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Presents
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Alan
Hartzell
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Alan Rhody
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Andrew
Duhon
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Andi
Zack
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Arlos
Smith
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Artie
Childs
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Arti Portilla
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Ashlee K
Thomas
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Bill Whyte
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Billy Joe
Shaver
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Blaine Larsen
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Bo
Porter
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Bo Roberts
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Bobby Keel
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Bob Ray
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Brent Burns
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Brent
Moyer
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Brett
Jones
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Brian Ashley Jones
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Brian
White
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Brittany
Grimes
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Buzz
Kiefer
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CJ Watson
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C.W. Colt
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Camille
Wallin
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Carl
Jackson
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Casey Kelly
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Leslie Ellis
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Cass Hunter
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Chris McCune
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Chris
Newbury
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Chris
Wallin
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Chuck
Howard
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Cliff
Collier
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Crystal
Shawanda
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Damien
Lamb
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David Chamberlain
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Dean
Dillon
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Donna Slater
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Donnie
Mills
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Doug Gill
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Dylan
Altman
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Eddie
Rhoades
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Elaine
Petty
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Freddy
Powers
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Leavin Brothers
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Gove
Scrivenor
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Grayson
Capps
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Greg Friia
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Hal
Newman
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Heino
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J.
Hawkins
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Janis
Carnes
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Jaron
Boyer
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Jeff
Gilkinson
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Jeff
Ruby
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Jerry
Powell
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Jerry
Salley
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Jim St James
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Jim Sales
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Joe Doyle
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Joe Sun
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John
Joiner
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John
Lott
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John Edd
Thompson
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Johnny Barbato
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Jonmark
Stone
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Kacey
Jones
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Kamuela Kahoano
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Karen E Reynolds
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Karen
Waldrup
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Karin Paparelli
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Karyn
Williams
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Kathryn
Scheldt
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Keith Glass
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Ken Johnson
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Kim
Carson
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Kyle
Brady
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Larry & Gale Book
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Larry Cordle
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Larry
Henley
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Larry T. Wilson
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Lisa
Christian
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Lisa
Dotolo
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Lisa Mills
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Lisa
Shaffer
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Lisa Zanghi
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Lynn
Langham
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M. Craige
McFerrin
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Mac
Walter
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Marc Alan
Barnette
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Mark
Sherill
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Matt Hogatt
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Matt Warren
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Melissa
Brethauer
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Mike
Diamond
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Moe
Monsarrat
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Nick Branch
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Ottar "Big Hand" Johansen
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Pat McCann
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Paul
Killough
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Pete Sallis
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RC O’Leary
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R.B. Stone
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Randall
Bramblett
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Red Lane
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Richard
Trest
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Rick
Carnes
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Ricky
Whitley
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Riley Weston
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Riley
Yielding
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Robert
Farley
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Robert
Wolf
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Rusty Budde
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Rusty Tabor
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Sam Morgan
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Sandra
Kaye
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Sandra
Laird
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Scotty
Emerick
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Scott Koehn
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Shawn
Bowling
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Shawna P
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Silva
Saxon, Jr.
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"Smokey
Joe" Peoples
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Sonny Throckmorton
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Spencer Bohren
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Stephen
Lee
Veal
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Steve Dean
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Steven and
Sandra
Youngblood
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Suzi
Ragsdale
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Tammy Vice
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Taylor
H.
Craven
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T-Bone
Montgomery
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Tisha
Simeral
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Tore
Anderson
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Travis
List
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Vic Saul
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Walt and Aimee Fletcher
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Wayne Carson
Thompson
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Webb Dalton
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Wes Loper
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Will Kimbrough
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Alan Hartzell has been performing in venues along the Alabama/Mississippi Gulf Coast and
Eastern Shore for more than a decade. Hartzell has performed in the LA Songwriters Festival, on
Knoxville’s Writers Block Radio Program, on the Nashville On-Stage Television Program and on
Alabama Public Television and has been a regular here at FBISF. Alan is the General Manager
and a stringed instrument tech at Pickers Paradise music store in Stapleton, AL, retailers of fine
Martin, Taylor and Weber instruments
Alan Rhody has been touring, recording, and writing memorable songs for the last four decades.
Alan has just released what he calls his "best work to date" - His brand new CD, "Led by Love"
(release date: Oct. 29, 2011). It features the great Sam Bush and Mike Henderson along with
young hot guitar/mandolin sensation, Guthrie Trapp. "Led by Love" is Alan's ninth album release.
He also did the artwork for the cover. Among the many who’ve recorded his songs are The Oak
Ridge Boys (#1 Country Classic, "I'll Be True To You"), Del McCoury (#1 Bluegrass, "Trainwreck
Of Emotion"), Lorrie Morgan (Career-breaking single "Trainwreck Of Emotion"), Ricky Van Shelton
(Career breaking single, "Wild-Eyed Dream"), Toby Keith ("Christmas To Christmas), Tanya
Tucker ("Christmas To Christmas"), Lee Greenwood ("Christmas To Christmas"). Plus: George
Jones, The Atlanta Rhythm Section, Kevin Welch and Kieran Kane. www.AlanRhody.com
Andrew Duhon The honesty in Andrew Duhon's songwriting is a result of the self-realization that
he has found through his writing. His music and performances reflect his personal perspective in a
very real way, and his voice leaves no gaps in the experience as he sings with a conviction all too
befitting of his raw, personal writings.http://andrewduhon.com
Andi Zack was born in Oliver, British Columbia, Canada, and made the move to Nashville in 2001
to pursue her love of songwriting. Her cuts include Danielle Peck's "Sucks To Be You", Larelyn
Carter's "One Good Man" (featured in the movie "Grilling Bobby Hicks"), Dawson Reigns "Wreck
Me", David Byrnes "Sweet Distraction", Jenny Gill's "Whiskey Words" and "Look Where Loving
You Landed Me" as well Josh Thompson's top twenty hit, "Beer On The Table", which was
featured in the Nintendo Wii game "Country Dance" released in the Summer of 2011.
Anthony Crawford and Savana Lee Crawford (together performing as Sugarcane Jane) yield
mystically sweet, organic harmonies which are distinctly their own. Whether singing original works
or putting their down-home sound on familiar classics Sugarcane Jane appeals to a wide
audience. Anthony has had cuts by Steve Winwood (Take It To The Final Hour, As I Walk),
Kenny Rogers, Lee Greenwood, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Billy Burnette, Lorrie Morgan (Soldier Of
Love), Brother Trouble (Heartbreak Road), The Derailers (The One Before Me), and Pegi Young
(Starting Over). www.sugarcanejane.com
Arlos Smith is a songwriter in Nashville. Smith's composition, "Mayberry," was recognized as
2004 country song of the year. Rascal Flatts' recording of the song resulted in country publisher
of the year honors for Malaco Music. Smith first won the SESAC top songwriter honor in 2000 for
his John Michael Montgomery hit, "Home to You."
Artie Childs You may wonder why Artie calls himself the Fireman, .it is because Artie went to
work for the Hoover Fire Department ln December of 1971 and retired In October of 2003. Artie
today is doing what he loves, playing and singing. Artie moved to Gulf Shores, Alabama in 1985,
Since then, Artie has played with Dennis Gossman, Brent Burns, Ken Smith, Alan Hartzell Larry
and Gale Book, Top Hat, Johnny Barbato, Zack Taylor, Cowboy Johnson, Donnie Mills and many
others. www.myspace.com/artiechilds
Arti Portilla came from Smiley, Texas (pop.454), and left there chasing after dreams. Many miles
and many, many songs later, Arti wound up in Nashville, Tennessee. Shortly after arriving he
wrote for Warner Brothers Music for five years. Later, sang lead vocals for a group called The
Capitals, ("A Little Ground in Texas" and "Bridge Over Broadway"). During this time, Arti has had
songs cut, "What Room Was the Holiday In" by Tim McGraw and "I'm Still Crazy About You" by Joe
Sun. www.myspace.com/artiportilla
Ashlee K Thomas was introduced to music began at the early age of four, when she began
studying violin in the Suzuki method. Though twelve years of violin gave Ashlee many fantastic
opportunities, such as playing with the Utah Symphony, Igor and Vesna Grupman, and Joseph
Silverstein, and receiving a music scholarship to college, picking up the guitar and singing is when
Ashlee truly found her musical voice. A lyricist by nature, Ashlee K Thomas’s words are
refreshingly honest and to the core. She quickly developed her own musical style of beautiful
melodies intertwined with daunting key changes. www.reverbnation.com/ashleekthomas
Bart Allmand
Bill Whyte has performed with, Jeff Dunham, Heywood Banks, Larry the Cable Guy, Crystal
Gayle, Little Big Town, Gary Morris and many others. "OFF THE WALL" is Bill’s first comedy CD
and was recorded "live" at the Bluebird Café in Nashville. His just released comedy song CD is
titled “Leave Em’ Laughing.For more information go to billwhytecomedy.com/
Billy Joe Shaver is a Texas country music singer and songwriter. His work came to the attention
of Waylon Jennings, who filled most of his album Honky Tonk Heroes with Shaver's songs. Other
artists, including Elvis Presley and Kris Kristofferson, began to record Shaver's music. Shaver's
1973 album Old Five and Dimers Like Me is a classic in the outlaw country genre. Billy Joe
Shaver's debut album was Old Five and Dimers Like Me (1973). Almost every song on the album
has become a classic (particularly the title track, as well as "I Been to Georgia On a Fast Train"
and "Willy The Wandering Gypsy and Me"), many being performed by other artists such as David
Allan Coe. When I Get My Wings (1976) included "Aint No God In Mexico" (also a hit for Waylon
Jennings). Gypsy Boy (1977) included "Honky Tonk Heroes" and You asked me to. Shaver also
wrote numerous songs for artists such as Patty Loveless and Willie Nelson. In 1999, Shaver was
invited to perform at the Grand Ole Opry. In November 2005, Billy Joe Shaver performed on the
CMT Outlaws 2005. In 2006, Shaver was inducted in the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame. For
his efforts, the Americana Music Convention awarded him their Lifetime Achievement Award in
Songwriting.
Blaine Larsen From the very first note of his new album, Not Too Bad, there's no doubt where
Blaine Larsen stands on making music -- his own kind of music. Each song is marked by an easy
confidence and a sound that is unapologetically country. With two studio projects already under
his belt at age 23, the Washington state native is now more focused than ever on making music
that will sound just as good in the decades to come as it does today. In short, Blaine is an artist
whose music will never go out of style.
http://www.cmt.com/artists/az/larsen_blaine
Bo Porter was nominated for Male Vocalist of the Year in the Texas Music Awards and was APRN
song of the year winner. His strong baritone has been compared with Marty Robbins, Faron
Young, Merle Haggard and even Johnny Cash. His latest album “Try Your Luck” is all Bo. No two
songs are alike, the only common thread is Bo wrote them all. You can download your favorite or
the whole album at www.cdbaby.com/cd/boporter3
www.boporter.com
Bo Roberts was born in Chester, Arkansas. At the age of eleven he met Buddy Holly and
promptly went off to buy a guitar. His first paying job was with John Fogerty. For three years he
was the lead guitar and band leader for Hank Williams, Jr. He also played lead guitar for Gene
Watson. Roberts has written songs for Gene Watson, among them the #1 hit, “You’re Out Doing
What I’m Here Doing Without.” He also wrote the song, “Ten With A Two,” for Willie Nelson. He
has had songs cut by Rose Maddox, Stoney Edwards and several others.
