We sit down with country artist and songwriter Ryan Jewel to talk about his journey from Front Royal, Virginia, to Nashville and the release of his sophomore album, Barrel Full of Whiskey. Ryan shares how growing up in the Shenandoah Valley, spending summers with his grandfather in South Carolina, and discovering music at a young age helped shape him as a songwriter. He also talks about earning a degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology from Clemson University, working as a park ranger while playing weekend gigs, and eventually making the move to Nashville to pursue music full-time.

Ryan dives into the making of Barrel Full of Whiskey and the personal stories woven throughout the 12-song collection. He also reflects on honoring his grandparents’ 66-year marriage through his songwriting, the importance of real-life experiences in his creative process, and what it means to him to be an independent country artist. Plus, he talks about celebrating his album release back home in Virginia, sharing stages with artists like Blake Shelton and Luke Bryan, connecting with fans onstage, and what’s ahead.

Jonathan’s Drinking: Bib & Tucker 8YR Bottled-in-Bond

On this episode of Bar Conversations, we chat with Australian singer-songwriter and rodeo cowboy Wade Forster to talk about his journey from a 60,000-acre cattle station in outback Queensland to an international country music career. Wade shares stories from his years as a farrier and rodeo competitor, teaching himself guitar after buying his first one for $50 on Facebook Marketplace, and the music that shaped him along the way. He also reflects on winning the Toyota Star Maker competition in 2024, taking his music to Texas, winning two Golden Guitar Awards in 2026, and earning a CMA International Award nomination.

Wade discusses his third album, The Aftermath, and the idea of capturing the clarity and reality of the morning after the party represented by his 2025 album Gooseneck Party. He talks about opening the album with spoken-word poetry, embracing co-writing, and his new collaboration with Treaty Oak Revival, “Can of Worms,” which grew out of their connection through Wade’s cover of “No Vacancy.” Wade also looked ahead to his Grand Ole Opry debut, his North American The Aftermath Tour, and what’s coming next.

Jonathan’s Drinking: Larrikin 9YR Rye Whiskey

On this episode of Bar Conversations, Jonathan chats with Michael Lee, of the soul and blues band Michael Lee & The Wartime Limousine, ahead of the group’s self-titled debut album arriving Oct. 30. Michael talks about growing up in Texas, discovering the blues, sneaking into Dallas blues clubs as a teenager, and the musical influences that continue to shape his sound. He also looks back at his 2018 appearance on NBC’s The Voice, where he turned three chairs with B.B. King’s “The Thrill Is Gone” and joined Blake Shelton’s team.

Michael shares how performing and recording with members of the B.B. King Blues Band, Taj Mahal and Kenny Wayne Shepherd helped shape his path and eventually led to the formation of The Wartime Limousine. He explains the story behind the band’s name, working with co-producers Daniel Balis and Jeff “Skin” Wade of Silver Skylarks, and signing with Skylark Soul Co. Michael also dives into the making of the new album at Niles City Sound in Fort Worth, the decision to record live to tape using vintage equipment, and how Texas roots meet classic soul throughout the 10-track record. Plus, he breaks down songs including “Drowning,” “You and I,” “Caught It,” “Outta My Head” and “Living High,” talks about performing live, and what’s ahead for the band in 2026 and 2027.

Jonathan’s Drinking: First West Explorer by 15 STARS