✨adventures in songwriting✨

Stepping onto the plane to Nashville, my heart buzzed with excitement for what I thought would be a typical, albeit thrilling, writer's showcase. The city of music, with its iconic Broadway lights and legendary venues like where 'The Getup' showcases happen, promises so much to aspiring artists. My initial plan was to play at Big Jimmy's, a well-known spot in the scene, and I had my songs polished, my guitar in its Mono Creators case, and my outfit (jacket from Pinto Ranch, jeans from Buckle, boots from Corralboots, jewelry from Boot Barn Official) all picked out to feel the part. But as any artist in Nashville will tell you, the road to sharing your music is rarely a straight line. My big moment at Big Jimmy's took an unexpected turn when the show was cancelled! It was a deflating moment, especially after all the anticipation and preparation. This kind of plot twist is a real part of the Nashville songwriter culture, teaching you resilience and how to roll with the punches. You see artists like Garrett Hendricks, Taylor Hardie, Dan Lamaestra, Whitney Monge, Joey Falcone, and Shawn Mercer often navigate similar challenges, constantly adapting and finding new ways to share their craft. The scene is incredibly supportive, even when things go awry. So, what do you do when your planned showcase gets a 'halt' signal? You find another stage, even if it's an impromptu one! That's the beauty of Nashville. We quickly found a warm welcome at The Stillery next door. While it wasn't the official 'The Get Up' showcase, getting to play my originals for family and friends in such a cozy, authentic setting was incredibly special. It reminded me that the heart of songwriting isn't just about big stages; it's about sharing your stories and connecting with people, no matter the venue. For anyone dreaming of making it in Nashville's songwriter scene, here's what my adventure taught me: Embrace the Unexpected: Things will go wrong. Shows get canceled, inspiration sometimes dries up, or you might hit creative blocks trying to find the right words or rhymes. Learning to adapt and find alternate solutions, just like we did at The Stillery, is crucial. Network and Connect: Nashville thrives on community. Even the initial lineup for 'The Get Up' showcase highlights the incredible talent you get to be around. Meet other songwriters, go to open mics, and build genuine relationships. You never know who might offer a listening ear or a new opportunity. Stay Ready: Always have your best songs prepared and your gear (like that trusty Gibson guitar) in top shape. Opportunities can pop up out of nowhere. Find Your People: Whether it's your family, friends, or fellow musicians, having a supportive circle makes all the difference when navigating the highs and lows of a creative career. My Nashville songwriting journey, with its thrilling highs and unexpected detours, was a powerful reminder that the true magic lies in the adventure itself—and in the unwavering spirit of the city's incredible music scene.