Songwriter Trysts

Rae Leigh
  • 5.0 (8)
  • Music Interviews
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to Songwriter Trysts, hosted by Rae Leigh—an intimate space where artists from around the world share their passion for songwriting and discuss their love for the craft. Writing songs is a powerful journey into an ancient art form. Songwriters have stories to tell, and this is a space to explore their songs, inspirations, and creative process. Through conversations, workshops, and showcases, we help songwriters write, record, release, and perform their music while building a strong, supportive community.

  1. #270 Markus Illko

    5d ago

    #270 Markus Illko

    In this deeply moving episode of Songwriter Trysts, Rae Leigh sits down with Grammy Award-winning guitarist, educator, and recording artist Markus Illko. Rae first met Markus through the Recording Academy at the 2025 Grammy Awards and later reconnected with him at NAMM, where he was performing with the acclaimed String Revolution. Their conversation explores a remarkable musical journey spanning performance, recording, education, and personal resilience. Markus shares insights from his successful guitar studio and music school, where he helps aspiring musicians elevate their craft and unlock their creative potential. He also opens up about one of the most profound experiences of his life—becoming a father and navigating the heartbreaking tragedy that followed. At the heart of this episode is Markus's stunning instrumental composition, Milo, written in honour of his son. The piece is both a musical masterpiece and a deeply personal tribute, accompanied by an artistically captivating music video that has resonated with audiences around the world. Together, Rae and Markus discuss the creative process behind Milo, the emotional dynamics of recording such a personal work, and how music can become a powerful vehicle for healing and remembrance. They also dive into Markus's extensive industry experience, including recording a Johnny Cash cover in his son's studio and sharing the stage while touring with legendary guitarist Tommy Emmanuel. This episode is a powerful conversation about artistry, loss, legacy, and the enduring ability of music to tell the stories that words alone cannot. Listen now for an inspiring and heartfelt discussion with one of the guitar world's most accomplished and passionate musicians. Connect with Markus: ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠Website⁠ ⁠Youtube⁠ ⁠Instagram

    31 min
  2. #269 Brian Rhea

    Jun 4

    #269 Brian Rhea

    Brian Rhea is a Christian country artist from Nashville, Tennessee, a devoted father, grandfather, and man of faith whose music is deeply rooted in real-life experiences. His passion for songwriting and his commitment to telling authentic stories shine through in both his beautiful songs and this heartfelt conversation with Rae Leigh on Songwriter Trysts. From gospel and country music to songwriting, co-writing, publishing, and navigating the business side of the music industry, Brian openly shares his journey, lessons learned, and the wisdom he's gained throughout his career. He discusses the highs and challenges of being a songwriter, including one of his favourite songs that was written for Keith Urban and came close to making the final cut. This is an inspiring and insightful episode packed with songwriting advice, industry knowledge, and genuine stories from a seasoned Nashville songwriter. Listen now to discover more about this incredible artist, and be sure to check out Brian's social media, give him a follow, and enjoy his music. Connect with Brian: SpotifyWebsiteYoutubeInstagram

    33 min
  3. #268 Tim Steinruck

    Jan 26

    #268 Tim Steinruck

    In this powerful episode of Songwriter Trysts, Rae Leigh sits down with Canadian musician and producer Tim Steinruck to unpack a life shaped by rock ’n’ roll, resilience, and raw honesty. Tim shares his journey from playing in a rock band signed to the KISS label, navigating the highs and pressures of the music industry, to finding his footing as a producer and creative mentor. Beyond the accolades, this conversation goes deep into Tim’s mental health journey, the personal challenges he’s faced, and how music became both an escape and a lifeline. This is a candid, human conversation about success, identity, burnout, and the courage it takes to keep creating when life gets loud. If you’re an artist, songwriter, or music lover who values truth behind the tracks, this episode will resonate. ✨ Real stories. Real music. Real connection. Connect with Tim: WebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTube

    32 min
  4. #267 Kenny Nolan - Christmas Special

    12/23/2025

    #267 Kenny Nolan - Christmas Special

    🎄 Christmas Special: Songwriter Trysts with Rae Leigh ft. Kenny Nolan 🎄 This Christmas, Songwriter Trysts with Rae Leigh delivers a truly iconic episode, welcoming legendary songwriter Kenny Nolan — the hitmaker behind timeless classics “I Like Dreamin’,” “My Eyes Adored You,” and the global anthem “Lady Marmalade.” In this festive and deeply personal conversation, Kenny Nolan takes listeners behind the songs that shaped generations, sharing incredible stories from his career writing chart-topping hits that became part of music history. From crafting unforgettable melodies to navigating the highs and challenges of the music industry, this episode is packed with rare insights, heart, humour, and holiday warmth. Host Rae Leigh dives into Kenny’s creative process, the magic of collaboration, and the moments that turned simple ideas into songs still loved decades later. Whether you’re a songwriter, music lover, or simply looking for something inspiring to listen to over the Christmas break, this episode is a must-hear. ✨ Perfect for fans of songwriting, classic hits, music history, and Christmas listening✨ Exclusive stories you won’t hear anywhere else Press play, pour a drink, and unwrap this special holiday episode of Songwriter Trysts — where legendary songs meet unforgettable stories.

