Country Music Dads

This week, the Country Music Dads welcome Nathan Evans Fox to the podcast. He is a Nashville-based country music artist and dad with a fascinating new album on the way. He explores his own country upbringing. Using traditional themes of land, hard work and faith, he approaches his music and life from the political left, in a space considered very conservative. Fox’s album Heirloom is out May 29 on Free Dirt Records.Show Notes:3:12 - A discussion of “Lots of Beginnings” brings the conversation to the very end of the album, as Nathan explains the process of losing his dad and becoming one in the same year -- and how he landed on the title of the Heirloom album. And we dive deep into family right away.6:00 - Nathan’s connection to family, family land and the family system, is deeply connected to his political understanding. His understanding is wildly personal, tactile and real. The family land allowed him to know his extended family through his universe of ghosts -- and it still looms large in his experience even after the family sold it.9:50 - Growing up very weird and country go hand in hand with Nathan’s experience.10:50 - A feeling of home vs enjoying where you live. Nathan and the dads talk about how to create a home. Grief, economics and complications.12:10 - His time as a hospital chaplain exposed Nathan to the full range of emotions of those at the hardest points in their lives, forcing him to radically listen. These experiences drove him to be more explicit about the need for his music to become more message-driven. It also put his life as an artist in perspective.15:50 - Going viral with “Hillby Hymn” and bringing liberation theology to country music fans, and how Nathan became many folks' favorite worship leader.18:51 - Understanding how to square yourself to the cultural dominance of Christianity in the bible belt, and how this language can be used as a vernacular poetic experience, one that helps folks accept something they don’t expect.25:48 - “We belong and we feel, well before we think or form ideologies,” Nathan said. And we should likely get back to knowing our neighbors and caring.26:35 - A discussion of Nathan’s music feels a bit like contemporary Christian music, suggested Dave. And Nathan felt called out.28:45 - Talking about “Racecar” and its place within contemporary country music, or as Nathan calls it, “Butthole Country Music.” Dave and Nathan geek out about Bro Country and how “Racecar” references “Dirt Road Anthem” for tone. Yet the topic of this song is anything but traditional -- in fact, it’s pretty divisive. The guys jump into the question of politics of it all.34:24 - The Dad Life Sound Check featuring songs from Roger Miller, Ryan Bingham and Corb Lund & Hayes Carll.Thank you for listening. The best way to support us is to subscribe to the show on Spotify, Apple podcasts, or whatever podcast platform you use. If you want to see new episodes and more content delivered straight to your email inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter: countrymusicdads.substack.com. You can find everything we do on our website: countrymusicdads.com. And we’d love to hear what you think, so send us comments, suggestions, friendly banter on Instagram @countrymusicdads, or via email countrymusicdads@gmail.com.Mentioned In This Episode:Liberation TheologyThe book about how country music was created to divide people is Creating Country Music: Fabricating Country MusicNathan Evans Fox's substackReferences/Songs:Theme Music: “Dark Country Rock” by MoodmodeLots of Beginnings by Nathan Evans FoxI Know the End by Nathan Evans Fox (out May 29)Hillbilly Hymn (Okra & Cigarettes) by Nathan Evans FoxRacecar by Nathan Evans Fox (out May 29)Dirt Road Anthem by Jason AldeanDo-Wacka-Do by Roger MillerAmericana by Ryan Bingham and The Texas GentlemenMuch Too Young (To Feel This Damn Old) by Corb Lund & Hayes Carll

Recently, the dads sat down with Grammy-nominated songwriter, alt-country artist and father, Jeremy Ivey. But you may know him better as Margo Price’s husband. Ivey has a new album, It’s Shape Will Reveal Itself, out now on Soggy Anvil Records, and it’s a heavy look at the world around us. We will talk about his role as Price’s husband, their partnership in raising their children and songwriting, and how their lives together (and apart) have influenced his art.Show Notes1:10: Donnie admits to being a fan boy and interrupting Jeremy’s dinner before a show in Charlotte, NC, several years ago. What he wanted to ask then, and could ask now, was how Jeremy got into songwriting, and it all started with reading great poetry.3:12: Jeremy explains how It’s Shape Will Reveal Itself came together, and the story of “Little Bird” and his daughter’s role on the track.5:15: A discussion of how the track order, the playing and technical recording impacts the album's feel, through a patchwork of old and new songs. Also, a CRAZY story about Joan Baez.10:35: Jeremy’s approach and process, supporting Margo Price and his personal career, and the impact of fatherhood. And a cautionary tale about selling your car with a young child to make an album -- this one worked out, but don’t do it, says Jeremy.14:10: Balancing home and touring. How Margo and Jeremy find the balance for their music and family, and the hardest part of staying off the road is the FOMO.16:20: Balancing the creative, romantic and parenting partnerships, and the annual cycle of creativity and support.19:30: What does a normal day look like for the Ivey/Price household? Pretty