Advertise on podcast: Americana Curious

Jonah Kagen has racked up over half a billion streams, scored a Billboard #1 hit with "God Needs the Devil," and sold out headline shows across the globe. But as he shares on Americana Curious, the commercial accolades didn't bring validation—they forced him to isolate, face his inner demons, and dig into his darkest songwriting yet. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Jonah joins host Ben Fanning (Zach Schultz couldn't join us for this one) to talk through: The #1 Hangover: Why chart success didn’t make his next record any easier, and why he views making music as a job of service rather than ego.Life on the Road: Totaling his truck, living nomadic in a modified Airstream studio, and recording in a stranger's front yard.Meeting Dave Matthews: How a custom guitar commission led to an intimate writer's round, tequila in pajamas, and an invitation to open at The Gorge.The New Album: The deeply personal, late-night creative marathons behind Eternity of Everything, and why the certainty of death scares him far less than love.Crowd Etiquette: The specific things fans need to start (and stop) doing at his high-energy live shows. Hit follow and leave a rating to help more listeners discover the stories shaping Americana music!

Andrew Sa grew up obsessed with Patsy Cline. Today, he’s challenging one of country music’s oldest assumptions: who gets to belong. The Chicago country artist’s debut album, American Rough, blends the sounds of classic country with deeply personal songs about love, masculinity, identity, and belonging. And Andrew isn’t asking permission to be part of the genre: “I’m not separate and I’m not different and I belong there.” Andrew joins Ben Fanning and Zach Schultz to share the childhood story behind his connection to sad country songs, how Rufus Wainwright gave him “permission to have this dream,” and the unforgettable moment Lavender Country’s Patrick Haggerty grabbed him by the shoulders and told him, “I see you now.” They also dig into the meaning behind American Rough, building bridges through music, where queer country fits within Americana, and Andrew’s upcoming opportunity to honor John Prine at the Chicago Theatre. It’s a conversation about finding your voice, claiming your place, and why the best country music can make room for more stories...not fewer.

Chris Pierce was playing a corporate gig in a dark corner where nobody was listening when his phone rang. The caller represented Neil Young, and Neil wanted Chris to open his tour. But Chris’s fight for music started decades earlier. At 15, he suddenly lost his hearing. Surgery restored about 50% in one ear, and Chris made a choice that has defined his life and career: keep fighting for the thing he loves. Chris joins Ben Fanning and Zach Schultz on Americana Curious to share that journey, along with the childhood experience that shaped the fighting spirit in his songs, the unforgettable Newport Folk Festival ovation that brought him to tears, and what he learned sharing stages with Neil Young, B.B. King, Seal and Steve Earle. Chris also takes us inside his new album, Songs for the Heavy Hearted, including “First Day of School,” “A Soft Place to Land,” and the deeply personal story behind recording “Two Angels” with Steve Earle. It’s a conversation about music, resilience, purpose, generosity, and refusing to surrender to fear. Follow Americana Curious for more conversations with the artists, songwriters and unsung heroes shaping Americana music.

Newport Folk Festival is famous for the unexpected. You never quite know who might walk onstage. This year, Dave Matthews made his first-ever Newport appearance, joining a long tradition of unforgettable surprises that has included James Taylor, Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, Dolly Parton and more. In this episode of Americana Curious, Ben Fanning and Zach Schultz pull back the curtain on what really happens at Newport Folk Festival—the surprise guests, spontaneous collaborations, intimate aftershows, and the community of music lovers that makes Newport unlike any other festival. You'll hear what it was like when Dave Matthews suddenly appeared, why some of the world's biggest artists treat Newport differently, and why the festival sells out before a single artist is announced. Plus, Ben and Zach share some of their favorite Newport moments and explain why the real magic may not be the artists onstage at all—it's the people who come back year after year. Follow Americana Curious for more stories behind the artists, songs, and moments that make Americana music special.

