S9: E2 - Mary Kutter - From Bootlegging to Nashville

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Date: July 23, 2025
Name of podcast: Backstage Pass Radio
S9: E2 - Mary Kutter - From Bootlegging to Nashville


SHOW SUMMARY:
What does it take to stand out in the crowded Nashville music scene? For Mary Kutter, it's about being the splash of red paint on a wall of white—creating music that cuts through the noise with authenticity and purpose.

Born and raised just outside the Bourbon Capital of the World in Springfield, Kentucky, Mary's journey to Nashville began with an unexpected opportunity hosting a radio variety show. This serendipitous break led to a life-changing connection with legendary songwriter Kim Williams, who recognized something special in the young artist and opened doors that would transform her career. As Mary shares, "That job offer changed my life."

When the pandemic shut down the music industry in 2020, Mary faced a pivotal moment. Rather than stepping back, she doubled down on her craft, writing seven days a week, two to three sessions daily, for nearly two years straight. This relentless work ethic yielded her first gold record and substantial placements in movies and commercials—all created through Zoom sessions with collaborators she couldn't meet in person.

What truly distinguishes Mary's artistry is her willingness to explore complex, personal narratives. Her viral hit "Devil Wore a Lab Coat" confronts the pharmaceutical industry's role in the opioid epidemic that devastated her Kentucky hometown. "Devil's Money" tells the remarkable true story of her bootlegger great-grandfather who used his illicit earnings to build a church. These songs resonate deeply because they speak truth, regardless of commercial appeal.

From unexpected collaborations with rapper Project Pat to her disciplined creative routine beginning at 5 AM daily, Mary embodies the modern artist who forges her own path. Her approach to songwriting combines raw authenticity with strategic savvy, sharing snippets on social media that connect so deeply with fans they're singing unreleased verses at her shows.

As Mary prepares for headline performances, festival appearances, and new music releases, her advice to aspiring artists remains straightforward: "Put your blinders on and keep the pedal down." Through every challenge and triumph, she's remained true to herself—creating music that matters and leaving an indelible mark on the Nashville landscape, one honest song at a time.

Subscribe now to hear more compelling stories from artists who are redefining the boundaries of their craft and building careers on their own terms.

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Backstage Pass Radio Social Media Handles:
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Artist(s) Web Page
Instagram - @marykutter
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mary.kutter
Web - www.marykutter.com

Call to action
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Randy Hulsey