Jeff Daniels Has Written 450 Original Songs

"The guitar became my best friend." Jeff Daniels opens up about his "best kept secret," his love of acoustic guitar, and reveals that he's written 450 original songs over 25 years playing! Jeff also dishes on his love of playing a larger-than-life character in the new Netflix series "A Man in Full," and breaks down the inspiration behind his incredibly thick southern accent on the show. Also in celebration of Mother's Day coming up, Jeff shares how he owes his acting career to his mom.
#KellyClarksonShow #JeffDaniels
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[@Samantha-nx6sz]

That song full on should be on the radio, in a movie score, or something!

[@ellenjones7819]

Exactly. If he doesn't record it, he should ask someone like Kelly if she would. It sounds like he has written a lot of songs that should be shared with the world.

[@JimiJamm]

@@ellenjones7819 If you want to hear the full song more like it is here and playing with his son's band, go to the 2018 album "Acoustic Sittin Tour 2018"

[@gaycramer2658]

I agree ❤

[@EricFlatekval]

Head to Apple Music etc, he has this and TONS of songs recorded! I never knew…

[@terrymckenzie8786]

If you go to folk clubs across the country, or church basement, musians travel all over with hundreds of great musicians playing every night, but you will never hear or see them. Not part of the music machine. Sad . But get out and support live music. Live music for live people.

[@lexirubycutie]

This man is amazing. After his movie success, he went back to his home town of Chelsea, Michigan...at that time it was empty. Half the shops were empty. He built a stage hall for plays and stuff for people who haven't made it. Because of that, stores and restaurants popped back up. He writes plays as well. And now the town brings in 4mil a year. So he saved his hometown.

[@MeMeDaVinci]

Dollars or people?

[@randomvideosbyrobby]

​@@MeMeDaVincieither one is good

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

A WONDERFUL TALENT!

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

he saved hi shoe town, and is loved and a multi talent!

[@daevra]

Are you kidding me?! The writing ability of this man. That was one of the most well written songs I've heard in a long time. I'm shook. And his singing too... Who else knew he was a triple threat?!

[@Squirrel36]

Quadruple threat…he’s handsome, too!

[@rogerdaly6326]

Had the pleasure of seeing him live with his son Ben's band in Alexandria Va. Met him after the show and had a 15 min conversation with him. Very nice , very humble. Check his website cause he tours when he doesn't have an acting gig going on. He has some very humorous songs as well as serious contemplative ones.

[@Squirrel36]

@@rogerdaly6326 Sweet!

[@ericbogar9665]

Were you high when you wrote this?

[@Squirrel36]

@@ericbogar9665 Why do you say that?

[@Mugsy0407]

"You turned my never nevers into maybe I just might" ...... what a beautiful line

[@michellemiles9966]

As a guitarist that song brings me to tears. 🥰 Well someone needs to develop a script that will utilize this amazing talent. We need more! ❤ Bravo, sir. 👏👏👏

[@gregmock6808]

I felt the same thing as a guitarist...why th hell have I never written a love song to my guitar? Because Jeff just wrote the best one...warms the heart!

[@SomethingLocal]

same, fellow guitarist. that blew my mind. So well constructed and such solid effortless picking and playing with a voice that was so perfect for the song. Made me cry.

[@wabbit1699]

He sang and played a couple of times during when he did The Newsroom. In the Bin Laden episode in Season 1, it was a brief scene during the party at the beginning of the episode. Later, they had him playing again in the finale at the post-funeral celebration. Both of those scenes were with John Gallagher, Jr., who is no slouch himself when it comes to musical talent. The guy has legitimate talent. He's shown he can cover just about anything if he does the work to learn it. I think he'd be great doing clubs and small theater venues (1,000 or less capacity). He could sing songs, tell stories, maybe do some Q&A, and have a blast with it.

[@johng92]

The line “I ain’t holding you, my friend, it’s you that’s holding me” choked me up this morning when I saw this. Had to go give my guitar a hug lol

[@joey2011]

I can hear this driving cross country windows open enjoying the sun and wind

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

yes!!!!

[@hbrailsford8429]

Well said.

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

YES!!!!!!!!!

[@cynthiamoon1880]

Somebody needs to make a movie just about his songwriting and his journey with all of that. How incredible.

