Tennessee Songwriters Week's Seven Finalists to Play at The Bluebird Cafe

Without the songwriters, we wouldn't have the songs or memories that we all love! The State of Tennessee has done a fantastic job of fostering new talent!

Clockwise from Top Left: Elijah Wise, Sarah Hardwig, Melanie LaFoy, Aaron Bucks, The Garrett Boys, HARZEE, Ron Short (middle).

Helmed by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Tennessee Songwriters Week was established in 2019 to support music venues, celebrate songwriters with live performances in all genres of music, drive visitation and inspire travelers to experience the state’s music stories, history, attractions and venues. Since its inception, more than 3,500 songwriters have shared their original music across Tennessee stages during the annual celebration.

Out of the thousands of applicants, seven finalists won the opportunity to perform at Nashville’s iconic The Bluebird Cafe on March 26 during a private event with music industry professionals.

Melanie LaFoywon at The Bijou Theatrein Knoxville; Aaron Bucks at Songbirds in Chattanooga;Stax Music Academy’s HARZEE at Lafayette’s Music Room in Memphis; Elijah Wise at Ole Red in Gatlinburg; Ron Short at The Down Home in Johnson City, Belmont University music student Sarah Hardwig at The Franklin Theatre in Franklin and the Garrett BoysatThe Palace Theatre in Gallatin, all shined and impressed in order to make their way to the iconic Bluebird.

The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development partners with The Bluebird Cafe, NSAI, Taylor Guitars, music venues and local convention and visitors’ bureaus, chambers and partners across the state, all committed to make sure songwriters can share their original work onstage with other writers.

Follow the journey of these songwriters by following @tnvacation on social media and #tnsongwritersweek.