Joey Davis & TJ Peterson -From First Gig to Finding Freedom

Send Johni & Jess a textEvery musician has a moment when everything changes—when music stops being something they enjoy and becomes something they need. In this episode of The Hook, Jess and Johni sit down with musicians Joey Davis and TJ Peterson, joined by fellow musician John Beckner, to explore the exact moment music took hold of their lives—and never let go.They dive into the firsts that shape every artist: the first time playing in front of a crowd, the first time getting paid, and even the first time completely bombing. Joey and TJ share honest stories about risk, sacrifice, creative obsession, and the reality behind the romanticized image of being a musician.The conversation goes deeper into what keeps artists going when the path is uncertain, what performing on bigger stages teaches you, and the environments that spark true creativity. The episode also features live original performances and the stories behind the songs—revealing the emotional moments that inspired them.From nostalgia and vulnerability to laughter and rapid-fire questions, this episode captures the human side of chasing music—not for fame, but for freedom.Because once music has its hooks in you… there’s no going back.To follow TJ and Joey, connect with them on social media:TJ Peterson FB https://www.facebook.com/tj.peterson.5855/TJ Peterson TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@tj.peterson93Joey Davis FB https://www.facebook.com/JoeyD1194/Joey Davis IG https://www.instagram.com/joeydavis.music/?hl=enMusic has the power to bring people together — and this September, Lightmakers is doing exactly that.Join the Richmond International Film Festival Thursday, September 24th for the Lightmakers Signature Series, a special night of live music featuring The Joey Davis Band, Rodney Stith and Richmond’s own Kyle Davis.It’s all part of RIFF’s 15th annual celebration of film, music and creativity happening September 22nd through the 27th.Support the showThank you for listening to The Hook with Johni & Jess. This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed.Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at: https://www.johniandjess.comFollow The Hook on Facebook for new episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming guest announcements: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588050877252If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with someone who inspires you, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue telling the stories behind the hook.The Hook with Johni & Jess — where passion begins with a moment.