EPISODE · Apr 24, 2026 · 1H 1M
Part 2 From Buffett to Backroads: A Life in Song with Will Kimbrough.
from The Hook with Johni & Jess · host Jess Ellett & Johni Baird
Send Johni & Jess a textIn Part 2 of our conversation with Grammy-nominated songwriter, guitarist, and producer Will Kimbrough, we go even deeper—into the stories, the songs, and the legacy.We dive into Will’s decades-long relationship with Jimmy Buffett, including what it was really like being part of the Coral Reefer Band and co-writing some of Buffett’s final songs—most notably the emotional and enduring “Bubbles Up.” From behind-the-scenes moments to the personal impact of those collaborations, this part of the conversation is as real as it gets.We also explore Will’s songwriting process, the stories behind some of his most meaningful work, and how it feels to hear your songs carried into the world by other artists. Plus, we rewind all the way back to the beginning—how it all started, the moments that almost changed everything, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.This is the full-circle moment—where craft meets legacy, and where a lifetime of music comes into focus.If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, go back and start there—you’ll want the full story.Will's Core Collaborations / Major MentionsJimmy Buffett, Emmylou Harris, Rodney Crowell, Todd Snider, John Prine & Guy ClarkLegendary / Industry Icons, Additional Artists & Collaborators , Musicians / Nashville & Session Legends, Writers / Producers / Key Figures Mentioned & Bands / Cultural References Mentioned Paul McCartney, Mark Knopfler, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix & Neil YoungToby Keith, Roger Waters, Jerry Jeff Walker, Bonnie Raitt, Linda Ronstadt & Dolly Parton, Jerry Douglas, Luther Dickinson Alison Krauss & Yo-Yo Ma, Mac McAnally, Gary Green & Daniel Lanois, Little Feat, R.E.M., Allman Brothers Band & Pink FloydMusic 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.
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Send Johni & Jess a text In Part 2 of our conversation with Grammy-nominated songwriter, guitarist, and producer Will Kimbrough, we go even deeper—into the stories, the songs, and the legacy. We dive into Will’s decades-long relationship with Jimmy Buffett, including what it was really like being part of the Coral Reefer Band and co-writing some of Buffett’s final songs—most notably the emotional and enduring “Bubbles Up.” From behind-the-scenes moments to the personal impact of those col...
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Part 2 From Buffett to Backroads: A Life in Song with Will Kimbrough.
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