normal, explains Jeremy. It’s complete chaos, with a bunch of toys on the floor.21:40: Jeremy explains his writing process and how the chaos around him influences it. And the honest balance between self-indulgence and giving in to the process of songwriting.22:57: The difference between songs created for Margo Price’s albums and Jeremy Ivey’s albums.26:40: The American experience provides an incredible context for creating meaningful and interesting art.27:20: The Dad Life Sound Check.Mentioned in the EpisodeEmily DickinsonThe Beat Poets PAIN: The Board Game by Sampson StarkweatherDrew Carroll The Bomb ShelterJoan BaezBonnie Raitt Emmylou Harris DulcimerThin LizzyThe DublinersBuffalo CloverBrittany Howard and Alabama Shakes Darrin Bradbury Anti RecordsFarm Aid Anthony BourdainKhalil GibranReferences/Songs:Theme Music: “Dark Country Rock” by MoodmodeLittle Bird - Jeremy IveyEdge of Darkness - Jeremy IveyDon’t Sleep on Your Dreams - Jeremy IveyWhiskey In A Jar - The DublinersClose to You - Margo PriceTennessee Song - Margo PriceA Long Way From Home - The KinksGone to Stay - Margo PriceHe Stopped Loving Her Today - George JonesLots of Beginnings - Nathan Evans Fox

What’re you looking at, son? You wanna go? Well, it seems like Gavin Adcock can’t get enough of the fightin’ side of country music, and the media (The Dads included) can’t get enough of his bologna. This week, we dive into the beefs, why country music seems to foster this kind of violent rhetoric, what dads should do about it and how the media landscape makes it all worse.While you're listening, please take two minutes to fill out our listener survey! What do YOU want to hear about country music and modern fatherhood in Season 3? Survey will be live until February 28th, 2026.https://countrymusicdads.com/feedback/Show Notes:00:58 - Who is Gavin Adcock and why is country music (and its tabloids) so obsessed with him? The Dads get into his origin story, his approach and why he’s the perfect foil. He’s either a marketing genius or an idiot savant.6:21 - Donnie outlines why he doesn’t like him, but Dave jumps in to say he totally gets his appeal, that vibe and that stupidity. There is something to be said about acting a fool. But it needs to be safe for everyone involved.10:31 - Beefs, it’s what’s for dinner. The Dads outline the wild number of beefs that Adcock either instigated or accelerated. Up first, we talk about Braxton Keith and Adcock.13:28 - Next, we cover the swing Adcock took at Beyoncé. His take was loaded and unneeded.16:53 - Now we get to the good stuff: Zach Bryan vs Adcock. They came into it with the same energy, and this one is wonderfully messy. They both looked like fools because neither chose to de-escalate.21:10 - On to Charley Crockett and his master class in narrative control. Adcock put himself back into the conversation, ego and all. And boy did he miss. The allegations of “Cosplay Cowboy” against Crockett fall so flat. All stage performers put on an act -- including Adcock.27:46 - The fight and beef drives streaming revenues, but it’s not going to establish Adcock for the long term.29:16 - Benjamin Tod, the $75 a night beef and the outlaw version of puka shells.34:14 - How do these beefs stand up to the history of country music beefs? They are similar, but the social media system exacerbates the situation.36:10 - What role do violence and male bravado play in country music -- it’s all about the storytelling. From Johnny Cash to Jason Aldean, country uses violence to tell a story and foster the image of power and control. And this music provides an escape. Understanding the line between violence as an escape vs a solution is critical.45:19 - How do dads help their kids deal with this kind of trash talk or bullying? Be a better person: don’t let yourself be hurt, and find a better way to fix the problems that will always arise. And this isn’t just about dumb beefs or little kids. This is about how society solves its problems.54:29 - Dad Life Sound Check for meeting the bully in the parking lot.Thank you for listening. The best way to support us is to subscribe to the show on Spotify, Apple podcasts, or whatever podcast platform you use. If you want to see new episodes and more content delivered straight to your email inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter: countrymusicdads.substack.com. You can find everything we do on our website: countrymusicdads.com. And we’d love to hear what you think, so send us comments, suggestions, friendly banter on Instagram @countrymusicdads, or via email countrymusicdads@gmail.com.Mentioned in this Episode:Gavin Adcock bus surfing and shotgunning a beer (Source: Adcock’s social channels)Rolling Stone’s Nashville Now podcast with Gavin AdcockBraxton Keith calling out AdcockAdcock comments on BeyoncéZach Bryan's reaction to young fanAdcock reaction to Zach Bryan's young fan interactionCharley Crockett video on the subwayCrockett on the Nashville Now podcast with Rolling StoneCountry Cutler article on crafting personas in country musicKat Hasty tweet about Morgan Wallen's authenticityClip from Benjamin Tod's socials screaming at people about NashvilleInterview with Benjamin Tod for Saddle Mountain PostInterview with Benjamin Tod about making $75/nightReferences:Theme Music: “Dark Country Rock” by MoodmodeRun Your Mouth - Gavin AdcockNeed To - Gavin AdcockSOLD OUT - HARDYFebruary 28, 2016 - Koe WetzelSettle for a Beer - Braxton Keith16 Carriages - BeyonceNine Ball - Zach BryanCrucified Son - Charley CrockettWar Inside of Me - Lost Dog Street Band<a...

