On this week's episode of Songwriter Connection, host Dave Lenahan welcomes Nashville songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and performer Blake Hall. A familiar face on stages all over Lower Broadway, Blake shares the stories behind his musical journey and debuts his brand-new song, "Dear Amy," a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Amy Winehouse.

Blake also talks about performing with the acclaimed Eagles tribute band 7 Bridges, his experiences playing alongside Matchbox Twenty guitarist Kyle Cook, and what it's really like making a living as a musician in Music City.

From original songwriting to unforgettable live performances, this episode offers an inside look at the life of one of Nashville's hardest-working musicians. Don't miss this engaging conversation and an exclusive performance of "Dear Amy."

This week on Songwriter Connection, I’m honored to sit down with country music singer, songwriter, and storyteller Ty Herndon for a very special conversation.

Ty opens up about his remarkable journey in music and shares stories from his powerful memoir, What Mattered Most. We talk about the highs and lows of his career, the challenges he’s faced, the lessons he’s learned, and the people and moments that have shaped his life and music.

And, of course, we spend plenty of time with the songs. Around the dining room table, Ty shares the stories behind some of his greatest songs while his longtime guitar player, Erik Halbig, brings the music to life. Erik is no stranger to Songwriter Connection — he’s a past guest of the podcast — making this reunion around the table even more special.

This is an intimate and honest conversation about music, life, resilience, and discovering what truly mattered most.

Pull up a chair and join us for this special episode of Songwriter Connection with Ty Herndon, featuring Erik Halbig.

Award-winning country singer and songwriter Trey Calloway joins us around the dining room table for a conversation filled with great stories, hard-earned lessons, and plenty of music. Trey has built a respected career on the road and in the songwriting world, earning a loyal fan base with his authentic country sound and heartfelt lyrics.

In this episode of Songwriter Connection, Trey talks about the journey from small-town beginnings to the Nashville music scene, the inspiration behind his songs, and what it takes to stay true to yourself in today’s country music industry. He also shares the stories behind some of his favorite songs and performs them live in the intimate setting that makes this podcast so special.

If you love real country music, honest songwriting, and hearing the creative process straight from the artist, you’ll want to pull up a chair for this one.

This week on Songwriter Connection, we’re joined by Nashville hit songwriter and artist CJ Solar, whose impressive career includes some of the biggest songs and milestones in country music.

CJ co-wrote “Up Down,” recorded by Morgan Wallen and Florida Georgia Line, which became Morgan Wallen’s first No. 1 hit. His songs have also been cut by artists including Jason Aldean, Jameson Rodgers, Jarrod Niemann, Justin Moore, and many others, including a No. 1 with Jameson Rodgers.

CJ’s talent and impact have earned him recognition well beyond the songwriting room. Rolling Stone named him a “New Artist You Need to Know,” while Stone Country and MusicRow Magazine have recognized him as Independent Artist of the Year.

In this episode, CJ takes us behind the songs and shares the stories, experiences, relationships, and lessons that have shaped his journey as both a songwriter and artist. We talk about writing hits, finding your voice, navigating Nashville, and what it takes to build a lasting career in country music.

It’s an honest, inspiring conversation about the connection between the songwriter, the song, and the listener.

This week on Songwriter Connection, we're excited to welcome Nashville singer-songwriter Scott Clay to the show.

Originally from Washington State, Scott shares the story of taking the leap to Music City, chasing his songwriting dreams, and building a career in one of the most competitive music towns in the world. We talk about the inspiration behind his songs, the lessons he's learned along the way, and what keeps him motivated to create authentic country music.

Scott also gives listeners an exclusive look at his brand-new single, "Colorado," sharing the story behind the song before performing live around the dining room table.

From heartfelt conversation to incredible live performances, this episode is packed with great music and the stories that make the songs come alive.

