Episode 24

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Published on:

29th Oct 2024

Steve Poltz - Make Your Music Scene!

Make Your Own Scene like Steve Poltz..the most interesting person in every room.

He's a true pioneer who believes in forging your own musical destiny—and WOW, has he done just that!

Steve’s journey began with the underground sensation The Rugburns in San Diego, but he truly burst onto the scene when he co-wrote two tracks for Jewel’s diamond-certified debut, Pieces of You. Ever heard of the iconic hit “You Were Meant For Me”? That’s Steve you can spot in the video!

His 1998 solo debut, One Left Shoe, set the stage for a rich catalog filled with evocative lyrics and a blend of positivity and tragicomedy. This unique style has turned him into a live performance phenomenon, adored by fans at festivals like Byron Bay Bluesfest, High Sierra Music Festival, and the Telluride Bluegrass Festival—he even tied the knot on the Cayamo Cruise!

Steve’s collaborations read like a who's who of the music industry, working alongside talents like Jewel, Billy Strings, and the late Mojo Nixon. With over a dozen albums under his belt, he continues to earn critical acclaim from outlets like Rolling Stone and Billboard.

As Steve says, “Usually when these folks come over to my house in Nashville, we end up with something I love. I try not to overthink it—there are no rules. It’s kind of like fishing; you don’t catch anything if you don’t throw your rod in the water. I just try to be open to inspiration, mixed with a bit of perspiration and exasperation.”

You’ll Also Discover

Steve’s Powerful Life Philosophy.

What He Learned Watching Springsteen on Broadway.

A Band that Influential in his Life.

The Original Alt Country.

Tech that Accelerated His Success.

The Legendary Rugburns.

How Weird Al and Steve Inspired Each Other.

A Collaboration that Surprised Him.

The Song that Got Him Kicked Out of Catholic Mass..

The Massive Hit He Wrote with Jewel.

How Having a Stroke on Stage Changed Him.

His Cathartic Music.

Steve’s Next Album.

How Steve Led Executives in a Song-Writing Workshop.

Learn more about Steve here: https://poltz.com/

AND follow Americana Curious on Instagram for the latest interviews and the behind-the-scenes with your favorite artists! https://www.instagram.com/americanacurious

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About the Podcast

Americana Curious
Interviews from Americana Artist Changing the World
Americana Music Transforms the World!

Unfortunately, too many are unaware of its profound impact.

Americana musicians are the unsung heroes.

Here, you'll join us in exploring these passionate artists and how they offer inspiration and hope for the future.

This show makes that happen in a fun and entertaining way.

You”ll discover:
- New music that you’ll love.
- Hard-earned lessons from the road.
- The story behind favorite songs.
- A BIG dose of inspiration for you and your friends!
- A good laugh along the way.

Your hosts are Ben Fanning and Zach Schultz.

It’s time to get Americana Curious!

About your hosts

Ben Fanning

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Top 2% Podcast Host, #1 Best Selling Author, Inc. Magazine Columnist--Americana Superfan!

Zach Schultz

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Connoisseur of quality music. Lover of all things Americana. Inspired by authenticity. Self-proclaimed “King of Merch”.