Earth Mama Builds Bridges and Brings Healing With ‘LovingKindness’

         INDEPENDENCE, Va. — Joyce Rouse is bringing "LovingKindness" to an aching, disconnected world with a new easy listening interfaith album for Christian, Buddhist, Jewish and indigenous peoples.

 

         Earth Mama’s 11-song effort, “LovingKindness,” comes at a crucial time when Americans are working for racial justice and peoples of the world are facing one of the most serious pandemics in recent times.

 

         “These songs are all part of the deepening of my own spiritual journey,” says Rouse, who began writing and recording songs for the project in 2015. “The origins of their words spring from the ancient wisdom of many faith traditions. Those traditions all spring from the ever-folding Universe visible in the light of sky.”

 

         The uplifting, soothing and diverse collection of gentle recordings include 10 original songs with lyrical contributions from Scottish poet Ann Palmer. Christian church-goers will recognize a breathtaking version of “What a Friend We Have in Jesus.” Others will be deeply touched by songs that reflect the universal concepts of many of the world’s religious traditions.

 

         Music lovers, faith leaders, and others can download or order the “LovingKindness” album at www.EarthMama.org, www.Amazon.com, and a host of other online retailers. The project was recorded at Nashville’s County Q, with session performances by guitarist Rob Matson, keyboardist/multi-instrumentalist Catherine Marx, percussionist Paul Scholten, bassist Kyle Scholten, harmonicist Richard Rouse, and background vocalists Dee Moeller, Lisa Silver and Kim Parent. Rouse contributes lead vocals and acoustic piano. 

 

 

         “This is music created for feeding the heart and soul — a spiritual journey,” Rouse adds. “The songs were written and recorded to reach the listener with integrity, joy and beauty.”

 

         Like her other music and stage projects, Earth Mama is using “LovingKindness” to help heal planet Earth one song at a time. But in this case, it’s a wonderful vehicle for spiritual growth, building bridges between cultures, and bringing healing during a very fragile time in the planet’s history.

 

         The title track, “LovingKindness,” was inspired by an ancient Buddhist prayer.

 

         “I began with a version from Joyce Rupp’s Boundless Compassion program, which I reworded some and adapted to fit a musical form,” the artist continues. “I also was inspired over the years from interpretations by Fr. Richard Rohr and others.”

 

         Gently, Rouse sings, “May I abide in Lovingkindness… May I (you/we) be free from suffering… May I receive what I need… May I be at peace…”

 

         One listener, Spiritual Director Cindy Chicoine of Iowa, says she returned to the track again and again. “I feel the energy of the blessing beyond the structure of the words. This is a living word prayer. It seems to come alive in the mouth and ear, emanating beyond and beyond and beyond, the sound vibration reaching all. I easily trust its power.”

 

         Rouse says she has walked many different labyrinths in North America. Her song, “Labyrinth,” reflects her sense of hope and joy during those walks.

 

         “The labyrinth is an ancient art form for contemplation and meditation,” Earth Mama notes. “The photo of the beach labyrinth on the CD inner sleeve was taken by Scottie Pritchard, whose family labyrinth is listed on the World Labyrinth website at www.labyrinth locator.com.”

 

         “Life is like a Labyrinth spiraled on the ground,” Rouse sings in a lovely, down-to-earth, reassuring manner. “Circling to find new lessons each time around… A Circle! Ever widening the circle!… Spiral! Expanding compassion in a spiral!… Call it LOVE… Just call it LOVE… The Universe is unfathomable love…”

 

 

 

         The Rev. Laura M. George of The Oracle Institute proclaims: “The ‘Labyrinth’ song is amazing! This is one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard. It truly brought tears to my eyes.”

 

         Part of the album centers on helping build bridges between peoples on local, regional, national and international levels. Rouse calls her song, “One Stone,” a musical “palate cleanser” between courses.

 

         “It is a reminder that instead of walls, we would be wise to build bridges,” Earth Mama says in a delicate tone. “Each stone of kindness brings us closer to fixing a rough patch or relationship.”

