← Takin' A Walk - Music History with Buzz Knight
Takin' A Walk - Music History with Buzz Knight
The War and Treaty Interview: Michael and Tanya Trotter on Military Service, Marriage and Making Music History in Nashville
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- [00:01]
Buzz Knight
Taking a Walk hi, I'm Buzz Knight and welcome back to another highlight from our Top 5 of 2025 countdown here on the Taking a Walk podcast, a look at music history now coming in at number three. This episode ran in early February and it's an absolutely unforgettable conversation with Michael and Tanya Trotter of the Warren Treaty. This episode captured lightning in a bottle as we explored the remarkable journey of this husband and wife duo who've been redefining Americana music with their powerful blend of soul, gospel and roots music. From Michael's experiences as an army veteran to their breakthrough performances that have captivated audiences from the grand old Opry to NPR's tiny desk, the War and Treaty story is one of resilience, love and the transformative power of music. Their Grammy nominations and collaborations with icons like Brandi Carlisle have cemented their place as one of the most compelling acts in contemporary music. It's number three on the top five of 2025, the War and Treaty. Coming up next on Taking a Walk.
- [01:18]
Commercial Announcer
This is an iHeart podcast.
- [01:20]
Buzz Knight
Guaranteed Human this episode of Taking a Walk is brought to you by Chase Sapphire Reserve. Whether I'm booking my next vacation or going to a concert, Chase Sapphire Reserve is my gateway to the world's most captivating destinations. When I use my Chase Sapphire Reserve card, I get eight times points on all the purchases I make through Chase Travel and even access to one of a kind experiences like music festivals and sports events. And that's not even mentioning how the card gets me into the Sapphire Lounge by the Club at select airports nationwide. No matter where I'm walking, travel is more rewarding with Chase Sapphire Reserve. Discover more@chase.com Sapphire Reserve cards issued by JP Morgan Chase Bank, NA member FDIC subject to credit approval terms apply.
- [02:16]
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- [02:56]
Podcast Host/Announcer
Comes from Public, the investing platform for those who take it seriously on public you can build a multi asset portfolio of stocks, bonds, options, crypto and now generated assets which allow you to turn any idea into an investable index with AI. It all starts with your prompt. From renewable energy companies with high free cash flow to semiconductor suppliers growing revenue over 20% year over year, you can liter type any prompt and put the AI to work. It screens thousands of stocks, builds a one of a kind index and lets you back test it against the S&P 500. Then you can invest in a few clicks. Generated assets are like ETFs with infinite possibilities, completely customizable and based on your thesis, not someone else's. Go to public.com podcast and earn an uncapped 1% bonus when you transfer your portfolio. That's public.com podcast paid for by Public Investing Brokerage Services by Open to the Public Investing Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC Advisory Services by Public Advisors llc. SEC Registered Advisor. Generated Assets is an interactive analysis tool. Output is for informational purposes only and is not an investment recommendation or advice. Complete Disclosures available at public.comdisclosures I have.
- [03:56]
Chelsea Handler
Some very exciting news. I am always looking for companies to support that are ethical. And let's be honest, the phone companies we've all been stuck with are not that this is Chelsea Handler from Dear Chelsea. You know I travel constantly and supposedly I have international free roaming on Verizon. Yet my phone bills are still 300, 400 and even $500 a month. It makes zero sense. So I switched to a company with actual ethics, Noble Mobile, and they pay you for staying off your phone. The more you unplug, the more money you save each month and the most you'll Ever pay is 50 bucks Unlimited coverage when I need it, cash back when I don't. It was started by people I know and trust, so if you trust me and want to join my mission to stop being a phone addicted zombie, come along. Go to noblemobile.com Chelsea right now and try it for just 10 bucks. That's noblemobile.com Chelsea making the holidays magical.
- [04:51]
Commercial Announcer
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- [05:21]
Podcast Host/Announcer
Taking a Walk.
- [05:22]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Well, it's so great having you guys on the Taking a Walk podcast. I really appreciate it since it's called Taking a Walk. First of all, who, living or dead? Musician preferred, but not mandatory. Would either one of you or both of you like to take a walk with, and where would that be?
