Celebrating 30 Years in the Music and Events Industry

This past October marked three decades since I embarked on my journey in the music business, making the move to Nashville with a U-Haul in tow and the contents of my meager savings from my radio jobs in Tulsa. Crazy to think about. Little did I know that this leap of faith (and naivety) would lead me to a career packed with incredible experiences and friendships.

Having previously attended Belmont College and interned at MCA in 1989, my official entry into the industry came in November 1993 when I joined MCA Records as Promotions Manager. Those were the glory days of country music, surrounded by icons like George Strait, Vince Gill, Reba McEntire, Trisha Yearwood, Wynonna, and many more who were at the pinnacle of their careers. It felt like being part of a family, and I was fortunate to revel in that atmosphere for almost a decade.

Following MCA, other labels followed such as Rounder and Midas Records, and other organizations like All Access, World Vision, Apple Music, and Yamaha Entertainment. All the while adapting and evolving with the industry’s changes, which were many.

All those years, experiences, and relationships paved the way for the launch of Songwriter City in 2016. Starting my own business proved to be the most rewarding professional decision I’ve ever made. It’s not so much a reinvention as it is a reimagining, utilizing the experience and knowledge gained over 30 years in the music and event industries. And continuing to do what I love, which is most important.

Here’s to the next chapter of this crazy and wild ride! Thank you to everyone who has been part of this incredible adventure thus far. Grateful for you!

Mike

What is a Hit Songwriter Show?

Lee Thomas Miller, Natalie Hemby, and Wendell Mobley perform during a Songwriter City show event. Photo: Mike Severson.

It’s a common question we get because it’s been the best kept secret in realm of premier event and entertainment. But not for long. Songwriter shows, also known as writers rounds or songwriters-in-the-round, are typically a group of 2 to 5 songwriters who gather together to tell the behind-the-scenes stories of how their hit songs came to life and then perform their original songs acoustically. Songs that have been recorded by some of the biggest recording artists in the world. They perform the songs in their original form and frequently are better than the recorded version we all know.

The songwriter round will go in a rotation with one songwriter performing a song, followed by the next writer, and the next, and so on. Each songwriter can join in with the others, add harmonies, contribute a guitar riff, or just listen. The writers talk about how and why they wrote the songs and there are always incredibly compelling stories and interaction between the writers, who usually know each other and have written songs together. The songwriters will also connect with the crowd – asking questions, taking questions, and generally having fun with the guests. It’s a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with the songwriters and get an intimate look behind the music and the music business.

There is a connected, authentic, and special quality to a well-crafted songwriter show that can’t be found in any other type of entertainment. You would be hard pressed to find a more engaging and honest form of entertainment. It’s true not every songwriter is wired for the stage, but when Songwriter City expertly crafts a customized experience of elite songwriter entertainers, the environment is nothing short of magical and inspirational. You’ll laugh, you may cry, and you’ll be thoroughly entertained by music’s most talented artists. Born in Nashville, it’s become the best form of entertainment anywhere and it’s an experience that will leave you wanting more and that you’ll never forget.

To book a premier Songwriter City show experience or if you have other questions, please send us an email to info@songwritercity.com.

SONGWRITER CITY OFFERING SPEAKER & KEYNOTE PACKAGES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Songwriter City Now Offering Speaker and Keynote Packages

Songwriter City, the premier destination for hit songwriter show experiences, has announced the launch of a new Keynote and Speaker division featuring some of the biggest songwriters in the world, as well as top music business professionals.

The Songwriter City Keynote and Speaker offering features a diverse lineup of hit songwriters and seasoned industry leaders who have achieved significant success in the music industry, including award-winning songwriters, musicians, and music business professionals. They share their expertise, personal journeys, and provide practical advice on topics including Storytelling, Inspiration, Leadership, Vulnerability, Perseverance, Creativeness, Teamwork, and more.

“We’re excited to offer these relevant and entertaining keynotes to current and future clients,” said Mike Severson, Owner of Songwriter City. “We have found that hearing from these world-class songwriters and performers, and learning about their stories and experiences, will inspire and motivate people from all types of businesses and organizations.”

About Songwriter City:

Songwriter City books and curates premier songwriter experiences from the biggest hitmakers in music. For more information, please contact mike@songwritercity.com.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL NASHVILLE ANNOUNCES EXCLUSIVE SONGWRITER AND ART EXPERIENCES

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Opening this fall, the Hotel launches partnership with Nashville-based Songwriter City, crafting intimate performances infused with songwriter storytelling that offer an authentically Nashville experience like no other.

Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Nashville, the highly anticipated luxury hotel opening in the heart of Music City, announces a key partnership with an established local organization to offer customizable and authentic Nashville songwriters experiences to guests.

In collaboration with Songwriter City, a leading booking and management company for Nashville songwriters responsible for some of the biggest hits in music, the Hotel unveils Suite Sounds, a stay package including a private acoustic performance in a guest suite.

Four Seasons Hotel Nashville also introduces a separate, off-property experience designed to highlight the creative spirit of Nashville, infusing music and art to present a “songwriters in the round” event platform at The Studio 208, a famed Third Avenue art gallery and intimate event space.  Incorporating an immersive tour around the gallery with a multiple-songwriter round, with added touches including Four Seasons cocktail mixologists, this experience is flexible to larger Four Seasons group sizes, demonstrating the Hotel’s passion for bringing Nashville’s vibrant creative scene to its guests.

“Four Seasons Hotel Nashville is committed to forging authentic connections within our local community. There’s nothing quite like the experience of witnessing songwriters perform and tell the stories behind the creative process and what inspired their music,” says Richard Poskanzer, General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences Nashville. “We’re just thrilled to partner with Songwriter City and The Studio 208, organizations with storied ties within this talented community, to allow our guests to have an intimate experience and to connect with artists and the thriving creative base within Nashville that makes it such a world-class destination.”

Suite Sounds Stay Offer Package

Available for guests to book direct through the Hotel’s website, those reserving a stay in any suite for a minimum stay of two nights at Four Seasons Hotel Nashville have the option to add the songwriter experience to their reservation.  Working with a dedicated Four Seasons experience planner and Songwriter City, guests will enjoy a one-hour solo acoustic performance by a Nashville-based hit songwriter, in the comfort of the living room in their suite.  Before the start of the show, custom-made cocktails and snacks are served to the suite, presented by a mixologist from the Hotel’s flagship restaurant Mimo Restaurant and Bar.

After the performance by the songwriter, which includes an immersive storytelling aspect of the creative process behind the songs they wrote, as well as their live performance, the songwriter and the guests can enjoy a reserved space at the lounge at Mimo, included in the package price.

“This is really the ultimate Nashville experience,” says Mike Severson, owner of Songwriter City. “Songwriters are the heartbeat of Music City and are incredible performers in their own right.  We have access to the talent behind the hits, ranging from Carrie Underwood and Tim McGraw to Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran.  What sets the experience apart is hearing first hand how the songs came to be, which illuminates new meaning and personal connection to the song and songwriter. In booking this, you’ll be able to enjoy this VIP experience in the comfort of your own suite – there’s nothing like it.”

Severson has been in the music industry in Nashville for more than 25 years, building a deep network amongst Music City’s greatest talent on the stage and behind the scenes. Realizing the most quintessential Nashville experience is the songwriter experience, he used his passion for helping those in the music industry and his deep connections to launch Songwriter City to provide an avenue for one-of-a-kind experiences.

Information on the Suite Sounds package or any other stay offer can be found here or by calling +1 615 610 6995.

The Studio 208 Songwriters in the Round Experience

The Studio 208, on Third Avenue in the heart of downtown Nashville, was ​founded by Ashley Bergeron, a Nashville-based creative, photographer, and art curator.​ A private showroom and gallery ideal for intimate performances and events, The Studio 208 provides a platform for creatives to grow into thriving artists by connecting them to the community within their flagship historic building.

Four Seasons Hotel Nashville guests are invited to book a customized songwriter experience at The Studio 208, which features multiple songwriters performing together and includes leading Nashville visual artists also sharing the stories behind their own art in the gallery, forging a deeper connection to Nashville’s creative class within the guest.

Chefs and mixologists from Mimo Restaurant and Bar can also accompany guests to The Studio 208, bringing Four Seasons hospitality to one of Nashville’s most unique and beloved artisan spaces.

“I’m looking forward to welcoming people to my studio to take part in a wholly unique artist driven experience,” says Bergeron, owner of The Studio 208. “Here they’ll create authentic connections with those whose music and art in Nashville is so special and who have found success through their talent, skill, and kindness. We’re thrilled to be an extension of the Four Seasons experience through this opportunity. Guests feel they are part of something beautiful and unforgettable – it will result in lifelong connections.”

The Studio 208 Songwriters in the Round Experience is fully customizable and available to groups of up to 20 people, subject to availability and upon request.

Allow the team of Four Seasons experts to customize a Nashville experience by calling +1 615 610 6995, or booking a stay online.

https://press.fourseasons.com/nashville/hotel-news/2022/songwriter-and-art-experiences/

The Best Entertainment in Nashville (or anywhere)

Songwriter City’s The Warren Brothers, Jessi Alexander, and Josh Kear during a live corporate conference event in Nashville.

Having lived in Nashville for over 25 years and worked with countless top recording artists in my career, I often get asked, “What was your favorite show you’ve ever worked?” That’s always a tough, if not impossible, question, as I’ve seen the best – Garth Brooks, George Strait, Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw, Kenny Chesney, Taylor Swift, Dierks Bentley, Miranda Lambert and so many others who put on amazing shows. However, if I break it down to what my absolute favorite type of show is, well that’s easy. A songwriter round. Often called Songwriters in the Round, which was made popular by The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville. Songwriters sitting together, trading songs and stories, like what would happen in a writing session, on a front porch, or by a camp fire. Some of the best performances I’ve ever seen in my life are from the songwriters themselves, who have written hit songs for the biggest artists in the world in country, pop, and rock music, including the ones mentioned above.

THE DISCOVERY

The unique experience of witnessing a high-end songwriter round in action is truly captivating. Not only are the performances enthralling, but it’s also incredibly enjoyable to observe the reactions of guests who are experiencing this for the first time. It’s quite common for individuals to express surprise and disbelief upon realizing that the artists on stage did not personally write some of the biggest #1 hits. Comments like “I thought the artists wrote these songs!” or “THIS person wrote that song?!” are often overheard, leading to the revelation that well-known figures like Kenny, Tim, Blake, Carrie, and others did not actually pen those chart-topping hits themselves. This element of discovering the true behind-the-scenes talent adds an extra layer of intrigue and excitement to the entire songwriter round experience.

