From Oil Rigs to Heartstrings 

The Early Days in Oklahoma: Justin Andrews, an authentic "old boy," hails from the heart of Oklahoma where life's lessons are learned through hard work and perseverance. Raised around the oil fields and influenced by his family's background in music—particularly his grandparents' gospel band—Justin's path to Nashville was paved with raw labor and a passion for melody. 

Chad Ward dives into Justin's background, revealing how his grandfather was deeply ingrained in the oil and gas industry. Justin shares heartfelt anecdotes of working alongside his stepdad across numerous states, lining frac pits and dealing with heavy machinery. Despite the hardships, there's a sense of camaraderie and pride that defines Justin's early career. This rugged lifestyle not only funded his dream but ingrained in him a relentless work ethic that he carries with him into the music industry. 

Discovering His Musical Path: The pivot from oil to music wasn't sudden. Justin describes his time in a band called Six Gun Saints, marked by nights spent juggling performances and working long hours. This era saw the birth of his songwriting journey and cemented his commitment to chasing his musical dreams despite being rough around the edges initially. The synergy between the laborious oil fields and the literal and metaphorical 'songs in the key of life' formed a robust foundation of resilience and resolve. 

The Leap to Nashville 

The Call to Nashville: Justin's move to Nashville in 2016 marks a significant turning point. Nudged by a friend and fellow The Voice contestant, Justin quit his job and moved to the vibrant music city. He recounts his first gig at Swinging Doors—a crucial yet humble beginning in his new journey. 

Despite the struggles and the financial insecurities of this bold move, Justin's story is a testament to betting on oneself. His ability to network with notable figures in the music industry, including the esteemed songwriter Bobby Pinson, emerges during this phase. These connections, nurtured organically in iconic venues like Losers in Midtown, were instrumental in Justin's eventual ascent in the country music scene. 

Finding Mentors and Making Deals: Meeting Bobby Pinson at Losers was a milestone. Justin elaborates on his surprise at Bobby's interest in his talent, leading to a significant publishing deal. Such anecdotes not only highlight the serendipity inherent in the music industry but also underscore Justin's relentless pursuit of his dream despite numerous challenges. 

Chad Ward draws attention to Justin's experiences with prominent figures like Aaron Lewis and John Daly. Their collaboration on the song "Empty Castle" is a testament to Justin's growing influence in Nashville. This partnership, stemming from a simple, yet profound musical connection, underscores the beauty and unpredictability of creative alliances. 

Navigating Uncertainty: The Impact of COVID-19 

Surviving the Pandemic as an Artist: The COVID-19 pandemic spelled disaster for many performing artists, and Justin Andrews was no exception. He recounts the bleak moments, struggling with financial insecurity and contemplating a return to his oil field roots. The narrative takes a positive turn when he highlights the community support during his online performances. This support network proved vital in keeping his dreams afloat during a challenging period. 

Resilience and Relocation: Justin shares how he navigated bureaucratic hurdles to secure unemployment benefits, underscoring a pivotal moment of financial relief that kept him in Nashville. This resilience, deeply embedded in his "old boy" roots, showcases his unwavering spirit.