Music: Jeff Hemmings

Andrew Combs

A rising Nashville country star

Can you tell me where you’re from and where you’re based? 
I’m from Dallas, Texas but have been living in Nashville for about 10 years now.

Tell me about your musical background, how you got into music and writing songs?
My father is a piano player and my cousin a guitarist. They definitely were the first ones to peak my interest in music, and also taught me my first chords.

And your influences?
My top three songwriters are Guy Clark, Kris Kristofferson, and Mickey Newbury. 

What is it about country music you like so much?
It’s the common people’s music.

How would you describe your music?
Country soul.

I believe you were a writer at first, writing for a publishing company. How did that work, and do you still write for others?
I still write for a publishing company, yes. I will say though, I write songs for myself. If someone else happens to like one and record it for their project, that’s great. But I don’t ever write specifically with someone else in mind.

Would you say there is a C&W scene developing, of young musical talent? There’s obviously Caitlin Rose, someone you know well…
There’s a whole bunch of talented folks I am lucky to call friends, including Caitlin, that are in this “scene”.

Can you tell me some more about this mythological (to those who haven’t experienced it) place they call Nashville!?
Haha! Well, it’s an inspiring place to be right now for an artist. The best songwriters and musicians live in Nashville. It keeps you on top of your game.

Prince Albert, Mon 7 Sept, 8pm, £9