The MeatEater Podcast Ep. 810: The Perfect Country and Western Song
Dec 23, 2025
Join professional songwriters Dan and Reid Isbell, along with musician Clay Newcomb, as they dive into the world of Nashville's Music Row. They share insights on the songwriting process, including how to pitch songs and collaborate with artists. The highlight? A hilarious challenge to create an anthem for mules, complete with catchy hook ideas and personal mule anecdotes. Listen in as they finalize the chorus for their mule song, blending humor and heart in a quintessential country style!
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Music Row's Scheduled Songwriting Machine
- Music Row is a professional songwriting factory where writers are scheduled by publishers for co-writes several days a week.
- Reid Isbell and Dan Isbell describe a systemized, calendar-driven process behind many country songs.
Pitch To Artist Timelines
- Check artist timelines before pitching a song so you write for opportunities that matter.
- Dan and Reid recommend aligning ideas to artists' schedules to increase cut chances.
Mule Song Pitch From Clay Newcomb
- Clay Newcomb pitches a mule-versus-horse song and supplies mule facts and personal preference.
- The writers use his input (Izzy, Betty Bay, Slow Trap) to craft character and hook ideas.