Thelma & James: Happy Ever After You, First Love & CMA Fest 2025

On this episode of Heart of the Gulch, host Tony Mendoza sits down with Thelma & James during CMA Fest 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Made up of husband-and-wife duo MacKenzie Porter and Jake Etheridge, Thelma & James have quickly become one of the most talked-about new acts in country and Americana music. Following the viral success of their debut single Happy Ever After You, the duo has earned praise from artists including Luke Combs, John Mayer, and Brandi Carlile while introducing audiences to a fresh blend of cinematic songwriting, heartfelt harmonies, and authentic storytelling.

In this interview, MacKenzie and Jake share the story behind how a spontaneous co-writing session unexpectedly became the beginning of Thelma & James. They discuss the creative chemistry that emerged from writing together, why they knew this project was different, and how Happy Ever After You connected with millions of listeners across TikTok and streaming platforms.

Tony and the duo also dive into their latest release, First Love, exploring the emotional honesty that has become the foundation of their music. They reflect on balancing marriage with songwriting, embracing vulnerability in the writing room, and discovering a musical partnership that has transformed both of their careers.

The conversation also explores MacKenzie Porter's successful solo career, Jake Etheridge's songwriting journey, and what it's been like introducing fans to an entirely new chapter through Thelma & James. Looking ahead, they discuss their upcoming debut EP, future music, and the excitement surrounding one of Nashville's most anticipated new country duos.

Blending country, Americana, folk, and emotionally rich storytelling, Thelma & James are proving that some of the best songs come from life's most honest moments.

If you love country music, Americana, Nashville singer-songwriters, husband-and-wife duos, MacKenzie Porter, Jake Etheridge, Luke Combs, heartfelt songwriting, CMA Fest, and authentic artist conversations, 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 authentic conversations that showcase the stories behind today's biggest stars and tomorrow's breakout 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—from interviewing and creative direction to video production, editing, SEO strategy, and digital publishing—building one of Nashville's fastest-growing independent country music media platforms.

Passionate about documenting the evolving landscape of country music, Tony spotlights established artists, emerging talent, independent musicians, and the diverse voices helping shape the future of Nashville.

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