Podcast Summary: On the Bus with Troy Vollhoffer – Episode 5: Lindsay Ell
Release Date: July 26, 2021
Introduction
In Episode 5 of "On the Bus with Troy Vollhoffer," host Troy Vollhoffer engages in an in-depth conversation with renowned country artist Lindsay Ell. The episode delves into Lindsay's musical journey, her experiences navigating the music industry, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and her insights on the evolving landscape of country music both in North America and internationally.
Releasing a Sophomore Album Amidst a Pandemic
Lindsay Ell opens up about the challenges and triumphs of releasing her second album during the unprecedented times of 2020. With the onset of the global pandemic, Lindsay and her team had to pivot their plans to accommodate the changing circumstances.
Lindsay Ell (02:54): "I poured my heart and soul into this record. And as an artist, it is kind of heartbreaking to be like, we had so many cool things planned for this release and we... none of it could happen."
Despite initial setbacks, Lindsay emphasizes the importance of continuing to create and release art to provide solace and connection during turbulent times.
Lindsay Ell (04:05): "Releasing art is even so much more important this year because I think we need music and we need that extra thing to help us feel like there's so much going on in our world right now."
Innovative 24-Hour Livestream Event
Determined to make her album release impactful, Lindsay spearheaded a 24-hour livestream event that spanned multiple time zones, connecting with global audiences and featuring diverse guests.
Lindsay Ell (06:10): "We started the minute the record went live in Tonga... and I had guests in each time zone. It was a magical 24 hours."
The event garnered over 40 million impressions, showcasing the power of digital engagement and Lindsay's ability to adapt creatively in challenging times.
International Touring: Expanding Horizons in Europe and Australia
Lindsay shares her extensive experiences touring internationally, particularly in Europe and Australia. She highlights the distinct differences in audience engagement and the deep appreciation European fans have for her music.
Lindsay Ell (08:29): "Radio over there is a lot more artist-focused. It's a lot less single-focused. So over here in North America... over in Europe, I find a lot of fans because radio is a lot more about, like, they'll hear a song and then they'll go find out who that artist is."
Her first tour with the band Perry set the stage for her international success, with sold-out shows and passionate fan bases that actively engage with her entire discography.
Lindsay Ell (10:15): "I sold out my first show at the Borderline in London. The crowd knew my songs, and it was incredible to see them sing along."
In Australia, Lindsay experienced performing without backing tracks, allowing her to fully showcase her guitar skills and connect more authentically with the audience.
Lindsay Ell (13:44): "I can do anything. Because to tracks, your songs are like on this grid. And... I just felt I was so free."
The Future of Country Music and Global Expansion
Looking ahead, Lindsay expresses optimism about the future of country music, emphasizing its potential to reach and resonate with a broader, international audience. She notes the genre's versatility and its ability to blend with other musical styles, attracting new listeners.
Lindsay Ell (31:07): "I'm so excited about the future of country music because we've seen artists come into the format even in the past five years that have really excited, expanded the potential of what country music is."
She observes significant growth in countries like the UK and Australia, where country music is gaining traction and becoming a "cutting-edge, cool thing."
Lindsay Ell (32:00): "Streaming numbers for country music in the UK have doubled this year. It's incredible, watching them grow so fast."
Journey to Nashville and Early Career
Lindsay recounts her early passion for music, influenced by her family's musical background and mentorship from Randy Bachman of Bachman-Turner Overdrive. Her dedication led her to pursue a career in music, culminating in her move to Nashville at 20 years old.
Lindsay Ell (17:48): "Randy opened up my brain to a whole new vocabulary. In my teens... I just dove into that world."
Despite initial challenges, including balancing school and supporting herself financially, Lindsay's perseverance paid off when she secured her first record deal with Broken Bow Records.
Lindsay Ell (23:01): "Benny Brown was the head of Broken Bow at the time and... they signed me."
She credits key figures like Alan Reed for advising her to delay signing her first deal, ultimately leading her to greater success in the U.S. market.
Lindsay Ell (16:51): "Alan said, 'You shouldn't sign this deal because you are so young and you have the rest of your career ahead of you... find out who you are.'"
Challenges for Canadian Artists in the U.S. Market
The conversation addresses the broader issue of Canadian artists struggling to secure and benefit from U.S. record deals. Lindsay reflects on her own experience as a Canadian navigating the American music industry, highlighting the importance of strategic partnerships and adaptability.
Lindsay Ell (24:18): "I ended up working with Warren because he was the Canadian side of our team. So at the end of the day, I ended up working with the same people. I just kind of did it a different way."
Troy Vollhoffer concurs, emphasizing the systemic challenges Canadian artists face when attempting to break into the U.S. market, despite their international success.
Behind the Scenes: The Unsung Heroes of Show Business
Lindsay sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of crew members in the music industry. She underscores the vital roles played by everyone behind the scenes, from truck drivers to sound engineers, and the profound impact the pandemic has had on their livelihoods.
Lindsay Ell (28:44): "Every single show you put on, you have like an incredible and enormous team doing so much to help keep greasing the wheels and making them work."
The discussion highlights the resilience and adaptability of her band and crew, who have ventured into alternative jobs to sustain themselves during downtime.
Personal Stories and Connections
The episode takes a heartfelt turn as Lindsay shares personal anecdotes, including her first concert experience with Metallica, her familial musical heritage, and the deep bond with Troy, rooted in shared Canadian backgrounds and mutual respect.
Lindsay Ell (28:48): "Metallica was my first concert... It was just like, wow, the depth of what goes into their shows is just incredible."
Lindsay honors her late grandfather, a pivotal figure in her musical upbringing, and expresses gratitude for Troy's thoughtful gesture of framing his business card, a poignant reminder of her roots.
Lindsay Ell (35:34): "I lost my grandpa a few years ago, and so this means so much to me. It's good to sit in my studio. Thank you so much."
Closing Thoughts and Future Prospects
As the conversation winds down, Troy commends Lindsay on her artistry and the positive trajectory of her career. He encourages listeners to support her upcoming performances, predicting even greater achievements in the near future.
Troy Volhofer (39:35): "Your career is definitely on the trajectory of monster strides... your creativity is off the charts."
Lindsay reciprocates the admiration, expressing gratitude for the supportive and collaborative environment Troy fosters within the country music community.
Lindsay Ell (40:37): "Thank you for being my friend. Thank you for being able to create such incredible stages that as an artist... it's just truly special."
Conclusion
Episode 5 of "On the Bus with Troy Vollhoffer" offers a comprehensive and intimate glimpse into Lindsay Ell's journey as a country music artist. Through candid discussions and personal stories, listeners gain valuable insights into the resilience required to thrive in the music industry, the importance of international markets, and the enduring power of music to unite and inspire.
Notable Quotes:
- Lindsay Ell (02:54): "Releasing art is even so much more important this year because I think we need music..."
- Lindsay Ell (17:48): "Randy opened up my brain to a whole new vocabulary."
- Lindsay Ell (28:44): "Every single show you put on, you have like an incredible and enormous team..."
- Troy Volhofer (39:35): "Your career is definitely on the trajectory of monster strides..."
This episode serves as both an inspiration and a testament to Lindsay Ell's dedication to her craft, her genuine connection with fans, and her unwavering commitment to expanding the horizons of country music on a global scale.