Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Woody Bradshaw. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Woody thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

My brother Don was seven years older than me, and he could play the keys off a piano. He had an incredibly soulful voice—something truly special. He introduced me to all the great singer-songwriters of his era, shaping my early appreciation for music. My mom, an English literature and drama teacher, brought music into her classroom as a teaching tool, so I was lucky to grow up with two strong creative influences at home.

That said, during my younger years, it was my dad who had the upper hand. He was passionate about sports and steered me in that direction, which became my whole world for a while. But eventually, all that music and creativity bubbling beneath the surface rose to the top—and that’s when acting and music became my true passions.

I went to college on a tennis scholarship, but it wasn’t until then that I discovered theatre—and I got bit by the bug.
I went on to major in Theatre at Florida State University, where I quickly earned a spot in the highly competitive BFA program. That experience set the stage for everything that followed. I received incredible encouragement and was mentored by some truly inspiring professors.

After graduation, I moved to New York City, studied at HB Studios, began voice lessons to prepare for Broadway auditions, and fell in love with singing. I landed a role on an ABC daytime drama, booked national commercials and TV spots, and eventually moved to Los Angeles with major representation, chasing film and TV—while continuing to find my voice in music along the way.

When I first moved to L.A., I felt a bit lost. I missed the intensity and creative energy of New York, where I had really thrived. That restlessness pushed me inward, and I started writing poetry—or at least my version of it. Friends were surprised by the emotional depth I was expressing, which was both hilarious and encouraging. Their reactions lit a fire in me to keep exploring.
Then came a life-changing moment: I found out that Jimmy Webb—my childhood musical influence, thanks to my mom—was performing at the Roosevelt Hotel. Seeing him live was a revelation. I walked out of that show thinking, I can write a song. And I did. I wrote three songs, recorded them, and from there, I was off to the races.

After some serious soul-searching, I made the decision to hit pause on my acting career and pour my heart into music full-time. That decision led me to Nashville—where I still live—because it just felt like the right place for the soul of my music. I wrote constantly, co-wrote with other artists, played all around town, and eventually the buzz started. I signed my first record deal, and not long after, I hit the charts as a national recording artist.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m Woody Bradshaw—a singer-songwriter, storyteller, and proud Pensacola native. My journey into music started early, inspired by family influences and a deep connection to the emotional power of song. Music was always present in our home, but it wasn’t until later in life—after detours through acting and sports—that I fully leaned into it as my calling.

I started out as an actor, studying theatre in college and performing in New York and Los Angeles. But somewhere along the way, music started pulling me in more and more. It became the most honest way I could express the highs and lows of life. My songs are rooted in personal experiences—stories of love, loss, resilience, and redemption. I write and record music that speaks to the heart, and I aim to create moments that resonate deeply with listeners.

I create emotionally driven, cinematic music with storytelling at the core. Whether it’s an original piece or a reinterpretation of a classic like Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah, I approach every song with intention and heart. I want people to feel seen when they hear my music—to connect with the truth of the lyrics and the soul in the sound.

I’m most proud of the fact that I’ve stayed true to my voice. One of the most meaningful projects I’ve released was a cover of Hallelujah, which began as a request from a friend fighting cancer. That song turned into a tribute, and the process reminded me of the healing power of music—for both the listener and the artist.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Yes, for me, acting and singing are deeply intertwined. When I’m performing live, acting plays a huge role—every song feels like a mini movie, and I’m stepping into the character within the lyrics. The best performers are the ones who truly tap into the emotional depth of a song, pouring their heart into every word and note. It’s not just about singing—it’s about revealing a piece of your soul.

Some people might see performing on stage as ego-driven, but for me, it’s the opposite. It’s about showing up as my most authentic self and connecting with people in the purest way. And the energy you receive back from the audience—it’s powerful. It’s beautiful. And above all, it’s humbling.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

I just really want to keep growing as an artist and as a person—conveying my experiences through my music and performances, and touching my audiences with topics that feel familiar, fresh, and exciting. I also want to continue exploring new areas where my gifts can grow and expand.

One exciting new avenue I’ve been stepping into—and preparing for—is keynote speaking at corporate events and conferences. But these aren’t your standard keynote speeches. What I’m creating is something more dynamic and emotionally resonant: keynote experiences that blend powerful storytelling with live music.

Music has a unique ability to cut straight to the heart. It amplifies emotion, deepens connections, and makes any message far more impactful and memorable. By weaving my songs into the narrative, I’m able to create an experience that engages not just the mind, but the heart.

I’m genuinely excited about this next chapter—not only because I know it will stretch and bless me in new ways, but because it opens up a whole new way to connect with people. It’s about inspiring, uplifting, and reaching others on a deeper level. It’s a fusion of passion and purpose, and I can’t wait to share it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://woodybradshaw.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woodybradshaw/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodybradshawmusic/