Nashville’s Hidden Gem: The Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival

Nashville is known for its music so it is no surprise that there are numerous music festivals held throughout the year. As of 2019, Nashville is the host of the world’s largest songwriter’s festival –  Tin Pan South. Tin Pan South is probably one of the most “Nashville” things in the city that a lot of folks don’t know about. I was totally unaware until in the early 2000’s when my multi-bright colored hair girlfriend introduced me to the songwriter’s scene. She worked in publishing and spoke of performers and songwriters as co-workers and friends.  I was out of my element and certainly intrigued. Follow us on Instagram for more behind the scenes HERE.

Key Facts for Tin Pan South

What sets this event apart from other music festivals, is that Tin Pan South is solely dedicated to the songs and songwriters. It’s quite a treat if you’ve never been.  Finding out the person who wrote your favorite 1980’s pop hit also wrote your favorite current country song, is a pleasant surprise. Seeing and hearing the journeys some of these songs have been through really helps bring to light the world of the Nashville songwriter. The festival spans the course of five days taking place in different local music venues, which host two shows a night. In total, over 400 songwriters will be brought together to give fans this unique experience.

When is Tin Pan South

This year, Tin Pan South will take place: March 29 through April 2, 2022.

Where is Tin Pan South

There are 9 different venues hosting the Tin Pan South songwriter festival.

• 3rd and Lindsley
• Analog at Hutton Hotel
• Cross-Eye Critters Watering Hole
• Elliston Place Soda Shop
• Hard Rock Cafe
• Station Inn
• The Bluebird Cafe
• The Listening Room Cafe
• The Lounge at City Winery

You can view the schedule here.

Who will be at Tin Pan South?

Songwriters come in many ways: lyricists, singer/songwriters, songwriters, and songwriter musicians.  These are the folks writing the music and songs for the performers that may be more of a household name to the public. There are 400 songwriters attending Tin Pan South songwriter festival this year. Here are just 10 of them to look forward to:

• Adam Sanders
• Bre Kennedy
• Chris Gelbuda
• Emily Falvey
• Jason Duke
• Lance Miller
• Megan Redmond
• Rocky Block
• Sebastian Kole
• Jimmy Allen

See the full list here.

Why Go to Tin Pan South songwriter festival?

It’s been said Nashville has 10,000 songwriters and 1,000 songs a day are written here.  I can’t prove or disprove that, but it sounds about right.  The community of songwriters is definitely as they say, “everybody knows everybody” and a true Nashville treasure. There are numerous reasons to go to Tin Pan South! Here are a few:

• It is an opportunity to immerse yourself in music and song as well as to potentially network with other musical professionals.
• Unlike other music festivals, the performers at Tin Pan South are more interactive with the audience due to a smaller venue setting.
• It’s the largest songwriter festival in the world and has a long history already as 2022 is now the 28^th

You learn so much about songwriter culture and never know what else you may find!

How Can I Learn More about Nashville and Nashville Experience Tours?

Come to Nashville March 29 – April 2 and see some very talented songwriters perform their songs in small more intimate venues in Nashville.  It’s probably best to get a week-long pass and enjoy the venues at your own leisure. Be aware, though, you may still have to stand in line. This event will be packed with locals and music professionals alike.  People around here love supporting the songwriter! If you are interested in being a part of Tin Pan South songwriter festival you can buy your tickets on their official website, linked here. If you are not able to join in person, be sure to follow us on the Nashville Experience Tours  Instagram page for exclusive interviews and behind the scenes of the festival! And remember, it all begins with a song! – Joe Nashville