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Taste of Country
Country music’s hottest stars visit with Evan Paul of Taste of Country Nights, a nationally syndicated radio show. Go deep inside new music to learn the inspiration behind familiar hits and hear stories about this wild life you won't hear elsewhere.
Total 50 episodes
1
Blake Shelton Doesn’t Miss ‘The Voice’ + 5 Things People Are Mad About After the CMAs
It’s Blake Shelton’s first appearance on the Taste of Country Nights On Demand podcast. He tells Evan Paul (1:00) why he was nervous to cut his new song, “Texas” and (15:05) admits which of his hits he never thought would reach No. 1.
Plus, how Post Malone inspired him to make music again, a (6:55) beautiful Toby Tribute and more. Then (17:26) Billy Dukes joins for a Night Cap focused on the 2024 CMA Awards.
Also mentioned: Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan, Justin Moore, Morgan Wallen, Chris Stapleton, Shaboozey, and Adam Levin.
35:5921/11/2024
Parmalee Aren’t Mad About It But We Are!
Parmalee join Evan Paul to talk about (1:10) why “Gonna Love You” was the right song to film a music video that recreates the shooting that left drummer Scott Thomas in a coma. Plus, (8:38) how they feel about being first-class snubs every awards season and (12:30) Wikipedia secrets.
Then Billy Dukes joins for the Night Cap. Also mentioned, Train, the Chicks, Nikki Sixx, Snoop Dogg, Dan + Shay, Old Dominion and more.
30:1013/11/2024
Tucker Wetmore’s Advice for Turning TikTok Fame Into Real-Life Success, Plus Mitchell Tenpenny
Tucker Wetmore visits with Evan Paul to talk about 1:10 his song “Wind Up Missin’ You” and the new ‘Waves On a Sunset’ album. He does a lot of missing on this album and we had to know why.
Plus, (5:05) a great Luke Bryan story, (8:04) how to capitalize on viral fame and (11:20) why he can relate to the Olympic pole vaulter who got his junk caught on the bar. Then (11:40) Mitchell Tenpenny and (19:36) Billy Dukes with the Night Cap.
27:1306/11/2024
Joe Nichols’ Disastrous Hank Williams Jr. Experience
Joe Nichols returns to the Taste of Country Nights On Demand podcast and tells Evan Paul about new songs from his 'Honky Tonks and Country Songs' album, like his (2:10) new duet with Annie Bosko. Plus (5:45) why he loves Post Malone and (15:40) his dooms day preparation.
Then, (11:40) Joe remembers getting invited to go hunting with Hank Williams Jr. It went horribly wrong for everyone involved. Plus (19:40) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes. Also mentioned: Emmylou Harris, Alison Kraus, Kelly Clarkson and more.
30:4830/10/2024
OMG! Kelsea Ballerini Has a Potty Mouth!
Kelsea Ballerini visits with Evan Paul to talk about her new ‘Patterns’ album. Specifically, (4:45) she explains why a couple songs include curse words — it’s so relatable.
Also, (3:15) how does Kelsea actually spend time with famous friends like Shania Twain and Carly Pearce? That can’t be easy in public but she’s got a trick. Plus, (9:30) why Chase Stokes loves the breakup song on her album, how her role on ‘Doctor Odyssey’ came to be and (13:15) her pick for CMA Entertainer of the Year.
Then the Night Cap with Billy Dukes. Also mentioned during this episode: Tigirlily Gold, Ella Langley, Taylor Swift, Reese Witherspoon, Chris Stapleton, Lainey Wilson and more.
25:3823/10/2024
Justin Moore’s Daughter Just Broke His Heart!
Justin Moore visits with Evan Paul to tell stories behind songs of his new ‘This Is My Dirt’ album. Pretty quickly, he gets sidetracked with (1:30) a Blake Shelton drinking story, (8:45) growing up with “The Worst” sporting equipment, (14:45) his daughter’s new boyfriend and that time he bought a round of drinks for University of Arkansas fans in New York City.
Plus (20:36) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned during this episode: Diamond Dallas Page, Randy Houser, Hank Williams Jr., Keith Urban and more.
