“Jack Daniels or King James”
Written by Darren Wiedman
Interview by American Songwriter
Darren Wiedman scored 1st place in the November/December 2024 American Songwriter Lyric Contest for his song “Jack Daniels or King James.” American Songwriter caught up with him to get the scoop on the inspiration behind the lyrics and other musings.
What made you decide to enter the American Songwriter’s Lyric Contest?
I won a contest with this song in my local songwriting group, so I thought I’d see how it did against a larger pool of songwriters.
How did you feel when you learned you won?
Lucky. There are so many great songwriters that enter this contest. To have a winning lyric is a great honor.
What was the inspiration for your submission? Why did you want to write it?
The inspiration was daily life. We’re all torn between doing the right thing and doing what we want to do. So, I thought the song had a universal truth that a lot of people could identify with. Plus, after coming up with the line, I’m a regular at Hooters and a tenor in the choir, I knew I had to finish it.
What’s the story behind “Jack Daniels or King James”?
Every day, I try to spend at least 10 minutes coming up with hooks. Usually, it’s a complete waste of time. But this day, the thought of ‘Jack Daniels vs King James’ popped into my head. I liked the implied tension. As a Christian, that daily battle between good and “evil” is always at the top of my mind. The song isn’t autobiographical. I don’t drink Jack and haven’t been to Hooters in about 20 years. But I am no angel.
Have you written music for this lyric? If so, how would you describe it?
This is a mid-tempo Country song. I’m a better lyricist than a musician, so the best word to describe the music would be “adequate.”
How long have you been writing lyrics?
I think I was 23 when I made fun of my dad for listening to country music. I told him the songs were corny. He told me to write something better. So, I gave it a shot and was hooked. (I also started loving country music soon after.)
Since 1984, American Songwriter’s Lyric Contest has helped aspiring songwriters get noticed and have fun. Enter the 2025 Lyric Contest today before the deadline:
What keeps you motivated as a songwriter?
Feedback. I have goals. I have daily action steps to help me achieve those goals. But I don’t always do those steps. Only when I have something to write for—a TAXI submission or my monthly songwriter group or a contest—can I get focused enough to write.
Who are your all-time favorite songwriters, and why?
I started to make a list, but ultimately, it comes down to the song, not the writer. I will mention three though: Roger Miller because my dad used to sing his songs when I was a kid, so he was my first exposure to classic country music. Don Schlitz and Jeffrey Steele–I’ve had the privilege of meeting both of these guys, and I’m amazed by their talent, humility, and willingness to help aspiring writers.
What’s next for you?
It’s back to the action steps—writing hooks, practicing guitar, and trying to get a little better every day.
What would you tell other songwriters who are considering entering the Lyric Contest?
I’d say get feedback from others first. If your lyrics are well-received from people who are not afraid to tell you the truth, start submitting to contests. And don’t get discouraged if your song isn’t recognized. Contests are very subjective. I guarantee there were many songs good enough to win this month’s contest. It was just my turn.
Since 1984, American Songwriter’s Lyric Contest has helped aspiring songwriters get noticed and have fun. Enter the 2025 Lyric Contest today before the deadline:
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