Americana Fest Spotlights Artists of All Kinds

“My students and others often ask me what Americana music is. To me, it’s a beautiful reflection of each artist’s unique personality in music… emotions that cry out from the deepest part of someone’s soul… never contrived… free and authentic in every way. But even that doesn’t really explain it. You have to experience it to understand.” — Chuck Whiting (Every time I attend an event at the Americana Fest, I can describe the meaning of Americana music a little bit better. But I still fall short. That’s because an understanding of this refreshingly real and emotional art form is beyond words. Last night, my fellow writer and I had the opportunity to take in five musical sets in a row at the Hutton. It was very cold in the lounge, and our bodies wanted to leave by the end of the third act. But the incredible performances kept us glued to our seats… shivering, but grooving, too. There were acoustic sets and full-band sets; thought-provoking balladeers; an upbeat band that bordered on rock; and a soulful lady who lifted audience members to their feet. During those five hours, we heard the deeply personal, down-to-your-bones expressions of Mark Wilkinson, Tim Baker, Mindy Smith, Pete Muller & the Kindred Souls, and Lilli Lewis.  A variety of voices and instruments told vivid, heartfelt stories with hints of jazz, blues, folk, bluegrass, pop, rock ‘n’ roll, gospel, and rhythm and blues. Special thanks to the artists and the Americana Music Association for another wonderful evening of live music. I’ll be heading out for more on Friday afternoon with another report tomorrow. Have a great weekend everyone!) #ChuckWhiting #ChucksDiary #Americana #AmericanaFest #AmericanaMusicFest #Music #Jazz #Blues #Folk #Bluegrass, Pop #RocknRoll #Gospel #RhythmandBlues #Nashville #MarkWilkinson #TimBaker #MindySmith #PeteMullerandtheKindredSouls #LilliLewis #AmericanaMusic #TheHutton #Art #Arts #MusicCityArts 9-16-22 www.AmericanaFest.org