Taste of Country Nights, On Demand - Archive

Breland shares the story of his new song “In My Truck,” which samples “In Da Club” by 50 Cent. During this interview he tells Evan Paul how he got permission from Dr. Dre and 50 Cent to make the song and the very unusual place he recorded his vocals. He almost got kicked out! Then, Breland shares stories of his childhood as a pastor’s son. He wasn’t allowed to listen to secular music until he was a teenager but dad was cool with this one country artist. Look for “In My

Country singer Dasha opens up about (3:05) a mental health breakdown that occurred right at the peak of her "Austin" success. She tells Evan Paul what happened and how it led to "Oh Anna," one of her most vulnerable songs to date. Plus, (12:45) what happened the night that Kelsea Ballerini showed up backstage in Florida and the full story of her viral Tucker Wetmore moment on stage. Then, (14:08) Paul Cauthen visits to talk about his career and his new ‘Book of Paul’ album. Plus (30:05) the Night Cap with

Jo Dee Messina joins Evan Paul to talk about the personal new songs from her upcoming ‘Bridges’ album. It’s been 10 years for Jo Dee and we had to know, what took so long? (1:10) The answer is a bit complicated and totally relatable. Messina has also undergone a pretty stunning body transformation and (12:05) she showed off the results. It’s impressive. Actually, everything about Jo Dee is impressive at this point. Her energy and enthusiasm for making music again is contagious - longtime fans will love this interview. Finally, (19:14)

Russell Dickerson interview. The “Worth Your Wild” and “Happens To Me” singer (11:11) has a big favor to ask of Keith Urban this summer and he's nervous about it. Plus, (0:10) the story behind Russell's viral Fetty Wap 1738 video and how it might lead to a collaboration. And (4:30) why Russell Dickerson never records breakup songs. Then (16:18) Billy Dukes joins Evan Paul for the Night Cap because you deserve to know more about this Rhonda situation. Email staff@tasteofcountry.com

Meghan Patrick is one of our favorite guests because she’s as honest and forthcoming as her music. She just released the deluxe version of her ‘Golden Child’ album and she’s got stories, but first (1:02) the wild week she had with husband Mitchel Tenpenny when storms wrecked Nashville. Then, (19:47) Priscilla Block returns ahead of her big show at the Ryman Auditorium. Recently she went public with her longtime boyfriend. Are they talking marriage? Evan Paul gets the scoop before (36:16) an abbreviated Night Cap with Billy Dukes. Email staff@tasteofcountry.com

Shinedown’s Brent Smith says he just hopes country fans will keep an open mind as they listen to his band’s rock-inspired country music. They recently made their Grand Ole Opry debut so it fit to bring him in studio to talk about going back to work after his mother’s death, new music an this lifelong love of Randy Travis, Travis Tritt, Hardy, Ella Langley and more. Then (18:28), Avenged Sevenfold’s Zacky Vengeance visits to talk about a solo album that’s very country-flavored. He also shared a great story about a country

Aaron Tippin visits with Evan Paul for the very first time and he brings son Tom and wife Thea with him for a reason. The “Kiss This” singer opens up about (4:15 and 16:55) what inspired his biggest hits and reveals why he’s drawn to country songs about America and freedom. It’s inspiring! Aaron also (12:29) shares an amazing Toby Keith story and (8:37) talks about how Brett James and Greg Biffle plane crashes affect him as a pilot. If you’re a longtime fan you’ll love this check-in with a ‘90s

Caroline Jones opens up about the personal songs on her new ‘Good Omen’ album, including those inspired by her baby boy and one inspired by an abusive relationship. She’s stronger now and ready to tell her story because she knows it can help people. Then, Evan Paul asks (10:30) about playing the Sphere in Las Vegas. Caroline is part of the Zac Brown Band who opened a residency earlier this year. It was a stunning show that created some controversy. This country singer talks about all of it before the (16:05)

Rascal Flatts Jay DeMarcus visits with Evan Paul ahead of the group’s show in Nashville and he brought his son Dylan. You may have seen the 13-year-old’s cover of “Bless the Broken Road.” It went viral so (3:30) we had to ask Jay when he knew his boy could do it. Plus, Dylan busts on his dad’s hair and (8:20) an iconic Rascal Flatts song and the two discuss what the future holds. If you didn’t know, Jay owns a Christian and Country Music record label. Those genres are merging and

