Second Cup Cafe: Josh Hoge

Singer/Songwriter Performs Songs From His New Album, "Everything She Was"

(CBS)  Singer/songwriter Josh Hoge may not have found all the answers to ultimately cure his heartache, but he has found the right formula to soothe his soul.

The 27-year-old, who's music has a soul and rock blend, stopped by the The Early Show Saturday Edition's "Second Cup Cafe" to perform songs from his new album, "Everything She Was."

Hoge has tapped into the industry's hottest producers, including hit song magnet Ne-Yo, who put his smooth R&B spin on "Beautiful Distraction," as well as One Republic's Ryan Tedder, who helped write "Take It Or Leave It."

Riding an emotional rollercoaster, Hoge suffered from heartache, but his lyrics for "Everything She Was" benefited from it.

"Like other people, I've had a whole bunch of those (good and bad relationships)," says Hoge on his official Web site. "I like to write songs about love and all the good and bad stuff that comes with it."

A native of Franklin, Tenn., Hoge followed his dream to pursue a music career and headed to Nashville, the epicenter of country music-making.

Although he's not a country artist, Hoge eventually found his niche when he moved to Los Angeles, where he befriended Ne-Yo, and the two started making music together.

A personal relationship later tore at his heartstrings, and Hoge headed back to Nashville, where he joined Epic Records and released his debut single, "360."

For business reasons, Hoge was let go from Epic, but that didn't slow him down. He toured relentlessly around the country without a record label but with a corporate sponsor, trying to get his name out on the music scene.

While on the road, he also recorded his "Bedroom Sessions" EP, which gave him a career boost. Doors opened for him yet again, and he landed a record deal with Blackledge Music.

[SinaraKaos]

I have seen Josh on every one of his tours except for maybe two. He is an amazing artist and musician, and I am so happy to see him getting some of the recognition he deserves. He is starting his first headline tour on March 11, so everyone should go see him live. He is so much better in person, and he's a really nice guy to hang out with. Thank you CBS for featuring such a fabulous artist.

[RichmondGirl]

I LOVED seeing Josh Hoge this morning on the Early Show. Wow! What a talented guy!!! Loved the original "Ain't No Sunshine" by Bill Withers, but I think Josh may have just surpassed him! I was sad that his second song got cut off before he got to finish it. Please, please, please - I hope that CBS will feature him again.... would love to hear more about him and his music, tours, background, etc. He looks like a talent to keep an eye on for sure!!!! Loved his guitar player too. Very talented guys, and a great way to start the morning. Thank you, CBS, for getting him on your show!

[GolightlyGrrl]

I saw Josh Hoge when he opened for Elliott Yamin in 2007. He's very talented and couldn't have been more gracious when my friends and I met him after his set.

[LittrellCarterLover]

I love Undone. It's a great song of his and it's a new Backstreet BOys song hopefully!!!! Great job today Josh!

[reno884]

I've always loved "Ain't No Sunshine" ...one of my favorites really. But Josh's version got my attention and made me love it even more. Gonna go get his CD...gotta have it. Thanks Josh!