Tag: Country Music

Music Spotlight: Noah Thompson

Bethany Bowman

The one word that came to mind when I heard Noah Thompson for the first time was “unexpected.” And I believe that is part of why Thompson won American Idol in 2022. No one, including himself, expected that he could sing so well and then win the competition.

Even though he had a “tumultuous childhood” in rural Western Kentucky, where he was raised, he can always remember music being part of his life. Thompson’s dad was a musician growing up, and he instilled music in him literally from the time he was in his mother’s belly.

Read More

2024 (Mostly) Country Christmas Roundup

Bethany Bowman

Various artists release new Christmas music every year, hoping one might “stick” and be replayed year after year. Many of the songs I have included in this article are from my Music Spotlight artists. Some covers are unique in their own right, but I am particularly drawn to the never-before-heard originals. For those on Spotify, here is my playlist with all the songs mentioned included. The songs are in random order.

Read More

The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band’s Farewell Tour

Bethany Bowman

When I was asked if I wanted to see the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band play a show on their Farewell Tour, naturally, I wanted to attend. They have long been a favorite of my husband, and I am of an age where I truly appreciate their music.

The NGDB was formed in Long Beach, California, in 1966. They toured extensively as an Americana band from 1978-1983.

Read More

Preston James Releases Debut EP

Bethany Bowman
Preston James

Preston James was the second person I ever interviewed for my Music Spotlight column. I saw him open for the iconic Tim Akers and The Smoking Section when he was just 15 years old at 3rd and Lindsley. I interviewed him when he was 16 years old and then featured him again when Preston James’ Band opened for Brian Seltzer in December of 2017.

My writing “hobby” has become a job, and I have interviewed over 500 artists. James is 24 years old, and I had no idea it had been seven years since I had followed up with him. We had to catch up before I could talk about his music.

Read More

Music Spotlight: Ashley Wineland

Bethany Bowman
Ashley Wineland

When Ashley Wineland’s song, “Tumbleweed,” came across my email, I knew from the heartfelt song that I wanted to feature the artist. The more I dug into her bio, the more intrigued I became.

I was interested in how Wineland got her start in music. She said, “I have always had a strong love for the performing arts and just telling stories, especially in front of people.”

Read More

Music Spotlight: Lexie Hayden

Bethany Bowman

Lexie Hayden is a rising songstress who draws inspiration from artists like Dolly Parton, Cheryl Crow, Maren Morris, and Kacey Musgraves.

Although she wasn’t raised in a particularly musical family, her brother is an avid guitarist. While she is a gifted performer, her heart lies in songwriting, a passion she has honed since age 14.

Read More