Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Photos
Photos
Here a re some photos from the trip for you to look at/share - whatever.
Be back soon -
Dobe
Here a re some photos from the trip for you to look at/share - whatever.
Be back soon -
Dobe
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Postscript
Postscript
Great trip! Very excited to put the pieces together now that I've been so encouraged.
When I originally searched for cheap flights, I didn't realise that I'd booked one that would arrive in Melbourne just after the Grand Final had started.
The Customs folks were obviously keen to get back to the TV, so simply came into the baggage area and went around stamping everyone's immigration card. We all collected our bags and not a single search! Must remember that for next time.
Delighted to see the rain falling when I arrived! Perfect end to the trip.
Now to send the huge pile of 'thankyou' emails, process the photos and write the report!
Hope you enjoyed following the blog and thanks to all those who've been so supportive.
Watch out for updates as plans for next year take shape.
If you'd like to be kept 'in the loop', please email me - adobe2@tpg.com.au
Cheers,
Dobe
Great trip! Very excited to put the pieces together now that I've been so encouraged.
When I originally searched for cheap flights, I didn't realise that I'd booked one that would arrive in Melbourne just after the Grand Final had started.
The Customs folks were obviously keen to get back to the TV, so simply came into the baggage area and went around stamping everyone's immigration card. We all collected our bags and not a single search! Must remember that for next time.
Delighted to see the rain falling when I arrived! Perfect end to the trip.
Now to send the huge pile of 'thankyou' emails, process the photos and write the report!
Hope you enjoyed following the blog and thanks to all those who've been so supportive.
Watch out for updates as plans for next year take shape.
If you'd like to be kept 'in the loop', please email me - adobe2@tpg.com.au
Cheers,
Dobe
Day 13 - The End!
Day 13 - The End!
Leaving at 5pm this arvo, so have purposely left the day free for a bit of 'me' activity.
Am on trail of a digital camera for Sal and some T-shirts for Bill. Tom has offered to take me to Walmart! Into the belly of the capitalist beast!
First though, Tom's in search of a guitar case as he's off for 10 days of gigs up north tomorrow. Three HUGE guitar/music stores in such a small town is testament to just how much music is produced here. More Alladin's caves!
Then to Walmart. I'm not 'disappointed'. HUGE! K-Mart/Target, Coles and a very large pharmacy all under one roof. No wonder they've had such an impact on smaller retailers, you can get just about everything here. Shopping is a success, so just the post office to go.
Take Tom to the local Mexican restaurant for lunch to say a final thanks.
Then it's back to Tom's to pack and drive to the airport.
I must confess that I'm not too excited by the prospect of the 28-hour trip with hours of waiting in LA and Auckland for connections.
Still, lots of notes to make while things are still fresh!
Will be great to be home, but I'll be sad to leave. I have a much better understanding of why this place IS music city and is such a powerful magnet for anyone involved in the industry.
A final hug and thanks to Tom, and - off we go!
Leaving at 5pm this arvo, so have purposely left the day free for a bit of 'me' activity.
Am on trail of a digital camera for Sal and some T-shirts for Bill. Tom has offered to take me to Walmart! Into the belly of the capitalist beast!
First though, Tom's in search of a guitar case as he's off for 10 days of gigs up north tomorrow. Three HUGE guitar/music stores in such a small town is testament to just how much music is produced here. More Alladin's caves!
Then to Walmart. I'm not 'disappointed'. HUGE! K-Mart/Target, Coles and a very large pharmacy all under one roof. No wonder they've had such an impact on smaller retailers, you can get just about everything here. Shopping is a success, so just the post office to go.
Take Tom to the local Mexican restaurant for lunch to say a final thanks.
Then it's back to Tom's to pack and drive to the airport.
I must confess that I'm not too excited by the prospect of the 28-hour trip with hours of waiting in LA and Auckland for connections.
Still, lots of notes to make while things are still fresh!
Will be great to be home, but I'll be sad to leave. I have a much better understanding of why this place IS music city and is such a powerful magnet for anyone involved in the industry.
A final hug and thanks to Tom, and - off we go!
Day 12 - Only One More Sleep To Go
Day 12 - Only One More Sleep To Go!
I realised this morning that I've been so caught up in meetings and music that I've got no idea what's happening in the 'real' world. P'raps it's what helps make Americans so insular.