[@hsoderberg6505]

& include the story of his Purple Rose Theater

[@cynthiamoon1880]

Oh yes!! I heard about how much amazing things he's done for his hometown. He's literally the American Dream. 🎉🎉🎉. America needs to celebrate this man. I say we petition to have a movie made about this man.

[@mattroper7214]

Have you seen the Newsroom? If not either watch it in full (you won't regret it) or search for "The Newsroom - that's how I got to Memphis" it's a cover that he performs in the final episode

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

@@cynthiamoon1880 THERE SHOULD BE A MOVIE ABOUT THIS MAN!!!

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

@@hsoderberg6505 OH, ABSOLUTLEY1!!!!!!!!!!

[@USConsumerReview]

Came here for Jeff and stayed for the guitar. What an awesome guy.

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

JUST ENDEARING AND TALENTED AND WHAT A SINGER AND SONGWRITER!

[@blueseruser]

Just a great song, and blew me away! I was a fan of his acting, but now a super fan of Jeff Daniel!!

[@collier6794]

"When my finger finds your stings" He isnt even known for singing but this song is better than 80% of all country songs being released nowadays ❤

[@user-lr2sq5qx2r]

I know as someone who dabbles in song writing myself I was just completely floored by this song. And you are right most of the country songs on mainstream radio are questionable.

[@diegojimenez2017]

This song is better than 80% of all that is out there nowadays

[@pistolpak]

You speak the truth

[@stevenlewis4376]

80%? More like 99%.

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

WOW!!!!!!!!!!

[@anastasiabeaverhausen8220]

He's knows that's a damn good song to have the absolute confidence and aplomb to sing it for the fabulous Kelly Clarkson. And brought her to actual tears. She was so floored that this unexpected depth and talent came out of old Jeff. What a Cool dude. That was a wow. You don't see a spontaneous standing ovation like that very often. Well deserved.

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

Kelly was rude, AS IF if he could not Possibly be talented, and how could the song be so beautiful.? It creeped me out. Audience Loved it, and him, and Got his multi talent.! Kelly had a doubtful challenging look on her face. Ick. He was acting and writing 450 songs, and performing, BEFORE any of her nice work was enjoyed. ...DEEPLY DISAPPOINTED IN HER RESPONSE . SHE SHOULD BE ASHAMED. LOVED THE SONG, HIS VOICE, HIS PERSONALITY, AND THE DEPTH OF HIS TALENT AND SKILL!

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

SHE PUBLICALLY EXUDED DOUBT BEFORE HE SANG---HOW EMBARASSING. HE'S THE BOMB!

[@gretelguerra]

Jeff Daniels is absolutely fantastic !!!!!! Great interview Kelly !!!!

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

He was great. She was a rude interview."Being honest," she said--meaning "I doubted you'd be very good, but said Ok to having you on" YIKES!!!

[@ericl7842]

Who ever thought that Harry from Dumb and Dumber would make me cry with music 30 years later. ❤. Love this so much.

[@dr.markevers8331]

Hey Harry, you never called…

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

YES. WASTED ON THAT MOVIE.

[@djr3386]

Jeff Daniels is a diamond of a human being.

[@_maxmouse_]

His rendition of "That's How I Got to Memphis" on The Newsroom is my absolute favorite!!

[@Naurulegend]

I forgot about that one. Excellent rendition indeed

[@wilmerlau2846]

Yes it made me cry

[@christiecook2241]

I just adore Jeff Daniels. What a nice guy. ❤ And I like his voice and music style. Super relaxing.

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

LOVE HIS TALENT AND THE MAN!! KELLY WAS LUCKY LUCKY TO HAVE HIM AS A GUEST! ( MAY 20) AND I HAVE REPLAYED HIS SONG, 4 TIMES, ALREADY. MEMORABLE SONGWRITING!!!!!

[@user-pu2ek2zt9o]

I can picture a group of us sitting on his porch listening to him play all night. Thank you!

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

AMEN!!!

[@leahmarieezra877]

“When My Fingers Find Your Strings” - It’s on iTunes. So beautiful! He has an acoustic version and another one. What a talent. His website is great, too. However, I could not click on the songs to hear them, so I had to grab them off the iTunes Store.

[@daviddenman1438]

And on Spotify. Legitimately fantastic song. Hard to beat this moment though

[@htfitz4]

Thank you! I was hoping I could find it somewhere!

