Photo by Shellie Wright

There’s usually a reason why an artist like Jason Lee McKinney credits his band and not just himself. Like Isbell’s 400 Unit and Springsteen’s E Street Band, Jason’s “Band” is just damn good! Splitting his time between Memphis and Nashville, Jason and his band have just released their 8^th LP, “Pieces” and it sizzles. Check out this video for the title track.

I thank Jason, who also moonlights as an Adjunct Professor at Belmont University, for visiting the 11 Questions desk and look forward to a live show in-the-flesh later this year. In the meantime, check out the band’s Facebook page for some recent live at home stuff that Jason has been posting.

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

I was born and raised in Evansville, IN. I moved to Nashville in 2000. For the past seven years, I have split time between Nashville and Memphis

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

For sure digital; the last two albums I bought were The Marcus King Band’s The Well and Khruangbin and Leon Bridges’ Texas Sun EP.

First and last live concerts that you’ve seen?

My first concert I really don’t remember. My dad played rugby and his team provided concert security for the region where I grew up so I literally was going to concerts farther back than I can remember. Last concert I went to was Gary Clark Jr.

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

Dave Cobb

Where do you go in Nashville for coffee and pizza?

For coffee, it is a bit outside of Nashville, but my buddies’ place Carpe Café in Smyrna. For pizza, I like a little place in Antioch called Angelo’s Pizza Picnic.

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

Either Guitar Town from Steve Earle or Etta James’ Rock the House.

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

You can’t go wrong with the nearest Waffle House.

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

Marcus King, Jason Isbell, and Anderson East.

What are your favorite music venues to play in town?

There are a bunch, but The 5 Spot is always quaint and vibey.

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

Derek Trucks

Finally, what’s in your musical future?

Well, continue to tour and promote our latest album Pieces. We are also wrapping up the next album as well. We are always in “create, tour, rinse, repeat” mode.