Speaking of which I haven't bothered with TV here as there's constant coverage about Obama the 'communist' as the health plan debate (rant) carries on. Nearly all the Nashvilleans I've met just shake their heads and are at pains to apologise for the ignorance and stupidity of their fellows.
Anyway, am off to my Fido's 'office' for a final day of meetings - Gina (Tommy's manager), Mike Grimes - owner of Grimey's and The Basement, legendary PR/Promo consultant Jeff Walker, Mark Moffat for final de-brief, Jewel Coburn - thanks and hugs, and Dean Hartwell who's in a local Bluegrass band wanting to tour Australia.
Later -
I'd been nervous that Tommy's enthusiasm wouldn't be shared by Gina, but I needn't have worried. She's impressed by the leverage that the Americana Festival is gaining in the local and national media, and see's Tommy's involvement as a real plus. As she wisely points out - if Tommy's keen - it'll happen. She was based here (with Sony) for many years, so we have a good catch-up and gossip.
I wanted to talk to Mike Grimes about the possibility of using The Basement on the day following the Festival (when folks are still in town) for an Aussie/Nashville Kangaroos 'family day'. He's very responsive to the idea and we'll discuss further.
Jewel is sad to see me go - bless her! She says some very nice things about how the Bushies influenced her musically as a teenager - as if I needed reminding! She and Barry have been a great help as my 'entry point' to some serious industry folks here, and having them on board and their willingness to help with future plans will be invaluable. Lovely to spend a bit of time.
Jeff Walker is one of Nashville's most respected PR/Promo operators and his company Aristomedia is a prominent supporter of both the AMA and the CMA (on whose board he sits). Jeff has a passion for the international country market - and moderated the Global panel that I participated on during the Conference. He's worked closely with Mark Moffat to promote international involvement in both the Americana Festival and the CMA's major June festival. He produces a regular International Newsletter and is a regular visitor to Australia and a great supporter of our artists and music.
From my time here - and the promotional email bombardment that delegates are subjected to, it's become obvious to me that without a 'serious' publicist on board, Australia will fail to make the impact we hope for.
Jeff would be ideal, but he's a busy, busy man.
I'm holding my breath as we cut to the chase. He's in! Wouldn't miss it for the world - his words, and will do it at "mates rates". Great news. Just a matter of finding the money!
While waiting for Mark, I make the 'mistake' of wandering across the road to the used book shop. Another Alladin's cave! Lots of hard-back 1st editions of the US crime writers I can't get at home. Why do I collect heavy things? Trip to the post office now becomes a must as the airlines have become red-hot on excess.
Mark is delighted when I relate the gist of meetings - particularly with Jed, and the very real possibility that the original 'mission' now seems achievable. He's very modest in accepting my thanks, but the fact is that without his support I wouldn't have been encouraged to 'dream', and certainly wouldn't be here.
He's got a surprise for me - a gig!
A good friend - Wayne Roland Brown, owns significant opal deposits in Australia. He's also a songwriter (of course!), and has been putting together songs for a documentary about opal mining. He's heard from Mark that I'm a 'blokey' vocalist and would be perfect for one of the songs - 'Free Beer Tomorrow'. Right up my alley, so am delighted that I get to be part of the Nashville 'industry'.
Dean's a member of the Farewell Drifters who I've checked out on MySpace. A sort of an urban/modern take on trad Bluegrass. I pass on some contacts in that 'community' in Australia and tell him to make sure he catches up with the Kym Warner and Australian brother Lachlan & Hamish Davidson who'll be in town over the next week for the International Bluegrass Convention.
Then it's off to The Blue Room for an early showcase (6.30pm) by Mark and Jay O'Shea. Seems these are a feature of the local scene as it's a chance to get music execs - just up the road in Music Row, to check out potential clients on the way home to family.
I'm meeting Tracey and Anne and Brian (Wise) for a last drink and thankyou before I go. Anne's got some great ideas about how Sounds Australia (or whoever) could help 'local' ex-pats who are working away to make their mark here.
When I arrived, I was focused on bringing acts from Australia to Americana, but - talking to Anne, the O'Sheas, Audrey Auld and others, it's become clear that there's also the possibility of including them in future plans.
