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For Shannon McGee, owner of the Music City Referral Network, happiness is rooted in freedom—the freedom to choose your path and do what you love.
Shannon’s journey hasn’t been without challenges, but she sees resilience as something that’s gained through perspective. “With retrospect comes growth,” she reflects.
For Matt Fine, owner of Structured Hair Salon, happiness is a word that feels fluid—something that ebbs and flows with life’s seasons
That drive is central to his philosophy on success. “Every day we wake up, we have to push ourselves,” he says. If he could speak to his younger self, Matt would encourage him to drive hard, keep going, and trust that everything will be okay.
For Matt Fine, owner of Structured Hair Salon, happiness is a word that feels fluid—something that ebbs and flows with life’s seasons
That drive is central to his philosophy on success. “Every day we wake up, we have to push ourselves,” he says. If he could speak to his younger self, Matt would encourage him to drive hard, keep going, and trust that everything will be okay.
For Chris Turner, co-founder of Thorough Brand, happiness is about feeling accomplished and at peace with where you are in life.
When reflecting on what he’d tell his younger self, Chris’s advice is simple but powerful: don’t get distracted. Stay true to yourself.
For Katherine Freeland, co-owner of Ground Floor Yoga, happiness is rooted in something deeper than fleeting moments of joy—it’s a state of connection with God.
A seeker of balance and new experiences, Katherine loves exploring vegan restaurants around the city, always open to flavors and cultures that complement her practice.
For Don Metzger, owner of Stonebridge Art Gallery, happiness begins with a simple truth: it starts in the mirror.
He filed his first taxes at just eight years old, growing up immersed in his family’s business. His father’s words left a lasting impression: “No matter what you do, you’re always going to be the boss’ kid.
For Colleen Metzger, co-owner of Stonebridge Art Gallery, happiness is a balance of connection and creativity.
Her path to success has been built on tenacity, vision, and energy. Colleen believes in dreaming boldly and pushing energy out into the world with the faith that those dreams will take shape. Along her journey,
For Jamie Brandenburg, a Nashville-based real estate investor, happiness is rooted in peace—not just financial peace, but a deeper sense of relational peace
Jamie’s greatest hero is his late father, a man who may not have been financially wealthy but was rich beyond measure in relationships.
For Jan Schlueter, CEO of Neurodiverse Tech, happiness is found in peace—peace within his personal ecosystem and the satisfaction of knowing he is making an impact with his purpose.
If he could go back and offer advice to his younger self, Jan’s message would be clear: fail faster. “I’m not a quitter,” he says, “but I’d tell myself to switch or pivot earlier
For Brad Hopkins, former NFL star and Tennessee Titans legend, life after football has been about more than just a career shift—it’s been about reinvention.
Brad also draws inspiration from icons like Denzel Washington and Morgan Freeman, whose on-screen characters often embody depth, wisdom, and quiet strength
For Jolie Grace Wareham, CEO of Protasec, a cyber and information security firm with both a national and global reach, happiness is defined by freedom—the freedom of her mind to explore, to travel, to pursue passions, and to serve others in meaningful ways.
When it comes to finding your path, Jolie believes your life will tell you where to go if you’re willing to listen. “Your passions and next steps will reveal themselves to you in different ways,” she says.
For Micah Berg, being an innovator isn’t just a job title—it’s a way of life. Happiness, he says, is about flexibility: the freedom to do what you want, when you want, and to choose the obligations that truly matter
But behind his calm approach to life is a deep well of grit. For Micah, grit is the foundation of success. “When times get tough, you see it through,” he says. “You find a way through it.”
For Michelle Quinonez, CEO of Geo Financial Stories Inc., success isn’t just about numbers or growth strategies—it’s about guiding others to reach their full potential. Michelle has dedicated her career to mentoring and advising CEOs and business founders, helping them navigate their financial journeys while empowering them to develop as leaders.
When she’s not helping others grow, Michelle finds joy in dancing and connecting with Nashville’s vibrant culture
Ollie Gabriel wears many titles: CEO of Aura Holdings Group, award-winning musician, producer, artist, and writer—or as he likes to say, “a wizard.” His career spans hospitality, media, and music, but no matter the industry, his approach is rooted in passion and purpose.
Those dreams are supported by his guiding principles of clarity and faith. He believes that creating space for clarity and honing your vision is essential for success, and that surrendering to God’s plan brings freedom and joy.
