Country Music
Every episode of The Rugged Revival featuring Country Music — conversations with independent country, Americana, and roots artists.
Joe Stamm
"I'd Still Make Music If Nobody Listened" | Joe Stamm on Touring, Songwriting & Country Music
Joe Stamm of the Joe Stamm Band joins the Rugged Revival Podcast for a conversation about songwriting, touring, independent country music, recording albums, and building a loyal fanbase from the ground up.In this episode, Joe discusses life on the road, the realities of being an independent artist, working on multiple recording projects at once, and why songwriting remains the driving force behind everything he does. He also shares insights into his creative process, growing up in Central Illinois, musical influences like Chris Knight, Eric Church, Blackberry Smoke, and Charles Wesley Godwin, and his thoughts on AI-generated music and the future of streaming platforms.Whether you're a fan of Americana, country rock, Red Dirt country, singer-songwriters, or independent artists carving their own path, this conversation offers a genuine look behind the curtain of modern country music.Chapters:00:00 Joe Stamm's Reality: No Sick Days & Why He Keeps Making Music00:42 Introduction to Joe Stamm & The Joe Stam Band01:35 Social Media, Humour & Connecting with Fans02:18 Touring, Illness & Cancelling Shows04:15 Touring Across America05:54 Why Joe Wants to Tour Europe06:43 Working on Three Albums at Once09:30 Recording Music & Finding a Creative Workflow12:20 Funding Records & Building a Fanbase14:50 The "Joe Stamm Man" Merch Idea16:20 Growing Up in Central Illinois18:55 The Midwest Music Scene20:55 Musical Influences & Discovering Country Music23:15 Napster, Streaming & Finding New Artists24:00 AI Music & Spotify's Challenges26:45 Defining the Joe Stam Band Sound30:10 Writing Lyrics That Matter32:55 Quick Fire Round37:20 Joe's Songwriting Process Explained40:25 Where Song Ideas Come From43:30 Perfectionism, Editing & Finishing Songs44:05 Songs Joe Is Most Proud Of47:55 What's Next for Joe Stamm?50:00 Where to Find Joe Online51:50 Final Toast & Closing ThoughtsSubscribe to The Rugged Revival. Share it with your friends. Support independent music!Listen to the full podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6wnHcgA73o1aiiKaz882vH?si=30aabdaa220a4628Follow The Rugged Revival:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theruggedrevival/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theruggedrevivalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094507520679Website: www.theruggedrevival.comEmail: ruggedrevival@hotmail.com
Jacob Paul Allen
Virginia's Appalachian Red Dirt Country Voice | Jacob Paul Allen
Jacob Paul Allen is a Country Music and Appalachian Red Dirt artist from rural Virginia, known for his authentic storytelling and unique sound.Jacob Paul Allen's music is a blend of Country, rock, and Americana, inspired by artists such as Turnpike Troubadours and Randy Rogers. Growing up in a small town in Virginia, Allen's music is deeply rooted in his rural upbringing and personal experiences. In this episode, Allen shares his story of finding his voice as an artist and navigating the music industry as an independent musician. He also discusses the challenges of staying true to his authentic sound in a industry dominated by AI-generated music.Allen's music is a reflection of his genuine and down-to-earth personality, and his passion for storytelling is evident in every song. With a full band and a string of upcoming shows, Allen is an artist on the rise, and this episode is a must-listen for fans of Country and Americana music.Chapters:02:08 Introduction to Jacob Paul Allen12:11 Influences and early music experiences20:12 Navigating the music industry as an independent artist26:59 Staying true to his authentic sound33:41 Upcoming shows and projects41:35 The importance of storytelling in musichttps://jacobpaulallen.com/https://www.facebook.com/jacobpaulallenmusichttps://www.instagram.com/jacobpaulallen/Subscribe to The Rugged Revival. Share it with your friends. Support independent music! Follow The Rugged Revival:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theruggedrevival/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theruggedrevivalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094507520679Website: www.theruggedrevival.comEmail: ruggedrevival@hotmail.com
Waylon Jennings Meets ZZ Top | Buffalo Larry & The Rhyolite Sound
The Rugged Revival — independent Country, Americana & Roots music. Live sessions, artist interviews and real music discovery."Formed in Las Vegas, NV in 2013, The Rhyolite Sound have made waves wherever they've played. Often described as "Waylon Jennings being backed by ZZ Top", The Rhyolite Sound aims to break the norms of what folks consider country music to be. They will continue to carve their own path through the music world."Subscribe to The Rugged Revival. Share it with your friends. Support independent music!Listen to the full podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6wnHcgA73o1aiiKaz882vH?si=30aabdaa220a4628Follow The Rugged Revival:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theruggedrevival/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theruggedrevivalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094507520679Website: www.theruggedrevival.comEmail: ruggedrevival@hotmail.com
