AmericanaFest 2023: Emmylou Harris and Rufus Wainwright Tell Their Stories During Insightful Interview

By Wil Comstock

MCAU Contributing Writer

Friday (Sept. 22) at the Westin

Friends of Folk: 

A Conversation with Emmylou Harris and Rufus Wainwright  

Moderated by Celia Gregory

     Emmylou Harris and Rufus Wainwright told their stories during an insightful interview at The Westin in downtown Nashville. 

     Emmylou met Rufus’ mother, Kate McGarrigle, through Linda Ronstadt.  Kate of the folk duo The McGarrigle Sisters wrote “Heart Like a Wheel,” which Linda recorded in the 1970s.  Harris recorded the Kate’s and sister Anna’s “Love Is” in the early 1980s, inviting them to Nashville to sing backing vocals, where a friendship was born.  

     Celia asked what impression they had of folk music growing up.  Wainwright responded, “I had no concept of the real world other than folk. My first crib was a guitar case.” Rufus’ father is folk singer Loudon Wainwright.  His parents divorced when he was 3 and he was raised by his mother in Montreal. 

     Harris said she had no concept of folk music at all.  In her teens she listened to a radio show out of DC that played folk, and she was hooked.  She asked her parents for a guitar and began to play the songs off the radio.  

     Rufus injected that he started out in folk and then explored opera and show tunes.  He recently returned to folk with his new album “Folkocracy.”

     Emmylou said that she wanted to write with people she loved.  She would invite Anna and Kate to Nashville to write and would travel to Montreal to visit them and write.  She loved that Kate and Loudon remained friends after their divorce and that their children all got along.  She felt embraced by this extended family that also included Richard and Linda Thompson.

     When asked if they felt their parents encouraged them in music, Rufus said his mother Kate gave him great confidence.  He told the story that when he was 6 months old, she would sing “Old McDonald,” and he would sing the “E, I, E, I, O.”  Rufus had his doubts if that was actually true.  

     Emmylou said her parents paid for piano and sax lessons when she was an adolescent. They knew she could carry a tune.  But they were strict.

     Celia asked if they encouraged their own children to go into music.  Wainwright admitted, “That is a difficult question. We live in LA, and the arts are all around us.  My daughter Viva, whose birth mother is Leonard Cohen’s daughter, has a nice voice.  We want her to make her own choices.” 

     Harris added, “The most important thing for your child, really all of us, is to find your passion.”

(Text by Wil Comstock)

(Photos by Chuck Whiting)

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AmericanaFest 2023: Kentucky Kicks A’ at Big Commonwealth Party

AmericanaFest 2023: “If the United States can be called a body, then Kentucky can be called its heart.” — Jesse Stuart, writer (It was great to get outside into the sunshine Saturday afternoon for the annual Commonwealth of Kentucky Party at the Basement. This year’s AmericanaFest event featured live music (all Kentuckians), a variety of Louisville-style bourbon drinks, and all the Kentucky fried chicken you could eat. I enjoyed sipping on a “Bourbon Classic” while watching a performance by outstanding Nashville mainstay Leah Blevins. She’s the blonde Bluegrass girl in the short skirt. The rousing Boa Boys kicked things off with good, old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll. Other performers to take the stage were Brit Taylor, Jeremy Pinnell, Laid Back Country Picker, Nine Pound Hammer, and The Jesephines. Souvenirs/giveaways included drumstick key chains, guitar picks, hand fans, and plastic drinking cups with the boastful words, “Kentucky Kicks Ass.” Kentucky clobbered Vanderbilt, 45 to 28, so that was definitely true on Saturday. This former Alabama boy was quite impressed.) #ChuckWhiting #ChucksDiary #JesseStuart #Kentucky #KentuckyParty #TheBasement #FriedChicken #Bourbon #BoaBoys #CommonwealthofKentuckyParty #AmericanaFest #Americana #Music #LiveMusic #LeahBlevins #BritTaylor #Art #Arts #MusicCityArts 9-24-23 

AmericanaFest 2023: Celebrating Blues Great Bettye LaVette

By Wil Comstock

MCAU Contributing Writer

22nd Annual Americana Music Awards

 

     As I put my hands to the keyboard, I know you have already heard, read or seen who the winners were at this year’s AMA’s.  I would like to write about one winner in particular who has been overlooked for more than 50 years. She has always been here in plain sight. Finally, her day has come… the unstoppable, Bettye Lavette, winner of the Legacy of Americana Award in Lifetime Achievement. 

