Meet Luke Munday of East Nashville

Today we’d like to introduce you to Luke Munday

Hi Luke, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born in Nashville and raised in Roberston County just outside the city, so you could say country music has been in my blood from the start. I picked up the banjo when I was about nine years old and added the guitar a few years later. Growing up, I spent a lot of time playing at local jams and festivals around Tennessee—places like the old schoolhouse jam in Millersville and the Station Inn on Sunday nights. I was lucky enough to be a guest on stage at the Grand Ole Opry with Mike Snider when I was 12, and that really lit a fire in me to keep pursuing music. When I was 17, I started playing professionally—my first real gig was with Marty Raybon. Over the years, I’ve played alongside folks like Bobby Osborne, Larry Sparks, and many others while I worked my way through all kinds of venues and festivals, not just in Nashville but throughout the country. Along the way, I’ve done everything from working in bars to construction jobs, all while writing and playing music. I’ve always kept one foot in the music world, even when I had to make ends meet through other work. Now, with my debut single ‘Squeaky Wheel,’ I’m excited to take what I’ve learned and share it with a wider audience. I feel like everything I’ve been through—musically and personally—has led me to this moment, and I can’t wait to see where the music takes me next.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Playing music has always felt natural to me, but the business side of things has definitely been a challenge. Before I decided to step out as a performer, I spent a lot of time as a hired musician, playing in bands all over Nashville and even on national tours. That part of the journey was great for honing my musicianship, but what was tough was dealing with the ups and downs of the music business—especially the fluctuation of work. There were times when gigs would dry up, and I’d find myself scrambling to make things work. In the last few years, I’ve learned how to manage that uncertainty a lot better. I’ve been able to find more consistent work, and now I’m at a place where I don’t have to worry as much about how it’s all going to come together. That’s allowed me to put more of my focus and energy into creativity—writing new songs, recording, and really pouring myself into the music. It’s been a tough learning curve, but I’m grateful for the balance I’ve been able to find. As a result, I’ve been able to release my first song to everyone Squeaky Wheel.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My work is all about making authentic country music that connects with people. I’ve spent years playing everything from traditional bluegrass to modern country, and I’ve had the chance to be a part of some incredible bands along the way. These days, I’m focused on being an artist, creating my own music, writing and performing songs that blend that classic country sound with a modern edge. What I specialize in, and what I think sets me apart, is the musicianship behind the music. I’ve always believed that great songs come from great players, and I’ve been fortunate to work with some of the best. Whether it’s the banjo, guitar, or vocal harmony, I’m passionate about putting the highest level of craftsmanship into everything I do. I’m most proud of being able to step out from being a hired musician and into my own career as an artist. It’s been a big leap, but I’ve been working hard for years now and this feels right. What sets me apart is that, even though I’m focused on telling my own story now, I’ve never lost sight of the importance of working with other talented musicians to make the best music possible. At the end of the day, my goal is simple: to make music that feels real and stands the test of time, just like the artists I grew up listening to.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My grandpa had this saying—he didn’t care if my dad or uncles were pencil salesmen, but he always told them, ‘Just be the best pencil salesmen you can be.’ That stuck with me. In music, I’ve always tried to let my work speak for itself and be a custodian of each song, because that’s the best of me. I’ve had some incredible mentors in Bluegrass music, folks who ride the road hard and take care of their band. Watching them taught me a lot about what it means to be both a musician and a leader. When it comes to finding a mentor or networking, my advice is to focus on being the best version of yourself and letting your music or work show who you are. I didn’t go out looking for mentors — just by being in the right places, playing, and staying dedicated to my music, we kind of found each other. Over the years, I’ve learned that if you show up and give your best effort, the right people will take notice. Networking, to me, isn’t about meeting as many people as possible—it’s about forming genuine connections with those who share your passion. I’ve always believed that if I show up, the music has my back. You don’t have to force it—just be yourself, put in the work, and the relationships will come naturally.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lukemundayofficial.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukemunday_
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Countrymunday
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LukeMundayOfficial
• Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/FEVWShZdtef3f3ar6

Image Credits
Nash Nouveau
and Lyndon Exton