical career. She discusses the importance of genuine connections, role models like Lauryn Hill and Alicia Keys, and the challenges of navigating the modern music industry. With a focus on creating music that truly represents her values and experiences, Vanessa emphasizes the importance of authenticity and community in her artistic journey. Join us as Vanessa Lawless candidly shares her story, her growth, and her vision for the future.
Watch Vanessa Lawless's liver performance in the Songwriter Trysts Studio HERE
Connect with Vanessa:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Australian singer-songwriter Katie Thorne, from Dubo, recently engaged in a vibrant conversation with Rae Leigh, the host of the Songwriter Trysts podcast. During their discussion, Thorne shared her enriching experiences at Berklee College of Music in Boston, where she had the opportunity to work with Pat Pattison, the renowned songwriting author of "Writing Better Lyrics." Known for her distinctive sound that echoes the styles of Thelma Plum, Norah Jones, and RAYE, Thorne brings her own unique charm and authenticity to her music. She also delved into her latest musical projects, highlighting her evolving artistry and the fresh, emotive tracks she has been crafting. Her insights and stories reflect a deep passion for her craft, making her a captivating guest on the podcast and a rising star in the music scene.
Conncet with Katie here:
- Website
- YouTube
Justine Eltakchi is featuring on the Songwriter Trysts podcast after meeting host Rae Leigh at the APRA AMCOS Songwriter Awards Night in Sydney in 2024. Renowned for her ARIA-nominated songwriting and toplining, Justine's impressive portfolio includes over 60 international releases, contributions to Eurovision Australia and The Voice Australia, and the founding of the RESOUND Songcamp in 2020. An APRA-AMCOS Ambassador and advocate for disability awareness in the Australian music industry, Justine has participated in esteemed international song camps such as 2019 SONGEXPO in Norway, 2022 SUISA in Switzerland, and 2022 Unified Song Camp in Scotland. Her collaborations span a diverse range of artists, from EDM UK act Tough Love and Australian icon Casey Donovan to rising stars Abby Christo and Alanna Vullo, as well as LGBTQI+ icon PENELOPE. Under her project Zemi Gold, Justine continues to captivate audiences with her powerful dance anthems, showcasing her emotive voice and masterful songwriting. We hope you enjoy this podcast as much as we did.
Connect with Justine here:
- Website
- Youtube
Strawberry Swing isn't just about tunes; they're about making a difference. They're a band from Wollongong, Australia, who use their music to talk about important stuff like politics and how to make life better for everyone. They believe that Aussies can do practical things to change the economy and support the arts. They even had a chat with Rae Leigh from the Songwriter Trysts podcast, where they talked about their music and why they're so passionate about what they do. By sharing their thoughts and songs, they're not just making musicâthey're inspiring others to take action too.
Connect with Strawberry Swing HERE
From New Zealand, Kaylee Bell has emerged as a captivating force in the country music scene. Her viral performance on The Voice, featuring an original song dedicated to Keith Urban, catapulted her into the spotlight, where she continues to shine as a powerful female songwriter.
Recently, Kaylee shared her inspiring journey on the Songwriter Trysts podcast, detailing her experiences as an independent artist living and working in Nashville, New Zealand, and Australia. Her story is one of resilience and determination, serving as a beacon of inspiration for women pursuing their dreams in the music industry.
As an award-winning artist, Kaylee's music resonates with audiences worldwide, weaving emotion into every lyric and melody. With her new album topping charts and a captivating tour underway, she's proving herself as a force to be reckoned with.
Don't miss the chance to experience Kaylee Bell's magic live. Catch her on tour and new album "Nights Like This" and witness the raw talent and infectious energy that have made her a rising star in country music. Join the journey and be inspired by the unstoppable spirit of Kaylee Bell.
Connect with Kaylee Here:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Welcome to Songwriter Trysts Podcast! In today's milestone 250th episode, we have the incredible Murray Cook joining us, alongside our host, Rae Leigh.
Murray shares his remarkable musical journey, from crafting his first big hit, "Dorothy the Dinosaur," to his illustrious 20-year tenure with the iconic children's group, The Wiggles, and now his exciting venture with The Soul Movers. We delve into the intricacies of the music industry, the joys and challenges of touring the world, and the evolution of his sound throughout his career. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with a true legend of the industry!
Connect with Murray:
- The Wiggles website
- The Soul Movers Website
- YouTube
- Dorothy The Dinosaur original music video
Canada's musical landscape continues to blossom with the emergence of young talent like Elyse Saunders. With her latest single, "Never Have I Ever," climbing the Canadian Country Top 40 Charts, Elyse is making waves both at home and abroad. Notably, her collaboration with Rae Leigh on the Songwriter Trysts podcast provided a captivating glimpse into her musical journey, highlighting her passion, perseverance, and the soaring success of her latest endeavors. As her star continues to ascend, Elyse Saunders stands poised to leave an indelible mark on the global country music scene, enchanting audiences with her heartfelt melodies and authentic storytelling.
Connect with Elyse Saunders:
- Website
- Apple Music
- YouTube
- TikTok
Bass player, producer and songwriter Zac Watson from Melbourne shares of his journey as an artists, bass player, rock n' roll lover and country music band member turning into full time songwriter producer with the release of his first single as a solo artist.
In addition to his talents as a performer and songwriter, Zac is also a formidable force in the realm of music production. Armed with a keen ear for detail and a passion for sonic innovation, he brings a unique perspective to the studio, blending analog warmth with digital precision to create rich, immersive soundscapes that resonate with audiences on a visceral level. From crafting intricate arrangements to sculpting the perfect mix, Zac's production skills elevate every project he touches, imbuing it with a timeless allure and cinematic grandeur.
Connect with Zac
- â Instagramâ
- â Website
Creative writer, novelist, childrenâs books, and songs, Tess Rowley joins Rae Leigh in an intimate discussion about creative writing, her work with not-for-profits, and child advocacy work.
Earlier in 2024 Tess received the Medal Order of Australia or an OAM for her incredible work in serving the community. A lifetime of dedication and using her creative writing skills to bless generations of children and women, all over the world. Her most famous book, commissioned for a purpose by an NFP, was initially banned by ABC and then sold out in Australia. Listen to the story behind her groundbreaking work and intimate experiences she has had and how she has used her gifts to share her and otherâs stories to benefit the community.
Youtube Tess Rowley
The Really Good Bookshop
Robbie Mortimer is an Australian singer songwriter who has recenetly come back after a 3 year break while he went through personal and professional development to bring his best to the world. His new single is called Blow The Speakers and has country all over it. Living on the farm with a large family of boys who were all very much sports focused Robbie talks about his experince being a creative songwriting lover who was the youngest of a large family. His love of music and performing relaly shows through his podcast and performance and we know as you listen and get to know him you will learn to love him and his music as much as we do.
Connect with Robbie here:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Avery Harden is an American songwriter and self-proclaimed positive rapper. We dive into his roots in Christian music, Christian rap, Disney influence, and faith upbringing.
Avery is an independent artist who collaborates, tours, and recently released his second album Atlantis II. Coming to tour in Australia in October 2024 we were excited to discuss his music, positive influences and journey as an artist chasing his dreams.
connect with Avery:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
- TikTok
Check out his podcast too here: ABOV The Multiverse
Max Jackson, 2024 Golden Guitar winner at Tamworth awards in Australia. Max is a songwriter and singer and we talk about how it was the songwriting that came first for her. Writing for almost 12 years before releasing her first single in 2020 she found her voice and purpose and she has been living it with passion. Lots of encouragement as a Toyota Star Maker competition winner. She can write a song, hold a tune, and entertain your boots off. So grateful to have spent some time getting to know our newest superstar to country music in Australia and you will be too.
Connect with Max:
- â Websiteâ
- â Spotifyâ
- â YouTubeâ
- â Instagramâ
- â Facebook
Sue Ray gets real with their discussion on neurodiverse conditions and the impact that has had on Sue as a woman, mother, and musician. Her inspirational story is a testament that there is always another way to keep looking for your people. Sue is bravely stepping into her power as a songwriting coach, artist, and indigenous advocate through Qmusic in Brisbane Australia and we are so glad to have had the chance to have her on the show.
Sue Ray, the winner of the 2022 QMusic Bluesânâroots award, is an Australian Indigenous multi-award-winning singer/songwriter who captivates audiences with her original brand of country/blues and roots music, smoky rich voice, and high-energy performances.
Often compared to such artists as Bonnie Raitt, Chris Stapleton, and Lucinda Williams, Sueâs sound crosses genres allowing her to appeal to a wide audience demographic. Sue recently returned to Australia after being based in Nashville, where she worked alongside industry greats and connected into the scene, gigging and writing. Sue has a Diploma of Film & Television, Cert IV in Contemporary Music, Certificate in Sound Engineering and video production, and has completed a songwriting course at the Songpreneurs Retreat in Nashville TN.
Connect with Sue:
- â Websiteâ
- â Spotifyâ
- â YouTubeâ
- â Instagramâ
- â Facebookâ
Wesley Dean, an Adelaide-born singer-songwriter has been living in Nashville since March 2021 the height of the pandemic, and moved there with his wife and kids.
After winning Australian Idol in 2008 he discusses in the interview his dance with his ego and how he needed to have kids, get married, and live life before he had something he felt was worth saying. Coming in his new album which we eagerly anticipate.
Live from Sol Train studios in Nashville they have given us a great interview today with their help with recording the audio for this podcast interview with Wesley as he was in the studio recording.
Connect with Wesley:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Bonus episode this week with The Hey Mate Project, a mental health company building awareness and supporting creative industries including Qmusic in Brisbane. Host Rae Leigh interviews guest Aimee Davies the founder of Hey Mate Project. This is a great conversation about the company and how they started, what they are doing, and why it's so important for us as artists to take care of our mental health. Aimee goes into the difference between mental health and mental illness, the struggles the music industry has had in comparison to other creative industries, and the impact they hope to have. Aimee gives great advice about what we can do to lift the industry and take better care of each other.
Connect with They Hey Mate Project here:
- â Websiteâ
- â Instagramâ
Tyler Spicer, musician, producer and songwriter from Bath UK soon to be in Nashville. This passionate artist has been pivoting his talents in a big way he thanks the covid lockdowns for this change and feels like it was the perfect time for him to move into this production space.
Connect with Tyler:
- Website
- YouTube
An emotional rollercoaster of laughs, sad, ugly, beautiful, best and worst. Rock n Roll, music and its history. This conversation with Mario Vayne and Rae Leigh goes into it all. A fun conversation about songwriting and music for your Christmas trip this week.
Check out Mario's Music and info here:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Ella and Scienna, Australian female country singer-songwriting DUO jump on a Zoom call and record a chat with host Rae Leigh about their musical journey and their Taylor Swift tribute show. Sisters Ella & Stella are hitting the road and recording studio to launch their careers in the music industry and they are having so much fun doing it.
"Itâs Not Me, Itâs Youâ embraces Ella & Siennaâs newfound country-pop sound, with an anthem track that embodies their vocal harmonies. With rich layers of overdriven rock-influenced guitars, and energetic drums intertwined with banjo and slide, they have proven they are one of the most exciting emerging artists in the Australian music scene today.
Connect with Ella & Sienna here:
- Website
- Instragram
- Spotify
- Youtube
Michael Saleta, a songwriter from Sale, in Victoria Australia, and now living and working as a full-time songwriter in Nashville with his wife Sarah and publisher. Hear how this music teacher from Melbourne changed his whole life around, quit his day job, and launched into a life filled with music and joy. The most optimistic and determined songwriter we have had on the show and inspiring for anyone who likes to write songs and one day would like to do it full time.
Connect with Michael through his linktree HERE
Propulsive rockânâroll mingles with expansive Americana on Seattle songwriter Scott Clayâs forthcoming LP Time Will Tell. Buoyed by a voice both plaintive and roughhewn, Time Will Tell invites listeners to slow down and reflect on our true nature and our collective humanity.When it came time to track Time Will Tell, Clay and a cadre of top-flight musicians, including engineer Mike Davis (Modest Mouse, Head and the Heart), bassist David Dawda (Fruit Bats), drummer Sean Lane (Pedro the Lion) and pianist Daniel Walker (Heart), together they set up camp at the venerable Hall of Justice studio in Seattle.
Connect with Clay:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Drew Ryder Smith is an artist and singer-songwriter in his own right after years of writing for others and his own struggle with mental health and substances he has broken through into releasing his own music and performing all over the country.
A raw and honest conversation with great stories and advice for songwriters and artists alike.
Connect with Drew:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Van life musician in Australia Austin Mackay stops by in the van to chat with Rae Leigh live in the studio on the Gold Coast before heading down the east coast on tour to Melbourne. We loved having this young and enthusiastic talent share with us his journey and hearing about his future hopes but also how he has ended up in the dream life on the road with his guitar after COVID pulled him from the cover scene and pushed him back into his original music. Be melted away with his beautiful stories, voice, and guitar. We also released a special live acoustic version of his single "Real Life" on YouTube now.Connect with Austin: Website Facebook Instagram YouTube
"You can change your life at any point in time" This quote from featured artist singer-songwriter from outback Queensland Scotty Mack with his Songwriter Trysts interview with Rae Leigh.
Auditioning for The Voice in 2023 Australia with the audition song "Foot Loose" he is back and sharing his original music which is charting across the Australian country scene. Music is therapy and healing and so are his friends who he credits for getting him back to what he loves. An inspirational conversation and worth a listen.
Growing up in Outback Queensland, Scotty Mack calls Charleville home, living and breathing what life in the outback means to this inspiring singer/songwriter. Scotty got his first chance to sing on stage with the Walmsley Brothers, performing on the back of a truck at the Charleville racecourse.
âFrom then on I was hookedâ, says Scotty. Influenced by Garth Brooks, Brooks and Dunn and Alan Jackson, and with a passion for country music, Scotty Mack became a Finalist in the âRoad to Tamworthâ and âQueensland Champion of Champions competitions and has recently auditioned on The VOICE Australia.
Connect with Scotty:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Melanie Dyer drops a brand new single, âDustâ. The Australian singer/songwriter has cemented herself as a leading lady in contemporary country with hits like âMemphis T-Shirtâ, âRun Out Of Roadâ and her most recent hit, âSong For Thatâ. Joining the lineup for CMA Music Festival 2023, Melanie played alongside the likes of Jason Aldean, Dan + Shay, Miranda Lambert and more to celebrate the Festivalâs 50th Anniversary.
With sales approaching 10 million, Melanie released her sophomore album in 2022, âBetween You & Meâ; featuring hit singles, âRun Out Of Roadâ, âCheap Moscatoâ, âCheating On Meâ and âDumb Decisionsâ (with Caitlyn Shadbolt) and the title track a collab with US Artist Troy Cartwright. The album earned Melanie 2 CMAA Golden Guitar Award nominations for Female Artist of the Year and Collaboration of the year in January 2023. Melanie is an APRA Professional Development Award Winner, APRA Nominated songwriter (âMemphis T-Shirtâ) and an âin demandâ songwriter within the Australian music industry.
Connect with Melanie:
Website YouTube Facebook Instagram Spotify
Growing up with father Slim Dusty and boarding school in Sale Victoria our featured guest David from Two Tone Pony the band after retiring from a career as a medical practitioner has gotten back into the studio and out on the road.
Celebrating the art of songwriting, passion, and music host Rae Leigh and David discuss the powerful art form and give tips and advice on the journey to writing, co-writing, and recording your own music.
Two Tone Pony was born out of late afternoon verandah sessions overlooking the Tasman Sea on the Central Coast of NSW. With their musical roots buried in alt-country, this five-piece collective is beginning to create a following amongst people who enjoy foot-tapping on Sunday afternoons whilst listening to original tunes that tell stories of Australia. Their influences include locals such as Slim Dusty and Don Walker, but also those on the American scene like Jason Isbell and Wilco. Between them theyâve been around various musical outfits for quite some time, they share vocals, can play multiple instruments, and love what they do. Over the last twelve months, theyâve written and recorded a bunch of original tunes that are shovel-ready to tour and you can sample them by jumping on the video links. Two Tone Pony is David Kirkpatrick, Ian Rhodes, Graham Puglisi, Glen Willey, and Greg Richardson.
Connect with Two Tone Pony here:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
For multiple Grammy, CMA, ACM Award-winning producer Keith Stegall, music has always been his life, strongly influenced by his dad, 1950s Abbott Records recording artist, Bob Stegall. The elder Stegall also played steel guitar for the legendary country singer Johnny Horton. Born in the central Texas town of Wichita Falls and raised in Shreveport (the home of the Louisiana Hayride, a stage his father often graced) the Stegalls were constantly playing and writing songs on guitars and the piano. It was by chance he met another famous Texan, Kris Kristofferson, who inspired Keith to move to Music City.
âShow me what youâve got!â Kris told Keith backstage at a Kristofferson show. Keith played a couple songs, which prompted Kristofferson to remark, âSon, you need to get your ass to Nashville and hang out with other writers. They will break you down and make you the best you can be.â Keith took the advice to heart and three months after his arrival in 1978, Keith co-wrote his first hit, Dr. Hooksâ 1980 smash Sexy Eyes. Soon after, Helen Reddy, The Commodores, Johnny Mathis, and many others rushed to record Keithâs songs. Most notable was Al Jarreauâs career hit Weâre In This Love Together. Eventually Keith signed a record deal with Capitol Records and later Epic Records. He released a pair of albums in the early 1980s with minor chart success. âBecause I grew up in the studio,â Keith recalls, âthe mistake I made was that they told me to produce myself.â The upside, he says, was he learned how to produce other artists by producing himself.
In the midst of trying to get his own artist career off the ground, a struggling nightclub singer named Randy Ray asked Keith to produce an independent album to sell at his local gigs. The project led to Keith producing the standout songs On The Other Hand and Reasons I Cheat on the singerâs epochal debut, âStorms of Life,â under the singerâs new moniker⊠Randy Travis.
Connect with Keith:
- â Websiteâ
- â Facebookâ
World-renowned pianist and composer Chad Lawson, in the past two years has been working to reshape the role that music plays in our daily lives, forging a powerful new pathway for healing. On his luminous new double album breathe, he expands on the extraordinary intentionality he first brought to his massively streamed 2020 effort You Finally Knew, transforming his decidedly modern take on classical music into a conduit for stillness, serenity, and self-reflection.
Partly informed by his work as creator and host of the iHeartRadio Award-nominated podcast âCalm It Downâ (where he guides listeners through techniques for breathing and meditation while tackling mental health subjects) breathe ultimately establishes Lawson as an essential new voice exploring the intersection of music and wellnessâall while delivering an exquisitely crafted body of work whose melodic beauty transcends all genre boundaries.
With his latest endeavors including undergoing certification to teach breathing techniques, Lawson has recently begun to integrate breathing exercises into his music and live performance. For Mental Health Awareness Month, he released breathe (guided breathwork edition), a new deluxe edition of his latest album which includes a series of guided breathwork tracks, with Lawsonâs soothing voice guiding listeners through simple techniques.
Co-produced by Lawson and London-based orchestrator Geoff Lawson, breathe came to life at the legendary Abbey Road Studios (the same facility where he recorded You Finally Knew, whose standout track âStayâ held steady in the top 25 on the Billboard Classical chart for 80 consecutive weeks). So while the album features guest appearances from cellist Peter Gregson, violinist Esther Yoo, and members of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, breathe embodies an understated elegance that allows a tremendous depth of feeling to shine through every moment.
Lawson has been featured by CBS Sunday Morning, NPR, Forbes, GRAMMY.com, Financial Times, and many more.
Connect with Chad:
- Website
-
YouTube
-
Instagram
Sammi Palinkas is a native Victorian like Rae Leigh and they talk about her start from the age of 8 winning a trip for the family to Disneyland, meeting incredible writers, ambitiously aiming for Pop start life style and landing gracefully in the Country space with what Sammi describes as a 'broken heart and life experience'.
Writing in LA with a cocktail and incredible co-writers she shares her experience and advice for songwriting, co-writing and following your songwriting passion.
Connect with Sammi here:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Kehinde A has been all over the world and now residing in Melbourne Australia he is self-produced and has been learning and producing long before the invention of the iPhone or AI.
Kehinde gives great advice to new and independent artists about the vast opportunities that are out there for creatives in the music space, more than just being signed to a label. He encourages the listener to open their minds to all the possibilities for how they can live their dream artistic songwriting life.
Connect with Kehinde A here:
- â Instagram â
- â www.vhprecords.comâ
- â www.myhotmusic.comâ
- â https://www.youtube.com/@kehindeaâ
- â https://www.tiktok.com/@kehindeamusicâ
Kehinde A Pop Diary video
â (110) My Pop Diary Episode 1 Pt 1 - YouTubeâ
Project: Sunday album
â (110) We're All the Same - YouTubeâ
Vocaloid project
â (111) Kehinde A - In The Sky (demo with Vocaloid Avanna) - YouTubeâ
Lachlan Bryan (episode #20) & Catherine Britt (episode #69) friends first and 'The Pleasures' second. Started out with just writing a duet to writing a whole albm of duets and forming a band. Catherine connects with Rae Leigh and talks about how this project came about, the stories behind the songs and what they were going through when writing them. The album is incrediblley well produced and written and worth a close listen to every song.
Songwriter Trysts is all about the magic of artistic collaboration and this project is the perfect example of how amazing things happen when talented kinds people work together to create something amazing.
Connect and follow The Pleasures here:
- YouTube
- Spotify
From South California singer songwriter Ryan Terrigno gets brave and shares honest stories from the heart. With many years of experiance in a band and now as a solo artists he shares from his experiances as a songwriter and what he is doing now.
Connect with Ryan:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Lucy Burke is an incredible singer-songwriter and natural-born entertainer who loves to get out and amongst it with her audiance. After listening to this podcast you will probably be as curious as I am to watch her live. Check out her socials and keep an eye out for her new single on July 21st 'On The Edge'
Connect with Lucy
- Website
- Youtube
- Spotify
NSW football pro turns Country music super star. Featuring his new single 'No Hero' James and Rae have a great chat about music, life on the farm and chasing after your dreams. James shares about his experiances with songwriting and goals for his music career and the secrets to his sucsess. Make sure to check out his new single and follow as he shares there are lots more songs on the way soon.
The country lovin, wine maker and football player man from Orange NSW James Keith is one to watch with lots of new music promised to be coming out way soon.
Connect with James:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Australian singer songwriter Jackson James is currently in Nashville for a month and heading back to a full calendar of filming, music and music festivals. Life lessons about work ethic, valuing time and deciding what to do with it. James shares wisdom from his experiances in the creative arts and how he was able to narrow down what he really wants to achieve in his carrer.
Connect with Jackson here:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Inspired by Nick Cave and Justin Townes Earle, singer songwritrer Lisa DeAngelis has a positive outlook on the way the world works, music and experiances. This podcast Rae Leigh and Lisa get a little wacky and talk into the energy of women and how we pass on experianced as women down generations.
Lisa is promoting her new single "My sisters Blues Suitcase" and shares more about her experiances as an independant artist to date.
Connect with Lisa:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
He got a record deal at 30 and another one at 40! Mark Mulch is a singer songwriter and all round kind geniun musical visionary. We are excited to share his interview with Rae Leigh talking about his journey to moving to Nashville at 35 and his new EP "Days In The Sun". Working in a band, duo and now solo along with 10 years in the business side of the music industry, Mark has lots to share and wisdom along with some very cool experiances.
Connect with Mark:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
WOMPP â Women of Music Production Perth â is a female-run label, booking agency and Ableton user group community. WOMPP gives the opportunity to female, transgender and non-binary music makers to share, discuss and showcase music production within the broader Australian music community. Alongside the record label and booking agency, WOMPP curates monthly community meetings and showcases.
WOMPP aims to inspire and nurture Australiaâs diverse electronic music scene and provide a safe place for learning and growth.
Connect with Women of Music Production Perth
- Website
"Know who you are" says Karli June Canadian singer songwriter in her podcast interview with Rae Leigh on Songwriter Trysts. Sharing her journey to recording and releasing her first song during covid lockdown in 2020 and how she worked with a professional team from Nashville to develop her pop country hit "Makes You Pretty".
An inspirational story about a country girl chasing her dream and following her passions.
Connect with Karli here:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Dariann Leigh is a singer songwriter building a name for herself in Nashville. Rae Leigh interviews Dariann Leigh on Songwriter Trysts podcast about her new single 'Blame It On Me' featured in the podcast and what her motivations for songwriting were and where it all started.
Great songwriting tips, advice and co-writing stories in this one for everyone to enjoy getting to know Darianne Leigh from another angle.
Connect with Dariann:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Country pop singer songwriter Tori Darke is a Golden Guitar âFemale Artist of the Yearâ finalist, Sports Model. She has toured her music Australia wide but has also toured as far as the Middle East several times playing for Australian troops. She has a new single "Dodged A Bullet" out and talks about the journey to this point and what the song is about in this podcast episode.
"I wrote this song about the realisation that I had dodged a bullet by getting out of a toxic relationship" says Tori.
Previously featured on The Voice. Her spontaneous duet with Keith Urban of âStupid Boyâ went viral.
Connect with Tori
- Website
- YouTube
Indie band from Newcastle Elestial share their new music, plans and origion story with us on Songwriter Trysts with lead singer Elyssa live in the studio with Rae Leigh.
They boast to have beautiful sad songs you can dance to and have a live performance to have you up and dancing explained as "group therapy" in their bio. Make sure to check out their new music and support these young talented friends who are out to do some good and have fun.
Connect with Elestial
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Caroline McKnight is the manager for National Education & Outreach at APRA AMCOS who joins Rae Leigh live in the studio to talk about what is ARPA AMCOS, why do songwriters need to be members and everything you need to know about your copyright.
The second you write or record original music, you have copyright. It's free and automatic. APRA AMCOS helps you make money from your music by selling licences to people who want to use it. When your music is played you earn royalties and get paid.
Find out more or become a member on the website here: https://www.apraamcos.com.au/
Follow APRA AMCOS online
- YouTube
- Website
Frank Varrasso from Varrasso PR company in Melbourne chats with Rae Leigh about the music industry, his fascinating journey in and out of record companies, venue promotions and even working with some of the worldâs biggest music acts. Frank sees artists new and old come in and out of the music industry and with over 18 years in the industry he shares the real secrets to his passion and continued love of the job.
Frank Varrasso started Varrasso PR in January 2009. Prior to this, he was the Senior Director of National Promotions and Publicity at Sony Music. Over the years, he has run promotions and publicity departments on both a state and national level for numerous Record Labels.
With over 18 years of experience in the music industry, Frank has worked with international and local artists including P!nk, Justin Timberlake, Kings of Leon, Oasis, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Madonna, Blur, Green Day, Foo Fighters, Beyonce, Eskimo Joe, Neil Finn, Ben Lee, Motor Ace, Machine Gun Fellatio, George, Rogue Traders, Kate Miller-Heidke, Alex Lloyd, Pete Murray, Augie March, and Delta Goodrem, Vanessa Amorosi, to name but a few. Throughout Frank's years of experience in the music industry, he has formed valuable and respected relationships with media across several platforms â radio, television, and print.