Think of this as a Grammy Awards preview. Billy Dukes joins Evan Paul to talk about this weekend’s show and why country music seems to always get snubbed. Is that even true? Billy tries to make the case that the Grammys are doing exactly what they should be doing and the problem is really mainstream country music. Evan doesn’t agree. Email staff@tasteofcountry.com

Stephen Wilson Jr. joins Evan Paul for the very first time and one thing is clear: this dude is different. You’ll hear it first as (0:45) he describes what led to his new song “Gary” but later (6:30) he goes real deep about a Brothers Osborne song he wrote and how it was inspired by his father’s devastating illness. Then, during the Night Cap, (12:05) Evan and Billy Dukes try to find a proper comparison for Stephen. Thanks for listening, following or subscribing. Email staff@tasteofcountry.com

This week, Evan Paul revisits his mid-2025 interview with Lainey Wilson to talk about the year she has in store of us in 2026. Could she be the Entertainer of the Year, again? Billy Dukes joins for the Night Cap to look at her tour, new music and wedding plans.

This week, Evan Paul and Billy Dukes break down the top tours of 2026. Chris Stapleton goes first, this weekend! But, Blake Shelton, Eric Church and more are also hitting the road in January. The top tours, the most interesting tours and the biggest risks are all on tap for this honest look at country music’s live performance year. Billy and Evan also share their Top 3 tours for the winter and spring. You’ll be surprised! Email: staff@tasteofcountry.com

Comedian Drew Lynch joins Evan Paul for a conversation about the divesting softball injury that changed his life, for the better. He also talks about his famous stutter and love for country music. Then (13:06) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes. Email staff@tasteofcountry.com.

Tyler Farr visits the podcast for the first time to talk about his new ‘Quit Bein’ Country’ EP. The “Redneck Crazy” singer hasn’t changed much — he’s still terrorizing Jason Aldean! Tyler actually got into a car accident on the way to the interview and this interview with Evan Paul starts there. Then, it’s (8:01) pranking Jason Aldean, (11:15) covering Charlie Daniels and (16:05) being inspired by his 5-year-old daughter. He also has a great tour gift story that might not be legal and things to say about leaving a major

They don’t get much more country than Shane Profitt. The “Long Live Country” singer talked to Evan Paul about (6:15) ditching a girl to chase his dream at a sushi restaurant, (10:01) living near Luke Bryan and how his parents’ divorce inspired his most personal song. Shane brought his fiancee and their puppy to the interview, which just speaks to the kind of guy he is. There’s no ego here, even though his list of cell phone contacts runs very deep. Look for big things from him in 2026. Billy Dukes

Luke and Joel Smallbone from for King & Country talk to Evan Paul and answer the hard questions, like (20:23) whether or not they could beat Dan + Shay in an arm wrestling match. We’re kidding, mostly. The duo do talk honestly about (6:30) balancing their Christian and country audience and (10:50) why fans in their home country Australia are so much rowdier than fans in the U.S. Plus, (1:45) the story of their new song “World On Fire,” (18:10) why they play the Grand Ole Opry so often and how

Season 21 American Idol winner Iam Tonga joins Evan Paul to give an update on what he's been up to since winning in 2023. Then (10:34) newcomer Vincent Mason returns. Country music’s hottest stars visit with Evan Paul of Taste of Country Nights, a nationally syndicated radio show. Go deep inside new music to learn the inspiration behind familiar hits and hear stories about this wild life you won't hear elsewhere. Email: staff@tasteofcountry.com

RaeLynn visits with Evan Paul for the very first time to talk about her new Christmas Ep, ‘Jingle Jangle Rock.’ She is back on a major label after going independent for several years and It’s refreshing to hear her talk about the full-circle moment. Blake Shelton was an early supporter of RaeLynn’s after they were on ‘The Voice’ together and during this interview she remembers getting a $40,000 check when she needed it most. She’s also got great stories of Jason Aldean, Kane Brown and more. Plus, with the holidays coming

Jamie O’Neal is celebrating the 25th anniversary of of “There Is No Arizona” so we thought (1:01) it was the perfect time to ask how she looks back on this massive hit. She tells Evan Paul that — surprisingly — people still have misconceptions. In the early 2000s, (11:04) Jamie opened for Alan Jackson and forged friendships with artists like Martina McBride that still thrive today. If you grew up on this generation of country music you’ll love hearing from her. After Jamie, it’s (17:46) Annie Bosko with the dish on

