Johnny Neel Preps "66/16" with CD Release Party in Nashville

FOR THIS SPECIAL NIGHT ONLY, we are excited to announce the REUNITING, for the first time in over 20 years, "Johnny Neel & The Last Word". The nationally known guitarist Jack Pearson and the phenomenal female vocalists Nanette Bohannon, Kelli Bruce and Vickie Carrico (currently with Nanette Bohannon and The Soul Key), will reunite with Johnny Neel to celebrate the CD release of "66/16". Also helping Johnny celebrate the evening is The Criminal Element, Randy Boen on guitar, Russell Wright on bass and Curt Redding on drums, all amazingly talented players. Other surprise guests will be stopping by! This milestone evening promises to be unbelievably powerful, emotional, and guaranteed to blow the musical doors off this place!

"66/16" is a collection of Johnny Neel songs over the span of 50 years, starting from 1966 to 2016. Born blind, musically gifted and overflowing with soul, Johnny Neel cut his first record at the age of 12. To celebrate 50 Years of Music, Johnny picked his favorite songs from each generation to make up this double CD of 32 songs, titled "66/16". This collection of songs not only shows off the growth and strength of his voice and keyboard skills, it also takes you through the music style changes, as well as the changes happening in our world, over the past 50 years. From 60s Pop 45s to Vietnam Rock Ballads - From Funky Psycodeilac to Southern Rock and Blues, topping it off with a surprising, soul-stirring piano solo, guaranteed to leave you wanting more.

Although an amazingly gifted pianist, B-3 organist, and harmonica player, Neel is best known for his songwriting. Formerly with Allman Brothers Band, Neel is a Grammy Award Winning Keyboardist, Singer/Songwriter. Among other chart topping hits, Neel co-wrote several songs on the Allman Brothers Seven Turns album including "Good Clean Fun" with Allman and Betts, which provided the Allman Brothers their first #1 hit in over 15 years.

After Johnny's tenure with Allman Brothers Band, he formed his own band, The Last Word, which included the well-known, extraordinarily talented members Jack Pearson (also a former member of ABB), Tim Loftin, Nanette Bohannon, Keli Bruce and Vickie Carrico. They played to sold out crowds everywhere they went. Johnny Neel and The Last Word recorded two albums in the mid-90s. The second album "Comin' Atcha", was recorded LIVE to a sold out crowd at Nashville's Sutler.

Today, Johnny Neel is well-known for his Blues, Funk, Jazz, R&B, Gospel, Country and Southern Rock all fused into one deep-rooted sound, renders him sought after by many top music industry professionals across the globe.

Many of Neel's songs have been recorded by such artist's as Montgomery Gentry, Delbert McClinton, John Mayall, Dickey Betts, Michael McDonald, John Louis Walker, Gov't Mule, as well as cuts with HBO, FOX Sports and Disney. Neel has shared the stage with many great artists such as: BB King, Widespread Panic, Steve Winwood, Garth Brooks, Charlie Daniels, Jamey Johnson and Bruce Willis (yes, the actor). Other musical associations, including songwriting over the years are: Bonnie Riatt, Huey Lewis, Bruce Hornsby, David Allen Coe, Joe Diffie, Keith Whitley, Suzy Bogguss, Ann Peebles, Deep Fried, W.I.N.D, Keith Urban, and the list goes on.

RELATED LINKS:
• Johnny Neel
• 3rd and Lindsley

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Mid-Tennessee All Set to Be Full of Schmit in September

In the past calendar year many of his band-mates who now are the surviving members of the incomparable country-rock group The Eagles have made their way to Music City. So, it's only fitting that the golden-throated bass player Timothy B. Schmit will drop in on Nashville, too.

Yes, Don Henley was at the Ryman last October well in advance of the horrific news that his writing partner and co-god in The Eagles Glenn Frey had passed away unexpectedly in early 2016. Joe Walsh was in town in the summer on a high-octane co-bill with Bad Company. Don Felder recently flew into town to present his "Evening at the Hotel California" extravaganza at the City Winery.

Schmit who brought the hit "I Can't Tell You Why" when he joined the group in the late 70's will literally one-up his friends by playing two big shows in the region. He will follow Felder by settling in for a show at the City Winery on Lafayette Street on Sunday, September 25. 2016. Even more exciting, TBS will be a featured performer on the worldwide webcast of Music City Roots. Clearly this legendary Eagle believes Music City will be the perfect place to launch his most recent release called Leap Of Faith. We can't tell you why but it sounds like a good idea to us!

