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Under The Sun at the Westin Lives Up to Its Bright Promise and Advance Billing at AmericanaFest

by Rich and Laura Lynch

The word was out that The Westin Nashville was the place to be on Saturday, September 17, 2022. It was the last day of AmericanaFest and fans packed the rooftop to enjoy top shelf drinks and musicians. "Under The Sun" was sponsored by Transoceanic Records, New West Records and Soundly Music who were showcasing 14 artists at this popular party.

Under The Sun at the Westin Lives Up to Its Bright Promise and Advance Billing at AmericanaFest

49 Winchester plays Under The Sun at the Westin Nashville.

While enjoying the view at The Westin we were also enjoying the sounds of 49 Winchester. This Virginia based band is ready to take the world by storm with their sharp shooting blend of alt-country, Appalachian folk and rock. Although it's 49 Winchester's fourth studio album, Fortune Favors The Bold marks its debut for Nashville's New West Records - one of the premier labels for Americana, indie and rock acts on the cutting edge of sound, scope and spectacle which was on full display at The Westin.

Clay Maselle describes himself as a hillbilly misfit yet he was also a born leader so he found a group of like-minded folks and Strung Like A Horse was born. At AmericanaFest this southern based group was engaging and energetic with songs that blended bluegrass with roots rock paired with the fine art of storytelling.

Strung Like a Hore plays Under The Sun at the Westin Nashville.

Joshua Ray Walker from the Lone Star State received global acclaim for his 2019 debut Wish You Were Here along with the next two follow-ups. The idea behind this trilogy of records was to present different characters that he had observed in his days of playing dive bars but on Saturday JRW was performing and winning over fans like us at an upscale Nashville venue with his compelling song craft.

Joshua Ray Walker plays Under The Sun at the Westin Nashville.

As we arrived at The Westin we heard the country-rocking sounds of Kaitlin Butts a strong singer who is also a strong storyteller. Kaitlin tells the tales of fragile, gallant and resilient women - many of whom are facing hard times. These people may be broken but they are also on the verge of re-birth, so Kaitlin is singing about hope and thus she draws you in as she did on Saturday.

Kaitlin Butts plays Under The Sun at the Westin Nashville.

Over the course of five days AmericanaFest had numerous showcases and "Under The Sun" was one of many marquee concerts. The fact that Lighting 100 was broadcasting all day from the 27th floor was also an endorsement of this well attended event. Plus, The Westin generously served up flavorful and free BBQ and Hot Chicken sliders along with Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream. They also provided complementary cold drinks along with adult beverages and other food items that were available for purchase. "Under The Sun" was a festive happening to hear terrific music in a classy location.

Related Links: For more information on AMERICANFEST and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links - AmericanaFest | 49 Winchester | Strung Like a Horse | Joshua Ray Walker | Kaitlin Butts | Westin Nashville | All 2022 AMERICANAFEST Coverage on MCN