This episode needs no introduction: Shooter Jennings joins Donnie and Dave to discuss his dad’s cache of recordings, the process of bringing together three albums' worth of new Waylon Jennings music, and his feelings about the first installment, Songbird. Shooter talks at length about the discovery of Waylon’s previously unreleased music, his relationship with his legendary dad and his own role as a father of two. This one was big for the Country Music Dads, as there couldn’t be a more perfect topic for this podcast. Show Notes1:24 -- Shooter tells us about the discovery of these songs and how the Songbird project came together.&nbsp;6:12 -- Dave says it was surreal to hear these songs in 2025. Shooter felt the same way. And then he knew he had to share this with others so they could have the same experience. 8:26 -- The Myth vs. The Man: Shooter explores what fans might be able to take from these projects. 10:42 -- Shooter’s childhood on the road and why he’s tired at shows regardless of how much sleep he gets.&nbsp;12:20 -- Waylon the Artist vs. Waylon the Dad. Shooter kept true to the art but modernized it a bit — “letting the music on the tape talk.” That said, the experience of going through this chapter of his dad’s life was very special to Shooter.&nbsp;20:07 -- As a producer, the process of this project was a bit different for Shooter because Waylon is no longer with us; he is his father, and there was so much more material than usual. So he wanted to make it last to “make it like Waylon is here for a minute.”&nbsp;23:00 -- Donnie asked about how relationships impact Shooter’s production style. He specifically pointed to Turnpike Troubadour’s last two albums and the fan backlash after Cat in the Rain. Shooter’s direct and honest answer provides an interesting view into his producing style.28:58 -- The Dads ask Shooter how the production on the next albums fit together and how they tell a story. We also learn that there are several other projects to come from this collection of recordings, including songs by his mother, Jessi Colter. It’s like a little Marvel Universe of Waylon Jennings, they joke. But wouldn’t that be cool?30:40 -- How this project impacts Shooter’s legacy and his kids’ vision of him.&nbsp;36:30 -- What’s next for Shooter? He’s working with Charley Crockett and BJ Barham of American Aquarium again.Thank you for listening. The best way to support us is to subscribe to the show on Spotify, Apple podcasts, or whatever podcast platform you use. If you want to see new episodes and more content delivered straight to your email inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter:&nbsp;countrymusicdads.substack.com. You can find everything we do on our website:&nbsp;countrymusicdads.com. And we’d love to hear what you think, so send us comments, suggestions, friendly banter on Instagram&nbsp;@countrymusicdads, or via email countrymusicdads@gmail.com.Mentioned in the EpisodeSongbird album by Waylon JenningsCountach (for Giorgio) album by Shooter JenningsTony Joe WhiteSometimes Y album by YelawolfSunset SoundRumours album by Fleetwood MacRolling Stone Nashville Now podcast with Shooter JenningsWSM&nbsp;Billy Bob’s Texas’ mural of Waylon is still the KingShooter’s Father's Day post about the musicReferencesTheme Music: “Dark Country Rock” by Moodmode"Loading" by Shooter Jennings"I'd Like to Love You Baby" by Waylon Jennings"Songbird" by Waylon Jennings"Songbird" by Fleetwood Mac"After The Ball" by Waylon Jennings"I Hate to Go Searchin' Them Bars Again" by Waylon Jennings"The Cowboy (Small Texas Town)" by Waylon Jennings"The Eagle" by Waylon Jennings"Dollar a Day" by Charley Crockett"Cat in the Rain" by Turnpike Troubadours"Mean Old Sun" by Turnpike Troubadours

This week, the Dads talk about a growing trend in country music and on the faces of men everywhere: the mustache. While facial hair is divisive, this episode takes a light-hearted view of the ‘stache, the correlation between masculinity in society and the prevalence of mustachioed individuals and much more. This is just one long “Change My Mind” segment, and you won’t be disappointed.&nbsp;Show Notes:1:45 - The History of the mustache, pogonotrophy and some notable ‘staches from history. There are several horrible dad jokes about facial hair throughout this section.&nbsp;6:30 - The place of the mustache in pop culture from the Fu Manchu to the handlebar to Tom Selleck, everyone’s favorite short-short-wearing Private Eye.&nbsp;11:52 - The mustache is a symbol of Dad Life. Dave comes from a long line of mustachioed dads.&nbsp;13:33 - A mustache is an intentional act of manliness and all that is baked into that statement. In the end, men grow mustaches for their fellow men.&nbsp;16:11 - The evolution of the mustache in modern society, the impact of Movember and shifts in culture.&nbsp;17:50 - The great (and not so great) mustaches of country music. And for some reason, Dave brought up Chris Gaines in relation to Garth Brooks.&nbsp;29:44 - Change My Mind: Here it comes down to this -- will Dave change Donnie’s mind about the 'stache?35:54 - The Dad Life Sound Check&nbsp;Mentioned in this Episode:Prince RahotepPazyrik horseman&nbsp;2014 BBC article about Edward, Prince of WalesDr. Fu Manch from the British author Sax RohmerMagnum P.I.