Ryan Coleman
From Farm Life To "The Voice USA" | Ryan Coleman Interview
The Rugged Revival — independent Country, Americana & Roots music. Live sessions, artist interviews and real music discovery. Ryan Coleman is our guest in this episode of The Rugged Revival Podcast. Ryan, is a country singer-songwriter from southeastern Pennsylvania, blending real farm life with a traditional country sound.Raised on his family’s farm, Ryan’s music is rooted in hard work, faith and storytelling. After standout performances on Season 25 of NBC’s The Voice, sharing the stage with Dan + Shay and opening for Scotty McCreery, Chris Janson and Dylan Scott, he’s quickly becoming one to watch in modern country music. @ryan.coleman Subscribe to The Rugged Revival. Share it with your friends. Support independent music!Listen to the full podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6wnHcgA73o1aiiKaz882vH?si=30aabdaa220a4628Follow The Rugged Revival:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theruggedrevival/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theruggedrevivalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094507520679Website: www.theruggedrevival.comEmail: ruggedrevival@hotmail.com
Rosy Nolan
Los Angeles Artist Paying Homage to Old Time Country & American Roots | Rosy Nolan
Los Angeles country artist Rosy Nolan’s LP Main Attraction is steeped in Americana roots, Western swing, honky tonk, and old-time country, paying homage to the great American records of the 1920s–1940s. The album is drenched in heartache and longing—core themes that have defined Nolan’s songwriting throughout her career.Designed to take the listener on an emotional journey, Main Attraction kicks off with lively, toe-tapping tracks perfect for a two-step, then slowly descends into haunting ballads that’ll shatter your heart. It’s a record that lifts you up, breaks you down, and ultimately reminds you that you’re not alone. It’s the perfect album for anyone seeking comfort in trying times.
Dogwood Brothers Band
Country & Americana Music From The Shenandoah Valley | Dogwood Brothers Band | Braden Dahmer
Dogwood Brothers began in 2019 when a group of friends from the Shenandoah Valley came together in Richmond, VA to pursue a classic country sound. The band made its debut performance on CPA-TV's Blue Ridge Barn Dance in May 2021 and subsequently added new members, expanded its repertoire and began performing original songs composed by lead singer and guitarist Braden Dogwood.In November 2022 the band released “Here for the Time” an EP of all original material with a stripped down, bluegrass tinged flavor. The group's latest EP “Valley Songs” (released Aug. 23, 2025) showcases their full, Americana country sound in a collection of tunes inspired by people and places in their native Shenandoah Valley.
James Otto
#1 Hits, Grammy Nominations & Going Solo | James Otto
James Otto has been called The Biggest Voice in Country Music & that might just be true. Standing a broad-shouldered 6 foot 5 inches tall, Otto has a powerhouse voice to match.His textured, sometimes raspy vocals are delivered with passion and plenty of soul.Otto blends that soulful voice with great storytelling and a smooth, funky groove to create his signature Country Soul sound.Otto rose to prominence when he signed with Warner Bros. and released the album Sunset Man. His breakthrough hit, "Just Got Started Lovin' You," went to the top of the charts as a 2-week #1 song and became the "most played country song of the year." Otto also received a Grammy Nomination for "Best Male Country Vocal Performance" of the song. The hit's popularity has endured, as it’s on the list of Billboard's 100 Greatest Country Songs, confirming it as one of the most played songs in the history of country radio.A founding member of MuzikMafia, Otto has also earned a reputation as one of Nashville’s most compelling songwriters. He co-wrote Jamey Johnson’s career-defining hit, “In Color," and for that song, Otto again received a Grammy nod, but this time as a songwriter for "Best Country Song." “In Color” brought further recognition, as he took home awards for both the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Academy’s “Song of the Year.” Later, Otto co-penned "Somethin' 'Bout a Boat" for Jimmy Buffett, which uniquely made its way to Broadway as part of the musical Escape to Margaritaville. He also co-wrote “No Hurry” which soared to the top of the charts for the Zac Brown Band. Additionally, Otto has collaborated on songs for artists: Randy Houser, Chris Janson, Darius Rucker, Trace Adkins, Josh Kiser, John Rich, John Anderson, Randy Owen, the supergroup Alabama and many more.