32:0016/10/2024
Rascal Flatts Reunite! Plus, Kassi Ashton Explains Why She’s Been ‘Called Crazy’
Rascal Flatts visit with Evan Paul to talk about their reunion tour. (3:30) You’ll be surprised to learn how much (or how little) planning went into the announcement. Plus, (5:50) Joe Don Rooney shares how he’ll tour sober and speak to what happens when they finish.
Then, (10:48) Kassi Ashton visits to talk about her new ‘Made From the Dirt’ album and the truth behind her hit song “Called Crazy.” Kassi is a delight and we really want her to get famous so everyone gets to experience her. Then (18:26) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
29:1409/10/2024
Chase Rice Challenged Megan Moroney + It Really Paid Off! Plus Dylan Marlowe
Chase Rice’s new ‘Go Down Singin’’ album will surprise you if you haven’t been paying attention. During this interview, he tells Evan Paul about (4:00) splitting from his record label, (7:40) drinking away relationships, (9:41) bad advice for Luke Combs and (11:40) challenging Megan Moroney.
Plus, (17:56) Dylan Marlowe talks about his Dylan Scott duet “Boys Back Home,” quail hunting, how much a No. 1 song is worth and more. Then (31:39) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned during this episode: Jon Pardi, Eric Church, Kameron Marlowe, Dierks Bentley and more.
41:1402/10/2024
Keith Urban’s Most Personal Song Ever + Jackson Dean’s Truth
Keith Urban joins Evan Paul this week to talk about songs from his new ‘High’ album. A song called (1:30) “Break the Chain” is the most personal song he’s ever recorded and the hitmaker is willing to talk about it. Plus, (4:41) his thoughts on Carrie Underwood joining American Idol and (7:40) the country newcomers he’s keeping a very close eye on.
Then, (10:00) Jackson Dean joins Evan in studio for a deep conversation around his ‘On the Back of My Dreams’ album. There is more sadness than you might expect from a project that’s very rocking. “Heavens To Betsy” is the single and (20:09) wait until you hear him talk about those lyrics.
Finally, (30:33) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
41:5525/09/2024
It’s Brantley Gilbert, Like You’ve Never Heard Him Before
Brantley Gilbert joins Evan Paul to talk about his new ‘Tattoos’ album and its provocative album cover. Turns out, that’s not a cigarette in his hand but his reason for going shirtless runs deep.
Brantley is a longtime friend to Taste of Country, so he felt comfortable going deeper than ever about family, parenting, his gun collection and more. Highlights include the story behind his Gary LeVox duet, a Colt Ford update and why you’ll never see him with face tattoos.
Then (24:42) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes. Also mentioned during this episode: Ashley Cooke, Jelly Roll, Demun Jones, Rascal Flats, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams Jr., Post Malone and more.
34:4218/09/2024
You’re Dang Right Miranda Lambert Has a Chip On her Shoulder
Miranda Lambert joins me (Evan Paul) to (1:10) talk about her personal — but not autobiographical — ‘Postcards From Texas’ album and why certain types of songs still scare her. Then (4:30) she explains her choice for CMA Entertainer of the Year and responds to Lainey Wilson sweet comments about her from last summer.
This interview covers a dozen topics but my favorite is when (13:10) she talks about how her husband Brendan still drives like a New York City Police Officer. I can totally relate! We also get into Beyonce, Post Malone and more. (19:11) Billy Dukes also joins for the Night Cap.
Also mentioned during this episode: Morgan Wallen, Eric Church, Hardy, Emmylou Harris, Willie Nelson, George Strait and Chappell Roan.
32:1111/09/2024
Waylon Jennings’ Grandson Whey Jennings' Story May Save You! Plus Chris Young
Whey Jennings performs a new song called “Sleeves” that talks about addiction in a way that only someone who has lived it can talk. It’s part of his new ‘Jekyll & Hyde’ album and it’s just the start of his story of recovery. If you know someone battling demons, you need to hear this interview.
Then (19:26) Chris Young joins to talk about “Young Love & Saturday Nights” and more. Plus the (30:13) Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned, Chris Janson, Waylon Jennings, Jelly Roll, Struggle Jennings, Jamey Johnson, David Bowie and more.