Bobby Keel has received 14 Gold and 12 Platinum from the R.I.A.A for songs recorded by artists
Hank Willliams Jr., David Allan Coe, Confederate Railroad, Travis Tritt, Merle Haggard, Willie
Nelson, Freddie Powers, Albert King, The Carter Family, Johnny Rodriguez, Moe Bandy and Joe
Stampley, Tammy Wynette, McGuffy Lane, and Tom Jones. Among his hits are: “Whiskey on Ice”
recorded by Hank Jr., Travis Tritt and Confederate Railroad, “Time Off for Bad Behavior”
recorded by David Allan Coe, Confederate Railroad and Mark Chestnut, “Daddy’s Honky Tonk”
recorded by Moe Bandy and Joe Stampley, “Bein’ Gone” recorded by Tammy Wynette, ‘Where’s
the Love We Made” recorded by Tom Jones, “If You Got It” by Albert King, “Yankee Don’t Go
Home” by the Carter Family and The Forester Sisters. Known as “The Songwriter’s Songwriter”
Bobby has been nominated for inclusion in the Songwriters Hall of Fame!
Bob Ray is an award winning singer-songwriter from Pontotoc, MS. He has been writing and
performing for more than 25 years. He has won awards from the Woody Guthrie Folk Festival-
Songwriter's Festival, the Acoustic Roundtable, the American Song Festival and the Music City
Song Festival. Bob is a current member of the Mississippi Art Commission's Touring Artist
Roster. He has shared concert, club and festival stages with performing songwriters such as
Marty Stuart, Keith Sykes, Tracey Nelson, Paul Thorn and Walter Hyatt, among many others. He
currently serves as the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) workshop
coordinator in Northeast Mississippi www.myspace.com/bobrayinfo
Brent Burns is no stranger to musical notoriety. In response to the oil shortages of the 1970's
and 80's, Brent wrote the hit song, "Cheaper Crude or No More Food." The song sold 200,000
copies the day it was released. The song climbed the Billboard charts after radio commentator
Paul Harvey played th song three times. It was the first and only song ever played in Harvey's
nearly 50 years of radio broadcasting. Brent was also featured on the front page of the Sunday
New York Times Entertainment section.
www.brentburns.com
Brent Moyer has delved deep into the heart of the musical experience all of his life, and he
masterfully shares that experience with his audience. He has shared the stage with many
legendary performers, including Willie Nelson and Carl Perkins and was Lynn Anderson’s guitar
player for several years As a solo artist, he continues to amaze his fans with his virtuosity on
guitar and trumpet and his diverse blend of musical styles ranging from Tex-Mex to country, Cajun
to jazz. Brent is a true craftsman, songsmith, and entertainer—that’s what he does.
http//brentmoyer.com
Brett Jones’ first hit in the U.S. country market was his 1993 top 20, Confederate Railroad’s
“When and Where.” Since then he has had over 100 major recordings and 14 top 10 records,
including 7 # 1’s. His most recent hits have been Billy Currington’s “That’s How Country Boys
Roll”, Jason Aldean’s “Crazytown” and Justin Moore’s #1 single, “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away”.
He recently achieved rare status in country music songwriting by having #1 records in each of the
past 3 decades.
Brian Ashley Jones is a soulful singer, accomplished guitarist, solid bassist, and versatile
Americana songwriter whose compositions have been placed in film and television and recorded
by a variety of other performing artists. Jones' songs find influence in the guitar-driven country,
blues and bluegrass that he absorbed in his hometown, Spartanburg, South Carolina. Based in
Nashville, Tennessee, Brian performs internationally at festivals and concert series and leads
seminars for music education programs, music business conferences, and NSAI chapters around
the USA. www.brianashleyjones.com
Brian White began playing the guitar in his teens and played in a Christian pop/rock band in
college. By the late 80’s he had established himself as a premier songwriter with the Benson
Music Group, now known as Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing. He has written for such artists
as Avalon, 4 Him, Point of Grace, Brian Littrell, Selah, The Crabb Family, All Star United,Greg
Long, Larnelle Harris, Jaci Velasquez, Cliff Richard, Judy Martin Hess and many others. His writing
has earned him 11 #1 songs, as well as two Dove Awards. After 5 albums and 14 years on the
road touring, Brian decided to spend more time writing and ministering on a local level. He
currently records and tours as a solo artist and has recently expanded his writing into the Country
market. He has written songs for Trace Adkins, Neal McCoy, Rodney Atkins and BlackHawk. His
hit songs include “The Promise” and “Watching You.” www.brianwhitesongwriter.com
Brittany Grimes is a local gulf coast singer/songwriter who is quickly gaining attention both here
and in Nashville. She is as unique as her songs, written for the young & old alike. Brittany recently
was chosen for the 2011 Bayfest Music Scholarship. She hopes to give back all the support she
has been given from family, friends, & fans- 1 song at a time.
Buzz Kiefer Dubbed “the thinking man’s party animal” by the Music Association of Knoxville,
Kiefer lives up to his reputation with abandon, connecting to his audience with stories and a sense
of joy and irreverence. Kiefer taught songwriting for the University of Tennessee, NSAI,
Renaissance Center and more and wrote and produced jingles and songs for ad agencies and
Nashville publishing companies. Kiefer’s band, Buzz Maintenance, is a Nashville favorite.
http://www.myspace.com/buzzkiefer
CJ Watson received an award for being the first performer ever to receive a standing ovation at
Hobo Joe’s Songwriter Café in Nashville. He is also the author of several books, including The
Everything Songwriting Book (copyright 2003, Adams Media). CJ was the singer and lead
guitarist for the first rock band to tour China. His songs range from blues to western swing,
country and a little bit of everything else—most with a healthy dose of humor. If you get a chance
to see him live, expect to laugh a lot, cry a little, think a bit and have a really good time.
http://www.myspace.com/therealcjwatson
C.W. Colt was 10 years old Chet Atkins taught him his first guitar chords and he started his own
band in San Antonio Texas. At 25 C.W. recorded "America The Beautiful" at Marty Robbins
studio in Nashville and put together 'The America the Beautiful" show. C.W. has worked with
Jimmy Buffet, Alvin Lee, Bo Diddley Edgar Winters, Rita Coolidge, Bill Champlin, and Ronnie
Hawkins. He recorded "The Cowboys Lullaby" with Patsy Montana and toured with her for 2
years. C.W. had the pleasure of performing shows with Chet Atkins, Waylon Jennings, Jon
Conley, Roy Clark, Doug Kershaw and worked for Narada Michael Walden. . www.cwcolt.com
Camille Wallin is renown in the Nashville area and sets her apart from most any other
artist/songwriter in her league. She is most noted for being an accomplished bass guitar player
but also plays several other instruments with great finesse. She sings with a country blues style
that electrifies and captivates audiences. Camille has been the opening act for numerous smash
hit artists and musical groups including George Jones, John Anderson, Mark Chestnut, Darryl
Singletary, Confederate Railroad, Johnny Paycheck, and Rock and Roll and Blues artists
including Black Oak Arkansas, Georgia Satellites, Dr. Hook, Humble Pie, the Byrds and Foghat.
Some of Camille’s writing partners include Darrell Burgess, Lisa Carver, Bobby Pinson, CJ Watson
and her husband, Chris Wallin.
Carl Jackson Multiple Grammy Award winner, Carl Jackson, was born in the small town of
Louisville, Mississippi on September 18, 1953. By the time he was eight years old, he was already
well on his way to being an accomplished musician. At age 14, after playing backstage at a local
concert for Jim and Jesse McReynolds, he was asked to be a Virginia boy by the bluegrass greats
and soon found himself on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry. He played banjo for Jim & Jesse for
almost five years before joining The Sullivan Family for a short time as a guitarist.
http://carljackson.net
Casey Kelly’s performing and songwriting career spans 3 decades. Kelly’s years of playing with
artists such as The Neville Brothers, America, the Beach Boys, BB King, Boz Scaggs, and Loggins
& Messina gave him the forum to hone his skills as a singer and guitarist and songwriter.
A two-time Grammy®-nominated songwriter for “Soon” (Tanya Tucker) & “Anyone Who Isn't
Me Tonight” (Kenny Rogers/Dottie West) Kelly has had a successful hit-songwriting career.
Some of his other hits include: “That Road Not Taken” (Joe Diffie), “Somewhere Down the Line”
and “Cowboy Rides Away” (George Strait).www.caseykelly.net
Grammy® Award winning vocalist Leslie Ellis teamed up with Kelly 7 years ago when she
moved to Nashville. Leslie has sung with many artists including Celine Dion (“My Heart will Go
On”) and Thomas Dolby. www.leslieellis.com
Cass Hunter is a singer/songwriter who has performed professionally since 1991.
Highlights include the 101st Airborne's "Enduring Freedom Concert" concert in June,
2002 - duet with Colte Bradley and finale' with George Jones, LeRoy Parnell & The
Whites, eight "Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree" performances, opening for Marty Stuart at a
private event in July, 2003, and performing at Country Fest in Cadott, WI, June, 2007.
www.facebook.com/cassmusic
Charlie Day
Chris Blair is the owner of The Listening Room Cafe, but there is a songwriting side to him that is
really his passion. He moved to Nashville in July of 2003 to pursue an artist deal. Originally from
St. Louis, MO, he spent his life since the age of six performing across the US and Europe. After a
couple years in Nashville, he found a new love for songwriting. "It's something about working with
the emotion and the lyric and trying to focus on chasing that perfect word to say what I want to
say." Chris is a member of BMI and NSAI and looks forward to taking his songwriting, along with
The Listening Room Cafe, to high places.
Chris McCune When it comes to Chris' pickin style, you'll see his own special effects as his
fingers skate across any stringed instrument. He is without a doubt, a folk troubadour. His CD's
are recorded with the intention of giving you the sound that you hear when Chris is playing in the
room. No fancy effects for this guy, he's straight off the box. www.chrismccune.com
Chris Newbury
www.myspace.com/chrisnewburymusic
Chris Wallin is noted for his number one single six weeks running with the Kenny Chesney,
Academy of Country Music nominated song of the year, ”Don’t Blink”. In a twist of songwriting
history “Don’t Blink” became number one when it flipped number one spots with Toby Keith’s
“Love me If You Can” also written by Chris. In recent years, he has written hit singles in the top-
five including Trace Adkins “I’m Trying”, Montgomery Gentry “SPEED” and Montgomery Gentry’s
number one hit “Something To Be Proud Of”. Other songs Chris has written that have enjoyed top
40 status include Brian McComas’ “You’re In My Head”, “What Brothers Do” by Confederate
Railroad and “John J. Blanchard” by Anthony Smith. Other artists who have cut Chris’s songs
include Keith Anderson, Sammy Kershaw, Tommy Shane Steiner, Jeffrey Steele, Neil McCoy, Brad
Paisley, Diamond Rio and others.
