Randy Montana spent seven years rebuilding his career after his record deal ended. Then Luke Combs recorded “Beer Never Broke My Heart”—and Randy found himself standing in a packed stadium listening to thousands of people sing the words he helped write.

In this episode of Almost Live Nashville, Randy joins Tony Mantor for an honest conversation about the work, uncertainty, and persistence behind a hit songwriting career. Growing up with his father, songwriter Billy Montana, Randy saw the struggle long before he saw the success. Those early lessons helped him navigate his own journey from recording artist to writing songs for other voices.

Randy shares the experience of recording with Emmylou Harris, the heartbreak of a potential George Strait single that fell through, and the childhood fishing memories that inspired “Too Broke for a Boat.” He also explains why creativity requires showing up, how trusted collaborators help shape a career, and why having a hit doesn’t make self-doubt disappear.

Through it all, Randy has found something he didn’t fully appreciate when he first dreamed of stardom: a career that lets him create music while being present for his wife and three children.

For anyone pursuing a dream through setbacks and changing plans, this conversation offers a candid look at what it takes to keep going—and how success can turn out differently than you imagined.

Follow Almost Live Nashville for more conversations with the people behind the music.