Behind The Music Biz

Episode 39: Stephanie Wagner (Founder, Country Swag)

On this episode of Behind The Music Biz, host Matt Burrill sits down with Stephanie Wagner, founder of Country Swag, to talk about her journey through the country music industry and how she helped grow one of New York City’s leading country media brand. From its humble beginnings as a local event to becoming a national platform, Stephanie shares the story behind Country Swag’s rise and the passion that drives its community. They dive into the growth of country music in NYC, the opening of Common Country as a hub for fans, and the importance of giving back through charity work. Stephanie and Matt also discuss genre-blending in country music, the power of networking in Nashville, and what’s next for the Country Swag brand as it continues to expand its events and collaborations. Follow on Social Media: Stephanie Wagner: @stephwags Country Swag: @countryswag Matt Burrill: @mattburrilll Behind The Music Biz: @behindthemusicbiz Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

Episode 38: Brad Parker (Artist Management & Show Promotion)

On this episode of Behind The Music Biz, hosts Kurt Ozan and Nicky T sit down with Brad Parker, a seasoned music industry professional with over 13 years of experience. From his time as a promoter with C3 Presents and Bonnaroo to his current role in artist management at Track Management, Brad shares his journey through the ever-changing music business. The guys dive into the power of live music, the importance of building authentic artist communities, and the healing connections music creates. Brad also reflects on unforgettable festival moments, the vital role of promoters, and why authenticity is key as he transitions into management. Follow on Social Media: Brad Parker: @bradparker Kurt Ozan: @kurtozan251  Nicky T: @raisedrowdynickyt Behind The Music Biz: @behindthemusicbiz Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

Episode 37: Carly Dibble (Talent Buyer/Event Producer at Romeo Entertainment)

In episode 37 of Behind The Music Biz, host Matt Burrill sits down with Carly Dibble, a talent buyer and event producer at Romeo Entertainment, one of the leading names in live event production. Carly opens up about her unlikely path into the music business, moving from a non-music background into the fast-paced world of talent buying. She shares what sets fairs apart from festivals, the behind-the-scenes realities of booking artists, and how talent buyers function much like real estate agents in the industry. Carly reflects on her transition from assistant to talent buyer, the unique challenges that smaller companies face, and how COVID-19 reshaped the live events landscape. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of relationships, creating unforgettable experiences for both artists and fans, and staying open to opportunities in a constantly changing industry. This episode is packed with insights for anyone curious about how fairs, festivals, and live events come together, and what it takes to succeed behind the curtain of the music business. Follow on Social Media: Carly Dibble: @icarldibbs Matt Burrill: @ikeeverard  Behind The Music Biz: @behindthemusicbiz Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

Episode 36: Damian Brunton (Photographer & YouTuber)

In Episode 36 of Behind The Music Biz, host Ike Everard sits down with photographer and YouTuber Damian Brunton to explore his creative journey from picking up a camera after an injury to building a following on TikTok and YouTube. Damian shares insights on how social media has shaped his career, the unpredictability of algorithms, and the importance of staying inspired in a content-driven world. The conversation dives into the value of doing free work to build meaningful industry relationships, learning from mistakes, and taking accountability in creative partnerships. Damian also discusses rediscovering passion through personal projects, the balance between gear and skill, and the growing role of AI in photography. With a focus on authenticity, communication, and creative growth, this episode offers valuable lessons for photographers, creators, and anyone navigating the modern content landscape. Follow on Social Media: Damian Brunton: @damian.brunton Ike Everard: @ikeeverard  Behind The Music Biz: @behindthemusicbiz Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy

Episode 35: Ryan Youmans (Producer and Founder of The Amber Sound)

In Episode 35 of Behind The Music Biz, host Matt Burrill sits down with Ryan Youmans, producer and founder of The Amber Sound, to talk about his journey from a small-town musician in South Carolina to a respected force in the Nashville music scene. Known for his work with Muscadine Bloodline, Hudson Westbrook, Tyler Halverson, Taylor Hunnicutt, and more, Ryan shares the story of how his basement studio evolved into a full-fledged creative space. The conversation explores the collaborative nature of music production, the role of technology and AI in modern workflows, and the balance between artistic vision and commercial appeal. Ryan opens up about the challenges of touring with artists like Luke Grimes, balancing family life with a demanding career, and the importance of mentorship and networking. With a focus on authenticity, songwriting, and relationship-building, this episode offers a real-world look at what it takes to create meaningful, lasting music in today’s industry! Follow on Social Media: Ryan Youmans: @ryanyoumansmusic / @theambersound Matt Burrill: @mattburrilll Behind The Music Biz: @behindthemusicbiz Raised Rowdy: @raisedrowdy