- [05:44]
Tanya Trotter
I used to take walks with my mom all the time, and she passed 10 years ago. This year makes 10 years. I'd like to take another walk with her.
- [05:51]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
That's nice.
- [05:52]
Tanya Trotter
Yeah.
- [05:53]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Musician I like to walk with is Mr. Nat King Cole.
- [06:01]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
That's a good one. Yeah. Where would you go with Nat? Where would you walk with him?
- [06:06]
Michael Trotter Jr.
I walk with Nat up the Sunset Boulevard or I'll take a walk with him on Route 66.
- [06:15]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Oh, I like that. That's good. That's a good one. Congrats on the new album plus one, and a tour that's going to take you into historic venues all over the place. We'll talk more in detail about that. But I want to ask you, can you. If I was a space alien and didn't know who the war and treaty is and had never heard you, how would you describe the war and treaty to me? The space alien?
- [06:49]
Michael Trotter Jr.
I'm sorry, I have very little common sense, but, Tanya, you want to go first or you want to take it?
- [06:56]
Tanya Trotter
I would. I would tell the space alien that we have a lot in common. You know, it's kind of hard to, you know, you've heard it before, you probably haven't seen it before. But we are a mixture. If the alien like music of all the things that it would like about music, every genre of music we love, and somehow musically are able to tell the story with all those sounds without it being complicated or, I believe, compromising what each genre means.
- [07:31]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
I mean, I think the Warren Treaty represents some folk, some Americana, some country, some soul. I was trying to describe you guys to someone that I was turning them on to you, and I said, imagine the staples singers in 2025. How would you guys feel about that?
- [07:53]
Mandy Woodruff Santos
Honored.
- [07:54]
Tanya Trotter
Completely honored.
- [07:57]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Michael, I want to talk about your service to your country. And there's a charity that is local in Boston, but it's national, called Home Base. It's a venture with the Mass General and the Boston Red Sox, and they do important work, obviously, with the veterans community. But first of all, if someone is a veteran and listening and struggling, would you talk to them about how important it is to seek out places such as Home Base for help?
- [08:30]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Yeah. Veterans Community is a very unique community, and it's Very hard to find organizations you can trust that would understand what a veteran is going through. So anytime we hear of organizations like Home Base who just get it, I like to go ahead and tell that veteran to go on and trust them, let them in. But for all the veterans out there that are listening, it's very important to remember that you have battle buddies. You aren't the only veteran. You aren't the first veteran. You won't be the last. There are veterans out there who have been through what you've been through. They've rucked in your combat boots. They know what it is to take off and put on that uniform, and they know what you feel. So reach out to your buddies so that you can feel a sense of belonging again.
- [09:27]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
And, Tanya, as someone who has lived with the love of your life, struggling at certain points, talk about how you had that, you know, profound help and influence there to have your love, you know, seek help when he needed it.
- [09:48]
Tanya Trotter
I think, you know, what I would say to the person that is the caretaker is to be compassionate, you know, really lead with empathy. And you may not be able to completely understand what they're going through, but I think when you lead with compassion and empathy and you're listening and not trying to respond or make it better, it's just a safe place for your loved one to be able to express themselves and let out those feelings. And that's where I would start, is just telling them, just be a safe place to listen.
- [10:25]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
I produce this other podcast. It's hosted by Lynn Hoffman. It's called Music Saved Me. It's about the power of music, the healing power of music. And I think I know the answer to the question I'm going to ask you and how you feel, but either one of you jump in on this, or both of you, do you feel music has healing power?
- [10:46]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Absolutely. Absolutely. Music is the voice of God in my life. I love music. And music hasn't failed me when it comes to getting the message of healing across. So, yes, I do.
- [11:04]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
I think you agree, Tanya.
- [11:07]
Tanya Trotter
Oh, yeah, definitely. It's a soothing balm, you know, and it has always been since I was a little girl.
- [11:14]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Can you guys talk about some music, specifically, either artists or songs that have really impacted you over your life that, you know, whether it was a difficult time or just in general, have. Have lifted you up?