For Jamie Heard, co-founder of Faithfully Restored, happiness isn’t about circumstances or fleeting moments. It’s about peace—a deep, steady peace that carries her through every season of life, even the darkest ones. Jamie’s story is marked by profound loss; she walked through the unimaginable pain of losing a child. Yet, through that grief, she discovered that joy and sorrow are not opposites.
They can coexist. “Happiness isn’t dependent on your situation,” she reflects. “You can hold grief, pain, and suffering, and still experience joy.” Faithfully Restored was born from this truth. Jamie and her three co-founders had all experienced life-altering loss and, with no prior experience in starting a nonprofit, they leaned fully into their faith.
“We knew we were being called,” Jamie says. “So, from the very beginning, we committed this to the Lord and followed where the Spirit led us.” Six years later, Faithfully Restored has become a beacon of hope, proof of what happens when faith and courage guide the way.
When you step into Elevation Orthodontics, Nashville’s first adult-only orthodontic practice, there’s an immediate sense that this is more than just a place to straighten teeth. It’s a reflection of Dr. Brice Gilliam’s vision, his values, and his deep connection to the city he calls home.
For Dr. Gilliam, happiness isn’t just a fleeting moment—it’s what happens when time, energy, and purpose all align. “Happiness isn’t easy,” he reflects, “but when everything points in the same direction, even challenges feel meaningful.” That mindset has driven him to create a practice he wakes up excited for every morning, one that reflects his belief in living and working with intention.
He often finds inspiration in a Nashville sunset, watching the sky turn brilliant shades of orange and pink while thinking about how much the city has grown—and how much he’s grown alongside it. His journey is one of resilience, risk-taking, and a commitment to building something that feels purposeful.
In our exclusive video interview, Boo Ray opens up about his musical influences, the exciting future of his career, and even tackles some fun, offbeat questions. Known for his off-hand southern wit and captivating storytelling, Boo Ray’s unique charm shines through in every moment of the conversation. This is your chance to get to know the man behind the music on a deeper level.
A true standout in country rock, Boo Ray has built a reputation for unforgettable performances that draw listeners in with both authenticity and charisma. Whether he’s sharing tales of his journey or belting out heartfelt tunes, his ability to connect with audiences is unmatched. This interview offers an intimate glimpse into the creative mind of an artist who is redefining the genre.
Don’t miss this exclusive look at Boo Ray’s world. Watch the interview to discover what makes him one of the most compelling voices in country rock today, and follow him here to stay updated on his latest projects and performances.
In our exclusive interview with Leilani Kilgore, a West Coast native who has transformed into one of Nashville’s rising rock sensations, we explore the evolution of her unique sound. Known for her fusion of hard-hitting rock and blues influences, Leilani draws from an eclectic range of musical inspirations. In our conversation, she reveals which artists she’d blend to create her signature style, offering insight into the deep influences that fuel her music. As an artist, Leilani stands out for her fearless emotional expression and the intensity she brings to every performance, making her a powerful presence in Nashville’s vibrant music scene.
Leilani’s dynamic performances and raw talent have earned her the opportunity to play on iconic stages like the Sturgis Buffalo Chip and Summerfest, where she’s captivated audiences with her bold energy and authenticity. Her career has been punctuated by opening spots for legendary acts, including Buddy Guy, Lita Ford, and Limp Bizkit, experiences that have both shaped and propelled her as a musician. Known for her gritty, bluesy edge, Leilani embraces the challenges of navigating Nashville’s competitive music landscape, channeling them into music that resonates with rock and blues lovers alike.
Join us as we dive deeper into Leilani’s electrifying journey, learning more about the impact she’s making in the rock and blues scene and her dedication to her craft. With her powerful performances and evocative songwriting, Leilani Kilgore is carving out a space all her own in the world of rock music. Follow her journey and see how she continues to inspire fans with her impactful presence and undeniable talent.
Join us for an exclusive spotlight on Jay White, a remarkable artist celebrated for his unique fusion of R&B, Jazz, Country, and Gospel. In our interview, Jay delves into his early days, sharing when his passion for music first sparked and how his vision extends beyond melodies to a song that could resonate as a global anthem. With a focus on love and positivity, Jay’s music is as much about his humanitarian message as it is about his talent, inspiring listeners and uplifting communities around the world. Follow Jay White to stay connected with his journey.