40:3205/09/2024
It’s Thomas Rhett! Plus, Josh Turner Was NOT Betting on Chris Stapleton
Thomas Rhett joins Evan Paul to talk about his new ‘About a Woman’ album and reveals a hidden easter egg within his hit song “Beautiful As You.” Plus his one regret, tour rider request and American Idol dreams?
Then, (13:11) Josh Turner joins to talk about the new ‘This Country Music Thing’ album and recalls working with Chris Stapleton before he was THE Chris Stapleton. Then the (23:53) Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
30:5028/08/2024
Lainey Wilson’s Miranda Lambert Stories Do Not Disappoint
Lainey Wilson visits with Evan Paul ahead of her new ‘Whirlwind’ album. The singer goes deep on (3:30) her friendship with Miranda Lambert, (9:15) how that viral butt video really made her feel, (7:33) proposing marriage to Duck (you read that right) and Yellowstone.
Plus, you won’t believe how someone mistreated the reigning Entertainer of the Year winner just last year. Then the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned during this episode, Post Malone, Morgan Wallen, Jelly Roll, Hardy and Beyonce.
30:2621/08/2024
Phil Vassar Is Lucky To Be Alive!
Phil Vassar had a heart attack and stroke in 2023 and nobody knew about it, until now. The “Just Another Day In Paradise” singer (4:00) walks Evan Paul through what happened and yeah — it was just as serious as it sounded.
Plus, (0:55 and 9:04) the story of his new music with hit songwriter Jeffrey Steele and (14:40) memories of Toby Keith. Did you know Phil Vassar used to own a bar? He shares some wild stories and explains how it led to his break. Then (20:47) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
30:2514/08/2024
Top 20 Country Songs of 2024 + Kameron Marlowe
Billy Dukes joins Evan Paul to discuss (10:23) the Top 20 Country Songs of 2024. Taste of Country’s new list favors traditional country but how do genre-crossing artists like Beyonce, Post Malone and Dasha compare?
First, Kameron Marlow talks to Evan Paul about songs on his new ‘Keepin’ the Lights On’ album, taking the Morgan Wallen master class and who has the best catering on tour. Plus he reveals the tough circumstances that inspired the song “Keepin’ the Lights On.”
25:5107/08/2024
Gretchen Wilson Unfiltered: On Carrie Underwood, Pop-Crossovers + Mistakes New Artists Make
Gretchen Wilson is not afraid to answer hard questions. The “Redneck Woman” singer talks to Evan Paul about (1:01) her new song “Little Miss Runner Up” and names the hit from her catalog that spawned it. Plus, (5:29) she heard what Terri Clark said about her and speaks to early 2000s competition in country music.
The best part of this interview may be (10:30) her story of the first time she heard “Redneck Woman” on the radio but her story of (13:46) getting punched in the face is pretty good too. Then, (17:21) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned: Carrie Underwood, Kid Rock, Hank Williams Jr., Charlie Daniels, Jason Aldean, Big & Rich, Ashley McBryde and more.
29:3031/07/2024
Tigirlily Gold Trying Make History With ‘I Tried a Ring On’
Tigirlily’s Kendra and Krista join Evan Paul. If this is the first time you’ve met this country duo you’ll enjoy this conversation most. Find out why they’ve been (5:17) endorsed by Dolly Parton, Lainey Wilson, Kelsea Ballerini and more.
They also (2:20) tell the personal story behind their new song “I Tried a Ring On “ and (9:20) open up about meeting their heroes and having coffee with famous contemporaries. Plus, (14:30) why they’re not a trio and the very unusual stupid human trick Kendra is capable of.
Then (19:00) Billy Dukes joins Evan for a Night Cap that explores the politics of asking hard questions.
Watch video of Kendra's creepy eyelid flip: https://www.instagram.com/p/C90NvnzpCfY/
33:4124/07/2024
Dasha Reveals the REAL Story of Her Hit Song ‘Austin’
Dasha joins Evan Paul to (2:20) dish on the guy who inspired her song “Austin.” Plus, (4:10) how Keith Urban gave her career a boost, her bold country music plan and (13:00) what happened the first time she met Post Malone.
