TN SHINES!

I had the privilege of attending Tennessee Shines at the Bijou yesterday evening for the first time. It's a really great show that I encourage you to attend next month if you're able.

Last night I was in and out, but caught singer/songwriter Amy Speace and Mike Farris and the Roseland Rhythm Revue. The latter got a fairly packed out Bijou on their feet on the last song, which is always nice to see.

Honestly, I didn't know much about Tennessee Shines and went on a whim without knowing who the performers were last night. I have a greater appreciation for it now that I've finally witnessed it. It's the last Wednesday of each month and features musicians from all over Tennessee. Jim Lauderdale is the host, who is sweet as he can be. The whole show is broadcast live on WDVX. There's even an "Applause" and "On Air" sign up on stage for the in-house listeners, which, for some reason, always delights my soul to see.

I hear next month looks like a good line up: Samantha Crane, Sara Watkins, Tyler Ramsey, and Dave Alvin and a Few Guilty Women, so please go if you're able. I think it's the kind of thing you go into not knowing what to expect from so many performers, but in the end, it's a great Southern experience. You can learn more about it here or here if you'd like.