July 31, 2025 • 28 mins
The focal point of our discourse centers on the illustrious journey of Alli Venable, an exceptional artist who is presently redefining the blues rock genre. We delve into her remarkable trajectory, from her early days as a prodigious talent to her emergence as a formidable presence within a domain often dominated by seasoned musicians. This episode endeavors to elucidate the essence of her artistic philosophy, examining how her innate ability to forge authentic connections with both her music and audience has become a hallmark of her career. Furthermore, we explore the intricate interplay between her personal experiences and musical evolution, understanding how these elements coalesce to shape her identity as an artist. Ultimately, we invite you to reflect on the significance of genuine connection in your own creative pursuits, paralleling Venable's journey with your own quest for authenticity and artistic expression.
Who is
She picked up her guitar at just 12 years old—and hasn’t looked back since. Ally Venable is the firestarter of modern blues-rock, blending Texas swagger with fierce vocals and electrifying solos that have left audiences breathless around the world.
From winning the East Texas Music Award to sharing the stage with legends like Buddy Guy and Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Ally is proving that the blues is alive—and louder than ever.
In this episode, we trace her journey from small-town church singer to international blues sensation. What drives her tone? How does she stay grounded in a genre so dominated by history—and men? And what does it mean to be a 25-year-old woman leading the next generation of blues?
Get ready for a raw, soulful ride with Ally Venable—an artist who doesn’t just play the blues. She commands them
The exploration of Alli Venable's artistic journey unveils the profound evolution of a young musician who has risen to prominence in the blues rock genre. This episode delves into the intricate tapestry of her development, tracing her roots from Kilgore, Texas, to her emergence as a formidable presence in a field traditionally dominated by seasoned artists. We meticulously examine how her early exposure to the rich musical culture of the Deep South has imbued her sound with authenticity and emotional depth. As we dissect her meteoric rise, it becomes evident that Venable's artistry transcends mere technical prowess; it embodies a deep connection to her audience, demonstrating a shift from impressive skill to heartfelt expression. This transition not only marks her growth as an artist but also signifies a broader commentary on the evolution of blues music itself, as she continuously redefines what it means to engage with this storied genre. The insights gleaned from her experiences serve as a testament to the power of music as a vehicle for personal and collective expression, urging listeners to reflect on their own journeys of connection and authenticity in their respective fields.
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Episode Transcript
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(00:00):
Okay, let's unpack this.
Who is Alli Venable?
We're about to take a deepdive into the journey of this, well,
remarkable artist.
She's not just making waves inthe blues rock scene.
She seems to be genuinelyredefining what it means to connect
with the music and with heraudience, too.
Today we're going to try andcut through the noise, you know,
extract the most importantnuggets of knowledge, the insights
(00:21):
from everything we've gatheredabout her.
Think of it like your shortcutto really understanding the drive,
the talent and the evolvingphilosophy of this really captivating
musician.
Just tracing a career herewe're looking at that fascinating
pivot point, you know, whereraw, maybe prodigious talent transforms
into something deeper, likereal artistic purpose.
(00:41):
How does a young shredder, asshe puts it, learn to play from the
heart?
And why does that shift evenmatter for a whole genre that feels
like the real story we'rediving into?
Exactly.
We'll explore her roots, herpretty meteoric rise, and those really
personal insights that seem tofuel her.
Her whole creative process.
Okay.
It's kind of a mission.
Yeah.
To understand not just whatshe does, you know, on stage or in
(01:05):
the studio, but why itmatters, why it resonates in the
bigger picture of music andmaybe beyond.
Especially how she's shapingthe future of blues and rock.
Right now.
I, Ally Venable, the youngvirtuoso, emerges.
Right, let's start at the beginning.
Go back to her origins.
Ali Marie Venable, born April7, 1999, in Kilgore, Texas.
(01:27):
Kilgore.
So that makes her 26 today.
Still, incredibly, when youthink about the.
Impact she's already had, itreally is striking.
Yeah.
How much she's accomplished.
I mean, she's alreadyestablished herself as this, like,
formidable presence in a genreoften linked with, you know, decades
of experience, seasoned players.
And she's broken through at anage where, let's be honest, most
people are just figuringthings out.
(01:48):
Makes her story even morecompelling, doesn't it?
And, you know, it's strikinghow often we see the Deep South,
Texas specifically, as thiskind of, well, crucible for blues
talent.
Right.
That environment.
Yeah.
It makes you wonder, how didthose geographical roots, the culture
there, this whole environmentsteeped in music and storytelling,
(02:09):
how does that shape anartist's sound, their identity?
Especially from such a young age?
You gotta seep in somehow.
It feels like more than just abirthplace, you know, just like a
foundational thing.
That raw emotional honesty youget in blues, it often feels tied
to the land itself, placeslike Kilgore.
That authenticity seems toreally take hold early on.
(02:30):
Shapes how you see things, howyou play.
Yeah, you can almost hear it sometimes.
Right?
The grit, the soul of theregion in the music's DNA.
For a young blues artist,that's not just background noise.
It's like the rhythm of your upbringing.
It gets into your earliest playing.
And she definitely didn'twaste any time getting started.
That passion, that drive, itwas there early, clearly.
I mean, just 14 years old.
This is back in 2013, shereleases her debut episode, Wise
(02:53):
Man.
Yeah.
And that record immediatelygets her this reputation, you know,
as a rising star in the Texasblues community.
Which is a vibrant scene, atough scene.
Oh, absolutely.
Imagine that, a professionaldebut before you can even legally
drive a car.
It just speaks volumes abouther talent, her focus.
It really does.
(03:13):
Most people don't find thatkind of clarity until way later,
if ever.
And it wasn't just some garage recording.
Right.
This was a serious statement.
It got people's attention.
Musicians, fans and reportsfrom back then noted this surprising
maturity in her playing even then.
Yeah, like she wasn't just overplaying.
Exactly.
More melodic lines showing sheunderstood the blues language already.
(03:34):
And her voice, while stilldeveloping, had this kind of raw
power.
And if you think about that,connecting it to artist development,
debuting so young, it suggestsnot just raw talent, which is obvious,
but this intense dedicationand early clarity of purpose.
It's almost preternatural.
Yeah, like she knew where shewas going.
Which makes you ask, what doesthat do for an artist's development?
(03:56):
Starting so young, gettingknown in a strong regional scene
like Texas blues.
Right.
There are pros and cons, I guess.
Definitely.
On one hand, it gives you thisincredibly solid, authentic foundation.
You're immersed in thetradition from day one.
Pressure.
Exactly.
It brings unique pressures.
You need maturity, resilienceto handle the industry, the expectations.
(04:20):
Things most teenagers justaren't equipped for.
It's a double edged sword, for sure.
That early spotlight canrefine you or it can overwhelm you.
And she seems to have handledit with, well, remarkable grace.
Used it to hone her craft.
Yeah, she leaned into it.
The insight there maybe isthat her early immersion gave her
this deep understanding ofBlue's authenticity even before she
(04:41):
started consciously pushingits boundaries.
And that quick rise wasn'tjust local buzz either.
She started getting actualawards, real recognition, tangible
stuff.
Yeah, like the ETX music.
Aw.
East Texas Female GuitarPlayer of the Year, 2014 and 2015,
back to back.
That's significant, right?
Solidified her as a standout player.
And her band got noticed too.
