On this episode of Behind The Music Biz, host Matt Burrill sits down with Stephanie Wagner, founder of Country Swag, to talk about her journey through the country music industry and how she helped grow one of New York City’s leading country media brand. From its humble beginnings as a local event to becoming a national platform, Stephanie shares the story behind Country Swag’s rise and the passion that drives its community. They dive into the growth of country music in NYC, the opening of Common Country as a hub for fans, and the importance of giving back through charity work. Stephanie and Matt also discuss genre-blending in country music, the power of networking in Nashville, and what’s next for the Country Swag brand as it continues to expand its events and collaborations.

Follow on Social Media:
Stephanie Wagner: @stephwags
Country Swag: @countryswag
Matt Burrill: @mattburrilll
Behind The Music Biz: @behindthemusicbiz
Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

On this episode of Behind The Music Biz, hosts Kurt Ozan and Nicky T sit down with Brad Parker, a seasoned music industry professional with over 13 years of experience. From his time as a promoter with C3 Presents and Bonnaroo to his current role in artist management at Track Management, Brad shares his journey through the ever-changing music business. The guys dive into the power of live music, the importance of building authentic artist communities, and the healing connections music creates. Brad also reflects on unforgettable festival moments, the vital role of promoters, and why authenticity is key as he transitions into management.

Follow on Social Media:
Brad Parker: @bradparker
Kurt Ozan: @kurtozan251
Nicky T: @raisedrowdynickyt
Behind The Music Biz: @behindthemusicbiz
Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

In episode 37 of Behind The Music Biz, host Matt Burrill sits down with Carly Dibble, a talent buyer and event producer at Romeo Entertainment, one of the leading names in live event production. Carly opens up about her unlikely path into the music business, moving from a non-music background into the fast-paced world of talent buying. She shares what sets fairs apart from festivals, the behind-the-scenes realities of booking artists, and how talent buyers function much like real estate agents in the industry. Carly reflects on her transition from assistant to talent buyer, the unique challenges that smaller companies face, and how COVID-19 reshaped the live events landscape. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of relationships, creating unforgettable experiences for both artists and fans, and staying open to opportunities in a constantly changing industry. This episode is packed with insights for anyone curious about how fairs, festivals, and live events come together, and what it takes to succeed behind the curtain of the music business.

Follow on Social Media:

Carly Dibble: @icarldibbs

Matt Burrill: @ikeeverard

Behind The Music Biz: @behindthemusicbiz

Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

In Episode 36 of Behind The Music Biz, host Ike Everard sits down with photographer and YouTuber Damian Brunton to explore his creative journey from picking up a camera after an injury to building a following on TikTok and YouTube. Damian shares insights on how social media has shaped his career, the unpredictability of algorithms, and the importance of staying inspired in a content-driven world. The conversation dives into the value of doing free work to build meaningful industry relationships, learning from mistakes, and taking accountability in creative partnerships. Damian also discusses rediscovering passion through personal projects, the balance between gear and skill, and the growing role of AI in photography. With a focus on authenticity, communication, and creative growth, this episode offers valuable lessons for photographers, creators, and anyone navigating the modern content landscape.

Follow on Social Media:

Damian Brunton: @damian.brunton

Ike Everard: @ikeeverard

Behind The Music Biz: @behindthemusicbiz

Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

In Episode 35 of Behind The Music Biz, host Matt Burrill sits down with Ryan Youmans, producer and founder of The Amber Sound, to talk about his journey from a small-town musician in South Carolina to a respected force in the Nashville music scene. Known for his work with Muscadine Bloodline, Hudson Westbrook, Tyler Halverson, Taylor Hunnicutt, and more, Ryan shares the story of how his basement studio evolved into a full-fledged creative space. The conversation explores the collaborative nature of music production, the role of technology and AI in modern workflows, and the balance between artistic vision and commercial appeal. Ryan opens up about the challenges of touring with artists like Luke Grimes, balancing family life with a demanding career, and the importance of mentorship and networking. With a focus on authenticity, songwriting, and relationship-building, this episode offers a real-world look at what it takes to create meaningful, lasting music in today’s industry!

Follow on Social Media:

Ryan Youmans: @ryanyoumansmusic / @theambersound

Matt Burrill: @mattburrilll

Behind The Music Biz: @behindthemusicbiz

Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

In Episode 34 of Behind The Music Biz, hosts Kurt Ozan and Nicky T sit down with Dylan Wright of Deep Roots Management to explore his journey from being an artist to managing some of Texas and Red Dirt country’s most exciting acts, including Flatland Cavalry, Red Shahan, Keller Cox, Josh Abbott Band, and The Wilder Blue. The conversation covers Dylan’s transition into management, the formation of the podcast, and the importance of building a strong team around artists. They dive into the differences between tour management and artist management, the significance of touring, and the evolving landscape of the music industry. Dylan shares valuable insights on collaboration, networking, and the Dunning-Kruger effect, while also highlighting the importance of mental health, authenticity, and maintaining personal well-being. Packed with practical advice and real-world experience, this episode offers an honest look at what it takes to succeed in the modern music business.

Follow on Social Media:

Dylan Wright @dylan_max_wright

Nicky T: @raisedrowdynickyt

Kurt Ozan: @kurtozan251

Behind The Music Biz:@behindthemusicbiz

Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

In Episode 33 of Behind The Music Biz, host Matt Burrill sits down with Lisa Smoot, Director of Secondary Promotion at Big Loud Records, for a deep dive into the world of radio promotion and her over two decades of experience in the music industry. Growing up in the music-rich city of Memphis, Lisa developed a passion for music early on, which eventually led her to Nashville and into the heart of the country music business. She shares her journey through various roles in radio and promotions, highlighting the evolution of the industry and the critical importance of building meaningful relationships with artists, programmers, and fans. The conversation explores the power of grassroots efforts, the strategic role secondary markets play in launching new talent, and how personal connections can elevate an artist's exposure. Lisa offers valuable insights into the fusion of genres in today’s country music landscape, the resilience needed to succeed in the industry, and how summer has become a pivotal season for releases. She emphasizes the value of trusting your instincts, surrounding yourself with good people, and staying adaptable as the music business continues to evolve. This episode is packed with wisdom for aspiring artists and industry professionals alike, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to thrive in radio and promotion today.

Follow on Social Media:

Lisa Smoot: @smoot_lisa_smoot

Matt Burrill: @mattburrilll

Behind The Music Biz:@behindthemusicbiz

Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

In Episode 32 of Behind The Music Biz, hosts Nicky T and Kurt Ozan sit down with Adam Weiser, Senior VP of Global Touring & Talent at AEG, for an in-depth conversation about the world of talent buying and live event promotion. Adam shares his journey from booking clubs in New Jersey to working with some of the biggest names in country music, including Luke Combs, in Nashville’s thriving music scene. The episode explores the balance between data-driven decisions and gut instinct, the importance of building strong relationships with artists and their teams, and the role AEG plays in shaping live music experiences worldwide. Adam reflects on the emotional connection of live shows, the unique challenges of touring and production, and the passion that drives success behind the scenes. With personal stories, industry insights, and a focus on collaboration and mentorship, this episode offers a behind-the-curtain look at what it takes to create unforgettable concert moments.

Follow on Social Media:

Adam Weiser @adam_none_the_weiser

Nicky T: @raisedrowdynickyt

Kurt Ozan: @kurtozan251

Behind The Music Biz:@behindthemusicbiz

Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy