Podcast Summary: Almost Live... Nashville with Tony Mantor

Episode: The Boomtown Saints: Faith, Family, and Fame: Nashville's Dynamic Duo

Release Date: December 16, 2025
Guests: Chris and Ben (Boomtown Saints)
Host: Tony Mantor

Main Theme & Purpose

This episode features a candid, behind-the-scenes conversation with Chris and Ben, the duo behind Boomtown Saints, Nashville’s high-energy country act recently crowned Music Row Magazine's Independent Artist of the Year. Host Tony Mantor dives into the band’s origin story, musical approach, the role of faith and positivity in their music, and how family legacy drives their ambitions. The episode balances entertainment industry insights for aspiring musicians with heartfelt anecdotes about struggle, growth, and hope.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Band Origins and Name (02:18–03:26)

Beginnings: Chris and Ben originally played under the quirky name "Hopscotch Mafia" during their cover band days, a nod to Chris’s flag football team—memorable but divisive among early fans and industry contacts.
Name Evolution: In the studio, spotting a "Boomtown" magazine sparked thoughts of sudden prosperity. They fused this concept with their deep faith, settling on "Boomtown Saints" to visually and meaningfully represent their journey and values.

“A boomtown is a town that sees unexpected prosperity... and then we have a strong background of faith. And so... we decided why not give a nod to our faith? And that's where Saints came from.” — Chris (03:06)

2. Musical Direction and Message of Positivity (03:37–04:31, 09:58–11:42)

Unintentional Positivity: Initially, their music's positive bent was accidental, but quickly became intentional as they noticed how songs rooted in faith and hope resonated with both themselves and audiences.
Performance Approach: Focused on making every show a “fun” escape, regardless of what fans face outside the venue.
Christian Faith in Music: Music and lyrics often feature a positive, faith-based undertone, intended to uplift and give hope.

“You could even call it rooted in faith... our focus is just to make sure everybody has fun. Doesn’t matter what that means. We try to reach everybody and make sure they forget what’s happening outside.” — Chris (03:53)

3. The Duo's First Meeting and Early Days (04:39–06:01)

Origin Story: Ben met Chris at a gym seeking a bass player as Ben contemplated ending his solo career (and medical school as a backup!). Their chemistry on stage revived Ben’s energy and paved the way for their transition from covers to original music.

"I was at the end of my career being a solo artist. I was going to go back to medical school... I asked him to do that. We went out and played in Athens, Georgia... there was a different energy on stage. It became a party." — Ben (04:52)

4. Songwriting, COVID-19, and Evolution (06:16–08:19)

Creative Turning Point: Writing their own material intensified during COVID-19, offering time to plan, refine their style, and gain momentum just as the world reopened.
Industry Support: Long-time friend and now-manager Gary Crane, with his radio background, recognized their potential and connected them with producer Noah Gordon. The partnership quickly resulted in a record deal—an atypical, serendipitous leap.

“We had over a year to plan your attack... and yeah, that's really where it all came together. Was just in the planning phase because we had so long.” — Chris (06:29)

5. Song Selection Process (08:26–09:01)

Blend of Sources: Roughly half the songs are originals; the other half are outside cuts chosen for their emotional resonance.
Ego Out, Quality In: They pride themselves on recording what feels best, whether written by them or others, aiming to move the listener above all else.

“We just try to catch the song that if it moves us, we assume it might move somebody else.” — Chris (08:39)

6. Breakout Single and Fan Response (09:32–12:45)

First Single Success: “All Trucks Go to Heaven” exceeded expectations, marking a turning point and establishing their positive, accessible sound.
Diverse Audience: Their live crowds range widely in age and interest—a result, they say, of intentionally inclusive shows aimed at everyone.

“It did very well, and I think that set up for everything that we have done since.” — Ben (09:55)

Fan Feedback: The most meaningful responses include fans saying the band’s message gave them motivation or hope; Chris and Ben credit grace and humility for their current success.

“We get people to come up to us and they tell us... the message that we were delivering on stage gives them motivation to keep going. Some people come up and said, you've given me hope... that's more than us.” — Chris (13:06)

7. Band Makeup and Performance Dynamics (14:11–16:36)

Instrumentation: The live band features two guitars, bass, and drums, with orchestral elements run on tracks.
Personality & Chemistry: The team includes a mix of military discipline (Caleb, drummer and Marine), TV talent (Trey, bassist from The Voice), a “metalhead mentor” guitarist (Mark), and a gentle “Viking” (Jesse) on guitar.
Lead Vocals: Ben handles most leads, with Chris taking 30%. The division is rooted in playing to each other’s strengths.