Chuck Howard spent most of his life down in the south, from Texas to Louisiana and Tennessee
and now resides in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Chuck has been writing songs for a long time, however,
raising his family was the priority for years. Now that the children are grown and doing well Chuck
decided to do what he really loves, make music. His new self titled CD is available on Itunes.
www.chuckhoward.net www.reverbnation.com/main/music_artists#!/chuckhoward
Cliff Collier Singer/songwriter from Lillian Alabama, Cliff got serious about writing in 2006. His
writing reflects many styles of country music. His first CD “Pedal Pushers” featured John Joiner
on lead guitar. He has performed from Luckenbach, Texas to Flatrock North Carolina. He has
shared the stage with Sonny Throckmorton, Jim Pasquale, Billy Jones and Guthrie Trapp. He
hosts local open mic nights and is writing more than ever
Crystal Shawanda was born in Wikwemikong, Ontario, Canada and is a Canadian country music
artist. CMT documented her rise to fame in the six-part series Crystal: Living the Dream, which
aired in February 2008. Signed to RCA Records in 2007, she released her debut single, "You
Can Let Go," in Canada in January 2008. It was the fastest climbing single on the Canadian
Country Singles Chart since Carolyn Dawn Johnson's "Georgia" in 2000, reaching the Top 10 in 5
weeks. It was released in the United States on March 17, 2008. http://crystalshawanda.co
Damien Lamb With musical roots in the 1960s Greenwich Village Folk Scene, Damien tells
stories of life and love lost and found with poignant lyrics and memorable vocals. A national
traveling troubadour, he has three cds to his credit – “Life Is A Lot Like A Song” (2003), “Just
Passing Through” with Zack Taylor (2008) and “Live At The Silver Moon” with Pale Moon Rising
(2009). www.myspace.com/DamienLamb
David Chamberlain has written for some of the world's largest publishing companies including
Tree International (owned by Sony), world renown Acuff Rose Publishing, and Killen Music. He
has had numerous number one hits recorded over the years and his credits include an ASCAP
Song of the Year Award, and a Disney cartoon created for his song, “Am I Blue.” His songs have
been recorded by such artists as George Strait, Gene Watson, Conway Twitty, Tanya Tucker,
Johnny Paycheck, Keith Whitley, Dottie West, Donna Fargo, Tammy Wynette, Billie Jo Spears,
Sammi Smith, Larry Boone, Margo Smith and Barbara Fairchild to mention a few…
www.davidchamberlainsongs.com
Dean Dillon, Between 1979-1983, as an artist Dillon charted eight times, and broke the Top 30
with "I'm into the Bottle (To Get You Out of My Mind)." He also wrote hits for other country stars,
like the 1983 George Jones hit "Tennessee Whiskey." These successes established Dillon as a
performer and songwriter. He had considerable success with George Strait, who took five of his
songs to the charts between 1981-1988. Dillon's songwriting career thrived for the rest of the
1990s, as he continued to work with Strait and newer faces like Kenny Chesney, Toby Keith and
Lee Ann Womack. In 2002, he was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame (along
with Bob Dylan and Shel Silverstein). At present, Dean is still cranking out the hits and just this
year recorded a duet with his friend and hero George Strait. "West Texas Town" co-written with
the fabulous Robert Earl Keen can be found on Strait's "TROUBADOR" album. To date Dillon has
had over Fifty songs recorded by King George alone. www.deandillon.com
Donna Slater has always been drawn to the written word and what better place to find inspiration
than the rich experiences gleaned from the Flora-Bama Lounge in her years spent there as a
performing musician, both as a solo artist and as co-founder of the popular Gulf Coast group
Jezebel’s Chill’n www.myspace.com/donnaslatermusic
Donnie Mills has played guitar and sang since the age of nine, and has allowed time to perfect
his style of guitar playing and enrich his smooth vocals into what is heard now all around the U.S..
Listeners old and new are captivated by the way that Donnie takes a song and makes it his own
with heartfelt delivery and with the sheer joy of being able to live his dreams through the music he
plays. http://donniemills.com
Doug Gill has been in and around the music city for twenty some-odd years, played everywhere,
met everybody, ate in every smoozy buffet line at every industry bootlicking party he could find,
and always drank on someone else's tab., Gill has had songs recorded by a long and
distinguished list of artists from Chris LeDoux to Wynonna.
www.myspace.com/douggill
Dylan Altman Hailing from New Jersey, this singer-songwriter-musician is a graduate of Boston's
Berklee College of Music. Initially influenced by his jazz musician father, he picked up the guitar at
age 13 and quickly developed a passion for music. Influences ranging from The Beatles, Stevie
Wonder, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Marvin Gaye, Lowell George and Bruce Springsteen can be heard
in his melodic songs, soulful grooves, and fiery guitar playing. These qualities shine through in his
live performances, having opened for Edwin McCain, the Fabulous Thunderbirds, The Radiators
and Will Hoge. Look for Dylan's number one hit song, "Watch The Wind Blow By," on the Tim
McGraw album entitled "Tim McGraw And The Dancehall Doctors"and "Baby I'm Home", on Trace
Adkins album entitled "Songs About Me". Dylan resides with his family in Nashville.
www.myspace.com/dylanaltman
Eddie Rhoades is a writer of songs that run the gamut of genres, magical mystical songs that he
believes in. Eddie loves to write story songs that have a beginning, a middle and an end. These
songs and more are designed to bring out the full range of emotions. They make people want to
jump up and dance one minute, laugh the next and maybe even get teary-eyed at a poignant
tune. .www.myspace.com/eddierhoades
Elaine Petty may have her roots in country music, but when she belts out tunes in her raspy, alto
voice, she is often compared to Janis Joplin or Melissa Etheridge. That’s okay with her because
she does renditions of both the artists’ tunes and considers it quite a compliment! On the other
hand, when she writes her own tunes, Loretta Lynn or Dolly Parton might come to mind as she
writes a lot from personal experience and even takes you back to her childhood with such tunes
as “Nannies’ House,” a crowd favorite, or “Little Country Town,” from her childhood days with her
beloved grandparents. She has a lot of Rock-a-Billy in her soul also and goes there with “Nothin’
Rocked Me Like You Do.” www.myspace.com/elainepetty
Freddy Powers was inducted into the "Texas Heritage Songwriters Hall of Fame" March 12th,
2006. He received the "Lifetime Achievement Award" from the Texas Guitar Association May 20,
2006. For several years, Freddy toured as opening act for Merle Haggard and is presently
touring with Haggard as a featured artist.Freddy has written songs for Merle Haggard, Ray
Charles, George Jones, Janie Fricke and more. He holds many BMI & CMA Awards including
CMA's Triple Play Award for writing three #1 songs in one year. freddypowers.com
Evans and Charles Davis moved to Nashville back in the mid 90's to pursue their writing
careers. It was not long until they were the front men for a well known rocking' country band
known as the Leavin Brothers. A six piece harmony driven band that invaded Music City with what
the industry leaders landmarked as the start of Nashville's rocking' country that everyone had felt
was long overdue. With production and publishing deals with Javelina Records and HoriPro
Entertainment, they finally got a chance to put their live music to tape and produced 2 albums with
moderate success. Along with their hand-picked band they opened and performed with such acts
as Blake Shelton, Montgomery Gentry, Keith Urban and Clay Walker.
Gove Scrivenor When looking for expressive and uncommon sounds, Dolly Parton, Neil Young,
Dan Seals, Hank Williams, Jr., Iris Dement and Glen Campbell all turned to the evocative sound of
Gove Scrivenor's autoharp. Goves music has been described as "high energy folk blues," with
inventive slide work and powerful vocals, tempered with singular work on the autoharp and
beautiful ballads of his own writing. He's well known for his magical rapport with audiences of all
ages. www.myspace.com/govescrivenor
Grayson Capps first discovered music in Alabama where he was born and raised. His father and
friends would sit around the house getting drunk, telling stories and strumming acoustic guitars.
They’d run down songs by Hank Williams, Tom T. Hall, Glenn Campbell and Woodie Guthrie to
name but a few. The idealism of those “Cannery Row” experiences would come to define his
outlook on the world. Heading off to Tulane University as a theater major on scholarship, Grayson
also took up playing music. He’d form two bands that would have moderate national success—
The House Levelers and Stavin’ Chain— receiving acclaim in publications like Spin and USA
Today and opening shows for Keith Richards, The Replacements and Crowded House. After
graduating college, he took to squatting with friends in a string of abandoned houses on the
outskirts of the Big Easy, stealing electricity, growing a garden and busking for whatever money
was needed. Grayson recounts those times on a number of songs off his debut album, If You
Knew My Mind. One of those memories even finds its way onto Rott ‘N’ Roll in the form of “Ike.”
Greg Friia has an impressive list of collaborators including Kris Bergsnes, Bill Champlin, Robbie
Nevil, Oliver Leiber, George Noriega & Felix Cavaliere. Greg has had songs recorded by Richie
McDonald, Brady Seals, Kristen McNamara, LoCash Cowboys, Courtney Dickinson, Dave Bradley
& Brad Lee Schroeder to name a few. Greg performs regularly with fellow songwriters Pete Sallis
("Once" - Ronnie Dunn, ’Somebody Wrote Love’ - George Canyon - CCMA ‘Single Of The Year’
2007), Jessica Rae, and Glen Mitchell (‘Livin Our Love Song - Jason Michael Carroll) and is proud
to be a regular “Guest Pro-Writer” at NSAI regional workshops. www.gregfriia.com
Hal Newman Nashville songwriters Hal and Rachel Newman moved to Tennessee in 1980 to
work in the music industry. Rachel Newman wrote a song that landed on Shania Twain’s first
album. Hal Newman, who now teaches songwriting for the recording industry at Middle
Tennessee University, had a cut on an album by country music artist George Strait. Hal Newman
also sings and plays the piano for his band and was a teacher and choral director at Mobile’s
Davidson High School from 1976 to 1980. www.myspace.com/halnewmanandthemysticsoftime
Heino claims to be from the South - South California, that is. He started writing at the ripe old age
of seven on his trusty red accordion and recording his little symphonies on his dad's two-track
recorder. Upon reaching high school, it didn't take him long to figure out that the girls were not so
interested in accordian players. So, he talked his parents into buying him a guitar and a piano
and he's been singing and playing ever since. And the girls... well, let's just say that they never
quite got over the whole accordian thing. Over the years he's played in bands, scored
commercials, short films, theatrical productions, bachelorette parties and any other place that
would have him. These days you can catch him around Nashville playing at various clubs, either
on his own or with a full band. paying attention to other things. He just can't help himself. It's a
sickness, really. http://www.myspace.com/iknowheino
J. Hawkins a Kentucky native, now calls Pensacola, FL home. J. has performed in a variety of
clubs and honky tonks along the Gulf Coast. As a frequent performer at the Flora-Bama Lounge,
J. has become a well known and much respected country music entertainer. He has opened for
such well known acts as Tom T. Hall, John Hartford, John Prine, David Alan Coe and the Marshall
Tucker Band. He currently has four albums to his credit.
Janis Carnes had her first top-ten song, After Hours, recorded by Joe Stampley in 1978. Shortly
thereafter, Janis sang a duet with Moe Bandy which garnered the attention of RCA Records,
where in 1980 she signed her first recording contract. A year later, joined by husband Rick, she
was signed by Jimmy Bowen to Elektra Asylum Records and they began a four-year recording
career, following Bowen to Warner Bros. and then to MCA Records. Their biggest release was the
self-penned Does He Ever Mention My Name. Janis, along with Rick and Chip Harding, co-wrote
three top ten singles by the whites; You Put the Blue In Me, Hangin’ Around and Pins And
Needles. She also had numerous album cuts by Reba McEntire and Eddy Raven, Lacy J. Dalton,
the Kendalls, Karen Brooks, J.C. Jones, Steve Wariner and others. Recently Rick and Janis had
the title track and first single on ALABAMA’s 2000 RCA release, When It All Goes South.
Jaron Boyer Growing up in a large family in Ardmore, OK, Though always musically inclined, it
wasn’t until Boyer was 19 and started singing in church that the singer/songwriter contemplated
music as a career. Boyer decided to make a visit to Music City where he feel in love with the city
and the music being made and soon became a permanent resident. Signed to a publishing Bug
Music /Sony BMG, Boyer is now writing songs with a plethora of established Music City writers and
has a cut, “I Ain’t Ready To Quit,” on Jason Aldean’s My Kind Of Party album.
www.myspace.com/jaronboyer
Jeff Gilkinson Jeff writes songs, sings and plays 5-string cello and acoustic guitar, his
songwriting style is notably unique, as is his approach to performing vocals and cello
simultaneously.www.myspace.com/jeffgilkinson
Jeff Ruby grew up in rural Indiana influenced by his oldest brother's music he was given at a
young age consisting of a lot of 60's British rock and other artists from that era. Ruby also took an
interest in 90's music. He studied business in college at Indiana University with a strong interest in
investing, but Ruby's love for writing and performance has led him to Nashville, Tennessee after
getting his start while living in Orange Beach, Alabama. He's just released his second album,
Fortune's Fool. Ruby's currently playing shows from New York to New Orleans to support the new
effort and is looking forward to writing and recording the next project.
