country music

Mar 11

Chas Collins

By Chrissy Bernal Music, Podcast No Comments

Sometimes what looks like an overnight success story is really a 25-year journey that most people never see. Country artist Chas Collins knows that road well.

This week on Here’s What We Know, we sit down with Chas Collins to talk about what the music business really looks like behind the curtain. They dive into the long road of touring, the reality of chasing a dream, and why some artists are finally finding success later in life.

Chas shares stories from 25 years of performing across the country, the moment he realized people were actually paying attention, and why faith and timing can sometimes matter more than raw talent.

If you have ever chased something that took longer than you expected, this conversation will probably feel very familiar. Tune in now!

This episode is sponsored by:

(Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!)

In this episode:

• How Chas Collins built a fan base singing karaoke
• Why success in country music doesn’t have an expiration date anymore
• The grind behind life on the road that fans rarely see
• Why faith and timing matter in creative careers
• What it feels like when 25 years of work finally starts paying off

Quotations:

“I was building a fan base and singing karaoke when it came out, and I was like, ‘Man, we’ve got something here. I’ve got to get a band together.” ~ Chas Collins

“You know, people, I guess I’m a better entertainer than I thought I was. And so then I got the band, and the rest is history. ~ Chas Collins

“Every fan deserves to have you at 100%. So you have to push through and go, ‘It’s not about me; it’s about them.’ And so that’s the hard part. It’s not the fans that are hard. It’s keeping going and sustaining.” ~ Chas Collins

Bio:

Chas Collins is a country music artist and Nashville recording artist known for powerful storytelling, raw emotion, and high-energy performances. His songs capture life’s most vivid moments—from the wild energy of a Saturday night to the ache of missing someone on the road. Rooted in the heart of country and Southern rock, his music speaks to the emotions we all experience.

Standing at 6’6″, Chas brings more than just presence to the stage. His sound blends deep country roots with an ‘80s rock influence, creating a bold and unique style. Each performance delivers familiar themes—love, loss, resilience, and hope—with powerhouse vocals and grit that fans across the U.S. connect with.

Born in Belle Chasse, Louisiana, Chas grew up facing constant change until his grandparents gave him a stable home. That moment shaped his future and helped forge the artist he is today. When Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, Chas lost everything. With $500 and the clothes on his back, he headed to Nashville to chase a dream—only to lose his mother, grandmother, and aunt within four years. Those personal losses added depth to his songwriting and gave his music a rare emotional authenticity.

Since launching his career, Chas has played over 3,500 shows across 43 states, building a loyal grassroots fanbase that spans the country. From venues and festivals to cruises and city stages, his reputation as a touring country music artist is built on connection, passion, and hard work.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Chas made a new home in Tampa Bay, Florida, where he continues to perform while recording new music in Nashville. His upcoming releases reflect everything he’s lived, survived, and shared with the fans who’ve supported him on the road.

Chas’s story is about overcoming adversity, finding purpose through music, and living each moment to its fullest. With every song, he proves that the heart of country music lies not just in the lyrics but in the life behind them.

Guest Contact Info:

Website: https://www.chascollins.com/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chascollinsmusic/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chascollinsmusic

Feb 04

Love39

Clayton Johnson

By Chrissy Bernal Music, Podcast No Comments

Now and then, a conversation reminds you why you love sitting down with people in the first place.

This week on Here’s What We Know, Clayton Johnson stopped by, and what unfolded was more than just an interview but a long, winding talk about music, patience, heartbreak, and paying attention while you’re living your life.

We talked about Nashville, classic country, the importance of learning from people who have lasted, and an unforgettable night Clayton spent watching Metallica up close. Not from the cheap seats, but close enough to notice the discipline, the preparation, and the humility that come with real longevity.

This episode is about the long game and about resisting the urge to rush. It’s about trusting that if you stay curious and keep showing up, life has a way of teaching you exactly what you need to know. Listen now!

This episode is sponsored by:

(Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!)

In this episode:

Life in Nashville and finding your footing
A surprising night with Metallica
Lessons from artists who last
Growing up on classic country music
Playing the long game in music
Heartbreak, timing, and personal growth
Living and learning along the way

Quotations:

“But it’s cool that even on that level, as massive a band as they are, they still have the same thoughts and insecurities as we do as newer artists or smaller artists too. That doesn’t change regardless of how big you are. ~ Clayton Johnson

“Don’t want to get too lost in numbers or hoping it does well. You just want people to hear your music and hear your songs. And if they connect with it, that’s what makes it so special.” ~ Clayton Johnson

“I write a lot from a place of manifesting and what my dreams look like.” ~ Clayton Johnson

Bio:

Clayton Johnson is a Nashville-based country music artist originally from the farming town of Modesto, California. Raised in the heart of the Central Valley, his passion for music was sparked through songwriting and performing in church, setting the foundation for his career.

