Troy Cartwright: Nashville’s Misfit Tuner and the Songwriting Journey of a Lifetime

Troy Cartwright is no stranger to hard work in Nashville. Juggling the roles of a songwriter, independent artist, and podcast host, he’s a prime example of dedication in the music industry. His newly released EP, Etc. All the Rest, carries a reflective weight of his Dallas upbringing, drawing on images that resonate with the vastness and simplicity of West Texas. The title track is as honest as they come, telling the story of a hungover guy waking up in a hotel room, struggling to piece together the night before while reaching out to his partner with a simple “I love you, baby, et cetera, all the rest.”

Cartwright’s journey led him to Nashville in 2017, where he discovered a tight-knit songwriting community, which he affectionately likens to an “Island of Misfit Toys.” This sense of belonging, along with his desire to share stories, propelled him to create his podcast, Ten Year Town, where he interviews fellow songwriters and dives deep into the art of crafting music. With over a hundred episodes, his mission to reveal the heart of songwriting and its myriad of emotions continues to resonate with fans, proving that sometimes, the best stories come from the most unexpected places. In a world where everyone seems to chase the limelight, Cartwright reminds us that genuineness and a strong sense of community are what really make music shine.