     Accepting the award, Bettye said, “I have been in this business for 62 years. And I have lost all humility; I deserve this award!”  The New York Times called her “one of the great soul interpreters of her generation.” 

     Jon Bon Jovi says of Lavette, “Some singers sing – then there is Bettye, she doesn’t just sing the song, she lives in each one of them.  I’ve stood close enough to see it in her eyes.”  

     Bettye performed the Randall Bramblett classic “In the Meantime” with all of the grit and soul this 77-year-old woman has acquired over her lifetime.

     In 1962, at 16, she recorded her first single, “My Man, He’s a Lovin’ Man,” produced by local record producer Johnnie Mae Matthews, which Atlantic records later picked up. It became a huge R&B record between 1963-1964.  In 1965, she charted with “Let Me Down Easy” on Calla Records.  She continued to record but without much commercial success. Atco did not release her “Child of the Seventies” album. In 1979, she was asked to join the touring company of “Bubbling Brown Sugar”cast as Sweet Georgia Brown. She appeared with Honi Coles and Cab Calloway during the show’s six-year run.

     French soul music collector Gilles Petard got a hold of Lavette’s previously unreleased master of “Child of the Seventies,” which she recorded for Atlantic. He released it as “Souvenirs” in 2000. At the same time, Dutch fan Ben Mattijssen recorded Bettye at a live show in Utrecht, Holland, and released it as “Let Me Down Easy – In Concert” on hisMunich label. These two CDs, released almost simultaneously, created a renewed interest in Bettye, and showed that she was still in great voice.

     In 2002, Grammy Award-winning producer Dennis Walker got her signed to Blues Express, and they made her “comeback” CD, “A Woman Like Me.” Later that year, Mike Kappus, president of Rosebud Booking Agency, signed her on, prompting the release of “A Woman Like Me” in 2003. Bettye won the Blues Foundation’s W.C.  Handy Award in 2004 for Comeback Blues Album of the Year, as well as the Living Blues Critics Pick as Best Female Blues Artist of 2004!

     Kappus invited ANTI- Records President Andy Kaulkin to see one of Bettye’s shows. On the strength of her performance, Kaulkin asked Bettye to sign a three-record deal. Her first album was with Grammy Award-winning producer Joe Henry, who suggested an album of songs written entirely by women. The result was the album “I’ve Got My Own Hell to Raise,” which was on many critics’ “Best of 2005” lists.  Her second album for ANTI, “The Scene of the Crime,” was recorded in Muscle Shoals’ FAME Studios with Drive-By Truckers. It was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Blues Album.

     In 2006, she received the Pioneer Award from The Rhythm and Blues Foundation.  She received a Blues Music Award for Best Contemporary Female Blues Singer in 2008. In December of that year, she performed a critically acclaimed version of “Love Reign  O’er Me” at The Kennedy Center Honors in a tribute to Roger Daltry and Pete Townshend of the Who, who were among the honorees.

     In May 2010, her third ANTI- CD, “Interpretations: The British Rock Songbook,” was released to rave reviews. Lavette’s husband, Kevin Kiley, suggested the idea after her performance of “Love Reign O’er  Me” at The Kennedy Center Honors.

     The year 2012 saw the release of her no holds barred auto-biography, “A Woman Like Me,” co-authored with David Ritz, who has written biographies on Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and Marvin Gaye. 

     Verve Records released “Things Have Changed” in late 2016, an album of Bob Dylan covers. Grammy Award-winning Producer Steve Jordan was at the helm. In 2019, It was nominated for two Grammy Awards, one for Best Americana Album, and the song “Don’t Fall Apart On Me Tonight” for Best Traditional  R&B Performance. 

     In 2020 Bettye’s second Verve album, “Blackbirds,” was released. It consisted of songs by black female singers from the ‘50s and ‘60s that inspired her early in her career. Again, she teamed with drummer/producer Steve Jordan. She was also inducted into The Blues Hall of Fame and received a Blues Music Award for Soul Blues Female Artist. In 2021, Blackbirds received a Grammy Nomination for Best Contemporary Blues Album.

     This year saw the release of “Lavette!”, an album of Randall Bramblett covers produced by Steve Jordan.   Bettye declares Bramblett to be “the best writer that I have heard in the last 30 years.”  This album has a stellar line up of musicians including Steve Winwood, Jon Batiste, John Mayer, and Larry Campbell, as well as Jordan. Lavette is daring and vulnerable as she stakes new ground on this collection of gems.

