In this episode of Tailgate Beers, hosts Austin and Ryan sit down with rising artist Matt Schuster at the iconic Crusens Farmington Road in West Peoria, Illinois. Matt reflects on his journey from Charleston, Illinois to Nashville, where he’s been chasing his musical dreams for the past two and a half years. He shares stories about his roots, his first headlining show, and his memorable Grand Ole Opry debut, all while keeping the conversation lighthearted with talk of mullets, vests, and cereal preferences. This candid interview offers a glimpse into Matt's personality, passion for music, and the unwavering support he receives from friends and family as he continues to make waves in the industry.

In this episode of Tailgate Beers, Austin & Ryan dive into the excitement surrounding the 2025 Bloomington, Illinois, Tailgate N’ Tallboys festival. They discuss the highly anticipated lineup, behind-the-scenes insights, and the festival’s unique atmosphere, highlighting four jam-packed days of music from big-name headliners like Bailey Zimmerman, Hardy, and Cody Johnson, along with promising up-and-comers. Austin and Ryan also share tips for attendees, including camping details, ticket tiers, and insider knowledge to enhance the experience. With their signature banter and dedication to the festival community, they set the stage for an unforgettable summer event.

In this episode of Tailgate Beers, Austin and Ryan share their excitement about the 2025 Tailgate N Tallboys festival in Clinton, Iowa, happening June 5-7. They break down the lineup, featuring headliners Whiskey Myers, Riley Green, and Jason Aldean, along with rising stars like Wyatt Flores, Lily Rose, and Gavin Adcock. Set in the scenic riverfront of downtown Clinton, the festival promises an electric mix of country and Southern rock. The hosts also discuss camping options, VIP perks, and festival vibes, encouraging fans to grab tickets early and follow along for updates.

In this episode of Tailgate Beers, host Ryan sits down with Taylor Bruninga, a rising local musician from Mapleton, Illinois. Taylor shares his journey from being a standout basketball player at Illinois State University to navigating injuries that led him to discover his passion for music. They discuss his transition from sports to songwriting, the formation of his band, and the challenges of building a career in the competitive music industry. Taylor also reflects on his small-town roots, his musical inspirations, and his goals for releasing original music and expanding his performances beyond Central Illinois. It’s an inspiring conversation about resilience, creativity, and chasing dreams.

In this episode of Tailgate Beers, LECADE joins host Ryan for a lively discussion about his journey into music, beginning with high school rap sessions and evolving into a breakout career in country music. LECADE shares stories about his viral TikTok moment, his songwriting process, and life on the road. With anecdotes about Tailgate and Tallboys festivals, humorous insights about shower habits, and even thoughts on Bigfoot and aliens, LECADE offers an engaging and candid look at life as an artist. The episode wraps up with plans for upcoming tours and a glimpse of what fans can expect at his live shows.

This episode of Tailgate Beers features Andrew Sevy, a talented artist navigating the rebranding of his music career while embracing his childhood nickname "Sevy." He shares candid stories about his journey, from playing guitar for childhood friend Tayler Holder to dealing with the quirks of music distribution. With humor and authenticity, Sevy discusses his unique experiences in Nashville, his evolving music style, and his dedication to building connections in the industry. The episode mixes personal anecdotes, lighthearted debates, and reflections on the challenges of balancing artistry with life's unexpected twists.

In this episode of Tailgate Beers, the Austin and Ryan sit down with singer-songwriter Clayton Shay following an acoustic performance at Crusens in Peoria, Illinois. Clayton shares insights into his journey as a musician, from his roots in small-town Canton, Illinois, to his decision to pursue original music over covers. He reflects on career highlights, including playing festivals like Tailgate N' Tallboys and opening for Corey Smith. With humor and sincerity, Clayton discusses his influences, creative process, and the challenges of carving out an authentic path in the music industry. The conversation captures his passion for storytelling, connection with fans, and dedication to his craft, all wrapped in the camaraderie and laid-back atmosphere that defines the show.

In this episode of Tailgate Beers, hosts Ryan and Austin sit down with Matt Burrell and Nicky T from Raised Rowdy. They crack open beers at 10 a.m. on a Tuesday and dive into conversations about Nashville’s vibrant music scene, the intense camaraderie that bonds artists, and Raised Rowdy’s mission to support up-and-coming musicians. Matt and Nick share stories about the formation of Raised Rowdy, recounting its origins in a close-knit group of friends who share a passion for live music and festival culture. They explore the unique community of Nashville, describing it as a “hustler’s paradise” where artists and fans connect over shared love for music and perseverance. The episode captures the energy and dedication that fuels both Raised Rowdy’s events and their podcast.