When Nathan Wilson walked into Nashville three years ago, he had nothing but a guitar, a dream, and the kind of work ethic that keeps people grinding long after others quit. Now, with millions of streams, a publishing deal with Round Hill Music, and a rapidly growing fanbase, he’s proving that raw talent and determination can still break through. On the latest episode of the Raised Rowdy Podcast, Nathan sat down with Nicky T and Kurt Ozan to talk about everything from his ADHD-driven music journey to TikTok strategy, songwriting, and even his love for Fortnite.
Watch the Full Episode Here:
“I Had ADHD, So My Mom Got Me a Drum Set Instead of Pills”
Nathan’s path into music was anything but traditional. Instead of taking medication for ADHD as a kid, his mom bought him a drum set, hoping it would help him focus. That decision set off a chain reaction that led him from church bands to playing Broadway honky-tonks and, eventually, to writing songs that shut the room up.
“If my mom had put me on pills, I don’t know where I’d be. Instead, I got a drum set, and now I’m sitting here talking to you guys.”
Music became his outlet, and when he wasn’t tapping out drum beats on desks, he was teaching himself guitar and piano. The grind continued through high school and college—where he was studying golf course management of all things—until he finally decided, I’m not getting any younger. It’s now or never.
Going Viral: How TikTok Blew Up “Better Than You”
Unlike many artists who struggle for years to get traction, Nathan saw a breakthrough moment early with “Better Than You”, a song that gained steam purely through TikTok.
“I didn’t get a single DSP playlist, no editorial love—nothing. Just TikTok. And that song took off like crazy.”
From there, everything started falling into place. He signed with Round Hill Music about a year after moving to Nashville, linking up with a team that believed in his songwriting. Since then, he’s continued stacking up millions of streams with tracks like “Meant for You” and “Mrs. Lonely.”
Live Shows That Shut the Room Up
Beyond streaming numbers, Nathan’s songs are making an impact live. He told Nicky T about a recent writers’ round at Duck Blind, where his song “Make It to the Truck” left a packed room in complete silence.
“There were like a hundred people in there talking, and by the second verse, you could hear a pin drop. That’s when I knew we had something special.”
Moments like these are what separate good artists from great ones. It’s not just about the streams—it’s about connection.
Merch, Fortnite, and the Nashville Hustle
Nathan also talked about the importance of merch for independent artists, saying it’s something he wants to take more seriously in 2025.
“Man, I need to get my merch game together. Hats especially—people wear their favorite hat every day.”
And when he’s not grinding in the studio or playing shows, Nathan unwinds like a lot of artists in Nashville—playing Fortnite.
What’s Next? More Music, More Shows, and an EP on the Way
Nathan hinted that a new EP is coming later this year, likely in late summer or early fall. With a stash of unreleased songs and a growing reputation as one of country’s most exciting young voices, 2025 is shaping up to be his biggest year yet.
“I want people to really know who I am this year. I have so many different styles—country, R&B, pop-leaning stuff—but I want people to get the full picture.”
Expect to see more singles, more live shows, and an even bigger push on social media.
Follow Nathan Wilson & Raised Rowdy
Don’t miss out on what Nathan’s got coming next. Follow him on Instagram, TikTok, and Spotify to stay updated. And if you love what we’re doing at Raised Rowdy, make sure you’re subscribed to the podcast and following us for more interviews with country’s next big stars.
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