Jeremy Dean
Jerry Powell is a veteran songwriter, guitarist and singer who spent years on the road and
locally with various bands such as Carnival, The Dalton Boys, and The Cleverlys! His
songwriting style includes R&B, Country, Gospel, Rock, and Comedy, and his songs have enjoyed
chart success in all those fields. His guitar style has been utilized in hundreds of recording
sessions, and as a player and producer his work has been released by several major record
labels such as Capitol/EMI, and CBS/Epic Records.
Jerry Salley The 2003 SESAC Country Music Songwriter of the Year, Jerry Salley, is originally
from Chillicothe, Ohio, and has been singing and writing in Nashville since 1982. To date, he has
had over 300 songs recorded in his career, including the Reba McEntire smash hit, “I’m Gonna
Take That Mountain.” Other hits include “Breaking New Ground” (Wildrose/Universal Records), “I
Fell in the Water” (John Anderson/BNA Records), “How Do You Sleep At Night” (Wade
Hayes/DCK/Columbia Records), and ten top twenty gospel songs. He has had songs recorded by
Toby Keith, Patty Loveless, Brad Paisley, Joe Nichols, Darryl Worley, Travis Tritt, The Whites,
Loretta Lynn and many others. He is a six time Dove Award nominee, having won a prestigious
Dove for the 1990 Inspirational Song of the Year, “His Strength Is Perfect,” recorded by and co-
written with Steven Curtis Chapman. http://www.jerrysalley.com
Jim St.James has performed all over the world with his heart felt and honest original
compositions. He has been featured on numerous radio and independent cable programs and he
is a regular performer at several different venues each month in Nashville. Dubbed a confessional
songwriter by the critics, Jim’s music reflects his experiences through life on a universal basis that
is easy to relate to. www.jimstjames.com
Jim Sales was first introduced to the guitar as a toddler watching his Grandmother play
hymns. His Dad showed him his first three chords at the age of 10. Since then music has
been his passion. After leaving the Army, Jim decided to devote his life to music. As a
result, he moved to Nashville and took a job as guitarist for country legend, Vern Gosdin. The two
of them wrote Jim's first hit song, "I Wonder Where We'd Be Tonight." It was a Top 10 Billboard hit
for Gosdin. Jim also scored several cuts by various artists including a quad-platinum CMA Album
of the Year cut by Randy Travis entitled, "Tonight We're Gonna Tear Down The Walls." He went
on to have releases by John Schneider, The Goldens, Pinkard and Bowden and a host of others.
myspace.com/jimsales
Joe Doyle songs were recorded by the likes of Reba McEntire, Joe Diffie, Dan Seals, Daryle
Singletary, Linda Davis, Martina McBride, Deryl Dodd and numerous others, including the #1
single “In Pictures” for Alabama and the top ten single “She Said Yes” for Rhett Akins. Joe’s
second decade in Nashville as a staff songwriter has included stints with Acuff-Rose, Murrah
Music and Amylase Entertainment and Warner Chappell Music. With additional artists covering his
songs such as Kenny Rogers, Jason Aldean, Tim McGraw, Luke Bryan, Blaine Larsen and most
recently Mallary Hope’s single “Blossom in the Dust” for Universal Records. Joe signed with Dan
Hodges Music June 1, 2010 as a staff writer. www.myspace.com/joedoylesongs
Joe Sun has been on the road playing music for 30 years. His music has taken him to
audiences all over the United States, Canada and Europe. He is just as at home playing with top
studio musicians and house bands on the road, as he is playing with duo picking partner Brent
Moyer or solo in coffee houses and listening rooms. His stories and songs reflect the life and
times of a troubadour on the road who has crossed paths and played shows with such diversified
acts as Johnny Cash, David Allen Coe, Billy Joe Shaver, Ozark Mountain Daredevils, George
Jones, The Oakridge Boys, Johnny Paycheck, The Everly Brothers, and Jerry Lee Lewis to name
a few. Joe continues to live in Nashville, writing and producing music, booking and performing
music on the road, and designing graphic projects. www.myspace.com/joesunandtheallstars
John Joiner has a long and storied career as a Singer-Songwriter, Session Musician and
Performer. He has writer credits on songs recorded by Shenandoah, Wynona and Mark Collie to
name a few. A prolific songwriter, John has written with such notables as Mickey Newberry, Hank
Cochran, Sonny Throckmorton and Bruce Channell. Known for his crisp guitar licks, he has
shared the stage with Elvin Bishop, Doc Watson, Rodney Crowell, Steppin Wolf and Hank Jr. as
well as gigs doing session work in Muscle Shoals, Nashville, Los Angeles and Hollywood.
www.Docktrashband.com
John Lott is a singer/songwriter of a new yet old genre of music.
Americana,soul,country,and folk all combined in a heart driven soulful voice of a true trubador.
www.myspace.com/johnlottlive
John Edd Thompson Through teen years and into adulthood John Edd sang in rock and roll
and country bands along the gulf coast. He was a TV weatherman in Mobile, Al. but is now retired.
He has been writing songs since childhood. John Edd has released a CD entitled "Love Can
Grow". Fourteen of the 16 songs are co-writes. His co writers are Jerry Powell, Keith Glass, Larry
W. Johnson, Tammy Vice and Hal Newman. He has had cuts by Jeanne Pruitt, Susan Hudson,
Tammy Vice, Donnie Mills and Jerry Powell. www.lovecangrow.com
Johnny Barbato Raised in Louisiana, he was weaned on Cajun Boogie and those roots still run
deep in his vocal style and songwriting. Johnny moved to Alabama in the mid-70's and today is a
successful regional favorite with his band, "Lucky Doggs".
http://www.myspace.com/johnnybarbatoamptheluckydoggs
Jonmark Stone was born a Texan, raised a Virginian, and calls Tennessee home.
A guitarist since the age of 8, performing professionally since 12, Jonmark has worn many musical
hats with success as a writer, vocalist, instrumentalist and technician.
A close friend and protege' of the late Mickey Newbury, recording and performing with him on
many occasions, including Mickey's last public performance in 1999 at the Frank Brown
International Songwriters Festival held on the Gulf Coast. Jonmark returns to the festival each
year to perform and says he is “honored to be a part of the FBISF family”. www.jonmarkstone.com
Kacey Jones In the challenging world of carving a national name as one of the brightest new
musical humorists to break through in years, Kacey Jones is used to breaking the mold. Hers
was, after all, the brilliant mind that conceived one of Nashville’s most revered cult groups, Ethel &
the Shameless Hussies, who broke above the waves in1988 on MCA Records. This songwriter
and recording artist is also a chart topping producer and president of a nationally distributed indie
label. Her talents have been appreciated by People Magazine, USA Today and National Public
Radio as Garrison Keillor’s guest on “A Prairie Home Companion.” With Kacey there’s a lot to
laugh about. Her CD’s, “Every Man I Love Is Either Married, Gay or Dead” and “Never Wear
Panties to a Party,” are not only bottomless in comedy appeal, but in establishing the vocal talent
and comedy genius caught in the grooves. http://www.myspace.com/kaceyjonesmusic
Kamuela Kahoano, 29, is a traveling singer/songwriter/award winning producer from Honolulu,
Hawaii with 1 goal in mind…bring light to the limelight. Son of famed MC Kimo Kahoano and
brother to Ikaika Kahoano (of Making the Band fame), Kamuela has also written, and co-written
(with artists from all over the US), a total of over 200 songs/musical poems. Dubbed the happy
music maker as a symphonic composer in college (UH Manoa), Kamuela has since grown
considerably in his performance variety to create a rich and full musical experience for any listener
www.kamuelamusic.com
Karen E Reynolds An Award winning singer songwriter, Karen E. Reynolds has performed at
many prestigious festivals and is a regular at premier venues such as Eddie's Attic in Atlanta and
Nashville's famed Bluebird Cafe. A consummate performer who can command any audience, the
press labels her with varying descriptions, calling her "hearty voiced" one moment and claiming
her to have the "voice of an angel" the next. Karen is host/program director for a world wide radio
program, teaches songwriting and music business, operates a career consultation agency serving
independent artists and is a mentor/instructor in the 'Words & Music In Schools' program for the
Country Music hall of Fame. Her newest cd, 'Read The Book' is slotted for release in November of
2010. www.karenereynolds.com
Karen Waldrup From her humble beginnings of hosting her own writers night within her first
month living in Nashville, to releasing her second CD titled “With Love, Karen” within only one
year, to appearing on Bravo channel’s television show “Platinum Hit” hosted by well known artist
Jewel and American Idol veteran Kara DioGuardi, Karen has been quite the musical success story
many can only dream about. Karen was named one of GAC’s Top 25 songwriters. Besides
performing with big name acts such as Rodney Atkins at the 2009 “Salute to the Troops” concert,
she has opened for Sara Evans.www.reverbnation.com/karenwaldrup
Karin Paparelli is a singer/songwriter/author and manager. With songs recorded here and
abroad from country to CCM to rock and roll, her songs have been heard around the globe which
include “I Could Try” on Nathan Lee Jackson’s country debut Complicated Hearts, “Black Jezebel
Road” on Australian rocker Rick Caballo’s Love Retaliation, “In Its Own Time” recorded by Erin
Kelly and several songs recently recorded by Nashville newcomer, Kyle Burke, and emerging
songbird Lexi Larsen.
Karyn Williams is a CCM Recording artist with her debut project coming out on Inpop Records in
the Spring 2012, produced by Barry Weeks and Brian White. The Congressional Coalition for
Adoption, has chosen her song “Just May Be” as the Theme song for their National Campaign.
Karyn is the oldest sister in a family of 19 Children -- 14 adopted from all over the world. She is a
former Miss University of Florida, and 1st runner up as Miss Florida.As a songwriter, she has had
songs cut in CCM, Worship, Bluegrass, Country and Pop.
Kathryn Scheldt is an authentic voice from the Alabama Gulf Coast. Her fifth and latest CD ,
“One Good Reason,” will be released this fall by Lamon Records of Nashville. Produced by Mike
Severs, “One Good Reason” features some powerfully expressive original songs. An active
performer, Kathryn has appeared in such legendary southern venues as the Bluebird Café in
Nashville, TN, Eddie’s Attic in Decatur, GA and Thacker Mountain Radio in Oxford MS. She
studied guitar under Grammy winner, David Russell, and earned her Master of Music. Scheldt is
the author of two songbooks from Mel Bay Publications and has served on the music faculties of
Queens University and the University of South Alabama. www.kathrynscheldt.com
Keith Glass is a transplanted Australian singer/songwriter who embraces people and places of
the US Deep South in a totally solo and highly personal way cutting across musical and territorial
barriers. Keith has forged a name in Australiana/Americana through worldwide sales of his
albums, his production work and music research writing. He has had a number one chart record
on the Australian country charts, two top twenty pop singles as singer of his first professional
band and a gold record as a major performer on a musical cast recording. He has produced
American artists in Australia and Australian artists in the USA, has a lonesome one US country
chart entry as a songwriter and had over 20 artists record his songs.