But back to the O'Sheas. Boy they're good! Their recent Top 5 finish in Country Music Television's 'Duets' contest - a big deal here, has given them such much needed profile, and they've managed to attract a couple of label execs to the showcase. I'm a bit gob-smacked to find out that they've been playing this gig for free for the last year - it's packed! But with so many hopefuls who'd be happy for the chance, it's the reality.
They're a lovely couple - good luck!
As it's early, a last chance to get down to Broadway to check out the Honky Tonks - Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, Rippies, Second Fiddle, Robert's Western World where some of the best Nashville players (including all the legends) regularly play for tips! Being the tourist strip that's not as bad a s it sounds .... but still.
Great players, great music. A fitting end to proceedings.
I realised this morning that I've been so caught up in meetings and music that I've got no idea what's happening in the 'real' world. P'raps it's what helps make Americans so insular.
Speaking of which I haven't bothered with TV here as there's constant coverage about Obama the 'communist' as the health plan debate (rant) carries on. Nearly all the Nashvilleans I've met just shake their heads and are at pains to apologise for the ignorance and stupidity of their fellows.
Anyway, am off to my Fido's 'office' for a final day of meetings - Gina (Tommy's manager), Mike Grimes - owner of Grimey's and The Basement, legendary PR/Promo consultant Jeff Walker, Mark Moffat for final de-brief, Jewel Coburn - thanks and hugs, and Dean Hartwell who's in a local Bluegrass band wanting to tour Australia.
Later -
I'd been nervous that Tommy's enthusiasm wouldn't be shared by Gina, but I needn't have worried. She's impressed by the leverage that the Americana Festival is gaining in the local and national media, and see's Tommy's involvement as a real plus. As she wisely points out - if Tommy's keen - it'll happen. She was based here (with Sony) for many years, so we have a good catch-up and gossip.
I wanted to talk to Mike Grimes about the possibility of using The Basement on the day following the Festival (when folks are still in town) for an Aussie/Nashville Kangaroos 'family day'. He's very responsive to the idea and we'll discuss further.
Jewel is sad to see me go - bless her! She says some very nice things about how the Bushies influenced her musically as a teenager - as if I needed reminding! She and Barry have been a great help as my 'entry point' to some serious industry folks here, and having them on board and their willingness to help with future plans will be invaluable. Lovely to spend a bit of time.
Jeff Walker is one of Nashville's most respected PR/Promo operators and his company Aristomedia is a prominent supporter of both the AMA and the CMA (on whose board he sits). Jeff has a passion for the international country market - and moderated the Global panel that I participated on during the Conference. He's worked closely with Mark Moffat to promote international involvement in both the Americana Festival and the CMA's major June festival. He produces a regular International Newsletter and is a regular visitor to Australia and a great supporter of our artists and music.
From my time here - and the promotional email bombardment that delegates are subjected to, it's become obvious to me that without a 'serious' publicist on board, Australia will fail to make the impact we hope for.
Jeff would be ideal, but he's a busy, busy man.
I'm holding my breath as we cut to the chase. He's in! Wouldn't miss it for the world - his words, and will do it at "mates rates". Great news. Just a matter of finding the money!
While waiting for Mark, I make the 'mistake' of wandering across the road to the used book shop. Another Alladin's cave! Lots of hard-back 1st editions of the US crime writers I can't get at home. Why do I collect heavy things? Trip to the post office now becomes a must as the airlines have become red-hot on excess.
Mark is delighted when I relate the gist of meetings - particularly with Jed, and the very real possibility that the original 'mission' now seems achievable. He's very modest in accepting my thanks, but the fact is that without his support I wouldn't have been encouraged to 'dream', and certainly wouldn't be here.
He's got a surprise for me - a gig!
A good friend - Wayne Roland Brown, owns significant opal deposits in Australia. He's also a songwriter (of course!), and has been putting together songs for a documentary about opal mining. He's heard from Mark that I'm a 'blokey' vocalist and would be perfect for one of the songs - 'Free Beer Tomorrow'. Right up my alley, so am delighted that I get to be part of the Nashville 'industry'.
Dean's a member of the Farewell Drifters who I've checked out on MySpace. A sort of an urban/modern take on trad Bluegrass. I pass on some contacts in that 'community' in Australia and tell him to make sure he catches up with the Kym Warner and Australian brother Lachlan & Hamish Davidson who'll be in town over the next week for the International Bluegrass Convention.