RELATED LINKS:
• Timothy B. Schmit
• Music City Roots
• City Winery
• Don Felder Review

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Janey Street Unveils Her Side of Paradise on Blue Elan Records

"Music is and will always be my life - but I never thought I’d get the chance to make another record." stated Janey Street, whose career took off in the 1980s with several hit singles and videos but she was unable to maintain that same level of success in the years that followed. Yet Janey stayed on the musical path as she moved from New York City to L.A. to Nashville, writing music for movies and TV to surviving on assorted jobs.

Things changed when fan Kirk Pasich who had just launched Blue Élan Records contacted Street with an offer she could not refuse. The mission of Blue Elan Records is to bring "expertise, perseverance, a long history of working with talent and an environment that fosters creativity on the artist’s terms." An ideal label for Janey.

"It was like this whole bunch of songs just exploded and flowed out of me," she continues. "Making the record was magic. And because the label is so cool and progressive, because they trusted me and my songs and my producer Dave Darling, we made a killer record. It has been an amazing time of creative energy and having good folks around me - something I hadn’t felt in a long time."

My Side Of Paradise features a talented team of players and songwriting friends. The 13-track album packs a punch with honest lyrics about the highs and lows of life. Street’s vocals run the range from graceful to gritty which adds more realism to her words. The CD opens with the strong storytelling of "Among The Missing" followed by "Good Side" a catchy love song. Other highlights include the insightful "Grand Delusion" flowing into the swaggering title track. "Scat Like Ella" pays tribute to Ella and others all backed by a danceable retro disco beat." My Side Of Paradise is a solid record coming from the heart and soul of a true artist.

RELATED LINKS:
• Janey Street
• City Winery Review

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Strangers You Know and The Mowgli's: Two Hot Bands Set to Hit Nashville as Things Heat Up in Music City

Two of the hottest new bands are set to show their stuff in Music City in June. First up is the California indie pop-rock band THE MOWGLI'S who will be bringing their spring tour to the Musicians Corner at Centennial Park in Nashville, TN for a free all-ages show on Saturday, June 4. Known for their laid-back mix of sunny West Coast pop, garage rock and 60's Laurel Canyon folk sound, the six-piece group just released their single "Freakin' Me Out," available at iTunes now. The summer-ready track is the first off THE MOWGLI'S third as-yet-untitled album due out this fall on Photo Finish Records.

Next up is Strangers You Know who will be at Exit/In of June 26 to headline here following a successful debut at Coachella. The indie pop/folk/electro duo released their latest EP LOOSEN UP THE LEASH earlier this year to solid reviews. The pair - Grady Lee (vocals, guitar) and Adam Haagen (piano, guitar, vocals, banjo, mandolin) - met three years ago by happenstance in the heart of the desert as attendees of the iconic Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival. Bonding over synths, beats, guitars, lyrics and melody, the foundation of STRANGERS YOU KNOW was born.

RELATED LINKS:
• The Mowgli's
• Strangers You Know

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Don Felder Soars on Seagull's Wings in Nashville

We love Don Felder! We've been lucky enough to see the former Eagles guitar player twice now in concert - once in New Jersey and more recently in May of 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee. Both shows were a joy to observe as Felder and his talented band ran through of slate of classic rock classics. Rockin' Rich Lynch of SoundPress.net also had the opportunity to interview the legend twice in recent years for his radio show and you can tune into those below.

Keep soarin', Don, and keep those fingers limber. We can't wait to see and talk to you again!!!

RELATED LINKS:
• Don Felder Live at the City Winery, Nashville - 2016
• Don Felder Live in Morristown, NJ - 2013

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Two New Jersey Music Industry Moguls Meet Up in Music City

Two long-time activists on the New Jersey music scene met up in Nashville on May 30, 2016 to reconnect and kick back for a few in Music City. Music publishing legend Gary Wien (pictured left) was in town along with his wife Sherry Lynn Tucker Wien to attend a conference in the region and to check out the growing music scene in Mid-Tennessee. Wien, a published author, is widely known for his work in publishing state-wide arts and entertainment newspapers and for his unending commitment to emerging artists through reviews and airplay on the online radio stations he has founded. More recently Gary is breaking down barriers and embracing modern technology with the distribution of his much-acclaimed monthly digital magazine. Learn more at:

GARY WIEN LINKS:
• NewJerseyStage.com
• NJ Arts Mag - Digital Magazine
• AsburyMusic.com - Radio Station
• Gary on Facebook

Rockin' Rich Lynch (pictured right) along with his wife Laura Turner Lynch spent an eternity living in the Garden State before finally picking up stakes and moving south in 2015. Together the two have founded several online music magazines including SoundPress.net and MusicCityNashville.net. Rich has also been involved in radio for over 20 years and regularly interviews his musical idols for a global audience. In addition to promoting the rock music scene in Nashville Lynch is putting his stamp on the market with his heavily "Jersey-influenced" artistry. Laura writes for and administrates the sites and she has also published the self-help manual Positive Power Secrets from A to Z.

RICH & LAURA LYNCH LINKS:
• SoundPress.net
• MusicCityNashville.net
• Rockin' Rich Lynch on the Radio
• Rich Lynch Band
• Postive Power Secrets

The foursome spent a few hours together on a pleasant Memorial Day evening dining on some tasty local fare consisting of Hot Chicken at The Stillery before heading over to the rooftop bar at the George Jones Museum for some refreshing nightcaps. The two couples, already complete in the knowledge that New Jersey rocks, confirmed on this evening that Nashville does, too!

FOOD & DRINK LINKS:
• The Stillery
• George Jones Museum

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Nashvillian Spotlight - Tommy Shaw of Styx

Oh, man! We love Tommy Shaw. When we started our online reporting in the early 2000's Styx was the first arena concert we ever covered. When our article was done, we sent it in, and heard back from their publicist who let us know that Tommy liked our write-up, saying - "We get it!" That was incredible early validation from one of our true rock star heroes.

Three years later I had the opportunity to interview Tommy for my radio show and he then directed his fanbase to tune in to hear the "real conversation" we had. More evidence from the Stygian that we were on the right path because I never wanted to be a real shock jock/morning zoo interviewer. I endeavored to treat these musicians like real people that I'd known all my life. In a way that was true and this approach also helped ease my nerves when the tape was rolling.

I'm not coming late to the party, either. Tommy's "Renegade" was the first real rock song that spoke to me as a pre-teen and I've remained a rock and roll renegade ever since. So, we thank Mr. Shaw for providing more tangible proof in our lives. When we decided to move to Nashville in 2015 we were a little uncertain to leave New York and the Northeast in the rearview. It was all we'd ever known. But, at a May 2016 Styx concert in Nashville we learned that Tommy recently picked up his stakes and moved to Music City, too. So, one more reason to feel less alone here in Tennessee!

So, Tommy, we'd like to invite you and a guest out to dinner here in town. You're choice -- it's the least we can do to say "thanks" for all the encouragement you've brought to into our lives. But, go easy on us. You're a world famous rock star and I'm just a "Blue Collar Man". Reach out and we'll save the date - Rich Lynch - soundpress@yahoo.com

Article Links: Check out these links to learn more about Nashvillian Tommy Shaw! - Tommy Shaw's Site | Tommy Shaw Feature in Nashville Lifestyles | Styx with the Nashville Symphony - 2016 | Tommy with Don Felder in Nashville - 2016 | Our Styx Report from 2003 when Tommy said "We Get It!"

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

The Great Tennessee Airshow Is Set to Take Flight in Smyrna

The Great Tennessee Air Show has announced its complete powerhouse lineup for the 2016 show happening Saturday, June 4 and Sunday, June 5 at Smyrna/Rutherford County Airport. The beloved family outing for aviation enthusiasts will consist of a schedule of top air show talent featuring fan favorites such as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team and Breitling Jet Team.

The Great Tennessee Air Show was rebranded in 2005 and prior events in Smyrna were known as Tennessee Aviation Days going all the way back to 1970. So, there is a long tradition of high-flying fun in the region and this year promises to be the best yet. Additional world-renowned performers include: Team Oracle legendary aerobatic pilot Sean D. Tucker; the GEICO Skytypers airshow team of six vintage WWII aircraft performing precision flight maneuvers; Jim Tobul and the "Korean War Hero" F4U-4 Corsair; Scooter Yoak in his "Quick Silver" P-51D Mustang; Michael Kennedy in the historic Vultee BT-13 Valiant; Special Operations Command Parachute Demonstration Team; Dan Buchanan in his unpowered hang glider; and U.S. Air Force Honor Guard. Wayne Boggs, of the international reality television show, Air Boss, will serve as air boss. Award-winning broadcast journalist Rick Peterson brings his breadth of aviation knowledge and witty personality as this year's air show announcer.

"With this year's lineup, aviation fans are in for an extra spectacular Great Tennessee Air Show," said John Black, executive director of Smyrna/Rutherford County Airport Authority. "We have assembled elite aviation performers to present what will surely be one of the nation's most talked-about air shows of the season."

Of course, there is always an element of danger at these gatherings of man and machine. It was only last September that Jay Gordon, a Louisville, Kentucky pilot perished while flying a high-performance Russian jet at an air show near Knoxville, Tennessee.

But, a spokesperson for the Smyrna event eased concerns by saying, "The Great Tennessee Air Show team's motto is - Safety First. No Surprises. Have Fun!".