 

Americana Fest: Brandi Carlile Presents Unforgettable ‘Northern Lights’ at City Winery

By Wil Comstock

MCAU Staff Writer 

     I was pretty excited about the Thursday afternoon show at City Winery.  I knew anything Brandi Carlile was involved with would be good.As I waited for the “Northern Lights” show to begin, I counted eight empty chairs on the stage.  One for Brandi, and the two listed on the show, Sean McConnell and Ashley Ray. I wondered who else would show up.

     Sista Strings: I and everyone else was blown away by sisters, Monique (cello) and Chauntee (violin) Ross.  You may have seen them in the backing band for Allison Russell at the awards show. Their strong sense of melody, harmony and syncopation had me on the edge of my seat and brought me to my feet. They did an instrumental classical composition that lifted us to the heavens and gently brought us back to earth. “Her Name Was Me” was nothing short of genius.  Why don’t these women have an album out yet???

     Marc Scibilia: What a pleasant surprise discovering this native Buffalonian. His timeless intimate voice and unique songs really captured me. I could listen to him all day. On “Summer Clothes,” he tells of finding a former girlfriend’s summer outfits while looking for his winter jacket in the closet, bringing back a flood of memories.

     Sean McConnell:  I had seen Sean once before and was happy to see him again. He is a prolific songwriter. With cuts by Tim McGraw, Meatloaf, Rascal Flatts, Brothers Osborne, and Brad Paisley. His rich vocals and soul-searching lyrics have made him a sought-after addition to any writer’s night.  He opened with “Nothing Anymore” and closed with the thought-provoking “Buy the World for the Price of your Soul” He surprised us by bringing out Garrison Starr to duet on the heart wrenching “Nothing Without You.”

     Ashley Ray:  This young woman is going places and in fact has already had songs cut by Little Big Town, Lori McKenna, and Charles Kelly of Lady A. She introduced “Pauline,” a song about her Kansas-born grandmother, who worked at the ammunitions plant and canned pork 'n' beans at Stokley's to put food on the table for her children. Ashley performed each number with a pure midwestern country voice and strongly crafted lyrics.

     Brandi Carlisle with Tim and Phil Hanseroth (The Twins) kicked off with “The Eye,” the three-part harmony song about the temporary resting place in the eye of the storm. Allison Russell came out to sing the stirring “You’re Not Alone” with Brandi, supported by the Twins, and Sista Strings. Everyone gave a standing ovation when Tanya Tucker appeared on the stage to sing the 2019 Song of the Year she penned with Brandi,“Bring My Flowers No.” Tanya recalled how she gave Dean Dillon the line “Ocean Front Property in Arizona,” which he turned into a George Strait hit. Carlile closed this wonderful event with the tender “Stay Gentle.”

Long-time Franklin Arts Enthusiast and Artist Manager Ken McDaniel Dies

            FRANKLIN -- Long-time Franklin, Tennessee, resident, arts enthusiast, and artist manager Ken McDaniel died in his Georgia home on Jan. 27, 2022, where he lived for the past six years.

 

            Ken, 86, served as the artist manager for his wife, artist/instructor gail McDaniel, helping plan and promote watercolor painting classes at Brentwood United Methodist Church, workshops at Plaza Artist Materials in downtown Nashville, and artist conferences at Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, New Mexico, and South America. Along with gail, he helped raise more than $90,000 for local public schools through the “Students and Friends of gail McDaniel Awards,” an annual fundraising auction for art teachers. 

Ken McDaniel

            “Ken McDaniel was a talented man who contributed greatly to the Franklin and Nashville arts communities in a behind-the-scenes way,” said Chuck Whiting, a publicist who worked with Ken and gail McDaniel for more than 20 years. “He was especially gifted at planning and running events for his wife. Together, they helped change the lives of emerging, intermediate and advanced watercolor painters around the world, as well as children in public schools.

 

            Ken and gail moved to Griffin, Georgia, to be closer to family members. The artist continued to teach there, with her husband planning and booking watercolor painting classes and workshops for her at Griffin First United Methodist Church and Plaza Artist Materials in Nashville.

