Tony Mantor's : Almost Live..... Nashville

Show Notes
Behind an unforgettable song is a story that reaches far beyond the charts. On Almost Live Nashville, Donna Lewis reflects on years of developing her craft before worldwide success and the lessons that taught her to trust her creative instincts.

Donna shares how motherhood reshaped her priorities and how writing during breast cancer treatment became a source of comfort and expression. She also discusses collaborating with longtime friend David Lowe, embracing emotion over perfection, and her dreams of intimate theater performances and bringing a musical to the stage.

Find Donna at DonnaLewis.com and on Instagram and Facebook at Donna Lewis Music.

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Randy Montana spent seven years rebuilding his career after his record deal ended. Then Luke Combs recorded “Beer Never Broke My Heart”—and Randy found himself standing in a packed stadium listening to thousands of people sing the words he helped write.

In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, Randy joins Tony Mantor for an honest conversation about the work, uncertainty, and persistence behind a hit songwriting career. Growing up with his father, songwriter Billy Montana, Randy saw the struggle long before he saw the success. Those early lessons helped him navigate his own journey from recording artist to writing songs for other voices.

Randy shares the experience of recording with Emmylou Harris, the heartbreak of a potential George Strait single that fell through, and the childhood fishing memories that inspired “Too Broke for a Boat.” He also explains why creativity requires showing up, how trusted collaborators help shape a career, and why having a hit doesn’t make self-doubt disappear.

Through it all, Randy has found something he didn’t fully appreciate when he first dreamed of stardom: a career that lets him create music while being present for his wife and three children.

For anyone pursuing a dream through setbacks and changing plans, this conversation offers a candid look at what it takes to keep going—and how success can turn out differently than you imagined.

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Show Notes

What happens when a song you wrote to encourage others becomes the song you need yourself?

On this episode of Almost Live Nashville, Tony Mantor welcomes country artist and songwriter Laura Bryna for a heartfelt conversation about music, family, perseverance, and connection.

Laura recalls growing up in rural Maryland and finding comfort in country music during her brother’s prolonged hospitalization. His recovery—and his decision to decline a Make-A-Wish wish so someone else could receive it—helped shape her lifelong commitment to giving back.

She shares the story behind “Rise” and how its meaning deepened through her father’s cancer journey and death, her mother’s breast cancer treatment, and the devastating loss of her brother and grandmother. She also remembers returning to the stage shortly after those losses, supported by her band and inspired by her brother’s love of life.

Alongside those emotional stories, Laura brings humor and energy to a discussion of independent artistry, her songwriting process, and the small-town connections that inspired “Drink in Town.” She also explains how online criticism inspired “I’m Her,” a song about embracing who you are.

In this episode:

• Growing up in Maryland and following her country music dream to Nashville.

• Her brother’s recovery and the roots of her Make-A-Wish involvement.

• Building an independent career with a team that shares her vision.

• Writing “Rise” and hearing how listeners found strength in it.

• Navigating grief and finding connection through performing.

• Celebrating small-town life with “Drink in Town.”

• Turning criticism into a message of authenticity.

• The sensitive person behind the confident performer.

Connect with Laura: laurabryna.com

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 Show Notes

What began as a family singing together in their living room during the COVID-19 lockdown quickly became an international phenomenon. In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, Tony Mantor welcomes members of the Marsh Family to share their incredible journey from viral videos to worldwide recognition.

The family discusses their debut album, Hollow Chapters, the move into original songwriting, and how they've used music to spark conversations about mental health, prostate cancer awareness, family, politics, and hope. They also open up about working together as parents and children, the challenges of sudden fame, and why authenticity remains at the heart of everything they create.

This inspiring conversation reminds us that music can heal, unite, and give people the courage to talk about life's most important issues.

In this episode you'll hear:

• The story behind the Marsh Family's overnight success
• The inspiration for their debut album Hollow Chapters
• How music helped them connect with millions around the world
• The importance of family, kindness, and authenticity
• Why they believe music can change lives

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow Almost Live Nashville so you never miss another great conversation.

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Most people know Walter Egan for his timeless hit "Magnet and Steel," but that iconic song is only one chapter in an extraordinary career spanning more than five decades.

In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, Walter joins host Tony Mantor to share the incredible stories behind his journey—from writing with Gram Parsons, recording alongside Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham, and working at the legendary Sound City Studios, to navigating the highs and lows of the music industry.