Tyler-James Kelly
Tyler-James Kelly - Real Country Music Is Back | Rugged Revival
Tyler-James Kelly joins Camden to talk about real country music, 1970s influences, and his latest music.Blending vintage tones with modern songwriting, Tyler-James Kelly is part of a new wave of artists bringing authenticity back to country, Americana, and roots music. Inspired by legends like Hank Williams, Kris Kristofferson, Merle Haggard, and Guy Clark, his sound feels timeless while still carving out its own space today.If you’re a fan of authentic country, Americana, and roots music, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.Subscribe to The Rugged Revival for more conversations with independent and emerging artists.
Philip Bowen
Philip Bowen - From West Virginia Fiddle to Viral Americana Breakout | Rugged Revival
Philip Bowen is one of the most exciting voices in modern Americana. Born and raised in West Virginia, this Appalachian fiddle virtuoso has built a global following through electrifying live performances, viral momentum, and a sound deeply rooted in Appalachian tradition.In this episode of The Rugged Revival Podcast, Philip talks about growing up in Appalachia, picking up the fiddle at just four years old, and how his West Virginia roots continue to shape his identity and music. From winning TikTok’s Greatest Talent competition to reaching the semifinals of America’s Got Talent (Season 18), Philip’s rise has been anything but ordinary.We dive into his debut album Old Kanawha and his sophomore release Appalachia Forever, and what it means to represent Appalachian culture on national stages like NPR’s Mountain Stage, The Bluebird Café, and Americanafest. Philip also shares insights from working as a session player with artists including Noah Kahan, Sam Barber, Jenna Paulette, and Zandi Holup, as well as touring alongside Darius Rucker, Charles Wesley Godwin, 49 Winchester, Ian Munsick, and Wyatt Flores.This is a conversation about West Virginia pride, viral success, traditional fiddle music, Americana storytelling, and the modern resurgence of Appalachian soul.If you care about authentic roots music, Appalachian identity, and the future of Americana, this episode is for you.Subscribe for more conversations with independent country, Americana, and roots artists shaping today’s scene.
Cory Riddle
Cody Riddle - Outlaw, Red Dirt, and 90's Country Music Band | Rugged revival
In this episode, Camden sits down with Cory Riddle whose band plays a mix of Outlaw, Red Dirt, and 90's style Country Music.
Joshua Michael
Joshua Michael - California Country Artist | Dead Magnolia Sounds Recording Studio | Rugged Revival
Joshua Michael is an independent Country Music artist based in California. He plays a heavy show schedule and frequent releases new music, all while running his new recording studio "Dead Magnolia Sounds".
Logan Moore
Logan Moore - Low Water Bridge Band | Americana, Bluegrass & Country Music | Rugged Revival
here’s a sound the Shenandoah River makes as it rumbles over old stones in the shallows. It sings songs the way they used to be – plain and honest. No frills, buckle that belt before you head to the hills and hollers. It’s there under a Virginia moon that you’ll find the Low Water Bridge Band.Forged by firelight picking, the band’s romping, stomping, country - grass Americana ain’t for the faint of heart. Since their founding in 2020, they’ve gone from barnstorming the Shenandoah Valley to festival stages along the East Coast. Venues from the Carolinas to Kentucky and, yes, Nashville, Tennessee ring with their sound and are asking for more. They’re led by guitarist and lead singer Logan Moore’s searing melodies. The precision thump of brothers Alex and Riley Kerns’ bass and drums and their pitch-perfect vocal harmonies fill out the sound. Justin Carver’s pedal steel and banjo swirl through songs like smoke from the campfire while multi-instrumentalist Rudy Bee deftly provides sparks of pian, fiddle and trumpet and it’s all brought together with the crunch and crackle of James “Chainsaw” Montgomery’s electric guitar riffs.
Radio Rodd
Radio Rodd - Fashionista, Media Personality, and CMA Correspondent From Nashville | Rugged Revival
Rodney Smith, professionally known as “Radio Rodd”, is an emerging media personality who is utilizing his considerable influence to alter entertainment coverage originating from the Nashville, TN market. With his infectious smile and gregarious personality, Rodney is making his presence known across several platforms in Country Music circles. He is rapidly becoming a sought after host, having helmed projects by Amazon, iHeartMedia and just about every Major Record Label in town.
Race Ricketts
Race Ricketts - Exploring Texas Culture & Music | Rugged Revival
In this episode of The Rugged Revival Podcast, TJ and guest Race Ricketts discuss various topics including the impact of COVID on music careers, and their experiences at the Stocktober event. Race shares insights about his upbringing in a small Texas town, his journey into music and acting, and the pride he feels in being Texan. The conversation also touches on favorite hangout spots in Texas, the dynamics of collaboration in music, and the essence of Texas reflected in Race's songs. In this conversation, Race Ricketts discusses the dynamics of collaboration in music, the journey of his recent releases, and the storytelling behind his songs. He shares insights on maintaining mental health in the music industry and his aspirations for future touring and growth. The discussion highlights the importance of personal connections and the creative process in songwriting, as well as the challenges and joys of being an independent artist.
Cory Michael
Cory Michael - From Texas to Nashville | Rugged Revival
Join us for another engaging episode of The Rugged Revival Podcast as we sit down with the talented Cory Michael. From his roots in Texas to his musical journey through Nashville, Cory shares his experiences, challenges, and the passion that drives his music. Discover the stories behind his popular tracks like "Damn I Need a Drink" and "Mexico," and get a sneak peek into his upcoming releases. This episode is filled with laughter, insights, and a few unexpected accents!You can also watch this episode on our YouTube channel. Follow Cory Michael on Instagram for more updates on his music and upcoming shows.
Cody Christian
Cody Christian - Country Music Singing Man From Virginia
In this episode of the Rugged Revival Podcast, TJ & Ronnie discuss with Cody Christian, a prominent figure in the independent country music scene, about his journey as an artist, his musical influences, and the challenges he faces in the music industry. Cody shares insights into his upbringing, the vibrant music scene in Virginia, and his experiences with industry giants like Lee Bryce. We delve into the importance of authenticity in music and the evolving landscape of the music business, culminating in a discussion about Cody's upcoming music releases. Cody Christian discusses his upcoming music release, shares insights on supporting emerging artists, and offers valuable advice for newcomers in the music industry. #countrymusic #virginiamusic #independentmusic
Susannah Clegg
Susannah Clegg - Exploring the UK Country & Americana Scene
In this episode of Sound Check, TJ is joined by UK independent Country and Americana artist, Susannah Clegg.They delve into the intricacies of being an independent artist in the UK music scene. Susannah shares her journey from part-time musician to full-time artist, discussing the challenges of balancing creativity with the demands of social media and marketing. Susannah highlights the supportive nature of the UK music community while also addressing the need for more opportunities for original artists. The conversation explores her unique storytelling approach to songwriting, her influences, and her upcoming projects, providing listeners with a comprehensive view of her artistic journey and the evolving landscape of UK Country Music.
Jacob Paul Allen
Jacob Paul Allen - Live at The Burl | Rugged Revival
At the legendary Burl in Lexington, KY, five incredible artists stepped onto the stage for the "For The Love of Appalachia" showcase - each competing for a life-changing opportunity: a fully-funded UK tour.In this interview, Rugged Revival's Kenzie Traylor sits down with Jacob Paul Allen to talk music, dreams, and what is means to represent Kentucky's thriving independent scene.This is just the beginning - we'll be sharing interviews with all five artists from this unforgettable night. Hit subscribe and join us in celebrating the voices that keep independent music alive!#kentuckymusic #independentmusic #countrymusic #appalachianmusic
DJ Cowboy Chris
DJ Cowboy Chris - From DC Stampede
The DC Stampede is DC’s Premier Wild and Rowdy Country Dance Party. With Line Dancing and Country Swing - hosted by DJ Cowboy Chris. #linedancing #countryswing #westernswing #musicpodcast #musicinterview
Hunter Blalock
Hunter Blalock - Georgia Songwriter on Music, Stories & Honesty
Hunter Blalock is an American songwriter from the hills of North-West Georgia. Hunter never fears uncomfortable subjects while writing songs & presents his real uncensored view of the world & himself.Hunter's writing style is something all his own as he blends styles of country, blues, & rock n roll to create a sound that places him in the genre of Americana. His influences range from Tyler Childers, Jason Isbell, & American Aquarium to The Band, Townes Van Zant, & Many more. You can find more details relating to Hunter at: www.hunterblalockmusic.com
Micky Braun
Micky Braun – Life on the Road with Micky & The Motorcars
Micky & The Motorcars are a powerhouse of a group. Led by brothers Micky Braun (Vocals/Guitar) and Gary Braun (Vocals/Guitar/Harmonica/Mandolin) rounded out with Bill Corbin (Bass), Pablo Trujillio (Guitar/Pedal Steel), and Bobby Paugh (Drums). Micky and the Motorcars hail from Austin, Texas by way of Stanley, Idaho. Micky and Gary are the sons of Western Swing musician Muzzie Braun and along with their brothers Willy and Cody (Reckless Kelly) spent their childhood on the stage and were veterans of the stage. Once moving from Idaho and settling in Austin the band released Which Way From Here (2002), Ain't in it for the Money (2005), Careless (2007), Naive (2008), Raise My Glass (2011) , Hearts From Above (2014), Across The Pond - Live in Germany (2015) and Long Time Comin' (2019). The band tours the country, averaging 100+ shows a year and continues to draw fans nearly 20 years after forming.
