Steve Bridgmon is a Kentucky-born, Nashville-based country artist with a passion for ministry and a voice that reaches far beyond his hometown roots. With 15 Top 10 singles—six of which have reached No. 1—and 12 nominations from the Inspirational Country Music Association, Bridgmon continues to use his platform to inspire and uplift others. His journey has not been without heartache, but through it all, he has discovered purpose, healing, and a deeper faith. In this interview with NewReleaseToday, Steve shares his thoughts on his music, his show The Sound of Small Town America, and the story behind his deeply personal new single, “Called You Back Home.”
Can you tell us a bit about your journey and how you got started in music?
I like to say I’m a late bloomer. I was in Southern Gospel for many years, but it never really took off. I’m thankful for that because when my first inspirational Christian country song made waves, I wasn’t recognizable from any past fame. That gave me a fresh start. I moved to Nashville almost 10 years ago—not even planning to sing—but within six months, I had a No. 1 song. I couldn’t stay away from music.
My journey with grief has shaped me a lot. I lost my sister to glioblastoma brain cancer and my dad to COVID, just four days apart. But God has carried me through it all. My nephew lives nearby now, attends Belmont University, and he’s part of a fantastic band. I love seeing the next generation pick up the torch.
You host The Sound of Small Town America, which is now in its second season. What inspired the show?
Season two just kicked off in my home state of Kentucky. We like to start there every year. The show is a blend of American Idol and The Voice, with a focus on Christian and inspirational artists from small towns. We visit places like Kentucky, Mississippi, and Arkansas, capturing the story and heart behind each finalist's music.
The finale takes place at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville. The footage for Season One is currently being edited, and we plan to air it as soon as Season Two finishes. It’s been an incredible experience. We’ve found so much talent. I wish something like this had existed when I was starting out.
With all your awards and accomplishments, what keeps you motivated in this industry?
It’s never been about the awards for me. They’re nice, of course, but my biggest reward is creating moments that draw people closer to the Lord. Whether someone’s meeting Jesus for the first time or rediscovering Him, that’s the win for me.
When I won Male Vocalist of the Year at the Opry last year, it meant so much because people from my hometown came to support me. Having them in the audience for the show finale and the awards afterward was so meaningful. Moments like that keep me going.
Tell us about your new single, “Called You Back Home.” What does this song mean to you?
“Called You Back Home” just hit radio through PlayMPE, and honestly, I’ve never been prouder of a song. It’s the final single from my Broken album, and it speaks to that universal experience of losing someone. The lyrics ask questions like: Was there a light leading your way? Were there people you loved waiting for you?
It gets me every time I sing it. I recently performed it in Kentucky, and so many people came up afterward asking for the album. It resonated. Now I’m working on a new album called Brave, and I’ve written over half the songs—something I’ve never done before. It’s about finding light on the other side of grief.
Where can people connect with you and your music?
I’m on all the usual platforms—TikTok, Instagram, Facebook—and my website is www.stevebridgmon.com. That’s where you can find all my music, tour info, and more. I also tour, so if folks want to bring me to their church or venue, they can reach out.
What do you hope listeners gain from your music and ministry?
When I started, I just wanted to be relevant. That’s what most artists wish for at first recognition. But now, it’s about helping others. I have people of all ages—ranging from 14 to 50 and beyond—asking how to get booked, how to record, or how to write. I love helping them.
There’s no age limit in this industry. I started in my early 40s, and now helping others navigate this path is a big part of my purpose.
One last fun question: If you could share the stage with anyone, who would it be?
That’s a tough one, but I’d say country veteran Paul Overstreet. He’s one of the pioneers of Christian country music—kind of the godfather of the genre. I grew up admiring him. He hasn’t lived far from me, but I’m not sure I’m on his radar. Still, sharing a stage with him would be amazing.
Final Thoughts
Watch for Steve’s new album, Brave, and stream “Called You Back Home” now on all platforms. To follow his journey or bring him to your community, visit www.stevebridgmon.com.
Janice Rigel is a Christian author, speaker, podcast host, comedian, and everyone's bestie. She can be found at JourneyWithJanice.com. OpenAI's ChatGPT provided some assistance with this article.
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