Grace Kennedy: Stories Behind the Spotlight and the Passion Behind DZIRE

Show Notes From performing with Marvin Hamlisch as a teenager to starring in her own BBC television series, Grace Kennedy has a lifetime of stories to share. She joins Tony Mantor on Almost Live Nashville for a conversation about unforgettable encounters, artistic independence, and the passion behind her album, DZIRE. Grace recalls the encouragement she received from Sammy Davis Jr. and Aretha Franklin, including an evening when Sammy personally cooked her dinner. She also reflects on performing before British royalty, starring in Carmen Jones in Tokyo, and finding unexpected peace through gardening. Looking ahead, Grace shares the seven-year journey behind DZIRE, working with her brother Errol Kennedy, and why songs such as “Strong,” “Wherever You Are Tonight,” and “Love Affair” mean so much to her. Along the way, she offers honest advice about resilience, choosing trustworthy collaborators, and taking ownership of your career. Follow Grace on social media at @GraceKennedyOfficial. Follow Almost Live Nashville for more conversations about music, entertainment, and the people behind the performances.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Show NotesBehind 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. Follow Almost Live Nashville for more conversations with the people behind the music.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Follow Almost Live Nashville for more conversations about music, entertainment, and the people behind the songs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

 Show NotesWhat 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 successThe inspiration for their debut album Hollow ChaptersHow music helped them connect with millions around the worldThe importance of family, kindness, and authenticityWhy they believe music can change livesIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow Almost Live Nashville so you never miss another great conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 EpisodeThe real story behind "Magnet and Steel"Working with Stevie Nicks & Lindsey BuckinghamWriting songs with Gram ParsonsRecording at the legendary Sound City StudiosThe truth about record label politicsWhy "Hot Summer Nights" deserved to be a bigger hitKeith Urban's recording of "Magnet and Steel"Walter's songwriting processLife in NashvilleHis autobiography and new music releasesBecoming a grandfatherHis radio show, Walt's Record VaultLessons learned from over 50 years in musicIf 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Show NotesJosie 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 EpisodeThe story behind the creation of the Josie Music AwardsWhy independent artists deserve a global platformHow the judging process focuses on talent over popularityThe importance of networking in today's music industryBehind-the-scenes stories from building a major awards showExpanding from a small event to the Grand Ole Opry HouseThe growth of independent music around the worldHelping artists gain visibility and career opportunitiesThe value of perseverance and authentic artistryThe future vision for the Josie Music Awards and independent musicJosie 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 entertainmenthttps://www.josiemusicawards.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 EpisodeThe origins of The FoundationsBecoming one of the first internationally successful multiracial bandsRecording "Baby Now That I Found You"The lasting legacy of "Build Me Up Buttercup"Stories from touring around the worldMeeting music legends including Jimi Hendrix and The BeatlesLife behind the scenes during the height of successLessons learned from decades in the music businessWhy timeless songs continue to find new audiencesAlan Warner's ongoing musical career and performances About Almost Live NashvilleAlmost 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.📧 [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Show NotesJamie 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 comedianWhy comedy became her true callingBuilding a YouTube audience of millionsPerforming sold-out comedy showsLife after moving to NashvilleTransitioning into singer-songwriter lifeBattling anxiety, depression, and imposter syndromeThe healing power of creativityConnecting authentically with an audienceTaking creative risks without fearGrowing through reinventionAdvice for aspiring content creators and entertainersIf 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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Show NotesFor 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 musicJoining The Hollies and honoring an iconic legacyPerforming with Cliff Richard and at Madison Square GardenWriting hit musicals with Rick Fenn of 10ccLessons learned from decades on stageThe pressure and excitement of performing at Royal Albert HallWhy humility matters in the music businessThe creative process behind songwritingThe emotional meaning behind "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother"Advice for musicians pursuing a lifelong careerIf 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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.