THE STORIES BEHIND THE MUSIC

The second revelation about these performances unveils the extraordinary narratives entwined with each of the songs. Prior to performing their songs, the songwriters share the captivating stories that inspired the music. This provides a fascinating peek behind the curtain of the music industry, offering a glimpse into the intimate and inspiring stories that lay at the heart of their lyrics and music. Witnessing this unfolding of storytelling has been described as fascinating, entertaining, and deeply moving. It’s a space where the spectrum of human emotions comes to life, creating a rich and immersive experience that resonates with the audience on a profound level.

THE CONNECTION

Third, it becomes evident just how exceptionally talented the songwriters are. In many cases, their talent surpasses that of the artists who perform their songs, leading to an audience preference for the songwriter’s version over the familiar renditions heard on the radio or through streaming platforms.

Rather than referring to it as a “show” or a “concert,” it’s more apt to characterize it as an enriching experience to participate in. Each event is wholly distinctive, even when featuring the same songwriters. It is marked by spontaneity, authenticity, active engagement, and enduring impact. Audience involvement is often encouraged, fostering meaningful connections to the music, the stories, and the songwriters themselves. Participants become active contributors and carry this experience with them long after it concludes, contributing to its exceptional and lasting nature.

EASILY ACCESSIBLE & EXPERTLY CURATED

When it’s done right, the songwriter round experience is undoubtably the best entertainment in Nashville, but honestly, it’s the best music experience I’ve seen anywhere.

I’m thankful that Songwriter City is doing it right, by making this experience more famous and accessible to anyone, anywhere around the country, by curating these special songwriter rounds. Event and meeting planners, DMC’s, hotels, venues, resorts, and companies are discovering this door to booking corporate, private, and public events. As a result, more people are getting to experience these premier songwriters and their incredible talents and gifts. I’m grateful for that because these songwriters are the true talent and champion of songs. They understand the power of songs and without a great song there wouldn’t be recording artists or the music we love to live our lives to. Songwriters deserve to be known and celebrated!

The art of songwriting is often underestimated, yet it is the foundation of the entire music industry. Songwriters shape the emotions, stories, and messages that connect deeply with people from all walks of life. Their ability to capture the essence of human experience in a few verses and a catchy melody is truly remarkable. Furthermore, the impact of a well-crafted song extends far beyond its initial creation, influencing culture and society for years to come.

In an era where commercialism often overshadows genuine artistic expression, it’s essential to recognize and uplift the creative forces behind the music. Songwriter City serves as a vital platform for shining a spotlight on these unsung heroes, providing them with the recognition and opportunities they rightfully deserve. By bridging the gap between songwriters and event organizers, Songwriter City fuels a rich ecosystem where talent thrives and audiences revel in the magic of live music.

For more information on how to bring a one-of-a-kind songwriter show experience to you and your group or organization, for both in-person and virtual events, you can contact info@songwritercity.com.

Songwriter City Spotlight: The Warren Brothers

The Warren Brothers – Brett and Brad Warren performing during a Songwriter City event in Nashville.

The Warren Brothers are award winning songwriters and artists with 9 #1 songs to their credit. They have written hits for Tim McGraw (“If You’re Reading This”, “Felt Good on My Lips”, “Highway Don’t Care”), Toby Keith (“Red Solo Cup”), Keith Urban (“Little Bit of Everything”), Faith Hill (“The Lucky One”), Martina McBride (“Anyway”, “Wrong Baby Wrong”), Dierks Bentley (“Feel That Fire”), Jerrod Niemann (“Drink To That All Night”) and many others.

Brett and Brad have also had their songs recorded by Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, Little Big Town, Lady A, Thomas Rhett, Cole Swindell, Gary Allan, Tyler Farr, Billy Currington and many other A-list country artists. In addition, the brothers have also written songs for rock artists including Lynyrd Skynyrd, Nickelback, Hinder, Joss Stone and Boys Like Girls.

The Warren Brothers started as recording artists in their hometown of Tampa, FL. They moved to Nashville in 1995 and in 1997 signed a record deal with RCA records. They made 3 albums for RCA’s sister label BNA Records. During that time, they toured extensively as an opening act for Tim McGraw and Faith Hill, as well as opened for many other artists. Since then, McGraw has recorded over 30 of their songs.

Songwriter City partners Brett and Brad are highly sought out songwriters, entertainers, and one of our most requested and booked hit songwriters.

To book the Warren Brothers for any corporate, private, or special event, please contact info@songwritercity.com.

Check out their video playlist HERE.

 

Songwriter City Spotlight: Shy Carter

Shy Carter is a multi-talented songwriter, artist, rapper and producer Shy Carter as a Songwriter City partner who has reached all corners of the industry with his early success. With #1 song credits that span Kane Brown’s “Heaven” to Charlie Puth’s “One Call Away,” Carter is one of the most formidable up-and-coming talents in Nashville and beyond.

#1 hit songwriter and producer Shy Carter, available for corporate and private event booking from Songwriter City.

Shy is among the writers behind Billy Currington’s “It Don’t Hurt Like It Used To,” Sugarland’s smash hit “Stuck Like Glue,” Rob Thomas’ single “Someday,” and Keith Urban’s “God Whispered Your Name.” Carter also collaborated Urban on both “Never Coming Down” and “My Wave.” He’s also featured on Tim McGraw’s “Way Down.”

Named to Variety’s 2018 Hitmakers list, he has also worked with Jason Derulo, Meghan Trainor, Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Lopez, Nelly and more.

Shy recently released his single “Good Love” to radio through Warner Music Nashville.

Check out our Shy Carter Video Playlist.

Songwriter City Spotlight: David Hodges

David Hodges is a multi-platinum, Grammy, and BMI award winning writer and producer. He was a founding member of Evanescence and has been penning hits with and for world-renowned artists for over a decade, selling over 65 million records. His #1 singles include “Bring Me To Life” and “My Immortal” (Evanescence), “A Thousand Years” (Christina Perri for Twilight), “Because of You” (Kelly Clarkson), “See You Again” (Carrie Underwood), and most recently “Miss Me More” (Kelsea Ballerini). He also co-wrote powerful hits such as “Dear Hate” (Maren Morris and Vince Gill), “Going Under” (Evanescence), and “What About Now” (Daughtry). Other artists who have cut his songs include Keith Urban, Jason Mraz, 5 Seconds of Summer, Blink 182, Ben Rector, Betty Who, Devin Dawson, Switchfoot, and many others.

Hodges has released many of his own albums and EP’s over the last ten years, including three in 2019 (“The December Sessions Volume 3,” “Discrepancies in the Recollection of Various Principles / Side A” and “Side B”). All very strong releases. 

David offers a unique mix of country, pop, and rock hits and is an incredible vocalist, musician, and entertainer. We are proud to have such a gifted artist as a Songwriter City partner.

To book David for corporate, private, and special events please contact: info@songwritercity.com 

Songwriter City Spotlight: Josh Kear

Josh Kear is the only songwriter in Grammy history to win Best Country Song three times (for Lady Antebellum’s “Need You Now” and Carrie Underwood’s “Before He Cheats” and “Blown Away”). He also won CMA, ACM, and ASCAP Song of the Year awards for “I Need You Now,” which spent 14 weeks at #1 on the AC chart and 5 weeks at #1 on the country charts.

Hit songwriter Josh Kear during a Songwriter City private event.

Kear has a total of 18 number one songs, including Luke Bryan’s “Drunk On You”, Blake Shelton’s “Neon Light”, and Tim McGraw’s “Highway Don’t Care”. His most recent #1’s are “Woman, Amen” by Dierks Bentley and “Most People Are Good” by Luke Bryan, and “Watermelon Moonshine” by Lainey Wilson.

The long list of country and pop performers who have cut his songs also includes Frankie Ballard, Martina McBride, Keith Urban, Thomas Rhett, Charlie Puth, Jimmie Buffet, Labrinth, Chris Young, Tyler Farr, Darius Rucker and many others.

Josh has incredible gifts as, not only a songwriter, but a storyteller, singer, and entertainer, and knows how to connect to an audience whether it’s an intimate private dinner or a large scale corporate or conference event. He’s been with Songwriter City since the beginning and we’re honored to call him a friend!

To book Josh for any event, please email info@songwritercity.com

Songwriter City Spotlight: Heather Morgan

Vince Gill once described Heather Morgan’s voice as a combination of Patty Griffin and Dolly Parton.

Growing up in Richardson, Texas, Heather was raised on Willie Nelson, Dolly, Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris, George Strait, Lee Ann Womack, Dixie Chicks, and Motown classics.

Heather has written songs for such artists as Randy Rogers Band, Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney, Martina McBride, Dierks Bentley and Maren Morris. She had her first #1 song “Beat of the Music”, which was co-written with Ross Copperman and Brett Eldredge. The song won BMI’s Song of the Year in 2015. These three writers followed up with another #1 song for Brett, “Lose My Mind.” She also co-wrote “Love Someone” for Eldredge, which just hit #1 this week!

In 2018 Morgan released her own album entitled “Borrowed Heart” with Grammy-nominated producer Paul Moak, and she has recently added her vocals to records with Drake White and Dierks Bentley.

Heather is also the co-founder of Girls of Nashville, a singer-songwriter show that began in 2014 to highlight female talent in Nashville. The show was recently featured in People.

Heather is a shining light of a songwriter, vocalist, and individual, and we’re so glad to shine the light on her!

Heather Morgan Video Playlist

Songwriter City Spotlight: Jordan Reynolds

Songwriter City partner Jordan Reynolds.

Grammy Award winning songwriter Jordan Reynolds, originally hailing from St. Louis, has quickly made a name for himself in Nashville. Reynolds’ songwriting is a fusion of classic country and soulful pop. His songs have been cut by Keith Urban, Lady Antebellum, Dan + Shay, Brett Eldredge, Lauren Alaina, Thomas Rhett and many others.

Reynolds scored his first #1 with Dan + Shay’s “Tequila” and also with their follow up single “Speechless,” which spent 4 weeks at #1 and is now crossing over on the pop charts. He also scored a #1 with For King & Country’s “God Only Knows” on the Contemporary Christian chart.

He’s an incredibly gifted singer, songwriter, and storyteller….and we’re thrilled to have him as a Songwriter City parter!

Jordan Reynolds Video Playlist

Songwriter City Spotlight: Jon Randall

Songwriter City partner Jon Randall during a corporate event in Cleveland, Ohio.
Photo credit: Mike Severson

Jon Randall Stewart was born in Dallas, TX and in his teenage years relocated to Nashville where he started his professional musical journey singing backup and playing guitar with Emmylou Harris’s Nash Ramblers, who he won a Grammy with in 1992 for Best Country Performance By A Duo Or Group. He released his debut solo album, “What You Don’t Know, in 1995 on RCA. His three subsequent albums have all been met with much critical acclaim.

As a songwriter, Randall is most known for “Whiskey Lullaby,” the Brad Paisley and Alison Krausss hit single he co-wrote with Whisperin’ Bill Anderson, which won the CMA Award for Song of the Year in 2005. Jon’s #1 songs include “Am I The Only One” from Dierks Bentley and “Drink On It” by Blake Shelton. Other artists who have recorded his songs include Tim McGraw, Gary Allan, Jack Ingram, Reba McEntire, Guy Clark, and more.

Jon also produced Dierks Bentley’s acoustic project “Up on the Ridge,” which earned CMA, Grammy, and ACM nominations. He also won ACM Song of the Year in 2018 for “Tin Man,” which was recorded by Miranda Lambert.

Most recently, Randall has been nominated for a 2019 ACM Award for Album of the Year as a producer on Dierks Bentely’s “The Mountain,” which Jon also has 4 cuts on. In addition, he scored a track on the new Maren Morris album “Girl,” which was released March 8th.

Randall’s success as a musician, performer, songwriter, and producer continues to flourish from the heart of Nashville and we love to showcase all of his incredible gifts at corporate and special events all around the country!

To book Tom and other world-class songwriter entertainers, email Songwriter City at info@songwritercity.com.

Songwriter City Spotlight: Tom Douglas

“Tom Douglas is, quite simply, our conscience. He shines a spotlight on the dark side of society so brightly that we can no longer ignore it. He’s a realist, but he’s also an optimist. As he says, the pain in this world is great, but the love is even greater. I love his raspy voice. When you hear him sing, you know he just knows. He’s lived every word that he writes. He makes mature music for mature people. He’s had some huge hits, but I always like his versions better. No one can sing a Tom Douglas song better than Tom.”   – Music journalist Beverly Keel

Songwriter City partner Tom Douglas

After a successful career in commercial real estate, Tom Douglas scored his first charting single as a songwriter when Collin Raye took “Little Rock” to the top of the charts in 1994. The single earned Tom a CMA Song of the Year nomination, which began a long string of Top 10 singles that has stretched for more than two decades. His #1 songs include “I Run to You” and “Hello World” for Lady Antebellum, “Love’s the Only House” for Martina McBride, “Grown Men Don’t Cry,” “Southern Voice,” and “Meanwhile Back at Mama’s” for Tim McGraw, “Raise ‘Em Up” for Keith Urban and Eric Church, and Miranda Lambert’s “The House That Built Me,” which was nominated for two Grammy awards and won CMA and ACM Song of the Year. His latest hit was “Drunk Girl” for Chris Janson.

Tom’s songs have also been recorded by Carrie Underwood, Garth Brooks, Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton, Brooks & Dunn, Trisha Yearwood, Kenny Chesney, Brett Eldredge, Alabama, Lee Ann Womack and many others. Tom is a Golden Globe and Oscar nominee, has been nominated for four Grammy awards, and was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2014.

Tom is a songwriting treasure and we love to get him on a stage to show his gifts of music and storytelling to others.

Tom Douglas Video Playlist

To book Tom and other world-class songwriter entertainers, email Songwriter City at info@songwritercity.com.

Songwriter City Spotlight: Bob DiPiero

Since his first #1 in 1983, Hall of Fame Songwriter Bob DiPiero has been one of music’s most prolific and consistent songwriters. He’s had over 1,000 songs recorded, countless hit singles, and an incredible 15 #1 hits. Bob has won numerous awards including most recently, BMI’s Icon Award, celebrating his outstanding career achievement and honoring his unique and influence on generations of music makers.

Bob is a master of telling incredibly fun stories behind his many hits and is so engaging and entertaining at corporate events in Nashville and around the country. We are honored to have him as a Songwriter City partner!

Songwriter City Spotlight: Natalie Hemby

Songwriter City partner Natalie Hemby.

With an authentic heart and distinct style, Natalie Hemby has become one of music’s defining songwriters. The Nashville native has written six #1 singles including Lady Antebellum’s “Downtown,” Little Big Town’s “Pontoon” and “Tornado,” Miranda Lambert’s “White Liar” and “Automatic,” and Justin Moore’s “You Look Like I Need A Drink.”

“Automatic” earned Hemby a Grammy nomination for Best Country Song in 2015. The hit also took home ACM Song of the Year honors the same year, as well as a NSAI Song of the Year win and a CMA Song of the Year nomination in 2014. Hemby co-wrote 10 songs on Miranda Lambert’s latest award-winning album The Weight of These Wings, as well as seven tracks on her 2014 release Platinum. In 2017 she released her first solo project entitled “Puxico” and opened for Tim McGraw and Faith Hill on tour.

Most recently, Natalie scored two cuts on the #1 album soundtrack to “A Star Is Born,” including “Always Remember Us This Way” and “I’ll Never Love Again,” both of which are performed by Lady Gaga in the film and receiving critical acclaim. She also has three songs on Kacey Musgraves’ Grammy Award Winning Album “Golden Hour.”

Hemby has additional cuts by Kelly Clarkson, Sheryl Crow, Blake Shelton, Keith Urban, Maren Morris, Amy Grant, Eli Young Band, Rosi Golan, Toby Keith, Lee Ann Womack, Labrinth, Lucie Silvas, and many others.

Natalie’s unique style, striking vocals, and likable personality makes her a favorite of Songwriter City shows and events. She’s a talent that outshines even the most popular recording artists. Book her for your event here: info@songwritercity.com.

Check out this spotify playlist of some of her most popular music.

Videos of her biggest songs are HERE.

To book Natalie for an event, please email info@songwritercity.com

Songwriter City Spotlight: Rhett Akins

Music has always been in Rhett Akins’ blood. The Valdosta, GA. native grew up in a close-knit family that supported his musical interests and his desire to pursue music as a career. 

One of Rhett’s song demo tapes found its way to the reactivated Decca Records label. Impressed by what they heard, they quickly signed Rhett to a recording contract. In 1995 his first album, A Thousand Memories was released to critical acclaim and spawned his first # 1 single and a song he co-wrote “That Ain’t My Truck”. That success was duplicated the following year with his second #1 single, “Don’t Get Me Started”, from his follow up album “Somebody New”.

Rhett has an incredible 28 career number one singles as a songwriter, including: “Dirt On My Boots” by Jon Pardi, “All Over Me” by Josh Turner, “Gimmie That Girl” by Joe Nichols, “Put A Girl In It” by Brooks & Dunn, “Take A Back Road” by Rodney Atkins, “I Don’t What This Night To End” by Luke Bryan, “I Can Take It From There” by Chris Young, “All About Tonight”, “Honey Bee” and “Boys Round Here”, all three by Blake Shelton, “Point At You” by Justin Moore, “Hey Girl” by Billy Currington, “When She Says Baby” by Jason Aldean, “Get Me Some Of That” and “It Goes Like This” by Thomas Rhett and many others.

Akins was named BMI’s songwriter of the year in 2011 and received Triple Play Awards in January 2012, 2014, and 2018 for having three number one singles in a 12 month period. Most recently, he was named 2018 ACM Songwriter of the Year.

A gifted singer, songwriter, entertainer, and storyteller, Rhett has all of the critical elements to deliver stellar Songwriter City shows!

Songwriter City partner Rhett Akins. Photo credit: Mike Severson

Spotify Playlist

Video Playlist

Event Entertainment: The Challenge of New & Original

The event business is teaching me a great deal about the ability to bring high-quality entertainment to a diverse cross-section of companies, associations, and organizations. One key theme I have learned about and heard repeatedly from event planning professionals, is the desire for unique, memorable, compelling, and experience based entertainment. There is a constant searching out of the special and inspirational that makes an impact on people. I completely resonate with that desire and it’s exactly the core of what we aim to provide with Songwriter City. The challenge, we find, is to get those decision makers who are wanting an out-of-the-box experience to actually move in that direction. It’s the paradox of desiring something original, but not committing on follow through because of lack of familiarity.

Authentic songwriters-in-the-round events are never easy to describe in detail because the concept doesn’t fit into the typical and tried entertainment box. If something has been done thousands of times, there’s a very high familiarity with it and it’s easy to squeeze down into a sound bite. However, if it’s specialized and original, it will likely be somewhat unknown to the masses. To bring audiences something they may have never been exposed to before may result in them never hearing of it before either, but isn’t that a byproduct of discovering new and inspiring entertainment?

In general, if you’re genuinely committed to crafting a true experience for your guests and considering an unfamiliar option, it is essential to do the worthwhile research including, but not limited to:

• Go see it in person if possible. Nothing is better than being in the room while it’s happening and watching the audience react in real time.
• Seek out testimonials. Contact some of the past clients and have a conversation about the experience and the impact it had on them.
• Ask the entertainment supplier for more references and testimonials if necessary. If they are as good as they say, they will gladly provide whatever they can.
• Understand that video of a show doesn’t necessarily translate adequately, especially experience based and audience interaction type of events. It only tells a portion of the story and doesn’t capture the feel and emotion of the event.

There’s always an inherent risk in putting on any special event; with venue, catering, transportation – everything. Entertainment is no different, although it’s widely considered to be what most people will take with them after the event, and if it’s a stellar experience, will remember for a very long time to come.

It’s understandable to be cautious in planning a special event, but don’t let it limit your creative vision of what is possible in crafting a one-of-a-kind experience.

Songwriter City Spotlight: Wendell Mobley

Wendell began playing in local bands before moving from Celina, Ohio to Nashville, where he found a job playing guitar for Jack Greene and Alabama. After having his songs recorded by Joe Diffie and Kenny Rogers, he became a full-time songwriter.

Mobley’s first cut as a single was Alabama’s “We Can’t Love Like This Anymore” in 1994. Since then he’s written #1 hits such as “Take Me There” and “Fast Cars and Freedom” by Rascal Flatts, “How Forever Feels” and “There Goes My Life” by Kenny Chesney, “Tattoos In This Town” and “A Little More Summertime” by Jason Aldean, and “How Country Feels” by Randy Houser. He’s had other songs recorded by Luke Bryan, Keith Urban, Dustin Lynch, Rodney Atkins, Alabama, Carrie Underwood, Reba McEntire, Trisha Yearwood, Edwin McCain and many others.

His songs have been at #1 for 25 weeks and they’ve sold over 60 million records and he continues to create refreshing lyrics and melodies for the biggest acts and brightest newcomers. He’s also been showing his range with the national ad campaign for Napa Auto Parts, writing and singing their theme song, “Napa Know How.”

Wendell has one of the best voices in country music (or any genre for that matter), and it’s always fun watching people be blown away by his incredible combination of writing and vocal talent at a live songwriter performance. We’re proud to have him as a Songwriter City partner!

