The Bilby + Ella Show

Our guest this week is singer-songwriter and artist Alyssa Flaherty, who grew up performing the national anthem at pro sporting events and singing at talent shows and charity events around Annapolis, Maryland, long before she ever picked up a guitar. At 14, she quietly cold-emailed a handful of Nashville labels, and only told her family once she got a response back. That leap of faith turned into a full family move to Nashville in March 2020, where Alyssa taught herself guitar, learned to write from scratch, and found her community at open mics in Leiper's Fork.In this episode, Alyssa tells the almost unbelievable story of how producer and Modern West band member Teddy Morgan discovered her at a writer's round and brought her in to sing "Amazing Grace" for Kevin Costner's film Horizon: An American Saga, an opportunity that led to her opening for Costner and his band on the road and finally pushed her to start releasing her own music. She gets honest about the real gap she sees in artist development across the industry, the hypocrisy of demanding authenticity while pushing artists toward sameness, and why she treats every show like a game she's trying to win against herself. She also opens up about faith, family, and how fearlessness looks different now than it did at 14.Whether you're an artist trying to find your own lane, someone who loves a good against-the-odds story, or just want to hear someone talk about music like it's still magic to them, we think you'll love this one.Check out Alyssa's newest singles "Texas in July" and "Falling for Someone," available everywhere you listen to music!0:00 – Welcome & Intro: Alyssa Flaherty0:53 – Reminiscing About Fox & Locke's Open Mic Scene9:52 – Growing Up Without a Musical Family & Voice Lessons at Best Buy13:09 – Classical Training, the National Anthem & Auditioning for The Voice16:01 – The Cold Email That Convinced Her Family to Move to Nashville21:22 – Learning What Nashville (and This Industry) Really Gives You24:05 – Learning Guitar, Writing Her First Songs & Meeting Teddy Morgan27:36 – The Call That Led to Singing "Amazing Grace" in Horizon: An American Saga29:02 – Her First Tour, Starting in Jackson Hole, Opening for Kevin Costner33:02 – The Hardest Part of Being an Artist & Nashville's Broken Development System38:49 – Advice to Her Younger Self & Getting Comfortable With the Unknown44:48 – Why Artist Development Takes a Team & How Its Absence Hurts the Music51:45 – The Voice, Staying True to Herself & Fearless Then vs. Now55:43 – Songwriting Came Naturally & How Attached She Gets to a Song59:07 – Chasing the "Shania Twain Effect" & Building Long-Term Artistry1:06:22 – Finding Melodies That Never Get Old & Capturing Ideas on the Go1:09:20 – Inside Her New EP, American Sweetheart, & Her Release Strategy1:10:47 – Bodies of Work vs. Instant Gratification in Today's Music1:13:49 – What Stays the Same When You Strip Away the Genre1:16:52 – Her Current Listening & Will We See Another Music Renaissance?1:27:37 – Closing Thoughts: Music as a Time Machine & Making Something That Outlives YouFollow Alyssa Flaherty:InstagramTikTokYouTubeFacebookFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join Our Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Hill:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Willie:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

Our guest this week is the legendary music publisher and song champion Rusty Gaston, CEO of Sony Music Publishing Nashville. Rusty spent 24 years building an independent publishing company (THiS Music) before a call from Jon Platt (SMP's worldwide chairman) changed the trajectory of his career entirely, and he's spent the last six and a half years leading the largest home of country music publishing on the planet, informally known around town as the Chief Encouragement Officer.In this episode, Rusty gets honest about the loneliness that can come with leadership, the rare friendship he had with a "competitor" at another major publisher, and the real math behind commercial songwriting: why it's a game won by perspiration more than inspiration. He breaks down his philosophy on encouragement as a job description, his belief that there's no song too good to find its way in today's world, and tells the story of how Way Maker, a worship song written by one woman in Nigeria, became a global movement. He also opens up about his path from a teenage performer at Six Flags to a defining meeting in Nashville, and what he hopes to pass down to the generations of his family he'll never meet.Whether you're chasing a publishing deal, trying to figure out what it means to lead with humility, or just want to hear someone talk about the power of a song like they've never lost the wonder of it, this one will stick with you. We're endlessly grateful Rusty made the time.Be sure to check out his podcast, Thank a Songwriter, available everywhere you listen!00:00 – Welcome & Intro: Rusty Gaston, CEO of Sony Music Publishing Nashville02:56 – Overview: From Independent Publisher to Sony CEO03:24 – "God's Plan Is Bigger Than Your Plan": Leaving THiS Music04:37 – The Cold Call From Jon Platt That Changed Everything06:07 – Moving to Nashville in 1996 & Sony's Country Music Legacy07:21 – Leadership, Loneliness & the Rare Friendship With a "Competitor"12:37 – Culture Building, Other-Centered Leadership & What Publishers Do14:37 – Songs That Have the Power to Change the World15:05 – Launching the Thank a Songwriter Podcast18:39 – Why No Great Song Gets Left Behind Today20:32 – Kix Brooks, the Seven Human Emotions & Where His Optimism Comes From26:08 – A Third-Grade Memory That Sparked His Love of Music27:17 – Falling in Love With Records & a Teenage Performer at Six Flags30:13 – Learning the Word "Intern" & the Full Circle Meeting That Brought Him to Nashville32:23 – Finding a Mentor Who Opened the Filing Cabinet33:35 – His Advice for the Next Generation of Songwriters34:15 – Perspiration Over Inspiration: The Numbers Game of Hit Songwriting36:42 – Becoming CEO of Sony Music Publishing Nashville in 202037:10 – Purpose vs. Hustle & the Death of Ego41:59 – The Book of Psalms & Becoming the "Chief Encouragement Officer"49:04 – The Songs That Changed His World: Alan Jackson & Way Maker54:10 – Happy Birthday, Seven Generations & the Legacy He Wants to LeaveFollow Rusty Gaston:InstagramFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join Our Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Hill:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Willie:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