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

I'm off to his website and iTunes. Gettired of Kelly's cooking sessions. She needs to SING MORE.

[@amyrick5631]

It turns out a whole lot of his songs are up on Spotify. I’m in a newly found Jeff Daniel’s musical bubble ❤

[@uri65]

he has been my top played artist on there for the past 5 years; just sublime music!!

[@aprylparker6694]

I predict Jeff's song will be a huge hit!!

[@clayperry2515]

It's not about the game. It's about the experience. Competition is for losers. So get out there and play! Good for you sir. Beautiful.

[@loiserwin5991]

I hope there is a Kelly & Jeff duet♥️♥️♥️♥️

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

NOPE. JUST JEFF.

[@TerryAllenSwartos]

About twenty years ago I had the pleasure of being entertained by Mr. Daniels at The Triple Door in Seattle, at the behest of my late wife. I was thinking, “sure, whatever, it’s something to do and they have great food.” I was blown away by his storytelling and songs. He was very engaging and relatable, in addition to having that totally unexpected talent.

[@r.c.brousseau9655]

Thank you Kelly for introducing me to Jeff Daniels as a guitar and singer. Wow! I have a newly found appreciation for him!

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

NEXT TIME EXPRESS MORE CONFIDENCEE THAT YOUR GUEST WILL WOW THE CROWD-- HE CERTAINLY DID!

[@bluekitty3731]

People who live around southen Michigan have seen Jeff play various small venues with his sons band, so not a big secret, I think Jeff plays for pure enjoyment, not running after mega success as a singer/ songwriter.

[@kathleenmartin7498]

I'm from Ann Arbor and agree 100% I've met Jeff before and he's very down to Earth !

[@1travisvideo]

He needs to re-record, I listened to his songs 10 years ago and his voice has just gotten so much better with more character and emotion.

[@starexplorers1202]

One of his favorites. He's been playing it live for over a decade now. It just depends on where your head is buried. Once in a while when you come up for air you find these gems.

[@barbaracanterbury8533]

He is brilliant!

[@angienoronow1853]

Jeff Daniels is a GEM!! He is truly a GEM!

[@sierrahp]

"He was the Atticus Finch of that community." What an incredibly beautiful way to see your father. My dad was like that in so many ways. He's now 98 and mostly sunk in senile dementia, but my siblings and I remember his glory days with love and pride. Jeff is an inspiration to me in so many ways.

[@LoveBeingMom2]

What a beautiful song, what a beautiful soul. I hope you were able to convince him to make his music more wide spread for more people to enjoy!

[@EricFlatekval]

I just went to Apple Music, and wouldn’t you know it, he has TONS of songs recorded/released. I never knew!

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

INDEED!!!OXOOXOXOXOXO

[@AM-br4ix]

I am ready for Jeff’s 1st album…. He doesn’t have to even tour… just put the music out!!!!

[@lonestarparrot]

What an insightful song, what a great delivery. When they said Jeff Daniels was going to sing an original song and play guitar live, I said OK, this may get awkward. After Jeff finished the song I was still processing what I had just witnessed. Within a few seconds of pondering, I thought, “You know, Lloyd, just when I think you couldn’t possibly be any dumber, you go and do something like this… and totally redeem yourself!”

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

HO.

[@bobbyterrito8011]

I’m a lifelong guitar player and I’m crying like a baby over that song! Those words are so beautiful and hit so deep!

[@copernicofelinis]

I have crossed many videos with songs by Taylor Swift, Beyonce, and the likes. It's fifteen seconds and then I swipe. This is the third time I come back to listen to Jeff Daniels. The world is upside down.

[@katherinebosse5706]

The first time I heard Jeff sing was on the BEST show ever, The Newsroom…he’s had my heart ever since. And I was a big fan of his acting before…I mean, come on…the guy is just beyond!!!

[@lucythecalicocat]

beautiful song! I could imagine Kelly singing with him this tune!

[@StatusQuonald]

There's very few people who can write a song that great with such simplicity Truly beautiful

[@seanjnash]

Jeff plays between Christmas and New Years every December in Chelsea, Michigan - his home town at his own community theater. Wonderful music. Moving, classic, funny.

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

GREAT TO KNOW. FILM IT AS A MINI-MOVIE!

[@SamPlaysBass49]

Any musician who has ever had writer's block... the idea of writing a thank you love song to your guitar... so meta, complex and yet simple... and perfect.

[@bramcurtis6900]

Every time I listen it brings tears to my eyes..

[@angelac8812]

This reminds me of my Daddy…. How he loved his guitars.

[@kimwestwood8840]

Always admired Jeff. Now even more so. What a great little song.

[@cholkymilkmirage4984]

I cant believe he has ALL THESE SONGS ON STREAMING. ITS SO GOOD!!!

[@johnathansandlin6771]

If I could meet anyone it would be him, JeffDaniels is an extraordinary man!!

[@logank.70]

That's a beautiful Martin acoustic as well. It's the best kind of song. Completely genuine and something that comes from the heart. It's for Jeff and his relationship with his guitar. He just allows us to enjoy it too.

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

JUST LOVED HIS SONG AND HIM

[@jackjones4864]

That was freaking awesome, Jeff.. I'm picky about my songs.. Great Job. I would go to your show in a minute!!

[@kellyrainville7310]

Kelly, we have “Taylor’s Version” because of a suggestion you gave to her, so don’t say you can’t give EXCELLENT advice! Have confidence that you know what you’re doing, and you can help others, too!

[@mjking9019]

Love Jeff! I never knew he was into music. He needs to release a record! I think we need a Jeff Daniels and Kelly Clarkson duet.

[@rogerdaly6326]

Go to his website , he's released several albums. He doesn't do it for the fame or the money , he truly loves music.

[@TubeWeasel1]

I love Kelly’s reaction when he starts singing and playing his guitar!

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

HER DOUBTFUL ATTITUDE WAS OFF-PUTTING. HE DOESN'THAE TO "PROVE" HIMSELF TO HER!

[@TravelingSeeker]

Jeff Daniels was SO on point with what he says about music being the most visceral of arts and especially when experienced live can just connect people deeply, unequivocally...

[@lewisbeshers1946]

Wow! Just wow!!!

[@wandamundy1759]

I have known about Jeff Daniels' music for years. I've seen him playing with with other folks - and have always enjoyed what he does. I think the term "Renaissance Man" would be applicable. I've always enjoyed his acting - from the lunacy of "Dumb & Dumber" to the sublime "The Newsroom."

[@Gratefulman1965]

I’ve been a fan of Jeff’s music for years. I am glad that others are experiencing it as well. He is a great musical storyteller.🎶

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

A FINE SINGER -SONGWRITER

[@sunnysalmon5757]

I had no idea I needed to hear Jeff Daniels sing. Beautiful song.

[@dustys3320]

there are a few celebrities' I would love to sit down and just have a coffee or beer with, and Jeff Daniels is at the top of that list. I have always been a fan and the fact that he can play and sing and still be so humble. you sir are a legend and I bow down in your presence,

[@tracythorleifson4108]

That was a master class in Travis picking, right there. Dang! 😃😃😃

[@transistorradiorecords3661]

Great interview. Jeff has written over 450 songs? That alone is impressive. Certain guitars feel like your right arm. Kelly looks great too.

[@Hiddentravel]

Thank you Kelly Clarkson and your staff. I had asked a question on another video and someone told me the song name and which album it was on. (Downloaded it from iTunes). Hopefully he will release the Kelly Clarkson show version (with acoustic guitar). If Jeff Daniels come back on the show in the future, I could hear this as a Kelly &Jeff duet.

[@tracyadams8292]

UH WHAT!??? That song gave me chills and made me cry a little! WOW!! Jeff D, YOU ROCK!!

[@therealpepeu]

First time hearing him singing and playing today. There are other versions of this out there, but, this is the one that has that raw authenticity in it that moves me. "You turn my never-evers, into maybe I just might". Love that line! He sounds like a good, unconstricted Springsteen, if that makes any sense.

[@stowjer]

There's something very real and genuine about him. Not to mention his superb talent!

[@SS-ki6ie]

Kelly looks awesome!!! Wow! Great performance by Jeff Daniels, another cultural icon.

[@tweakthatproductions1648]

Wow! Just wow! This interview & song brought me to tears but tears of joy! I wanna hear more Jeff Daniels & hear his songs! A National American Treasure! ❤

[@Crimson-n-Clover]

He wrote another incredible song about his Grandfather’s Hat. Then there’s that one about an RV trip. Hilarious! Jeff is an incredibly talented storyteller, guitarist, artist and good soul….period.

[@cindimonks5661]

I have watched this 3 times back to back to back and yep.... goosebumps EVERY SINGLE TIME. ❤🤯

[@1990westfalia]

Who can't love this guy, named Jeff? He has so much depth. Skillet

[@marioalejandro7549]

No words, just tears😢

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

LOVED HIS SOUND AND DEMEANOR

[@cycle_Therapy]

Yes! Jeff Daniel's is one of my favorite actors and now musicians! Love this!

[@philliamproject8113]

Jeff is really good what a pleasant surprise and a nice man! What a beautiful song and wonderful words!

[@daveparker5569]

I live in Jeff’s hometown area. I shop at Chelsea Lumber all the time. What a great family. Lives well lived from what I can see.

[@MeMeDaVinci]

What a voice!!! I'd pay to see him.... absolutely. The standing ovation says it all.

[@barbarabaldwin7120]

YES

[@AdemVessell]

That song is so fantastic!! What’s huge treat! Never knew he was a musician and a wordsmith. Excellent 🎉🎉🎉

[@iio58]

Both Jeff’s are amazing at country guitar. Jeff Brridges too. Go Jeff’s !!

[@GabrielRodriguez-uo6vm]

Wow, is a beautiful song, a real song. Touch my soul, my heart and why this song put in the radio, movie, series.? This man is gold

[@mikegendron3723]

First thoughts - Oh God! Please don't let this be another Roseanne! My reactions - Hand left mouse, I sat back, I crossed my arms, a smile crept into my face for the duration and then an audible "Oh, my!" when he was done! That was STUNNING!!! Who knew?!?!

[@JohnstownJohnny]

Anyone remember when Kelly Clarkson won American Idol & didn't thank anyone!?!? Love your music!😂🎉🤠

[@hildegard_the_bug]

From germany.... Jeff.. its sooo amazing! Bring it out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I Love it!

[@markwaterman6350]

Absolutely beautiful song, this is an incredibly talented man!!!

[@carolg8535]

I'm thankful he chose the acting profession. Love him in movies - and his guitar playing, singing, and writing is absolutely awesome. ❤❤

[@LAM285]

That song was amazing

[@914Rocky]

Just found his amazing music on iTunes. He’s awesome.

[@worldwidewillowgreen]

wow, in tears - what a beautiful song and what a kind hearted man.

[@thenogoodniks8673]

incredible. So So good. Genuine and pure. Love it.

[@maredox]

The lyrics, those guitar licks, singing voice...Jeff Daniels, you Sir, you are a hero! Absolutely amazing ❤

[@troycrittle9809]

What a smart, articulate and self effacing guy. Just doing in because he loves it.

[@paddawan_]

Beautiful conversation and an incredible song with a heartfelt performance, just wow

[@1969MARKETING]

i really like the country/folk vibe of that song. it's so honest and simple.

[@candiceseretin7230]

He needs to put a record out for sure, I had tears streaming down my face while watching this.

[@muppetsstoogesfan1]

He's actually got several albums

[@baddriver3580]

Id LOVE to be hearing that on my radio!!! Awesome 👍👍👍👍❤❤❤

[@crhiztian]

I really wish this guy to live forever

[@robertbob980]

just Beautiful ..We are all in awe . i hope Kelly sings it one day . i wonder what other songs he has .. i hope he puts out a lp.

[@azpeach5680]

The song was so beautiful! I teared up a little! Awwwwe!

[@jimblanchette8584]

I would love to see the whole song, but just Kelly's reactions. She is such a tremendous lover of music, and I'd love to see her roller coaster ride of discovery. Her reactions are so honest and joyful.

[@wendellhhardisty4647]

WOW!! That was amazing. Way to go Jeff Daniels!! 😎👊🏽

[@biggs6769]

Incredibly talented man. Glad he found his given talents and continues to share them.

[@stevenkukene9970]

I’m not crying, I got something in my eye! That was beautiful….

[@cscrab17]

This is absolutely an incredible song! Get this on the radio asap!!!

[@MrWmac96]

speechless...what a well put together song...

[@angelsandfrogs]

I have watched this at least 15 times since I saw this show and I will play this every day Absolutely love this song and this man ,what a great man♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️

[@IntelligentElephant]

Great song. I'm going to see if i can stream Jeff Daniels