Podcast Summary: The Bobby Bones Show
Episode: BOBBYCAST: Dylan Scott on Manifesting His Career at 10 Years Old + Not Getting to Play or Present at Award Shows + How He Met His Wife When They Were Kids + Growing up Next to Lainey Wilson
Host/Author: Premiere Networks
Release Date: April 4, 2025
1. Introduction to the Guests
In this episode, host Bobby Bones sits down with two prominent figures in the country music scene: Dylan Scott, a five-time number one artist, and George Birge, a dedicated musician navigating the complexities of the music industry. The conversation delves deep into their personal journeys, career challenges, and the intricacies of maintaining success in a competitive landscape.
2. Early Life and Musical Beginnings
George Birge reflects on his upbringing and early exposure to music, heavily influenced by his father, a former country music singer. He shares,
"[00:25:16] George Birge: I remember playing basketball, like, outside in the neighborhood as a kid, and buddies would say, 'Your voice is deep.'"
From a young age, George was immersed in music, participating in church choirs and gospel trios. This foundation laid the groundwork for his passion and commitment to a career in country music.
Dylan Scott echoes a similar sentiment regarding early aspirations:
"[00:16:30] Dylan Scott: I wrote a book called 'My Future Life' in fourth grade, detailing my dreams to be in Nashville. Looking back, I've manifested everything I wrote in that book."
3. Career Struggles and Breakthrough
Both artists discuss the hurdles they faced in their early careers. George Birge recounts his experiences with failed singles and the pressure from record labels:
"[00:39:41] George Birge: My first single didn't make the top 40, but it streamed well, which temporarily kept me afloat. However, subsequent releases struggled, leading to setbacks."
Despite these challenges, George emphasizes the importance of perseverance:
"[00:39:22] George Birge: I don’t know how it all happened, but getting back on Curb Records allowed me to release 'Crazy Over Me,' which eventually led to my first number one with 'My Girl.'"
Dylan Scott shares his frustration with the industry's pace, comparing it to George's experiences:
"[00:22:36] Dylan Scott: I feel like I'm not moving fast enough. It's frustrating watching others get immediate success while it takes me years to climb."
4. Relationship with Management and Record Labels
The conversation delves into the dynamics between artists and their management teams. George Birge praises his long-standing relationship with Curb Records, highlighting their unwavering support:
"[00:35:57] George Birge: Curb Records has been with me for almost 15 years. They've supported me from the beginning, even when my singles didn’t perform as expected."
In contrast, Dylan Scott discusses his challenges with industry expectations and the pressure to conform:
"[00:50:45] Dylan Scott: I tried to propose myself as a host for an award show, but political issues halted the process. It was disheartening to see my efforts dismissed."
5. Personal Life: Meeting Their Wives and Raising Families
Both artists touch upon their personal lives, sharing heartwarming stories about meeting their significant others and balancing family with their demanding careers.
George Birge narrates how he met his wife through mutual friends in Louisiana and the significance of supporting each other through long-distance challenges:
"[00:07:56] George Birge: We met in seventh grade but only started dating in our sophomore year. Facing six years of long-distance, we eventually reunited in Nashville to build our life together."
Dylan Scott emphasizes the influence of family on his career decisions and personal growth:
"[00:42:07] Dylan Scott: After having my first son, my priorities shifted. Supporting my family became paramount, and I strive to maintain that balance while pursuing music."
6. Views on the Music Industry: Award Shows, Radio Play, Social Media
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the artists' perspectives on award shows and the mechanisms of achieving radio success.
George Birge expresses his ambivalence toward award shows, prioritizing live performances over accolades:
"[00:49:36] George Birge: Honestly, I’d rather be on the road playing shows for fans than sit at home on the couch watching award ceremonies."
Dylan Scott shares his own struggles with expectations and the fleeting nature of success:
"[00:32:34] Dylan Scott: Artists often get trapped by the desire for quick success fueled by streaming numbers and social media, which can overshadow genuine talent and long-term growth."
The duo also discusses the challenges of maintaining momentum on radio charts, particularly the persistent struggle to break through the top tiers despite consistent releases.
"[00:44:27] Dylan Scott: There's a real marsh between 45 and 30 on the charts. It’s hard to push through without massive industry support."
7. Coping with Success and Mental Health
Both artists candidly address the mental toll that the pursuit of success can take. George Birge shares his journey toward finding contentment and reducing the stress associated with constant comparison:
"[00:22:37] George Birge: I used to obsess over why others succeeded faster, but now I focus on enjoying my journey and what I’ve achieved so far."
Dylan Scott touches upon his competitive nature and the struggle to maintain mental health amidst industry pressures:
"[00:42:04] Dylan Scott: I have unhealthy expectations and competitiveness that can sometimes cloud my perspective. Balancing drive with mental well-being is a constant challenge."
8. Friendship and Collaboration Between Dylan and George
The rapport between Dylan Scott and George Birge is evident throughout the conversation. They support each other's endeavors and discuss collaborative efforts within the industry.
George Birge recounts collaborating with Dylan on powerful tracks:
"[00:55:57] George Birge: When Dylan played me 'Boys Back Home,' I knew it was a great collaboration. Supporting each other has been crucial to our mutual success."
Dylan Scott emphasizes the importance of mutual support and understanding in their friendship:
"[00:57:45] Dylan Scott: Helping each other navigate the industry's challenges is essential. We both recognize the hurdles and strive to overcome them together."
9. Conclusion and Future Plans
As the episode wraps up, both artists express optimism about their future projects and the continued growth of their careers. George Birge highlights upcoming releases and tours:
"[00:73:43] George Birge: 'I Hate Whiskey' is set to release at the end of March, and we’re plotting our next moves to ensure sustained success."
Dylan Scott looks forward to expanding his podcast reach and supporting fellow artists:
"[00:74:08] Dylan Scott: With the upcoming 'Country Till I Die' tour and ongoing collaborations, we’re excited about what the future holds."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
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George Birge:
"[00:16:30] I've pretty much done everything in that book that's fun. I'm a believer that you can manifest anything in life." -
Dylan Scott:
"[00:22:36] I feel like I'm not moving fast enough. It drives me crazy."
"[00:39:50] It was devastating, because I was left wondering if I would ever have a number one hit."
"[00:42:04] I have unhealthy expectations and competitiveness that can sometimes cloud my perspective." -
George Birge:
"[00:35:57] Curb Records has been with me for almost 15 years. They've supported me from the beginning."
"[00:49:36] I’d rather be on the road playing shows for fans than sit at home on the couch watching award ceremonies." -
Dylan Scott:
"[00:57:45] We're both recognizing the hurdles and strive to overcome them together."
"[00:73:43] We're plotting our next moves to ensure sustained success."
Conclusion
This episode of The Bobby Bones Show offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of Dylan Scott and George Birge, showcasing their resilience, dedication, and unwavering passion for country music. Through candid discussions about personal struggles, industry challenges, and the importance of support systems, listeners gain valuable insights into what it takes to sustain a successful career in music. The friendship and mutual respect between Dylan and George further highlight the collaborative spirit that drives the country music community forward.