&nbsp;Yosemite SamTombstoneJeopardy and Alex Trebek&nbsp;Fatherly article about moustachesMovemberChildren's Book EpisodeIdentify this 90's moustache on Instagram with Zach TopBuzzing sounds…Thank you for listening. The best way to support us is to subscribe to the show on Spotify, Apple podcasts, or whatever podcast platform you use. If you want to see new episodes and more content delivered straight to your email inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter:&nbsp;countrymusicdads.substack.com. You can find everything we do on our website:&nbsp;countrymusicdads.com. And we’d love to hear what you think, so send us comments, suggestions, friendly banter on Instagram&nbsp;@countrymusicdads, or via email countrymusicdads@gmail.com.&nbsp;References:Theme Music: “Dark Country Rock” by Moodmode"East Bound and Down" by Jerry Reed"Worst Way" by Riley Green"Use Me" by Zach Top"Honky Tonk City" by Braxton Keith"Three Car Garage" by Flatland Cavalry"The Coyote &amp; The Cowboy" By Colter Wall"I'm a Little Crazy" by Morgan Wallen"American Nights" by Zach Bryan"Country Boy" by Alan Jackson song"Boot Scootin' Boogie" by Brooks and Dunn"Prop Me Up Beside the Jukebox (If I Die)" by Joe Diffie"You’ve Got to Stand for Something" by Aaron Tippin"Down on the Farm" by Tim McGraw"Every Light in the House" by Trace Adkins"Alibis" by Tracy Lawrence"Brand New Man" by Brooks and Dunn"Always Have What We Had" by William Prince

Dave goes solo for this episode with a brief update on Country Music Dads' plans in the coming months and with a brief rant about parental leave for dads. Show Notes:00:34: The Update Dave's having a baby! He shares how that news will affect the timing of the podcast in the coming months as he takes Podcaster Parental Leave. The Country Cutler Takeover of Country Music Dads is underway....03:53: A Brief Rant on Parental Leave for Dads: Dave encourages dads to take EVERY MINUTE of their paternity leave (especially if they get paid for it). It's good for you, it's good for the baby and it's good for the women in your lives.Thank you for listening. The best way to support us is to subscribe to the show on Spotify, Apple podcasts, or whatever podcast platform you use. If you want to see new episodes and more content delivered straight to your email inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter:&nbsp;countrymusicdads.substack.com. You can find everything we do on our website:&nbsp;countrymusicdads.com. And we’d love to hear what you think, so send us comments, suggestions, friendly banter on Instagram&nbsp;@countrymusicdads, or via email countrymusicdads@gmail.com.Mentioned in This Episode:Article about paternity leave by Tulane University Law SchoolReferencesTheme Music: “Dark Country Rock” by Moodmode

... or how I traveled with kids on summer break, and all I got was this grape snow cone. This week, the Dads talk about the season of family vacations. While these trips are a tremendous amount of work, all the research and our lasting memories suggest that, although these journeys aren’t exactly vacations, the family trip is incredibly valuable to the family unit.&nbsp;This episode explores some of the research — both academic and anecdotal — that supports our theory that these trips are great for families (if only in the long term), as well as some of the great country songs that can help us through the grind of the summer family vacation or family trip.Show Notes01:08: How do we define the family trip vs. a vacation? Well, Google and the all-powerful AI summary help us out by delivering a clear and concise explanation.&nbsp;02:08: Benefits of a Family Trip: While it’s exhausting, research seems to back the idea of taking a family trip. It keeps our family talking, helps our kids learn and enhances the bond between partners, no matter what was said when the directions were not followed exactly.&nbsp;03:58: The Brutality of Traveling With Children: As a Stay-at-Home-Dad and “Default Parent,” Dave feels that family trips are often like business trips. So it’s just parenting on the road as you deal with the “brutality of traveling with children.”06:28: Content Warning: The first mention of vomit.&nbsp;08:33: Content Warning: The second mention of vomit.9:39: Content Warning: The third mention of vomit.11:35: Family Team-Building on the Family Trip: The idea of working together as a family during these trips helps the family grow together -- working as a team makes you a better family.&nbsp;&nbsp;12:46: Dave’s Notorious Family Trip to Sequoia National Park and the Fisher Price Toy Lantern.14:50: What is the best place to stay during a family trip? The rental house vs the hotel seems to be the debate. While the space and privacy seem to win out, the breakfast buffet is a huge plus.20:40: Do Family Trips Need to Be Educational? Research suggests that educational trips make kids smarter, but do trips need to be explicitly educational for kids to extract value from the trip? The Dads touch on how just changing it up a bit, doing things you want to do and working through the difficulties on the road provides the real educational value — and how Dad Stories (read: lies about things on the side of the road) are critical.