MusicCityNashville.net: Performance Nights Provide Much Needed Opportunities to Network in Music City

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Performance Nights Provide Much Needed Opportunities to Network in Music City

by Rich and Laura Lynch

There is no question about it. We remain mired in an unprecedented moment in history where even in Nashville many of our famous concert venues are still shuttered or diminished experiences with limited capacity offerings. But, throughout the region the musicians of Music City are stepping up by stepping out and onto the stages of the many "live band" performance nights and songwriter showcases that are popular in town. Currently, one of the best takes place at the 404 Bar and Grill every Tuesday night in Nashville, Tennessee.

Performance Nights Provide Much Needed Opportunities to Network in Music City

Kevin Cory and 3:6Teen provided professional backing for all comers who wanted to play with a live band.

Located at the 404 Bar & Grill and co-hosted by Javelyn and Kevin Cory with the 3:6Teen Band - the Tuesday night Live Band/Live Jam showcase with Poker and Networking has become a go to destination to hone chops and work up new material for many of the region's talented musicians. Cory and company got the proceedings underway with a version of "Brick House", a Freddie King cover and an original about being in love. Javelyn "Cut to the Chase" on ukulele before reprising her popular and compelling composition called "The Man" on keyboard.

MCN's own Rockin' Rich Lynch and co-host Javelyn.

Other highlights included MCN's very own Rockin' Rich Lynch who was fresh off his appearance with the band a few weeks back when he debuted his latest single "80 Days Around the World". The newly returned to Nashville was Mt. Juliets' Jackson Steele who impressed with a set of amazing covers that utilized a guitar looping technique to full effect. A surprise appearance by the rapidly maturing Bailey James -- who we last saw on stage as a promising upcoming fourteen-year old four years ago -- revealed that the hype surrounding this rising star is well justified as she remains on a trajectory to stardom powered by her true talent and pizzazz. Tommy Miles closed out the evening with a thrilling set that evoked dual images of Jack Black and Chris Stapleton - no doubt catching our attention and the packed house at the bar as well.

Clayton, Looper Scooper, Bailey James and Jackson Steele.

Performance opportunities in a era of global lockdowns remain rare but continue to be invaluable for the experience they provide to both upcoming and established artists. Thankfully, Music City still has no shortage of events and series that offer access to a live stage to emerging entertainers. Other great outlets to consider are Debi Champion's Writers Nights at the Commodore Grille; Chris Austin's Open Mic & Music Jams in Old Hickory and Hendersonville; and the Wednesday afternoon artist showcase at Belcourt Taps. Please let us know of any others we may have missed!