Episode 37 - George Birge: From Struggles to Music Stardom – Troll Co.

The Roots of George Birge's Musical Journey

George Birge's musical journey is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and authenticity. Growing up in Austin, Texas, George was surrounded by a rich tapestry of musical influences, from the legendary Stevie Ray Vaughan to the iconic Willie Nelson. This environment fostered not only his love for music but also encouraged originality and authenticity in his work.

Starting his music career in middle school and writing original songs by age 14, George was part of a rowdy bar band that quickly gained popularity in Austin's vibrant music scene. "It was all about putting in the reps," he recalls, emphasizing how essential practice and perseverance are in honing one's craft.

Overcoming Early Challenges

George's path wasn't always smooth. Early in his career, he balanced music with other commitments, including playing golf at the University of Texas and working a full-time job to support his musical endeavors. Despite facing numerous setbacks, including small audiences and financial struggles, he continued to pursue his passion with unwavering determination.

Signed initially with Big Machine Records, George faced the harsh reality of the music industry when his deal fell through due to a lack of immediate success. Later, he joined Toby Keith's label, spending five years working tirelessly, playing small shows, and building his reputation slowly but steadily.

Finding His Footing with Natural Records

George's defining moment came when he decided to join Natural Records. Faced with the decision between larger labels and a more focused boutique label, he chose the latter for its personalized approach. Natural Records provided him with the long-term strategy and artist development he needed, ensuring his music stayed true to his vision rather than chasing fleeting viral trends.

His career took a significant turn when his social media presence went viral, attracting massive attention and ultimately leading to his solo deal with Natural Records. With a committed and expanding team, the label's support helped George achieve chart success and industry accolades.

Influence of Mentors and Industry Giants

Mentorship played an indispensable role in George's evolution as an artist. Figures like Colt Ford and Brantley Gilbert were instrumental in his career. Colt Ford's encouragement and introductions to key industry players, along with their collaboration on the hit song "Mind on You," marked pivotal moments for George.

Similarly, Brantley Gilbert provided George with the opportunity to perform at Red Rocks, a milestone that significantly boosted his professional growth. These experiences underscored the importance of mentorship and industry support in achieving success.

Authenticity and Storytelling in Songwriting

A central theme in George's music is authenticity. Influenced by artists like Toby Keith, who values genuine expression over trends, George focuses on creating relatable and impactful stories in his songs. His songwriting process is meticulous, starting with a strong "hook" and building on it to ensure every line contributes meaningfully to the narrative.

He keeps a bank of inspiring ideas and phrases on his phone, reviewing them before songwriting sessions to draw from real-life experiences. This method ensures that his music resonates deeply with audiences, offering them an escape and a sense of connection.

The Role of Life Experiences

George attributes much of his songwriting success to rich life experiences. Advice from Mike of the Eli Young Band highlighted the importance of living life fully to tell compelling stories. Whether it's personal setbacks or the challenges of touring, every experience adds depth and authenticity to his music.

Touring and Future Aspirations

Currently touring with notable artists like Russell Dickerson and Sam Hunt, George continues to live his dream, performing sold-out shows and engaging with fans who have been integral to his success. His tour also includes plans for Chad Ward, host of the "Ol' Boy Podcast," to join and potentially cook for the team using their new Traeger grill.

Conclusion: Staying Hungry and Humble

Chad Ward’s advice on staying “hungry and humble” resonates deeply with George. His journey, marked by perseverance, mentorship, and a steadfast commitment to his authentic self, offers valuable lessons for aspiring artists. As George Birge continues to make his mark in country music, his story serves as an inspiring reminder of the importance of staying true to one's roots and never giving up on one’s dreams.

Listen Here"And now that we are on a tour bus and we are playing these big shows and we do have hits on the radio, it's like, I'll never take that for granted, which is really cool." -George Birge

3 Fun Facts About George

George Birge recounted a memorable night involving Toby Keith, Post Malone, and members of Seal Team Six, sharing stories and music till the early morning.
George Birge has had the opportunity to tour with notable artists like Luke Bryan and perform at iconic venues like Red Rocks, invited by Brantley Gilbert.
George achieved his first number one hit after a viral social media presence led him to sign a solo deal with Natural Records, reflecting his journey from hesitation to stardom.