Our guest this week is singer-songwriter, artist, and killer soccer teammate of William's, Dylan Brady. He's spent the better part of a decade building a career in Nashville that has run through a record deal, a publishing deal, and now the freedom and uncertainty that comes with being independent.In this conversation, Dylan gets honest about what it actually takes to write hit songs for a living while riding the financial rollercoaster that comes with it, navigating tough financial spots at 27 vs. 17 when he first signed his deals, and being more creatively fulfilled than ever. He breaks down the "math" behind great commercial songwriting, the vulnerability of writing his most personal record to date, and a piece of wisdom from his therapist about finding your own version of a swing set in the middle of nowhere when everything else falls away. Plus, stay tuned to the end where Willie & Dylan bonded over each of their funny and creative uncle names given by their own nieces and nephews.We're so thankful we got to have an honest, funny, and deeply human conversation about staying creative and staying yourself while you wait for the seeds you have planted to grow.Check out Dylan's new album, Gradual, available everywhere you stream and purchase music!00:00 – Welcome & Intro: Dylan Brady01:25 – Catching Up on Soccer, the World Cup & Feeling Like "Old Men"04:15 – Recording Episode 18 & Realizing They Don't Know Each Other's Origin Story04:44 – Growing Up on Long Island With Zero Long Island Accent06:59 – Bonding Over Bad Fishing & Why It's a Form of Meditation10:33 – William's Senior Project That Led Him to Nashville12:18 – Did Dylan Even Know About the Music Industry Growing Up?13:05 – A Moment of Gratitude for Each Other's Kindness14:05 – The Soccer Team as an Escape From Industry Stress14:58 – Scoring Six Goals the Night of a Breakup & His Therapist's "Swing" Theory17:23 – Falling in Love With Music, the Brady Brothers & a Twin Brother's Path20:01 – Ten Years in Nashville & Staying Excited Through the Ups and Downs21:13 – Why "Being in the Room" Is the Best Part of the Job23:06 – Evolving From Doing Everything Yourself to Building a Team24:34 – Creating Something From Nothing & Songwriting as Therapy26:05 – The "Math" Behind Great Songwriting: Phrasing, Rhyme & Emphasis31:13 – Writing His Most Personal Record Alone After Nine Years33:26 – Behind "Lose My Mind" & "Forgot About You"36:14 – Why "Still Looking For You Everywhere" Means So Much to Him41:19 – Pre-Release Anxiety & Struggling to Root for Yourself42:11 – Life Between Deals: Writing, Pitching & Scheduling It All Himself45:35 – "The Seed You Plant Isn't the Fruit You Eat"46:13 – The Financial Rollercoaster of Being an Artist at 27 vs. 1748:38 – Abbey's Song "The Lottery" & Betting on Each Other52:05 – The Harrison Ford Story: Why You Just Have to Stick Around56:23 – The New "In the Room" Series Hill & William Are Building58:23 – Uncle DD, Nieces & Nephews & a Children's Book in the Works1:01:04 – Writing "Say Cheese" for a Kids' Music Compilation1:04:46 – Shotgun Questions: Dream Collabs, Go-To Plugins & More1:07:09 – Closing Thoughts & ThanksFollow Dylan Brady: InstagramTikTokYouTubeFacebookFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join Our Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Hill:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Willie:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