Clayton’s rise in the industry began with a modeling campaign for Boot Barn, leading to acting and music opportunities. He has since played guitar for notable artists, including American Idol winner Scotty McCreery and pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter.

Along the way, he continued to perfect his craft, writing songs for himself and other artists. His original music has garnered millions of streams.

Country Central has praised Clayton’s infectious hooks, calling them “reminiscent of the best of Thomas Rhett.”

Clayton is currently signed to UMPG & Audio Chateau Publishing.

Guest Contact Info:

Website: https://claytonjohnsoncountry.com/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClaytonJohnsonMusic/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1LWP6c2LrW1ofkM3e8kmEA

Jul 31

Love11

Lacy J. Dalton

By Chrissy Bernal Music, Podcast No Comments

This week on Here’s What We Know, join us for a heartfelt conversation with country music icon Lacy J. Dalton. She’s the legendary voice behind hits like “Crazy Blue Eyes,” “16th Avenue,” and “Black Coffee.” We’ll explore what drives Lacy beyond her fame, delving into her desire for a real connection through music. She reflects on themes of authenticity, legacy, and personal growth, sharing intimate details about her enduring musical journey since 1976.

This episode is sponsored by:

(Effortless solution to your junk removal needs!)

In this Episode:

Lacy’s Start: A look back at how Lacy began her career in 1976.
Unique Sound: Recognition of how distinct “Black Coffee” was upon release.
Songwriting Partnerships: Her work with Even Stevens and Hillary Kanter who also wrote hits for Eddie Rabbitt and Kenny Rogers.
Industry Struggles: Discussing obstacles such as being considered too old in the industry and battles to promote her music despite setbacks from label changes.
The success of Black Coffee: Despite initial resistance, it became an international dance hit outselling major artists like Michael Bolton at launch.
Musical Influences & Mentors: Remembering interactions with legends like Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, and George Jones.
Musical Authenticity: The importance of bringing genuine emotion to performances without over-singing or losing connection with listeners.

Quotations:

“In the old days, the fans stayed with you forever.” ~ Lacy J. Dalton

“Those little great things are the problem, they’re like alien beings in our head.” ~ Lacy J. Dalton

“You can tell an old soldier by the look in his eyes. It’s almost like some of us attain some kind of consciousness of being very solidly and comfortably who we are. And it may be that we may not be the most ordinary people. We may be different in a lot of ways.” ~ Lacy J. Dalton

“I’ve always tried to bring as much of my authentic self to my singing and to my performing as I can.” ~ Lacy J. Dalton

“When I’m there, I want to be 100% there with you. I want to, but it’s not about, stardom was never the thing for me. It’s about the kind of communication that you can have with an audience that will uplift you and uplift them, and where people can feel some joy and feel some connection and get some inspiration to keep going. This is not an easy world.” ~ Lacy J. Dalton

“The music is actually a tool for me.” ~ Lacy J. Dalton

“When I’m gone from this world, I hope they will say that I did walk my talk because my word is very important to me.” ~ Lacy J. Dalton

“You can have all kinds of money and fame and power, and that’s great. But the connection that you have with an audience when you really connect with them, that’s really where it is.” ~ Lacy J. Dalton

“We just need each other. We truly do and we need to learn how to build bridges. We need to learn how to build bridges, meet in the middle, and listen to each other.” ~ Lacy J. Dalton

“Let’s all learn to listen better to the people on the other side.” ~ Lacy J. Dalton

Bio:

Lacy J. Dalton is a renowned American country singer and songwriter. Known as “Country’s Bonnie Raitt,” her soulful, gritty voice has captivated audiences for decades. She gained fame in 1979 with her hit “Crazy Blue Eyes” and won the ACM’s Top New Female Vocalist award.

Lacy’s career highlights include touring with legends like Hank Williams Jr. and Willie Nelson, receiving Grammy nominations, and collaborating with Willie Nelson on his platinum album Half Nelson. She transitioned to the Americana genre, founding her label, Song Dog Records, and releasing several albums.