And, fans should anticipate nothing but fun at the multi-day event as The 2016 Great Tennessee Air Show will also feature multiple static displays, concessions and numerous activities for children. Named one of the "Top 10 Best Air Shows Around the World" by USA Today. The purpose of the air show is for the local community, aviation enthusiasts and newbies alike to get up close and personal with aviation.

Advance priced tickets are available at www.greattennesseeairshow.com. Advance general admission prices are $30 for adults and $15 for children. Advance box seats are $45 with Flight Line Club Advance tickets priced at $135 for adults and $75 for children (ages 4-12). Ticket buyers can make a donation to Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee when purchasing tickets online.

Article Links: Get your tickets and get set to take flight by visiting this page http://www.greattennesseeairshow.com today!

Nashville Boogie 2016 Is a Nostalgic Nod to the Past

The Nashville Boogie is a celebration of mid-century America that took place May 12-15, 2016. The event featured 4 stages hosting over 50 live performers including Reverend Horton Heat, The Blasters and headliner Chris Isack (special separate show). In addition there was a vintage fashion show, an indoor car show, a pin-up pageant and vendors galore.

Many of the vendors were selling classic clothes such as the Greaser Gals Garage whose motto is “apparel, accessories & attitude”. The Duchess who is also an actress and model was marketing her groove biscuits a wholesome vegan treat. The Red House featured beard oil and pomade. There were a number of artists on hand too including Olivia Frankenstein and The Wreckerd Mill who crafted accessories and jewelry from recycled records.

The Nashville Boogie took place at the Nashville Palace, Opryland Hotel and the Grand Ole Opry House. It was four days to embrace boogie, country, hillbilly, rockabilly and western swing from the 40’s and 50’s. Sounds that shaped the music that came out of Nashville during those influential decades. The event appealed to all ages. We saw youngsters with their families along with folks dancing to the music they grew up with. Plenty of people were in period or western ware adding to energy of the Boogie.

If you missed this four day celebration have no fear as the 2017 Nashville Boogie Vintage Weekender is already scheduled for May 18-22, 2017. It will include an expanded car show, lots of music along with a stage at the prestigious Tennessee Ballroom.

Article Links: Get your tickets and be prepared to boogie down in Nashville with your weekend pass at http://www.nashvilleboogie.com today!

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Nashville Gets Set to Boogie All Weekend Long with Vintage Music Fest

Muddy Roots Music will present a Grand Finale to their Nashville Boogie Weekender at the Grand Ole Opry House featuring classic crooner Chris Isaak in concert on May 15, 2016. The Nashville Boogie Vintage Weekender celebrates the sounds and styles of Mid-Century America with an impressive collection of authentic country, roots rock and rockabily artists such as Slim Jim Phantom and The Blasters leading the way.

Also on the extremely packed agenda is an indoor car show to show off those beautiful wheels from way back when. The captivating Bernie Dexter will be hosting a pin-up pageant that's sure to be chock full of lovely ladies. And Nashville's very own retro fashionista, Riley Reed, will present a period fashion show. All topped off by a vintage record convention on Sunday before giving way to the main event - Chris Isaak!

Article Links: Get ready to boogie down in Nashville and get your tickets and weekend pass at http://www.nashvilleboogie.com today!

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Tennessee Renaissance Festival Is One For the Ages in Arrington

The month of May has arrived here in Middle Tennessee which means its time to travel back to 16th Century England at the annual Tennessee Renaissance Festival at 2124 New Castle Road, Arrington, TN. The Village of Covington Glen comes alive each weekend in May with artisans, merrymakers, musicians along with specialty drink/food vendors all echoing of an age gone by.

The Tennessee Renaissance Festival is a family friendly event where participants are encouraged to attend in their most colorful garb. The Festival has multiple entertainment stages and a tournament field that features Birds of Prey, Human Chess and best of all Royal Jousting. Games of Skill and Man Powered Rides are all part of this magical realm as are activities geared towards children. The Market Place features over 60 artisans selling, gems, silks, swords and more. Each weekend the Festival will revolve around a theme. The 2nd weekend will focus on arts & crafts, the third a pirate invasion and the fourth will have a Celtic flair.

From 11:00am until 3:00pm each day revelers can tour Castle Gwen where the RoseDan-Freeman Collection of Weaponry will be on display, along with the Needlework and Tapestry Collection of Imogene Stone-the Festival's Royal Tapestry Designer. The 7-story 4900 square foot Castle Gwen was featured in Taylor Swift’s Love Story video.

