What Made You with Deanna Marie

MOURNING COFFEE

This week on What Made You with Deanna Marie, I'm joined by  Mourning Coffee, an indie folk project known for blending haunting melodies, raw emotion, and deeply personal storytelling. We dive into the inspiration behind the music, the healing power of songwriting, navigating life's darker moments through creativity, and the stories that shaped their artistic journey. If you've ever found comfort in a song that seemed to understand exactly what you were feeling, this conversation is for you.

Tanner Gomes

Episode Summary
This week on What Made You, Deanna sits down with country singer-songwriter Tanner Gomes for an honest conversation about resilience, chasing dreams, and finding purpose through music. Best known for his breakout appearance on The Voice, where he earned a coveted multi-chair turn and joined Team Kelly Clarkson, Tanner shares the story behind the spotlight—including the challenges he faced growing up, the life-changing impact music had on him, and what it really takes to build a career in Nashville.
From his journey from Arizona to Music City, to the lessons learned from reality television and the realities of life as an independent artist, Tanner opens up about the highs, the setbacks, and the moments that shaped him into the artist he is today. This episode is packed with inspiration, laughs, and a deeper look at the man behind the cowboy hat.
About Tanner Gomes
Tanner Gomes is a Nashville-based country singer-songwriter originally from Yuma, Arizona. He gained national recognition as a contestant on Season 19 of The Voice, earning a three-chair turn and joining Team Kelly Clarkson. Known for his authentic storytelling, powerful vocals, and heartfelt songwriting, Tanner continues to build a loyal fanbase through his music, live performances, and genuine connection with listeners. His songs draw from personal experiences, perseverance, and the belief that even life's toughest challenges can become part of a powerful story.

PJ Ferguson and the Tennessee Strange

PJ & The Tennessee Strange are a Nashville-based rock band fronted by PJ Ferguson, blending classic rock swagger with modern alternative energy. Known for their electrifying live performances, big-band sound, and “Stay Strange” mentality, the group has built a loyal following through relentless touring, raw authenticity, and a sound inspired by legends of the ‘70s and ‘90s alike.
In this episode, PJ joins the show to talk about the grind behind the music, building a band in Nashville, the stories behind their debut album, and what it really takes to stand out in today’s music scene.

Michael Isaak

Michael Isaak is an Egyptian American singer-songwriter whose music blends emotionally raw storytelling with modern pop and subtle Arabic influences. Drawing from his multicultural upbringing, Michael creates songs that feel deeply personal while resonating with universal themes of identity, love, vulnerability, and self-discovery. His distinctive sound reflects both his heritage and his ability to turn life’s most meaningful moments into music that connects on a profound level.
In this episode, Michael opens up about growing up between two cultures, how his Egyptian roots shape his artistry, and the personal experiences that inspire his songwriting. We also dive into the stories behind his music, the emotional honesty woven into his latest releases, and what he hopes listeners take away from his work.

Mick Fury

Mick Fury is an emerging rock artist carving his own path with unfiltered storytelling and a sound that refuses to play it safe. His music reflects the real, often unglamorous journey of chasing something bigger—balancing passion, pressure, and everything in between.

LoudLove

 LOUD LOVE doesn’t sugarcoat anything. Fusing melodic hardcore with emo and punk influences, their music lives in the space between heartbreak and release—loud, honest, and unapologetically real. Their songs dig into the messy parts of life most people try to avoid, turning frustration, love, and uncertainty into something you can scream along to. Whether on stage or in the studio, Loud Love is all about feeling everything—and turning it all the way up.

Snacktime

SNACKTIME is a high-energy, genre-blurring band out of Philadelphia that’s built a reputation for turning every performance into a full-blown experience. Known for their explosive live shows and infectious blend of funk, hip-hop, rock, and soul, the band doesn’t just play music—they create a party wherever they go. What started as impromptu jam sessions has grown into a movement, with a devoted fanbase drawn to their raw talent, tight musicianship, and undeniable chemistry.
In this episode, I sit down with Sam and Nico, members of Snacktime to talk about their journey from street performances to sold-out crowds, the grind behind the scenes, and the moments that tested their commitment to the band. Their honesty, humor, and resilience make this conversation as entertaining as it is inspiring.

Crashing Atlas

Crashing Atlas is a modern rock band known for blending heavy riffs, cinematic production, and emotionally charged lyrics into a sound that feels both powerful and deeply personal. Drawing from alternative rock, electronic elements, and hard rock influences, the band has carved out a lane that resonates with fans who connect with music that’s both intense and introspective.
When you talk with Crashing Atlas, it’s clear their music comes from real experience. Their songs tackle themes like mental health, resilience, and personal growth — the kinds of topics that have helped them build a loyal and rapidly growing fan base.
On the podcast, that same honesty carries into the conversation. Douglas Jokerst brings a mix of humor, authenticity, and openness about the ups and downs of chasing music and life in the spotlight, making it a conversation that goes far beyond the typical band interview.
 

Jamie Floyd

Jamie Floyd is an accomplished singer/songwriter based in Nashville.
She is known for her powerhouse vocals, sharp storytelling, and unmistakable edge. With a sound rooted in country but infused with soul and grit, she’s built a reputation in Music City as both a compelling artist and a songwriter other artists trust with their stories.
Having interviewed Jamie several times, what stands out most is how effortlessly she blends strength and vulnerability. Offstage, she’s thoughtful and grounded; onstage, she commands the room. Her songs feel lived-in — honest, emotionally intelligent, and unafraid to say the thing most people only think. That authenticity carries into every conversation, making time with her feel real, unscripted, and refreshingly candid.
Whether she’s writing, performing, or sitting down for a podcast, Jamie Floyd brings heart, humor, and a fearless creative spirit to everything she does.