Outside The Round w/ Matt Burrill

In Episode 257 of Outside The Round, host Matt Burrill sits down with recurring guest Karley Scott Collins for a deep dive into her upcoming debut album Flight Risk, an update on how 2025 has been for her and more! Karley shares the deeply personal stories behind the songs and how the project represents her evolution as an artist. She reflects on what it's meant to tour with Keith Urban, the lessons she’s learned from being on the road, and how Nashville’s creative community has helped shape her voice. With a love for storytelling and a commitment to remaining true to herself, Karley talks about the growth she's experienced in recent years both professionally and personally. From writing songs that feel like therapy to dreaming of her first headline tour, this episode captures an exciting new chapter for KSC!  Follow on Social Media: Karley Scott Collins: @karleyscottcollins Matt Burrill: @raisedrowdymatt Outside The Round: @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy Chapters (00:00:00) - Carly On The Keith Urban Tour(00:03:18) - KSC on Flight Risk(00:05:40) - Denim on 'Easy To Leave'(00:08:10) - Quit You(00:12:05) - Crying To Cowboy On 'Music To Cry To'(00:15:32) - Bad Boy and Shoot Out All The Lights(00:18:33) - Ke$ha on Her Songs Out There(00:21:12) - Keith on His Love Songs(00:24:47) - The American Boy(00:27:28) - Daddy's Habits(00:28:14) - Only Child & Madman(00:31:48) - Boskoe on His First Tour(00:35:03) - KSC on What To Tell A Girl In 2021(00:37:11) - Flight Risk(00:38:20) - Keith Urban on the End of This Tour(00:41:40) - Keith Urban on His Family's Reaction to His Success(00:43:32) - Tom Petty on His Goals for Next Year(00:44:07) - What Are We Doing With Our Spare Time?(00:45:13) - Keith Urban on His Keith tour(00:46:53) - Nick on His Grandmother's Birthday(00:49:26) - Keith Urban on Hosting Music Festivals(00:51:24) - Carly Scott Collins on FLIGHT RISK

In Episode 256 of Outside The Round, host Matt Burrill catches up with rising country artist Tyler Nance for a powerful and personal conversation. Fresh off a wave of momentum from his breakout hit “Keeps Me Sane,” Tyler shares his journey navigating the Nashville scene, finding his voice as a songwriter, and staying grounded amidst rising attention. The two dive into Tyler’s recent festival performances, the song’s emotional roots, and how his former life as a welder influences his storytelling. With raw honesty, Tyler opens up about anxiety, mental health, and the importance of faith and redemption in both life and music. From small-town recognition to Nashville networking, he reflects on the challenges of the grind and the purpose behind the music. With his new project Midwest Memoir on the way, this episode is a window into the heart of a songwriter driven by authenticity, resilience, and connection. Follow on Social Media Tyler Nance: @tylernance.music Matt Burrill: @raisedrowdymatt Outside The Round: @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy   Chapters (00:00:00) - Ike Nance(00:02:51) - What is it about "Keep Me sane" on Your album(00:05:08) - What's It Like Being a Resident of Nashville Now?(00:06:28) - How Big Is Anxiety in Millennials?(00:10:28) - Mid-Missouri Story: Midwest Memoir(00:13:00) - What's the recording process been like now, too? Because everything(00:15:39) - How Working On The Road Helped Me Deal With My Music(00:18:57) - Tyler Nance on Being Famous In His hometown(00:21:38) - Mugshot as Cover Art for "(00:25:42) - Cruisins(00:26:30) - "" Back on Spotify(00:28:03) - Whiskey Mirror(00:30:43) - What's the Worst Case of Addiction that you've kind of Seen(00:32:52) - What's it like being a fourth generation farmer in Tennessee?(00:36:26) - One Year Later: The Redemption(00:40:36) - Ray Rowdy Shout Out Joe Costa & Martina(00:41:47) - Tyler Tillers on Working With Joe Walsh(00:45:54) - Toby Keith(00:47:20) - Tyler Chillers on Taylor McCall's New Album(00:49:44) - Favorite Eminem Song(00:53:14) - Tyler the Creator on Country and Hip Hop(00:56:33) - Tyler on his Next Album(00:59:27) - Noel Gallagher on His New Album(01:02:35) - Keeps Me Sane

