Songwriter Connection

Dave Lenahan
  • 5.0 (37)
  • MUSIC INTERVIEWS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Looking at the craft of songwriting through the eyes of the songwriters. Originating in Nashville Tennessee, we'll have guest songwriters talking about the stories behind the songs and playing their song too!

  1. Nicole Alexis - Mirrors and Smoke - Ep 262

    1D AGO

    Nicole Alexis - Mirrors and Smoke - Ep 262

    This week on Songwriter Connection, we sit down with Nashville-based alt-acoustic artist Nicole Alexis (N/A), a true one-woman force in modern DIY music. Fresh off the release of her debut EP Mirrors and Smoke, Nicole opens up about the journey from performing stripped-down covers online to finally turning the lens inward and telling her own stories—raw, honest, and unapologetically real. With standout tracks like “Don’t Tell Me To Breathe” and “Just A Friend,” the EP showcases her gift for blending vulnerable songwriting with an alternative edge. Nicole shares how she built a massive following from the ground up, creating looped, acoustic-driven covers that caught fire across social media, and how that momentum gave her the confidence to step into her own artistry. We also talk about her fully hands-on approach—writing, producing, and engineering every release herself—and what it means to stay fiercely independent in today’s music landscape. From playing Vans Warped Tour’s Unplugged Stage to having her music featured in major brand launches, Nicole is carving her own lane with grit, vision, and authenticity. Plus, she performs live and gives us a deeper look into the stories behind the songs on Mirrors and Smoke. If you’re a fan of honest songwriting, DIY spirit, and artists who aren’t afraid to bet on themselves, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    56 min
  2. Adysen Malek - Texas Country Faces Winner - Ep 261

    MAY 13

    Adysen Malek - Texas Country Faces Winner - Ep 261

    On this episode of Songwriter Connection, we welcome rising country artist Adysen Malek—a fresh voice bringing heart, honesty, and a whole lot of soul to Nashville’s songwriting scene. With a style that blends modern country storytelling and emotional authenticity, Adysen is quickly making a name for herself as both a compelling artist and a gifted songwriter. In this episode, she shares the stories behind her music, her journey to Music City, and the experiences that continue to shape her sound. We dive into her creative process, the inspiration behind her latest releases, and what it’s really like carving out a path as a new artist in today’s country landscape. Plus, Adysen performs live, giving listeners an up-close look at the talent that’s turning heads around town. If you love discovering new artists before they break big, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    1 hr
  3. Allie Colleen - It's Allie Day!! Ep - 259

    MAY 6

    Allie Colleen - It's Allie Day!! Ep - 259

    A true songwriter at heart, Allie has carved her own lane in country music with honest lyrics, emotional depth, and a fearless authenticity that connects with fans across the globe. Allie has stepped out from the spotlight of her roots to build a career entirely on her own terms—and she’s doing it her way. In this episode, Allie shares the stories behind her latest music, the inspiration that fuels her songwriting, and what it means to stay true to yourself in a rapidly changing industry. We also talk about her unique journey, her time performing across the country, and her upcoming trip to Cuba to celebrate a historic milestone with members of the military. Plus, Allie treats us to live performances that showcase the heart and soul behind her songs—reminding us why she’s quickly becoming one of the most respected rising artists in Nashville. Don’t miss this honest, heartfelt, and inspiring conversation with Allie Colleen—streaming now everywhere you get your podcasts. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    59 min
  4. Lauren Lucas - Always Chasing the Lightning - Ep 258

    APR 29

    Lauren Lucas - Always Chasing the Lightning - Ep 258

    This week on Songwriter Connection, we’re joined by Nashville singer-songwriter Lauren Lucas — a true Music City original with a story that hits just as hard as her songs. Growing up surrounded by music and sharpening her craft right here in Nashville, Lauren has built a reputation as a powerful vocalist and an honest, fearless writer. From her time studying at Belmont to performing on some of the city’s most iconic stages, she’s lived the journey so many artists only dream about — and she’s got the songs to prove it. In this episode, Lauren opens up about her path in country music, the stories behind her songwriting, and what it really takes to carve out your own lane in a town full of dreamers. She also shares some incredible music you won’t want to miss. If you love real stories, raw talent, and the heart behind the song, this is one episode you need to hear. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    58 min
  5. Emily Burdette - Voice and The Pen - Ep 254