Spotify Playlist

Video Playlist

Performing “There Goes My Life” with Kenny Chesney at a songwriter round in 2017:

Two Years In Songwriter City

It’s been two years since our first Songwriter City show in 2016 and I began the full-fledged plunge into owning and running my own business. Working in the corporate world and hired as an independent contractor have been the only roles I’ve known for my entire professional career. I’ve dipped my toe in the entrepreneurial world a couple times, but never jumped in. And jumping is exactly what I needed to do. It forced me to commit myself and pursue this endeavor head on and see where the road traveled. 

I am thrilled to say that our first year was good and our second year exceeded expectations. As we forge ahead on this third year, I’m proud of these incredibly gifted songwriters who are the “why” behind Songwriter City and I’m excited to get them in front of as many companies, organizations, and people as possible. Raising the awareness of one of the most entertaining and authentic music experiences in existence, as well as telling the story of the songwriter is a privilege. I don’t take it lightly.

Just like any new venture, there have certainly been challenges, but I’m learning a great deal along this journey and meeting many exceptional people. So a big THANK YOU to friends, partners, clients, and advocates who believe in what we’re doing and who have come along side us to bring these Songwriter City experiences to life. I am grateful for all of you!

Favorite Music of 2017

I have to admit I wasn’t on top of my discovery game this year, but decent enough to compile an end of year list. There seems to be an unintentional common thread in my favorite music from 2017 and it is that a good portion of the artists are female and from the south. That’s a great thing, y’all! And another take away is that there is still hope for country and rock and roll. These were my favorites from 2017 that were excellent and stood out from the rest, in my personal opinion. 

 

20 BEST ALBUMS OF 2017

• Chris Stapleton “From A Room: Vol 1”
• Greta Van Fleet “From the Fires”
• Valerie June “The Order of Time”
• Natalie Hemby “Puxico”
• Imagine Dragons “Evolve”
• Sunny Sweeney “Trophy”
• Alison Krauss “Windy City”
• Tyler Childers “Purgatory”
• U2 “Songs Of Experience”
• Lee Ann Womack “The Lonely, The Lonesome & The Gone”
• Charlie Worsham “Beginning Of Things”
• Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit “Nashville Sound”
• Midland “On The Rocks”
• Larkin Poe “Peach”
• Khalid “American Teen”
• Halsey “hopeless fountain kingdom”
• Angeleena Presley “Wrangled”
• NF “Perception”
• Portugal, The Man “Woodstock”
• Lorde “Melodrama”

 

10 BEST FEMALE ARTISTS of 2017

• Valerie June
• Natalie Hemby
• Sunny Sweeney
• Alison Krauss
• Taylor Swift
• Rhiannon Giddens
• Angeleena Presley
• Halsey
• Camila Cabello
• Lorde
• Ellie Holcomb

 

10 BEST MALE ARTISTS of 2017

• Charlie Worsham
• Tyler Childers
• Jason Isbell
  
• Keith Urban
• Luke Combs
• Khalid
• Colter Wall
• Drew Womack
• NF
• Aaron Watson

 

10 BEST DUOS or GROUPS of 2017

• Greta Van Fleet
• Imagine Dragons
• U2
• Larkin Poe
• Little Big Town
• Jule Vera
• The War On Drugs
• The Mavericks
• Turnpike Troubadors
• Ranky Tanky

 

 

Songwriter City Spotlight: Jessi Alexander

In 2001, after a friend submitted a demo tape to the NARAS Grammy Showcase, Jessi Alexander — who had no prior knowledge of the submission — found herself a very surprised winner, an achievement that helped the young singer get signed to Columbia Records in 2003. Despite being one of the finest female vocalists in Nashville, the record deal didn’t work out, proving that the best artists don’t always get the attention, airplay, and notoriety they deserve. 

Alexander turned the focus to songwriting and her career skyrocketed with her worldwide #1 hit “The Climb”. Miley Cyrus recorded the song and it soon became the anthem for her box office hit “The Hannah Montana Movie” and won the 2009 MTV Movie Awards ‘Best Song From A Movie’. Since then Jessi has penned three other number one’s including “I Drive Your Truck” recorded by Lee Brice, which won Song of the Year from the 2013 CMA Awards, 2014 ACM Awards, and 2013 NSAI Awards. Additional #1’s include Blake Shelton’s “Mine Would Be You” and “Drink On It.” 

Other artists who have recorded Jessi’s songs inlcude Dierks Bentley, Miranda Lambert, Brothers Osborne, Little Big Town, High Valley, Ashley Monroe, Patty Loveless, Eric Paslay, Trisha Yearwood, Celine Dion, Darius Rucker, Will Hoge, and more. 

Jessi is one of the best female vocalists you’ll ever find and there are many more hits and great things coming for her in the years ahead. We are thrilled to have her as a Songwriter City partner!

Book Jessi for your next corporate, private, or special event! Contact info@songwritercity.com. 

Jessi telling the story behind and performing “Drink On It” which was a #1 for Blake Shelton.

 

Celebrating Songwriters

Having been in Nashville for over 20 years now, I’ve had the opportunity to attend many Tin Pan South Songwriters Festivals, which just concluded their 25th annual event last week. The packed five nights of over 300 writers, at ten different venues, allow songwriters to share their compelling stories of inspiration and heartbreak behind their songs and give the audience a unique look behind the creative curtain. It’s a community celebration of songwriters everywhere and of the Songwriting Capital of the World – Nashville.

Over the years I’ve witnessed countless Tin Pan South songwriter rounds of top names with the biggest hits and also talented emerging songwriters who are searching for their first big break. I recall conversations at past shows with songwriters who were relatively new to town and didn’t have a performance slot, who are now some of the biggest names in the songwriting world. I’ve seen multi-genre songwriters deliver incredible performances and tell fascinating stories behind their songs and about their songwriting journey.

It was no different this year. The level of talent was exceptional and a spirit of songwriter celebration was thick in the air. And that’s what I love the most – the celebration of the heart and soul of music – the lifeblood of our entire existence as an art form and a business. The songwriters who come to town with a gift and a dream, to the city of songwriter dreams.

It’s an honor to be a small part of this special community and do whatever is in my ability to shine the deserving spotlight on their immense talent. To increase their value and to bring more awareness to the masses. Songwriter City was born to celebrate the songwriter and it’s never been more apparent to me than last week at Tin Pan South.

Thanks to the Nashville Songwriters Association International for everything they do for songwriters around the world and for being the catalyst behind Tin Pan South. To all the sponsors who help put the festival on as well. It was yet another magical week of memories and I’m already looking forward to next year.

Songwriter City Spotlight: Lee Thomas Miller

 

Lee Thomas Miller left his hometown to attend Eastern Kentucky University and graduated in 1990. After graduation, he moved to Nashville to find work as a songwriter. Ken Mellons was the first artist to record his material in 1994, but it was not until Blackhawk released “Days of America” in 2002 that Miller had a writing credit for a chart single. Another recording from 2002, “The Impossible” by Joe Nichols, was nominated for a Grammy Award a year later. Both it and Terri Clark’s 2003 single “I Just Wanna Be Mad” earned Miller BMI Million-Air awards in 2004 for receiving one million radio plays each. In addition to 3 Grammy nominations, Miller won CMA and ACM song of the year awards for “In Color” which was recorded by Jamey Johnson.

Lee has served as President of the Board of Directors for the Nashville Songwriter’s Association International (NSAI), which takes him to Washington DC often to advocate in congress on behalf of all songwriters.

Lee is an amazing songwriter performer, whether it’s in-the-round or a solo show, he skillfully delivers hit songs, fascinating stories, and is one of the best at interacting with a crowd and making them part of the experience. We’re proud to have Lee as a Songwriter City partner!

Lee has seven #1 singles including:

“The Impossible” – Joe Nichols
“I Just Wanna Be Mad” – Terri Clark
“The World” – Brad Paisley
“You’re Gonna Miss This” – Trace Adkins
“I’m Still A Guy” – Brad Paisley
“Southern Girl” – Tim McGraw
“Perfect Storm” – Brad Paisley

Top 10 singles:

“In Color” – Jamey Johnson
     • 2009 ACM awards for Song of the Year
     • 2009 CMA award for Song of the Year
     • 2009 Music Row Song of the Year
“Nothin’ To Die For” – Tim McGraw
“Jesus In Disguise” – Brandon Heath
“Just A Girl” – Brandon Heath
“Crushin’ It” – Brad Paisley

Miller also has the current Brothers Osborne single “It Ain’t My Fault” which is currently climbing the charts.

Other cuts by: George Strait, Jason Aldean, Tim McGraw, Scotty McCreery, Josh Turner, David Nail, Rascal Flatts, Dierks Bentley, John Michael Montgomery, Sammy Kershaw, Tracy Byrd, Tracy Lawrence, Randy Travis, Rhett Akins, Billy Currington, Craig Morgan, The Wreckers, Chris Young, and more!

 

 

Featured Songwriter: Josh Kear

Josh Kear is a four-time Grammy nominated songwriter and recipient of the ACM Song of the Year for Lady Antebellum’s “Need You Now.” He is the only songwriter in Grammy
history to win Best Country Song three times. Josh boasts a total of 11 number one songs and dozens of cuts by some of the world’s most famous musical artists including Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood, Dierks Bentley, Blake Shelton, Labrinth, and Charlie Puth. 

Not only is Josh an incredibly successful songwriter, but is also a strong vocalist and tells great behind the scenes stories of how his hits came to be. He always gives a great Songwriter City experience.

#1 Songs

“Need You Now” –  Lady Antebellum  (14 week #1 AC, 5 week #1 Country, #2 Top 40)
·  2011 Grammy Awards for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Country Performance     by a Duo or Group with Vocals, and Best Country Song
·  2010 ACM award for Single of the Year and Song of the Year
·  2010 CMA award for Song of the Year
·  2010 ASCP Song of the Year
“Before He Cheats” – Carrie Underwood  (5 week #1)
·  2008 Grammy award for Country Song of the Year and Best Female Country Vocal        Performance
·   2007 CMA award for Single of the Year
·   2007 ASCAP awards for Song of the Year and Most Performed Song of the Year
“Drunk on a Plane” – Dierks Bentley
“Neon Light” – Blake Shelton
“Helluva Life” – Frankie Ballard 
“Highway Don’t Care” – Tim McGraw (feat. Taylor Swift & Keith Urban)  
“Drunk on You” – Luke Bryan  
·   ASCAP Song of the Year
“Blown Away” – Carrie Underwood 
  ·  2013 Grammy Awards for Best Country Song and Best Country Solo Performance
“Two Black Cadillacs” – Carrie Underwood
“Drinking Class” – Lee Brice

Top 5 Songs

“(Kissed You) Good Night” – Gloriana #2
“Dancin’ Away with My Heart” – Lady Antebellum #2
“Redneck Crazy”  – Tyler Farr  #3

Other cuts by:  Florida Georgia Line, Thomas Rhett, Susan Boyle, Jimmie Buffet, Darius Rucker, Labrinth, Eli Young Band, Martina McBride, Chris Young, Charlie Puth

 

Thank You for an Amazing Year!

