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Makenzie Phipps on “Love Me Sober,” Songwriting, & Breaking Into Country Music

Anthony Bonnette
Feb 9

A Voice That Demands Attention

Some artists come onto the scene with a whisper, while others arrive with a voice that stops you in your tracks. Makenzie Phipps falls into the latter category. With a voice that cuts through the noise and a knack for storytelling, she’s bringing something real to the table. From her viral cover songs to her deeply personal original music, she’s carving out her place in the country music world one song at a time.

On this episode of Come And Pick It, Makenzie sits down with Anthony Bonnette to talk about her journey from Virginia to Nashville, her latest single “Love Me Sober”, and the unexpected inspiration behind “Pink Whitney.” She also dives into her love for animal rescue, how she balances life as an independent artist, and what it’s like to grind it out in today’s country music industry.

She’s got the talent, the drive, and a whole lot of heart—everything it takes to turn heads in country music. So grab a seat, hit play, and get to know Makenzie Phipps—you’re gonna want to keep an eye on her career.



From Virginia to Nashville

Makenzie’s love for music started early. Born on the Virginia-West Virginia line, she grew up surrounded by country and bluegrass influences. But the small-town life couldn’t contain her ambition. Moving to Nashville was the next step in making her mark on country music.

"I've been getting more into songwriting since I moved to Nashville," Makenzie shares.

"I'm really just trying to figure out who I am as a songwriter and what stories I want to tell."

The move wasn’t just about chasing a dream—it was about refining her sound and finding her artistic identity. And that journey has led her to some incredible songs.


The Story Behind "Pink Whitney"

It’s not every day that an artist writes a song inspired by a drink. But Makenzie did just that with “Pink Whitney”, a fun, playful track that personifies the vodka-based beverage.

"I wanted to write something different," Makenzie says. "It’s a love-hate relationship. I love Pink Whitney—she hates me."

The song quickly became a fan favorite, introducing people to the drink while showcasing her ability to blend humor with clever songwriting. And while she’s still waiting on an official sponsorship from the Pink Whitney brand, she’s keeping her fingers crossed.



Love Me Sober: A Song That Hits Hard

Makenzie’s latest single, “Love Me Sober,” is a far cry from the lighthearted feel of Pink Whitney. This song dives deep into the emotional toll of loving someone with a drinking problem.

"It’s about a couple that’s been together for a while," Makenzie explains. "The guy struggles with drinking, and the girl is at a breaking point, asking: Why can’t you love me sober?"

It’s the kind of song that stops people in their tracks. The message is raw, real, and relatable—something many listeners can connect with. And that’s exactly what Makenzie hopes for when she writes.


Chapters and Timestamps

📌 (00:00) Makenzie Phipps: Songwriting, Nashville, & Finding Her Sound

📌 (02:20) Writing “Pink Whitney” & the Story Behind the Song

📌 (10:21) Music Career, Animal Rescue, & Performing Live

📌 (19:28) “Love Me Sober,” Songwriting Process, & What’s Next


Listen & Watch

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Come And Pick It on Spotify

📺 Watch on YouTube: Come And Pick It on YouTube


Why You Should Listen

If you love country music and independent artists who are making waves, this episode is for you. Makenzie Phipps isn’t just another singer trying to break through—she’s got the grit and the sound to back it up.

  • Inside the Music: Get the story behind Love Me Sober and how Makenzie approaches songwriting.

  • Independent Artist Life: What it’s really like to make it in country music without a major label.

  • Passion for Animal Rescue: How Makenzie’s love for dogs and volunteer work influences her career.

  • The Nashville Move: What it takes to leave home and chase the dream in Music City.

You’ll hear raw stories, real experiences, and plenty of laughs. Hit that play button and dive in.


Follow Makenzie Phipps



Follow Anthony Bonnette & Come And Pick It

🎸 Follow Anthony Bonnette: AnthonyBonnette.com/socials

🎙 Follow the Podcast: ComeAndPickIt.com

📩 Stay Connected: Join the Email List


This episode is packed with great conversation and plenty of insight into the real world of independent country music. Makenzie Phipps is one to watch—so make sure you check her out, stream her music, and follow along as she continues to rise.

👂 Listen now and let us know what you think!


Final Thoughts

Makenzie Phipps is the kind of artist that country music needs—one with heart, hustle, and the talent to back it all up. Whether she’s writing a powerful ballad, a fun drinking song, or rescuing animals in need, she brings passion to everything she does.

Be sure to check out “Love Me Sober”, available February 21, 2025, stream her music, and keep an eye on her journey. And for more artist stories and interviews, follow Come And Pick It with Anthony Bonnette!


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