“Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.” — Judy Garland (I’m worn out, but totally satisfied. AmericanaFest was even better than in years past with outstanding performances by legends and emerging artists (and plenty of surprises). Friday night, my fellow MCAU writer and I saw a splendid show at the Analog featuring legendary pianist/songwriter Benmont Tench of the Heartbreakers (on Steinway), along with Michaela Anne, Abigail Rose, and Nicole Atkins (with surprise guest Chris Isaac). We soaked in (while sweating) amazing live music for 12 hours on Saturday (the final day). Highlights included the soulful McCrary Sisters at the Americana Gospel Brunch with surprise guest Sheryl Crow (City Winery), the bluegrass-accented Commonwealth of Kentucky Party (Basement West), the Texas swing band Eddie Slide and His Cowtown Dozen (Basement East), and sassy heartbreaker Ashley Monroe (Station Inn). As always, we struck up conversations with visitors from far and wide, which shows just how popular Americana music is (and how far this wonderful festival has come). I also ran into friend/songwriter Lisa Aschmann as always. Unlike the CMA Fest (which spotlights mainstream artists represented by the major labels), AmericanaFest is tried and true, down-in-the-gut originality by immensely talented musicians who have to be themselves. That authenticity (heart and soul) is what music fans like me are yearning for.) #ChuckWhiting #ChucksDiary #AmericanaFest #Music #MusicCityArts 9-21-26 Check out our coverage at https://musiccityartsupdate.blogspot.com/?m=0
MCAU staffers Chuck Whiting & Wil Comstock…