We want to thank our clients, partners, friends, supporters, and songwriter advocates for making it an incredible 2016 for Songwriter City. Many of Nashville’s elite songwriters gave the authentic music experience for conferences, dinners, lunches, closing ceremonies, conventions, corporate events, private parties, and more! Small groups, large groups, and everything in between. We are beyond excited for what 2017 holds as we bring tailor-made songwriter shows to more groups wanting a special one-of-a-kind experience. 

All of us with Songwriter City wish you the best of everything in 2017!

 

 

Doing The Prep Work

Songwriter City Events

In the business world we all realize how important it is to execute and deliver for a big day, whether it’s a show, meeting, procedure, or any other important event. And while that target day is a pinnacle of importance,  it’s the advance work we do in preparation for it that matters just as much.  Not only our own normal personal planning we go through for the actual day, but the communication and prep work we must do in advance to equip clients, associates, and others we are partnering with for success. Otherwise we are just crossing our fingers and hoping for the best, which could be setting us up for falling below expectations.

Advance prep work has been an integral part in the early stages of Songwriter City. We have had a number of successful shows, and though it can be a challenge to prepare an audience who is unfamiliar with what our songwriters do exactly, it’s essential to lay the groundwork for a successful evening. Then the talented songwriters can deliver their best show and the audience can be ready to receive it.

In setting up these songwriter-round type events, I can’t stress enough to the client and buyer that what we’re putting together is not just another average show or background entertainment. It’s so much more than that. And if they’ve never seen a premiere songwriter show in action, it can be beyond conception. So we do everything we can to help that process along. Take for instance a recent corporate show we did for a group of about 50 business professionals from all over the U.S.. Only one or two had ever seen a songwriters in the round show, so we had to do our best to make sure they were initially attentive. During the course of the performance the entire crowd went from attentive to engaged and then to captivated. Standing ovation at the end. The stuff we aim for every show.

If the time isn’t put in on advance communication and prep work, then we leave it all to chance. Risking that the crowd will be more interested in networking or their dinner than the songwriters and missing something unmatched anywhere – getting to know the songwriters, how the hit songs were born, where they got the idea from, how it got from them to the artist that recorded it, all of which personalizes the song and gives it a deeper meaning. The crowd will miss the transparency, raw emotion, and interaction with true music creators. As a result they miss the power of the song and the essence of the music. So we do our best to ensure our guests understand that this is like nothing else they’ve seen and heard, but it takes a good amount of front end work to advise the client, event planner, or destination company so they’ll get everything they can out of the Songwriter City experience.

In business it bodes us all well to take the necessary time to lay the foundation, communicate details, and walk with clients and colleagues through what our cumulative goals are. The more informed they are and the greater understanding they have about what is going to take place, the more they can partner with us in bringing everything to the highest level of success for everyone involved.

Ridiculously Talented – Jessi Alexander

I’ve always known it. The music industry has always known it. Jessi Alexander is one of the best female vocalists in Nashville. Unfortunately the general public didn’t get a full opportunity to discover it for themselves, in further proof that cream doesn’t always rise to the top, or at least in the way that is expected.

After a friend submitted a demo tape to the NARAS Grammy Showcase in 2001, Alexander, who had no knowledge of the submission found herself a very surprised winner of the contest, an achievement that helped her get signed to a label deal with Columbia Nashville in 2003. Her debut album, Honeysuckle Sweet, was released in March 2005, but Alexander was dropped from the label a year later. So much for artist development. But she moved on to become one of the best songwriters in Nashville.

Alexander has since penned four #1’s including:

“The Climb” – A world-wide smash for Miley Cyrus and the anthem to her box office hit “The Hannah Montana Movie.” The track won the 2009 MTV Movie Awards Best Song from a Movie.

 “I Drive Your Truck” – Recorded by Lee Brice which won Song of the Year from the 2013 CMA Awards, 2014 ACM Awards, and 2013 NSAI Awards. The single was also nominated for a Grammy Award for “Country Song of the Year” in 2014

“Mine Would Be You” – A three week #1 for Blake Shelton and 2014 Grammy Award nominee for “Country Song of the Year.”

“Drink On It” – Another #1 for Blake Shelton

Jessi has had other cuts by: Dierks Bentley, Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Ashley Monroe, Patty Loveless, Trisha Yearwood, Tim McGraw, Celine Dion, Darius Rucker, Will Hoge, Sheryl Crow, Jana Kramer, and others.

Choosing to be her own artist, in her own way, and enjoying the life balance of family and career, Jessi Alexander is proof that the traditional music business game isn’t always the ideal road for a successful career as an artist and being Ridiculously Talented isn’t dependent or validated by a record deal. It’s by being the real deal. So if you aren’t familiar with her, then I would highly encourage you to get to know her music.

 

 

The “Why” Behind Building Songwriter City

After more than 20 years working at various companies in the music business, I have been
getting asked the question in recent months, “Why did you decide to launch Songwriter City?” It sounds like an innocuous question, but it’s also profound. Anyone in the process of starting a business should be asking themselves the question of “why?” Mine is wrapped up in my fundamental design and desires.

It begins with the “why” I moved to Nashville, which was to be a part of the music industry because I had an intentional desire to work with talented artists and to help them be successful. It started in radio, went deeper with record labels, and then moved into other various forms of business. But my work with companies came to a point where it was more about the business and less about the artist. More about ego and power and less about the music. In an effort to get back on course, the opportunity  came to take the helm into my own hands.

I’m a big believer in “do what you love.” So what was it I loved most about the music industry? Songwriters. The foundation of everything artistic and creative. The fabric of talent that holds it all together. And my favorite form of entertainment are songwriter rounds. Those events when gifted songwriters gather together on stage to tell their stories of how their songs came to life, and perform those original songs in an intimate setting. Songs that may have been huge hits for other recording artists. It’s an authentic time of music and storytelling, and with the right combination of songwriters, a profound experience that is unmatched in any form of entertainment.

Time and time again I’ve seen people walk away from those type of shows saying it was one of the best music experiences they have ever been a part of and how special it was getting a glimpse behind the scenes. Songwriter City was born to bring those magical songwriter shows to as many people as possible and provide songwriters more opportunities through private, corporate, and select public shows. That gets me fired up.

So the simpler answer? Because I’m passionate about it. Because songwriters need to be lifted up and celebrated. A new mission has formed from the original desire, but it’s not about me or a business. It’s about songs, music, and true artists. Again.

Do you have a “why?”

We’d love for you to connect with us!

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Song: Humble & Kind

Without going into the abyss of current stylistic debates of country music, one particular thing that has been missing on country radio is a great uplifting, inspiring, and introspective type of song.

Well, the wide chasm just waiting to be satisfied is getting its fill with the new single from Tim McGraw entitled “Humble & Kind.”

Written by the immensely talented singer/songwriter Lori McKenna, “Humble & Kind” is an important song at the perfect time. A song that, in the words of McGraw, “needed to be heard,” and I couldn’t agree more.

This should be one of the biggest songs of the year as people soak in the truth and wisdom of the lyric, stirring music, and the meaningful reminder of things lost which we must get back to again. Be humble. Be kind. Be better than we are. Love our neighbor as ourselves. Raise the bar back up from where it has fallen.

Music that matters and moves people deeply is vitally important to the health of not only country music, but music as a whole. May we have more of these category of songs to help heal and lift up our heads; to focus on what is most important in our lives and the lives of those around us.

 

“You know there’s a light that glows by the front door / Don’t forget the key’s under the mat / When childhood stars shine, always stay humble and kind / Go to church ’cause your momma says to / Visit grandpa every chance that you can / It won’t be wasted time / Always stay humble and kind.”

Chorus:
“Hold the door, say please, say thank you / Don’t steal, don’t cheat, and don’t lie / I know you got mountains to climb but / Always stay humble and kind / When those dreams you’re dreamin’ come to you / When the work you put in is realized / Let yourself feel the pride but / Always stay humble and kind.”

“Don’t expect a free ride from no one / Don’t hold a grudge or a chip and here’s why / Bitterness keeps you from flyin’ / Always stay humble and kind / Know the difference between sleeping with someone / And sleeping with someone you love / “I love you” ain’t no pick up line so / Always stay humble and kind.”

“When it’s hot, eat a root beer popsicle / Shut off the AC and roll the windows down / Let that summer sun shine / Always stay humble and kind / Don’t take for granted the love this life gives you / When you get where you’re goin / Don’t forget turn back around / And help the next one in line / Always stay humble and kind.”

 

 

Nashville is Songwriter City

I’ve been in the music industry for over 25 years and have seen every type of show and performance. From my time working at record labels traveling around the country, I’ve witnessed the biggest artists in country music, the newest emerging acts, and everything in between. There are so many incredible performances that come to mind and each stand out for different reasons, but on a whole there is nothing that compares to the experience of a well executed songwriter round. 

If you’ve been to songwriter rounds, occasionally called “guitar pulls,” you are likely nodding your head in agreement. For those of you unfamiliar with these special songwriter events, they are typically a group of 2 to 5 songwriters who gather together to swap stories, tell jokes, describe how their songs came to life, and then perform those songs acoustically. It’s an intimate look behind the music.

It’s common to think that singles heard on the radio from top artists were written by them personally, and while some recording artists are also songwriters, many do not solely write their own material (and some not at all). They seek out songs from the amazing pool of songwriting talent that makes up Music City, which is not only the home of many genres of music, but is essentially the songwriting capital of the world. This fact has been nicely portrayed on ABC’s television series Nashville, as well as in many articles, features, and videos over the years.

You would be hard pressed to find a more engaging and honest form of entertainment than songwriter rounds. It’s true not every songwriter is wired for the stage, but when you combine extraordinarily talented writers who love telling stories and entertaining a crowd, the environment is nothing short of magical. You’ll laugh, you may cry, and you’ll be thoroughly entertained by Nashville’s brightest behind the music stars.

You hear it so many times, but it all really does start with the song and songwriters are the core creative force behind everything you hear. 

If you’re ever planning a visit to Nashville and looking for the best places to locate a songwriter night, start at the Bluebird Cafe and also see what’s happening at The ListeningRoom, 3rd & Lindsley, Puckett’s, The Commodore Lounge, and Douglas Corner. 

If you happen to be searching for the best songwriter entertainment for a corporate, seminar, convention, or other private event, you should check out something I’m involved with – Songwriter City. We partner with the very best songwriters and customize round-type shows to meet specific needs and budgets. It’s the ultimate authentic music experience from Music City’s biggest hit makers.

No matter where you are, make it a point to support and encourage your local songwriters. They are the heartbeat of musical life, not only in Nashville, but around the world.