Beyond music, Lacy co-founded the Let ’em Run Foundation, dedicated to rescuing wild horses, and taught songwriting to inmates through the William James Arts in Corrections program. She’s also an honorary member of the Rotary Club of Reno, contributing to their fundraising efforts with her music.

Guest Contact Info:

Website: https://www.lacyjdalton.org/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lacyjdalton/

X: https://twitter.com/LacyJDalton

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lacyjdalton

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LacyJDaltonOfficial

Jul 03

Love17

Charles Esten

By Chrissy Bernal Community, Faith, Music, Podcast, TV One Comment

This week on Here’s What We Know, we’re joined by the global entertainer, Charles Esten. Chip, best known for his role as Deacon Claybourne in the hit TV series “Nashville,” delves into his musical journey with the release of his debut album, “Love Ain’t Pretty.”

Tune in to hear heartfelt insights into his creative process and overcoming hardships through gratitude and music. He also reveals what he believes is waiting for us, “Somewhere in the Sunshine.”

This episode is sponsored by:

(Be sure to use code “GARY20” so you can save up to 20% off your orders!)

In this Episode:

Chip reveals the collaborative effort behind ‘Love Ain’t Pretty’ with award-winning songwriters.
Hear the Impact of the TV show ‘Nashville’ on his life and how they warmly welcomed him as Deacon Claybourne.
Chip talks about his journey back to music after initially pursuing acting and how gratitude plays a central role in his life and happiness.
Chip highlights the power of gratitude and the beauty of life and the afterlife.
He discusses dealing with personal heartbreaks, including his daughter’s battle with leukemia at age two-and-a-half, now fully recovered.
He shares his experience performing at the Grand Ole Opry, performing Improv, game show-winning experiences, and acting on Star Trek.

Quotations:

“To be at my age getting now to do these dreams. It’s so precious to me. The fact that I get to do them, I can’t be anything but grateful.” ~ Charles Esten

“I think gratitude is at the root. What you’re calling happiness is deep gratitude.” ~ Charles Esten

“We’re human beings and we have feelings.” ~ Charles Esten

“If you can’t find gratitude, you’re in a bad way. You need a little help; you need somebody to help you find it.” ~ Charles Esten

“The better way to make a comparison is to see how fortunate you are at any given moment like that.” ~ Charles Esten

“Love is beautiful. It’s deeper and richer than just pretty.” ~ Charles Esten

“By the time you reach our age, you’ll agree that there’s very few that don’t. Nobody gets out of this life unscathed.” ~ Charles Esten

“When you go through something and get really bad news, I often have that feeling too, like, I’m not fully processing how bad this is that we call it being in shock. It means you’re not, we don’t have the nerve endings to fully encompass how bad, and thank God we don’t, we’re protected in that moment from really getting it.” ~ Charles Esten

“Love ain’t pretty and life is hard, but in the end, they’re both beautiful and they’re both worth it.” ~ Charles Esten

Bio:

Charles “Chip” Esten is an American actor, singer, and songwriter. Best known for his roles as Deacon Claybourne on CMT’s Nashville and as Ward Cameron on Netflix’s Outer Banks.

Esten made his theatrical debut in London when he portrayed Buddy Holly, singing, acting, and playing guitar in the hit West End musical “Buddy.” In that role he was honored to perform for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, and eventually President and Mrs. George H.W. Bush at The White House. He was also very honored to perform with Jerry Allison and Joe B. Mauldin, Buddy’s original hitmaking bandmates, the Crickets.

Esten’s many early television credits include recurring roles on “Big Love,” “Enlightened,” “The Office” and “ER.” Besides being the father on Disney Channel’s “Jessie,” he has been a Klingon on “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” a secretary on “Murphy Brown” and Kelly Bundy’s fiance on the series finale of “Married with Children.” His film credits include “Swing Vote,” “Thirteen Days,” “61*” and “The Postman.”

He’s made nearly 170 appearances at Nashville’s iconic Grand Ole Opry and performed multiple headline tours in the US, Germany, Amsterdam, and the UK. Surpassing 21 million streams for his music to date, Esten is a 2018 Guinness World Records title holder for the “Most consecutive weeks to release an original digital single by a music act” after delivering 54 original songs once a week for 54 straight weeks.

In addition, Esten serves as the National Honorary Spokesperson for the Leukaemia & Lymphoma Society’s annual Light The Night Walk and is a board member and volunteer for Musicians On Call.