Born and raised in New York City, Jay’s music is shaped by a rich artistic heritage that infuses his every beat and lyric. Known for his versatility, he masterfully blends drums, bass, percussion, and vocals into a signature style, now famously known as the “Jay White Flavor.” As an ambassador with Jonathan Scales and Fourchestra, Jay’s reach has extended far and wide, using music to educate and uplift underserved communities, from his local neighborhood to rural areas in Asia. His career has seen him collaborate with celebrated artists like Damien Escobar, Macy Gray, Michael McDonald, Rita Ora, and gospel legend Elder Timothy Wright.
Currently residing in Nashville, Tennessee, Jay White continues to grow his musical legacy. He’s on tour with the Robert Randolph Band and gearing up for the release of his third recording project. With musical influences ranging from his father Jeffrey L. White to icons like Marvin Gaye, Prince, and Donny Hathaway, Jay’s artistry is a tribute to both his roots and his unyielding dedication to his craft. Through his work, Jay exemplifies the universal power of music to bridge gaps and bring people together.
In our latest feature, we dive into the inspiring journey of singer/songwriter Samuel Herb, whose passion for live performance and storytelling through music has made a lasting impact. Originally from Jacksonville, Florida, Samuel made the bold move to Nashville in 2016 after placing second in American Songwriter Magazine’s Lyric Contest. Since then, he has immersed himself in the Americana scene, sharing the stage with notable acts such as The 502s, Gabe Lee, and Amythyst Kiah. With hundreds of shows across the U.S. under his belt, Samuel’s stage presence is as captivating as his heartfelt lyrics.
In 2018, Samuel officially stepped into the role of a recording artist, and since then, he has performed alongside a diverse lineup of talent, including Oliver Hazard, Son Little, and Pokey LaFarge. His dedication to his craft has taken him across the country, connecting with audiences through his emotionally resonant performances. Whether playing in intimate venues or on larger stages, Samuel has continually expanded his reach, quickly becoming a respected name in Americana music.
One of Samuel’s most notable contributions to the music world came in 2020 with the release of his single “Just a Tree.” This track sparked a tree-planting initiative, with Samuel pledging to plant one tree for every 1,000 streams of his songs and one tree for each piece of merchandise sold. With the support of his fans, over 1,750 trees have been planted in U.S. National Forests, blending music with environmental activism. Samuel Herb’s journey is one of both artistic and social impact, making him a truly unique voice in today’s music scene.
Laurel Taylor is a dynamic artist, producer, and singer/songwriter who has been making waves in Nashville since her bold move from Montgomery, Alabama, at eighteen. With over 15 years of experience in the music industry, she has captivated audiences on platforms ranging from American Idol to iconic venues like Tootsies on Broadway. Known for her raw country sound, Laurel intertwines heartfelt stories with a ministry mindset, leaving an unforgettable impression on every listener.
Now, Laurel is taking her music in an exciting new direction by embracing the emerging Country Trap genre, which fuses classic country’s heart and soul with the energy of trap beats. As one of the first female artists to explore this innovative style, she is trailblazing her own path in the music world and pushing musical boundaries.
Currently, Laurel is working on her debut country trap project, set to release by the end of 2024. Her journey from country roots to this bold new sound exemplifies her versatility and passion for music. Get ready to experience a whole new vibe as Laurel Taylor shakes up the music scene with her unique blend of Country Trap, continuing to inspire and lead in the ever-evolving landscape of modern music.
2 Live Bre is making waves in the Nashville music scene with his charismatic presence and ability to connect deeply with his audience. Known for his dynamic style and relatable lyrics, Bre has quickly established himself as an artist who truly embodies the spirit of Nashville. He’s grounded in his community, often seen engaging with fans and supporting local events, making him not just an artist, but an integral part of the city’s creative heartbeat. For Bre, Nashville is more than just a home base; it’s where his story unfolds and his talent shines, bringing something raw and authentic to the music landscape.
Bre’s philosophy on life is encapsulated in a single word: “butterfly.” He believes that life is a series of transformations, each stage building on the last, much like the stages of a butterfly. This mindset fuels his creativity, inspiring him to embrace change and growth both personally and professionally. In his music, this translates to themes of resilience, self-discovery, and evolution—qualities that resonate deeply with his fans. Through his art, Bre invites his listeners to join him on this journey, encouraging them to find beauty in their own life transitions.
His latest music video, “To the Head,” is a powerful representation of his unique vision and style. The video is both visually striking and emotionally raw, giving fans a glimpse into Bre’s world and his dedication to telling meaningful stories. It’s this level of vulnerability and creativity that Nashville needs to know about—an artist who is unafraid to push boundaries and challenge the norm. As 2 Live Bre continues to make his mark on the Nashville music scene, he stands as a voice of innovation and authenticity, bringing a refreshing energy to Music City.