BMI Country Music Awards 2015 Winners

Broadcast Music, Inc. (BMI) held their Country Music Awards last night on Music Row. Taking top songwriter and publisher honors were:

Songwriter of the Year: Rodney Clawson

Song of the Year: “Beat of the Music,” written by Brett Eldredge, Ross Copperman, and Heather Morgan

Publisher of the Year: Sony/ATV Music Publishing Nashville

Champion Award: Lee Thomas Miller

BMI Icon: Mac Davis

2015 ASCAP Country Music Award Winners

As CMA week continues in Nashville, ASCAP hosted their 2015 awards at the downtown Omni Hotel. This year’s top winners were:

Songwriter of the Year: Ashley Gorley

Songwriter-Artist of the Year: Sam Hunt

Song of the Year:  “Leave the Night On,” written by Sam Hunt and Josh Osborne, performed by Sam Hunt

Publisher of the Year: Warner/Chappell Music

ASCAP’s Voice of Music Award: Trisha Yearwood, 

See the complete and extensive list of winners HERE.

SESAC Award Winners – CMA Week 2015

Congratulations to all the winners from last evening’s SESAC Awards held at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville.

Songwriter of the Year:
Cary Barlowe

Song of the Year:  “Homegrown”

Written by Zac Brown, Niko Moon, Wyatt Durrette.   Recorded by Zac Brown Band

Publisher of the Year:  Magic Mustang Music

Country Performance Activity Awards: 

“Homegrown”

Written by Zac Brown, Niko Moon, Wyatt Durrette.  Published by Day for the Dead Publishing Southern Ground. Recorded by Zac Brown Band

“Loving You Easy”

Written by Zac Brown, Niko Moon.  Published by Day for the Dead Publishing
Southern Ground.

“Make Me Wanna”

Written by Larry McCoy.  Published by Hondo Creek Music.  Recorded by Thomas Rhett

“Like A Cowboy”

Written by Brice Long.  Published by SingaBLongSong, Tunes of Parallel.  Recorded by Randy Houser.

 “Sun Daze”

Written by Cary Barlowe.  Published by We Be Pawtying, Castle Bound Music.  Recorded by Florida Georgia Line.

“Where It’s At (Yep, Yep)”

Written by Cary Barlowe.  Published by We Be Pawtying, Castle Bound Music.  Recorded by Dustin Lynch

“Ain’t Worth The Whiskey”

Written by Josh Martin.  Published by Josh Martin Music.  Recorded by Cole Swindell

“Kiss You In The Morning”

Written by Justin Wilson.  Published by Legends of Magic Mustang Music.  Recorded by Michael Ray

 “Hell Of A Night”

Written by Jaron Boyer.  Published by Jaron Boyer Music peertunes.  Recorded by Dustin Lynch.

 “Riot”

Written by Jaron Boyer.  Published by Jaron Boyer Music peertunes ltd.  Recorded by Rascal Flatts.

“Freestyle”

Written by Hillary Scott.  Published by Hobbs Hill Publishing.  Recorded by Lady Antebellum

“Long Stretch Of Love”

Written by Hillary Scott.  Published by Hobbs Hill Publishing. Recorded by Lady Antebellum.

“Bartender”

Written by Hillary Scott.  Published by Hobbs Hill Publishing.  Recorded by Lady Antebellum.

“Hard To Be Cool”

Written by Rob Hatch.  Published by Way Down The Hatch Music Publishing.  Legends of Magic Mustang Music.  Recorded by Joe Nichols

“I Don’t Dance”

Written by Rob Hatch.  Published by Way Down The Hatch Music Publishing Legends of Magic Mustang Music.  Recorded by Lee Brice

“Goodnight Kiss”

Written by Rob Hatch.  Published by Way Down The Hatch Music Publishing Legends of Magic Mustang Music.

“Drink To That All Night”

Written by Lance Miller.  Published by Spirit Nashville Three, Melvins Pistol Music, Melvins Bullets Music.  Recorded by Jerrod Niemann.

Favorite Music of 2014

 

Best Musical Groups of 2014:

U2, Little Big Town, NEEDTOBREATHE , Foo Fighters, Paramore, Steve Taylor & the Perfect Foil, Lady Antebellum, The Black Keys

Best Female Musical Artists of 2014:

Miranda Lambert, Lily Meola, Holly Williams, Brandy Clark, Jill Phillips, Alison Porter, Lee Ann Womack, Taylor Swift, Lori McKenna, Lauren Daigle

Best Male Musical Artists of 2014:

Chris Stapleton, Gary Clark Jr., Will Hoge, Sturgill Simpson, Eric Church, Dierks Bentley, Wade Bowen, Doug Seegers, Cody Johnson, Joe Bonamassa

Best Albums of 2014:

• U2 “Songs Of Innocence”
  
• Miranda Lambert “Platinum”
• NEEDTOBREATHE “Rivers In The Wasteland”
• Steve Taylor & The Perfect Foil “Goliath”
• Little Big Town “Pain Killer”
• Jill Phillips “Mortar & Stone”
  
• Lee Ann Womack “The Way I’m Livin”
• Dierks Bentley “Riser”
• Charlie Peacock “Lemonade”
• Doug Seegers “Going Down To The River”
• Eric Church “The Outsiders”
• Taylor Swift “1989”
• Lori McKenna “Numbered Doors”
• Joe Bonamassa “Different Shades Of Blue”
• Thousand Foot Krutch “Oxygen:Inhale”
• Lauren Daigle “How Can It Be”

Best Singles of 2014:

• “Automatic” – Miranda Lambert
• “I Hold On” – Dierks Bentley
• “Wasteland” – NEEDTOBREATHE
• “Middle Of America” – Will Hoge
• “Goliath” – Steve Taylor & The Pefect Foil
• “Girl Crush” – Little Big Town
• “Deep As It Is Wide” – Eric Paslay
• “Like A Machine” – Thousand Foot Krutch
• “LaZaretto” – Jack White
  
• “Going Down To The River” – Doug Seegers
  
• “Something In The Water” – Carrie Underwood
• “Uptown Funk” – Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars
• “Say You Love Me” – Jessie Ware
• “Numbered Doors” – Lori McKenna
• “Give Me Back My Hometown” – Eric Church
• “Everybody Else Can Kiss My Ass” – Sunny Sweeney
• “Greater” – MercyMe
• “Lips Are Movin” – Meghan Trainor

 

Ridiculously Talented – Chris Stapleton

I’ve been meaning to post this one for a while, but my blogging has suffered as of late. However, I couldn’t go on any longer without featuring singer/songwriter Chris Stapleton. Because he’s Ridiculously Talented.

As a songwriter Stapleton has penned big hits for George Strait, Kenny Chesney, Brad Paisley, Darius Rucker, Tim McGraw and many other top artists. More often than not he makes them sound better and come alive when he’s the one actually singing them.

As a vocalist, Chris was the lead singer for the ultra-talented bluegrass band The Steeldrivers for a few years and then went on to front a rock band. Now he’s where he belongs, as a country music solo artist, and recently released his first single “What Are You Listening To.”

It really doesn’t matter what genre he writes, performs, and sings – it’s phenomenal. If country radio knows what’s good for them and their listeners, they’ll take ownership of Stapleton and allow the masses to hear his music. There’s a huge void that he can help fill to bring back more passion and authenticity to the format.

Here’s a taste of music, but don’t let this be the only Chris Stapleton music you listen to. Go deeper. Trust me.

Before Social Media And Branding Were In Style

Over the last five years, I’ve enjoyed being more involved with social media marketing and branding. The more directly engaged I get with each proficiency, the more I realize I’ve been doing both of those responsibilities, and most of what goes with them, a lot longer than that; before there was such a thing as social media and branding.

Allow me to explain this recent revelation.

Finding my career in radio and the music industry were the only things I wanted to do coming out of high school and into college. My first on air gig was at the college rock station in Claremore, OK and eventually I joined the big country station in Tulsa, KWEN (K95FM). I was a DJ and a promotions assistant. When I eventually moved to Nashville, it was my goal to work for a major label behind the scenes and help artists achieve their dreams. That happened at MCA Nashville and several record labels to follow, where I was fortunate to do promotion and marketing for some of the biggest artists in country music.

Ironically, as much as I purposed working behind the scenes, I’ve actually been on the front lines at each and every job I’ve ever had. At the radio stations I may have been unseen in the studio, but I was also a direct representative of the station. Developing relationships one by one, taking listener phone calls, and meeting them at concerts, events, and remotes. The original social media and brand management!

At the record labels, it was mostly behind the scenes promoting the artists, but in essence I was on the forefront of each label as well. In the thick of it as a representative and face of the label. Developing and maintaining relationships with radio, fans, and listeners alike and networking with all of them to enhance the brand of our artists and of the label. I was a promotion guy, but I was also a brand manager, image builder, and social marketing guy. It came with the territory and was part of the job I really loved.

The same has held true for my non-radio/label work with All Access, Compassion International, and World Vision.

I think this applies to many people who have done the work of social marketing, branding, and imaging, but didn’t have a title or the responsibility in their job description. It was just part of the gig.

The modern social media and branding I do today isn’t much different than what I’ve done my entire career. Obviously there is more technology, strategy, and analytics in the mix, but the basic principle remains. Engage people one by one, develop relationships, give them quality content, and invite them to come along for the ride. It’s a recipe for success in the radio and music industries, and it always will be if we don’t forget what the point is – connecting to fans, listeners, and clients.

