This week on Songwriter Connection, we sit down with Nashville-based alt-acoustic artist Nicole Alexis (N/A), a true one-woman force in modern DIY music.

Fresh off the release of her debut EP Mirrors and Smoke, Nicole opens up about the journey from performing stripped-down covers online to finally turning the lens inward and telling her own stories—raw, honest, and unapologetically real. With standout tracks like “Don’t Tell Me To Breathe” and “Just A Friend,” the EP showcases her gift for blending vulnerable songwriting with an alternative edge.

Nicole shares how she built a massive following from the ground up, creating looped, acoustic-driven covers that caught fire across social media, and how that momentum gave her the confidence to step into her own artistry. We also talk about her fully hands-on approach—writing, producing, and engineering every release herself—and what it means to stay fiercely independent in today’s music landscape.

From playing Vans Warped Tour’s Unplugged Stage to having her music featured in major brand launches, Nicole is carving her own lane with grit, vision, and authenticity.

Plus, she performs live and gives us a deeper look into the stories behind the songs on Mirrors and Smoke.

If you’re a fan of honest songwriting, DIY spirit, and artists who aren’t afraid to bet on themselves, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

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On this episode of Songwriter Connection, we welcome rising country artist Adysen Malek—a fresh voice bringing heart, honesty, and a whole lot of soul to Nashville’s songwriting scene.

With a style that blends modern country storytelling and emotional authenticity, Adysen is quickly making a name for herself as both a compelling artist and a gifted songwriter. In this episode, she shares the stories behind her music, her journey to Music City, and the experiences that continue to shape her sound.

We dive into her creative process, the inspiration behind her latest releases, and what it’s really like carving out a path as a new artist in today’s country landscape. Plus, Adysen performs live, giving listeners an up-close look at the talent that’s turning heads around town.

If you love discovering new artists before they break big, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

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A true songwriter at heart, Allie has carved her own lane in country music with honest lyrics, emotional depth, and a fearless authenticity that connects with fans across the globe. Allie has stepped out from the spotlight of her roots to build a career entirely on her own terms—and she’s doing it her way.

In this episode, Allie shares the stories behind her latest music, the inspiration that fuels her songwriting, and what it means to stay true to yourself in a rapidly changing industry. We also talk about her unique journey, her time performing across the country, and her upcoming trip to Cuba to celebrate a historic milestone with members of the military.

Plus, Allie treats us to live performances that showcase the heart and soul behind her songs—reminding us why she’s quickly becoming one of the most respected rising artists in Nashville.

Don’t miss this honest, heartfelt, and inspiring conversation with Allie Colleen—streaming now everywhere you get your podcasts.

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This week on Songwriter Connection, we’re joined by Nashville singer-songwriter Lauren Lucas — a true Music City original with a story that hits just as hard as her songs.

Growing up surrounded by music and sharpening her craft right here in Nashville, Lauren has built a reputation as a powerful vocalist and an honest, fearless writer. From her time studying at Belmont to performing on some of the city’s most iconic stages, she’s lived the journey so many artists only dream about — and she’s got the songs to prove it.

In this episode, Lauren opens up about her path in country music, the stories behind her songwriting, and what it really takes to carve out your own lane in a town full of dreamers. She also shares some incredible music you won’t want to miss.

If you love real stories, raw talent, and the heart behind the song, this is one episode you need to hear.

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This week on the podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome Emily Burdette—an incredibly talented singer-songwriter and Belmont University grad, now based in Wilmington, North Carolina. We dive into her journey, the craft behind her songwriting, and what inspires her as a rising artist. Plus, Emily treats us to a special live performance around the dining room table. Don’t miss this inspiring episode.

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On this episode of Songwriter Connection, we welcome “The Coastal Cowgirl,” Kimberly Dawn. Originally from Canada and now splitting time between Nashville and the West Coast, Kimberly brings a refreshing blend of classic country storytelling and modern country spirit to her music.

Known for songs like “Deere John,” “Leave Her Better,” and “In Love With Tennessee,” Kimberly’s writing is rooted in real-life experiences and themes of perseverance, courage, and resilience. Her music has earned millions of streams and recognition from outlets like CMT and the Academy of Country Music, while her powerful song “The Bottle” shines a light on mental health and recovery.

In this conversation, Kimberly shares the story behind her “Coastal Cowgirl” brand, her journey from Canada to Nashville, and the inspiration that fuels her songwriting. Plus, she performs a few songs live around the table, giving listeners a chance to hear the heart behind the music.

It’s a great conversation about chasing dreams, telling authentic stories, and finding strength through song. Don’t miss this inspiring episode of Songwriter Connection.

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On this episode of Songwriter Connection, Dave welcomes rising country artist Jadynce Jean to the table for a conversation about music, determination, and chasing a dream at a young age.

With powerhouse vocals and a natural connection to her audience, Jadynce has been performing since she was just six years old and hasn’t slowed down since. Now splitting time between Kansas and Nashville, she’s building momentum with heartfelt originals, high-energy performances, and songs that reflect both real life and real emotion.

In this episode, Jadynce shares the story behind her journey into music, the challenges she’s faced along the way, and what it’s like navigating the Nashville songwriting scene as an emerging artist. She also performs some of her music live around the table, giving listeners an intimate look at the songs and stories behind them.

If you enjoy discovering the next generation of country artists and hearing the stories behind the songs, you won’t want to miss this conversation with Jadynce Jean.

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🚨 APRIL FOOLS… but not really. 🚨

I got so fired up about Episode #260 of Songwriter Connection that I jumped the gun and moved it up to April 1st… and yeah, we’re having a little fun with it 😄

Join us as we welcome one of Nashville’s New Faces of Country Music — Kelsey Hart.

Kelsey built his foundation the real Nashville way — as a songwriter first — landing cuts with artists like Dylan Scott, Trace Adkins, and Jake Owen. Now, he’s stepping into the spotlight as an artist signed to Curb Records, and trust me… he’s making some serious noise.

From writing hit songs to carving out his own lane as a performer, Kelsey’s story is exactly what Songwriter Connection is all about.

👉 Don’t miss Episode #260 — streaming everywhere April 1st

(No joke… this one’s the real deal.) 🎙️🔥

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This week on Songwriter Connection, we’re joined by Nashville-based singer/songwriter Chandler Marie — a small-town Georgia native who took a leap of faith to the “little big town” of Nashville and hasn’t looked back.

With several million streams across platforms, eight nominations at the Josie Music Awards, and recognition as a Spotlight Artist at CMA Fest, Chandler is quickly becoming one of country music’s breakout artists to watch.

In this episode, Chandler shares her journey from Georgia roots to Nashville stages, the stories behind her songs, and what it really takes to build momentum in today’s country music landscape. You’ll hear about the inspiration that fuels her writing, the hustle behind the highlights, and of course — she’ll perform live.

If you love discovering rising artists before they hit the stratosphere, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

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This week on Songwriter Connection, we’re joined by one of Nashville’s rising stars — Mark Taylor — a songwriter and performer you definitely want on your radar.

Mark has shared the stage with some of country music’s greats, earned awards for his songwriting, and built a reputation in Music City as both a powerful writer and a captivating live performer. Now, he’s adding “entrepreneur” to the mix with his own whiskey brand — because why not pair great songs with great spirits?

Join us as we pull up chairs around the dining room table for an honest conversation about the craft of songwriting, the stories behind the songs, and the journey of building a career in Nashville. You’ll also hear Mark perform some of his incredible songs live in the room — the way they’re meant to be heard.

It’s real stories, real music, and a real talent you won’t want to miss.

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