&nbsp;27:32: Content Warning: The fourth mention of vomit.&nbsp;29:50: Conquering the Family Trip: The Dads discuss packing, planning spreadsheets, and other key tactics.&nbsp;32:19: Content Warning: The fifth mention of vomit, and this one is intense.&nbsp;33:14: Giving our Kids a 90s Summer: Is this possible? Should it be?&nbsp;40:27: The Songs of the Summer: The Dads debate the greatest country music for the summer. As well as a few songs for cleaning up vomit.&nbsp;51:17: Change My Mind: Donnie attempts to change Dave’s mind about using profanity in front of the kids. It’s a great f**ing conversation.&nbsp;Thank you for listening. The best way to support us is to subscribe to the show on Spotify, Apple podcasts, or whatever podcast platform you use. If you want to see new episodes and more content delivered straight to your email inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter: countrymusicdads.substack.com. You can find everything we do on our website: countrymusicdads.com. And we’d love to hear what you think, so send us comments, suggestions, friendly banter on Instagram @countrymusicdads, or via email countrymusicdads@gmail.com.Mentioned in the ShowGood Time - Alan JacksonChattahoochee - Alan Jackson&nbsp;Hot Summer Day - Turnpike Troubadors/John Hartford&nbsp;Things Have Gone to Pieces - George Jones&nbsp;Honky Tonkin’ for Life - Hannah Juanita&nbsp;Cold Beer &amp; Country Music - Zach TopGood Times &amp; Tan Lines - Zach Top&nbsp;Denim &amp; Diamonds - Nikki Lane&nbsp;It’s a Great Day to Be Alive - Travis TrittReferences:Theme Music: “Dark Country Rock” by MoodmodeVacation or Trip? A Helpful Guide for Parents - M. Blazoned, Huffington PostNuclearMeltdown - Jim DalrympleWhy You Should Travel With Your Kids - Jim Dalrymple, Institute of Family Studies &nbsp;The Billy Bob’s Texas Step and Repeat StoryThe Ultimate Stay-at-Home Dad - Shannon CarpenterFamily Leisure Satisfaction and Satisfaction with Family - Journal of Leisure Research &nbsp;LifeProfanity Can Sometimes Be the Best Medicine, Increasing Pain Tolerance by ~33% - Katie Brown, Psychiatrist.comOn Bullshit - Harry G. Frankfurt

Tony Kamel, a Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter, clawhammer banjo and guitar player, and father to a four-year-old girl, joins the show to talk about his latest album, We’re All Gonna Live, and to give us a behind-the-scenes look at the stories and real people that inspired many of his songs. Tony shares how his new-ish role as a father and his relationship with his own late father influences his music in an honest, vulnerable and inspiring interview. Listen along as the Dads commiserate with this stalwart of the bluegrass world about shared family calendars, the challenges of being a working parent, and finding hope in the stories of real people in roots and folk music.&nbsp;&nbsp;Show Notes02:05: The Story Behind We’re All Gonna Live: Tony describes the creation of his latest album, how fatherhood affected the creative process, and where the theme of death and loss on the album came from.07:18: “Fight With a Smile:” Tony tells the story of how his grandmother helped him find strength and hope during difficult times and how her wisdom influenced the album’s theme (and cover art).10:52: Authenticity and Tradition in Storytelling and Fatherhood: Tony shares that many of the stories in his songs are about real people and real experiences. He comments on the importance of telling authentic stories in roots and folk music and of bringing authenticity to your parenting.15:28: 90’s Alt-Rock Cover Songs: Tony talks about his viral banjo cover of “Santa Monica” by Everclear and the songwriting quality of many alt-rock songs we remember from our childhoods.18:49: "We’re All Gonna Live:" Tony tells the true story that inspired the title track of We’re All Gonna Live.22:24: "A Father and a Daughter:" Tony shares the inspiration behind his song "A Father and a Daughter" and how he considers it to be a gift to his daughter as she grows up.26:08: The Dad Life Sound Check: Tony shares one of his dad’s favorite songs, George Strait’s "Love Without End, Amen." Dave talks about how Summer Dean’s “Lonely Girl’s Lament” reminds him to consider the single people in the “village” helping to raise his kids. And Donnie can’t help but choose Tony Kamel’s “The Surfer” (and he swears he’s not just sucking up to the songwriter in the room).Mentioned in This Episode:Tony KamelWood and Wire"We're All Gonna Live" album cover artCountry Cutler’s article in Saddle Mountain Post about 90's countryDr. BeckyReferences:Theme Music: “Dark Country Rock” by Moodmode"We're All Gonna Live" by Tony Kamel"Makin' It Work" by Tony Kamel"Sue" by Tony Kamel"The Surfer" by Tony Kamel"Santa Monica" by Tony Kamel"Santa Monica" by Everclear"No Rain" by Tony Kamel"A Father and a Daughter" by Tony Kamel"Love Without End, Amen" by George Strait"Lonely Girl's Lament" by Summer Dean