Festival dates are May 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29, plus Memorial Day May 30th, 2016 from 10am to 6:00 pm. Parking at the Festival is FREE as is admission for children 5 and under. For more information about this fun Festival please visit The Tennessee Renaissance Festival - your finest entertainment venue just outside of Nashville.

Article Links: Get ready to don some garb and head back in time by visiting the www.tnrenfest.com today!

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Nashville Art Crawl Snakes Its Way Through the Downtown in Music City

Nashville, Tennessee is a city teeming with talent and not just the musical type. Nashville is home to many gifted visual artists. On the first Saturday of each month, Downtown Nashville hosts an Art Crawl. Participating galleries have receptions often with free refreshments to showcase the broad range of works available. On May 07, 2016 the Art Crawl took place mostly along 5th Avenue culminating at The Arcade where there is a whole second floor level of galleries. One might also hear music as they crawl.

On the way to The Arcade we encountered other works of arts. The Parnassus On Wheels bus was packed with books another worthy art form. It was also a nostalgic memory for people who recall book mobiles coming to their schools on an annual basis. Another point of interest along 5th Avenue North was the Downtown Presbyterian Church. Their building is a national landmark because of the unique Egyptian Revival motif that runs from the floors to the ceiling in the church. Their pipe organ is also a sight to behold. Buds & Bunches on Church Street featured art and fresh flowers. Also on Church, James R. Threalkill paid tribute to jazz legends with his dramatic paintings.

In our travels we discovered an artist on her own path in Printers Alley. A display of bold bright colors caught our eyes as did the fashionable artist Timmery. She had an innovative selection of albums turned into art, canvases, jewelry, party pump shoes, prints and more. Timmery is a vivid visual artist who is also into fashion, music and writing. Timmery is one of many talented people from out of state who call Nashville home as she continues to grow her brilliant brand here in Music City.

We are already looking forward to next month's Nashville Art Crawl.

Article Links: Check out more of Timmery's work at this site. To learn about the Downtown Presbyterian Church visit this page and get more info on the Nashville Art Crawl here!

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Nashville Hot - Bob Teague Is Cool, Calm and Collected on Strings of Serenity

Nashville, Tennessee is known for its great guitar players and a running joke is that one in three residents are masters on the instrument. Bob Teague is known in town as one of those very talented players whose skill shines through early and often on Strings of Serenity: From Hands of Romance his new 16-track collection of his own favorite instrumental compositions.

This is a perfect set of soothing songs filled with engaging soundscapes and mystical intrigue. "The Star of Soheil" will transport you far, far away while "Spring Sing" is plucked in pretty progressions with a little help from some familiar sounds of the season. "In Old New Mexico" the mood changes with a tip of the sombrero and somber foray into the Southwest of days gone by. "Waterfalls and Waterflows" is a steady stream of clean and rapid notes with an interesting musical meandering that flows directly into the Spanish-influenced "Tengo Tango".

Strings of Serenity: From Hands of Romance is a satisfying instrumental adventure that will have you journeying stress-free through space and time.

Article Links: Check out more from Bob Teague at this page today!

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Rust Radio Rolls Into Manchester, Tennessee on Earth Day Weekend

The team from MusicCityNashville made a road trip to Manchester, Tennessee to check out the hometown of Bonnaroo and visit the Old Stone Fort State Park while we were there.

Upon exiting we noticed this very colorful car in the parking lot. It was completely and lovingly hand-painted, eye-catching, and the hood was adorned with hundreds of plastic dinosaur figurines. We also noticed several stickers for RUST RADIO on the web. The advertising worked and we visited the 24/7 streaming music site that features Neil Young concerts exclusively.

This four door wagon was a cool site to see - LONG MAY YOU RUN!

Article Links: Tune in to Rust Radio today and fill up on live Neil at this site !

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Going Further in Nashville with Further Farms and Further Fest

Further Farms is a regular vendor at the Nashville Farmer’s Market just off of the Rosa Parks Blvd. in Music City. The locally owned and operated sauce and spice company with new and unique blends for every meal can be found on the site daily in 2016 selling their incredible lines of essential oils, spices, sauces, peppers and rubs.

On Saturday, April 23, 2016 we met Drake and Alex from Further Farms during the Crafts and Drafts Festival hosted by the Nashville Scene. This event combined curated arts and crafts vendors with local food trucks and beer. We sampled beer and we tried some of the fiery hot sauces that Further Farms had to offer and washed the heat down with some refreshing Spiked Seltzer.

Speaking of festivals, Furthers Farms will be hosting their second annual Further Fest in September 2016. In addition to three days of non-stop music the event promises to feature Permaculture Farm Style; New Monolithic geodesic cordwood Dome Stage/Amphitheater; Workshops with some of the region's greatest teachers; Permanent Eco-Structures; Ceremony; Flow Arts Performance and Open Circles; Drum Circle; Sacred Fire; Kid's Classes by Seedling Circle; Organic Meals from Locally Sourced Food; Camping on a Beautiful Farm located in Nashville,

Article Links: Get your tickets today and prepare to be transformed. Links are at Further Farms and Further Fest.

