We had the good fortune of connecting with David Watson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi David, why did you pursue a creative career?
I found myself caught by my creative self after retiring from my 30 year career as a Park Ranger…Writing, art and photography was always a hobby and a useful tool I could use as a Park Ranger.. Now I supplement my retirement writing and playing songs.. I guess creativity was always a passion but not a risk I would take. I can afford it full time now.. lol

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Writing is my second career.. As a songwriter I have been recognized as a storyteller. I’ve been compared by fans to Guy Clark, Kristofferson, Dillon.. He has played Songwriter Festivals from Third Street In Baton Rouge to The Frank Brown in Flora Bama.
His acoustic shows include Country, Americana and Originals..Award Nominations include,
Song of The Year 2023 Cumberland Mountain Songwriters Guild “ My Smokey Mountain Home “
Top Ten World Songwriter Awards 6/22
with “Tin Roof”
Top 10 World Songwriter Awards 9/22
With ”Has Country Lost It’s Country Heart”
Top 10 World Songwriter Awards 5/23
Best Gospel “Are You Ready “
Voted #3 Americana Artist ISSA June 2022
Josie Awards Songwriter of The Year nomination 2019 ISSA Songwriter of the Year nomination 2023
Rocky Mountain Songwriter Showcase top 20 2022 with “Barbwire and Trains”
2022 Write Away online UK magazine
Did a article on him and his song” Apple Pie”

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The Commodore Grill downtown Nashville The Smokehouse Patio Grill at Monteagle
Several small songwriters open mic venues between the two

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I listen to the teaching of God…My depression era grandparents who taught me to work, respect others and don’t be wasteful . My parents who were stayed thru thick and thin raising 4 boys.

Website: www.rangerdavemusic.com

Instagram: @davidwatson1278

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.watson.10297

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rangerdavemusic?feature=shared

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutTennessee is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.