It’s Chase Matthew’s first time on the podcast. The “Darlin’” singer spends a little time comparing his new music to his first records and then (7:30) tells host Evan Paul it was wild opening for Keith Urban in Australia. This was pre-divorce and he got to meet Nicole Kidman. Find out why it was awkward. He’ll also tell stories on Jason Aldean and Luke Bryan before (17:04) “Heavens To Betsy” singer Jackson Dean sits down for a talk about the impact that song has had on fans and him. Then (32:01)

This is a continuation of Episode 43. Colt Ford crashes Jake Owen’s interview and things get a little wild. Host Evan Paul is mostly bystander as these two men catch up and (2:10) share hot takes on Morgan Wallen and bro country and friend that show up when you need ‘em. In 2024, Colt suffered a massive heart attack and needed to be revived twice. He says (8:52) that he saw Toby Keith at heaven’s gate but his old friend told him God wasn’t ready for him yet and to turn

Jake Owen reveals everything that led up to his new Dreams To Dream album and PHEW! It’s a lot. Evan Paul asked one question and 13 minutes later Jake had told us about his breakup, how no one came calling when he lost his last record deal, his love for Hank Jr. and how he flew into a fire to record an album while his personal life was (metaphorically) on fire. The second half of this interview looks back at his career. Jake proudly (17:30) owns starting bro country with “Barefoot

Alexandra Kay visits with Evan Paul and shares stories of Second Wind, a new studio album that was very much inspired by her boyfriend Rocco. The way they met is classic Nashville and the early days of their relationship were more than a little awkward. Plus, Alexandra tells stories from the Jelly Roll tour and shares how he changed everything for her at a time she needed it most. If you’re a fan you’ll love hearing what happened. Then Drake Milligan joins us to talk about his upcoming Tumbleweed album —

Gretchen Wilson joins Evan Paul for her most candid interview to date. She opens up about (4:20) working with Keith Urban on their new reality show The Road. Honestly her praise for how he handled himself is more than a little surprising. The “Redneck Woman” singer goes deep on her new gig and a few of the more notable contestants. Then, (11:40) we pivot to men in today’s culture and today’s country music. TL;DR version: the boys need to step up! Feuds with Cody Johnson and Kelsea Ballerini are all fair

Coblie Caillat returns to talk about the many duets on her ‘This Time Around’ album. She re-recorded a bunch of her hit songs with stars like Jason Mraz, Russell Dickerson, Maren Morris and more. Evan Paul was dying to know if someone “counted her in” once again or not and if she’d ever do a full-on country record. Plus, if you’re an OG fan of Colbie’s you’ll love the throwback MySpace conversation. After that, (11:00) Anne Wilson joins Evan to talk about her tremendous ‘Stars’ album. She opens up about how

Priscilla Block joins Evan Paul to talk about the new direction of her Things You Didn’t See album (Oct. 10). Plus, she (3:55) describes the Come to Jesus moment that motivated her to take charge of every aspect of her life. Wait until you hear how she began her striking body transformation. Priscilla also talks about (6:35) Jon Pardi generous tour gift and her own headlining tour in 2026. Then (10:20) Ashley Cooke joins before (17:50) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes. Also mentioned during this podcast episode, Jon Pardi, Cole

Thomas Rhett joins Evan Paul for the first time in a year and he shared all kinds of secrets about his fifth baby. TR joined as a partner for Hardee’s and they’re doing some great things together. The best part of this conversation is when he tries to remember his kids birthdays and when he talks about tour rider gifts from and for fellow country stars. Then, Tyler Rich (9:03) joins for a great conversation about the (11:08) ups and downs of going independent, (13:28) his model wife’s favorite scent and

Phil Vassar visits to talk about 25 years since “Just Another Day In Paradise” and the truth about the day he wrote it. Host Evan Paul also asked him about his early days with Kenny Chesney, being neighbors with ZZ Top and the artist that changed everything in country. Plus, Phil has a new song coming next week called “What It Means” that’s about his near-fatal heart attack. He gave Taste of Country fans the scoop first! Then, meet newcomer Liam St. John and join Billy Dukes for the Night Cap.

Lauren Alaina admits her husband is the one responsible for her ex-boyfriend song “All My Exes” getting the attention it deserves. This conversation with Evan Paul also (5:45) relives the mom-shaming she experienced and some other new-mom problems she’s had to work through. Plus, (9:30) a great story about touring with Rascal Flatts. Then, (11:06) Drake White joins the podcast for the first time to talk about the new The Hunts the Healing documentary that drops on Sept. 21. It’s life story and he’s not shy about talking about a near-death,

Chris Janson wants to clear a few things up about his "sobriety," new 'Wild Horse' album and how his wife Kelly influences his music. During this interview with Taste of Country Nights Evan Paul, the "Me & a Beer" singer also gets candid about Walker Hayes, Jamey Johnson, Kenny Chesney and more. Then Billy Dukes joins for the Night Cap.

