How do you usually write the lyrics of your songs?
I need to be inspired to write my best lyrics. I try to start off any song with a lyric whether it’s a thought that has been on my mind or maybe one line I may have heard someone say.
Sometimes the lyrics will come before the music or vice versa but for me, if the inspiration is there then my best lyrical writing follows.
Are you ever scared of revealing, aspects of your personal experience, to strangers through your music?
I can’t say that I am ever scared to reveal aspects of my personal experiences. I believe the more personal and relatable the experiences that I incorporate into my music, the better the song will be.
Sure, there are some songs that are more personal than others but songs that come from the heart are always the ones that are best received by an audience. In all my songs, I hope that people can relate to the story I am trying to tell.
What has your journey in the music industry been like up to now?
My journey through the music industry has been very positive. I entered this industry when I was fourteen years-old when I started recording songs, releasing records and playing solo gigs.
Obviously over six years in the business, an artist is bound to face challenges and rejection but that is where the most learning comes from.
This industry is crazy because it is changing every day, so it has been fun to try and adapt to these changes while remaining true to myself as an artist.
What was the soundtrack to your childhood?
The soundtrack to my childhood was Garth Brooks and his Greatest Hits album. I was three-years old when this record came out and my mom would play songs like “Standing Outside the Fire” and “Callin’ Baton Rouge” over and over again in the car.
My sister and I would sing along to every single word of these hits. One could say that I was almost singing before I even learned how to talk!
What was the first record you ever bought?
The first record I ever bought with my own money was Darius Rucker’s “Learn to Live” album. It was the summer of 2009 and I listened to every song on that record every day for two months straight.
Looking back on it now, I’d say this record was what really drove my passion for songwriting as the storytelling from this album is truly one of kind.
What is your favorite song (not written by you) lyrically speaking?
Man, there’s so many songs out there I wish had written but “The Good Stuff” by Kenny Chesney has to “take the cake”.
The lyrics are so thoughtful and it really paints a beautiful picture of the things that are truly important in life. I’m a sucker for a great love song and every time I hear this song I get goosebumps.
What inspired your new song “What we’ll get into”?
I wrote this song about a girl I used to date a couple years ago. The song is all about young love and when two people can’t get enough of each other.
The story takes place in what I like to call the “honeymoon phase”, the point at the beginning of a relationship where there are no worries or issues.
In this phase, the relationship is just fun and easy because there are no expectations. These two people are taking the world by storm and the song takes the audience through a chaotic, crazy adventure.
What is the best show you ever played?
I’ve been lucky to play a lot of great shows over the years but opening for Thomas Rhett in front of 5,000 people was an unforgettable experience.
It was a rocking crowd, full of true country music fans and it was incredible for the band and I as we were able to feed off of their energy.
What does music mean to you?
Music means everything to me. It’s my escape from reality.
Music brings out the best in me whether it’s playing in front of a crowd, in the studio writing or recording or even just listening to my favorite tunes – whenever I’m immersed in music, I’m happiest.
Music is also my savior and best friend on the worst of days – if I ever have a problem or issue, music helps me heal. I’ve met some of my best friends and role models through music.
In addition, music has allowed me to meet some of the most incredible and inspiring people. I have no idea where I would be without music.
What are your plans for 2018?
I am going to be releasing a ton of new music this year and I couldn’t be more excited.
Throughout the next five months, we will be releasing new songs, and stories that we started working on over a year and a half ago and I can’t wait for people to hear them.
We also have some super fun show’s lined-up over the summer that haven’t been announced yet.
I’m thrilled to get back up on stage, playing my new material and meeting new fans. Performing is truly one of the most fun parts of being an artist.