Ken Johnson celebrated the 5 year anniversary of his move to Nashville with a top 20 hit, "Beer
On The Table" recorded by Columbia recording artist Josh Thompson. Ken is an up and coming
singer/songwriter and one of Nashville's most sought after session vocalists. Ken,has had his
songs recorded by artists such as Uncle Kracker, Wayne Newton, Kid Rock, Josh Thompson, Ty
Stone and Tyler Farr among others. He cowrote the recent top 40 hit "Still A Little Chicken Left On
That Bone" released by Craig Morgan. He is finishing a new album now to be released by
Combustion in December 2011. www.myspace.com/kenjohnsonsongs
Ken Lambert was born in 1940 in Cartersville, GA. At age 14 he picked up his uncle’s guitar and
taught himself how to play, thus beginning his love for music. Later, Ken decided to try Nashville.
One of the first people he met there was a very little known guy at that time named Kris
Kristofferson. He lived with Kris for about a year and there his love for songwriting was born. In
1978 he recorded his first album of his own songs. In 1982 Mel Tillis cut Ken’s “Wrong Again,” on
his “Long Way To Daytona” album. In 1986 Alabama cut “Pony Express,” a song Ken co-wrote
with Teddy Gentry, Buddy Cannon and Dean Dillion on “The Touch” album.
Kim Carson grew up in Canyon, Texas in the high plains of the Texas panhandle and began
playing music in New Orleans, Louisiana. Kim has been named “Best Country Artist” by readers of
OffBeat eight times. Her concert album “Live at Tipitina’s” was voted “Best Country Album” of
2004. After making a name for herself as the undisputed “Queen of Louisiana Honky Tonk Music”
and distinguishing herself as a formidable Country songwriter, Carson moved back to her home
state of Texas to form “Buffalo Speedway” a Renegade Honky Tonk band. She’s a full-time
musician performing in the original music clubs from Texas to Florida to Nashville and has
appeared on several “Outlaw country” shows with David Allan Coe, Junior Brown, Dale Watson,
Jesse Dayton, John Anderson, The Hollisters and Loretta Lynn. Kim’s motto is “Don’t Fear the
TWANG!” www.kimcarson.com
Kyle Brady began his songwriting career while touring the southeast college circuit with The Port
City Band. In the following years he released a solo EP - garnishing radio play in both Alabama
and Florida. Brady currently tours and writes with The Kyle & Karl Band. The single "One Young
Lion," off the recently released album Live With The Family, is his lastest song to receive radio
play throughout the southeast. http://kyleandkarl.com
Larry & Gale Book former owners of Characters Songwriters' Cafe in Perdido before its
destruction by Hurricane Ivan in 2004, continue to support live music and songwriters. Hosting
and organizing both large and small concerts featuring Nashville hit songwriters since the loss of
their cafe in '04 as well as performing as a duo and with their band has kept them busy. Larry has
been a coordinator of the local NSAI (Nashville Songwriters Association International) since 2003
Larry Cordle and Ricky Skaggs grew up together picking on the front porches and in garages
for entertainment. In 1990, he scored a top ten hit with John Anderson, “Honky Tonk Crowd,”
and another number one with Skaggs’ “Heartbreak Hurricane,” Larry has had songs recorded by
Ricky Skaggs, Garth Brooks, Diamond Rio, Trisha Yearwood, George Strait, Reba McIntire,
Shenandoah, Sammy Kershaw, Exile, John Conlee, Charly McClain, George Jones and Gene
Watson. “Mama Don’t Forget to Pray for Me,” by Diamond Rio went platinum. www.larrycordle.com
Larry Henley is an American singer and songwriter, born June 30, 1937 in Arp, Texas. He is
perhaps best known for co-writing (with Jeff Silbar) the 1989 hit record, "Wind Beneath My Wings".
The single was a U.S. number one hit for Bette Midler, and has since totaled around six million
radio airplays. The song earned Henley and Silbar the Grammy Award for Song of the Year for
1989, and Bette Midler the Record of the Year award. He was also associated with the pop group
The Newbeats, in the mid-1960s as lead singer, with two hits that charted in the top 20 of
Billboard magazine. He has also composed a number of soundtracks in movies.
www.larryhenley.com
Larry T. Wilson is a songwriter whose songs have been recorded by platinum recording artist
Sammy Kershaw ["Too Far Gone To Leave"], vocal group 4-Runner ["The House At The End Of
The Road"], Cherie Austin ["No More Chasing Rainbows"] Marty Rabon ["Take Jesus As Your
Lawyer"] and David Frizell ["Charlie Loves Hazel"]. As an artist, Larry T has performed shows with
Guy Clark, Billy Joe Shavers, Mickey Newbury, The Amazing Rhythm Aces, Delbert McClinton,
Doc Watson, Livingston Taylor, The Dave Grissom Quintet, Larry Cordle and Lonesome Standard
Time, Carl Jackson, Bruce Channel, Jerry Sally, Leslie Satcher, Rock Killough, Sonny
Throckmorten, and Gove Scrivner. www.myspace.com/larrytwilson
Lisa Christian has been earning a living playing nightclubs throughout the Southeastern United
States for the last ten years. Lisa picked up her first guitar at age 11 and was fronting her first
garage band by the time she was 12 years old. In 1995, Lisa moved to Atlanta, GA., where she
met singer and songwriter Lisa Durand. They called themselves Christian/Durand (since the name
Lisa Lisa was already in use). Their innovative songwriting and harmonious vocal blend was a hit
in Atlanta, and they performed at the 1996 Summer Olympics, and Lilith Fair.
www.myspace.com/LisaChristianOnline
Lisa Dotolo was born and raised in Westerly, Rhode Island and is a graduate of Providence
College.She is currently touring nationally and promoting her second cd called “doing it all my
way”. Lisa also owns her own indie record label called Bella Mere Records and hosts a weekly
music TV show in Nashville featuring talented songwriters and artists from all over the world.She
performs in Nashville, at the Blue Bird Cafe, The French Quarter, 3rd and Lindsley, Pick’s
Lounge, Commodore Hotel, Hotel Indigo, Loewe’s Vanderbilt and many more throughout Nashville
and surrounding areas. www.lisadotolo.com
Lisa Mills is a Southern roots musician with a singular, powerfully crafted voice. Her emotionally
charged phrasing carries her from the gospel and blues of her south Mississippi birthplace to
Chicago R&B to the grace notes of the Great American Songbook—a voice intricate as lace and
strong as new rope. Among the musicians she has shared the stage and studio with are Robert
Plant, Jeff Beck, Delbert McClinton, Andy Fairweather Low, Dr. John, Jools Holland and Shelby
Lynne. Lisa Mills has toured Europe and England each of the last four years and has performed
at numerous festivals, including the Glastonbury Festival, the Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival,
the Gloucester Blues Festival and the Detroit Motown Festival. www.lisamills.com
Lisa Shaffer was signed to a major record deal, Lyric Street Records. Her producer on the Lyric
Street Record is Brent Rowan. He has produced such acts as Joe Nichols, Blake Shelton, Gene
Watson, and Julie Roberts to name a few. She has had cuts on Rhonda Vincent, Colt Ford, Kristy
Cox, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, New Found Road, Darrin and Brooke Aldrdidge, Jeff & Sheri
Easter, and Dailey & Vincent. www.myspace.com/lisashaffer
Lisa Zanghi performed locally in the 70’s and 80’s at various nightclubs in the Mobile, AL
area. Some of her early influences include Carole King, Joni Mitchell, and Bonnie Raitt. All of
which have a major affect to her unique style. She moved to Nashville, TN in 1993 to pursue her
musical career. She played piano and sang backup while touring with country music star Doug
Stone. Lisa has appeared on National television numerous times and has written and co-written
over a hundred songs, one of which was recorded by Doug Stone. Her style can be described as
adult contemporary with a bluesy, jazz influence. Lisa has published Three of her own CD’s, A
Woman Does Too,Brighter Days, and “A Different Side of Me.” www.lisazanghimusic.com
Lynn Langham has been a staff writer for Hayes Street Music, and has had songs recorded by
Wynonna and Holly Dunn among others. She has also had numerous songs released by
independent artists. Lynn is a frequent performer in Texas and on the Nashville club scene.
www.myspace.com/lynnlangham
M. Craige McFerrin is an accomplished Guitarist, local Songwriter, also co coordinater for the
NSAI Perdido Key/Pensacola Chapter. He has written numerous songs, mainly Christian-
contemporary, Inspirational, as well as recorded a Guitar Instrumental CD, of arrangements of old
standard Hymns entitled "Strings of Love", produced by Coleman Productions, and Brent Rader/
Nashville www.myspace.com/mcmcferrinmusic
Mac Walter began his music career at 15 when Marianne Price, formerly of Dan Hicks and The
Hot Licks/The Kinks, convinced him to give up the ukulele and try the guitar. Three months later,
Mac was playing in Marianne’s band and he has not put the guitar down since. Music became the
guiding force in a life spent as a professional musician. www.myspace.com/macwalter
Marc Alan Barnette brings his unique brand of “in your face country soul,” a mix of soul, country
and blues with legendary performances—kind of like a wrestling match and a tractor pull. He has
developed his teaching workshop program across the U.S. through NSAI and SGA. His Magical
Musical Songwriter tours of Nashville have turned into THE hot ticket in town. Barnette is proud to
be back at the Frank Brown Festival. He is home…just like it should be. Marc-Alan will also be
available for songwriter conversations and counseling for those writers unable to make it to
Nashville. Contact him at: 615-417-7181, or visit his web site: www.marcalanbarnette.com
Mark Sherill has been writing songs for 30 years. Sherill says that songwriting and fishing are
his favorite pastimes. In a recent interview he stated "when the fish ain't biting, I'm writin". Mark
has cuts with George Jones, Kenny Rogers, Johnny Cash, Hoyt Axton, Tanya Tucker and and
Blake Shelton just to name a few. NSAI’s Professional Songwriters Division honored Sherill with
2002 Achievement Award (informally dubbed “The Songs I Wish I’d Written”) for “Ol’ Red," co-
written with Don Goodman and James Bohon.
Matt Hogatt was born and raised on the Mississippi Gulf Coast in the small town of Gautier.
“Most people can’t pronounce the name of my town, but they know its near the Singing River.” For
this reason, Matt often refers to being born on the “Singing River”. Matt enlisted in the U.S Army
National Guard after high school where he served honorably for 7 years assigned to the 41st
Army Band and 114th Military Police Company. “Somewhere along the way, I realized it’s hard to
sing and play trumpet at the same time.” Matt started playing guitar, writing songs and the rest is
history. Matt’s Song “21 At Normandy” won him a lyric contest. He won the Nashville Songwriter
Association Spring Training Song Contest in 2009. In 2010, he was a finalist in the Zac Brown
“Sailing Southern Ground” song contest and 2011 proved to be even better. In 2011, he won best
country category in the “Song of The Year Contest” as well as another lyric contest, held by
Singer / Songwriter Amy Speace and American Songwriter Magazine. He also had a song
recorded by a Canadian Country artist. Matt Hoggatt is affiliated with SESAC and owns Country
Fish Music. www.matthoggatt.com
Matt Warren was born in Nashville, TN. And has a bachelors degree in education from Middle
Tennessee State University. Matt is currently employed as a staff songwriter for Amylase
Entertainment/Warner Chappell Publishing in Nashville, TN. www.myspace.com/themattwarren
Melissa Brethauer (pronounced BRETT-how-er) spent a week in Nashville, where she played
four shows in five nights. She also got invited to make her Las Vegas debut at the House of Blues
(at Mandalay Bay). Among her other performances this year was the 4th Sarasota Songwriters
Festival. This is Melissa’s second consecutive year at the Frank Brown International Songwriters
Festival. She'll be coming off of appearances at the 3rd Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival
and the 11th Annual DeLand (FL) Original Music Festival. www.MelissaBrethauer.com,
Mike Diamond is a native of Pensacola, Florida. His original songs have been described as both
unique and authentic. He has performed throughout the gulf coast area for several years and
continues to peruse his dream of writing that breakthrough song. In 2005, Mike won first place in
the open song category and was also named the overall winner of the Hank Williams Songwriting
contest. www.myspace.com/mikediamondmusic www.facebook.com/mikediamondmusic
Moe Monsarrat Alan Moe Monsarrat was born in the midst of mysterious and unbelievably
bizarre circumstances in August of 1951. There were many babies such as Moe in Phenix City,
Alabama, the town known at the time as The Wickedest City in America, babies were bought or
stolen on a regular basis, then sold. Moe played his first professional gig in 1964, singing
Western pop to an enthralled pack of locals and expatriates at a Tokyo nightclub. Landing in San
Antonio for his high school years, Moe joined the Texas music scene, singing and playing in a
myriad of bands. He has been at it ever since then, pretty much nonstop, writing, singing, and
playing five-string bass. He was a founding member of The Lotions, the first reggae band in
Texas. As well as performing in Stop the Truck, Moe also fronts The Mau-Mau Chaplains, Austin's
premier reggae outfit. Moe lives on Lake Travis in Austin. www.stopthetruck.com
Nick Branch was born in Boston and spent 15 years in the Lower East Side of New York City. He
has composed music for off Broadway productions, A&E independent films and national jingles.