In Episode 255 of Outside The Round, host Matt Burrill sits down with rising country artist Colton Dawson, an 18-year-old musician originally from Arizona, now making his mark in Nashville. Colton shares his journey from learning guitar at age 10 to performing over 450 shows alongside his father. The two discuss Colton’s deep love for traditional country music, the influence of faith and family, and how social media—especially TikTok—has helped him gain attention in the industry. They also dive into his passions outside of music, like dirt biking, collecting trucks and guitars, and his dream of settling in Tennessee. Colton reflects on the importance of timing when releasing music, the challenges of songwriting, and how life lessons learned through setbacks and hard work continue to shape him as an artist. This heartfelt and grounded conversation showcases the dedication, humility, and authenticity behind Colton’s rise. Follow on Social Media Colton Dawson: @coltondawsonmusic Matt Burrill: @raisedrowdymatt Outside The Round: @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy Chapters (00:00:00) - Meet 18-Year-Old Colton Dawson(00:01:53) - I Never Sang Until I Was 14(00:05:34) - Arizona's Country Music Scene(00:09:31) - How I Learned To Play Guitar On Hardy's Tour Bus(00:13:53) - Tennessee singer-songwriter on growing up(00:18:14) - Rihonda on Her Relationship With God(00:19:38) - Selena Gomez on Her Family's Support(00:21:30) - I Meant To Meet Randall King At 16(00:26:22) - Singer and songwriter Randall King on the revival of traditional country(00:31:02) - Will Jones and Sam Banks(00:34:42) - This 20-Year-Old Guitar Player Is Unrecognizably(00:36:05) - In the Elevator With Ashton Jones(00:36:20) - Roger Springer(00:42:16) - How I Met Kenny Cash(00:46:19) - Country Music Stars Go Out to Bars(00:47:55) - What Do You Do For Fun When You're Not Doing Music?(00:52:45) - Collecting Trucks and Guitars(00:55:53) - Eastman on His Eastman Derby(00:56:11) - Tennessee Songwriter on Becoming Older(00:59:21) - Spring Hill Is The Move(01:01:43) - Tennessee Slim on Moving Out of the City(01:05:09) - What Do You Do For Ribs?(01:06:19) - Fooled By Nature(01:08:45) - Waffle House Breakfast Order(01:11:01) - Raised Rowdy: The Music Festival(01:14:30) - Redneck on Magic 98.3(01:18:18) - Tyler Crockett on His Future(01:21:48) - Colton Dawson on Comparing Himself to Others(01:25:19) - Nick and Jake Owen on Ranking Albums(01:27:20) - Country Music Star on Streaming Ratings(01:30:49) - COLTON DAWSON(01:33:38) - "I'm Just A Two-Trick Pony"

In Episode 254 of Outside the Round, host Matt Burrill is joined by Mitchell Douglas and Hagan Edge of the rising country-rock duo Sons of Habit. The conversation dives into their journey from solo musicians to becoming a full-fledged band, bonded by shared experiences and the grit it takes to thrive on the road. The pair share stories from their van life adventures, the formation of their creative identity, and the heartfelt process behind their debut EP, Nostalgia. With Kentucky roots deeply ingrained in their sound and work ethic, Sons of Habit discuss how blue-collar jobs, southern upbringing, and personal evolution inspire their lyrics and performances. They open up about fan interactions, the dream of creating genreless music that transcends categories, and their excitement for what’s to come—including new music and upcoming tours. From trusting instincts to chasing dreams, this episode offers an authentic look at the hustle, heart, and harmony that drive one of Nashville’s most exciting new bands. Follow on Social Media: Sons of Habit: @sonsofhabit Matt Burrill: @raisedrowdymatt Outside The Round: @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy   Chapters (00:00:00) - Sons of Habit On The Van(00:03:12) - Madeline With Hagen and Dalton(00:06:34) - Five Finger Family(00:09:38) - Pepsi on The Pandemic(00:10:03) - When Did The band start touring?(00:12:01) - Touring The West Coast(00:15:01) - Cheated On: 'Nostalgia' Review(00:16:39) - Sons of Habit(00:19:27) - What is it about growing up in Kentucky that gets you to write(00:22:20) - Shane Smith and The Saints(00:25:42) - Noah Patrick(00:28:16) - Dustin lynch's 21st Birthday Party(00:30:42) - Sons of Hat on New Music(00:33:58) - Sons of Habit(00:35:27) - What Do You Do For Fun While On The Road?(00:38:54) - Golf Lessons at Walmart(00:39:58) - Dustin and Scotty on Their Fall Tour(00:42:42) - "Oh, That Place Is Nostalgia for Me"(00:43:04) - Do you guys remember your first concert?(00:44:29) - The Rock Band's Big Goals(00:45:28) - A dream to play in Australia(00:46:35) - Mitchell on Chasing His Dreams(00:49:15) - Fool's Gold(00:53:01) - SONS OF HABIT

