Of The Steel Guitar

Join me for a candid conversation with Alex Key, an independent country artist from Wilkesboro, North Carolina. In this episode, Alex shares his insights on maintaining authenticity in country music, the importance of storytelling, and his experiences performing at iconic venues like the Grand Ole Opry. We delve into the challenges and rewards of producing his own music, the influence of traditional sounds, and the evolving landscape of the country music industry. Whether you're a country music enthusiast or curious about the creative process, this episode offers a heartfelt glimpse into the world of an artist dedicated to keeping country music true to its roots.For anyone who has been listening, it's been a personal goal of having an artist on the Podcast for years, and I am so appreciative of the time that Mr. Key took out of his schedule to talk with me on the road. You can find all of the links associated with his music down below. I promise you that it will feel as if you have been transported back in time. Alex Key Links: Youtube: https://youtube.com/@alex_key_music?si=AuAEaUHLomi4X0j8TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@alex_key_musicWebsite: https://www.alexkeymusicgroup.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alex_key_music/?hl=enSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4kfrzXGnQDAszWsQr7aNSi?si=-9JAy1TDT9CW5wyugKsGTAApple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/alex-key/1457771274

We sit down with my buddy Austin as we discuss what makes Red Dirt and neo-traditional country unique and special compared to the mainstream. We feature artists like Dylan Gossett and Wyatt Flores, and trace the roots that trace back to Oklahoma and Texas, exploring how this sound has held onto its soul while the mainstream drifts ever further away. It’s part interview, part laid-back conversation between two country fans who just love the music and where it comes from.email me at [email protected]://linktr.ee/ofthesteelguitarpodFiddle Intro by Miss. Rachel CrickFollow her on instagram @rachelannecrickHer Fiverr link is below! https://www.fiverr.com/s/j0GKlZRest of Intro: Jeremy KingFiverrhttps://www.fiverr.com/s/8VRWNz

We break down Charley Pride’s iconic 1971 hit, “Kiss an Angel Good Mornin’.” With its smooth vocals,bright instrumentalsss and timeless charm, this song became more than just a No. 1 country single—it became a blueprint for love and longevity.We explore the song’s origins, the cultural weight it carried during Pride’s rise as a Black country superstar, and the magic behind its simple, heartfelt advice. Whether you’re a lifelong country fan or just discovering the classics, this one’s a sweet slice of country gold.

We journey back to the Dust Bowl days and the heartache of the Great Depression, a time when America’s fields were cracked, but its spirit remained unbroken. As families lost farms and futures, country music became more than just a sound. It became a lifeline. From the desperation of the Dust Bowl to the resilience echoing from porch radios, we explore how economic despair gave rise to the second generation of country music. With steel guitars crying out across the plains and ballads of hardship and hope filling the air, this is the story of how music helped a nation hold on.

In this episode, I take a personal dive into Jason Aldean’s Grown Woman—a song that’s stuck with me in ways I didn’t expect. From the lyrics to the emotions it stirred up, we talk about how a simple country track can hit deep, bring back memories, and even shape how we see ourselves and others. Whether you're a fan of Aldean or just someone who's had a song change the way you think, this one’s for you.email me at [email protected]://linktr.ee/ofthesteelguitarpod