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Kent Blazy's Journey with Garth Brooks and Songwriting

Anthony Bonnette
Dec 29, 2024

If you’re a fan of Nashville’s rich music scene, you probably know the name Kent Blazy. I had the honor of sitting down with this legendary songwriter on Come and Pick It to talk about his incredible journey—from Woodstock to Nashville, from demo singer collaborations to writing hits with Garth Brooks. This episode dives deep into the artistry, determination, and unforgettable stories that define Kent Blazy’s career.



From Woodstock to Nashville: A Songwriter’s Journey

Kent Blazy’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Growing up during the Woodstock era, his love for music and storytelling began to take root early. His career took him from Canada to Nashville, where he found himself immersed in the songwriting process, collaborating with some of the biggest names in the industry.

In the podcast, Kent shared how bands like the Byrds and Texas legends like Don Henley influenced his musical style. It’s fascinating to hear how these icons helped shape his approach to songwriting—a mix of country rock, Americana, and personal storytelling that resonates with fans worldwide.


Writing Hits with Garth Brooks

One of the highlights of Kent’s career has been his collaboration with Garth Brooks. Together, they created timeless songs, including the award-winning "If Tomorrow Never Comes." Hearing Kent describe Garth’s journey from a humble demo singer to one of the most celebrated artists in country music was nothing short of magical.

Kent also touched on the chemistry needed among musicians and songwriters. He emphasized the synergy between band members or the energy that writer’s rooms provide. As he pointed out, the connection between bass players and drummers can make or break a live performance. It’s the little things that elevate good music to greatness.


Kent Blazy’s Songwriting Process in Nashville

Songwriting in Nashville is a world of its own, and Kent shared his experiences in navigating it. He’s spent countless hours in writer’s rooms on Music Row, where creative vibes are nurtured, and the unexpected opportunities seem endless. From brainstorming ideas to perfecting lyrics, the process is as much about persistence as it is about talent.

Kent reflected on the timeless importance of personal connections in the music industry. As he put it, “Nothing replaces being in the room with someone, feeding off each other’s energy.”


Episode Chapters In this Episode

Kent Blazy takes us through the key moments of his journey:

  • (00:00) Songwriting and Performing With Kent Blazy

  • (04:21) Writing with Garth Brooks

  • (11:10) Journey From Woodstock to Nashville

  • (15:54) Nashville Songwriting and Writer's Rooms

  • (22:51) Musical Journey From Canada to Nashville

  • (30:23) Country Rock and Songwriting Origins

  • (40:20) The Nashville Music Scene


Iconic Venues and Career Milestones

Kent’s journey is filled with iconic moments, from performing at the Ryman Auditorium to experiencing the magic of the Bluebird Café. He recounted his induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame—a recognition of his immense contributions to the craft. Moments like these serve as reminders of the hard work and passion that drive a songwriter’s career.

We also touched on the evolution of Nashville’s music scene. From its bustling days on Music Row to the modern country rock influences of artists like Ray Van Hoy and Bobby Braddock, Nashville remains a nurturing ground for creativity and innovation. Kent spoke fondly of his encounters with other legends, including Steve Dorff and Gary Morris, who have left indelible marks on the industry.


Lessons from a Life in Music

Throughout the conversation, one theme stood out: the importance of personal growth. Kent’s career is a testament to the power of perseverance and embracing unexpected opportunities. His stories of working with Garth Brooks and reflecting on the evolution of songwriting highlight the ever-changing nature of the industry. Yet, at its core, it’s all about connection—to the music, to other artists, and to the audience.

For anyone dreaming of making it in the music industry, Kent’s journey is proof that hard work, a little luck, and a lot of passion can take you far. Whether you’re inspired by his collaborations, his performances at iconic venues, or his insights into band chemistry, there’s something to take away from his story.


Closing Thoughts

Kent Blazy’s journey with Garth Brooks and songwriting is a masterclass in resilience and artistry. From Woodstock to the Ryman, his story is a testament to the power of music and the bonds it creates. If you haven’t already, check out this episode of Come and Pick It to hear more about Kent’s incredible career and his thoughts on the Nashville music scene. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it!


Listen and Watch

Kent Blazy's Journey with Garth Brooks and Songwriting

📺 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QN84wIlXA8s


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