As promised here is our daily blog of our tour in Nashville. Harriet and I had been here before of course, last year when we released our successful single "Shot At Loving You". This time we had increased our number. Steve Lockwood, our Artist Liasion Manager (and head honcho) at BFS Records was accompanying us. This was big a deal for both ALBC and BFS.
Day 1
Thursday Nov 2nd
the Day of travel....lots of travel!
Traveling abroad is always difficult, of course things became a lot more complicated because of Harriet's unfortunate accident (a dislocated knee), so we were expecting things not to run so smoothly
The night before we left, the airline's computer systems experienced a glitch and we could not completely check in. When we arrived at the airport everything seemed to be fixed. Harriet received travel assistance from some of the nicest airline staff and flight crew that we have ever met. Thank you American Airlines.
Due to my US nationality, when travelling to The States I tend to shoot through customs without a problem, it's only when I get back to the UK that I ever encounter any issues. The USA has beefed up its security checks in the last few weeks for those coming into the country so I warned Harriet and Steve that things may take a little longer, so suggested we get to the airport 4 hours earlier than the flight so we could get through smoothly!
We were getting ready to go through customs, making sure Harriet's bags were scanned first. Harriet made it through without issue. Steve next, no issues. So my turn. Pockets empty, hand luggage open and electronic devices strewn across 6 trays and I proceeded through the body scanner. PING. I get a random check alert. I'm beckoned forward and they pat me down.
"Nothing to worry about sir, just a random check". Everything was good and we continued forward.
We boarded one of those golf carts to transport us through the airport. Harriet was up front with the driver and her new American friend and Steve and I were in the back facing backwards. That was a hell of a ride (pun intended).
We got to the gate and we were asked for our boarding passes. Steve gave his, the attendant read it and handed it back. She then came to Harriet and I and said that we have been earmarked for further security checks!
We were lead to a small roped off section with waiting chairs and two tables. At each table was a member of security, checking the bags. This was just like it used to be in the 90s - with a few changes of course.
Harriet and I both had our bags thoroughly checked and had our palms, belts, pockets and electronic devices swabbed and were asked to turn on our mobile phones. We were being checked for traces of drugs and explosives!
Ok, it was a little concerning because as a musician you meet and interact with musicians who do like to use recreational drugs. It's part of the environment. I can see some people would be terrified of this and cause a scene as it invades their privacy. Harriet and I do not partake so knew we'd be fine but it was still invasive. I glanced over to see the look on Harri's face. She wasn't scared but was concerned and confused. so was I to be fair but kept my best poker face.
The staff that carried it out were polite and reassuring the whole time. I spoke to the guy that was checking me and asked how the new checks were going.
"Most people are happy to go along with it but there are some that make matters worse for themselves and then we have to get tough on them. If they didn't, we could get the job done quicker and they can be on their way sooner."
Seemed fair to me.
We finished our checks without incident and boarded the plane.
In Charlotte, it was Steve's turn to get checked. He had his passport taken away and had to collect it in a separate area! Harriet and I waited for what seemed like forever but was in fact only 10 minutes. He was let through with no incident.
We left the UK at 12:50pm UK time and landed in Charlotte, NC an hour earlier than scheduled at 5:30pm local time. We had assumed that this was to be a small airport but we were wrong, the more we walked it, the more it opened up in front of us. We left the UK in in winter coats and hats, but when we reached The States were wishing for shorts and t-shirts. The weather was beautiful.
After an extended wait in the airport (5 hours instead of the scheduled 4) we boarded the plane to our final destination. Music City!
The night before we left, the airline's computer systems experienced a glitch and we could not completely check in. When we arrived at the airport everything seemed to be fixed. Harriet received travel assistance from some of the nicest airline staff and flight crew that we have ever met. Thank you American Airlines.
Due to my US nationality, when travelling to The States I tend to shoot through customs without a problem, it's only when I get back to the UK that I ever encounter any issues. The USA has beefed up its security checks in the last few weeks for those coming into the country so I warned Harriet and Steve that things may take a little longer, so suggested we get to the airport 4 hours earlier than the flight so we could get through smoothly!
We were getting ready to go through customs, making sure Harriet's bags were scanned first. Harriet made it through without issue. Steve next, no issues. So my turn. Pockets empty, hand luggage open and electronic devices strewn across 6 trays and I proceeded through the body scanner. PING. I get a random check alert. I'm beckoned forward and they pat me down.
"Nothing to worry about sir, just a random check". Everything was good and we continued forward.
We boarded one of those golf carts to transport us through the airport. Harriet was up front with the driver and her new American friend and Steve and I were in the back facing backwards. That was a hell of a ride (pun intended).
We got to the gate and we were asked for our boarding passes. Steve gave his, the attendant read it and handed it back. She then came to Harriet and I and said that we have been earmarked for further security checks!
We were lead to a small roped off section with waiting chairs and two tables. At each table was a member of security, checking the bags. This was just like it used to be in the 90s - with a few changes of course.
Harriet and I both had our bags thoroughly checked and had our palms, belts, pockets and electronic devices swabbed and were asked to turn on our mobile phones. We were being checked for traces of drugs and explosives!
Ok, it was a little concerning because as a musician you meet and interact with musicians who do like to use recreational drugs. It's part of the environment. I can see some people would be terrified of this and cause a scene as it invades their privacy. Harriet and I do not partake so knew we'd be fine but it was still invasive. I glanced over to see the look on Harri's face. She wasn't scared but was concerned and confused. so was I to be fair but kept my best poker face.
The staff that carried it out were polite and reassuring the whole time. I spoke to the guy that was checking me and asked how the new checks were going.
"Most people are happy to go along with it but there are some that make matters worse for themselves and then we have to get tough on them. If they didn't, we could get the job done quicker and they can be on their way sooner."
Seemed fair to me.
We finished our checks without incident and boarded the plane.
In Charlotte, it was Steve's turn to get checked. He had his passport taken away and had to collect it in a separate area! Harriet and I waited for what seemed like forever but was in fact only 10 minutes. He was let through with no incident.
We left the UK at 12:50pm UK time and landed in Charlotte, NC an hour earlier than scheduled at 5:30pm local time. We had assumed that this was to be a small airport but we were wrong, the more we walked it, the more it opened up in front of us. We left the UK in in winter coats and hats, but when we reached The States were wishing for shorts and t-shirts. The weather was beautiful.
After an extended wait in the airport (5 hours instead of the scheduled 4) we boarded the plane to our final destination. Music City!
Day 2
Friday Nov 3rd
Opry Bound
After a reasonable night's sleep at our temporary home in East Nashville I was the first one up.
I decided to go for a walk and explore the local area and headed to the local supermarket.
Now Google maps told me that it was only 0.9 miles away but was saying it was a 28 minute walk. I didn't believe it as I could walk that distance quite quickly. What I didn't account for was the heavy thunder storm over my head. The rain slowed me down and Google took me the wrong way and I ended up walking about 2 miles to the local Kroger. I had a feeling that this was a sign of things to come.
After getting back to the apartment Harri and Steve were awake and wondering where I was. Turns out Steve had found a local store only a 5 minute walk away!
It was time to rehearse for our appearance on 650AM WSM the radio station that is the home of the Grand Ole Opry. This is one of the biggest dates in our diary.....ever!
To avoid me bringing my own guitar and having it damaged by the airline we were kindly sponsored by a British guitar maker called Snap Dragon. They make foldable travel guitars. Nice company and nice people.
Unfortunately I could not get the guitar to tune or stay in tune even for one song! This was going to be a problem.
