Ten Year Town

Originally from Danville, Kentucky, Aaron Raitiere is a grammy award-winning songwriter, performer, and visual artist. He has written songs for Anderson East, The Oak Ridge Boys, Whiskey Myers, Montgomery Gentry, and Lady Gaga. His song “I’ll Never Love Again” was a part of the movie A Star Is Born and earned Aaron a Grammy in the Best Song Written for Visual Media category. 

*Programming Note: this is a rebroadcast of Ten Year Town Episode 19*

Aaron is a one-of-one creative, a raconteur and true Nashville original. You will leave this episode with an understanding of the Ninja Turtle Water Ballon Theory, a desire to stream “Coffee Cups on Top of a Dryer,” and why songwriters like Aaron make Nashville such a fun and amazing community to be a part of.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Rocky Block is a songwriter born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee. He has written songs for some of the biggest names in country music, including Morgan Wallen, Thomas Rhett, Jake Owen, Cody Johnson, and more. In addition to his success in the country genre, he has cuts with artists like Teddy Swims, Flo Rida, Nelly, Lil Dirk and Post Malone. He is currently signed as a writer to Big Loud Publishing.

In this episode, we discuss the stories behind some of Rocky’s biggest songs including, “Man Made A Bar” and “Broadway Girls”, his advice for new songwriters, and many other stops along the way. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

“Trapper” John Morris is the SiriusXM Programmer for Y2K Country and The Highway.

After starting in college radio at the University of North Texas, Trapper has spent the last 38 years working in radio with stops in Waco, Tyler, Memphis, New Orleans, Dallas, and now Nashville.

Trapper shares insight into the relationship between radio and country music, the type of data stations used to test new songs, and how big programs like The Highway find new and upcoming talent.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Jillian Jacqueline is a country singer and songwriter originally from Chester Springs, Pennsylvania. Over her career, she has collaborated with Vince Gill, Kieth Urban, Charlie Worsham, and in 2022, released her debut album “Honestly.”

In this episode, Jillian shares her journey, from touring in a family band as a kid, moving to Nashville after college to write songs, her tips for staying inspired, how she values her time after becoming a mother, and much more.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

BJ Hill, originally from Ann Arbor, Michigan, is Senior Vice President of  A&R at Warner Chappell Music. BJ has signed some of your favorite songwriters including Nicolle Gaylon, Jordan Reynolds, Charles Kelley, Dan Smyers (of Dan + Shay) and many more. He has worked in A&R on both the label and publisher side and has been an advocate for songwriters in town for over 20 years.

In this episode, we discuss BJ’s origins, from studying recording engineering at MTSU to learning what a hit sounds like while interning in the tape room basement, how he finds and develops new songwriting talent, why it’s important to be a “good hang” and much more. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Clay Mills is a songwriter originally from Cleveland, Mississippi. He has penned #1 songs for Darius Rucker (“Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It”), Diamond Rio (“Beautiful Mess”) and many more. He’s a two time GRAMMY-nominated songwriter and a 16-time ASCAP Award winning songwriter/producer. In addition to his songwriter accolades, he is the co-founder of the songwriting community SongTown.com (http://SongTown.com).

In this episode, we discuss Clay’s path from Mississippi to New York to Nashville, the stories behind several of his biggest songs, why he started mentoring songwriters and many other stops along the way.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Adam Doleac is country music singer and songwriter originally from Hattiesburg, Mississippi. He has amassed 370+ Million on-demand streams and his song “Famous” is RIAA certified gold. In addition to his success as an artist, Adam has had songs cut by Dan + Shay, Lainey Wilson, Kane Brown, Darius Rucker, and more. He is currently singed as a writer to Sony Music Publishing.

On this episode, Adam shares his unique path to country music, his approach to songwriting, his love of the road, and much more. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Jason Albers is a drummer originally from Midland, Texas and currently residing in Nashville, Tennessee. He is a founding member of the band Flatland Cavalry. Over the past 10 years, Flatland has released 4 studios albums, played 1,000’s of shows, and most recently was nominated for a 2024 ACM Award.

In this episode, we discuss the origins of Flatland, being in a band and excelling at your role, opening for Luke Combs, and much more. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Chris DuBois is a hit songwriter and  award-winning publisher from Nashville. He has written numerous #1 songs, including “You Should Probably Leave” by Chris Stapleton, “Mud on The Tires” by Brad Paisley, and is a two-time recipient of the CMA Triple Play Award (three #1 songs in one year). In 1999, Chris co-founded Sea Gayle Music which went on to win the ASCAP Country Publisher of the Year award in 2010 and 2011. Additionally, Chris is adjunct instructor at Belmont University where he teaches a class on songwriting. 

This is part 2 of a special 2-part episode and includes Chris’ thoughts about the state of the music industry, the early days of SeaGayle, signing and working with Chris Stapleton, how he stays driven to write songs after 25 years, and much more.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Join the community at www.tenyeartown.com
if you have a question of your own, submit it at tenyeartown.com.