- [11:31]
Michael Trotter Jr.
I would say simply Beautiful by Al Green.
- [11:36]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Lifts.
- [11:36]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Lifts me up pretty good there, especially when I'm with my lady here.
- [11:43]
Tanya Trotter
That was a song I used to sing, I guess, since I was like, maybe Seven or eight. And I sang it all through high school, and everything must change. You actually sing that song, and I believe it was Johnny Hathaway, that saying that everything has changed. Nothing stays the same. Everyone must change. Nothing stays the same. There are not many things in life right there. I love that song. Yes. Yeah. That's one of my favorite songs, Michael.
- [12:17]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
That's good enough. I was here melting in my. In my chair of the beauty of it. Can you see that? The smile on my face here?
- [12:25]
Tanya Trotter
It's like, he messed up your smile.
- [12:27]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
But.
- [12:27]
Michael Trotter Jr.
But the thing is, bu. Much conversation in with you at 30 minutes will allow. So.
- [12:35]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
That was a magical moment for our listeners.
- [12:38]
Tanya Trotter
And certainly Michael messed up the magic.
- [12:40]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Well, they can come see us live.
- [12:42]
Tanya Trotter
Oh, God. He's.
- [12:47]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Oh, that was wonderful. I saw you guys. I was mentioning this before we started. I saw you bring down the house at the Ryman a couple of years ago. It was at the UMG country radio seminar luncheon. You just knocked everybody out. That's when I said, I have to get these guys on the podcast. And tell me, though, describe to us, both of you, what's it like? Because you're doing this all the time. It's a regular occurrence. What's it like bringing a house down? What's that feeling like?
- [13:25]
Tanya Trotter
I don't. I mean, every time it happens, it just takes my breath away because you just don't know that it's going to happen. You know, people are just sitting there, they're watching, and you don't know what that final response is going to be. And so when it happens, it really sweeps you off your feet, and it's a reminder that it's so much bigger than you. Every single time it happens, you're like, there's something.
- [13:45]
Buzz Knight
There's a.
- [13:46]
Tanya Trotter
There's a God. It's a force that's magically connecting all these hearts at the same time from what's coming out of your mouth. And they're erupting and they are feeling it all at the same time, you know, so it's a spiritual experience. I have to. That's my only way to describe it.
- [14:05]
Podcast Host/Announcer
Yeah.
- [14:06]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Buzz, I pray that we never become jaded. I pray that it's an earnest prayer of mine that we never take for granted. The opportunity to touch an audience, whether there be audience of fans or an audience of professionals such as yourself, who has heard it all and seen it all. I want to give my all. I want to give my best. I want my wife to give her all her best. I want to show what we've been working so hard to craft for the people that we took great pride in our work. So when we do that and we see this kind of reaction is humbling for us.
- [14:47]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Let's talk about new music, the album plus one, and a tour also, that's going to take you to some pretty amazing places all across the country. The Troubadour, I think, is one of the places. And Irving Plaza in New York and some other places. Let's talk about some songs in particular that I love. And then I'm sure we're going to go through every song probably, but we'll talk about the ones that I left out or you love as well. First of all, the song carried away. That is so amazing. Talk to me about that song and why for you, it's special.
- [15:30]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Well, carried away. I'm so happy, Buzz, that you acknowledged Carried away. It's our journey musically. Definitely. I think that we start off with our love for country music. You can hear it, the opening of the song. It's like Hank Williams band just stepped on the scene and has that good old country waltz. And you're walking with me. And be careful what you're asking me. We're doing all the things. And then we get to the intentional switch to r B. And I would say things like, man, it's like d' Angelo, the R B artist, or Joe walked out or, you know, and just started singing in the middle of Hank Williams song. But what I'm. What I will say is this. I believe country music would sound like this today. If Kenny Rogers was still living and he produced a record on himself. He want that intentionality to be present, and that's what Carried away is.
- [16:43]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
I think there's a sense of elegance to it as well.
- [16:46]
Tanya Trotter
Thank you. Thank you so much, Wes.