(05:02):
Blues band of the year, 2015and 2016.
Okay, so it wasn't just herindividual brilliance.
No, it showed she could lead acohesive unit too.
These weren't just littlelocal nods.
They were signs of realinfluence in a respected scene.
And those early awards,they're definitely more than just
trophies on a shelf.
There are markers ofvalidation, right.
From her community.
Proof of her impact.
(05:23):
Shows the raw talent wasrefining quickly.
Yeah.
Into something exceptionalthat resonated with critics, with
her peers.
And, you know, for anyonelistening, maybe this clicks with
your own experience, how earlyrecognition in whatever field you're
in can be this huge motivator.
Pushes you forward.
Yeah.
Give you confidence.
But it also sets thisincredibly high bar for everything
(05:44):
that comes next.
Creates expectations.
Exactly.
Expectations she's clearlykept meeting, kept exceeding.
Pushing herself even further.
And the band winning too, likeyou said.
Highlights her leadership,fostering that collective excellence.
2 Charting her course albumsand evolving sound.
So from those early eps, shemoves pretty quickly into full length
(06:04):
albums.
Always moving upward, it seems.
Her first one, no Glass Shoes,came out in 2016.
Connor Ree Music.
Yeah.
Made a strong impression right away.
Finished number 16 on the RMRelectric blues charts that year.
Roots Music Report.
Okay.
RMR.
That's a solid entry.
Shows she could connect beyondjust her local scene.
Right.
Reaching the people who reallyfollow contemporary blues.
(06:26):
Absolutely.
Charting on rmr, even if it'sniche compared to Billboard is a
key indicator within thatspecific genre audience.
The connoisseurs, maybe?
Kind of, yeah.
It means her music was beingheard, appreciated by the blues faithful,
people who get it.
The insight is RMR charts area vital barometer in that blues ecosystem.
So it proved her authenticity first.
(06:47):
Exactly.
It showed her debut resonatedwith the core fanbase that laid the
groundwork before she aimedfor broader appeal, proving her chops
first.
Okay.
Then comes Puppet Show 2018.
And this one really broke through.
Made a massive leap.
Debuted at number seven on theBillboard blues albums chart.
Wow.
Number seven, Billboard Blues.
That is a huge jump.
Huge.
(07:08):
From a genre specific chartto, you know, Billboard.
It's a clear signal her musicwas hitting a much wider audience.
Her sound was evolving,capturing more ears.
And this is where it getsreally interesting, Right?
Yeah.
A pivotal moment in hercareer, moving from RMR to Billboard.
Even the genre specificBillboard chart shows a significant
(07:28):
audience expansion.
Broader appeal definitelysolidifies her as a notable artist
beyond just Texas.
Which makes you ask, okay,what elements changed what in her
sound, her performance, herpresentation contributed to that
wider recognition.
Good question.
We can speculate, right?
Yeah.
Maybe her guitar techniquestarted bringing in more influences.
Rock infused riffs alongsidethe blues bends, more versatility.
(07:51):
Vocals, maybe.
Could be.
Maybe her vocal deliverygained some new emotional power.
That intensity resonating more widely.
Some critics pointed to likemore adventurous use of effects pedals
on certain tracks.
Fuzz wah.
Right.
Giving it a bit more rock edge.
Exactly.
Without ditching the blues foundation.
Made it accessible to classicrock fans.
Maybe.
It's probably a subtle shift,but impactful.
(08:12):
Balancing her roots with acontemporary edge, expanding her
reach.
Then our 2019 album, Texas Honey.
That one also had a videodirected by John Chambers.
Adding that visual layer.
Yeah.
And in today's music world,that visual component of professional
video, it's increasinglyvital, isn't it?
Definitely offers anotherdimension for expressing the vision,
telling the story, connectingwith fans more immersively.
(08:35):
A video lets you conveyemotions, themes, narratives, beyond
just the sound.
Gives it more depth.
Totally.
For Texas Honey, the visualslikely amplify the album's themes.
Maybe showing her live energyor something more conceptual.
It's a about using every toolto deepen that connection, make a
more complete artistic statement.
And she hasn't really sloweddown since.
Just consistent output.
(08:56):
Impressive.
Yeah.
Heart of fire in 2021, realgone in 2023.
And now looking ahead, a brandnew album, Money and Power.
Highly anticipated, set forRelease this year, 2025.
That steady stream, itshowcases this remarkable dedication,
a commitment to keeping hersound evolving.
And that consistent output,it's really compelling albums every
(09:19):
couple of years that shows arelentless drive, this deep well
of creative ideas.
Yeah, you need that consistency.
Absolutely crucial to maintainmomentum, keep the audience engaged
in this fast paced industry.
And for a young blues artistlike Ali, this consistency kind of
defies the traditional bluesmodel sometimes, you know, artists
taking years between albums.
(09:40):
Sure.
The insight maybe is she's notjust releasing music, she's sort
of iterating her sound in realtime for her audience.
Showing this continuous evolution.
And we're watching it happen.
Yeah.
This rapid development letsher bridge classic blues with contemporary
energy.
Keeps her sound fresh,relevant signals.
She's building this dynamic catalog.
Not just a few hits.
(10:00):
It's dedication to sharing herevolving art.
And she mentioned about moneyand power.
She feels very close to thesongs, like a real personal investment.
Said it was finished last year.
Recorded around this time last year.
Feeling very connected withthe album.
Just really, really proud of it.
Sounds like it's maybesomething deeper for her.
And that personal connection,especially in a raw, emotive genre.
(10:21):
Like blues, it's absolutely paramount.
You can hear it, right?
You really can.
Yeah.
When an artist feels thatinvested, that proud, the passion
translates.
It creates a more authentic,impactful experience for the listener.
It's about bringing her livedexperience, her emotions directly
into the music.
Makes it real.
Yeah.
(10:42):
That pride isn't just surface level.
It's the bedrock of powerfulexpression, especially in blues,
where the stories often comefrom life's, you know, trials and
triumphs.
This suggests Money and Powermight be her most autobiographical
work yet, giving us a deeperlook into her journey.
And outside the studio, herlive shows have taken her all over
global stages.
(11:02):
Yeah.
Back in 2019, she was part ofthe Ruff Records Blues Caravan.
That's a big deal, right?
That German blues live in.
Oh, yeah.
Roof Records is huge in theblues world.
The Caravan is prestigious.
And it was a tough tour.
Over 60 shows across Europe.
A real test of endurance,stage presence.
And she wasn't alone on that tour.
She was with Finland's InaForsman and Serbia's Katerina Pajac.
(11:23):
Right.
A dynamic trio showcasingdifferent talents within blues, highlighting
its global reach.
And taking part in a tour likethe Blues Caravan, that's a significant
step for any artist,especially one in her early 20s.
Huge exposure, invaluableexposure to diverse audiences.
Yeah.
Refines your stagecraftthrough constant playing.
(11:43):
And it fosters those crosscultural collaborations.
Playing with artists fromFinland, Serbia, it.
Just underscores the globalappeal of blues, doesn't it?
How it transcends borders, cultures.
The insight here is thosecollaborations force you to expand
your musical vocabulary.
You respond to differentstyles, different nuances.
Must have learned a lot.
Imagine the conversations, thejams, the shared insights.
(12:04):
It must have shaped her ownapproach, broadened her perspective
on what blues can even be.
Powerful testament to thegenre's reach.