“Ben, I can't match his tone. I can't match the way he sings this, period. So we let him carry that.” — Chris (16:55)

8. Show Structure and Evolution (17:54–18:59)

Set Planning: Years of playing together mean the band now instinctively structures sets for energy, emotional peaks, and pacing. Early shows required much trial and error to “get the flow right”—now, setlists are tailored to any required timeslot.

“There is a science behind it… when we plan our sets, at this point… We know exactly where, what needs to go where in order for the show to flow properly.” — Chris (17:54)

9. Vision, Family Legacy, and Work-Life Balance (19:17–22:20)

Touring & Time Off: After a packed summer, Boomtown Saints plan to take a break for family, holidays, and their children.
Legacy Focus: Success is measured not just in music accolades, but in being present fathers and leaving their daughters a meaningful legacy—both financial and emotional.

“When it’s all said and done, you know, we’re on our deathbed, people aren’t going to be talking about that contract I won...they’re going to be talking about...dad used to always be there when I was home from school… That's where it started.” — Chris (20:35)

Digital Immortality: Ben notes the personal meaning in leaving behind content for his daughters, given his own loss of his father at age 19.

“My girls can go on YouTube... They know who dad was. That's, that's leaving a legacy too.” — Ben (22:09)

10. Gratitude, Humility, and Mission (23:50–25:40)

Ambassadors of Hope: The duo stresses their main goal: providing hope through music, even if "imperfectly." They leave everything on stage—sometimes to the point of physical exhaustion.
Fan Interaction: They cherish real connections at the merch table and value turning listeners into long-time supporters and friends.

“Our objective is to... be ambassadors of hope... when we walk on the stage, if there’s one person or 15,000 people, we are leaving everything we have up there.” — Chris (23:53, 25:13)

11. Where to Find Boomtown Saints (26:21)

Social Media:
- Instagram & TikTok: @boomtownsaints
- Facebook & Website: Boomtown Saints Music
- Streaming: Spotify, Apple Music (“every follow helps”)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On Faith and Positivity:
“You could even call it rooted in faith... our focus is just to make sure everybody has fun.” — Chris (03:53)
On Humble Beginnings:
“If it weren’t for Grace, we wouldn’t be able to have the wives we have now, the daughters we have now… We make that clear on stage: if we can be here doing this, I promise everybody has hope to move forward.” — Chris (13:33)
On Family Legacy:
“My girls can go on YouTube... They know who dad was. That's, that's leaving a legacy too.” — Ben (22:09)
On Fan Connection:
“If you can make a fan one person at a time, that means the world.” — Ben (25:47)
On Leaving it All On Stage:
“There's no party after because we are so tired. We go straight to bed because we literally leave it all. I actually passed out a few weeks ago after a show.” — Chris (24:17)

Important Timestamps

Band Name Origin: 02:18–03:26
Faith and Positivity in Music: 03:37–04:31, 09:58–11:42
Meeting and Becoming a Duo: 04:39–06:01
Songwriting/COVID Evolution: 06:16–08:19
Song Selection Process: 08:26–09:01
First Single Success: 09:32–09:58
Fan Feedback: 12:45–14:09
Band Members & Dynamics: 14:11–16:36
Show Planning: 17:54–18:59
Legacy & Family: 19:17–22:20
Mission Statement: 23:50–25:40
How to Connect: 26:21–26:48

Conclusion

Boomtown Saints' journey reflects a rare blend of big-picture vision, relentless positivity, and an unwavering commitment to family and faith. By intentionally crafting an inclusive, high-energy show—and by prioritizing real-life connections—they offer both entertainment and hope. Their story is one of second chances, hard-earned humility, and striving for legacy on their own terms.

Podcast Summary: Almost Live... Nashville with Tony Mantor

Episode: The Boomtown Saints: Faith, Family, and Fame: Nashville's Dynamic Duo

Release Date: December 16, 2025
Guests: Chris and Ben (Boomtown Saints)
Host: Tony Mantor

Main Theme & Purpose

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Band Origins and Name (02:18–03:26)

Beginnings: Chris and Ben originally played under the quirky name "Hopscotch Mafia" during their cover band days, a nod to Chris’s flag football team—memorable but divisive among early fans and industry contacts.
Name Evolution: In the studio, spotting a "Boomtown" magazine sparked thoughts of sudden prosperity. They fused this concept with their deep faith, settling on "Boomtown Saints" to visually and meaningfully represent their journey and values.