 

         Other heartfelt songs or musical prayers on the album are ideal for spirituality centers, classrooms, personal meditation, yoga, and healing work. They include other originals such as “All In All,” “The Great Vision,” “Breathing Beauty,” “Children of the World,” “Welcome Angels,” and “What Is Mine to Do?” The track “Blissed” was written and recorded in memory of Karen Hirschowitz Engel, a noted Nashville artist who passed away in 2016.

 

         Author Joyce Rupp sums up praise for Earth Mama’s “LovingKindness” CD this way: “Our planet and people are so in need of this compassionate energy. Joyce Rouse’s meaningful messages and comforting melodies encourage our hearts. Her songs remind us to believe in love and to keep hope alive.”

Environmental Songstress Earth Mama Releases 'A Sense of Place'

By Chuck Whiting

MCAU Editor

            INDEPENDENCE, Va. (April 2014) – Singer/songwriter/eco-activist Joyce Rouse (AKA Earth Mama) has spent the past three years recording a new CD of original folk-Americana songs she hopes will give listeners "a better understanding of our home, the natural world."

            "A Sense of Place" reflects the spirit of Southern Appalachia with songs of kindness, hope, love, Mother Earth, good neighbors, family and life. Some of the songs encourage listeners to celebrate home by protecting the ecosystems, native species, and natural water systems that face destruction in the wake of industrialization, coal mining, and climate change. Others cherish the camaraderie of family members and neighbors who share homegrown crops and help each other out when times are tough. Listeners can experience the region by taking an imaginary flight on an oriole's wings or exploring the winding Blue Ridge Parkway.

            "I had written and recorded some songs centering around the Southern Appalachian Mountains where I have lived for many years," said Rouse, who has delighted audiences with toe-tapping music and green-living tips since 1994. "These songs seemed to be the anchor for this project. 'A Sense of Place' branches out to include a reggae song about local economy and local foods, as well as a pastiche of other genres and topics."

            The album begins with "Detour Road", a spirited, up-tempo "rocking chair" tune that encourages listeners to choose love and peace (rather than hate) when they reach the "wishbone in life's highway". The song captures the flavor of front porch sing-a-longs with gospel-esque vocal harmonies, bluesy harmonica, playful kazoo, and fast-paced percussion.

            "I got to sing 'Detour Road' in a set at the beautiful historic Liberty Theatre in Eunice, La.," the artist noted. "The crowd got really involved with the refrain, and some rhythm instruments were passed around. The song is one of my favorites on the CD because of the 'feel-good' sing-a-long energy, and even more special with my husband's contribution of harmonica to the track."

            Rouse switches gears with "To An Oriole", a soaring and drifting ballad that uses the words from Edgar Fawcett's famous poem. Here, the listener experiences the "splendor" of a black and orange-flected bird flying toward Heaven. The gentle production features Rouse's rich soprano vocals with gossamer piano track and stringed instruments.

            "Birder, naturalist and organic farmer Bruce Allen sent me that poem," Rouse continued. "Like many songwriters, I get these requests, and the poems don't always resonate with me. This one spoke right to my heart."

            The song "Heaven Down Below" reveals how bank takeovers, mindless development, mining, and mountaintop removal are wiping out whole towns, families and communities. An Appalachian farmer faces heartbreak when he loses his home on Whitetop Mountain. The singer promises to teach his children to "love the land and let it show." The song aches with imagery-filled lyrics, down-to-earth vocals, country fiddle, and a bedrock steady guitar foundation by Bryan Sutton.

            "Not far from where I live are mountains that are being blown to smithereens to extract the coal that is shipped all over the world to fuel electric power plants," the artist said. "Mountaintop removal is wiping out farms and homes that have been in families for more than a century. Mudslides and coal ash spills have killed people, but we get our electricity without interruption."

            Rouse celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Blue Ridge Parkway with "Ribbon of Stone", a mountain folk song that celebrates 469 miles of a region and culture "unlike any other on Earth". As the driver winds her way through breathtaking forests, hills and valleys, she hears the sounds of whistling warblers, looks out over mist-shrouded mountains, and touches the stitched fabrics of heirloom quilts.

