AMERICANAFEST Slates Keynote Conversation & Dualtone Records Showcase

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Brandi Carlile & Houndmouth

Legendary songwriter Bernie Taupin and Grammy-winning artist Brandi Carlile have been announced for the 2026 AMERICANAFEST Keynote Conversation on Sept. 16 during the AMERICANAFEST Business Conference in Nashville.

Without a moderator, Taupin and Carlile will explore the creative process, songwriting, artistic longevity, collaboration and the enduring power of authentic storytelling . The pairing reflects a unique artistic connection, as Carlile and Taupin have collaborated through their work with Elton John, most recently co-writing the Grammy-nominated song “Never Too Late.” Together they represent two generations of master songwriters whose shared respect for craft, vulnerability and musical exploration will make for an extraordinary conversation.

“Bernie Taupin’s contribution to songwriting is immeasurable,” says Jed Hilly, Executive Director of the Americana Music Association. “His words have become part of our collective musical vocabulary, inspiring generations of artists. Pairing Bernie with Brandi Carlile – one of today’s most fearless and celebrated songwriters – creates an extraordinary opportunity to witness two remarkable creative minds discussing the art of songwriting, the responsibility of storytelling, and the evolution of American music.”

Dualtone Records will also kick off its 25th anniversary celebration during AMERICANAFEST with two special events: the panel discussion Dualtone at 25: Keep Pressing On on Sept. 16 and Dualtone’s official 25th Anniversary Bash showcase on Sept. 17.

On September 16, AMERICANAFEST will host the panel discussion Dualtone at 25: Keep Pressing On, a forward-looking conversation about the evolution of independent music through artist development. Moderated by World Cafe host Raina Douris, the panel will reflect on the label’s journey over the past quarter century while exploring how independent labels continue to build meaningful, sustainable careers in an ever-changing music landscape. Joining Douris will be Dualtone Records Co-Founder Scott Robinson, Dualtone General Manager and SVP of Artist Development Whitaker Elledge, SVP of Promotion and Strategy Julie Muncy, The Team’s Keith Levy and Dualtone recording artist Aubory Bugg discussing the label’s artist-first philosophy, the importance of long-term creative partnerships, and what the future holds for independent music.

On Sept. 17, Dualtone’s 25th Anniversary Bash will take over The Basement East beginning at 7 p.m. as the label’s official AmericanaFest showcase. The evening will feature performances by Houndmouth, Shakey Graves, The Brook & The Bluff, Langhorne Slim, Futurebirds, Abraham Alexander, Aubory Bugg and special guests.

Lorie Hollabaugh
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