In this deeply honest and illuminating episode of Songwriter Soup, Nashville songwriter Nell Maynard (“Opti-MYSTIC” Abbie Callahan, “Blueneck” Chris Housman, “Like A Boy” LEW) joins us for a wide-ranging conversation that challenges traditional music industry norms. From securing a highly unusual publishing deal that grants her 100% ownership of her writing and publishing with zero advance, to opening up about asking her parents for a "values-aligned investment" to replace her $14/hour side jobs, Nell offers a masterclass in transparency. The episode explores the stigma around financial privilege, why historical patronage of the arts is essential when DSPs underpay creators, how to stop over-booking writing calendars out of insecurity and the mindset of "Fear vs. Love.” Nell is full of wisdom and I’ll bet songwriters of all stages have something to learn from her. Enjoy this episode!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Blake Pendergrass (“Just In Case” Morgan Wallen, “Brunette” Tucker Wetmore, “ROCKSTAR” Hardy) is on the Songwriter Soup couch this week breaking down his bizarre entrance into the music industry-an emphatic push from his lawyer parents to skip normal people school and pursue music. Blake walks us thru the typical ten year town songwriter experience of waiting tables, finding community & cowriters doing the same thing, and that first song that gets the ball rolling. We talk “outside”songs (when artists cut songs they didn’t write), and Morgan Wallen, who cuts outside songs while a lot of artists won’t. How many songs does it takes to land one of those? Hint: it’s a lot!! We also break down toxic frugality, the fear that the money you finally made will disappear for no reason and with no explanation. Blake is a fabulous guest we hope you’ll enjoy this episode! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hit Songwriter, founder of Hope On The Row, and overall angel, Ava Suppelsa (“Better Me For You (Brown Eyes)” Max McKnown, “Critic” Avery Anna, “Salt, Lime & Tequila” Ryan Griffin) joins the trio on the couch this week. Ava is one of those people that knows how to human. From quitting a cushy record label job to clean up bachelorette 🍆 confetti in order to pursue her songwriter dream, to her first huge hit with Max McKnown, she approaches her journey with a sense of gratitude, humor and confidence that is simply inspiring. She is also the founder of Hope On The Row, a weekly outreach non-profit that feeds Nashville’s unhoused community, which has also become a place where songwriters can connect with each other while doing something good for humanity. What a bad b*tch! We love Ava and this episode.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mags Duval (“Ordinary” Alex Warren, “To Love Someone” Benson Boone, “Flame” Teddy Swims) has one of the most interesting songwriter stories we’ve ever heard on the podcast. Born with singular voice and style, she was meant for this from a very early age. In fact, her one and only song, managed to wow Nick Cannon, and jump start her career at thirteen years old (13!). But with all the luck and talent in the world, as it often does, it still took forever to hit. Mags describes the risks and pay offs of staying authentic to her own art making, the toggles between LA and Nashville and how to squeeze the most juice out of both, as well as a quick lesson in recoupment publishing deals (yikes), writing camps, pandemic delays and The Girls Of Nashville. She also walks us through what it’s like to have your first hit literally shift the earth’s crust under your feet (ever heard of a little song called “Ordinary”)? Songwriting is nuts, and this story is sure to give you hope, determination and renew your vows to staying true to yourself. Enjoy!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Artist and genuine songwriter advocate, Ashley McBryde (“Girl Goin Nowhere”, “Martha Divine,” “Bible and a .44”) pulls up some couch this week to bring a massive, unfiltered perspective to the pod.We go everywhere in this one—from Ashley's early days running loss prevention at Guitar Center and getting paid in chicken strips for writers' rounds. We discuss the difference between an artist and a star, as well as the multifaceted experience that comes with pandering to the radio... or not. But the real crux of this conversation is a heavy, unprotected look at the business side of the artist-writer relationship. The crew breaks down the critical necessity for new artists to negotiate earmarked master points for their songwriters before signing a major label deal (or any deal really!Indie deals, management deals, etc), and why having the humility to admit you don't actually know your own contract's point structure is (or how it works) might be the vital first step to fixing a broken ecosystem. Listen, learn, change it. IF THERE WERE MORE ASHLEY’s IN THE ARTIST WORLD, this could change EVERYTHING for us. This is a must listen for anyone in the music industry - artists, songwriters, label people, publishers, managers. We have to change the way we think about a song and its value or songwriters will not be able to afford to be where they belong—-in songwriter rooms. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ben Johnson (“All The Way” BigXThaPlug & Bailey Zimmerman, “TRUCK BED” Hardy, “Dying Man” Morgan Wallen) is on the pod this week to discuss family, outliers, finding co-writers and lawyers.We cover some new territory as it pertains to picking lawyers. We have sadly noticed how often the first lawyer you pick is a name you got from the person you actually negotiate against. We’re too trusting, my loves! Find your own lawyer.Ben is such a fabulous guest, writer and songwriter/publisher. His deals are different than the ones he signed and he explains why. We love Ben! Enjoy this episode.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, the Songwriter Soup crew interviews Lauren Hungate (“Holy Smokes” Bailey Zimmerman, “Break First” Tucker Wetmore, “The Aftermath” Carter Faith).We jump around from being a mom & songwriter at the same time, the ideal ballad to bop ratio, social media (friend or foe), discovering artists at the ground floor only to watch them end up in fancier rooms and how to handle that with poise.We also go hard on the use of AI in songwriting and its similarity to Covid (remember getting the Zoomies? — iykyk)…. By that we mean, both are bringing those of us who truly love the art of it to the forefront and how survival of the fittest is alive and well as we live through yet another challenging era for songwriters.We loved this conversation! We think you will too. Enjoy!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura collected, sifted, and solicited and we have  round of listener questions we’ll be addressing this week. We cover the most asked questions like how to get some decent song feedback, and where not to go for that. We discuss being socially awkward while networking, which feels like a curse for... some of us. We also discuss the delicate nature of songwriters existing in other parts of the music industry. Tricky! Anyhoo, enjoy this episode! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mike Robinson (“For The Rest Of Your Life” - Teddy Swims, “Umbrella” Fitz and The Tantrums, “4runner” Brenn!) joins the Songwriter Soup trio this week to discuss how being a no-brainer hit songwriter still involves a load of patience while you wait for the proof (a big ol fat hit) to show up.Mike shares his approach on his career as he makes his way through-continue to show up, kick ass (which he does with ease) and most importantly, have a fantastic time doing the job. We think this is the cocktail that can almost guarantee success at this stage of the game, so anyone on their way, but not quite there, would benefit from a listen to this episode.We also discuss some songwriter room dynamics never discussed on the pod.. like that moment when the song has soured and it’s time to maybe, sorta, kinda consider starting fresh. Enjoy this episode!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The crew is joined by Austin Goodloe (“Dandelion” Ella Langley, “Rocky Mountain Low” Corey Kent & Koe Wetzel, “I Can’t Love You Anymore" Ella Langley & Morgan Wallen) to discuss the difference between confidence and cockiness, obsession with music, and not letting tenure spoil the magic of this crazy career.Austin shares stories about how Jelly Roll helped get him signed to a publishing deal, how Ben Rector’s golf game taught him about career stamina and how being a producer is an advantage in the writing room, but also, how it can also put you in a position to be taken advantage of (that whole “sending stems” situation).The group was also joined by The Tennessean so if you’re here because of that article, welcome and enjoy this episode!