    APR 22

    Emily Burdette - Voice and The Pen - Ep 254

    This week on the podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome Emily Burdette—an incredibly talented singer-songwriter and Belmont University grad, now based in Wilmington, North Carolina. We dive into her journey, the craft behind her songwriting, and what inspires her as a rising artist. Plus, Emily treats us to a special live performance around the dining room table. Don’t miss this inspiring episode. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    49 min
  6. Kimberly Dawn - The Coastal Cowgirl - Ep 257

    APR 15

    Kimberly Dawn - The Coastal Cowgirl - Ep 257

    On this episode of Songwriter Connection, we welcome “The Coastal Cowgirl,” Kimberly Dawn. Originally from Canada and now splitting time between Nashville and the West Coast, Kimberly brings a refreshing blend of classic country storytelling and modern country spirit to her music. Known for songs like “Deere John,” “Leave Her Better,” and “In Love With Tennessee,” Kimberly’s writing is rooted in real-life experiences and themes of perseverance, courage, and resilience. Her music has earned millions of streams and recognition from outlets like CMT and the Academy of Country Music, while her powerful song “The Bottle” shines a light on mental health and recovery. In this conversation, Kimberly shares the story behind her “Coastal Cowgirl” brand, her journey from Canada to Nashville, and the inspiration that fuels her songwriting. Plus, she performs a few songs live around the table, giving listeners a chance to hear the heart behind the music. It’s a great conversation about chasing dreams, telling authentic stories, and finding strength through song. Don’t miss this inspiring episode of Songwriter Connection. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    57 min
  7. Jadynce Jean - Made 3 Dog Night Cry!- Ep 256

    APR 8

    Jadynce Jean - Made 3 Dog Night Cry!- Ep 256

    On this episode of Songwriter Connection, Dave welcomes rising country artist Jadynce Jean to the table for a conversation about music, determination, and chasing a dream at a young age. With powerhouse vocals and a natural connection to her audience, Jadynce has been performing since she was just six years old and hasn’t slowed down since. Now splitting time between Kansas and Nashville, she’s building momentum with heartfelt originals, high-energy performances, and songs that reflect both real life and real emotion. In this episode, Jadynce shares the story behind her journey into music, the challenges she’s faced along the way, and what it’s like navigating the Nashville songwriting scene as an emerging artist. She also performs some of her music live around the table, giving listeners an intimate look at the songs and stories behind them. If you enjoy discovering the next generation of country artists and hearing the stories behind the songs, you won’t want to miss this conversation with Jadynce Jean. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    56 min
  8. Kelsey Hart - New Faces Artist 2026 - Ep 260

    APR 1

    Kelsey Hart - New Faces Artist 2026 - Ep 260

    🚨 APRIL FOOLS… but not really. 🚨 I got so fired up about Episode #260 of Songwriter Connection that I jumped the gun and moved it up to April 1st… and yeah, we’re having a little fun with it 😄 Join us as we welcome one of Nashville’s New Faces of Country Music — Kelsey Hart. Kelsey built his foundation the real Nashville way — as a songwriter first — landing cuts with artists like Dylan Scott, Trace Adkins, and Jake Owen. Now, he’s stepping into the spotlight as an artist signed to Curb Records, and trust me… he’s making some serious noise. From writing hit songs to carving out his own lane as a performer, Kelsey’s story is exactly what Songwriter Connection is all about. 👉 Don’t miss Episode #260 — streaming everywhere April 1st (No joke… this one’s the real deal.) 🎙️🔥 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    51 min
See All (263)

5
out of 5
37 Ratings

About

Looking at the craft of songwriting through the eyes of the songwriters. Originating in Nashville Tennessee, we'll have guest songwriters talking about the stories behind the songs and playing their song too!

Information

  • Creator
    Dave Lenahan
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    263
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Songwriter Connection

You Might Also Like