Connect with Frank Varrasso:
- Website
Happy International Women In Music Day and welcome to the amazing female trio from Brisbane Australia Vixens Of Fall!
What would you do if you were one of six kids and your Dad said, ok your going to be in a band with your two sisters? Well thats where the Vixons of Fall started, with an encouraging father and incredible communications skills. Working in a band with family can bring up chanllenges but these women put an amazing light on just how wonderful it can be too. The lessons, wisdom and pure joy these women in music poses is what we hope to see more of in the future of Women in music. Gina Jeffrys who we spoke to on episode #140 has mentored the Vixens and her kindness and fantastic teaching shows in her praise in this podcast. Leading the way in creating a female positive culture for women in the industry.
A product of Far North Queensland, now living in Brisbane, Kristina, Adrienne and Anneliese Whitehouse have music and performance in their blood. The girls have learnt to apply determination and preparation to meet every opportunity as they strive for artistic success.
Make sure to check out their new single Mirror Mirror here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8IVvow19bJk
Connect with Vixens Of Fall:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
- TikTok
Josh Pyke is a multi-award-winning Australian singer-songwriter. Producing five albums, all of which debuted in the top ten, and a stand-alone special with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra which notably won Best Original Soundtrack/Cast/Show Album in 2016. Pykeâs career has been one of the consistent hits - touring his albums across Australia, the United Kingdom, and the USA, performing at Glastonbury, South by Southwest, and a myriad of the top music festivals. With a career spanning decades with no sign of stopping, Josh Pyke is a force of the indie genre to be reckoned with.
Connect with Josh:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Amy Sheppard one of the members from the multi-award-winning global band 'Sheppard' is also releasing music as a POP Country solo artist and chats with Rae Leigh on Songwriter Trysts about her journey with the band into the new musical journey as a solo artists alongside still being in the band 'Shepard'
Her new single âCouple Goalsâ featured is beautifully written, performed, and produced and is now available on all platforms. âCouple Goalsâ is the crossover, feel-good country-pop song of the summer. Written alongside Nick & Tom Wolfe from Episode 100 on Songwriter Trysts, which she talks about in the podcast. Â "Couple Goals" was a crowd-favorite at Amyâs run of live shows last year and is set to be the ultimate soundtrack to kick-start 2023.
Connect with Amy:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Host Rae Leigh sits down with Zac from the Zac & George Band sensation after their single release âBar Stoolâ (See music video to the left on this page). Â George the hero was busy fighting fires but we still got a good feel for what this dinamic DUO have been up to and how they have got to the level they are at with their sound and direction.
Zac & George, originally inspired by iconic duo Simon and Garfunkel, have continued to broaden their musical taste with acts such as John Mayer, Keith Urban and Dan + Shay.
After spending months overseas playing shows and writing new music, and the release of their first two singles, which 'Red Wine & Roses' landed the dup on the cover of the well known editorial Spotify playlist 'Fresh Cover', Zac & George have released their third single, 'Bar Stool'. The up-tempo track will be coupled with a NSW tour in April. Follow their socials for tickets and further details!
Connect with Zac & George:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
- TikTok
Host Rae Leigh welcomes Kaylee Lauren as her latest guest on the show. She has the most beautiful voice and fresh heartbreaking lyrics that will take you on a sobering journey of love and loss. Rae is excited to have her share her story of mental health and self love as a songwriter on the show.
The singer takes passion in her songwriting making sure her fans are able to connect with her music as much as possible as she writes relatable verses expressing the vulnerable emotions she experiences as a teenager. Kaylee writes all of her own songs by creating melodies at the piano and combining raw vocals. Her songs reveals a build up of intricate instrumentals while layering confessional lyrics. The singer creates many relatable, real, and emotional songs for all her fans out there to connect with her music and her as an artist. Kaylee is a 16 year old singer, songwriter, and musician who pours her heart out when writing and producing her music. She takes the pain and hardships of her life and turns them into creative, inspirational, and relatable magic also known as her music. She writes about all aspects of her life to create songs for her audience to connect too. She eloquently conveys the intense and real emotions when writing a song which makes her music special. Most importantly she loves interacting with her fans which she is so grateful to have. Kaylee Lauren is a talented songwriter that continues to write and produce for the world to hear.
Connect with Kaylee:* Spotify * TikTok * Instagram * YouTube
Pain and beauty in the art created by our 2023 Grammy Nominated guest, American composer, songwriter, musician, and music producer best known for his album, Symphony of Sinners & Saints, Kitt Wakeley.
Wakeley talks about his journey into music, the challenges and how he had made his path with grace in his career, step by step working with some of the worldâs best artists and orchestras and now nominated for his incredible work in the classic music genre in the 2023 Grammy awards.
He gives his best advice and lessons he has learnt along the way along with dreams of working with producer Quincy Jones and artist Paul McCartney
Connect with Kitt Wakeley
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
- Apple Music
Artist, songwriter, producer turned manager with Cartel Management in Melbourne; Anthony Agostino has an in deepth discussion with host Rae Leigh about his experiance in the industry, record lables and being a touring sucsessful artist. He gives us all the gift of life experiance wisdom and advice in the music industry and shares more about the Melbourne based managment company he now partners in supporting songwriters and artisit to best achieve their goals.
Cartel Management Australia (CMA) is a boutique artist development agency based in Victoria, Australia. Founded in 2015 by Christina Rinaldi who has an extensive background in events, label services and communications, and Anthony Agostino a former touring artist and record producer with a background in digital marketing. The pair have put their professional experiences together to create a resource hub for independent & developing artists, labels, and events in the music space.
Operating across 3 divisions, the intention of Cartel is to bridge the gap of knowledge between grass roots / developing artists and career / label artists within the music industry, providing assistance in the areas of growth and knowledge that are not often easily accessible or taught to artists that do not have initial industry connections.
CARTEL SOCIALS
- Website
Connect with Anthony
Matt from the duo Sons of Atticus catches up with Rae Leigh on a featured podcast chat about the origin of the band and the lessons, development and exciting experiences they have had since releasing their debut song in 2021.
Amongst the chaos of a rowdy bar in their hometown, Matt and Dylan crossed paths for the first time and instantly hit it off with a few beers, tacos and their love for country music. It wasnât long before the two started to write, record and perform the kind of music that inspired them both growing up. Since then, Matt and Dylan have become Tasman Guitar ambassadors, have released a Debut EP, have matching Elvis Presley tattoos and have now released their new single into the world.
A song for the road when you miss the ones at home. Sore Eyes depicts the balancing act of a traveller feeling the strain of following their dream while being away from the ones they love most.
The duoâs short and sharp existence has already seen them support the likes of CW Stoneking, Andrew Farris, and Catherine Britt & Lachlan Bryanâs new duo, The Pleasures. In April, the boys made their way to Tamworth to perform across venues for the Tamworth Country Music Festival. July saw them release their single âSad Songsâ which was paired with a small tour along the south coast of NSW, teaming up with a local brewing company for the run of shows. Recently, Matt and Dylan travelled to Mackay to open up the main stage of NQ's Rock'n Country Festival.
Connect with Sons Of Atticus:
- Spotify
- YouTube
This inspirational story of Jemma will encourage anyone who is finding their feet in any creative industry.
Jemma Beech and Rae Leigh catch up for the first time after meeting in 2016 DAG Singer Songwriter Retreat in Tamworth Australia. Jemma talks about living on stations, nannying and balancing life and music.
âWe only have one life so Iâm going to do what makes me happyâ
The pressure and demand of trying to keep up with others in the country music industry got to her when she was younger and she is coming back fully passionate about doing it as she wants to, how she wants and when she wants to do it.
Raised in the quiet town of Yanderra, NSW, singer-songwriter, Jemma Beech has Country in her blood. Her hard-hitting blend of modern and classic Country music spins tales of love and rural life.
When Jemma was just 3 years old she fell in love with music â despite the fact that nobody close to her could play or sing. 90âs Country queens like Trisha Yearwood, Shania Twain and The Chicks would be her inspiration. "I was three years old in the back seat of the car when Mum was flicking through radio stations driving around Queensland on a holiday,â recalls the now 30-year-old. âA Trisha Yearwood song came on and I was hooked from that moment on.â
Growing up in a small town meant a fair dinkum Country upbringing - everything from horse riding to dirt bikes. âWe had a few acres of land with a front paddock where my horse was kept,â reminisces Jemma.â The back half of our property was slowly turned into a motorbike track â mostly for my two younger brothers â I really enjoyed riding the PeeWee 80 around the track and over the jumps and side berms they made.â Although her potential motocross career was short-lived, as the track later became a learner driverâs course when she got a â97 Toyota Corolla.
A string of odd jobs followed. Bartender, Truck Stop Worker, Nanny â you name it. Music began to take centre stage in Jemmaâs life when the she attended the 2015 Senior Academy of Country Music in Tamworth. Previously studying as a beauty therapist she crowd funded the lionâs share of the costs to get her to the Country Music capital.
Jemmaâs latest track, âYou Foolâ, drops on November 11th. Recorded at the renowned Music Cellar by Rod McCormack and written alongside Rod and Sally Barris.
Connect with Jemma:
- Website
- YouTube
Escaping into Disney movies Britany loved to sing and would put on ticketed shows at her house whenever people would come around. the typical outgoing child who loves to entertain and share her passion of music but what wasnt so typical was having to grow up too early being the only girl in a family of four and her mother suffering multipal brain tumors and the constant ongoing of having a mother in and out of hostpial never knowing if she was going to come home.Â
In this podcast Brittany shares her joys, lessons, passions, how and why she now trusts herself 100% when it comes to her artists nature. Flying in and out of LA and now full time in Sydney she is on a new venture and taking full control of her futre in the Australian country music scene.Â
Connect with Brittany:
- Website
- TikTok
- YouTube
Australian singer/songwriter Rachel Koster believes that creativity can be a force for good in the world. With a love for her craft she shares her years of writing experience in the industry and how she feels the full circle of hearing a song on the radio to sitting in the room with those same artists and writing.
She explains her incredible journey and experiences. Her songwriting collaborations have involved musicians including long term co-writer Stuart Fraser, as well as Gary Pinto, Stephen Cummings, Sean OâBoyle, Michael Barker, Chris Haigh, Bruce Haymes, Luke Austen, Limmel, Nashvilleâs Karin Papperelli, Australian Idol finaists, and others. Songwriting is Rachelâs joy and she is passionate about writing for other acts in all genres from country to pop to EDM.
Much of her commissioned work involves writing for artists, projects, musicals, childrenâs music, theme songs & awareness campaigns. Rachel is also a solo pop & acoustic artist, and releases alongside her debut album Deciduous are Breathe, December, Carnival (with Blake Gannon) and Table. New singles wait in readiness for 2023 including the track Dundas Street, and collaborations with Rick Price. Rachel has run Songwalk songwriting workshops since 2020 in Australia with fellow writers Boi Crompton & Eskae Van Eck.
Connect with Rachel:
- Website
- SoundCloud
Jesse from Hinterland the Aussie country band sits with Rae Leigh live in the Gold Coast studio to talk music, songwriting, and her mistakes, lessons, and successes.
Brother & sister, Robbie & Rachel Bostock with childhood friend Jesse Emmanuel make Hinterland. Together theyâve been kicking down doors in the Australian country music industry since their launch in 2020. Hinterland has amassed some consistently impressive statsâall 6 of their singles dominating Top 10 charts all over the country including 3 x #1s (âTreating Me Goodâ,âGiddy Upâ, âIn The Hinterlandâ), streams in the millions and a viral moment for theirsong& EP âLoudâ in March of 2021 thanks to mainstream airplay on rock station Triple M.Their sound is one of a kindâan eclectic mix of their strongest influences such as The Corrs, Fleetwood Mac, The Chicks, Brad Paisley and Zac Brown Bandâblending different styles of country, pop, and rock with a focus on catchy hooks, dreamy melodies and shows topping musicianship: Rachel shredding on the violin, Robbie melting faces with his electric guitar and Jesse holding down a solid rhythm on 2nd guitar. In full band mode, they are a sensational forceâwith the kind of musical chemistry that can only come from decades of experience, collaboration, friendship, and family. They love what they do, and they are simply exceptional. Despite launching the band during the pandemic, Hinterland performed coveted stage-storming sets at Groundwater, Savannah In The Round, Bush To Bay, and Tamworthfestivals. They are looking forward to releasing their long-awaited debut album and dominating the circuit once again in 2023. There is no one doing country music like Hinterland.
Connect with Hinterland:
- Website
- Youtube
- Spotify
MacKenzie Porter, what an inspirational artist, strong and determined women. In this podcast Rae and Mackenzie discuss the art of being a women in the arts, "rejection is just redirection' and the power of taking the yes's and no's with a pinch of salt and have fun on the journey. Mackenzie is working hard touring the world and writing and recording with an incredible Nashville team to put her best music out there along with some exciting acting things when they come up.
With a string of #1 hits and collaborations MacKenzie stole the hearts of Australian country lovers while she was hear and we hope to see her back very soon.
There is nothing better than seeing someone passionate and living a life of joy and love for their craft sucseed. We are very excited to see what comes next for this increible women.
Connect with Mackenzie here:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
- TikTok
- IMDB
The amazing Sydney songwriting and singing Pop duo Sharon and Christine Muskat form 'Sister2Sister', Just releasing their first single 'Nothing's Gonna Bring Us Down Now' since their #3 ARIA charting single 'Sister' in 1999 and subsiquence Album in 2000. Touring with the 90's hit boy band FIVE around Australia at the end of the year they have decided to release some more origional music. These inspirational business women and artists along with having children and building a family have build an incredible singing school in Sydney and want to inspire their children and students to not let fear hold them back from chasing their dreams and having fun.
All the shows this November here: https://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=FIVE21
Connect with Sister2Sister:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
- TikTok
Matt Scullion has a chat with Rae Leigh about the journey as a songwriter from Austraia sitting in a ute witha broken casset player to living in Nashville chasing the dream of full time songwriter, to falling in love, coming home and working with iconic australian artists such as Lee Kerhnagan and many more having over 22 #1 Hits in australia and many more cuts, including Cold Chisel, Â along with recording and releasing his own music.Â
Connect with Matt:
- Website
- Youtube
Rae Leigh chats to the amazing team Sodajerker from Liverpool. Founded by Simon Barber and Brian O'Connor Sodajerker is a podcast on songwriting featuring interviews with some of the most successful songwriters in the world. Seems only fitting that this podcast which inspired us to start Songwriter Trysts and helped us shape what we do was by these guys and we are so excited to share this podcast chat between the three hosts to share the positives and oppertunities that have come from this platform of connecting and creating online community for songwriters from all over the world.
Connect with Sodajerker:
- Website
- Spotify
- Apple Podcasts
Whether touring extensively across the U.S. and Europe, gaining a loyal fan base from the millions who watched her as a powerhouse vocalist on Season 13 of American Idol, appearing on The Kelly Clarkson Show, or having her most recent single played on CMT, MTV, and Sirius XM âThe Pulse,â Casey as accomplished so much in her short career.
On the touring front, Casey has headlined her own sold out shows in New York and Boston. Sheâs also supported incredible acts like James Morisson, Stephen Kellogg, Kate Voegele, Tyler Hilton, Eric Hutchison, Clark Beckham, David Ryan Harris, and Nick Howard. The songsmith has organically accumulated tens of thousands of followers on social media and millions of views and streams of her music online, largely because her songs are authentic, intimate and relatable.
Additionally, Casey has performed her anti-bullying concert series at over one hundred middle and high schools for over 40,000 students. The âYou Matterâ Tour was recognized by the UN Foundation and was recently featured on The Kelly Clarkson Show.
Casey recently release her debut album Skinny which includes the hit single âIn & Outâ, a duet with Jon McLaughlin, which found its way into several major playlists, being spotlighted by the likes of Apple Music and Amazon Music, as well featured on MTV and CMT, and Sirius XM âThe Pulseâ.
Connect to Casey:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Singer songwriter Imogen Clark joins Rae Leigh in a conversation about co-writing, touring, covid lockdowns in Australia and how her one year gap year turned into a 10 year long music lifestyle.
âImogen Clark may not have tailored her record to this era but her vibrant, bracing songs âkind of like a dip in a cold September sea â might just be one of the things to carry usthrough it.â - Divya Venkataraman, Sydney Morning Herald
âA rock gem from Imogen Clark. Her voice is incredible⊠I just love how raw that one is.â -Karla Ranby, Triple J
Imogen Clark is an AIR Award nominated indie artist from Western Sydney. Her musicranges from intimate to arena-ready, rock anthems with the soul of a confessional singer-songwriter. She is currently halfway through her mammoth 100 Shows in 100 Days tour. An artist who regularly performed 75+ shows in a year, Imogen has barely managed 20 over the last two. Even that number is a testament to her determination to do the only thing that for her makes life worth living â coming together with other people to put her heart on her sleeve and exhaust herself physically and emotionally making music that will move people. âI donât know who I am when I canât do this,â she says. âItâs not just a job, itâs what makes me feel alive. That connection with an audience of strangers, where you donât know somebody but you know they feel how you feel, and with the people on stage bringing these songs to life with you, my life feels empty without it, so itâs time to make up for lost timeâ. The shows have also allowed Imogen to road test new material, including cathartic belter âNonchalantâ, which she headed into the studio to record between shows after the song became a standout live favourite.
Connect with Imogen:
- Website
- Intagram
- Spotify
- Youtube
Rae Leigh chats with Dan Rubins and Sofia Campoamor from American based charity 'Hear Your Song' opening up about the healing work they are doing with children who are sturggling with illnes and complex needs and how the power of this work is impacting the kids and volenteers in a positive way. Hear Your Song, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that empowers children and teens with serious illnesses and complex health needs to make their voices heard through collaborative songwriting. Kids living with significant health challenges need the chance to show the world â and sometimes to hear for themselves, too â that they are more than their diagnoses. In live, collaborative songwriting sessions, Hear Your Song volunteers work with children and teens to guide them through the process of writing their own song lyrics. Using the kid songwriterâs ideas for musical style, melody, instrumentation, and tempo, volunteer composers and musicians then set those words to music and record the song to be heard, celebrated, and shared. Hear Your Song partners with pediatric hospitals, camps, schools, and other nonprofit programs that serve kids experiencing serious illnesses and complex health needs. Hear Your Songâs volunteers collaborate with kids through campus-based chapters and at the organizationâs national level. All of our programs are available to our families and partner organizations free of charge.
Connect with Hear Your Song HERE
When Duncan recorded Rae Leighs music video 'Find A Better Day' in 2020 Duncan talked about wanting to get back into recording and releasing his own music. Now in 2022 he has done just that with the help of his friends he released his first single 'Run' and has many more and an album to come. In this chat they go through some of the challenges Duncan overcame to get to this point.Â
Duncan John Toombs (born on June 14th, 1977) is an Australian based singer-songwriter, musician and video director.  Known widely for his incredible guitar work & creative film making, the release of Duncanâs debut album - STEEL ON STEEL has the entire Australian country scene waiting in anticipation.  It features 12 original songs about his life, his family and love. With inspiration grounded from his long-time love of Country Music, Duncanâs songs are woven with tones ranging from Jackson Brown to Zac Brown. This album is a sure bet to exceed everyone's expectations.
Connect with Duncan:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Awarded TSA New Songwriter of the year Emily Hatton, is a Melbourne-born country singer-songwriter, who brings fire and an energy to her performances that few emerging artists can replicate. Seamlessly blending country and pop stylings, her energetic presence delivers catchy hooks coupled with authentic, personal stories. Hatton is a dedicated songwriter with great emotional range.
She crafts her music from places of strength to vulnerability, but all the time with heartfelt, true-to-life experience woven in to complete the storytelling.
Connect with Emily:Â
- Website
- TikTok
- YouTube
Multi-award-winning singer-songwriter Luke O'Shea chats with Rae Leigh about his journey as a teacher and songwriter. After many years on the road and working in the Australian music industry he calls Australia the great filtering system for artists because it's just so hard, you have done it because you can't do anything else.
Connect with Luke:
- Website
- Instragram
- Spotify
- YouTube
Queensland singer-songwriter Briannah Grace is stepping into an anticipated new venture inspired during the crazy changes caused by Covid-19. âIf I Had To Guessâ is a catchy, fun, and upbeat urban cowgirl pop song. It is a sassy take on the heartache and denial everyone faces while getting over someone you still miss. Rae Leigh sits down for a live chat in the Gold Coast studio to talk about her new path with the origioanl work and what inspires her. We were suprised at what we found out about this inspirational women and artist.
Briannah spent 2020 kicking huge goals, that launched her in the award-winning sibling duo as half of âOh Harlowâ, who in 2020 won the Queensland Music Award for âCountry Song of the Yearâ, starred in the Top 24 on X Factor 2016, performed at Woodford Folk Festival, Groundwater Country Music Festival and Gympie Music Muster four years in a row.
Oh Harlowâs debut single âGive It A Missâ hit the charts at #3 on The Music Network Australian Country Airplay Charts, #1 on the iTunes Country Singles Chart and the sisters performed around Australia and toured internationally to Japan. Taking with her the hard work and determination that it took to create that success, this short but mighty go-getter has spent the pandemic songwriting, learning guitar, photography and building a community
while live-streaming her music on the online platform âTwitchâ when not performing due to the pandemic. After six years of touring, songwriting and performing in her duo, Briannah Grace is fronting her own debut single âIf I Had To Guessâ, recorded at Brisbaneâs Red Engine Recording Studio, and produced by Andrew Cochrane. To co-incide with the single release, Briannah Grace will be performing at Gympie Music Muster in August.
Connect with Briannah:
- YouTube
- Spotify
- Twitch
This is a special episode with publishing expert Matt Donlevy from Cooking Vinyl Publishing Australia, we talk all about publishing and why itâs so integral to a successful songwriting career. Another aspect of the songwriting world with many different hats over a lifetime career in Sydney.
Some of their artists include: Alphawolf, Emily Barker, Ceres, Eliza & the delusionals, Emma Donovan & the Putbacks, Fanny Lumsden, Gravemind, High Tension & lots more.Â
Connect with Matt:
- Website
- YouTube
Buy me a coffee and support the podcast HERE
Award winning Australian Songwriter Lloyd M Clarke Joins Rae Leigh in a catch up episode after their first podcast was lost to the mysterious world of technology. Both from East Gippsland country Victoria they share a love for Australian country music, history and the importnatce for mental health. In this podcast we discuss his love of Australian history story telling and the war.Â
Connect with Lloyd:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Jimmy Watts, synical or realist, this artist pushes the boundries of thought in spirit and conspiracy. Rae Leigh and Jimmy go deep into the history of why and where these beliefs and ideas come from and why he loves diving into these ideals. With an incredible Tom Waits vocal style and entertaining energy and history of touring, writing and releasing music in Australia he shares some wisdoms he has picked up along the way.
Watts is a soulful grass-roots rocker and troubadour with a uniquely raw sound and a passion for performing live.
A one of a kind gentleman of the road and a journeyman through and through.
Fixated on pushing the boundaries of his craft and forever evolving his sound, he has grown to be one of Australiaâs most unique and memorable entertainers.
Watts is intense and at home on the boards; delivering performances with great furious energy, tremendous heart, and heaps of spontaneity.
His guitar playing style is a furious assault on the beaten and bloodied bodies of his acoustics, slides and electrics.
Gravely, smoke filled vocals and roaring harmonicas only add insult to their injuries.
Professional Dunce at
www.jimmywatts.com
Chumscrubber at
www.badoctopi.com
King at
www.thembeans.com
Connect with Jimmy:
- Website
- YouTube
- SoundCloud
Nashvilles beating heart are the songwriters that are drawn to her and Nancy describes her desires to live in Nashville became very clear to her in 2013. She made the journey to the beautifyl music capitol of the world and realised all around her that even though everyone was there, peoeple were still struggling to connect and network in the magical city.
CEO and founder of Discover Sooner an online community of songwriting professionals and songwriters was put together to connect publishers, artist, songwriters and everyone inbetween to help fast track the meeting process and create more oppertunities for people to work together.Â
Check out the online community of Discover Sooner here: https://www.discoversooner.com/us
Connect with Nancy:
- Website
- SoundCloud
- YouTube
Haunted by relentless retrospection and emotional turmoil, Eva Grace details how relationships can wreak havoc on the soul in her single, âstill cry sometimes.â Lyrical despair and melodic euphoria are woven together as Eva Grace purges the remnants of love lost.Â
âThis song is about the feeling of being with a person who was never there for you in the way you needed," says the alt-pop expressionist. "Whether they're out of your life or not, itâs okay to still feel betrayed by this person. The lingering emotions of past pain are valid, but that doesnât make them any less painful.â
Eva Graceâs velvety vocals and electro-pop production create a mystical yet mainstream track that solidifies her status as a pop-essential. After all, DMĂ described the inexplicable entertainer as "one of the most promising alt-pop artists around." Contact Eva:Â
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Jay Seeney is 2022 Golden Guitar winner music video producer of the year and an incredible singer songwriter in his own right. We dive deeper into the value of music videos to releasing a song and the do's and don'ts on music video production.
In just three short years, Seeney has filmed with the best in the Australian country music business; Lee Kernaghan, The Wolfe Brothers (Ep 100), Travis Collins, Jasmine Rae, Luke O'Shea, Lyn Bowtell (Ep 53), Ashleigh Dallas, Andrew Swift (Ep 30), Troy Kemp, Drew McAlister, Benn Gunn, Matt Cornell (Ep 110) and Mike Carr are just A FEW names that demand the best the industry has to offer.
Connect with Jay:
- Website
- Youtube
Michael and Rae chat about his incredible journey of discovery and the process of developing a catalogue and his inspiration from Ray Charles and his ability to explore all genres of music as an artist and a songwriter.
The critically acclaimed old-school crooner Michael Tinholme brings his stylings to his latest album Singled Out. A 13-track journey soaked in Tinholmeâs smooth and sophisticated jazzy stylings, backed by genre giants performing at their best.
Opening the album is a rendition of the Bowie classic âLady Stardustâ, that sets the tempo for this technically proficient and soulfully rich project. Tinholmeâs interpretation of the legacy track bleeds respect for the original while showcasing what makes the artist and his band so special. Backed by long-time Bowie collaborator and the songâs original pianist Mike Garson, Michaelâs cool vocals dance across a dynamic range fitting of Lady Stardustâs legacy, while saxophone and piano solos, and beautiful backing singers envelop listeners in a sonically rich and wonderous experience.
Singled Out delivers on the promise of its opening track. Shifting between fantastic renditions of all-time greats and Tinholme originals standing shoulder to shoulder, the album transports listeners back to the time of jazz as a juggernaut, all the while making the most of contemporary production, stylings, and calibre of talent. Joining Michael are the aforementioned Mike Garson, jazz guitarist Mike Miller (Better Midler, Quincey Jones), the acclaimed drummer Gary Novak (Chick Corea, Natalie Cole), and legendary guitarist Steve Lukather (Toto, Michael Jacksonâs Thriller, Ringo Starr and Paul McCartney).
Michaelâs path to the company of musical prestige was one hard tread. Adopted into a military family at only seven months old, Michael was constantly being relocated all the while suffering extensive abuse. Amongst the catharsis, the artist found solace in music. A perfect fit, Michael played his first professional show aged only twelve.
