This week on Here's What We Know, we dive into a fascinating conversation with country music singer James Dupré. From YouTube covers to his passion for meteorology, join us as we explore the unexpected journey of a small-town Louisiana boy turned internet sensation who recently made headlines with his involvement in Randy Travis’ AI song “Where That Came From.”

In This Episode:

• Discover how James played a pivotal role in bringing the voice of stroke-stricken country legend Randy Travis back through an innovative AI project.
• Learn about James’ early embrace of YouTube as a platform to share his music, starting way back in 2007 before it became mainstream for artists.
• Uncover the musical influences that shaped James' sound from childhood.
• A Meteorologist at Heart: Despite his musical success, we delve into James’ original dream job – becoming a meteorologist and his ongoing fascination with hurricanes.
• Get an intimate look at growing up in Bayou Chicot, Louisiana - from tight-knit communities to unique Cajun cuisines like boudin and etouffée.
• Appreciate how James adapts his vocals across different genres, showcasing versatility akin to elite athletes adjusting their game.

This episode is sponsored by:
GymGuyz (#1 In-Home Personal Training)
Sterling Oak Cabinetry

Bio:
James Dupré was born and raised in Bayou Chicot, LA. He was named one of Rolling Stone Magazine’s “Country Artists You Need to Know”, and has spent a lot of time sharing his smooth baritone voice with his fans across social media platforms and at venues and festivals across the United States, Canada, and Europe. The one-time aspiring meteorologist turned paramedic became a YouTube sensation in 2007, leading to an invitation to perform on Ellen. Shortly after, he released his debut album “It’s All Happening” in 2010, which charted on Billboard. After signing a record deal with Warner Music Nashville in 2011, Dupré began performing and touring full-time. In 2015, Dupré appeared on NBC’s The Voice (Season 9) with a four-chair turn, landing him a spot on Adam Levine’s team. Following his departure from The Voice, James released his sophomore album “Stoned to Death”, with two singles charting on the Billboard Indicator chart: “Hurt Good” and “Stoned to Death”. The father of five made his acting debut in the film “The Price”, playing the son of a country singer portrayed by Randy Travis. In 2019, James was handpicked by Randy and Mary Travis as vocalists for “The Music of Randy Travis” tour (now known as the “More Life” tour). Along with Randy’s original band, James performs all of Randy’s biggest hits. James released his third studio album, “Home and Away”, in 2020 with three singles: “Home and Away”, “Another Love Song”, and “Painfully Pretty.” In September 2023, he made his Grand Ole Opry debut in Nashville.

Website: https://www.jamesdupre.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesdupre/
YouTube: @jamesdupremusic

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This week on Here's What We Know, we sit down with the brilliant author Steve Hines to discuss his book "Salt, Light, & Kids," and the challenges of parenting in today’s culture. In this book, Steve shares how to raise children to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world our culture desperately needs. Steve offers timeless wisdom for parenting in today's tech-savvy world and shares insights from his journey, from growing up in Alabama to becoming a lacrosse coach for young boys and now embracing the role of a grandfather, or "Bam,” as his grandchildren affectionately call him. Tune in now!

In This Episode:

• Discover the importance of biblically based parenting.
• Gary and Steve’s perspective on Nick Saban's retirement as head football coach at the University of Alabama and its impact on college sports.
• Steve shares what led him to write “Salt, Light, & Kids,” an experience he attributes to divine inspiration.
• Explore the heartwarming and sometimes challenging dynamics of mentoring and coaching young people.
• Hear Steve’s insights on navigating the trials of digital influences and cultural challenges.
• The importance of how you accept and respond when it comes to losing.
• Steve’s take on being a grandparent: loving anything that someone you love so much loves.

This episode is sponsored by:
Dermawav
Winchester Western Wear (Be sure to tell them Gary sent you to save up 20%!)
Dignity Memorial

Bio:
Steve Hines, author of "Salt, Light, & Kids," lives in Nashville, Tennessee, with his high school sweetheart, Leigh Ann, to whom he has been married for 35 years. Together, they have dedicated decades to mentoring younger parents through parenting study groups and one-on-one relationships. As the father of two adult children and the grandfather of three adorable kids, Steve’s passion for supporting families continues to grow amidst the challenges of today's culture. A former C.P.A. and life-long entrepreneur, Steve is also a junior high and high school lacrosse coach and an ardent musician.

Website: https://www.saltlightandkids.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevehines2/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltlightandkids
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@saltlightandkids
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltlightandkids/
Salt, Light, & Kids: Amazon Link

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This week on Here's What We Know, we're joined by the global entertainer, Charles Esten. Chip, best known for his role as Deacon Claybourne in the hit TV series "Nashville," delves into his musical journey with the release of his debut album, "Love Ain't Pretty."

Tune in to hear heartfelt insights into his creative process and overcoming hardships through gratitude and music. He also reveals what he believes is waiting for us, "Somewhere in the Sunshine."

In This Episode:

• Chip reveals the collaborative effort behind 'Love Ain't Pretty' with award-winning songwriters.
• Hear the Impact of the TV show ‘Nashville’ on his life and how they warmly welcomed him as Deacon Claybourne.
• Chip talks about his journey back to music after initially pursuing acting and how gratitude plays a central role in his life and happiness.
• Chip highlights the power of gratitude and the beauty of life and the afterlife.
• He discusses dealing with personal heartbreaks including his daughter's battle with leukemia at age two-and-a-half, now fully recovered.
• He shares his experience performing at the Grand Ole Opry, performing Improv, game show-winning experiences, and acting on Star Trek.

This episode is sponsored by:
Habana Cuba (Use code 'Gary20' so you can save up to 20% off your orders!)
A Flood of Love

Bio:
Charles "Chip" Esten is an American actor, singer, and songwriter. Best known for his roles as Deacon Claybourne on CMT's Nashville and as Ward Cameron on Netflix's Outer Banks. He’s made nearly 170 appearances at Nashville’s iconic Grand Ole Opry and performed multiple headline tours in the US, Germany, Amsterdam, and the UK. Surpassing 21 million streams for his music to date, Esten is a 2018 Guinness World Records title holder for the “Most consecutive weeks to release an original digital single by a music act” after delivering 54 original songs once a week for 54 straight weeks. In addition, Esten serves as the National Honorary Spokesperson for the Leukaemia & Lymphoma Society’s annual Light The Night Walk and is a board member and volunteer for Musicians On Call.

Website: https://www.charlesesten.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlesesten/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialcharlesesten
Get Chip's New Album: ‘Love Ain’t Pretty'

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