Americana Fest Day 2 was amazing. Americana Fest is a compilation of not just great music but informational conferences by some of Nashville’s finest people within the music industry.

Jody Williams, founder of Jody Williams Songs, Shelby Yoder founder of Willo & Co., a management company for songwriters and producers, and Kris Ahrend, Chief Executive Officer at The Mechanical Licensing Collective. The immense amount of knowledge offered up during this session was invaluable to those interested in working within the music industry. The group discussed how it’s important for people to stay authentic to who they are, know what their goals are both personally and professionally, and how to strategically set themselves up for success, and how to financially ensure they can support themselves. It was invaluable the amount of information that was shared in that room. They also discussed how today it is possible for people to live their own version of “The Dream” because it may look very different for everyone. It’s all about engagement and responsibility.

A bit later there was a discussion with Sarah Silverman and Nickel Creek at RCA Studio A. As I walked into the intimate space for “A Conversation with Sarah Silverman and Nickel Creek”, I was immediately transported back in time. The studio was filled with so much history, the artists who recorded there, such as Dolly Parton, Waylon Jennings, and Willie Nelson made the vibe cool. The atmosphere was electric with excitement for what was to come, as Grammy Award-winning Folk Trio Nickel Creek made their triumphant return to the stage after a 9-year hiatus.

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Nickel Creek kicked off the event with a captivating performance, instantly reminding us all why they are considered one of the best folk trios of all time. Their chemistry was undeniable, and their passion for their craft was evident in every note they played. After their performance, they were joined on stage by Emmy award-winning, Grammy-nominated Comedian/Actress Sarah Silverman, who brought a whole new level of energy and excitement to the room. What followed was a captivating hour-long conversation, during which Silverman and Nickel Creek opened up about their early introductions to music and how it has shaped them as performers today. They discussed the power of comedy, and how it can be used to engage and entertain an audience, and the ways in which music and comedy can work together to create truly unforgettable experiences.

Photo By: Sirsentence

The highlight of the afternoon was when Silverman and Nickel Creek shared stories of their respective careers, offering a unique and interesting perspective on entertainment. It was fascinating to hear about the ups and downs they had both experienced and the lessons they had learned along the way.

After the conversation with Sarah Silverman and Nickel Creek, I made my way to Ben Chapman’s Peach Jam at The Basement in Nashville. The energy was contagious as I stepped into the sold-out event, held in the parking lot outside. Ben Chapman founded the weekly jam sessions in Nashville, inviting artists and friends to join him, his girlfriend Meg Mcree his band to jam and sing some original music, covers as well, and just jam out.

The special Americana Fest line-up included some of the most talented musicians in the industry, including Gabe Lee, Vinnie Paolizzi, Lainey Wilson, The husband-wife duo of Adam Chaffins & Brit Taylor, Sam Morrow, JD Clayton, and Brent Cobb. Each artist brought their own unique style to the stage, making for a truly unforgettable experience.

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Peach Jam Set List

Kinda Sorta-Ben Chapman

It Aint Easy- Vinnie Paolizzi

Almost Home-Ben Chapman

Beauty Queen-JD Clayton

Night Train to Nashville-Ben Chapman

Buffalo Road-Gabe Lee

Things People Say- Ben Chapman

Old Time Rock and Roll- Lainey Wilson

Baby Don’t Cry-Ben Chapman

Rosarita & Dixie Chicken- Sam Morrow

Georgia Dreamin-Ben Chapman

Gone as it gets- Brit Taylor & Adam Chaffins

Ont Know-Brent Cobb

Hippie Speed Ball-Ben Chapman

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Next on my itinerary was a new artist, Nolan Taylor, at the Exit/In Nashville. I was immediately impressed by his authentic stage presence and smooth sound. The lyrics of his music were incredibly soulful, drawing from his modest upbringing and life experiences. He spoke candidly about his journey towards music and how it has served as a solace throughout his life. I could sense that the audience was deeply moved by his performance and felt a real connection with the music. Taylor’s raw talent and authentic stage presence left a lasting impression on the audience, and it was clear that he has a bright future in the music industry.

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Finally, I had the honor of witnessing the legendary Jessi Colter perform. She sat at the piano with her band, filling the room with the sounds of her classic hits. Her charisma and charm were undeniable as she spoke with the audience, full of smiles and wittiness. Her performance was simply unforgettable and reminded me of the profound impact that music has on our lives.

Overall, my day was filled with an incredible array of talent, each artist showcasing their unique voice and style. From the lively energy of Peach Jam to the soulful sounds of Nolan Taylor and the classic hits of Jesse Colter, I was truly blown away by the power of live music.

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