What is your name and role within the band?
Andy Buckner. Lead Vocals/Lead Guitar.
How did you start?
I started singing in church at the age of 4. Then it progressed into more singing, learning to play instruments, and song writing. Once I heard famous folk artist David Holt and my cousin (Grammy Nominee) Josh Goforth play when I was in middle school that changed my life. I was bit by the music bug and never looked back. I learned everything I could about singing, playing instruments, song writing, and the business. I’m self taught and I play by ear.
Where are you based?
Asheville, NC/Nashville, TN.
Please give an example of your music writing process?
A lot of times I will get a hook from something someone says. For example; I pay close attention to my surroundings, noises, conversations other people are having. If you listen and look close enough into the details of life there will always be a song. I love to start out with a guitar riff sometimes then write lyrics to that as well.
What are you working on right now?
I’m currently working on a 5 song EP in Nashville, TN. Derek George who also produces and has worked with (Blake Shelton, Tim McGraw, Randy Houser, Brantley Gilbert, Joe Nichols, Jake Owen, Jerrod Niemann, Drake White, Chase Bryant, Adam Craig, Love and Theft, Trace Adkins, Diamond Rio, Jennifer Nettles, Sawyer Brown, Wynonna Judd, Josh Gracin, Rascal Flatts, and many more) and Julian King who also produces and has worked with (George Strait, Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Loretta Lynn, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Craig Morgan, Justin Moore, Chris Janson, Reba McEntire, Clint Black, Tyler Farr, The Doobie Brothers, Jo Dee Messina, Chris Young, Brett Eldridge, Tracy Lawrence, John Anderson, Aaron Lewis, Kix Brooks, Tracy Byrd, Tracy Adkins, Sugarland, Toby Keith, Kellie Pickler, Montgomery Gentry, Rodney Atkins, Joe Nichols, Lee Ann Womack, and many more).
What is your gear setup?
I use Orange and Fender Tube Amps, I play a 2017 Fender Tele, 2015 Gibson SG, 2017 Zemaitis, 2015 JW Van Guitars Custom Les Paul, 2015 Phat Guitars Custom Tele, Martin Acoustic D-18, and a Taylor Acoustic Auditorium OM. I use Wampler, Boss, and a few Boutique Pedals on my pedal board. I use a Shure Beta mic. I use Eartech Music In Ears. I use Blue Chip Guitar Picks.
What do you like to do outside of music and does it affect your music?
I love spending time with family. Riding horses, hunting, fishing, basically anything outdoors. It can affect my music two ways. It gives me inspiration to write songs or it makes me miss my family and those things off the road.
How would you describe your music genre?
Southern Music/ Country.
Do you know any music theory?
I know enough to get me by. I am self taught and play by ear.
What are your plans for the future?
Finish the new EP, write more songs, and tour.
How did you get into music?
I answered this question at the top.
What are you listening to at the moment?
At the current moment I’ve been listening a lot to Colter Wall , Cody Jinks, Steve Moakler, Lanco, Brent Cobb, and the Steel Woods.
Who are your top 5 influences and icons?
1.Travis Tritt
2.Steve Earle
3.Waylon Jennings
4.Gary Allan
5.Allan Brothers.
When are you playing next?
I play next Wednesday night at The Valentine in Nashville, TN! Show starts at 8pm!
Please feel free to include any extra info.
I wanna thank my sponsors BlueChip Picks, Zemaitis Guitars, JW Van Guitars, Phat Guitars, Showcase Capos, EarTech Music In Ears, and Blue Ridge Music Trails.