On this episode of First Spin, I sit down with Wesley Phipps, current Belmont University student who just released his first EP, "Worst Of It."  Wesley and I chat about how the guitar helped him overcome depression as a kid, life since leaving Dallas for Nashville, and wanting to do it all.  

Songs featured in this episode:

Few Reasons

Drive to Ohio

Curtains

Leaving Houston

Still Gone

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In this special, first-of-its-kind episode, Hayden sits down with HAFFWAY (Sam Westhoff) for a conversation before his headlining show at The Moroccan Lounge on February 12, 2025.  Sam talks about almost giving up, writing for himself, mental health, the recent coverage in Rolling Stone, his latest album 'Wither.'

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This week I sit down with Colorado-raised, Nashville-living, Montana-loving Seth Beamer.  Seth and I talk about his time in the Denver music scene, why he left for Nashville, writing for syncs, how Spotify numbers influence things and how he balances running a business while promoting his music.

Songs featured in this episode:

Drive

You Can't Change Me

Picture Perfect

Ready To Go

The Runaround

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This week I sit down with James Uzzel of the Carolina Emo band Tourneforte.  James details finding his people in the Myrtle Beach music scene (not as easy as you'd hope), traveling to New Jersey to make albums, sustained growth vs. viral moments, working on an HBO series and his love of a short n' sweet pop star.

Songs included in this episode:

Minnesota

May First

Centerfold

Make Good

Epilogue

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This week I sit down with Emily James, who's breakout song 'Brooklyn' has been on nearly every playlist I've made in the last 3 years.  Emily opens up about the success of that song, her upcoming LP 'Summer Nostalgia' (and why it shares a name with last years' EP), the line between vulnerability and oversharing, and making romance out of life.

Songs featured in this episode:

Uncommon Sense

Blueprint

Brooklyn

Song for Bryan

Picture It

Underdog

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This week I sit down with Zach Sweeney and Alex Forsythe of the indie-folk group, Welcome Stranger.  We dive into the history of the band and the Craigslist ad that spawned it, the process of writing songs, the influence of growing up in an Evangelical Christian home, experimenting with Tik Toks, and keeping your job and music separate.

Songs featured in this Episode:

These Things Take Their Time

Won't Be Around

Half A Man

You Need Me

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This week on First Spin I sit down with Owen Burton, the creative force behind the band Ovven as he shares his journey from growing up in the Chicago burbs, his experiences in the Peace Corps, and the evolution of his music career. He reflects on the influence of classical guitar on his songwriting, the impact of a life-changing concert, and the importance of embracing personal embarrassment in his art. Owen also discusses the challenges of navigating the industry, balancing multiple roles, and the significance of creating unique music that resonates with listeners.

Abbreviated

Dishes

Embarassing

Crows

Pre-save Ovven's upcoming album "Gnawing at the Cord"

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In this conversation, Nikki Falk, a singer-songwriter originally from Hawaii, shares her journey into music, discussing her move to California (by way of Australia), using music to connect, and the importance of community in the music scene. She reflects on the emotional connections her music creates with listeners and the vulnerability involved in performing. Nikki also addresses the impact of digital promotion in the music industry and her desire to explore more analog methods especially as it relates to promotion of her upcoming album. 

Songs featured in this episode:

Riverbed

June Blue

Apartment

Suncatcher

Fighter Dog

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In this episode, musician Will Overman shares his journey from Virginia to Nashville, detailing the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a career in music. Will opens up about his experiences in the service industry, the impact of his divorce, and the decision to move to Nashville to further his music career. He reflects on the evolving music industry, the role of streaming, and the importance of live performances. The conversation also delves into Will's songwriting process, his inspirations, and the stories behind some of his most personal songs. 

Songs in this episode:

Virginia Is For Lovers

Living Wage

Bowery

Held Up By A Woman

Funeral For A Friend

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In this conversation, Mike Chiarappa discusses the evolution of his music project, Range Life, from a solo endeavor to a collaborative band effort. He shares insights about the vibrant music scene in Asbury Park, the importance of collaboration in songwriting, and the challenges of recording music. The discussion also touches on the role of AI in music production, the dynamics of the modern music industry, and the excitement surrounding upcoming releases. Mike reflects on his influences, the recording process, and the significance of live performances.

Songs in this episode:

Out of It

Crooked Smile

Take Time

bleeding for help

Spinning Out

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