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Producer and songwriter David Spencer parks it on the Soup couch this week, bringing a massive amount of cross-genre perspective, jumping from Christian radio hits like Katie Nichole’s "In Jesus Name" to producing a viral TikTok pop smash for Neoni, and even helming Jo Dee Messina’s highly anticipated upcoming return album.But before the chaotic six-week period in 2022 where his career exploded all at once, David lived a gruelling double life. He pulls back the curtain on the reality of the Nashville hustle: spending his mornings chasing cuts and his evenings running a private music lesson business, missing family dinners for almost a decade just to keep his dream afloat.The crew digs into the psychology of songwriting with a day job and the gut wrenching moment you decide to give up a steady income to lean into the dream.It’s a beautiful conversation about surviving the terrifying dips of the music business, why you have to wear multiple hats to survive, and the crucial difference between stubbornly "never giving up" and staying curious enough to just "keep going." See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week the trio sits down with the tallest man to ever enter the Songwriter Soup lair: producer and songwriter Paul DiGiovanni (“How Not To” Dan + Shay,  "The Ones That Didn’t Make It Back Home” Justin Moore, “Lose You” Jordan Davis).Paul’s journey is a masterclass in the winding road of the music industry, traversing from the height of 2000s emo with Boys Like Girls ("The Great Escape”) to the final frontier of guitars in Nashville. He pulls back the curtain on the raw reality of starting over from scratch - trading TRL interviews and Taylor Swift collabs for a two-bedroom house shared by four dudes in East Nashville. Paul shares his moving-the-dirt philosophy, reminding every new writer that you have to show up for the bad days if you ever want to strike gold.The crew digs into the nitty gritty of the producer-writer life, exploring why production feels a lot like getting a painful tattoo: a mix of initial excitement, mid-project agony, and a high that only hits once the ink (or the track) is dry.Between his swoopy-haired band roots and his country success, Paul has plenty of perspective (and tea!) on the music business. It’s a candid look at why you need "that dog" in you to survive the industry’s toxicity and why winning the day in the room is the only drug that keeps the real ones coming back.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we host songwriting couple (each a BMI Songwriters Of The Year of years past), Nicolle Galyon & Rodney Clawson.We cover the importance of acknowledging your “money scripts” - those things you knew to be true about money when you were a kid that you dragged into your adulthood. We also touch on that moment when success as a songwriter becomes a temptation to delve into different sides of the music industry.We cover how dynamics at home are affected when spouses bring identical work issues, triumphs and disappointments to the dinner table, and some theories on how to prevent your children from turning into assholes.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Producer and songwriter Gabe Simon (“Stick Season” Noah Kahan, “Blue Banisters” Lana Del Ray, “The Man That Came Back” Jessie Murph) shares his journey from driving Uber while on a publishing deal to producing career-defining records for Noah Kahan, Dermot Kennedy, and Lana Del Rey.This conversation explores the financial realities of the music business, the importance of community over competition, and how to build sustainable creative careers. Gabe and the crew delve into some new topics for Songwriter Soup, hope you enjoy. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trio de Songwriter Soup delve into art/business relationships and more on today’s episode. When it comes to a songwriter’s relationship with an artist, what is loyalty exactly? Is it a good thing? Is it a bad thing?Man, it sure can get tricky as people come and go (and come and go again). Holding too tightly and/or getting one’s feelings hurt can do damage, internally and externally. Let’s talk about it! But wait, are we even talking about songwriting? Totally.Are we talking about EVERYTHING? Perhaps? Either way, hope it helps!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dave Cohen (“Pray Hard”BigXThaPlug & Luke Combs, “Home” BigXThaPlug & Shaboozey, “Good Day For Living” Joe Nichols) is a previously full time touring musician, 5-time Academy of Country Music and 6-time Music Row Award-winning producer and multi-instrumentalist who pivoted to songwriting in recent years.There is so much to learn from Dave regarding expanding your toolbox, being a good collaborator and hang, and understanding those subtle hints that are pulling you towards a career path tweak.This episode covers the ever elusive music row imposter syndrome along with other music maker challenges, and how to treat the next generation better than the previous generation treated you. Enjoy this episode!Watch Dave's episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/k4qSLGVzApMListen to songs Dave's played on: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/dave-cohen-the-session-musicians/pl.fc1ef8b91a354a8aa76bb694b6242703See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week the crew is joined by ABSOLUTE LEGEND, artist and GRAMMY-winning songwriter Natalie Hemby (Kacey Musgraves "Rainbow", Miranda Lambert "White Liar", Little Big Town "Pontoon").The crew dives into that [very real] post-number-one depression, choosing family over touring, and getting pigeonholed as a songwriter. Natalie also shares the story of passing up writing "Shallow" with Lady Gaga and how she may be the only artist who doesn't want her own music to be "too successful".See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alysa Vanderheym (Rolling Up The Welcome Mat & Patterns Kelsea Ballerini, “Lose Somebody” Kygo & OneRepublic, “Hold On Me” Jelly Roll) gets into some big fat topics on the pod this week.The discussion covers craftsmanship, critical acclaim and the risks and advantages of artists who veer away from the radio and towards a finer art.The juiciest part of this episode BY FAR is when the crew talks about points, fees, the risk of sending around your production stems, and how easily songwriters get blacklisted for asking for things like participation in income streams aside from copyright royalties.This episode is chock full of sensitive and delicate topics, ones you’ll want to know more about before you’re in the middle of these dramas yourself.Knowing is truly half the battle, so let’s educate ourselves, kids! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Matt Dragstrem (“I’ll Name The Dogs” Blake Shelton, “What My World Spins Around” Jordan Davis, “Just To Say We Did” Kenny Chesney) is a guy you’d meet at a party and find out years later, he wrote all of your favorite country songs.Songwriter Soup is proud to platform the least braggy writer in all of music row and discuss his journey from Starbucks to staff writer and how someone without that self promotion bug makes they’re way thru this business successfully. We cover the value of noodling, keeping it light and staying the course.Enjoy this episode of Songwriter Soup!Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6OsHLYFgEqYSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tayla Parx (“7 rings” & thank u, next” Ariana Grande, “High Hopes” Panic! At The Disco, “Like JENNIE” JENNIE) joins the crew this week and this episode covers a LOT— the LA style publishing deal compared to a Nashville style deal, how to tailor your business set up to fit your life and lifestyle, and how to approach mentoring with the aim to better the culture and leave something sustainable behind. Tayla is a one and only human and a big picture thinker. Lots to learn here guys! Enjoy.Watch and subscribe on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@SongwriterSoupPodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ok, strap in guys, this will be the most entertaining episode of Songwriter Soup so far, and maybe forevermore. Laura’s prediction for future Songwriter Of The Year, Thomas Daniel, is on the podcast this week, representing (for now, and not for long) the middle class songwriter.By that we mean, Thomas is fully in the meat of ‘publishing deal land’ and hasn’t had that first big hit… YET (absolutely inevitable). His questions and perspectives help fill in some very crucial blanks in the Songwriter Soup ecosystem, and the trio is so grateful and happy to discuss them.This episode covers a ton about mentorship, particularly why hit songwriters sign up and coming songwriters, and how they maybe, kinda, sorta shouldn’t necessarily do that. It also addresses the future of the songwriting industry and the importance of financial literacy at all stages of the career.Enjoy this episode and prepare for sore abs, Thomas is one funny MFer.