We'd have to buy one. Something we had not budgeted for. Best bet for us was a pawn shop. I had once bought a guitar from a pawn shop in Henderson, Texas and sold it back to them at the price I bought it. We thought we could do the same.
Time was running out and we were unable to get to a store in time. After a few moments Harri suggested contacting Charlie Treat, a local musician we had stayed with last year. It was a long shot.
I contacted Charlie and he offered to loan me a guitar for the performance. Lifesaver!
We scooted around the corner (about a mile and a half away) and collected a beautiful Martin acoustic.
We grabbed an Uber and headed to the Grand Ole Opry. We were told to be there by 4.15. We arrived at 3.55. Plenty of time! We walked slowly (Harri was still on crutches) to where we understood the station to be. However we were told that it was actually at the Opryland Hotel and Conference Centre - another 10 to 15 minute walk away (longer as Harri couldn't walk that fast). Time was running out.
I tried calling ahead and for some reason could not connect. I pushed on further and left Steve and Harri behind. Reached the conference centre and asked for directions to the area we needed to be in.
Across the mall, up the stairs, across the top floor, down the stairs into another shopping complex. By this time I was sopping wet with sweat.
I rushed into a store called "Cowboys & Angels". Two very nice ladies behind the counter asked if I was ok and if it was raining outside. I explained we had 2 minutes to get to the station. They pointed me in the right direction and I finally found it.
I looked through the window and saw Lexi Carter on the phone. She looked up and realised it was me. She came to the door and told me that they were running late so we could just take our time and get to the studio when we can. Relieved, I headed back to Harri and Steve and ushered them in.
Suffice to say the radio show went swimmingly. We played both "Shot At Loving You" and our follow up single "Better Honky Tonk" and they were impressed.
Devon O'Day, Lexi and Peyton were very warm and welcoming and made us feel comfortable in what was a stressful situation. After all this is the oldest and most famous country music radio station in the world!
We spoke to Devon about organising a songwriting session whilst we are in Nashville and Devon was very interested.
We finished the show and stepped out to cool down. We discussed the parts of our performance that we were happy with and the parts we weren't. We filmed our Facebook live video and then headed on back to the apartment.
On the way through we saw their preparation for Christmas. I'm very much someone who dislikes anything Christmassy until Dec 1st, but Americans do Christmas so much better. I felt the spirit for sure.
I decided to go for a walk and explore the local area and headed to the local supermarket.
Now Google maps told me that it was only 0.9 miles away but was saying it was a 28 minute walk. I didn't believe it as I could walk that distance quite quickly. What I didn't account for was the heavy thunder storm over my head. The rain slowed me down and Google took me the wrong way and I ended up walking about 2 miles to the local Kroger. I had a feeling that this was a sign of things to come.
After getting back to the apartment Harri and Steve were awake and wondering where I was. Turns out Steve had found a local store only a 5 minute walk away!
It was time to rehearse for our appearance on 650AM WSM the radio station that is the home of the Grand Ole Opry. This is one of the biggest dates in our diary.....ever!
To avoid me bringing my own guitar and having it damaged by the airline we were kindly sponsored by a British guitar maker called Snap Dragon. They make foldable travel guitars. Nice company and nice people.
Unfortunately I could not get the guitar to tune or stay in tune even for one song! This was going to be a problem.
We'd have to buy one. Something we had not budgeted for. Best bet for us was a pawn shop. I had once bought a guitar from a pawn shop in Henderson, Texas and sold it back to them at the price I bought it. We thought we could do the same.
Time was running out and we were unable to get to a store in time. After a few moments Harri suggested contacting Charlie Treat, a local musician we had stayed with last year. It was a long shot.
I contacted Charlie and he offered to loan me a guitar for the performance. Lifesaver!
We scooted around the corner (about a mile and a half away) and collected a beautiful Martin acoustic.
We grabbed an Uber and headed to the Grand Ole Opry. We were told to be there by 4.15. We arrived at 3.55. Plenty of time! We walked slowly (Harri was still on crutches) to where we understood the station to be. However we were told that it was actually at the Opryland Hotel and Conference Centre - another 10 to 15 minute walk away (longer as Harri couldn't walk that fast). Time was running out.
I tried calling ahead and for some reason could not connect. I pushed on further and left Steve and Harri behind. Reached the conference centre and asked for directions to the area we needed to be in.
Across the mall, up the stairs, across the top floor, down the stairs into another shopping complex. By this time I was sopping wet with sweat.
I rushed into a store called "Cowboys & Angels". Two very nice ladies behind the counter asked if I was ok and if it was raining outside. I explained we had 2 minutes to get to the station. They pointed me in the right direction and I finally found it.
I looked through the window and saw Lexi Carter on the phone. She looked up and realised it was me. She came to the door and told me that they were running late so we could just take our time and get to the studio when we can. Relieved, I headed back to Harri and Steve and ushered them in.
Suffice to say the radio show went swimmingly. We played both "Shot At Loving You" and our follow up single "Better Honky Tonk" and they were impressed.
Devon O'Day, Lexi and Peyton were very warm and welcoming and made us feel comfortable in what was a stressful situation. After all this is the oldest and most famous country music radio station in the world!
We spoke to Devon about organising a songwriting session whilst we are in Nashville and Devon was very interested.
We finished the show and stepped out to cool down. We discussed the parts of our performance that we were happy with and the parts we weren't. We filmed our Facebook live video and then headed on back to the apartment.
On the way through we saw their preparation for Christmas. I'm very much someone who dislikes anything Christmassy until Dec 1st, but Americans do Christmas so much better. I felt the spirit for sure.
Day 3
Saturday Nov 4th
Tap That
Today was another big event. A spot on the local TV show Nashville Entertainment Weekly. They had organised a night of music and we were on the bill.
However we were still having problems with the guitar. I needed to get this Martin guitar back to Charlie however he hadn't responded to my text message.
Steve and I headed out to some local pawn shops to get a temporary one. We decided to walk. It was further away than we had anticipated however the neighborhoods we walked through were so idilic and beautiful. The kind of Suburbia you'd see in those old 80's movies.
We arrived at the pawn shop and despite the conversation we'd had on the phone yesterday they did not actually have any electric acoustic guitars! Again we were up against time so we grabbed an Uber and headed to the next.
This store had two, and both looked pretty good. On closer inspection though the guitars were either battered or not working when plugged in.
We had to make a decision and fast. As I still could not get a hold of Charlie we decided that we would have to borrow his guitar again.
However we were still having problems with the guitar. I needed to get this Martin guitar back to Charlie however he hadn't responded to my text message.
Steve and I headed out to some local pawn shops to get a temporary one. We decided to walk. It was further away than we had anticipated however the neighborhoods we walked through were so idilic and beautiful. The kind of Suburbia you'd see in those old 80's movies.
We arrived at the pawn shop and despite the conversation we'd had on the phone yesterday they did not actually have any electric acoustic guitars! Again we were up against time so we grabbed an Uber and headed to the next.
This store had two, and both looked pretty good. On closer inspection though the guitars were either battered or not working when plugged in.
We had to make a decision and fast. As I still could not get a hold of Charlie we decided that we would have to borrow his guitar again.
We headed on out to Belcourt Taps a small Tapas Bar in the Hillsboro Village area of Nashville. Another player in the local entertainment scene. It looked very much like a small British pub. In fact there was Tottenham Hotspur bunting all around the outside!
The other artists were there to perform and we introduced ourselves to Jill Santibanez and TJ Cates. Every bit as lovely as they appear on screen and on the phone when I had spoken to them before.