Our guests this week are brothers, songwriters, and artists Jonathan and Eli Hutcherson, who grew up eight years apart in a small Kentucky town with almost no music in the family and somehow, serendipitously, they both ended up chasing the dream in Nashville and are each actively crushing it. Since making it to town, Jonathan spent seven years as an artist and writer with Creative Nation (where he's still signed as a songwriter), while Eli is actively stepping into the independent world himself as an artist.In this conversation, the Hutchersons get honest about what it takes to survive a writer's room: managing ego (and the insecurity hiding underneath it), letting a co-writer ride the wave instead of stepping on it, and why being yourself matters more than being impressive. They break down the real difference between publishing and masters, why streaming has changed who gets paid and how, and what pushed them both toward independence over a label deal. They also open up about faith, anxiety, and a brotherhood that turns competition into collaboration.Whether you're a songwriter finding your voice, an indie artist weighing your options, or just someone who loves a good sibling story, this one's full of heart, hustle, and hard-won wisdom from two brothers building their own lane in Music City. Enjoy!00:00 – Welcome & Intro: Eli + Jonathan Hutcherson01:19 – Growing Up in Kentucky & a Family With Almost No Music04:02 – Moving to Nashville at 18 & Signing With Creative Nation05:44 – Finding (and Hiding) a Love for Music Growing Up09:04 – Skipping College & Learning the Industry by Doing It12:18 – Writing 1,500+ Songs & the "Water Spigot" Theory of Craft15:13 – Learning From Luke Laird, Matt Jenkins & Nashville's Best Writers17:45 – How Ego (and Insecurity) Kills a Writing Room21:52 – Writing Together as Brothers Without Competing27:45 – Letting a Co-Writer "Ride the Wave"29:25 – Writing for an Artist's Voice, Not Your Own33:21 – Believing in Your Songs Before Anyone Else Does38:55 – Faith, David & the Psalms as Songwriting Therapy44:55 – Finding Your Identity & Your Own Creative Stamp47:00 – Loving Yourself, Loving Others & Where That Comes From50:11 – Letting Emotions Roll In Instead of Fighting Them56:03 – Publishing vs. Masters, Explained Simply59:33 – How Streaming Changed Who Actually Gets Paid1:00:48 – Why They Chose Independence Over a Label Deal1:08:24 – Building a Fanbase From Nothing (and Sleeping in a Minivan)1:09:44 – "Go Fail": The Case for Just Putting Music Out1:14:12 – Anchors, Storms & Finding What Holds You Steady1:17:34 – Brotherhood Over CompetitionFollow Jonathan Hutcherson:InstagramTikTokYouTubeFacebookFollow Eli Hutcherson:InstagramTikTokYouTubeFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join Our Community⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Hill:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Willie:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

Our guest this week has spent her career in the spaces most people don't see: the publishing offices, the writing rooms, and now the streaming platforms quietly shaping what gets heard and who gets credit. As Spotify's Songwriting & Publisher Partnerships Lead, Alex Tamashunas is one of the few people we've met working at the highest levels of this industry with a songwriter's heart still fully intact.In this conversation, Alex opens up about the uphill battle of building real fandom around the people who write the songs, what Spotify's new Song DNA feature means for songwriter visibility, and why AI in the writing room is less a creative tool and more a shortcut that costs you something. She also gets into the advice she wishes more emerging writers heard: the power of first impressions, finding your tribe, and knowing when to shoot your shot.Whether you're trying to navigate publishing, figure out your next move as a songwriter, or just curious about what's really happening inside one of the world's biggest music platforms, we think this one has something for you. We're so grateful Alex made the time to sit with us. Hope you enjoy!00:00 – Welcome & Intro: Alex Tamashunas01:00 – How Alex & Willie Met + the Hunter Hayes Connection03:18 – Growing Up in New Jersey & Falling in Love with Country Music07:00 – Why Nashville Over LA? Following the Lyric09:00 – What Does a Music Publisher Actually Do?11:27 – From Bartending to Publishing to Spotify13:37 – Spotify's Song DNA Feature & Giving Songwriters Visibility19:07 – The Gap Between How Much Songwriters Matter & How Little They're Celebrated23:00 – Building Fandom Around Songwriters: Is the Appetite There?26:40 – The Double-Edged Sword of Music Personalization & the Loss of a Shared Heartbeat33:58 – Algorithmic vs. Editor-Curated Playlists: Why Both Matter35:30 – Advice for Independent Artists & Songwriters Finding Their Footing43:50 – The Importance of Mentors & Finding a Great Publisher45:00 – When Songwriters Become Artists: Why Alex Loves Seeing That Transition48:50 – AI in the Writing Room: Where It Helps & Where It Costs You56:35 – Authenticity, Connection & What Listeners Are Really Starving For59:00 – Falling Back in Love with Music & Artist Rec: Annika Bennett01:03:35 – The Importance of Writing Alone Once a WeekFollow Alex Tamashunas:InstagramFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join Our Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Hill:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Willie:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

London-born artist and songwriter Karl Michael joins the Bilby & Ella Show for a conversation rooted in resilience, identity, and staying power.Raised on rap, soul, and R&B, Karl spent years honing his craft and building momentum as an artist, from competing on The Voice UK to stepping into his own as a solo act. His journey reflects a deep commitment to growth and a willingness to evolve along the way.Now based in Nashville, Karl has written with names like Bruno Mars, Teddy Swims, and Yungblud, while continuing to develop his own sound as an artist. In this episode, he opens up about navigating the highs and lows of the industry, growing in confidence as a vocalist, and learning to trust who he is in the room.It’s a conversation about perseverance, self-belief, and what it takes to keep going when the path doesn’t look how you expected.Be sure to check out Karl’s latest single “Way Less Lonely” available now ahead of his upcoming EP.00:00 Intro + Welcoming Karl Michael02:10 Growing Up in London + Early Musical Influences07:20 Falling in Love with R&B, Soul & Pop11:40 Chasing Music Full-Time + Early Career Moments17:20 Early Breaks + Writing Opportunities23:30 Writing with Bruno Mars + Major Collaborations28:50 Finding His Sound as an Artist34:30 Moving to Nashville + Finding His Place40:10 Overcoming Personal Setbacks + Resilience45:20 The Highs and Lows of the Music Industry50:30 Building Confidence as an Artist54:30 Final Thoughts + What’s NextFollow Karl Michael:InstagramTikTokYouTubeFacebookFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join Our Community⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Hill:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Willie:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

