Independent Artists
Every episode of The Rugged Revival featuring Independent Artists — conversations with independent country, Americana, and roots artists.
Mike Tod
Keeping Traditional Folk Music Alive in Nashville | Mike Tod Podcast
Mike Tod joins Camden to discuss traditional folk music, Canadian roots, life in Nashville, forgotten songs, unusual instruments and why preserving musical history still matters today.Originally from Canada and now based in Nashville, Mike explores the stories behind traditional songs, the connections between folk music around the world and how old music continues to influence modern artists. We also discuss his unique "Crankenstein" instrument, musical curiosity, collecting songs from the past and the importance of keeping traditions alive for future generations.Chapters00:00 Introduction00:00:30 Growing Up in Canada00:02:20 Discovering Music & The Crankenstein00:04:10 The Story Behind The Crankenstein00:05:20 Drones, Folk Traditions & Ancient Music00:08:10 Learning Guitar & Performing Original Songs00:09:40 Accessing Traditional Music in the Digital Age00:11:20 Researching Music History00:12:10 Playing The Crankenstein Live00:14:00 Creating Atmospheric Sounds & Live Performance00:16:00 Traditional Songs & Musical Origins00:17:50 The Artists Influencing Mike Today00:19:20 Studying Philosophy & Creative Thinking00:22:00 Horror, Heavy Music & Folk Culture00:24:00 Scottish Heritage & Family History00:27:10 Final 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
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
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.
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.
Sherman Potatoe
Sherman Potatoe - Alternative Country & Americana Music From East Germany | Rugged Revival
Alternative Country and Americana from the land of the Krauts. With lyrics full of broken hearted and misery thoughts but with a glince to better times. Armed with a Banjo, Guitar and a voice like a yell over an Appalachian Holler. Dreaming of better days back in time and ahead.
Eli Howard
Eli Howard & The Greater Good - High-Energy Folk Rock from Oregon | Rugged Revival
Eli Howard, founder and lead vocalist of Eli Howard & The Greater Good is a folk singer who ended up with an electric guitar. The Greater Good is Nick Lambert, Mason Judson, and Nik Elliot; together, these hippies hail from Molalla, Oregon. Their music offers a unique experience, blending elements of country, rock, and Americana. With infectious hooks, lush harmonies, and introspective storytelling, the songs connect with listeners on an emotional level. Their performances are known for their high energy and engaging stage presence. The band is constantly on the road, touring the United States more than 300 days a year. From the vibrant energy of the dirty South to the grand stages of the biggest country music festivals in the West, their powerful and soul-stirring songs, such as "Wildfire," will captivate you and leave you breathless.
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.
Adara Kay
Adara Kay - Southern Oklahoma Country Rock Artist with Grit & High-Energy Sound | Rugged Revival
Born & Raised in Southern Oklahoma, Adara Kay found her grit and rock energy the first time she stepped on stage in 2018. Since then, she has perfected a high energy performance that watchers will remember down the road. She's been able to not only share the stage with other independent artists, but she's also been able to introduce new songwriters from other states into the Oklahoma music scene.Influenced by Country & Rock artists like Koe Wetzel, Giovannie & The Hired Guns, The Wight Lighters, Larkin Poe, Dorothy, and more, Adara Kay was inspired to put her spin on the genres to create a sense of freedom, carefree, and badass affirmations for all to appreciate.Adara Kay has 19 original songs out on all streaming platforms that offer different sounds to different audiences. Her first EP, "Why Not," (2020), has more country elements, while her last one, "Who I Am," (2021), showcases a heavier sound with a splash of steel slides. You can hear the growth of artistry in her newest releases, "Take a Chance on Me," & "Together."
Emily Woodhull
Emily Woodhull – Shenandoah Valley Alternative Country Singer-Songwriter | Rugged Revival
Emily Woodhull left the rush of city life behind for the quiet charm of a small Virginia town, where she found her voice in the stories and emotions of the Shenandoah Valley.With roots in the valley’s timeless beauty and a touch of alternative country, her music weaves vivid imagery with raw emotion. Whether she’s writing by lamplight or collaborating with Nashville’s finest, Emily crafts songs that feel like snapshots of life—authentic, heartfelt, and unforgettable.
Eddy Smith
Eddy Smith & The 507 – The Rising Stars of UK Americana, Country Soul & Blues | Rugged Revival
Captivating audiences with his unique, husky voice and tasteful piano accompaniment, Eddy Smith has been making his mark on the UK’s growing Americana scene. Widely recognised as one of the major male vocalists on the Country Soul and Blues circuit, his infectious melodies and soulful song-writing has drawn comparisons to the likes of Joe Cocker, JJ Grey and Marcus King to name a few. Backed by his long-time friends, they form the multinational five-piece, Eddy Smith & The 507. Their music, engulfed by rich vocal harmonies and gospel-like organ is reminiscent of a sound from way before their time. With an irresistible blend of various Americana styles, such as Blues, Soul, Country and Rock, the quintet take a leaf from the books of Nathaniel Rateliff, The Rolling Stones, The Eagles and countless other pioneers of their Genres. Deemed festival favourites since appearing on some of the UK's most prestigious stages, including The Isle of Wight Festival, Black Deer, The Long Road, Americana UK Festival, Cambridge Folk, The British Country Music Festival and more, along with prestigious support slots such as opening for George Thorogood & The Destroyers at Birmingham Symphony Hall, the band have gained recognition as 'ones to watch' on the UK Roots scene. Having sold out their debut album launch, along with a packed-out headline show at London's iconic The Jazz Cafe, international live performances including The USA and Europe, radio play and TV features, the band are well and truly on their way towards a bright future.
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.
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.
Kerri Lick
Kerri Lick – Texas Americana & R&B Artist
Roots Rhythm and blues crossed with a flare of Americana songwriter and a dash of Texas Country, a sound right out of a vintage record shop. Kerri Lick is a Texas based singer songwriter with a true diversity in writing that can find you grooving in the blues or riding along an interstate folksingers diary. Kerri Lick pulls sonic inspiration from the likes of Bonnie Rait, Susan Tadeschi, and Bobbie gentry. Kerri has been recognized amongst the Texas music scene as an emerging act to get behind. Having full band slots at 's iconic LJT music festival, Grapefest, Rymes and Vines, The Fort Worth Music Fest, The Mayors Ball in Oklahoma and River Front Blues Festival in Montana she is a show you would not want to miss. #texasmusicscene
Conrad Moore
Conrad Moore – Folk Stories of the Southern Working Man
Conrad Moore is a North Georgia native singer-songwriter who captures the soul of the working southern man. His songs have roots in folk storytelling which nod to the ups and downs of life, love, and the pursuit of happiness. All washed in hints of booze, half-truths, and motel rooms. His lyrics personify Mother Nature and her dance with Appalachia. The human condition and blue-collar woes are often his muses. Although his songs have no shortage of heartbreak and day to day strife. Conrad produces a relatable angst of a generation growing up within the confines of a flawed American dream. Not without hope, his music shares with us what's left to save about the southland.