The old Texan in me was keen on seeing that Nashville Americana artist, Chris Moyse, includes on his resume that he was a Kerrville New Folk Winner in 2017 at the famed Texas folk music festival. Chris joins a club that includes the likes of Steve Earle, Robert Earl Keen, Lyle Lovett and Nanci Griffith. That’s a strong class of singer/songwriter company and should make you want to give a listen to Chris’ music.

After a debut EP, “Bad Parts” in 2016, Moyse will release his first full-length album, “Bitter Ballads & Cynical Prayers” on March 20, 2020. The record will feature eleven original songs that Chris recorded right here in Music City. Here’s a live take on “Angeline” from the EP that you will enjoy. Chris’s songs are written from his heart. Played in a smooth gentle style, they’ll first catch your ear before they touch your heart.   

Chris will be playing WMOT’s “Finally Fridays” lunchtime series at 3rd & Lindsey on March 20 followed by a “CD Release” show the next night at the Mad Valley Lounge, a new spot in Brentwood featuring live shows the third Saturday of every month. Thanks Chris and see you at the shows!

Where are you from originally, when did you move to Nashville and why?

I grew up in Connecticut and moved to Nashville in 2013. I didn’t really write songs at the time so I can’t say I moved here for music, but I think it was in the back of my mind somewhere. I’m not really sure why I moved here because I didn’t know anyone in town yet. Nashville had a nice ring to it.

What are the first and the last records you bought, and where did you buy them? Were they CD, vinyl or digital?

I think the first record I ever bought was that Third Eye Blind self-titled album. I’m pretty sure I got that at an FYE at the mall. The last thing I bought digitally was Gregory Alan Isakov’s The Weatherman. I think the last physical CD I bought was Jonathan Byrd’s The Law & the Lonesome at Fischer Fest in Texas.

First and last live concerts that you’ve seen?

My sister took me to see Good Charlotte and New Found Glory when I was a kid. The last live concert I went to was Brandi Carlile at the Ryman a few weeks ago. That show felt like watching legends in their prime (including her band and co-writers the Hanseroth twins).

Whose star should be added to the Music City Walk of Fame?

I think Jason Isbell has done plenty to deserve it. I don’t know of many folks in Nashville writing at that kind of level. Plus, didn’t he sell out seven nights at the Ryman last year? Give it to him already.

Where do you go in Nashville for coffee and pizza?

I got off coffee. I used to drink several cups a day. I drink tea sometimes. High Garden is really damn good tea. Pizza’s gotta be Five Points. With some of that creamy habanero sauce to dip it in. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, go find out and thank me later.

What’s your favorite record to ever come out of Nashville?

Jason Isbell’s Southeastern or lately it’s been Ian Noe’s Between the Country. Both those records remind me I obsess over lyrics so much. I like the production but mostly I just love those batches of songs.

Where’s the best place to eat late night after a show?

Gimme a greasy Dino’s burger and some Animal Style fries. Maybe a shot of mezcal and a PBR tallboy to wash it down. Please and thanks.

The Bluebird calls and asks you to host an “In the Round.” Pick three local songwriters to join you.

Probably Kaston Guffey (of My Politic), Annika Bennett, and Nathan Evans Fox. That round would kick some serious butt.

What are your favorite music venues to play in town?

I’m a sucker for The 5 Spot (specifically on a $2 Tuesday). I also play this little spot called The Bowery Vault frequently. The ladies who run it (Vero and Emily) are sassy and remind me of where I grew up, and the room always sounds good. I’m about to play 3^rd and Lindsley for the first time and have a good feeling that will be on the list.

Name a musician who you’d like to see move here.

We don’t have enough of them yet? Maybe my friend Rachael Kilgour. She would put a hurtin’ on some jaded hearts in this town.

Finally, what’s in your musical future?

Releasing my new album Bitter Ballads & Cynical Prayers and then touring to support that all year. Maybe a songwriting competition. Hopefully some more festivals later this year. Trying to get my songs in as many ears as possible. For better or for worse.