Kyle Daniel Talks Debut Album, Hometown And More

Kyle Daniel, the Bowling Green native and powerhouse singer-songwriter blending classic southern rock with modern country, will release his debut album ‘Kentucky Gold’ on 28th June 2024. He gave us some Southern hospitality and spoke to us about the new record, his hometown and more:

When did you begin songwriting?

I started in college, but really got serious about it around 2017 when I came off the road as a hired musician to pursue my own career.

What is your earliest musical memory?

Music has been a huge part of my life as long as I can remember, but I think the first memory I have was when I traded my pacifier (dummy to us Brits!) for a fiddle one year for Christmas. Santa and I had to make a little pact in order to get the fiddle. So I left him my pacifier, and got my first instrument.

Your debut album ‘Kentucky Gold’ is released on 28th June 2024. How did you want to approach making the album?

Initially, this record was going to be a concept record. I tossed around a few different ideas, but when it was all said and done, I chose what I felt to be the best songs to represent me as an artist. As a newer artist, I wanted to be able to give a fully rounded view as to who I am, the experiences that I have persevered through and the moments in life I look back on (even those that are not so pleasant). I think it’s important to be human in a digital world, so I wanted people to be able to listen through this record and say to themselves “I’ve been there. I have felt that feeling.”

Where did you record the album and who produced it and was it a difficult album to write?

This album was broken up over the course of 3 different sessions. The initial session, and the majority of the record was recorded in Muscle Shoals, AL with Brian Elmquist of the Lone Bellow. Four of the tracks were recorded in Nashville, TN with Jaren Johnston. Lastly, one of the tracks was done remotely with Michael Krompass and Clay Mills. Michael built the entire track and I went back to tidy up vocals and guitar work. Overall, I feel like this record has been a long time coming. These songs have been yearning to see the light of day and I’m glad they’re finally getting that opportunity. I feel like there has definitely been a progression from the idea and initial concept of this record through to the final product. I’m very proud of what we’ve put together with Kentucky Gold.

Who were the musicians who were on the album with you?

Oh man, hold my beer, haha…

Seth Rentfrow – Guitar/Vox

Tucker Wilson – Drums

Jay Kott – Bass

Drew Smithers – Guitar

Monty Rivera – Keys

Brian Elmquist – Guitar

Jaren Johnston – Guitar

Richard Brinsfield – Bass

Jerry Roe – Drums

Michael Krompass – Guitar, Bass, Drums, Percussion, Etc.

What two things do you hope to have achieved once you have left the stage?

I hope to have touched someone’s soul that night, and to also have inspired them in some way. I feel like the power of music is very strong, and with the right inspiration we can empower others to help lift them up in time of need.

One of the tracks is the new single ‘Summer Down South’ which features The Cadillac Three. What is the story/inspiration behind the track? How did the collaboration arise?

Well, if you’ve never been to the southern part of the United States, I can fill you in on something: We LOVE a good party. This song was inspired by that feel good summer vibe that exists after a long day of being on the lake, tucked away at a field party in the middle of nowhere, just living carefree.

Do you have any favoured instruments or any other bits of equipment?

My Gibson 1958 R8 Historic Custom Shop Les Paul. It’s my go to guitar!

Where is your hometown and could you please describe it in five words?

I’m from Bowling Green, Kentucky.

Southern charm with a flare!

How do you look after your voice?

Plenty of cigarettes and bourbon! Just kidding! I try to do a vocal steamer before and after a show as well as use Vocal Eze before any set and during. Vocal rest is also a necessity.

You are given the opportunity to write the score for a film adaptation of a novel that you enjoy. Which novel is it and why?

Oh man, I am not a huge reader, admittedly! Although when I was younger I used to love the Goosebumps series, haha. I would probably be good at creating some cryptic sounding music for that!

Who are some of your musical influences? Do you have any recommendations?

I grew up with a lot of guitar slingers: Derek Trucks, Warren Haynes, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jonny Lang, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, etc.

As far as new recommendations go, if you haven’t heard Marcus King yet, you absolutely MUST!

Do you have any live dates planned in the UK/Europe in 2024?

Yes I do! I have an entire tour lined up for August, including a major festival appearance, and I’m excited to get back that way! Check my socials or website for ticket links and availability.

What makes Kyle Daniel happy and what makes you unhappy?

A solid plan being put into effect makes Kyle Daniel happy. No plan or course of action makes Kyle Daniel unhappy. I’m a true Virgo in that sense. Detail and goal oriented.