In addition, (9:40) Evan may have convinced Dasha she has celiac disease and she shares a secret to getting a viral hit on TikTok. Then (19:00) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned: Kelsea Ballerini, Anna Avery, Jelly Roll, Jason Aldean and more
30:2817/07/2024
Jason Aldean Reveals What He’d Love To Undo In Country Music, Plus Old Dominion
Country music’s hottest stars visit with Evan Paul of Taste of Country Nights, a nationally syndicated radio show. Go deep inside new music to learn the inspiration behind familiar hits and hear stories about this wild life you won't hear elsewhere.
25:4910/07/2024
Kelsea Ballerini Responds To What Jelly Roll Said About Her, Plus Carly Pearce
Country music’s hottest stars visit with Evan Paul of Taste of Country Nights, a nationally syndicated radio show. Go deep inside new music to learn the inspiration behind familiar hits and hear stories about this wild life you won't hear elsewhere.
19:0303/07/2024
Brantley Gilbert Explains Why He Needed Ashley Cooke, Plus Elvie Shane
Brantley Gilbert and Ashley Cooke have a new song out called “Over When We’re Sober” and he heaps praise on the country newcomer in explaining why she had to cut it with him. Plus, BG tells Evan Paul about the legalization of marijuana, the country newcomer he thinks is a superstar and baby No. 3, on the way.
Then it’s Elvie Shane like you’ve never heard him. The “My Boy” singer isn’t who you think he is and the new Damascus record proves it. Plus the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
34:4926/06/2024
Dylan Scott Comes Clean About His Early Career Mistakes
Dylan Scott joins Evan Paul and (1:15) gives advice to his younger self. It’s been a decade since he broke with “Making This Boy Go Crazy” and Dylan admits he’s made a few mistakes.
Then, (7:01) the embarrassing mistake he made as a Jockey underwear brand ambassador and (11:20) the fight he found himself in on social media with parents who didn’t approve of his dad style. Then (15:11) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned: Randy Rogers Band, Cole Swindell, Tim McGraw, Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Lee Brice.
25:0419/06/2024
Darius Rucker Spills His Truth + Caylee Hammack
Darius Rucker joins Evan Paul and expands on some of the personal confessions from his new memoir, ‘Life’s Too Short.’ Fans will learn a lot about (2:30) his brother Ricky, how hard he partied and how he became good friends with Kiss. Wait until you hear (5:01) the nickname Gene Simmons has for him!
Then, (9:35) Caylee Hammack is back. She was a Taste of Country RISER but she’s really found her sound with new music. Then the (23:07) Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
32:4212/06/2024
Terri Clark: Women In Country Music Weren’t Always This Close
Terri Clark visits with Evan Paul and (10:05) compares the camaraderie amongst women in modern country music with what she knew coming up in the late 90s and early 00s. Plus, she has some great stories behind collaborations on the new ‘Terri Clark: Take Two’ album, featuring (18:15) Lainey Wilson, (16:55) Cody Johnson, (14:15) Kelly Clarkson and more.
The “Girls Like Too” singer begins her trip down memory lane with (6:35) an unbelievable Blake Shelton story before reflecting on Toby Keith and Shania Twain. Wait until you hear (12:45) her reaction the first time she heard Gretchen Wilson’s “Redneck Woman.” Then (23:01) the Night Cap With Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned during this episode: Brooks & Dunn, George Strait, Wynonna Judd, Reba McEntire and more.
35:1305/06/2024
Jelly Roll Says Marijuana Keeps Him Sober
Jelly Roll visits with Evan Paul for an expansive conversation that includes (9:10) his feelings about marijuana, (11:05) the agreement he struck with wife Bunnie Xo, (6:01) what he thinks about Post Malone, an (4:29) update on his next album and more.
This interview begins on a serious note as Jelly Roll shares that his wife is going through a difficult time. After that he reflects on his ACM Awards before getting to new music. Finally, (16:38) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned: Tracy Lawrence, Machine Gun Kelly, Lainey Wilson, Chris Motionless, Sturgill Simpson.
