On this episode of The Bandwich Tapes, I sit down with singer-songwriter Celeste Marie Wilson for a conversation about songwriting, identity, performance, and the long road toward becoming the artist she always wanted to be.

With her debut album, Southern American Princess, on the way, Celeste shares how the project has become more than just a collection of songs. We talk about embracing Southern roots after once wanting to escape them, how poetry naturally evolved into songwriting, and why place, family, and storytelling have become central to her artistic voice.

We also spend time discussing the craft behind the music. Celeste talks about developing her voice over more than a decade of dedicated work, the importance of vocal health, recording in the studio with an open mind, and why collaboration often leads to performances she never could have imagined on her own.

Along the way, we dive into musical theater, songwriting influences like Dolly Parton, Kris Kristofferson, Janis Joplin, and Kristin Chenoweth, the experience of winning a Josie Music Award, and the thoughtful process of assembling an album that tells a complete story from beginning to end. It's an honest conversation about finding confidence in your own voice, both musically and personally.

Key Takeaways

•  Celeste discusses how Southern American Princess became an exploration of Southern identity, heritage, and personal growth. 
•  She explains why she considers herself a writer first and a singer second, with songwriting rooted in poetry and storytelling. 
•  Musical theater helped shape her approach to live performance, from stage presence to visual presentation and audience engagement. 
•  She shares her disciplined philosophy on vocal health, including regular coaching, fitness, and the protection of her instrument. 
•  Recording sessions are collaborative, and she intentionally leaves her ego behind so producers, engineers, and musicians can shape the songs together. 
•  Celeste reflects on winning a Josie Music Award and how trusting her instincts ultimately led her to opportunities in Nashville. 
•  The conversation explores why album sequencing still matters and how a carefully ordered record creates a meaningful listening experience. 

Music from the Show

• Marie - Celeste Marie Wilson

About the Show

The Bandwich Tapes is a long-form interview podcast in which I sit down with musicians, songwriters, composers, producers, and artists to explore the creative process behind their music. Rather than focusing on biographies, these conversations dive into artistic philosophy, collaboration, craft, career development, and the stories that shape the people making today's music.

Connect with the Show

Email: [email protected]