Send Johni & Jess a text In this episode of The Hook, Johni and Jess sit down with Tennessee singer-songwriter Tyson Leamon for a conversation that spans faith, family, redemption, and a lifelong passion for music. Tyson shares stories from his earliest days singing gospel music in church at just three years old, traveling the country with his family quartet, and eventually finding his own sound—a blend of country, Southern rock, Americana, and gospel influences inspired by artists like Chris Stapleton, Teddy Swims, Jason Crabb, and The Allman Brothers. The conversation dives into the deeply personal story behind his powerful song Who I Am, which chronicles his journey through addiction, recovery, and finding his way back to faith. Tyson opens up about the role music played in his healing process, the people who stood by him when life was at its lowest, and how songwriting became both therapy and testimony. Along the way, Tyson reflects on sharing stages with artists including the Kentucky Headhunters, Confederate Railroad, Shenandoah, Diamond Rio, Craig Campbell, Mo Pitney, and Oliver Anthony. He also talks about performing at legendary venues like Nashville's Bluebird Cafe, his dream of one day stepping onto the stage of the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium, and the lessons he's learned from artists who have remained authentic in an ever-changing industry. Listeners will also get a behind-the-scenes look at Tyson's upcoming acoustic album, recorded along the banks of Tennessee's Hiwassee River at Stump City Studios, as well as his passion project, Riverside Rhythms, which aims to help independent artists find opportunities outside the traditional music industry machine. From viral moments with Noah Peters, the Singing Barber, to conversations about family, faith, and what success really means, Tyson reminds us that sometimes the greatest achievements aren't found in fame or record deals—they're found in staying true to who you are. If you love authentic storytelling, powerful songwriting, and artists who aren't afraid to share the real story behind the music, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Want more Tyson Leamon? https://www.tysonleamonmusic.com/ IG https://www.instagram.com/tysonleamon YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@tysonleamonmusic FB https://www.facebook.com/TysonLeamonMusic/ Listen & Follow: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6c8BsQ41qt32BaLRzllDJo Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/tyson-leamon/965333496 Amazon Music: https://www.amazon.com/music Music has the power to bring people together — and this September, Lightmakers is doing exactly that. Join the Richmond International Film Festival Thursday, September 24th for the Lightmakers Signature Series, a special night of live music featuring The Joey Davis Band, Rodney Stith and Richmond’s own Kyle Davis. It’s all part of RIFF’s 15th annual celebration of film, music and creativity happening September 22nd through the 27th. Support the show Thank you for listening to The Hook with Johni & Jess. This is where we talk to musicians, artists, creators, and visionaries about the moment they got hooked—and the journey that followed. Learn more about our guests, watch episode highlights, and explore more stories at: https://www.johniandjess.com Follow The Hook on Facebook for new episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming guest announcements: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588050877252 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with someone who inspires you, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue telling the stories behind the hook. The Hook with Johni & Jess — where passion begins with a moment.