30:3029/05/2024
Luke Combs Has STRONG Feelings About Lainey Wilson, + Craig Campbell Returns
Luke Combs visits with Evan Paul and shares how writing a song for the ‘Twisters’ soundtrack has got him feeling about acting. Plus, (3:01) we had to ask about all the emotional dad-songs he’s been dropping. Is that what we can expect from his next album?
Luke and Lainey Wilson go way back and (5:03) he had things to say about her success, as well as (7:30) Randy Travis — and AI in country music — and Kane Brown. Then, Craig Campbell joins Evan to talk about his new ‘Class of ’89’ album, why he thinks Clint Black should be in the Country Music Hall of Fame and career regrets. Also, (26:00) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
39:4322/05/2024
Thomas Rhett Is Having Fun Again! Plus, Travis Denning
Thomas Rhett and his wife are having fun again and his new music is reflective. He says they’re enjoying not having to hover over their kids, but (7:01) that doesn’t mean they won’t have another.
Then, (8:45) Travis Denning talks about his new album and duet with country-rocker Hardy. These two are old friends and Travis has stories to tell. (16:50) He also dished on nearly wrecking Miranda Lambert’s car and the country duo he’d love another album from. Then (20:08) Billy Dukes joins for the Night Cap.
28:5915/05/2024
Chris Janson, the Rock + Zach Top
Chris Janson and The Rock (Dwayne Johnson) join Evan Paul to talk about their new music video for Chris’ song “Whatcha See Is Whatcha Get.” (5:30) The way they met is cool but even better is how their friendship came organically. DJ isn’t kidding when he says he’s a real country fan. Wait until you hear him talk about growing up in Nashville and his (10:20) Top 3 country artists.
Then, (11:01) newcomer Zach Top joins and if you have any doubts about the future of traditional country music you’ll want to hear what he has to say about (12:20) his Top 3 influences, (15:01) drinking tequila with George Strait and more. Finally, (28:51) Billy Dukes joins for the Night Cap.
Also mentioned during this episode: Keith Whitley, George Jones, Marty Robbins, Lord of the Rings, Hank Williams Jr., Merle Haggard and more.
38:2908/05/2024
Lainey Wilson Responds To Jelly Roll’s Post-CMAs Comments + Ashley Cooke
Lainey Wilson (1:15) shares a great story that relates to her current single “Wild Horses and Wild Flowers.” You’ll love her even more! Then, she (3:04) tells Evan Paul about winning CMA Entertainer of the Year, including who reached out. For a few weeks, rumors have circulated that she’ll return to Yellowstone — don’t worry, we asked. (9:00) Wait until you hear what her boyfriend thought of her kissing scene!
Then, newcomer Ashley Cooke joins to talk about “Your Place” and more. Plus (26:32) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
35:0001/05/2024
Brothers Osborne Won’t Back Down + the Fascinating Blanco Brown
Brothers Osborne return to tell Evan about their new (1’:01) Break Mine’ EP, the pressure (4:00) of writing with Miranda Lambert and (9:25) how they feel about Tom Petty’s comments about country music. Plus (6:30) we asked John and TJ if they ever know they’ll win an award ahead of time and they say, “No,” but …
Then, (11:02) Blanco Brown really opens up about the after-effects of his motorcycle accident, (19:00) the pros and cons of a viral hit like “The Git Up” and his new Heartache & Lemonade EP. Also (28:44) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
37:1824/04/2024
Anne Wilson’s Inspiring Journey To Country Music + Luke Bryan’s American Idol Future
Anne Wilson joins Evan Paul to talk about her new ‘Rebel’ album. She opens up (3:20) about jumping from Christian to country music and recalls (4:20) finding her voice to sing at her brother’s funeral. This was a life-changing event in so many ways but (9:30) she and her mother almost ended it all, together. Wait until you hear this young woman’s full story.
Then, (11:50) Luke Bryan joins Evan to talk about his new song “Love You, Miss You, Mean It” and (14:20) Katy Perry leaving American Idol. Plus (20:30) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned during this episode: Johnny Cash, Lainey Wilson, Jordan Davis, Chayce Beckham, Emmy Russell, Loretta Lynn, One Republic and more.
30:4617/04/2024
Tyler Hubbard’s Inspiring Arrest + Sam Hunt Answers ALL the Questions
Tyler Hubbard joins Evan Paul and talks about new songs from his ‘Strong’ album (April 12), including (3:30) “Park,” which was inspired that time he got picked up by cops in a church parking lot. Plus, (5:07) more about his dad, best and worst days in Nashville and advice for (10:50) Beyonce and anyone who’s told they’re not real country.
Then, (13:29) Sam Hunt talks about his wife’s reaction to “Locked Up,” the song and the incident that inspired it. We asked him (15:01) how many nights he slept on the couch and his answer is stunning. If you saw the CMT Music Awards, you saw Sam’s nod to Johnny Cash and we got (16:45) the full story about that as well. Then (20:20) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned, Keith Urban Jack Harlow, Post Malone, Florida Georgia Line, the Chicks and more.
30:2910/04/2024
Chayce Beckham Just Broke the American Idol Curse, But How?
Chayce Beckham joins Evan Paul and (1:10) tries to explain why he’s the first American Idol winner to score a No. 1 hit with a debut single since … has it really been almost 20 years? The “23” singer reveals his expectations after winning the show before talking about his (4:10) love life, (9:05) bar fights, (10:00) sad songs and more.
Then, during the Night Cap Billy Dukes and Evan try to figure out if winning American Idol is a good thing or a bad thing.
Also mentioned: Luke Bryan, Phillip Phillips, Kip Moore, Scotty McCreery and more.
27:4503/04/2024
Home Free Get Real About Their Future + Wade Bowen’s GREAT Miranda Lambert Story
Home Free visit with Evan Paul and answer questions about their new ‘Crazy(er) Life’ album and (6:30) their future now that Austin is leaving. Plus, (4:20) which song is untouchable and (2:45) how often do artists not approve their covers?
Then, (10:10) a wide-ranging interview with Texas music singer Wade Bowen, whose new song ‘Rainin’ On Me’ is out now. It’s from his Flyin album, coming May 10. Wade has good stories about (12:08) Vince Gill, (21:00) Miranda Lambert and more. Finally, (30:50) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
43:5027/03/2024
Sawyer Brown’s Mark Miller Tells Stories on Blake Shelton, Toby Keith + More
Sawyer Brown’s Mark Miller joins Evan Paul to talk about the new ‘Desperado Troubadours’ album, which (1:05) was produced by Blake Shelton. There’s a cool story to how Blake got involved but you’ll learn that Mark has all kinds of great celebrity stories, including gems from (6:01) Toby Keith and (10:20) David Lee Roth.
Sawyer Brown won Star Search almost 40 years ago and struggled to find their sound at first. Mark (8:50) explains why as he gives insight into the kind of songwriter and entertainer he wants to be remembered as. Then (14:51) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes including thoughts on this week’s Country Music Hall of Fame announcement.
Also mentioned: Tim McGraw, LeAnn Rimes, Kenny Chesney, Jelly Roll and more.
29:4220/03/2024
Chris Young’s Most Genuine Self + a Summer Country Concert Preview
Chris Young talks to Evan Paul about his new ‘Young Love & Saturday Nights” album. It’s an 18-song album and (1:09) he says he could have made more. During this interview he explains (2:21) what makes this a new chapter in his life, the (4:00) arresting reason he dropped “Double Down” early and why the truck isn’t the best place to test new music anymore.
Then (9:12) Billy Dukes joins for the Night Cap before Evan and Billy dish a (22:04) Summer Country Concert preview.
30:0113/03/2024
Keith Urban Takes Us To His Creative Place + It’s Stunning!
Keith Urban visits with Evan Paul to talk about (1:20) his new song “Messed Up As Me” and (2:00) how he creates music. It’s a beautiful process that’s forever shifting. In fact he (3:55) admits he had a full album ready last year that never got released. Find out why before Keith opens up about (9:30) teaching his daughter to drive, (6:01)his worst day in Nashville and (12:15)Toby Keith.