How does a band from Hawaii become one of Americana's fastest-rising groups? In this episode of Americana Curious, Ben Fanning sits down backstage with Twin Fin just before their sold-out show at Charleston's Pour House for a candid conversation about the unlikely journey that brought them here. From Coast Guard careers and backyard jam sessions to building a loyal fan base across the country, the band shares how the spirit of aloha, deep friendships, and a passion for great songwriting have fueled their remarkable rise. You'll hear: Why Hawaii—not Nashville—became the perfect place to build a bandHow Twin Fin grew from local shows to sold-out venues across AmericaThe sacrifices and risks behind pursuing music full timeThe story behind their album Songs I Never WroteWhy creating unforgettable live experiences matters more than anything else Whether you're already a Twin Fin fan or discovering them for the first time, this conversation offers an authentic look at the people behind one of Americana's most exciting new bands. Americana Curious explores the artists, stories, festivals, and traditions shaping today's Americana music scene through in-depth conversations with the musicians creating it

What happens after you've already achieved the dream? Phillip Phillips captured America's heart by winning American Idol, releasing "Home"—the biggest-selling winner's single in the show's history—and touring alongside legends like John Mayer and Bruce Springsteen. But behind the success was a deeper journey: discovering that fame wasn't the finish line. In this episode of Americana Curious, hosts Ben Fanning and Zach Schultz sit down with Phillip for one of his most candid conversations yet. He shares why Home didn't initially feel like his own song, how becoming an independent artist allowed him to reclaim his music, and why fatherhood has completely transformed the way he defines success. Phillip also opens up about: The surprising truth behind recording "Home"Why owning his music became more important than chasing bigger fameTouring with John Mayer and sharing the stage with Bruce SpringsteenHow Dave Matthews shaped his unique guitar styleWhy he completely reimagines classic songs instead of simply covering themThe balancing act of being an independent musician, husband, and fatherThe stories behind his upcoming music, including songs inspired by his children Whether you've followed Phillip since American Idol or are just discovering his music, this conversation is an inspiring reminder that sometimes the greatest success comes after redefining what success really means. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why Phillip Phillips struggled to connect with "Home" at first • How he reclaimed ownership of his biggest songs • What touring with music legends taught him about performing • Why family changed his career priorities forever • How he's approaching songwriting differently than ever before • What success means to him today Chapters 00:00 – Intro 02:34 – Winning American Idol and the story behind "Home" 05:14 – The pressure after massive success 08:14 – Re-recording "Home" and owning his music 11:10 – Life as an independent artist 13:23 – Fatherhood changes everything 20:19 – Behind the scenes of American Idol 23:01 – The Masked Singer and reinventing songs 32:43 – Dave Matthews' influence 38:48 – Touring with John Mayer & Bruce Springsteen 43:00 – What success means today 🎙️ Subscribe to Americana Curious for authentic conversations with the artists shaping Americana, folk, roots, country, and independent music.

Do bigger venues create bigger experiences—or do they take us further away from the music? In this episode of Americana Curious, Ben Fanning and Zach Schultz debate whether arenas have changed the live music experience for the worse and share the intimate venues that have left the biggest impression on them. From Charleston's beloved Pour House and Nashville's legendary Robert's Western World to First Avenue in Minneapolis, Red Rocks, the Ryman Auditorium, and hidden gems you've probably never heard of, they explore why some venues create unforgettable nights while others simply host concerts. Along the way, they share stories about seeing artists like John Prine, Brandi Carlile, Charlie Crockett, American Aquarium, Mount Joy, Hiss Golden Messenger, Mason Jennings, and many more—and explain why discovering music in small venues may be one of the best investments any music fan can make. In this episode you'll discover: Why small venues often create deeper connections between artists and audiencesThe independent venues every Americana fan should visitHow outdoor venues transform the live music experienceBucket-list music destinations across AmericaWhy supporting local venues helps keep live music alive for future generations Whether you're planning your next concert road trip or simply looking for your next favorite venue, this episode will inspire you to get closer to the music—and stay curious. Also follow us and join the conversation on Instagram and YouTube.

How does an artist find a voice that feels unmistakably their own—and write songs that hold both hope and heartbreak at the same time? In this episode of Americana Curious, hosts Ben Fanning and Zach Schultz sit down with MC Taylor, singer, songwriter, producer, and bandleader of Hiss Golden Messenger. Across more than a dozen studio albums and a Grammy-nominated career, MC has become one of the defining voices in modern Americana. But finding that voice took years of searching, experimenting, and learning to trust his own instincts. MC shares the story behind Hiss Golden Messenger, explains how fatherhood transformed both his songwriting and his leadership as an artist, and reflects on why his music explores spirit without offering easy answers. He also discusses the power of intimate live music, the importance of community, and why songs can communicate emotions that conversations often cannot. Chapters: 00:00 - Why it took years to find his voice 02:05 - The turning point that led to Hiss Golden Messenger 03:34 - Finally creating the sound he'd been chasing 04:44 - The meaning behind the name Hiss Golden Messenger 06:56 - Why his music is about spirit—not religion 09:29 - Faith, hope, and rejecting beliefs used as weapons 10:41 - How he writes hopeful songs during difficult times 15:01 - The meaning behind I'm People 17:25 - Why music can say what conversations can't 19:48 - The punk shows that changed his life forever 22:43 - Why collaboration matters in Americana music 27:47 - How becoming a father helped him find his voice 32:23 - The questions driving his songwriting today 35:00 - The future of independent live music and house shows 39:23 - What legacy he hopes Hiss Golden Messenger leaves behind Hiss Golden Messenger is the musical project of MC Taylor, whose blend of folk, rock, country, soul, and spiritual storytelling has earned a Grammy nomination and made him one of the most respected voices in Americana. Through more than a dozen acclaimed albums, he has built a career defined by authenticity, emotional depth, and a relentless commitment to creating timeless music. Check out Hiss Golden Messenger's latest album, I'm People, and catch them on tour. 🔔 Support the Podcast If you love conversations with the artists shaping Americana music, be sure to like this video, leave a comment, and subscribe to the channel. Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Follow Americana Curious on Instagram: @AmericanaCurious #HissGoldenMessenger #MCTaylor #AmericanaMusic #SingerSongwriter #FolkMusic #RootsMusic #MusicPodcast #AmericanaCurious

How does an independent band stay true to its roots, resist industry pressure, and survive for over three decades? In this episode of Americana Curious, hosts Ben Fanning and Zach Schultz sit down with Willy Braun, frontman and lead singer of the legendary country-rock band Reckless Kelly. Long before sold-out shows and a devoted following, the band survived by pooling "Band Bucks," sleeping on bar floors, and driving a banged-up $1,500 Suburban. Willie opens up about their early days playing seven nights a week in Austin, getting a stamp of approval from icons like Joe Ely and Robert Earl Keen, and why they famously walked away from major Nashville labels who wanted them to "smooth out" their sound. In this episode, we dive into: The "Band Bucks" Days: Surviving poverty and keeping a band together when you have no money to fight over.The TikTok Trap: Willie’s brutally honest advice to young musicians on why mastering your craft matters more than chasing viral moments.Alternate Roots: The story behind their new album and why they decided to re-record their classic crowd-pleasers.On Stage with Heroes: What it's really like to transition from a childhood fan to becoming the official backing band for Steve Earle and Joe Ely. Grab a cold one and get ready to get Americana curious! Connect with Reckless Kelly: Check out the new album Alternate RootsGrab tickets to the Braun Brothers Reunion Festival Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, please take 30 seconds to follow the show on Spotify, rate us, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts to help more music lovers discover the power of Americana!

What happens when a musician completely rejects the corporate machine? In this episode of Americana Curious, Ben Fanning and Zach Schultz sit down with singer-songwriter Mason Jennings to discuss his incredible 30-year independent career. Mason opens up about why he walked away from major label record deals, what it was really like working with (and turning down) Rick Rubin, his fun connection to Prince, and his internal battle with crippling agoraphobia and panic attacks on tour. Whether you are an independent musician navigating the modern landscape of Soundcloud and AI or a fan of real, raw, road-worn music, this conversation explores what it truly means to protect your creative spirit at all costs. 💡 STUFF WE TALKED ABOUT IN THIS EPISODE: • Turning down a million-dollar major label deal • The truth about working with Rick Rubin (and the pitch-black Warner Bros meeting) • How EMDR therapy helped Mason overcome agoraphobia • The night Prince played air guitar to his songs at First Avenue • How AI, Soundcloud, and streaming are shifting the value of music • The stories behind "Rebecca Deville" and his new album Dark Wings Chapters: 00:00 – Why Mason Jennings turned down Rick Rubin 02:15 – The wild night Rick Rubin turned off the lights at Warner Bros 04:30 – Surviving crippling agoraphobia and panic attacks on tour 07:10 – The secret story behind "Rebecca Deville" 09:45 – When Prince watched Mason from the box seats 11:50 – How AI and Soundcloud are shifting the future of the music industry ----- As a gift to listeners, Zach has curated 7 MUST LISTEN Mason Jennings songs here. ----- Ben Fanning and Zach Schultz host Americana Curious, a podcast spotlighting the unsung heroes of Americana music. This show features deep-dive music interviews with legendary independent artists, uncovering the hard-earned lessons, songwriting secrets, and real-world struggles behind your favorite acoustic, folk, and rock-infused songs 👉 SUPPORT THE SHOW: Follow the show and rate us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and leave a review on Apple to help more people discover the power of Americana #AmericanaMusic #MasonJennings #RickRubin #Songwriting #IndependentArtist #MusicPodcast #AmericanaCurious #Prince

What can leaders learn from Bruce Springsteen? A lot more than you might think. In this special crossover episode from the Lead the Team podcast, Ben sits down with Andy Freed—CEO, author, and a devoted Springsteen fan who has attended nearly 100 Bruce Springsteen concerts. Over the years, Andy noticed something remarkable: many of the leadership lessons taught in boardrooms are being demonstrated night after night on stage by Bruce and the E Street Band. From how he acknowledges his band members to how he commands attention for three hours, Springsteen has built one of the most enduring cultures in music. In this conversation, you'll hear: Why Bruce makes every band member feel like the most important person in the roomThe leadership lesson hidden in his end-of-show ritualHow great communicators think about their audience firstWhy repetition is essential for leading changeWhat leaders can learn from Bruce's setlists, storytelling, and stage presenceHow collective experiences create stronger teams and communitiesWhy intentionality may be the most underrated leadership skill Whether you're a lifelong Springsteen fan, a music lover, or someone trying to lead people more effectively, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on what it means to inspire others.

Some artists sound polished. Some artists sound real. The rare ones give you both. I caught up with backstage at the Charleston Pour House right before she took the stage — you can hear the traffic outside, the crowd starting to buzz, and the energy building before the show. At just 25 years old, Bella is writing songs with an emotional honesty and depth that feels timeless. We talked about emotional restlessness, life between places, quietly commanding a room, and how heartbreak and searching have shaped her songwriting. She also opened up about evolving beyond her bluegrass roots while staying true to the music that raised her. Bella’s upcoming album A Sign in the Weather is going to connect with a lot of people. This conversation made it obvious why her shows are selling out across the country right now.

Winyah had 3 songs. Then they got the call to play Bonnaroo. No album. Just a deadline. So they did what most people won’t: They locked in. Slept on couches. Finished an entire record in weeks. Fast forward— They’re opening High Water Festival in Charleston… stepping on stage in front of 15,000.. And here’s what surprised me most: They’re playing the long game. → Eating clean on tour → Running between shows → Thinking about how they’ll still perform at 50 Because they’ve seen how this story ends for bands that don’t. And then this moment hit: One of them even walked away from big corporate finance job... to do this. “This is a lot more fun.” That’s the tradeoff. Security vs. story. Comfort vs. calling. So— If the call came for you… would you be ready?

What does Taj Mahal understand about music… that most artists still miss today? How did his approach to sound end up influencing Bob Marley? What does it actually mean to feel music instead of just hearing it? And what have we lost… now that music has become something we just consume? In this episode, Taj Mahal—five-time Grammy winner and one of the architects of modern Americana—shares a radically different way of thinking about music, connection, and culture. From growing up surrounded by gospel, jazz, and radio… to shaping a sound that would ripple across generations… This is a conversation about music. AND why that matters more than ever. Ben and Zach have been talking about this interview ever since! Taj doesn’t just talk about music...he lives it. And somewhere along the way, it made us rethink how we listen… not just to songs, but to everything around us. We hope it does the same for you. If it does—share it with someone who needs to hear it!

What happens when your dream falls apart… right in the middle of a pizza shift? John-Robert was closing at work when he got the call… he’d been dropped by his label. Most artists don’t come back from that. He moved home to Virginia… built a studio. and started making music nonstop. No label. No plan B. No guarantees. Today, his music has millions of streams around the world. But the real story isn’t just the success… it’s the life behind it. And this one was just a BLAST! John-Robert is hilarious, self-aware, and completely himself. We laughed a lot. We went off of fun tangents And you can feel how much he genuinely loves music, people, and the ride he’s on. That’s what makes this episode different. In this episode of Americana Curious, John-Robert, Ben and Zach get into: The moment everything fell apart Why living life fully matters more than writing songs The scrappy rebuild that changed everything Opening for Liam Gallagher (OASIS) and playing a free show in the park right after What it actually takes to make it as an independent artist And a moment that just feel real, funny, and raw. If you’ve ever chased something… lost it… and had to rebuild from scratch — this one’s for you. 🎧 Follow Americana Curious for more real stories from artists living the music.