I'm Joey Lane, a country artist based in Charleston, South Carolina. I grew up on Long Island, New York, and eventually made my way down south, where I found a music scene that really inspired me. I recently launched my full band, and right now I'm focused on building a project that combines modern country songwriting with the energy of a live rock show.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before?
I'd describe it as modern country with rock show energy. I love big guitars, catchy hooks, and songs that make you want to roll the windows down. At the same time, I want every song to tell a story people can connect with. If you're a fan of artists like Morgan Wallen or HARDY, you'll probably feel right at home.
What inspires you?
Real life. The best songs usually come from experiences, conversations, or even just a single line someone says that sticks with me. Growing up in the Long Island pine barrens just minutes from the beach, moving away from home, relationships, and chasing a dream all end up finding their way into my songs.
What do you think your music says about who you are?
I think it says I'm optimistic. Even when I write about heartbreak or missing someone or something, there's usually hope somewhere in the song. I don't want to write songs just to be sad—I want people to feel understood and maybe even a little better by the time the song ends.
More than anything, my music says the things I don't always say out loud. Songwriting has become my way of communicating. It's where I can be the most honest about what I'm thinking and feeling.
What do you hope people feel or think when they hear your music?
I hope they hear a little bit of themselves in it. Whether it's a summer anthem, a breakup song, a love song, or something about home, I want people to think, "I've felt that before." If someone leaves a show smiling or a song helps them through a moment in life, then I've done my job.
Has someone’s reaction to your music ever surprised you?
I've gotten texts after sending demos that just say, "This is the one." Hearing that never gets old, especially from people whose opinions I really respect. I've also had industry professionals compliment my songwriting, which is incredibly encouraging.
The reactions that mean the most, though, are when someone tells me they feel like a song was written about their own life. That's when I know the song has become bigger than me.
How does living here influence your work, if it does?
Charleston has definitely shaped my music. There's something about the coast, the slower pace, and the creative community here that naturally inspires songwriting. It's also a city that genuinely supports live music, and being surrounded by that energy makes you want to keep creating.
What are your favorite Charleston music venues to play -- or watch shows at?
Charleston has such a great live music scene. The Windjammer is always one of my favorite places to catch a show because it's such an iconic venue. More than anything, I just love how many opportunities there are here to discover talented local musicians and songwriters.
Who are some artists, bands, or songwriters that have influenced your sound?
Morgan Wallen has definitely influenced my songwriting, especially the way he blends traditional country storytelling with modern production. I also admire HARDY as a songwriter because of how consistently he's written songs that connect with people. Tucker Wetmore has been another influence, and in general I'm drawn to artists who combine country music with big pop melodies and arrangements.
Where do the songs you write usually begin, with an image, a feeling, a question?
Usually with one line. It'll be something someone says or a phrase that makes me stop and think, "There's a song in that." I'll write it down wherever I am, and then I build the story around that idea until it becomes a song.
What kind of song would you like to write next, or are you working on anything new now?
I recently recorded a fun, feel-good summer country song that really captures the direction I'm taking as an artist, and I'm excited to share it soon. Beyond that, I'm always chasing songs that people can't get out of their heads—songs that are fun enough to sing along with but honest enough that people believe every word.
Do you have any upcoming shows or albums to announce?
I'll be performing acoustically at La Chev on August 8 and September 25, and fans can find all of my upcoming dates on my social media, @joeylanemusic.
Right now, I've been spending a lot of time rehearsing with my band and recording new music in the studio. There's a lot on the horizon, and I'm excited to share what's coming next.
