Join Leigh as she interviews some of country music's up and coming artists at CMA Fest 2026! This is part 2 of the interviews with Coda Country in the Music City Center in Nashville, TN.

00:12 - Brooke Lee

05:28 - Savannah Dean Reeves

10:39 - Taylor-Rae

17:24 - Jenny Tolman

27:14 - Dax#countrymusic

#CMAFest #Nashville #CMAFest2026

Join Leigh as she interviews some of country music's up and coming artists at CMA Fest 2026! This is part 1 of the interviews with Coda Country in the Music City Center in Nashville, TN.

00:12 - Payton Smith

07:40 - Zoe Jean Fowler

15:30 - Noelle Toland

20:43 - Mike Parker

#countrymusic #CMAFest #Nashville #CMAFest2026

In this conversation on Chats Pod, Lauren Lucas shares her journey of creating the instrumental score and the theme song for the hit Netflix TV series Leanne. Host Leigh and Lauren talk about her new music coming in 2026, as well as take a look into the world of Broadway, detailing her audition experiences and the unique process of workshopping a new musical, Urban Cowboy, for which her songwriting made her Tony-nominated. These two ladies dive into the complexities of Lauren's career, coining the phrase "falling into place", describing the wonderful stars-aligning moments.

About Lauren Lucas:

Lauren Lucas is a soulful storyteller whose voice—rich, warm, and rooted in the South—has taken her from Broadway to the Grand Ole Opry, from hit records to headline tours, and now, to your TV screen.

A Tony Award-nominated composer and Academy of Country Music (ACM) Award-nominated recording artist, Lauren was part of the composing team—led by Keb’ Mo’—behind the original score for Leanne, Netflix’s new comedy series starring Leanne Morgan. In addition, she brings her voice to the forefront as the vocalist on the show’s main title theme.

She also lent her background vocals on Room on the Porch, the Billboard #1 Blues album by legendary artists Taj Mahal and Keb’ Mo’.

No stranger to the spotlight, Lauren’s music has been heard on ABC, on Broadway (Urban Cowboy), and in numerous films. Her songs have been recorded by artists like Danielle Peck (Big Machine/SiriusXM Y2Country), Damien Horne (Circle TV), and Risa Binder. As a vocalist, she’s lent her soulful sound to high-profile campaigns, including a duet with Keb’ Mo’ for the Canadian National Railroad’s international marketing launch.

Lauren’s touring life has taken her across the U.S. and Europe, sharing stages with everyone from Blake Shelton and Kenny Chesney to Old Dominion, The Bacon Brothers (Kevin & Michael), Randy Houser, and Maia Sharp. She also spent nearly three years touring and recording as part of the all-female Americana group Farewell Angelina—praised by Rolling Stone as one of the “10 New Country Artists You Need to Know.”

Today, along with writing and recording music for her own projects and for film & TV, Lauren teaches songwriting at Belmont University, helping the next generation of artists find their voice.

https://www.laurenlucas.com/

#countrymusic #podcast #Nashville #singersongwriter #LaurenLucas

In this episode of Coda Country Chats, host Leigh interviews powerhouse vocalist Erin Kirby, who discusses her new single 'Make a Move' and her upcoming EP 'In and Out of Love'. They delve into the songwriting process, the emotional depth of her music, and Erin's journey from a small town in Georgia to pursuing a career in music. The conversation also touches on her influences, the importance of authenticity in her work, and her faith. Listeners are encouraged to connect with Erin and explore her music.

• Erin Kirby's new single 'Make a Move' reflects relatable themes of moving on.

• 'Nowhere, Everywhere' showcases a different tempo and emotional depth compared to 'Make a Move'.
• The EP 'In and Out of Love' features a song titled 'Whiskey Does' that was pivotal to the project.

• Her upbringing in a small town shaped her musical style and confidence, along with pageantry.
• Erin emphasizes the importance of authenticity and faith in her music.
• The recording process for her songs was quick and collaborative, highlighting great chemistry with co-writers.
• Erin plans to host an EP release show and create engaging content for her music.
• She believes that music should reflect individual styles and experiences.

About Erin Kirby:

Georgia-born country artist Erin Kirby has performed at the Grand Ole Opry, SXSW - and shared stages with Kellie Pickler, Lonestar and Colt Ford. A former pop and R&B artist whose career began with national exposure on Lifetime’s Kim of Queens, Kirby has gone on to appear on Showtime at the Apollo and American Idol, collaborate with Kameron Marlowe and Cole Goodwin and perform at top showcases including the Key West Songwriters Festival, Whiskey Jam and WSM Opry Radio. Now signed to an exclusive publishing deal with Concord, Kirby delivers stripped-back, soulful songs she calls “Adele Country,” pairing heartfelt storytelling with an unmatched voice that’s poised to make her one of Nashville’s breakout artists.

#countrymusic #Nashville #ErinKirby #InandOutofLove #NewMusic

Jason Michael Carroll shares insights into his long-standing career in country music, his collaboration with Petey Pablo, and the creative process behind his upcoming album, "Anthem". He discusses the importance of family in his music, the role of technology in modern recording, and the essence of country music as a lifestyle. Carroll also reflects on personal stories that inspire his songwriting, the need for vulnerability in music, and the significance of heroes in today's world.