            She honors the memory of the late Keith Palmer with the ballad "Only One", a song that was recorded as a demo back in 1992. As Rouse was finishing up the CD, the song kept "nagging" for attention. Rouse weaved vocal accents with new lines through Palmer's smooth tenor vocals to make the song a good fit for "A Sense Of Place".

            "Much of our sense of place in the natural world comes out of our childhood experiences of playing outside, wading in creeks, and exploring the wooded areas," the artist added. "After shows, people have shared their stories of loss at discovering the ecosystems of their childhood destroyed by development, pollution or industrial agriculture. That sorrow underscores how vital natural places are to children."

            The mountain reggae tune "If You Need A Chair" encourages individuals to build community and better ecology by trading or buying homemade goods (chairs, bread, fruits, vegetables, clothes, brooms, songs, cakes, and animals) from their neighbors. Rouse, who lives on a mountain just outside of Independence, Va., supports her community by buying locally grown foods. She is putting the finishing touches on a book based on the song.

            "A Sense Of Place" was recorded in Nashville, with Rouse serving as lead vocalist, songwriter and producer. Some of the selections feature stirring accompaniments by fiddler/banjoist/dobroist Wanda Burchfield, keyboardist Catherine Marx, and percussionist Paul Scholten. The project was mixed by sound engineer Rob Matson.

            "I love to hear instrumental breathing spaces in music to deeply absorb the lyrics," Earth Mama reflected. "Listeners need time to absorb the depth and nuance of some lyrics, so I make an effort to leave spaces for the heart and soul of the work to blossom."

            The project and album-related performances have received positive reviews.

            "The concept of place runs through all the songs," raves fan Mary Lou Dolan. "'If You Need a Chair' is the perfect local economy song. I'm taking it to our group's next meeting as 'local' is what we are all about."

            "'A Sense of Place' is a wonderful, 10-song ride that will make you smile, make you move, and make you ponder, reflect and feel enriched by the musical messages," writes Birdsong recording artist Lindy Gravelle. "The songs are so well written, masterfully produced, and performed by Earth Mama. The Nashville musicians, singers and engineer she assembled all play their parts with just the right sounds to support her stylish vocals. She’s on a mission to raise our consciousness about life on Earth, and she does it with heart and humor, captivating and entertaining you the whole ride through."

            Earth Mama performs regularly at a wide variety of venues across the nation, including libraries, grade schools, universities, church groups, retreat centers, conferences, museums and festivals. She recently took on an artist-in-residence role in a small Louisiana town. The artist weaves threads of science, spirit and art into each concert and continues to write inspiring music in many styles with one goal in mind: “Helping Heal the Planet One Song at a Time.”

  

            A 15-year voting member of the Grammy Awards, Rouse's songs have been recorded and/or performed by artists such as Maureen McGovern, Marie Osmond, and the McCarter Sisters. She has written theme and event songs for environmental and peace organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, UNESCO, and the International Earth Charter. She recently recorded an environmental public service announcement for La Leche League. Her music has been used by choral societies, children's choirs, and international choirs, as well as community-building events. In 1995, her song, "Standing on the Shoulders", was chosen as the theme song for a national event in Washington, D.C., celebrating the 75th anniversary of the 19th Amendment.

            In 2008, she recorded “Virginia Beauty, A Love Song for the Commonwealth”, an anthem that has been widely circulated as a possible new state song. The Highland Camerata featured the song in its Minds Wide Open program honoring Virginia women in the arts. In 2011, the Virginia Choral Society of Newport News, Va., debuted a new eight-part choral arrangement for larger choirs arranged by artistic director James Powers. Rouse earned a bachelor's degree in home economics from Iowa State University and a master's degree in earth literacy from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College in Indiana. Rouse and her husband, Richard, live in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Southwest Virginia.

            "The recent passing of Pete Seeger and review of his life and body of work is a potent reminder of the power of the right song at the right time to influence a movement, or to create space in people's hearts to look at old patterns of behavior and steer a course for better actions," Rouse said. "I am standing on his shoulders, as well as others like Woody Guthrie, Joan Baez, Malvina Reynolds, and Marvin Gaye. I am proud to follow in their tradition and grateful that 'A Sense of Place' is gaining interest locally and beyond!"

            "A Sense of Place", which retails for $15, is available at www.EarthMama.org, www.cdbaby.com, and www.Amazon.com. Digital downloads are available at www.iTunes.com and other online retailers. For more information about the CD or the artist, call (276) 773-8529 or send an e-mail message to Joyce@EarthMama.org. To listen to selections from the album, visit http://www.earthmama.org/hearasenseofplace.php.

Earth Mama Takes Earth Literacy Program to Molokai

INDEPENDENCE, Va. -- Joyce Rouse (AKA Earth Mama) 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.

Photo #1: Earth Mama and co-writer Lindy Gravelle ham it up with students following an outdoor singalong with Molokai kids.

Photo #2: Earth Mama teaches songwriting techniques to children at Aka'ula School.

Photo #3: Following a performance of musical Earth care, a collection of Earth Mama's children's CDs were donated to the Molokai Library. 

For more information about Earth Mama, visit http://www.EarthMama.org.

MCAU Artist Newsletter - Feb. 25, 2013

Feb. 25, 2013

Providing resource information and exposure for artists of all kinds

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We proudly support Americana Music Association, 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, Nashville Screenwriters Conference, AFM Local 257 and other organizations who do so much for emerging and professional artists.

Do you have news about career-changing opportunities for artists? Send it to us at info@MusicCityArtsUpdate.com .

Read about breaking arts news and receive artist resource tips with photos at at our new blog: http://www.MusicCityArtsUpdate.com .

(MCAU Copyright 2013 - All Rights Reserved)


Opportunities and Achievements:

***JOIN US AT THE 'IC VIRTUAL MUSIC CONFERENCE AND EXPO' -- Are you signed up to attend the first "IC Virtual Music Conference and EXPO" (Feb. 26-28).  If not, it's not too late. In fact, we still have a few free passes to give away. To obtain your free pass to the conference, please visit http://www.indieconnect.com/comp-icvmc-pass/ . Then write "Music City Arts Update" in the "Referred By" field. The conference will begin at 10 a.m. (CST) Feb. 26 (Tuesday) and end at 10 p.m. (CST) Feb. 28 (Thursday). Chuck Whiting will be available at various times via "Chat" to answer questions about PR. Please request an appointment at the Whiting Publicity booth. Learn more about the conference: http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/02/speakers-added-for-ic-virtual-music.html

'TUNESMITHING' TO RETURN IN APRIL...  "Tunesmithing", our monthly songwriters showcase, will return to a new venue in April 2013. Learn more about "Tunesmithing" at http://www.Tunesmithing.com . Would you like to perform at one of our shows? Write us at Tunesmithing@earthlink.net .

CONGRATULATIONS TO... The WannaBeatles, who recently celebrated Betty White's birthday with a special show at 3rd and Lindsley. The popular Nashville band has released the new song and video, "Oh Betty! (The Betty White Song)". Learn more: http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-wannabeatles-release-oh-betty-song.html

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BETTY! The WannaBeatles and crew celebrate during the "Betty White

91st Birthday Bash" at 3rd and Lindsley in downtown Nashville. (Photo by Lucy Hart)

EARTH MAMA RELEASES 'BLESSINGS OF THE UNIVERSE'... Earth Mama (Joyce Rouse) has released the new CD "Blessings of the Universe". The project features 13 inspirational songs "for the foreground and background of your days." Joyce recently celebrated with a special benefit performances in Abingdon and Independence, Va. Learn more: http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/01/celebrating-arts-in-southwest-virginia.html

AMY ALLEN RECORDS VIDEO... Country/pop/adult contemporary singer-songwriter Amy Allen recently shot footage for her new EPK video. Sites included W.O. Smith School and the Center for Spiritual Living Nashville, with participation from The WannaBeatles and Denny Martin. Amy's second album will be released during the spring. Stay tuned for more details.