 

Favorite Music Of 2013

Best Musical Groups of 2013:

Imagine Dragons, Mumford & Sons, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Paramore, Little Big Town, The Lumineers, Daft Punk, Dawes, The Mavericks, Fall Out Boy, Zac Brown Band, Skillet

Best Female Musical Artists of 2013:

Holly Williams, Brandy Clark, Plumb, Lorde, Kacey Musgraves, Pink, Lissie, Ashley Monroe, Ella Mae Bowen

Best Male Musical Artists of 2013:

Bruno Mars, Will Hoge, Marc Scibilia, Justin Timberlake, Wade Bowen, Gregory Porter, Jason Isbell

Best Albums of 2013:

• Holly Williams “The Highway”
• Tedeschi Trucks Band “Made Up Mind”
• Daft Punk “Random Access Memories”
• Imagine Dragons “Night Visions (Deluxe)”
• Will Hoge “Never Give In”
• Brandy Clark “12 Stories”
• Hillsong “Zion”
• Vince Gill & Paul Franklin “Bakersfield”
• Lorde “Pure Heroin”
• Justin Timberlake “20/20 Experience”
• Dawes “Stories Don’t End”
• Plumb “Need You Now”
• Marc Scibilia “The Shape I’m In” (EP)
• Alan Jackson “The Bluegrass Album”
• Ashley Monroe “Like A Rose”
• The Mavericks “In Time”
• Thousand Foot Krutch “Megamorphosiz”

Best Singles of 2013:

• “Drinkin” – Holly Williams
• “Oceans (Where Feet May Fall)” – Hillsong
• “Strong”- Will Hoge
• “Kings & Queens” – Audio Adrenaline
• “Merry Go Round” – Kacey Musgraves
• “Locked Out Of Heaven” – Bruno Mars
• “Need You Now” – Plumb
•  “Most People” – Dawes
• “What Have I Done” – Leann Rimes
• “Demons” – Imagine Dragons
• “Get Lucky” – Daft Punk
• “Brave” – Sara Bareilles
• “Counting Stars” – One Republic
• “Light Em Up” – Fall Out Boy
• “Roar” – Katy Perry
• “Alone Together” – Fall Out Boy
• “Mirrors” – Justin Timberlake
• “Royal” – Lorde
• “Team” – Lorde
• “Safe & Sound” – Capital Cities
• “Hold My Hand” – Brandy Clark
• “Pray To Jesus” – Brandy Clark
• “The Highway” – Holly Williams
• “Waiting On June” – Holly Williams
• “Just Give Me A Reason” – Pink w/ Nate Ruess
  
• “Sick Of It” – Skillet
• “Berzerk” – Eminem

 

 

Ridiculously Talented: Holly Williams

She’s been making waves for the last 10 years since the release of her debut EP in 2003. From there, Holly Williams has been developing a loyal following in the U.S. and Europe from her honest music, heavy touring schedule and critical acclaim for her 2004 and 2009 album releases.

If you’re not familiar with her story, Holly is the granddaughter of Hank Williams, Sr., the daughter of Hank Williams, Jr., and half-sister of country singer Hank Williams III. It’s an important family history and pedigree to be sure, but Holly has been blazing her own significant musical trail. Her most recent album release, “The Highway”, has proven once again that she stands on her own as a Ridiculously Talented singer and songwriter.

With rootsy authentic lyrics and music deeply planted, something that is sadly lacking in today’s contemporary country music, “The Highway” is one of the best albums of the year. There are too many outstanding songs to highlight, but following are a couple of them to enjoy. If you haven’t yet, please do yourself a favor and check out the rest.

“Drinkin'”

“Waiting On June” From Songfacts: The song is about Holly’s grandparents, but not her famous one, Hank Williams Sr. Rather, this song is about her grandparents on her mother’s side, telling the story from the perspective of her grandfather. Holly’s grandmother, June Bacon White, died in 2009, and the song’s lyrics are an accurate portrayal of her life. “Even the order of the children work out in the lyric,” says Holly. “The cook, everything. So that’s the song that is really hard for me to get through when I sing it live. Usually people come up to me crying. It wrecks the family emotionally. But it’s such a sweet memory to me of my childhood and what my grandparents left. So that’s definitely my most proud songwriting moment, I think probably ever.”

Blues Power

Blues Power, originally uploaded by Mike Severson.

New Orleans blues man doing his thing.

World Vision Continues to Expand Presence, Sends Country Music Songwriters to Dominican Republic

 

(Nashville, Tenn. – July 9, 2013) Global humanitarian organization World Vision continues to follow its mission of giving back to children, families and their communities worldwide. This past month, World Vision sent a group of artists and songwriters to the Dominican Republic to give back and meet with families in need.

Participating artists and songwriters included Ella Mae Bowen, Russell Dickerson, Elenowen (The Voice), Melissa Fuller, Natalie Hemby (“White Liar,” “Only Prettier,” “Pontoon”, “Tornado”), Molly Hunt, Luke Laird (“Downtown,” “Beat This Summer,” “Pontoon”, “One Of Those Nights”) and Matt Wertz. Other artists who have previously worked with World Vision include Sarah McLachlan, LoCash Cowboys, Scotty McCreery (American Idol), Carter’s Chord, Gwen Sebastian (The Voice), Kris Allen (American Idol) and Patty Griffin.

The songwriters also had the chance to meet with the families in which their efforts would be helping. While in the Dominican Republic, the group traveled to a school in Santo Domingo where both the songwriters and the children performed music for each other. Each songwriter got to experience firsthand the work of World Vision and their impact on foreign communities.

“This special group of songwriters are not only incredibly talented artists, but people of strong character who want to do something beyond themselves,” said World Vision’s Mike Severson. “We were honored to have them journey with World Vision and look forward to collaborating with each of them in some way.”

The World Vision experience not only helps communities in need, but it also leaves songwriters with a sense of fulfillment from their journey.

“By taking this journey, World Vision has opened my eyes not only to the adversity, but also to the advocates,” said Country music songwriter Natalie Hemby. “World Vision is reaching through the cracks of humanity and planting hope throughout the World… One child, one family, one community, one country at a time.”

World Vision launched the annual event for Country music artists and songwriters to network with each other while helping a community in need. Plans are already underway for next year to return to the Dominican Republic.

 About World Vision: World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization that helps children, their families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. For more information, visit http://www.WorldVision.org.

Photo L to R: World Vision’s Michael Bianchi, CAA’s Megan Sykes, Molly Hunt, Luke Laird, Natalie Hemby, Nicole Johnson (Elenowen), Josh Johnson (Elenowen), Russell Dickerson, World Vision’s Claudia Martinez, Matt Wertz, Melissa Fuller, Ella Mae Bowen, and World Vision’s Mike Severson

CONTACT:

Jeff Walker – AristoMedia – (615) 269-7071 – jwalker @ aristomedia.com

Mike Severson – World Vision – (615) 496-6023 – mike @ seversonfarm.com

Charles Dorris – World Vision – (615) 236-1684 – charlesdorris @ gmail.com

Guest Post: Ella Mae Bowen – World Vision Songwriters Trip to The Dominican Republic

The following is a guest post from singer/songwriter Ella Mae Bowen, who was one of the incredible artists on the recent World Vision trip. Her own blog site, including this original post, can be found here.

Hello, friends!

I feel as though I have finally processed enough to share with you about a recent trip I was blessed to be a part of. This blog will come in two parts: this musing/ summary, and then another tumblr post of just pictures (my favorite. 🙂

Let me first give you all a little explanation for this trip. Why would 9 singer-songwriters, two charity executives, two film crew and one Dominican donor liaison be riding around a Caribbean island on a commercial bus? Well… .his wasn’t just a mission trip. This was a trip geared towards music and songwriting- The goal being both to grow the light shining on World Vision and to give a greater purpose to a part of our creativity by what we got to learn and experience. What made the potential impact sink in for me, was hearing this while on the trip:

3,000,000 children are sponsored by World Vision world-wide.

1,000,000 of those children were sponsored through what is called “The Artist Program” meaning, touring musicians are representing World Vision from the road and, through their music, getting children sponsored. World Vision is important to music, and music is important to World Vision. How cool is that?

So, here’s your cast of characters:

Luke Laird: songwriter extraordinaire, you actually just need to look up what he’s written. If you like Country music, you will die. (Not really die, but you know…) One of the best people I know in Nashville. His heart and his art are the real thing.

Natalie Hemby: Well, also, just look her up. One of my songwriting heroes and favorite people and artists. Big sister to all the ladies and a professional at loving on all the babies we came across. Her heart is as bigger than I could say.

Melissa Fuller: AMAZING Alternative artist, writer of anything, one of the most talented & genuine people you’ll ever meet, and my friend. She’s the artist most responsible for this trip happening and has been involved with World Vision for a long time. Love this girl (and the way she inspires me) so.

Molly Hunt: Pop artist who’s voice and melodies will make you weep, a legitimate angel on earth, and my best friend of 3 years. Stunning inside and out. You need to watch for this girl. I don’t know where we would’ve been on this trip without Molly.

Russel Dickerson: Phenomenal Country Singer, Songwriter and Performer you will be hearing much more from! Such a sweet dude and so real. And he found my purse when I lost it. Good people. 🙂

Elenowen: The married folksy duo that is Josh and Nicolle Johnson. The children just flocked to them and they held us together like glue. You must hear their harmonies and haunting lyrics. And just go look at them, too. They are straight out of an Anthropologie catalog. Legit, awesome folks.

Matt Wertz: You may know and love his records… Let me tell you, he is just as lovable. The life of the party, our alpha-male and a singer-songwriter I really admire.

Michael Bianchi & Mike Severson: World Vision Reps. Michael heads up the artist program, and Mike is a Country music rep for the artist program who really worked to make this trip a reality. They both work here in Nashville. Amazing what these guys do everyday and amazing that they made this trip happen.

David & April: Photography and film gurus that work with World Vision… and our personal comedians. I definitely felt like they could each be your dream fun aunt or uncle. Awesome. And really really good at their job.

Claudia: Our Dominican Donor Liaison, Translator, & Lifeline. She’s now one of my heroes. Passionate about people, speaker of 5 languages, giver of the best hugs. One cool woman.

So… we were all in a bus-you-take across-the-city-to-work bus. I felt like setting the scene was important. Onward now. 🙂

The first day, we flew into Santo Domingo and drove 3.5 hours down the coast to Barahona where we stayed the first two nights. While here, we visited World Vision Area Development Programs all between Barahona and the Haitian border, which was about an hour away. This area was extremely rural.

We experienced lively & beautiful, but emotionally full days, and then came back to our seaside motel and shared traditional family style dinners in a little cabana by the big ole’ blue sea. I never wanted to leave.

I could tell so many stories about what we experienced while there. The Dominican island is very poor in the western region. The Caribbean resorts you hear about are on the eastern coast. A large portion of the people we were meeting while staying in Barahona and driving out to small villages were Haitian immigrants or the children of.

The highlight of this portion of the trip, for me, was meeting a young woman named Francia. She was a Haitian girl, born to her mother in the Dominican. Her father had passed away. When she was fourteen, she was told she couldn’t attend school past the 8th grade because she did not have a birth certificate (a problem many Haitian immigrants face and have to leave school because of.) Over the course of some months, through hard work and the help of a relative, she got her birth certificate. Once she saw that process, she knew she could help other young people who needed to locate or receive their birth certificate. She helped at least 178 other children within the course of a year. In her words, she never expected anything in return.

However, word got around to World Vision who is developing her village, and Francia was nominated for a prestigious youth humanitarian award at age 16. She won! She got to travel to Holland to receive 100,000 Euros for her small, impoverished village and to deliver a speech. Let that sink in for a moment…

100,000 Euros is about $130,000 US dollars. But it is equivalent to a whopping 5,409,414 Dominican Pesos (where there is also frequently less to no tax.)

She helped develop her village in many ways. 13 homes were built. World Vision also has added a computer lab and small station to buy groceries.

Francia is now 18 and lives with her mother and her daughter Esperanza, who’s name means “hope.” She lives humbly, but she dreams of becoming a lawyer and standing up for children’s rights. It is most important for her to see her daughter grow up healthy and happy and receive an education.