Lainey Wilson visits with Evan Paul to talk about (4:30) the new deluxe version of her ‘Whirlwind’ album, (10:00) date nights with her fiancé Duck Hodges and how this year has been different. Lainey is famously frugal so we had to ask if she’s out there shopping at the Aldi and couponing? Plus, an (12:04) update on her TV and film career, her next album and the wedding on the way. Then (13:45) Chapel Hart stopped by earlier this year. We wanted to play this interview because they just broke up

Walker Hayes revealed a surprise collaboration with Kane Brown this week. (16MIN) He told Evan Paul how it came together and why Kane was the only artist he wanted to record with. ’17 Problems’ is Walker’s new album and it’s his most introspective yet. He goes deep in this conversation, opening up about (2:30) his father, (5:05) his kids and planning his own funeral. Finally at the end, Evan asks for an update on his partnership with Applebee’s. We were stunned! Then the (25:47) Night Cap with Billy Dukes.

Jordan Davis visited with Evan Paul to talk about his new album ‘Learn the Hard Way.” There’s a duet with Carly Pearce on the record and it turns out they go back much further than anyone knew. Plus, he gives his opinion on how Luke Bryan handled getting hit in the face with a ball on stage. Then, meet newcomer (9:59) Matt Cooper. We really like this singer and entertainer and think you will too. Billy Dukes (18:02) joins Evan Paul for the Night Cap to close this episode. Email staff@tasteofcountry.com

Luke Bryan joins Evan Paul to talk about a range of hot topics, including American Idol, Carrie Underwood and the fan that hit him in the face with a baseball. Then, (8:57) actor Carrie St. Louis visits to talk about playing Dolly Parton in ‘Dolly: A True Original’ Music. Dolly worked very close with the cast during a very difficult time in her life and Carrie has plenty of great stories and memories. The musical is enjoying a run at the Fisher Center in Nashville through August. After Carrie, it’s (23:50)

Eli Young Band return to talk about songs from their new ‘Strange Hours’ album. The boys went back to basics to record this album and during this interview with Evan Paul Mike Eli and co. explain what that means. Plus, (7:05) has TikTok ruined band culture and reaction to Corey Kent’s wild pre-show routine. Then (15:54) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.

Jay DeMarcus from Rascal Flatts joins Evan Paul to talk about the band’s new album, ‘Life Is a Highway: Refueled Duets.’ Kelly Clarkson, Blake Shelton and the Jonas Brothers join them on the album and (11:20) Jay has stories about all of them. Plus, Jay surprised us when he (6:30) brought up the Eric Church / Rascal Flatts incident from 2006. He’s got strong feelings about it all and reveals something fascinating about Church that very few people know. Then (14;15) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes. Also mentioned in this

Sam Hunt broke his baby news during this conversation with Evan Paul. Plus, how real are the lyrics to “Country House.” It’s been a minute since Sam joined the podcast and he didn’t disappoint. Then Dillon Carmichael joins to talk about touring Europe, his strangest gig and why he takes notes at concerts. Wait until you hear him read back his notes from Morgan Wallen’s show. It’s kind of wild. Then the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.

Wait until you hear (10:30) Corey Kent’s WILD pre-show routine. A taser is involved and people actually beg to join him! The “This Heart” singer also tells Evan Paul the story of his new song and reveals what Jason Aldean got him as a tour opener gift. Then, (14:02) Billy Dukes joins to break down the Top 10 Country Songs of 2025, so far. It’s an imperfect list but where do you think he gets it right and wrong?