 

Ken and gail McDaniel with the Hager Twins

 

            He penned two books before his died, “Angels Delivered” (about his two adopted children), and “My Child Came Out” (a resource to help bring better understanding to parents who learn their child is gay). Ken, who volunteered for a local LGBTQ outreach organization called Nashville Cares, dedicated the books to his son and late daughter, well as “all adopted children everywhere, to all birth moms and dads who loved these children so much they placed them in a better place, and to all those blessed, loving parents who have, are and will welcome all of those children into their homes.” The books will be released sometime in the future.

 

            Ken often said that he saw his life as a work in progress, admitting to mistakes, expressing love for his wife and children, building his faith in God, and hoping to use his books to help others. It was his final mission before dying of inoperable cancer. Part of “Angel’s Delivered” is devoted to his personal struggle to overcome the tragic loss of his daughter, Rebecca, in an automobile accident.

 

            In the foreword of “Angels Delivered,” Ken wrote, “In sharing my story of loss and recovery through acceptance and finally peace, I hope I can help others who have experienced tragedies of their own. I assure you that I know and understand I am not the final answer. Nor am I the “only” answer. In fact, I may not even be the answer for you. But the thought that I have my life back on track, and maybe I can help someone else out there, prompted me to write words on paper.”

 

            Ken is survived by his wife, gail, and his son, Craig.  His daughter, Rebecca, was killed on May 14, 1997.  His parents were Major General Carl B. and Ruth D. McDaniel. Ken was able to enjoy gail’s three children, seven grandchildren, and four great grandchildren.  He spent part of his professional life in sales, a profession he enjoyed so much that he often said, “I don’t understand why people pay me to do something I so love. I am very blessed and lucky!”

 

            Ken and Gail were members of the Brentwood United Methodist Church and more recently the Griffin First United Methodist Church and the Forum Sunday School class.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the ‘LP Pencil Box of The Pencil Foundation’, 421 Great Circle Road, Nashville, TN  37228.  Please mark your check:  “For the purchase of art supplies.”  Individuals can also visit https://pencilforschools.org to learn more and make a donation.

Creative 'PR' Ways to Help Build Your Career (Without Being A Superstar)

By Chuck Whiting

Music City Arts Network

         Everyday, I peruse a number of media websites to learn about artist opportunities and accomplishments for posting on the various Music City Arts Network social networking pages. For me, it's a joy to see the accomplishments fellow artists, organizations and friends are having. For example, former Nashvillian/actress Annie Sims just landed a role in the new TV series "American Crime Story". Songwriter/musician Bryan Cumming of The WannaBeatles now has his own jazz show in Nolensville. Songwriter/educator Deanna Walker is once again leading the "Blair Hit Songwriter Series". I could go on-and-on, but the point here is that all of these wonderful artists are actively pursuing opportunities (dreams) and sharing their good news with the world (while blessing others).

         If you're not a well-known artist, don't despair. There are many things you can do to help build your career (without being a superstar), while taking advantage of the many PR opportunities out there. Here are a few to-dos on my own list.

         * Find a niche that no one else has. Joyce Rouse (Earth Mama) is saving planet Earth one day at a time. What are you doing?

         * Collaborate with others (don't compete with them). We are all in this together. What greater delight than to see a fellow artist succeed. Give, and give more. "Like, share and follow."

         *  Learn from others. Take advantage of the many educational opportunities (some free) that Music City has to offer. Tons of them are happening all the time.

         *  Get out to support your friends. They will never forget your contributions to their success.

         * Explore other areas of the arts. Go to the opera (yes... you heard me right), attend an opening at Haynes Galleries on Music Row, or head over to Scarritt-Bennett for a poetry reading. It will enrich your understanding and approach to how you express and/or create your art. And you'll meet some amazing people, too. (I'm always inspired to write when I visit the Frist for an exhibition or the Wilson County Fair to buy my grits.)

         * Expand your social networking horizon. Facebook is a wonderful way to build and connect with communities of artists around the world. You can do the same thing with other social networks such as Twitter (a great way to receive/share career-changing information), Linked In (a connector for professionals and businesses in every field), Instagram (photos of what you're doing now), and You Tube (uploading videos and subscribing to video channels).

         * Don't forget the news media. Face it. Well-known artists have a clear advantage when it comes to landing a big story. Hey... some of the publicists on Music Row don't even know how to write (Sorry y'all, but I've been reading some of your press releases). But there are plenty of opportunities out there if you're willing to roll up your sleeves and get to work. Events are generally guaranteed to land calendar mentions in a host of media, and there are a bunch of online bloggers looking for news. I use my own blog (Music City Arts Update) to help in the cause.

