Making 'decisions': Dylan Schneider continues introspective journey within country music

May 15—Dylan Schneider's been writing songs since he was 12.

At 24, the country singer has learned a lot about writing, which is informed by learning about himself.

"It's a constant change," Schneider says. "I'm always trying to move forward with my music."

Schneider is part of the inaugural Boots in the Park in Albuquerque. The event takes place from 1-10 p.m. Saturday, May 18, at Balloon Fiesta Park.

The lineup features Schneider, Thomas Rhett, Chris Young, Chris Janson, Kameron Marlowe and Leaving Austin.

Schneider released the EP, "Bad Decisions" on April 26 and he is already back in the studio working on new music in Nashville, Tennessee.

"It's been really cool to watch the last couple of weeks move along in the studio," he says. "It's huge for me. I can't wait to put some more stuff out."

Schneider has learned a lot in the more than a decade as a songwriter.

"For one, there's a lot more understanding about what I'm singing and talking about," he says. "I've found a good group of people that I feel comfortable writing with. They understand what I'm trying to say. The most important thing is to find those people and create that bond. It's really important."

The single, "Daddy Drinks Whiskey," is one of his most personal songs to date.

"I had to write the song with people I knew and trusted," he says. "We wrote that song and I don't think I was ready to put it out. We gave it some time and eventually I was comfortable enough for it to be ready for the world."

Schneider also uses the songwriting process as a form of therapy for himself.

He says by opening up the doors and allowing his feelings to flow, really makes a difference with his mental health.

"I've written plenty of break-up songs," he says. "It's therapeutic. The songs that involve family matters are always the hardest. You know you have to share those stories with the right people."

While Schneider always writes from an honest and introspective place, he never realized the impact it would have on listeners.

"I was talking to Joel Madden from Good Charlotte recently on a podcast," he says. "We were both talking about the fact that we don't realize how much we are helping other people with music. A lot of people don't have the ability to talk about these things."

With a catalog of music that continues to grow, Schneider admits that it can be difficult to put together a set list.

"I want to play everything," he says. "I have some favorites that aren't massive hits. Then there are the songs that I have to play. Then I have to think about the new songs that I want to get in there. It's like putting a puzzle together. And I want to have some flow of emotion in there as well. The set can get a little rowdy, and it's nice to have those slow songs in the middle to make the energy ebb and flow."

While Schneider gives his all for each performance, he enjoys meeting the fans after the show.

Before he goes out for the meet and greets, he will take some time for himself.

"I will run backstage and change my shirt," he says. "I then sit down for a minute and try to soak in all of the energy I just witnessed. I'm someone who always critiques myself, and I have to find a moment of reflection through this process."