The set up however was slightly different from what were have been used to. In fact I don't think I have ever played in a venue where I was not connected through a PA.
Everyone would perform three songs with the first song being filmed. We were miked up via a shotgun mic direct into their film camera. Due to TJ's busy schedule, this was by far the quickest method as he did not have to synchronise audio to sound which is very time consuming -this I can very much relate to!
We performed three originals. Shot At Loving You, Walk On By and our next single Better Honky Tonk. The crowd were polite and receptive but only when we performed BHT did we start to see heads bobbing and feet tapping. This was good to see!
After all had performed we all headed outside for our interviews. The weather was beautiful as we sat in the porch area.
We were the last to be interviewed as they wanted to give us a little more time due to the fact we had come so far.
They asked us the usual questions and their interviewing styles were very similar to the way Harriet and I are whenever we present on stage. So we felt comfortable.
We finished the interview buzzing. The highlight of the interview was being told that we sounded more country than most people in Nashville. True or not, this was a great thing to hear.
The other artists were there to perform and we introduced ourselves to Jill Santibanez and TJ Cates. Every bit as lovely as they appear on screen and on the phone when I had spoken to them before.
The set up however was slightly different from what were have been used to. In fact I don't think I have ever played in a venue where I was not connected through a PA.
Everyone would perform three songs with the first song being filmed. We were miked up via a shotgun mic direct into their film camera. Due to TJ's busy schedule, this was by far the quickest method as he did not have to synchronise audio to sound which is very time consuming -this I can very much relate to!
We performed three originals. Shot At Loving You, Walk On By and our next single Better Honky Tonk. The crowd were polite and receptive but only when we performed BHT did we start to see heads bobbing and feet tapping. This was good to see!
After all had performed we all headed outside for our interviews. The weather was beautiful as we sat in the porch area.
We were the last to be interviewed as they wanted to give us a little more time due to the fact we had come so far.
They asked us the usual questions and their interviewing styles were very similar to the way Harriet and I are whenever we present on stage. So we felt comfortable.
We finished the interview buzzing. The highlight of the interview was being told that we sounded more country than most people in Nashville. True or not, this was a great thing to hear.
day 4
Sunday Nov 5th
Small World!
Sunday was due to be our day of rest. We slept in a little. On checking my e-mails I found a message from a local firefighter called Mike Campanali. It turns out he is the brother of a lady we know called Melissa Basil back in the UK. Melissa and John were big players in the local music scene and helped a lot of musicians. Sadly John had passed away only a few weeks before our trip out here.
Mike wanted to meet up with us and do lunch. I of course replied and asked what his schedule was.
We were due to do our first UK radio interview today with ex Radio Blackfrog presenter Will Reynolds on his new Sunday show on Flash FM in Oxford.
The sun was beaming down again and we all headed out to get brunch at Sky Blue Cafe in East Nashville. We'd stopped along the way -to interview with Will - outside of a local baseball pitch. We spoke to Will live on air. We had to deal with a Trans Atlantic delay but it was certainly better than last year when we called him via Facebook when we had landed in Canada!
Mike wanted to meet up with us and do lunch. I of course replied and asked what his schedule was.
We were due to do our first UK radio interview today with ex Radio Blackfrog presenter Will Reynolds on his new Sunday show on Flash FM in Oxford.
The sun was beaming down again and we all headed out to get brunch at Sky Blue Cafe in East Nashville. We'd stopped along the way -to interview with Will - outside of a local baseball pitch. We spoke to Will live on air. We had to deal with a Trans Atlantic delay but it was certainly better than last year when we called him via Facebook when we had landed in Canada!
After brunch we decided to drop off Charlie's guitar. We "Ubered" back to the apartment and bumped into our landlords. They had a blue guitar on their wall and I asked if I could use it. They said that was fine. They had managed to pick that guitar up for only 30 Bucks from a man who had it sitting on his lawn!
We grabbed the blue guitar and Charlie's guitar and headed off to Nashville's Guitar Centre, dropping the Martin off on route.
We reached the store. Well, Heaven waited beyond those doors and I could have sworn I had heard angels singing as the doors opened before me.
Wall to wall guitars! Not only that, amps and keyboards and pianos and PAs but most of all, guitars!
They tested out the Blue guitar. It sounded beautiful! They fixed the eq and it was good to go.
We spent about an hour and a half just looking at all the instruments and Steve was seduced by a Yamaha acoustic. She was not strong enough for Steve's will though and we left the store to hit Walmart.
After we had finished our shoppong we were outside Walmart when a fire truck pulled up. Steve is an on-call fireman in Thame, Oxfordshire. Immediately he was eyeing up the truck.
I started taking to one of the three firefighters and told him that Steve was a fireman in the UK. He turned on his heels and introduced himself to Steve and they all began discussing the subtle differences between them in the UK and the US. Steve was even given a tour of the truck!
We told them that we had a possible lunch date with a guy from East Nashville station. They asked his name but I could not recall. I whipped out my phone and checked our e-mails.
"Uh, Mike....Campanali"
They stated laughing.
"Unbelievable! Mike used to be part of our crew before he moved to East. In fact he was with us this morning!"
They had to leave but not before they told us their names, Lee Dozier, Ed Saucedo, Steve Lovelace and invited us to eat with them on Wednesday.
It really is a small world after all!
Day 5
Monday Nov 6th
the Bluebird!
If there is one thing that appears on many country musicians and fans of the TV show Nashville, it is to visit/ perform at The Bluebird Cafe. As we are both fans and musicians, this was top of our list.
The About page on their website says "The Bluebird Cafe is one of the world’s preeminent listening rooms and the venue has gained worldwide recognition as a songwriter’s performance space where the “heroes behind the hits” perform their own songs; songs that have been recorded by chart-topping artists in all genres of music."
To get an Open Mic slot you have to call from 11am to 12pm and the first 25 performers to get through will perform. Simple right? Wrong!
Last year we had one phone and could not get through. This year there were three of us. We were determined! Steve, Harriet and I dialled the number on our phones and began to call and redial, about 70 times each.
We made a deal that whoever got through would receive chocolate from the others.
Eventually we heard ringing. We all stopped for a moment to make sure we could hear what we thought we could hear. Not sure whose phone was ringing I picked up mine and put it to my ear. It was me that had got through.
Last year I managed to get it ringing three times but each time there was a recorded message saying that no one was available. Could this be happening again?
We held our breath.
Then.......
"Good Morning Bluebird"
We all looked at eachother. In complete shock. There was a bit of whooping and jumping.
I preceded to organise the day and finished the call. High 5's all around.
We took to social media and announced the news via Facebook live.
No time to stop though as soon after we were live on air with the gang on Drive Time on Wycombe Sound in the UK - sorry Multi Award winning Wycombe Sound!
We broke the news to them and chatted for a bit. We really like these guys (and they didn't pay us to say that).
Next Stoke Mandeville Hospital Radio, just like Will Reynolds on Flash FM, just like Luke, Chris and Mark at Wycombe Sound and just like Russell Auty of Radio MK, Mike and the team are fully supportive of everything we do. We really do appreciate them all. Thanks guys.
4pm. Time to leave for one of the greatest moments of our lives.
We arrived at The Bluebird at 4.50pm and already the "Listeners" line was long. Very long. A representative from The Bluebird noticed us and guided us to the "Performers" line.
The About page on their website says "The Bluebird Cafe is one of the world’s preeminent listening rooms and the venue has gained worldwide recognition as a songwriter’s performance space where the “heroes behind the hits” perform their own songs; songs that have been recorded by chart-topping artists in all genres of music."