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Ricky Skaggs and Co. Heat Things up at the Grand Ole Opry as Tourist Season Begins in Nashville

The Grand Ole Opry is the show that made country music famous. It is the longest running radio show ever and has been broadcasting since 1925. It has a long history of tradition and the program has launched many careers. On Friday, April 22, 2016 Connie Smith was the first hostess to greet the capacity crowd at the Opry House. She gave a warm introduction to Keith Anderson who enchanted the audience with "Pickin' Wildflowers". Next longtime Opry member Mike Snider with his band entertained with humor and fast paced bluegrass pickin'.

The second segment of the show with Jeannie Seely at the helm featured Shelley Skidmore and an engaging set by the legendary Exile. Bill Anderson and Bobby Osborne represented the old guard before Chuck Wicks charmed us with "Steeling Cinderella". The third set starred Josh Turner who delighted us with his deep voice so suitable for storytelling in the tradition of country music. The Whites blessed us with an old spiritual as did Ricky Skaggs with a moving version of "You Can't Shake Jesus".

Article Links: Get tickets for this long-running Nashville tradition today at Opry.com.

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Music City Lit Up in Purple to Honor Prince of Paisley Park

The Music Industry lost a giant with the untimely death of Prince and Music City did not miss a beat to honor The Artist when on April 22, 2016 downtown Nashville was lit up in hues of purple from Broadway to the Grand Ole Opry.

We observed the Bridgestone Arena, Ascend Amphitheater and Korean Veterans Memorial Bridge all bathed in paisley shades to celebrate the life and musical force of the mighty one from Minneapolis. Other landmarks including the Metro Courthouse, the Omni Hotel and Nissan Stadium were reported to also be getting in on the act. All in all it was a touching and appropriate way to mark the passing of the much beloved purple clad rocker.

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Nashville Gets Set for a Marathon Weekend of Fitness and Fun

If there's any city in America that should be "fit as a fiddle" it's Nashville, Tennessee and residents and tourists alike will have a chance to up their fitness rating as the St. Jude Rock 'n' Roll Nashville Marathon & 1/2 Marathon, 5K and Health & Fitness Expo comes to town April 28 - 30, 2016.

The foot races will give you the opportunity to enjoy an up close and personal tour of Music City, New York Times' top destination in the world! Be entertained en route with musical miles before collecting your finish line rewards: bling, beer and more bands. Then, prepare for your free night-time headliner concert at Bridgestone Arena. Stay in town to discover all that Nashville has to offer - from top dining, to a lively culture, world-class entertainment and of course a rich musical history. With a start in front of the honky tonks on Lower Broadway, a tour past the Country Music Hall of Fame, Music City Center, and down Music Row, plus a grand finishing festival in LP Field, we know you're in for a sight from start to finish.

And, if that wasn't enough, there'll be plenty of songs in Music City to accompany the event. First, the race course will be dotted with stages mile after mile offering musical encouragement to the thousands of runners set to take part in the events. Afterwards, The Wallflowers and Nashville's own Marc Scibilia will perform for the Toyota Rock 'n' Roll Concert Series at the Bridgestone Arena on Broadway. So, lace up and run on down to the box office and get your tickets to the as of late rare appearance by Jakob Dylan and Co.

Article Links: For more information on the Race and Health & Fitness Expo please visit this page.

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Generation Axe Ready to Assault the Ryman with a Night of Screaming Guitars

The Ryman Auditorium has been around for a long time and it's one of the most important musical landmarks in all of Music City. It is widely known and recognized as the Mother Church of Country Music and soon it will play host to a pantheon of guitar gods. Prayers are needed as she will face her toughest test this month when five legendary and acclaimed six-stringers enter its hallowed halls swinging their axes and pumping out wall-shaking levels of decibels.

The concerts that fans will experience on the Generation Axe Tour will go way beyond simply gathering five guitar greats on one stage to jam. Each tour stop will include a variety of performances in different configurations amongst the five players, including performing together as one cohesive band, including Pete Griffin (Zappa Plays Zappa) on bass and Nick Marinovich (Yngwie Malmsteen) on keys and Matt Garstka of Animals as Leaders on drums). Steve Vai, Zakk Wylde, Yngwie Malmsteen, Nuno Bettencourt and Tosin Abasi will perform songs from their various catalogs and join forces on some well-known songs (as well as probably a few unexpected, unearthed gems).

