“Whiskey Is My Witness”
Written by Robert Tuzzo
Interview by American Songwriter
Robert Tuzzo scored 1st place in the Session Four 2025 American Songwriter Lyric Contest for his song “Whiskey Is My Witness.” 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?
When I decided to pursue songwriting seriously, I did my research on how to build credibility and get exposure. The American Songwriter contests were consistently recommended as one of the best places to start. I figured I had nothing to lose — so I sent in a lyric and just hoped it might connect with someone.
How did you feel when you learned you won?
I was shocked — in the best way. Knowing who some of the judges are, it felt like a real honor. It also gave me a huge boost of confidence that I’m on the right track. This was the first country song I ever wrote and the first contest I’ve ever entered. To win on my first try with my first song? That still blows my mind.
What was the inspiration for your submission? Why did you want to write it?
When I decided to write country music, I knew I wanted to tell stories that felt real — stories about everyday people and moments. And let’s be honest: every country writer eventually writes a whiskey song. So I figured, “May as well get mine out of the way first.” But I also knew it needed a fresh angle. The idea of using “Whiskey Is My Witness” as a courtroom metaphor really clicked — it gave me room to explore guilt, regret, and raw confession in a unique way.
What’s the story behind “Whiskey Is My Witness”?
It’s about a guy who can’t run from what he did — or didn’t do — and he’s finally owning up to it, one pour at a time. It’s not a plea for forgiveness. He’s not trying to win her back. He’s just laying the truth bare because the weight of it’s become too much. The whiskey isn’t an excuse — it’s the only one left in the room willing to listen.
Have you written music for this lyric? If so, how would you describe it?
I have — it’s a bluesy, mid-tempo modern country song. I wrote it with Blake Shelton in mind. So, Blake — if you’re looking for a fresh take on a whiskey ballad, have your people call my people. (Or just call me.)
How long have you been writing lyrics?
I’ve been a professional drummer since I was ten, and always dreamed of being that drummer — like Phil Collins or Neil Peart — who writes, not just plays. I dabbled with rock lyrics in a few bands, but I never really found my voice. I only started seriously writing country lyrics about four months ago, and I’ve been fully hooked ever since.
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?
Two things: the thrill of telling a great story, and the hope that someone hears it and thinks, “Yeah… that’s me.” There’s something magical about turning a feeling into a line that hits somebody in the chest. That chase — finding the right words for the real emotions — keeps me coming back every day.
Who are your all-time favorite songwriters, and why?
Being from the Jersey Shore, I have to start with Bruce Springsteen. He’s the king of telling stories about real people, no fluff. Adam Duritz from Counting Crows taught me how emotion and imagery can drive a lyric. I’m a lifelong Eagles fan, so Glenn Frey and Don Henley are big influences, too.
In the country world, I’m drawn to the greats: Shane McAnally, Ashley Gorley, Lori McKenna, Chris Stapleton, and Dolly Parton. They each have a different style, but they all write with heart, grit, and precision.
What’s next for you?
Keep writing! Since “Whiskey Is My Witness,” I’ve written about 14 new songs and I’m proud of every one of them. My goal is to build a strong catalog, pitch to publishers and A&R folks, and eventually land cuts with recording artists. I know it’s a long shot — but so was this contest, and here we are. If you don’t try, you’ll never know.
What would you tell other songwriters who are considering entering the Lyric Contest?
Do it. Seriously, just go for it. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. If you’ve got a lyric you’re proud of — even if you’re not sure it’s “good enough” — put it out there. You never know who it might connect with, or where it might take you.
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