Nashville starlet Kayley Bishop is a musical force to be reckoned with, blending the rock and roll grit of Bob Seger, the bluegrass storytelling of Dolly Parton, and the soulful serenade of Aretha Franklin into a unique musical cocktail. Kayley’s sound defies categorization as she continually explores new ways to showcase her powerhouse vocals and songwriting talent through genre-bending compositions.
With a love for merging the old with the new, Kayley draws inspiration from trailblazing artists who came before her. Keith Urban has described her voice as a “gumbo of Celine Dion, Natalie Maines, and Jewel,” a testament to her diverse vocal abilities. Hailing from East Tennessee, Kayley says, “My heart beats like it was made to be tethered to a song,” and with hundreds of songs to her name, she never fails to captivate audiences with her expertly crafted lyrics and chill-inducing vocals.
A seasoned performer, Kayley graces stages in Nashville and across the country, leaving a lasting impression on every crowd. After making her mark on Season 15 of NBC’s *The Voice*, she is now working on her next original project with Grammy®-nominated producer Eric Torres. You can find her previous releases on all digital music platforms. To stay updated on Kayley’s latest releases and upcoming tour dates, follow her @kayleybish on social media.
In our latest interview, we dive into the cosmic world of King Corduroy, a modern-day troubadour who blends swampy grit with celestial flair. We uncover everything from the fascinating tale of a song he wrote in a completely made-up language to the whimsical backstory of his signature beard, which he imagines with its own name and personality.
King Corduroy’s sound is a rich tapestry woven from Texas electric blues, Memphis soul, New Orleans voodoo funk, the Tulsa groove, Mississippi Delta blues, and the Muscle Shoals Sound. He takes these classic influences and infuses them with his own unique perspective, shaped by years spent traveling everywhere from the Bible Belt to the Baja Peninsula.
His latest release, *Avalon Ave.*, is a five-song collection brimming with soulful performances and stories straight from the road. King Corduroy’s vibrant style — a mix of 1970s-era Leon Russell, Southern rock bluesman, and mystic hippie — shines through in every note.
“I’m a storyteller,” he says, reflecting on his musical journey that began in Montgomery, Alabama, and has taken him through cities like Austin, Los Angeles, Todos Santos, and Nashville. “I travel, I see things, and then I turn those experiences into songs. Just like Ernest Tubb was The Texas Troubadour and Woody Guthrie was The Dust Bowl Troubadour, I’m The Cosmic Troubadour of Southern Soul.”
Discover more about King Corduroy’s musical adventures and follow his journey here.
Larry Jenkins, Assistant Director of Bands at Tennessee State University (TSU), is at the forefront of a groundbreaking musical program often referred to as “A Band of Firsts.” Under his leadership, TSU’s band has become the first HBCU band to perform at a presidential inauguration, on the White House lawn, and at the prestigious Midwest Clinic. In 2023, the band added another historic milestone, becoming the first to be nominated for both a GRAMMY® and NAACP Image® Award in the same year for their work on “The Urban Hymnal.”
“The Urban Hymnal” is a collaborative project between Jenkins and multi-disciplinary artist Sir the Baptist, blending TSU’s band sound with gospel and Black culture, from hymns to hip-hop. The idea for the album was conceived during a casual conversation in a Nashville restaurant, with Jenkins envisioning the band as a link between the music of past generations and modern-day sounds. The project also benefited from the expertise of music producer Dallas Austin, who, alongside Sir the Baptist, worked closely with students through TSU’s Artist in Residency program, providing valuable insights into the music industry.
Jenkins’ work extends beyond music, as he emphasizes the importance of connecting his students to history, community, and culture. With TSU’s prime location in “Music City USA,” Jenkins uses his industry ties to secure internships and performance opportunities for his students, while also setting an example by staying active in the field.
In person, Nashville Pop/R&B artist Jenane exudes a chill, laid-back vibe. But once she steps on stage, the 24-year-old transforms into a powerhouse vocalist, captivating audiences with her high-energy performances. Jenane’s biracial background has played a major role in shaping her sound, blending the soulful R&B influences she grew up with alongside contemporary pop elements. Her Lebanese mother fostered her love for danceable music, and that passion shines through in every show she performs.