To get an Open Mic slot you have to call from 11am to 12pm and the first 25 performers to get through will perform. Simple right? Wrong!
Last year we had one phone and could not get through. This year there were three of us. We were determined! Steve, Harriet and I dialled the number on our phones and began to call and redial, about 70 times each.
We made a deal that whoever got through would receive chocolate from the others.
Eventually we heard ringing. We all stopped for a moment to make sure we could hear what we thought we could hear. Not sure whose phone was ringing I picked up mine and put it to my ear. It was me that had got through.
Last year I managed to get it ringing three times but each time there was a recorded message saying that no one was available. Could this be happening again?
We held our breath.
Then.......
"Good Morning Bluebird"
We all looked at eachother. In complete shock. There was a bit of whooping and jumping.
I preceded to organise the day and finished the call. High 5's all around.
We took to social media and announced the news via Facebook live.
No time to stop though as soon after we were live on air with the gang on Drive Time on Wycombe Sound in the UK - sorry Multi Award winning Wycombe Sound!
We broke the news to them and chatted for a bit. We really like these guys (and they didn't pay us to say that).
Next Stoke Mandeville Hospital Radio, just like Will Reynolds on Flash FM, just like Luke, Chris and Mark at Wycombe Sound and just like Russell Auty of Radio MK, Mike and the team are fully supportive of everything we do. We really do appreciate them all. Thanks guys.
4pm. Time to leave for one of the greatest moments of our lives.
We arrived at The Bluebird at 4.50pm and already the "Listeners" line was long. Very long. A representative from The Bluebird noticed us and guided us to the "Performers" line.
We met a young lady called Niki who had recently been diagnosed with Crohns Disease, something Harriet knows all about. Also an older gentleman from Canada called Les who had played the venue on numerous occasions and a gentleman called Michael Paul Brennan who had just moved to Nashville. We waited in line as other musicians started to file in behind us.
The weather was colder and the rain was trying to break through. After much chatting and waiting we were advised that the doors were about to open!
"Hey guys. We are about to open the doors. When you get in you'll see some tables with reserved signs -for writers and guests - please head to those and have a great time."
It looked just like the many videos we had seen. We took a table to the left of the stage. Everyone was excited, both guests and performers.
The host, Barbara Cloyd took to the stage. She took us through the rules, the format and the shhhh policy. She read out the order of performances. We were number 12! She told us we could us the house keyboard or the house guitar but we must be ready to step straight on stage. Videos were only allowed if we had permission from the artists.
"Are y'all ready for some music?"
The room errupted in applause at her closing line.
Tuning the guitar in this noisy environment (prior to the show) was proving very tricky. I opted to play on the house Taylor. Poor old Old Blue (the name I had given this guitar - and I don't do names) would sadly not get her performance at The Bluebird.
The level of talent on that stage was truly amazing. The nerves started to kick in a bit. Our food, chicken fingers and fries, were delivered to the tables. I was so hungry but had to be carefull not to eat too much, not to get my fingers greasy and definitely not to stain my white shirt (I wonder if big name performers think the same way?). I opted to wait until our performance was done.
"You're up next guys!" said Michael Paul Brennen who was sitting with us and keeping track of the numbers.
We stood up and got onto the stage.
I introduced us as Harri was feeling too nervous to do it. I realised then that I could not hear myself very well, but I was aware that we needed to get cracking.
A quick sound check on guitar (which Barbara had tuned earlier) and we began Better Honky Tonk. I was full of nerves and conscious that I had not quite put the capo on correctly but continued anyway. I looked across at Harri and she was in her element, if her vocals were a little loud. As we got to the chorus I noticed that they had turned my vocals up to match Harri's. I looked around. Not a movement, not a sound, apart from one woman who appeared to be filming us at the back of the room!
About an hour earlier Les had warned me that it can be quite disconcerting, and a few weeks ago we had experienced this at The Aristocrat in Aylesbury where it threw Harri off whilst I was very blasé. Now it was my turn.
We finished the song and for a moment it was still extremely silent. Uh oh.
Then the place errupted into rapturous applause, the best we'd had in The States so far. This made me feel more at ease.
We continued to listen and support the other performers and at the end everyone was very complimentary to the performers. Listeners came to say how great we were as well as the other performers coming to us and we did the same.
We exchanged our details with other artists and discussed writing and some even asked if we would be up for gigging with them this weekend.
On reflection, take out the nerves, this has to be one of our greatest performances ever.
The weather was colder and the rain was trying to break through. After much chatting and waiting we were advised that the doors were about to open!
"Hey guys. We are about to open the doors. When you get in you'll see some tables with reserved signs -for writers and guests - please head to those and have a great time."
It looked just like the many videos we had seen. We took a table to the left of the stage. Everyone was excited, both guests and performers.
The host, Barbara Cloyd took to the stage. She took us through the rules, the format and the shhhh policy. She read out the order of performances. We were number 12! She told us we could us the house keyboard or the house guitar but we must be ready to step straight on stage. Videos were only allowed if we had permission from the artists.
"Are y'all ready for some music?"
The room errupted in applause at her closing line.
Tuning the guitar in this noisy environment (prior to the show) was proving very tricky. I opted to play on the house Taylor. Poor old Old Blue (the name I had given this guitar - and I don't do names) would sadly not get her performance at The Bluebird.
The level of talent on that stage was truly amazing. The nerves started to kick in a bit. Our food, chicken fingers and fries, were delivered to the tables. I was so hungry but had to be carefull not to eat too much, not to get my fingers greasy and definitely not to stain my white shirt (I wonder if big name performers think the same way?). I opted to wait until our performance was done.
"You're up next guys!" said Michael Paul Brennen who was sitting with us and keeping track of the numbers.
We stood up and got onto the stage.
I introduced us as Harri was feeling too nervous to do it. I realised then that I could not hear myself very well, but I was aware that we needed to get cracking.
A quick sound check on guitar (which Barbara had tuned earlier) and we began Better Honky Tonk. I was full of nerves and conscious that I had not quite put the capo on correctly but continued anyway. I looked across at Harri and she was in her element, if her vocals were a little loud. As we got to the chorus I noticed that they had turned my vocals up to match Harri's. I looked around. Not a movement, not a sound, apart from one woman who appeared to be filming us at the back of the room!
About an hour earlier Les had warned me that it can be quite disconcerting, and a few weeks ago we had experienced this at The Aristocrat in Aylesbury where it threw Harri off whilst I was very blasé. Now it was my turn.
We finished the song and for a moment it was still extremely silent. Uh oh.
Then the place errupted into rapturous applause, the best we'd had in The States so far. This made me feel more at ease.
We continued to listen and support the other performers and at the end everyone was very complimentary to the performers. Listeners came to say how great we were as well as the other performers coming to us and we did the same.
We exchanged our details with other artists and discussed writing and some even asked if we would be up for gigging with them this weekend.
On reflection, take out the nerves, this has to be one of our greatest performances ever.
Day 6
Tuesday Nov 7th
Netflix and Chilled beer
The show on our calendar was for an open mic slot at Douglas Corner Cafe but we decided to have a day off. So we went for a walk and then hung out at the appartment with pizza and Netflix. I, of course, fell asleep!
Day 7
Wednesday Nov 8th
Bridgestone to broadway
This afternoon was a slow one. We had been invited by the firemen to visit the station and have lunch with them. This plan had changed so we went for a little explore around the area.
We headed towards the city, from our location in East Nashville. We walked through the quiet - and once again - beautiful suburbs until we decided it was time for lunch.