While the journey there forth remained difficult, with spouts of foster care and homelessness, two threads remain constant from Michaelâs collaborators: his kindness and his passion. It is with dedication, talent, and a relentlessly tenacious spirit then that Michael brought himself to the remarkable stature he holds today.
Connect with Michael:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
NASHVILLE, TN â Presley Tennant wagers her queen-of-hearts in new single âGamble On You,â releasing March 25. With powerhouse vocals that reflect her fearless personality, all bets are off as the 19-year-old songstress shows strength and courage in delivery and lyricism.
"'Gamble On You' expresses the feeling in the beginning of a relationship of uncertainty of where things will lead, trying to basically read their mind to figure out if it was going to end up good or go no where." says Tennant. "The song has a very sultry feel that I think matches the same thoughts as one may be feeling in that moment in time."
Written solely by Presley Tennant, "Gamble On You" is the first release the young artist feels she had the largest influence in â from lyrics to melody and even music video concept and directing.
check out "Gamble On You" now on Spotify and Apple Music: https://lnk.fu.ga/presleytennant_gambleonyou.
Connect with Presley Tennant:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Zac from the band Hanson joins Rae on a Songwriter Trysts intimate podcast with a personal account of their band, how and why they had the achievements they did from such a young age, how they have evolved and what amazing people they have had the chance to work with. Now with a cool new Hanson album which in a way is a compile of three separate EP's one from each brother where each of them wrote 5 songs and will release them all together. Fatherhood, life, music industry, faith and lockdown are just some of the topics that come up during this chat about their new music. Hanson are releasing their album RED GREEN BLUE with a world tour, they are a 3 x Grammy Award-nominated pop-rock trio selling over 16 million albums and performed concerts to over 3 million fans. Get prepared for the greatness of their music to hit your playlists really soon. Single featured in the podcast  'Write You A Song' https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sq0AuYi7KtM&t=4s Connect with Hanson:
Website Spotify YouTube Instagram Facebook Twitter Tour dates
Jared Walker is an up and coming singer songwriter, following the inspiration from his father and passion for all music but country music holds a special part in his heart. We love his single 'Down On The River' and his deep country style voice.
Down on the River is an upbeat tune, written and performed by Jared Walker. The song was produced by Tune Designer in Georgia, and is a toe tapper with a 90's feel good vibe. If you've ever been down south and spent time fishing, you can likely relate to the feeling this one gives. It was written after several summers of almost nothing but river days and boating. The best way to get to know Jared, would be to listen to his latest single-"Down on the River"as it is a true display of who he is as an artist and a person. He has big plans for the future not only in his life performance, but in collaboration as well. Jared has several potential singles, and is currently working hard to hit the charts.Until then, this one is "Rockin"
Connect with Jared:
- YouTube
- Spotify
In this episode Jason Davis opens up about his experience as a songwriter and how he got a #1 Billboard charting song before he even realised that it was something maybe he should look at. Through a traumatic childhood and finding music as a way of expressing himself he is now passionate as a music manager helping develop artists into realising their full artistic potential. If you're looking for a record deal or management Jason gives some great advice for aspiring artists here. Jason Davis has spent his entire two decade career in the music industry and worked with many worldwide stars, including Boyz ll Men, Sugar Ray, P. Diddy, Alabama, Lonestar, Dolly Parton, among many others. Davis is an entertainment industry executive with a broad range of titles including award winning songwriter, award winning author, independent record label president, executive TV producer, entertainment consultant, former Senior VP of A&R for Dolly Parton's management company CTK management and a serial entrepreneur. He has also secured record deal offers with CEO's from the largest music companies in the world, including Capitol Records, Sony, Interscope, Island / Def Jam, Epic, Atlantic, RCA, and J Records. Traveling between New York, London, Los Angeles, Miami and Nashville, he built a reputation working with the top songwriters, producers, and recording artists in the entertainment industry on a global level. Over the span of his career, he has not only pioneered new approaches to the signing and development of some of the world most successful recording artists and songwriters but he has consistently championed innovative business models and partnerships with a wide range of companies around the world. His career began as a songwriter when he was discovered by Grant Cunningham, the former VP of A&R for Sparrow Records. Davis went on to write a #1 Billboard hit, received several ASCAP songwriting and publishing awards, and was nominated for a Latin music award. Davis has also co-founded other cutting edge entertainment companies such as Radar Label Group (Jimmy Eat World, Plain White T's, Neon Trees, The Unlikely Candidates), One One 7, Noble Management, and Awaken Records. He is also co-president and partner of booking agency Higher Level Agency. Connect with Jason: Noble Management One One 7 Higher Level Agency Enjoying the podcast? buy Rae Leigh and the team a coffee and help keep the program going for future songwriters here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTryst
Corey Pryor & Ariell Alexis are a father daughter special double episode as we hear how the teacher becomes the student and vice verser. Corey shares his success story with Grammy nominated Christina pop band The Newsboys in the 90's and Ariell talks about living in Nashville as a child and having entertainers as parents who inspired her own modern way of performing and producing.Â
These two have so much to share and to give and its great to have this dynamic in a conversation around songwriting and the music industry from America and in Australia.Â
Connect with Corey:
- Spotify
- Website
Connect with Ariell:
- Spotify
Celebrating episode 180 with a child meeting her hero, Colin shares his amazing journey with Rae as they discover his journey inspired her's and the creative circle of inspirations continues.
Born in Dublin in 1964, Colin Buchanan is a storyteller to a generation. On the release of his 1991 debut album, Galahs In The Gidgee, the Sydney Morning Herald declared him, â...simply the best singer-songwriter to emerge on the Australian Country scene in the last decade.â
Three decades later, Buchanan has more than lived up to early expectations, building a diverse and successful career across the media. He is a nine times Golden Guitar winner, both as an artist in his own right and as collaborator with the cream of Australian country music, penning hit songs for the likes of Slim Dusty, Troy Cassar-Daley, Adam Harvey, Beccy Cole, Amber Lawrence and a host of others. Colinâs most substantial single contribution as co-writer remains his work with Lee Kernaghan. Colin has a remarkable 30 songwriting credits on Kernaghanâs 2022 Greatest Hits release, âLee Kernaghan:3 Decades Of Hits.â
With a long-awaited country album set for release in 2022, Colin Buchanan returns to his roots with a collection of remarkable songs inspired by the people, places and stories of everyday Australia.
Connect with Colin:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Josh Simons is the CEO and co-founder of Vampr, the worldâs largest and most active social-professional network for musicians (often dubbed the âLinkedIn for creativesâ). Recognised by Fast Company as one of the Most Innovative Companies in 2022, Vampr is home to over one million users, and active in every country on the planet. The music startup has helped fledgling musicians broker over 7 million connections worldwide. Vampr offers a free solution for young musicians, built by a sympathetic founding team of established musicians with Joshâs co-founder, Baz Palmer, best known as the lead guitarist for seminal hall-of-fame rock band, Hunters & Collectors.
Simons has grown Vampr into a multi-award winning platform, including a most prestigious nod from Apple with an inclusion in their Best of the Year list. Over four funding rounds the company has raised $3.2M from VC, the crowd and music industry angels.
Prior to running Vampr, Josh Simons spent the better part of a decade as a successful artist, songwriter & producer. His artist project Buchanan enjoyed multi-million streams & chart impressions worldwide. They retired from the live circuit following a sold-out arena tour opening for Keith Urban & Carrie Underwood. As a producer and songwriter, Simons has shared credits with Travis Scott, Troye Sivan and Kanye West to name a few.
In April 2020 Simons was named in The Music Networkâs 30 Under 30 List in addition to being voted Readerâs Choice. Simons holds a Bachelor of Business from Swinburne University.
Connect with Josh:
- Website
A week after playing at the Blue Bird cafe in Nashville Danielle Todd speaks with Rae Leigh on Songwriter Trysts about her new music, songwriting goals, inspirations and ambitions.
Over the last few years, Danielle has continued to hone her sound, resulting in a pop-country mix infused with undeniable Stevie Knicks-esque inspiration. With the pop sensibilities of the likes of Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston, a touch of edginess, and a little bit of quirk that Danielle finds indicative of her sound, songs like her debut single, âCrazy,â came to be. Released in early 2019, âCrazy,â co-penned with Bobbi Holliday and Caitie Thompson, took Danielle to higher heights, achieving accolades like Ontarioâs Artist of the Month in April 2019 and winning Country 104âs âWomen in Country March Madnessâ with Carrie Underwood as the competition. The fresh, upbeat tune even went so far as to enjoy a spot at #80 on Canadaâs TRAX Report, #28 on Sirius XMâs CBC Country, and #34 on Australiaâs Top 50.
Her subsequent and most recent single, âBackburner,â was similarly high impact in both Canada and Australia, landing a spot at #23 on the Music Network Hottest Country Charts and introducing the âsoft edgeâ that is indicative of Danielleâs sound.
After a quiet two years spent uncovering what is most important to her, Danielle makes her highly-anticipated return to the music scene with the Feb 11 release of her single, âHeat of the Moment.â This energetic, pop country track chronicles a coming-of-age and the wisdom that comes with realizing how good you had it back when you were young and carefree.
Connect with Danielle:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Renaissance women is what Rainee Blake describes her artist journey as a singer, songwriter, composer, actress and teacher. She wears many hats and promotes the balance of good work ethic, self love and consistency and driving steady in the things she loves. Born in Australia on the northern beaches of Sydney her American psychologist father and Australian actress mum guided her and helped her to really find the passion and love she has in the arts and continue to support her today.
She now lives in LA but has had roles in the popular Sydney TV show âHome & Awayâ and more recently on the CMT TV show âNashvilleâ playing singer songwriter Alannah.
With so much passion and experience there is some great wisdom and fun in this conversation in this episode of Songwriter Trysts. Â Shows in Australia this week and European tour later this year connect with her now to find a show near you.
Connect with Rainee:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
- IMDB
Nathan Eggins is a Brisbane-based musician, songwriter and science communicator performing and releasing under the name Conspiracy of One. His mission is to encourage interest in science, promote critical thinking and give new perspectives through fun catchy music flavoured with his quirky sense of humourÂ
The Sound A Duck Makes:
Weâre All Aliens BabyÂ
Connect with Nathan:Â
- Website
- YouTube
- Listen
Former 'The Voice' Star, Ricky Duran, Releases First Album Since National Debut
Space & Time, in this podcast Rae Leigh and Ricky chat about his music, challenges and dreams.
from 'Music City' Nashville Ricky Duran embarks on a new chapter of his life and career â a chapter of recollections and reflections inSpace & Time. Ricky puts heart, soul and the components of real life into a dimensional album, encapsulating stories and feelings from different phases over the past 10 years. As each second passes in Space & Time, more of his life is revealed through intricate songwriting, timeless melodies and genre-bending songs.
âThis album is almost like an autobiography,â Ricky reveals. âEvery song on the album has a piece of me from a part in my life. Whether itâs past or present, every song has a different emotion.â
For Ricky, Space & Time reveals the good and the bad, including finding love and dealing with the loss of both parents. Duran wrote each song off the album with the exception of one â "A Woman Like Her," penned by hit songwriters Eric Paslay, Charles Kelley of Lady A and Laura Jeanne Veltz, which he performed during The Voice finals.
Space & Time Track Listing:
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âShineâ (Ricky Duran, Eric Paslay)
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âStarâ (Duran)
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âSelfish Loveâ (Duran)
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âWaiting On Youâ (Duran)
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âSheâs Like Whiskeyâ (Duran)
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âAs The Sun Goes Downâ (Duran)
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âCirclesâ (Dakota Colby, Duran)
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âShe Closed Her Eyesâ (Duran)
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âA Woman Like Her (Live Acoustic)â (Charles Kelley, Paslay, Laura Jeanne Veltz)
âThereâs a lot of soul in each song on the project with a different flare and story. Itâs definitely a collection of some of the best music Iâve made to date.â
Space & Time is available today on all platforms [https://lnk.fu.ga/rickyduran_spacetime]. and merchandise, including physical CDs, shirts, mugs and more, is now available online at www.iamRickyDuran.com. To stay up-to-date on new releases and upcoming tour dates,
Connect with Ricky:
- Website
- Facebook @iamrickyduran
- Instagram @rickyduran
- Spotify
- YouTube
Rae chats with Caleb Shreve the founder and CEO of Killphonic Rights. Listen to the episode to learn more about publishing and royalties and the new players in this space.
Weâve made our powerful publishing administration technology available to independent songwriters and publishers through our platform, Killphonic Rights Direct. Collect your money around the globe through our direct registrations network to maximize your royalties and make sure you are collecting every micropenny youâre owed.
Our founding team is made up of producers, artist managers, songwriters, and tech specialists from JP Morgan Chase. Our own need to have a simple catalog management tool led us to build out a publishing administration company, Killphonic Rights, ultimately serving publishers and songwriters as private clients, most notably Sumerian Records. We decided to adapt our powerful technology into a platform available to all independent songwriters, and thus Killphonic Rights Direct was born. Our mission is to make royalty collection as easy as possible for all independents - songwriters, publishers, and labels alike - and continue to educate and advocate on publishing, royalties, and the value of publishing in the current music landscape.
Instagram: @killphonicrights
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/killphonic-rights/
Calebâs LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caleb-shreve-69b181133/
Russian born, Los Angeles based pop soul artist Cooper Phillip succeeds in capturing the undivided attention of listeners across the globe. With her intense drive, soaring vocals and passionate songwriting, Phillip is elevating herself to the top of her genre.
Phillipâs music features an underlying theme of strength, grace and empowerment. "I believe we underestimate ourselves often and our fear takes over. My goal is to show people that they are stronger and can do much more than they think they canâ, she admits. Using true life stories, hardships and experiences, the songwriter emits authenticity and courage throughout her music.Â
Cooper Phillip has seen success with her previous single garnering over 10 million listens online. She has also developed an impressive and loyal fanbase, particularly on social media and has performed at some of Los Angeles most prestigious venues.
Connect with Cooper:
- Website
- Spotify
- Apple Music
- YouTube
Meet Harmony Jakie is an aspiring singer-songwriter, actress, and model from Melbourne, Australia. Her passion for singing and acting started at the age of 8. Harmony would love to move to America for music but for now is working on her first single and recording a soundtrack for a Netflix movie "The Cincinnati Spin" after being approached to be in the movie.
Connect with Harmony:
- IMDB
1 Billboard songwriter with Alicia Keys, Morgan Matthews is a Fort Worth, Texas based songwriter and music Producer. He sits down with Rae Leigh and discusses the journey of producing and now managing in the music industry. Currently working on AARON CARTER's new album and we are looking forward to seeing where this musical partnership journey leads.
He has collaborated with a diverse range of artists including Alicia Keys, Aaron Carter, Twista, Miguel, Tory Lanez, 21 Savage, Ashley All Day & Kiiara, Conor Maynard, Anth Melo and Keiynan Lonsdale.
He has written and produced music that has reached and stayed on the #1 spot of Billboard's charts multiple times. Morgan's production "Show Me Love" with Alicia Keys & Miguel was nominated for an NAACP award in 2020.
Morgan has worked on 1 Grammy Nominated Album - A.L.I.C.I.A. by Alicia Keys
Morgan has also collaborated with major brands such as The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Latin Grammys, Home Advisor, MTV, MTV2, CBS and PBS.
Featured in this track song by Alicia Keys - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vt3ca3SP9ik
Connect with Morgan:
- Website
- YouTube
iammorganmatthews.com
addictivemusicgroup.com
IG: @morganlikesmusic
IG: @addictivemusicgroup_
Alaura Lovelight shares her experience with working in a million dollar studio in LA and working with Sugar Ray of the double X posse on her new music.
Alaura Lovelight is an American R&B singer, songwriter, producer, and published writer based out of New York City with her debut single currently playing on radio both nationally and internationally. She is also the CEO of Lovelight Sound Music, a music company that offers courses and workshops teaching musicians how to make a consistent income with live music through strategy and consistency, and teaches teens how singing and performing influences confidence and life skills. For free weekly confidence tips, music tips, and exclusives on tickets and merch, Join the mailing list at https://www.lovelightsoundmusic.com or follow @alauralovelighton all social media platforms
Stream Alaura's Music:
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/6rli2zF3ZHPFu4pj58DC4o?si=f449ce13293d4d12
- Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/album/eroticy-single/1595251697
- Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/artists/B09CPGQR87/alaura-lovelight
- Eroticy Music Video : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O_D8vYfK3Cc
Follow Alaura:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alauralovelight/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alauralovelightmusic
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@alauralovelight?
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AlauraLovelight
The University of Tasmania one of the first places in Australia you could go to specifically learn about songwriting. Mia Palencia is doing a PHD on songwriters and their process and is the professor of songwriting at the University after traveling from Malaysia to study songwriting at the school.
Mia Palencia launched her luminous career in the Malaysian music scene at the age of 14 as the other half of well-loved Sabahan jazz duo Double Take. 19 years, 6 albums, and numerous concerts and tours later, Mia continues to live her dream of making music the centrepiece of her lifeâs work.
Miaâs current work focuses on her passion for songwriting and working with aspiring songwriters. She continues to manifest this passion through her PhD research in Songwriting at the Conservatorium of Music, University of Tasmania. She is also set to release her 7th album in 2017 with her Australian jazz quartet, In Good Company.
Song featured in the podcast 'So Many Hands' by Mia Palencia - HERE
Check out Mia's latest project Lady Carnivale HERE
Connect with Mia:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Chloë Agnew is a singer, songwriter from Dublin, Ireland. From the age of 14, she gained fame for her integral part as one of the original (and youngest) members of the internationally acclaimed music group Celtic Woman.
In 1998 ChloĂ« won the Grand Prix at the First International Children's Song Competition in Cairo, Egypt, where she represented Ireland. She made her PBS dĂ©but in 1999 as part of Handel's Messiah performing alongside Gladys Knight, Chaka Khan, Roger Daltrey and Aidan Quinn. In 2004 ChloĂ« had just finished recording her second solo album âWalking in the Airâ when she was cast as one of the original soloists for the PBS production Celtic Woman. The Celtic Woman PBS Special first aired in March 2005 and within weeks the group's eponymous debut album reached #1 on Billboardâs World Music chart where it held the top position on the Billboard World Music chart for 81 weeks. Their second album, Celtic Woman: A Christmas Celebration knocked their first album to the #2 spot on the World Music chart when released in October 2006. ChloĂ« is featured on a total of 14 of Celtic Womanâs albums, with songs recorded in English, Irish, Latin, Japanese, Italian and German which have sold more than eight million copies worldwide, all of which debuted at #1 on Billboard's World Music chart. Celtic Woman sold-out concerts in prestigious venues across the globe from Carnegie Hall, Red Rocks, Colorado, Radio City Music Hall to several Arenas in Europe, Japan and Australia, performing for almost three million fans. She has performed with Celtic Woman on the US TV shows Dancing with the Stars, Regis and Kelly, The Today Show and Good Morning America and many more. In 2013 ChloĂ« made a guest appearance on the show âBold and the Beautiful. While touring with Celtic Woman ChloĂ« performed for three consecutive US Presidents (Clinton, Bush and Obama) before she turned 20. In 2012 she was named Best Female Vocalist at the Irish Music Awards.
She has performed at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and collaborated with Emmy award-winning tenor Eamonn McCrystal on his album âAnd So It Goesâ in a duet with Rita Wilson. She is featured in several television shows that are currently airing on PBS including The Power of Music with Ethan Bortnick and Damian McGinty (Glee Project/ Celtic Thunder), and the Nathan Carter Celtic Country show. Since 2017 ChloĂ« has been touring with top Irish artist Nathan Carter on his U.S. tours and for the past four seasons has been the headline act for the highly acclaimed and always innovative Atlanta Pops Orchestra. The popular show âAn Irish Heart,â as well as their holiday shows have taken ChloĂ« and the Pops to performing arts centers throughout the Southeast and Midwest. She has become a âVoice of the Irishâ for the University of Notre Dame performing for many events at the University including opening for the band Chicago at the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Party in Dallas, Texas where she performed a song with the legendary group. She has also performed with IBMA award winning bluegrass Entertainer of the Year Balsam Range and John Driskell Hopkins of Zac Brown Band. Touring her solo show ChloĂ« Agnew: Live Concert has brought her to many PACâs, concert series, theatres, music halls and festivals throughout the US and Europe.
Connect with Chloe:
- Website
- Spotify
- Youtube
Tania Kernaghan, Australian country music royalty sat down with Rae Leigh in this podcast to talk about her incredible songwriting journey and share golden nuggets of wisdom she has picked up along her way. Sharing her new project Tania Kernaghan online Club and new music with a friend of the show Ginna Jefferies. Shows and tours in 2022 so make sure you don't miss out.
Their new single featured in this song - My Old FriendÂ
Connect with Tania,
- Website
- Spotify
- Youtube
Roger Corbett is the general manager of the Australian Country Music Academy and a member of the 40+-year-old band the Bushwackers. He has a wealth of experience and knowledge with performance, songwriting, co-writing, teaching, mentoring, production, and music business all of which we go into in this podcast. Roger has some great advice and stories on his early years and how it has evolved over time and that he continues to have fun in this business no matter what he is doing. Most importantly he shares the importance of making time for oneâs self to sit down and write even if itâs just an hour a week.
Featured in the podcast - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgRxVl3L3ZRpY8B8ZbyLZLA - Another Trip to Bunnings Connect with Roger and the Bushwackers:
- Website
- Australian Country Music Academy
- YouTube
- Spotify
Christina Holmes and Rae Leigh chat about working as an independent artist and the persistence and attitude that keeps it real for musicians who just want to work. Working mother and on the road touring for over 13 years, Covid and the world stopping has enabled some silver light situations allowing for other areas of Christina's life but she also was able to take advantage of the online streaming opportunity as well.
It documents the typically unseen splendor of struggle and offers the encouragement to forge ahead. Christina Holmes does so on her aptly titled third independent full-length album, The Beautiful Struggle [Cove House Records]. The New Jersey-born and Rhode Island-based singer, songwriter, and Cove House Records founder threads together stories of love and life across eleven alternative folk anthems united by her confessional lyricism and instrumental proficiency on guitar, bass, djembe, and piano.
Featured in this podcast music from this music video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59AeVjIyBAE
Connect with Christina:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
See more on www.songwritertrysts.com
James Johnston is an incredible artist that shares his humbling story of what it was like to go through the highs and lows of a reality TV show Australian Idol as a singer and performer and how the journey and passion for songwriting drew him into starting all over again inspired by a accidental stop over in Nashville.Â
Throughout his teens, James and his family spent most weekends travelling with Johnston performing on any stage that would take him. In 2008, James graduated from high school and gave himself a year to âgive music a crackâ. James bought a van and set out on the great Australian road trip, playing in every little town and pub he could find. Johnstonâs undeniable talent and high-energy live show, paired with his hardworking and humble attitude, has declared him the one to watch coming out of Australia.Â
Connect with James:Â
- Website
- TikTok
- YouTube
- Spotify
Merry Christmas, Join Host Rae Leigh and co-writer Cameron McLeod as they discuss his band Something Casual and their new single âDreaming Of A Christmasâ we have a listen and discuss the meaning of Christmas and what it is for a lot of people during these times of restricted travel and during a pandemic. We also get to hear Cameron and Raeâs favourite Christmas songs and have a bit of fun.
Songs featured in this podcast:
- Dreaming of A Christmas - Something Casual feat Rae Leigh
- Last Christmas - Wham!
- All I Want For Christmas - Mariah Carey
Connect with Cameron:
- Triple J Unearthed
- Spotify
- YouTube
- SoundCloud
Subscribe and Review this podcast HERE
Hudson Rose and Rae Leigh talk about her country life upbringing, âfake it till you make itâ she says as she was walking down Peel St at the Tamworth Country Music Festival holding her mini Maton guitar and dressed for the part of a country singer-songwriter. Hudson is a true beauty inside and out and quickly became the rose of country music in Australia with her pop-driven country music. She shares her passions, advice from her mum, and journey working with producers in Melbourne.
Featured in this episode is her single Drivin To You
Connect with Adam:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Adam Brand and Rae Leigh talk about his new single Still The One and his interesting upbringing in Perth, Adams detective, â007â Mum and why he switched to guitar at 17 and after married and divorced he sold everything and moved to Sydney in his old Falcon ute to give it a good go at being a Country Music singer. Â Within 2 years of doing so was nominated for 5 golden guitars and was on his way to the long and successful career he has today.
Featured in this episode is his single 'Still The One'
Connect with Adam:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Jaimey Hamilton developed cancer as a child and was in and out of hospital until age 12 having a bone marrow transplant and is now cancer free. She used songwriting as a form of release and healing while she was riding the wave of her treatment and emotional state. She claims that music and the support of the people around her and her family have helped her stay strong and kept positive.
Connect with Jaimey:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
"The idea of "feeling your feelings" has always been so important to me" Says Ethan on his website and in this podcast. Rae Leigh and Ethan get into a deep conversation about his inspirations, family and school life. Also exciting new things to come in the post Covid world. Â
Featured in this podcast: "It's getting Bad Again" and "Who Cares" Hear the full artwork on his links below.Â
Connect with Ethan:
- Website
- Spotify
- TikTok
- YouTube
- Tour
Aria nominated award winning singer songwriter Kim Cheshire featured on this episode. All the way from the UK, living loving and obsessed with music describing it as the sunshine that didnât exist in England. Super inspirations for country music by Joni Mitchell and Merle Haggard, Kim Cheshire and Rae Leigh discuss the ups and downs of the music business and that no matter what challenges have gotten in the way and after all these years now in Australia Kim describes that you have to do music for the reward of music.
Song featured in this podcast: Have Mercy
Connect with Kim:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
South Australian Matt Ward joins Rae Leigh to talk about Songwriting, a broken heart and his global affair with writing and releasing music.Â
Dreams die in the comfort zone⊠words from Matt Ward in this podcast. Learn how he got started and supporting his first major country music festival this weekend at Groundwater Country Music Festival on the Gold Coast.
Connect with Matt:
- Website
- Spotify
It's hard yakka, the Aussie artist says living in London, but it can be done. Jess shares in this podcast about her journey to the UK as an Australian artist and how she feels about following your own path when it comes to your songwriting and artist journey.
Jess Chalker is an Australian-born songwriter and artist living in London UK. Musically, she hails from humble roots as one of YouTubeâs first ever viral artists, with over 1.5m views on her self-penned songs. She went on to front Australian new-wave duo, We Are The Brave, whose grassroots hits âYour Ghostâ and âSparrowâ achieved close to a million streams across YouTube, Soundcloud and Spotify. She is now embarking on a bold new solo career and announces her emotive, self-reflective debut full-length album, âHemispheresâ, to be released on 5th November 2021 via her own imprint 528 Records. The album issupported by the Australian Government through Australia Council for the Arts.
