Nfotusa Soldiers Speak Radio

Join us this week as we welcome country music singer songwriter, Jeff Clayborn. Who is Jeff Clayborn? That’s a bit of a mystery. One thing is for sure, JC knows how to create music and bring it to life. His song, “Good Bar Attender,” is being hailed as the next country sing-along anthem with its own line dance to boot! Difficult to miss when he swaggers into the room, JC stands and walks like an athlete-a strong, respected person. Don’t ask him where he has been because this good bar attender always looks toward tomorrow. Let’s just say sports toughened him up and years on the pro music scene from LA to Nashville (opening for Reba McEntire, etc., and performing coast to coast) gave him experiences many of us would envy. Now, embarking on a new journey, this charismatic Texan has just released his self titled EP on The Cabin Record Co., label. The new EP, produced by Grammy award-winner Chuck Ebert, features potential hit makers "My Woman is Wine",  "Acres of Sunshine", and "High and Lonesome". Check out his N

Join us this week as we welcome the Americana band, Banjo Nickaru & Western Scooches. New York City's Banjo Nickaru & Western Scooches are likely the only band today infusing elements of Gullah-Geechee and world rhythms with folk traditions, Americana, New Orleans influences, and 1920s jazz. The forthcoming sophomore album, "Get Us Out Of Fearland", due June 15 2018, builds upon the multicultural exuberance that made the band’s debut album, "Very Next Thing", a transcendent breath of fresh air. Highlights of "Get Us Out Of Fearland" include the playful 1920s verve of “I Don’t Need No Glasses,” the warm lilting embrace of “I Wish The World Knew Why,” the organ-driven, gospel-tinged “Dandelion” (featuring special guest vocalists, Stephanie Rice and Charenee Wade), and “Soar,” an inspirational song filled with optimism, determination, and perseverance. The band members include: Nick Russo - guitar/banjo/resonator/composer/band leader, Betina Hershey - voice/guitar/composer, Emiliano Valerio - cajón/percu

Join us this week as we welcome country/blues/rock music singer songwriter, Johnny Chops. Austin, TX., Bluesy singer-songwriter Johnny “Chops" Richardson has issued “Taking A Chance On Me," the second single from his forthcoming sophomore album, Johnny Chops & The Razors which will release 3/23/2018. With a special guest appearance by acclaimed singers, The Gospel Starz. The first single from the new album “Believer”, pays tribute to Delta Blues artists, Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters, and Skip James. Born into a musical family in Lubbock, Texas, Richardson lives and breathes music, in particular, the craft of writing songs. Influenced by Tom Petty, Muddy Waters, Johnny Cash, and Social Distortion, he’s landed several songs on albums by the Randy Rogers Band, whom he’s played bass with since 2002. Richardson's first foray into a solo career began with 2013’s "Sticks & Stones". The album featured the emotional anthems, “Coming Home Easy,” and "Heartbreak Goodbye,” both of which became most requested at r

Join us this week as we welcome country music singer songwriter, Jimmy Parker. A Virginia native, Jimmy is a true-blooded country music singer. He has stayed true to his roots since he started pursuing country music for a career. After serving in the Military and then moving around the east coast for several years playing music, Jimmy moved to Nashville in 1990. Since then he has released 6 albums. Today, he not only sings but acts as well having appeared in the hit TV shows, "Nashville" and "Still The King." He's also a star on the hit NCS TV show called, "Hicksville Junction." He's appeared in a movie with John Colbert called "All Saints" and a music video by Reba McIntyre called "Back to God." He loves his travels around the country performing for House Concerts, Theatres, Casinos, listening rooms, Cafes, etc. Many people are jumping on this band wagon and getting Jimmy to come play a Concert for them, their families, and their friends. He has played for crowds as big as 5,000 people. He has toured many st

Join us this week as we welcome the experimental folk collective, We Are The West. Hailing from Los Angeles, CA., We Are The West are dedicated song-stylists who have developed a uniquely immersive approach to performance, playing both concert halls and improvised venues, including their preeminent underground parking garage concert series. Having released four EPs to date, on March 30, 2018, We Are The West will release their first full-length album, "The Golden Shore" (recorded by Grammy-winning engineer Husky Höskulds). The resulting sound is lush and fully-realized, the songs epic, intricate, and moving, the album, a journey from top to bottom, a grand achievement for a true 'garage band’. We Are The West, features singer/guitarist Brett Hool, stand-up bassist John Kibler and drummer/vocalist Elizabeth Goodfellow. The LA music scene’s best kept secret of the past six years, We Are The West’s 'Underground Series' presents a recontextualized and genuinely deep musical experience. The Saturday before each fu