Walter reflects on the friendships that shaped his career, the songs that deserved more recognition, the politics of the record business, his move to Nashville, becoming a songwriter and educator, and why his passion for music remains stronger than ever.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Magnet and Steel or discovering Walter Egan for the first time, this conversation is filled with unforgettable stories, music history, and inspiration.

In This Episode

• The real story behind "Magnet and Steel"
• Working with Stevie Nicks & Lindsey Buckingham
• Writing songs with Gram Parsons
• Recording at the legendary Sound City Studios
• The truth about record label politics
• Why "Hot Summer Nights" deserved to be a bigger hit
• Keith Urban's recording of "Magnet and Steel"
• Walter's songwriting process
• Life in Nashville
• His autobiography and new music releases
• Becoming a grandfather
• His radio show, Walt's Record Vault
• Lessons learned from over 50 years in music

If you enjoy conversations with legendary artists and behind-the-scenes stories from the music industry, be sure to Follow Almost Live Nashville so you never miss an episode.

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Josie Music Awards founders Josie Passantino-Boone and Tina Marie Passantino join Tony Mantor for an inspiring conversation about creating one of the world's premier platforms for independent musicians.

What began as a vision to give unsigned artists the recognition they deserve has grown into an internationally respected awards program, bringing together thousands of artists from around the globe while celebrating talent based on artistry—not popularity, streaming numbers, or social media followers.

In this episode, Josie and Tina Marie discuss the origins of the Josie Music Awards, the extensive judging process, the importance of networking, and how independent artists are reshaping today's music industry. They also share stories of past winners whose careers have flourished after receiving recognition and explain why authenticity and perseverance remain the keys to long-term success.

In This Episode

• The story behind the creation of the Josie Music Awards
• Why independent artists deserve a global platform
• How the judging process focuses on talent over popularity
• The importance of networking in today's music industry
• Behind-the-scenes stories from building a major awards show
• Expanding from a small event to the Grand Ole Opry House
• The growth of independent music around the world
• Helping artists gain visibility and career opportunities
• The value of perseverance and authentic artistry
• The future vision for the Josie Music Awards and independent music

Josie and Tina Marie offer valuable encouragement for musicians pursuing their dreams independently, reminding listeners that success isn't measured solely by record deals or streaming numbers—but by passion, dedication, and the willingness to keep creating.

Whether you're an independent artist, songwriter, music industry professional, or passionate fan of emerging talent, this episode provides insight into one of the music industry's most inspiring success stories.

Be sure to follow Almost Live Nashville for more conversations with the artists, industry leaders, and visionaries shaping the future of music and entertainment

https://www.josiemusicawards.com

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Alan Warner of The Foundations: The Story Behind "Build Me Up Buttercup"

Few songs have stood the test of time quite like "Build Me Up Buttercup." For more than five decades, it has brought generations together, becoming one of the most recognizable and beloved songs in popular music.

In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, host Tony Mantor sits down with Alan Warner, original member of The Foundations, to explore the remarkable story behind one of music's most enduring bands.

Alan takes listeners back to the beginning, sharing how The Foundations formed, the band's groundbreaking role as one of the first internationally successful multiracial groups, and the unexpected journey from London's club scene to worldwide chart success.

He reflects on recording classics like "Baby Now That I Found You" and "Build Me Up Buttercup," the extensive touring that followed, and why the music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.

Along the way, Alan shares incredible stories of crossing paths with legends including Jimi Hendrix, Roy Orbison, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Chet Atkins, Steve Cropper, and many others while offering honest insights into life inside a successful touring band.

The conversation also explores the pressures of fame, the lessons learned over a lifetime in music, and why staying humble and enjoying the journey remains his greatest advice for aspiring musicians.

More than a conversation about hit records, this is a celebration of music's power to connect generations and create memories that last a lifetime.

In This Episode

• The origins of The Foundations
• Becoming one of the first internationally successful multiracial bands
• Recording "Baby Now That I Found You"
• The lasting legacy of "Build Me Up Buttercup"
• Stories from touring around the world
• Meeting music legends including Jimi Hendrix and The Beatles
• Life behind the scenes during the height of success
• Lessons learned from decades in the music business
• Why timeless songs continue to find new audiences
• Alan Warner's ongoing musical career and performances

 About Almost Live Nashville

Almost Live Nashville, hosted by Tony Mantor, features conversations with legendary musicians, entertainers, songwriters, and industry professionals, sharing the stories behind the music and the moments that shaped their careers.

Then finish with:

If you enjoyed this episode, follow Almost Live Nashville, leave a review, and share it with a fellow music lover.