Raised in Peachtree City, GA, just outside of Atlanta, Jenane discovered her passion for music early on. Throughout school, she immersed herself in choir, band, theater, and talent shows, honing her versatile vocal ability. After graduating from Belmont University with a degree in Commercial Music, Jenane began touring across the southeastern U.S., where her electrifying performances and commanding stage presence consistently draw packed crowds.
Her talent hasn’t gone unnoticed online either. Jenane has built a massive social media following, boasting over 420k followers on Instagram and over 700k on TikTok. From remixing classical pieces with a modern twist to collaborating with other artists, Jenane continues to push creative boundaries. Follow her journey and witness how this rising star is taking the music world by storm.
In this week’s interview, we’re featuring Natasia GreyCloud, a dynamic singer/songwriter based in both Nashville and Los Angeles who brings over a decade of experience to her craft. Raised in a musical family, Natasia began songwriting at 13, developing her signature blend of soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics. For her, music is more than just a form of expression; it’s a way to give hope. As she puts it, “Everyone wants to be heard, we all want to be seen.”
Natasia’s 12 years in the industry have seen her excel in numerous roles, including session singer, vocal coach, and background vocalist. Her breakthrough came in 2018 as a top 20 finalist on *The Voice*, where her performances earned chair turns from Kelly Clarkson and Jennifer Hudson. Her viral rendition of “Tennessee Whiskey” won praise from *Rolling Stone*, calling her a “force” on stage.
Known for her emotional depth and vocal mastery, Natasia connects with listeners on a profound level, whether she’s recording in the studio or performing live. Her dynamic range and powerful voice continue to captivate audiences, making her one of the standout talents in today’s music scene.
In our latest interview with Nashville’s own Brian Brown, we ventured into a space quite literally out of this world—his musical journey to Mars. When asked which three albums he’d take on an interstellar voyage, his choices revealed much about his artistic core and the emotional compass that guides him. Brian shared his thoughts on what future civilizations might say about humanity if they stumbled upon his work as a lone relic of our time. His answers offered a rare window into the deeper philosophies that fuel his creativity, blending thought-provoking ideas with a grounding sense of hope.
Brian’s rise in Nashville’s hip-hop scene feels like a story everyone can relate to. Growing up in the South, his influences range from family and church to the timeless sounds of UGK and OutKast, all of which color his music with rich textures of truth, humility, and a touch of Southern charm. He started rapping for the sheer fun of it, making people laugh with his clever, goofy lines. But his talent quickly grew into something much more. With songs like “Desires,” Brian taps into his own journey of chasing dreams while navigating life’s challenges—a message that resonates deeply with listeners.
Voted Best Hip-Hop Artist by Nashville Scene in 2018, Brian’s star continues to rise. His heartfelt lyrics and unique perspective have taken him across the country, performing at major festivals like SXSW and A3C. His mixtape *7:22*, hailed as Mixtape of the Year by Nashville Scene in 2014, cemented his place in the city’s music landscape. From his early days of freestyling for fun to becoming a voice of authenticity in Nashville’s evolving soundscape, Brian Brown is an artist you’ll want to keep your eye on.
Music City Spotlight is thrilled to feature Christiana Alaire as our spotlight this week! In our exclusive interview, we explore her dream lineup for a fantasy band, dive into her unique love for the color teal, and how it complements both her personal and artistic identity. Christiana’s creative vision and vibrant personality shine through as she discusses her musical inspirations and the distinctive style she’s known for.
Christiana Alaire, a free-spirited artist from Georgia, brings power, range, and authenticity to her “Soultry” sound—a beautiful blend of old soul melodies and country storytelling. Inspired by her dad’s poetry, she began writing her own songs at just 12 years old. Frequent trips to Nashville in her youth allowed her to pursue music education, gain recording experience, and eventually make the city her permanent home. A graduate of Belmont University with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Business, Christiana competed in Season 20 of *American Idol*, where she earned a Golden Ticket and reached the Top 70, impressing judges Katy Perry, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan.
Following her *American Idol* journey, Christiana secured workshop opportunities with songwriter Kara DioGuardi through the Briidge platform, receiving invaluable critiques to hone her craft. In 2023, she wowed audiences at CMA Fest during Fan Fair X with performances showcasing her original music. Constantly evolving as both a writer and performer, Christiana continues to push boundaries and share her unique vision with the world. Don’t miss this opportunity to get to know more about Christiana’s artistic journey and favorite color! Follow Christiana Alaire here.
