The Bobby Bones Show - Episode #517 Summary
Title: John Morgan on His Uber Driver Leading Him to Meet & Sing with Jason Aldean + Why He Drove a Trailer to Bobby's House + How He Discovered The Secret to Songwriting + Touring Playing Bluegrass at 11 Years Old
Release Date: June 13, 2025
Introduction
In Episode #517 of The Bobby Bones Show, host Bobby Bones sits down with songwriter and artist John Morgan to delve into John's remarkable journey in the music industry. From humble beginnings mowing lawns to penning multiple number-one hits for big names like Jason Aldean, John shares insightful stories about his career, collaborations, and the unexpected twists that led him to success.
Meeting Jason Aldean: A Serendipitous Encounter
Timestamp: [00:00]
John Morgan recounts an unexpected twist in his career trajectory when an Uber driver, who had connections with Jason Aldean's bandmates, facilitated his introduction to the country superstar.
John Morgan ([00:00]): "This is an iHeart podcast. I sing the demo, he sends it off to guys he told me he'd been writing with forever. About two weeks later, I get a phone call, and he's like, hey, man, this is Jason Aldean. I'd love to meet in person..."
Initially skeptical, John describes his nervous excitement upon realizing the call was genuine.
John Morgan ([00:36]): "I was sprinting inside to find a witness. Needed somebody to make sure this was not a prank call."
Their meeting led to a fruitful collaboration, with Jason Aldean not only signing John but also involving his Uber driver, John Edwards, in the partnership.
John Morgan's Background: From Lawn Mowing to Music
Timestamp: [03:43]
Bobby Bones and John Morgan engage in a light-hearted conversation about the circumstances leading to John driving a trailer to Bobby's home, mistaking him for a yard maintenance worker.
Bobby Bones ([03:43]): "Big. You drove a trailer up to the house?"
John humorously explains his responsibilities as a landlord, juggling property management with his budding music career.
John Morgan ([04:16]): "I'm landlording, taking care of my due diligence, cutting the grass per monthly..."
Their discussion naturally transitions into sharing past jobs and how these experiences shaped their work ethic.
Early Influences and Musical Roots
Timestamp: [12:19]
John delves into his musical upbringing, highlighting the significant role his mother played in nurturing his singing and piano skills, and his father's vast knowledge of 70s music.
John Morgan ([12:19]): "My mom, she was the musical one. She was the one that taught me how to sing, play piano, hear harmonies..."
He also touches upon his early passion for bluegrass and how it organically evolved into a love for guitar and songwriting.
John Morgan ([13:07]): "Guitar was kind of my first love. And then, I learned how to sing a little bit. After high school, I started getting into the songwriting world..."
Transition from Bluegrass to Songwriting
Timestamp: [19:56]
Despite his strong foundation in bluegrass, John admits feeling burnt out from the rigorous touring schedule starting at age 11.
John Morgan ([22:21]): "I was really burnt, man. I was on the road in a sprinter van from 11 to 18..."
This exhaustion fueled his desire to transition into songwriting, prompting a move to Nashville where he could focus on crafting his own music.
Collaborations and Learning in Nashville
Timestamp: [34:33]
In Nashville, John emphasizes the importance of collaboration and learning from seasoned songwriters. He highlights how working with industry veterans like Mike Delaney and Ashley Gorley taught him the value of precision in songwriting.
John Morgan ([34:39]): "The biggest thing that I learned... is they didn't waste any lines. Every word has a purpose..."
John's ability to adapt and contribute effectively in songwriting sessions is attributed to his bluegrass background, where versatility is key.
John Morgan ([40:12]): "Bluegrass, you gotta play multiple instruments. You gotta be able to sing different harmony parts..."
Touring and Performing: Santa My Boots Fest
Timestamp: [57:17]
John shares his experiences touring with Jason Aldean, particularly highlighting his performance at Santa My Boots Fest.
John Morgan ([57:19]): "It was awesome. Probably one of the coolest setups that I'd seen at a festival..."
He reflects on the growth of his fanbase and the rewarding moments of seeing enthusiastic crowds.
Favorite Artists and Musical Influences
Timestamp: [58:28]
When asked about his top four favorite artists of all time, John lists a diverse group that has significantly influenced his music style.
John Morgan ([58:32]): "Milsaps on there for sure. Probably I would put church in there somewhere... Keith Whitley's in there. Def Leppard's last..."
He appreciates the blend of traditional country influences and the electric guitar tones from rock legends like Def Leppard, which have shaped his sonic landscape.
Challenges of Being a Solo Artist
Timestamp: [59:47]
John candidly discusses the unexpected demands of being a solo artist, particularly the immense time commitment required to push a radio single to number one.
John Morgan ([60:00]): "I didn't realize how much time it required... pushing a radio single..."
He acknowledges the difficulty in balancing a rigorous schedule with personal life, emphasizing the need for effective delegation to maintain quality work without burning out.
John Morgan ([60:12]): "You have to really get it down to a science to be able to delegate yourself in the best way..."
Conclusion
The conversation between Bobby Bones and John Morgan offers a comprehensive look into the life of a dedicated songwriter and artist. From John's early days in bluegrass to his significant breakthrough with Jason Aldean, listeners gain valuable insights into the perseverance and adaptability required in the music industry. John's humility and commitment to his craft serve as an inspiring example for aspiring musicians.
Notable Quotes
- John Morgan ([00:00]): "I was sprinting inside to find a witness. Needed somebody to make sure this was not a prank call."
- John Morgan ([12:19]): "My mom, she was the musical one. She was the one that taught me how to sing, play piano, hear harmonies..."
- John Morgan ([34:39]): "Every word has a purpose."
- John Morgan ([58:32]): "Milsaps on there for sure... Def Leppard's last."
Connect with John Morgan
Follow John on Instagram: @johnmorgan95
This summary captures the essence of Episode #517 of The Bobby Bones Show, providing an engaging and comprehensive overview for both fans and new listeners.