November 7, 2026

The Minnesota Music Note - Ep 81 - Amanda Walbridge: Bluegrass Roots & Award-Nominated Songwriter

What happens when you grow up in a musical family, spend your life writing songs, and finally get the chance to record with the musicians you've always looked up to? Minnesota singer-songwriter Amanda Walbridge joins Will to share her journey through music, from singing three-part harmonies around the kitchen table as a child to becoming an independent artist with an award-nominated bluegrass album. With music running through her family, Amanda grew up surrounded by bluegrass, and her parents' connection to Minnesota's early bluegrass scene helped shape the path she would eventually follow. Amanda talks about the making of her album The Little Things, which has earned her three Josie Music Awards nominations, including Song of the Year and Album of the Year in the Bluegrass categories. She also shares what it was like meeting her guitar hero Clay Hess, pitching her original songs to him, and watching a lifelong dream turn into a real recording project. From songwriting inspiration that can strike anywhere to the welcoming community around Minnesota bluegrass, Amanda gives us a look into the people, experiences, and stories behind her music. In this episode we talked about: 🎸 Growing up in a musical family and her parents' history in Minnesota's bluegrass scene. 🎶 How Amanda went from writing songs at a young age to releasing her first album, Waking Up. 🏆 Her latest album, The Little Things, and its three Josie Music Awards nominations. 🎤 Meeting her guitar hero Clay Hess and getting the opportunity to record with him. ✍️ How Amanda writes songs, from sudden bursts of inspiration to developing lyrics, melodies, and stories. 🔥 The Minnesota bluegrass community, campfire jam sessions, festivals, and the importance of bringing musicians together. 🎧 What's next for Amanda, including seven new songs, connecting her music with other artists, and exploring sync licensing for film, television, and advertising. Watch the full episode to get to know Amanda Walbridge, hear her story, and discover more about the Minnesota bluegrass community! 🚨 Subscribe to the Minnesota Music Note and keep discovering the artists, stories, and music that make Minnesota special. If you're part of the Minnesota music scene—or know someone with a story worth sharing—we'd love to hear from you. Reach out to us and let's shine a spotlight on the artists, bands, venues, and creators that make Minnesota music special. The Minnesota Music Note is always looking for the next great guest! Resources: Minnesota Music Note Website: https://mnmusicnote.online/ The MN Music Note FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/minnesotamusicnote/ Email: william@podcastcrew.online