Published on Feb 23, 2026, 5:58:37 PM
Total time: 00:17:21
The Sound of Texas Podcast heads to the Michelob Ultra Roadhouse at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo for a powerful conversation with Texas red dirt standout Presley Haile.
At just 23 years old, Presley is writing songs with the depth and maturity of a seasoned songwriter. In this episode, she opens up about growing up in FFA, touring harder every year, finding routine on the road, and building a tight-knit creative circle with Race Ricketts, Nick, and Niles.
She shares how “Deep End,” currently climbing the Ranch charts, came together during a chaotic stretch of label conversations and life pressure, and why she leans into metaphor to soften, or sometimes sharpen, the emotional edges of her songwriting.
Presley also talks about writer’s block, the pressure to keep releasing music, and why she writes songs she’ll still want to sing at 60 years old. Influenced by Townes Van Zandt, Gillian Welch, and the Canadian western sound, she’s carving out a lane that doesn’t chase trends but instead focuses on authenticity and longevity.
If you care about Texas red dirt, real songwriting, and artists building careers brick by brick, this is a must-listen episode.
The Sound of Texas Podcast is a Texas-based music and culture podcast spotlighting the artists, storytellers, and songwriters shaping the Lone Star sound.
From red dirt to Americana and independent Texas bands, each episode features in-depth interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and real conversations with the voices driving the Texas music scene.
Based in North Texas and rooted in authentic storytelling, The Sound of Texas Podcast connects listeners to the music, culture, and community that define Texas country.
Tune in for exclusive artist interviews, live performance insights, and the stories behind the songs that make Texas different.