Worship leader and artist David Dennis joins us for a conversation rooted in faith, creativity, and calling.Currently serving at The Belonging Co. in Nashville, David has become known for his powerful voice and presence, with many recognizing him from songs like “The Joy” and “I Know That I Know.” But as he shares in this episode, his journey is about far more than the stage.In this conversation, David opens up about his path to Nashville, the challenges and uncertainties he faced along the way, and how his understanding of worship has evolved over time. He gives an honest look at what it means to lead from a place of humility, how to maintain the right posture while performing, and the tension of balancing artistry with a life centered on honoring God.We also dive into the creative process behind worship music, the shifting landscape of Christian music, and what it looks like to pursue both excellence and authenticity in the room and on stage.Whether you’re an artist, worship leader, or creative trying to stay grounded in your purpose, this episode is a real, raw, and encouraging look at building a life and career that’s rooted in something deeper.00:00 Intro + Meet David03:10 Georgia to Nashville: David’s Roots05:35 Growing Up in Church + The Start of His Story09:34 Belmont, College Years + A Really Hard Season16:53 How David Got Connected with The Belonging Co.23:25 Practicing Humility with Your Gifts30:03 Stepping Back Into Songwriting + Their Creative Process40:00 Technical vs. Authentic Songwriting43:00 How David Prepares for Writing Sessions47:30 Songwriting as a Worship Leader51:45 Connecting Theology to Songwriting55:30 Creating Content as a Worship Artist59:00 Frannie Cash, Forrest Frank, Josiah Queen + More01:02:45 Entering Your 30s: Life + Perspective Shift01:07:10 Music That Shaped David + Early Influences01:15:00 Dream Collaborators for David’s Solo Project01:18:00 Closing Thoughts + EncouragementFollow David Dennis:InstagramFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join Our Community⁠⁠⁠Follow Hill:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Willie:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

Songwriter Brett Sheroky has spent years behind the scenes writing songs for artists like Blake Shelton, Jake Owen, Matt Stell, Cody Jinks, Randall King, and Tucker Wetmore. His songs have climbed the charts, hit #1 on Texas radio, and appeared on shows like The Voice and American Idol.Now, with the release of his debut album Rock Paper Scissors, Brett is stepping out from behind the songs and into the spotlight as an artist.In this episode, Brett joins Bilby & Ella to talk about the craft of songwriting, the realities of navigating today’s music industry, and the long road it takes to build a creative life. He also opens up about a life-changing season that reshaped his perspective on music, career, and the time we’re given to pursue what matters most.Blending the spirit of 90s country with the grit of 70s rock, Brett Sheroky’s music feels both timeless and fresh. This is a conversation about songwriting, resilience, and staying true to the art.Listen now and check out Brett’s debut album Rock Paper Scissors, available everywhere.00:00 Brett Sheroky’s Open Heart Surgery Story05:10 Living With a Heart Condition & Perspective on Life11:20 Brett’s Path Into Songwriting17:40 Moving to Nashville & Learning the Writing Room24:05 Live Shows in Nashville + The Dawes Story31:10 Brett’s Debut Album “Rock Paper Scissors”38:15 Social Media’s Impact on Discovering Artists45:45 Brett, Bilby & Ella’s Definition of Success52:30 The Demand for Authentic Artists Today59:20 Brett Reflects on 17 Years in Nashville01:05:40 Breaking Down Other Artists’ Rise01:12:30 Will AI Be the Next Napster?01:19:50 Inviting God Into the Songwriting Process01:26:40 What’s Next for Brett’s Music01:31:50 Final Thoughts & Wrap UpFollow Brett Sheroky:InstagramTikTokYouTubeFacebookWebsiteFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join Our Community⁠⁠Follow Hill:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Willie:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

7x Grammy Award–nominated songwriter and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Jeffrey Steele joins us for an honest conversation about the craft, calling, and emotional core of songwriting. With more than 60 charting songs including “What Hurts the Most,” “My Wish,” and “The Cowboy in Me,” Jeffrey reflects on the life experiences, observations, and faith that have shaped his voice as a writer.We talk with Jeffrey about his journey from playing rock clubs in Los Angeles to finding his way into Nashville’s writing rooms, and how losing his voice at a pivotal moment forced him to rediscover songwriting from the inside out. Along the way, he shares what it looks like to trust instinct, lean into collaboration, and chase honesty over perfection.Throughout our conversation, Jeffrey offers perspective on creative longevity, the power of being fully present in the room, and why the best songs often come from real conversations and lived experience rather than chasing trends or clever rhymes.This one felt special to us. It’s a masterclass in intuition, humility, and the long game of creativity from one of Nashville’s most influential songwriters, and we hope it encourages you wherever you are in your own creative journey.00:00 – Introduction & Jeffrey Steele’s Songwriting Journey02:05 – Do You Write What Was Never Said?12:16 – From Rock Bands to Nashville Writing Rooms20:59 – Losing His Voice & Reinventing Himself as a Writer23:40 – How to Read the Room as a Songwriter34:20 – “Never Do It for the Money” (Kris Kristofferson Story)36:56 – Overthinking vs. Letting the Song Happen46:07 – The Arrangement Behind “The Cowboy in Me”48:09 – Grief, His Father & “What Hurts the Most”1:01:38 – Why 90s & 00s Songs Still Hit Today1:19:13 – Jeffrey Steele’s New Song “A Voice” (Not Being the Second Best Merle Haggard)1:43:35 – Writing to Help the World, Not Hurt ItFollow Jeffrey Steele:InstagramYouTubeFacebookWebsiteFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join Our Community⁠Follow Hill:⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Willie:⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram

CJ Solar joins Bilby & Ella for an honest conversation about navigating independence, creativity, and longevity in today’s music industry.After years of success as a songwriter with cuts by Jason Aldean, Morgan Wallen, Justin Moore, Joe Nichols, and Jerrod Niemann, including the multi week number one hit “Up Down,” CJ opens up about life after stepping away from a major publishing deal and what it means to fully bet on himself as an artist.In this episode, CJ breaks down the tension between writing for others and building a personal catalog, how AI and modern demo tools are reshaping songwriting, and why authenticity and imperfection matter more than ever. He shares hard earned perspective on touring economics, door deals, building sustainable live markets, and the realities of promoting music in an algorithm driven world.CJ also gives an inside look at his upcoming full length album, from choosing live tracking over polish to assembling a lineup of legendary players to capture a more human, timeless sound.Whether you are a songwriter navigating multiple lanes, an independent artist building from the ground up, or a listener curious about what it really takes to sustain a creative life, this episode offers rare clarity, honesty, and long game perspective from someone still very much in the fight.00:00 Snowpocalypse setup, travel, and catching up06:59 Screens, meditation, and protecting creativity09:02 Content pressure and the modern artist’s reality online17:26 AI demos, pitching culture, and what wins now24:10 Authenticity vs perfection (Zach Bryan, mistakes, and “human” records)30:05 CJ’s story: Baton Rouge to Nashville31:58 Early cuts, first wins, and writing “Up Down”32:56 The shift to social-first labels and why CJ stepped away34:54 Touring weekends, building fans, and balancing writer vs artist36:42 The new full-length album: why now and what it represents42:11 Recruiting the band and capturing a more human sounding record47:36 Going fully independent: life after the publishing deal53:49 Touring economics, door deals, and making new markets work01:05:27 Building a touring plan with data, strategy, and songwriter rounds01:11:18 The content creator era, earning “mystery,” and letting fans in01:22:54 Closing thoughts and wrapFollow CJ Solar:InstagramTikTokYouTubeFacebookWebsiteFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠Join Our CommunityFollow Hill:⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠Follow Willie:⁠⁠⁠Instagram

Mark Hill is one of Nashville’s most trusted session bass players and producers, a quiet force behind countless records that have shaped modern country, Americana, and Christian music. Raised in a small farming town in southern Illinois and introduced to music through gospel, Mark found his calling early and built a career around preparation, adaptability, and serving the song above all else.A five-time ACM nominee and two-time ACM Bass Player of the Year, Mark Hill has logged hundreds of sessions a year, earning his place as a first-call musician by mastering far more than just the instrument. From his first Nashville recording session at just 11 years old to touring and recording with artists like Keith Urban, Mark’s journey reveals what it really takes to survive in the session world: musical fluency, emotional intelligence, and an unwavering work ethic.In this conversation, Mark breaks down the realities of becoming a professional session musician. Digging the well. Reading the room. Knowing when to lead and when to disappear. He shares stories of mentorship, lessons learned in high-pressure rooms, and how producing later in his career has deepened his understanding of what artists truly need to feel supported.Whether you’re an aspiring session player, a producer shaping records, or a listener curious about the musicians behind the music, this episode offers rare, hard-earned insight into building a sustainable creative life, one session at a time.01:07 Meet Mark Hill02:51 Gospel roots and getting started young05:08 First songs, learning by ear, and early musical instincts12:22 Watching the pros and realizing what “professional” looks like13:45 The Nashville Number System explained19:26 Leadership on sessions and charting for the room22:18 Jimmie Lee Sloas, mentorship, and learning by observing29:41 Taking the producer seat and learning to serve the artist31:17 Rental properties, Nashville chaos, and meeting Sinclair38:27 Producing an 80s leaning project with Dann Huff and friends39:25 How many sessions per year and what the workload is really like40:26 Insomnia, Ambien, and life on the road44:58 What it takes to survive in Nashville long term49:56 Advice for aspiring session musicians and getting in the pool54:48 Touring, the modern music economy, and making it work57:31 The Keith Urban call and the pressure of saying yes1:00:05 Building a “clean tour” and leading at a high level1:01:05 Band leader responsibilities, calendars, and setlist decisions1:02:27 The bus moment, belief, and the Field of Dreams analogy1:08:15 Pay structure, hospitality, and taking care of the band1:11:45 Recording stories with Michael Bublé and Eric Stonestreet1:17:59 Final thoughts on approachability, longevity, and legacyFollow Mark Hill:WebsiteFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠Follow Hill:⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Follow Willie:⁠⁠Instagram