Three, the power of mentors,collaborators and community.
Okay, so this new album, Moneyand Power, it opens with a track
called Brown Liquor and itfeatures her friend Chrisoni Kingfish
Ingram.
(12:24):
Kingfish, yeah.
Huge talent.
She deliberately chose thesong to open the album.
Said it was to set the tonefor the whole album.
And significantly, because itwas a collaboration with a good friend.
That choice says a lot, right?
Right off the bat, emphasizing connection.
And it makes you think, what'sthe real significance of that first
track?
(12:44):
It's often more than just a song.
It's a statement of intent.
A sonic declaration sets the stage.
Exactly.
And a collab with someone likeKingfish, it doesn't just bring his
unique sound, that vocal grid,his amazing guitar phrasing.
It also signals this shared vision.
Mutual respect within theblues community tells.
You something about thealbum's character immediately.
(13:06):
And choosing a good friend forthat key spot emphasizes connection
over, say, just commercial strategy.
It suggests authenticity iscentral to the album's message, that
it's about deep connections,personal and musical.
And she's known Kingfish for ages.
Like a decade.
Met when they were kids.
Basically 15 or 16.
Yeah.
Wow.
That young.
Describes their common groundas just guitar and music.
(13:28):
Says she learned so much justwatching him on stage.
Admires his voice, his overallsound, that whole package.
Yeah.
This long friendship, mutual admiration.
It's clearly foundational for her.
A source of inspiration,growth, and the.
Longevity of that friendship.
It really highlights the powerof pure relationships and artistic
(13:48):
development.
Learning from a contemporaryjust by watching them can be huge,
incredibly formative.
It's not just about jamming together.
It's about inspiring eachother, pushing boundaries, feeding
into this collective growthwithin the genre.
Like iron sharpening iron.
Exactly.
For her to watch Kingfish'sstage presence, his vocal approach,
his whole vibe.
She's absorbing andintegrating new perspectives into
(14:10):
her own art.
It fosters camaraderie,Continuous learning keeps both artists
sharp, innovative, mutualsupport, fueling individual excellence.
Then there's another reallysignificant friendship, a mentorship,
even with Joe.
Another veteran teen guitargreat, Joe Bonamassa, presumably
seems likely.
And Joe gave her someincredibly practical advice early
(14:31):
on.
Told her, basically, this timeis going to be the hardest that I'm
going to work in my career.
That's stark, but vital.
Yeah.
Not just a casual comment.
A veteran giving the real truth.
And what's fascinating thereis that wisdom passed down between
generations.
That advice from Joe, it's notjust a prediction.
It's preparation.
(14:51):
A candid warning arms you withrealistic expectations.
Exactly.
Understanding there will beperiods of intense, demanding effort
helps you persevere throughthe challenges.
It reframes hard work not assome obstacle, but as a necessary
phase for success, for mastery.
And that hardest work iseverything, right?
Touring, business, creativeblocks, all of it.
(15:13):
Endless touring, navigatingmarketing contracts, industry shifts.
Hearing that from a veteranlike Joe gives you crucial mental
resilience.
You approach it purposefully,ready for the grind.
And she says she looks to himfor inspiration, but also more broadly,
to a lot of people, like inthe blues community, for inspiration.
Other players, singers, musicians.
(15:33):
Finds it incredible how manyamazing artists and musicians she
meets online, on the road,festivals, cruise ships, wherever.
And that just highlights theprofound importance of community
and blues.
It's not just individuals.
It's this supportive, dynamic ecosystem.
Artists genuinely drawstrength, inspiration from each other.
(15:55):
Yeah, you feel that in a.
And for anyone listening,think how valuable that is in any
pursuit.
Having a community forstrength, ideas, even challenges.
It's proof that no artistachieves greatness alone.
Their art is enriched by that collective.
Well, it's a lifeline.
Clearly a vital lifeline for her.
Refining her sound, findingnew avenues, feeling supported fosters
(16:15):
continuous learning, mutual elevation.
Ooh.
4 the artist's creation,consistency and authenticity.
Okay, so she has this reallyinteresting take on album releases.
She contrasts her approachwith gels again, presumably Bonamassa,
who puts out material likeevery six months.
Live albums, compilations, whatever.
But she notes, many bluesartists follow a more spaced out
(16:36):
pattern once every three,maybe four years.
Right.
Different philosophieshighlights that fundamental difference
in managing a career, managing creativity.
And it prompts that importantquestion for any artist, doesn't
it?
The tension between consistentoutput, maintaining visibility, engaging
fans and.
And the demands of genuinecreative inspiration.
The muse versus the machine.
(16:58):
Kind of an aggressive schedule.
Keeps you visible, but risksburnout, forced creation, diluting
the authenticity.
But too much time, you risklosing momentum in this fast paced
world.
It's a tightrope walk.
Definitely needs selfawareness, a clear artistic compass.
And her approach tries to findthat personal sweet spot.
(17:18):
Honoring inspiration and theprofessional demands.
And her philosophy seemsdeeply rooted in authenticity.
She says inspiration let ithappen explicitly states she doesn't
want the intention behind analbum to be just about money or just
continuing this pursuit of putting.
Stuff out right, not justfeeding the beast.
Instead, she wants it to belike, oh, I have this experience
(17:39):
that really touched me.
I need to get this out.
I need to communicate this connection.
She believes it flourishesorganically from there.
Driven by real emotion, not pressure.
And that perspective, itunderscores this critical value of
artistic integrity.
Especially in a soul drivengenre like blues.
There's got to be a real,prioritizing, authentic experience.
(18:00):
Emotional connection overcommercial demands.
That's often what gives musicits deep resonance, its staying power.
Letting life dictate thecreative flow, not external pressures.
Waiting for life to speak to her.
Exactly.
Waiting for that experiencethat demands to be translated into
sound.
Ensures every note, everylyric, carries the weight of genuine
(18:20):
lived experience, not manufactured.
It's inspiring to see that commitment.
But despite that focus onorganic inspiration, she also admits,
I am like a workaholic as well.
At the same time, the paradox.
Yeah, she tours so muchbecause she loves the pursuit of
just going for your dreams andfollowing what you want to do.
Shows the intense drive behindthe talent.
(18:40):
Not just Inspiration, butrelentless effort.
And that's fascinating, isn't it?
The artist driven by deepinspiration is also this tireless
worker.
That dedication allows her topush boundaries, pursue dreams with
intensity.
It's passion plus effort.
Absolutely.
It's a testament to thepassion and the immense effort needed
(19:00):
to sustain a successful careerin music, especially blues, which
demands so much personally,physically, it's the engine converting
inspiration into reality.
Often what separates dreamersfrom achievers.
And she acknowledges findingbalance is tough.
It's a balance that I'mcontinuing to learn how to navigate
it all.
An ongoing process.
(19:21):
Yeah.
While she avoids Joe's sixmonth cycle, she still puts out albums,
probably like every.
Every other year.
Admits that's still a lot withall the touring and press.
It is a lot.
This cycle is demanding.
Explains that touring is working.
And sometimes you just need alittle life in between all of that
to even start writing stuff again.
Because touring, even seeingthe world can get kind of monotonous.
The grind, right.
(19:42):
She values those windows oftime to just kind of exist and live
life and go through things.
That's the fuel for new songs.
And that raises such animportant question for any creative
pro.
How do you maintain freshness,stay connected to your art, when
your life is dominated by themachine of touring, promotion, refilling
the well.
(20:02):
Exactly.
That need for life in betweenis crucial.
Refilling the well of personalexperience, where new songs, new
ideas come from, and for you,listening, it mirrors that need for
balance in any demanding career.
Got to protect the source.
Yeah.
Ensure the machine of workdoesn't consume the fuel for it.
For a blues artist, that lifeis heartbreak, joy.
(20:24):
Just observing the world, theraw material, nurturing the source,
understanding.
Great work often comes fromreflection, from living, not just
endless work.
V. The evolution ofperformance from shred to soul.
Okay.
One of the most strikingthings about her as a performer is
her ability to seemcomfortable in any scenario.
Her adaptability.
Yeah.
Big outdoor festivals likeHarvest Music Fest or like an intimate
(20:46):
club like the Iridium.
Even high profile tours likeExperience Hendrix.
She adapts.
Her energy, connects with the crowd.
That versatility is huge.
And it's not just technicalproficiency, is it?
It's that profound adaptability.
It's not just playing thenotes right in different rooms.
It's intuitively connectingwith different audiences, different
vibes.
Reading the room.
(21:06):
Exactly.
Her approach, she says, isabout being comfortable in the discomfort,
embracing how songs evolve andchange with my band over time.
That willingness to let themusic breathe, grow, live, that's
true artistry.
Trusting her instincts, herband different approach for different
settings.
You'd imagine big festival,maybe more powerful riffs, soaring
(21:27):
solos, small club, maybe dialit back.
More nuanced phrasing,intimate vocals, eye contact, making
it feel like a conversation.
She coined that phrase,flourishing in the chaos, which sums
up live shows, touring.
Pretty well.
Perfect, isn't it?
Flourishing in the chaosencapsulates the dynamic, unpredictable
nature of live performance.
(21:47):
It's more than just enduringthe unexpected.
It's embracing it,transforming it into part of the
creative process.
Makes each show unique,totally for the.
Band, for the audience.
Being present, creatingsomething new each night, allowing
for spontaneous moments,unexpected interactions.
That's the magic.
True mastery isn't avoidingchaos, it's thriving within it, Turning
(22:09):
obstacles into expression.
And talking about her guitarplaying, she admits having a shred
phase.
Like a lot of young technical players.
Common path.
But now her focus has shifted.
It's not just about showingoff chops.
It's about an intentionalconnection that I have on stage with
herself, her band, andcrucially, the audience.
That's a profound maturation,moving beyond just technique.
(22:31):
And it raises that questionabout artistic evolution.
How does your relationshipwith your instrument, your performance,
change?
Moving beyond shredding, youknow, the fast runs, the complexity
for complexity's sake, toprioritizing emotional connection.
It's a significant step.
It's a big shift, Huge.
From showing what you can doto conveying what you feel.
Letting the music be a conduitfor shared experience.
(22:53):
That means lyrical phrasing,using space, expressive vibrato,
bends that sing, letting theguitar speak.
Feelings, not just dexterity.
And she noticed when sheplayed in my ego, the whole vibe
of the show felt different.
Interesting observation.
Now she consciously plays forthe connection and how it makes people
feel.
Wants to give something to theaudience versus, like, watch me play
(23:13):
this solo and like, clap for me.
Says it's bigger than just me.
That's powerful.
Moving from seeking externalvalidation, the applause, to fostering
a shared emotional experiencechanges everything, transforms the
performance from a displayinto a conversation, deepens the
impact.
When an artist focuses onauthentic connection, the audience
(23:36):
feels that sincerity.
It creates a more memorable,meaningful experience.
Playing in her ego might havebeen technically perfect, but maybe
cold, possibly precise.
But maybe lacking vulnerability.
Playing for connection allowsfor that raw human touch.
Moving from performing for theaudience to performing with them,
creating something collective.
(23:56):
And the shift in mindset, italso fuels her desire to inspire
others, inspire other women,other young girls, other just young
players, and introduce theminto the.
Genre using her platform.
Yeah.
Finds it crucial for younggirls, especially to see Someone
that looks like you on stage,doing what they want to do, regardless
of what their outsidecircumstances are.
It's about more than just her music.
(24:17):
And that is absolutely critical.
It extends beyond music.
Artists are powerful role models.
They really are.
By consciously focusing oninspiring others, especially young
women in a traditionally maledominated genre like blues rock,
she amplifies her impact hugely.
She's contributing to a moreinclusive, diverse future for music.
Paving the way.
Exactly.
(24:37):
Using her platform to showwhat's possible.
Representation matters.
Her presence is an affirmation.
If she can do it, so can they.
Talent knows no gender.
And she adds humbly, thatshe's still working at it, doesn't
feel she has it down.
Which shows that growth,mindset, admirable self awareness.
But she knows how to exude mylight through my instrument, and
(24:58):
how to connect with people.
And that self awareness, thatcommitment to continuous growth hallmarks
of truly great artists.
The journey of connection is ongoing.
Authenticity isn't adestination, it's constant exploration.
For you listening, it remindsus that true mastery often comes
from that deep evolvingunderstanding of purpose beyond just
(25:21):
technique, lifelong dedicationto growth, meaningful contribution,
understanding the instrumentis just a vessel for the spirit.
The art is letting that spirit connect.
6.
Decoding Puppet Show aPersonal Statement okay.
So that 2018 album title,Puppet show, you might wonder, was
it a nod to like this isSpinal Tap?
(25:41):
Huh?
Good question.
She confirms it wasn't thoughshe knows the film, thankfully.
Instead, the title reflectssomething really personal from her
teenage years.
Something a lot of us canprobably relate to.
Okay, she described livingunder your parents roof, wanting
all this freedom, all theadult things, and feeling, well,
kind of trapped in a way.
Or like, oh, like I wantcontrol of my life now.
(26:03):
That teenage angst totallydescribed it as feeling confined,
feeling control, feelingtrapped and like being molded into
something that you're not sureis really you.
Wow, that's universal.
Captured through her art,giving voice to that self discovery
phase.
And what's fascinating is howpersonal that theme is.
Yet how universally relatablepuppet show becomes this powerful
(26:24):
metaphor for that adolescentstruggle for identity, autonomy,
finding yourself.
Exactly.
Speaks to the tension betweenwanting independence and feeling
molded by external forces.
Parents, society, peers.
Which makes you think, howdoes channeling those raw, authentic,
relatable experiences into artcreate such a profound connection?
(26:46):
Lets the audience seethemselves in it, right?
Their own lives, struggles,growth reflected in the music.
Where the personal becomesuniversal musically.
Maybe that feeling ofconfinement and liberation comes
through dynamics type verses,explosive choruses, guitar solos
that feel like breaking free.
Yeah, you can hear thatPotential motive bends, soaring lines.
Representing that search forfreedom shows how deep self reflection
(27:09):
can infuse music with real,resonant meaning.
Outro.
So wrapping this up, what doesit all mean?
Our deep dive into AliVenable's world.
It really reveals this journeyof profound artistic growth, doesn't
it?
From teenage prodigy winninglocal awards to a mature artist charting
on Billboard, she consistentlyseems to prioritize authentic connection
(27:31):
over just, you know, spectacle.
Drawing inspiration from hercommunity, but bravely forging your
own path.
Yeah, we've seen herdedication, her unique approach to
balancing that relentless workethic with the need for real life
experience to fuel thecreativity and that powerful shift.
Playing for genuineconnection, not just applause.
She's not just a giftedguitarist or a soulful singer anymore.
(27:53):
She's an evolving artistactively inspiring a new generation,
especially young women,encouraging them to find their voice,
pursue dreams with integrity,with purpose.
Building a legacy based onauthenticity, connection, not just
chops.
Exactly.
So we definitely encourage youto explore her discography and especially
keep an ear out for her newestalbum, Money and Power.
(28:14):
When it lands, hear for yourself.
That depth, that evolution.
Listen for those moments wherethe guitar just sings with emotion
or her voice conveys that deepconnection she's aiming for.
And maybe this prompts a finalquestion for you, the listener, in
your own life, your ownpursuits, creative, professional,
personal inquire.
How might you cultivate moregenuine connection?
(28:36):
How can you prioritizeauthentic expression?
Let your experiences fuel whatyou do?
Good question.
What does it mean for you totruly flourish in the chaos of continuous
growth, to embrace thediscomfort, maybe, rather than just
chasing external validation,what does it really mean for you
to play?
Or maybe just to live from the heart?
Okay, let's unpack this.
Who is Alli Venable?
We're about to take a deepdive into the journey of this, well,
remarkable artist.
She's not just making waves inthe blues rock scene.
She seems to be genuinelyredefining what it means to connect
with the music and with heraudience, too.
Today we're going to try andcut through the noise, you know,
extract the most importantnuggets of knowledge, the insights
(00:21):
from everything we've gatheredabout her.
Think of it like your shortcutto really understanding the drive,
the talent and the evolvingphilosophy of this really captivating
musician.
Just tracing a career herewe're looking at that fascinating
pivot point, you know, whereraw, maybe prodigious talent transforms
into something deeper, likereal artistic purpose.
(00:41):
How does a young shredder, asshe puts it, learn to play from the
heart?
And why does that shift evenmatter for a whole genre that feels
like the real story we'rediving into?
Exactly.
We'll explore her roots, herpretty meteoric rise, and those really
personal insights that seem tofuel her.
Her whole creative process.
Okay.
It's kind of a mission.
Yeah.
To understand not just whatshe does, you know, on stage or in
(01:05):
the studio, but why itmatters, why it resonates in the
bigger picture of music andmaybe beyond.
Especially how she's shapingthe future of blues and rock.
Right now.
I, Ally Venable, the youngvirtuoso, emerges.
Right, let's start at the beginning.
Go back to her origins.
Ali Marie Venable, born April7, 1999, in Kilgore, Texas.
(01:27):
Kilgore.
So that makes her 26 today.
Still, incredibly, when youthink about the.
Impact she's already had, itreally is striking.
Yeah.
How much she's accomplished.
I mean, she's alreadyestablished herself as this, like,
formidable presence in a genreoften linked with, you know, decades
of experience, seasoned players.
And she's broken through at anage where, let's be honest, most
people are just figuringthings out.
(01:48):
Makes her story even morecompelling, doesn't it?
And, you know, it's strikinghow often we see the Deep South,
Texas specifically, as thiskind of, well, crucible for blues
talent.
Right.
That environment.
Yeah.
It makes you wonder, how didthose geographical roots, the culture
there, this whole environmentsteeped in music and storytelling,
(02:09):
how does that shape anartist's sound, their identity?
Especially from such a young age?
You gotta seep in somehow.
It feels like more than just abirthplace, you know, just like a
foundational thing.
That raw emotional honesty youget in blues, it often feels tied
to the land itself, placeslike Kilgore.
That authenticity seems toreally take hold early on.
(02:30):
Shapes how you see things, howyou play.
Yeah, you can almost hear it sometimes.
Right?
The grit, the soul of theregion in the music's DNA.
For a young blues artist,that's not just background noise.
It's like the rhythm of your upbringing.
It gets into your earliest playing.
And she definitely didn'twaste any time getting started.
That passion, that drive, itwas there early, clearly.
I mean, just 14 years old.
This is back in 2013, shereleases her debut episode, Wise
(02:53):
Man.
Yeah.
And that record immediatelygets her this reputation, you know,
as a rising star in the Texasblues community.
Which is a vibrant scene, atough scene.
Oh, absolutely.
Imagine that, a professionaldebut before you can even legally
drive a car.
It just speaks volumes abouther talent, her focus.
It really does.
(03:13):
Most people don't find thatkind of clarity until way later,
if ever.
And it wasn't just some garage recording.
Right.
This was a serious statement.
It got people's attention.
Musicians, fans and reportsfrom back then noted this surprising
maturity in her playing even then.
Yeah, like she wasn't just overplaying.
Exactly.
More melodic lines showing sheunderstood the blues language already.
(03:34):
And her voice, while stilldeveloping, had this kind of raw
power.
And if you think about that,connecting it to artist development,
debuting so young, it suggestsnot just raw talent, which is obvious,
but this intense dedicationand early clarity of purpose.
It's almost preternatural.
Yeah, like she knew where shewas going.
Which makes you ask, what doesthat do for an artist's development?
(03:56):
Starting so young, gettingknown in a strong regional scene
like Texas blues.
Right.
There are pros and cons, I guess.
Definitely.
On one hand, it gives you thisincredibly solid, authentic foundation.
You're immersed in thetradition from day one.
Pressure.
Exactly.
It brings unique pressures.
You need maturity, resilienceto handle the industry, the expectations.
(04:20):
Things most teenagers justaren't equipped for.
It's a double edged sword, for sure.
That early spotlight canrefine you or it can overwhelm you.
And she seems to have handledit with, well, remarkable grace.
Used it to hone her craft.
Yeah, she leaned into it.
The insight there maybe isthat her early immersion gave her
this deep understanding ofBlue's authenticity even before she
(04:41):
started consciously pushingits boundaries.
And that quick rise wasn'tjust local buzz either.
She started getting actualawards, real recognition, tangible
stuff.
Yeah, like the ETX music.
Aw.
East Texas Female GuitarPlayer of the Year, 2014 and 2015,
back to back.
That's significant, right?
Solidified her as a standout player.
And her band got noticed too.
(05:02):
Blues band of the year, 2015and 2016.
Okay, so it wasn't just herindividual brilliance.
No, it showed she could lead acohesive unit too.
These weren't just littlelocal nods.
They were signs of realinfluence in a respected scene.
And those early awards,they're definitely more than just
trophies on a shelf.
There are markers ofvalidation, right.
From her community.
Proof of her impact.
(05:23):
Shows the raw talent wasrefining quickly.
Yeah.
Into something exceptionalthat resonated with critics, with
her peers.
And, you know, for anyonelistening, maybe this clicks with
your own experience, how earlyrecognition in whatever field you're
in can be this huge motivator.
Pushes you forward.
Yeah.
Give you confidence.
But it also sets thisincredibly high bar for everything
(05:44):
that comes next.
Creates expectations.
Exactly.
Expectations she's clearlykept meeting, kept exceeding.
Pushing herself even further.
And the band winning too, likeyou said.
Highlights her leadership,fostering that collective excellence.
2 Charting her course albumsand evolving sound.
So from those early eps, shemoves pretty quickly into full length
(06:04):
albums.
Always moving upward, it seems.
Her first one, no Glass Shoes,came out in 2016.
