As part of my recent NSAI song feedback session, I had the chance to get professional notes on my song “At the Bar Tonight” and those notes came straight from Joe Leathers (Curb Records), a Nashville hit songwriter who has written hit songs and #1s for Lee Brice, Kenny Chesney, Clay Walker, Tim McGraw, and others. Hearing his reaction was nothing short of thrilling. When someone at his level connects with what you’re doing, it hits different. It encourages you, fuels you, and reminds you why you keep writing.
Joe called out the energy of the track, the vibe, the story—all the things I hoped would land. He described it as a real honky tonk barn burner, which is about the best compliment a country songwriter could ask for.
If you’re not familiar with the phrase, a honky tonk barn burner is an energetic and rowdy country song or event—something that mixes the classic, lively atmosphere of a honky tonk with the intensity of a barn burner. It’s high-energy, foot-stomping, dance-ready, and usually played at a fast tempo. Basically: if the floorboards ain’t shaking, it ain’t a barn burner.
So to hear that from him? Yeah… I needed a minute.
Here are some direct quotes from Joe’s feedback:
“This feels like the theme song for Nashville’s Broadway party scene.”
“Musically and melodically, you got a honky tonk barn burner right there.”
He also praised the strong imagery and the way the chorus “lands exactly where it should,” which meant a lot coming from someone with his track record.
And who knew? Maybe I accidentally wrote the theme song for Nashville’s party scene on Broadway. Honestly, I’m hoping I get to hear the bands down there covering “At the Bar Tonight” real soon. I can already picture the neon lights, the packed rooms, the crowd shouting the chorus back. That’s the dream right there.
Even better news: “At the Bar Tonight” is now available on all streaming platforms as part of my 11th full-length album, XI: Songs From the Bar. This record is full of late-night stories, real folks, barroom memories, and songs made for the people who stay out a little longer just to hear one more tune.
I’m beyond grateful for the encouragement from Joe and fired up for what’s next. Here’s hoping this barn burner finds its home on Broadway—and maybe in your playlist tonight.
Give it a spin and let me know what you think.
