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June 4, 2025 52 mins

In this episode of "When Words Fail, Music Speaks," host James Andrew Cox interviews Tom Sweeney, the talented musician behind Black Graz. Tom shares insights into his unique musical journey, blending genres like rock, country, and jazz. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of performing original music in a cover-dominated industry and the inspiration behind his diverse songwriting. Tom also talks about his experiences on the road, the importance of engaging with audiences, and his admiration for musical legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan and ABBA.


Key Topics:

  • The inspiration behind the name "Black Graz" and its unique spelling.
  • Tom's approach to performing original music in cover venues.
  • The influence of Stevie Ray Vaughan and other musical legends on Tom's style.
  • The songwriting process and the importance of live performance feedback.
  • Tom's experiences traveling and performing across the country.
  • The impact of ASCAP and BMI on venues and how Tom navigates these challenges.
  • Tom's admiration for diverse musical genres and artists.


Guest Information:

  • Name: Tom Sweeney
  • Band: Black Graz
  • Website: blackgraz.com
  • Social Media: Follow Black Grass on all major platforms for updates and new music releases.


Call to Action:

  • Visit betterhelp.com/musicspeaks for 10% off your first month of therapy.
  • Follow Black Grass on your favorite streaming service and social media platforms.
  • Join the Black Grass newsletter for tour updates and new music announcements.
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