Country artist JD Shelburne is back to talk about his latest album Raised on the Good Stuff, his Kentucky roots, and the journey that’s taken him from small-town stages to the Opry. JD reflects on growing up in Taylorsville, performing in church, and teaching himself guitar after a life-changing moment in his grandmother’s house that sparked his passion for music. He shares stories from his early days chasing a dream in Nashville, playing more than 3,000 shows, and building an independent career driven by relentless work ethic and strong fan connection.

JD dives into collaborating with songwriter Mark Nesler and recording with legends like the Oak Ridge Boys and Crystal Gayle. He also talks about his partnership with Inclusion Bourbon, the nerves and excitement of making his debut at the Grand Ole Opry, memorable onstage mishaps, and what fans can expect from him in 2026.

Jonathan’s Drinking: Bardstown Bourbon Bottled-in-Bond

Country singer-songwriter MaRynn Taylor joins Bar Conversations to talk about her journey from growing up in Michigan to releasing her self-titled debut album. MaRynn shares how performing for her family at just four years old with a plastic microphone sparked her love for music, the artists who influenced her early on, and how small-town life shaped both her songwriting and identity. She reflects on visiting Nashville at age 12, moving there at 17, and missing out on traditional high school milestones in order to chase her dream in Music City.

MaRynn also opens up about her breakthrough moments, including signing her record and publishing deals live on air, making her Grand Ole Opry debut, and opening for Kelsea Ballerini on her arena tour. We dive into the making of her self-titled album, why it felt like the right time to introduce herself so personally, and the stories behind songs like Small Town Spinnin’, Season 2 of Friends, Dirty Blonde, and She Broke Up With The Boy. Plus, she talks about the importance of connecting with fans, trading friendship bracelets, performing in meaningful hometown venues, and what fans can expect from her in 2026.

Jonathan’s Drinking: Joseph Magnus Triple Cask Sherry & Cognac

Country artist Hayden Baker talks about his journey from growing up in Katy, Texas, to becoming one of the most respected guitar players in modern country music. Hayden shares how early exposure to rural life, sports, and faith shaped who he is, and how picking up a guitar at 16—something he’s called a “God thing”—changed the direction of his life. He reflects on how an unexpected college injury led him to singing and songwriting, the music that influenced him early on, and what it’s like to have Brad Paisley call him his “new favorite guitarist.”

Hayden also dives into his new album Alive & Well, explaining why he intentionally shifted the focus from guitar flash to growth as a vocalist and storyteller. He talks about working with Brad Paisley and Ronnie Dunn, receiving a gifted 1953 Telecaster, and the story behind Brad’s guest solo on Don’t Meet Your Heroes. We also discuss his decade-long independent career, winning Musician of the Year at the Texas Country Music Industry Awards, standout tracks like Home Into a House, I Had a Headache Once, and Country Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere, and what fans can expect from Hayden in 2026.

Jonathan’s Drinking: Still Austin Cask Strength Bourbon