In Episode 253 of Outside The Round, host Matt Burrill welcomes rising country artist Brandon Wisham for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation. Born in Georgia but raised in South Carolina, Brandon reflects on his deep Southern roots and the life-changing moment that launched his career: posting a song on TikTok that caught fire overnight, eventually landing in the hands of Bailey Zimmerman, who recorded it himself. Since then, Brandon's journey has skyrocketed, leading to tours with Bailey Zimmerman, Tyler Hubbard, and Josh Ross. He opens up about signing his record deal, navigating the Nashville scene, and the stories behind fan-favorite songs like “She’s Good,” “Growin’ Up,” and “Better Than the Day.” This episode dives into Brandon's breakout moment, his dedication to songwriting, and how he's staying grounded through the whirlwind. Follow on Social Media: Brandon Wisham: @brandonwishamofficial Matt Burrill: @raisedrowdymatt Outside The Round: @outsidetheround  Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy  Chapters (00:00:00) - Rage Rowdy: Brandon Smith(00:02:12) - Are You A Clemson Fan or Georgia Fan?(00:04:57) - Louisiana Country Singer on Cajun Food(00:05:52) - Tyler on Opening For Jay-Z(00:09:17) - Pain Won't Last(00:13:03) - "Everything Happens For a Reason"(00:16:24) - How I Got On The Hard Rock Tour(00:20:21) - Phillies celebrate Heath Heath's 100th win(00:21:30) - Ryan on Being Announced as a 'Highway Find' on(00:23:57) - Florence and the Machine(00:24:46) - Ohio Music Fans Are Wild(00:26:36) - You and Your Whiskey Jam Debut(00:28:43) - Coming soon: Growing Up(00:32:45) - She's Good / Dropping(00:34:44) - "It Takes a Village"(00:36:44) - Tim Hortons In Canada(00:39:18) - People Try Montreal Poutine(00:39:29) - What do you miss about the Carolinas?(00:42:11) - Going Home to My Family(00:46:35) - Jason Aldean Back at Wendell's(00:49:26) - Brandon Wisham on His Crazy Schedule(00:52:24) - Raised Rowdy

In episode 252 of Outside the Round, host Matt Burrill sits down with singer-songwriter Ashley Brooks. A Georgia native and rising force in the country music scene, Ashley opens up about her move to Nashville, the writing process behind her debut single “Starting Fires,” and how she’s carving out her own lane as both a performer and a songwriter. The two dive into her early experiences in the studio, the importance of staying true to your sound, and the hustle that goes into chasing your dreams in a town full of talent. With powerful vocals and sharp songwriting, Ashley shares stories from the road, lessons from co-writing, and her vision for what's next in her career. Follow on Social Media: Ashley Brooks (Guest): @ashleybrooksmusic Matt Burrill (Host): @mattburrilll Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy Chapters (00:00:00) - Meet Ashley Brooks(00:04:11) - Joe Diffie on his New Song "Find Me"(00:06:30) - Lainey On Ella's Fake Accent(00:08:08) - Georgia Olympian and Karate Champion(00:08:57) - Open Up for Mark Chestnut(00:10:40) - Have you traveled much outside the South?(00:12:36) - Texas Country Music(00:16:08) - Ashley Jones on Music and the Healthcare System(00:17:54) - Chris Stapleton on Turning 30(00:21:16) - Hamilton on Being Vulnerable on Social Media(00:23:58) - Adam Brooks on His Love for Traditional Country Music(00:27:43) - Fiddle Legend Mark Chestnut on His New Band(00:30:55) - Alabama Karaoke Singer on Playing SEC Country(00:34:23) - Trey on Playing '' With Ella Joy Beth Taylor(00:36:14) - Leave Inside of You(00:38:56) - Keep Doing What You're Doing(00:42:38) - Ashley Brooks on Mental Health and His Music(00:44:58) - Georgia on TICK TOCK(00:47:26) - "I'm Just A Two-Trick Pony"

