Tag

countryartist

Apr 29
Love42

Trey Calloway

By Music, Podcast No Comments

There’s an idea we all want to believe. If you’re talented enough, you’ll make it.

This week on Here’s What We Know, we sit down with singer-songwriter Trey Calloway, a rising country artist navigating the reality of building a career in today’s music industry. And what we uncover is something a lot of people don’t want to admit: Timing matters more than talent.

We talk about country stars like Jason Aldean and Eric Church, artists who feel inevitable now but weren’t always. There were years where nobody knew who they were, years where it could have gone the other way.

Because when you really look at success in the music industry, you start to realize something. It doesn’t happen overnight, and it doesn’t happen just because someone is talented.

It happens when everything lines up. Talent. Timing. Opportunity. And readiness.

Miss one of those, and the outcome can look completely different.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to make it in country music, why some artists break through and others don’t, or how timing shapes success in the music industry, give this episode a listen!

This episode is sponsored by:

(Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!)

In this episode:

  • Why some incredibly talented artists never break through
  • How timing, readiness, and life experience all collide
  • The reality of making money in music today
  • Why success often comes later than expected
  • And what keeps someone going when it would be easier to quit

Quotations:

“Once I had lost my ego, once I had lost all of the negative emotions that come with this business, and once I had more maturity about it, I was ready and seasoned to come to Nashville. And I think that’s part of the reason why I’m doing okay is because I feel like I was ready.” – Trey Calloway

“I think if I had moved to Nashville when I was 19, like I originally planned to. I don’t think I would have made it; I was too hot-headed and too headstrong and too conceited and just not in the right headspace.” – Trey Calloway

Bio:

Trey Calloway is a singer/songwriter born and raised in North Carolina. The son of a preacher man, Trey grew up singing in church and was a seasoned performer by the age of 10.  Although southern and contemporary gospel were his first musical loves, he was instantly mesmerized by the sounds of country music after hearing a Garth Brooks Greatest Hits album his parents bought for him.  A deep understanding and passion for the rocking, boot stomping, country music of artists such as Clint Black, Alan Jackson, and Travis Tritt began to grow within him. Trey began writing songs, playing guitar, and performing in clubs at age 15. He knew early on without a shadow of a doubt that he would make music his career. Trey recorded and released his debut Nashville album entitled “Carolina Man” and was able to work with some of his musical heroes including Brent Mason, Lonnie Wilson and Buddy Hyatt on the album. 

Trey penned all twelve songs on the album, including “Daddy from Day One” inspired by the birth of his son Cash, and teamed up with musician and producer Mike Rogers to bring the songs to life. In 2020, Trey released several original singles, working with Nashville producer Kevin Key, including his most recent song entitled “Heal This Family.” Trey created his first ever music video for this new single, which is a timely message of love and unity that he wants to share with the world.  In addition to songwriting, Trey is passionate about inspiring and energizing live audiences and currently travels between Nashville and the Carolinas performing at clubs, festivals and private and charitable events such as Vet Fest Carolinas which he headlined in 2020.

Guest Contact Info:

Website: https://treycallowaymusic.com/

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

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/TreyCalloway1

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

Mar 11
Love41

Chas Collins

By 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 18
Love21

Phil Vassar

By Music, Podcast No Comments

For 25 years, Phil Vassar has written and performed songs that defined an era of country music. But behind the hits like Just Another Day in Paradise, Carlene, and The Sound of a Million Dreams is a story of rejection, resilience, health scares, and hard-earned perspective.

This week on Here’s What We Know, Phil reflects on the roadblocks that nearly stopped him, the heart attack that changed his outlook, and why he believes songwriters are more like therapists than hitmakers. From owning his own bar in Nashville to outlasting the gatekeepers who said piano players would never work in country music, Phil opens up about what it really takes to build a lasting career.

This is a conversation about instinct, grit, healing, and the power of a song to carry you through the hardest seasons of life.

This episode is sponsored by:

In This Episode:

  • Writing Songs Is Therapy
  • “They Said Piano Players Don’t Work in Nashville”
  • Building a Following Before a Record Deal
  • The Hits They Hated
  • Knowing When You’ve Got Something
  • Surviving a Heart Attack and Stroke
  • Just Another Day in Paradise
  • The Story Behind Carlene
  • The Sound of a Million Dreams
  • Bands, Egos, and Going Solo
  • Toby Keith, Vince Gill, and Songwriting Brotherhood
  • Slowing Down After 25 Years
  • Ending with Piano Man

Quotations:

“Now I’m just going to play when I want to play and write when I want to write, you know, it’s just good.” ~ Phil Vassar

“Everybody in Nashville really respects songwriters. I mean, I think it’s because most artists don’t write their own songs.” ~ Phil Vassar

“I don’t want to be in a band because I’ll kill somebody, you know, and it’s just the way it is. And I realized that I’d rather sit on a stage with a piano and play my songs.” ~ Phil Vassar

“You can’t hide anything from a writer.” ~ Phil Vassar

“That’s the thing about your writers; they’re almost like therapists. It’s a therapy to write a song.” ~ Phil Vassar

Bio:

Phil Vassar is a chart-topping country artist and acclaimed Nashville songwriter whose piano-driven sound helped redefine modern country music. Raised in a home filled with Motown, gospel, bluegrass, and classic rock, Vassar developed an eclectic musical foundation that blends heartfelt storytelling with unforgettable hooks. Influenced by artists like Billy Joel and Elton John, he found his true voice behind the piano, crafting songs that resonate across generations.

Over a 25-year career, Vassar has earned two ASCAP Songwriter of the Year awards, ACM’s Top New Male Vocalist honors, and scored 10 No. 1 hits including “Just Another Day in Paradise,” “Carlene,” and “Six-Pack Summer.” As a songwriter, he’s penned major hits for Tim McGraw, Alan Jackson, Jo Dee Messina, and others, cementing his reputation as one of Nashville’s most versatile hitmakers.

Now celebrating the 25th anniversary of his breakout success, Vassar continues to tour nationally, blending his classic hits with fresh interpretations and new music. After surviving a life-altering heart attack in 2023, he brings renewed gratitude and perspective to both his life and career. At his core, Phil Vassar remains a passionate storyteller dedicated to creating songs that move people and stand the test of time.

Guest Contact Info:

Website: https://www.philvassar.com/

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

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

Feb 04
Love39

Clayton Johnson

By 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