- [16:51]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
And then there's the song save me, which, you know, as we were talking about healing and redemption. But talk about that song.
- [17:01]
Tanya Trotter
Yeah, I mean, you know, it's interesting because you don't hear people say things like, this person saved me, you know, And I think it's okay. I think it's okay to have those moments when you want to be saved or you have been saved. You know, I think that's really what's missing a lot of times in love, you know, in love stories is the. I'm a. I like to be a romantic. I think it's a great, hopeless. Hopeless romantic when you, you know, approach a relationship from that. That way or a friendship from that way. You know, everybody in a. In their own way. Wants to be saved from something, you know, if you're. If I'm on a. I'm on a health craze and I'm about to shove three donuts in my mouth. I'm hoping Michael would save me from.
- [17:54]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Don't.
- [17:55]
Tanya Trotter
Save me from doing it. From doing that.
- [17:58]
Michael Trotter Jr.
You know, let me go down with it.
- [18:00]
Tanya Trotter
I'm having my goal and, you know, but with our love and with our.
- [18:03]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Let me feel donuts, Boston greens.
- [18:07]
Tanya Trotter
We gotta stay focused. You can't.
- [18:08]
Michael Trotter Jr.
You're messing up Jelly donuts.
- [18:10]
Tanya Trotter
He's messing up the magic.
- [18:11]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Please.
- [18:12]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Donuts.
- [18:13]
Tanya Trotter
I would wanna be. I mean, in our relationship, we kind of. Not kind of. We did save each other, you know, I was kind of done with music and didn't want to really keep going on, you know, when my mom passed and Michael saved me from making the biggest mistake of my life, you know, And I remember not saying that. I kind of didn't believe in love anymore, but I didn't have the hope that I would actually have this kind of love. And he saved me from my negative thinking, you know, and that I would. And now I'm in love with the love of my life. And we are traveling the world doing what we love to do and allowing people to share in, you know, our love experience. And in some way, the audience and Michael and I, we save each other. You know, when we having a bad day and we get on the stage and that audience is giving us that love that we need to receive, or if they're having a bad day and we're on stage and we're singing and we're giving them what they need, we save each other in those moments, you know.
- [19:15]
Podcast Host/Announcer
We'll be right back with more of the Taking a Walk podcast.
- [19:20]
Buzz Knight
This episode of Taking a Walk is brought to you by Chase Sapphire Reserve. Whether I'm booking my next vacation or going to a concert, Chase Sapphire Reserve is my gateway to the world's most captivating destinations. Travel is one of the most precious things in my life and the memories of each of the experiences of live on forever. Chase Sapphire Reserve allows me to travel with ease with a $300 travel credit and access to a curated collection of hotels through the edit. So no matter where I'm walking, travel is more rewarding with Chase Sapphire Reserve. Discover more with Chase sapphire reserve@chase.com Sapphire Reserve cards issued by JP Morgan Chase Bank NA member FDIC subject to credit approval terms apply.
- [20:13]
Mandy Woodruff Santos
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- [21:04]
Podcast Host/Announcer
Support for the show comes from Public, the investing platform for those who take it seriously. On Public you can build a multi asset portfolio of stocks, bonds, options, crypto and now generated assets which allow you to turn any idea into an investable index. With AI. It all starts with your prompt. From renewable energy companies with high free cash flow to semiconductor suppliers growing revenue over 20% year over year, you can literally type any prompt and put the AI to work. It screens thousands of stocks, builds a one of a kind index and lets you back test it against the S&P 500. Then you can invest in a few clicks. Generated assets are like ETFs with infinite possibilities, completely customizable and based on your thesis, not someone else's. Go to public.com podcast and earn an uncapped 1% bonus when you transfer your portfolio. That's public.com podcast paid for by Public Investing Brokerage Services by Open to the Public Investing Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC Advisory Services by Public Advisors llc, SEC Registered Advisor. Generated Assets is an interactive analysis tool. Output is for informational purposes only and is not an investment recommendation or advice. Complete disclosures available at public.com disclosures hey audiobook lovers. This week on the podcast I'm sitting down with musician, producer and walking insight encyclopedia Questlove. We're talking about Mark Ronson's memoir Night how to be a DJ in 90s New York City. All right, like we talked about before, Mark Ronson found sanctuary in the DJ booth. What's a tool or piece of equipment in the studio or on stage that gives you the most control?