This week on Songwriter Connection, rising Nashville artist Gracie Calvaneso pulls up a chair at the dining room table, joined by her songwriting team, Scott Barrier and Shannyn Bessoni.

Together, they share the stories behind their creative partnership, the songwriting process that brings their ideas to life, and the collaboration it takes to craft songs that connect with listeners. You'll hear discussions about inspiration, co-writing, and the unique chemistry that makes a great songwriting team.

Of course, it wouldn't be Songwriter Connection without music. Gracie, Scott, and Shannyn perform several songs live around the dining room table, giving listeners an intimate look at the songs and the stories behind them.

If you love great songwriting, creative collaboration, and discovering talented artists on the rise, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

This week on Songwriter Connection, I'm joined by Nashville songwriter and guitarist Erik Halbig for a conversation filled with incredible stories, outstanding musicianship, and a lifetime of experiences in Music City.

Erik has shared the stage and studio with some of the biggest names in country music, building a career as one of Nashville's most respected musicians and songwriters. In this episode, we talk about his journey, the lessons he's learned along the way, and what it takes to build a lasting career in the music business.

Of course, it wouldn't be Songwriter Connection without the songs. Erik performs several of his original songs, sharing the inspiration and stories behind the music that have shaped his remarkable career.

Whether you're a songwriter, musician, or simply love hearing the stories behind great songs, you won't want to miss this episode with Erik Halbig.

This week on Songwriter Connection, I'm joined by singer-songwriter and The Voice Season 17 winner Jake Hoot. Jake's powerful voice and heartfelt songwriting have earned him a loyal fanbase and opened doors across the country music world.

We talk about his journey from small-town beginnings to national television, what life has been like since winning The Voice, and the stories behind some of the songs that have connected so deeply with audiences. Jake also shares insights into his songwriting process, the challenges of navigating the music industry, and what's next on his musical horizon.

Of course, no episode of Songwriter Connection would be complete without music, as Jake performs a few songs live around the dining room table.

Whether you're a songwriter, a music fan, or simply love hearing the stories behind great songs, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

This week on Songwriter Connection, award-winning songwriter Marc-Alan Barnette joins us around the dining room table for a conversation packed with practical advice for aspiring songwriters and performers.

Marc-Alan shares valuable tips for songwriters making the move to Nashville, what it really takes to stand out in songwriter rounds, and how to become a more engaging and confident performer. From stage presence to connecting with an audience, his insights come from years of experience in Music City.

Of course, it wouldn't be Songwriter Connection without the music. Marc-Alan also shares a few songs in the intimate dining room table setting that listeners have come to love.

Whether you're a seasoned songwriter, just getting started, or simply a fan of great stories and great songs, this episode is filled with inspiration, wisdom, and music you won't want to miss.

This week on Songwriter Connection, we're joined by country music hitmaker Michael Peterson. From chart-topping success and standing ovations at the Grand Ole Opry to overcoming personal and professional challenges along the way, Michael's journey is one of perseverance, faith, and determination.

We'll talk about the road that took him from the Pacific Northwest to Nashville, the obstacles he faced while building his career, and what he's been up to these days from his home in Las Vegas. We also discuss his albums, which are now available for streaming everywhere thanks to StarVista Records, giving both longtime fans and new listeners the opportunity to rediscover his music.

It's an inspiring conversation about music, life, resilience, and the power of never giving up on your dreams. Don't miss this special episode of Songwriter Connection.

This week on Songwriter Connection, Dave welcomes Charlie Mangus of the Okie Music Collective for a conversation about one of the biggest challenges facing songwriters today: getting great songs heard by the people who can make a difference.

With thousands of songs being written every day, only a small percentage ever reach the decision-makers in the music industry. Charlie shares how the Okie Music Collective is working to change that by creating opportunities for songwriters to connect, collaborate, and get their music in front of the right ears.

Dave and Charlie discuss the current state of the songwriting business, the obstacles independent writers face, and why building relationships and community has never been more important. They also explore how technology, networking, and organizations like the Okie Music Collective are helping talented writers break through the noise.