Hey y’all, this episode is part two of our first solo round episode.Following up on Episode 8, where we unpacked the foundation of the Bilby + Ella Show, today we start with a quick call to our friend Eric Hangartner from the band Walden before diving into what this season of creating has been teaching us. From songwriting and collaboration to lessons learned in the studio, we talk through how our creative processes have changed and what it looks like to keep showing up and finishing the work.This conversation is about momentum, trust, and building something with intention. We talk honestly about learning as we go, staying rooted in the process, and finding confidence not in having all the answers, but in knowing why we’re doing this in the first place.If you’re a creative navigating your own next chapter, we hope this episode reminds you you’re not alone and meets you right where you are.00:00 Intro and jumping into part two01:10 Calling Eric Hangartner (Walden)03:20 Making a full-length record in a singles world05:05 Learning piano and keeping the process fun07:45 Why making records the old way still matters09:55 How our songwriting processes have evolved12:10 Finding your voice as a creative14:35 Lyrics first vs melody first17:05 Writing from journals and real life19:45 Finishing songs and trusting the feeling22:30 Lessons learned from recent studio sessions25:10 What we would do differently next time28:00 The importance of the right collaborators31:15 Process over outcomes34:10 What finishing music has taught us36:40 Creating without obsessing over release strategy39:30 Writing for yourself vs the listener42:15 Originality, influence, and finding your voice45:00 What we wish we could unlearn creatively48:20 Changing the music industry for songwriters51:30 Looking ahead and what’s next for the showFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠Follow Hill:⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠Follow Willie:⁠⁠⁠Instagram

This episode is a first for The Bilby + Ella Show. It’s just us, Hill and Willie, sitting down to reflect on the year behind us and talk about what we’re building moving forward.We look back on our creative journeys, from college and football to Nashville, music, and collaboration, and share what we’ve learned about identity, ambition, failure, and letting go of perfection in pursuit of peace. We talk honestly about the tension between loving the work and chasing outcomes, and what it means to feel grounded in the process even when the future is still unfolding.We also take time to lay out the heart behind this show. Why collaboration matters. Why human connection matters. And why pulling back the curtain on the real creative process is something we care deeply about.Consider this episode a foundation. If you’re a songwriter, musician, creative, or someone curious about what life in the music world actually looks like, this conversation sets the tone for everything ahead.Thanks for being here. We’re excited about what’s coming next.00:00 Intro and end-of-year reflection01:20 Looking back on 2025 and creative alignment02:45 Feeling “at home” in your creative journey04:20 Peace over perfection06:05 Ambition, work ethic, and enjoying the plateau07:15 Moving to Nashville and setting roots09:00 Our creative backgrounds and how this friendship formed11:10 Why this podcast started12:40 The intention behind the Bilby + Ella Show14:55 Creativity, purpose, and collaboration16:20 Perfectionism and where it comes from18:10 Football, failure, and identity22:00 Losing the role and learning to let go27:45 How perfectionism shaped our creative process30:30 Paying bills while pursuing music33:20 Releasing work without fear36:00 Who this show is really for38:15 Pulling back the curtain on the music industry40:10 Being a bridge between insiders and listeners42:00 The future of the show and creative collaboration46:30 What we hope listeners take away48:00 Audience question and Spotify Wrapped52:25 Closing thoughts and what’s nextFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠Follow Hill:⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Follow Willie:⁠⁠Instagram

Jeff Roach is one of Nashville’s most quietly influential musicians—a multi-instrumentalist, producer, and session player whose fingerprints are on far more records than most people realize. Over his 36-year career, he’s played keys and organ for artists like Darius Rucker, Jon Pardi, Parmalee, Kenny Chesney, Brett Eldredge, Tim McGraw & Faith Hill, and Michael McDonald, while also producing, programming, arranging, and writing across country, pop, Christian, and even EDM.In this conversation, Jeff sits down with Willie & Hill for an honest and deeply human look at the creative life. He shares the story of moving to Nashville in the late ’80s, falling into session work, ghost-producing for major names, and navigating an industry now wrestling with AI-generated music and homogenized sound.But the heart of this episode is Jeff’s recent spiritual awakening—a two-year journey marked by fasting, unexpected clarity, and personal experiences that have reshaped how he sees identity, calling, and purpose. He talks candidly about learning to hear God’s voice, letting go of old definitions of success, and sitting in the uncomfortable but sacred in-between when you know a new chapter is coming but don’t yet know what it is.Whether you’re a songwriter, a producer, or someone wrestling with what’s next, Jeff’s transparency is a reminder that the creative life is about more than talent—it’s about listening, surrender, and being willing to step forward when you feel the nudge.A grounded, vulnerable conversation with one of Nashville’s most gifted and soulful collaborators.01:05 How AI is reshaping music04:10 The tension between creativity and technology07:50 Will AI change songwriting credits?10:55 Rewinding the tape — literally11:15 Jeff’s multi-instrumental path13:20 Moving to Nashville in the late ’80s15:40 Touring, early studio years, and finding his lane18:05 Becoming a session player (and staying adaptable)21:45 Production, programming, and sound-building24:58 Lessons from decades inside the studio28:10 Working across genres — country, pop, Christian, EDM32:20 The moment Jeff felt something shift34:55 Hearing God’s voice for the first time38:30 Fasting, obedience, and unexpected breakthroughs42:45 “Why am I still here?” — wrestling with calling46:05 Stories that confirmed something bigger was happening50:10 Learning to surrender his plans54:20 The unsettled season between chapters58:40 Trusting that a new direction is forming1:02:25 What obedience looks like for him today1:05:18 Advice for creatives in transition1:08:30 Final thoughts and closingFollow Jeff Roach:InstagramYouTubeWebsiteFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠Follow Hill:⁠Instagram⁠Follow Willie:⁠Instagram

