Tom Waits is a distinctive writer and performer who draws inspiration from the American Songbook, jazz, and classic American music. His songs often feature characters from the margins of society, and his unique voice and style have captivated audiences. With a career spanning decades, Waits has become a master of storytelling through song, weaving tales of love, loss, and longing into his music. [... more]

Stephen Schwartz discusses his career in musical theater, including the creation of Wicked and his experiences with collaboration and songwriting. He also shares his journey into psychology and his time working in Hollywood, ultimately winning an Oscar. Schwartz reflects on his legacy and the impact of his work on audiences, feeling grateful for the ongoing life of his songs and the ability to communicate with others through his writing. [... more]

As the holiday season approaches, Tony Wood reflects on the true meaning of Christmas, the importance of family and relationships, and how music can bring people together. He shares his personal experiences as a songwriter and how his faith has influenced his work. Tony also talks about his new devotional book, Manger Throne, and how it can help people focus on the real reason for the season. [... more]

Kenny Chesney shares his journey from growing up in a small Tennessee town to becoming a successful country music artist, discussing his songwriting process, influences, and experiences in the music industry, including his connections with Bruce Springsteen and other notable figures. [... more]

The story of how George Strait's 'Love Without End, Amen' came to be is a powerful exploration of fatherhood, love, and redemption. Songwriter Aaron Barker shares his personal struggles and questions about being a good father, and how he found the answer in his song, which became a country music classic. [... more]

Country music star Cole Swindell discusses his song 'Heaven Crowded,' inspired by Charlie Kirk's widow Erica, and the impact of faith on his music and life. He shares his experiences as a songwriter and artist in Nashville, and the importance of using his platform to spread a positive message. [... more]

Albert E. Brumley, a son of sharecroppers from Oklahoma, walked his way to a new life and a legacy of over 800 songs, including the most recorded gospel song in history, 'I'll Fly Away'. His granddaughters share stories of his humble beginnings, his eccentricities, and his impact on American music and culture. [... more]

Shel Silverstein's life and career as a poet, songwriter, and children's book author are explored, including his unique style, collaborations with notable artists, and enduring impact on literature and music. [... more]

Brian Robinson, aka B-Rob, shares his story of discovering his passion for music at a young age, his journey of self-discovery and faith, and how his experiences have shaped him into the person he is today. He also talks about his family, including his adopted father and his own children, and how he has tried to instill good values and morals in them. [... more]

Discovering new aspects of oneself through songwriting and music, overcoming fears and weaknesses to tap into creativity and inspiration, and learning to navigate vulnerability and self-discovery in the process of making music. [... more]

Sabrina Carpenter reflects on her journey from a young singer-songwriter to a pop sensation, discussing her emotional growth, family support, and self-discovery. She shares her experiences with fame, songwriting, and the importance of staying true to herself in the music industry. [... more]

The Doobie Brothers, a legendary rock band, share their insights on the craft of songwriting, drawing from their decades-long experience and numerous accolades, including inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. They discuss the importance of perseverance, the role of inspiration, and the value of creating music that resonates with others. [... more]

Irving Berlin's incredible life story is one of overcoming adversity to become the quintessentially American songwriter, with a catalog of 1,500 songs that have seeped into our collective consciousness. From his humble beginnings as a street musician to his rise as a pioneer in the music industry, Berlin's talent and work ethic allowed him to create music that resonated with the American people, despite his own struggles with mental illness and reclusiveness. [... more]

Elton John and Brandi Carlile come together to create a unique music album, sharing their experiences and emotions in the studio. Their friendship and creative process are at the heart of this special collaboration, resulting in a record that showcases their individual talents and their ability to work together in harmony. [... more]

The story of how George Strait's 'Love Without End, Amen' came to be is a powerful exploration of fatherhood and unconditional love. Songwriter Aaron Barker's personal journey and struggles as a father are revealed through the song's lyrics, which emphasize the importance of a father's love and its eternal nature. [... more]

Colby Koloff shares her story of being a twin, her struggles with a biblical view of God, and her passion for music and songwriting as a way to honor the Lord. She discusses her journey of growing in her relationship with Jesus, the importance of being planted in a local church, and her heart for ministry in music and everyday life. [... more]

Shel Silverstein was a prolific poet, songwriter, and children's book author whose unique imagination and bold brand of humor are beloved by countless adults and children worldwide. From his early days as an army cartoonist to his success as a songwriter for Johnny Cash, Silverstein's life is a testament to the power of storytelling and creativity. [... more]

Albert E. Brumley, a man from Oklahoma, walked his way to a new life and a life of art and music, becoming a renowned songwriter and entrepreneur, leaving behind a legacy of over 800 songs, including the most recorded gospel song in history, I'll Fly Away. [... more]

The story of Georgia on My Mind, a quintessentially American song, is a tale of artistic imagination and collaboration. Written by Hoagy Carmichael and Stuart Burrell, the song was initially overlooked but found new life with Ray Charles' 1960 cover, which became a massive hit and a Grammy winner. [... more]

Born in Bloomington, Indiana, Hoagy Carmichael's life was marked by tragedy and ambition. He went on to write some of Tin Pan Alley's greatest hits, including Georgia on My Mind, which was later brought to life by Ray Charles in 1960. The song's lush orchestration and Charles' soulful voice made it a huge success, reaching number one on Billboard's pop album chart and earning Charles his first Grammy. Despite its enduring popularity, the song's meaning remains a mystery, with Charles himself saying it was simply a beautiful, romantic melody. [... more]