Jessâ musical journey to date has been rich and varied: on leaving We are the Brave, she traversed three continents as a songwriter and producer, her writing talents earning her a Grammy credit and taking her from Sydney, to LA and London as a much sought-after collaborator. Artists Jess has worked with include Sam Fischer, Tate McRae, Isamachine, Gold Kimono, Passenger, Hotei, Glen Matlock, Guy Sebastian, John Alagia (John Mayer) and many more. Jess earned her Grammy status in 2018, when she co-penned âSay Helloâ, the single that helped Lisa Loeb win Best Kids Record for Feel What U Feel. Along with Florence + the Machineâs Isabella Summers, Jess was recently commissioned by Amazon Original to create an original composition for the show, Panic. The song, âDarkest Hourâ(performed by Tate McRae) was later held in consideration for an Emmy nomination.
Connect with Jess:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Jason and Matt from the hit Australian country band have a chat with Rae Leigh about how they got to where they are today. Family, connection, songwriting and their future aspects in the film industry. They have had a #1 Country Album and #1 Australian Artist Country Album 2021 Nominee Australian Country Music Awards | New Talent of the Year
Darlinghurst is a new Melbourne based four-piece thatâs redefining Australian country music. Consisting of Jason Resch, Pagan Newman, Cassie Leopold and Matt Darvidis, all four members share vocal responsibilities, blending together in sumptuous harmonies to create a fifth voice - Darlinghurst.Â
With all four members combining their different musical influences and experiences, Darlinghurst have created a fresh sound in the Australian country sphere thatâs as accessible as it is unique.
Connect with Darlinghurst:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Writing with someone who has passed on, recording and releasing hard copy CD's and records as an independent artist are just some of the interesting topics we discuss in this featured episode with Natalie Nicole Gilbert.
(Los Angeles, CA - September 1, 2021) The road to recovery is rarely straightforward, and is sometimes arduous and hard-fought. Los Angeles-based producer, vocalist, and songwriter Natalie Nicole Gilbert uncovers songs of honesty, vulnerability and resilience in herlatest album, Recovery. This genre-bending artist reveals a music project born out of Gilbertâs own personal experiences with physical recovery and trauma, reflecting on the universality of the process of recovery as everyone faces change and loss. The 12-track album consists of eight covers and four original songs by the artist. Featured on the album are GRAMMY-nominated singer/songwriter/arranger Jarrett Johnson (Michael BublĂ©, David Foster, Alicia Keys) and songwriter David Blair (The Voice, Germany).
Produced and engineered by Latin-GRAMMY nominee Robert Eibach, Gilbertâs Recovery album is available now on Spotify and all other music-streaming and download platforms. The album is currently being considered for a GRAMMY in the Pop Vocal Album category.
Connect with Natalie:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Ever had someone ask you "whats your brand?" as an artist it can be one of the hardest questions anyone asks you. In this episode host Rae Leigh and guest Ilana Armida talk about the humanity of being an artist and how they believe the "branding" practice in the music industry is changing.Â
iLana Armida is an incredibly talented Pop/R&B singer-songwriter from Worcester, Massachusetts.
Raised in South Florida, iLana fell in love with music and found her passion from an early age. Writing and performing in local musical theatre. After high school, Ilana, attended Florida Atlantic University, where she got her degree in Commercial Music Business; and where she found her sound.
iLana first EP âIridescent Flower Childâ was compared to the likes of JoJo and Christina Milian. Blissful, trippy, hypnotic, haunting and powerful were just a few words used to describe it.
Connect with iLana:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Kirsty Lee Akers currently on Channel 9 reality TV show 'The Block' with husband Jessy and releasing her first single under her new independent record label, this is a rare talent who is proud of her First Nations heritage, she is a woman of the Wonnarua Nation (Hunter Valley â Australia). Akers describes herself as a fusion of country and Americana, with pop stylings. She has embraced a global musical culture and now spends her time between Australia and a hard-earned international touring schedule in North America and Europe. Although she spends time overseas during the year, Australia will always be her spiritual home.
Connect with Kirsty:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Jasmin Bade received an APRA scholarship to do a bachelor of music at the university of Tasmania and talks about what collage was like for her and the benefits that she got from going to university that isnât always listed in the description of the course. It was the culture and community and life experience she got from living on campus.
Now living in Nashville and getting an internship at the blue bird she is living her dream, inspired by Casey chambers and Taylor swift she is chasing her dreams to be an incredible singer songwriter in her own right. Phil barton is a great supporter of her in Nashville who is also from Melbourne and now in Nashville as a songwriter.
Being mental health week we talk about the challenges around social acceptance of mental health issues. And especially how it has increased during Covid not just in the music industry but for everyone. We go into what a mental health first aid certificate is and why it's so great to have.
Connect with Jasmin:
- Website
- TikTok
- Spotify
- YouTube
Support Rae Leigh and the Podcast to keep going through 'Buy Me A Coffee' Here - www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTryst
The Dawsons are a country family through and through. From Ballarat to Yapoon and then back to Tamworth. Australian farms and country music are a deep rooted part of this family and Peter Smokie Dawson is sharing his passion for country music at country music festival all over Australia.
In this episode we talk about his journey as a young boy passionate about the guitar and settling down into a married family life as a windscreen professional for a long time before getting back to his passion for country music after an injury. Rae Leigh and Pete met at the singer songwriter retreat in 2016 and they were both in a low place and co-write a song together called "All I Can Do". They talk about their meeting and Pete shares his travelling stories as he goes from festival to festival sharing his songs and songs from legions past.
Captain Moonlight - By Peter Smokie Dawson - see live performance on the Songwriter Trysts Facebook Page or listen on Spotify HERE
All I Can Do - By Peter Smokie Dawson & Rae Leigh - view HERE
Connect with Peter:
- Spotify
- YouTube
Jimmy Fortune is a child of the depression, found an old guitar in a dump and after leaning that people would give him money to sing he realised very young that this could be his full time job, against the encouragement of his parents. An American country music singer from Nelson County, Virginia. Fortune sang tenor for The Statler Brothers for 21 years, and wrote the song "Elizabeth" for the group. After The Statler Brothers retired, he continues to perform as a solo artist.
We talk about his song "More Than A Name On the Wall" a tribute to Vietnam Veterans which strikes a cord for host Rae Leigh as her father was is also a Vietnam vet.
Connect with Jimmy:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
In 2019 Rae Leigh went to the DAG singer songwriter retreat where Shane Nicholson was one of the mentors and they got paired up to write a song together called 'Powered By Love'. Shane has been recording and releasing his own music since the 1990's and has worked with some amazing artists including Kasey Chambers.
With over 10 million streams to date on previously released material, the writing process for Shaneâs latest offering played out a little differently. Instead of taking himself off to a remote location (his usual writing process) most were written in borrowed houses nearby on the Central Coast, and as a result of Song Club - the online writing community set up by Nashville-based expat Sam Hawksley, whereby songwriters have to produce and post a new song every week. The recording process for âLiving In Colourâ also played out differently to his last albums, where he previously worked with his good mate and multi-award winning producer Matt Fell.
Connect with Shane:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Andrew Farriss hardly needs an introduction to music fans. He is the man behind the songs that saw INXS sell more than 50-million albums throughout their career. Consequently his music has been on welcome and constant radio rotation globally for over 3 decades.
I was lucky enough to chat to Andrew about all things music and find out more about his life growing up living WA listening to an AM radio which he listened to everything that was available. Listen to the podcast to find out which band he first ever saw live and what inspired him and his brothers into music.Â
Connect with Andrew:Â
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
She's worked with Recording Academy / GRAMMYs award winning Dave Audé and had a number 2 on the Billboard charts in the states. Now in Gold Coast and being a finalist in the Gold Coast Music Awards this year she shares her journey as a mum #singer #songwriter and also shares about her collaboration with Sheppard for the Olympics this year creating a song to help better athletic performance.
Jamie has maintained an independent artist over the years of her career even after what looked like very good offers from major labels however it was more important to her to maintain her independents over the years than to join with them to keep her music limitless. She has made her own way making movies and working with amazing creative producers in Australian and the US living in LA for a while before returning to the Gold Coast Australia during the Covid pandemic.
Connect with JVMIE:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Samantha Sharpe is an independent Australian artist in the pop/indie genre disrupting the music scene. With her new EP recently released, Sharpe makes her debut with thought-provoking, heartfelt lyrics and tunes. The solo artist is best known for her stunning vocals that depict the rawest emotion.
Connect with Samantha:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Jayne Denham is one of Australia's most admired and sought after country rock performers. Her impressive and relentlessly energetic live shows have earned her countless opportunities performing for VIP crowds at Keith Urban's Sydney shows.
During lockdown Jayne has recorded a brand new Album âWANTEDâ that is set to be released inAugust2020. The latest single âBetter Settle Upâ is racing up the radio charts across Australia and has already reached No #1 on the Tamworth 2TM chart. The epic music video hit over 8,000 views across all platforms in the first 48 hours
Connect with Jayne:
- Website
- Apple Music
- Spotify
- YouTube
She knew and her parents knew that this is who she was, music was her thing and they were going to help her stay focused which has been a huge blessing in her life. After being diagnosed with ADHD she was angry and her grandmother got behind her, got her the electric guitar she had always wanted and encouraged her that no one can ever define who you are except yourself. In this episode we discuss co-writing, all areas of music and development and whether we really can change who we are, or not? As a coach and songwriter to the core, Francesca and Rae Leigh discuss her life long journey and how she is working tirelessly to support others in the industry.
With a background and formal education in opera and "the classics", Francesca is equally comfortable on stage at The House of Blues as she is at Disney Hall. Teaching, coaching writing and using takelessons.com to work with people from all over the world she is making waves in the world of music that most of us would never know. Working with a choir that started to support people homeless and living on the streets Francesca work with them weekly bringing hope love and community to a space where it can be rare. The Choir just this year auditioned on America's Got Talent and Terry Alan Crews the host of the show was so moved by their performance and original song that Francesca helped them with that he hit the Golden Buzzer. A moving moment to see that there really is power in numbers.
See the Americas Got Talent full audition here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-tAyPwL-JCI
Connect with Francesca:
- Get a lesson through Take Lessons
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Support the podcast and buy the team a coffee HERE
Groundwater is one of the fastest growing country music festivals in Australia. It is a FREE, non-ticketed event and Located in the picturesque beachside destination of Broadbeach, Gold Coast.
The 2021 lineup features over 40 acts; The Wolfe Brothers, Adam Harvey, Sara Storer, Gina Jeffreys, Andrew Farriss, The Sunny Cowgirls, Tami Neilson, Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham, Adam Brand, Casey Barnes, Catherine Britt, Kaylee Bell, and many more.
The Wolfe Brothers (episode #100 of Songwriter Trysts podcast) from Tasmania, the duo has steadily etched their name into Australian Country music stardom. Returning to Groundwater for the 4th time, the revered duo the latest in a legacy of farmers and musicians spanning generations. Andrew Farriss (podcast coming soon) one of Australiaâs greatest songwriters and primarily known as a cofounders of multi-award winning band INXS. Andrew has made appearances internationally in Nashville and 2021 will be his first time on the Groundwater stage.
Gina Jeffreys (episode #140 of Songwriter Trysts podcast) will be taking to the Groundwater stage for the first time performing her new album that tells the stories of the life the last 12 years. She will have an authentic stripped back performance, to wow her many fans that span many decades. Tami Neilson from NZ will be making the trip for her first Groundwater CMF. She has a vast range of styles, from country Americana, heartfelt gospel to western swing.
The second line-up announcement added the likes of charismatic and charitable legend Adam Brand, Sir Elton Johnâs favourite woman from Down Under, the fiercely authentic Catherine Britt, as well as hometown hero Casey Barnes(episode #101 of Songwriter Trysts podcast), and Kiwi Country Queen, Kaylee Bell. Adam Brand is one of Australiaâs most popular and successful recording artists. A stellar career spanning twenty years has seen him nominated for multiple ARIA Awards, win 12 Golden Guitars, sell over 600,000 CDs & DVDs, as well as earn 3 platinum & 5 gold albums. Catherine Britt (episode #69 of Songwriter Trysts podcast) has collected a host of accolades, a legion of fans and a mantel of awards including the country industryâs highest honours. Her most recent include, 2016 Female Artist of the Year, 2017 Vocal Collaboration of The Year as well as an APRA Award and CMC Artist of the Year nominations.
Find out more about the Festival HERE
Songwriter Trysts website HERE
Dante Palminteri quotes Woody Allan in this podcast with â85% of success is showing up" as an artist that sings, plays guitar, writes songs and is an actor its clear nothing is going to get in the way of this talented and hard working artist to achieve whatever he wants to in life. We talk about his journey with Berklee College of music, studying under Pat Pattison (episode 40) and his obsession and love for John Mayer. His new single Brunette is a lot of fun and in his own words is just the music he wants to create and loves.
Raised between the East & West coasts, American singer-songwriter & actor Dante Palminteri matured his musical styling at an early age, inspired by John Mayerâs poetic mastery of the human psyche & Ed Sheeranâs genre-defying melodies. An early sufferer of anxiety & dyslexia, Dante found solace in the last place one would expect: written word. Dreaming up lyrics on teen heartbreak & defying the status quo, he pursued a career in songwriting, eventually strumming his way into Berklee College of Music.
Lyrics about teenage angst & high school crushes soon evolved into complex compilations on unrequited love, soulmates lost & found, & the growing pains of adulthood. Struck by the lyrical prowess of Americana muse Jason Isbell, Dante spent his early twenties reinventing his sound - a combination of his hard rock roots mixed with his contemporary inspirations.
Toying between stories of love lost & won, Dante reflects on his own vulnerability, recounting real-life experiences facing rejection & loneliness, alongside heartfelt passion & intimacy. In a bold move, heâs bared it all on stages from Feinsteinâs 54Below & Arleneâs Grocery, to Rockwood Music Hall & Bethlehem Musikfest.
Heâs also in the new Godfather of Harlem TV series to be released this month staring Forest Whitaker
Connect with Dante:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
- IMDB
Mentioned in Podcast:
- Berklee College of Music
- John Mayer - Room For Squares
- Hiatus Kaiyote
Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE
Brett Cusack is a Singer-Songwriter and performs under the name Megalove, a life coach, music teacher, and owner of Glitter Fox Studios in Melbourne. The journey of inspiration, emotional healing, and the power of music lead him to believe that musicians and songwriters are the true superheroes of today's world and the power of connection with each other is what will save us all.
Connect with Brett:
- YouTube
- Spotify
- Glitter Fox Studios
- The Confident Musician
Nature loving Californian singer songwriter Lucy loves to build community and has done more for the music community in her area and helping run an online community that support each other with not just songwriting but also mental health. She has helped put together festivals in the past that support artists in the LGBTQ community and empowering others to be the best of who they are.
With a few hits and commercial synced songs you may recognise her music and we expect even more amazing music to flow from this beautiful artist who also has the hottest tips on best coffee in LA, which makes her one of our best friends.
Connect with Lucy:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
- TikTok
Born happy and always so grateful for everything but something made Gina loose her sparkle for 6 months where she just cried everyday. This strong women who we crowned "the Queen Of Country" wasnât going to continue the way things were going and she âreprogrammedâ her brain through hard work and dedication into chasing a happier life. We all go through pain and hard times and there is so much to learn from it, says Gina. While stuck in lockdown in Sydney, Australia we catch up with her, learn about how she won Star Maker in Tamworth the year after Keith Urban and then opened for Johnny Cash launching a successful career in the Country music industry.
Connect with Gina:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Your Man Alex Smith is a Brisbane based independent singer songwriter with a theatrical twist. He studied at QUT and is an incredible story teller and performer which comes out in his live performances and his on screen acting with very creative music videos. Heartbreak, disapointment, depression and hardship have been the tools to shape this hard working artist into the man he is today. He says "blood sweat and tears" went into the making of his last album and continues to navigate a new covid world for the performing arts and has seen many friends go on to do amazing things within the industry.
Using catchy hooks to sneak contemplative lyrics to the listener, Alexâs genre-hopping theatrical rock is a story-driven experience with a lot of heart.âš While Alex is inspired by bands like Queen, Meat Loaf, Pink Floyd and The Protomen, his sound is often compared to the likes of They Might Be Giants and Ben Folds.âš Alex pays huge thanks to members of his Patreon, a service which greatly strengthens his connection with his audience and boosts the rate of production of his third studio release âSlow Burnâ which is set to release June 18th Alex is also the host of podcast My Songs Suck with his close friend James Kehoe. The show is available to stream on Spotify and all podcatchers.
Connect with Alex:
- YouTube
- Spotify
- Instagram - @yourmanalexsmith
- Patreon
Multi-award-winning songwriter/producer/publisher based in Nashville/London whose songs have appeared on over 20 million albums sold, over 10 million video games, and over 100 placements in TV/Film. See how Jeff started his career at age 34, leaving a good job and pay-check at BMI in New York for a full-time songwriting passion with only 16 songs that he felt were really good. Going against the odds and beliefs of those around him and he dived headfirst into the unknown and we are glad he did. This hilarious character is a gift to the music industry and his adventures are fun to listen to.
Jeffâs songs have been recorded by The Band Perry (Hit single/BMI Award - Postcard From Paris), Evan and Jaron(Hit single/BMI award - Crazy For This Girl), Big and Rich(Hit single/BMI award - Holy Water), Laura Bell Bundy(Hit single - Giddy On Up), RichieMacDonald of Lone Star(Hit single - I Turn To You), The Shires(Hit Singles - 1000 Hallelujahs and Daddyâs Little Girl), Ilse DeLange(Hit Single - Beautiful Distraction), Worry Dolls(UK Americana Awards Song Of The Year nominee - Endless Road), Sugarland, Josh Groban, Macy Gray, Nick Lachey, Teitur, Doc Walker, Mandy Moore, Mickey Guyton, Nikhil DâSouza, MarcBroussard, Spin Doctors and many more. His songs have been featured in movies such as Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, My Super Ex-Girlfriend, Stuart Little 2, Aquamarine, Grandmaâs Boy, and TV shows such as Jack and Jill (theme), I Married A Princess (theme), The Exes (theme), Dawsonâs Creek, Party of Five, One Tree Hill, The Simpsons, Saturday Night Live and many more. He is also the founder and songwriter of the critically acclaimed band Pancho's Lament. In a previous life, Jeff was a music executive at BMI working with such talent as Jeff Buckley, Kara DioGuardi, Lisa Loeb, Joan Osborne, Ani DiFranco, Spin Doctors, and many more.
Connect with Jeff:
- Website
- Wikipedia
- SoundCloud
Rachael Fahim has been Australiaâs most streamed female country artist for the last three years, with over 10 million streams to date, of tracks from her 2019 EP release Iconic.
The 2017 Toyota Star Maker winner and CMC Music Award nominee was recently the Australian feature artist for Apple Musicâs globally promoted Countrywide initiative and an âArtist To Watchâ on Spotify.
The Iconic EPâs first single âBrake Lightsâ went all the way to #1 on the TMN national country airplay chart and also featured radio faves âWhat I Donât Knowâ and âCrush.â
While âEven If I Wanted Toâ featuring Brad Cox achieved major city pop radio support in addition to across the board country radio airplay.
Her latest single 'Middle Ground' spent five weeks at #1 on the Australian Country Airplay chart across December 2020 and February 2021!
Connect with Rachael:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Olympic dreams crushed after an injury and so the arts was his next choice. he's not on set as an actor or on the tools as a tradie Michael is writing and performing his own original music. It started when he was struggling with singing cover songs and so he started writing his own to suit his voice and received positive feedback. A cool sooth vibe to this UK's songwriters tunes. Check them out and learn how he juggles his artistic way of life.Â
Connect with Michael:
- Spotify
- YouTube
After posting a YouTube cover of 'Tuesday' by ILoveMakonnen ft. Drake, the song was remixed and went on to receive platinum awards worldwide while reaching the #1 spot in over 70 countries on iTunes and Shazam. The viral hit has amassed over 1 billion streams online. Following the global success of Tuesday (feat. Danelle Sandoval), Danelle has focused on releasing original music, including her recently released EP For Love, which was inspired by time spent in Toronto, Canada. Live Nationâs Ones To Watch explained that Danelle âhas established herself as a polished pop star, and her airy voice layered over hypnotic electro-pop production is something we simply canât get enough of." Clash Magazine called her track Hands "a beautifully creative pop hymn with some blissful electronic leanings.âÂ
Connect with Danelle:Â
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
A question lots of people ask is how does a struggling starving creative person go from having no money and living on $15 for food a week in Nashville to being one of the most wanted songwriters in town? Well thats exactly what we find out in this podcast with Hit songwriter Chris Wallin who has topped the charts with classics-in-the-making for the industryâs biggest stars: âLove Me If You Canâ by Toby Keith, âDonât Blinkâ by Kenny Chesney, âPeople Loving Peopleâ by Garth Brooks, âIâm Tryinââ for Trace Adkins, âSomething To Be Proud Ofâ and âSpeedâ by Montgomery Gentry and many more.
Dont Blink - Kenny Chesney
Connect with Chris:
- Website
- YouTube
- Podcast - The Marty Ray Project: Chats
Buy Me A Coffee and support Songwriter Trysts Podcast >> https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTryst
Celine Dion, Ray Charles, Cyndi Lauper, Cher, Jason Gould and Ricky Martin just to name a few credits of songwriter Alan Roy Scott has composed songs for over the past 40 years working out of LA and traveling the world.  Multi-cultural music events to build bridges through the healing power of music. As a songwriter, songwriting coach, and founder of Music Bridges, his extensive career has led him to 114 countries and counting.
Connect with Alan:
- Website
Brother Jason Petric from the Canadian band Petric has a chat with Rae Leigh from Australia talking about songwriting, their journey and what they are up to given the change in ability to work as a musician during covid.Â
With millions of online streams, multiple hit songs and just as many awards and nominations to their name, Petric, the brother duo, made up of Jason and Tom Petric, have taken their music from small stages of Transcona bars, to the most prestigious festivals and venues across Canada. The duo is set to release their sophomore album "18 Ends" in the fall of 2017 under Dallas Smith's record label, Steelhead Music.
Connect with Petric:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Nashville, as we know, is a music city, but when two music-loving housemates move in together and start to encourage each other and collaborate you end up with 'Monster' a killer track and a fun relationship...
These two collaborators are an inspiration to what can happen when we start to work together and play to each other's strengths.
Carrie Welling's melodies are rich in folksy, Americana roots, paired with empowering, honest lyrics are stunningly showcased in Wellingâs forthcoming, full-length album High Heels and Heavy Things. Created in a home studio in Nashville with purely organic instruments, this raw and vulnerable record was produced by Eric Holljes (Delta Rae) and features songs co-written by the talented likes of Holljes, Mary Bragg, Alex Wong, and Matt Zavala.
The walls of Alex Wongâs intimate recording studio in Nashville, Tennessee are coated in chalkboard paint. Though they are wiped clean at the moment, they will soon be filled with a jumble of words and ideas that gradually forms the map of a new creative journey. A multi-talented artist, songwriter, instrumentalist, producer, and sometimes chef, Wong has an innate inquisitiveness and introspection that lend him a unique ability to thread a story through seemingly disparate creative expressions and experiences. He patiently peels back the layers of each and charts his way to a common core.
Connect with Carrie:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Connect with Alex:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Do you like the podcast? Support Songwriter Trysts independent podcast and buys them a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTryst
Genius songwriter, producer, record label consultant, and guitarist Michael Flanders sits down live in the Songwriter Trysts studio to share just a tinny fraction of his music publishing life in Nashville. Want to know the difference between the entertainment industry and the music business? Micheal will lay it out for you along with sharing some of his incredible stories of the day-to-day workings of music city life, publishing, Sync licensing, touring, production, and most importantly relationship building in Nashville.
Michael Flanders hosts his own podcast too, check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTX1xn-G-6qIcdsTLKTUUHA
Connect with Michael:
- Website
- YouTube
Do you like the podcast? Â Support Songwriter Trysts independent podcast and buys them a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTryst
From Sydney starting out at a young age with the Australian girls choir where she had a best friend who fell into a coma in her sleep from type 1 diabetes and passed away which she found out via a Facebook feed. Music saved her and helped her process through her emotions during this time and continued to be her therapy. Following her passion for music is now having an incredible impact in the country music scene and giving us a big dose of Cassidy-Rae music therapy and place to connect with one another.Â
Connect with Cassidy-Rae:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Dan Biddle the current chairman of the Country Music Association Australian, Producer of the Australian Golden Guitar awards and artist manger of The McClymonts and McAlister Kemp almost quit on the music industry when he through it had died after his employer at the time signed and released Big Brother star Sarah Maries's "The Butt Dance" song back in the 2000's...
Connect with Dan:
- Website
- Spotify
Support the podcast through 'Buy Me A Coffee' - HERE-
Imagine being on TikTok and throwing out a riff, then two people from that post picking it up and it turning into your next single as an artist! Well thats what happened with Shaylen with her latest original track Do Si Do, some super cool southern country vibes with the LA pop dance beats.
Shaylen leaves a mark on pop by casually dropping the sort of lines you get tattooed somewhere scandalous or reserve for a drunk DM. Unafraid, unapologetic, and unfiltered, sheâll put a boring ex on blast in one breath and open up about her deepest insecurities in the next. Yet, she sets gleefully pins those confessions to a defiant soundtrack of R&B, pop, and alternative across her debut EP Highs & Lows and the buzzing 2019 single âSprite.â Posting up over 10 million streams within a year and receiving praise from Billboard, Just Jared, Hollywood Life, Popdust, and Idolator who pegged her as âon the brink of a major breakthrough,â the Los Angeles-based singer and songwriter turns heads in 2020 with a series of singles and her forthcoming full-length debut album for Republic Records.
Connect with Shaylen:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
- TikTok
In this podcast we get to know Hayley, where she came from what she studied and her secrets to her success and how she manages to keep going and coming up with such amazing music. She talks about her new single Karma and her album which is out on the 22nd of October and you can pre-order on her website HERE
Hayley Jensen is an artist whose vocal abilities place her in elite company within the industry. Bursting onto the scene in 2004 as a Top 4 finalist on Australian Idol, Hayley has performed for Coalition Forces in the Middle East, won a MusicOz Award, and was mentored by Kylie Minogue on The Voice Australia, who described her as 'the whole package'. Her 'blind audition' has received close to 2M views on YouTube. âš âPast Tense and Present Peaceâ was Jensen's first iTunes #1 album & her hard work was rewarded with a Aus. Indie Country Music Award and Top 5 finalist spot at the 2018 Country Music Channel (CM) Awards. âš Hayley signed with Social Family Records to release her album 'Turning Up The Dial', produced in Nashville USA with Grammy & Emmy Award winning producer, Jamie Tate. It debuted as the 3rd highest selling Australian Country Album (ARIA), #2 iTunes Country album. âš Over the past two years Hayley has toured nationally & internationally, performing at Buckle & Boots Festival in the UK (âSummertime Soundtrackâ dubbed the festival soundtrack), Calgary Stampede & Dauphins CountryFest, in Canada in 2019.
