"Talk and Tunes" - "The Other Side"

Erin Kirby and I sat down in Nashville for a conversation I didn’t fully understand the weight of at the time… but now I do. Her song “Darkness Win” had already hit me when I first heard it. But what I didn’t realize was just how much I was going to need that message in my own life. In this episode of Talk & Tunes, we talk about the story behind the song, her journey as a songwriter, and the power music has to reach people right when they need it most. Because sometimes… a song doesn’t just sound good. Sometimes it finds you. And reminds you that you’re not alone. The Talk — Erin shares her songwriting journey, the story behind “Darkness Win,” and how music can bring hope in the middle of the hard moments. The Tunes — Two acoustic performances, including “Darkness Win” and a fan-favorite from her debut EP. Recorded in Nashville at The Russell — a place with a mission that gives back to the community in a really meaningful way. Disclaimer - I do not own any of the rights to the music used for this podcast; permission has been granted by the rightful owner(s) for Rt66countrymusic to use for this taping.

At just 17 years old, McKenna Faith Winters is already writing with remarkable honesty and emotional depth. In this episode of Talk & Tunes, she shares the story behind her debut album How Do You Miss Me and opens up about heartbreak, healing, self-worth, and finding independence through music. From songwriting and personal growth to the emotional journey behind the album, McKenna talks about the experiences that shaped these songs and what she hopes listeners take away from the project. Follow McKenna Faith Winters: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Spotify | YouTube Disclaimer - I do not own any of the rights to the music used for this podcast; permission has been granted by the rightful owner(s) for Rt66countrymusic to use for this taping.

Carman Collins has the kind of voice and edge that makes you lean in — because you can tell she’s not just chasing a sound, she’s building a story. In this episode of Talk & Tunes, Carman and I talk about what it really looks like to grow as an independent artist when the biggest moments are still “coming soon,” and you’re trying not to scream the news from the rooftop. We get into the songwriting side, too — how she draws on real life, therapy sessions, and the years she spent being bullied… and turns all of that into something that helps other people feel a little less alone. We also talk about the artists she admires (Miranda Lambert and Ella Langley came up fast), why music has always been her safe place, and what she’s looking forward to in 2026 — including an upcoming performance at a PTSD veteran charity event in Florida. If you love artists who are honest, gritty, and still on the rise, you’re going to love getting to know Carman. Follow Carman Collins: Carman Collins Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Spotify Disclaimer - I do not own any of the rights to the music used for this podcast; permission has been granted by the rightful owner(s) for Rt66countrymusic to use for this taping. Real stories, good laughs, and country music you’ll love — wherever the road takes you.

Keith Hopkins is the kind of behind-the-scenes builder every independent artist hopes to have in their corner — the one making the calls, sending the emails, building relationships, and doing whatever it takes to create momentum. In this episode of The Other Side, Keith shares what it really looks like to manage an independent artist in today’s music industry. As the manager for country artist Carman Collins, he takes a true one-stop approach — handling outreach, booking, social media strategy, and the business side that many independent artists struggle to navigate. We talk about why networking still drives opportunity, what separates good from great, and why consistency and daily discipline matter more than talent alone. Keith also shares his perspective on the role of social media, building the right team, and the importance of humility and relationships in a small industry where reputation travels fast. If you’re an artist, manager, or anyone building a career in music, this conversation offers a real look at what it takes behind the scenes. Learn more: TheKeithHopkins.com Artist mentioned: Carmen Collins — “All American Girl” (out now) Disclaimer: I do not own any of the rights to the music used for this podcast; permission has been granted by the rightful owner(s) for Rt66countrymusic to use for this taping.

Brooke Lee has that rare mix of wild spirit and grounded heart — the kind of artist you can feel building something real. In this in-person episode of Talk & Tunes, Brooke and I talk about the stories behind “Burn to Black” and “Desert Darling,” and the season of growth that shaped her upcoming EP (out April 17). She calls it her “19 to 25 era” — a chapter full of lessons, risks, heartbreak, momentum, and becoming. We also dive into one of her biggest career milestones so far: her Chevy campaign, filmed in Moab on her birthday, complete with helicopter lifts and created to air during the Super Bowl and Olympics. What made the moment even more special was the full-circle connection it created with her grandparents through the classic “See the USA.” If you love artists who are building something honest (and a little wild), this one’s for you. Follow Brooke Lee: Website| Instagram | Facebook | Spotify | YouTube Charlotte friends: Catch Brooke live March 16 at Amos’ Southend 🎸 Disclaimer - I do not own any of the rights to the music used for this podcast; permission has been granted by the rightful owner(s) for Rt66countrymusic to use for this taping.