Ted Russell Kamp, a Los Angeles-based musician, songwriter, producer and country music dad, joins Dave and Donnie to talk about the evolution of modern country music from his perspective as one of the forefathers of the modern alt-country movement. Ted's balance between touring, producing, songwriting, and building a family is unique and inspiring.We also explore his time with Shooter Jennings, his recent solo work and drop a boatload of stories from his time on the road and in the studio.Show Notes2:23: Ted tells us a bit about his background and entry into the country music space and how he grew up not liking pedal steel. But once discovering The Band and Whiskeytown, things really changed.5:27: Ted’s move to LA introduced him to many of the great California country legends, like Merle, Buck and Dwight -- and having the opportunity to play with those who played with them -- pushed him further into this space.&nbsp;6:01: The Shooter Jennings Relationship starts like most great music relationships -- a Hollywood jam session in a dingy practice space. 10:28: Slappin’ the Bass -- Ted has always loved the bass and that is how he can build trust with bands, musicians and production partners.&nbsp;11:32: Six Degrees of Ted Russell Kamp gets us to Diplo and how his bass line got onto “Use Me (Brutal Hearts).” To quote Ted, this is a totally weird and wonderful LA rock star story.&nbsp;18:09: The guys talk about Ted’s semi-autobiographical album and the push and pull of the road and family life. Luckily, Ted and his wife worked together to create a balance that worked for them, but it wasn’t easy and it took work to figure it out.27:20: The Dads talk about the resurgence of roots music and freedom the LA Music Scene allows for exploration and creativity in this space. Ted finds the genre orthodoxy from some in the scene to be an interesting aspect of this renaissance and provides a few examples for those looking to dip their toe in the alt-country Americana space.&nbsp;31:30: A quick discussion of the nostalgia loop and how what was on the radio when your parents were driving you around as a kid influences you as an adult. But as the world gets more complex, people long for things like music that they can understand, Ted explains.&nbsp;36:12: The Dad Life Sound Check provides a chance for Ted to tell stories about Waylon Jennings being a mensch, Dave shares some great news and Donnie talks about the passage of time while using the word “vibe” too many times. Ted also provides more insight into&nbsp; his song writing process.Thank you for listening. The best way to support us is to subscribe to the show on Spotify, Apple podcasts, or whatever podcast platform you use. If you want to see new episodes and more content delivered straight to your email inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter: countrymusicdads.substack.com. You can find everything we do on our website: countrymusicdads.com. And we’d love to hear what you think, so send us comments, suggestions, friendly banter on Instagram @countrymusicdads, or via email countrymusicdads@gmail.com.Mentioned in this Episode:Shooter Jennings&nbsp;&nbsp;James Taylor&nbsp;Ted touches on how discovering The Band, Old 97s, Whiskeytown, Sun Volt, Uncle Tupelo and several others, paved the path to his chosen career in the alt-country and Americana space.&nbsp;Diplo and Sturgill Simpson partnershipThe Godfather’s final scene’s explanation of a man’s jobAlan Jackson&nbsp;Tyler Childers&nbsp;Chris Stapleton&nbsp;West of Texas&nbsp;That 70s Show, The Flying Burrito Brothers and Emmylou Harris&nbsp;Waylon Jennings stories from the roadReferences:Theme Music: "Dark Country Rock" by Moodmode“Put the O Back in Country” - Shooter Jennings&nbsp;&nbsp;“16 Days” - Whiskeytown&nbsp;“The Weight” - The Band&nbsp;“Use Me (Brutal Hearts)” -&nbsp; Diplo, Dove Cameron, and Sturgill Simpson“The Ballad of the Troubadour” - Ted Russell Kamp&nbsp;“July 4th/He Stopped Loving Her Today” - Shooter Jennings/George Jones“Lonesome, On'ry and Mean” - Waylon Jennings&nbsp;“Another Leaf” - Charles Wesley Godwin&nbsp;“Daddy’s Mugshot” - Laci Kaye Booth

If you're a dad in need of a good cry, consider this your warning: Luke Combs’ album Fathers &amp; Sons hits hard. In this episode, the Country Music Dads give a full, unfiltered review of Fathers &amp; Sons because, honestly, it was inevitable.&nbsp; The Dads weigh in on the best and worst songs and the overall impact of this album on country music, modern fatherhood and their emotional state of mind.