         * When it comes to the digital world, it's easy to become intimidated. But it has become a necessary way to share your good news (and connect) with the world, and things are changing constantly. I've found that taking baby steps leads to bigger steps (and more confidence). Take each step one day (or week) at a time. Google has a wealth of tips on how to set up your various social networking pages and features... from Facebook and Twitter to You Tube and Instagram. You'll be amazed at what you can find.

         * Read... books, magazines, newspapers... anything you can get your hands on. That will inspire you to create with original ideas.

         * Perform... Don't be shy. Get out to let people hear you (and encourage you).

         * Don't believe everything you hear. Remember that there are a lot of people who have their own subjective opinions, and not all of them are accurate. When it comes down to it, we need to learn how to recognize what's true, build on our strengths, let our weaknesses be strengths, and believe in ourselves. We are all works in progress (even Barbra Streisand said that).

         * Share your expertise in the form of a blog. It will help others while boosting your credibility as an artist.

         * Finally... on the PR/publicity front, be sure that your process is professional, presenting a "tried and true" representation of you. Be original, and try to do what the reporters do. Find a strong, newsworthy hook; present your information clearly; follow the Associated Press Stylebook (to make it easier for reporters); and send your press releases out to a host of targeted news media operations. It may not happen at first, but in time the editors and producers will start to notice you. As I said above, baby steps lead to bigger things. Do nothing, and something rarely happens. Do something professionally in earnest (without overwhelming others), and success comes sooner than later.

         Thanks for reading this! There are many more tips I could share... stay tuned for more. In the meantime, please connect with me (and share your good arts news) at http://www.Facebook.com/MusicCityArts or Twitter @MusicCityArts... and check out my blog at http://www.MusicCityArtsUpdate.com.

Artistically,

Chuck

Chuck Whiting is a long-time publicist and journalist who runs the monthly event "Tunesmithing" at the Aloft Hotel on West End.Visit his PR website at www.WhitingPublicity.com.

MCAU Newsletter: April 1, 2013

MCAU: 
Music City Arts Update

April 1 2013

('TIN PAN SOUTH' WEEK)

Providing resource information and exposure for artists of all kinds

_____________________________________

We proudly support Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), Country Music Association (CMA), The Recording Academy, SongU, Indie Connect, ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, Film Nashville, Nashville Composers Association, Artists in Nashville, Arts Council of Williamson County, Positive Music Association, Nashville Artists Guild, TJBS, Nashville Songwriters Festival, Nashville Musicians Association, AFM Local 257 and other organizations who do so much for emerging and professional artists.

SPECIAL "TIN PAN SOUTH" COVERAGE: MCAU Editor Chuck Whiting and contributing writer Wil Comstock will provide daily coverage for the "Tin Pan South" songwriting festival this week. Visit http://www.MusicCityArtsUpdate.com during the week for reviews and photos. If you hear anything inspiring or hilarious, please feel free to share it with MCAU at info@MusicCityArtsUpdate.com.

FROM THE EDITOR: Music City Arts Update is changing to a new distribution process. Starting this week, the weekly newsletter will be distributed through Go Daddy's social marketing platform. Go Daddy follows a strict "no spam" policy, which we strongly endorse. If you would like to keep receiving MCAU, you will need to click on the message when it arrives. In the future, you may remove your name from our distribution list at any time. Using Go Daddy will allow us to use better graphics and photos. Our coverage will focus on career and life-changing opportunities for artists of all kinds. If you have any questions or suggestions, please drop me a note atinfo@MusicCityArtsUpdate.com. 

You can sign up for MCAU by clicking on the following link: https://app.expressemailmarketing.com/survey.aspx?SFID=138431 . (Chuck Whiting, Editor)

ARTIST QUOTE FOR APRIL... "Without craftsmanship, inspiration is a mere reed shaken in the wind." --Johannes Brahms

Arts...

April 5 (Friday) -- The "Co-Creator's Coffeehouse" will occur from 7-10 p.m. at the Center for Spiritual Living Nashville, 6705 Charlotte Pike in west Nashville.  Artists of all kinds will share their talents at an open circle from 7-8:45 p.m. Rick Perry will take the stage with an all-star cast from 9-10 p.m.  For more information, send an e-mail to Butterfly at butterfly5891@comcast.net . (B)

April 10 (Wednesday) -- Art and Soul will host the monthly "Compassionate Coffeehouse" from 7-9 p.m. The event will feature performances by songwriters, musicians, poets, dancers, storytellers and other creative expressionists. Artist signups begin at 6:30 p.m. Art and Soul is located at 2305 12th Ave. S. (KRR)

Sundays -- Scarritt-Bennett Center hosts "Vespers & All That Jazz" in Wightman Chapel every Sunday at 6:30 p.m.  The free event will allow individuals to encounter the sacred in a new and unique way through this music-shaped, experiential worship service.  Inspired by jazz as a process of making music and using the music to help individuals experience the interruptive spirit of God, the event encourages compassion, peace, justice and wonder. Info:  http://www.ScarrittBennett.org . (SB)

Communication...

PR Career Building -- Artists and entrepreneurs of all kinds can learn the nuts and bolts of the public relations process (and receive career-changing advice) by attending "Publicizing Your Dream" brainstorming sessions in Nashville. The sessions are specially designed for artists with specific communication needs. Attendees can learn all aspects of publicity, including how to develop a PR game plan, finding the perfect hook for news coverage, honing your writing skills, writing a press release, editing techniques, and creating a newsworthy event. The sessions are led by Chuck Whiting, founder of Whiting Publicity and an adjunct professor of journalism at MTSU and Motlow State Community College. Sessions range from one to three hours. To learn more: Arts@WhitingPublicity.com, or visithttp://www.WhitingPublicity.com. (Whiting Publicity)

Congratulations to...

Harpist Chris "Freight Train" Floyd, who has been named the harmonica player for blues legend Keb' Mo'smonthly blues showcase at Fontanel. The first show is April 1. (CF)

Environmental songstress Earth Mama (a.k.a. Joyce Rouse) of Independence, Va., who made her fourth trip to the rural agricultural island of Molokai, Hawaii, from March 2-8, sharing Earth Literacy insights and songs with children of all ages. See photos from her trip at bit.ly/10hQN5u or http://www.MusicCityArtsUpdate.com. Learn more about Earth Mama at http://www.EarthMama.org . (EM)

Visual artist Charlotte Terrell, who will join fellow artist Alex Smith on April 5 for a month-long exhibition at Bennett Galleries in Knoxville. See Charlotte's work at http://www.CharlotteTerrell.com . (CT)

Singer-songwriter Sonia Lee, whose latest CD "Butterfly" is now playing on the Internet radio station Pandora. (SL)

Film...

April 13-14 (Saturday-Sunday) -- The Nashville Composers Association and "Film-Com" are pleased to present the two-day "Score-Com" seminar “Music – The Script Support System” with composer, songwriter, keyboard player and arranger John Capek at Ocean Way Nashville Recording Studios on Music Row. Details: http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/03/nca-to-offer-two-day-film-music.html . (NCA)

April 13-19 (Saturday-Friday) -- "Film-Com", one of Nashville's premier connecting and learning events for filmmakers, will feature a wide range of seminars, a new project expo, and a Film/Television Industry Gala. Learn more: http://film-com.com/ . (FN)

April 18-26 (Thursday-Thursday) -- The "Nashville Film Festival" (NaFF) has announced the full line-up of feature films in competition and special presentations for the 44th annual festival. One of the oldest and largest film festivals in the U.S., NaFF will screen more than 200 films. This year submissions topped 3,004, breaking all festival records. Learn more: http://filmnashville.org/nashville-film-festival-announces-2013-special-presentation-lineup/ . (FN)

May 31-June 2 (Friday-Sunday) -- The 15th annual Nashville Screenwriters Festival will occur at the Union Station Hotel with professional panelists, mixers, and the ever-popular "Music in the Movies" lunch and panel with Anastasia Brown. Activities will occur at the Union Station Hotel and the Country Music Hall of Fame's Ford Theater.Register: http://www.nashscreen.com/registration . (NSF)

Read the latest newsletter from Film Nashville: http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/04/film-nashville-newsletter-march-22-2013.html .

Get Well Soon...

Singer-songwriter Ron Young, who has been diagnosed with a life-threatening illness.  You can write Ron at 205 Brooks Ave., Shertz, TX 78154. (WC)

Singer-songwriter Diane King, who is battling follicular lymphoma.  You can send a get well message to this wonderful singer-songwriter and read her story at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/missionremission . (AG)

Literature...

