In this episode of the Mostly Middle Tennessee Business Podcast, Jim McCarthy sits down with songwriter and artist Jared Rogers, nephew of Kenny Rogers, for a fast-moving, story-packed conversation. They dive into how AI is changing songwriting, why listeners will crave “imperfect” human music, what Jared learned directly from Kenny, and how artists can still stand out in a streaming, algorithm-driven world. Along the way, you’ll hear wild Vegas stories, faith and family moments, and a surprising Dolly Parton encounter at the studio.
Timed Highlights
0:00 James Taylor on the red carpet and the kindest people in music
3:29 Opening the show from Christian Brothers of Spring Hill Studios and Mule Town Bikes
7:45 Vegas radio, 9/11, and how a city pulls together in crisis
22:57 AI, songwriting, and the coming hunger for human imperfection
35:23 Kenny Rogers’ role in saving Jared’s life and shaping his career
47:38 Story songs, streaming, and why artists are getting crushed on payouts
59:16 Dolly Parton, signed guitars, and how true stars treat their fans
1:10:40 Guilty pleasures: 90s music, Twilight, and comfort B-movies
1:23:30 Marvel, DC, and why culture on a set (or in an office) really matters
1:32:00 Jared’s project “American Ville on the Road” and where to follow him