We beckoned an Uber (our usual mode of transport) and introduced Steve to Edley's Bar-B-Que. If you ever come to Nashville, locals and visitors alike, will give you many recommendations of places to go and most of them will be eateries! However, that said, the food here is to die for. Steve was impressed!
We finished our meals, chatted to the staff and other customers and then left to get ready for the Country Music Awards.
We headed towards the city, from our location in East Nashville. We walked through the quiet - and once again - beautiful suburbs until we decided it was time for lunch.
We beckoned an Uber (our usual mode of transport) and introduced Steve to Edley's Bar-B-Que. If you ever come to Nashville, locals and visitors alike, will give you many recommendations of places to go and most of them will be eateries! However, that said, the food here is to die for. Steve was impressed!
We finished our meals, chatted to the staff and other customers and then left to get ready for the Country Music Awards.
We arrived at the Bridgestone Arena - the home of the Nashville Predators, the local NHL team - at around 6:15pm. Moments before as we were trying to filter through traffic on the busy streets on one of the busiest nights of the year, to the right of the car was the Red Carpet Lane. Some of our musical heroes were in those blacked out trucks, Limo's and Hummers.
We had to squint to see past the dark glass. There was only one I could kind of make out. A man with a mullet. I swear it was Keith Urban. Harriet and Steve were in doubt as they could not see but I stand by that.
We walked beside the line of people waiting to enter the building, which was to the side. We remarked at how small the line looked. Until we reached the main plaza! It was full of people. Lines and lines of people waiting for the doors to open and taking selfies with the 51st CMA insignia projected on the top of the building above us. We did not hesitate to do the same.
Eventually we had to move as the place became very quickly overcrowded.
Earlier this week TJ Cates recommended that we hang out in The Hilton Hotel bar to watch the awards show and then head down to Legends just before the end as the stars usually head down there too.
The Hilton lobby was plush. A grand piano as you walked in with a (dare I say) beautiful young lady in a cocktail dress, performing compositions from stage and screen.
Audience members and key guests milled in and out of the Lobby, but not the stars. We had a great time and left to get our spot at Legends bar on Broadway.
When we arrived they had rolled out the red carpet, for those who were on the list! A private event hosted by a car manufacturer. No amount of sweet talking by Harriet could get us in so we made our way to Tequila Cowboy.
Tequila Cowboy is a happening place and tonight was no exception. There was a band playing - Nashville Nobodies. They were playing covers and were excellent at it but when they began to play an original, the room became electric and both the band and the crowd started to buzz.
After the band had finished Harriet introduced herself to the main singer -Travis - and introduced the idea of a writing session. He jumped at the offer and to cut a long story short we are due to meet up with him on Friday.
We saw many other things on Broadway that night, including a man playing a double bass
(made from a water tank) with an electric saw! Harriet was even pulled up to dance - something she'd been longing to do but couldn't because of her knee. Although she was only lightly moving on the spot with her Canadian dance partner, she was over the moon. I too had a dance. With his girlfriend. That wasn't awkward at all!
Everyone there at Rippy's bar was so warm and friendly and we're having a great time. It was full of people who had been part of or audience members of the CMA Awards. We were with our kind. The drinks were flowing and so was the fun.
Then someone played "I Want It That Way" by The Backstreet Boys. This made Harriet laugh hard.....at my expense......of course.
We had to be professionals though because tomorrow is Bobby's Idle Hour!
We had to squint to see past the dark glass. There was only one I could kind of make out. A man with a mullet. I swear it was Keith Urban. Harriet and Steve were in doubt as they could not see but I stand by that.
We walked beside the line of people waiting to enter the building, which was to the side. We remarked at how small the line looked. Until we reached the main plaza! It was full of people. Lines and lines of people waiting for the doors to open and taking selfies with the 51st CMA insignia projected on the top of the building above us. We did not hesitate to do the same.
Eventually we had to move as the place became very quickly overcrowded.
Earlier this week TJ Cates recommended that we hang out in The Hilton Hotel bar to watch the awards show and then head down to Legends just before the end as the stars usually head down there too.
The Hilton lobby was plush. A grand piano as you walked in with a (dare I say) beautiful young lady in a cocktail dress, performing compositions from stage and screen.
Audience members and key guests milled in and out of the Lobby, but not the stars. We had a great time and left to get our spot at Legends bar on Broadway.
When we arrived they had rolled out the red carpet, for those who were on the list! A private event hosted by a car manufacturer. No amount of sweet talking by Harriet could get us in so we made our way to Tequila Cowboy.
Tequila Cowboy is a happening place and tonight was no exception. There was a band playing - Nashville Nobodies. They were playing covers and were excellent at it but when they began to play an original, the room became electric and both the band and the crowd started to buzz.
After the band had finished Harriet introduced herself to the main singer -Travis - and introduced the idea of a writing session. He jumped at the offer and to cut a long story short we are due to meet up with him on Friday.
We saw many other things on Broadway that night, including a man playing a double bass
(made from a water tank) with an electric saw! Harriet was even pulled up to dance - something she'd been longing to do but couldn't because of her knee. Although she was only lightly moving on the spot with her Canadian dance partner, she was over the moon. I too had a dance. With his girlfriend. That wasn't awkward at all!
Everyone there at Rippy's bar was so warm and friendly and we're having a great time. It was full of people who had been part of or audience members of the CMA Awards. We were with our kind. The drinks were flowing and so was the fun.
Then someone played "I Want It That Way" by The Backstreet Boys. This made Harriet laugh hard.....at my expense......of course.
We had to be professionals though because tomorrow is Bobby's Idle Hour!
Day 8
November 9th 2017
Bobby's Idle Hour
We woke up surprisingly fresh-faced and still buzzing from last night's memorable experience of being in the home of country music for the CMAs. However Paul and I knew that we had no time for a hangover, it was time to get rehearsed and ready for our writers' slot at Bobby's Idle Hour.
The venue, like so many others in the Nashville area, boasts a long list of industry bigwigs as part of its regular client base as well as being the home of where so many hits have been debuted and modern stars discovered. We weren't nervous at all!
Paul and I took our time to get organised, this was after all the first performance we had had since we'd arrived in Nashville where we did not need to rush. After several rehearsals and tweaks to our set list we had our performance planned out: we were going to start with one of our latest songs, 'Life We Chose', followed by the single 'Shot At Loving You' and then 'Better Honky Tonk' to finish off.
Walking through the door, we were all a bit anxious that we had been held up in traffic due to the local college hosting a sports event. Janet and Charles, our hosts for the evening, reassured us though that they too had not foreseen the traffic issues and that we would be sound-checked in just a few minutes.
We all took a look around the room and noticed what looked like hundreds of single $1 bills taped all over the walls and beams and bars and doorways. Each note had been inscribed with someone's name and the date that they had performed there... I of course took no time to grab a dollar out of my purse and scribble on it with my trusty handbag Sharpie. Steve and Paul both looked at me like I was the embarrassment in the group - shocker!
The venue, like so many others in the Nashville area, boasts a long list of industry bigwigs as part of its regular client base as well as being the home of where so many hits have been debuted and modern stars discovered. We weren't nervous at all!
Paul and I took our time to get organised, this was after all the first performance we had had since we'd arrived in Nashville where we did not need to rush. After several rehearsals and tweaks to our set list we had our performance planned out: we were going to start with one of our latest songs, 'Life We Chose', followed by the single 'Shot At Loving You' and then 'Better Honky Tonk' to finish off.
Walking through the door, we were all a bit anxious that we had been held up in traffic due to the local college hosting a sports event. Janet and Charles, our hosts for the evening, reassured us though that they too had not foreseen the traffic issues and that we would be sound-checked in just a few minutes.