Article Links: Get tickets for this once in a lifetime gathering of guitarists today at this page.

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Alice Cooper Prepares a Nashville Nightmare for Fans in Music City

Get Ready, Nashville! An Evening with Alice Cooper will be at the Andrew Jackson Hall in Nashville, TN on May 2, 2016 at 8:00 p.m. This concert is sure to be a bloody good time as one of classic rock's most beloved showman will deliver his well-honed act complete with all of his legendary stunts and personas in tow.

Alice Cooper pioneered a grandly theatrical brand of hard rock that was designed to shock. Drawing equally from horror movies, vaudeville, and garage rock, the group created a stage show that featured electric chairs, guillotines, fake blood and boa constrictors. He continues to tour regularly, performing shows worldwide with the dark and horror-themed theatrics that he's best known for. With a schedule that includes six months each year on the road, Alice Cooper brings his own brand of rock psycho-drama to fans both old and new, enjoying it as much as the audience does. Known as the architect of shock-rock, Cooper (in both the original Alice Cooper band and as a solo artist) has rattled the cages and undermined the authority of generations of guardians of the status quo, continuing to surprise fans and exude danger at every turn, like a great horror movie, even in an era where CNN can present real life shocking images.

Alice has been touring consistently, year in and year out, averaging over 80 concerts annually, both within the USA and internationally, with his band which features the three axe attack of guitarists Ryan Roxie, Nita Strauss, and Tommy Henriksen, plus the rhythm section of drummer Glen Sobel and longtime bassist Chuck Garric. With his influence on rock & roll long since acknowledged, there is little that Alice Cooper hasn't achieved in his remarkable career, including platinum albums, sold-out tours and any number of honors and career achievement awards.

Article Links: Get tickets and for this grand and ghoulish show at this page and be sure to check out some previous coverage here!

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

A Night with Janis Joplin Brings 60's Legend Back to Life in Nashville

In the late 1960's and early 1970's there a was a holy trinity of classic rock gods who blazed to glory before their lives were snuffed out way to soon. Now, fans have the chance to see one of those stars come to life right before their eyes as the highly praised A Night With Janis Joplin takes its show on the road. Mary Bridget Davies stars as the iconic 1960's blues-rocker in a highly entertaining show written and directed by Randy Johnson. The production has thrilled audiences in New York City on the Great White Way and now the nation has a chance to relive a momentous musical moment in time.

Like a comet that burns far too brightly to last, Janis Joplin exploded onto the music scene in 1967 and, almost overnight, became the queen of rock ‘n’ roll. Her unmistakable voice, filled with raw emotion and tinged with Southern Comfort, made Joplin a must-see headliner from Monterey to Woodstock. Now you’re invited to share an evening with the woman and her influences in Broadway’s critically-acclaimed musical, A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN, which the New York Times says "rocks the house." The production features such unforgettable songs as "Me and Bobby McGee," "Piece of My Heart," "Mercedes Benz," "Cry Baby" and "Summertime." A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN, written and directed by Randy Johnson, is a musical journey celebrating Joplin and her biggest musical influences—icons like Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Odetta, Nina Simone and Bessie Smith—who inspired one of rock ‘n’ roll’s greatest legends.

This exciting Broadway production is coming to Music City for three big shows April 15 through April 16, 2016 at the James K. Polk Theater in the Tennessee Performing Arts Center. A limited number of VIP tickets are available. VIP tickets include a premium seat and a post-show Meet and Greet.

Article Links: Get tickets and check out more from the tour at this page today!

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Nashville Hot - Jonathan Jackson Gets Ready to Shift the Blame in Music City

Blame-shifter, the new EP from Nashville based band, Jonathan Jackson + Enation is coming out on May 13, 2016 on the group’s own Hilasterion Records. This is the band's first new music their since 2014 album Radio Cinematic, which Billboard Magazine called "...contemporary, anthemic rock -- Jackson proudly wears the influence of U2, Peter Gabriel and Coldplay on his sleeve as influences -- is certainly something different..." and Rolling Stone said is "Filled with electric guitars, chest-beating vocals and swirling synths..."

Blame-shifter was produced by Grammy nominated producer Greg Archilla (Matchbox 20, Collective Soul) and features five new songs plus a bonus track. Like the acting career of frontman Jonathan Jackson this disc has a flair for the dramatic and finds the singer conjuring up the ghosts of Nashville’s past with his spine-tingling cover of "Unchained Melody" recorded live at The Grand Ole Opry. Don’t miss the band when they hit the road later this year armed with a growing repertoire of music.