- [22:29]
Michael Trotter Jr.
So I have two microphones on stage. We have the microphone that you hear as the audience. Then we have a second microphone in which we communicate with each other. I feel like that second microphone kind of saved all of our friendships. No band likes each other after 20 years or 25 years. The Beatles broke up in seven and a half years and we're going on 35.
- [22:54]
Podcast Host/Announcer
Listen to earsay the Audible and iHeart Audiobook Club on the iHeartradio app or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [23:07]
Chelsea Handler
I have some very exciting news. I am always looking for companies to support that are ethical. And let's be honest, the phone companies we've all been stuck with are not that. This is Chelsea Handler from Dear Chelsea. You know, I travel constantly and supposedly I have international free roaming on Verizon, yet my phone bills are still 300, 400, and even $500 a month. It makes zero sense. So I switched to a company with actual ethics, Noble Mobile. And they pay you for staying off your phone. The more you unplug, the more money you save each month. And the most you'll ever pay is 50 bucks. Unlimited coverage when I need it, cash back when I don't. It was started by people I know and trust. So if you trust me and want to join my mission to stop being a phone addicted zombie, come along. Go to noblemobile.com Chelsea right now and try it for just 10 bucks. That's noblemobile.com Chelsea.
- [24:04]
Podcast Host/Announcer
Welcome back to the Taking a Walk podcast.
- [24:07]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Talk about a special song. In Skyscraper, you talk about collaboration, the beauty of collaboration, not only with you two, but some family members. Why don't you talk about that?
- [24:21]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Well, I had our baby daughter join us on that song Skyscraper and singing the choir. So it was my baby daughter and then my mom, my sweet mother Debbie, my baby daughter Courtney. They joined and sang with us on the backgrounds. And Skyscraper is a very personal journey. It's very, it's quite telling about my frustrations with weight and how I tied it directly to my, my self esteem. But now I'm letting go and now I'm, I'm dropping the weight and I'm, I'm going for it and realizing that skyscrapers don't get beautiful overnight. There's a process there and that's what the psalm is talking about.
- [25:11]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
It sounds like you might have studied a little bit of the how the mind works. Michael, is that true?
- [25:17]
Michael Trotter Jr.
I think so.
- [25:19]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
The mind and the heart works. I think that's maybe a better way to approach it.
- [25:24]
Michael Trotter Jr.
There you have it.
- [25:27]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Another one I like is Teardrops.
- [25:31]
Tanya Trotter
Oh yes, that was.
- [25:34]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
That's a sweet one.
- [25:35]
Michael Trotter Jr.
I love the fact that Tanya is so. I can't wait for you to see the video to this one. And all our videos are. Are. It's just tying myself. We're focusing on really honing in on this love story so that people can really get it. But Teardrops in the rain is really dealing with our own insecurities in this relationship, you know, and how it's been a beautiful journey to share my doubts. Like, sometimes I feel you don't love me. I feel that you don't love me as much as the last guy because you're more tolerant. Or sometimes you don't feel that you. That I love you as much as the last girl. You know, this conversation is so beautiful. And we're like, does any of this matter, or is it just like a teardrop in the rain? You know? And it's a necessary moment in the album.
- [26:36]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
It's beautiful. It really is. And then the other one I want to single out is your collaboration with this. This Billy Strings guy. I think I've heard of little fellow there.
- [26:47]
Tanya Trotter
Oh, yeah, Phenom.
- [26:50]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Oh, man.
- [26:51]
Tanya Trotter
Yeah.
- [26:53]
Michael Trotter Jr.
I remember him me giving him the song. He sent it home. He's like, man, what's. What is that chord, man?
- [27:00]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Is that.