Q1: how do i find producers and musicians to make records?
Q2: what is the best way for consumers to support songwriters?
Q3: where do songwriters hang out in Nashville?
Q4: how do I level up as a songwriter?
Q5: has the music business changed?
Q6: how do i become a studio musician?
Q7: how do I get into a&r?

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Chris DuBois is a hit songwriter and  award-winning publisher from Nashville. He has written numerous #1 songs, including “You Should Probably Leave” by Chris Stapleton, “Mud on The Tires” by Brad Paisley, and is a two-time recipient of the CMA Triple Play Award (three #1 songs in one year). In 1999, Chris co-founded Sea Gayle Music which went on to win the ASCAP Country Publisher of the Year award in 2010 and 2011. Additionally, Chris is adjunct instructor at Belmont University where he teaches a class on songwriting. 

This is part 1 of a special 2-part episode and includes Chris’ start in the music industry, his friendship and business partnership with Brad Paisley, his success as both a songwriter and publisher, the advice he teaches in his college songwriting students, and much more.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

join the community at tenyeartown.com

Here it is the, the long promised Q and A episode.

Chapter Markers: 

Q1 (2:15): If you lost all of your connections and identity, what would you do in the first month to start your career?

Q2 (6:50): what are the main differences between LA and Nashville?

Q3 (8:45): What does it take to be an artist? 

Q4 (14:00): how do I get in “THE ZONE”?

Q5 (17:50): How do I get a meeting with a publisher?

 Q6 (21:00): Where to intern?

Q7 (25:00): how do I reach out to somebody you want to work with?

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Alysa Vanderheym is a songwriter and producer originally from the San Fransico Bay Area, and is currently signed to Rhythm House Music. She has been a part of several massive hits including “Lose Somebody” by Kygo and One Republic, “Cold Beer Calling My Name” recorded by Jameson Rodgers and Luke Combs, and “Heartfirst” by Kelsea Ballerina. In addition to her songwriting success, she was nominated for the 2024 GRAMMY awards for her work on Keslea’s record “Rolling Up The Welcome Mat”. 

In this episode, Alysa shares her journey, from transferring to Belmont University to major in songwriting to attending the Grammys as a nominated producer. Alysa shares how she’s found great mentors, her best advice for young writers, and what her plans are for the future.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

David Nail is a country singer and songwriter originally from Kennett, Missouri. David has had multiple chart-topping singles including “Let It Rain,” “Whatever She’s Got,” and “Turning Home” which was nominated for the 2011 GRAMMY Awards. 

In this episode we discuss David’s path, from baseball player to country singer, getting dropped and signed again at the very same label, his chart success and his best advice for new songwriters and artists.  

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Originally from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, Steve Moakler is an artist and songwriter signed to Creative Nation. He has written songs for Dierks Bentley, Ben Rector, Jake Owen, Reba McEntire, and many more. His song “Riser,” recorded by Dierks Bentley, was the title track and a single on Dierks’ 7th studio album and is RIAA Certified Gold. In addition to his songwriting success, Steve releases his music independently and has opened shows for some of country music’s biggest acts including Dan + Shay, Old Dominion, Willie Nelson, Tim McGraw and more. 

On this episode, Steve shares his journey, from getting offered a record deal right out of high school, to moving to Nashville and signing a publishing deal, traveling the country to play his own music, and what he loves most about the creative process.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Lily Rose is a singer and songwriter originally from Atlanta, Georgia. She caught her big break when her song “Villain” went viral in late 2020 and led to her signing a record deal with Big Loud, Back Blocks Music, and Republic Records. Since then, Lily has toured with Sam Hunt, Shania Twain, and more and is slated to release her EP Runnin Out Of Time on May 10th.

In this episode, we discuss Lily’s journey, from cutting her teeth in the Athens, Georgia music scene, to finding her crew and writer collaborators in Nashville, to her new music and what’s ahead.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Tiera Kennedy is an artist and songwriter currently signed to Songs & Daughters, the publishing company of Nicolle Galyon. Additionally, she is the host of the Tiera Show on Apple Music Country. Recently, Tiera was featured on Beyoncé’s #1 Album ‘Cowboy Carter’.

On this episode, Tiera shares her journey, from moving to Nashville and signing a publishing deal to leaving a record label and releasing music independently, the struggle to be honest and real in the music industry, and how opportunity comes when you least expect it.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Corey Kent is a songwriter and artist originally from Bixby, Oklahoma. He is currently signed as an artist at Sony Music Nashville and is published by Combustion Music. His first #1 song “Wild As Her” went certified platinum and has amassed nearly 450 million on-demand streams.

