Callum Kerr: Roots Under Me, Grand Ole Opry & CMA Fest 2025

On this episode of Heart of the Gulch, host Tony Mendoza sits down with country artist and actor Callum Kerr during CMA Fest 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Scottish-born, Texas-raised, and now based in Nashville, Callum Kerr has quickly emerged as one of country music's most exciting new artists. Known by many fans for his successful acting career, Callum is now building a name in country music through authentic songwriting, powerful vocals, and a growing catalog that includes songs like Tequila Therapy and Tamed by Tennessee.

In this interview, Callum discusses his debut EP Roots Under Me, sharing the inspiration behind the project and how his unique life experiences have shaped both his songwriting and artistic identity. He reflects on blending his Scottish heritage, Texas upbringing, and Nashville influences into a sound that's entirely his own.

Tony and Callum also dive into one of the biggest moments of his career—the surprise invitation from Dustin Lynch to make his Grand Ole Opry debut. Callum shares what receiving that unforgettable video message meant to him and why performing on country music's most legendary stage represents a lifelong dream.

The conversation also explores signing with ONErpm and Huff Co., transitioning from acting into music, building a fanbase across multiple industries, and why authenticity continues to guide every career decision he makes. As his audience continues to grow around the world, Callum is proving that great country music transcends borders.

With Roots Under Me marking an exciting new chapter, Callum Kerr continues establishing himself as one of Nashville's brightest emerging country artists while demonstrating that country music truly is a global genre rooted in honest storytelling.

If you love country music, Nashville singer-songwriters, Grand Ole Opry artists, Scottish country artists, Texas country, CMA Fest, actor-turned-musicians, Dustin Lynch, and authentic country storytelling, this interview is one you won't want to miss.

About Tony Mendoza

Tony Mendoza is a Nashville-based media personality, television host, executive producer, journalist, podcast host, and digital strategist best known as the creator and host of Heart of the Gulch. Through hundreds of in-depth interviews with country music artists, entertainers, songwriters, and industry leaders, Tony has become recognized for spotlighting both established stars and the next generation of artists redefining country music.

His work covers major industry events including CMA Fest, Country Radio Seminar (CRS), AmericanaFest, and exclusive Nashville studio sessions. As founder of Heart of the Gulch, Tony oversees every aspect of production—from interviewing and storytelling to video production, editing, SEO strategy, and digital publishing—building one of Nashville's fastest-growing independent country music media platforms.

Passionate about showcasing the evolving landscape of country music, Tony regularly features traditional artists, independent musicians, Latino voices in country music, international artists, and emerging talent making an impact in Nashville and beyond.

Check out more Heart of the Gulch interviews on our website, and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more exclusive conversations with country music's biggest stars and rising artists.