Then it's off to The Blue Room for an early showcase (6.30pm) by Mark and Jay O'Shea. Seems these are a feature of the local scene as it's a chance to get music execs - just up the road in Music Row, to check out potential clients on the way home to family.
I'm meeting Tracey and Anne and Brian (Wise) for a last drink and thankyou before I go. Anne's got some great ideas about how Sounds Australia (or whoever) could help 'local' ex-pats who are working away to make their mark here.
When I arrived, I was focused on bringing acts from Australia to Americana, but - talking to Anne, the O'Sheas, Audrey Auld and others, it's become clear that there's also the possibility of including them in future plans.
But back to the O'Sheas. Boy they're good! Their recent Top 5 finish in Country Music Television's 'Duets' contest - a big deal here, has given them such much needed profile, and they've managed to attract a couple of label execs to the showcase. I'm a bit gob-smacked to find out that they've been playing this gig for free for the last year - it's packed! But with so many hopefuls who'd be happy for the chance, it's the reality.
They're a lovely couple - good luck!
As it's early, a last chance to get down to Broadway to check out the Honky Tonks - Tootsie's Orchid Lounge, Rippies, Second Fiddle, Robert's Western World where some of the best Nashville players (including all the legends) regularly play for tips! Being the tourist strip that's not as bad a s it sounds .... but still.
Great players, great music. A fitting end to proceedings.
Day 11 - Get 'em Before I Go
Day 11 - Get 'em Before I Go
Only a couple of days to go and so the next couple of days will be vital to long-term plans. Today I'm catching up with long-time Nashville resident and Aussie 'friend' John Lomax III (from THAT legendary American musicology family), visiting Belmont Uni's Mike Curb School of Entertainment and Music Business, lunching with Jed to discuss Aussies at Americana 2010 in detail and catching up with old mate Tommy Emmanuel.
Later -
The Belmont visit is a 'side' project to investigate the possibilities of staff/student exchange with NMIT - the Melbourne TAFE where I teach music business. As we've got a Bachelor Degree in place in performance and are about to introduce one in Music Industry with 'majors' in technical production, songwriting and music business, it's a perfect time to try to establish a 'partnership' with Belmont. Meet a posse of the senior staff and everyone's very positive about the possibilities. Lots of questions about accreditation and course detail to be discussed - firtunately, not by me! Will go home with the good news and the departmental heads can carry it forward. It's a beautiful campus which incorporates the classic ante-bellum Belmont Mansion. Just at the end of Music Row - our students will love it.
Off to Fido's to meet John. Fido's is a Nashville institution, situated in Hillsboro Village - the student 'quarter' of town. It's like a little slice of Brunswick Street with REAL coffee. I've now realised that it's such a popular haunt, it's no trouble to arrange to meet people there. I just sit in the 'office' and they come to me. Very handy.
John first came to our (Australian) attention as a fan and local promoter of the Dead Ringer Band, featuring a very young Casey Chambers, brother Nash (now producer and manager) and mum and dad Bill and Di.
He was largely responsible for getting an initial US deal for Kasey and now runs a successful business exporting roots product to Europe and other markets. He's interested in helping to generate interest in the US and Europe for Aussie artists, but is also a mine of information on the local scene. He's happy to do whatever he can to help promote Aussies coming to Americana 2010.
Next it's lunch with Jed. He looks and sounds tired - no surprise there, but is very happy with how things have gone. He's wearing his Sounds Australia Akubra (the Lawson model) and gets lots of compliments while we're there - good move Dobe!
I lay out my tentative plan for Aussie involvement in next year's event - extra gigs, showcase appearances, an Aussie panel in the Conference, the idea of an academic involvement, songwriter/producer program .....
All good!
The AMA usually has an 'exclusivity' clause for showcase performers so additional performances don't detract from their Festival appearance, but Jed's quite happy with 'taster' gigs - such as an Aussie showcase at the Bluebird Cafe. He and I agree it will only help spark interest in visiting Australians. He's also mindful to try to provide our artists with as much exposure as possible.
He also reassures me on the one major potential problem I'd identified. If Aussie artists are to be eligible for funding assistance, there's a considerable time-lag and the need for some sort of 'guarantee' of involvement in the showcase program which is by application and panel assessment.
As Jed details, with international visitors, there are 'special' invitations and an ability to call an early meeting of the selection panel so overseas artists can make long-term plans.
It's all good and I'm delighted!