In this episode, we discuss Corey’s journey as he’s moved back and forth from Texas to Tennessee over the years, the influences both states have had on his music, how the pandemic recharged his artists career and reset his priorities, and why optimism is the key to opportunity.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Haley Montgomery is the Director of Industry Relations and Awards at the Academy of Country Music (ACM). Haley got her start in the music business doing merchandise on the road for Danielle Bradbery, and has had stops at the CMA, The Grand Ole Opry, is now at the ACM. Outside of work, Haley is a mother and one of the founders of Family Alliance in Music (FAM) which works to encourage a welcoming environment for those with families in the music industry.

In this episode, Haley shares her journey through Nashville, an insider’s look at the ACM nomination and voting process, her work with FAM and goals for its future, and much more.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

RaeLynn is a songwriter and country music artist originally from Baytown, Texas. Twice nominated for ACM Female Vocalist of the year, RaeLynn has amassed over one billion career streams. Her single “God Made Girls” is certified Platinum and her songs “Love Triangle” and “Lonely Call” are both certified Gold. In addition to her success as an artist, she is the author of a children’s book titled “Raisin’ Me A Country Girl”. 

This episode RaeLynn shares how she pursued acting in LA before being discovered for songwriting, her experiences being signed to major record labels, an indie label and now being an independent artist, how she prioritizes family, stays open to opportunity, and much more.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Dave Cohen is an award-winning session musician and producer currently signed as a songwriter to Spirit Music Nashville. Originally from Calgary, Canada, Dave has played on over 50 #1 records and has co-produced songs for Morgan Wallen, Hardy, Jake Owen, Chris Lane, and many more. In addition to his producer and session musician credits, he is a 3x ACM Award Winner for Keyboard Player of the Year. 

In this episode, Dave shares his experience moving from Canada to the US, how he filled his calendar as a session musician, what it’s like working with Joey Moi, his plans for the future and much more.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Colt Ford is a hit songwriter, country music artist, and former professional golfer. Originally from Athens, GA, Colt has written #1 songs for Jason Aldean, Brantley Gilbert, and George Birge. His song “Dirt Road Anthem” went on to become one of the biggest country songs of the 2010s. As an artist, Colt has collaborated with Toby Keith, Brad Paisley, Keith Urban and more. In addition to his success as an artist and songwriter, he is the co-founder of Average Joe’s Entertainment. 

On this episode, Colt shares how his sound blends his country upbringing with his musical influences, what it was like moving to Nashville to start an independent record label, and why it’s important to give your best at every single tour date.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Trey Lewis is a singer and songwriter from Birmingham, Alabama. Currently based in Nashville, he is signed as a writer to Sony Music Publishing and as an artist at River House Artists. His viral hit “D***ed Down In Dallas as released in 2020 and went on to become his first platinum single. As a writer, Trey had his songs cut by major country artists including Tracy Lawrence and Cole Swindell.  

In this episode, we discuss Trey’s journey from playing small town frat parties to having the #1 song on Billboard in sales. We also discuss his sobriety, entrepreneurship, making records, and how great it is to win with your friends.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Jaren Johnston is a hit songwriter and a member of the country rock band The Cadillac Three. Originally from Nashville, Jaren has written #1 songs for artists like Keith Urban, Tim McGraw, Jake Owen, Billy Currington and more. He is currently signed as a writer at Sony Music Publishing and is signed as an artist at Big Machine Label Group. In addition to his songwriting, producing, and touring, Jaren is the co-founder of War Buddha Records. 

In this episode, we discuss Jaren’s introduction to the music industry at a very early age, how he balances writing radio hits for other artists with writing hits for The Cadillac Three, his advice for young songwriters and much more. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Allison Veltz Cruz is a singer and songwriter signed to Universal Music Publishing. Born in Alabama, Allison grew up in a musical family and toured in a family band before setting out on her own songwriter journey. In 2011, she took a leap of faith and moved from New York City to Nashville to sign  a publishing deal. Since then, Allison has gone on to write songs for some of Country’s biggest stars including Jason Aldean, Maddie and Tae, Matt Stell, Carly Pearce and more.

In this episode, we discuss Allison’s first #1 song “Prayed For You” recorded by Matt Stell and winner of the 2021 ASCAP Pop Music Award for Most Performed Song. Allison shares how her personal experiences and newfound faith inspired her while writing her first big hit. We also discuss Allison’s creative process, her brief stint at the famous Ellen’s Stardust Diner in NYC, her advice for new songwriters and more. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Jody Williams is a publisher and music executive born and raised in Nashville. Throughout his 40+ year career, Jody has been a champion for songwriters and awarded the 2023 CMA Songwriter Advocate Award. He is currently serving at the helm of his company, Jody Williams Songs, which is home to songwriters including Natalie Hemby, Vince Gill, Ashley McBryde, Driver Williams and more. 

With an extensive career as a publisher and as an executive at BMI, Jody has helped guide the careers of countless songwriters and artists. In this episode, we discuss what publishers are looking for, the future of songwriting, how to find your tribe and many other stops along the way. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

This week’s guest @robbairdmusic is a songwriter and artist originally from Memphis, TN and currently located in Austin, TX. Rob has five studio records under his belt and has had songs featured in the TV show “Nashville” and “Yellowstone”. His music has been critically acclaimed in outlets such as Billboard, NPR, Rolling Stone and more.