We all took a look around the room and noticed what looked like hundreds of single $1 bills taped all over the walls and beams and bars and doorways. Each note had been inscribed with someone's name and the date that they had performed there... I of course took no time to grab a dollar out of my purse and scribble on it with my trusty handbag Sharpie. Steve and Paul both looked at me like I was the embarrassment in the group - shocker!
After a quick line check of both vocals and the guitar, it was time to get going. Just like at The Bluebird Cafe, writers and performers are respected; no one makes a sound. Everybody listens intently to each word, each note and each ounce of soulful, heartbreaking reality and truth in every song. Unlike at The Bluebird Cafe, where for once my nerves weren't crippling me and I was actually able to walk away from the performance beaming with pride at everything that happened on stage whilst Paul felt a little uneasy, I was very much aware of the fact that I was back to my usual unease of a silent room whilst Paul was his usual, outwardly relaxed self.
As we walked away from our performance, generally pleased on the whole with how it had gone, our new friends R.J. Harper and Kyle Muller walked in to show their support. I had spent much of the week trying to organise with R.J. and Kyle, a writing session after we had all been blown away by each other's original material and performances at The Bluebird Cafe and they had decided to come and watch us play at Bobby's in the hope that we'd have some time afterwards to hang out and write.
We watched in awe as two Songwriters' Rounds took place - incredible artists taking turns to show their best original material from all genres; blues, folk, jazz, pop, show tunes, etc. You always feel moved when you watch a talented person do what they love but, here, every single person is a force of nature. You are constantly surrounded by the creme de la creme and questioning if you are really good enough to be amongst them.
As we walked away from our performance, generally pleased on the whole with how it had gone, our new friends R.J. Harper and Kyle Muller walked in to show their support. I had spent much of the week trying to organise with R.J. and Kyle, a writing session after we had all been blown away by each other's original material and performances at The Bluebird Cafe and they had decided to come and watch us play at Bobby's in the hope that we'd have some time afterwards to hang out and write.
We watched in awe as two Songwriters' Rounds took place - incredible artists taking turns to show their best original material from all genres; blues, folk, jazz, pop, show tunes, etc. You always feel moved when you watch a talented person do what they love but, here, every single person is a force of nature. You are constantly surrounded by the creme de la creme and questioning if you are really good enough to be amongst them.
After we had watched the featured artist we all piled into R.J.'s truck which I naturally was delighted about because anyone who knows me knows that I've wanted a truck since I was old enough to drive! Upon arriving back at our temporary home we took it in turns to play each other our favourite songs we had written... our very own Writers' Round! We fawned over each other's guitars and lyrics and vocal abilities and helped each other to add little melodies and solos to our songs - all the while filming and SnapChatting everything we saw and heard.
As the night drew to a close we all agreed to Skype-write in the future as R.J. and Kyle were leaving to go back to Detroit the next day.
We ended the night on a high as we said goodbye, stoked that we had had an opportunity to do some collaborative writing ahead of a few slower paced days of songwriting for the next album and some touristy goodness!
As the night drew to a close we all agreed to Skype-write in the future as R.J. and Kyle were leaving to go back to Detroit the next day.
We ended the night on a high as we said goodbye, stoked that we had had an opportunity to do some collaborative writing ahead of a few slower paced days of songwriting for the next album and some touristy goodness!
Day 9
November 10th 2017
The Tourists!
Day 9
Friday 10th November
After a late night of writing and playing we took the opportunity to catch up on some sleep and had a slower start to the day.
We had agreed earlier in the week that we would use the weekend for taking in as much of Nashville as we could. Although Paul and I had been before last year, we felt it was time to introduce Steve to The Country Music Hall of Fame.
This year's exhibitions were excellent! There was the brand new Loretta Lynn area to replace what had been previously been the Alabama exhibition. Despite having grown up with Loretta's music, I was still taken by surprise by the amount of her songs I hadn't heard before. Paul and I stood taking pictures of each of the artefacts whilst listening to her many hits, agreeing that we should cover that one... and that one... and that one.
Next we were brought to the Shania Twain exhibition - music videos and memories of my childhood spent with my Aunty Lorraine flashed before me as I saw outfit after outfit after photo after prop from some of the most prominent songs from the 90s and 00s.
Before long we were stood in front of the wall of gold records. Now, we have of course been presented with our own mock gold record by Steve upon the success of 'Shot At Loving You' reaching over 150,000 streams and downloads worldwide, but we all took in the sight and reminded ourselves that these were the real thing. The thing all songwriters aspire to. To have people love what you write and to gain some kind of recognition for it. We took our photos in front of what I like to call 'The Great Wall of Country Music' with a reincarnated sense of ambition and yearning.
Unfortunately our trip to the museum was cut short due to a private event taking place in the rotunda. Although we were sad to leave, we knew we would return again and that the circle would still remain unbroken.
Friday 10th November
After a late night of writing and playing we took the opportunity to catch up on some sleep and had a slower start to the day.
We had agreed earlier in the week that we would use the weekend for taking in as much of Nashville as we could. Although Paul and I had been before last year, we felt it was time to introduce Steve to The Country Music Hall of Fame.
This year's exhibitions were excellent! There was the brand new Loretta Lynn area to replace what had been previously been the Alabama exhibition. Despite having grown up with Loretta's music, I was still taken by surprise by the amount of her songs I hadn't heard before. Paul and I stood taking pictures of each of the artefacts whilst listening to her many hits, agreeing that we should cover that one... and that one... and that one.
Next we were brought to the Shania Twain exhibition - music videos and memories of my childhood spent with my Aunty Lorraine flashed before me as I saw outfit after outfit after photo after prop from some of the most prominent songs from the 90s and 00s.
Before long we were stood in front of the wall of gold records. Now, we have of course been presented with our own mock gold record by Steve upon the success of 'Shot At Loving You' reaching over 150,000 streams and downloads worldwide, but we all took in the sight and reminded ourselves that these were the real thing. The thing all songwriters aspire to. To have people love what you write and to gain some kind of recognition for it. We took our photos in front of what I like to call 'The Great Wall of Country Music' with a reincarnated sense of ambition and yearning.
Unfortunately our trip to the museum was cut short due to a private event taking place in the rotunda. Although we were sad to leave, we knew we would return again and that the circle would still remain unbroken.
Days 10 and 11
Saturday & Sunday
November 11th and 12th 2017
Remembrance
The weekend had a sombre feel to it as it fell on Veterans Day in the US and Remembrance Sunday in the UK. As people who had all had members of their family or friends in the armed forces at one stage or another, we were all as reflective as one another.
I started the day in a creative, Nashville state of mind. My Great Grandfather Reg had passed away the day before we had flown out to the States and I had just learnt that I was going to miss his funeral so I was somewhat inspired.
For most songwriters, songs aren't just songs... they are stories. The good, bad and ugly. It's quite often how we cope with life's highs and lows. How we breathe. How we speak. This weekend, music would need to be my medicine.
Despite having been a songwriter my entire life, I have never been a very able musician. 12 years of learning the guitar has left me being only capable of playing 3 chords. And my 'attempts' at playing the cello, piano and flute have never amounted to much either. As you can imagine, this has always left me feeling like the weak link within ALBC.
Today was different. I had been learning to play the mandolin for the last 8 months in private. I had only just recently managed to make something click... and finally let my fiancé and family and Paul watch me play the three 3 songs I had learnt to play and sing along to. Today I picked up my mandolin in the quiet of our adopted home and wrote a song. A whole song. With an instrument. That I was playing! (Okay... Paul helped a little bit... But it was mine!) I'm not sure if it was the sense of self-pride or the subject matter but the emotion was overwhelming so I had to make Paul sing it so that we could record it.
