Matt Axton carries a family legacy that helped shape American music — and he’s forging his own path on the road today. In this episode, we dig into how his grandmother co-wrote Elvis Presley’s first million-selling hit (“Heartbreak Hotel”), how his father penned “Joy to the World (Jeremiah was a bullfrog)”, and why Blake Shelton’s first big break started… in a guest room over a garage.
Then we get tactical: building community through Americana Joy in LA, landing sponsors that actually pay artists, routing smart tours, and treating your art like a business (production quality + promotion budgets). If you’re an indie artist planning shows, this is a must-watch.
You’ll learn:
- The kitchen-table origin story behind “Heartbreak Hotel” and early Elvis.
- How Blake Shelton’s first hit took flight — and what that says about mentorship + community.
- How to have a successful tour in 2025 and beyond
- Why the music scenes in cities like Tulsa matter right now.
What's The Key? is a podcast for musicians, powered by your peers who've unlocked some of the doors.

Are you in Los Angeles and wanting to connect with other musicians and play your tunes? Check out Writer's Round LA every Wednesday at 7:30 at Ivanhoe in Silverlake. It's a showcase and an open mic, so come play an original song and mingle with other amazing singer/songwriters!
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