Connect with Hayley:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Eddie Rawk made his Mum cry after years of training to be a professional AFL player that he was going to quit and focus full time on his music career. 33 year old singer songwriter and new father is in Melbourne and was worried about having to give up music when becoming a dad and Rae and Eddie discuss the truth, that his wife helped him realise, that if all his hero's in music like Keith Urban and Bruce Springsteen can have children and still have a successful music career than so can he.Â
An inspirational chat and amazing music coming from this must watch country rock Australian Artist.Â
Note: Bruce Springsteen Youtube link about songwriting as discussed in the podcast >>>HERE<<<
Connect with Eddie:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
- SoundCloud
Katrina is an Australian singer songwriter who is chasing her dreams to be famous in the USA. She has faced so many challenges and grown a lot. one of the hardest times she shares as she was loosing her voice and running out of money she found a devotional and after never knowing anything about religion or God it entered her life at a time when she needed a sign and then found a doctor who graciously helped her through her medical issues so she could stay in Nashville. This conversation will have you on the edge of your seat hearing about just how life can be turned upside down in the best ways...
Connect with Katrina:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
After a winning performance on the main stage at the Gympie Music Muster, a national tour, and climbing chart positions on CMC, KIX Country Radio and The Music Network; Australian Contemporary-Country newcomer, Natalie Pearson is making an impression.
She may be petite at 5'2, but this girl-next-door has some big notes to deliver.
Natalie received the most recent Australian Independent Music Award for Best Country, and has since opened for notable country music industry names such as multi Golden Guitar Award winners and nominees - Adam Brand, Travis Collins, The Wolfe Brothers as well as TV pop artists Jessica Mauboy and Karise Eden. She has also performed with rising star Casey Barnes on festival main stages. With her strong vocals and engaging live performance Natalie is certainly a performer to get excited about.
Her songs drive messages of sass and empowerment, Natalie believes we should know our worth, and never settle. Natalie has previously been included on the programs of Deni Ute Muster and Gympie Music Muster, VDM Fest, Tamworth Country Music Festival, WolfeFest and Brisbane RiverFest.
Join the Nat Pack HERE
Connect with Natalie:
- Website
- Spotify
Two Gold Coast musoâs coming together during the pandemic. Singer-songwriter Straalen who was the youngest singer ever signed to SONY music and the celebrated DJ/Producer Jessy aka SVLT. These creatives have come together providing a very unique sound with to-die-for vocals, melody and story telling backed with a kickass beat.
Together they bring soothing melodic synth sounds mixed with sweet beats to get your hips rocking and your feet grooving.
Connect with WE ARE ISO:
- Spotify
- Triple J Unearthed
Thanks to One76 creative studio for the use of their creative space to record this podcast.Â
Hayley Marstenâs sharp pen and open heart led to the creation of her stellar debut, âSpectacular Heartbreakâ in 2019. The album was crowdfunded, nominated for Alt-Country Album of the Year at the Golden Guitars, Country Work of the Year at the Queensland Music Awards in 2020, and was streamed over half a million times in the first year. Hayley leads with her heart and her humour both on and off stage which won her fans on her 2019 album tour and wowed the crowds of Fanny Lumsden, Troy Cassar Daley, and Imogen Clark.
We have an amazing conversation around her spectacular break-up songs and experiences, she's a strong wise woman who is sharing her heart in her music and we go deeper into the life of Hayley and where songwriting injected life into her musical world.Â
Connect with Hayley:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Hello Jane is a new folk singer songwriter who dreamed of being a teacher and studied at JMC Academy in Southbank. She fell into songwriting and loves the art of being simple yet emotional with her music and we get to delve deeper into her life and goals with music in this chat.
Connect with Hello Jane:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Buy me a coffee HEREÂ
Eden James chats with Rae Leigh on a featured episode of Songwriter Trysts, he shares how he spent his birthday with Amy Winehouse, why a Brisbane newspaper helped his Dad accept that being a songwriter was a thing and how he ended up having some of the greatest musicians in today's world playing on his latest music while recording in New York City.
His Award-winning Music Video here: https://youtu.be/JhanxqwUX9Q
Aussie-born rocker Eden James has some sage relationship advice for the heartbroken. The international award-winning artist announces the upcoming release of his newly remixed blues-rock single, âStranger,â a song about curing the break-up blues with a good old-fashioned bang. The new mix by Grammy Award-winning engineer Brian Paturalski (Aerosmith, Def Leppard, Silverchair) streaming on all major digital platforms now. âStrangerâ is from Jamesâ fourth studio album, All the Good Blank are Taken, set to release on Dandy Ram Records on July 9th.
Connect with Eden:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Tia has only just turned 21 and has released two albums with the song âStrangersâ just shy of 12 million streams and certified GOLD, 2 Triple J feature albums and the Queensland Music Award for album of the year for âThick Skinâ.
The most exciting thing for Tia is that she has really settled in with her family of bandmates Jordan Bain, Sebastian Jennings-Hingston & Izzy De Leon. Her live achievements already include a UK tour, SOLD OUT Australian headline shows, performances at Falls and Groovin In The Moo festivals and sharing the stage with the likes of Bernard Fanning, Boy & Bear, Ball Park Music, Frightened Rabbit, Lewis Capaldi and Gomez.  As the world opens up in 2021 Tia and her band will be sharing their celebratory new live show as far and wide as possible.
Connect with Tia:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Sisters in Music is a podcast and group founded by songwriters Nicki Kris and Natalie Jean, their goal is to build a global network of women who are interested in a creative sisterhood working together for career growth, live performance opportunities, networking, support, and to raise money/awareness for various female focused charities.
Nicki Kris is an award-winning Billboard charting singer/songwriter based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Her music portfolio includes several albums along with a multitude of singles and chart-topping collaborations. Her songs have been featured in award-winning movies, TV shows, including LifeTime TVs Dance Moms, and on radio stations worldwide. Aside from working on her music, Nicki is the host of âMixing It with Nicki Krisâ a radio interview show advocating for women in the music and entertainment industry.
Natalie Jean is an award-winning singer/songwriter and performer. Extremely versatile, Natalie sings and writes in numerous genres and languages including, French, Spanish, English, and Haitian Creole. Her musical portfolio includes six albums along with a multitude of singles. Natalie has garnered more than 100 nominations for her work and has won multiple awards. She is also a voting Member in the Recording Academy (GRAMMYS) and a fierce advocate for women in the music business.
Connect with Sisters in music through their website HERE
From Tamworth, the country music capital to living in Sydney as a singer-songwriter. Penrose is doing what she loves and making music that she absolutely loves. Her get away from school and the hard life of adolescence she would run to music and her horses. Wanting to go to the Olympics but also finding passion in performing Penrose has ambition and love for her music and hopes to inspire others through what she is releasing. She shares some wisdom from some hard lessons she has learned in the music industry about the importance of having people you can trust around you.Â
Connect with Penrose:
- Website
- TicTok
- Spotify
- YouTube
2021 is gearing up to be an incredibly promising year for indie-pop artist, Ronen. His current single, âWake Me Upâ featured on Greyâs Anatomy - received overwhelming support, including a nod as Tunefindâs âTop TV Song of The Weekâ and impressive streaming numbers upon its debut. Struggling with ADHD as a kid and was encouraged to play the drums to help with getting his energy out leading to guitar and by the time he was 12 he was writing music and making his own way. Studied at Berklee College of music and after 2 years left collage and leaned right into the Nashville writing scene. Now producer writer and collaborating with people and adapted with what is working for him at the moment.
Connect with Ronen:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Country on Keppel is an annual celebration of contemporary country music including established artists and rising stars, held at Great Keppel Island Hideaway.Â
We speak to one of the organisers Peter Blundell brother to James Blundell who shares with us on episode #70. Peter shares about the exciting venue, what you need to do to join in the fun and everyone who is going to be there including; Bella Mackenzie, Aaron Jurd, Melissa Lukin, Jonny, Taylor, Brad Butcher, James Blundell, Danny Phegan, Cornell & Carr, Saltbush Six, and Jasmine Rae.
Find out more about the show and get tickets now:
- Keppel Island resort >> Website
- Event Book Now >>Website
Kylie Morgan is a singer songwriter with a huge heart. She is a passionate performer who has used her love for music to talk with teens about anti bullying and mental health. She shares in this podcast about one of her first songs telling the story of a young girl who killed herself and around how that song then went onto touch and even save other lives once it was shared. That is when Kylie says she "really understood the power of music".
EMI Records Nashvilleâs Kylie Morgan began writing songs in her hometown of Newcastle, OK when she was only 12 years old. A masterful storyteller, the singer-songwriter released her music independently in her early teens, garnering national attention from music producers and television executives. At the age of 16, she was named âWho New To Watchâ by the Country Music Association. This early success led Kylie to begin making regular trips to Nashville, crafting her voice and polishing her songwriting. When she turned 18, she made the decision to call Music City home. Recognizing Kylieâs unique talent, the SMACKSongs team signed her to their roster under the guidance of GRAMMY Award-winning songwriters, Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne. An avid yoga enthusiast, Kylie has earned her official Yoga Alliance Certification. She participates in yoga daily and it has become part of her lifestyle. Kylie has previously toured with artists including Dan + Shay, Little Big Town, Maren Morris, Gavin DeGraw, Brett Eldredge and Billy Currington. Kylie was named as part of CMTâs Listen Up Class of 2019 and will be performing shows across the country this summer, opening for Jon Pardi, Kip Moore, Devin Dawson, Lady Antebellum, Carly Pearce, and more. Kylie is currently in the studio working on her debut album with producers Shane McAnally and Ben Johnson.
Connect with Kylie:
- Website
- Spotify
- TicTok
- YouTube
Kate Schutt is an incredible singer songwriter that is down to earth and passionate about sharing her experiences and life lessons through public speaking and song. Her Ted X talk "A Grief Casserole -- How to help your friends & family through loss" has been viewed over 36 thousand times and her story about supporting her mother through terminal cancer has inspired her passion and music as she shares. She is incredibly intelligent studying at Harvard university and Berklee College of music.
Kate Schutt is an award-winning songwriter, singer, guitarist, and producer whose voice NPR calls âglassily clear and glossily sweet.â Kate studied the influence of jazz on poetry at Harvard, and studied jazz guitar at Berklee College of Music. Working with legendary producer/arranger Rob Mounsey, Kate just finished recording her new album, Bright Nowhere. It maps the landscape of loss around her motherâs diagnosis and death from ovarian cancer.
Kate spent four years as her momâs primary caregiver, along the way writing songs about life, loss, and (to use Christopher Hitchensâs potent phrase) âliving dyingly.â
See her Ted X talk here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IfDV103duCM
Connect with Kate:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Kendra Muecke is a singer/songwriter, writer, actress, and published author from Houston, TX based now in Los Angeles, CA. She performs under the stage name âKendra & the Bunniesâ, as a psychedelic folk rock Americana and spoken word artist. âKendra & the Bunniesâ performs both as a full band and as a solo acoustic act. Her style heavily utilizes the element of storytelling through song, painting a creative experience for the listener. She has released four albums, charted globally at #8 on the digital radio charts (between Dua Lipa at #7 & Miley Cyrus at #9), published two books, writes for several online music magazines, is SAG-Aftra Eligible, and tours nationally. In 2021, Kendra was nominated for 3 Josie Awards including: Best Artist of the Year (Multi-Genre), Best Song of the Year (Self Love Proclamation), and Best Music Video of the Year (Self Love). She was also nominated for a 2021 International Singer-Songwriter Association Award. You can read more about Kendraâs music and writing in over 100 publications such as JamBase, Relix Magazine, Live for Live Music, Denver Westword, Houston CityBook, Grateful Web, Getty Images, Shakedown News, The Hollywood Digest, Indie Pulse Music, and more. âš
Connect with Kendra:
- Website
- Spotify
In this episode we chat with Country singer songwriter Brook Chivell and hear about his obsessive musical upbringing in Melbourne and desire to be jet setting all over the world. he wrote his first song at age 6 and started playing guitar at 17 just as he was supposed to be studying for his end of school exams. Heading down the rock path and playing in cover bands all over Melbourne he had to get fired from his band to make him realise it was time to start recording and releasing his own music as an independent artist.
Brook has made a name for himself as producing modern country that sits just as well in the Australian Country scene as it would in the American market. Versatility is the key for this talented musician, with just as much passion belting out a party country rock anthem as well as a soulful country ballad. Brook is a songwriter at heart and loves the search for melody, the hook and the soul of the song. "It's all about the connection" he says was the best advice given to him when performing with his mate Brandy - AKA Adam Brand.
After reaching the finals of the 2017 Toyota StarMaker Competition at Tamworth Country Music Festival, Brook has gone on to perform at iconic festivals such as Deni Ute Muster, Gympie Music Muster, Sydney Country Music Festival, Broadbeach/Groundwater Country Music Festival as well as Tamworth Country Music Festival. Brook is also considered one of Australiaâs finest touring artists.
Connect with Brook:
- Spotify
Host Rae Leigh and featured guest Kat Cunning have a beautiful in-depth chat about art, covid, life, relationships and sex. The two of them share around how often sex is brought up in conversation around the negativity side of sex but often the beautiful spiritually healing side of good sex is not discussed and both connected over the power and experiences they have had getting them to where they are now.
Kat adds soulful grace to anthemic alternative pop. An accomplished screen and stage talent, they appeared on Broadway as Emile in Les Liaison Dangereuses and in Cirque du Soleil in addition to acting alongside James Franco in HBOâs hit The Deuce. 2019 saw Kat make their musical debut with fan favorite singles such "King of Shadow," "Birds," and "For the Love." Not to mention, they supported LP on a sold out U.S. Tour and received praise from Nylon, Teen Vogue, New York Times, Earmilk, and more. Kat currently co-stars in Netflixâs Emmy award winning show âTrinkets,â as Sabine, a musician and also love interest to lead actress, Brianna Hildebrand. Kat, who identifies as non-binary (they/them), recently signed to Lava / Republic Records and released their first single under the new deal, âSupernova (tigers blud).â The single arrived in tandem with the season two premiere of the show where Kat's character, Sabine, performs it in the opening scene. Next up, Kat will also be a principal in the upcoming Jennifer Lopez film, Marry Me.
Connect with Kat:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
- TikTok
Matt Cornell is a talented singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. He has worked and toured with the likes of Richard Clapton, Shannon Noll, Jenny Morris, Damien Leith and iconic rock band, The Baby Animals and most recently with Australian Country superstar Adam Brand.
He is a Sydney boy who grew up in a house full of music from his mum and dad and always had creative people in the house and lot's of music, he only ever really thought about music and thatâs what his whole life was based around.
He also has a project called Cornell & Carr - check out their website here: www.cornellandcarr.com
Connect with Matt:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Alyssa Jacey is a multi-genre, award-winning singer/songwriter, inspirational career coach, dancer/choreographer whose other passions like, public speaking, acting/modeling, and TV Hosting became more than just passions after moving to Nashville nearly 10 years ago, from her hometown San Diego, California. Her infectious personality, easy-going music, and smooth vocals make Jacey a deeply original artist. With her many fans, including legendary artist manager, Doc McGhee (Bon Jovi, Kiss, Motley Crue, Darius Rucker), this quintuple threat cannot be overlooked! Jacey was about to turn 24 when she learned she could sing for the first time. Until the stage became her second home as an artist, she had unknowingly been greatly influenced over the years by the vocal stylings of Sarah McLachlan and Jewel, which fans later would credit for her honey-like tone. She talks about in her podcast why she encouraged her fans to wear blue to her shows to support a charity that is all about support and research for Dementia patients and we hear all about why this cause is so important to Alyssa.
Connect with Alyssa:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
- SoundCloud
Camille Trail loved to sing, starting in the shower then the school choir and realising there was space for her in the Australian Country Music industry through spending time at the Junior Australian Academy of Country Music she went off and released her first album and hasn't looked back.
Connect with Camille:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Kora Naughton is a 19yr old singer songwriter releasing music in the Australian country scene. Her latest single "Lap Around the Sun" is out now and a fun country pop tune. She released her first album at 16 and found love in music even when her friends were out at parties and she was at gigs she never regretted it because it felt so right.Â
Living with spina bifida she's had lots of health complications through her teenage years and surgeries. This strong women has grown up fast and not had it easy and we talk about her journey and how she pulled through this all using the power of her; family, songwriting and singing.
Connect with Kora
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Christian Nelson is from Atlanta US, he is a BMI-Singer Songwriter, ATL Solo Artist Award Winner, Vocal Producer, Commercial Jingler CEO of @salute_tees Business Owner from Grand Rapids MI.
In this talk we find out more about his passion, drive and wisdoms of how he is building his musical empire with a true entrepreneur spirit. From everything Rae  and Christian talk about the one thing thats clear is that he is a genuine passionate driven and talented man who is working hard to be a blessing to the world and the people around him.Â
Connect with Christian:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
- Salute Tee's
Connect with Songwriter Trysts www.songwritertrysts.comÂ
Lisa Butler from the Australian Songwriters Conference (ASC) joins us on a bonus Friends of Songwriter Trysts episode to talk about their amazing one of a kind songwriters conference in Australia that is a must attend for all serious songwriters. She shares more about Who, What, Where ,When and Why this conference is so amazing and you will be bursting to get yourself there this year after hearing about all the amazing things your going to learn. Rae Leigh is attending for the first time this year.
The annual Australian Songwriters ConferenceÂź has been established to focus specifically and exclusively on the craft and business of songwriting. A unique four day event in Australia, held on the June long weekend (Queens Birthday long weekend) at Ettalong Beach on the Central Coast of NSW, the inaugural ASC took place in 2008 with subsequent ASC events taking place in 2009 and 2010.
The Australian Songwriters Conference encompasses top, high profile, professional Songwriters, Publishers and industry executives. The primary and fundamental mission behind the ASC is to be recognised as Australiaâs annual, major premier songwriting conference offering songwriters unparalleled opportunities to increase their exposure, value and potential for success as songwriters both in the domestic and international markets.
Details for the event are:
Australians Songwriters Conference 10-14th June 2021 at Ettalong Beach NSW Australia
- Top industry speakers & mentors
- Career Seminars & workshops
- Publishing & Song Pitching
- On-site Pro Recording Studio, Live Attendee Showcases, Networking with the industry
Links:
ASC website: https://australiansongwritersconference.com/
ASC2021 details: https://australiansongwritersconference.com/asc2021/
ASC2021 Event Program: https://australiansongwritersconference.com/asc-2021-event-program/
ASC2021 FAQs: https://australiansongwritersconference.com/asc-2021-faqs/
ASC Circles info: https://australiansongwritersconference.com/circles/
ASC Members Program info: https://australiansongwritersconference.com/member-login/
Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/2346852142079666
Socials:
- YouTube
Australian Country singer songwriter JD Reynolds inspired by her amazing mother for her singing and songwriting with Dolly Parton, Elvis, Micheal Jackson, Prince and heaps of amazing artist on repeat in the house. She was scouted at a young age to be a professional ballet dancer but when she was a teenager had an over night growth spurt and was too tall to dance anymore professionally, she became a model and realised quickly that music was the thing she was born to do, "It was a gift from God" says JD in the podcast.Â
She new she wanted to be a songwriter from a very young age and finds the songs come to her in a very spiritual way. She started off as a dancer and before dancing she would clam her nerves by singing backstage. Thats when she started realising that singing was what she loved and when she started realising she wanted to be an artist.
Connect with JD:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Mimoza is Albanian, she was born in Kosovo, just like Dua Lipa and Rita Ora, and at a very young age because of the war in the late nineties, in Kosovo, her parents moved to where she grew up in Sweden and Germany and then a few years ago, she moved to the US to pursue her career.
She was coached at a young age that the whole music industry is based around the quality of the song and so she worked on her craft and wrote songs for other people and had hits all over the world and landed her first publishing deal at 17 years old.Â
check out her latest music video HERE
Connect with Mimoza:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Songwriter Trysts sponsored by Australian Songwriting ConferenceÂ
Visit Songwriter Trysts Website www.songwritertrysts.com
Nicole from Women Of Country has a mission to evolve country music into an inclusive space for artists of all races, genders, and sexual orientations to be heard on the radio, in award shows, and at the top of the charts.
She has an incredible Blog, playlists and is an intern with the American Country Awards. Support this mission by following and getting engaged with the women of country through her website and great social platforms.
Moving to Nashville, Nicole has high hopes for the Women Of Country and what it will be for the future and we discuss this in the show.
Connect with Nicole - Instagram @nicolemarchesimusic
Support Women Of Country:
- YouTube
Playlists:
- Top Ten Tuesday
- New Music Friday
- Let's Go Girls
Support Songwriter Trysts at www.songwritertrysts.com
Had an amazing chat with Avatari and talked about how he was influenced by his dad who was in music too and got to go to shows with Bruce Springsteen, Rolling Stones and Janet Jackson as a kid. We talked about the 80's inspired music video he produced with a team of people in LA and how it all came about, it has nods to Karate Kid, Back to the future and others, check out the video on his YouTube to see if you can spot all the different 80's shows they visually reference. His instagram videos drew us in, he's hilarious with a passion for film, acting and music he's a triple threat and so glad to share his music and talent on Songwriter Trysts.Â
Connect with Avatari:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
In this podcast we get to know Courtney on a whole new level talking about her history with music and journey to finally releasing her music. It's never an easy journey and now she is doing it she is taking over the Australian country scene. Rae Leigh and Courtney have a discussion about the last few years, being an emerging artist through out the Covid period and the challenges and success that have come from it.
Courtney Keil enjoyed a successful debut onto the country music scene with her single âI Just Wanna Hold Youâ which reached #1 on the Australian iTunes Country Chart and a high of #15 on the national official airplay chart - The Music Network Country Hot 50.
Check out her latest music video "Hummingbird" here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qmc2FlYr1eg
Connect with Courtney:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Episode sponsored by Australian Songwriting Conference, find out more here: australiansongwritersconference.com
Super excited to have Casey Barnes on the show today, I've seen Casey perform live and he is an amazing entertainer along with singer and songwriter. His music ranges from fun dance rock country music to slow deep and heart punching beautiful tracks that will melt your heart, it was great to get to know him better and hear more about where he came from and the amazing journey he has been on to get to where he is now.
I'm sure we are only going to see greater things from this amazing person and if you haven't yet make sure you get to his next show, it will be an experience everyone should be apart of.
Tour Dates Here: www.caseybarnes.com.au/tour
Connect with Casey:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
- TikTok
These talented Tasmanian brothers Tom and Nick Wolfe have been brought up with grass roots and show off, what could be the antioxidant power of the berry farm they grew up on, an amazing display of home family values, passion, determination and love. Their music is inspired by names that we all know and love and some others and we discuss in this podcast their methods, some of the challenges they had getting onto the main land and how after being on the "Australia Got Talent" landed their dream of touring with Lee Kernaghan. Now touring nationally and have live shows all over Australia, after our chat I went to their live show in Gold Coast and it was well worth the trip.
Connect with The Wolfe Brothers:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE >> https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTryst
www.SongwriterTrysts.com
Dan Rennie is the station manager at 98.9FM in Brisbane. He's done just about every job in the place around there.  His people are the Larrakia people from Darwin (NT) with connections to Wyndham  (WA). He is a passionate speaker and music lover and in this chat we talk more about his song he wrote with Paddy McHugh called "Can You Hear Us" and the motivations behind the song.Â
Check out the YouTube video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ErNvi3m7Nm0
Connect with Dan:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE >> https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTrystÂ
Mae Muller UK singer songwriter bringing her heart and soul into her art strongly supported by her parents, "Dad never misses a show" says Mae in the podcast. She is focusing on her and dedicated to building her life and dreams and encourages others to make sure you have your own life and don't give too much of yourself away because at the end of the day you are all you have. She speaks with such strength and passion and her music is inspired heavily by Rihanna who she would love to co-write with sometime.
Muller is still only 21, but she describes herself as a âlate bloomer,â having only penned her first song two years ago. That track, âClose,â remains on her SoundCloud to this day, a symbol of where she has come from and a reminder of the raw emotion she puts into each of her relatable pop bangers. Putting that song online, alongside short Rihanna & Frank Ocean covers on Instagram, helped Mae get her first music industry attention. Fast forward through a whirlwind 18 month period and sheâs released two EPs and has formed the sound of a versatile young artist who speaks directly to and for her generation.
Music for Mae begun when growing up in Kentish Town, North London, where it was always a part of her life but not necessarily as a career path. âThe music was something I was always interested in and loved, but I didn't go to music school or anything. I did it for fun. I've always enjoyed creative writing, but I only started writing song 18 months ago.â she recalls of her younger days. In fact, working behind her local bar convinced her to pursue music further. âI had a few shitty jobs and worked in a pub. When I was at the pub I kept thinking, 'I don't know what I'm doing.' I uploaded a song that I'd written to Soundcloud and that is when it all started. It was very quick.â Those early days remain a constant influence though: âNorth London shaped me as a person and as an artist. Every time I feel my accent slipping I have to cut it out immediately.â
Connect with Mae:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE
Chloé Caroline has been singing and songwriting since 6 years old on the beach of LA California, she studied at Belmont in Nashville on Music Row. Inspired by the amazing Stevie Nicks and Dolly Parton she would love to co-write with them one day. She shares her obsession with Harry Styles and his voice and music.
ChloĂ© Carolineâs music and artistry radiates a warm, authentic, SoCal vibe with a subliminal message for people to live their truth and spread their light so we can better connect and understand each other. Her ultimate goal: for nobody to ever feel alone. Her sound's intentional combination of real and synthetic instruments and nods to the past and present, lends her to being a timeless breath of fresh air for the future of pop music. She is both an old soul yet ahead of her time. A prolific writer, ChloĂ© combines the vocal influences of Stevie Nicks/Amy Winehouse/Avril Lavigne with the pop and writing sensibility of Harry Styles and Shawn Mendes. She uses bitingly honest lyrics and storytelling influenced from the highs and lows of her personal life and the world around her to strike a chord and connect to a universal audience.
Connect with Chloé:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
- TikTok
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE
Far-reaching influences of a musical New York childhood weave through Carrington MacDuffieâs catchy, unusual songwriting and voice, and stand out in her new releases and upcoming EP I'm The One.album, Previous releases include the LP Kiss Make Better, recorded in Nashville, and promoted by a recent 2-month tour through Europe and the UK; and Rock Me to Mars (2017), Crush on You (2016), and Only an Angel (2014), all recorded in Austin, Texas. An award-winning voice actor as well as singer and lively performer, Carrington has voiced biographies of Joni Mitchell, Pussy Riot, and Jack Kerouac, and plays the part of a shamanic Scottish dwarf in the video game âWorld of Warcraft.â
Her musical sound and style have been compared to BORNS, and described as a cross between Annie Lenox and Lucinda Williams. About her newest music, Road Dog magazine says "It can be difficult to take so many different styles and genre influences and meld them into a bottle, however, that is a testament to MacDuffie's true talent and the transitions seamlessly join together for pure genius"
Connect with Carrington:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE
Chelsea Berman hails from the Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia. She started performing at the age of 8, and from the beginning her determination to become a professional singer-songwriter became apparent. At the tender age of 22, she has now grown into an accomplished recording artist. The start of 2021 saw Berman release her newest EP 'Can You Just Not' which quickly rose to the #1 spot on the iTunes Country chart, and was chosen as the featured album on ABC Country. Â The EP features co-writes with Australian and Nashville songwriters including Phil Barton and Jason Duke, and was produced by Rod McCormack. Given her talent, age and drive to succeed, there is little doubt that we will all be hearing a lot about this unique talent in the future! Connect with Chelsea:
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Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE
After being accepted into 11 different arts colleges all over America, Rhian struggled with accepting that she was good enough to be an artist. She went through some serious bullying as a kid in school and speaking with her in this podcast you can hear the wisdom and emotional maturity that she has developed clearly through working through these events. She has a beautiful voice and multi instrumentalist along with performing and writing with her little sister.
