Episode Overview
In this episode, Heath sits down with country artist JJ Kent to discuss his incredible journey from playing honky-tonks for tips to scoring a #1 country hit in 1990. JJ shares stories about his early years in music, what it was like navigating Nashville in the ‘90s, and the unexpected moment that led to his breakthrough.
Along the way, they talk about life on the road, opening for country music legends, and the resilience it takes to keep creating music. Plus, JJ reflects on his role as a father and how that has shaped his career and outlook on life.
🎧 Listen now: [Podcast Link]
Timestamps & Topics
[00:00:00] – Intro & Big Announcements
Heath welcomes listeners and shares updates on the Queen City Songwriters Invitational returning in 2025.
A quick note on his new role as Executive Director of The Matthews and what’s in store for the arts scene in Spearfish.
[00:02:30] – Meet JJ Kent
JJ’s background in music and early influences.
Growing up with a love for Elvis Presley and teaching himself guitar.
How he hustled to buy his first guitar and taught himself to play with a Mel Bay chord book.
[00:10:00] – A Wandering Troubadour
JJ’s time as a traveling musician, living in a van and playing small bars for tips.
The reality of making a living as an independent artist in the ‘70s and ‘80s.
The turning point—realizing he needed to record an album to boost his career.
[00:18:00] – Recording in Nashville & The Accidental Hit
JJ heads to Nashville to record an album—never expecting a record deal.
How a studio engineer secretly called in label execs to listen to his session.
Signing a publishing deal and getting his music in front of industry pros.
[00:25:00] – The Radio Station Gamble That Paid Off
On his way home from Nashville, JJ stops at nine radio stations and hands them his record.
One station picks up his song and plays it 150 times in a month—launching him into national airplay.
A call from BMI Music Publishing telling him he has a hit song blowing up the airwaves.
[00:33:00] – Life After a #1 Hit
Releasing "Pathway of a Fool", which climbs to #1 on the Cashbox charts for four weeks.
Touring plans start to take shape—a tour bus, a band, and opening slots for big names.
Playing alongside Waylon Jennings and Chris LeDoux, and how those moments shaped his career.
[00:44:00] – Industry Changes & Returning to His Roots
How the music industry changed in the late ‘90s and why JJ ultimately left Nashville.
Moving back out West and finding a new audience for 80s and 90s country classics.
The resurgence of classic country storytelling in modern music.
[00:52:00] – Being a Father & The Power of Music
JJ’s journey as a father to a young daughter and how it has changed his perspective.
The balance between music, family, and staying true to your craft.
Why he still plays, writes, and performs—even after decades in the industry.
[01:00:00] – Final Thoughts & Closing
JJ’s advice for independent artists trying to make it today.
The importance of staying authentic and putting your music in front of real people.
Where you can catch JJ Kent live and how to connect with him online.
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