Eddie 9V on Songwriting, Road-Tested Blues, and Keeping Roots Music Alive

 

 Guitarist and singer Eddie 9V shares his music history journey with host Buzz Knight on takin’ a walk, tracing the sounds, performances, and hard-earned lessons that shaped his distinctive voice.

While waiting out a flight delay, Eddie 9V joins Buzz Knight for an easygoing conversation about music history, the moments that change an artist’s direction, and the work behind a life on the road. He looks back on starting out as a drummer, playing metal and indie rock, and discovering a deeper connection to the blues. One performance by Howlin’ Wolf made a lasting impression: an example of how feeling and presence can reach an audience in a way that goes beyond technique.

That lesson became practical during the long club sets Eddie played for tips. Performing night after night taught him how to command a room, keep listeners with him, and make a personal connection—even when the crowd arrived unfamiliar with his music. He also recalls touring from a young age with his brother, an early education in the demands and rewards of a musician’s life. These are the kind of inside music stories that make this Buzz Knight podcast a compelling stop for fans curious about the people and experiences behind the songs.

Eddie and Buzz get into the songwriting process, including Nashville sessions, creative collaborations, and the many ways a song can begin. Sometimes there’s a riff; sometimes the first spark is a lyric or a voice memo captured on a phone. Eddie explains why he puts the vocal first before adding guitar solos, and how choosing the right starting point can help a song find its character. For listeners who love artist songwriting stories, this conversation offers a candid look at how ideas become performances.

The discussion also turns to Down Here, Eddie 9V’s Easy Eye Sound debut, produced by Dan Auerbach. With others handling production, Eddie could focus on performing—a chance to bring the songs to life from the inside out. He describes chasing a big, vintage recording sound while making music that feels genuine and present. The title track draws its perspective from his grandparents and their modest life, giving the album’s broader sonic ambition a deeply personal foundation.

Touring brings its own stories, from demanding travel to opening for the Black Keys. Eddie recalls winning over audiences who didn’t necessarily know his music, meeting them with energetic blues performances and a direct, personal connection. His approach reflects both guitar mastery and the instinct to serve the song: play with conviction, stay connected to the room, and let the feeling lead.

Throughout the conversation, Eddie 9V reflects on what it takes to keep roots music alive—not by treating it like a museum piece, but by playing it with honesty and emotion. He shares listening favorites, talks about the sounds that continue to inspire him, and reveals Neil Young as his dream walking companion. It’s a memorable moment in a conversation full of music and memories, creative insight, and the resilience required to keep moving forward.

For fans of blues, rock, songwriting, and the stories that connect generations of artists, this takin’ a walk interview offers a fresh perspective on a working musician’s journey. Join host Buzz Knight for an engaging look at Eddie 9V’s influences, Nashville connections, recording approach, and life on tour—an inspiring music interview about finding your sound, earning an audience, and keeping the music real.

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