In this episode, we discuss how Rob has carved his own path in the country music landscape. After a brief stint in Nashville with Carnival Music Publishing, Rob decamped to Austin Texas to where he has established a fan base and a sound all his own. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Originally from Fairfax, VA, Sam Sumser is a songwriter signed to Reservoir. He has had cuts with Lizzo, Jason Durelo, Chris Brown, Mitchell Tenpenny, the Plain White T’s, Breland and more. 

In this episode, we discuss his journey from LA to Nashville, the differences between the two, writing with Lizzo, being a good person, what success looks like, and many other stop along the way. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

In this inaugural episode of the Ten Year Town Book Club, we bring back Nashville songwriter Jimi Bell to talk about Rick Rubin’s The Creative Act: A Way Of Being. 

The idea behind the Ten Year Town Book club is to provide a platform for previous guests to revisit and share with us a book that has made a profound impact on them and their careers as creatives. 

This episode features Jimi Bell, a singer songwriter  from Hawkinsville, Georgia. Jimi's written songs for some of the biggest artists in town including Bailey Zimmerman, Kip Moore,  and Brantley Gilbert to name a few. Last year one of Jimi's songs "Last Night Lonely" recorded by Jon Pardi reached #1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Originally from Lawrence, Kansas, Ashley Ray is a songwriter and artist currently signed to Lady Fairchild Publishing and Warner Chappell Music. She has had cuts with numerous artists including Lori McKenna, Charles Kelley, Little Big Town, Ruston Kelly, and more.

In addition to her songwriting success, she has recorded and released three studio albums, including her most recent titled “Animal” released in November of 2023. In this episode we discuss being on the road, imposter syndrome, making records with Jay Joyce, and many other stops along the way. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Jerry Flowers is a musician and songwriter originally from Pinch, West Virginia. He is currently the bass player and musical director for Keith Urban, and has toured with the Chicks, Counting Crows, and many others. In addition to his success as a musician, he is an accomplished songwriter and has written #1 songs for Billy Currington, Jason Aldean, Sam Hunt and Ryan Hurd. 

In this epiosde we talk about Jerry’s journey to Nashville, his time as a member of “The Ranch” (Keith Urban’s first band), what it’s like writing with Sam Hunt, and many other stops along the way. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Originally from Philadelphia, Mississippi, Michael Hardy, more popularly known as HARDY, is a hit country music songwriter and artist. In addition to his own #1 songs including “Wait in the Truck” and “One Beer”, he has also penned songs for Morgan Wallen, Blake Shelton, Dierks Bentley, Florida Georgia Line and many more. 

Additionally, HARDY is a partner at his publishing company Relative Music Group and signed to Big Loud Records. In this episode we talk about his journey from Mississippi to Music Row, touring with Morgan Wallen, his future plans, and his best advice “don’t have a plan B.”

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Luke Laird  is a Grammy award-winning songwriter and producer originally from Hartstown, Pennsylvania. In addition to two Grammys, Luke has written over 20 #1 Billboard singles, has production credits with Kacey Musgraves, Toby Keith, Tim McGraw and more, and was named both BMI and ACM’s Songwriter of the Year. 

On this episode, Luke shares his journey from Pennsylvania to Middle Tennessee State University, how he found his songwriting success, the founding of his company Creative Nation, his writing philosophy, and much more.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Jessi Alexander is a Nashville country music songwriter and artist originally from Jackson, TN. She has written songs for many major label artists including Morgan Wallen, Blake Shelton, Patty Loveless and many more. Her song “I Drive Your Truck” - which was recorded by Lee Brice - won song of the year at both the CMA and ACM awards in 2013. In addition to her country songwriting success, Jessi is perhaps best known for co-writing the song “The Climb” for Miley Cyrus. 

In this episode we discuss Jessi’s journey, her constant reinvention, and her love of songwriting.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

This week's episode is a rewind from episode 7 where we welcomed our first publisher-guest Courtney Allen! 

Courtney is a Senior Director of A&R at Concord Music. As a music publisher, she pitches and provides support for many talented songwriters in Nashville including Russell Dickerson, Corey Crowder, Hillary Lindsey, Justin Wilson, Ruston Kelly and more. Courtney shares how she works with writers to build them a great calendar, what new songwriters can do to get on a publisher's radar, and generally what it means to be a champion of songs.This week, we revisit one of our most beloved episodes: our very first publisher-guest Courtney Allen! Courtney is a Senior Director of A&R at Concord Music. As a music publisher, she pitches and provides support for many talented songwriters in Nashville including Russell Dickerson, Corey Crowder, Hillary Lindsey, Justin Wilson, Ruston Kelly and more. Courtney shares how she works with writers to build them a great calendar, what new songwriters can do to get on a publisher's radar, and generally what it means to be a champion of songs.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Buy "The War of Art" here: https://amzn.to/3RQ62EJ

In this extra special holiday episode of Ten Year Town, host Troy Cartwright covers (breifly) one of his all time favorite books about the creator's journey. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

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This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Aaron Eshuis is a songwriter and producer originally from Kalamazoo, Michigan currently signed to Concord Music Publishing. Aaron has written songs for Rascall Flats, Joe Nichols, Cole Swindell, Ryan Hurd, and Scotty McCreery. He had his first No. 1, “this is it”, with McCreery in 2018. 

In addition to his songwriting career, Aaron has produced records for Ryan Hurd, Scotty McCreery and others. In this episode Aaron talks about his journey from Michigan to Nashville, how he got started in the music industry, and his philosophy on being an asset in the writer room. Aaron Eshuis is a songwriter and producer originally from Kalamazoo, Michigan currently signed to Concord Music Publishing. Aaron has written songs for many major country artists including Rascall Flats, Joe Nichols, Cole Swindell, Ryan Hurd, and had his first No. 1, with Scotty McCreery’s “This is It” in 2018. 

In addition to songwriting, Aaron has produced records for Ryan Hurd, Scotty McCreery and others. In this episode Aaron talks about his journey from Michigan to Nashville, how he’s developed his songwriting and producer career together, and his philosophy on being an asset in the writer room. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Currently residing in Los Angeles, Zac Barnett is a songwriter and the lead singer of the band American Authors. Having met while attending Berklee College of Music, Zac and his bandmates have gone on to tour globally, earn over a billion streams, and their biggest hit “Best Day of My Life” is RIAA 3x certified platinum and featured in over 600 commercials and film.

In this episode, Zac discusses how the importance of being open to collaboration, his philosophy on releasing music independently, and even how his love of Florida Georgia Line inspired some of his pop-rock writing.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Originally from Fort Worth, Texas, Josh Jenkins is a Grammy-nominated hit songwriter and the lead singer of the band Green River Ordinance. He’s written songs for Walker Hayes, Jordan Davis, Dustin Lynch, Randy Houser, and many more. Recently, he was a co-writer on the 4x platinum hit “Fancy Like” recorded by Walker Hayes, and CMA Song of the Year “Buy Dirt” recorded by Jordan Davis.

On this episode Josh talks about growing up learning how to write songs with his dad and brother, joining the rock band Green River Ordinance, touring the country, and landing in Nashville to hone his songwriter craft (to great success).

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Harry Miree a professional studio and touring drummer originally from Birmingham, Alabama. Harry has toured with acts like Hardy, LoCash, Lindsay Ell, Ryan Follies and many, many more. He is also well known in the drumming community (and beyond) for his  popular YouTube channel (dude!). 

In this episode, we discuss how a music teacher changed the trajectory of his life, his thought process on building an audience, how he forged his own path to get his start as a touring drummer, and a million other tangents along the way.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Join the Ten Year Town community and email list here.

Host Troy Cartwright and producer Ben VanMaarth answer ten year town listener questions.

submit your questions for the next episode at: http://tenyeartown.com

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Brinley Addington is a Number 1 songwriter and artist orgininally from Kingsport, Tennessee. Signed to Spirit Music Nashville, Brinley has had cuts with artists like Darius Rucker, Parmalee, Chris Janson, Kameron Marlowe, and more. In 2021, Brinley notched his first number 1 at radio “Chasing After You” recorded by Ryan Hurd and Maren Morris. 

On this episode, Brinley shares his how his first number one was 7 years in the making, the importance of staying focused as a songwriter, and how Nashville is a town where you must be present to win.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Originally from a Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Benjy Davis is a hit songwriter currently signed to Universal Music Publishing. Benjy has written songs for many major label artists including Cody Johnson, Jake Owen, Maddie & Tae, Dan & Shay, and Chris Young, and was one of the nine writer-collaborators on the Grammy-nominated “Ashley McBryde Presents: Lindeville.”

Benjy shares his journey, from starting his own band “The Benjy Davis Project”, to moving to Nashville to write country music, what he looks for in a publisher, and the high you get from writing a really great song.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Originally from Danville, Kentucky, Aaron Raitiere is a grammy award-winning songwriter, performer, and visual artist. He has written songs for Anderson East, The Oak Ridge Boys, Whiskey Myers, Montgomery Gentry, and Lady Gaga. His song “I’ll Never Love Again” was a part of the movie A Star Is Born and earned Aaron a Grammy in the Best Song Written for Visual Media category. 

Aaron is a one-of-one creative, a raconteur and true Nashville original. You will leave this episode with an understanding of the Ninja Turtle Water Ballon Theory, a desire to stream “Coffee Cups on Top of a Dryer,” and why songwriters like Aaron make Nashville such a fun and amazing community to be a part of. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Tim Hunze is a Vice President of Publishing at Big Machine Music.  A thirty-year veteran of Nashville and Music Row, Tim has pitched and provided support for many talented songwriters including Jordan Davis, Kip Moore, Bobby Pinson, Brett James and many, many more. 