Plus (17:17) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
31:5406/03/2024
Dierks Bentley On Tom Petty’s Complicated Country Music Legacy
Dierks Bentley joins Evan Paul to talk about (1:50) his part on the upcoming ‘Petty Country’ tribute album to Tom Petty. Tom was famously critical of country before he died and Dierks (4:25) explains why those criticisms mattered and why he respectfully disagreed then, and now.
Then, (9:22) Dierks shares a great Taylor Swift story and (12:01) you’ll never believe which country star he gets confused with. Billy Dukes also joins (16:38) for the Night Cap.
Also mentioned during this podcast: Dolly Parton, Chris Stapleton, George Strait, Chase Rice and more.
28:0528/02/2024
Luke Bryan Protegé Jon Langston’s Time Has Come
Jon Langston visits with Evan Paul to talk about his (5:01) Heart On Ice’ album and a personal song inspired by his grandfather. Plus, (12:00) how Luke Bryan has helped shape his sound and kept the pressure off of him.
Jon is a former college football player who quit after one too many concussions. He’s able to (15:30) describe what that feels like in rare detail after he dishes on (2:30) his best and worst days in Nashville, (13:00) Uncle Johnny Cash and more. Then (17:26) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned during this podcast, Cole Swindell, Travis Denning, Rhett Akins.
30:3321/02/2024
The Bellamy Brothers + Gene Watson On Why the Hall of Fame Isn’t Calling
The Bellamy Brothers and Gene Watson join Evan Paul to talk about (1:20) their new collaboration, (4:50) why the Country Music Hall of Fame hasn’t called and (15:50) the songs that almost got them canceled.
David and Howard Bellamy and Watson have legendary stories about (17:40) Toby Keith, (10:50) Elvis Presley and (4:10) Vince Gill. They also look back on hits like (13:45) “Old Hippie” and “Love In the Hot Afternoon.” Plus, wait until you hear what the Bros admit about their single “Country Rap.”
Then the (20:18) Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
32:4614/02/2024
Toby Keith Wasn't Afraid [Encore]
Toby Keith joined Evan Paul in late 2023. After his death on Feb. 5, we decided to re-play this interview where he (6:10) gets real honest about his cancer journey, (1:55) explains why performing “Don’t Let the Old Man In” is so emotional and if he’ll tour in (9:35) 2024.
Plus, you’ll love Toby’s outlook as he continues his health battle. (20:45) Billy Dukes joins Evan for a brand new Night Cap.
Also mentioned during this episode: Clint Eastwood, CMA Awards, People’s Choice Awards, Krystal Keith, and Rac Clark.
34:2207/02/2024
Lady A: Best + Worst Days In Country Music and Why Bands Are Dying
Lady A visit with Evan Paul and talk about (7:20) their best and worst days in country music and (12:40) the uncertain future of bands in country music. Plus, (1:33) the story of their new song “Love You Back” and (9:45) which songs are hard to sing now that Charles Kelley is sober.
Then, after (14:45) reliving their Grammy history, the group plays (18:00) Wikipedia Trivia for a chance to send $100 to their favorite charity. Plus (24:18) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned: Kenny Chesney, Miranda Lambert, the Band Perry, Adele, Nicholas Sparks, Sugarland, Hanson, Darius Rucker, Bill Anderson and more.
37:0531/01/2024
Conner Smith Reveals the Downside To Going Viral With ‘I Hate Alabama’
Conner Smith visits with Evan Paul and (5:50) remembers why he didn’t totally love going viral with a song called “I Hate Alabama” in 2022. The “Creek Will Rise” singer is an old soul who will go deep down a list of Nashville songwriters with you, but he’s also young enough to be (1:10) afraid of Kenny Chesney.
With his Smoky Mountains album set for Jan. 26, Smith visits and reveals why Jelly Roll will fight for him, (7:30) how a Thomas Rhett concert changed his life and what it was like scoring a publishing deal at 16 years old. Then (13:35) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned during this episode: Hal Ketchum, Brett James, Keith Urban, Zach Crowell, Dierks Bentley, Thomas Rhett, Toby Keith, Brantley Gilbert, Jelly Roll and Dustin Lynch.