- [27:01]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Is that a diminished seventh? And he's like, you know, these kind of dark chords aren't in bluegrass. And I'm like, billy, if there's going to be anyone that can bend the rules, you. You're a rule breaker. But the song is just talking about the moments where I was thirsting for something, Tanya was thirsting for something, and we found out that the. The drink was inside of each other. We drank from one another and from each other's well, and our thirst was cleansed, quenched. This is a. This is poetry in the making. And we love the fact that it has this bluegrass gospel backbeat charge as well as in. In our earlier song we had released called. Called you by your name, which is a scripture. In Isaiah 43:10, he says, I, you are my witness. I called you by your name because you are mine. Even in that scripture, he goes on, God says, I've traded men for you, countries for you. You know, I gave up this one just to keep you. And it's just a beautiful love poem from the creator to us. And so called you by her name is. That's what we. We talk about. You know, even in this verse, Titan says she opens up with, there's a lily in the valley. There's a bright and morning star. You know, we may never even see it, but you can definitely feel it. And, yeah, it's beautiful.
- [28:39]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
And the whole album Is. Is beautiful. Can. Can you take us inside that studio in Muscle Shoals? What was that experience like? Give us a. An inside look at how creators like you make all the. The beautiful magic happen.
- [28:58]
Tanya Trotter
What I loved about being at the studio fame is the freedom that you feel when you walk into a room and you know that someone that you look up to, you marvel at. You're Aretha Franklin, you know, Etta James, or, you know, all those musicians, Wilson Pickett, that walk through these doors, they were at the highest level of what, you know, they could give us as artists. Yeah. It puts you in a place where you have an expectation to meet, you know, and you have to suspend all logic when you go into that because there's an expectation.
- [29:36]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Yeah.
- [29:36]
Tanya Trotter
So you don't bring any. Anything but your heart, your soul, and you allow your mind and you allow the spirit of that place to take over. And that's kind of what I did. Because there were days where I think we did a. A day we were kind of sick and we couldn't really hit the notes the way we wanted to. But then we. When you go back and you listen to those records and you allow that spirit to take over, that's exactly what you want, is the rawness on some of these songs.
- [30:01]
Michael Trotter Jr.
I interject here to tell you this about Tanya. Now, Tanya was very sick in Teardrops in the Rain. And a good part about being the producer, me, Michael Trout Jr. And Good and bad part is that was one take. Her vocal performance was one take while she was sick. And that is one of the songs she wanted to go back in and re record. And I said, no. I said, absolutely not.
- [30:32]
Tanya Trotter
I was like, what?
- [30:33]
Michael Trotter Jr.
You're keeping that take. There's something beautiful about the rawness of your vocal cord, the pure honesty. You weren't relying on skill, you were relying strictly on feel.
- [30:45]
Tanya Trotter
And you were sick, too. Not that one, not that song. But you were.
- [30:51]
Michael Trotter Jr.
All my six songs never made it to track.
- [30:54]
Tanya Trotter
Look at that. How convenient.
- [30:58]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Of being the boss.
- [31:00]
Tanya Trotter
Well, you have two bosses.
- [31:01]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Well, not when I'm the producer.
- [31:03]
Tanya Trotter
I'm the co producer. You see how we got the.
- [31:06]
Michael Trotter Jr.
You are listed as the co producer on this one, Ms. Ma'.
- [31:09]
Tanya Trotter
Am. That's all right. Oh, yes, they all know.
- [31:13]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
See, our. Our audience is getting a glimpse into where the name the Warren Treaty came from.
- [31:20]
Michael Trotter Jr.
See, and that's why you're Buzz Knight.
- [31:22]
Tanya Trotter
That's right. It comes from that. We. We go back and forth, in and out. There's always war brewing inside of.
- [31:30]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Yep.
- [31:30]
Tanya Trotter
And inside. And there's always peace on the other side.
- [31:34]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
So back to the studio for a second, though. How much humor goes on while you're in the middle of your process of creation? I think a little. I'm guessing a lot.
- [31:44]
Michael Trotter Jr.
A lot. A lot of you. You know, Tanya is.