He has performed as a band leader and a sideman, and is currently performing with The Filthy
Rich. Nick loves to travel and has performed in Russia, Europe, South America, Africa and 48 US
states. He enjoys making instrument lamps, designing and printing T-shirts and has 3 # 1 black
cats.
Ottar "Big Hand" Johansen gave country its first shot when he recorded big
country hits in Norwegian and later, came up with his famous trio Claudia, Big
Hand, Casino. Casino Steel was an English rock singer and Claudia Scott is the
daughter of Clive Scott, known in Norway with his Skywegians. These days Big
Hand is still making great records. Casino is out of sight, but Claudia is close with
the Dead Reckoners.
Pat McCann has been playing professionally for over thirty years. He writes in diverse styles from
Brazilian jazz (Joe Beamish) to New-Age-Classical (John Renborn) to porch pickin’ (Chet Atkins) to
funky fusion (Steely Dan or Larry Carlton). Originally from Louisiana, Pat has been living and
making music in Austin Texas for the past thirteen years. Pat is currently playing lead guitar for
the legendary song writer, Freddy Powers, whose songs have been recorded by Merle Haggard,
George Strait, Willie Nelson and Ray Charles, just to name a few. Pat McCann has two CD's –
Return to Buddha Pad which is a collection of his originals performed live with his Boomerang
and “50 Years In De Nile”, a collection of live recordings of Pat and a host other great musicians
playing his music.www.myspace.com/patmccannbuddhapad
Paul Killough a Gulf Coast native, born and raised in Pensacola Florida, is a solo artist and
prolific songwriter who is a regular on the local music scene. Recently he has been recording
some of his latest demos in Nashville at Peter Young's Ultra Audio Productions. Paul performs
classic to southern rock, some folk, Blues, and Country www.myspace.com/paulkillough
Pete Sallis, originally from Chicago, is a songwriter for Brentwood Benson Music/Universal Music
Group. He has had cuts by Ronnie Dunn, Bo Bice, Bucky Covington, and a CCMA Single of the
Year by George Canyon. www.theoneandonlypetesallis.com
RC O’Leary's songs have been described as a mixture of Folk, Country, Blues, Pop and
Rockabilly. In 1976, RCsigned with BMI as an affiliate writer with Warner Brothers (Nashville) and
has co-written with Nashville songwriters; Harlan Sanders, Richie Marino, Frank Gosman, Kent
Westbury, Garrick Alden and Sleepy LaBeef. Notable songs: “Jailbirds Can’t Fly” (Peter Fonda),
“Me and Rosana” (Garrick Alden), “That’s What Friends Are For” (Harlan Sanders), “Honky
Tonker” (Ronnie Prophet). www.myspace.com/rcoleary
R.B. Stone Independently flying under the radar, RB has toured 32 countries, 5 continents,
produced 15 albums and 22 singles. He’s had cuts by The Marshall Tucker Band, Gary P. Nunn
and various artists. His latest CD “Lonesome Traveler’s Blues” is currently getting played in over
400 markets and is in several Charts including “Root’s Music Report”. It’s up for the “Best Self
Produced Project” award with the Blues Foundation’s IBC. He’s partners with the late Gwen
Gordy on a Catalog of his songs at EMI and is continually touring and writing new material
Randall Bramblett has kept great company over the years. From his early career with Capricorn
Records (Cowboy, Gregg Allman, Sea Level) to his more recent tours with Widespread Panic,
Traffic and Steve Winwood, he has worked with the best in the business. Randall’s solo career
began in the mid ‘70s with two critically acclaimed albums on Polydor Records (That Other Mile,
Light of the Night) and has continued to the present with his most recent releases on Capricorn
(See Through Me) and New West Records (No More Mr. Lucky, Thin Places). Currently, Randall
tours with his own band, the Randall Bramblett Band
Red Lane went to see Justin Tubb perform in 1964 in Louisville, played him
some songs backstage and Tubb suggested putting them on tape and sending
them to Buddy Killen at Tree. Killen signed Red to an exclusive songwriting deal
after hearing the tape leading to cuts with Merle Haggard, Tammy Wynette,
Dottie West, Waylon Jennings and more. Lane has won 8 BMI performance
awards and received a BMI One Million Performance Award for "New Looks
From An Old Lover" www.nashvillesongwritersfoundation.com/l-o/red-lane
Reed Lightfoot started his performing career as a young teenager, being snuck in bars and
using fake IDs to be able to play with various groups in the New Orleans area. After discovering
his love for songwriting, in 2003, he began performing around various open mics in the New
Orleans area. His aggressive gigging in the area built a fan base rather quickly, catapulting him
from acoustic sets in low-key coffee houses, to acoustic sets in large venues such as Tipitina’s
Uptown, and into tours across and throughout the country. After moving to the Florida coast,
Reed is in the final stages of production for his first album, "Wait Until Sunrise".
Richard Trest is an New Orleans native who grew up on the Mississippi Gulf Coast playing clubs
and festivals in Louisiana, Michigan and Texas and started writing in the 1990’s. Richard moved
to Nashville and now co-writes with hit writers and emerging artists. In 2005 he opened Ri’chard’s
Louisiana Café in an historic building in Nashville where customers can listen to visiting
songwriters. www.richardscafe.com
Rick Carnes has earned 40 platinum albums with songs recorded by artists Garth Brooks, Reba
McEntire, Alabama, Steve Wariner, Pam Tillis, and Dean Martin. His song,”I Can’t Even Get the
Blues No More” was Reba McEntire’s first number one single, and “Long Neck Bottle” recorded
by Garth Brooks, set a record on the Billboard charts by entering the charts at #10. In 1978 Rick
moved from his native Memphis to Nashville in 1978 with his wife, Janis, and together they
recorded for RCA, Elektra Asylum, Warner Bros. and MCA records. They also work as a co-writing
team and have co-written three top ten recordings on Bluegrass icons, the Whites, as well as
penning the jazz ballad, “Irresistible” which was recently featured in the Sony Pictures Classic
movie “Saving Face”, and the swing song, “I’m Hanging’ Around”, which was recorded by Dean
Martin. After serving as Vice President of the Songwriters Guild of America for 18 years, in 2003
Rick was elected President. In 2004 he was elected a Vice President of the National Music
Council, and in 2005 he became Communications Chairman of the Music United Coalition.
Rick Whaley has been playing music and singing all of his life, and has enjoyed every single
moment of it. He states, "I've had fun jamming with such artist's as Al DeMeola, George Benson,
Rock Killough, Teddy Pendergrass, Sam & Dave, Mickey Newbury, The filthy Rich, The Coasters,
The Drifters, Jack Williams, Larry Baeder, Billy Dean, Farren Young, Jerry Vivino, Wayne Carson,
Beverly Jo Scott, Mac Vickery, and more... so many more! I'VE BEEN BLESSED! Even WolfMan
Jack sang a few with me in Frisco back when at a concert that he hosted. What a good memory!"
Rick is a favorite to the locals down on the Gulf Coast. www.myspace.com/rickwhaley
Ricky Whitley learned to play guitar in his teens from his uncle, Tom Darby, and slide guitar from
Jimmy Tarlton, two well-known white Blues artists who recorded on Columbia Records during the
1920’s. Other influences include Jimmy Reed, Muddy Waters, Elmore James and Duane Allman.
He has played with Johnny Shines, John Prine, Jimmy Buffett, Bobby Rush, and Warren Haynes.
Ricky has recorded seven solo albums of varying styles and genres. His friend Warren Haynes
introduced him to Allen Woody, (of the Allman Brothers and Government Mule), who then played
guitar, mandolin and bass on one of Ricky’s CD’s. Jimmy Hall, (Wet Willie), sang and played
saxophone on another of Ricky’s CD’s. Ricky has produced recordings for several other artists
and recorded with world-renowned producer Brian Ahern. Ricky does comedy and says his CD’s
have sold well over 100 copies and have gone “wood” in several small foreign countries. He has
just signed a contract with Sony Records, whereas he only has to buy four CD’s a month. He is
founder of the World Canoeing Association(WCA)as a Canoeing Instructor and Survival Guy.
Videos are on YouTube; go to “Mean Town Blues” live at Between the Springs Concert Series in
Florida. www.rickywhitley.com
Riley Weston has worked as an actress and writer on many television shows and feature films.
She is now living in Nashville, focusing on her country music career. Her first single, If I Said
Howdy To You is now getting attention from radio stations around the country. She has starred in
the hit TV movie, What About Your Friends, written for the WB television drama, Felicity as well as
starred as Story Zimmer in the critically acclaimed episode, Drawing the Line. Riley wrote The
Nanny Express for the Hallmark Channel. The movie aired as the 2nd highest-rated movie for the
network! Riley is busy in Nashville co-writing with amazing songwriters and made her debut at the
Bluebird Café on September 30th. www.rileyweston.com
Riley Yielding is a guitar building, songwriting, folksinger from Beulah, Alabama. He has 3 CD's
available, Mr. Illusion, Cover Clown, Pretty like me... which are available on itunes, and CD baby.
You can see his instruments at www.yieldingguitar
Robert Farley was born in Lexington, KY and raised in Tucson, AZ. He began coming to the
Redneck Rivera in 1997 and moved to Perdido Key, FL in 2003. He finds inspiration for his songs
in his many hours spent traveling the U.S. and Canada. This will be Robert’s third year as a
Songwriter at the festival and he credits Bo Roberts, Randy Howard, Buzz Keifer and Johnny
Barbato with tutoring him in his songwriting. www.myspace.com/robert_farley
Robert Wolf has co-written with many–including Don Wayne, Brett Jones, Barbara Cloyd, Rand
Bishop, C.J. Watson, James Otto, Jason Matthews, Lisa Carver, and Jonathan Long. “Not Too Far
From Texas”, a co-write with Andy Gullahorn, led to a contract with Major Bob Music. Recently he
took Grand Prize at the Music City Song Contest with “Another Whiskey Morning”, a Steven
Strobel co-write. Songs such as his rapid-fire sing-along “I Think You Think” and the blazingly,
politically, and religiously incorrect “Cross Dressing For Christmas” have kept audiences asking
for more.
