Music City Rambling

In the music industry today, it’s becoming harder and harder to stand out from the crowd. With millions of people pursuing a music career, it’s become nearly impossible to prove yourself different from the rest. But Justin Branam has managed to do just that.

Justin has recently put together an EP that was recorded on his iPhone, perfectly titled, “iPhone Sessions.” And not only did Justin record his EP on his iPhone but he has also shot live videos and created the album’s artwork.

The EP will be available exclusively through Kickstarter, a new way to fund creative ideas and ambitious endeavors. Kickstarter allows artists to raise money to fund a new record, but they can only receive the money if their project is fully funded. By donating money, you are helping Justin get into the recording studio, but there are some incentives for you, too. Some of them include a copy of Justin’s latest EP, handwritten lyrics, and even a private concert in your living room.

Currently Justin is trying to raise $3,000. So, go over to Kickstarter and see how you can help.

- Jamie Lokey

I am still floating on a nostalgic musical cloud after experiencing the 68 year old legendary Beatle, Paul McCartney, rocking the Bridgestone Arena in an amazing 3 hour show.  Paul played well over 30 Beatles, Wings and solo hits, and there were more than a few highlights during the night. The unforgettable moments for me were hearing four simply incredible songs “Let It Be” on the grand piano, “Something” on a ukulele, “Yesterday” on acoustic guitar, and the people of Music City singing along to “Hey Jude.”

Paul closed the show the way the Beatles closed their career.
“And, in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.”

Thanks for a great show Paul!

Cheers, Johnny T

The legendary Beatle Paul McCartney plays Nashville tonight. Here’s a little pop ditty to get you ready for the show!

Cheers, Johnny T

So last night I got invited to this show at Exit/In for Young the Giant. And of course, whether I know the band or not, I jump at any attempt to listen to new music. And I’m glad I jumped at this one!

The show opened up with Rachel Goodrich, an eclectic indie-pop artists from Miami, FL that reminded me somewhat of Ingrid Michaelson. With some crowd-involved percussion beats, trombone solos, bells, ukulele, kazoos, and even whistling, Rachel really knows how to keep her audience on the edge of their seats–you never know what she’s going to bring next!

Then, the band I came to see: Young The Giant (previously known as The Jakes). These five guys kick off a show with the most energy and excitement I’ve seen in a long time. Whether it means pounding a tambourine on the floor, dancing around the stage, or just messing around, these guys will do whatever it takes to let you know that they’re having a total blast, and that they love what they do. They hail from Newport Beach, California, and bring a sound somewhere between Keane, Franz Ferdinand, and Kings of Leon. These guys are all under twenty-one years of age, and all know how to rock a stage.

Next up… the headliner, the great Steel Train from New Jersey. They have a classic rock sound with a modern vibe and bring a huge fan base with them wherever they travel. Steel Train opened with “Bullet,” the first track on their newest, self titled album, and I almost felt that I had been taken back to the sounds of what rock was initially intended to sound like.

If you get a chance, take a listen and see for yourself what these artists have to bring!

In the end, it was another great night of music, another great night of Nashville.

Cheers,
Amanda Q

Want a some good local coffee and music? Join us at Ugly Mugs on July 31.

Cheers, Johnny T

I am so excited to be seeing Brandi Carlile tonight at Music City Roots!

Here’s a video of her talent in action!

Cheers, Johnny T

Enjoyed another great CMT Awards show last night. As usual, it was a big extravaganza, starting with The Kid Rock opener, with lots of special guests to kick start the festivities.

Zac Brown performing “Free” was the highlight of the night, as was Keith Urban and John Mayer with their dueling guitar solos.

Lady A closed the night with some fun “Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs.”

Now it’s CMA Fest time!

Cheers, Johnny T