Join us this week as we welcome the country music band, 2Steel Girls. In exciting news for the summer of 2018, 2Steel Girls will be releasing their new 10 song full album. On 2/23/2018 they released two new singles from the forthcoming album, "In My Head" & "Queen Bee". The singles are available now at digital outlets. 2Steel Girls from NBC’s, The Voice, are the only mother-daughter duo to appear on the show to date. And yes, you read that right, they’re mother and daughter. Personally mentored by country music superstar, Blake Shelton, in front of over 14 MILLION viewers, Allison and Krystal appeared on three episodes of the show before breaking another major barrier: They became the first music artists to ever launch a debut, independent single with a live performance in front of millions of viewers on the Today Show, with Hoda Kotb and Kathy Lee Gifford, all because of a fan initiated campaign. 2Steel Girls have opened for some awesome music artists and headlined quite a few shows as well. One of their

Join us this week as we welcome country music singer songwriter, Jeremy Parsons. Born in San Antonio, Texas, Jeremy Parsons grew up soaking in the sounds of Texas music in the dancehalls of the Lone Star State. Jeremy was always a fan of music, but it wasn't until his later high school years that he discovered his knack for it. Driven by his passion, he taught himself to play the guitar and began to write and perform music. Over the past decade, Jeremy has played all over the U.S. and in Europe, including numerous venues in Texas. Pulling from the example of Texas performance artists, Jeremy loves to interact with his audience. He captivates the crowd with his genuine personality, unique humor, and heart-felt love of his occupation. Jeremy draws from his personal experiences to create songs that are keenly perceptive and meaningful. His current single, "Burn This House Down," paints a poignant picture of heartbreak and acceptance that still remains relatable. This song will stick with you long after your firs

Join us this week as we welcome award winning singer songwriter and international recording artist, Doreen Taylor. In December of 2017, Doreen made her very successful official Off Broadway debut in NYC benefitting the Oscar Hammerstein II Museum & Theatre Education Center. Doreen headlined the new docu-musical, "An Enchanted Evening: A Night with Oscar Hammerstein II" along with a special guest performance by Broadway's Davis Gaines (Phantom of the Opera, Sweeney Todd, Man of La Mancha). After receiving critical acclaim in its Philadelphia debut, this cutting edge, 90-minute "docu-musical" highlights Oscar's evolution to become one of the most important lyricists of all time. Proceeds will be donated to help save Highland Farm in Doylestown, PA. Oscar Hammerstein II moved to Highland Farm in Doylestown, PA in 1940 and over the next 19 years, the farm became the birthplace for timeless Rodgers and Hammerstein classics, including: Oklahoma!, South Pacific, Carousel, King and I, and Sound of Music. Will Ham

Join us this week as we welcome country music singer songwriter, Sandra Lynn. A California girl with a Nashville heart, Lynn has made it her mission to capture that transportive quality in her music, whether she’s in the recording studio or onstage. In exciting news for 2018, Sandra has just released her brand new EP "Fight" which is available now at all digital outlets. Her new EP follows a series of released singles including “Afterparty” which was picked up by SiriusXM’s The Highway, “Bar Hoppin’” and the playful, flirty “Hey California,” which she co-wrote with producer Dave Brainard (Brandy Clark). Sandra has been out on the live circuit, opening for Josh Thompson, Kenny Chesney, Cole Swindell, Kenny Rogers, and Jana Kramer, performing during CMA Fest and on the KNE New Music Stage at Milwaukee’s Summerfest, and playing at local Nashville venues, including 3rd and Lindsey and The Listening Room. She has also been working with some of Nashville’s hottest songwriters, including Hall of Famers Gary Burr and

Join us this week as we welcome Country music singer songwriter, Matt Westin. Matt was born and raised in a blue collar family in a middle class suburb of Pittsburgh, PA. From a young age, he pursued various passions, including academics, sports, acting, and music. After years of searching, Matt found true fulfillment in the creative outlets of acting and singing, dedicating himself to his artistic pursuits, and walking away from a promising career in engineering. With the influences of many legendary artists, ranging from Johnny Cash to Garth Brooks to Frank Sinatra, Matt found his voice. The thrill of live performance fed his desires, as he honed his vocal ability in bars and clubs around Pittsburgh for over a decade. His obvious drive and talent quickly won over his family's initial disapproval of his walking away from an engineering career, and they became his biggest supporters. Tragically, after a bravely fought battle with Leukemia, Matt's father succumbed to complications of chemotherapy, in April 201