Connor Ree Music.
Yeah.
Made a strong impression right away.
Finished number 16 on the RMRelectric blues charts that year.
Roots Music Report.
Okay.
RMR.
That's a solid entry.
Shows she could connect beyondjust her local scene.
Right.
Reaching the people who reallyfollow contemporary blues.
(06:26):
Absolutely.
Charting on rmr, even if it'sniche compared to Billboard is a
key indicator within thatspecific genre audience.
The connoisseurs, maybe?
Kind of, yeah.
It means her music was beingheard, appreciated by the blues faithful,
people who get it.
The insight is RMR charts area vital barometer in that blues ecosystem.
So it proved her authenticity first.
(06:47):
Exactly.
It showed her debut resonatedwith the core fanbase that laid the
groundwork before she aimedfor broader appeal, proving her chops
first.
Okay.
Then comes Puppet Show 2018.
And this one really broke through.
Made a massive leap.
Debuted at number seven on theBillboard blues albums chart.
Wow.
Number seven, Billboard Blues.
That is a huge jump.
Huge.
(07:08):
From a genre specific chartto, you know, Billboard.
It's a clear signal her musicwas hitting a much wider audience.
Her sound was evolving,capturing more ears.
And this is where it getsreally interesting, Right?
Yeah.
A pivotal moment in hercareer, moving from RMR to Billboard.
Even the genre specificBillboard chart shows a significant
(07:28):
audience expansion.
Broader appeal definitelysolidifies her as a notable artist
beyond just Texas.
Which makes you ask, okay,what elements changed what in her
sound, her performance, herpresentation contributed to that
wider recognition.
Good question.
We can speculate, right?
Yeah.
Maybe her guitar techniquestarted bringing in more influences.
Rock infused riffs alongsidethe blues bends, more versatility.
(07:51):
Vocals, maybe.
Could be.
Maybe her vocal deliverygained some new emotional power.
That intensity resonating more widely.
Some critics pointed to likemore adventurous use of effects pedals
on certain tracks.
Fuzz wah.
Right.
Giving it a bit more rock edge.
Exactly.
Without ditching the blues foundation.
Made it accessible to classicrock fans.
Maybe.
It's probably a subtle shift,but impactful.
(08:12):
Balancing her roots with acontemporary edge, expanding her
reach.
Then our 2019 album, Texas Honey.
That one also had a videodirected by John Chambers.
Adding that visual layer.
Yeah.
And in today's music world,that visual component of professional
video, it's increasinglyvital, isn't it?
Definitely offers anotherdimension for expressing the vision,
telling the story, connectingwith fans more immersively.
(08:35):
A video lets you conveyemotions, themes, narratives, beyond
just the sound.
Gives it more depth.
Totally.
For Texas Honey, the visualslikely amplify the album's themes.
Maybe showing her live energyor something more conceptual.
It's a about using every toolto deepen that connection, make a
more complete artistic statement.
And she hasn't really sloweddown since.
Just consistent output.
(08:56):
Impressive.
Yeah.
Heart of fire in 2021, realgone in 2023.
And now looking ahead, a brandnew album, Money and Power.
Highly anticipated, set forRelease this year, 2025.
That steady stream, itshowcases this remarkable dedication,
a commitment to keeping hersound evolving.
And that consistent output,it's really compelling albums every
(09:19):
couple of years that shows arelentless drive, this deep well
of creative ideas.
Yeah, you need that consistency.
Absolutely crucial to maintainmomentum, keep the audience engaged
in this fast paced industry.
And for a young blues artistlike Ali, this consistency kind of
defies the traditional bluesmodel sometimes, you know, artists
taking years between albums.
(09:40):
Sure.
The insight maybe is she's notjust releasing music, she's sort
of iterating her sound in realtime for her audience.
Showing this continuous evolution.
And we're watching it happen.
Yeah.
This rapid development letsher bridge classic blues with contemporary
energy.
Keeps her sound fresh,relevant signals.
She's building this dynamic catalog.
Not just a few hits.
(10:00):
It's dedication to sharing herevolving art.
And she mentioned about moneyand power.
She feels very close to thesongs, like a real personal investment.
Said it was finished last year.
Recorded around this time last year.
Feeling very connected withthe album.
Just really, really proud of it.
Sounds like it's maybesomething deeper for her.
And that personal connection,especially in a raw, emotive genre.
(10:21):
Like blues, it's absolutely paramount.
You can hear it, right?
You really can.
Yeah.
When an artist feels thatinvested, that proud, the passion
translates.
It creates a more authentic,impactful experience for the listener.
It's about bringing her livedexperience, her emotions directly
into the music.
Makes it real.
Yeah.
(10:42):
That pride isn't just surface level.
It's the bedrock of powerfulexpression, especially in blues,
where the stories often comefrom life's, you know, trials and
triumphs.
This suggests Money and Powermight be her most autobiographical
work yet, giving us a deeperlook into her journey.
And outside the studio, herlive shows have taken her all over
global stages.
(11:02):
Yeah.
Back in 2019, she was part ofthe Ruff Records Blues Caravan.
That's a big deal, right?
That German blues live in.
Oh, yeah.
Roof Records is huge in theblues world.
The Caravan is prestigious.
And it was a tough tour.
Over 60 shows across Europe.
A real test of endurance,stage presence.
And she wasn't alone on that tour.
She was with Finland's InaForsman and Serbia's Katerina Pajac.
(11:23):
Right.
A dynamic trio showcasingdifferent talents within blues, highlighting
its global reach.
And taking part in a tour likethe Blues Caravan, that's a significant
step for any artist,especially one in her early 20s.
Huge exposure, invaluableexposure to diverse audiences.
Yeah.
Refines your stagecraftthrough constant playing.
(11:43):
And it fosters those crosscultural collaborations.
Playing with artists fromFinland, Serbia, it.
Just underscores the globalappeal of blues, doesn't it?
How it transcends borders, cultures.
The insight here is thosecollaborations force you to expand
your musical vocabulary.
You respond to differentstyles, different nuances.
Must have learned a lot.
Imagine the conversations, thejams, the shared insights.
(12:04):
It must have shaped her ownapproach, broadened her perspective
on what blues can even be.
Powerful testament to thegenre's reach.
Three, the power of mentors,collaborators and community.
Okay, so this new album, Moneyand Power, it opens with a track
called Brown Liquor and itfeatures her friend Chrisoni Kingfish
Ingram.
(12:24):
Kingfish, yeah.
Huge talent.
She deliberately chose thesong to open the album.
Said it was to set the tonefor the whole album.
And significantly, because itwas a collaboration with a good friend.
That choice says a lot, right?
Right off the bat, emphasizing connection.
And it makes you think, what'sthe real significance of that first
track?
(12:44):
It's often more than just a song.
It's a statement of intent.
A sonic declaration sets the stage.
Exactly.
And a collab with someone likeKingfish, it doesn't just bring his
unique sound, that vocal grid,his amazing guitar phrasing.
It also signals this shared vision.
Mutual respect within theblues community tells.
You something about thealbum's character immediately.
(13:06):
And choosing a good friend forthat key spot emphasizes connection
over, say, just commercial strategy.
It suggests authenticity iscentral to the album's message, that
it's about deep connections,personal and musical.
And she's known Kingfish for ages.
Like a decade.
Met when they were kids.
Basically 15 or 16.
Yeah.
Wow.