26:0124/01/2024
Kylie Morgan's Toby Keith Connection + the Most Anticipated Albums of 2024
Country singer and songwriter Kylie Morgan visits with Evan Paul and shares the honest truth about songs like (1:35) “If He Wanted To he Would,” (13:14) “Old Me” and (14:35) and “Class Rings” from her new
‘Making It Up As I Go’ album. She’s from Oklahoma and has a cool tie to Toby Keith that (6:20) she dishes on. Turns out her home state is LOADED!
Then, (8:04) how Walker Hayes helped her at a vulnerable time in life and (10:04) the life-changing tragedy that changed everything. Finally, Billy Dukes joins Evan to dish on (17:00) the most anticipated albums of 2024, including two that aren’t even announced yet.
Also mentioned during this episode: Old Dominion, Morgan Wallen, Hardy, George Strait, Chris Stapleton, Gabby Barrett, Post Malone + more!
38:5017/01/2024
Kenny Chesney Is As Hungry As He Ever Was + Plus 2024 Country Music Predictions
Kenny Chesney joins Evan Paul to talk about tapping Hardy for his new single, "Take Her Home." Plus an update on his next album and a surprising anniversary that's looming.
Then, Billy Dukes joins Evan Paul with 9 country music predictions for 2024, including who will win the Grammys, CMA Awards and be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Also mentioned: Tim McGraw, Toby Keith, Jelly Roll, Trisha Yearwood, Morgan Wallen, Lainey Wilson, Oliver Anthony, Scotty McCreery and more.
38:2610/01/2024
Craig Campbell Says What Others Are Thinking About Oliver Anthony, Plus Nate Smith
Craig Campbell is just about the only artist who’s not afraid to talk about Oliver Anthony. The country veteran (2:30) admits something surprising about the “Rich Men North of Richmond” singer before diving deep into (4:55) his R&B influences, (8:40) a week-long mental health break and (10:55) Warren Zeiders.
Plus (16:50) Nate Smith joins Evan Paul to talk about his No. 1 hit “World On Fire” and more. Then the (23:50) Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
38:0803/01/2024
George Birge Was Not Expecting This From George Strait, Plus Dustin Lynch
George Birge visits as his song “Mind On You” nears the top of the charts. He tells Evan Paul about (1:30) the pressure of being a “George” from Texas but admits he’s gotten George Strait’s blessing. Plus, (6:00) who is country’s best golfer, how his kids subtracted a song from his album and (8:01) an unbelievable Toby Keith memory that involves SEAL Team 6.
Then, (11:44) Dustin Lynch visits and the (23:11) Night Cap with Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned during this episode: LeAnn Rimes, Gary Allan, Jason Aldean, Post Malone, Josh Gracin, Parker McCollum, Dan Smyers and more.
34:4927/12/2023
Luke Grimes Explains Why Pain Pills or Pews Were His Only Options + Lainey Wilson
Luke Grimes plays Kayce Dutton on Yellowstone but his Nashville music career is taking off. He tells Evan Paul (1:50) how growing up shaped his professional career, for better or worse. Plus, (4:15) the advice he got from Ryan Bingham and (8:20) why he resisted recording an album for so long.
Then (12:20) Lainey Wilson joins Evan to dish on the CMAs and people trying to get Taylor Sheridan’s phone number from her. Her interview was taped before the 2023 CMA Awards and Luke’s was recorded amid the SAG strike. Both events really shaped these conversations but we thought you’d still enjoy them. Finally, (23:34) Billy Dukes joins for the Night Cap.
34:5820/12/2023
Walker Hayes Was In a Dark Place When He Made One Unexpected Commitment
Walker Hayes tells host Evan Paul (2:50) why he made “Fancy Like” into a Christmas song and (10:30) how he convinced his kids to get on board. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t all that hard.
Then, (11:50) how his commitment to trick shots videos stemmed from a dark time in his life, (5:30) the truth about that Applebee’s gold card and (16:20) Wikipedia trivia for charity. This might get Walker Hayes canceled. Plus (23:20) the Night cap with Billy Dukes.
Also mentioned during this episode: Mackenzie Porter, Starbucks, Dude Perfect, AJ McCarron, Jake Peavy, Bubba Wallace and more.
34:3613/12/2023