Join us this week as we welcome Country music singer songwriter, Cherish Lee. Cherish, daughter of chart-topping country star, Johnny Lee and TV's "Dallas" star, Charlene Tilton, quickly gained her own recognition as a singer and songwriter in THE Music City. She will soon be releasing her first single and album, "Tequila Cowgirl." Pre-sales for the single began on October 8, 2017. The full, aptly named album, "Tequila Cowgirl" is scheduled for release in January 2018. It's honest music that tells a story, and Lee's voice conveys it beautifully, with all the attitude that her fans have come to expect from her. "Tequila Cowgirl" has an intimate, nostalgic feel to it. Add elements of modern day pop mixed with a healthy respect of country music, throughout the ages, and of course a little bit of rock n roll and you got yourself Cherish Lee's "Tequila Cowgirl"! Cherish is quickly becoming known as country music's "rebel with a heart of gold"! She's not only an artist, but an honest to God, down and dirty servant

Join us this week as we welcome Country music singer songwriter, Irlene Mandrell. Irlene was born in Corpus Christi, Texas, and is the youngest sister of the world famous country trio, The Mandrell Sisters. Irlene and her sisters come from a musical family. She began playing drums professionally when she was eleven. Irlene is a Country Music Hall of Fame Walkway of Stars inductee. Irlene recently released her debut solo album, "Thanks To You", on Reviver Records. This Patriotic project delivers Irlene's heartfelt message to our nation's military, veterans, law enforcement and first responders, and praises them in their vigilant fight as they continue to risk their lives on behalf of our freedom. "This album is dedicated to our military, our law enforcement, our first responders, and everyone who works tirelessly to keep us safe and free," says Mandrell. "You are our heroes, and we thank you for everything you do!" Thanks To You was produced by producer/engineer, and Irlene's husband, Pat Holt, whose credits i

Join us this week as we welcome the Alternative Rock band, The Nearly Deads. Rising Nashville rock band The Nearly Deads has recently released their hotly-anticipated new EP, Revenge of the Nearly Deads, on vinyl, CD and digitally for purchase and stream via Kobalt Music. Led by the inimitable vocalist Theresa Jeane along with Steven Tobi (guitar), Kevin Koelsch (bass), Javier Garza Jr. (guitar) and Josh Perrone (drums), The Nearly Deads are one of the hottest, rising rock bands to come out of Nashville. The band’s amalgam of powerful pop vocals and aggressive alternative rock music combined with their love of all things geek and messages of positivity and empowerment creates a truly unique style that’s garnering attention from media and fans around the world. The band is currently gaining massive traction with their smash hit song “Diamond In The Rough.” We will talk to The Nearly Deads about their upcoming schedule, get a behind the scenes look at their music, feature their latest songs, and ask them to sha

Join us this week as we welcome Country Rock music singer songwriter, Mark Mackay. A blazing guitarist, an evocative vocalist and a songwriter steeped in authenticity: At the crossroads of country music and rock and roll is where Mark makes his stand. Fronting a powerhouse band, he rocks the room with rowdy charm and persuasive conviction. Within the last year has opened for country stars like Frankie Ballard, Eli Young Band, Cole Swindell, Tracy Lawrence and Old Dominion, plus legendary rockers The Marshall Tucker Band, 38 Special, Richie Sambora (Bon Jovi) and Orianthi. Playing over 230 shows last year, earned him a well-deserved slot on Music Connection’s “Top 100 National Live Acts.” Mackay just released his debut album on May 1, 2017, appropriately titled Trials & Tribulations, of which he either wrote or co-wrote every track on the record. As Mackay is always touring throughout the year, this earned him early supporters through sponsorships via Schecter Guitars, D’Addario, Seymour Duncan, Deering, a

Join us this week as we welcome country pop music singer songwriter, Ayla Brown. Having multiple talents and interests hasn’t deterred Ayla from achieving many significant hallmarks in her young career. Most recently on Valentine’s Day in 2017, Ayla Brown released “Take Your Name” on digital platforms as well as radio. In May of 2015, Ayla released a full length 13 song album titled Let Love In. The album was sponsored by popular restaurant chain, Texas Roadhouse, and currently two of Ayla’s songs, “Let Love In,” and “Matches and Gasoline,” are in rotation in every Texas Roadhouse jukebox throughout the country. In November of 2012, Ayla released her 2nd album Heroes & Hometowns and achieved a life-long dream of performing at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN. Since the album’s release, Heroes & Hometowns has peaked at #1 on Amazon MP3 and #51 on iTunes. Ayla has performed to a national TV audience on Fox & Friends and The Huckabee Show, performed the National Anthem with the Boston Pops on July

