Madeline Merlo: One House Down, Champagne Night & CMA Fest 2025

On this episode of Heart of the Gulch, host Tony Mendoza sits down with award-winning country singer-songwriter Madeline Merlo during CMA Fest 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Known for writing Lady A's Platinum-certified No. 1 hit Champagne Night, Madeline Merlo has become one of Nashville's most respected singer-songwriters. From earning recognition as one of CMT's Next Women of Country to building an impressive solo career, the Canadian-born artist continues to make her mark with honest songwriting and unforgettable performances.

In this interview, Madeline opens up about her EP One House Down (from the girl next door), a deeply personal collection of songs that explores heartbreak, healing, growth, and finding love again. She shares the inspiration behind standout tracks like Broken Heart Thing, her emotional duet with Dustin Lynch, and reflects on performing the song for the first time at the legendary Grand Ole Opry.

Tony and Madeline also discuss her evolution from songwriter to recording artist, writing one of country music's biggest hits with Champagne Night, and what it has been like carving out her own identity in Nashville while remaining authentic to her voice and artistry.

Throughout the conversation, Madeline reflects on touring with artists including Jelly Roll and Jordan Davis, balancing songwriting with life on the road, and continuing to create music that tells honest stories listeners can relate to. She also shares why vulnerability has become one of the greatest strengths in both her songwriting and her career.

If you love country music, Nashville singer-songwriters, female country artists, Grand Ole Opry, Dustin Lynch, Lady A, CMT Next Women of Country, CMA Fest, and authentic conversations about songwriting, 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, and industry leaders, Tony has built a reputation for authentic conversations that go beyond the music, highlighting the stories, careers, and personalities behind today's biggest stars and emerging talent.

His work spans 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, including interviewing, creative direction, video production, editing, SEO strategy, and digital publishing, helping establish the platform as one of Nashville's fastest-growing independent country music media brands.

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.