BEN GRAVES

BEN GRAVES

What does it really take to build a lasting career in Music City? In this episode of What Made You, Deanna Marie sits down with singer-songwriter and guitarist Ben Graves [https://www.bengraves.com/] for an honest conversation about the highs, the challenges, and the unexpected turns of life as a working musician. Ben shares stories from decades in the music industry, the lessons he's learned from collaborating with incredible artists, and why staying true to yourself matters more than chasing the spotlight. Whether you're a songwriter, a music lover, or someone pursuing a dream of your own, this conversation is full of insight, authenticity, and plenty of Nashville stories you won't want to miss.

JACOB MARTIN (THE BAND ANA)

Singer-songwriter Jacob Martin [https://jacobmartinband.bandcamp.com/music] returns to What Made You with Deanna Marie for an honest conversation about the highs and lows of building a career in Nashville, staying authentic in an ever-changing music industry, and finding purpose through every chapter of his journey. Jacob shares stories from his career, reflects on the songs that have shaped him, and opens up about embracing sobriety, and how it transformed his perspective on life and music. From career pivots and creative growth to resilience and redemption, this episode offers an inspiring look at the man behind the music—and the lessons he's learned along the way.

MOURNING COFFEE

This week on What Made You with Deanna Marie, I'm joined by  Mourning Coffee [https://mourningcoffee.bandcamp.com/], an indie folk project known for blending haunting melodies, raw emotion, and deeply personal storytelling. We dive into the inspiration behind the music, the healing power of songwriting, navigating life's darker moments through creativity, and the stories that shaped their artistic journey. If you've ever found comfort in a song that seemed to understand exactly what you were feeling, this conversation is for you.

Tanner Gomes

Episode Summary This week on What Made You, Deanna sits down with country singer-songwriter Tanner Gomes [https://linktr.ee/tannergomes] for an honest conversation about resilience, chasing dreams, and finding purpose through music. Best known for his breakout appearance on The Voice, where he earned a coveted multi-chair turn and joined Team Kelly Clarkson, Tanner shares the story behind the spotlight—including the challenges he faced growing up, the life-changing impact music had on him, and what it really takes to build a career in Nashville. From his journey from Arizona to Music City, to the lessons learned from reality television and the realities of life as an independent artist, Tanner opens up about the highs, the setbacks, and the moments that shaped him into the artist he is today. This episode is packed with inspiration, laughs, and a deeper look at the man behind the cowboy hat. About Tanner Gomes Tanner Gomes [https://linktr.ee/tannergomes] is a Nashville-based country singer-songwriter originally from Yuma, Arizona. He gained national recognition as a contestant on Season 19 of The Voice, earning a three-chair turn and joining Team Kelly Clarkson. Known for his authentic storytelling, powerful vocals, and heartfelt songwriting, Tanner continues to build a loyal fanbase through his music, live performances, and genuine connection with listeners. His songs draw from personal experiences, perseverance, and the belief that even life's toughest challenges can become part of a powerful story.

PJ Ferguson and the Tennessee Strange

PJ & The Tennessee Strange [https://pjtnstrange.com/] are a Nashville-based rock band fronted by PJ Ferguson, blending classic rock swagger with modern alternative energy. Known for their electrifying live performances, big-band sound, and “Stay Strange” mentality, the group has built a loyal following through relentless touring, raw authenticity, and a sound inspired by legends of the ‘70s and ‘90s alike. In this episode, PJ joins the show to talk about the grind behind the music, building a band in Nashville, the stories behind their debut album, and what it really takes to stand out in today’s music scene.