MusicCityNashville.net: A Festive Night on the Farm with Amy Grant, Vince Gill and Don Schlitz

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A Festive Night on the Farm with Amy Grant, Vince Gill and Don Schlitz

by Rich and Laura Lynch

Amy Grant, Vince Gill and Don Schlitz presented a special edition of Alive & The Bluebird Songwriter Series on May 13, 2021. All three of these Grammy winners are longtime supporters of Alive Hospice. The event was held at Amy and Vince's farm in Franklin, TN. The two were excited to share that this was also the first concert to be held at their brand new Performance Pavilion which is located on a hill with a stunning view of Middle Tennessee.

A Festive Night on the Farm with Amy Grant, Vince Gill and Don Schlitz

Country legend Vince Gill looking laid back and relaxed in Franklin, Tennessee.

For 28 seasons, this show was hosted by The Bluebird Cafe but because of Covid the intimate space has remained shuttered relying on live streams to reach audiences. Like many artists, Vince has fond memories of the Bluebird which is located in a small strip mall outside of downtown Nashville. The 90 seat venue is unpretentious in appearance yet some of the most significant songwriters have played there. The club has a "Shhh" policy which urges fans to truly listen to the songs and stories as told by the artists.

There were smiles all around as Amy played the inaugural round at her new pavilion.

Prior to the concert fancy appetizers and drinks were served as folks socialized. Beverages were supplied by Lipman and fine food service from Kristen Winston Catering. The grilled brie & jam was amazing as was their tasty desserts that were created especially for this event and were based on family recipes from both musicians. Tunes were provided by the skillful Grass Strings who served up some fine finger pickin' as an attentive staff kept things moving smoothly. The setting was spectacular as was the weather.

Corrina Gill, Walker Burroughs and Alive Hospice President and CEO Kimberly Goessele.

While team MusicCityNashville was enjoying their meal they met a couple who jokingly introduced themselves as "unicorns" (native Nashvillians). In the course of our conversation they mentioned how much they appreciated the work of Alive Hospice. They shared with us that Alive had given their father excellent care during his last days and they were thrilled to be at this unique fundraiser as an opportunity to give back. Auctions were another way for fans to support Alive. Framed, signed lyrics from the three performers raised thousands in addition to the funds from the ticket price of this gathering.

Famed songwriter Don Schlitz and scenes from the elegant extravaganza.

A bell was rung and guests made their way up the hill to find a seat under the Pavilion. After a few words about Alive Hospice, Amy opened with the sentimental "I Will Remember You" as she correlated it to how she will always remember this amazing night. Jokes were made about who cuts the grass at this expansive farm. Next, songwriter Don Schlitz performed "The Gambler". Don's acoustic version of the tune that he penned for Kenny Rogers was different yet delightful. Vince completed the round with a warm "Whenever You Come Around". Each artist played a few more songs until the halfway mark which included the auctions.

The tasty fare was provided by Kristen Winston Catering.

For the second half, the power couple introduced their daughter Corrina and her college friend Walker Burroughs. Corrina perched at the piano played the pretty "Swallow The Sun" proving that the apple does not fall far from the tree. Walker presented a piece that looked back at childhood with the hope that good will still come despite how crazy the world currently is. The core three took center stage again performing more songs and sharing some of the insights behind them. Amy closed with an inspiring look at life's journey, whereas Don sang a snappy tune spiked with humor about being on a mountain top and Vince topped them with the moving "Go Rest High On That Mountain".

The Grass Strings set the mood with an entertaining opening set.

It was a festive night at the farm with Grant, Gill and Schlitz all in support of a good cause. Alive Hospice was founded in 1975 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to offering comprehensive care for terminally ill patients and their families including comfort for those who are grieving. Alive also offers education, financial assistance and training for tomorrow's caregivers. Their work supports research and most importantly they help people write a more positive last chapter in one's life story. Be on the lookout for more Songwriter Series benefiting Alive and if you can please give to this non-profit hospice.

The cast and dignitaries gathered for a photo following the evening's soundcheck.