Rusty Budde was born in Houston ,TX. He grew up on a horse ranch out side Brazoria, TX. Rusty
signed his first song writing deal with Ronny Gant in 1980 and he currently writes for Silver
Thunder Music Group in Nashville,TN. As a writer Rusty has penned songs for Les Taylor (Exile),
Hank Thompson, Earl Thomas Conley and many others. Co writers include Red Lane, Hank
Cochran, Steve Cropper, Hank Thompson, Buck Moore, Randy Travis, Johnny Neel (Alman
Brothers), Wayne Perry, Gerald Smith, and Dustin Shannon. As a Record Producer Rusty has
worked with such greats as Hank Thompson, Earl Thomas Conley, Joe Diffe and has co produced
projects with Buddy Cannon and Grammy winning producer Larry Butler.
www.myspace.com/rustybudde
Rusty Tabor Kentucky born singer/songwriter Rusty Tabor has been performing on stage since
the ripe young age of 14. After a short lived college football career he packed up and moved to
Nashville in 2001 to chase yet another dream…that of signing a record deal. Within his first year
in Nashville Rusty had landed his first publishing deal with Skidaddy Music. Billy Ray Cyrus quickly
took a liking to Rusty’s songwriting style and recorded 2 songs out of that first catalog. “Back to
Memphis”, a single off of Cyrus’ TIME FLIES album and soon after “Wouldn’t You Do This For Me”
on his THE OTHER SIDE album. He soon found another writing home with Plus Spins Music.
From that catalog came “All I’ve Got Left” which was recorded by Russell Hitchcock (formerly of Air
Supply) on his TENNESSEE:THE NASHVILLE SESSIONS double cd project and IBMA male
vocalist of the year winner Bradley Walker recorded “One Paragraph” for his upcoming Rounder
Records album. The future is brighter than bright for Rusty nowadays. In January of 2011 he was
offered a chance to be a part of legendary songwriter Earl Bud Lee’s publishing company. “I
JUMPED at that opportunity!”, he says, “Bud Lee is one of the most successful writers in the
business with hits like ‘Friends in Low Places’, ‘One Night at a Time’ and ‘Who Are You When I’m
Not Looking’. He’s not only a master at what he does; he’s one of my favorite people in this
world.” Rusty is currently in the studio working on his own album with some of the best in the
business. Tabor says “It took me a little time, some hills and valleys and a lot of living to figure out
who I really am. www.myspace.com/rustytabormusic
Sam Morgan grew up in south Alabama. He taught creative writing/songwriting in Mississippi and
Florida thru the State Arts Commission for several years. He represented Mississippi in the 1996
Olympics in Atlanta as MS folk songwriter of the year. Sam had two songs in the final eleven in
this year’s Austin Songwriting Contest, and performed on the Austin Song Writers Stage along
with long time side man Scotty Hardway last year at Austin City Limits. Sam continues to entertain
crowds with his storytelling, country-folk-blues performances.
Sandra Kaye was raised in the Baptist Church and there she was blessed with her Gospel music
roots! She knew at a very early age that music was going to be a big part of her life! Her roots
include Southern Rock, Dance, Pop and some Country mixed with Blues.
www.ourstage.com/profile/sandrakaye?preview=true
Sandra Laird was a singer, songwriter and guitarist at an early age; growing up with a musical
family. Listening to Marty Robbins, Merle Haggard, Gene Watson, Mickey Newbury, Connie Smith
and Dolly Pardon, as well as Nat King Cole, Dean Martin, Tony Bennett, Etta James and Sam
Cooke influenced her music. At 17, Sandra met her favorite singer, Marty Robbins. Friends from
the beginning, Marty helped her and became her mentor. Marty recorded one of her first songs: "I
Need You To Hold Me Together", released on Marty's "Lost & Found" album. Though she loves
traditional country music, Sandy has been writing and recording a different style. It could be
considered classic, pop, torch, jazz or folk, but she admits, she doesn't know what to call it.
Sandra will soon begin working on a Nashville recording project, to be released in 2012
www.reverbnation.com/#!/sandramarialaird www.myspace.com/sandramariasplace
Scotty Emerick was fated to be a musician and songwriter. He started playing guitar at the age
of six and almost immediately was performing at family gatherings. "Always very country," he says.
"I liked Hank Sr., Emmylou, and Glen Campbell." In 1997 he met Toby Keith, and the two have
enjoyed a phenomenal collaboration over five albums: one song on Keith's How Do You Like Me
Now?!; five songs from Pull My Chain, including the 1 "I'm Just Talkin' About Tonight"; seven on
Unleashed, featuring the 1 duet with Willie Nelson, "Beer For My Horses"; six on Shock 'N Y'all,
with the 1s "I Love This Bar" and "Whiskey Girl"; three on Keith's Greatest Hits Vol, II, highlighted
by the new recording, "Go With Her"; and nine Toby Keith's current Honkytonk University,
including the 1 "As Good As I Once Was." "I eat, sleep, and drink music," Scotty says. "I'm always
gonna do it, no matter what happens." scottyemerick.musiccitynetworks.com
Scott Koehn Scottkoehn.com.
Shawn Bowling grew up in a family of musicians. In the late 60’s & early 70's, and toured the
southeast with his family’s gospel group "The Faith Singers". Shawn started the contemporary
Christian band "Blessing" in 2001 and helped record and co-produce the "Blessing" CD. He have
been active in contemporary Christian music and worship since that time. Deployed to Iraq in
2003, Bowling led worship for coalition forces in Iraq and Kuwait. Currently, he is a member of the
“Solid Rock in the Sand Band” based at Perdido Bay UMC in Pensacola, FL. and is also a long-
time active member of the Pensacola/Perdido area NSAI songwriter’s group with a recent
emphasis on country music. www.myspace.com/lshawnbowling
Shawna Pierce has shared the stage with Kid Rock, Big & Rich, Gretchen Wilson, James Otto,
Charlie Daniels and Donnie Van Zant to name a few. In 2007, Shawna moved back to her
hometown of Muscle Shoals, Al to finish recording her latest release “EarthFunk Muzik”. She was
awarded with “Female Vocalist of The Year” at The Muscle Shoals Music Awards 2008. Recently
Shawna P and her hubby accomplished guitarist, Adam Tyler Brown are currently writing new
material and touring to promote her latest release, “EarthFunk Muzik”.
www.reverbnation.com.shawnap
Silva Saxon, Jr. was born in Sylacauga, Alabama and raised in Gonzalez, Florida. He was part
of the Tate High School Marching Band, received music degrees from Pensacola Junior College
and the University of West Florida and played saxophone in the ARMY. Fellow Musicians have
referred to him as "The King of Chords and The God of Tones". His latest single "By The Ocean"
is scheduled for release December 2011. www.thelegendband.com
Simmons Brothers Chris and Curtis, grew up and learned the value of hard work at a very early
age. The twins started their music career in church at the age of 5 while singing in a trio with their
sister. At the age of 12 they started their first band and played local parties and festivals while
also maintaining a healthy school environment as well as playing all sports offered by their school.
They continued pursuing their music career until they graduated high school and both entered
into the U.S. Army. Once they completed their tour of duty they picked up where they left off and
started their first tour which includes an impressive resume of over 1200 shows and 35 states.
Co-producing their self-titled album along with producer Ric Web has been a life altering
experience for the brothers. They are both really proud of the fact that they wrote eleven of the
fourteen songs along with playing guitar on some of the tracks. www.SimmonsBrothersMusic.com
"Smokey Joe" Peoples has been writing and singing songs for over thirty years. Those who
have seen him perform delight in his folksy, melodic voice and harmonic guitar playing. The
content of his songs often make an audience laugh, cry and feel many emotions in between.
Smokey Joe's career as a singer-songwriter began in 1983 as the primary creative force behind
the Wisteria Sting Band out of Pensacola, Florida. Peoples wrote the majority of the original music
the Wisteria String Band presented and all that it recorded. www.smokeyjoeshow.com
Sonny Throckmorton From 1976 –1980 there were only three weeks when one of his songs was
not on the charts, and several weeks he had as many as seven tunes at once. In 1964, Sonny
moved to Music City, where he worked for several publishing companies, and during this time, he
scored one big hit with “How Long Has It Been ” by Bobby Lewis. Success was elusive, however,
and in 1975, he became so discouraged that he moved to Texas, but was lured back to Nashville
by friends, this time from his old publisher, Tree. Sonny believes his success in country music is
due to the influx of so many pop-oriented artists like the Eagles. Most of his songs are up-tempo,
with a toe-tapping beat. After years of paying his dues, he is gaining the recognition he so richly
deserves. In 1979 and 1980 he was voted Songwriter of the Year by the Nashville Songwriters
Association International. All in all, Sonny has 15 number one country hits, “ I Feel Like Loving
You Again ,” “I Wish I Was Eighteen Again ,” “ It’s A Cheatin’ Situation ,” “ Last Cheater’s Waltz ,”
“Middle Aged Crazy ,” and “ Trying To Love Two Women”
www.nashvillesongwritersfoundation.com/t-z/sonny-throckmorton.aspx
Spencer Bohren was born in wind-swept Casper, Wyoming, in 1950, Spencer's gospel-singing
parents provided the foundation for a musical style and career that remain healthy after more
than four decades. Like all of the Bohren children, Spencer learned to sing the third above the
melody around the same time he learned to speak in sentences. Spencer says, "My mother didn't
have boys and girls. To her we were sopranos, altos and tenors." The family sang in churches,
schools and nursing homes around the state in every conceivable combination: duos, trios,
quartets, quintets, solo, and full ensemble. Four decades as a "road scholar," concert performer
and general fan of humanity have given Spencer Bohren much to share. No one was more
surprised than Spencer when Jorma Kaukonen of the Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tune called one
to invite Spencer to teach at the Fur Peace Ranch, his guitar camp in Pomeroy, Ohio. He offers a
veritable treasure trove of guitar technique, lapsteel tricks, and musical knowledge to enthusiastic
students around the world.
