JPF Home Page Forums Creative Arts Forums Creative Writing Forum Redwing Goes To Nashville..............

Janet, I for one, never once thought you were Nash-bashing.

After spending years here at JPF, I see certain patterns. One being, whenever someone makes an accurate depiction of a single event, such as yours is, others will extrapolate that into a broad judgement. With Nashville posts it happens nearly every time. I try to head off the Nash-bashing before it starts LOL.

Moving here has been one of the most positive things I have done in my life. The people here are among the most friendly and helpful I've met anywhere. The music business here, well, a friend used to say, "This is the NFL." Yes, it is tough, but everyone gets a shot. Now, is there access at every level? Do unknowns get to meet with vice presidents? No. It is not reasonable or realistic to think that would be the way. But every hit writer I've met had to come up through the same social and business networks that are open to anyone else. Writers' nights, conventions, gatherings, seminars and such; also golfing, barbecues, charity events, and church. In other words, you participate in society.

Some folks have a difficult time participating in society. I understand that. I'm shy by nature. I found that I could get on stage, sing, and make jokes to thousands of people, but tend to clam up at a party or especially with just a few folks. It took an effort on my part to "turn on" the stage me in social situations. I still have to remind myself to do so. But that's the same here in Nashville as it is in Miami, New York, Cleveland, Zurich, or Beijing. All things else being equal, Nashville rates as a very open and friendly town.

I highly recommend that folks try going to Doak Turner's songwriter get togethers. He holds them on the third Sunday of each month starting 3pm at his home. Marc Barnette is a regular and a de facto group leader (Marc was NEVER shy ). PM him and he'll provide you with directions. Folks will find a group of people who will show just how welcoming and helpful Nashville can be. But y'all have to do your part. Want to find welcoming and helpful people? Be a welcoming and helpful person.

All the Best,
Mike