Tori Forsyth
Tori Forsyth – Australian Country Voice at Laurel Cove
Tori Forsyth is an Australian singer-songwriter, with her roots firmly in the Country music scene. Tori is playing this years Laurel Cove Festival in Kentucky - joining a stellar line-up. Tori is one to watch, so make sure you follow her across socials!
Kenny Feidler
Kenny Feidler – Gritty Western Rock from the Rodeo Circuit
Kenny Feidler’s sound is dark, gritty, western rock n roll filled with thoughtful, honest songwriting. Feidler’s path to the stage started on the rodeo circuit, writing songs about the life and selling his music from the trunk of an old Cadillac. Now he racks up the miles with his band, traveling from his home on the plains of Western South Dakota, to venues across the country.
Nathan Bess
Nathan Bess – West Virginia Americana Songwriter
Nathan Bess is a singer-songwriter born and raised in the Charleston area of West Virginia. Influenced by Country, Americana, and Folk genres, he began his music career in 2024 with the release of two EPs titled “part 1” and “part 2” which are a small showcase of his sound.
Jacob Ryan Marshall
Jacob Ryan Marshall – Young Texas Honky-Tonk Voice
Jacob Ryan Marshall has been playing music since he found his grandmother’s old Gibson guitar under the bed when he was three. He played his first two original songs in Nashville’s Bluebird Café at 15 and has been writing and playing ever since. Jacob recorded his first single in a freshman apartment at Texas A&M. A few weeks later it showed up on the Texas country streaming charts. His songs never stray far from the sound of traditional Honky Tonk country music.
Jarrod Morris
Jarrod Morris – Texas Horseshoer & Songwriter
Jarrod Morris is a horseshoer from Texas who writes songs while he's working. An indie sound and an old soul with a dedicated, modern songwriter’s heart. Jarrod is on a journey exploring different sounds and honest lyrics through the lens of the American West. #countrymusic #texasmusic #countryartist #musicpodcast #countrysingersongwriter
Adam Hood
Adam Hood – On Writing for Miranda Lambert & Whiskey Myers
The tapestry of southern music in America is rich, vivid and diverse. Adam Hood is an artist who exudes that substantial musical lineage each time he straps on his Telecaster for a show or picks up his pen to write a song. The roots of his Opelika, AL upbringing inform his musicality and guide his soul-stirring lyrics. He paints the characters of his songs with the wisdom that can only be derived by thousands of miles spent behind the steering wheel chasing the next musical adventure from one coast to the next. While initially making waves as a performer of his own songs, it has been other folks singing those songs over the past decade that have added a new layer to Adam Hood’s formidable career. Always a capable and relatable songwriter, Hood has found his way by adeptly crafting songs that created stirring scenes and powerful emotions. An impressive roster of artists have recorded songs from Adam Hood’s pen, including: Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Whiskey Myers, Cody Jinks, Riley Green and Travis Tritt. While Hood’s songwriting profile has continued to shine over the years, his own recorded and touring output has remained a vital part of the broader country music landscape. Hood’s latest album is titled Bad Days Better. An effort that was recorded in the famed Capricorn Studios in Macon, GA with Brent Cobb at the helm and BlackBerry Smoke’s band playing on the 10 track album. Hood then joined Gordy Quist releasing "Adam Hood's Different Groove". #countrymusic #alabamamusic #countryartist #musicpodcast #countrysingersongwriter #southernmusic