Hard work, grit and no quit; three values that are synonymous with country artist Jacob Bryant. The Georgia native has been putting out independent EPs and releases for almost a decade, has songwriting credits that include his collaboration with Luke Combs on “Out There” and a non-stop touring schedule that’s ready kick back into high gear. Today, Bryant showcases more of his writing prowess and passion for country music as he releases his newest album Bar Stool Preacher via Thirty Tigers and American Roots Records.
We recently caught up with Bryant to talk about his journey as an independent artist, his signing with Thirty Tigers and the new album.
CN: For our readers who may not be familiar with you, can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
JB: I’m originally from North Georgia in a little town called Jasper. I love the outdoors, music and family. I’m a pretty simple guy really…haha! Obsessed with fishing and golf.
CN: Growing up in a musical family, you were surrounded by music from a young age and decided to pursue music after high school. Did you always feel like you would follow the musical path?
JB: No, not really – it was just a hobby for a long time. Then, after my mom passed away in 2010, I felt I kind of owed it to her to give it a true shot since she was always telling me I had “it.”
CN: Since 2014, you’ve released several independent EPs and have grown a true grassroots following. How did it feel to see your songs and your fanbase continue to grow as an independent artist?
JB: It feels amazing! I’ve put in a lot of years and hard work, but it’s starting to pay off and is definitely incredible to look back on the journey now for sure.
CN: Your hard work hadn’t gone unnoticed within the industry either as you recently signed with Thirty Tigers.
JB: I’m stoked about the partnership there! Feels like home and I’m super confident in their ability to help launch us to the next level. Good vibes all the way around.
CN: Over the years you have gone through some personal dark moments, but you have taken those experiences and used them to fuel your songwriting. How has songwriting helped in being a cathartic tool for you?
JB: Well, I’m super stubborn and I was never willing to try therapy or anything during those times. I feel like the pen, paper and melody acted like that for me in those moments.
CN: Can you take us through your songwriting process?
JB: Every song comes to me differently, so there’s no right way of going about it. But, normally it starts with a title and an idea of where that title takes the listener and from there I add the melody and lyrics to bring the song to life.
CN: Have you found yourself writing more during the pandemic?
JB: Absolutely! We cut 30 songs out of boredom and just felt the need to do something that had to do with music during the first year and beyond during the lockdowns.
CN: Known for your storytelling talent in your songwriting, you co-wrote seven of the 13 songs on Bar Stool Preacher, and also co-produced a majority of the tracks. How important is it for you to be involved in the different layers of an album?
JB: It’s a high priority for me in anything I do musically to have my stamp on it. Plus, the creative process is the fun part. I get a lot of pride and joy from creating and watching the tracks come to life.
CN: Is there one track on the album that stands out to you the most?
JB: My favorite is probably “Can’t Take an Angel To Hell.”
CN: Being a Road Warrior, you’re normally on the road more than not. How were you able to cope with the lack of live music? How did it feel to finally get back out there?
JB: It wasn’t easy – I didn’t know what to do with my hands (Ricky Bobby haha) and it feels amazing. Can’t wait to tear up the highway this year!
CN: And what a way to kick off 2022 with an Album Release show in your native Georgia!
JB: Yes! January 14 in Atlanta, Georgia we are doing an album release party/show at a venue called Misfits. All the tables and seats have already sold out and only a small amount of general admission tickets are left. So get them while you can! (Click here for tickets).
CN: If you could collaborate with any one artist, who would it be?
JB: I’d love to do something with Travis Tritt at some point as he’s been a big influence of mine since I was very little.
CN: What was the first concert you ever attended?
JB: Edgar Winter Band and Jackyl
CN: If you could describe yourself in one word/phrase, what would it be and why?
JB: Unapologetically me. I’m happy with who I am and where I came from.
Download or Stream Bar Stool Preacher here.
For more information on Jacob Bryant, visit his website www.