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ryan Hurd (“Heartless” Diplo feat. Morgan Wallen, “What My World Spins Around” Jordan Davis, “What If I Never Get Over You” Lady A) sits with the Songwriter Soup trio to talk brass tacks music industry business.Ryan describes the justifiable lure of releasing your own music exactly the way you like it, but helps fill in some blanks about how complicated, time consuming, FREAKING expensive and not-at-all-casual it is to switch from songwriter to artist.This episode breaks down so much of the nitty-gritty ins and outs of record deals, merch & touring and pulls back the curtain on the fiscal balancing act that is “doing an artist thing.” A MUST LISTEN if those words are in your periphery.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Grammy-winning songwriter and artist Brandy Clark (“Mama’s Broken Heart” Miranda Lambert, “Follow Your Arrow” Kacey Musgraves, Shucked on Broadway) has carved out one of the most respected careers in modern music. Brandy joins the Soup crew for a heartfelt conversation about trusting your instincts, recognizing those life-changing moments, and choosing purpose over pressure. From the Music Row to Broadway, this conversation weaves through the highs, the pivots, and the magic that comes with creating songs that truly mean something. 00:00 Introduction 01:20 Brandy Clark's Songwriting Journey 09:27 Some Love for Lindyville  27:59 Writing 'Follow Your Arrow', Appreciating Kacey Musgrave's 35:54 The Value of Music: Personal Impact vs. Mass Appeal 36:55 Balancing Creativity and Commercial Success 37:46 Iconic Songs 43:29 The Impact of Overworking Arists 46:39 The Joys and Struggles of Touring 01:01:25 SHUCKED! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Grammy-winning songwriter and artist Brandy Clark (“Mama’s Broken Heart” Miranda Lambert, “Follow Your Arrow” Kacey Musgraves, Shucked on Broadway) has carved out one of the most respected careers in modern music.Brandy joins the Soup crew for a heartfelt conversation about trusting your instincts, recognizing those life-changing moments, and choosing purpose over pressure. From the Music Row to Broadway, this conversation weaves through the highs, the pivots, and the magic that comes with creating songs that truly mean something.00:00 Introduction01:20 Brandy Clark's Songwriting Journey09:27 Some Love for Lindyville 27:59 Writing 'Follow Your Arrow', Appreciating Kacey Musgrave's35:54 The Value of Music: Personal Impact vs. Mass Appeal36:55 Balancing Creativity and Commercial Success37:46 Iconic Songs43:29 The Impact of Overworking Arists46:39 The Joys and Struggles of Touring01:01:25 SHUCKED!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Grammy winning hit songwriter, Shane McAnally (“Body Like A Back Road” Sam Hunt, “American Kids” Kenny Chesney, “Fancy Like” Walker Hayes) has achieved every imaginable accolade and is seen by the community (and most certainly, this Songwriter Soup crew) as one of the greatest songwriters of this era.The trio sits down with Shane for a candid conversation about how addicting the mountain top is, and how gratitude and service can hit like dopamine, if you allow yourself to pivot towards them. Enjoy this episode!Watch the full video & subscribe on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LSrAa7-AV9cSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Carrie Karpenin (“High Road” Koe Wetzel & Jessie Murph, “The Man That Came Back” Jessie Murph, “People Vs. Maryanne Sue” Devon Again) sits down with the SS crew this week to discuss the journey for girls in boy spaces (behind drum thrones and producer seats), the thrill and exhaustion of being a touring musician, and letting your cowriters remind you who you are.This episode covers the risk tenured writers take when lobbing well-placed insults at a newbie and the pain that can cause, how softness is an asset, and how important “taste” is when it comes to making music. Enjoy our conversation with the delightful, Carrie K!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The songwriting community lost one of its finest. Hall of Fame Songwriter, Brett James (Jesus Take The Wheel” Carrie Underwood, “On My Way To You” Cody Johnson, “Mr. Know-It-All” Kelly Clarkson) was known by so many of us as a remarkably open and loving human.He was a fierce songwriter rights advocate, and one of the biggest contributors to the American Songbook in this era. His accomplishments as a songwriter span decades and reach heights we all dream of, but pale in comparison to his kindness. May we all be remembered this way. This episode originally aired on September 9th, 2024.We’re re-releasing this episode of Songwriter Soup this week to celebrate the life of our dear friend, Brett James.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Grammy Award winning songwriter and producer, Jordan Reynolds (“Tequila, “Speechless” Dan + Shay & “10,000 Hours” Justin Bieber & Dan + Shay), joins the Songwriter Soup crew to discuss a songwriter’s search for a hero, A.I., studio aesthetics, and the subtle care that comes from making a slow cup of coffee for cowriters.Jordan, a music row staple and everyone’s favorite conversationalist, is a perfect way to start off season three-ever continued, now on YouTube!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Two time BMI songwriter of the year, Jesse Frasure (“Halfway To Hell” Jelly Roll, “Dirt On My Boots” Jon Pardi, “Marry Me” Thomas Rhett) closes out the spring season, as always, joined by the Songwriter Soup trio.This episode includes a candid conversation about the highs, the lows, the ease, the difficulty, and the jealousy that come standard with all of our songwriter dreams. Jesse opens up a candid conversation on how to ‘dismantle the bomb’ of driving yourself insane, worrying about things you absolutely can’t control.The group discusses the importance of keeping your ego in check without suppressing it entirely, and how to stay humble without turning humility into an inferiority complex. Complicated stuff!Enjoy this episode and we will be back in the fall! Love y'all! Listen to Jesse Frasure: The Songwriters Playlist on Apple MusicSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You might recognize today’s Songwriter Soup guest’s name and voice—Rob Ragosta (“Need A Favor” & “Winning Streak” Jelly Roll) is the brother of previous SS guest, Joe Ragosta! On this episode the group talks about family, community and how important the maintenance of both can help keep your head on straight through the ups, downs, highs and lows of the songwriter grind. It also covers the delicate balance of ego and humility and the wisdom of not looking down at anyone, or looking too far up at anyone either. The road is long, friends you never can tell where everyone ends up! Best to be a kind person to everyone. Enjoy this episode of The Soup!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on Songwriter Soup, the trio is joined by Nashville producer and songwriter, Trent Willmon. This episode covers a wealth of information about production, vocals, and why Trent is open (and even excited!) to record outside songs with his frequent collaborator, Cody Johnson. For those of you who don’t know, an outside song is a song that an artist cuts without being on the copyright. There are a thousand reasons why that is going out of style and a thousand reasons why it shouldn’t. The discussion also meanders around studio etiquette, covering the subtle art of working with artists in the vocal booth and how incredible Nashville’s studio cats are. Enjoy!  Trent Willmon: The Songwriters Playlist on Apple MusicSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, the Songwriter Soup trio is joined by the incredible Connie Harrington (“I Drive Your Truck” Lee Brice, “Mine Would Be You” Blake Shelton, “No Caller ID” & “Bless Your Heart” Megan Moroney). No shortage of wisdom, truth bombs and tears on this episode, y’all. Connie has seen it all and managed to stay, not just relevant, but bar-setting every damn time she gets one to stick to the wall.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Songwriter Soup crew sits down with FBMM’s own, Erica Rosa, lovingly and accurately known as the “royalty guru", to explore how money flows through the music industry. While originally set to focus on publishing royalties (this is a songwriter podcast after all), things naturally veered right to the actual beginning. How does music make money from the tippy top down? Erica offers a clear breakdown, from streaming and physical sales to touring and bundling strategies. Y’all should get a clear picture of the financial pressures on both artists and labels, and perhaps an explanation of the ongoing tension between fair compensation and business sustainability in the music industry The episode also navigates the intricacies of artist-label relationships, producer deals, and the often-misunderstood world of points, net receipts, and profit splits.  Songwriters, this one is a must listen. If we are ever going to fix it, we have to understand it. Start here!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Seth Ennis (“The Boys Back Home” Dylan Marlowe & Dylan Scott, “She Drives Away” Jon Pardi, “Hooked” Dylan Scott, “Tough To Tie Down” Jordan Davis) joins The Soup gang to discuss the challenges of going from an artist who writes great songs to a full time hit songwriter and the importance of friendship as you make your way up the ranks.Seth and Laura clear up an adorable ten year old work snafu, and coo over how amazing this songwriting community is.This episode is full of warm feelings and goodness while the four discuss work/life balance, reinventing yourself, and rising with the crew you came in with. Seth Ennis: The Songwriters Playlist on Apple MusicSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