I started the day in a creative, Nashville state of mind. My Great Grandfather Reg had passed away the day before we had flown out to the States and I had just learnt that I was going to miss his funeral so I was somewhat inspired.
For most songwriters, songs aren't just songs... they are stories. The good, bad and ugly. It's quite often how we cope with life's highs and lows. How we breathe. How we speak. This weekend, music would need to be my medicine.
Despite having been a songwriter my entire life, I have never been a very able musician. 12 years of learning the guitar has left me being only capable of playing 3 chords. And my 'attempts' at playing the cello, piano and flute have never amounted to much either. As you can imagine, this has always left me feeling like the weak link within ALBC.
Today was different. I had been learning to play the mandolin for the last 8 months in private. I had only just recently managed to make something click... and finally let my fiancé and family and Paul watch me play the three 3 songs I had learnt to play and sing along to. Today I picked up my mandolin in the quiet of our adopted home and wrote a song. A whole song. With an instrument. That I was playing! (Okay... Paul helped a little bit... But it was mine!) I'm not sure if it was the sense of self-pride or the subject matter but the emotion was overwhelming so I had to make Paul sing it so that we could record it.
As a break away to clear our heads, we went shopping. Most girls love shopping. Me, not so much. It's not easy to find clothes that fit you properly when you're 4'11'' and curvy. It's even harder in the UK to find clothes when you're a self-confessed country girl through and through and not a fashionista who's into the current trends and latest items on the catwalks. Paul has no real issue - checked shirts and jeans are everywhere! But Nashville... Oh man! I love the clothes in Nashville! So many places made for me: Boot Barn, Cowboys and Angels, Boot Country to name just a few.
I had died and gone to my own, personal fashion heaven. Beautiful dresses, boots I had named as 'Sexy Boots', jeans and jackets and hats and all the tassels and purses you could possibly dream of. Paul had even tried on and fallen in love with Johnny Cash-inspired Western black embroidered shirts and suits. But then... of course your bank balance brings you back down to reality.
Self-funded tours are expensive. There's so much to consider but this wasn't our first rodeo. So after treating ourselves to few pieces, we had to leave most of our favourite items hanging, unloved and unadopted. If you can't tell... I was a little heart broken.
I had died and gone to my own, personal fashion heaven. Beautiful dresses, boots I had named as 'Sexy Boots', jeans and jackets and hats and all the tassels and purses you could possibly dream of. Paul had even tried on and fallen in love with Johnny Cash-inspired Western black embroidered shirts and suits. But then... of course your bank balance brings you back down to reality.
Self-funded tours are expensive. There's so much to consider but this wasn't our first rodeo. So after treating ourselves to few pieces, we had to leave most of our favourite items hanging, unloved and unadopted. If you can't tell... I was a little heart broken.
But it wasn't all doom and gloom. The weekend provided us with the opportunity to write 2 new songs - just like last year, these songs were full of Nashville heart. Catchy hooks and story-telling verses are the least you can expect for songs inspired by what can be heard and seen on Nashville streets, so naturally we were pleased with our results - the new album was nicely taking shape with our new found sound becoming more and more authentic by the minute.
We also used the weekend as the chance to go and see our new friends, Nashville Nobodies, performing at Tequila Cowboy. I was finally off my crutches and felt more like myself than I had in a month as I stood and danced (well, rocked side to side) along to songs that I knew every word to.
Although the weekend was a blur, it was all extremely memorable and worthwhile. Just what you need before the Sunday night blues kick in.
We also used the weekend as the chance to go and see our new friends, Nashville Nobodies, performing at Tequila Cowboy. I was finally off my crutches and felt more like myself than I had in a month as I stood and danced (well, rocked side to side) along to songs that I knew every word to.
Although the weekend was a blur, it was all extremely memorable and worthwhile. Just what you need before the Sunday night blues kick in.
Day 12
Monday Nov 13th 2017
Another Blue Monday
For most people, Monday mornings herald the gloomy reality that it's time to go back to work, but when work is something you enjoy, it doesn't matter that it's dark and near freezing outside, the sun always shines from within! We, were going back to work.
Tonight is The Bluebird, we hope.
So at 11:00am we begin to dial again. This time we manage to clock up 210 calls between us. We were starting to believe that we weren't going to get it this time. Then, Harriet gets through! We are playing the Bluebird again tonight!
We were excited, not quite like we were before as we knew what to expect so our game plan was different.
Next up was our final interview with Wycombe Sound. However, there was a slight scheduling mix-up and we rescheduled for Wednesday. Sometimes these things happen.
Harriet and I sat down to finish off the two new songs that we had written, including her fully solo composition for her Great Granddad. Be prepared, if Harriet decides that she does want to share that with you, you'll need a full box of tissues!
Tonight is The Bluebird, we hope.
So at 11:00am we begin to dial again. This time we manage to clock up 210 calls between us. We were starting to believe that we weren't going to get it this time. Then, Harriet gets through! We are playing the Bluebird again tonight!
We were excited, not quite like we were before as we knew what to expect so our game plan was different.
Next up was our final interview with Wycombe Sound. However, there was a slight scheduling mix-up and we rescheduled for Wednesday. Sometimes these things happen.
Harriet and I sat down to finish off the two new songs that we had written, including her fully solo composition for her Great Granddad. Be prepared, if Harriet decides that she does want to share that with you, you'll need a full box of tissues!
When we arrived at The Bluebird, the queues were longer than the previous week. We met Michele Held from Detroit, who had literally just pulled in to Nashville 5 minutes earlier. Michele was another dream chaser, risking it all to attain her goal. She told us that when she had got through to The Bluebird she only managed to give her name and lost connection! Luckily she called back and the lady that she had spoken to had written her name down and put her in reserve just in case she did call back, which was extremely nice considering the demand there is to play there.
We heard a familiar voice behind us. It was Josiah Siska. The man with the unnaturally deep voice! Last week he had wowed us with his salute to the armed forces with "Dear Mamma", a real tearjerker.
We all chatted and networked before the doors were opened and we made our way to the tables.
There was no Barbara this week, instead sound engineer and comedian Steve Goodie hosted and entertained. He even played his own song, a spoof of John Denver's "Leaving On A Jet Plane" called "Beaten On Jet Plane", which was extremely funny.
Numbers were drawn from the hat. We were number 19 and this time we performed "Be Weak". This, went down a storm with tears flowing around the room. Nerves were kicking in again and I still couldn't hear my voice on stage, but the audience had the best sound. One man even thought Harriet was some missionary, spreading the word of God!
We finished the night just as before, congratulating and being congratulated, exchanging contact details and CDs. This would be the last time we'd play this venue. Until next year that is!
We heard a familiar voice behind us. It was Josiah Siska. The man with the unnaturally deep voice! Last week he had wowed us with his salute to the armed forces with "Dear Mamma", a real tearjerker.
We all chatted and networked before the doors were opened and we made our way to the tables.
There was no Barbara this week, instead sound engineer and comedian Steve Goodie hosted and entertained. He even played his own song, a spoof of John Denver's "Leaving On A Jet Plane" called "Beaten On Jet Plane", which was extremely funny.
Numbers were drawn from the hat. We were number 19 and this time we performed "Be Weak". This, went down a storm with tears flowing around the room. Nerves were kicking in again and I still couldn't hear my voice on stage, but the audience had the best sound. One man even thought Harriet was some missionary, spreading the word of God!
