The "Walmart Yodeling Kid" is all grown up—and he's proving he's much more than a viral moment.

In this episode of the Live and Amplified Indie Fusion Podcast, Tom Kwiat sits down with Mason Ramsey during CMA Fest 2026 to talk about his journey from internet sensation to full-time country artist.

Mason opens up about rebuilding his career after leaving his label, working with a new team led by Jay Cash, recording a brand-new project, assembling his own touring band, and why staying humble has been one of the biggest lessons of his career.

The conversation also dives into:

• Mason's upcoming music project
• Building a touring band from Nashville musicians
• Life after viral fame
• His love for restoring classic 1968 Chevy trucks
• Growing up in rural Illinois
• Touring, CMA Fest, and the future of country music
• Advice for young musicians trying to break into the industry

Whether you've followed Mason since his viral debut or you're discovering his music for the first time, this conversation offers an honest look at what it takes to build a lasting career in country music.

Be sure to like, comment, subscribe, and let us know your favorite Mason Ramsey song in the comments!

Follow Mason Ramsey:
Website: MasonRamsey.com
Instagram: @MasonRamsey

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#MasonRamsey #CMAFest #CountryMusic #LiveAndAmplified #IndependentMusic

On this episode of the Live and Amplified Indie Fusion Podcast, Tom Kwiat catches up with returning guest Caitlin Mae during CMA Fest 2026. Since their last conversation, Kaitlin has made Nashville home, recorded over 30 new songs, worked with legendary producer Kent Wells (Dolly Parton's longtime producer), and is preparing to release some of the biggest music of her career.

Beyond the music, Kaitlin shares how her experiences with bullying have led her to a new mission—bringing music and anti-bullying programs into high schools across America.

In this episode:

• Why Nashville now feels like home
• Recording with Kent Wells
• Working on over 30 new songs
• Touring across the United States
• The story behind her anti-bullying mission
• Fostering rescue puppies in Nashville
• Life after moving from Wales to Music City
• Why staying true to yourself is the best career advice

If you're an independent artist, songwriter, or simply love hearing the stories behind the music, this conversation is for you.

👍 Like, Subscribe, and Share to help us continue supporting independent artists from around the world.

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Can a New Yorker build a successful country music career?

On this episode of the Live and Amplified Indie Fusion Podcast, Tom Kwiat sits down with Carolyn Miller during CMA Fest 2026 to talk about following your heart, balancing music with family life, and the long journey behind creating a new EP.

From growing up on Long Island to becoming one of country music's rising independent artists, Carolyn shares the lessons she's learned about authenticity, hard work, and saying "yes" to unexpected opportunities.

In this episode:

• Carolyn Miller's journey from acting to country music
• Growing up in New York and finding Nashville
• The creative process behind her upcoming EP
• Balancing motherhood, music, and entrepreneurship
• Independent artist life and creating your own content
• The artists inspiring her right now
• Why kindness matters in the music business
• Advice for the next generation of musicians

If you're an independent artist, songwriter, or country music fan, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

👍 If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and share it with another music fan.

#Songwriter #Texas #NotNashvilleApproved #CountryMusic #IndependentMusic

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