Not only was she a hero in her village, but now she is a hero to all of us. I told her, as Claudia translated, that I couldn’t believe we were the same age and that I only wish I could be half of the young woman she already is. By then I was crying. We we all were. Sweet Natalie Hemby prayed over Francia and Esperanza while Claudia translated her prayer. It was something I will never forget. Natalie and Melissa stayed up all hours, I believe, that night in Barahona working on a song for sweet Francia. It is beautiful and I hope you all hear it soon!

On to the second half of the trip, which we spent in the city of Santo Domingo. As Claudia put it, the poverty there is more hidden, but no less real.

We stayed in a beautiful hotel that felt just like America. It looked mostly like a mini-Miami, but with parts of the city dating back to Columbus’ settlement. However, there are many hidden crevices in the city slums that are indeed very poor, dangerous and dirty. People who live very well and people who live with nothing are crammed all together in rows of shops and houses as motorcycles zip by and street salesmen shout. Many homes are above stores on dirty, busy (sometimes violent) streets. This is not really the kind of poverty you would see on a commercial asking you for money, but it is real, nonetheless and just as worth witnessing.

Because I am so long-winded, I will get to the highlight of this half of the trip. Namely, meeting the child and I am beginning to sponsor, Anny Leydi.

I met she and her older sister at a World Vision Area Development office. I think we were both nervous but excited. She is so beautiful with a deep knowingness in her eyes. She will be 11 in October. She sparkles. That hug was one of my favorite hugs I have ever and will ever receive. I cannot wait to get to know her better and grow with her.

While I am here, let me say this… If child sponsorship is something you have considered, I am 100% confident that World Vision is the best route to take. I say that, not because of new friendships, but because I experienced it firsthand. There is no idea of “this money will buy shoes and pay for school and it will be good for the child as long as it keeps coming.” That approach means that an element of the child’s success is highly dependent on you and your decision to continue. Though that may be true to some extent, that is not how World Vision chooses to see or approach it. What you are sending will intricately help the child, their family and the area that they call home. I wish I was more eloquent in this explanation, but in the words of Michael Bianchi, “World Vision wants to go into an area and work to put ourselves out of a job.” Meaning, the people are being empowered. Money may buy things that will make money for a family, for example, rather than a charity acting as a powerful source that gives them a check. The people are truly being given a hand up, not a hand out.

In light of that, and in closing, the thing I will remember most is the people. Their smiles, their unwavering desire to help themselves and empower others… Their joy in hard work… Their prayers for each other…. Their prayers for us- Matchless beauty and strength.

Changed.

Stay tuned for pictures 🙂 Love always and God bless!

emb

Here is the link to World Vision’s main website and the twitter handles of all the artists on the trip:

http://www.worldvision.org/ (there is a specific page for every country, including the DR)

 @LukeLaird

@_melissafuller

@MollyHunt14

@russelled

@mattwertz

@elenowen

Natalie Hemby

Join The Journey: World Vision Songwriters Trip

We’re less than a week away from our World Vision songwriters trip to the Dominican Republic. Nine of Music City’s premiere songwriters are journeying together to witness firsthand the work World Vision does in helping children and families out of poverty. It’s not only an incredible group of artists, but of people and character. I’m looking forward to traveling with them.

Songwriters are the most valuable creative force in the music process and are able to set cultural tones in ways few can. I encourage you to follow each of them in their musical career and on the World Vision adventure by clicking on their Facebook and Twitter links below.

• Luke Laird   Facebook  Twitter
  
• Matt Wertz   Facebook  Twitter
  
• Melissa Fuller   Facebook  Twitter
  
• Elenowen   Facebook  Twitter
  
• Ella Mae Bowen   Facebook  Twitter
  
• Molly Hunt   Facebook  Twitter
  
• Russell Dickerson   Facebook  Twitter
  
• Natalie Hemby   website

“Music can change the world because it can change people.” ―  Bono

World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families, and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice.

From Old Dreams To New Dreams

I wasn’t in a good place as I went to pick up my nine year old daughter from school the other day. My professional life has been somewhat tumultuous over the past few years as I have been transitioning out of an accomplished dream to moving on to new dreams. The issue has been defining exactly what the new dreams are. Whenever I have that foundation, I think I’m pretty good at building on it, setting goals, and accomplishing them.

I pick up the kiddo and we pull out of the parking lot. I get a phone call from someone that is having issues with their computer and they ask me if I know what the problem might be. I tried a few suggestions, but it didn’t help, so we leave it unresolved. The call ends and I semi-frustratingly say to myself out loud, “Why do people call me about that stuff? I don’t know what to do. I’m not a technology expert.”

My daughter immediately responds to my self-analytical question with, “You help people dad. That’s what you do!”

My day turned in an instant. From the mouth of my child to which I had no response for. I just let it sink in and it resonated with me profoundly in the moment and still does.

Although I’ve never looked at my professional life as singularly helping people, it was part of the equation of why I wanted to work in the music business. Help artists succeed at finding their dream (and I’ll find mine). Be a part of something special within the music industry. I’ve done that. I’ve accomplished every goal of the old dream.

I still would like to help people, but in more profound ways than before. To really make a difference. That could explain why the work I do with World Vision is a valued part of my life right now and it also gives a clearer picture of ideas I have in the back of my mind that are focused on helping people in new ways, including artists.

I can’t stop thinking about my daughter’s answer, even though the question was not directed toward her. I threw it out there and it came back, but the answer has been within me the entire time. I believe we already have the answers to many of our questions and  often are too close to them to notice. God will use a loved one, friend, stranger, or a situation to hold the mirror up for us so we will recognize who we really are and who we want to become.

Helping people with their dream is my old dream and it’s now my new dream. Whether that be artists and songwriters in the music business, a mother and child in poverty, or in ways I have not yet discovered. The foundation has been laid. I want to do what I can, with what I know, to help. Not to be praised for it, but to find peace within it.

Do you have a new dream?

Special Screening of the Film “Girl Rising” at the Belcourt Monday Night

Nine Weeks of a Celebrity Trash Magazine

Week 1:  Big story on how amazing Demi Moore looks and everyone wants to know “How does she stay so young looking?!”
Week 2: The scoop on celebrities that are too thin.  Anorexia?  Lots of photos to prove it!
Week 3:  The wedding of the year.  First photos of the lavish, expensive, and stylish wedding and guests!  They are so in love!
Week 4: Celebrities that are overweight or have cellulite showing (with little arrows pointing it out on their body just so you won’t miss it).
Week 5:  How you can be as happy as the hot newlywed couple.  Their love secrets are revealed.  Exclusive photos of their honeymoon!
Week 6:  Demi Moore’s anorexia, plastic surgery, and prescription medication abuse.  She’s crying for help!
Week 7:  How new celebrity mom’s lost their baby fat! And check out our exclusive photos of celebrities without makeup!
Week 8:  Divorce!  Wedding of year couple just can’t work it out. Both of them cheated! Sad.
Week 9:  How Demi Moore overcame her demons and how in the world does she look so young?!

 

Grungy Garage

266/365: Grungy Garage, originally uploaded by Mike Severson.

Ridiculously Talented – Here Come The Mummies

I don’t know why I haven’t included these band of mummy brothers before now. I may have taken them for granted, and for that, I apologize. Being around the guys in the early stages of their mummification, I was fortunate to see them evolve and perform many times in Nashville when their touring was in just a few markets. Since then much has changed as their popularity has soared through word of mouth and from appearing on national radio and television programs.

The one thing that hasn’t changed is their ridiculous talent. Here Come The Mummies are outstanding professional artists making great music. Sure some of the lyrical content is silly and quite suggestive with a heavy dose of double entendre, but it only adds to their comedic persona as a live band. And you MUST see them live if you haven’t yet had the opportunity. It’s one of the best live acts you may ever see – funky, fun, energetic, and as musically spot on as a band can get.

Don’t think of them as a novelty masquerade. Mummies may be their schtick, but take the bandages off and they would remain artistically well preserved and Ridiculously Talented. You can’t say that about many acts that hide behind dancers, backup singers, and theatrics.

Here a couple of videos from a live show in Nashville and an appearance on The Bob & Tom Show…..

 

285/365: Farmer Chic

285/365: Farmer Chic, originally uploaded by Mike Severson.

Bottled Up

346/365: Bottled Up, originally uploaded by Mike Severson.

Waiting For The Nashville Dining Experience

I recently read an interesting article from the Charleston City Paper entitled “Will Nashville of 2013 be the Charleston of 2012? “  It is about how Nashville is poised to become the next fine Southern fare capital.

I am by no means a restaurant and culinary expert, but for me Nashville’s got a ways to go before it’s ever up to the standards and quality of Charleston restaurants. National award winning Husk coming into town this spring will help us begin the transition from good to great.

For years I knew there was something missing in my restaurant visits in Nashville, but I didn’t know what it was. I was sometimes paying exorbitant prices for what was not equal value food. I nearly always left more regretting the price I paid rather than savoring what I was hoping would be an exceptional night of cuisine. And I’m not talking about just the food.

Then there was Charleston. After a couple of visits to this historic city in the low country of South Carolina, it became clear what had been missing. First of all the food was spectacular and not much more in price, and in some cases less, than the upper-tier restaurants in Nashville. Some of the finest dinners I have ever had and all in one city. Just as important though was the service we received at Husk, Fig, and a host of other incredible restaurants that blew away anything we had received in Nashville. It turned a great night of food into a culinary EXPERIENCE and so much so that when the hefty bill came it was completely worth it. No concerns, no second thoughts. Worth it. I’ve rarely said that about a high level Nashville restaurant.

So many prime eateries in Nashville rely upon their interior space, bar, location, or LA/NY sophistication. Or they rationalize the expense of their dishes because they are organic or “farm to table” when they are simply trendy and pretentious without the cooking to back it up.

Such as it was at a recent dinner at a Nashville suburb restaurant just outside of Franklin, TN. A group of us made New Year’s Eve plans at a popular place that sounded like it would be a wonderful experience with a set menu, but was just a plain rip off. An expensive evening of good farm to table food, but terrible service and nothing even close to being an experience to remember, other than a special time with friends. I’m sure we will always talk about that evening and our reactions when we got the bill, which was nearly twice as much as we expected it to be. Everyone at the table agreed it was not even close to being worth it. Needless to say I won’t be going back there and is just another story of little value from a high price tag.

With that said, I agree that Nashville is poised to be the next Charleston as it relates to Southern cuisine. We have a good start with places like The Southern, Capitol Grille, City House,  Mack & Kate’s and Cork & Cow in Franklin, but not without Husk and more Charleston type restaurants leading the way to discovering incredible food, stellar service, and the adventure of dining experience.

Now if we can figure out the beach thing.