&nbsp;Plus: Dave goes full throttle in an impassioned “Minivan Rant” and tries to change Donnie’s mind once and for all.Show Notes03:11: First Reactions to the Album as a Whole: After Donnie recovers from "snot-bubble crying" during his passive listen, we discuss the songwriting quality, sincerity of the lyrics in a "songwriting-by-committee" approach and how "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" doesn't seem to fit (even though it is very sad).14:01: The Dad Life Sound Check: Donnie is a better parent thanks to "Huntin' By Yourself" (even though he doesn't hunt), and Dave finds a pillar of his parenting philosophy in "Whoever You Turn Out to Be."25:06: The Best Tracks from the Album: The Dads share more of their favorites, including "Front Door Famous" and "The Man He Sees in Me," and how those songs inspire us to live up to the higher expectations that modern dads rightfully (and finally) are measured against.32:36: The Worst Tracks from the Album: The Dads discuss the songs, like "All I Ever Do is Leave" and "Little Country Boys," that seem more like filler material to get an LP out of this concept album.36:00: "Fathers and Sons" Album Rating: The Dads wrap up the album review by rating "Fathers and Sons" on a scale of 1-5.37:50: Change My Mind About Minivans: Dave launches into an impassioned and memorable "Minivan Rant" to change Donnie's mind about the classic and highly versatile “FUV,” the family utility vehicle.Thank you for listening. The best way to support us is to subscribe to the show on Spotify, Apple podcasts, or whatever podcast platform you use. If you want to see new episodes and more content delivered straight to your email inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter: countrymusicdads.substack.com. You can find everything we do on our website: countrymusicdads.com. And we’d love to hear what you think, so send us comments, suggestions, friendly banter on Instagram @countrymusicdads, or via email countrymusicdads@gmail.com.ReferencesIntro Music: "Dark Country Rock" by Moodmode"Hurricane" by Luke Combs"When It Rains It Pours" by Luke Combs"Take Me Out to the Ball Game" by Luke Combs"The Grand Tour" by George Jones"Huntin' By Yourself" by Luke Combs"Whoever You Turn Out to Be" by Luke Combs"In Case I Ain't Around" by Luke Combs"Front Door Famous" by Luke Combs"Remember Him That Way" by Luke Combs"The Man He Sees in Me" by Luke Combs"All I Ever Do Is Leave" by Luke Combs"Long White Line" by Sturgill Simpson"Little Country Boys" by Luke Combs"Beer Never Broke My Heart" by Luke Combs

Country Music Dads is BACK for Season 2! And we are kicking things off by talking about the change (or lack thereof) that often accompanies the start of a new year. “New Year, new me” we say in January before seeing the “same ol’ me” staring back at us in the mirror in March. But is that such a bad thing? George Jones and Dierks Bentley provide support via two songs separated by 40 years but with the same name (different spelling), “Same Ole Me.” The Dads wrestle with self-improvement vs. self-acceptance, change vs. growth, and bro country vs. traditional country.&nbsp;&nbsp;We also discuss changes to the podcast itself. What is different for Season 2, what is staying the same, and what, Dear Listener, do you have to look forward to when you follow the Country Music Dads? True to form, it’ll be the same ole show, but a little bit different.Show Notes:02:12: Dave shares a preview of Season 2 of the podcast: what has changed, what is staying the same, and how feedback from our early-adopting listeners has influenced our plans.06:26: Meet Country Music Dads’ new co-host: Donnie C. Cutler!08:22: Dave and Donnie discuss George Jones’ “Same Ole Me,” Dierks Bentley’s “Same ‘Ol Me,” how they think about goal-setting, personal change, and growth, and how their pursuit of improvement could influence their kids.35:02: The Dad Life Sound Check: Donnie shares how the competing pressures of life on the road and family life in Jeremy Pinnell’s “Night Time Eagle” resonate with his own attempts to balance self-care pursuits and being there for the bedtime routine. Dave admits that “Halo” is his favorite Beyonce song and that Joshua Ray Walker’s highly countrified rendition of it takes him back to a simpler time before kids when weddings were ragers.45:41: In our new, recurring segment called “Change My Mind,” Donnie posits that Bro Country is BAD for the country music genre. Self-proclaimed “recovering bro country aficionado” Dave attempts to convince him otherwise.Mentioned in the Show:Country Music Dads podcast Season 1, Episode 9: “Country Cutler Talks Parenting, Country Music in LA and Strawberry Pie For Breakfast”The Country Cutler Substack newsletter"Atomic Habits" by James ClearThe Marfa TapesDierks’ bluegrass album, “Up On The Ridge” from 2010HomeDadCon: the annual convention for at-home dadsThe backlash surrounding the “Bluey” Season 3 "Exercise" episodeEddie Izzard on British vs. American filmsThank you for listening. The best way to support us is to subscribe to the show on Spotify, Apple podcasts, or whatever podcast platform you use. If you want to see new episodes and more content delivered straight to your email inbox, please subscribe to our newsletter: countrymusicdads.substack.com. You can find everything we do on our website: countrymusicdads.com. And we’d love to hear what you think, so send us comments, suggestions, friendly banter on Instagram @countrymusicdads, or via email countrymusicdads@gmail.com.References:Intro Music:⁠⁠“⁠⁠Dark Country Rock⁠⁠” by Moodmode⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠"Same Ole Me" by George Jones"Same Ol' Me" by Dierks Bentley"Forever and Ever, Amen" by Randy Travis"She Thinks My Tractor's Sexy" by Kenny Chesney"Some Beach" by Blake Shelton"I Don't Need Your Rocking Chair" by George Jones"Don't Give Up on Me" by Jason Aldean"Night Time Eagle" by Jeremy Pinnell“Halo” by Beyonce"Halo" by Joshua Ray Walker"Cuz I Love You" by Joshua Ray Walker"Dumpster Diving" by Joshua Ray Walker"Canyon" by Joshua Ray Walker"Cruise" by Florida Georgia Line"I Had Some Help" by Post Malone feat. Morgan Wallen

