Across the Cumberland River from Music City, the burgeoning neighborhood of East Nashville has become a haven for artists, songwriters, and other creatives. One such songwriter is Andrew Adkins, who has been a part of the Nashville community for over a decade. As the city expands and modernizes while preserving its heritage, so too does Andrew’s music.

Andrew’s songs have been featured in television and film (CBS, Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Paramount +, History, MTV, Oxygen, and Lionsgate Films). Andrew has shared the stage with artists including Sturgill Simpson, Cage the Elephant, Little Big Town, A Thousand Horses, Dum Dum Girls, David “Honeyboy” Edwards, Billy Joe Shaver, and Wayne “The Train” Hancock among others.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with Andrew about the latest project (Rattlesnake Motions), motivations, music memories and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

What’s something you’d like readers to know about your latest project?

My new album Rattlesnake Motions comes out on July 8! Super excited to share it with everyone!

How does this project compare with your other release(s)? Was there anything specific you were trying to accomplish?

It’s probably the most “me” project that I’ve ever released. I really tried to create an album that shows multiple sides of who I am as a writer, performer, and producer. The most fun that I’ve ever had in the studio!

What motivates you to create music?

It’s very therapeutic to me. Writing is what keeps me from going absolutely insane!

What’s one of your first or most powerful music memories? Did that play any role in driving you to create?

Probably when I discovered Led Zeppelin IV. My cousin Tony, who’s much older than me played it for me when I was around 11. I couldn’t believe one band could sound like that. The guitar tones were unlike anything that I’ve heard. That discovery definitely spearheaded me getting into getting serious about playing the electric guitar.

If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why? If it’s an indie/DIY artist, please include a link so readers can check them out.

Wow! That’s a tough one! Probably Jimi Hendrix. He’s obviously one of the greatest guitarists ever, but I feel his genius production and songwriting skills are so overlooked. I would just love to be in the studio with him and watch his whole creative process. I would soak it up like a sponge.

What was the last song you listened to? And who is one of your favorite all-time bands/artists?

“Everything Means Nothing to Me” by Elliot Smith was the last song I listened to. That’s another tough one because for me it changes daily. Definitely, The Velvet Underground/Lou Reed is one of my all-time faves 

Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?

AndrewAdkins.net is where you can find links to all of my socials, and music.

I really appreciate Your time. Anything else before we sign off?

I would like to thank everyone who has listened to, downloaded, and streamed my latest singles. That means the world! I hope people dig the new record! Thank you for the cool questions!