We chat for a long time about the event and I offer some thoughts based on my previous 'life' as director of the long-dead (but large) Melbourne Music Festival which bore striking resemblance to Americana.
Jed's a lovely bloke and I'm feeling really positive about the future.
So, I'm in a great mood when Tommy arrives. And if I wasn't already, the 'tornado' of positivity and enthusiasm that's Tommy would have soon changed that. I was so looking forward to this as I'd spent two of the best years of my musical life when Tommy was a member of the Bushwackers (80s).
Tommy's been working his arse off from his base here - 320 shows a year, and this year was honoured by Guitar Player with a Lifetime Achievement Award - a BIG deal!
He's taken over Keith Urban's early role as host and landlord (free bed and board) for visiting Australians. (I'm told later that Keith's house was apparently known as the 'Koala Hilton' for years).
Tommy hasn't changed a bit - still the same corny (dreadful!) jokes, but told with such verve that you can't help but laugh.
Of course the serious business is to get Tommy to agree to add his 'headline' status to the Aussie contingent. If he's in AND we could get Kasey and Shane involved, we will have a 'serious' showcase demanding a prime venue/spot.
He's VERY keen to be involved, and mentions the prospect of a reunion gig with the Bushwackers. I'd LOVE it - but early days yet.
This day's going very well, but until I speak to Gina Mendello - Tommy's manager, I'm not counting too many chickens.
He's such a generous and warm human being, that I'm in a great mood for today's final treat.
Have been hearing all week about the Doyle and Debbie Show which has been an institution at the Station Inn for the last couple of years. I'm told it's hilarious - always a worry.
Not a problem though, it's really good.
It's a satirical and affectionate look at the attempted resurrection of ex 'star' Doyle after a past littered with personal problems and a dark secret. He's here with his third 'Debbie' a young hopeful he's rescued from teenage single-motherhood in a trailer park in East Kentucky.
'Doyle' in real life, originally came to Nashville to be a songwriter (of course!), before discovering a passion and talent for acting and film making. He could easily have made it! The songwriting is fantastic - a fact confirmed by a number of prominent songwriters in tonight's audience. As a theatrical show, it allows them to touch on a number of 'taboo' subjects that would be no-go for ordinary writers. The singing's great too. They're off to do a 6-month residency in Chicago and hopefully London. It'd be a hit here and I'll pass on details to a couple of producers. It's not called 'Music City' for nothing!
Only a couple of days to go and so the next couple of days will be vital to long-term plans. Today I'm catching up with long-time Nashville resident and Aussie 'friend' John Lomax III (from THAT legendary American musicology family), visiting Belmont Uni's Mike Curb School of Entertainment and Music Business, lunching with Jed to discuss Aussies at Americana 2010 in detail and catching up with old mate Tommy Emmanuel.
Later -
The Belmont visit is a 'side' project to investigate the possibilities of staff/student exchange with NMIT - the Melbourne TAFE where I teach music business. As we've got a Bachelor Degree in place in performance and are about to introduce one in Music Industry with 'majors' in technical production, songwriting and music business, it's a perfect time to try to establish a 'partnership' with Belmont. Meet a posse of the senior staff and everyone's very positive about the possibilities. Lots of questions about accreditation and course detail to be discussed - firtunately, not by me! Will go home with the good news and the departmental heads can carry it forward. It's a beautiful campus which incorporates the classic ante-bellum Belmont Mansion. Just at the end of Music Row - our students will love it.
Off to Fido's to meet John. Fido's is a Nashville institution, situated in Hillsboro Village - the student 'quarter' of town. It's like a little slice of Brunswick Street with REAL coffee. I've now realised that it's such a popular haunt, it's no trouble to arrange to meet people there. I just sit in the 'office' and they come to me. Very handy.
John first came to our (Australian) attention as a fan and local promoter of the Dead Ringer Band, featuring a very young Casey Chambers, brother Nash (now producer and manager) and mum and dad Bill and Di.
He was largely responsible for getting an initial US deal for Kasey and now runs a successful business exporting roots product to Europe and other markets. He's interested in helping to generate interest in the US and Europe for Aussie artists, but is also a mine of information on the local scene. He's happy to do whatever he can to help promote Aussies coming to Americana 2010.
Next it's lunch with Jed. He looks and sounds tired - no surprise there, but is very happy with how things have gone. He's wearing his Sounds Australia Akubra (the Lawson model) and gets lots of compliments while we're there - good move Dobe!