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Show Notes

Jamie French has built an extraordinary career by embracing change, taking creative risks, and never being afraid to reinvent herself.

In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, host Tony Mantor sits down with comedian, YouTuber, singer-songwriter, and content creator Jamie French to discuss her remarkable journey from hairstylist and makeup artist to one of YouTube's most recognizable comedy voices and an emerging Nashville recording artist.

Jamie opens up about building an audience of millions, overcoming imposter syndrome, navigating anxiety and depression, the healing power of creativity, and why authentic connection matters more than chasing fame. She also shares what it's like selling out comedy clubs, pursuing music in Nashville, balancing multiple creative careers, and why taking risks has become the key to her success.

Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, creator, or someone searching for the courage to start over, Jamie's story is filled with humor, honesty, and inspiration.

In this episode you'll discover:

• Jamie's journey from beauty influencer to comedian
• Why comedy became her true calling
• Building a YouTube audience of millions
• Performing sold-out comedy shows
• Life after moving to Nashville
• Transitioning into singer-songwriter life
• Battling anxiety, depression, and imposter syndrome
• The healing power of creativity
• Connecting authentically with an audience
• Taking creative risks without fear
• Growing through reinvention
• Advice for aspiring content creators and entertainers

If you enjoy conversations about creativity, comedy, music, mental health, and personal growth, be sure to Follow Almost Live Nashville so you never miss an episode.

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Show Notes

For more than two decades, Peter Howarth has carried the legacy of one of Britain's most iconic bands as the lead singer of The Hollies. But his remarkable career stretches far beyond one legendary group.

In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, Peter joins host Tony Mantor to share the stories behind a lifetime in music—from discovering his passion as a two-year-old fascinated by a record player to performing on some of the world's greatest stages, including Madison Square Garden, Royal Albert Hall, and Wembley Stadium.

Peter reflects on working alongside Cliff Richard, collaborating with Rick Fenn of 10cc, writing award-winning musicals, and the challenge of stepping into the shoes of Hollies founding vocalist Allan Clarke. He also shares unforgettable memories, the importance of staying humble, and why connecting with an audience remains the greatest reward of all.

Whether you're a lifelong Hollies fan, a musician, or simply love hearing inspiring stories from legendary performers, this conversation is filled with wisdom, humor, and heart.

In this episode you'll hear:

• How one childhood moment sparked a lifelong love of music
• Joining The Hollies and honoring an iconic legacy
• Performing with Cliff Richard and at Madison Square Garden
• Writing hit musicals with Rick Fenn of 10cc
• Lessons learned from decades on stage
• The pressure and excitement of performing at Royal Albert Hall
• Why humility matters in the music business
• The creative process behind songwriting
• The emotional meaning behind "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother"
• Advice for musicians pursuing a lifelong career

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow Almost Live Nashville, leave a review, and share it with the music lovers in your life. New conversations with incredible artists and entertainers arrive every week. 

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Alternative rock artist Mel Denisse joins Tony Mantor for an honest conversation about songwriting, vulnerability, and discovering an artistic voice that refuses to fit inside traditional boundaries.

Drawing inspiration from alternative rock, darkwave, trip-hop, and cinematic soundscapes, Mel creates music that explores emotion with remarkable depth while blending haunting melodies with powerful storytelling.

In this episode, she reflects on growing up in a non-musical family, teaching herself to write and perform, navigating the challenges of being an independent artist, and embracing the evolution of her own sound. She also shares why some of the most meaningful songs are often the hardest to release.

From recording in a home studio to balancing creativity with the realities of marketing and business, Mel offers a candid look at the modern independent music journey and the importance of staying authentic in an increasingly fast-paced world.

In This Episode

• How music became a lifelong passion
• Influences from alternative rock and 90s music
• Blending darkwave, trip-hop, and cinematic textures
• The songwriting process from emotion to melody
• Why vulnerability creates stronger music
• Finding confidence through artistic evolution
• Balancing creativity with the business of independent music
• Avoiding burnout while wearing every hat as an artist
• The importance of patience in developing a unique sound
• Creating music that helps listeners feel less alone
• Future plans for live performances and visual storytelling

Mel's thoughtful perspective highlights the power of music to connect people through shared emotions, reminding listeners that some of the most personal stories become the ones that resonate the deepest.

Whether you're an aspiring songwriter, an independent artist, or simply a fan of emotionally driven alternative music, this episode offers inspiration and insight into the creative process behind an emerging artist with a distinctive voice.

Be sure to follow Almost Live Nashville for more conversations with the musicians, songwriters, and creators shaping today's music landscape.

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