“A boomtown is a town that sees unexpected prosperity... and then we have a strong background of faith. And so... we decided why not give a nod to our faith? And that's where Saints came from.” — Chris (03:06)

2. Musical Direction and Message of Positivity (03:37–04:31, 09:58–11:42)

Unintentional Positivity: Initially, their music's positive bent was accidental, but quickly became intentional as they noticed how songs rooted in faith and hope resonated with both themselves and audiences.
Performance Approach: Focused on making every show a “fun” escape, regardless of what fans face outside the venue.
Christian Faith in Music: Music and lyrics often feature a positive, faith-based undertone, intended to uplift and give hope.

“You could even call it rooted in faith... our focus is just to make sure everybody has fun. Doesn’t matter what that means. We try to reach everybody and make sure they forget what’s happening outside.” — Chris (03:53)

3. The Duo's First Meeting and Early Days (04:39–06:01)

Origin Story: Ben met Chris at a gym seeking a bass player as Ben contemplated ending his solo career (and medical school as a backup!). Their chemistry on stage revived Ben’s energy and paved the way for their transition from covers to original music.

"I was at the end of my career being a solo artist. I was going to go back to medical school... I asked him to do that. We went out and played in Athens, Georgia... there was a different energy on stage. It became a party." — Ben (04:52)

4. Songwriting, COVID-19, and Evolution (06:16–08:19)

Creative Turning Point: Writing their own material intensified during COVID-19, offering time to plan, refine their style, and gain momentum just as the world reopened.
Industry Support: Long-time friend and now-manager Gary Crane, with his radio background, recognized their potential and connected them with producer Noah Gordon. The partnership quickly resulted in a record deal—an atypical, serendipitous leap.

“We had over a year to plan your attack... and yeah, that's really where it all came together. Was just in the planning phase because we had so long.” — Chris (06:29)

5. Song Selection Process (08:26–09:01)

Blend of Sources: Roughly half the songs are originals; the other half are outside cuts chosen for their emotional resonance.
Ego Out, Quality In: They pride themselves on recording what feels best, whether written by them or others, aiming to move the listener above all else.

“We just try to catch the song that if it moves us, we assume it might move somebody else.” — Chris (08:39)

6. Breakout Single and Fan Response (09:32–12:45)

First Single Success: “All Trucks Go to Heaven” exceeded expectations, marking a turning point and establishing their positive, accessible sound.
Diverse Audience: Their live crowds range widely in age and interest—a result, they say, of intentionally inclusive shows aimed at everyone.

“It did very well, and I think that set up for everything that we have done since.” — Ben (09:55)

Fan Feedback: The most meaningful responses include fans saying the band’s message gave them motivation or hope; Chris and Ben credit grace and humility for their current success.

“We get people to come up to us and they tell us... the message that we were delivering on stage gives them motivation to keep going. Some people come up and said, you've given me hope... that's more than us.” — Chris (13:06)

7. Band Makeup and Performance Dynamics (14:11–16:36)

Instrumentation: The live band features two guitars, bass, and drums, with orchestral elements run on tracks.
Personality & Chemistry: The team includes a mix of military discipline (Caleb, drummer and Marine), TV talent (Trey, bassist from The Voice), a “metalhead mentor” guitarist (Mark), and a gentle “Viking” (Jesse) on guitar.
Lead Vocals: Ben handles most leads, with Chris taking 30%. The division is rooted in playing to each other’s strengths.

“Ben, I can't match his tone. I can't match the way he sings this, period. So we let him carry that.” — Chris (16:55)

8. Show Structure and Evolution (17:54–18:59)

Set Planning: Years of playing together mean the band now instinctively structures sets for energy, emotional peaks, and pacing. Early shows required much trial and error to “get the flow right”—now, setlists are tailored to any required timeslot.

“There is a science behind it… when we plan our sets, at this point… We know exactly where, what needs to go where in order for the show to flow properly.” — Chris (17:54)

9. Vision, Family Legacy, and Work-Life Balance (19:17–22:20)

Touring & Time Off: After a packed summer, Boomtown Saints plan to take a break for family, holidays, and their children.
Legacy Focus: Success is measured not just in music accolades, but in being present fathers and leaving their daughters a meaningful legacy—both financial and emotional.

