A Music City Staple: The Nashville “Writers’ Round”
Performance Series
New Roots Class of Fall ‘22 @ Cabana Taps Writers’ Round in Nashville, TN
Whether you have newly arrived or you are just stopping by, you’ll notice very quickly why Nashville is THE Music City, USA! Live music can be seen any given day, nearly at any given time! And, there are plenty of opportunities to perform live at numerous bars and restaurants, or in writers’ rounds and showcase events.
Making Connections and Networking
The music industry culture in Nashville revolves around community and what some might call “being a good hang”. It’s very important for developing artists to play live events in Nashville as it is one of the easiest and quickest ways to expand your network and creative community.
Not only do these performances give artists the opportunity to refine their craft and learn the skill of captivating a crowd, but they provide a platform which enables you to create intimate audience connections and showcase your personality!
What is a “Writers’ Round”?
Nashville is home to the “Nashville Writers’ Round”, which features 3-4 artists on stage singing their songs and telling the stories behind them. Rounds are usually hosted in an intimate setting, with minimal frills to prioritize the music and songwriting.
Something that is particularly unique about these rounds is that audience members attend the event to listen to your music. Contrary to what you might find in a typical bar setting, you are not background music! It is expected that you will communicate with the crowd and tell your stories. Depending on the number of artists in each round, you will collectively perform for about an hour. This means that each artist will have the opportunity to perform a few of their best songs.
Are Writers’ Rounds paid?
Not usually, however you can collect $ from tips or possibly merchandise sales.
How do you perform at a Writers’ Round?
There are a several different ways to approach booking a spot on a round. However, each venue/organization tends to have their own system. The best way to learn more information about these rounds is to connect with the round’s organizers on their website or social media. Reach out and politely introduce yourself and your music. In most instances, round organizers will have a booker or an application process where you can submit your information. Once you connect with the organizers who book these live events you can create a relationship with them and continue to sing on future rounds.
GETTING STARTED
It is a Nashville staple to perform in a writers’ round and perhaps one of the best ways to network and meet other artists. You may have heard of some of the premier writers’ rounds, hosted at the Bluebird Cafe or the Listening Room. Both of these venues host incredible performances from songwriters that have written the most popular songs in the world! While I recommend keeping these on your bucket list, the opportunities to perform at either of these venues are very limited and extremely competitive. If you want to book more shows in the meantime, there are plenty of other options that are more easily accessible and host equally as professional rounds.
To help you get started, we’ve compiled some of our favorite Writers’ Round events below. Good Luck! :)
ORGANIZATIONS THAT HOST WRITERS’ ROUNDS
Nashville Tour Stop
Hosting both young and old songwriters, artists, and bands alike, Nashville Tour Stop offers a unique live music experience that serves as a step away from the hustle and bustle that so heavily permeates the Nashville music scene.
Shows:
Monday @ Moxy Hotel (Downtown)
Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday @ Cambria Hotel’s True Music Room
Wednesday 7PM-11PM @ Sonny’s
Bus Call
Wednesday nights are for Bus Call at Tin Roof! The go to spot for the music industry to unwind, network, and hear Nashville artists on the rise with a full band showcase of 6-7 acts each week.
Shows:
Wednesday 8pm @ Tin Roof (Demonbruen St)
Birds of a Feather
After a few months of performing regularly, Lauren Freebird decided that she wanted to start a promotional company that would help promote artists, performances, upcoming releases, and songwriter showcases around Nashville.
Shows:
Thursday 6 - 8pm "This Is How We Brew It!" @ Tennessee Brew Works
Hosted by Stevie Rae Stephens and Kiernan McMullan this community-centered writers’ night welcomes all developing artists. No egos, good vibes only!
Shows:
Sunday @ Cabana Taps
SHOWCASES AND OTHER EVENTS
Featured in Forbes Magazine, and also touted as Nashville’s Best Writer’s Open Mic 2022, Pitch Meeting is an event like you’ve never seen before! Artists have just a few moments to teach the verse, chorus, and bridge of their song to the world-class Pitch Meeting backing band. In just under a minute you’ll be off to the races, showcasing your music with a live band!
We love our friends over at Pitch Meeting and highly recommend artists sign up to sing at their upcoming events.
Shows:
Tuesday @ Sonny’s
Breaking Sound is an auditioned showcase event for more established artists and bands. These showcases feature a sizable crowd and plenty of social media attention. Events are typically held in more prestigious venues with a ticketed audience. This is a great opportunity for artists to network with other creatives from all across the country.
SOME OF OUR FAVORITE GO-TO VENUES
Featuring Live Music and Writers’ Rounds Events
If you’re a female artist in the music industry and would like to continue to advance your career, be sure to apply for our next New Roots Weekend! Applications are free.
Click the link below to apply…
Warmly,
Mark
