Tennessee Songwriters Week Names Seven Finalists

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Seven Tennessee Songwriters Week contestants performed their original songs at showcases across the state, impressing the judges to make it to the finals, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development announced today (March 4).

Nearly 50 qualifying rounds were held at venues, cafés, listening rooms, museums and performance stages in late January and early February. Songwriters advanced from qualifying rounds to the seven showcases. Finalists include Rodrick Duran (Memphis), Sarrenna Johnson (Knoxville), Claire Childress (Bristol), Kristina & Jordan (Gatlinburg), Caleb Lovely (Chattanooga), Jon Wayne Hatfield (Portland) and DEK of Hearts (Franklin).

Songwriter showcases were held at Lafayette’s Music Room in Memphis, The Bijou Theatre in Knoxville, Paramount Bristol in Bristol, Ole Red in Gatlinburg, Bessie Smith Cultural Center in Chattanooga, Temple Theatre in Portland and The Franklin Theatre in Franklin.

Each of the seven finalists earned the opportunity to perform at The Bluebird Cafe during a private event March 30 with music industry professionals, a branded commemorative Taylor guitar, a two-night stay in Nashville, $100 gift card for travel and a one-year membership to Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI).

Helmed by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, the seventh annual Tennessee Songwriters Week supports music venues, provides songwriters with performance opportunities, drives visitation and inspires travelers to experience the state’s musical stories, history, attractions and venues. Since its inception in 2019, more than 5,000 songwriters have shared their original songs on Tennessee stages during the annual celebration each February.

Lorie Hollabaugh
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