Living and Learning with Clayton Johnson
Wed Feb 04 2026
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Now and then, a conversation reminds you why you love sitting down with people in the first place.
This week on Here’s What We Know, Clayton Johnson stopped by, and what unfolded was more than just an interview but a long, winding talk about music, patience, heartbreak, and paying attention while you’re living your life.
We talked about Nashville, classic country, the importance of learning from people who have lasted, and an unforgettable night Clayton spent watching Metallica up close. Not from the cheap seats, but close enough to notice the discipline, the preparation, and the humility that come with real longevity.
This episode is about the long game and about resisting the urge to rush. It's about trusting that if you stay curious and keep showing up, life has a way of teaching you exactly what you need to know. Listen now!
In This Episode:
Life in Nashville and finding your footingA surprising night with MetallicaLessons from artists who lastGrowing up on classic country musicPlaying the long game in musicHeartbreak, timing, and personal growthLiving and learning along the way
This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital
Dignity Memorial
Be sure to tell them Gary sent you!
Bio:
Clayton Johnson is a Nashville-based country music artist originally from the farming town of Modesto, California. Raised in the heart of the Central Valley, his passion for music was sparked through songwriting and performing in church, setting the foundation for his career.
Clayton's rise in the industry began with a modeling campaign for Boot Barn, leading to acting and music opportunities. He has since played guitar for notable artists, including American Idol winner Scotty McCreery and pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter.
Along the way, he continued to perfect his craft, writing songs for himself and other artists. His original music has garnered millions of streams.
Country Central has praised Clayton's infectious hooks, calling them "reminiscent of the best of Thomas Rhett."
Clayton is currently signed to UMPG & Audio Chateau Publishing.
Website: https://claytonjohnsoncountry.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claywatch/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClaytonJohnsonMusic/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1LWP6c2LrW1ofkM3e8kmEA
Connect with Gary:
Gary's Website Follow Gary on Instagram Gary's Tiktok Gary's Facebook Watch the episodes on YouTube Advertise on the Podcast Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!
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Send us a text Now and then, a conversation reminds you why you love sitting down with people in the first place. This week on Here’s What We Know, Clayton Johnson stopped by, and what unfolded was more than just an interview but a long, winding talk about music, patience, heartbreak, and paying attention while you’re living your life. We talked about Nashville, classic country, the importance of learning from people who have lasted, and an unforgettable night Clayton spent watching Metallica up close. Not from the cheap seats, but close enough to notice the discipline, the preparation, and the humility that come with real longevity. This episode is about the long game and about resisting the urge to rush. It's about trusting that if you stay curious and keep showing up, life has a way of teaching you exactly what you need to know. Listen now! In This Episode: Life in Nashville and finding your footingA surprising night with MetallicaLessons from artists who lastGrowing up on classic country musicPlaying the long game in musicHeartbreak, timing, and personal growthLiving and learning along the way This episode is sponsored by: Reed Animal Hospital Dignity Memorial Be sure to tell them Gary sent you! Bio: Clayton Johnson is a Nashville-based country music artist originally from the farming town of Modesto, California. Raised in the heart of the Central Valley, his passion for music was sparked through songwriting and performing in church, setting the foundation for his career. Clayton's rise in the industry began with a modeling campaign for Boot Barn, leading to acting and music opportunities. He has since played guitar for notable artists, including American Idol winner Scotty McCreery and pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter. Along the way, he continued to perfect his craft, writing songs for himself and other artists. His original music has garnered millions of streams. Country Central has praised Clayton's infectious hooks, calling them "reminiscent of the best of Thomas Rhett." Clayton is currently signed to UMPG & Audio Chateau Publishing. Website: https://claytonjohnsoncountry.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claywatch/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClaytonJohnsonMusic/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1LWP6c2LrW1ofkM3e8kmEA Connect with Gary: Gary's Website Follow Gary on Instagram Gary's Tiktok Gary's Facebook Watch the episodes on YouTube Advertise on the Podcast Thank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!