We finished the night just as before, congratulating and being congratulated, exchanging contact details and CDs. This would be the last time we'd play this venue. Until next year that is!
Day 13
Tuesday Nov 14th 2017
Reflections
Today was a day to reflect. The weekend had been about remembrance, today was our chance to look back over the tour and to reflect on different aspects of our lives. However, for Harriet, there was more. Today was the funeral of her Great Grandfather, a funeral she would not be able to attend!
Back in March 2011, I called my dad (who was living in Texas) to wish him a happy birthday. It was on that day he told me that he had terminal cancer! I wasted no time and flew out to spend three weeks with him, to get to know him a little more, and as a show of love and support. Dad had been given until August that year but he was determined he was going to live on. Sadly though, he passed that June, just before my sister's birthday. She was devastated that she was not in a position to see him before he died. I was devastated that I could not attend his very low key funeral. To this day I have still not managed to visit his graveside and each time I have been in the USA since, I get a pang of regret and self loathing for not making more of an effort. I knew exactly how Harriet was feeling, and the inner turmoil that she was experiencing.
So what does a songwriter do in these situations? They write a song. That is exactly what Harriet did. She picked up the Mandolin that hung on the wall and disappeared for a few hours on Monday after returning from the Bluebird. She came to me and asked for help with finishing the song. I made a few suggestions but the song, including its musical composition was completely hers! I found myself being a little clinical in places about how the song should be performed but soon realised that I needed to shut up and let Harri do it the way she needed to.
So we sat on the steps outside, and Steve filmed the performance. When we had rehearsed moments earlier, neither Harriet nor I could get through it without crying - that is the strength of a good song! However she held it together just enough. I was a very proud band-mate.
We decided to hit Broadway one last time and finish off our holiday shopping and headed to Dick's Last Resort again for a tasty lunch. We even gave an impromptu performance of "Shot At Loving You". Of course, being Dick's, we were congratulated and insulted at the same time! We're going to miss this place.
We spent the rest of the day discussing the great points and not so great points of the tour. All things considered, we were very happy with the way the tour had turned out.
Back in March 2011, I called my dad (who was living in Texas) to wish him a happy birthday. It was on that day he told me that he had terminal cancer! I wasted no time and flew out to spend three weeks with him, to get to know him a little more, and as a show of love and support. Dad had been given until August that year but he was determined he was going to live on. Sadly though, he passed that June, just before my sister's birthday. She was devastated that she was not in a position to see him before he died. I was devastated that I could not attend his very low key funeral. To this day I have still not managed to visit his graveside and each time I have been in the USA since, I get a pang of regret and self loathing for not making more of an effort. I knew exactly how Harriet was feeling, and the inner turmoil that she was experiencing.
So what does a songwriter do in these situations? They write a song. That is exactly what Harriet did. She picked up the Mandolin that hung on the wall and disappeared for a few hours on Monday after returning from the Bluebird. She came to me and asked for help with finishing the song. I made a few suggestions but the song, including its musical composition was completely hers! I found myself being a little clinical in places about how the song should be performed but soon realised that I needed to shut up and let Harri do it the way she needed to.
So we sat on the steps outside, and Steve filmed the performance. When we had rehearsed moments earlier, neither Harriet nor I could get through it without crying - that is the strength of a good song! However she held it together just enough. I was a very proud band-mate.
We decided to hit Broadway one last time and finish off our holiday shopping and headed to Dick's Last Resort again for a tasty lunch. We even gave an impromptu performance of "Shot At Loving You". Of course, being Dick's, we were congratulated and insulted at the same time! We're going to miss this place.
We spent the rest of the day discussing the great points and not so great points of the tour. All things considered, we were very happy with the way the tour had turned out.
Day 14
Wednesday Nov 15th 2017
The Fillin' Station
Our last day in Nashville. Up at the crack of dawn. Packing and tidying so that we did not have to spend too much time on Thursday. We went for a walk in the afternoon to get some final bits and pieces and then made our way to The Fillin' Station in Kingston Springs.
The traffic was heavy but we managed to make it by the skin of our teeth!
We introduced ourselves to Kathy and David and got on the stage. Everyone there was lovely and supportive. This is something that we have come to expect. I got a little tongue tied when we introduced ourselves and thanked the people of Memphis - I went to say Tennessee but my brain decided that wasn't going to happen! I felt the sound on stage was the best however Harriet still had difficulty hearing so we need to look at how we fix this for future dates. In ear monitors is probably the way to go.
Again once we had finished our set we got the usual congratulations and we reciprocated.
It turns out that Ward Thomas also played at this venue before they hit big with their album Cartwheels! We also met a musician from Australia. When we told her we were from Aylesbury, her face lit up and she knew it. Her brother lives in Berkhamsted, only 15 miles away. It really is a small world!
The night finished, we took some photos and said our goodbyes. The tour was officially over! We headed back to the apartment and readied ourselves for the morning. It was my responsibility to wake everyone up.
The traffic was heavy but we managed to make it by the skin of our teeth!
We introduced ourselves to Kathy and David and got on the stage. Everyone there was lovely and supportive. This is something that we have come to expect. I got a little tongue tied when we introduced ourselves and thanked the people of Memphis - I went to say Tennessee but my brain decided that wasn't going to happen! I felt the sound on stage was the best however Harriet still had difficulty hearing so we need to look at how we fix this for future dates. In ear monitors is probably the way to go.
Again once we had finished our set we got the usual congratulations and we reciprocated.
It turns out that Ward Thomas also played at this venue before they hit big with their album Cartwheels! We also met a musician from Australia. When we told her we were from Aylesbury, her face lit up and she knew it. Her brother lives in Berkhamsted, only 15 miles away. It really is a small world!
The night finished, we took some photos and said our goodbyes. The tour was officially over! We headed back to the apartment and readied ourselves for the morning. It was my responsibility to wake everyone up.
Day 15
Thursday Nov 16th 2017
The Home Run
No matter how much fun you have when you are away, it's always nice to come home. Steve was itching to get back home to see his partner Kirsten and his son Ollie. It was really the first time he had been away without them, ever! I was looking forward to seeing my kids and Harriet was looking forward to seeing her fiancé, family and animals, but we both felt the bitter sweetness of leaving such a terrific place as Nashville. We knew we'd be back though.
Everything went smoothly on the way home but there was one moment where we could have turned around, but we talked ourselves out of it.
All in all, that was 12 months of planning. We had aimed and we had hit our goal. We played Nashville. We played The Bluebird Cafe twice! We performed on local tv. We performed on the radio station responsible for The Grand Ole Opry! We made contacts. We made friends. We made our family, our friends, our fans, and ourselves proud of what we have achieved. There is only one way for us to go now, and that, is up and if that doesn't happen by itself, we know we can make it happen!
Thank you for following our story and for all the support and encouragement you have given us. We'd like to thank BFS Records for their support too, but the biggest thanks goes out to Ollie, our most avid follower of the tour!
Everything went smoothly on the way home but there was one moment where we could have turned around, but we talked ourselves out of it.
All in all, that was 12 months of planning. We had aimed and we had hit our goal. We played Nashville. We played The Bluebird Cafe twice! We performed on local tv. We performed on the radio station responsible for The Grand Ole Opry! We made contacts. We made friends. We made our family, our friends, our fans, and ourselves proud of what we have achieved. There is only one way for us to go now, and that, is up and if that doesn't happen by itself, we know we can make it happen!
Thank you for following our story and for all the support and encouragement you have given us. We'd like to thank BFS Records for their support too, but the biggest thanks goes out to Ollie, our most avid follower of the tour!