INTERVIEW: Dani Rose Finds Community With Outsiders

With a resume peppered with song placements on hit shows like CBS’s Fire Country, HBO’s True Blood, CMT’s Nashville, The CW’s Roswell, Fox’s Monarch, NFL commercials, and four episodes of Paramount’s Yellowstone, Dani Rose has established herself as a formidable force in the industry. Hailing from Virginia and based in the vibrant music scene of Nashville, Tennessee, Dani Rose blends the best of contemporary country with rock and pop — but, most importantly, stinging lyrics that are as wry as they are caustic. Her new song “California” skewers the complacency of the West Coast and the chase after the false idol of fame.

In our interview, Rose discusses her approach to songwriting, touring (she’s shared stages with Tim McGraw, Old Dominion, Brett Eldridge, and more), and sticking to her guns.

Do you have any songwriting tips you can share?
Absolutely! The best advice I can offer is to write about things that are real to you. Authenticity is key in songwriting because when your lyrics come from a place of truth, people can sense that honesty. Whether it’s joy, heartbreak, or something more subtle, when you put your real experiences and emotions into a song, listeners can connect with it on a deeper level. I think that’s why some of the greatest songs are timeless—they’re relatable because they come from a
genuine place. Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable in your writing; that’s where the magic happens.

Who would you love to collaborate with? Why?
Oh, there are so many talented artists out there that I admire, but if I had to choose, I’d love to collaborate with Kenny Chesney. He has this ability to bring out such an incredible energy in his duet collaborations, especially with female artists. A perfect example is “You & Tequila” with Grace Potter—that song is iconic! The blend of his voice with hers created something really special, and I’ve always been drawn to the way he tells a story in his music. I think we could make something truly beautiful together.

How do you manage having a good time at shows while also trying to stay mentally and physically fit?
I absolutely love being on the road and performing—it’s honestly what gives me life. There’s something about the energy of live music that keeps me mentally sharp and motivated. The adrenaline, the connection with the crowd, it’s all a big rush. And while we’re out on tour, we try to make time to explore each city. Whether it’s a quick hike, checking out a cool coffee shop, or just soaking in the vibe of a new place, it’s all about balance. Physical health is important too, so I try to stay active when I can—walking, yoga, whatever fits into the schedule. But I think a big part of staying mentally and physically fit is finding joy in what you do, and for me, that joy comes from both the music and the adventure that comes with touring.
What’s the first concert you ever attended? What do you remember about it?
The first concert I ever attended was the Allman Brothers with my dad, and it’s one of those memories that will stay with me forever. My dad used to play their records around the house all the time when I was growing up, so finally getting to hear those songs live was almost like stepping into a piece of my childhood. I remember being in awe of how those songs that had always felt so personal to me suddenly filled the air around me and connected with everyone else in the crowd. The whole experience felt like magic, like something bigger than just music—it was an energy, a feeling. And sharing that with my dad made it even more special.
Explain the title of your album.
The title Outsiders really encapsulates the journey I’ve been on—both personally and musically. It’s about finding a sense of belonging among people who, like me, may not have always fit the mold but have a fire to create, to dream, to live outside the lines. Moving to Nashville was a huge leap of faith for me, leaving behind the comfort of home to chase this dream full time. But in doing so, I found my people—the artists, the musicians, the dreamers. We’re all a little different, but that’s what makes us who we are. Outsiders celebrates that. It’s about embracing who you are, finding your community, and taking pride in the fact that you’re a part of something bigger—a collective of creative souls who aren’t afraid to stand apart.