Creative Renaissance: Marcus Hummon's Artistic Journey & Emily Dickinson CollaborationIn this episode of the Curious Goldfish podcast, host Jason English engages in an enlightening conversation with Hall of Fame songwriter Marcus Hummon. Known for iconic country hits like 'Bless the Broken Road' and 'Cowboy Take Me Away,' Marcus delves deep into his latest project 'Songs for Emily,' where he sets the poetry of Emily Dickinson to music. Marcus discusses his creative process, his admiration for strong feminine figures like Emily Dickinson and his wife Becca, and his experiences writing both three-minute songs and full-scale operas and musicals. The conversation also touches on Marcus's collaborative works with artists like Mary Chapin Carpenter, Darrell Scott, and Sarah Evans, his fascination with transformative storytelling, and the inspirational journey behind his hit song 'Bless the Broken Road.' Tune in for an inspiring dive into the life and mind of a true musical Renaissance man.00:00 Introduction to Dickinson's Appeal01:03 Welcome to Curious Goldfish01:38 Meet Marcus Hummon: The Creative Powerhouse02:22 Marcus Hummon's Musical Journey02:36 The Magic of Songwriting03:10 Connections in the Music Industry03:46 Collaborations and Inspirations07:05 Emily Dickinson's Influence08:52 The Process of Setting Poetry to Music11:45 Exploring Emily Dickinson's Legacy25:17 Character Inspiration from High School25:35 Religious Influence in High School Sports26:37 Americana Fest and Lifetime Achievement Award26:58 Expanding the Dickinson Mojo29:46 The Process of Storytelling in Music33:48 The Magic of Songwriting39:40 The Journey of 'Bless the Broken Road'47:21 Curiosity and Artistic Exploration50:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Louie the Singer on Touring, New Album, and Overcoming Life's Challenges | Curious Goldfish PodcastJoin host Jason English on Curious Goldfish as he sits down with Louie the Singer to discuss his new album 'One for the Hometown', his preparations for a nationwide tour, and his journey through life's ups and downs. Louie talks openly about the struggles of balancing personal life with his career, the inspiration behind his emotional songs, and his deep connection with his fans. Discover the impactful stories behind his music, his experiences growing up in Fort Worth, Texas, and how he navigates the complexities of being a Mexican American artist in the country music scene.00:00 Introduction to Curious Goldfish Podcast00:41 Interview with Louie: New Album and Tour02:03 The Emotional Journey Behind 'If I Die Tomorrow'04:16 Louie's Artistic Process and Authenticity06:34 Growing Up in Fort Worth13:40 Challenges and Identity in the Music Industry19:28 Message of Hope and Resilience21:06 Reflecting on 2018: A Year of Loss and Guilt22:24 Father-Son Bond: Lessons and Memories23:20 Parenting Challenges and Personal Growth23:52 Coping with Loss and Finding Faith25:59 Prison Life and Musical Aspirations27:33 Post-Prison Life: Coping Mechanisms and Family30:30 Preparing for the Biggest Tour Yet32:38 Future Aspirations and Overcoming Challenges39:01 Curiosity and Fatherhood: Balancing Career and Family41:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Tony Dekker of Great Lake Swimmers Talks New Album, Songwriting, and Life on Tour | Curious GoldfishIn this episode of Curious Goldfish, host Jason English sits down with Tony Dekker of Great Lake Swimmers to discuss the band's ninth album, Caught Light. Tony shares insights into the instinctive songwriting process, the unique recording environment of a converted farmhouse, and the challenges of touring post-pandemic. He reflects on the band's endurance over two decades and the impact of family life on his music. The conversation also touches on the themes of loneliness, the importance of community, and how the recording location influences the artistic output. Tune in for an in-depth look at the creativity and resilience of a seasoned musician.00:00 Introduction to Songwriting Instincts00:55 Welcome to Curious Goldfish01:36 Meet Tony Dekker of Great Lake Swimmers01:40 Discussing the New Album 'Caught Light'02:00 Challenges Faced by the Band02:22 Tony Dekker Reflects on Longevity02:37 Interview Begins: Tony Dekker's Journey03:29 Touring and Feedback on 'Caught Light'05:13 Songwriting Process and Themes07:40 Impact of Politics and Permitting on Touring12:28 Recording in Unique Locations19:37 Themes of Loneliness and Connection21:19 Pandemic's Impact on the Band24:02 Connecting with Fans Post-Pandemic28:50 Curiosity and Parenthood31:31 Conclusion and Future Outlook