This was our first live podcast recording with some of our listeners as guests. In a ballroom at HomeDadCon in St. Louis, the Dads gathered with four fellow at-home dads for the ultimate country music bourbon showdown between Chris Stapleton (Traveller Whiskey) and Ryan Bingham (Bingham's Bourbon). We taste-tested their bourbon brands, sampled their music, and engaged in a lively, bourbon-soaked debate that we're sharing with you here. Take a listen and let us know who YOU think does country music and bourbon better. Mentioned in this episode: HomeDadCon Home Dad Chat Podcast Parenting Day From Hell Episode and Playlist Halestorm "Starting Over" Article on Whiskey Riff Show Notes: 5:30: Dad Life Sound Check - The Dads talk about "War Inside of Me" by Benjamin Tod and Lost Dog Street Band and "Disaster" by the The Red Clay Strays. 13:40: Farm Boy Update- Yellowstone the chicken went to live with another family because her coop mates are a--holes. 16:15: HARDY Update- Congrats to HARDY and his wife, Caleigh, who are expecting their first child! TBD whether "ONE BEER" played a role…. 18:00: The Country Music Bourbon Showdown. Please share your feedback on the Socials or via email at countrymusicdads@gmail.com. All of our content is available at the Country Music Dads Website, countrymusicdads.com. References: Intro Music:⁠⁠“Dark Country Rock” by Moodmode⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ HARDY Report Theme Music: “Frantic” by Lemon Music Studio⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Farm Boy Update Theme Music: “The Wheels on the Bus Rockabilly Style (instrumental)” by Mike Cole “War Inside of Me” by Lost Dog Street Band “Disaster” by The Red Clay Strays "ONE BEER” by HARDY feat. Lauren Alaina &amp; Devin Dawson "Hallelujah" by Ryan Bingham "Dollar a Day" by Ryan Bingham "Tell My Mother I Miss Her So" by Ryan Bingham "Sunrise" by Ryan Bingham "Bread and Water" by Ryan Bingham "Southside of Heaven" by Ryan Bingham "Starting Over" by Chris Stapleton "BLOW" by Ed Sheeran with Chris Stapleton &amp; Bruno Mars "Maggie's Song" by Chris Stapleton "Think I'm in Love With You" by Chris Stapleton "Joy of My Life" by Chris Stapleton "Joy" by Santana and Chris Stapleton "Honky Tonk Hall of Fame" by George Strait and Chris Stapleton "You Should Probably Leave" by Chris Stapleton "Fire Away" by Chris Stapleton

We are so grateful to interview Art Eddy for our show! Art is the host of one of the premiere podcasts for Dads, "The Art of Fatherhood". Art has interviewed over 500 Dads over the years about their fatherhood journeys, and we are so honored to get him on the other side of the microphone this week. Mentioned in the Show: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie The Art of Fatherhood Art's Interview with Walker Hayes Gabb Wireless Show Notes: 8:16: Farm Boy Update - Mick got some rain and Yellowstone the chicken has completely recovered from her brush with death. 9:10: HARDY Report - Dave explains how a sippy cup made "BOOTS" one of his favorite songs. 13:00: In the interview with Art Eddy we learn why he does what he does for the "Brotherhood of Fatherhood" and how ⁠Walker Hayes⁠ became one of his favorite guests. Art also shares what he has learned from his guests over the years and the most profound piece of parenting advice he has ever heard. 24:20: Dad Life Sound Check - Art joined us on this segment and talks about "A Bar Song (Tipsy)" and how Taylor Swift's "Never Grow Up" lives rent free in his head. Mick shares how "I Am Not Okay" by Jelly Roll is actually a parenting song. Dave shares his connection to "Ghost In This House" By Alison Krauss. Thank you for listening. You can find back episodes and our playlist on Spotify and via our ⁠⁠⁠webpage⁠⁠⁠. Please follow us on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram and ⁠⁠⁠Facebook @countrymusicdads. Correspondence can be sent to countrymusicdads@gmail.com. Most importantly, please give us a 5-star review and share the show with all of your friends. References: Intro Music: ⁠⁠⁠“Dark Country Rock”⁠⁠⁠ by Moodmode⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠HARDY Report Theme Music: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠“Frantic”⁠⁠⁠ by Lemon Music Studio ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Farm Boy Update Theme Music: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠“The Wheels on the Bus Rockabilly Style (instrumental)”⁠⁠⁠ by Mike Cole "I Am Not Okay" by Jelly Roll "BOOTS" by HARDY "Fancy Like" by Walker Hayes "Chapel" by Walker Hayes "Don't Let Her" by Walker Hayes "A Bar Song (Tipsy)" by Shaboozey "Never Grow Up" by Taylor Swift "Ghost in This House" by Alison Krauss