In this inspiring interview, active duty Air Force vocalist Sam Saxton sits down with host and retired Marine Mike Corrado to share his journey from rural Louisiana to the military, his musical evolution, and the unique opportunities of being a service member musician. Discover how passion, faith, and perseverance can lead to extraordinary careers in music and service.

key  topics

Journey to the military and music

Audition process for the Air Force band

Different bands and regions served by the Air Force

Musical versatility and training in the military

Balancing family life and military service

key  frameworks

Versatility in musical styles

Pathway to military music careers

Balancing family and service

action  items

Explore opportunities in military band programs

Develop versatility in musical skills

Leverage social media to showcase talent

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:53 Growing Up in Rural Louisiana

02:32 Journey to the Military and Initial Aspirations

07:27 Meeting the Air Force Musicians and Considering a Career Change

10:10 Audition Process and Acceptance into the Air Force Band

10:43 Training and Different Bands in the Air Force

16:16 Favorite Bands and Musical Styles

18:00 Social Media Presence and Community Interaction

19:38 Representation of the Military through Music

24:42 Stretching Musical Skills and Versatility

28:28 Reflections on Serving in the Air Force

31:10 Family Life and Living on Base

36:32 Performing 'Off We Go Into the Wild Blue Yonder'

37:44 Dream Venues and Future Goals

42:52 Where to Find Sam Saxton Online

43:41 Personal Song Dedication and Legacy

44:43 Future in the Air Force and Re-enlistment

47:12 Next Generation and Family in the Military

48:19 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

49:32 VTPC Outro.mp4

Recorded at Harmony Hill Studio, Shelbyville, TN https://harmonyhillent.com 

Host: Mike Corrado

For more stories and music by active military and veteran artists, please visit https://vettunespodcast.com 

guest links

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@sam.saxton0 

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@SamSaxtonMusic

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/@samsaxton_music  

keywords: Air Force, military musician, vocal artist, service member, music career, patriotism, band programs, military benefits, musical versatility, veteran artist, vettunes podcast, vettunes, mike corrado, harmony hill studio, veteran, veteran podcast, wreaths across america, wreaths across america radio, patriotic