This week on Here’s What We Know, we’re sitting down with Jerry Flowers, one of Nashville’s most respected musicians and songwriters. Best known as Keith Urban’s longtime band leader and bass player, Jerry has spent decades touring the world, playing massive stages, and shaping the sound of country music.
In this raw and honest conversation, Jerry pulls back the curtain on life in the music industry—sharing behind-the-scenes stories, the highs and lows of his journey, and what it really takes to make it in Nashville. Listen now!
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In this Episode:
- His journey from Pinch, WV, to Nashville and beyond
- The early days as a founding member of The Ranch (Keith Urban’s first band)
- Writing with Sam Hunt and the magic behind crafting a hit song
- What it really takes to make it in music—talent, grit, and the right people believing in you
Quotations:
“When you first come here you think it’s impossible, especially if you’re from a really small town. But then you realize the more, the longer you’re here, like, it’s not that big of a business and you know these everybody you just need to find your people to.” ~ Jerry Flowers
“If you have everything when you move here, you’re most likely not gonna be willing to go through all the hard stuff that you’re gonna have to go through cause it’s gonna be hard. I don’t care who it is. It’s gonna be rough. And so if you don’t have that hunger, you’re not gonna stay.” ~ Jerry Flowers
“Most people that are jerks, they just don’t make it in this business because you have to be a fun hang, you have to be a good person to be around. And I think that’s the same with the label people too and management. It’s, like, you have to be a good, good person or I think it just, you get weeded out.” ~ Jerry Flowers
“Even at the lowest level and you’re still getting to do it, it’s still an absolute gift to be able to do it.“ ~ Jerry Flowers
“I watched the audience a lot more than the bands just to see what their reaction is.” ~ Jerry Flowers
Bio:
Jerry Flowers is a seasoned bassist, songwriter, and music industry veteran, best known for his longtime role as Keith Urban’s bass player and band leader. With a career spanning decades, Jerry has toured the world, shared the stage with music legends, and played a pivotal role in crafting chart-topping hits both on and off the road.
Originally from Pinch, West Virginia, Jerry’s musical journey began at just 12 years old, fueled by a passion for bass guitar. His talent and dedication took him from small-town gigs to global stages, touring with The Chicks, Counting Crows, and more.
Beyond performing, Jerry is an accomplished songwriter, earning #1 hits with Billy Currington, Jason Aldean, Sam Hunt, and Ryan Hurd. His musicality and creativity continue to inspire every session he’s in, making him a sought-after collaborator in Nashville’s thriving music scene.
Guest Contact Info:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerryflowersmusic/