Chasing Music Dreams in Nashville

Last summer I was in Nashville in July and August.  This week I’m back, writing this blog from my hotel room in Music City.  I’ve only been here for 24 hours and already I’m reminded why so many music creators leave the only city they’ve ever called home to chase their dream here.

I practically just set my things down in the room after checking into the hotel yesterday before I was right back out the door to go see Kensie Coppin – a past guest from my weekly “Now Hear This Entertainment” podcast – perform.  After all, while some might ask, “For networking?” I say, yes, but what I feel in my heart in those moments is that we’re all in this together and should all be supporting one another.  That extends to business relationships becoming friendships, and so there is a genuine interest in what these folks are doing away from music too.

In the time that I was at the place where she performed, seven different songwriters sat onstage and played their music.  Here in Nashville, you always know that the audience will consist of fellow songwriters, tourists, and the wildcard that is people who you don’t know are in there that might be someone important in the music business.

I maintain that awareness too and was quite taken by the bartender’s kind personality and a smile that makes you feel like you’re seeing an old friend again.  Immediately I remembered – especially upon looking back over at the bar and seeing “singing along with who’s up onstage right now” – this server is probably in music too.  And, of course, a search of social media (helped by the name printed on the receipt) confirmed that.  That’s exactly what you want to do (making a strong first impression) since you never DO know who might be in someplace that turns out to be a music industry professional that could very likely want to get to know more about you and what you’re doing.

Of course, then, you need to have a strong Web presence – website, social media, music on the expected platforms – and that’s what I discovered when I went down the rabbit hole of this bartender.  But the best bio and videos and pictures don’t matter if the talent isn’t there.  So, while there is tremendous insight on the current NHTE episode as to what else you need to know and have, it’s a forgone conclusion that the voice (and the songwriting) has to be there.

I was also thrilled to be able to spend time last night with Kathryn Hoxie (“Kfhox”), another past NHTE guest, and hear about, like Kensie Coppin, the new music that she has coming out soon too.  We had some catching up to do as well, having last seen each other at a Summer NAMM Show here in Nashville.

Meanwhile, my calendar for the rest of the week – continuing around 75 minutes from now – is filled with lots more entries, as I “press the flesh” with so many other talented guys and gals who are all here giving it their all, in pursuit of their art that they have such great passion for.

This is all not to say that you can’t be working just as hard and thriving wherever you are.  It’s not limited to Music City, of course.  I’ve been fortunate to get connected with so many talented individuals in countless other cities.  And I admire their drive and determination to put their talents more fully on display.

Nonetheless, while this is a business trip, I’m grateful to get lots of pleasure from being together this week with so many committed music folks who are leaving it all on the stage, in the writers’ room, in the studio, and in their residence because of their great love for entertaining you.

I’ve been working with independent artists from around the U.S. for 18 years now and would love to talk with you about your music career.  Bring your challenges, questions, dilemmas, etc. to a private, one-on-one online video consultation and take advantage of all my years in the entertainment industry.  Book your confidential session with me now and let’s keep the fire lit for your pursuit of your art.