She simply states in this podcast that her wish for the world is that we "breed more kindness"
Southern California born and raised, Rhian Bristol sings, writes music, plays piano, ukulele, bass, and guitar and is open to learning any instrument you put in her hands; however, by far her favourite thing to do is perform because it gives her the opportunity to share her experiences and move people. A consummate performer at a young age, Rhian has a stunning ability to channel her feelings, joys and challenges into her music. Musician Peggy Lebo calls Rhian, âAn incredibly dynamic, expressive performer who moves audiences to tearsâ.
Rhian began her musical life at the age of 3, armed with an ABBA CD, Barbie microphone and mirrored closet door. Since then, she has known what she has wanted to do. Be a musician. Writing her first song at age 9, she continued to learn more and more about her craft and use her lifeâs experiences to fuel her passion for musical expression. While in high school, she earned multiple recording arts awards and, at the age of 16, the national Quincy Jones Musicianship Award. She has performed in local venues all over San Diego including The Roxy Restaurant, Tower 13, Aztec Brewing, Queen Beeâs, Encinitas Street Fair, UNIV, La Costa Coffee and the San Diego County Fair.
Recognized by the San Diego Union Tribune and 92024 Magazine for her music and songwriting, Rhian's original song, âA War That Canât Be Wonâ about civil rights activist Juliette Hampton Morgan gained nationwide attention. 92024 magazine noted, âRhian [has] combined her passion for music with her desire to help people heal in a way that has reached far beyond the scope of a class assignment.â
Often asked what her favourite style of music is, Rhian answers, âI love all genres of music. I believe that all music is a form of expression so who am I to judge whether that expression is good or bad. So I listen to every kind of music I can access.â
Rhian attends the California Institute of the Arts, earning her BFA in Music and VoiceArts Performance while she continues to write and perform both original music and covers and The National Anthem whenever she can. Experience her power of storytelling, her connection to her audience and the emotion of her music in person. To contact Rhian for live performances or to perform The National Anthem, please use the contact form.
Connect with Rhian:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
- SoundCloud
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE
This episode I chat to Alisha Todd, half of the new Gold Coast indie-pop duo, Geniie Boy. They have been two years in the making and have now joined forces to release their debut single, Foolâs Play, out 5 February. Alisha shares with us her travelling adventures and playing music in Ibiza as an amazing experience.
A collaboration between singer-songwriter, Alisha Todd, and award-winning producer and multi-instrumentalist, Scott French, these seasoned musicians are creating ear worms with hooks, beats and harmonies that will keep you humming happily for days.
âI met Scotty when I came home and we instantly started working together on our solo projects. We realised we share a vision to make music that is honest and uplifting and that our individual processes in songwriting and in the studio perfectly complement each other.â
Hailing from the regional Queensland town, Gympie, this first single, Foolâs Play is about Alisha visiting her hometown and childhood friend after being away for so long.
âI came home to find my friend at a crossroads in life and it reminded me of myself a few years ago. This song is basically about one of the things only an old bestie can say to you... âstop being a fool, fool!ââ
Produced by French in his commercial studio, Lovestreet Studios, this is the first glimpse from Geniie Boyâs debut EP, which is slated for release in 2021.
Connect with Alisha:
- YouTube
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Coined "Nashville's Newest Darling" by Hype Magazine, Caitlin Quisenberry is full speed ahead as she quickly moves up the ranks of country music. Undoubtedly, Quisenberry is blessed with one of the most exciting and fresh voices in country music today. She may be new to the Nashville music scene, but Quisenberry is no stranger to the public eye. She has been singing and performing for more than a decade. At 14 years old, she worked with Grammy-winning producer Robert Cutarella on a four-song EP. The following year, she auditioned for American Idol, where she nabbed a Golden Ticket and was pushed through to Hollywood. In 2013, the vocalist was crowned Miss Colorado Outstanding Teen after singing to a sold-out audience at Denver's Ellie Caulkins Opera House. Quisenberry then decided to attend Pepperdine University, where she graduated with a degree in Philosophy, an emphasis in Vocal Performance and a certificate in Conflict Management and Dispute Resolution from Pepperdine Law School.
Rae Leigh and Caitlin have a fun chat about the life of new artist and the process of "branding" finding "your sound" writing a song, co-writing and how amazing opportunities can come up and sometimes doors close too and that you just have to be persistent and keep going.
Currently, the red-headed vocalist is enjoying success she has had thus far, and is working on a new project set to release in 2021.
Connect with Caitlin:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE
Australian Singer Songwriter Bryce Sainty recently released some fun dance and road trip style upbeat singles which is easy listening and lots of fun. He talks about how he got into the industry and how important it has been for him to build a team of amazing people around him to allow him to focus on his art. We discuss the common debate of the time around singles and albums and what the current music industry is transforming into.Â
Connect with Bryce:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE >> https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTrystÂ
www.SongwriterTrysts.com
Country singer songwriter Melody Moko from Brisbane is a mummy of three, we had this chat just a few weeks before her third child was born and we are sending massive congratulations to her and her family for welcoming the new addition to her family.
Rae Leigh and Melody had a great chat connecting over both being mums in the music industry and how itâs okay to be a working musician mother and that we are driven by our children and want to show them that you can live a life doing what you love.
Rae and Melody talk about Postnatal depression and the challenges of social stigma and mental health when being a mother, Melody asker her husband who is also a musician âdoes anyone ever ask you âWhere are your kids?â When youâre at a show? And he said, Noâ
The equality for women in the music industry especially country music is only just starting to even out but the social pressures and judgments can be hard to bat against. Rae and Melody ask you to join them in their podcast where that talk about songwriting and following your dreams while being a mother and the challenges we face in those moments.
Connect with Melody:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE >> https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTryst
www.SongwriterTrysts.com
In this podcast chat with Singer songwriter Blake Dantier we have a good laugh and chat about country music, the music industry, being an independent artist, his musical experience and journey with releasing music as an artist even though his true passion sits in songwriting of all genres. Engaged to previous podcast guest Cass Hopetoun, Rae Leigh and Blake have a fun catch up and get the story from the other side.
If Alan Jackson knocked back a cold one with Chris Stapleton you might get a taste for what Blake Dantier is about...
The Blue Mountains based songwriter cleverly blends his love of traditional country with todayâs contemporary and alternative sounds. His honest and quirky approach to song writing struck a chord with country radio in 2020; his two singles â âAsh & Dustâ and âIâd Do It Againâ â both spending 9 weeks on the Music Networkâs national airplay chart.
If youâre wondering where on earth this guy came from, letâs go back to Jamison Private Hospital in â94⊠ok maybe not that far⊠Blakeâs music career began in his teens. He fronted various high school bands who played the odd pub gig here and there, before moving on to study audio at uni. It was around this time his eyes were opened to the vast world of country music. He formed the imaginatively named, âBlake Dantier Bandâ, and played around Sydney for a few years, while constantly immersing himself in Countryâs rich history. A few talent comps and awards later, he decided to take the plunge and release his music independently.
Connect with Blake:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE >> https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTryst
www.SongwriterTrysts.com
Speaking with Birdee Bow from BSQUARED MGMT as a friend of Songwriter Trysts covers all the topics that people in the music industry need to know as independent artists. It can be hard to know who to trust and what to do next and these guys just want to help and support artist in their journey with such big hearts and such a strong team we are proud to be able to call them friends and help support what they are doing and share some of the things we learnt about them also.Â
Connect with BSQUARED MGMT:
- Website
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE >> https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTrystÂ
www.SongwriterTrysts.com
Singer Songwriter and model Maya Zita is an upcoming Toronto pop artist. Originally a trained classical musician, the singer plans to bring a fresh alternative sound to the pop music industry. In this podcast we talk about the challenges she has faced with collaborating, her inspiration songwriting process and how she found confidence in being accepted to an arts collage in Canada in high school and the transition that happened there.Â
Connect with Maya:
- Spotify
- YouTube
- SoundCloud
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE >> https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTrystÂ
www.SongwriterTrysts.com
In this podcast with super star singer songwriter Riva Talyor from the United Kingdom (UK) we hear about her journey from being one of BMI's youngest artist to ever be signed, what it was like as a child superstar and how she grew and matured into the generous and professional artist we are speaking to. She is such an advocate and has a big heart for the arts, just as we are, and she supports artist all over the UK through projects and initiatives that we discuss in the podcast.
Riva released her latest single âIf I Could Ever Stop Loving Youâ has just made the Radio 2 Playlist Out Now - Listen Here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BrCJtR18nek
Singer-songwriter Riva Taylor has released her latest single If I Could Ever Stop Loving You, the self-penned new track is her first since the launch of her debut album This Womanâs Heart .1 in March 2020, which has achieved over 1.2 million streams to date.
These days Riva is an advocate for emerging female talent in the arts. Her two-years running sell-out Writing Round series at London's Roundhouse, a songwriter's circle in collaboration with Nashville songwriter Jeff Cohen, led to the launch of TWH in 2020 - a community that supports and connects women in the arts. The first series of TWH exhibitions and events were due to launch this spring, but have been moved back to 2021 due to Covid.
Connect with Riva:
- Website
- YouTube
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE >> https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTryst
www.SongwriterTrysts.com
15 year old singer songwriter from Portsmouth in the UK is confidently writing and sharing his art with professionalism and passion. Winning competitions, and hitting the charts locally he is surrounding himself by people who are teaching him and helping him present the best music he can. We have been dancing around to his music and you can too we have added it to our Songwriter Trysts playlist HERE
Advice he was given at a careers day was to find what you love and make a job out of it... so that's what he is doing.Â
Connect with Harrison:
- YouTube
- Spotify
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE >> https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTrystÂ
www.SongwriterTrysts.com
Dr. Dina and husband Don Ortiz speak to us about their amazing music career and experience travelling all over the world many times. They are also Speakers Authors & Workshop Moderators. As global award-winning entrepreneurial leadership experts, Dina and Don bring a message of how to guide and lead SUCCESS in dynamic environments!
The Dina Preston Band provides top-rated 5-star live music nationally and internationally for corporate and VIP events. They have performed in 43 countries and 26 world tours for the Department of Defense Armed Forces Overseas Shows, and the U.S. State Departmentâs global embassies. Located out of Phoenix, Arizona they also service Fortune 500 Companies in the Meeting and Events Industry in Scottsdale, Arizona New York, Dallas, Texas, California, Las Vegas, Nevada, and Orlando, Florida.
Music Observer featured The Dina Preston Band in their Top 20 Artist for 2020. Led by Dinaâs signature vocals, and Don Ortizâs passionate lead guitar, their music is crafted around the bandâs eclectic global experiences, providing a unique, but truly American sound. On the WEAA artist roster, CEO John Regna has coined them as the Most Famous Unfamous Band in the world.
Connect with Dr. Dina and husband Don Ortiz:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE >> https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTryst
www.SongwriterTrysts.com
Amazing to chat with Scott Southworth for the second time after connecting for episode #54 John Condrone which was also a great chat, we wanted to have a more in depth chat with Scott about his life and songwriting journey. Being in Nashville and working his way up from Radio advertising sales man to hit country songwriter and artist is a great journey to learn from. Also featured in this podcast are some of his newest songs which you can hear in full using the links below.
"I write songs. I like pie. I play Larrivee Guitars. I really like pie." - That's his version of a bio...lazy jacknut!
Originally hailing from the great Pacific Northwest, Flaming Tortuga Records recording artist Scott is an award winning Nashville based performing singer/songwriter, a Top 40 charting recording artist in Europe and the creator/co-host of Radio/TV's "The Music Row Show". He performs in clubs, pubs, house concerts and festivals in Nashville, across the US and Europe, headlining Country Festivals in France, Germany, Norway and Spain. Scott is proud to be an endorsed Larrivee Guitar artist and Schertler Pickups/Amps Artist.
He has released 5 solo songwriting projects. Since 2016, Scott has dropped 3 full length all original Traditional Country CD's: 2016 - "The Last Honky Tonk In Town", 2018 - "Hey Hillbilly Singer!" and 2020 "These Old Bones". All 3 CD's have won top reviews, accolades, awards and earned their spot on countless "Best Of Lists". Notables include "2018 Pure Country Album of the Year" by the Academy of Western Artists for "Hey Hillbilly Singer", 3 Time "Honky Tonker of the Month" from Country Music People Magazine and many others! Saving Country Music.com says: "If you don't like Scott Southworth, you don't like Country Music!"
For booking House Concerts, Festivals and other venues, contact management: admin@scottsouthworth.com
Connect with Scott:
- Website
- Instagram @sayhowdyscott
- Spotify
- ReverbNation
- YouTube
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE >> https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTryst
www.SongwriterTrysts.com
Both Katya and Chris have toured Europe, America and Mexico singing background and/or dancing for numerous artists including Lalah Hathaway (Snarky Puppy), Jerry Rivera, BeyoncĂ©, Obie BermĂșdez, Don Omar, Thalia and Grammy Winner Alejandro Sanz. Writing together for about 7 years they continue to record and collaborate with numerous artists, release their own original music and create custom made music for several TV projects. Together they composed the jingle for a worldwide Samsung campaign, penned the carnival hit âBody Talkâ for KES the band and composed the score for the Netflix comedy series âItâs Brunoâ. They garnered much praise when they lent their voices to the song âLejos De Tiâ featured in the remake of the classic film Overboard. Chris Hierro & Katya Diaz have combined forces to create what can only be described as a kaleidoscope of sounds and vibes. Hence "Break Out The Crazy". They have now released songs ranging in styles from timeless love songs to tropical and pop/dance. As the chemistry grows so does their range of styles. With more releases soon to come Break out the Crazy hopes to always surprise and leave people wondering what will come next.
Connect with Katya and Chris from Break Out The Crazy:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
At BennyGregs they strive to create something special. Whether it be music on your Friday and Sunday afternoon, a beautifully captured event via photograph or video, or your next gig as a musician, they are available to help you reach your greatest potential.
If you are an artist ready to take the next step, the team at BennyGregs have an offer on hand to work with you to meet your ultimate goals as a performer. From your promotional content needs, to finding gigging and performance opportunities, at BennyGreg's they strive to set you up for the future.
In this podcast we speak with the founder Benny and talk about his journey to where he is now, this inspirational, empowered young adult who is getting sh#t done! We had such a great chat and connected over common values of believing in music, art and lifting each other up in a collaborative and fun environment. The love and passion from this one person has inspired a whole community of people to work together for a common cause and it's beautiful to watch grow and we just want to team up with their vision and i'm sure after you hear this podcast chat you will too.
Connect with Benny Gregs:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify Playlist
Dani Teveluwe is a local singer songwriter from the Gold Coast Australia, a Yoga teacher and also a school teacher. We spoke in this podcast about her journey into music and how she went from a Contiki tour in Europe to Yoga instructor and then teacher to starting to release and perform her own original songs as a songwriter and artist. Her debut single "Weight Off" is a fun and uplifting song and she goes into more details about where it comes from and what the story is behind it.
A very secure attachment to herself and love and we had a very long chat which i was able to try and keep on point but I loved speaking with her and i hope you do too. For those of you that may be triggered we do talk about some deep topics around family and mental health. If you need help please seek it, its okay to not be okay and its always okay to seek help. Hear her single here: YouTube
Connect with Dani here:
Facebook Spotify Instagram YouTube
Lily Grace is a young, emerging singerâsongwriter from the Gold Coast. She writes emotive, personal songs and performs from the heart.
A finalist in the Toyota Battle of the Buskers at the 2019 Tamworth Country Music Festival, a graduate of the CMAA Junior Academy of Country Music and the Senior Winner of the Australian National Busking Championships in Stanthorpe last year, Lily Grace is a young girl going big places. With an incredible passion for songwriting, seamless guitar-playing and a mesmerising voice at only 15 years of age, Lily Grace is a sought-after talent across the Gold Coast and further afield.
Sheâs booking gigs in a host of venues including restaurants, cafes, hotels, golf clubs, shopping centres, wine bars, and music festivals. She recently supported Tania Kernaghan and is looking forward to opening for James Blundell in March, and opening for Amber Lawrence and Catherine Britt on their Queensland tour.
With a growing and enthusiastic fan following, the future of this young artist is shining bright.
Connect with Lily:
- TikToc
Country Artist JD Shelburne grew up on a tobacco farm in Taylorsville, Kentucky, a tiny town southeast of the Ohio River near Louisville, Kentucky. At age 19, he found a guitar after the death of his grandmother and began learning to play and sing on his own.
His #1 video, âChurch Pew Barstoolâ will be featured on his upcoming 2021 album. Shelburne has also debuted as the #1 trending artist on CMT.com.
In this podcast he gives some great advice, shares some stories, frustrations and life lessons that he has learnt on his journey at a Nashville artist.
Connect with JD Shelburne:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
With comparisons to Blackbear, The Chainsmokers & Zedd with his melodic yet dancey pop, singer songwriter AESTHETIC made his debut with his first single âHappy Againâ on New Years Eve 2017 with the intent to take 2018 by storm. The song was largely inspired by his personal dealings with depression with all money made benefitting the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. AESTHETIC, born Brandon Karasinski, had his first exposure to music listening to artists of the 90âs boy band movement. After picking up guitar at the age of 9, he played in various bands from the Lehigh Valley, PA area across a 10 year span, in which he recorded several singles and shared the stage with artists such as Our Last Night, Trace Cyrus and Set It Off. After taking some time off to rediscover his passion for making music, AESTHETIC was born. He connected with producer Austin Hull through the online Facebook group âMAKE POP MUSIC: Pop Producers and Songwritersâ and recorded his debut single âHappy Again.â After much success with his debut, he released the tracks âShadow Puppetsâ and "Milestones" in 2018. The following year AESTHETIC released "Hold Me Down" in fall 2019, "Good" in 2020. With the 5th release on the way, 2021 is shaping up to be AESTHETIC's biggest year yet.
In this podcast he shares how his Grandfather raised him on Elvis, the Beatles and Frank Sinatra with his Dad giving him musical influences from the 70âs Led Zeppelin and Van Halen you can tell he is making his mark for his own generation's take on these along with a heavily influenced Star Wars fan!
The positive vibes we get from his songs are grown from mental health and depression struggles that he has dealt with and raised money for charity that support people in depression and anxiety. Bring a voice and sharing from a place of vulnerability is a shining light for any of us who are struggling. He lets us know that you're not alone, you are beautiful and life is all about living a good life.
Connect with Brandon - aka Aesthetic:
- Spotify
- YouTube
- Other Music Links
Bec Lavelle is an Australian singer-songwriter who is best known for her work in the Australian television drama, "McLeod's Daughters".
The series produced a number of highly popular soundtrack albums featuring vocals by Lavelle.
She has since released four solo albums - "Intimate Portrait", "Love & Bravery", "Kehr Wieder" and âIVâ which was recently released in August of 2020.
Bec has also contributed to a number of recent albums by iconic Australian artist, James Blundell, and has recorded a duet with Golden Guitar Award winner, Drew McAlister - "I Don't Fight Anymore" - for the compilation album, "30 Years of Pride - A Tribute to James Blundell" (2018).
In 2019, Bec made the big move back home to Australia following 8 years based in Germany and is thrilled to be home. BecÂŽs Latest single âSunny Came Homeâ , is already receiving amazing response from fans worldwide.
A new initiative of Bec this year is running the "Road To Roma" Country Music Festival which is on the 6th and 7th of March 2021. Featuring Darlinghurst, Andrew Swift, Jayne Denham, Ben Ransom, Bec Lavelle, Angus Gill, Melody Moko and many more bring their award winning music to the City of Roma. Get tickets here
Connect with Bec:
- Website
- Road To Roma
- YouTube
- Spotify
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE >> https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTryst
www.SongwriterTrysts.com
Jade Holland fell into music and calls it an âaccidentâ and will do it for as long as it continues to be fun. Thanks to an open mic at the age of 11 and seeing a friend perform, she said to her mum âIâm going to do thatââŠ
From a small country town above Cairns, Australia, she has taken Australia by storm and never given up even when the world and family around her told her that you canât earn a living making music. Loads of life experience and advice in this episode to be of value to anyone in the music industry.
We talked about her fashion from her latest video which we from Llani Creative - Artist, Designer and Educator, Claudia Williams divides her time between educating and creating with recyclables.
Pop country singer/songwriter, Jade released her second album âDream Wildâ last year to critical acclaim with the single âDrive Thruâ being streamed over one million times and, since then there has been no stopping her.
Now her follow up single, âDo it Rightâ, due for International release on 29 October, is poised to eclipse the million mark.
âDo it Rightâ is not your standard love song. Itâs a statement. Itâs a call to action for men and women across the globe in relationships. âDo it Rightâ mines the depths of Jadeâs past heartbreaks while galvanising her determination not to waste years obsessing over a lost love. âBeing able to take control of my own heartbreak made it easier for me to walk away.â
Connect with Jade:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Halle Kearns is an emerging artist quickly making a name for herself in country music. As a songwriter, Halle differentiates herself through her conversational storytelling, melodic sensibilities, and authenticity. As a performer, she has over 300 shows under her belt resulting in an undeniable ability to captivate her audiences and instantly connect them to her passion for music.
While only being in Nashville for a year, Halle has already had the opportunity to open up for legendary country acts such as Trace Adkins, David Nail, Eli Young Band, William Michael Morgan, Tracy Lawrence, The Oak Ridge Boys, Casey Donahew, and many more. Halle has also worked her way into writing rooms with some of Nashvilleâs top songwriters and producers. After spending over a year in Nashville working with these creators, Halle discovered her voice, her style, and has a lot to say as an artist.
Halleâs first project was heavily awaited by over 40,000 social media followers and a dedicated hometown fan base that has been selling out her shows years before a song was even released. Her first three singles have received an immense amount of attention, collecting over 110 press write-ups, and radio play all across the world. Her debut EP "Finally" was set up beautifully for a sizeable release on December 11, 2020, and has since gained over 500,000 streams.
In this podcast we find out more about her songs, how she approaches this challenging industry and what she hopes to gain from sharing her music.
Connect with Halle:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE >> https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTryst
www.SongwriterTrysts.com
Singer, songwriter, musician, teacher and producer Paul DeMarco seems to be able to do it all. In this podcast we talk about how he has turned his life into a space where he can be full time in the music industry and live his dream life, "they say if you do what you love you will never work a day in your life" says Paul as he describes how he has worked towards his lifestyle and used mental self-developmental tactics to help him achieve his goals.
One of the hardest things to find as an artist is a producer that gets your style of music and can bring them to life in the studio, Paul and Rae Leigh (Host) talk about communication and the best ways to get past this barrier.
Paul is from Anglesey in the North Wales part of the UK with over 25 years of experience performing, writing and recording music both as a solo performer and member of the group Gumshaw, the Ebenezer Chapter band project and Southern rock band Blackwater Lake. Performing live has led to him sharing the stage with a diverse range of artists, from Ed Sheeran's co-writer Amy Wadge to Jan Akkerman, and from Budgie to Henry Priestman from the Christians.
As a multi instrumentalist, Paul shows his dedication to being the best musician he can by always growing and expanding, both in terms of performance and song writing, and as a producer.
Equally happy with an acoustic or electric guitar, Paul found his voice through necessity, "When you write songs you want them to be heard, and that means singing them!"
Co-writing with songwriters all over the world has only served to enhance Pauls song-writing and he always brings his best to every co-write.
Having gigged for many years up and down the UK and on the continent, Paul can be seen entertaining the music lovers along the shores of Anglesey and North Wales, or wherever the call comes from, and streaming them live means that anyone in the world can catch a glimpse of even the remotest performance.
The songs you will hear will show Paulâs passion for his music and his versatility in many genres but always serving the song and the lyric. Enjoy...
Connect with Paul:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Bree Jackson mother, singer songwriter from Dallas Texas USA. Spending a lot of the time in the army and now getting back to her roots in music. Watching live music as a child seduced her into the life of singing, performing and being in the industry by getting the inside recording experience from a very young age. Connecting with Rae Leigh over being artist mothers and how this impacts our children growing up.
She is an Independent American country music singer and songwriter from Baltimore, MD. Her music incorporates elements of rock, pop and Jazz within the country genre. Her first career single âKryptoniteâ was released in December 2018 and she will be releasing her upcoming debut E.P âThis is Meâ in early 2021.
While music is her passion and lifelong dream, Bree Jaxson has spent the last ten years serving in the United States Air Force. Her career started in the military by building bombs, rockets and missiles and has now stepped into the role as the Deputy Commander for Cyber Space Operations for the TXANG.
Her experiences throughout life have taught her that music can help you get through anything and that is what she is hoping her fans will get out of her newest music releases. In December2020, Bree signed a distribution deal with Heart Songs Records.
Connect with Bree Jaxson:
- Website
- Spotify
Singer Songwriter Melanie Meriney from Nashville has a great chat on Songwriter Trysts Podcast about her journey and experiences in the music industry. Her songwriting tips and stories are great to hear.
Some of her achievements so far include:
- Music videos in rotation on CMT, GAC, and Heartland
- Second place in Nashville's Emerging Star competition
- Signed a publishing deal with Dune Grass Music, Feb 2016
- Song placement in highlight rotation during Root Sports channel Pittsburgh Pirates games
- Named one of AXS's "Artists to Watch"
- Mentioned in Billboard, Music Row Magazine, and Country Aircheck
Connect with Melanie:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Nashville singer songwriter Bill Whyte was one of the writers on the 2021 Golden Guitar winning tracks "Finger Pickin' Good" by Kristy Cox featuring Tommy Emmanuel that won for "Best Bluegrass Recording of the Year".
Billâs song âSafe Havenâ co-written with Jimmy Fortune, Syndi Perry and Hillary Scott is on the current âLove Remainsâ album by Hillary Scott & The Scott Family that won the Grammy Award in 2017 for Best Contemporary Christian Album.
Through the years, Bill has performed with, Jeff Dunham, Heywood Banks, Larry the Cable Guy, Crystal Gayle, Little Big Town, Gary Morris and many others. And in 2019 Bill signed an exclusive publishing deal with Billy Blue Publishing in Nashville.
Connect with Bill Whyte:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Support Songwriter Trysts - Buy Rae Leigh a coffee HERE >> https://www.buymeacoffee.com/SongwriterTryst
www.SongwriterTrysts.com
Bree Tayloris a singer songwriter from Toronto, Canada. She had a really in depth chat with Rae Leigh about; art, female empowerment, self love, bullying in school and the power of self compassion. These two songwriters have such similar stories and we get to view all the different opinions around being a female artist in the music industry and what is expected verses what is good for our humanity and mental health.
This country pop singer-songwriter is a force to be reckoned with. She is known for powerful, honest lyrics and dynamic melodies that express a range of emotions that everyone can relate to.