About JMC:

Platinum-selling country artist Jason Michael Carroll returns with a brand new single, “Nothin’ But Country” (feat. Petey Pablo), a genre-blending, pride-fueled anthem that celebrates rural life, hip-hop grit, and everything in between. Co-written by Carroll and longtime friend Petey Pablo, the single is available on all streaming platforms today and offers a powerful preview of Carroll’s highly anticipated eighth studio album, Anthem, due in 2026.

With Anthem, Carroll explores that lifestyle in all its complexity. From stadium-ready party tracks to stripped-down confessionals, the album marks a new chapter for Carroll, one rooted in honesty, sobriety, and the kind of resilience only life can teach. Tracks like “Pretty Wild Thing” (featuring vocals from Carroll’s daughter), “Argue with the Walls,” and the stirring “Sober” dig deep into personal transformation and growth, while “Damn Ruthie” and “Jeans Like That” add cinematic storytelling and small-town romance.

Carroll first burst onto the country music scene in 2007 with his No. 1 debut album Waitin’ in the Country, which featured hits like the heartbreaking “Alyssa Lies,” platinum-certified “Livin’ Our Love Song,” and the rollicking “I Can Sleep When I’m Dead.” Over the years, he’s shared the stage with country royalty including Brooks & Dunn, Carrie Underwood, Trace Adkins, Alan Jackson, Martina McBride, and Rascal Flatts, among many others.

His performances have taken him from the Grand Ole Opry to NASCAR speedways, NFL stadiums, and MLB fields, and now, with Anthem, he returns to the spotlight with his most personal—and most powerful—music yet.

#countrymusic #podcast #JasonMichaelCarroll #Nothin'ButCountry #newmusic

Having Will Jones on the podcast back in December of 2023, it was time for another installment of Coda Country Catchup!

In this episode of Coda Country Chats, Leigh interviews Will Jones, discussing his recent time off the road, songwriting experiences, and his latest single 'Come On In.' They explore the creative process behind his music, contrasting his singles 'Lonesome Dove' and 'Come On In,' and delve into the music industry dynamics with his new team. Within the 2 years since their last discussion, Will shares exciting tour stories and gives a sneak peek of his upcoming music, emphasizing the importance of staying connected with fans.

The end of the episode concludes with a snippet of "Ride With Me", an unreleased single from Will. Check it out!

Follow Will Jones:

https://linktr.ee/willjonesofficial

https://www.instagram.com/willjonesofficial

https://www.facebook.com/WillJonesCountry

#countrymusic #WillJones #Nashville #singersongwriter #ChatsPod

In this episode of Coda Country Chats, host Leigh interviews rising country music star Rocco Gorelik. Rocco shares his journey from a young musician in Georgia to becoming a Gibson artist and gaining recognition in Nashville. He discusses his songwriting process, the importance of social media, and his experiences collaborating with other artists. Rocco also talks about his aspirations for the future, including touring and releasing new music.

• Rocco started playing guitar seriously after being inspired by Alan Jackson.
• He initially played for free to gain experience and exposure.
• Social media became a tool for Rocco after he established himself musically.
• Rocco is currently homeschooled to focus on his music career.
• He has written all his songs alone but is interested in co-writing.
• The songwriting process can be spontaneous and magical for Rocco.
• Rocco's song 'Second Chances' was written in just 30 minutes.
• He values the mentorship program offered by Gibson guitars.
• Rocco's experience at Whiskey Jam was a significant milestone.
• He aims to tour and record a full album in the next five years.

Rocco's next single, "Turn Me Loose" is releasing on 9/19/2025.

Follow Rocco Gorelik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roccogorelik/

https://linktr.ee/roccogorelik

https://www.tiktok.com/@rockin_rocco

#countrymusic #RoccoGorelik #podcast #singersongwriter #gibsonguitars

In this episode of Coda Country Chats, host Leigh interviews rising country music artist Julian Joel. They discuss Julian's upbringing in Detroit, his musical influences, and how he found his way into country music. Julian shares his journey of songwriting, the challenges of balancing a teaching career with music, and the inspiration behind his new single 'Next to You'. The conversation also touches on love, marriage, and the importance of authenticity in music.

• Julian Joel grew up in a musical family and church environment.
• He started playing instruments at a young age, including organ and guitar.
• His influences range from gospel to country music, including artists like Charlie Pride and Darius Rucker.
• Julian emphasizes the importance of authenticity in songwriting.
• He wrote his song 'Pull Up' during a busy period of his life, balancing teaching and music.
• The creative process can lead to analysis paralysis, making it hard to release songs.
• His new single 'Next to You' is about expressing love and connection.
• Julian believes in being friends first in relationships before pursuing romance.
• He shares marriage advice about being intentional and transparent with partners.
• Julian expresses gratitude for the support from his family and community.

Follow Julian Joel:

https://www.instagram.com/julianjoelofficial/

#countrymusic #Nashville #JulianJoel #SingerSongwriter #podcast