- [31:49]
Tanya Trotter
Michael is very. He is a commander in chief in the studio. I've told him he has to let up in the studio.
- [31:57]
Michael Trotter Jr.
But you should say how much humor, though, right?
- [31:59]
Tanya Trotter
He lightens up a lot.
- [32:01]
Podcast Host/Announcer
He's.
- [32:01]
Tanya Trotter
He is learning to lighten up. He's very funny. If you ever just experience him away from music, he's hilarious. So he's learning to bring that into the studio experience now because it's so. It's a lot of weight on you, you know, as a producer to be able to, you know, produce a product, especially with us being now with a major label that is going to present itself the way you want it to, you know, So I understand that it's serious as well, you know, for him. But he's very funny, and we've learned to make light of it. Yes. An album, and it's serious, but we're having a good time. And this is our 9 to 5. You know, a lot of people wish they could do it, so.
- [32:44]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Yeah, but this is who you are. I mean, I will confess, too, haven't told anybody this because I was alone. I then was leaving the ryman at that event that I mentioned. So I happened to see these two stars off behind the barrier walking out named the Warren Treaty, and you were both busting on each other. You were not in the middle of anything other than being yourself. So I think one of the things besides your amazing talent and music that connects you, I feel, with people, is this is who you are. This is your reality, your real thing.
- [33:27]
Tanya Trotter
Yeah. Yeah, it is the real thing.
- [33:33]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Ain't nothing like the real thing, baby.
- [33:35]
Tanya Trotter
It makes people uncomfortable, though, because when they see, you know, a couple going back and forth, they're like, what's happening here? You know, our music director at the time, he's our production manager now, Max Brown. He's like. Now he just. He just looks back and forth. He's like, I'm not in it. I'm not in it. I'm staying out of it, you know, so it's so funny. But we have a good time together.
- [33:54]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Wait a minute. Cutting jokes?
- [33:55]
Tanya Trotter
Yeah, we cut jokes with each other all the time.
- [33:57]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Yeah. I think it's the secret to that. You've been married 15 years, is that right?
- [34:03]
Tanya Trotter
Yeah.
- [34:03]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Wow, Man, Buzz, you got It. You got it going on, brother.
- [34:06]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
I think it's the secret to another 15 or 30 or however, as someone, by the way, who just celebrated his 40th, so.
- [34:17]
Tanya Trotter
Wow, that's amazing.
- [34:19]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Show off.
- [34:20]
Tanya Trotter
Congratulations.
- [34:21]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
And as you could tell, I'm only 52. So how did that happen?
- [34:25]
Tanya Trotter
It. Yeah.
- [34:26]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Hey, don't put it past. I've seen some people get married pretty young.
- [34:31]
Buzz Knight
Yeah.
- [34:31]
Tanya Trotter
So what's the secret? What's your secret? Give us. Give us a secret.
- [34:34]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Honestly, sense of humor is. Is a major part of it. Just being able to really through. Through good and bad, be consistent with that, you know?
- [34:43]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Oh, man, that's awesome. What? Awesome.
- [34:45]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Yeah, because it's easy when it's good to laugh and. And have that, but when it's, you know, times are tough, which everybody goes through. What am I, Dr. Joyce brothers? Listen to me. What's going on here? Suddenly I've gone off course.
- [35:01]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Snap me out of it.
- [35:02]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Snap me out of it, would you, please? I want to close with who you want to collaborate with in the future. That would be on the dream list. I've heard some rumors about this, but I wanted to hear it straight from both of you.
- [35:18]
Tanya Trotter
We were just talking about this yesterday. Chris Stapleton and Morgan Stapleton, we're calling them out. Who do you say? Michael.
- [35:26]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Who do I say? Michael. Okay, I'm throw. I'm going to throw. Well, I'm going to bend the rules a little. I'm going to give you current, but I'm also going to give you pass. If I could have collaborated with anyone in the past, I would have loved to have done something with Ray Charles. If I can collaborate with anyone other than the Stapletons moving forward. It's so weird. Josh Groban was on my list, and now that we've done it, I want to do it again and again and again. Michael Buble is somebody I would love to have a chance to sing with. Collaborate with Mumford and Sons, good buddies of ours. Yeah. Brandi Carlisle.
