What gives your creativity purpose? In this deeply personal conversation, host Chris Keaton welcomes acclaimed Nashville hit songwriter Tommy Lee James to share wisdom from his decades-long career crafting songs for major artists.

The two forge an immediate connection over their shared Roanoke Valley roots before diving into Tommy's fascinating journey from middle school songwriter to Nashville success story. With refreshing candor, Tommy reveals how four years playing piano bars in DC taught him the bones of songwriting, mastering hundreds of songs before making the leap to Music City with dreams of becoming a professional songwriter.

Tommy doesn't sugarcoat the Nashville experience, describing his humbling first years where, despite thinking he was "good enough," he quickly realized how much he had to learn. His persistence eventually paid off with a publishing deal at Reba McEntire's company, though at just $75 weekly, it was passion rather than paycheck driving him forward.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Tommy illuminates the dramatic evolution of the songwriting industry. From the days when writers could comfortably make a living crafting album cuts to today's streaming-dominated landscape where "pure songwriters are a dying breed," his perspective offers rare insight into how dramatically the business has transformed.

Most poignantly, Tommy shares about his recent foray into releasing solo music for the first time, inspired by his wife's encouragement during a challenging personal period. Rather than following Nashville formulas, these songs represent his true musical influences and allow him to explore more personal themes.

The most powerful moment comes when Tommy recounts his elderly father's aircraft building hobby, continuing to put "one rivet in a wing every day" despite declining health, because without this purpose, "why would I want to get up?" It's a philosophy that's shaped Tommy's approach to creativity and serves as inspiration for anyone pursuing their passion at any age.

What small, daily creative action keeps your purpose alive? Listen now and discover why Tommy believes he's a better songwriter today than ever before.