Tim shares his journey from college intern to publishing VP, how the industry has changed and grown over the years, what makes an unsigned songwriter stand out, and how to find your voice. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Nashville native Derek Wells is an award-winning session guitar player, record producer, and Vice President of A&R at Spirit Music Nashville. Along the way he has played on over 100 #1 songs, been Grammy-nominated, won CMA Musician of the Year and has played on records for Morgan Wallen, Kenny Chesney, Dan + Shay, Kelsea Ballerini and more.

On this episode, Derek shares unique insights on his journey - from getting his start in Josh Turner’s touring band, to playing on his first #1 with Maddie and Tae’s “Girl In A Country Song”, his advice for getting started, and how winning with your friends is the best part of the business.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Originally from a Shreveport, Louisiana, Jacob Davis is a hit songwriter currently signed to Universal Music Publishing. Jacob has written songs for major label artists including Jake Owen, Kolby Cooper, Greylan James, and his brother Jordan Davis. Jacob’s latest radio number one “Buy Dirt” (recorded by Jordan Davis and Luke Bryan) earned him a CMA award for Song of the Year.

Jacob shares his journey - from playing in Bars at LSU, to the Louisiana oil fields, and eventually to Nashville. He offers great insight into how to shine in writer’s rooms, the artistry involved with being a songwriter, and the best advice he ever received - “don’t go home.”

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Hailing from Roswell, Georgia, Andy Albert is a Nashville hit songwriter currently signed to Concord Music. He's written big songs for many major country artists including Dan + Shay, Blake Shelton, Tim McGraw, HARDY, Ryan Hurd, and had a six-week country radio number one with “Thinkin’ Bout You” (recorded by Dustin Lynch and Mackenzie Porter).  

Andy shares his journey with us from moving to Nashville, signing his first publishing deal, how he extensively prepares for his writes, and why Country Music is the straightest line from the heart of the singer to the heart of the listener.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Chris McHugh is an A-list session drummer living in Nashville, Tennessee. He has played on 1000’s of records and 100’s of hit songs for artists like Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Alabama, Little Big Town, Blake Shelton and many many more. In addition to his studio work, Chris was the live drummer and music director for Keith Urban, and has also toured with artists like Garth Brooks and Amy Grant. 

On this episode, Chris shares his journey of how he got his start in the Christian rock band White Heart, how he transitioned a touring career into playing on big records, what it’s like touring with some of the biggest artists in the world, and how to make a song sound like a hit (when you’re Chris, you just know). 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Nashville-native, Chris "Falcon" Van Belkom is the Vice President of Combustion Music Group, a boutique publishing company and record label on Music Row. Over the years, Falcon has seen the indie company celebrate over 100 Number 1 Songs as he's worked with hitmakers such as Ashley Gorley, Kings of Leon, Brett Tyler, and more. Falcon also works on the A&R side at Combustion having helped sign and develop country music artists including Jameson Rogers, Corey Kent, and Kolby Cooper.

 On the pod, Falcon shares his philosophy behind keeping his team small, being a free-thinker, and how the good songs always find a way.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

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This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Jacob Durrett is a Nashville hit songwriter and producer currently signed to Big Loud Publishing and Warner Chappell Music. He has written songs for some of the biggest names in music, including Morgan Wallen, Diplo, Zayn, HARDY, Nelly, and Devin Dawson. Jacob's been a part of several #1 songs as both a writer and producer - including Big, Big Plans (Chris Lane) and Wasted On You (Morgan Wallen).

 Jacob shares his journey on the pod, how he works on his relationships with artists, his thoughts on AI in music, how it feels to get that first number one, and then how it feels to try to "repeat the miracle."

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Join the Ten Year Town community and email list here.

Host Troy Cartwright and producer Ben VanMaarth answer ten year town listener questions. 

submit your questions for the next episode at: http://tenyeartown.com

John Mayer at Berklee Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRmrMDfWkNo

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Originally from St. Louis and a graduate of Belmont University, Emily Landis is a Nashville hit songwriter currently signed to BMG Music. She's written songs for many major country music artists including Larry Fleet, Seaforth, Tiera Kennedy, Kassi Ashton and more. Emily's first big success was with Gabby Barrett's "The Good Ones" which spent three straight weeks at Number One and is now 3x certified platinum.  

On this episode, Emily shares how songwriting became her free therapy, what it was like quitting social media for an entire year, how the journey of her first number one felt like "dominoes of dreams coming true," and how it taught her to focus on family and life first, and let the career take care of itself. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Wynn Varble has had 30+ year career as a hit songwriter in Nashville with songs cut by country's biggest stars, including Garth Brooks, Lee Ann Womack, Brad Paisley, Darryl Worley, Montgomery Gentry, and Trace Adkins to name a few. Wynn's been nominated multiple times for the CMA or ACM Song of the Year Award and his first number 1 song, "Have You Forgotten" by Darryl Worley, spent 7 weeks at the top of the Billboard Country Chart.