In Episode 251 of Outside The Round, host Matt Burrill sits down with the bold and brilliant Sunny Sweeney. Known for her fearless honesty and Texas-meets-Nashville grit, Sunny opens up about her latest record Rhinestone Requiem, a powerful collection that dives deep into heartbreak, healing, and personal growth. The conversation covers her early days in honky-tonks, the rollercoaster of major label life, and the clarity that came with sobriety. Sunny also shares her perspective on what it means to stay authentic in today’s industry, her approach to songwriting, and how connecting with fans through vulnerable music has shaped her journey. If you're into raw storytelling, real country, and honest artistry, this episode is for you. Follow on Social Media: Sunny Sweeney: @gettinsweenered Matt Burrill (Host): @mattburrilll Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy

In this special 250th episode of Outside the Round, host Matt Burrill sits down with Rocco Gorelik, a 15-year-old guitar phenom making waves in the country and rock scenes. As the youngest guest ever on the show, Rocco shares how he fell in love with guitar at an early age in Alpharetta, Georgia, and how his dedication and family support have fueled his rapid rise. From ripping solos on Lower Broadway to opening for national acts, Rocco talks about navigating the music industry as a teenager, balancing school and stage life, and drawing influence from both classic rock icons and modern country greats. This episode is a celebration of raw talent, relentless passion, and the bright future of a young artist on the rise. Follow on Social Media: Rocco Gorelik (Guest): @roccogorelik Matt Burrill (Host): @mattburrilll Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy

In episode 249 of Outside the Round, Matt sits down with the sibling trio Daves Highway; Delaney, Zachary, and Erika, to talk about their unique journey in music. From growing up harmonizing in church to building a national fanbase through YouTube and social media, the trio shares how their Mississippi roots, family bond, and tight harmonies have shaped their musical identity. They reflect on early viral success, their evolution as songwriters and performers, and the balance of business and family dynamics. The conversation also dives into their experiences moving to Nashville, recording new music, and staying grounded in faith and authenticity. Whether you’ve followed them from the beginning or are just discovering their sound, this episode offers an inspiring look into what makes Daves Highway a standout act in today’s country and Americana scene. Follow on Social Media: Daves Highway (Guest): @daveshighway Matt Burrill (Host): @mattburrilll Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy Chapters (00:00:00) - Rage Rowdy: Outside The Round(00:01:03) - EXCLUSIVE: It's Anyway by Martina McBride(00:03:49) - The Cast Of Dave's Family On Singing As Kids(00:07:14) - Chris Tomlin(00:10:20) - When Did Mississippi Have a Chicken Gizzard?(00:10:42) - Will & Delaney on Their Next Tour(00:14:46) - "We Need a Fourth Voice"(00:15:46) - Nashville: Our 10th Year(00:16:18) - Marissa and Fernando: Moving back and forth to Memphis(00:20:34) - Kurt and Delaney on Growing Up In The Disney World(00:22:21) - Disney's Rock 'N Rollercoaster(00:25:48) - Old Dominion on Collaborating With Matt Kearney(00:29:11) - How My Sister Became The Band's Duet(00:32:05) - Nikki T. on Being the Truck Driver(00:35:10) - Delaney On Working With Her Boyfriend(00:38:28) - Dave's Highway(00:41:29) - The Crazy Ladies From Lipscomb(00:44:14) - Robert Plant at the Green Hills Concert(00:46:03) - Guitar Lessons: The World(00:49:11) - Muscadine on Ron's Help(00:52:29) - Ke$ha on COVID(00:55:06) - Dave's Highway: If You Asked Me ((00:59:05) - Exploring '' on New Album(01:00:59) - Country Legends(01:04:35) - Evan and Delaney on Being Christian Act(01:08:46) - Dave Chappelle on Starting A Band At 28(01:10:41) - Dave and Matt on Their Off Time(01:12:29) - What Are Your Highest Hobby's?(01:15:17) - Meet Margie The Beagle(01:17:30) - Bougie Restaurants in Green Hills(01:19:47) - Dave's Rage Room(01:21:51) - Dave's Highway(01:25:38) - August 15th(01:26:47) - Raised Rowdy: Thank You!!