You'll hear a couple of demos featured on the Okie Music Collective website and learn more about the mission behind this growing movement to help songwriters find new opportunities for their songs.

If you've ever wondered what happens after a song is written—or how writers can improve their chances of getting their songs heard—this is an episode you won't want to miss.

This week on Songwriter Connection, Dave Lenahan welcomes Nashville singer-songwriter and podcaster Sarah Harralson to the dining room table for a conversation filled with music, creativity, and compelling stories.

Sarah discusses her new EP, Just The Beginning, and the accompanying short film that expands the project's message beyond the music. She shares the inspiration behind the songs, her creative process, and how the visual elements help bring the stories to life.

The conversation also dives into Sarah's podcast, Takin' A Walk In Nashville, where she highlights the people, places, and personalities that make Music City unique. Sarah also gives listeners a preview of Women Behind the Lyrics, an upcoming documentary film that shines a light on the talented women whose songwriting has helped shape the music industry.

From songwriting and filmmaking to podcasting and advocacy, Sarah's passion for storytelling shines throughout this episode. Plus, you'll hear live music and the kind of authentic conversation that has made Songwriter Connection a favorite among music fans and songwriters alike.

Pull up a chair and join us for another memorable episode of Songwriter Connection with Sarah Harralson.

This week on Songwriter Connection, we welcome Oklahoma native and Nashville rising star Emily Elgin. Emily's journey has been anything but ordinary—from working at Coyote Ugly and chasing her dreams on American Idol to becoming a full-time touring artist with a growing fan base across the country.

Around the dining room table, Emily shares the stories behind her music, the twists and turns that led her to Nashville, and the determination it took to turn a dream into a career. With her powerful voice, authentic songwriting, and down-to-earth personality, Emily proves that the best country songs come from real life experiences.

You'll hear live performances, plenty of laughs, and some incredible stories from the road. Whether you're a fan of great songwriting, inspiring journeys, or just love discovering new artists before they break big, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Pull up a chair and join us for a memorable conversation with Emily Elgin on Songwriter Connection. 🎙️🎶 

Join us for a special episode of Songwriter Connection as rising artist Āelle gathers around the dining room table with some of her closest friends, collaborators, and fellow musicians for an unforgettable evening of music and conversation.

With new music on the horizon, Āelle shares the stories behind her upcoming releases and gives listeners an inside look at her creative journey. The highlight of the episode comes when Āelle and her talented friends—including 10-year-old vocalist Lillian—perform a beautiful a cappella version of Āelle's upcoming song, In Control.

Recorded in front of an intimate live audience, this episode captures the magic that happens when great voices, great songs, and great friends come together around the dining room table. Expect laughter, stories, harmonies, and a sneak peek at music you'll be hearing a lot more of in the months ahead.

Pull up a chair and join us for this special celebration of friendship, collaboration, and the power of song.

On this episode of Songwriter Connection, we welcome singer-songwriter Megan Barker to the dining room table for a conversation filled with music, stories, and a family legacy deeply rooted in songwriting.

For Megan, songwriting is truly in her blood. Her father built an impressive career as a songwriter, penning songs recorded by artists such as Ronnie Milsap, Barbara Mandrell, and Hank Williams Jr.. Growing up surrounded by music and great songs helped shape Megan's own artistic path and passion for storytelling.

During our conversation, Megan shares her journey as an artist, the lessons she's learned along the way, and the inspiration behind her music. She also performs several original songs, giving listeners an intimate look at the talent, heart, and authenticity that define her work.

Join us around the dining room table as we explore family, songwriting, and the next chapter of a musical legacy with Megan Barker.

On this episode of Songwriter Connection, we welcome Australian country troubadour Angus Gill — an award-winning singer-songwriter known for his sharp storytelling, heartfelt lyrics, and unmistakable sense of humor. From his roots in rural Australia to the stages of Nashville, Angus has built a reputation as one of the most authentic voices in modern country music.