MARY BETH CROSS SHOWCASES AT FOLK ALLIANCE... Mary Beth Cross celebrated the release of her fourth CD, "Beyond Good and Evil", by performing several times at the Folk Alliance in Toronto. Learn more about the artist's new CD at http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/01/mary-beth-cross-releases-beyond-good.html

GAIL MCDANIEL TO LEAD WATERCOLOR PAINTING CLASSES -- Artist/instructor gail McDaniel will teach a series of watercolor painting classes in Middle Tennessee this spring for artists at all levels. Learn more: http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2013/02/gail-mcdaniel-to-teach-watercolor.html

ARTIST QUOTE OF THE WEEK... "Painting is just another way of keeping a diary" - Pablo Picasso


Arts...

Sundays -- Scarritt-Bennett Center hosts "Vespers & All That Jazz" in Wightman Chapel every Sunday at 6:30 p.m. The free event allows 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)


Congratulations to...

Visual artist Meredith Green, who recently exhibited her painting, "Java Day", in the Jasmine and Joe National Juried Exhibition. (MG)

Country radio Hall of Famer Ed Salamon, whose book, "WHN: When New York City Went Country", will be published by Archer Books. (BSE)

Singer-songwriter Aaron Carmona, whose group The Carmonas will perform from 9-10 p.m. Feb. 26 (Tuesday) at the Rutledge, 410 Fourth Ave. S. (AC)

Screenwriter/songwriter Dan Wunsch, who is now pursuing his dreams in LA. (DW)

Blues artist Mark Robinson, who will celebrate his new CD, "Have Axe - Will Groove", at 7 p.m. March 2 (Saturday) at The Building, 1008 Woodland St. (MR)

Visual artist Camille Engel, whose "Alice in Wonderland" painting was chosen for the "Art Feast" fundraiser in Santa Fe. (CE)

Music industry professional Sheree' Spoltore', who has launched the Global Songwriters Connection. (SS).


Education (Hone Your Skills):

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 this spring for artists at all levels. * Two separate watercolor painting classes will be offered to beginning, intermediate and advanced artists on selected Tuesdays beginning March 5 at the Brentwood United Methodist Church, 309 Franklin Road.  The classes will meet from 9 a.m.-noon and 6-9 p.m. on March 5, 12, 19 and 26; and April 2, 9, 16 and 23. Tuition is $150 for eight, three-hour sessions. * A watercolor painting class will be offered to intermediate and advanced artists on selected Wednesdays at Plaza Artist Materials, 633 Middleton St., in downtown Nashville beginning March 6. The class will meet from 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on March 6, 13, 20 and 27; and April 3, 10, 17 and 24. Tuition is $165 for eight, three-and-a-half-hour sessions. Because space is limited for the classes, reservations are required.  Both check and credit card payments are accepted.  For more information or to register, contact the artist by phone at (615) 599-5115 or send an inquiry to gail@gailmcdanielart.com. Individuals can learn more about the artist/instructor and view her artwork at http://www.gailmcdanielart.com. (Whiting Publicity)

"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)

JOIN NSAI! -- NSAI is the must-join organization for every emerging songwriter.  Receive a free gift and tour coupon at the next "Tunesmithing Off Music Row".  Breaking news! You can try out some of NSAI's services for free.  To learn more, visit http://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/2012/09/nsai-offers-free-membership-benefits.html or http://www.NashvilleSongwriters.com.  If you join, please say you heard about it from MCAU.  (MCAU)

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

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

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 needs. Attendees can learn all aspects of publicity... or they can receive insights on how to develop "can't miss" newsworthy events. The sessions are led by Chuck Whiting, founder of Whiting Publicity and an adjunct professor of journalism at MTSU and Motlow College.  To learn more: Arts@WhitingPublicity.com, or visit http://www.WhitingPublicity.com. (Whiting Publicity)


Film...

Learn About the Latest Nashville film news and opportunities at http://www.FilmNashville.org .


Food and Drink...

March 14 (Thursday) -- Sample the latest creations from food and drink artisans at "Tennessee Flavors", an event benefiting the Nashville State Community College School of Culinary Arts. Learn more: http://bit.ly/13KT6Oe (NSCC)


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.

Here's a special note from Ron: Well hello there, my name is Ronny Cash-less. Once again I need your help to raise funds to pay my medical bills. I have a new CD out titled, "Forever Young: The Songs of Ron Young, volume 1." It's available through me via snail mail for $15, which includes shipping or you can visit any one of the internet stores, including itunes.com, Grace Note, Amazon.com, Spotify, and 11 other Internet locations for only $5.99. If you're a member of Facebook, you can listen on my FB page at Ronald Lee Young. All proceeds go to help me keep the wolf at bay. Thanks, your pal, Ron


In Memoriam...

Nashville music industry professional Ron Hebert, who passed away recently.  Read about his life and career: http://www.nashvillemusicpros.com/profile/RonHebert . (T)


Literature...

New Book Release -- Butterfly, host of the monthly "Co-Creators' Coffeehouse", has released a laugh-a-minute book of original poetry titled "Dirty Dishes". To learn more, write Butterfly at butterfly5891@comcast.net or visit http://www.grandmabutterfly.com . (B)

Feb. 28 (Thursday) -- Scarritt-Bennett conference center will host the "Poet's Corner" from 7-8 p.m. Noted poets/writers read selections at Fondren Building @ Scarritt-Bennett (second floor), 1008 19th Ave. S.  Admission is free. This month's featured poet is David M. Harris. Details: http://www.scarrittbennett.org/programs/pc.aspx . (SB)

Dates Announced for Nashville Screenwriters Conference -- Registration is now open for the 15th annual Nashville Screenwriters Conference. The popular Nashville event will occur from May 31-June 2 at the Union Station Hotel. The Country Music Hall of Fame will host the "Music In The Movies" lunch and panel from noon-2 p.m. Register: http://bit.ly/13L1jSr (NSC)


Music...

March 1 (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. Singer-songwriter Michael Elley will perform from 9-10 p.m.  For more information, send an e-mail to Butterfly at butterfly5891@comcast.net . (B)

Free PDF Guide -- Disc Makers is offering the free guide, "10 Effective Strategies to Get Your Music Noticed". Learn more: http://bit.ly/13KUEaP (DM)

Americana Music Fest Dates Announced -- The "Americana Music Festival & Conference" will occur in Nashville from Sept. 18-22. Learn more: http://americanamusic.org/store/conference-registration (AMA)

The Rumor Mill: There's word that the "Paste Untapped Indie Music and Beer Festival" will make a stop in Nashville in October.


Networking Events...

March 15 (Friday) -- The monthly Music City Mixer gives artists and others the opportunity to learn from a distinguished panel of communication and music professionals. The educational lunch occurs at noon at Nashville's Hard Rock Cafe (upstairs). RSVP: George@guestbooker.com . (GU)


News You Can Use...

The Vine Should Suffer, Not The Artist, By David Newhoff (Copyright Alliance) -- W. Somerset Maughm in "Of Human Bondage" writes, "Money is like a sixth sense, without which you cannot make a complete use of the other five." This is instructive as to how I believe most working artists relate to money -- as a means, not an end. Read more: http://www.copyrightalliance.org/2013/02/vine_should_suffer_not_artist#.USvR1Y4zzP0 (ASCAP)

Why Move to Nashville?: A Q&A with Randy Houser -- Mississippi native Randy Houser arrived in Nashville in 2002 and quickly planted himself on the leading edge of country’s new breed of songwriters. He garnered early attention for Trace Adkins’ hit “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk,” which Houser wrote with frequent collaborators Jamey Johnson and Dallas Davidson. Houser’s own performing career launched not long after, with the release of his albums Anything Goes in 2008 and They Call Me Cadillac in 2010. Read more: http://bit.ly/15KPD5V (BMI)


Songwriting...

***Returning in April 2013 -- "Tunesmithing Off Music Row", a monthly showcase spotlighting professional and emerging singer-songwriters. Admission is free. "Tunesmithing" is sponsored by Whiting Publicity & Promotions, Music City Arts Update, and Shine Time Books & Music.  For more information about the event, call (615) 242-9857, write Tunesmithing@Earthlink.net, or visit http://www.Tunesmithing.com . (Whiting Publicity)

Songwriting Competition -- SongU.Com invites tunesmiths to submit songs for its "Staff Writer for a Day" competition. The winner will co-write with hit songwriter Doug Johnson. The deadline to submit songs is March 3. To learn more, visit http://www.SongU.com . (DA)

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)


Music Publishing...