Join us this week as we welcome country music singer songwriter, Jada Vance. Jada is a Nashville artist born in Madison, TN. to a family who celebrates their strong West Virginia roots. Jada grew up loving and singing country music, and still constantly performs for her family and friends. After tryouts in Baton Rouge, LA for American Idol in 2013, Jada received her Golden Ticket and packed for Hollywood. Upon completion of the American Idol season, Jada returned to TN with a renewed passion to pursue her musical dreams and she hit the road running! First performing on Fox 17 Tennessee Mornings, she was also invited to sing at Volunteer State Community College, The Friends of Coal, The National Corvette Museum, Nashville Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum, Alabama Fan Club, along with many fairs and festivals. In the beginning of every great song, is a great writer. Like building a house, you must have a solid foundation; so should our music. Learning this and learning the respect of the musical chain of comma

Join us this week as we welcome country music singer songwriter, Heidi Raye. Heidi is a force to be reckoned with. After making the move from Dawson Creek, BC, Heidi has proved herself to be Nashville’s fiery, charming and quirky go-getter. A natural entertainer from an early age, Heidi has written and toured with some of country music’s elite. From her first deal with Erv Woolsey to her current deal with legendary Hall-of-Famer Harlan Howard’s label, Harlan Howard Records, Raye has continued to kick open doors.  She has written over 200 songs with Music Row’s most acclaimed veterans in the past year alone, and has shared the stage with country legends, Kenny Chesney, Randy Travis, Jason Aldean and Terri Clark. Grabbing the reins as a recording artist, Heidi Raye teamed up with Grammy award-winning producer Chuck Ainlay to create her new EP, Worth A Shot, released July 7th. Her influences include George Strait, Shania Twain, Brooks and Dunn, Reba, Miranda Lambert, Katy Perry, and Brad Paisley. We will talk to

Join us this week as we welcome singer songwriter, Steve McCormick. Raised in the Midwest, his interest in roots music led to a bachelor’s degree in American Studies from Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, where he wrote his senior thesis on American Music. In the years that followed McCormick honed his recording skills by working with tube microphone guru Steve McKinstry and his Salmagundi Studios. Shortly thereafter, McCormick’s songwriting led to a publishing deal with Nashville based Wrensong. McCormick later left the midwest for Los Angeles, where he now resides and is a studio owner, producer, performer, session player, composer/songwriter and microphone builder. As a session player, McCormick’s playing has been heard in dozens of national TV commercials including McDonalds, Nike, Nissan, Chevron, Coors, SBC, Long John Silver and Cialis. He also played guitar on the theme song for the Warner Brothers hit "Felicity". His on-screen debut occurred in the Michael Keaton movie “Jack Frost”, playing g

Join us this week as we welcome the rock band, Eleven Dollar Bills. The band is fearlessly led by the street-smart lion-hearted Jordan Casty. Jordan was born and raised in the concrete jungle of Chicago and his influence came straight up through the cracks in the streets. After playing and singing bluesy Rock n Roll through his high school years, Jordan ventured off to Boston to study guitar, vocals, and songwriting at Berklee College of Music. While in attendance at Berklee, Jordan fell in love with the lyrical style of Bob Dylan and put together a blues rock outfit with the name Eleven Dollar Bills as an homage to one of Dylan's lyrics. Upon graduating, The Bills set out on a tour of the USA they dubbed The Heroes' Journey. They hit iconic stages in Los Angeles and New York. They played dives in Texas and college campuses in Indiana. On return to to Chicago they they had a legendary moment where they were heard on NPR’s “Here & Now” and Local Loop Chicago called them “a rising star of the music scene.”

Join us this week as we welcome country music singer songwriter, Sandra Lynn. A California girl with a Nashville heart, Sandra Lynn is one of country music’s sweetest rising voices. After releasing a pair of upbeat singles in 2015 — “Afterparty” which was picked up by SiriusXM’s The Highway and “Bar Hoppin’” which also features a video (filmed in downtown Nashville’s historic Printer’s Alley) directed by Fanjoy. — Lynn returns with the playful, flirty “Hey California,” which she co-wrote with producer Dave Brainard (Brandy Clark). “I feel like this song is such a strong identity piece for me,” Lynn says. “It represents some of my earliest influences, like the Beach Boys and Sheryl Crow, and captures my love for country music and my roots as a California girl.” She also just recently released the official music video for "Hey California". Sandra has been out on the live circuit, opening for Josh Thompson, Kenny Chesney, Cole Swindell, Kenny Rogers, and Jana Kramer, performing during CMA Fest and on the KNE New