    33 min
  5. #266 MB Gordy

    11/29/2025

    #266 MB Gordy

    In this episode of Songwriter Trysts, host Rae Leigh sits down with Grammy-winning LA drummer MB Gordy, whose legendary career spans session work, touring, composing, teaching, and film production. After meeting through mutual friend Kitt Wakeley at NAMM and the 2026 Grammys, Rae and MB dive into his eclectic — and sometimes chaotically honest — approach to surviving and thriving in the music industry. Raw, insightful, and wildly inspiring, this conversation gives listeners a rare peek behind the curtain of a true working musician’s world. Tune in for stories, wisdom, and a whole lot of heart. Connect with Ester: Website Instagram Facebook YouTube

    1h 37m
  6. #265 8 Ball Aitken

    05/08/2025

    #265 8 Ball Aitken

    🌟 NEW PODCAST EPISODE OUT NOW!Join Rae Leigh on the Songwriter Trysts podcast as she sits down with the one and only 8 Ball Aitken for an insightful and entertaining deep dive into his remarkable journey in music. From growing up in Australia to carving out a career as a songwriter and session musician in Nashville, 8 Ball shares the real stories behind the music and his signature swamp-blues sound. 🎤 In this episode, they explore: 🎶 Life and creativity in Nashville's vibrant music scene🎸 The evolution of his unique swamp-blues style📀 The story behind his new album Ice Cream Man 2, featuring the track "The Friends We Make"🎉 Details about the upcoming Mt Coot-tha Songwriters Festival this May 📅 Join Us at the Mt Coot-tha Songwriters Festival!Celebrate the craft of songwriting in the stunning Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens, Brisbane. Enjoy live performances and workshops with artists including 8 Ball Aitken and Rae Leigh. A perfect day out for music lovers and creators alike! 📍 Event Details:🗓️ Date: Sunday, 25 May 2025📍 Location: Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens, Brisbane🎟️ Tickets & Info: https://events.humanitix.com/mt-coot-...📘 Facebook Event: /18qtdbo5uc 👇 Stay Connected & Show Your Support: 🔗 Follow 8 Ball Aitken:🌐 Website: 8ballaitken.com📘 Facebook: /8ballaitkenmusic📸 Instagram: /8ballaitkenmusic🎵 Bandcamp: 8ballaitken.bandcamp.com📺 YouTube: /8ballaitken 🔗 Follow Songwriter Trysts:🌐 Website: songwritertrysts.com📘 Facebook: /songwritertrysts📸 Instagram: /songwritertrysts🎧 Podcast: Listen on Podbean📺 YouTube: /@songwritertrysts 💬 We’d love your feedback!Let us know in the comments what you thought of the episode and who you’d love to see featured next. #8BallAitken #SongwriterTrysts #RaeLeigh #TheFriendsWeMake #NashvilleSongwriter #AussieMusic #MtCootthaFestival #IndependentArtist #SongwritingCommunity #PodcastEpisode

    37 min
  7. #264 Ester Wiesnerova

    02/27/2025

    #264 Ester Wiesnerova

    In this heartfelt episode of Songwriter Trysts hosted by singer-songwriter Rae Leigh, Ester Wiesnerova, composer and Recording Academy member, takes us on a journey from her roots in Slovakia to the vibrant music scene of New York City. With a powerful story of resilience, Ester shares how she was influenced by her mother’s political and spiritual songwriting, and how music became her tool for connection and healing. From performing in prisons and psychiatric hospitals to overcoming language barriers and funding her studies at Berklee College of Music, Ester's passion for jazz and composition has been the driving force behind her remarkable career. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the transformative power of music and the determination to follow one's creative path. connect with Ester: Website Instagram YouTube

    28 min
  8. #263 Aubrielle

    01/04/2025

    #263 Aubrielle

    🎙️ Songwriter Trysts Podcast – Episode with Aubrielle 🎶 In this special episode of Songwriter Trysts, host Rae Leigh visits the home of Bri, the creative force behind Aubrielle Artist, for an intimate and inspiring conversation. This episode dives into the life and artistry of a songwriter whose music is as cinematic as it is captivating. Aubrielle crafts dark-pop soundscapes that blend powerful vocals with atmospheric orchestras, heavy drums, and enormous synths. Her work as a multi-instrumentalist, performing artist, and screen composer bridges the worlds of pop and film music, creating a signature style that’s contemporary, cinematic, and epic. Bri opens up about her childhood spent between Rockhampton and the Gold Coast, how these experiences influenced her artistry, and her journey into music, starting with the humble recorder and evolving into a fearless sonic dramatist. She shares her philosophy of making listeners feel like they’re part of something greater — the same “movie trailer” anticipation that her music evokes. This episode is packed with authenticity, laughter, and creative inspiration for anyone who loves songwriting or seeks to connect with the heart of music. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you stream your favorite shows! 🌟 Subscribe to hear more powerful songwriter stories from around the world. Connect to Aubrielle Spotify Instagram Facebook

    37 min
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Hosts & Guests

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Welcome to Songwriter Trysts, hosted by Rae Leigh—an intimate space where artists from around the world share their passion for songwriting and discuss their love for the craft. Writing songs is a powerful journey into an ancient art form. Songwriters have stories to tell, and this is a space to explore their songs, inspirations, and creative process. Through conversations, workshops, and showcases, we help songwriters write, record, release, and perform their music while building a strong, supportive community.

Information

  • Creator
    Rae Leigh
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    276
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 160376
  • Show Website
    Songwriter Trysts

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