Being authentic in love and sharing a message of self love and compassion comes through in her music, featured in this podcast are her songs:
- Drive - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u9bwLSNRWIc
- Burning Bridges - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEMFn7nSKFc
- Cry - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNjGpkvOclY
Trigger warning with this podcast as we talk about bullying, body image, depression and abuse and how this had impacted mental health and art.
Connect with Bree:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Paula and Donna founded Crazy Women Country in 2020. In the realm of country music, women get a lot less radio airplay and support. These crazy country fans and writers wanted to start the conversations, encouraging us to keep requesting more women on the radio and helping women to share more of their music on their podcast and promote, encourage and uplift women in the country music industry.
âHow can you like something youâve never heardâ Brandy Clark
Paula and Donna are both raving Brandy Clark fans and met through an online Brandy Clark fan club, with one of them in Florida and the other in Spain, these unlikely friends have connected over this passion and both working hard to deliver an important message to all women out there that whatever you do it's worth doing and they inspire us to support and encourage our sisters in life, music and art.
Check out their website here www.crazywomencountry.com
Spotify
James started his music career before Rae Leigh had even been conceived, He was named "best new talent" at the 1987 Country Music Awards of Australia, and in 1991 his Album "Hand it Down" won Best Country Album ARIA award.
He had a lot of success after releasing the hit song "Way Out West" in 1991, Australian country artists James Blundell and James Reyne recorded a version that became a huge hit in Australia the following year, peaking at number two on the ARIA Singles Chart. It was the highest-charting single for both singers. At the APRA Music Awards of 1992 the song won Country Song of the Year.
On Spotify this song has had over 7.7 million streams - stream "Way Out West" here.
James has had a whole life of experience in the music industry, "working and living on the land" and building a family of his own. In this podcast, we talk about his ups and downs, and the things that he, in this interview, thinks are the most important things in life and what it takes to be a great songwriter.
Still inspiring people all over the world with his charm and talents you will learn as much as Rae did in this chat along with feel inspired and encouraged in your own creative journey.
Connect with James:
- Website
- Spotify
Catherine Britt
In this podcast we are speaking about her latest album, her changes she has discovered becoming a mother of two little ones and how thatâs impacted her songwriting, and that where we see some of the tracks coming from this experience. Relating to mothers all over the world and the 'Home Truths' behind the life of a mother.
Singer Songwriter, mother, and passionate mentor in the music industry she has a new Album out "Home Truths" and it's sitting at the top of the charts in Australia. A well-loved Country artist who you are just going to fall in love with after hearing her heart through her music and in this chat.
Connect with Catherine:
- Instagram @catherine_britt
- Spotify
- Website
- Youtube
Toronto-based r&b and soul emerging artist Ley Vara is excited to announce the release of her sixth single âRed Flag.â Written by Ley Vara and produced by Josh Polasz, from KYNGS, âRed Flagâ reflects on heartbreak and being cheated on. The lyrical styling focuses on how there can be various âred flagsâ within a partner that people often miss because they are in love. Ley Vara wants to inspire feelings of empowerment within her listeners by giving them a voice in a toxic relationship. In the past Ley Vara has worked with TJ Whitelaw, guitarist, music director and producer from Toronto, on her single âBestmistake,â garnering over 200,000 streams on Spotify. Upon the release of âRed Flag,â Ley Vara is releasing the official music video on December 1 to bring her melodic vision to life.
Connect with Ley:
- Spotify
- Apple Music
- YouTube
GrammyÂź nominee Aimee Mayo. Aimee is one of the few female writers to receive both BMIâs âCountry Song of the Yearâ and BMIâs âCountry Songwriter of the Year,â putting her in the elite company of Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton and Taylor Swift and she is the author of a compelling new memoir, TALKING TO THE SKY: A Memoir of Living Your Best Life in A Sh*t-Show
Her songs have spent 26 weeks in the #1 spot on the Billboard charts, and albums featuring her songs have sold over 155 million units worldwide. She is primarily known for writing hits for artists such as Lonestar, Martina McBride, Sara Evans, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood, Blake Shelton, Adam Lambert, Kenny Chesney, Boyz II Men, Brad Paisley, Backstreet Boys, Billy Currington, Kellie Pickler and more.
She is such a strong women and during our podcast conversation she tells the story of how diary writing in her very first journal after her Dad shot himself was a saving grace and from then on became a way for her to process and cope through what she was going to endure in her life.
Her father was also a hit songwriter Danny Mayo and really showed her what was possible with music in the industry, she saw him winning awards to living homeless on the street struggling with mental health issues.
This podcast will be great for anyone wanting to get to know Aimee better and her journey through living with a father with mental illness and experiencing a domestically abusive relationship. It gets deep fast and I'm so grateful for her honestly and openness talking about such things that need to be talked about.
I highly recommend getting a copy of her book as she is such a beautiful writer and it really draws you in to her life and experiences with compassion and grace.
Connect with Aimee:
- Website
- Amazon
2020 has been a breakthrough year for Cass Hopetoun. In January she won the Tamworth Songwriterâs Association talent quest before releasing her debut single âShotsâ independently in March. In April she signed to Compass Bros Records. In May she opened for Casey Donovan at Australia's first ever pandemic drive-in concert, performed live on Channel 7's Sunrise and âShotsâ reached #4 on The Music Network Country Airplay Chart. In September Cassâs follow up single âTypical Brideâ peaked at #1 on that same chart. Typical Bride also hit the #1 spot on 2TMâs Top 20 and #3 on KIX Countryâs Hottest 20 charts. Both singles were added to full rotation on CMC/CMT respectively and to Spotify and Apple Music playlists.
Cass stumbled upon her talent for song when a friend âdragged her along to the choirâ as a young student in Sydneyâs Blue Mountains. She learned piano, took singing lessons and idolised Delta Goodrem but the song writing of Dolly Parton and Brandy Clark soon became her driving influences.
Her latest single 'Fortune Teller' was produced by Matt Fell and recorded at his Love Hz Studios in Sydney. It was inspired by a 2019 trip to New Orleans. âI went to a fortune teller,â recalls Hopetoun, âand just knew I had to write about one. I wanted to capture the New Orleans vibe â all those jazzy and mysterious flavours that the streets of the French Quarter have to offer. The song evolved into being about people who they think they know whatâs best for you. This is me telling them to mind their own business.â
Cassâs debut album, produced by Matt Fell, will be released in 2021.
Songs featured in this episode:
- Fortune Teller
- Shots
- Typical Bride
Connect with Cass:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Singer Songwriter, father, Podcast and Radio host Clint Wilson was on holidays with the family on the Gold Coast from Melbourne Australia and took some time out to come and chat with me on the show about his songwriting process and journey. We talk about how music and songwriting has been something that has changed and evolved for him and has been a way of self expression and healing through different relationship and life changes. Clint has a wholistic country chill vibe that we look at with his writing and discuss deeper as to where it comes from for him.
Clint also hosts a podcast with Andrew Swift, check it out here - https://www.facebook.com/talkingtangents
Featured songs in this podcast include:
- Family Tree
- Nothin' to Lose
- The River Spoke to Me
- Dream You Were Leaving
Connect with Clint:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Ranella Ferrer is a powerhouse in the Filipino-American Entertainment Industry since she was only 13 years old. Ranellaâs  professional background includes Grammy produced songs, commercial pop  singles, multiple appearances in live performances, tour collaborations,  and TV and Radio shows, making her one of the most-wanted Fil-Am  vocalists in America.
Ranella sang the National Anthem for the Los Angeles Lakers in 2016 and has  sung for former President of the Philippines Fidel Ramos and known as  the Asian Queen of Soul in the R&B/Pop Culture opening up for Keysha  Cole, Stevie Wonder, Tyrese, B2K, and NEYO amongst others. In addition,  Celebrity Chronicles names Ranella the âBest  Female Vocalistâ after her song on the soundtrack for the Wayanâs Bros  movie, The Dance Flick working with Dwayne Wayans Jr. Ranellaâs pop style, fused with her love for R&B allows her to go back to her roots and vibe.
Ranella Ferrer is a strong women who has struggled with her mental health and weight and now continuing to share her journey and inspire others through her music and life.
Connect with Ranella:Â
Singer Songwriter Patrick Cornell is featured on this podcast through a link up on Instagram but so glad we were able to connect because we got to talk about his musical life, influences and how he got to where he is today. During this Covid Pandemic that we are all experiences Patrick talks about music being the healing thing that will get us all through everything we are facing.
With 15 years of classical and jazz training and inspiration from rock n' roll greats, the Dayton, OH native left the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music as a jazz/studio music major and moved to Los Angeles, California to start his professional music career as a studio/touring bass guitarist for hire. He performed various gigs on bass guitar with such notable artists as Dave Navarro (Red Hot Chilli Peppers), Matt Sorum (Guns Nâ Roses) and Mark McGrath (Sugar Ray). Cornell eventually migrated to Nashville and has gone through a transformation from a session bass player into a full-time songwriter, producer and solo artist. Taking direction from the Nashvilleâs songwriting community and culture, Cornellâs lyrics focus on telling a complete story. He writes from a reflective perspective with the intention of his story relating to a broad audience.
If you ask him why and how heâs accomplished all he has, his response is simple: âItâs God-given.â He argues that none of what heâs accomplished has happened because of anything that heâs done on his own. Still, heâs done a lot. So what is he most proud of so far? âMy hair,â he jokes.
As Patrick focuses on the future, his goals are simple: release music and play shows. Join his email list and follow him on social media to stay updated on upcoming projects and shows.
Connect with Patrick:
- Spotify
- YouTube
Kirstie Kraus came through last year asking for an interview and like I do with all artist applications I went straight to check out her music and first up found 'Silver' which is such a hot song and I love the female empowerment behind it which drew me in straight away, so glad to have had a chat with her which only made me a bigger fan of her work and Iâm sure it will for you too.
Sheâs thirsty for love and magic, for joy and sunshine. Sheâs thirsty for compassion and authenticity. And more than anything, sheâs thirsty for anything that sets her soul on fire. Kirstie Kraus carries her thirst in her songwriting, in her live shows, and in her everyday connection with other kindred spirits. Nowhere is her appetite more quenched than on a stage in front of her fans, appropriately named âThirstiesâ. Her confidence naturally shines under the bright lights, taking concert goers on a well-defined path of self-discovery and bliss. Her writing infuses her own transparent journey with othersâ experiences to create sustainable lyrics and catchy melodies. The result is a perfect blend of country, funk, blues, and rock because with Kirstie, there are no boundaries. Thereâs only the process of âletting goâ and letting the song tell you what it wants to be.
Connect with Kirstie:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Meet Pete Marksteiner A mid-life husband and dad, Pete describes himself as "a fairly average guy, blessed by an extraordinary family, leading a blissfully ordinary life." After 35 years of the Monday-Friday grind he, like many folks, started losing focus on the things that make all our lives wondrous and beautiful. As an avid songwriter and now first-time kids' book author, Pete's passion is making art, both musical and literary, that encourages smelling some roses every chance you get, and savouring life's very best moments.
Pete was one of the first people to ever reach out to me to be apart of the songwriter trysts podcast when we started in August this year and his song and book 'Little Pink Kitty" really spoke to me and brought a tear to my eye. It was the perfect song and person to end the year on and hope that this Christmas you too can find a little Christmas Miracle of your own.
Little Pink Kitty story book can be purchased from Amazon HERE
Here is the link to the Little Pink Kitty Song
Connect with Pete:
- YouTube
- Amazon
Bill OâHanlon is a songwriter who turned to psychotherapy then has come back to songwriting. After a long successful carrier as an author in self help books and psychology he has now professionally songwriting with multiple artist cuts and TV show sync deals. He has co-written books on songwriting with Marty Dodson and Clay Mills which you can find here.
He has also had artists, Paul Demarco, Kings of the Earth, Kevin Herchen, Jennifer Mlott, Luke McQueen, Steel Ivory, 23rd Hour, Chris Ising Trio & Charlene McDearis Wentworth all release songs he is a writer on. Checkout this playlist with his songs on it on Spotify HERE.
Songs we highlight in the podcast include:
- Like a Ghost - Kings Of The Earth
- Wrong for Me - Kevin Herchen
- Christmas Time is Here - Chris Ising Trio
Connect with Bill;
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Jennifer Mlott is a multi-talented award-winning Singer, Songwriter and Choreographer from Indianapolis, Indiana. Jennifer is the 2019 International Singer Songwriters Association Rising Star of the Year & 2020 ISSA Vocalist of the Year. In Oct. 2019, 2018 & 2017, Jennifer won the Entertainer of the Year & Vocalist of the Year for the Kentucky Country Music Association. She also captured the 2018 North American Country Music International Association's, Video of the Year for her Single, Different Drummer.
In 2019, Jennifer was awarded two World Songwriters Association Awards for her songwriting. Jen was a Finalist for the prestigious Nashville Universe Rising Star of the Year Award in 2018. She was Indie Star Radio's 2018 Female Artist of the Year & in December 2017, Jennifer won the Indie Artists Magazine, Humanitarian of the Year Award. Jennifer holds the record on the Fan Voted Charts for being the first Indie Artist to ever hold the #1 position. She held that position for 6 weeks being the first Indie Artist ever to do so. Jennifer is a member of BMI, ISSA, International Singer- Songwriters Association, Indie Collaborative and NACMAI, the North American Country Music Associations International and the Kentucky Country Music Association.
Connect with Jennifer:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
- Amazon
- Sound Cloud
- Reverb Nation
Kevinâs songs have been covered by a long string of artists over the last 40 years, including Roger Miller, Waylon Jennings, Patty Loveless, The Judds, Bobby Bare, Ray Price, The Highwaymen (Willie, Waylon, Cash and Kristofferson), Linda Ronstadt, Solomon Burke, Garth Brooks, to name a few. In 2018-19 Chris Stapleton recorded and released his song âMillionaireâ, which stayed on the Billboard Chart for over 50 weeks and made it to #2 and had over 5.7 million views on YouTube.
Kevin came out from behind the curtain in 1990 and recorded two records for Warner/Reprise, Kevin Welch and Western Beat. In the mid-90s he co-founded the Americana flagship indie label Dead Reckoning Records, and released Life Down Here On Earth, Beneath My Wheels, and Millionaire, which was cut in Denmark and Nashville with the band known then as The Danes. Along with label partner Kieran Kane came 11/12/13: Live in Melbourne, and then three successive records with Kieran Kane and Fats Kaplin, You Canât Save Everybody, Lost John Dean, and Kane Welch Kaplin. The trio were nominated two years in a row for Best Group by the Americana Music Association.
In 2008 he relocated to the Hill Country of Texas and made one record outside of the Dead Reckoning fold for his friend Jimmy LaFave, A Patch Of Blue Sky, and later, back to Dead Reckoning with the most recent, Dust Devil.
He offers one on one songwriting sessions and workshops, to find out more about opportunities to learn from and work with Kevin, check out his website.
Connect with Kevin:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Keppie Coutts Is a well established songwriter and educator, recommended to the show by Pat Pattison she lives in Sydney and works with the online Berklee College of Music course, the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, The University of Sydney, Collarts in Melbourne, and River Road.
She has taught at the Australian Institute of Music been an Assistant Professor of Songwriting at the Berklee College of Music, as well as teaching at the The Songwriting School of Los Angeles. With all of this expertise in songwriting and a passion for sharing she lovingly has given up her time to share some key wisdoms that he has learnt along with advice she got from working with John Mayer and other industry professionals from all of the world in all different Genre's.
She also has her own music which she releases and performs and shares the deeper story behind where music really began with her after loosing a parent at a very young age, starting a Law degree and dropping out to chase after what she was supposed to be doing with her life.
She recommends people to find a community of songwriters to connect with and mentioned songwriting communities like 'I Heart Songwriting Club'
Connect With Keppie:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Katie Brooke is an Australian singer songwriter sweetheart with a magical sound and perspective on life. We talked about her journey with music, art and her difficulty when she was younger with the idea that there were "rules" that she felt she was being told she had to follow to build a career in music. She is a graduate of the Australian Academy of Country Music (AACM) in Tamworth and continued to work on her music as a young musician.Â
After taking some time out and working as a personal trainer she has made some big changes this year and jumped back into releasing music after a long time. Taking her power back and being the amazing artist she has always been. So proud to have her on the show and share her amazing gift with you.Â
Connect with Katie:
- Spotify
Singer Songwriter ELEEA from the Gold Coast, Australia is presenting her new travel collection of music after a world of experience as a singer who started very young and a love for backpacking and travelling around the world she is inspired by life, music and travel. She has faced so many challenges and with wisdom picked herself up and learnt from every experience, the good and the bad. She describes how songwriting has been a way for her to processes her big emotions and used it as a therapy.
Connect with ELEEA:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Todays episode of Songwriter Trysts has been done in honour of the life and music of songwriter John Condrone. His family have requested and organised for us to feature John and his music on this podcast to honour his life with the help from close friend and co-writer Scott Southworth who joins me in this podcast today. This man urges everyone through his life and music to "leave a little love in the world"Â
If anyone would like to support his family there is has been a go-fund me page set up HERE - https://gf.me/u/y5v2tt
Thanks to the people from Knoxville songwriter association for their quotes and stories from Johns life which are included in the podcast.Â
Find out more about John:
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
I'm joined to today by Australian singer songwriter and teacher Lyn Bowtell.
"Finding that drive inside of you can be hard but enjoy the wins and remember that itâs okay to feel any way that you feel in the moment and that sometimes can come through in the song you write." Describes Lyn in this featured podcast. She wanted to be a singer forever and never really considered another option, it's what she wanted and has always done. We talk through her journey as a singer, songwriter and teacher along with check out some of her new collaborations and work.
She encourages us to "find the right people to share your songs with who can validate you and nurture your songwriting."
âThe more personal the more universalâ was a great quote that she loves when writing songs.
Director of the country music academy which is going online for 2021 with country superstars.
Check out the online course here: academycountrymusic.com.au
Connect with Lyn:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
Ainsley Costello originally from Seattle just moved to Nashville at the age of 16 with her parents to pursue her music career just as the Covid 19 lockdown hit, hear how this pandemic has impacted Nashville and the arts through the eyes of this ambitious 16 year old girl and her family.
Trying to be who she is but at 16 she is aware that she doesnât know exactly who she is, Rae and Ainsley talk about how life changes over the years and that who you are keeps changing and they make a comparison of life to the old âchoose your own adventureâ games.
She has a long list of artists she would like to write with but top of the list in the podcast was John Mayor.
Connect with Ainsley.
- Website
- Spotify
- YouTube
Jesse Slack Country Singer Songwriter from Canada
Jesse says it felt like the options were sports or music growing up, his twin went towards sports and he got into playing guitar and singing, he would sit for hours, with his first guitar called âtiny boyâ from the toy shop, and would learn Neil Young songs and at the age of 13 wrote his first song.
Jesse says âit took me 27 years to work out you just have to be yourself, and donât change for anyoneâ
âIf you wanna be successful and get there fast go on your own, if you wanna be successful and stay there forever go togetherâ Jesse says and works a lot with his good friend, songwriter, Darrell Scott.
We also check out his new song 'Christmas Time With You' - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VbCqupo4qk
Connect with Jesse
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
- Apple Music
Jessica Lynn, independent singer songwriter from New York shares about her ups and downs building her music life, the heartbreak and with wins including sharing the bill with major country music talent, such as Keith Urban, Thompson Square, and Clint Black Lynn also went on tour with country music artist Jo Dee Messina
This year she released a single called "It's Just Not Christmas" and shares the true meaning behind the song, it might just make you cry.
Connect with Jessica:
- Website
- YouTube
- Spotify
- ReverbNation
Collin Lillie, Scottish Australian from popular TV show the Voice, came and talked to us about his incredible journey with music, nature and relationships including parenting which is always a great inspiration for great songwriting.Â
Connect with Collin:
- Website
- YouTube
- Apple Music
- Spotify
Singer Songwriter Saint Barae from Gold Coast QLD shares from the heart. In this podcast we talk about religion, sexuality and the way these aspects in life have impacted his journey as a songwriter.
Connect with Saint Barae:
- Spotify
- YouTube
- Triple J
Singer Songwriter Sarah Harralson is a beautiful singer songwriter from Nashville Tennessee. With a career in music not just as a singer songwriter but in the business side of it too she has a wide understanding of the industry and creative songwriting. Hear about how by a mistake in identity ended up meeting some amazing opportunities. Sometimes having a common name like Sarah can be a blessing.
Connect with Sarah:
- Website
- Spotify
- Soundcloud
- YouTube
SAAKB an artist who sing's like an angel and writes from a place of love and humility, he is all about the music. In this talk we find out more about his musical experience, inspiration and future goals. If you want to learn more about this amazing artist make sure you tune into this podcast.Â
Connect with SAAKB:Â
- Spotify
- Links
With one foot in Boston, one in Nashville, and roots in the Midwest, Mary Haller combines her musical background with her love of language in crafting songs aimed at the commercial country, pop and film/TV markets.
Mary shares her stories of songwriting starting at the age of 40, nothing stopping her from following her passion for music and songwriting,
Rae Leigh and Mary Haller met through a Marty Dodson introduction and co-wrote the new single "Find A Better Day" released on the 20th of November 2020 which is featured in the podcast. Even after writing the song together via e-mail this podcast is actually the first time the two co-writers have spoken, its great to hear how their first talk unfolds.
Connect with Mary:
- Website
Rapper and songwriter Brad McCracken also known as B.M.C, some amazing stories and collaborations with people from all over the world, using digital tools such as BandLab.com and Facebook.
Get in contact with contact Brad:
Angus Gill, ARIA nominated singer songwriter from Wauchope in New South Wales, a story teller, songwriter, producer and comedian, at age 22 is a self made independent artist, with amazing mentors and support he felt he had no other choice as it was the one thing he felt he was any good at.
William Lane was a neighbour who helped bring him tune into the songwriter that he has become. Jim Haines was able to encourage and share the rules of songwriting.
Adam Harvey gave encouragement to Angus at age 11 which was the point where he was able to cement the belief that he wanted to be a songwriter as a career. Playing on stage with Beccy Cole and Adam at such a young age being star struck and being able to realise what he wanted to do was a great gift and defining moment for him as an artist.
Connect with Angus:
- Spotify
- Website
Kevin Sullivan is a singer songwriter from New South Wales (NSW) Australia. He has had a long career in the police force and after leaving the force struggled with post traumatic syndrome disorder (PTSD) in which music has helped him through. His stories in his songs are compelling and hold a lot of truths for him and his journey. Kevin is off on a tour around Australia with his family in the "Sully Van" where a modern day Vontrap family will perform and share their music with others.
In this podcast we learn more about his journey and some of the stories that inspire his songwriting. A father, long time public servant and husband, this man is following his dream and believe's he is an example of the fact that you're never "too old" to follow your passion.
Check out his latest single "Against The Tide" HERE
Connect with Kevin here:
- Website
- Spotify
- Instagram @KevinSullosullivan
- YouTube
Caitlyn Shadbolt, singer songwriter from Gympie, Queensland, Australia, is having fun in 2020 with the release of her new Album Stages, Check out her 'In the making of' video from home on YouTube Here.
She's a bright and bubbly country girl who likes to get dressed up sometimes too, never any good at sports she decided to make a go of singing and songwriting and in this podcast we learn more about her journey, where she has been and where she is going.Â
In 2014 she also was on X-Factor Australia, see her audition video here.
Connect with Caitlyn:
- Website
- YouTube
- Bands in town
- I-tunes
- Spotify
I'm so honoured to be featuring Pat Pattison on todays podcast. He is a professor at Berklee College of Music, where he teaches lyric writing and poetry.
In addition to his four booksâSongwriting without Boundaries, Writing Better Lyrics, The Essential Guide to Lyric Form and Structure, and The Essential Guide to Rhyming, âPattison has developed five online courses for Berklee Online: three on lyric writing, one on poetry, and one on creative writing, all available through Berkleeâs online college.
Heâs worked with hundreds of Grammy award winning songwriters including Gillian Welch and John Mayer with a passion for music and philosophy he has a lot of deep and insightful thoughts around music and songwriting. If your wanting to work on your songwriting at any level this podcast has something for everyone.
In this podcast he blesses the listeners with a special gift... make sure you get your blessing on Songwriting and listen now! :)
Featured topics from this podcast:
Berklee College - Pat Pattison
Passenger | Let Her Go (Official Video)
Anything Goes - Cole Porter
John Mayer - Your Body Is A Wonderland
The Unanswered Question 1973b YouTube
Berklee College - Songwriting Course
Get in contact with Pat:
- Website
- Pat's Store (books and more)
Damien Johnson Is a curious, compassionate and talented singer songwriter!
We had such a fun live chat for this podcast and talked about some serious topics around mental health but also about life in the music industry, relationships and following ones own truth. The story unfolds through the chat and Rae Leigh and Damien also co-wrote a song after their chat which they both had fun with.
Get in contact with Damien:
- Triple J
- Instagram @damiencreates
- Spotify
Christie Lamb has been described as âthe full packageâ, a vibrant multi-instrumental and award-winning singer songwriter. Adding to her ever-growing mantle of awards, Christie was voted âCMC Female Artist of the Year 2018â by Australian Country Music Fans. The talented songstress has also been the recipient of a Golden Guitar for âCMAA New Talent of the Year2016â and was also voted âCMC New Oz Artist of the Year 2015â again by Country Music Fans.
We had great fun talking on the podcast about performing, songwriting and the industry. She talks about how Covid 19 has impacted her this year along with having to be a Covid Bride and what that looked like. I was so honoured to be able to learn from her and hear more about what she is creative with her music. She's an amazing women and inspiration to artists all over Australia.
Get in contact with Christie:
- Website www.christielamb.com
- Spotify
- YouTube
Michael Waugh is a Melbourne Singer Songwriter from East Gippsland Australia. Teaching music and mentoring young people is a passion of his along with the craft of songwriting. He has working with Shane Nicolson to produce and deliver top quality productions to his audience and touched the lives of many people by sharing his gifts with us.Â
He gives a profound new voice to the Australian experience. His insightful storytelling cuts to the heart of everyday life. It is honest, emotionally brave and compelling in its beauty.
Connect with Michael:
- Website www.michaelwaugh.com.au
- Spotify
- YouTube
Jody Aaron Friedman is a music supervisor, music producer, award-winning songwriter & music publisher.
He is also the founder of www.licenseyourmusic.com, an online platform available for those interested in learning more about licensing their music.
His career began working for CNN in Atlanta, NYC & California. While working as an Audio Operator, he composed a theme song for the show âNancy Graceâ which was his foray into the world of Music Publishing. Since then, his company, HD Music Now, has grown become a well respected licensing & supervision company, licensing their catalog since 2008.
Some of his music supervision & clearance projects include projects such as âUgly Deliciousâ (Netflix), âBreakfast Lunch Dinnerâ (Netflix), âWonât You Be My Neighbor" (Focus Features), âIngress: The Animationâ (Netflix), âTheyâll Love Me When Iâm Deadâ (Netflix), Fear Inc (Lone Suspect), âThe Music Of Strangers: Yo-Yo Ma & The Silk Road Ensemble (HBO + The Orchard) & more.
