WAIM 169: Singer/Songwriter Thomm Jutz

Thomm Jutz did not make his way to Nashville along the usual path. Growing up in the Black Forest of West Germany, an eleven year old Thomm saw American country star Bobby Bare on TV and instantly began a lifelong love affair with country and American roots music. Jutz gradually mastered the guitar and even began to pen his own songs, always dreaming of a move to America.In 2003, Jutz entered and won a lottery for a Green Card, which allowed him to work and live in the United States. He and his wife were able to move to Nashville, and would eventually become naturalized US citizens by 2008. During his 20 plus years in the States, Jutz has worked regularly as a sideman, touring the country with artists like Nancy Griffith, Mary Gauthier, and Kim Richey, as well as playing on myriad recording sessions. Jutz has also become one of Nashville’s most trusted sonic collaborators as he has produced albums by Nanci Griffith, Bill Anderson, Todd Snider, and Mac Wiseman.While the sideman and production gigs were bringing in steady work, Jutz longed to focus on his own songs. In 2023, he released Nothing But Green Willow: The Songs of Mary Sands and Jane Gentry, and has since followed it up with 2026’s Ring-A-Bellin’, an album and companion book that apply Jungian psychology and alchemical stages to the songwriting process.In addition to all of his writing, recording, and production work, Jutz is also a professor of songwriting at Nashville’s Belmont University. During our discussion, we talk about the changing state of the music industry and the ways that these cultural and economic shifts are affecting Thomm’s young songwriting students. We also explore the crucial importance of musical history, learning to listen deeply, and the idea of giving yourself permission to be an artist.Let’s get into it.Cheers,Matty C-------------------------End CreditsThanks so much to Thomm for joining me. You can find out all about his work at https://www.thommjutz.com/The What Am I Making podcast is hosted, written, and produced by me, Matty C.Our theme music was written and recorded by David J. Baldwin.You can subscribe to our show wherever you get your podcasts. Please be sure to like, rate and review the show if you enjoy it.Our work is solely sponsored by listeners and readers like you. Please lend your support today with a paid subscription at whatamimaking.substack.com/. Now is a crucial time for new paid subscribers. Please step up and support the show.You can email the show anytime at [email protected]. You can also leave us a voicemail with your questions or concerns at speakpipe.com/whatamimaking Get full access to What Am I Making at whatamimaking.substack.com/subscribe