Lauren Watkins joins Evan Paul to talk about touring with Zach Top, Miranda Lambert and Morgan Wallen. Plus, she explains why co-writing with her husband and sister isn’t as weird as you’d imagine it to be. Then, (14:21) Parker McCollum has a new self-titled album out. You won’t find any “dad songs” on it and there’s a reason for that. Parker also tells us what songs he sings to his new baby boy and opens up about being an influence for other artists. And we couldn’t let him get away without

Chris Lane joins Evan Paul to talk about his (1:30) new ‘Shade Tree’ album and share stories about touring with Rascal Flatts. Plus, how his wife helps shape his music and who he thinks deserves to go into the Country Music Hall of Fame next. Then it’s (1205) Ella Langley with the story of her new song ‘Weren’t for the Wind.’ She talked candidly about (14:30) the response to her mental health confessions during ACM week, including who reached out. Ella is a rising star meeting her heroes for the first

Thompson Square join Evan Paul for a conversation that can only be described as “candid.” When asked about the state of country music, the married duo (mostly Kiefer) (10:01) go off on pop and rock collaborations, TikTok stars and Beyonce. It’s an 8-minute-long speech about why hard work needs to pay off in country music more than any other genre. That’s not the only thing the three talk about. Thompson Square (4:10) have a new song called “You Were There” that was once on hold for Kenny Chesney. Plus, the joke

Justin Moore returns for the third time and tells Evan Paul about (10:15) the extreme lengths he went to trying meet Hank Williams Jr. Plus, (6:30) why he won’t play funerals, (11:45) what he does to embarrass his daughters and which conspiracy theories are real. Look for Justin and Joe Nichols on tour this year. They’re both from Arkansas and growing up, Justin Moore really looked up to Joe. (7:45) He says he’s kind of surreal to tour with him in 2025. Then (14:39) the Night Cap with Billy Dukes. Email:

Gretchen Wilson is one of our favorite guests. During this interview, she takes Evan Paul (3:15) behind the scenes of the Masked Singer, including the lengths the show goes to ensure secrecy. It’s intense. Then, (9:10) how Gretchen got to team up with Blake Shelton for ‘The Road’ on CBS, (6:55) how she broke her leg and the secret health battle that nobody knew about. She thought about quitting! We also asked Gretchen Wilson about (16:40) popular conspiracy theories and — being a long-haul COVID survivor — vaccines. Her answer was

Megan Moroney joins Evan Paul to talk about “You Had To Be There,” her new duet with Kenny Chesney. She explains how the song came to be and what it took to summon the courage to share it with him. These two go back a little further than you might think. In fact, Megan remembers the first time they met and talks candidly about what his friendship has meant to her personally and professionally. Then she shares a few bad breakup and bad date stories and reveals she and Ed Sheeran

Jason Aldean returns and is as honest as ever. The “Whiskey Drink” singer updates fans on (3:00) new music and (9:40) his growing family, including what his oldest daughter is up to — prepare to feel old! Evan Paul also asked about him for (12:02) a Kenny Chesney story and he delivered. Plus, why (5:44) Luke Combs needs to move, conspiracy theories and if he’d ever go to space. Billy Dukes helps close with the Night Cap. Also mentioned: Brittany Aldean, Tim McGraw, Miranda Lambert, Dierks Bentley and more. Email staff@tasteofcountry.com.

Jon Pardi held nothing back during this conversation with Evan Paul. He has strong feelings about celebrity bars in Nashville and he got fighting mad when we asked about the house he’s building. The singer also spoke about (3:45) his friendship with Kid Rock, what he loves about being a girl dad and (9:15) turning 40. Then (11:09) Vincent Mason breaks down his new song “Wish You Well” and shares which artists have meant the most to him. (26:13) Billy Dukes is also here for a spirted Night Cap. Jon Pardi’s

Maddie & Tae join Evan Paul to talk about songs from their new Love & Light album, which features a song called “Drunk Girls In Bathrooms.” We had to ask — YES! When they turned 21 Maddie Font and Tae Kerr partied hard, but nobody knew. Then, they talk about sweet stuff like motherhood and tour and reflect on 10 years of “Girl in a Country Song.” Plus the Night Cap with Billy Dukes.

This week, Big Smo sits down to talk to Evan Paul about the day he disappeared and everything that followed. This story is wild and hits home because — like Smo — Evan used to weigh well over 400 pounds! During this interview, Big Smo reveals he had open-heart surgery in 2015 and went to great lengths to change his lifestyle afterward. This ended up costing him his entire team and over half of his fans, so he decided to focus his energy elsewhere. The country rap singer also explains why

Craig Campbell tells the 10-year story of his new song “Missing You.” Plus, how he teamed up with American Idol finalist Maddie Pruett ahead of Season 23. It’s such a cool, organic story. Then (17:31) Mackenzie Carpenter joins Evan Paul to talk about her new ‘Country Queen’ album and songs she’s written with Megan Moroney. Plus the (29:51) Night Cap with Billy Dukes.