Jody also writes & produces for trailers & ads through his company, Collaborate Music. Songs that he wrote & produced have been used in the trailer campaign for CBSâ âPicardâ, âThe Handmaid's Taleâ, the trailer for Eli Rothâs feature film, âHauntâ, in the tv shows such as Ray
Donovan (Showtime), Victorious (Nickelodeon), Outcast (Cinemax) & many more.
get in contact with Jody:
- Facebook https://www.facebook.com/licenseyourmusic
- Instagram @jody_friendman
Melbourne-based Australian outlaw country singer-songwriter, Gareth Leach, has dropped his hard-hitting album Trigger, landing at #2 on the iTunes Country Albums chart and #4 overall/all-genres.
Self-produced and engineered, Trigger is Garethâs sophomore album, tackling tough subject matter, with introspective lyrics and a powerful vocal performance met with traditional folk and country instrumentation.
In this podcast we talked about his family, Covid lockdown in Melbourne with kids and the life of songwriting.
The chat was revered a little on Rae Leigh but was an open and fun conversation. Hearing these two like minded souls connect and get to know each-other and talk about songwriting is entertaining and educational.
Contact Gareth here:
- Facebook www.facebook.com/garethleachmusic
- Website www.garethleach.com
- Spotify
- Instagram @garethleachmusic
- YouTube
- Twitter twitter.com/garethleachmus
17 yr old Singer Songwriter Ishan Merchant born in France and lives in Melbourne Australia has a beautiful unique voice and skill for writing beautiful songs and describing stories inspired by movies and other influences. Â Rae Leigh came across his Instagram account and wanted to encourage and share his voice and skills with you. Ishan loves sport but after a back injury and a lot of time sitting around at home he discovered his love for music and songwriting. Â He's also been blessed to have great supportive parents and mentors to help him on his journey. No matter who you are and what age you are you can continue to learn, grown and use the gifts you were given even when things don't go the way you thought.Â
He has an EP in the process of being finished and we look forward to seeing where he goes with it. To keep up to date with his music follow him on his Instagram page.
To contact Ishan:
- Instagram @ishan.merchant
- YouTube
Ashley Taylor Grew Up In Bakersfield, California. Thanks To Her Grandmother's CD Collection Mixed With The Rich Musical History Of Her Hometown & The âBakersfield Soundâ, Ashleyâs Love Of Country Music Became Her Lifeâs Passion . She Received Her First Guitar At The Age Of Seventeen & Has Been Making Music Ever Since.
However, It Wasn't Until A Friendship With Hit Songwriter Clay Mills (âDonât Think I Donât Think About Itâ By Darius Rucker) That Ashley Made The Life Changing Decision To Sell Everything She Owned, Jump On A Plane, And Move To Nashville, Tennessee.
We had an amazing talk that was very open and vulnerable and how pain is an important part of life that helps us realise how strong we really are.Â
Get in contact with Ashley:
- Website www.ashleytaylormusic.com
- Facebook www.facebook.com/AshleyTaylorOfficial
- Instagram @Ashleytaylorofficial
- YouTube
- Twitter twitter.com/_AshTaylorMusic
- Spotify
Jake Arthur is a singer-songwriter from central Massachusetts now located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. As a multi-instrumentalist, he has written for and played in numerous bands and pit orchestras throughout New England and the Midwest. His studio work includes a self-titled album with the Minneapolis folk-rock band Little Riddles and Rochester, NY band Saucy Jack. He is also a PhD student in music theory at the University of Michigan specialising in American popular music. In his shows, Jake covers a variety of artists, but his stage time has recently been devoted to original material as he prepares to record his first solo album in 2019. Inspired by artists such as John Hiatt, Randy Newman, and Tom Waits, Jakeâs songs are marked by their lyricism and roots in American songwriting traditions. This Podcast features Don't Fence Me In [Song by Cole Porter] Jakes choice of artist he wants to co-write with if he could anyone in the world dead or alive. Connect with Jake:
Website: www.jakearthurmusic.com Instagram @jakearthurmusic Facebook www.facebook.com/jakearthurmusic Twitter twitter.com/jakearthurmusic
Kylie Adams-Collier is a Kross Kut Records Artist and national radio host for Good Morning Country.
Kylie has been supporting the Australian country music industry on the road and on the air for over thirty years.
A multi- award winning songwriter, Kylie's inspiration for lyrics and music come from her time on the road.
We lost the audio from the first part of the conversation however there was still enough of the chat to get some good stories in there. Thanks for understanding.Â
Kylie has recently driven over 65,000km touring regional country music festivals, scooping up awards and receiving a lot of radio airplay around Australia and overseas.
She grew up in Bellingen in northern N'S.W before heading to Sydney to study art and play music.
Contact Kylie here:
- www.kylieadams-collier.com
- Facebook www.facebook.com/kylieadamsmusic
- Bandcamp kylieadams-collier.bandcamp.com
- Instagram @kylieadamscolliermusic
Australian Country Singer Songwriter Andrew Swift - AKA SWIFTY had a chat with Rae Leigh about the 2020 year releases, challenges and also just his journey from punk rockers in Melbourne to Country music superstar and Golden Guitar winner in 2020. It was just the one thing he always wanted to do and talks about his problems with depression as a teenager and how music and songwriting got him through those dark moments in his life.Â
A must follow if you like a beautiful sexy deep country vocalist with soul in his music, here are his links.
Youtube: www.youtube.com/channel/UC3cObi33hxDHzJOhoPjZhxA
Spotify: open.spotify.com/artist/428gAQRnMEaxHVT0VoUNCd?si=hYWPIY_HS72ScwaowVoOHg
Website: www.andrewswift.com.au/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/andrewswiftmusic
Instagram: @andrewswiftmusic
Twitter: twitter.com/_andrewswift_
Singer Songwriter Mary Harrison wrote song's and learnt the way of music theory but in private and hidden away from the world until a local radio station put on a competition for someone with lyrics to have their song put to music by Human Nature! She won and went into the radio station met these people who encouraged her to keep writing and also forced her to tell her friends and family that she was a secret writer. I'm so glad this happened and that Mary has found her voice in a unique and still powerful way. With restrictions and challenges along the way she has continued to work on her passion and has so many great lessons to share in this episode. Enjoy this chat we had together. Facebook: www.facebook.com/maryviharrisonmusic/ Instagram @maryviharrison
Susan Muranty is all about the sky. She is obsessed with stars of all kinds - actual, astrological and Hollywood old-style glamour. She adore's the colour blue and loves the curious fact that ... blue is the hottest flame. She lives on an island in Sydney, one of the most civilised places on earth, but roar up a mountain-high fire trail in a four-wheel drive every night just to get home. Her house is surrounded by wilderness but she is as passionate about fashion and beauty and art and food as she is about living with nature. Susan came to music through the medium of words - as a lyricist and a poet with a story to tell. Songwriting is magic to her and we discuss this in more detail  in the podcast.Â
Website: www.susanmuranty.com/
Youtube: www.youtube.com/user/SusanMuranty
Spotify: open.spotify.com/artist/3V5a472qSj185Z58EcHyr1
Instagram: @susanmuranty
Adam Fitch is an alternative folk solo artist from Millburn, New Jersey. Over the years, his style has developed into its own unique blend of folk and soulful jazz. He has an eclectic array of experience playing with bands as a guitarist, bassist, and vocalist in genres such as progressive metal, hip hop, electronic music, soul, blues, and more. Lyrically, Fitch has a level of emotional transparency and depth that invites personal exploration and doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of being human. He draws lyrical influence from artists like Conor Oberst and Gregory Alan Isakov, while offering more jazzy and exploratory chord choices. Sometimes fun and sexy, sometimes loving and soft, and often raw and exposed, his songs always dig beneath the surface and offer listeners his open, honest self. His performances are highly intimate, with fans claiming that he "offers up his soul when he sings". This has created a small group of devoted fans during his young career. His other band, The Vegan Beats, will be releasing an LP in late 2020. He is currently based out of West Palm Beach, Florida.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1N8YVV1yfoB6ozRywpopa3
Instagram @adamfitchmusic
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCa2Ec9O3rFFq0GZHOXAYZ0A
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adamfitchmusic
Singer Songwriter from Gold Coast Australia Josh King is an up and coming artists who is amazingly smart and talented, even with Law as a possible option after school Josh new that music and songwriting was apart of who he was and had to dive into that passion and love for his art. He has a beautiful pop soft sound.Â
"Over this year youâre going to hear songs that came from pivotal moments for me. Yeah I fell in love. Yeah it didnât work out. Yeah it hurt. Yeah thatâs okay. I made a few songs." Josh King
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4AaxUbyP7eWKHtZJtyjmhJ?autoplay=true
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/watch/JoshKingSings/
Instagram @joshkingmusic
Karen E. Reynolds Singer Songwriter from East Tennessee native, Award winning Singer Songwriter and Recording Artist, has appeared at premier venues, performance series' and high profile festivals such as Nashville's Bluebird Cafe, Atlanta's Eddie's Attic, The Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival, The Kent State Folk Festival, The Mississippi Songwriters Festival, Bristol Rhythm and Roots, The Cape Fear Folk Festival, The Nashville Songwriters Festival, The National Shrimp Festival, The Down Home, Rhythm n Blooms Festival, The Square Room, The Dogwood Arts Festival, Douglas Corner, The Fleur de Lis Acoustic Series, The Listening Room, Charles & Myrtles, The Pine Ridge House Concert Series, and the cherished Ford Theater at the Country Music Hall of Fame, just to name a few, all while sharing the stage with some of the best in the music industry and in front of tens of thousands. With a style that is described as, "Americana Heart & Southern Soul", and often compared by the media to the likes of Mary Chapin-Carpenter, James Taylor, Carole King and Linda Ronstadt, Karen has been coined as, "a consummate performer who can command any audience", and with varying descriptions, calling her âhearty voicedâ one moment and claiming her to have the âvoice of an angelâ the next. A reporter once stated that Karen is a songwriter who will "go for the emotional jugular, every time" and it is true. You will not leave a Karen E. Reynolds concert unmoved. She will reach your hearts, every time.
Check out her website: www.karenereynolds.com
You can contact Karen at karenereynoldsmusic@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KarenEReynoldsMusic/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/karenereynolds?s=20
Reverbnation: https://www.reverbnation.com/karenereynolds
Youtube: https://www.reverbnation.com/karenereynolds
After a huge year for Brisbane's August River Band,releasing singles "Crazy" and "In My Arms",the band are releasing "Mr Sky", the feature track from their forthcoming debut album Thank You Pain. August River Band will be celebrating the release of the album at The Tivoli on Friday October 2nd, supported by Colin Lillie & HAM!
Eev Ferreira sat with Rae Leigh to discuss the experiences and life behind August River Band, how they came to being and where they are heading. Get to know Eve in a more intimate way and learn from his creative life experiences as a songwriter. Â
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/augustriverband/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/42Wl5hEAAyGooKq4Ay08pT?autoplay=true
Triple J Unearthed: https://www.triplejunearthed.com/artist/august-river-band
Instagram: @augustriverband
Daniel Spirovski is a producer, teacher, musician and songwriter. He works on production, artist development and higher education with music at JMC Academy check out his website and enjoy the wisdoms in this podcast.
http://www.spirovski.com/
LĂLKA is an amazing visual and audio engineer, producer, singer songwriter and realist. Rae Leigh had an amazing chat about the realism of the music industry and shows that even if you have to break the mould of what is expected that you can push through if your being true to who you are and you know what you want and why you're doing it. Â
Check out LĂLKA and her "bubblegum pop" music below.Â
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lalkamusic
Instagram @lalkamusic
Youtube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuA9GmiyfS-04aTdngcuDqw
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/5SY02nt4U0NfX0Xq4H7yMQ?si=CukovoBSSLWrUBawwDKefg
Subscribe to keep up to date with her online e-mails here >>> http://lalka.online/?fbclid=IwAR1-MNDj__7vpCvWB2mB3IoSSzL5dGTUfRZUzg2fw3rC2s4hEDH1NGMWrYo
Singer Songwriter Zeek Power from Queensland Australia, has the voice of an angel and songwriting gifts that he shares on YouTube, Spotify, Apple music, in live performances and recently in 2019 on the Australian serious of 'The Voice'. Rae Leigh and Zeek had a quick meet before this podcast recording but didn't really know each other so as the podcast unfolds they learn more about each other and find common ground over growing up in the pentecostal church in Australia in the 90's and 2000's and the music they were exposed for example DC Talk which Zeek shows off his skills from the Jesus Freak Album. A fun chat about character, songwriting and people. They hope you enjoy it as much as they did.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0Zule6oLStQ3YN5ojc2hlU?autoplay=true
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?playnext=1&list=PLCHcCnvPcoZPmDWMm_V_GIGOMCTgFbiuc&feature=gws_kp_artist
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zeekpower/
Instagram: @zeekpower
Golden-guitar winning trio Lachlan Bryan and The Wildes grew up in the south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne, but quickly gravitated to the thriving inner-city music scene.
Rae Leigh met Lachlan Bryan at the 2015 Winter singer songwriter retreat at the DAG Sheep Station in Tamworth where songwriters come together to learn, encourage, support and write with each other.Â
With mentors like Lachlan Bryan and his experience and success in the songwriting industry he has some insightful advice and stories to share in his Songwriter Trysts Podcast.
checkout the band and their music belowÂ
Website: www.lachlanbryanandthewildes.com
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/16mfE0RdAokatxjHa2odP5?si=-F141KcJQeqM0czxSkQLZQÂ
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lachlanbryanmusic1
Instagram: @lachlanbryanÂ
Harry J Hart Joined me at my place for a chat about his life as a teen singer songwriter and guitarist on the Gold Coast. Such a good chat, he really has moved all over the place just to be able to continue to pursue his passion including busking non stop to be able to pay for his artistic education.
I saw him perform for the first time at the Home of the Arts (HOTA) workshop last year and kept running into him and his mum. They are everywhere and have more music coming and gigs so keep a watch out and support this very young talented and passionate artist.
Webiste: https://www.harryjhart.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harryjhartmusic
Instagram: @harryjhartmusic
soundcloud & Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1IoiWJZooyhVr8kiFvFVIf?si=bRUFnkHPQySAyWIB0vj-QQ
Singer Songwriter and mother Amber Lawrence has been releasing original country and kids country music for over 15 years and with over 100 songs released online on all major streaming services she has a huge amount of wisdoms and experience to share. From singing in a school play to now playing shows all over Australia she is passionate about her work and entertainment and if you follow her on any social media platform you are sure to see what I mean. I'm honoured to present this amazing strong women and songwriter to you, she is a shining example of; strength, authenticity and inspiration. Earlier this year she had some traumas that she bravely shares with us and how she got through her experience with grace and openness with her friends and family. Â This Episode comes with a trigger warning for anyone who has experienced a miscarriage or loss of a child. For assistance on this topic I recommend reaching out to www.lifeline.org.au or www.panda.org.au
Find Amber here: Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/3RyYW4bMFeTeQ2jjLZu4xg?si=Op3pqCipSYekRx9qhPmz4w Facebook https://www.facebook.com/amberlawrencemusic Instagram https://www.instagram.com/amberlawrencemusic/ Website https://www.amberlawrence.com.au/
RenĂ© Le FeuvreSinger Songwriter in the Gold Coast, Australia. He grew up with skills in music and sports and was on his way to playing in the professional Australian Football League (AFL) when he reached a tipping point and had to make a decision to choose between music or his sport. In this podcast we discuss the journey he has been on to get to where he is and why he wants to fill the world with his cool rock alternative pop music and amazing charisma.  He has a star personality and a clear drive to success. His ability to connect with others in person and through social media is apparent and is reaching people more and more through the release of an EP later this year.Â
Follow on facebook https://www.facebook.com/ReneLeFeuvreMusic
Follow on instagram @renelefeuvre
and check out his music here: https://song.link/s/7MetoIb2wo6WOIP2tvBh4N
16 year old, Singer songwriter on our 16th episode, Briana Dinsdale joined me live for a chat about her songwriting life and aspirations, we talked about her love for Taylor Swift, her idol, Keith Urban who she got to play on stage with at his Brisbane concert when she was only 13, and nailed it!(see YouTube video here >>> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SgI8kvca-nw ) Her confidence and loving personality shines through and was such an honour to speak to someone leading her life with such direction so early on, which is evident to have such great support and role models from her parents, especially her dad Ken.Â
Briana won a grant this year and will be releasing her debut album later this year and i'm super excited to see more from her. She played one of her songs live for me on the Songwriter Trysts Facebook page so check that out here >>> Â https://www.facebook.com/SongwriterTrysts
Follow Briana on facebook here >>> https://www.facebook.com/brianadinsdalemusic/photos/?ref=page_internal
and on Instagram @BrianadinsdaleofficialÂ
Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCylbl8QM-QFSkzzGemwm5uA?fbclid=IwAR3J0FdKnpjiNCiFfPHwZytsOhO9RkDmWALbGY3I_vPdLaP1-q2HFLzfWF8
Graham Ashton, also lovingly known as Asho is a singer songwriter and has also worked in the music industry along side artist such as Robbie Williams, Powderfinger, The Living End, Paul Kelly, The Go-Betweens and Mumford & Sons. He also was the Executive Programmer for BIGSOUND one of the worlds largest music industry events. He has so much experience and passion in his life when it comes to music, songwriting and also artist development. We had a great chat about how this man lived and amazing life in the music industry and has been able to achieve so much. In 2010 Asho became apart of Footstomp Music which is a music services company specialising in artist, project and event management, label services and artist development. To find out more about this super amazing artist support team check out their website http://www.footstompmusic.com/
check out his Band The Shambolics on facebook https://www.facebook.com/theshambolicssurfcountry/about Find Footstomp Music on facebook https://www.facebook.com/TheFootstompMusic and instragram @footstompmusic Sound Cloud link https://soundcloud.com/hehambolics/reposts
There is an write up about the new single on rhythms.com.au
Kristy James is an Australian singer songwriter and now independent artist mentor and coach. Â https://www.shapemusic.online/ is her new online mentorship program to help other artists based on real life experiences and mistakes.Â
We had a great talk about the do's and don'ts of the industry and how it can be challenging for new artists and songwriters who are just starting out.Â
To hear her music or find out more go to her website https://www.kristyjames.com/
Find her on instagram @kristyjamesmusic
and facebook https://www.facebook.com/kristyjamesmusic
Eric Dodd is a singer songwriter from Nashville. We met through a SongTown retreat in Nashville October 2019 and got to co-write a song 'Dancing on the Moon' with Les Hauge. In this podcast we spoke more about his journey how he writes and what his journey has been to date.Â
He has so many accomplishments and other than just getting a killer song while working with him I learnt a lot and wanted to share some of his wisdoms and amazing music with you guys too. If you haven't heard his voice... your missing out! It's a super sexy country style vocalist with some cheek and fun. I'm digging on his single 'Beer on the Bar' Check it out on Youtube.
Get some more Eric Dodd in your life >>>>>
Website: http://www.ericdoddmusic.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EricDoddMusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericdoddmusic/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/EricDoddMusic
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmvgoLwDE4Sna6sbhv9uigA
Say if Dixie Chicks, Jewel, Tom Petty, and Angus and Julia Stone were jamming at a party and you had to describe that sound - you would call it.... Billie-Jo Porter.
Billie-Jo is a singer/songwriter who invites the listener to look for silver linings in the everyday.
Growing up just outside of Australiaâs Country Music Capital, Tamworth, much of her younger days were sound tracked by non-stop country music including Shania Twain, Tim McGraw and Willie Nelson.
Now living on the North Coast of NSW, Billie-Jo Porter offers a unique sound by infusing a laid back beach lifestyle and her country roots.
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/billiejoportermusic
Instagram @billiejoportermusic
Website https://www.billiejoporter.com/Â
Check out her group Quasi Dada too, featured in this podcast.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2AywrrIL0tbfpkTOf5yW2L?si=RDJDujBURnSMtJRKeeb2sQÂ
Singer Songwriter Alexi Naylor from Perth Australia joined Rae Leigh in a Songwriter Tryst podcast talking about her journey with music, being in a band and then launching her first EP in 2019 as a solo artist. Find more information about her here - http://alexisnaylor.com/
Follow Alexis on Instagram at @alexisnaylormusic
Facebook here - https://www.facebook.com/alexisnaylormusic/
Subscribe to her YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/user/A88888N88888Â
Singer Songwriter Benny Allen's first single from the album, Day One of Missing You, launched him into the Australian Country music world. An awesome Melbourne personality and honest authentic soul and father his music touches a cord for me and i'm honoured to have him on the songwriter podcast with me.Â
We met through Country Kickbacks online music festival during the first Australian Covid Lockdown in 2020 called 'Clothing Optional'. Check out our chat to find out what we got up to and to get to know more about Allen and where songwriting has shaped his life and the way he approaches the world.Â
Find him on instagram @bennyallen.rocks And Facebook at @bennyallen.rocks
Also check out his website, support him by either merchandise sales or follow and streaming his music on Spotify or Apple music.Â
https://www.bennyallen.rocks/
for more amazing country updates and artists follow Country Kickbacks on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/countrykb/
Lucy LeBlanc is a Canadian songwriter, with a passion for music that ranges from folk songs to rock. Lyrics are her speciality and she has been involved in multiple co-writes with songwriters from Australia, the Netherlands, US and Canada. Lucyâs songs have been recorded by several indie artists, others are currently under consideration by major artists and for film and TV projects.
She has mentored with Songtown.com and Pat Patterson
Here's three songs which she co-wrote featured in this episode.
-
'Blame It On The Wine' - written with Renee Jonas, Marika Hallendy, Pawit Kelly and Lucy LeBlanc. Renee performing. Marika, Pawit, and Lucy are Canadian.
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'Growing Up' the latest single that she was a co-writer on. Written with Paul deMarco, and Dave Stanley Daoust. Performed by Paul. Paul is an artist from Wales. Dave is a songwriter from Canada.
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'Steps" - a song that she wrote with Joanne Stacey and Dennis Keith Lambert. Both Joanne and her are Canadian. Dennis is an American. It was pitched to Tammy Renee and she recorded and released it; and named her album 'Steps' . Tammy is an artist from the US. She won female Single Of the Year for 'Steps' at the International Singer Songwriter Association last year.
Lucy has a Spotify playlist she would love you to follow HERE
You can find Lucy LaBlanc on Facebook HERE and on Instagram HERE
Lucy also won the American Songwriter magazine's lyric contest, check out the feature length article they did on her HERE
Australian male Singer Songwriter Kent Tonscheck from Queensland shares his story of finding his voice, confidence and passion in music. From shy awkward school kid to young TV star vocal talent, his story of drive, determination and pure heart is an inspirational tale. His voice is of an angel and heart of pure gold, this young artist is still early in his career as a songwriter but continuing to find his sound and strive to be better in everything he does.
Check out his music video "I'm Not Ready" on Youtube.Â
Find him on instagram HERE @kenttonscheck
And on Facebook HERE Â @kenttonscheckofficialÂ
Or visit his website www.kenttonscheck.com
Dani Young is a Sydney singer-songwriter whose love of songwriting and journey to believing in herself is both inspirational and encouraging. "take the pressure off" says Dani in this podcast, talking about how she had such high expectations of herself initially it stopped her from even getting started with songwriting. She was able to work with experienced Songwriter Warren H Williams who has mentored her to where she is today.Â
Her latest single is out now called "Outback Lullaby"Â
Check out her instagram >>>HERE<<<< Follow on Facebook also >>>HERE<<< and Spotify >>>HERE<<<
Allan Caswell is the most recorded songwriter with well over 750 of his songs being released around the world by artists of the calibre of Cilla Black, Patti Page, The Irish Rovers, The Living End, Slim Dusty, Barry Humphries, Ricki May, James Blundell, Jasmine Rae, McAlister Kemp, The Wolfe Brothers, Lynne Hamilton, Rae Leigh among dozens of others.
With over 50 years of songwriting experience, 8 golden guitar awards and a place in the galaxy of stars for country music, this is an extra jam packed episode with some of the best songwriting stories we can share with you.
For his books on Songwriting go to his website and send him an e-mail.
Follow on Facebook >>>> HERE <<<< and on Spotify >>>> HERE <<<<<
Virjilla Joyce a young mother and beautiful happy singer songwriter. Lives in Brisbane Australia and launched her first EP in 2019. She has a powerful voice and a strong message. After having her baby girl she struggled with post natal depression (PND) and found healing power in music. In this episode we discuss her journey to believing in herself and finding her songs.
Her latest single has just been released "Lady in Red" the first song Virjilla ever wrote after the passing of her Aunty, the beautiful piano based emotional song will tug on the heart strings.Â
Find her on Facebook HERE follow on Spotify and for more about her and to support her journey please go to her website http://www.virjillajoyce.com/
Singer-Songwriter Cory Hargreaves came to my attention through a friend and I honestly became a fan from the first youtube video for "CHICKEN PICKIN", it's a boot scootin' country rock track that you can dance away to and have a laugh and then even identify with the characters in this song. He has a good body of work that will keep you going all the way from Gold Coast to Geelong on the Australian east coast drive.Â
"i'm trying to work out if your a tragedy writer or a love writer" says one of his fans in the USA and it's stuck with him which we discuss in this episode.Â
His latest single "Shades Of Blue" is worth a look at too.
Follow on Spotify to keep up to date with all his new releases.
You can find Cory on his facebook page HERE
Kaitlyn Thomas was just 12 years old when Beccy Cole declared to her audience, âThereâs a star in the making right thereâ.
Since then she has released two singles First Kiss & Could'a Should'a Would'aÂ
Ambassador for Bully Zero an Anti-bullying organisation, in this podcast she talks about how going through bullying and having music and songwriting as an emotional outlet got her through those dark and lonely times at school. An inspirational story to all kids having a hard time with bullying at school.
Follow Kaitlyn on Spotify or instagram @kaitlynthomasmusic
American singer-songwriter/producer Marty Dodson has had songs recorded by artists such as Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, George Strait, The Oak Ridge Boys, The Plain White T's, Saving Jane, Lonestar, Billy Currington, and Craig Morgan. His first #1 song, âMust Be Doin' Somethin' Rightâ spent two weeks at the top of the country charts and was the first #1 for Billy Currington as well.
"It took several years of writing for free before I landed my first publishing deal with Kim Williams and Sony ATV in Nashville." Says Marty on his website.
Also a co-author on books "Song Building" and "The Songwriter's Guide to Mastering Co-Writing"
He also is the co-founder of www.songtown.com an online community for aspiring songwriters that regularly host songwriting workshops and retreats.
Feature length episode with the host Rae Leigh @raeleighaus and her first guest Renee Jonas @reneejonasmusic.
These two artists met at the 2019 Singer Songwriter DAG retreat in Tamworth, Australia which was followed by a trip to Nashville, Tennessee in October 2019 to attend the Songtown.com songwriting retreat. Rae discusses the story behind her music and the reason for starting the 'Songwriter Trysts' podcast. She chats with Renee about her journey into songwriting you'll find that these two always have a lot of fun together and you will get to see why in this first episode of 'Songwriter Trysts'
Featured Songs on this podcast include:
Blame It on the Wine & My Man In Red - Renee Jonas
All Of Me - Rae Leigh