April 25 (Thursday) -- Scarritt-Bennett conference center will host the "Poet's Corner" from 7-8 p.m.  Noted poets/writers read selections at The Front Porch @ Scarritt-Bennett, 1000 19th Ave. S. (corner of Grand and 19th). Details: http://www.scarrittbennett.org/programs/pc.aspx . (SB)

May 31-June 2 (Friday-Sunday) -- The 15th annual Nashville Screenwriters Festival will occur at the Union Station Hotel with professional panelists, mixers, and the ever-popular "Music in the Movies" lunch and panel with Anastasia Brown. Activities will occur at the Union Station Hotel and the Country Music Hall of Fame's Ford Theater. Register: http://www.nashscreen.com/registration . (NSF)

Music...
 
***Returning May 30 (Thursday) -- "Tunesmithing Off Music Row" will return with a special celebration to help kick off the "Nashville Songwriters Festival on Music Row". Stay tuned for details, including a special lineup of professional and emerging songwriters. Learn more: Tunesmithing@Earthlink.net, or visithttp://www.Tunesmithing.com . (Whiting Publicity)

April 22 (Monday) -- Have you heard about "Nancy Moran's All-out, Full-fledged, Nothing held-back, Everything-I-can-think-of-to-tell-you Ultimate Booking & Touring Program"? In this in-depth, four-week online and teleconference program (which begins April 22), Nancy is going to walk you through the entire process of booking gigs and planning tours. She is truly going to share everything she can think of to help you book better gigs and to get you out on the road sharing your music with the world! Details:http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/03/nancy-morans-ultimate-booking-touring.html . (NM)

The Producer's Chair -- Meet and learn invaluable insights from award-winning producers on the last Thursday of each month at Douglas Corner on Eighth Avenue South. "The Producer's Chair" begins at 6 p.m (Doors open at 5 p.m.). Cover: $10.  Details: http://www.TheProducersChair.com or write James Rea atJames@TheProducersChair.com . (JR)

Various -- Indie Connect hosts a number of networking events for musicians and artists of all kinds at 2720 Old Lebanon Road, Ste. 108, in Donelson. The organization offers artist luncheons at 11:30 a.m. on selected Mondays at Corky's Ribs & BBQ, 100 Franklin Road in Brentwood. Fees vary. Full Details and Calendar:http://www.indieconnect.com .  (VR)

Songwriting...

'Tin Pan South' Week: April 2-6 (Tuesday-Saturday) -- For 20 years, the annual "Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival" has featured writers whose songs have become engrained in the fabric of our musical lives, and 2013 promises to offer the best of the best. The event and the addition of two shows at 3rd & Lindsley brings the total number of venues to 10. Learn more about the festival and download the full schedule of performers athttp://www.TinPanSouth.com . Visit http://www.MusicCityArtsUpdate.com during the week for daily reports and photos from various shows. (CC)

April 13-14 (Saturday-Sunday) -- The Nashville Composers Association and "Film-Com" are pleased to present the two-day "Score-Com" seminar “Music – The Script Support System” with composer, songwriter, keyboard player and arranger John Capek at Ocean Way Nashville Recording Studios on Music Row. Details:http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/03/nca-to-offer-two-day-film-music.html . (NCA)

April 5-6 (Friday-Saturday) -- NSAI will close out "Tin Pan South" week with the in-depth "Spring Training" seminar for songwriters. Learn more: http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/03/nsais-spring-training-set-for-april-5-6.html . (NSAI)

***Returning May 30 (Thursday) -- "Tunesmithing Off Music Row" will return with a special celebration to help kick off the "Nashville Songwriters Festival" on Music Row. Stay tuned for details, including a special lineup of professional and emerging songwriters. Learn more about "Tunesmithing": Tunesmithing@Earthlink.net, or visit http://www.Tunesmithing.com . (Whiting Publicity)

May 31-June 2 (Friday-Sunday) -- Songwriters from around the world will visit Music City from May 31-June 2 (Friday-Sunday) for the "Nashville Songwriters Festival on Music Row". More than 400 emerging songwriters will take the stage along Demonbreun from noon-midnight Friday-Sunday at venues such as Keeli's Co-Writers Corner, Mirkos Wine & Pasta, Otter's Chicken & Brew, Red Rooster, South, Sunshine, Tin Roof, and Best Western Music Row. The Best Western Music Row will host music industry tables and one-to-one consulting from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday-Sunday. Performance slots still available: Artists may sign up to perform at the festival by writing Cornelius Robertson at popcorn@songwritersfestival.org . Learn more:http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/04/nashville-songwriters-festival-set-for.html . (NSF)