To celebrate Kelly Archer’s recent two-week country number one, “I’m Gonna Love You” (Cody Johnson & Carrie Underwood), we thought we’d re-release our interview with our girl, Kelly! Enjoy one of our favorite episodes of Songwriter Soup.Kelly Archer (“Sleep Without You” Brett Young, “Wild As Her” Corey Kent, “Somebody Else Will” Justin Moore) explains what it’s like to write songs in Nashville before and after becoming a U.S. Citizen. Tricky!Kelly's story is a wild one with high stakes and time limits, making her one of Nashville’s most steadfast and determined songwriters.This episode covers writing songs on work visas and how that intertwines with being signed to publishing deals. Kelly sets a shining example for songwriters to know their own worth, negotiate accordingly, while riding the ups and downs of this fickle career path.The Songwriters: Kelly Archer Playlist on Apple MusicSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Steph Jones (“Espresso” & “Nonsense” Sabrina Carpenter, “hole in the bottle” Kelsea Ballerini, “People You Know” Selena Gomez) might actually be the songwriting community’s most easiest to love songwriter.The Soup Crew learns all about Steph’s interest in scents and how it finds it’s way into her songwriting career, and the path she took through the praise and worship world that led her to a hits in pop and country.Steph definitely has wisdom to share. Her work ethic, combined with a “maybe yes maybe no” philosophy, establishes a buoyant energy in the writing room, and lets the universe take it from there.This episode also touches on songwriter rights and how we should ALL (gently) be asking for more. Enjoy this one!Listen to Steph Jones: The Songwriters playlist on Apple MusicSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Replay, baby! Nashville's on Spring Break this week, so enjoy this oldie-but-goodie. It's full of great nuggets. We'll see you next week with a new episode!Break-ups are never easy, especially when it comes to co-writing. This week, our hosts examine the reasons it may be necessary to say goodbye to a collaborator and how to do it with care. The trio also talks about the virtues of Nashville’s even split policy, writing non-exclusionary lyrics, and what to do when you feel like your songs are getting worse.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Devin Dawson (“God’s Country” Blake Shelton, “The Difference” Tyler Rich, “All On Me” Devin Dawson) is our second songwriter artist guest on Songwriter Soup. Devin walks the crew through how cockiness (hmmm... confidence) helped him boldly switch lifestyles throughout his music career, jumping from garage death metal band to Belmont University student to country artist and hit songwriter.He unpacks the challenge and beauty of his experience with a spasmodic dysphonia diagnosis that forced him to pivot once again, away from his artist career.The Soup also gets a little song nerdy discussing craft and form, and Tracy, Laura & Kevin learn a bit about artist deals and how it may affect the writing room. Lots to learn. There will be a part 2 for sure. Enjoy part 1!Devin Dawson's Artist Page on Apple MusicDevin Dawson: The Songwriters Playlist on Apple MusicSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Insurance is about the most boring topic on the planet. But! It’s also crucial that small business owners understand how it works, and how to make it work for you as you barrel into the future. In this episode, Tracy finishes out his financial planning strategy by putting a solid floor under those buckets with various types of insurance.The crew also discusses Music Health Alliance, an incredible resource for music people, and some other juicy insurance life hacks, like how to save money and get better care when your health insurance sucks.Between the buckets episode and this one, you should sleep soundly at night knowing your future is as secure as it can be!Music Health AllianceSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Driver Williams (“Smoke A Little Smoke” Eric Church, “Days That End In Why” Morgan Wallen, “Back 40 Back” Luke Combs), son of publisher & former head of BMI, Jody Williams, has always known exactly what a songwriter is.This week on Songwriter Soup, the trio talks to Driver about what it was like to grow up in the thick of the Nashville songwriter scene, leaving it to follow his love of heavy metal, how that love somehow led him to Eric Church and the breadcrumb trail that brought him back home. What a wild story! Enjoy. Driver Williams: The Songwriters Playlist on Apple MusicLaura Veltz: The Songwriters Playlist on Apple MusicSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This episode is undoubtedly one of the pillars of Songwriter Soup so, please do not miss it. Tracy takes the wheel this week as he explains the system through which he organizes, manages and grows other people’s wealth.The trio discusses Tracy’s famous buckets (short, mid and long term savings), as well as conventional wisdom most people use that, turns out, might be a less effective strategy for growing wealth.This episode also covers the sometimes inaccurate, and often damaging, use of the word “retirement”, particularly in creative jobs like songwriting.As heady and nerdy as this all sounds, it’s actually dripping in psychology so buckle up (bucket up?), this one might change the way you look at your money.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trio de Songwriter Soup delve into art/business relationships and more on today’s episode. When it comes to a songwriter’s relationship with an artist, what is loyalty exactly? Is it a good thing? Is it a bad thing?Man, it sure can get tricky as people come and go (and come and go again). Holding too tightly and/or getting one’s feelings hurt can do damage, internally and externally. Let’s talk about it! But wait, are we even talking about songwriting? Totally.Are we talking about EVERYTHING? Perhaps? Either way, hope it helps!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Songwriter and producer, Andrew DeRoberts (“Somebody To Love” One Republic, “All Night” Brothers Osborne, “The Weekend” Brantley Gilbert) joins the trio to share his signature brand of calm with us all.This episode deep dives into staying comfortable in the uncomfortable moments in a writing room, which everyday parts of this weird job are actually the most fulfilling, how delayed gratification serves you, and when not to sell a catalog.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Soup Trio has a special guest on today - Dr. Death himself, and one of Nashville’s most esteemed estate planning gurus, Jeff Mobley. Why so morbid, you ask? Well, people with intellectual property (songwriters and art makers) should have a particular interest in making sure all of your creations, and the income they generate or could generate one day, ends up in the right hands. Nobody wants to talk about this stuff. To Jeff's point though, the moment you have a kid, you absolutely should be thinking about this stuff, no matter what you do for a living. We have a feeling you’ll be glad you listened to this one, even if you think you’re too young to talk about it.