Features interviews with Nashville-based writers across genres. It’s must-see TV for aspiring songwriters and those captivated by the creative process of bringing music to life. Watch the trailer here.
Among those who appear: Garth Brooks, Kings of Leon, Keb’ Mo’, Vince Gill, Ben Folds, Brandy Clark, Desmond Child, Gordon Kennedy, Jeffrey Steele, Garth Brooks, Mac McAnally, and Shane McAnally. I highly recommend it.
The documentary is free for Amazon Prime members or you can try this link to the Documentary Channel’s YouTube Channel.
When visiting Nashville, here’s a great resource for live songwriter showcases.
I could be nitpicky about a few stunning omissions in this 8-part series but it is a tremendously satisfying documentary which includes interviews with now-departed legends, jaw-dropping archival discoveries and smile-inducing stories. Interviewees include Marty Stuart, Vince Gill, Garth Brooks, Loretta Lynn, Mel Tillis, Merle Haggard and dozens more. Available through PBS, Amazon and possibly DVDs at your local library.
It’s astonishing that this little cafe’ in a lowly strip mall in suburban Green Hills would launch careers and introduce songs beloved around the world. It’s where Garth Brooks heard “The Dance” and Taylor Swift made her professional debut. Interviewees include Faith Hill, Maren Morris, Kathy Mattea, Jason Isbell, Vince Gill, Kasey Musgraves, and Kathy Mattea. Rent via AppleTV, Vudu, Microsoft, Google Play or iTunes.
Jelly Roll’s “Save Me” documentary gives a warts-and-all accounting of his unlikely rise to stardom with his mix of country, rap and rock. From repeat juvenile offender to hitmaker, it’s the kind of story that shows you it is indeed possible to beat the odds. (The link will take you to the trailer.)
If you’re looking for live music in Nashville that is not exclusively country, consider my recommendations.
Did you know that you can access incredible interviews and performance just by visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame’s website? Archives include a who’s who of artists including Vince Gill, Patty Loveless, Brittney Spencer, Molly Tuttle, Rodney Crowell, Hank Williams, Jr., Sierra Hull, Blake Shelton, Marty Stuart, Wendy Moten, Bill Anderson, Lauren Alaina, Tom T. Hall, and dozens of others. No membership fee or registration required. (Photo: Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum)
