The WannaBeatles to Celebrate Nashville Beatles Day with Jan. 30 Performance

            NASHVILLE, Tenn. (January 2017) – The Grammy-nominated Nashville band The WannaBeatles will attempt to relive history on Jan. 30 (Monday) when they perform in the second floor lounge of Soulshine Pizza in Nashville to celebrate the 48th anniversary of The Beatles' legendary rooftop performance in London. 

            Like their idols, The WannaBeatles will take the stage at exactly 12 noon, performing songs The Beatles played live that day: "Get Back," "Don't Let Me Down," "I've Got A Feeling," "One After 909," and "Dig A Pony," as well as some of their other hits. Former Mayor Karl Dean and the Metro Council named Jan. 30 Nashville Beatles Day in 2009. 

          Admission to The WannaBeatles' "A Cold Day's Night" concert is free. Beatles fans can enjoy the concert inside the club. The Beatles' 42-minute show occurred at noon Jan. 30, 1969 on the fifth-floor roof of Apple Records' London headquarters. The performance has passed into history as the band's last live appearance. Nashville's premier oldies station, Hippie Radio, will co-sponsor the event with on-air personalities serving as hosts. Soulshine Pizza is located at 1907 Division St. near Music Row.

          The WannaBeatles earned a Grammy nomination for "Fab Fan Memories - The Beatles Bond," a CD that includes an interview with Ken Mansfield, U.S. manager of Apple Records, who was on the roof of the Apple building alongside The Beatles. 

          Fans can listen to The WannaBeatles coverage live on Hippie Radio at http://www.hippieradio945.com/events/rooftop-concert/. Members of the news media are welcome to cover the event.  For more information, contact Dennis Scott at (615) 300-4668 or dsmusic1@me.com. Learn more about the WannaBeatles at http://www.TheWannaBeatles.com.

 

Bryan Cumming to Celebrate New Jazz Album on Feb. 17 with Nashville Concert

            NASHVILLE, Tenn. (January 2017) -- Jazz-Americana artist Bryan Cumming will celebrate the release of his new album, "Come Out Swinging", with a concert and CD signing from 6-10 p.m. Feb. 17 (Friday) at World Music, 7069 U.S. Highway 70 S. in Bellevue. 

            Cumming will be joined on stage by drummer Adam Mormolstein, keyboardist Kelli Cox, and bassist John Vogt. Cumming's 10-song project celebrates the spirit of swing with a lively mix of traditional jazz classics and originals. Highlights include covers of standards written and/or performed by legendary artists such as Nat King Cole, Thelonious Monk, Duke Ellington, Dorothy Fields, Jimmy McHugh, and Irving Berlin.

            "I’ve always gravitated toward optimism, enthusiasm, energy, and music that conveys those qualities," said Cumming, who has performed with popular acts such as Al Jarreau, The Pointer Sisters, Al Hirt, K.T. Oslin, and The WannaBeatles. "Swing is a life-affirming tempo. It inspires motion, invites dancers to sway together, bounce, and enjoy the moment." 

            Among the covers is "Sunny Side of the Street", a standard recorded by Tommy Dorsey and The Sentimentalists in 1944. 

            Admission to the Bryan Cumming concert on Feb. 17 is free; complimentary hors d'oeuvres and beverages will be provided. For more information about Bryan Cumming and his new album, "Come Out Swinging", visit http://www.BryanCumming.com.

Jazz-Americana Artist Bryan Cumming Releases Preview Single for Upcoming Album 'Come Out Swinging'

            NASHVILLE, Tenn. (January 2017) -- Jazz-Americana artist Bryan Cumming has released a preview single for an upcoming album that pays tribute to the classic songs and legendary artists of the Silent Generation.

            The album's title track, "Come Out Swinging," swings to life with the sounds and lyrical images of the '30s, '40s and '50s. Cumming recorded the song at Java Jive Studio in Nashville with drummer Adam Mormolstein, pianist Kelli Cox, and bassist John Vogt. Jazz and Americana music fans can hear the song at https://soundcloud.com/bryan-cumming/come-out-swinging.

            "I wrote the song in 2008 to celebrate the timeless swing music from back in my daddy's day," said Cumming, who is launching his solo career after recording with popular acts such as Al Jarreau, Al Hirt, and The Pointer Sisters. "'Come Out Swinging' is presented as an imaginary epiphany, where the singer hears the phone ring and mysteriously hears the sounds of old swing tunes. He gets inspired and preaches the message 'it's time to play' to his listeners."

            Cumming's 10-song project, which will be released on Feb. 17, will celebrate the spirit of swing with a lively mix of traditional jazz classics and originals. Highlights will include covers of standards written and/or performed by legendary artists such as Nat King Cole, Thelonious Monk, Duke Ellington, Dorothy Fields, and Irving Berlin.

            Among the covers will be "Sunny Side of the Street," a standard recorded by Tommy Dorsey and The Sentimentalists in 1944.

Bryan Cumming (left) records "Come Out Swinging" with fellow artists (clockwise) pianist Kelli Cox, bassist John Vogt, and drummer Adam Mormolstein. (Photo by Ashley Green)

            According to music critic Chuck Davis, '"Come Out Swinging' is a fluent expression of a musical maturing... delivering swing-inspired original tunes for his father's generation and re-distributing 'that thing called swing' to the next generation."

            Cumming also is a member of the popular Beatles tribute band The WannaBeatles. The Nashville act received a Grammy nomination for its album "Fab Fan Memories" in 2011.

            The artist will celebrate the release of "Come Out Swinging" with a concert and CD signing at World Music in Nashville on Feb. 17.

            For more information about Bryan Cumming and his new single and upcoming album, "Come Out Swinging", visit http://www.BryanCumming.com or write the artist at Bryan@BryanCumming.com.

Washington Entertainment Connection Launches 'Thursday Night Rock'

            SILVER SPRING, Md. (June 2015) – The rock band Nexus will headline “Thursday Night Rock”, a new weekly concert debuting on June 4, 11, 18 and 25 (every Thursday) at the historic Fire Station 1 Restaurant and Brewing Co., 8131 Georgia Ave. in downtown Silver Spring, Md. 

             “Thursday Night Rock” is sponsored by Washington Entertainment Connection and Bigshot Records in partnership with Fire Station 1. WEC also represents the popular Nashville tribute band, The WannaBeatles, and is looking for new musical acts to represent across the Southeast region.

            If you happen to visit the Washington, D.C., area in June, Nexus will perform rock/pop classics and originals from 8-11 p.m. on June 4; 10 p.m.-1 a.m. on June 11; 10 p.m.-1 a.m. on June 18; and 8-11 p.m. on June 25. Admission is $10 at the door for individuals age 21 and over. For more information, call (301) 441-8899, Ext. 5 or visit www.NexusRockBand.com. Learn more about WEC by visiting www.WashingtonEntertainmentConnection.com.

Nexus performs at The Bethesda (Md.) Blues & Supper Club

            “This is a great opportunity to hear one of the D.C. area’s most successful rock bands,” said Nexus drummer/percussionist Brian Choper, who founded WEC and its affiliate Bigshot Records in 2003. “We eventually plan to spotlight other acts on our growing roster, as well as host showcases for emerging and professional artists.”   

            The six-member Nexus offers a high-energy mix of rock, pop, rap, reggae, blues funk, power ballads and grunge for nightclub venues, private parties, fundraisers, corporate events, concerts and festivals. WEC is an artist management, recording, video and booking firm based in Greenbelt, Md. Its Bigshot Records division signs, develops, records and books musical acts of all kinds. 

            Fire Station 1 Restaurant and Brewing Co. operates in a 101-year-old historic landmark that formerly housed Silver Spring’s National Guard Armory and first fire station. The venue offers a wide range of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, subs, wraps, burgers, entrees, pizzas and desserts. Music lovers can also enjoy a variety of beers, wines and mixed drinks. Fire Station 1 is located 3 miles north of Washington, D.C., across from the B&O Railroad Station and close to all Silver Spring Metro locations. 

Dancers 'Twist and Shout' for Sir Paul McCartney

            

     NASHVILLE, Tenn. (October 2014) – Dancers from the Belmont University Theatre and Dance Department "twist and shout" to a performance by The WannaBeatles during the "Welcome Back, Paul" party and Concert in downtown Nashville on Oct. 16. The dance troupe joined the Grammy-nominated Beatles tribute band and hundreds of fans for a festive celebration honoring Sir Paul McCartney at Rippy's Bar & Grill. The former Beatle performed later across the street at the Nashville Arena. Donations from The WannaBeatles' event benefited the W.O. Smith Community Music School in Nashville. Special guests on the show included singer/songwriter/educator Suzahn Fiering, who recently was presented the "Honored Friend Award" from Paul McCartney himself. For more information about The WannaBeatles, visit www.TheWannaBeatles.com. (Photo by Jessica Jackson)

The WannaBeatles to Stage 'Welcome Back, Paul' Party and Concert on Oct. 16

            NASHVILLE, Tenn. (September 2014) – The WannaBeatles have walked the Grammy Red Carpet, appeared on a national TV talk show, and performed for thousands of Beatles fans from coast to coast -- but they "still" haven't met their idol, Sir Paul McCartney.

             So with tongues firmly planted in their cheeks, the popular Beatles tribute act is offering Paul another chance to say “Hello, Goodbye” to them. This time band members will host a “Welcome Back, Paul” party and concert from 4-7 p.m. Oct. 16 (Thursday) at Rippy's Bar & Grill at 429 Broadway, just hours before McCartney’s own Nashville concert across the street at Bridgestone Arena. Fans of Paul (and “with a little luck” Paul himself) can enjoy the celebration under the tented top floor of the venue or at the corner of Broadway and Fourth Avenue below. Donations from the event will benefit the W.O. Smith Community Music School in Nashville.

The WannaBeatles

            "Paul’s people have been trying to set up a meeting with us for months," quipped band member and two-time Grammy winner Dennis Scott. “All kidding aside, it would be a dream-come-true to finally meet him."

            The band will serenade Paul with many of the songs the former Beatle made famous. Special guests on the show will include singer/songwriter/educator Suzahn Fiering. Fiering recently was presented the "Honored Friend Award" from Paul McCartney himself for her contributions to the Liverpool School for the Performing Arts. The band will make its grand entrance from the "Big Love Bus", which will circle around the street and pull up to the venue's entrance at 3:45 p.m. Radio stations Mix 92.9 and 96.3 Jack-FM will provide live coverage. Show attendees (and hopefully Sir Paul) will also be treated to a "big surprise" on the Arena steps.

            It will be the second time The WannaBeatles have honored The Beatles by performing on Rippy's Roof. On Jan. 30, 2009, the band delighted fans and onlookers (even the mayor) by commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Fab Four's legendary rooftop performance in London. The "Welcome Back, Paul" party and concert will get fans in the mood as they enter Bridgetone Arena to hear the McCartney himself.

            "Even a wave from Paul would be exciting,” noted band keyboardist Nathan Burbank. "The closest we’ve come yet to meeting him was at the Grammys and our own 'We Wanna Meet Paul' video."

            The WannaBeatles walked the Red Carpet in Hollywood in 2012 after receiving a Grammy nomination for their CD, "Fab Fan Memories – The Beatles Bond".  Knowing Paul would be in attendance, they mounted a month-long "We Wanna Meet Paul" campaign with an original tribute song that drew much media attention. Scott, Burbank, Cumming, and David Toledo’s seats inside The STAPLES Center were a stone’s throw away from Paul, but their brush with greatness was still just slightly beyond their reach.

Suzahn Fiering receives the
"Honored Friend Award from
Sir Paul McCartney.

            The band has reached new career heights since then, releasing a song and video honoring Betty White (who beat them out for a Grammy); recording their first album of original Beatlesque songs titled "We're Still Rockin'"; joining 19 fellow Beatles tribute bands from around the world for a 50th anniversary tribute video for the Fab Four's first hit, "From Me To You"; and appearing on the Fox News "Huckabee" show with host Mike Huckabee, who deemed them to be “the ultimate Beatles tribute band”. But no matter where they go, fans still ask the same question: “So, have you met Paul yet?”

            "Paul’s not getting any younger, and neither are we,” said group guitarist Bryan Cumming with a smile.  “I’d hate to see him miss his BIG chance to meet The WannaBeatles”.

            To which drummer David Toledo added, “We just want what every Beatles fan wants – to thank Paul for the music that changed our lives”.

            The WannaBeatles' "We Wanna Meet Paul" video has been viewed approximately 20,000 times. It features the band performing its Paul tribute song at various Nashville landmarks, including the Union Station Hotel.  Scenes include an "Abbey Road"-inspired stroll across a painted crosswalk and a fan-crazed chase after a London town car containing a cardboard cutout of Paul McCartney.

The "Big Love Bus"

            The lyrics to their upbeat tune humbly states “... to shake his hand is all we want to do. And say thanks to Sir Paul."

            "That may sound like a lot to ask," Scott added. "But when you’re a Beatles fan, anything is possible."

            To learn more about The WannaBeatles or the "Welcome Back, Paul" party and concert, visit www.TheWannaBeatles.com or send an e-mail message to Dennis@TheWannaBeatles.com. To view the video of the song, "We Wanna Meet Paul", visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddiHnVcdoLQ . To see The WannaBeatles appearance on "Huckabee", go to http://youtu.be/aZ99aDY-jDY . Follow the event at Twitter with the hashtag #welcomebackpaulparty.

The WannaBeatles to Perform on 'Huckabee' Show in New York on Feb. 1

     NASHVILLE - The WannaBeatles, the world’s only Grammy-nominated Beatles tribute band, will travel to New York City to make their national television debut when they appear on “ Huckabee” on Fox News Channel on Saturday, Feb. 1 at 8 p.m. ET. 

     The award-winning songwriters/musicians will help celebrate the highly anticipated and publicized 50th Anniversary of the Beatles first performance on American soil ("The Ed Sullivan Show") by playing a medley of Beatles classics as well as debuting their self-proclaimed Beatles fan anthem “Because They Were Fab.” Gov. Huckabee will sit in with The WannaBeatles on bass as the “Fifth WannaBeatle.”

     Straight from their first national television performance, the high energy musical tribute band will make their Big Apple debut, bringing their uniquely energetic live show of Beatles classics and their own original Beatle-esque songs to New York City’s famed The Cutting Room (44 E. 32nd St.). For tickets ($15 advance / $20 at door) click HERE or go to the venue's website at http://tickets.thecuttingroomnyc.com or call (212) 691-1900.

     The WannaBeatles, who use their multi-instrumental skills to recreate the sights and sounds associated with BeatleMania, will be headlining Nashville’s own gala celebration of the Beatles 50th Anniversary on Feb. 9 at Barlines in the new Omni Hotel in downtown Nashville. The special celebration is from 5 -9 p.m. and free and open to the public. The event is sponsored by Nashville’s own WHPY 94.5 (Hippie Radio). A live webcast of the concert begins at 7 p.m. CT on HippieRadio945.com. The WannaBeatles will recreate moments from "The Ed Sullivan Show" with their unique live-to-film sequence. Footage from "The Ed Sullivan Show" will be shown, and a menu consisting of Liverpool flavored dishes will be available.

     Hippie Radio has added "In '63", their nostalgic original song that depicts the times in which the Beatles got their start, to their playlist.

     In 2012, The WannaBeatles (Dennis Scott, David Toledo, Nathan Burbank, Bryan Cumming) were nominated for a Grammy (Spoken Word category) for their album "Fab Fan Memories - The Beatles Bond". Louise Harrison (George’s big sister) hosts over an hour of interviews and commentary in this unique forum of Beatles fans from across the globe. Featuring guest appearances by Janis Ian, Phil Keaggy, Nancy Lee Andrews, Melissa Manchester, Ken Mansfield, Alan Menken, Wesley Orbison, Bruce Spizer, Billy Swan and devoted fans.

     Learn more about The WannaBeatles at http://www.TheWannaBeatles.com .

The WannaBeatles Featured on 'From Me To You' Beatles Tribute Video

By Chuck Whiting

MCAU Editor

          NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The WannaBeatles of Nashville, Tenn., have joined forces with 19 fellow Beatles tribute bands from around the world to help create a "global relay video" of performances celebrating the 50^th anniversary of the release of the Fab Four's first hit, "From Me to You".

            The Grammy-nominated band (Nathan Burbank, Bryan Cumming, Dennis Scott, and David Toledo) holds the distinction of being one of only three U.S. acts to participate in the worldwide effort.

            Liverpool’s award-winning The Beatles Story attraction, in conjunction with the world-famous Cavern Club, has compiled a music video that features musicians from the United Kingdom, Hungary, Brazil, Japan, Slovakia, Switzerland, Canada, France, Spain, Australia, Israel, Argentina and the United States. Each band was asked to record part of the classic "From Me To You". The performances were later edited into a video collage lasting three minutes and 24 seconds. The video can be viewed at http://youtu.be/PowillF6CGA.

            Performances begin and end at Liverpool’s world-famous Cavern club, where the Beatles’ career began. The single "From Me To You", which was released in the United Kingdom on April 11, 1963 (May 27 in America), was co-written by Lennon and McCartney while the group was touring the UK with Helen Shapiro. Also appearing in the video are the New England acts All Together Now! and Union Jack.

            "The WannaBeatles and I are proud to represent Nashville and the USA in this worldwide celebration," said Scott, a singer and guitarist for the group. "The Beatles gave us 'From Me To You', and this global effort is a great way of saying thanks 'from us to them'."

            The "From Me To You" video is part of the official events program of "Liverpool Celebrates 50 Years of the Beatles". Various events through 2014 will celebrate key milestone dates in the history of the world's most famous band.

            The WannaBeatles, themselves, are no stranger to world recognition. They had the honor of walking the Grammy Red Carpet in 2012 for their spoken word album, “Fab Fan Memories – The Beatles Bond.” The Grammy-nominated recording featured Louise Harrison, George Harrison’s big sister. After losing the award to the invincible Betty White, the band decided to honor the star with a new song and video, "Oh Betty!" It features The WannaBeatles as a '60s-style singing quartet (with a little help from a sweet Betty White look-alike). That video is available for viewing at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_9TG-qwgKU.

            "It's no secret that the Beatles were influenced by the sounds coming out of Nashville," said Toledo, drummer/percussionist for the WannaBeatles. "We are so glad to live in a town whose songwriters and players are Beatles fans through and through."

            To find out more about the "From Me To You" world tribute to the Beatles video and The WannaBeatles, visit http://wwwTheWannaBeatles.com or send an e-mail inquiry to dsmusic1@me.com .

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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)

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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!

The WannaBeatles to Host 'Betty White 91st Birthday Bash'

By Chuck Whiting

MCAU Editor

           NASHVILLE, Tenn. (January 2013) – The popular Beatles tribute band The WannaBeatles will celebrate Betty White's 91st birthday with a special concert from 7-9 p.m. Jan. 17 (Thursday) at 3rd and Lindsley, 818 Third Ave. S. in downtown Nashville.

            The band will salute the star with a performance of their new song, "Oh Betty! (The Betty White Song)" and favorite Beatles classics from the 1960s. The audience also will enjoy performances by the golden-haired Betty White Dancers. Fans will sing "Happy Birthday" to Betty at 7:30 p.m.

            Fans are encouraged to videotape their own special "Betty Birthday Greeting" and let the world know why "I like Betty". The most creative video will win a lucky contestant a personalized autograph photo from Betty herself and a complimentary meal at Puckett's Grocery. To post a video message, visit https://www.facebook.com/thewannabeatles .

            "The WannaBeatles have a unique connection to Betty through our recent experience at the Grammys," said band member Dennis Scott. "'The Betty White Song' was a way for us to tell our story and have some fun with Betty. As the lyric goes, 'She's saucy, sexy, savvy, and sweet...', and we are only too glad to be part of the Betty bandwagon."

            Admission to the "Betty White 91st Birthday Bash" is $10 at the door.  Part of the proceeds will benefit the Nashville Humane Association (Betty loves animals). A special table will be set up to accept contributions and donated items for dogs, cats and other pets. The concert is being promoted by Hippie Radio 94.5-FM.

            The WannaBeatles walked the Grammy Red Carpet last year, but they lost to the invincible (beloved) Betty White. Not to be outdone, the band decided to honor the star with a new song and video. "Oh Betty!", which was released in September, features The WannaBeatles as a '60s-styled singing quartet and Evelyn Ford as a Betty White imposter.  The video is available for viewing at http://www.theWannaBeatles.com or at http://youtu.be/d_9TG-qwgKU .  The song is available at http://www.iTunes.com .

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