Joshua Burpee is a multi-genre artist and musician from New Hampshire. From Hip-Hop to Poetry, he creates it all. As a 42R (musician) in the Army National Guard, he pursues and progresses his skills in performance and musicianship.

In this episode of the VetTunes Podcast, US Navy Veteran Brian Grilli shares his journey from military service to becoming a successful musician. He discusses the influence of his family on his musical upbringing, the challenges of transitioning from the military to the music industry, and the importance of authenticity in songwriting.

Join us as we chat with Christiana, a military artist, about her journey from a faith-based upbringing to serving in the Army, and how her military experience shaped her music career. We delve into the crucial role of community support, the impact of programs like Operation Rising Star, and the hurdles of being a veteran artist in the music industry.

Christiana also shares her reflections on the power of self-belief and the joy of connecting with audiences through her music. Discover her experiences on Operation Rising Star, the doors it opened, and unforgettable moments at the ACMs. The conversation also explores her songwriting process, the release of her single 'Barefoot Mountain Child', and the importance of crafting music that reflects personal experiences and values.

In this conversation, Barbara Sim, a Marine veteran and talented singer-songwriter, shares her journey from military service to a nomadic lifestyle focused on music. She discusses her experiences in the Marine Corps, including her time in Iraq and her role in the Female Engagement Team. Barbara reflects on her transition to civilian life, the challenges she faced, and how music became a vital outlet for healing. She emphasizes the importance of community support and the therapeutic nature of music, while also detailing her songwriting process and future plans as a traveling musician.

In this engaging conversation, Shannon Book shares his journey as a singer-songwriter and his experiences in the military, particularly in the Navy as a corpsman. The discussion highlights the intersection of music and military life, the influence of early musical experiences, and the profound impact of mentors and teachers. Shannon reflects on his motivations for joining the Navy, the challenges faced during training, and the emotional weight of working in emergency medicine. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the bonds formed in the military and the lessons learned through both music and service. In this conversation, the speakers explore the profound impact of music on personal healing and growth, particularly in the context of military experiences. They discuss their early musical endeavors, the therapeutic nature of songwriting, and the evolution of their performances. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of community support and the desire to create meaningful music that resonates with others.

Michael Allen is a Green Beret and musician from Nashville. He joined the military seeking adventure and a sense of purpose. His journey to becoming a Green Beret was driven by a long-held ambition. Green Berets focus on unconventional warfare and partner force support. Michael's military experiences deeply influence his songwriting. Music serves as a therapeutic outlet for veterans like Michael. He aims to connect with fellow veterans through his music. Michael's first performance boosted his confidence as a musician. He emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interactions in music. Fatherhood inspires Michael to pursue his music career more passionately.

Scotti Fraser is a US Marine Corps. Combat Veteran from Texas, that produces a unique blend of American rock. His Americana/country style combines groove-oriented riffs, lyrics inspired by his time in the military, and a message of standing all in the face of personal hardships. He tells the story of tattoos, battle scars, and the wounds of life’s had fought victories…all through song.

Jason Jackson, a talented jazz artist and former Navy musician. They discuss Jason's journey from military service to becoming a professional musician, his experiences in the Navy Band, and the challenges of navigating the music industry. Jason shares insights on radio promotion, the importance of persistence, and his musical influences. He also reflects on memorable performances and offers advice for aspiring musicians, emphasizing the need to use military time wisely and to be proactive in building a music career.

Cowboy Jax of N.VUE Productions shares his journey as a veteran turned filmmaker and musician. He discusses the mission of N.VUE Productions, which focuses on helping veterans transition into civilian life through creative storytelling and job opportunities in the entertainment industry. The discussion highlights the healing power of music, the importance of community, and the evolution of Jax's career, culminating in the creation of the song and film 'Everyday Heroes'. The conversation emphasizes the need for more representation of veterans in the arts and encourages veterans to embrace their creativity and seek out opportunities.