From the ring to the writer’s room, Bobby Steveson (aka WWE’s Damon Kemp) joins host Matt Burrill for a powerful conversation on chasing a second dream. The Minnesota native opens up about how music was always in the background, even while rising through the ranks of pro wrestling. Now based in Nashville, Bobby shares what it’s like stepping into the country music world with a debut EP on the way. They dive into the art of co-writing, lessons learned from mentors in both wrestling and music, and the emotional depth behind Bobby’s songwriting. He reflects on how wrestling shaped his performance instincts, how his Midwest upbringing keeps him grounded, and why vulnerability is at the core of everything he’s building now. Whether you’re a fan of suplexes or storytelling, this is one of those episodes that hits hard. Follow on Social Media: Bobby Steveson (Guest): @bobbysteveson Matt Burrill (Host): @mattburrilll Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy Chapters (00:00:00) - Matt Burrill(00:00:21) - Bobby Stevenson(00:02:00) - Damon Kemp on Starting a Country Music Band(00:04:28) - Gopher Dual-Weight Champion(00:07:58) - Former Indiana wrestler Brandon Egg on wrestling in the WWE(00:09:20) - WWE 7: The Transition From Amateur Wrestling to Rock Wrestling(00:11:41) - Damon Kemp On His NXT Turn(00:14:03) - Damon on His WWE Exit(00:16:41) - Bobby Stevenson on His New Music(00:20:24) - Adam Levine on Working On His Music(00:23:23) - Chair Shots In The Ring(00:27:26) - WWE 205 Live: My first TV Match(00:30:33) - Triple H At WWE's Coven Tryout(00:33:32) - Randy Cross on Missing Minnesota(00:36:38) - Florida DJ on Wild Greg's and Driving(00:40:06) - The Dome in Texas(00:42:24) - A's Expansion Rumor(00:43:03) - Josh Barker(00:46:20) - The Nashville Community's Unreleased Music(00:49:15) - Morgan Wallen on His Support for The Boys(00:51:08) - Bouncers on Broadway:(00:55:11) - Bobby Stevenson on His New Music(00:57:03) - Bobby Stevenson

In episode 247 of Outside the Round, host Matt Burrill sits down with the legendary Colt Ford for a raw, reflective, and inspiring conversation. Colt opens up about surviving a life-threatening health scare, his journey back to the stage, and how it’s deepened his appreciation for music and life. From the early days of blending country and hip-hop to collaborating with artists like Brantley Gilbert, Colt shares stories of hustle, heartbreak, and hard-earned success. They dive into the power of staying authentic, building a loyal fanbase without chasing trends, and the pride Colt feels seeing artists he helped mentor thrive today. With new music in the works, renewed purpose, and a lifetime of stories, Colt proves he’s not just back—he’s better than ever. Follow on Social Media:Colt Ford (Guest): @coltfordmusic Matt Burrill (Host): @mattburrilll Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy   Chapters (00:00:00) - Colt Ford on CMA Fest(00:02:59) - Gavin at his last ever concert(00:06:21) - Cole Ford on Starting His Own Label(00:10:07) - Brentley on his New Album(00:13:09) - Cole Ford on His Contribution to the Music(00:16:32) - Charlie Daniels on His Comments About His Career(00:20:22) - Colton Ford on His Love for Jamie Johnson(00:24:28) - Walker Hayes on Winning a Grammy(00:26:53) - Jason Aldean on His Mental Health(00:30:33) - Luke on His Recovery From COVID(00:34:21) - Tyler Ford on His Mental Health(00:37:21) - Brantley on Falling Down On The Cruise(00:42:15) - Chris Jansen on ECMO(00:46:15) - Colt Ford on His Fight(00:50:21) - Living on a Heart Surgery Ward(00:53:23) - Colt Ford on His Condition in the Hospital(00:56:37) - David Bowie on His Time in the Dark(00:57:05) - Toby Keith on His Icon status(01:00:24) - Eddie on His Heart Surgery(01:04:36) - Bob Rock on His Cancer Treatment(01:08:33) - Brantley on His Brother's Hospitalization(01:12:13) - Brantley on The Tattoos Tour(01:15:43) - Ric Flair Thanks His Crew(01:18:11) - Colt Ford on His New Music(01:21:49) - Taylor Phillips(01:22:35) - Jay Webb on his New Album(01:24:57) - Colt Jones on His New Album(01:28:45) - Don Lewis Played at Country Concert(01:31:25) - Colt Ford on His New Music