That young.
Describes their common groundas just guitar and music.
(13:28):
Says she learned so much justwatching him on stage.
Admires his voice, his overallsound, that whole package.
Yeah.
This long friendship, mutual admiration.
It's clearly foundational for her.
A source of inspiration,growth, and the.
Longevity of that friendship.
It really highlights the powerof pure relationships and artistic
(13:48):
development.
Learning from a contemporaryjust by watching them can be huge,
incredibly formative.
It's not just about jamming together.
It's about inspiring eachother, pushing boundaries, feeding
into this collective growthwithin the genre.
Like iron sharpening iron.
Exactly.
For her to watch Kingfish'sstage presence, his vocal approach,
his whole vibe.
She's absorbing andintegrating new perspectives into
(14:10):
her own art.
It fosters camaraderie,Continuous learning keeps both artists
sharp, innovative, mutualsupport, fueling individual excellence.
Then there's another reallysignificant friendship, a mentorship,
even with Joe.
Another veteran teen guitargreat, Joe Bonamassa, presumably
seems likely.
And Joe gave her someincredibly practical advice early
(14:31):
on.
Told her, basically, this timeis going to be the hardest that I'm
going to work in my career.
That's stark, but vital.
Yeah.
Not just a casual comment.
A veteran giving the real truth.
And what's fascinating thereis that wisdom passed down between
generations.
That advice from Joe, it's notjust a prediction.
It's preparation.
(14:51):
A candid warning arms you withrealistic expectations.
Exactly.
Understanding there will beperiods of intense, demanding effort
helps you persevere throughthe challenges.
It reframes hard work not assome obstacle, but as a necessary
phase for success, for mastery.
And that hardest work iseverything, right?
Touring, business, creativeblocks, all of it.
(15:13):
Endless touring, navigatingmarketing contracts, industry shifts.
Hearing that from a veteranlike Joe gives you crucial mental
resilience.
You approach it purposefully,ready for the grind.
And she says she looks to himfor inspiration, but also more broadly,
to a lot of people, like inthe blues community, for inspiration.
Other players, singers, musicians.
(15:33):
Finds it incredible how manyamazing artists and musicians she
meets online, on the road,festivals, cruise ships, wherever.
And that just highlights theprofound importance of community
and blues.
It's not just individuals.
It's this supportive, dynamic ecosystem.
Artists genuinely drawstrength, inspiration from each other.
(15:55):
Yeah, you feel that in a.
And for anyone listening,think how valuable that is in any
pursuit.
Having a community forstrength, ideas, even challenges.
It's proof that no artistachieves greatness alone.
Their art is enriched by that collective.
Well, it's a lifeline.
Clearly a vital lifeline for her.
Refining her sound, findingnew avenues, feeling supported fosters
(16:15):
continuous learning, mutual elevation.
Ooh.
4 the artist's creation,consistency and authenticity.
Okay, so she has this reallyinteresting take on album releases.
She contrasts her approachwith gels again, presumably Bonamassa,
who puts out material likeevery six months.
Live albums, compilations, whatever.
But she notes, many bluesartists follow a more spaced out
(16:36):
pattern once every three,maybe four years.
Right.
Different philosophieshighlights that fundamental difference
in managing a career, managing creativity.
And it prompts that importantquestion for any artist, doesn't
it?
The tension between consistentoutput, maintaining visibility, engaging
fans and.
And the demands of genuinecreative inspiration.
The muse versus the machine.
(16:58):
Kind of an aggressive schedule.
Keeps you visible, but risksburnout, forced creation, diluting
the authenticity.
But too much time, you risklosing momentum in this fast paced
world.
It's a tightrope walk.
Definitely needs selfawareness, a clear artistic compass.
And her approach tries to findthat personal sweet spot.
(17:18):
Honoring inspiration and theprofessional demands.
And her philosophy seemsdeeply rooted in authenticity.
She says inspiration let ithappen explicitly states she doesn't
want the intention behind analbum to be just about money or just
continuing this pursuit of putting.
Stuff out right, not justfeeding the beast.
Instead, she wants it to belike, oh, I have this experience
(17:39):
that really touched me.
I need to get this out.
I need to communicate this connection.
She believes it flourishesorganically from there.
Driven by real emotion, not pressure.
And that perspective, itunderscores this critical value of
artistic integrity.
Especially in a soul drivengenre like blues.
There's got to be a real,prioritizing, authentic experience.
(18:00):
Emotional connection overcommercial demands.
That's often what gives musicits deep resonance, its staying power.
Letting life dictate thecreative flow, not external pressures.
Waiting for life to speak to her.
Exactly.
Waiting for that experiencethat demands to be translated into
sound.
Ensures every note, everylyric, carries the weight of genuine
(18:20):
lived experience, not manufactured.
It's inspiring to see that commitment.
But despite that focus onorganic inspiration, she also admits,
I am like a workaholic as well.
At the same time, the paradox.
Yeah, she tours so muchbecause she loves the pursuit of
just going for your dreams andfollowing what you want to do.
Shows the intense drive behindthe talent.
(18:40):
Not just Inspiration, butrelentless effort.
And that's fascinating, isn't it?
The artist driven by deepinspiration is also this tireless
worker.
That dedication allows her topush boundaries, pursue dreams with
intensity.
It's passion plus effort.
Absolutely.
It's a testament to thepassion and the immense effort needed
(19:00):
to sustain a successful careerin music, especially blues, which
demands so much personally,physically, it's the engine converting
inspiration into reality.
Often what separates dreamersfrom achievers.
And she acknowledges findingbalance is tough.
It's a balance that I'mcontinuing to learn how to navigate
it all.
An ongoing process.
(19:21):
Yeah.
While she avoids Joe's sixmonth cycle, she still puts out albums,
probably like every.
Every other year.
Admits that's still a lot withall the touring and press.
It is a lot.
This cycle is demanding.
Explains that touring is working.
And sometimes you just need alittle life in between all of that
to even start writing stuff again.
Because touring, even seeingthe world can get kind of monotonous.
The grind, right.
(19:42):
She values those windows oftime to just kind of exist and live
life and go through things.
That's the fuel for new songs.
And that raises such animportant question for any creative
pro.
How do you maintain freshness,stay connected to your art, when
your life is dominated by themachine of touring, promotion, refilling
the well.
(20:02):
Exactly.
That need for life in betweenis crucial.
Refilling the well of personalexperience, where new songs, new
ideas come from, and for you,listening, it mirrors that need for
balance in any demanding career.
Got to protect the source.
Yeah.
Ensure the machine of workdoesn't consume the fuel for it.
For a blues artist, that lifeis heartbreak, joy.
(20:24):
Just observing the world, theraw material, nurturing the source,
understanding.
Great work often comes fromreflection, from living, not just
endless work.
V. The evolution ofperformance from shred to soul.
Okay.
One of the most strikingthings about her as a performer is
her ability to seemcomfortable in any scenario.
Her adaptability.
Yeah.
Big outdoor festivals likeHarvest Music Fest or like an intimate
(20:46):
club like the Iridium.
Even high profile tours likeExperience Hendrix.
She adapts.
Her energy, connects with the crowd.
That versatility is huge.
And it's not just technicalproficiency, is it?
It's that profound adaptability.
It's not just playing thenotes right in different rooms.
It's intuitively connectingwith different audiences, different
vibes.
Reading the room.
(21:06):
Exactly.
Her approach, she says, isabout being comfortable in the discomfort,
embracing how songs evolve andchange with my band over time.
That willingness to let themusic breathe, grow, live, that's
true artistry.
Trusting her instincts, herband different approach for different
settings.
You'd imagine big festival,maybe more powerful riffs, soaring
(21:27):
solos, small club, maybe dialit back.
More nuanced phrasing,intimate vocals, eye contact, making
it feel like a conversation.
She coined that phrase,flourishing in the chaos, which sums
up live shows, touring.
Pretty well.
Perfect, isn't it?
Flourishing in the chaosencapsulates the dynamic, unpredictable
nature of live performance.
(21:47):
It's more than just enduringthe unexpected.
It's embracing it,transforming it into part of the
creative process.
Makes each show unique,totally for the.
Band, for the audience.
Being present, creatingsomething new each night, allowing
for spontaneous moments,unexpected interactions.
That's the magic.
True mastery isn't avoidingchaos, it's thriving within it, Turning
(22:09):
obstacles into expression.
And talking about her guitarplaying, she admits having a shred
phase.
Like a lot of young technical players.
Common path.
But now her focus has shifted.
It's not just about showingoff chops.
It's about an intentionalconnection that I have on stage with
herself, her band, andcrucially, the audience.
That's a profound maturation,moving beyond just technique.
(22:31):
And it raises that questionabout artistic evolution.
How does your relationshipwith your instrument, your performance,
change?
Moving beyond shredding, youknow, the fast runs, the complexity
for complexity's sake, toprioritizing emotional connection.
It's a significant step.
It's a big shift, Huge.
From showing what you can doto conveying what you feel.
Letting the music be a conduitfor shared experience.
(22:53):
That means lyrical phrasing,using space, expressive vibrato,
bends that sing, letting theguitar speak.
Feelings, not just dexterity.
And she noticed when sheplayed in my ego, the whole vibe
of the show felt different.
Interesting observation.
Now she consciously plays forthe connection and how it makes people
feel.
Wants to give something to theaudience versus, like, watch me play
(23:13):
this solo and like, clap for me.
Says it's bigger than just me.
That's powerful.
Moving from seeking externalvalidation, the applause, to fostering
a shared emotional experiencechanges everything, transforms the
performance from a displayinto a conversation, deepens the
impact.
When an artist focuses onauthentic connection, the audience
(23:36):
feels that sincerity.
It creates a more memorable,meaningful experience.
Playing in her ego might havebeen technically perfect, but maybe
cold, possibly precise.
But maybe lacking vulnerability.
Playing for connection allowsfor that raw human touch.
Moving from performing for theaudience to performing with them,
creating something collective.
(23:56):
And the shift in mindset, italso fuels her desire to inspire
others, inspire other women,other young girls, other just young
players, and introduce theminto the.
Genre using her platform.
Yeah.
Finds it crucial for younggirls, especially to see Someone
that looks like you on stage,doing what they want to do, regardless
of what their outsidecircumstances are.
It's about more than just her music.
(24:17):
And that is absolutely critical.
It extends beyond music.
Artists are powerful role models.
They really are.
By consciously focusing oninspiring others, especially young
women in a traditionally maledominated genre like blues rock,
she amplifies her impact hugely.
She's contributing to a moreinclusive, diverse future for music.
Paving the way.
Exactly.
(24:37):
Using her platform to showwhat's possible.
Representation matters.
Her presence is an affirmation.
If she can do it, so can they.
Talent knows no gender.
And she adds humbly, thatshe's still working at it, doesn't
feel she has it down.
Which shows that growth,mindset, admirable self awareness.
But she knows how to exude mylight through my instrument, and
(24:58):
how to connect with people.
And that self awareness, thatcommitment to continuous growth hallmarks
of truly great artists.
The journey of connection is ongoing.
Authenticity isn't adestination, it's constant exploration.
For you listening, it remindsus that true mastery often comes
from that deep evolvingunderstanding of purpose beyond just
(25:21):
technique, lifelong dedicationto growth, meaningful contribution,
understanding the instrumentis just a vessel for the spirit.
The art is letting that spirit connect.
6.
Decoding Puppet Show aPersonal Statement okay.
So that 2018 album title,Puppet show, you might wonder, was
it a nod to like this isSpinal Tap?
(25:41):
Huh?
Good question.
She confirms it wasn't thoughshe knows the film, thankfully.
Instead, the title reflectssomething really personal from her
teenage years.
Something a lot of us canprobably relate to.
Okay, she described livingunder your parents roof, wanting
all this freedom, all theadult things, and feeling, well,
kind of trapped in a way.
Or like, oh, like I wantcontrol of my life now.
(26:03):
That teenage angst totallydescribed it as feeling confined,
feeling control, feelingtrapped and like being molded into
something that you're not sureis really you.
Wow, that's universal.
Captured through her art,giving voice to that self discovery
phase.
And what's fascinating is howpersonal that theme is.
Yet how universally relatablepuppet show becomes this powerful
(26:24):
metaphor for that adolescentstruggle for identity, autonomy,
finding yourself.
Exactly.
Speaks to the tension betweenwanting independence and feeling
molded by external forces.
Parents, society, peers.
Which makes you think, howdoes channeling those raw, authentic,
relatable experiences into artcreate such a profound connection?
(26:46):
Lets the audience seethemselves in it, right?
Their own lives, struggles,growth reflected in the music.
Where the personal becomesuniversal musically.
Maybe that feeling ofconfinement and liberation comes
through dynamics type verses,explosive choruses, guitar solos
that feel like breaking free.
Yeah, you can hear thatPotential motive bends, soaring lines.
Representing that search forfreedom shows how deep self reflection
(27:09):
can infuse music with real,resonant meaning.
Outro.
So wrapping this up, what doesit all mean?
Our deep dive into AliVenable's world.
It really reveals this journeyof profound artistic growth, doesn't
it?
From teenage prodigy winninglocal awards to a mature artist charting
on Billboard, she consistentlyseems to prioritize authentic connection
(27:31):
over just, you know, spectacle.
Drawing inspiration from hercommunity, but bravely forging your
own path.
Yeah, we've seen herdedication, her unique approach to
balancing that relentless workethic with the need for real life
experience to fuel thecreativity and that powerful shift.
Playing for genuineconnection, not just applause.
She's not just a giftedguitarist or a soulful singer anymore.
(27:53):
She's an evolving artistactively inspiring a new generation,
especially young women,encouraging them to find their voice,
pursue dreams with integrity,with purpose.
Building a legacy based onauthenticity, connection, not just
chops.
Exactly.
So we definitely encourage youto explore her discography and especially
keep an ear out for her newestalbum, Money and Power.
(28:14):
When it lands, hear for yourself.
That depth, that evolution.
Listen for those moments wherethe guitar just sings with emotion
or her voice conveys that deepconnection she's aiming for.
And maybe this prompts a finalquestion for you, the listener, in
your own life, your ownpursuits, creative, professional,
personal inquire.
How might you cultivate moregenuine connection?
(28:36):
How can you prioritizeauthentic expression?
Let your experiences fuel whatyou do?
Good question.
What does it mean for you totruly flourish in the chaos of continuous
growth, to embrace thediscomfort, maybe, rather than just
chasing external validation,what does it really mean for you
to play?
Or maybe just to live from the heart?
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