Kip Moore doesn’t do things the easy way—he does them his way. Whether it’s crafting a 23-song album that wasn’t supposed to be that long, writing lyrics mid-surf session, or turning down a massive payday to keep his artistic integrity intact, Kip is always following his gut.
On this episode of the Raised Rowdy Podcast, Kip gave us an inside look at his process, his band, and why his live show is unmatched. Here are a few standout moments:
1. A Deeply Personal Album
“I’ve historically created characters… This record was about me.” Kip talked about how his latest album is the most personal yet, peeling back the layers of his life in a way he never has before. The original plan? A more compact album, but four extra months of writing led to an expansion—Side A is what the album was supposed to be, while Side B became a hodgepodge mix of new inspiration.
2. Writing Songs in Soundcheck
While most artists treat soundcheck as a quick warm-up, Kip and his band use it as a creative playground.
“Every single day in soundcheck we’re trying to write something.”
Songs like Heart’s Desire, Flowers in December, and others were born from spontaneous jam sessions—then fleshed out later in his tour bus. And he’s already doing the same for his next album.
3. The Wild ‘Alley Cat’ Recording Process
Kip broke down how “Alley Cat” was recorded in one single take—live, in a room, full of mic bleed, with lyrics half-improvised on the spot.
“I told Oscar [Charles], ‘Just hit record and let’s see what happens.’ That was the take.”
No overproduction, no perfectionism—just raw energy and feel.
4. Turning Down the AFC Championship Halftime Show
Not many artists would say no to a massive TV performance and a six-figure paycheck, but Kip did. Twice. Why? Because he was in a small café, drinking coffee, and surfing in Central America.
“If you book a show, I won’t be there. I’m having coffee.”
He’s built a life where he values his sanity over the spotlight—and that’s why his fans trust him.
5. The South Africa Explosion
Kip went from never playing in South Africa to selling out two arenas and a football stadium—all because one radio programmer took a chance on his music.
“He just threw ‘Heart’s Desire’ on air, and it exploded. By the time we got there, it was a frenzy.”
No marketing campaigns, no label push—just real fans connecting with real music.
6. Rock & Roll is Alive and Well
Kip’s live shows aren’t cookie-cutter. They breathe, evolve, and explode depending on the crowd.
“Probably 25-40% of our show is free-timed. We read the room, call audibles, and let the energy dictate where we go.”
He still plays with real amps, no backing tracks, and embraces the chaos of a true rock show—something missing from most modern country performances.
7. What’s Next?
Kip’s already writing his next album—and it’s sounding nothing like the last one. His band is more involved than ever, and he’s pushing himself in new directions.
“This late in my career, I don’t think I’ve ever been this inspired.”
This is an artist who refuses to play the game—and that’s exactly why his fans will follow him anywhere.
Listen now wherever you get your podcasts!