I lay out my tentative plan for Aussie involvement in next year's event - extra gigs, showcase appearances, an Aussie panel in the Conference, the idea of an academic involvement, songwriter/producer program .....
All good!
The AMA usually has an 'exclusivity' clause for showcase performers so additional performances don't detract from their Festival appearance, but Jed's quite happy with 'taster' gigs - such as an Aussie showcase at the Bluebird Cafe. He and I agree it will only help spark interest in visiting Australians. He's also mindful to try to provide our artists with as much exposure as possible.
He also reassures me on the one major potential problem I'd identified. If Aussie artists are to be eligible for funding assistance, there's a considerable time-lag and the need for some sort of 'guarantee' of involvement in the showcase program which is by application and panel assessment.
As Jed details, with international visitors, there are 'special' invitations and an ability to call an early meeting of the selection panel so overseas artists can make long-term plans.
It's all good and I'm delighted!
We chat for a long time about the event and I offer some thoughts based on my previous 'life' as director of the long-dead (but large) Melbourne Music Festival which bore striking resemblance to Americana.
Jed's a lovely bloke and I'm feeling really positive about the future.
So, I'm in a great mood when Tommy arrives. And if I wasn't already, the 'tornado' of positivity and enthusiasm that's Tommy would have soon changed that. I was so looking forward to this as I'd spent two of the best years of my musical life when Tommy was a member of the Bushwackers (80s).
Tommy's been working his arse off from his base here - 320 shows a year, and this year was honoured by Guitar Player with a Lifetime Achievement Award - a BIG deal!
He's taken over Keith Urban's early role as host and landlord (free bed and board) for visiting Australians. (I'm told later that Keith's house was apparently known as the 'Koala Hilton' for years).
Tommy hasn't changed a bit - still the same corny (dreadful!) jokes, but told with such verve that you can't help but laugh.
Of course the serious business is to get Tommy to agree to add his 'headline' status to the Aussie contingent. If he's in AND we could get Kasey and Shane involved, we will have a 'serious' showcase demanding a prime venue/spot.
He's VERY keen to be involved, and mentions the prospect of a reunion gig with the Bushwackers. I'd LOVE it - but early days yet.
This day's going very well, but until I speak to Gina Mendello - Tommy's manager, I'm not counting too many chickens.
He's such a generous and warm human being, that I'm in a great mood for today's final treat.
Have been hearing all week about the Doyle and Debbie Show which has been an institution at the Station Inn for the last couple of years. I'm told it's hilarious - always a worry.
Not a problem though, it's really good.
It's a satirical and affectionate look at the attempted resurrection of ex 'star' Doyle after a past littered with personal problems and a dark secret. He's here with his third 'Debbie' a young hopeful he's rescued from teenage single-motherhood in a trailer park in East Kentucky.
'Doyle' in real life, originally came to Nashville to be a songwriter (of course!), before discovering a passion and talent for acting and film making. He could easily have made it! The songwriting is fantastic - a fact confirmed by a number of prominent songwriters in tonight's audience. As a theatrical show, it allows them to touch on a number of 'taboo' subjects that would be no-go for ordinary writers. The singing's great too. They're off to do a 6-month residency in Chicago and hopefully London. It'd be a hit here and I'll pass on details to a couple of producers. It's not called 'Music City' for nothing!
Monday, September 28, 2009
Day 10 - On With The Meetings ....
Day 10 - On With The Meetings .....
Today I'm off to Murfeesboro (50 mins from Nashville), to meet with Dr. Paul Fischer from Middle Tennessee State University who's the convenor of the US chapter of the International Association for the Study of Popular Music. Will also try to get to the visitor's centre at Stones River - scene of one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War.
Then lunch with Mary Sack - local manager/publicist, meeting with local agent/promoter and AMA board member Paul Lohr, coffee and follow-up with Christian Roreau. Bit of shopping at the famous Grimey's Pre-Loved Music, and an early night - maybe!
Later
MTSU is a HUGE campus that dominates the small country town of Murfreesboro (derived from the mispelling of a miltary commander of the Revolution Hardy Murphy apparently). Paul Fischer's a lovely bloke and very interested to discuss the possibility of this academic involvement. His advice is that initially at least, the scholarly presentations will be dominated by Australian contributions as he thinks his colleagues are not aware of the historical links between Americana music and the development of Australian country music. Still, he imagines that they'll be very interested if such an meeting/seminar takes place under the Americana Festival banner, and will help to promote it. Will discuss with Jed.