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Josh Osborne (“Sand In My Boots” Morgan Wallen, “Body Like A Back Road” Sam Hunt, “Merry Go Round” Kacey Musgraves) joins the Songwriter Soup crew this week reminding us all of how to keep it stellar as a writer and keep it simple as a human. This episode was recorded the day and maybe even the moment he was nominated for yet another Grammy for “The Architect” by Kacey Musgraves. He walks us through the many failed publishing deals it took to get him to his first hit, how doing the math from the very beginning is still benefiting his life and how laughter is the best thing in the world. This man is so freakin' funny. Ok, enjoy! Listen to Josh's songwriter playlist on Apple Music: Josh Osborne: The SongwritersSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tom Douglas is back! The trio is thrilled to have Tom on Songwriter Soup for a second time. As if the world’s problems weren’t solved on part 1, the crew manages to cover some new concepts that with undoubtedly assist the new and established songwriter in their journey through this privileged world of songwriting. What does the mountain top look like from both sides? Did the team get you there or what is just you? How do you keep your equilibrium before and after success? Those are just some of the topics covered this week on the soup. Enjoy! Listen to Tom's songwriter playlist on Apple Music: Tom Douglas: The SongwritersSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tracy is absent today, but Laura and Kevin are soupin’ it, chatting with hit songwriter Trannie Anderson (“Heart Like A Truck”, “Wildflowers and Wild Horses” & “Whirlwind” Lainey Wilson, “3 Feet Tall” Cole Swindell). The three talk first publishing deals, the importance of mentors, and balancing hobbies with work. They also delve into some insights into the dynamics and challenges for female songwriters in country music, and how we might be seeing some signs that things are changing! Hallafreakinlujah!Listen to Trannie's songwriter playlist on Apple Music: Trannie Anderson: The SongwritersSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The trio delves into a few songwriting practices that can help you feel your feelings and unlock your creativity. Tracy also helps unpack why he doesn’t get investment antsy during big shifts like elections, and how you too can stay chill about your investments no matter what is going on in the world. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tom Douglas (“The House That Built Me” Miranda Lambert, “Meanwhile Back At Mamas” Tim McGraw, “I Run To You” Lady A) does what he does best on Songwriter Soup. With his signature eloquence and vulnerability, the patriarch of music row explains what held him back from pursuing his natural calling until his forties. We talk about the powerful effect of our parents voices in our heads, the role of pain as a songwriter’s most effective tool, and how many songs it takes to turn this creative pursuit into a business. Tom's songwriter Playlist on Apple Music: The Songwriters: Tom DouglasSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The trio is joined this week by hit songwriter, Brett James (“Jesus Take The Wheel” Carrie Underwood, “Mr. Know It All” Kelly Clarkson, “Out Last Night” Kenny Chesney). Brett takes us through his on again, off again relationship with medical school interwoven between record deals and publishing deals, culminating in a surprise season of hits. The crew discusses how to manage your expectations through seasons of ups and downs, enjoying the mentor position in a room with younger writers, and the future of superstardom in the streaming era. Listen to Brett James' songwriter playlist on Apple Music:Brett James: The SongwritersSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Laura, Tracy & Kevin are joined by Laura’s songwriter manager, Hannah Babitt on Songwriter Soup. The crew attempts to breakdown the multitude of ways that the industry at large might consider compensating songwriters in the streaming era. They delve into the contrasts between Nashville and LA systems, the significance of transparent communication, when and when not to put your foot down, and the delicate balance of maintaining relationships while fostering industry-wide change. This episode is a candid look at the real-time shifts and the thoughtful minds spearheading these transformations.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, hit songwriter Amy Wadge (“Thinking Out Loud” Ed Sheeran, “Consequences” Camila Cabello, “Wonder Woman” Kacey Musgraves) brought her signature eloquence and lovable nature to the Soup. She shares her perspectives on being a woman in the songwriting world, how important it is to have people around you who believe in you, and her long distance relationship with her career in songwriting, which for her, involves regular travel overseas. We cover the harrowing chapter of her life during which she and Ed Sheeran were involved in a high profile copyright lawsuit for “Thinking Out Loud”, and we talk thru a few measures songwriters can take to prevent some of these lawsuits from happening in the first place.Amy Wadge: The Songwriters Playlist on Apple MusicFollow Amy Wadge on InstagramSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We're back! After taking the summer off, Laura, Tracy and Kevin are getting back in the saddle with an episode dedicated to you, the listener, answering questions straight out of Laura's DMs. We're talking pay-to-play publishing, coveting that perfect song idea, and whether or not Nashville is the right place for your songs.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of Music City’s matriarchs, Liz Rose (“You Belong With Me” Taylor Swift, “Girl Crush” Little Big Town, “Burn It Down” Parker McCullum) is here for the long haul. Her tips and tricks for how to hang in there and focus on the love of the job are evergreen, just like her hits.Liz's Songwriter Playlist on Apple MusicWritten By Liz Rose Playlist on SpotifyThe Love Junkies Songbook on Apple MusicSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chris DeStefano brings a rare set of skills to the writer's room. Trained in film scoring at Berklee, Chris's knowledge of musical mechanics allows him to break out of ruts in writing sessions and infuse his songs with depth and gravitas. From singing in a boys choir in Austria, to session work in LA, to playing in a Salsa band in Las Vegas, to writing hits for Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood, Chris's story proves of one of our favorite themes on this podcast: no matter where your songwriting journey takes you, nothing is wasted.Chris's Songwriter Playlist on Apple MusicWritten By Chris DeStefano on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are you still with us? If you've made it this far into our Catalog Sale deep dive, congratulations, you're a superstar. In the third installment of this series, Tracy's back to give his take on Mike Molinar's master class, we dig further into multiples and admin rights, and wax poetic on the game of commodifying art.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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The catalog sale saga continues! This week we're joined by Mike Molinar (Big Machine Music president and Laura's publisher) to give a publisher's perspective on catalog sales in 2024. Mike walks us through the terminology used in these negotiations and shares insights into some of the stress-inducing misinformation that permeates songwriter circles.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Songwriter, multi-instrumentalist & producer, Daniel Tashian (Kacey Musgraves Albums Golden Hour, Star Crossed & Deeper Well) took the long way around to massive success. Like many of us, his musicality was simply way ahead of its time. On purpose or by accident, Daniel managed to stick it out long enough to witness his own Golden Hour and we are all better for it.Daniel's Songwriter Playlist on Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/daniel-tashian-the-songwriters/pl.ec6a5197166b4843b60c23882049dd5dWritten By Daniel Tashian Playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1EFRijbNtegdy8See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Strap in, y'all. We're diving into the intricate world of the Catalog Sale. While it's tempting to dream about cashing out and buying an island at 27, it's really important to know how these agreements happen, how much they're worth and when you may *actually* be ready for one in the first place. In the first part of our Catalog Sale mini-series, Laura details her experience selling her first catalog including timing, finding the right buyer and the importance of financial independence in the negotiating process.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Songwriter & lead singer of The Cadillac Three, Jaren Johnston ("5 Foot 9" Tyler Hubbard, "Raise Em Up" Keith Urban feat. Eric Church, "Meanwhile Back At Mama's" Tim McGraw) knows how to pull a heartstring but can not help but put his southern rock energy into his songs. With a rock essence you can clearly sense from his contribution to the country genre, Jaren helps pull our platform somewhere new AND classic at the the same time. This episode covers subjects like how to exude confidence without being an asshole, how to make your demos distinguishable from the many many others that publishers and artists receive, and learning from and emulating the greats.Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1EFKx58A9dYOFh?si=ac60772c71944cb6See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Big Machine Music general manager (and Laura’s publisher) Mike Molinar joins the podcast to talk about his philosophy on songwriter-publisher relationships. Mike shares his advice to young songwriters, the nitty-gritty of publishing deals, and how understanding the structure of those deals is the vital to your success.Mike Molinar brings over twenty-five years of experience as a music publisher and advocate for creatives to lead the publishing vertical of HYBE America and the sister company of the Big Machine Label Group.Molinar, who was named one of Billboard’s Country Power Players each of the last three years (‘20-‘22), oversees all aspects of BMM which was named 2021 Publisher of the Year by the Association of Independent Music Publishers Nashville. BMM has been ranked as a Billboard Top 10 Hot Country Publishing Corp for six years running.With offices in Nashville and Santa Monica, BMM’s roster includes the 2023 nominee for the inaugural Grammy Songwriter of the Year (non-classical) Laura Veltz, as well as hitmakers Jessie Jo Dillon, Geoff Warburton, Ryan Hurd, Matt Dragstrem, Sara Davis, Eric Paslay, Brett Young and Maddie & Tae, among others. The catalog features such global hits as “abcdefu”, “The Bones”, “10,000 Hours,” “In Case You Didn’t Know” and 11 #1 hits co-written and recorded by Luke Combs.Molinar was named one of the 2021 Nashville cohorts for Harvard Business School’s Young American Leaders Program. He is currently serving his 2nd term on the board of the National Music Publisher Association as well as a member of the Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC) board. He also serves as a board member for the Academy of Country Music, Music Health Alliance and sits the Country Music Hall Of Fame Education Council. Molinar was named a Rider Scholar while attending Westminster Choir College in Princeton, N.J. He graduated from Middle Tennessee State University in 1998 where he was inducted into the College of Media and Entertainment’s Wall of Fame in 2021. He is a graduate of Leadership Music (2015) and a member of the CMA, ACM, AIMP and Recording Academy.Born and raised in El Paso, Texas, Molinar is a second generation immigrant of Mexican descent. He and his wife, Amanda, are proud parents of two young boys.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, Mike Elizondo ("In da Club" 50 Cent, "The Real Slim Shady" Eminem, "Cowboy Casanova" Carrie Underwood, The Encanto Soundtrack with Lin-Manuel Miranda) is simply synonymous with modern music. The trio sits down with Mike to discuss his studio environment and energy, and how it puts his co-creators at ease, and at what points in his career he had to stand up for his value. This episode also goes into detail about the difference between a track guy and a writer-producer, and how Mike’s desire for a better work/life balance, along with a curiosity for expanding his understanding of songwriting, led him to move to Nashville.https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/mike-elizondo-the-producers/pl.a56f1838e5c34595abb9dc416ecf0a38https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1qjLC064PnRWeyvOAPJH6R?si=8SkL_uGKTsmqhK7TiONR8w&pi=u-xFlICarcRx20Instagram: @mikeelizondojrSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What’s blocking you? This week, the trio discusses this ironic possibility: it might be that you’re taking this dream job a little too seriously. We all do it! At all stages, in fact. Take breaks, change the subject, nerd out on other people’s hits, or do songwriter exercises— Laura discussed many of her favorite ways to shake her brain loose. This episode also covers whether you need to suffer for your art— many people believe they do. Listen for our take on that and other tips on feeling like a success even when you’re blocked.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week’s episode, Laura, Tracy & Kevin sit down with one of Laura’s best friends, critically acclaimed hit songwriter, Jessie Jo Dillon (“10,000 Hours” Dan & Shay, Justin Beiber, “Halfway To Hell” Jelly Roll, “Lies, Lies, Lies” Morgan Wallen). The group gets candid about shaking off the resistance to following in her legendary dad’s songwriter footsteps, the dangers of not being happy for your peers, and the difference between fomo and jealousy. Jessie Jo is an incredible resource when it comes to knowing what the view looks like from the top, and gracefully finding your way back into the joy of the daily songwriter grind.https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1EFENnraVV8K2W?si=43f2856f40c64a59Instagram: @jessiejodillonSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Songwriters always blame themselves (or the song) when something stops the process of it becoming a hit. But does it have anything to do with the song? Most of the time, IT DOES NOT. On this week’s episode, the trio discusses how many people and entities cause those interruptions and all of the millions of ways a perfect song can end up in a proverbial trash can. It feels like injustice! It feels like agony! But in the end, it’s just a part of the songwriter business. This is an important listen for anyone who hates rejection (um…. all of us).See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura’s sister and fellow hit songwriter, Allison Veltz Cruz (“Prayed For You” Matt Stell, “Somebody Like That” Tenille Arts, “Let Your Boys Be Country” Jason Aldean) joins the trio for a candid conversation about the sisters’ unique childhood and what lead them to songwriting after their family band broke up. They discuss Allison’s particular brand of hustle, how her personality informed her initial money management style, and what drew her to Nashville.Listen to Allison’s music on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1EFSoEuClhQZiW?si=d06a01d209724317Listen to Allison’s music on Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/allison-veltz-cruz-the-songwriters/pl.6748139a1ef0436a893fada8acf0d4cfInstagram: @allisonveltzcruzSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kevin, Laura and Tracy delve into the initial humility that it takes to learn the craft of commercial songwriting by unlearning how you did it before. Ouch! It takes a minute and it feels weird for a bit, but it gets better! After the craft settles in, your uniqueness returns to you and THAT is when the magic happens. The trio discuss the intricate art of communicating to a larger audience, the joy of being behind the scenes, and remaining a student as music evolves.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ashley Gorley has a literal bajillion hits. He’s also got a thriving publishing company in Tape Room Music. With so much success it’s easy to overlook the fact that it took Ashley eleven years to score his first hit. But thanks to his deep connection to the community and the key investment from mentors, Ashley was prepared to ride it out. It also helped that his early measures of success consisted of little more than writing “songwriter” on his tax forms and having working air conditioning.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What is stealing anyway? In the songwriting world, there are a million ways it can happen. Sometimes (but rarely) it’s quite blatant, and sometimes it’s as innocent as forgetting you wrote the same concept in a different room two years ago. The fact is, it happens. There can be big consequences that can tank your reputation and your finances, but all of it is pretty much avoidable if handled right. This week, Laura lays down a few simple rules to keep you out of proverbial songwriter jail and maybe prevent or soften the blow of a costly lawsuit.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Emily Weisband (“Thy Will” Hillary Scott, “Boy With Luv” BTS, “Can’t Break Up Now” Old Dominion & Megan Moroney) is one of those people who just billows talent. Even though she moved to Nashville to become a songwriter, it didn’t take any time at all before people started trying to convince her that she should do “the artist thing.” This episode covers a topic that plagues so many of us and Emily articulates beautifully how tricky it is to navigate. If you’re a songwriter out there wondering if being an artist is for you, take a listen.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