  Wynn's seen Music Row through many changes over the years and shares insight on where the industry's been to where it's now headed, and how it's important to ensure that the Nashville songwriter community remains sustainable and strong.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Hailing from Wichita, Kansas, Cameron Bedell is a Nashville hit songwriter and producer currently signed to Liz Rose Music and Warner Chappell music. He's written songs for many major country artists such as Dylan Scott, Hailey Whitters, Seaforth, Lauren Alaina, and recently had a two-week number one with Jimmie Allen’s "down home."

 Cameron shares his journey, from making songs in high school on his dad's work computer, to moving to Nashville and transitioning from R&B to Country, how he keeps a level head after success, and focusing on writing songs that "resonate" with the listener. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Minnesota’s own, Brett Tyler, is a hit songwriter currently signed to Combustion Music Group. He’s written songs for the biggest names in country music (Morgan Wallen, Blake Shelton, HARDY, Lainey Wilson and Maren Morris) and had his first number one with Jameson Rogers’ and Luke Combs’ “Cold Beer Calling My Name.” Brett’s second number one came earlier this year with “Wild As Her” recorded by Corey Kent.

Brett shares with the pod his journey through Nashville, how he preps for writes, why he considers himself a “professional in patience,” and how making others’ jobs easier is a sure fire path to success. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

This week's episode welcomes our first publisher-guest Courtney Allen!

Courtney is a Senior Director of A&R at Concord Music. As a music publisher, she pitches and provides support for many talented songwriters in Nashville including Russell Dickerson, Corey Crowder, Hillary Lindsey, Justin Wilson, Ruston Kelly and more. Courtney shares how she works with writers to build them a great calendar, what new songwriters can do to get on a publisher's radar, and generally what it means to be a champion of songs.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

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This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Billy Montana has had a 30+ year career in Nashville with songs recorded by some of the biggest stars in country music, including number ones with Garth Brooks, Jo Dee Messina, Sara Evans and Lee Brice.

On this episode, Billy reflects on both the lows (writing for 12 years before having a hit), and the highs (one of his songs entering the chart already at number one), and what it was like hearing his Grammy-nominated “Bring on the Rain” on the radio for the first time right after 9/11.

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

This week’s guest is Brad Clawson. Brad was born and raised in Texas before moving to Nashville and signing a publishing deal with Tape Room Music where he's had his songs recorded by many major artists including Chris Janson, Parker McCollum, Mitchell Tenpenny and more.

This episode discusses two of Brad's biggest hits - "Up Down" by Morgan Wallen and Florida Georgia Line, and "Happy Does" by Kenny Chesney - and the crazy stories of how those two songs made their way to the biggest artists in the format. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

No. 1 Songwriter Trannie Anderson moved to town right after college ready to take on whatever flexible jobs she could so she could write at 11am everyday, "when everyone who is serious about it is writing." 

Listen to her incredible Nashville journey - from posting on local facebook groups to meet other songwriters to writing Lainey Wilson's smash hit "Heart Like A Truck." Over the years, Trannie has had her songs cut by Dan + Shay, Reba McEntire, Nate Smith, Meghan Trainor, Gabby Barrett and more. Hear how Trannie focuses on the relationships she's built with her artists collaborators, is intentional about casting a wide net with her writes as a female songwriter, and how staying healthy, emotionally and physically, is the key to sustaining a lasting career.

1:40 - So how long have you been in town?
24:15 - Writing her first #1 song (Heart Like A Truck)
38:40 - Surrendering to the process 
43:15 - Having hobbies besides music 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Matt Roy is a singer and songwriter from Glen Rock, New Jersey. Matt has had cuts with artists like Morgan Wallen, Kane Brown, Chris Young, and earned his first multi-week number one single with Chris Janson’s “Done.” Since moving here in 2018 as a college freshman, Matt’s beeline to now established hit songwriter is due to both his talent as an artist and his sense of songwriting as a business. Get ready to hear a lot  of inside baseball on this one.

Want more Ten Year Town? Subscribe to the TYT YouTube channel here.
Submit questions for the Q & A episode here.

3:00 - Getting his first major label cut
5:35 - Developing Different Songwriter Muscles
9:00 - Similarities between Baseball and Music
12:40 - Getting Your Foot In The Door 
16:30 - Meeting Your First Co-Writers
19:50 - Looking for your Champion
23:10 - Signing with BMG
28:10 - The story behind his first #1 
33:10 - Flying To The Moon 
35:40 - Taking Personal Responsibility 
43:40 - Where would you start? 
46:00 - Process for finding ideas 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

Marc Beeson has had a 30+ year career as a hit songwriter in Nashville. Along the way he has written multiple #1 radio singles and songs for legendary country artists such as Willie Nelson, Garth Brooks, Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood and more.  Marc's massive crossover hit “When She Cries” by Restless Heart won the ASCAP Best Country Song and Best Pop Song of the Year Award. 

