4pm on the 4th at Lyrix

I'll be taking the stage at 4 pm with my friend Joni Bishop as part of this big-hairy-deal event. I'll be doing a mix of gospel songs and 70's pop tunes...because I can. I'm honing my B.J. Thomas impression as you read this. Should be fun...and if it rains, all the better, because we'll be indoors! HA!

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To quote Tom Jones, “it’s not unusual” to hear a familiar song at a writers round in Nashville. That’s because so many hit writers are on stage here on any given night, playing the songs they offer the world, hoping for that ever-elusive chance at riches and fame…or at least hoping to cover the rent and support their songwriting habit for another year.

But at Lyrix Music Bar & Café in downtown Nashville this July 4th, songwriters will check their own songs at the door to perform their favorite hits they DIDN'T write. From 3 pm until closing time, songwriters will perform everything from country to pop to gospel and more, in a tribute to the rich “catalog” of American music…“the songs heard ‘round the world.” Their choices are bound to include many crowd favorites.

Naturally, there will be a break in the action onstage during the downtown fireworks display. The location of the club promises a great view from inside or outside. After the fireworks, Rick Stewart and his band Redbud66 will continue the celebration.

The early rounds will be hosted by Barbara Cloyd, who presents a writers night every Wednesday at Lyrix. Cloyd is also known as host of the famed open mic at the Bluebird Café, where she’s become a “one woman welcoming committee” for songwriters seeking a little stage time and encouragement-—both precious commodities for newcomers to Music City.

The café will offer special menu items to help celebrate the day, including hot dogs, hamburgers, barbecue and chicken.

Admission is $10 at the door. Parking downtown will be at a premium so organizers suggest carpooling and arriving early.

Lyrix Music Bar & Café is a non-smoking establishment, just a few blocks east of Riverfront Park. Call 615-734-6426 for more info.