We've got time to visit the Stones River battlefield. The Civil War has always fascinated me since my Uni days. The visitors centre is excellent and graphically tells the sad, sad story of this bloody battle where nearly a third of the 80,000 participants were killed, wounded or went missing. What emerges is a familiar story - namely, that the rank and file were commanded by men drawn from the landowning/merchant/professional classes who had little or no military training or grasp of strategy. Apparently on the eve of the battle, with the lines only 600 metres apart, the rival brass bands engaged in a musical 'duel' - The Battle Hymn of the Republic and Yankee Doodle on the Union side and Dixie and the Bonny Blue Flag on the Confederate. Then one started Home Sweet Home and was joined by the other with all troops singing. You could only hope that at that point, they'd cross the short distance, embrace and go their separate ways. Not to be I'm afraid, and hours later the carnage begins. It's a moving experience. I'm sad, but glad I came.
Mary takes me to her favourite eating place and is greatly surprised when I'm greeted warmly by the owner! It's Bro's who catered at Jewel and Barry's the night before where we'd had a good chat. The 'legendary' Buddy Miller who scooped the pool at the awards is also there for lunch and we have a few minutes for a chat. He's a bit embarassed about winning nearly everything, and especially the Duo/Group award as he 'loves' Kasey and Shane's record. Lovely humble fellow, and Mary explains that the owners are famous for keeping many a hungry young artist fed - a young Buddy being one.
Mary worked last year with Melbournians Bill Jackson & Ruthy Hazelton who travelled on a Vic Rocks grant and sang her praises before I left.
She's been described to me a real 'doer' and I'm nt disappointed by the flow of ideas and enthusiasm. She loves working with Australians and offers to do whatever she can to investigate additional gigs for the group that attends in 2010.
Off to coffee with Paul Lohr from New Frontier Touring. Greeted at the door by a Queenslander - a kelpie/heeler cross - yet another Aussie in Nashville! Paul's very excited - with his AMA board member hat on, by the plans to create formal links with Australia. We talk about the potential for organising additional gigs around the festival. He thinks that the 'Australian' tag makes it real possibility but will depend very much on exactly which artists will be involved. We discuss a number of possibilities, and he offers to be a sounding-board as things develop. Very positive - good bloke.
By the time I get to Thirty Tigers to catch up with Christian, he observes that it's 'beer o'clock' - a universal term it seems. No argument fro me as it's been a long day.
Having seen a couple of Christian's acts during the week, I'm in a much better position to discuss performance possibilities in Australia. We discuss the major festivals (who've given me info and cards to distribute) and connecting gigs. For his part, Christian listens to my tentative/developing plans for the Aussie 'invasion' in 2010, and provides relevant contacts to follow up. He also introduces me to his boss who turns out to have been best man at Pru and Tom's wedding. Like so many here, Bob is an ex major label exec, who moved to Nashville to start his own business. Thirty Tigers has been a success and is one of the new wave of indie labels who provide in-house management and PR/Promo services to the artists they've signed. Fascinating chat about operating in Nashville and he - like nearly everyone else I've met, is very supportive about the plan.
Thirty Tigers is in a great spot. 2 floors below is The Basement bar and music venue and, sandwiched in between, Grimey's Pre-Loved Music. It's an absolute Alladin's Cave! Thousands of new and used vinyl albums and CDs. I'm on a personal and family mission - for DJ son Dan. This particular 'mission' involves tracking down classic funk/soul LPs and this is THE place. How I'm going to actually pack them and not exceed baggage allowance occurs to me - but only for a moment!
Had every intention of going out to see a gig, but realise I'm buggered! Tom's cooked up some salmon and a few quiet beers on the verandah provides the perfect end to the day.
Today I'm off to Murfeesboro (50 mins from Nashville), to meet with Dr. Paul Fischer from Middle Tennessee State University who's the convenor of the US chapter of the International Association for the Study of Popular Music. Will also try to get to the visitor's centre at Stones River - scene of one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War.
Then lunch with Mary Sack - local manager/publicist, meeting with local agent/promoter and AMA board member Paul Lohr, coffee and follow-up with Christian Roreau. Bit of shopping at the famous Grimey's Pre-Loved Music, and an early night - maybe!