So, you just scored your first hit song! Time to buy a boat, a big house and that Rolex you’ve been eyeing, right? Not so fast. You can still have fun, but it might be a minute before the next big one comes around so let’s breathe and do some future planning. This week the gang breaks down what a “hit” actually means, how much it might be worth and how to manage the money it makes you properly.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Joe Ragosta scored his first big hit (“Need A Favor” Jellyroll) just a few weeks before this episode was recorded. Joe brings big energy to the writing room and any other room he walks into. It’s that energy that has propelled Joe through years of slogging it out on the road with bands, commuting to Nashville from Long Island, and securing writes with one of the best bluffs we’ve ever heard. Strap in y'all, this is a fun one.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura, Tracy and Kevin expand on the idea that even if you have a publishing deal, you're still very much the sole proprietor of your own business. Tracy gives a tutorial on how to divide up your income so that when tax day comes, you have all your bases covered. He also lays out some best practices for avoiding debt, systematic saving and maintaining a realistic viewpoint of your financial progress. Laura gives a play by play on how all this money stuff feels in real time from songwriter’s perspective, and how these financial choices can affect your creativity in the short and long run.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Kelly Archer (“Sleep Without You” Brett Young, “Wild As Her” Corey Kent, “Somebody Else Will” Justin Moore) explains what it’s like to write songs in Nashville before and after becoming a U.S. Citizen. Tricky! Kelly's story is a wild one with high stakes and time limits, making her one of Nashville’s most steadfast and determined songwriters. This episode covers writing songs on work visas and how that intertwines with being signed to publishing deals. Kelly sets a shining example for songwriters to know their own worth, negotiate accordingly, while riding the ups and downs of this fickle career path.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This episode highlights one of the easiest ways to ruin what could otherwise be a really fun and fulfilling career choice: expectations. The trio talk awards and the impact they can have on your career, finances and mental health.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jordan Schmidt ("wait in the truck" HARDY & Lainey Wilson, "God's Country" Blake Shelton, "What Ifs” Kane Brown) talks to Laura and Tracy about his journey from producing rock bands in Minnesota, to getting in on the ground floor of Florida Georgia Line’s publishing company, Tree Vibez Music, all the way to writing smashes for Jason Aldean, Blake Shelton and Kane Brown. This candid conversation covers a few particular challenges that a lot of professional songwriters deal with; i.e. being bad with money, struggling to break into the scene, and the pressure to repeat success once you find it.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura, Tracy and Kevin kick off Season 2 by diving head first where we left off in season one: publishing deals. Specifically, the gang gets into what a publishing deal actually is and the relationship between publisher and songwriter. They break down why a draw feels like a salary (but isn't!), the subtle art of calendar management, and how money flows once a song gets out there in the world.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lori McKenna became a songwriter almost by accident. In this episode she joins Laura and Tracy to talk about her super unusual entrance into the Nashville music scene. Lori details how Faith Hill heard and recorded several of her songs before she had a publishing deal, how she balances living in Boston and working in Nashville, and why no expectations are the best expectations.Over the last three decades, as she became a wife and mother of five, Lori McKenna has also emerged as one of the most respected, prolific singer-songwriters in popular music. On her latest release, The Balladeer, Lori McKenna is offering her most uplifting and up-tempo album in a catalog that spans 20 years. Produced by GRAMMY award winning Dave Cobb and recorded in Nashville’s historic Studio A, The Balladeer follows an incredible stretch of career momentum, including two consecutive Grammy wins as a songwriter for Best Country Song – Little Big Town’s “Girl Crush” and Tim McGraw’s “Humble and Kind.” She has been nominated for the award four other times, most recently with Taylor Swift’s “I Bet You Think About Me,” which features Chris Stapleton and was released in 2021 on her re-recorded album, Red (Taylor’s Version).In 2016, she made history by becoming the Academy of Country Music’s first female Songwriter of the year and in 2017, she became the first female ever to win the Country Music Association’s Song of the Year award two years in a row. Yet her success doesn’t stop there. McKenna co-wrote Lady Gaga’s “Always Remember Us This Way,” which was featured in the Academy Award-winning 2018 film, A Star Is Born, and was also nominated for Grammy Song of the Year in 2020. She has written songs for a multitude of other award-winning artists including Miranda Lambert, Carrie Underwood, Sara Bareilles, Faith Hill, Hunter Hayes, Reba McEntire, and more.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Big Machine Music general manager (and Laura’s publisher) Mike Molinar joins the podcast to talk about his philosophy on songwriter-publisher relationships. Mike shares his advice to young songwriters, the nitty-gritty of publishing deals, and how understanding the structure of those deals is the vital to your success.Mike Molinar brings over twenty-five years of experience as a music publisher and advocate for creatives to lead the publishing vertical of HYBE America and the sister company of the Big Machine Label Group.Molinar, who was named one of Billboard’s Country Power Players each of the last three years (‘20-‘22), oversees all aspects of BMM which was named 2021 Publisher of the Year by the Association of Independent Music Publishers Nashville. BMM has been ranked as a Billboard Top 10 Hot Country Publishing Corp for six years running.With offices in Nashville and Santa Monica, BMM’s roster includes the 2023 nominee for the inaugural Grammy Songwriter of the Year (non-classical) Laura Veltz, as well as hitmakers Jessie Jo Dillon, Geoff Warburton, Ryan Hurd, Matt Dragstrem, Sara Davis, Eric Paslay, Brett Young and Maddie & Tae, among others. The catalog features such global hits as “abcdefu”, “The Bones”, “10,000 Hours,” “In Case You Didn’t Know” and 11 #1 hits co-written and recorded by Luke Combs.Molinar was named one of the 2021 Nashville cohorts for Harvard Business School’s Young American Leaders Program. He is currently serving his 2nd term on the board of the National Music Publisher Association as well as a member of the Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC) board. He also serves as a board member for the Academy of Country Music, Music Health Alliance and sits the Country Music Hall Of Fame Education Council. Molinar was named a Rider Scholar while attending Westminster Choir College in Princeton, N.J. He graduated from Middle Tennessee State University in 1998 where he was inducted into the College of Media and Entertainment’s Wall of Fame in 2021. He is a graduate of Leadership Music (2015) and a member of the CMA, ACM, AIMP and Recording Academy.Born and raised in El Paso, Texas, Molinar is a second generation immigrant of Mexican descent. He and his wife, Amanda, are proud parents of two young boys.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Luke Dick joins Laura and Tracy for a candid and sprawling look at money, songwriting, creativity and family. Luke’s winding path has led him through academics, warehouse jobs, an artist deal, songwriting, producing, and movie-making. Ultimately he’s emerged as one of the most unique and sought-after songwriter/producers in Nashville. His approach to money puts creativity front and center. His humor and vulnerability make him one of the most engaging guests on the show so far. Luke Dick was raised in a topless bar and grew up to be a philosophy professor; now he's a songwriter, filmmaker, producer, and new wave bandleader, in no particular order. He has been profiled in Rolling Stone and written chart-topping and award-winning hits such as Miranda Lambert's "Bluebird”, Dierks Bentley’s “Burning Man”, and Eric Church’s “Kill A Word”, among many others. He also spent some time in NYC writing jingles for HBO’s Boardwalk Empire and Hilton hotels. He now lives in Nashville with his two kids, and recently sent another off to college. He enjoys long walks from his backdoor to his garage and has an extensive record and beef jerky collection.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Break-ups are never easy, especially when it comes to co-writing. This week, our hosts examine the reasons it may be necessary to say goodbye to a collaborator and how to do it with care. The trio also talks about the virtues of Nashville’s even split policy, writing non-exclusionary lyrics, and what to do when you feel like your songs are getting worse.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Laura and Tracy are joined by songwriter Andy Albert. He details his humble beginnings in Nashville living with multiple roommates in a run-down house, struggling to get a publishing deal and nearly throwing in the towel. Spoiler alert: he sticks it out eventually scores a bunch of hits. Though his success is inspiring on its own, his openness about the difficult times makes this one of the most relatable interviews yet.Andy Albert is a Nashville-based singer/songwriter originally from Roswell, Georgia. Since moving to town in 2011 he has co-written 150+ songs for various Country, rock, and pop artists. Notable cuts include Dustin Lynch “Thinking ‘Bout You” (6-week #1 and Billboard’s longest running top-10 in Country Airplay chart history) and “Good Girl”, Blake Shelton “She’s Got A Way With Words”, Dan+Shay’ “Steal My Love”, Mitchell Tenpenny “Anything She Says” and current single “We Got History”, Hardy “Rednecker”. He has also written songs for Tim McGraw, Kid Rock, Carrie Underwood, LANY, and many others. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This in this episode, Laura, Tracy and Kevin continue down the path of the new-to-town songwriter. The trio digs into the importance of giving and receiving criticism, the beauty of an imperfect writers round performance and the many virtues of cowriting. Tracy shares how his gig at a bike shop lead to joining the band Bare Jr. and Laura tells the story of the time a publisher calling her “chicken sh*t” saved her from pursuing the wrong career in the music business.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Laura and Tracy sit down with songwriter, producer and publisher Luke Laird. Luke talks the magic of writers’ rounds, being reluctant to ask for help, letting go of jealousy and the nitty gritty details of his early publishing deals. Laura also shares the story of a pivotal moment that lead to her being a songwriter.Ferocious talent, wit, and sincere humility rarely come together like they do in Grammy winner Luke Laird. Since moving to Nashville from a small farming town in Pennsylvania, Laird has become one of country and pop’s top songwriters and producers. The numbers are staggering: 52 radio singles –– 24 of which were Billboard No. 1 hits and 5 of which were in the Top 5 –– 2 Billboard No. 1 singles as a producer, and more than 125 released cuts fill his catalog. In four separate years, every single released that Laird wrote peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard charts. He earned ACM Songwriter of the Year honors in 2015, and was named BMI Songwriter of the Year in 2012. As a producer, Laird has helped shape some of music’s most critically acclaimed projects of the last decade. He co-produced Kacey Musgraves’ 2013 debut, Same Trailer, Different Park, which garnered Grammy honors for Best Country Album and an ACM Album of the Year win. In 2015, he returned to the studio with Musgraves to co-produce her triumphant sophomore release, Pageant Material. Laird earned his second Grammy for Best Country Song with Musgraves’ “Space Cowboy” in 2019. He also has producer credits on Thomas Rhett, Ingrid Michaelson, Brett Eldredge, Steve Moakler, Everette, Kassi Ashton, Anna Vaus and more. A slew of Grammy, ACM, CMA, and other nominations line Laird’s resume, which also includes six CMA Triple Play Awards, four NSAI “Songs I Wish I’d Written” Awards, the 2012 BMI Country Song of the Year trophy for Rodney Atkins’ “Take a Back Road,” and more. His list of No. 1 singles reads like a carefully curated playlist of soulful contemporary country: “Hard To Forget” (Sam Hunt); “Fast” and “I See You” (Luke Bryan); “Head Over Boots” (Jon Pardi); “T-Shirt” (Thomas Rhett); “Gonna” and “Hillbilly Bone” (Blake Shelton); “Talladega,” “Give Me Back My Hometown,” and “Drink In My Hand” (Eric Church); “American Kids” (Kenny Chesney); “Sunshine & Whiskey” (Frankie Ballard); “One of Those Nights” (Tim McGraw); “Downtown” (Lady Antebellum); “Somebody’s Heartbreak” (Hunter Hayes); “Beat This Summer” (Brad Paisley); “Pontoon” (Little Big Town); “You” (Chris Young); “A Little Bit Stronger” (Sara Evans); “Take A Back Road” (Rodney Atkins); and “Temporary Home,” “Undo It,” “So Small,” and “Last Name” (Carrie Underwood). Other artists who have recorded Laird-penned songs represent a jaw-dropping grab bag of genres: George Strait, Maren Morris, Dierks Bentley, Miranda Lambert, Brandy Clark, Toby Keith, Jake Owen, Steve Moakler, Sister Hazel, Ingrid Michaelson, Ashley Monroe, Sam Hunt, Angaleena Presley, Nikki Lane, Darius Rucker, Jason Aldean, Sheryl Crow, Brett Eldredge, Florida Georgia Line, Ne-Yo, Neal McCoy, Amy Grant, and many more. Laird recently released his own record, Music Row, that offers an intimate look into his journey from Hartstown to Nashville. The first-ever record from one of music’s most trusted creators and collaborators, Music Row is a songwriter’s story, traversing childhood, grief, addiction, family, and the community he loves. The songs are deeply personal and sometimes raw, all delivered by the songwriter himself. Today, Laird writes for and co-owns Nashville-based publishing and management company Creative Nation with his wife, Beth.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Laura, Tracy and Kevin dive deep into the first chapter of a songwriter’s career. They discuss the no-no’s that tempt young songwriters like sliding into hit songwriters’ DMs, meeting with a publisher before they’re ready and spending money they don’t have. Laura also breaks down the dangers of having a hit too early, protecting your self esteem, and how faking it until you make it is not the move. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jimmy Robbins’ career in music has been a winding road. From getting signed to a record deal at 17, to making jingles to afford Christmas gifts, to scoring five #1 hits in 18 months, to becoming a publisher, his path has been anything but typical. In this episode, he sits down with Laura and Tracy to talk bad deals, imposter syndrome, misconceptions about writing up, and why he’s more than a “track guy.”Jimmy Robbins is a CMA + ACM Award winning, Grammy nominated Nashville-based songwriter, producer, and publisher who has penned over 200 cuts in multiple genres. He has earned 13 Top 10 hits including 10 #1 songs as a writer: "half of my hometown" (Kelsea Ballerini & Kenny Chesney), "The Bones" + "I Could Use A Love Song" (Maren Morris), "It Goes Like This" (Thomas Rhett), “Sure Be Cool If You Did" (Blake Shelton), “We Were Us" (Keith Urban & Miranda Lambert), “Whatever She’s Got” (David Nail), "Beachin'" (Jake Owen), “Lights Come On” (Jason Aldean), and “Think A Little Less" (Michael Ray). Jimmy's current singles include “A Special Place” (Danielle Bradbery), "As Far As You Could" (Charles Kelley), "Prayin' In A Deer Stand" (Luke Bryan), and "You Didn't" (Brett Young). Jimmy is a CMA Triple Play Award winner + won ASCAP Song Of The Year for Thomas Rhett's "It Goes Like This.” Jimmy also received a 2021 ASCAP Pop Award for "The Bones.” Jimmy has produced several #1 songs including "Die From A Broken Heart” (Maddie & Tae), “Love You Like That” (Canaan Smith) + a Billboard #1 album, Wildhorse (RaeLynn).See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The path of the songwriter is full of uncertainty. It comes with highs and lows creatively, socially, and financially. That kind of shaky ground can lead to all kinds of anxiety and decisions that leave you questioning everything. This podcast is made for songwriters or those on a creative journey who might need a little encouragement and sound financial advice.In the first episode, you’ll meet our hosts: veteran songwriter Laura Veltz, financial advisor Tracy Hackney, and producer Kevin Sokolnicki. Together they’ll walk through what songwriters, experienced and new, need to know about navigating the various stages of the career, why the music business can be so confusing, and how properly managing your money can lead to better creative output.Four-time GRAMMY®-nominated songwriter @lauraveltz has worked with some of the biggest names in music including Demi Lovato, Maren Morris and Idina Menzel, among others. Named Billboard’s 2022 Songwriter of the Year, Laura took home both the 2020 Academy of Country Music and Country Music Association awards for Song of the Year + 2021 BMI Pop Song of the Year for co-penning chart-topping smash “The Bones.” With deep ties in the music world, Laura brings her 15+ years of experience as a songwriter to the Songwriter Soup podcast.Tracy Hackney has worked with dozens of songwriters throughout his more than two decades in the music industry. Not only is he a financial advisor for singers, writers and music business executives across the country, he’s also seen the highs and lows of the business first hand as a touring artist.Every podcast needs a host. Someone to guide the conversation and ask the right questions to make sure you, the listener, understands what’s happening. That’s where Kevin comes in. But he’s not just a host, Kevin has well over a decade of his own experience as an audio  engineer and has worked with artists such as Randy Travis, Kenny Rogers and Lynda Carter to name just a few. You’ll hear him on each episode of Songwriter Soup.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Songwriter Soup, brought to you by American Songwriter, healthy recipes for not losing your mind and your money in the songwriting business.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.