Songwriter Spotlight: Jaren Johnston

Hit songwriter by day and rock 'n' roller by night, Nashville native Jaren Johnston is flying high these days...and for good reason.  "You Gonna Fly," the recent Keith Urban hit that Johnston penned with Preston Brust and Chris Lucas (a.k.a. The LoCash Cowboys), just spent two weeks in a row as the number one country song in America.  Johnston, who writes for Sony/ATV Nashville, tells us the story behind his first chart-topper:

"You Gonna Fly" came really easy actually...wrote it with the LoCash Cowboys for their record, and they didn't end up using it.  I wrote most of the chorus that morning...the guys came over, and we sort of just rapped out the verses.  It came really natural, and we had a great time doing it.  As soon as I turned it in to my publisher they freaked out.  [We] sent it to Joe Fisher who is close friends with Keith...played it for him, and he called immediately, saying "I'm cutting this song!"

In addition to writing music, Johnston is frontman for the southern rock band The Cadillac Black, who has toured with the likes of ZZ Top, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Eric Church.  To top that off, the band is about to start a month of touring with Dierks Bentley and The Eli Young Band.  The Cadillac Black just announced the upcoming April 17th release of their self-titled debut record and are offering four songs for FREE at http://www.noisetrade.com/thecadillacblacknashville.

When not busy living the musician's dream, Johnston and his girlfriend take advantage of the many urban amenities in their West End (Nashville) neighborhood.  Not only do they love the historic nature of the homes, but they also enjoy walking to their favorite restaurants, bars, and parks.  Their top spot is Tin Angel (for the low key atmosphere and great food), but they also frequent Rumba, Park Cafe and Cabana (for the "best pizza in town!").

In reference to his first number one hit, Johnston said, "It feels amazing.  It's one of those things I've worked for since I was a kid.  Most people don't get to cross off '#1' on their bucket list.  And...I got a nice bottle of Cristal from Keith :)"

Follow Jaren Johnston on Twitter HERE.