Today we’d like to introduce you to David Bradley.
Hi David, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
After being in the music industry for 30 years, I quit due to marriage. After the divorce, getting my life straight and building my house, I felt a drive to get back in it, but not doing lights or sound like I used to. A couple friends of mine recommended a podcast. From there, I studied everything I could find on podcasting for 6 months. I started to invest in sound equipment, cameras and formed a studio in my home. I did some test runs to get everything leveled out and it took off from there. I applied for CMA membership, but they didn’t have a membership for podcasters at that time. After several conversations, the CMA started recognizing the role podcasts have in the industry. I was given a membership, and was the FIRST podcaster to become a CMA MEMBER!! With my knowledge of the music industry, getting guest really wasn’t that hard. I knew the routes you had to go thru to get some great guest. I developed my show to conversation instead of the usual Q and A ones and people started taking notice. I billed my show as “Not Your Average Podcast “ to draw attention in. I started assembling my team to help. Julie Murphy, a friend since High School came on as executive assistant, she schedules the show with guest and keeps it and me on a calendar! And then I got acquainted with Caitlin Backes who is the producer of the show. Caitlin graduated from Belmont University with a Bachelors in Audio Engineering Technology with a minor in Music Business, She was the perfect fit. With my team assembled we were given Press Credentials for CMA Fest 2024. We ended up doing 48 shows in the press room with Artist, and their PR people loved the Show. As you know… people talk.. Word got out and people started contacting Julie to be on the show! They love the laid back, easy vibe and can talk about anything they want while still covering who they are and the music they create! With just starting the 3rd year, things are growing, and a lot of people are loving what I created!!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Mostly, as all new businesses have. Money! You need it for equipment, cameras, video board, and sound boards. Especially if you want the sound and video quality up to where it should be. The other thing was the CMA membership, but after getting that, CMA called me and had me apply for the professional tier membership and I obtained that. Studios are important, but being in Nashville is where they want you. Expensive? Very! But until then I’m still at home studio!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’ve always worked basically 2 jobs. My day job of 40 years has been driving a big truck, delivering freight. Running sound and light shows was my weekend fun! Over 30 years doing that, but it was old school! Way before digital and computers came into use. In 2006 a lot of my colleagues actually considered me the best light guy in Nashville and I did a 2 year stay at The Limelight club where I was the LD. I met some wonderful people there. Especially artist!
How do you think about happiness?
I guess the primary thing is helping others achieve their dream!! It gives me a sense of accomplishment and Pride! To know I did that! I helped them, makes me very proud of the person they had become! The dream they accomplished!!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thedavidbradleyshow.com
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/thedavidbradleyshow
- Youtube: https://YouTube.com/thedavidbradleyshow
