Can you tell us about the origins of your musical journey? What initially inspired you to pursue a career in music, and how did you get started?

I started a very long time ago, just dabbling in it and then let it go. I let life get in the way I suppose. I rediscovered and reignited my passion for music in 2020. I guess that was the year for big changes across the board. I was inspired by another artist when I was watching YouTube. I got my guitar, cleaned it up, found a great guitar teacher and then a co-writer and went to work. I haven’t looked back since.

Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your unique sound? Can you share a specific instance where one of these influences had a significant impact on your music?

I have so many influences, from many different genres. My father “made” me listen to country music every morning before school so I was exposed to Willie, Dolly and the like. I grew up in the 80’s and listened to Pretenders, Heart (I went back into their catalog a few years later), Pat Benatar, and those strong female artists. I love Bonnie Raitt and SRV but I also love the harder rock. The artist who inspired me to start again, Myles Kennedy, is one of my major influences because of the way he writes and expresses so much emotion in his songs. I aspire to do the same. Not sure I’m there yet, but I keep trying.

Touring can be an incredible experience. Could you share a memorable tour anecdote that stands out to you, whether it was a challenging moment or an unforgettable performance?

I am currently unable to do any live performances or tours due to a chronic and progressive lung condition. I am actually working to get on the list for a double lung transplant. I still have a long road ahead of me where that is concerned, so until I can get that done and fully heal, I have to just write and record from home. I really love writing too so that helps.

Many musicians have a pre-show ritual to get into the right mindset before hitting the stage. Do you have any special rituals or routines that you follow before a performance, and if so, what’s the story behind them?

Collaborations can be a powerful creative force. Could you tell us about a memorable collaboration you’ve had with another artist and how it influenced your music or expanded your artistic horizons? I always work with a co-writer. I suppose I am more of the lyricist, though on occasion I have an idea for a melody for the chorus or the vibe/mood for the song. My co-writers are all phenomenal and I am very lucky to call them friends. My producer, Tavis Stanley and I have been writing a lot together recently. He is super talented.

Over the course of your career, you’ve likely encountered various challenges. Can you share a particularly difficult moment you faced in your musical journey and how you overcame it?

All of it. Lol  Like I said, I love writing and recording. That’s the fun part. It’s the business side of it and self-promotion that I am not fond of and struggle with. That and the financial side of things. I tell people this is the most expensive job I’ve ever had. ☺

Your latest album has received critical acclaim. Could you take us through the creative process behind it, from conception to completion, and the overarching themes or messages you aimed to convey?

I think so many of my songs are about the health struggles I am experiencing, how much I have to keep fighting, and trying to overcome all obstacles. That is especially true with the title track to the album “Working On A Dream”.

Touring can be both exhilarating and exhausting. How do you balance life on the road with your personal life and creative process? Any tips for aspiring musicians who are just starting their touring journey?

Every artist has goals and dreams for their musical career. What are some of your long-term goals or aspirations, both in terms of your artistry and your impact on the music industry?

I just want to keep going. I want to write and record as much as I can. I would love to collaborate with Myles Kennedy as well, since he is the one that inspired me to dive back in to my first love of music. Music is the fuel that keeps me going, keeps me fighting to get better and healthier.

The music industry has undergone significant changes in recent years. How do you see the future of music evolving, and what role do you envision yourself playing in this ever-changing landscape?

I am unsure to be honest. I am trying to navigate all of this myself. I am constantly a work in progress and I guess so is the industry. We shall see.