In episode 246 of Outside the Round, host Matt Burrill sits down with Canadian country artist Robyn Ottolini for an honest and heartfelt conversation about her journey from a small town in Ontario to chasing big dreams in Nashville. Robyn opens up about the inspiration behind her new single “Airplane Bottle,” a track rooted in personal experience and emotional honesty. They dive into her evolution as a songwriter, the role music festivals have played in her rise, and the culture shock of breaking into the U.S. country music scene. From the power of co-writes and authenticity to the importance of staying grounded with family, friends, and her dog, Robyn gives us a candid look into her world—along with what’s next as she eyes a full album release. Follow on Social Media: Robyn Ottolini (Guest): @robynottolini Matt Burrill (Host): @mattburrilll Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy

In episode 245 of Outside the Round, host Matt Burrill sits down with Highway Home, the rising country trio made up of Eamon Owen, Conner Sweeny, and Stanton Langley. The group shares their story of coming together in Nashville, reflecting on their unique first gig in South Dakota (complete with pig wrestling) and how their roots in traditional country blend with modern influences to shape their sound. With strong harmonies, a shared love for songwriting, and guidance from producer Ryan Gore, Highway Home emphasizes the importance of community and support in the music industry. They talk about life on the road, balancing home comforts with the grind of touring, and finding inspiration in outdoor hobbies like golf and hunting. With a focus on growth, collaboration, and staying grounded, the band offers advice to aspiring musicians and a glimpse into what’s coming next in their journey. Follow on Social Media: Highway Home (Guest): @highwayhomemusic Matt Burrill (Host): @mattburrilll Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy

On Episode 244 of Outside the Round, host Matt Burrill catches up with country music powerhouse Tyler Booth to talk about his brand-new EP Downtown and everything that led him here. From his early days growing up in Eastern Kentucky to performing on international stages, Tyler opens up about the values and influences that shape his music. The conversation dives into the creative process behind the Downtown EP, the fast-paced Nashville grind, and why staying connected to fans through social media is more important than ever. Tyler also shares stories about his love for old trucks, fishing, and the genre-blending shifts in today’s country music world. If you’re into gritty storytelling, traditional twang, and authentic Southern charm—this one’s for you!  Follow on Social Media:Tyler Booth (Guest): @tylerboothmusic  Matt Burrill (Host): @mattburrilll Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy  

On episode 243 of Outside the Round, host Matt Burrill sits down with Jordyn Mallory—country artist, songwriter, and recent star of the hit reality show Farmer Wants a Wife. Originally from a small town in Mississippi, Jordyn shares her journey to Nashville, how working on the set of Nashville helped her make ends meet, and the bold decisions that shaped her music career. The conversation dives into the emotional inspiration behind her latest single “I Thought I’d Never Write,” the importance of writing for women going through heartbreak, and how taking unexpected opportunities—like reality TV—has opened new doors. Jordyn also reflects on the power of social media, the balance of personal life and music, and the gratitude she carries into every next step. Follow on Social Media: Jordyn Mallory (Guest): @jordynmallory Matt Burrill (Host): @mattburrilll Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy

In this episode of Outside the Round, host Matt Burrill sits down with genre-blending artist Ashley Walls to talk about her bold journey from Georgia to Nashville and how she’s rewriting the rules of what country music can be. Ashley shares how her fusion of EDM and country reflects her authenticity, her mission to empower women, and why vulnerability in songwriting has become her creative superpower. From building her brand DIY-style to connecting with fans at live shows, Ashley offers insight, inspiration, and advice for aspiring artists navigating today’s music industry. They also dive into the power of social media, what it means to turn down big brand deals to stay true to yourself, and the value of keeping faith and health a priority while chasing your dreams. Follow on Social Media:  Ashley Walls: @ashleywalls_  Matt Burrill (Host): @mattburrilll Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy 

In episode 241 of Outside the Round, host Matt Burrill sits down with rising country artist and influencer Katie Dempsey, better known as Demps. From a tough upbringing to becoming a single mom, viral content creator, and now a full-blown artist, Demps opens up about her wild ride to Nashville. She shares how motherhood shapes her songwriting, how her friendship with Priscilla Block keeps her grounded, and what it's like transitioning from bail bondsman to breakout country star. With new music on the way and her first headlining tour ahead, this conversation dives into resilience, hustle, and heart. Follow on Social Media:  Demps: @therealdemps93 Matt Burrill (Host): @mattburrilll Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy 

In Episode 240 of Outside The Round, host Matt Burrill sits down with Gannon Fremin of Gannon Fremin & The CCREV to dive into his rise from Oklahoma’s Red Dirt scene to national stages. Gannon shares how the Stillwater music community shaped his genre-blending sound, the role live shows have played in growing a loyal fanbase, and the meaning behind his recent signing with Warner Records. They talk about the energy of CalfFry Festival, what it’s been like touring with Gio and The Hired Guns, and how those road-warrior moments have shaped both his music and mindset. From writing songs with emotional grit to balancing band life and food stops across America, this episode is a look into the evolution of a modern Red Dirt artist bridging the gap between Oklahoma authenticity and Nashville opportunity. Follow on Social Media: Gannon Fremin: @fremingannon | @gannonfreminccrev Matt Burrill (Host): @mattburrilll Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy 

On episode 239 of Outside the Round, host Matt Burrill sits down with rising country artist Tommy Acker to talk about his journey from Texas to Nashville and his unexpected path from baseball and biology to the country music stage. Originally planning for dental school, Tommy found new purpose through songwriting and performance, launching his career with the help of social media platforms like TikTok. His first viral hit opened the door to mentorships with artists like Hannah McFarland and Jessi Alexander, and eventually to opening for Meg Moroney. Tommy shares insights on his competitive nature from his baseball days, the emotional side of leaving home to pursue music, and the growth that comes with embracing Nashville’s collaborative and supportive environment. The conversation covers his songwriting process, building connections in the industry, developing his sound, and the importance of patience and persistence. With a clear vision and growing momentum, Tommy Acker is making his mark as one of country music’s most exciting new voices. Follow on Social Media: Tommy Acker: @Tommyacker Matt Burrill (Host): @mattburrilll Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy 

On episode 238 of Outside the Round, we welcome Philip Bowen, the incredibly gifted fiddle player and songwriter from West Virginia. Philip shares his inspiring journey from blue-collar roots to building a thriving music career, highlighting how COVID-19 unexpectedly opened doors through platforms like TikTok. He discusses the importance of authenticity in songwriting, the balance between family life and touring, and his memorable performance on NPR’s Mountain Stage, a major turning point in his career. In this heartfelt conversation, Philip reflects on the power of Appalachian storytelling, how his culture and upbringing influence every note he plays, and the personal growth that came with transitioning from musician to full-fledged artist. We dive into his upcoming album Appalachia Forever, the support of community and fans, and the value of simplicity and connection in both cooking and music. Whether it’s fiddle solos, fan interactions, or the grind of tour life, Philip brings deep gratitude and wisdom to every part of the journey.  Follow on Social Media: Philip Bowen (Guest): @philipbowenmusic Matt Burrill (Host): @mattburrilll Outside The Round (Podcast): @outsidetheround Raised Rowdy (Network): @raisedrowdy