Jonathan Jackson + Enation is Jonathan Jackson (vocals, guitar), Richard Lee Jackson (drums) and Daniel Sweatt (bass). Blame-shifter Track Listing: 1. Ascending, 2. Blame-shifter, 3. Alleluia, 4. Let The Beauty Out, 5. Wasteland, 6. Unchained Melody (Live At The Grand Ole Opry) [Photo courtesy of Richard Lee Jackson]

Article Links: Check out more from Jonathan Jackson + Enation at this page today!

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Nashville Hot - Ender Bowen Squeezes Out Some Tasty New Music and a Remix

Nashville's prolific Ender Bowen isn't your typical Music City fare as exemplified on his 2015 releases Lemonymous and its partner remix album Lemonymix. This double disc project is actually a crowd-sourced funded re-release of a decade old record refreshed with some new beats and insight. Not one to bow to the local pressure and expectations from being in the Country Music Capitol of the World Bowen builds his Nashville sound on a mixture of soaring melodies, haunting lyrics, danceable beats and layered instrumentals that would probably be more at home in Europe than Middle-Tennessee.

But, in Bowen's case being so drastically different than the standard offerings from Music Row plays in the artist's favor by providing a competitive advantage. He's got the supply of emotive and emotional atmospheric anthems. The question is - is there a demand? We think fans will drink up songs like the U2-esque "Reverse Psychology" with its dreamy analysis and the shuffling "Autumn" that descends with a somber and wistful warning. All served with a tart shot of lemon to perk things up.

Article Links: Check out more from Ender Bowen this page today!

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Nashville Hot - Jon Worthy Brings Unconventional Approach to the Nashville Scene

Singer-songwriter Jon Worthy takes a lo-fi approach on his debut EP Unconventional that finds this newer Nashvillian mixing country, emo and Euro tones that works as often as it doesn't. Through the reverb laden process the musician realizes that he's lost as revealed on "I'm So Lost" but then again - who isn't nowadays. He might be suggesting a spiritual, geographical or metaphorical wasteland but on the positive side this track echoes of early "Lost Trailers" and things worked out pretty well for them. This is a worthy effort and Worthy has the guitar chops to keep things interesting. Hopefully we'll discover what he's found on the next one!

Article Links: Check out more from Jon Worthy at this page today!

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Jazz Takes Center Stage at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center

When Miles Davis hooked up with Charlie Parker and Gil Evans in the late 1940's they formed the foundation for a nascent jazz scene in the Big Apple and beyond. They literally gave birth to a very cool and happening music scene whose influence is still very much felt to this day. Little did they know that their efforts would also help make jazz cool in the country Music Capitol of the World when on March 29, 2016 the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville presented their first ever JazzOnStage event featuring the music surrounding the now legendary Birth Of The Cool recordings.

This very special free concert at Nashville's most prestigious and beautiful concert venue was both educational and entertaining and helped fans really get up close and personal with the performers. That's because the audience was actually physically seated on the Schermerhorn stage with additional patrons overlooking from the rear stage balcony. This sold-out event was a partnership between members of the Nashville Symphony and teachers from Vanderbilt's Blair School of Music. The musicians were - Jose Sibaja, trumpet; Paul Jenkins, trombone; Don Aliquo, alto saxophone; Ryan Middagh, baritone saxophone; Leslie Norton, horn; Gilbert Long, tuba; Walter Bitner, piano; Glen Wanner, bass; and Jeffrey Lien, drums.

Article Links: Check out the Nashville Symphony website for more information on all their upcoming events from rock to pop to classical and updates on future free OnStage concerts at this page today!

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net

Living Colour Make Quick Return to City Winery

Corey Glover, Vernon Reid, Doug Wimbish and Will Calhoun, collectively known to the world as the two time Grammy winning rock band Living Colour played a powerful concert at Nashville’s City Winery on December 27, 2015. What is music to the ears of their fans is that the funk-rock-metal outfit is set to make a quick return to the venue on Monday, April 11, 2016 for a command performance.

Tickets for this much anticipated show are going fast and can be purchased here!

The band is expected to preview material from their forthcoming album Shade - their first since 2009's return to form release The Chair in the Doorway. The last time the group was in Music City this was their setlist -- Preachin' Blues Robert Johnson cover), Leave It Alone, Middle Man, Funny Vibe, Who Shot Ya? The Notorious B.I.G. cover), Ignorance Is Bliss, Desperate People, Broken Hearts, Glamour Boys, Bless Those (Little Annie's Prayer), Type, Cult of Personality, Time's Up -- so expect them to mix things up just a bit since then.

Article Links: For more information please visit Living Colour and read a previous concert review by MusicCityNashville.net's own Rich and Laura Lynch at this page today!

- Blog post by MusicCityNashville.net