In this conversation, Angus shares the stories behind his songs, the journey that brought him from Down Under to Music City, and how classic country influences continue to shape his sound. We also dive into songwriting, touring, life on the road, and the creative process that fuels his music.

As always, the episode features live acoustic performances and honest conversations around the dining room table — the way great songs are meant to be shared.

If you love real country music, timeless songwriting, and artists who wear their heart on their sleeve, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

This week on Songwriter Connection, we sit down with Nashville-based alt-acoustic artist Nicole Alexis (N/A), a true one-woman force in modern DIY music.

Fresh off the release of her debut EP Mirrors and Smoke, Nicole opens up about the journey from performing stripped-down covers online to finally turning the lens inward and telling her own stories—raw, honest, and unapologetically real. With standout tracks like “Don’t Tell Me To Breathe” and “Just A Friend,” the EP showcases her gift for blending vulnerable songwriting with an alternative edge.

Nicole shares how she built a massive following from the ground up, creating looped, acoustic-driven covers that caught fire across social media, and how that momentum gave her the confidence to step into her own artistry. We also talk about her fully hands-on approach—writing, producing, and engineering every release herself—and what it means to stay fiercely independent in today’s music landscape.

From playing Vans Warped Tour’s Unplugged Stage to having her music featured in major brand launches, Nicole is carving her own lane with grit, vision, and authenticity.

Plus, she performs live and gives us a deeper look into the stories behind the songs on Mirrors and Smoke.

If you’re a fan of honest songwriting, DIY spirit, and artists who aren’t afraid to bet on themselves, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

On this episode of Songwriter Connection, we welcome rising country artist Adysen Malek—a fresh voice bringing heart, honesty, and a whole lot of soul to Nashville’s songwriting scene.

With a style that blends modern country storytelling and emotional authenticity, Adysen is quickly making a name for herself as both a compelling artist and a gifted songwriter. In this episode, she shares the stories behind her music, her journey to Music City, and the experiences that continue to shape her sound.

We dive into her creative process, the inspiration behind her latest releases, and what it’s really like carving out a path as a new artist in today’s country landscape. Plus, Adysen performs live, giving listeners an up-close look at the talent that’s turning heads around town.

If you love discovering new artists before they break big, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

A true songwriter at heart, Allie has carved her own lane in country music with honest lyrics, emotional depth, and a fearless authenticity that connects with fans across the globe. Allie has stepped out from the spotlight of her roots to build a career entirely on her own terms—and she’s doing it her way.

In this episode, Allie shares the stories behind her latest music, the inspiration that fuels her songwriting, and what it means to stay true to yourself in a rapidly changing industry. We also talk about her unique journey, her time performing across the country, and her upcoming trip to Cuba to celebrate a historic milestone with members of the military.

Plus, Allie treats us to live performances that showcase the heart and soul behind her songs—reminding us why she’s quickly becoming one of the most respected rising artists in Nashville.

Don’t miss this honest, heartfelt, and inspiring conversation with Allie Colleen—streaming now everywhere you get your podcasts.

This week on Songwriter Connection, we’re joined by Nashville singer-songwriter Lauren Lucas — a true Music City original with a story that hits just as hard as her songs.

Growing up surrounded by music and sharpening her craft right here in Nashville, Lauren has built a reputation as a powerful vocalist and an honest, fearless writer. From her time studying at Belmont to performing on some of the city’s most iconic stages, she’s lived the journey so many artists only dream about — and she’s got the songs to prove it.

In this episode, Lauren opens up about her path in country music, the stories behind her songwriting, and what it really takes to carve out your own lane in a town full of dreamers. She also shares some incredible music you won’t want to miss.

If you love real stories, raw talent, and the heart behind the song, this is one episode you need to hear.