23. Writing Music That Connects: Kevin McClure on Earnest Lyrics and Ambitious Sound

Ep.023: Kevin McClure isn’t interested in chasing trends; he’s here to build something real. In this conversation, we get into the tension between commercial appeal and creative integrity, and how Kevin navigates that tightrope without losing sight of the why. He opens up about the scrappy hustle behind his early national tours, his songwriting process that prioritizes both resonance and risk, and why he thinks pop music deserves more respect when done right. We talk metaphor, mental health, and the quiet discipline of making timeless music in a culture that wants fast and forgettable. Whether you’re in a creative rut or trying to figure out how to stay true to your sound, this one will speak to you.We Chat About:The songwriting philosophy behind his EP Cheating DeathHow his song “Dancing Bears” uses metaphor to explore fear, control, and human natureWhy he believes music should be boiled down, not watered downTouring the country before building a local fanbase—and how that workedHis DIY approach to booking shows, building an audience, and staying in the blackBalancing authenticity and accessibility as a pop songwriterThe power of relatability in short-form video (and how he accidentally went viral)What keeps him centered as an artist, dad, and creatorHis side project podcast This One’s a Doozy, made with his wifeThe mission of Good Life Records and how to support independent musiciansAbout Kevin McClure:Kevin McClure has two criteria for his music: the lyrics must be written earnestly and the instrumentation must be ambitious- utilizing a broad scope of music theory, timbre, and genre. Whether it’s music written for a quiet night at home or for blasting loud while driving down the highway, his songs are for people who want profound lyrics and eclectic musicality. This Omaha-based artist brings an exciting, high-energy live show that invites the crowd to something deeper than passive observers: he builds community. For fans of The Beatles, Bruce Springsteen, Switchfoot, Bright Eyes, and Ben Rector.Connect with Kevin:Music + Links: https://Linktr.ee/KevinTMcClurePodcast: https://pod.link/1628724505Other Resources:Follow the OFFICIAL “loves music” playlist on Apple Music: ​​https://music.apple.com/library/playlist/p.4Y0J406i03DQrX“loves music” playlist on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0qE3kq89oyg3tFNbmRfHEO?si=vopaKQnNS8OHn0r2fFTVBgCheck out the “loves music” podcast website: https://www.podpage.com/loves-music/Julian on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julian.jones.9484Julian on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianjones417/Julian on Threads: https://www.threads.net/@julianjones417Check out Julian’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B6QYX6RLMusic Mentioned in this Episode:Songs:“Cheating Death”“Dancing Bears”“Before the Sun Rises”“All Is Right”“Shadows” (from Scenic)“We Can Be One” (from Scenic)Albums & Projects:Cheating Death (EP)Scenic (former band project)Artists & Bands:The BeatlesBruce Springsteen / E Street BandSwitchfootBright EyesBen RectorBilly JoelLocal NativesManchester OrchestraO.A.R.311Sister Kill CycleLetdownSick PuppiesEnfielder (Good Life Records)