Marc's seen Music Row through many changes over the years and on this episode shares his wealth of experience and insight on what it takes to build a lasting career as a songwriter in Nashville.

Want more Ten Year Town? Subscribe to the TYT YouTube channel here.
Submit questions for the Q & A episode here.

 MARKERS: 

1:32 (SO, HOW LONG YOU BEEN IN TOWN?)

5:00 (MOVING TO LA) 

7:17 (LA COWRITING SCENE IN THE 80’S) 

8:50 (WHY HE MOVED TO NASHVILLE) 

11:20 (HOW YOU USED TO SHOW PEOPLE SONGS) 

12:30 (HANGIN AROUND KENNY ROGERS' STUDIO) 

14:20 (MAKING THE FIRST DIGITAL RECORDING IN LA) 

15:15 (GETTING THE CALL TO COME TO NASHVILLE) 

17:05 (A SIGN OF WHERE HE SHOULD BE) 

17:55 (MAKING RECORD WITH MARK BRIGHT, TOM SKYLER) 

18:35 (ON GETTING TOLD NO) 

20:00 (GETTING HIS FIRST PUBLISHING DEAL) 

21:55 (WORKING WITH PROS) 

22:20 (ON BOOKING YOUR OWN RIGHTS; USING A DAYBOOK) 

23:50 (ON TAKING PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOU CAREER) 

26:05 (GETTING HIS FIRST HIT) 

28:30 (WE HAVE NO CONTROL) 

29:20 (ON HEARING WHEN SHE CRIES FOR THE 1ST TIME) 

31:50 (ON WHEN SHE CRIES CROSSING OVER) 

33:10 (on the peace he felt getting his first hit) 

35:50 (reminders for young writers) 

37:20 (music industry inflection point) 

39:10 (ON GETTING A CUT WITH CHICAGO) 

43:20 (BE THE BEST AT WHATEVER YOU’RE DOING) 

45:42 (HOW DO YOU STAY MOTIVATED) 

46:30 (ON FINDING OUT WHERE THE BAR IS SET) 

49:05 (FISHING FOR MARLIN) 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

This episode features Jimi Bell, a singer songwriter  from Hawkinsville, Georgia. Jimi's written songs for some of the biggest artists in town including Bailey Zimmerman, Kip Moore,  and Brantley Gilbert to name a few. Last year one of Jimi's songs "Last Night Lonely" recorded by Jon Pardi reached #1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. Jimi's built a career in Nashville by being both thoughtful and hard working. Hear him discuss where he sources inspiration for songs, his methods for getting great writes, and his tips for building a songwriting brand. 

Want more Ten Year Town? Subscribe to the TYT YouTube channel here.
Submit questions for the Q & A episode here.

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SHOW NOTES:

1:32 (SO, HOW LONG YOU BEEN IN TOWN?)
8:03 (WALKING AMONGST YOUR HEROS)
12:25 (MEETING EVERYBODY AT WHISKEY JAM) 
13:40 (EVERYBODY’S TIMELINE IS DIFFERENT)
16:10 (GETTING A PUBLISHING DEAL) 
19:00 (A TICKET TO THE SHOW) 
20:50 (CONNECTING THE DOTS)
21:30 (FIRST BIG CUT) 
25:45 (EMBRACING THE GRIND) 
28:00 (IT TAKES TIME) 
30:50 (BRANDING YOURSELF AS A SONGWRITER) 
34:05 (HOW IMPORTANT YOUR BRAND IS) 
36:35 (GETTING A CUT WITH JON PARDI 
42:35 (HEARING YOU GOT THE SINGLE) 
45:40 (WHAT GETTING YOUR FIRST #1 FEELS LIKE) 
51:30 (FINDING GOOD IDEAS TO WRITE ABOUT) 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.

It’s often said that Nashville Tennessee is a ten-year town. It takes 10 years to build your circle, land that job or big audition, 10 years to be discovered and get your shot, 10 years to write the song that’ll change your life forever. Join Troy Cartwright as he sits down with hit songwriters, musicians and music city execs to discuss their journey through Music Row, the struggles of getting started and what it takes to stay at the top. Subscribe to Ten Year Town to get new episodes sent direct to your phone and send your questions and thoughts to [email protected].

New episodes every Tuesday.

Want more Ten Year Town? Subscribe to the TYT YouTube channel here. 

New Episodes every Tuesday.

Find the host Troy Cartwright on Twitter, Instagram.

Social Channels for Ten Year Town:

Youtube

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

This podcast was produced by Ben VanMaarth.

Intro and Outro music for this episode was composed by Troy Cartwright, Monty Criswell, and Derek George. It is called "Same" and you can listen to it in it's entirety here.

Additional music for this episode was composed by Thomas Ventura.

Artwork design by Brad Vetter.

Creative Direction by Mary Lucille Noah.