Later
MTSU is a HUGE campus that dominates the small country town of Murfreesboro (derived from the mispelling of a miltary commander of the Revolution Hardy Murphy apparently). Paul Fischer's a lovely bloke and very interested to discuss the possibility of this academic involvement. His advice is that initially at least, the scholarly presentations will be dominated by Australian contributions as he thinks his colleagues are not aware of the historical links between Americana music and the development of Australian country music. Still, he imagines that they'll be very interested if such an meeting/seminar takes place under the Americana Festival banner, and will help to promote it. Will discuss with Jed.
We've got time to visit the Stones River battlefield. The Civil War has always fascinated me since my Uni days. The visitors centre is excellent and graphically tells the sad, sad story of this bloody battle where nearly a third of the 80,000 participants were killed, wounded or went missing. What emerges is a familiar story - namely, that the rank and file were commanded by men drawn from the landowning/merchant/professional classes who had little or no military training or grasp of strategy. Apparently on the eve of the battle, with the lines only 600 metres apart, the rival brass bands engaged in a musical 'duel' - The Battle Hymn of the Republic and Yankee Doodle on the Union side and Dixie and the Bonny Blue Flag on the Confederate. Then one started Home Sweet Home and was joined by the other with all troops singing. You could only hope that at that point, they'd cross the short distance, embrace and go their separate ways. Not to be I'm afraid, and hours later the carnage begins. It's a moving experience. I'm sad, but glad I came.
Mary takes me to her favourite eating place and is greatly surprised when I'm greeted warmly by the owner! It's Bro's who catered at Jewel and Barry's the night before where we'd had a good chat. The 'legendary' Buddy Miller who scooped the pool at the awards is also there for lunch and we have a few minutes for a chat. He's a bit embarassed about winning nearly everything, and especially the Duo/Group award as he 'loves' Kasey and Shane's record. Lovely humble fellow, and Mary explains that the owners are famous for keeping many a hungry young artist fed - a young Buddy being one.
Mary worked last year with Melbournians Bill Jackson & Ruthy Hazelton who travelled on a Vic Rocks grant and sang her praises before I left.
She's been described to me a real 'doer' and I'm nt disappointed by the flow of ideas and enthusiasm. She loves working with Australians and offers to do whatever she can to investigate additional gigs for the group that attends in 2010.
Off to coffee with Paul Lohr from New Frontier Touring. Greeted at the door by a Queenslander - a kelpie/heeler cross - yet another Aussie in Nashville! Paul's very excited - with his AMA board member hat on, by the plans to create formal links with Australia. We talk about the potential for organising additional gigs around the festival. He thinks that the 'Australian' tag makes it real possibility but will depend very much on exactly which artists will be involved. We discuss a number of possibilities, and he offers to be a sounding-board as things develop. Very positive - good bloke.
By the time I get to Thirty Tigers to catch up with Christian, he observes that it's 'beer o'clock' - a universal term it seems. No argument fro me as it's been a long day.
Having seen a couple of Christian's acts during the week, I'm in a much better position to discuss performance possibilities in Australia. We discuss the major festivals (who've given me info and cards to distribute) and connecting gigs. For his part, Christian listens to my tentative/developing plans for the Aussie 'invasion' in 2010, and provides relevant contacts to follow up. He also introduces me to his boss who turns out to have been best man at Pru and Tom's wedding. Like so many here, Bob is an ex major label exec, who moved to Nashville to start his own business. Thirty Tigers has been a success and is one of the new wave of indie labels who provide in-house management and PR/Promo services to the artists they've signed. Fascinating chat about operating in Nashville and he - like nearly everyone else I've met, is very supportive about the plan.
Thirty Tigers is in a great spot. 2 floors below is The Basement bar and music venue and, sandwiched in between, Grimey's Pre-Loved Music. It's an absolute Alladin's Cave! Thousands of new and used vinyl albums and CDs. I'm on a personal and family mission - for DJ son Dan. This particular 'mission' involves tracking down classic funk/soul LPs and this is THE place. How I'm going to actually pack them and not exceed baggage allowance occurs to me - but only for a moment!
Had every intention of going out to see a gig, but realise I'm buggered! Tom's cooked up some salmon and a few quiet beers on the verandah provides the perfect end to the day.
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