“When it’s all said and done, you know, we’re on our deathbed, people aren’t going to be talking about that contract I won...they’re going to be talking about...dad used to always be there when I was home from school… That's where it started.” — Chris (20:35)

Digital Immortality: Ben notes the personal meaning in leaving behind content for his daughters, given his own loss of his father at age 19.

“My girls can go on YouTube... They know who dad was. That's, that's leaving a legacy too.” — Ben (22:09)

10. Gratitude, Humility, and Mission (23:50–25:40)

Ambassadors of Hope: The duo stresses their main goal: providing hope through music, even if "imperfectly." They leave everything on stage—sometimes to the point of physical exhaustion.
Fan Interaction: They cherish real connections at the merch table and value turning listeners into long-time supporters and friends.

“Our objective is to... be ambassadors of hope... when we walk on the stage, if there’s one person or 15,000 people, we are leaving everything we have up there.” — Chris (23:53, 25:13)

11. Where to Find Boomtown Saints (26:21)

Social Media:
- Instagram & TikTok: @boomtownsaints
- Facebook & Website: Boomtown Saints Music
- Streaming: Spotify, Apple Music (“every follow helps”)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On Faith and Positivity:
“You could even call it rooted in faith... our focus is just to make sure everybody has fun.” — Chris (03:53)
On Humble Beginnings:
“If it weren’t for Grace, we wouldn’t be able to have the wives we have now, the daughters we have now… We make that clear on stage: if we can be here doing this, I promise everybody has hope to move forward.” — Chris (13:33)
On Family Legacy:
“My girls can go on YouTube... They know who dad was. That's, that's leaving a legacy too.” — Ben (22:09)
On Fan Connection:
“If you can make a fan one person at a time, that means the world.” — Ben (25:47)
On Leaving it All On Stage:
“There's no party after because we are so tired. We go straight to bed because we literally leave it all. I actually passed out a few weeks ago after a show.” — Chris (24:17)

Important Timestamps

Band Name Origin: 02:18–03:26
Faith and Positivity in Music: 03:37–04:31, 09:58–11:42
Meeting and Becoming a Duo: 04:39–06:01
Songwriting/COVID Evolution: 06:16–08:19
Song Selection Process: 08:26–09:01
First Single Success: 09:32–09:58
Fan Feedback: 12:45–14:09
Band Members & Dynamics: 14:11–16:36
Show Planning: 17:54–18:59
Legacy & Family: 19:17–22:20
Mission Statement: 23:50–25:40
How to Connect: 26:21–26:48

The Boomtown Saints: Faith, Family, and Fame: Nashville's Dynamic Duo

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Summary

Podcast Summary: Almost Live... Nashville with Tony Mantor

Episode: The Boomtown Saints: Faith, Family, and Fame: Nashville's Dynamic Duo

Main Theme & Purpose

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Band Origins and Name (02:18–03:26)

2. Musical Direction and Message of Positivity (03:37–04:31, 09:58–11:42)

3. The Duo's First Meeting and Early Days (04:39–06:01)

4. Songwriting, COVID-19, and Evolution (06:16–08:19)

5. Song Selection Process (08:26–09:01)

6. Breakout Single and Fan Response (09:32–12:45)

7. Band Makeup and Performance Dynamics (14:11–16:36)

8. Show Structure and Evolution (17:54–18:59)

9. Vision, Family Legacy, and Work-Life Balance (19:17–22:20)

10. Gratitude, Humility, and Mission (23:50–25:40)

11. Where to Find Boomtown Saints (26:21)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Important Timestamps

Conclusion

Summary

Podcast Summary: Almost Live... Nashville with Tony Mantor

Episode: The Boomtown Saints: Faith, Family, and Fame: Nashville's Dynamic Duo

Main Theme & Purpose

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Band Origins and Name (02:18–03:26)

2. Musical Direction and Message of Positivity (03:37–04:31, 09:58–11:42)

3. The Duo's First Meeting and Early Days (04:39–06:01)

4. Songwriting, COVID-19, and Evolution (06:16–08:19)

5. Song Selection Process (08:26–09:01)

6. Breakout Single and Fan Response (09:32–12:45)

7. Band Makeup and Performance Dynamics (14:11–16:36)

8. Show Structure and Evolution (17:54–18:59)

9. Vision, Family Legacy, and Work-Life Balance (19:17–22:20)

10. Gratitude, Humility, and Mission (23:50–25:40)

11. Where to Find Boomtown Saints (26:21)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

Important Timestamps

Conclusion