Stephen Lee Veal has co-written with in Nashville. He has also been featured on sixteen writers’
shows at he famous Bluebird Café in Nashville and for seven shows in New Orleans at the House
of Blues/Parish Room Songwriter’s Night. In Nashville, Stephen headed up an “All Alabama
Round” on Lee Rascone's night at the Broken Spoke, monthly for three years. On the Gulf
Coast, in Mobile, he produced the Songwriters’ Saturday Showcase monthly for six years and has
been a part of the Frank Brown International Songwriter's Festival every year since 1998. His
songs have won numerous awards, notably the first place in open and overall best for "Feels Like
Alabama" at the 2002 Hank Williams Festival held annually in Georgiana, AL. Stephen is currently
a co-coordinator of the Pensacola Chapter of NSAI. www.myspace.com/stephenleeveal
Steve Dean HAS CO-WRITTEN SIX NUMBER ONE HITS, “WATCHING YOU” FOR RODNEY
ATKINS, “ROUND ABOUT WAY” FOR GEORGE STRAIT, “WALK ON” FOR REBA McENTIRE,
“SOUTHERN STAR” FOR ALABAMA, “IT TAKES A LITTLE RAIN” FOR THE OAK RIDGE BOYS
AND “HEARTS AREN’T MADE TO BREAK” FOR LEE GREENWOOD. STEVE’S FIRST SINGLE,
“DON’T YOUR MEM’RY EVER SLEEP AT NIGHT”, WAS RECORDED BY STEVE WARINER IN
1983. OTHER HITS INCLUDE “FAST LANES AND COUNTRY ROADS” FOR BARBARA
MANDRELL, “JUST ENOUGH ROPE” FOR RICK TREVINO, “ONE BRIDGE I DIDN’T BURN” FOR
CONWAY TWITTY, “THE MORE I LEARN” FOR RONNA REEVES AND “COOL TO BE A FOOL”
FOR JOE NICHOLS. “COOL TO BE A FOOL”AND “WATCHING YOU” HAVE EARNED BETHAR
MUSIC, STEVE’S PUBLISHING COMPANY, BMI PUBLISHER AWARDS. TO DATE, STEVE HAS
EARNED 10 BMI AWARDS. OTHER ARTISTS WHO HAVE CUT HIS SONGS: CRAIG MORGAN,
JOHN MICHAEL MONTGOMERY, TY HERNDON, LEE ANN WOMACK, THE ROYS, WAYLON
JENNINGS, PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE, SAVANNAH JACK, NEAL McCOY, RICOCHET, RONNIE
MILSAP, DIERKS BENTLEY, BILLY DEAN AND DAVID ALLAN COE. STEVE IS A PERFORMING
SONGWRITER DOING “IN THE ROUND” SHOWS AROUND THE COUNTRY. “BEING A SINGER /
SONGWRITER IS THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS” STEVE SAYS. “I CAN TAKE MY MUSIC TO
THE PEOPLE IN IT’S PUREST FORM”. www.myspace.com/stevedeanmusic
Steven and Sandra Youngblood’s music brings to life the visions of umbrella drinks on the
beach soaking up the sun without a care in the world. Steven & Sandra set sail on a mission with
their music to help their fans let their hair down, put on that favorite Hawaiian shirt, kick back in a
favorite chair and tap your toes to the fun sounds of the islands. www.stevenyoungblood.com
Suzi Ragsdale virtually cut her teeth in the recording studio. At age 5, she sang with the kiddie
chorus on her father Ray Stevens’ Grammy Award winning smash, “Everything Is Beautiful”. At 10,
she began recording children’s albums and writing her own songs… by 13, she was singing other
writers’ demos… & by 17 singing in local clubs. Since 1990, Suzi Ragsdale’s vocal work has
appeared on discs by Suzy Bogguss, Pam Tillis, David Ball, Hank Williams Jr., Joy Lynn White,
Tom Paxton, Ian Tyson, Jo-El Sonnier and many others. During this same time period, her songs
were recorded by stars such as Anne Murray, Billy Dean, Pam Tillis, Mila Mason, Suzy Bogguss,
Lari White, Lisa Brokop and the rock twins Nelson. From 1991 to present, she’s collaborated in
studio & on stage with Darrell Scott. www.suziragsdale.com
Tammy Vice is produced by GodsChild Records. Her CDs include “Love Can Grow”, “Miracles &
Memories”, “Breaking The Chains”, & "More Than Just Getting By". Originally from Mobile,
Alabama, Tammy has performed her music nationwide at special events, festivals, churches,
conferences, workshops, and music venues, including Nashville’s prestigious Bluebird Cafe. She
has also appeared on worldwide television and radio programs. As a songwriter and artist,
Tammy has had four songs hit #1 on Christian and Country charts. Also among her writing credits
is the theme song for "Come On In" with host Melanie Walker, currently playing on the TCT
Network.
Taylor H. Craven is originally from Clarksdale, MS in the MS Delta and now lives in Ocean
Springs on the MS Gulf Coast. Taylor serves on the Mississippi Songwriters Festival Board and is
a member of the Nashville Songwriters Association International. He performed at the Mississippi
Songwriters Festival the past two years, and has performed at the New Orleans Songwriters
Festival.
T Bone Montgomery moved to the Perdido/Orange Beach area from Muscle Shoals Alabama 6
years ago to pursue a full-time career in music. T-Bone comes from a long line of songwriters and
has deep roots in the south. He is currently working the Honkytonks from Destin to New Orleans
and pitching songs back home. Find me on Facebook Tony T-Bone Montgomery
Ted Jones A native of West Tennessee, Jones moved to Nashville in 1990 after completing a
2000 mile sojourn along the Appalachian Trail. He quickly became a popular figure within the
songwriting community and host of the celebrated Raggedy Man Extravaganza. He attended
Belmont University, graduating with honors in 1999. For the past seven years, he has researched
and studied the interpretation and significance of dreams. He became a staff writer with Murrah
Music in 2007. Currently, he continues to write and perform in singer/songwriter venues in the
area. www.cdbaby.com/cd/tedjones
Tisha Simeral is a bassist, vocalist, and songwriter whose music blurs the boundaries of folk,
blues, country, rock, jazz, and classical styles. Her arrangements and compositions have been
performed by jazz trombonist Sarah Morrow, the Women In Music Columbus Orchestra and String
Sinfonia, the Land Of Legend Philharmonic, and the Prevailing Winds Quintet. Tisha can be
heard performing her songs at home in Nashville and on the road with singer-songwriter Brian
Ashley Jones.
Tony Brook has been a staple of the music scene and the Frank Brown International Songwriters
Festival for the last decade. A critically acclaimed songwriter, he has played venues across the U.
S. and Europe from the Blue Bird Café in Nashville, Tennessee to the Palomino Club in Los
Angeles, California. Tony has shared the stage with the likes of Jamie Johnson, Lucinda Williams,
Mark Coley, Doug Stone, Steve Young, Johnny Neal, Buddy Miller, Taylor Hicks, Waylon Jennings’
Band, Tanya Tucker, Justin Townes Earl and has opened up for such acts as Hank Cochran,
Willie Nelson, Robert Earl Keen, The Skeeters, Government Mule, Jack Ingram, Pat Green,
Rhonda Vincent, Tensely Elis, Sam Bush, String Cheese Incident, Moe, Ray Charles, Todd
Snider, Whiskey Falls, and many others.
Top Hat & Jackie With their fine blend of vocal harmonies, upbeat personalities, and sharp wit
has entertained audiences along the Gulf Coast for over 12 years. Along the way they have
earned the respect and love of the people they work for, the people they perform for, and other
local musicians. Most recently they were voted Local Entertainers of the Year.
Tore Anderson grew up in a musical family in Norway, with his mother's piano at the middle of
the living room. She was classically trained, but Tore soon decided to switch from piano to his
dad's old Hansson acoustic guitar. The familty moved from Oslo, through Halden and finally to
Stjørdal, one hour north of Trondheim. Tore's spare time was soon to be dedicated to music,
band practises and non-stop guitar picking in front of the record player. On his 17th birthday, a
friend gave him Emmylou Harris' album "Luxury Liner". Tore immediately knew what kind of music
he would play. www.toreandersen.no
Travis List grew up in One Tree Hill, Australia. After two decades of performing in Australia, his
thirst for knowledge powered his drive to pursue a life long passion and to relocate to Nashville to
polish his skills as a singer/songwriter. After co/writing with several of Nashville's talented writers,
they generated enough material to start a long awaited album www.myspace.com/travislistmusic
Vic Saul is a singer, songwriter and guitarist. He was born in Meriden, England and is now based
in the U.S. He has toured in Florida and the eastern seaboard, including gigs in Jacksonville, St.
Augustine, Daytona, Miami and the Florida Keys. He has performed at numerous international
festivals, as well as, radio and television appearances. Vic went solo back in 1997, with the
release of his first CD Album, “River of Souls,” at the Edinburgh, Scotland International
Songwriter’s Festival. Vic visited Nashville in 1999 and found a second home while visiting the
Gulf Coast later that year. His second CD album, “The Speed of Darkness,” was recorded in
Alabama and England in 2000.www.myspace.com/vicsaul
Walt and Aimee Fletcher “Sterling Fletcher” Sweetness and Twang describes the unique
style in which Aimee Fletcher lends her heart and voice to a song. Accompanied by the authentic
gut-wrenching vocals, unswerving harmonies and intrinsic spaghetti-western inspired guitar licks
of her husband Fletch, Sterling Fletcher has created their own brand of Y'all-ternative which has
earned them critical praise and fan allegiance. As performers, Fletch and Aimee have been
acknowledged with the Association for the Promotion of Campus Activities National Best Band
Award three times and they continue to inspire audiences with their fiery chemistry and bona fide
stage presence. During a recent radio promotion and tour, Sterling Fletcher shared the stage with
such notable Americana heroes as Buddy and Julie Miller, Gillian Welch and Steve Earle.
www.SterlingFletcher.com
Wayne Carson Thompson is a songwriter, producer and plays percussion, piano, guitar, and
bass. His most famous songs include "Neon Rainbow", "The Letter", "Always on My Mind" (with
Mark James and Johnny Christopher), and "Soul Deep".
Chet Atkins took a liking to a tune called "Somebody Like Me" and wanted to have Eddy Arnold
record it. Carson was taken aback when he got a call from Arnold, one of the most successful
country acts of all time. "Eddie said, 'Wayne, I love the song, but it needs another verse'," Carson
recalled. "So I said, 'Well, the third verse goes like this' and I just wrote it right there over the
phone." The song became his first number one hit in late 1966, and spent four weeks on top of
the country charts. Always on My Mind" won Grammy awards in 1983 for Song of the Year and
Best Country Song; in 1982 it reached #1 on the Billboard charts. The Country Music Association
named it the Song of the Year in 1982 and 1983. Also in 1982, The Nashville Songwriters
Association International named it Song of the Year and the Academy of Country Music named it
Single of the Year. "The Letter" was nominated for two Grammys. In 1997, Carson was inducted
into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayne_Carson#Biography
Webb Dalton co-produced his latest CD, “Mine’s Bigger” with friend and fellow singer/songwriter,
Keith Sykes of Memphis, who has written songs recorded by the Judds "This Country's Rockin'",
Jimmy Buffett "Volcano", and “Coast of Marseilles", along with several others. Webb’s past CD’s
resulted in appearances on TNN and CMT, two chart singles and released a video, "Honk If You
Wanna Honky Tonk" which aired on CMT and GAC. Webb has opened shows for Garth Brooks,
Randy Travis, George Strait, George Jones, and many others. He has also performed for former
President George W. Bush. Be looking for Webb's new CD, “Mine’s Bigger”, on most major digital
distribution sites. www.WebbDalton.com
Wes Loper Growing up and residing on the South Alabama Coast, Wes Loper progresses into
stardom and entertains professionally across the region. He has performed along the gulf coast
for the past eight years and continues to mix Rock, Country, Blues, and Folk music to create his
own style with a funky, beach side feel. www.wesloper.com
Wild Bill Emerson has had considerable success in the country music arena, with 15 songs
recorded by George Jones, three by Hank Williams Jr, three by John Anderson and cuts by the
Oak Ridge Boys, Ronnie Milsap, Ray Charles, Conway Twitty and Melba Montgomery.
Will Kimbrough With 10 artist albums and a 3-CD box set to his credit, Will has released five
solo recordings and five albums as a founding member of DADDY, the bis-quits, and Will and the
Bushmen. Dubbed an "Alien" performer as a way to explain his masterful performance on the
guitar, Will was recognized in 2004 as the "Instrumentalist of the Year" by the Americana Music
Association -- an award he was nominated for again this year. He has spent most of 2011 out on
tour with Emmylou Harris as one of her Red Dirt Boys and often performs with Rodney Crowell,
Jimmy Buffett and others when not performing his own shows, hired as a session performer or
producing others. Will's songs have been recorded by Jimmy Buffett, Little Feat, Jack Ingram,
Todd Snider and others. His current full-length album – WINGS (Daphne Records) - explores
themes surrounding the conflict between family and career, love and work, parents and children
with music is based in classic folk rock infused with atmospheric guitar, cello, saxophone, trumpet,
banjo, Hammond organ. Since early 2010, Will has been posting his weekly "Lick Of The Day"
videos featuring an intimate moment with the Alien and a short lesson in how to play some of his
signature sounds. www.WillKimbrough.com
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