SongU -- There are always opportunities to hone your songwriting chops and learn from the pros athttp://www.SongU.com . (DA)

"I Create Music EXPO" -- ASCAP's "I Create Music EXPO" will occur from April 18-20, 2013 at the Loews Hollywood Hotel in Los Angeles.  Learn more: http://www.ascap.com/eventsawards/events/expo/ . (ASCAP)

Wednesdays -- The Tennessee Songwriters Association International (TSAI) meets regularly, benefiting tunesmiths at all levels.  Wednesday gatherings typically occur from 7-9 p.m. in Room 200B or Room 413 at the Massey Business Center Building at Belmont University. Details: http://www.tnsai.com . (TSAI)

Thursdays -- Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) stages workshops every week.  For more details, visit http://www.NashvilleSongwriters.com . (NSAI)

BMI Showcase Info -- BMI hosts songwriter showcases in Nashville, New York, LA and other cities.  Info: http://www.bmi.com/events .  (BMI)

Sports...

Blind Golfer Wins Award -- Nashville blind golfer David Meador has been named the winner of the prestigious "Ben Hogan Award", an honor given annually by the Golf Writers Association of America to an individual who has continued to be active despite a physical handicap or serious illness. Read the full story:http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/03/nashville-blind-golfer-david-meador.html . (Whiting Publicity)

Theatre...

Various Dates -- The Metro Nashville Parks Theatre Department's "New Play Reading Series" will continue this spring. Readings will occur at the Centennial Arts Activities Center (Black Box). The first reading event of the series will occur at 7 p.m. April 22. Details/RSVP: Jaz Dorsey at dramaturgtn@gmail.com . (JD)

Various Dates -- The American Negro Playwright Theatre stages a host of theatrical events at The Next Level, 1008 Charlotte Ave. in Nashville.  Learn more: http://www.anpt.org . (BS)

Visual Art...

***Watercolor Painting Classes -- Gail McDaniel, an acclaimed watercolor artist/instructor who has served as an associate member of the Winsor & Newton Creative Artist Network of London, England, will teach a series of watercolor painting classes in Middle Tennessee starting on April 30 (Brentwood) and May 1 (Nashville). Read the full story at http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/04/gail-mcdaniel-to-teach-watercolor.html. (Whiting Publicity)

Second Monday -- The Arts Council of Williamson County's "Art: Up Close and Personal" evening speaker series occurs from 6-7:30 p.m. in the main conference room of the Williamson County Public Library, 1314 Columbia Pike in Franklin, Tenn. Details:  info@artscouncilwc.org or http://www.artscouncilwc.org . (ACWC)

Second or Third Friday -- The Arts Council of Williamson County's "Brown Bag Lunch Bunch" occurs from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on the second or third Friday of each month in the main conference room of the Williamson County Public Library, 1314 Columbia Pike in Franklin, Tenn. Details:  info@artscouncilwc.org orhttp://www.artscouncilwc.org . (ACWC)

First Saturday -- A host of galleries participate in Nashville's monthly "Art Crawl". The next "Art Crawl" is April 6.  Times vary.

Conferences, Festivals, Events, and Auditions...

"Tin Pan South", April 2-6, Nashville.

NSAI's "Spring Training", April 5-6, Nashville.

"Score-Com", April 13-14, Nashville.

"Film-Com", April 13-19, Nashville.

The "Nashville Film Festival", April 18-26, Nashville.

ASCAP "I Create Music EXPO", April 18-20, Los Angeles.

"Nashville Screenwriters Festival", May 31-April 2, Nashville.

Nashville Songwriters Festival On Music Row", May 31-June 2, Nashville.


Music City Arts Update, which is distributed weekly, spotlights the accomplishments of artists and arts-related businesses and organizations of all kinds. Basic mentions in the monthly newsletter are free (based on time and space availability). Feel free to pass this on to others who might be interested. See photos and longer stories at http://www.MusicCityArtsUpdate.com or http://www.NashvilleArtsUpdate.com .The newsletter is written and distributed by Chuck Whiting of Whiting Publicity & Promotions. Contributing writers are welcome to submit stories about arts-related opportunities and achievements. Please note that all written materials in this newsletter are copyright 2013 -- used by permission only.  Thank you!