Songwriter Matt McKinney may be one of the newer voices on Music Row, but his impact is already undeniable. Raised in Augusta and shaped by the songwriting culture of Nashville, Matt has built a reputation for sharp lyricism, emotional honesty, and the kind of room awareness that makes great songs possible. Since making his way to town and most recently signing with Position Music, his work has been recorded by Jordan Davis, Tim McGraw, Elle King, Jon Pardi, ERNEST, Lukas Nelson, and more—including Trey Lewis' Double-Platinum, Billboard #1 viral hit “Dicked Down in Dallas.”In this conversation, Matt opens up about navigating egos in the writing room, learning when to lead and when to listen, and why community is Nashville’s real secret weapon. He shares candid insight into the rise of outside cuts, the financial realities songwriters face in the streaming era, and the importance of staying original in a trend-chasing world. And of course, he tells the unbelievable true story behind “Dicked Down in Dallas”—from a college melody to a viral moment that changed everything.Whether you’re a songwriter, an artist building your voice, or someone who loves the stories behind the songs, this episode is packed with perspective, craft, and heart from one of Nashville’s rising talents.00:00 Growing Up in Georgia & Finding Music02:00 Moving to Nashville and Early Expectations03:15 Learning His Role in the Writing Room05:25 Nashville’s Unexpected Community07:27 Understanding the Business Behind the Songs09:05 Writers vs. Artists — Two Different Mindsets12:31 Why Songwriting Often Feels Like Therapy15:00 Ego, Honesty & Trust in Co-Writing18:01 The “Speed Dating” Reality of Writing Sessions20:07 The Hard Truth About Streaming Money23:28 Labels, Splits & Why Writers Struggle30:25 Why Listeners Still Crave Real Stories32:16 Originality vs. Trend Chasing34:07 The Return of Storytelling Songs39:25 How AI Is Changing Music Creation41:19 Inside Cuts vs. Outside Cuts Explained49:00 The Wild Story Behind “Dick Down in Dallas”56:15 Hitting #1 & the Viral Aftermath59:39 Songs That Live On (Even If They Aren’t Released)01:05:36 AI Demos, Budgets & the Future of Songwriting01:15:16 The UGA Crew That Took Over NashvilleFollow Matt McKinney:InstagramFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTokFollow Hill:InstagramFollow Willie:Instagram

Two-time Grammy-nominated songwriter and pianist James Slater joins us for a conversation full of wisdom, gratitude, and creative heart.Born in Durham, raised in the tropics, and now based in Nashville, James has written songs for some of the biggest names in country and beyond — from Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw, and Reba McEntire to Willie Nelson, Kenny Chesney, and Chris Isaak. But as he shares in this episode, his story is just as much about why he writes as who he writes for.From his powerful work with Songwriting With Soldiers, to lessons learned from living overseas, to the importance of humility and follow-through, James opens up about what it really takes to sustain a creative life. He reminds us that the best songs come from vulnerability, service, and being present long enough to let the stories unfold.Whether you’re a songwriter, producer, or creative chasing longevity — this episode is a reminder that you’re not behind… you’re right on time.00:00 Intro & James’ Story03:12 Growing Up Between Cultures05:18 Vulnerability in Songwriting06:38 Songwriting With Soldiers11:21 Moving to Nashville15:08 Writing for Legends21:56 Humility & Collaboration25:40 Faith and Gratitude30:26 The Power of a Great Song41:38 You’re Right On Time55:24 Protecting Creative Space01:09:26 Staying Inspired01:46:47 Follow-Through & Longevity02:07:13 Closing ReflectionsFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok

Rob Dennis is a Grammy Award–winning audio engineer, producer, and entrepreneur whose golden ear and servant-hearted approach have quietly shaped the sound of modern music. From Carrie Underwood and Jelly Roll to Kings of Leon and The Black Keys, his fingerprints are on records that define genres and generations.In this episode, Rob sits down with Bilby & Ella to share his journey from the oil fields of West Texas to the heart of Nashville’s recording scene — a story marked by grit, grace, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.He opens up about building a career rooted in service rather than spotlight, the psychology behind helping artists perform their best, and what recording legends like Ringo Starr and Keith Richards taught him about presence, purpose, and longevity.It’s a conversation about music, humility, and the art of staying in the game long enough to see your work echo through time.00:00 Introducing Rob Dennis03:23 The Studio Rule That Built His Career (“Would I Have You Over for Dinner?”)05:41 Moving to Nashville with a VHS Tape & a Dream09:15 From West Texas Drummer to Aspiring Engineer14:08 The Human Side of Audio — Serving Artists, Not Just Sound20:15 Sam Hunt, Jelly Roll & Learning to Be a Swiss Army Knife26:20 Leaving the Road to Build Rock and Roll Audio38:09 The Moment He Realized Gear Doesn’t Make the Record — People Do49:14 What He’d Tell the Next Generation of Engineers57:15 Staying in the Game & Building a Life That Lasts01:09:06 Recording Ringo Starr & Other Full-Circle Moments01:23:08 Dream Bigger, Stay HumbleFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok

Rivers Rutherford is a Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum songwriter whose work has helped define modern country music for more than two decades. From Memphis roots to Nashville stardom, he’s penned a dozen #1 hits for icons like Brooks & Dunn, Brad Paisley, Dolly Parton, Kenny Chesney, and Tim McGraw. Inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2019, Rivers has become known not only for his chart-toppers, but also for his ability to tell the stories behind them with humor, honesty, and heart.In this conversation, Rivers opens up about the burnout that nearly pulled him away from music — and how faith and family brought him back with fresh fire. He shares the unforgettable story of playing a song for the Highwaymen at just 21 years old, what it’s been like producing his son’s record, and the lessons he’s learned about ego, legacy, and living for an audience of One.Whether you’re a songwriter, a creative chasing your calling, or simply a fan of country music, this episode is full of wisdom, stories, and laughter from one of Nashville’s greats.00:00 Welcome Rivers Rutherford & correcting his ChatGPT bio03:05 Becoming “Boots” — stories of grandfatherhood and family legacy06:49 Producing his son’s record and why it reignited his love for music09:57 Burnout, bulldozers, and rediscovering gratitude for songwriting14:44 The grocery store story — surrendering music for faith and calling20:21 Playing a song for the Highwaymen at 21 years old26:05 Learning to live for an audience of One30:42 Writing with his son, co-writing lessons, and daring to suck in the room45:00 From TV shows to Toby Keith — lessons on knowing when you’ve got a hit52:54 Dolly Parton’s surprise on When I Get Where I’m Going1:02:00 Songs that change lives and why great songs are “discovered” not written1:18:19 Closing reflections — faith, family, and the legacy he hopes to leaveFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok

Richie Sessions is a singer-songwriter, minister, and storyteller whose life and work bridge the worlds of music, faith, and the deep places of the human heart. Over the years, he’s shared stages with some of Nashville’s most celebrated songwriters, preached in churches across the country, and created art that speaks to the wounded and the searching.In this conversation, Richie sits down with Hill and William to unpack a lifetime of chasing “the carrot” in the music industry, the ego deaths that shaped him, and the beauty of discovering that the fruit you grow is never for you—it’s for others. With honesty and humor, he opens up about jealousy, the inner critic, unconditional love, and the healing that comes when you stop running from your story and start owning it.From the Gollum-like grip of needing affirmation to the gold dust moments of connection with God and people, Richie reminds us that art at its best is an act of service. Whether you’re a songwriter, a seeker, or someone wrestling with identity, this episode is an invitation to grow down deep—so you can grow up and out.00:00 Introductions & navigating conflicting creative advice01:01 Surrendering ambition to God02:15 Chasing the dream in Nashville & the “carrot” thatkeeps moving08:10 When art becomes identity10:24 Rooting identity in God’s love14:45 Ego death & creative freedom16:00 Ego death as a daily practice26:11 Facing the inner critic28:57 Turning your story into strategy40:29 Love, just because you’re alive43:08 The beginning of coming home to yourself47:39 What do you want to be remembered for?51:27 Growing down to grow up52:42 The fruit is never for you58:01 Art as service, not self1:00:13 Spiritual growth & creativity1:01:18 Current projects with Tom Douglas1:04:41 Closing thoughts & gratitudeFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok

Today’s guest isn’t just a Grammy-winning producer — he’s the quiet force behind some of the most honest, unforgettable records of the last 30 years. From shaping the sound of Third Day to collaborating with U2 and shepherding careers before the world knew their names, Monroe Jones doesn’t chase trends — he builds legacies.In this debut episode, Monroe drops decades of insight on the creative grind — from cold-calling Nashville publishers out of the Yellow Pages to getting pulled into a studio session with Bono. He opens up about the “disease” every real artist carries, why quirk is the key to greatness, and the moment pride cost him the biggest gig of his career.This isn’t just a behind-the-scenes conversation — it’s a soul-check for every creative trying to stay true to the work, the craft, and the calling.00:00 Welcome to the Den03:05 The Grammy That Got Away (and the One That Didn’t)07:21 The Origins of a Creative Life13:06 The Nashville Pull16:36 No Permission Needed & the Power of Persistence24:46 Finding Your Lane as a Producer30:01 Building Trust in the Studio35:21 Moments That Made the Music47:15 Introducing the Manjong Creative Cards56:01 The U2 Story: Playing Keys with Bono1:09:51 The One Regret He Still Thinks About1:20:23 Nostalgia, Influence & Serving the Artist1:31:37 Wrap-Up + Legacy TalkFollow The Bilby + Ella Show:⁠Instagram⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠TikTok