How does a band from Hawaii become one of Americana's fastest-rising groups?

In this episode of Americana Curious, Ben Fanning sits down backstage with Twin Fin just before their sold-out show at Charleston's Pour House for a candid conversation about the unlikely journey that brought them here.

From Coast Guard careers and backyard jam sessions to building a loyal fan base across the country, the band shares how the spirit of aloha, deep friendships, and a passion for great songwriting have fueled their remarkable rise.

You'll hear:

• Why Hawaii—not Nashville—became the perfect place to build a band
• How Twin Fin grew from local shows to sold-out venues across America
• The sacrifices and risks behind pursuing music full time
• The story behind their album Songs I Never Wrote
• Why creating unforgettable live experiences matters more than anything else

Whether you're already a Twin Fin fan or discovering them for the first time, this conversation offers an authentic look at the people behind one of Americana's most exciting new bands.

Americana Curious explores the artists, stories, festivals, and traditions shaping today's Americana music scene through in-depth conversations with the musicians creating it

What happens after you've already achieved the dream?

Phillip Phillips captured America's heart by winning American Idol, releasing "Home"—the biggest-selling winner's single in the show's history—and touring alongside legends like John Mayer and Bruce Springsteen. But behind the success was a deeper journey: discovering that fame wasn't the finish line.

In this episode of Americana Curious, hosts Ben Fanning and Zach Schultz sit down with Phillip for one of his most candid conversations yet. He shares why Home didn't initially feel like his own song, how becoming an independent artist allowed him to reclaim his music, and why fatherhood has completely transformed the way he defines success.

Phillip also opens up about:

• The surprising truth behind recording "Home"
• Why owning his music became more important than chasing bigger fame
• Touring with John Mayer and sharing the stage with Bruce Springsteen
• How Dave Matthews shaped his unique guitar style
• Why he completely reimagines classic songs instead of simply covering them
• The balancing act of being an independent musician, husband, and father
• The stories behind his upcoming music, including songs inspired by his children

Whether you've followed Phillip since American Idol or are just discovering his music, this conversation is an inspiring reminder that sometimes the greatest success comes after redefining what success really means.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why Phillip Phillips struggled to connect with "Home" at first

• How he reclaimed ownership of his biggest songs

• What touring with music legends taught him about performing

• Why family changed his career priorities forever

• How he's approaching songwriting differently than ever before

• What success means to him today

Chapters

00:00 – Intro

02:34 – Winning American Idol and the story behind "Home"

05:14 – The pressure after massive success

08:14 – Re-recording "Home" and owning his music

11:10 – Life as an independent artist

13:23 – Fatherhood changes everything

20:19 – Behind the scenes of American Idol

23:01 – The Masked Singer and reinventing songs

32:43 – Dave Matthews' influence

38:48 – Touring with John Mayer & Bruce Springsteen

43:00 – What success means today

🎙️ Subscribe to Americana Curious for authentic conversations with the artists shaping Americana, folk, roots, country, and independent music.

Do bigger venues create bigger experiences—or do they take us further away from the music?

In this episode of Americana Curious, Ben Fanning and Zach Schultz debate whether arenas have changed the live music experience for the worse and share the intimate venues that have left the biggest impression on them.

From Charleston's beloved Pour House and Nashville's legendary Robert's Western World to First Avenue in Minneapolis, Red Rocks, the Ryman Auditorium, and hidden gems you've probably never heard of, they explore why some venues create unforgettable nights while others simply host concerts.

Along the way, they share stories about seeing artists like John Prine, Brandi Carlile, Charlie Crockett, American Aquarium, Mount Joy, Hiss Golden Messenger, Mason Jennings, and many more—and explain why discovering music in small venues may be one of the best investments any music fan can make.

In this episode you'll discover:

• Why small venues often create deeper connections between artists and audiences
• The independent venues every Americana fan should visit
• How outdoor venues transform the live music experience
• Bucket-list music destinations across America
• Why supporting local venues helps keep live music alive for future generations

Whether you're planning your next concert road trip or simply looking for your next favorite venue, this episode will inspire you to get closer to the music—and stay curious.

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