HFA Town Hall -- The Harry Fox Agency will host a "Publisher Town Hall" webinar from 2-3 p.m. Feb. 28 (Thursday). Register: http://bit.ly/Yw5P7L (HFA)


Visual Art...

First Friday -- Bennett Galleries hosts its "First Friday" from 5-8 p.m.  The spotlight artist on March 1 will be Robert Van Vranken. Learn more: http://www.BennettGalleries.com . (BG)

Second Friday -- The Arts Council of Williamson County's "Brown Bag Lunch Bunch", occurs from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in the main conference room of the Williamson County Public Library, 1314 Columbia Pike in Franklin, Tenn. "The Art of Origami" by Malachi Brown: March 8.  Details:  http://www.artscouncilwc.org . (ACWC)

First Saturday -- A host of galleries participate in Nashville's monthly "Art Crawl". The next "Art Crawl" is March 2.  Times vary.

Free Art Newsletter -- Subscribe to the national PleinAir Today newsletter for free: https://app.expressemailmarketing.com/Survey.aspx?SFID=101183 (PA)

***

MCAU Recommends:

Music City Arts Update provides information about career-changing opportunities for artist of all kinds. Basic mentions in the monthly newsletter are free (based on time and space availability). For-profit event postings are available on a fee basis. 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 .This newsletter is written and distributed by Chuck Whiting of Whiting Publicity & Promotions. Please note that all written materials in this newsletter are copyright 2013 (reprinted by permission only). Thank you!

'Sharing Blessings' in Independence, Va.

            INDEPENDENCE, Va. (December 2012) – Environmental songstress Joyce Rouse (a.k.a. Earth Mama) (right) greets (from left) Historic 1908 Foundation President Laura Bryant and Vice President Ken Winans during the "Share Our Blessings" celebration in Independence, Va.  The Nov. 17 event at the Historic 1908 Courthouse celebrated arts, culture and community with a children's art show, "Blessing of the Backpacks" presentation, bake sale, and raffle for four handcrafted quilts.  Event Coordinator Penny Halsey noted that the event raised enough funds to fill children's backpacks for several weeks. Earth Mama used the event to celebrate the release of her latest CD, "Blessings of the Universe".  Proceeds from the sale of CDs, quilts, baked goods, handmade hats, and other donated products helped Grayson Backpack Ministry provide nutritious meals and snacks to children. Rouse describes her new project as "inspirational songs for the foreground and background of your days". The vocal and piano-centered CD takes listeners on a soulful and lyrical journey of gratitude, reassurance, hope and wonder with heartfelt praises of God and all God's creation. Earth Mama has been delighting audiences of all ages with toe-tapping music and green-living tips for more than 10 years, “helping heal the planet one song at a time.”  For information about Earth Mama's "Blessings of the Universe" CD, call (276) 773-8529, send an e-mail message to Joyce@EarthMama.org, or visit http://www.EarthMama.org.

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Celebrating the Arts in Southwest Virginia

ABINGDON, Va. (December 2012) – Environmental songstress Joyce Rouse (AKA Earth Mama) (left) of Independence, Va., performs with (from left) harmonica player Richard Rouse, painter Kathye Mendes, and bassist/pottery artist David Hoffman during "Grayson County Day at Heartwood" on Nov. 16.  The collaborative arts concert at the Heartwood Artisan Center in Abingdon, Va., concluded the daylong event celebrating the release of Rouse's latest CD, "Blessings of the Universe.  Proceeds from the sale of CDs, handcrafted quilts, and other donated items benefited Grayson Backpack Ministry, a community outreach providing nutritious meals and snacks to children. Rouse describes her new project as "inspirational songs for the foreground and background of your days". The vocal and piano-centered CD takes listeners on a soulful and lyrical journey of gratitude, reassurance, hope and wonder with heartfelt praises of God and all God's creation. Earth Mama has been delighting audiences of all ages with toe-tapping music and green-living tips for more than 10 years, “helping heal the planet one song at a time.” For more information about Earth Mama or "Blessings of the Universe", call (276) 773-8529, send an e-mail message to Joyce@EarthMama.org, or visit http://www.EarthMama.org.

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