HENDERSON, Ky. − The fourth entry in Henderson’s “Songs of Summer” series of five summer music festivals is set for July 24-27.
It’s the Sandy Lee Watkins Songwriters Festival. Here are a few things to know about the four-night event in downtown Henderson.
What is the Sandy Lee Watkins Songwriters Festival?
"Songfest," as it is familiarly known, is four nights of intimate, acoustic live performances by Nashville-based songwriters, many of whom have written or collaborated on some very recognizable hit songs.
With a tag line “Storytellin’ in 42420,” the festival presents songwriters playing “in the round” and on each turn talking about the songs they perform, perhaps sharing about the inspiration, the writing process, the pathway to getting it recorded and challenges of the music business.
Where is Songfest?
There are six shows on the bill this year in two locations: Rookies Banquet Hall at 117 Second St. and at The Elm, 120 N. Elm St.
There is no reserved seating and seats are claimed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Tickets will grant entry into the venue of your choice as long as that venue isn’t already full. Early arrival is encouraged and seat-saving is discouraged.
Who can I hear at this year's Songfest?
On Wednesday, July 24, there’s something new this year with one show only from 6-9 p.m. It will start with the first Local Talent Showcase, followed by hit songwriters.
Local performers are Maggie Hollis, Lindsey Williams, Josh Merritt and Tyler Garrett. Hit songwriters are Johnny Balfour, Dave Pahanish, Jason Duke and David Tolliver.
On Thursday, July 25, there are shows from 7-9 p.m. at both venues. Songwriters at Rookies are: Heidi Bulford, Jami Grooms, Lance Carpenter and David Pahanish. Songswriters at The Elm are: Don Sampson, Rusty Tabor, Joel Shewmake and Ronny Criss.
On Friday and Saturday, July 26-27 , there are Early Bird and Night Owl sets at both venues.
Friday — Rookies, 6 p.m.: Anthony Peebles, Jamie Teachenor, Joel Shewmake, Jami Grooms. The Elm, 6 p.m.: Tony Arata, Annie Mosher, Buddy Owens, Chris Canterbury. Rookies, 8:15 p.m.: David Tolliver, Johnny Bulford, Heidi Bulford, Bobby James. The Elm, 8:15 p.m.: Don Sampson, Rusty Tabor, Reed Foley, Jason Duke.
Saturday — Rookies, 6 p.m.: Leslie Satcher, Buddy Owens, Reed Foley, Roxie Dean. The Elm, 6 p.m.: Bobby James, Anthony Peebles, Ronny Criss, Chris Canterbury. Rookies, 8:15 p.m.: Tony Arata, Leslie Satcher, Jamie Teachenor, Don Sampson. The Elm, 8:15 p.m.: Johnny Bulford, Heidi Bulford, Roxie Dean, Lance Carpenter.
The schedule is subject to change and will be reported on the festival Facebook page.
Have I heard any their songs?
Here are a few possibilities: “The Dance,” recorded by Garth Brooks (writer Tony Arata), “Waitin’ On A Woman,” recorded by Brad Paisley (writer Don Sampson), “Without You,” recorded by Keith Urban (writer Dave Pahanish) and “Dibs,” recorded by Kelsea Ballerini (writer Jason Duke), just to name a few.
Where do I get tickets for Songfest?
They’re available on-line at SandyLeeSongfest.com and the price is $20 per session. There’s also a Sandy Bundle Pass that are good for all six shows.
Proceeds from the show are distributed to local non-profits selected by the planning committee.
Workshop for songwriters will take place Saturday
A free Songwriter Workshop will take place on Saturday, July 27, 9 a.m., in The Gatsby Room adjacent to Hometown Roots restaurant, 136 Second St. At the workshop, attendees will hear tips and stories from the pros about how to write a hit song and how to navigate the music business.
This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Annual Sandy Lee Watkins Songwriters Festival this week in Henderson
Most Popular
Comments / 0