- [36:23]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Oh, there you go. Well, that showcases. That list. Showcases the diversity and genre bending. I love saying that. Genre bending. Genre bending nature of you guys. Guys. But I just have to say, my God, this. This is one of those moments where I sit and go, man, am I lucky doing this podcast and making this happen with the great the War and Treaty. Michael and Tanya, thank you so much.
- [36:53]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Thank you, Buzz.
- [36:54]
Tanya Trotter
We appreciate it so much for you taking the time to be with us.
- [36:57]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
I really appreciate it. Congratulations on the new music and thank you for all that. You can continue to give us and you're going to be giving us for many years to come.
- [37:09]
Podcast Host/Announcer
Thanks for listening to this episode of the Taking a Walk podcast. Share this and other episodes with your friends and follow us so you never miss an episode. Taking a Walk is available on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts.
- [37:27]
Buzz Knight
This episode of Taking a Walk is brought to you by Chase Sapphire Reserve. Whether I'm booking my next vacation or going to a concert, Chase Sapphire Reserve is my gateway to the world's most captivating destinations. When I use my Chase Sapphire Reserve card, I get eight times points on all the purchases I make through Chase Travel and even access to one of a kind experiences like music festivals and sports events. And that's not even mentioning how the card gets me into the Sapphire Lounge, but by the club at select airports nationwide. No matter where I'm walking, travel is more rewarding with Chase Sapphire Reserve. Discover more@chase.com Sapphire Reserve cards issued by JP Morgan, Chase Bank, NA Member, FDIC subject to credit approval terms apply okay.
- [38:23]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Only 10 more presents to wrap. You're almost at the finish line. But first, There the last one.
- [38:45]
Commercial Announcer
Enjoy a Coca Cola for a pause that refreshes. If you're an H Vac technician and a call comes in, Grainger knows that you need a partner that helps you find the right product fast and hassle free. And you know that when the first problem of the day is a clanking blower motor, there's no need to break a sweat. With Grainger's easy to use website and product details, you're confident you'll soon have everything humming right along. Call 1-800-GRAINGER clickgrainger.com or just stop by Grainger for the ones who get it done.
- [39:23]
Podcast Host/Announcer
Janice Torres here and I'm Austin Hankwitz. We host the podcast Mind the Small Business Success Stories, produced by Ruby Studio in partnership with Intuit QuickBooks.
- [39:33]
Commercial Announcer
We're back for season four to talk to some incredible small business owners.
- [39:37]
Podcast Host/Announcer
The big thing about working at tech is that it's ever evolving, ever changing.
- [39:40]
Tanya Trotter
Everyone's a rookie. That's how fast the industry is changing.
- [39:43]
Podcast Host/Announcer
So what I'm really excited about is to be part of that change. So listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [39:52]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
This is Julian Edelman from Dudes on Dudes with Gronk and Jules. Sunday mornings I've got my game day ritual coffee, lucky socks, and now new morning uncrustable sandwiches.
- [40:05]
Podcast Host/Announcer
It's all about that 12 gram protein boost with the new Uncrustables Bright Eyed Berry or Up and Apple flavors.
- [40:14]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Bright Eye Berries got a feisty receiver energy up an apple.
- [40:20]
Podcast Host/Announcer
Your classic Do It All Tight end.
- [40:23]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Soft, pillowy, packed with protein and easy enough for Gronk to grab from the freezer.
- [40:30]
Michael Trotter Jr.
Whether you're on the couch, driving to.
- [40:33]
Podcast Host/Announcer
The tailgate or heading to the locker room, New Morning Uncrustable Sandwiches are the MVP of snacks.
- [40:43]
Buzz Knight (Interviewer)
Your new Sunday kickoff ritual starts here with New Morning Uncrustable sandwiches. Packed with 12 grams of protein, this.
- [40:53]
Commercial Announcer
Is an I heart podcast. Guaranteed human.