Songwriter Connection

On this episode of Songwriter Connection, we welcome Chicago singer-songwriter AJ Rosales, an artist who describes his music as "progressively acoustic." Blending thoughtful songwriting with inventive acoustic arrangements, AJ creates a sound that is both rooted in tradition and constantly evolving. Join us as we explore AJ's musical journey, the stories behind his songs, and the creative philosophy that shapes his unique style. From his influences and songwriting process to the meaning behind "progressively acoustic," this conversation offers an inside look at an artist dedicated to pushing the boundaries of acoustic music while staying true to the heart of the craft. Whether you're a songwriter, music lover, or simply enjoy discovering authentic artists, this episode is filled with inspiration, great conversation, and unforgettable music.

Songwriter Connection – Live at the Local with Mr. Local, Geoff Reid If you missed it live, here's your chance to catch the replay! This episode of Songwriter Connection: Live at the Local features Mr. Local himself, Geoff Reid, and we even got him to do something he hardly ever does—play a few songs on his own stage! Along with sharing stories and celebrating the local music scene, Geoff steps into the spotlight for a special performance you won't want to miss. Tune in for great music, memorable moments, and an inside look at the songs and the songwriter behind them. Whether you were there in person or are watching for the first time, this is an episode you'll be glad you caught.

From anxiety, depression, obsession, and the struggles that can weigh us down—to learning how to give yourself a break. Episode 283 of Songwriter Connection is one of the most important and meaningful conversations we’ve ever had. I’m joined by Bill O’Hanlon and J-4 to talk about their powerful new project, Being of Sound Mind, coming very soon. We dive into the inspiration behind the album and explore some deeply human themes—anxiety, depression, obsession, self-acceptance, and the pressure we put on ourselves. But this conversation isn’t just about the struggles. It’s also about finding perspective, making space for yourself, and learning that sometimes it’s okay to simply give yourself a break. Bill and J-4 bring honesty, insight, music, and heart to a conversation that I believe will resonate with just about everyone. This is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Join us on this episode of Songwriter Connection as we welcome the incredibly talented Briana Lyn—a singer, songwriter, performer, teacher, and mentor whose passion for music shines through everything she does. With studios in both Los Angeles and Minneapolis, Briana has helped countless artists discover and develop their unique voices. Her musical style is a delightful blend of Dolly Parton, Stevie Nicks, Broadway show tunes, and Disney magic, creating a sound that's both timeless and uniquely her own. Around the dining room table, Briana shares practical advice on vocal training, songwriting, and finding your authentic artistic voice. She also performs several of her original songs, making this episode an inspiring mix of conversation, education, and live music. Whether you're an aspiring songwriter, a seasoned performer, or simply a music lover, this is an episode filled with insight, inspiration, and unforgettable performances you won't want to miss.

With a low, lived-in alto that carries heartbreak, anger, restraint, and bite, Elaina brings an honest edge to every song. Born in Cincinnati and raised in Omaha, she found her voice through BluesEd, an audition-only youth program created by the Blues Society of Omaha. She performed dozens of shows each year, won the program’s 2019 competition, and traveled to Memphis to perform at B.B. King’s during the International Blues Challenge. That early blues influence continues to shape her sound, giving her country and Americana a distinctive grit and emotional weight. Since moving to Nashville, Elaina has built an impressive live presence, averaging more than 70 shows a year and performing at venues and events including The Bluebird Café, 3rd & Lindsley, Whiskey Jam, The Local, and stages across Texas. Her songwriting has earned recognition from the International Songwriting Competition, American Songwriter, the USA Songwriting Competition, and Tin Pan South. Her single “Swing and a Miss” was featured on Nashville’s Kickin’ Kountry 101 and appears on her debut EP, Leaver, which follows the slow process of seeing a relationship clearly—from trying to hold it together to realizing you can’t fix someone who isn’t willing to change. In this conversation, we talk about Elaina’s journey, her Nashville experience, the stories behind her songs, the influence of the blues on her sound, and how she turns heartbreak, hard truths, and complicated relationships into music that hits home.