After an injury ended any dreams of becoming a pro athlete, Jake Owen put down his golf clubs, picked up a guitar, and went on to create a brand-new era of country music. After two EPs, seven albums, and thirteen years as a household name, at 43 Jake Owen might have finally grown up, but he still isn’t slowing down.
Country Thunder CEO Troy Vollhofer welcomes Jake Owen On the Bus to dive into how he and his twin brother grew up motivated to succeed thanks to their dad. Troy and Jake detail what made 2011’s “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” so revolutionary, and why it’s limiting to be selfish as an artist. Jake discusses why it’s important to still make time for the “fun Jake” summer tours, creating an experience for fans, and “owning” the crowds. While collaborating with Shooter Jennings on a new album, Jake opens about making different music that speaks to this chapter of his life and why his daughters are his saving grace.
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15:12
The Road Back to Country With Blake Shelton
After taking a four year break on his Oklahoma ranch, Blake Shelton is back on the road and riding the high of his new album, For Recreational Use Only. After 29 number one hits, and a detour into Hollywood, Blake’s scorching hot single “Texas” proves he’s still got it.
Country Thunder CEO Troy Vollhoffer recalls meeting Blake Shelton during a crazy storm that really put the “thunder” in Country Thunder. After 23 seasons on The Voice, Blake opens up about spreading himself thin and making the choice to be “a TV guy or a touring guy.” The two reminisce about Toby Keith and why being a road dog is the best way to learn how to entertain a crowd. Blake reveals how his worst on-stage “ass-kicking” taught him how to be himself in front of a crowd. After taking so much time away from the spotlight, Blake shares that it was Post Malone who reminded him that he’s still a country singer at heart.
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25:13
That’s Hardy Looking for Arrowheads
Even with 16 number one hits to his name, Hardy still feels like his career is just getting started. After his breakout album, The Mockingbird & the Crow, Hardy continues to light up the stage and the charts with his unique mix of metal and Mississippi country.
Country Thunder CEO Troy Vollhofer is joined by his good friend and amateur arrowhead archaeologist Michael, who country music fans call Hardy. Hardy opens up about why country fans love seeing metal music live, writing songs for other artists, and the need for songwriters to earn a living wage. Hardy and Troy detail how someone can go from having “goose eggs” in their bank account, to searching a major music producer’s backyard for arrowheads. Troy shines the spotlight on one of his favorite new artists, Baker Blankenship.
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25:57
Grandparents, Grit, and Going Big: Justin Moore’s Rise
Justin Moore lasted just two weeks of college before dropping out. He left his tiny, 300-person hometown in Arkansas in search of a career in Music City. After a few years of hard work, he finally made it big by leaning on his modest roots, releasing the mega hit single, “Small Town USA.”
Country Thunder CEO Troy Vollhofer is thrilled to be joined by Justin Moore. Troy really gets Justin to open up as he reveals why the more personal a song is to him, the more likely it is to resonate with fans, and he tries to honor the legacy of his grandparents. Troy has a good laugh when Justin details his confrontation with Luke Bryan after recording, “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away.” After touring for nearly two decades, Justin shares why he’ll never stop playing state fairs.
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27:51
Every Night’s the Super Bowl with Jordan Davis
Having a hit-song writing uncle and a singer/songwriter older brother, Jordan Davis is living proof that some families have music in their DNA. With hits like “Singles You Up” and “Buy Dirt” and a new album out this summer, Jordan has country music running through his veins.This week, Country Thunder CEO Troy Vollhoffer sits down with Jordan Davis to discuss why being on the road can make someone a more efficient songwriter, and why the best way to write a new song is to talk to as many people as possible. Even though touring can be a grind, Jordan tells Troy why he treats every night like it’s the Super Bowl. With the ACMs just a week away, Troy has his eye on Ella Langley as she continues to make a name for herself in country music.
Troy Vollhoffer, owner and founder of Country Thunder Music Festival, invites the biggest country artists to join him for a one-on-one celebrity interview “On the Bus”. As Troy opens his home, his tour bus, and festival venues to his audience for behind the scenes conversations, he asks exclusive questions, discusses festival do’s and don'ts, and highlights the tracks you will hear on stage at Country Thunder this summer. Guests include Dustin Lynch, Koe Wetzel, Tigirlily Gold, Dierks Bentley, Bailey Zimmerman, Jon Pardi, Ashley McBryde and countless other music industry legends, taking you backstage to share stories of their concerts, their careers, and their entertainment industry journeys. Be ready to be thunderstruck, On the Bus with Troy Vollhoffer.
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