Balsam Mountain Inn - Balsam, North Carolina

Casey Kelly-

A two-time Grammy-nominated songwriter for “Soon” (recorded by Tanya Tucker), "Cowboy Rides Away" recorded by George Strait (who still closes all his live concert shows with it), “Anyone Who Isn't Me Tonight” (recorded by Kenny Rogers/Dottie West), “That Road Not Taken” (Joe Diffie). Other hits include: “Only Game In Town” (America) and “Somewhere Down the Line” (T.G. Sheppard). Kelly is also a successful session player and singer. He has performed concerts and club gigs throughout the U.S. and Europe with prominent artists like Arlo Guthrie, The Beach Boys, The Carpenters, Fleetwood Mac, Gordon Lightfoot, The Grateful Dead, Hall And Oats, Jackson Browne, Jimi Hendrix, Randy Travis, and many more. MORE at Casey's web site HERE >>>

Picture of the Songwriter Phillip Lammonds who is to perform at the Balsam Mountain Inn Phillip Lammonds

Phillip Lammonds is a seasoned performer and songwriter. He's been playing music since his teens and was a founding member of The Blue Dogs, a staple in the southeastern U.S. college circuit. He also performed with legendary bluegrass band, The Seldom Scene.

As a successful songwritter he has recordings by Hootie & the Blowfish, Edwin McCain, Blake Shelton, Josh Turner, Shawn Camp, Hot Apple Pie, and new artist Chad Austin.

Phillip is co-owner of Prince George's Sotheby's International Realty in Pawleys Island, South Carolina. Phillip's myspace. Performed at the Inn March 19th 2011

Steve Dean has co-written six number one hits, “Watching You” for Rodney Atkins, “Round About Way” for George Strait, “Walk On” for Reba McEntire, “Southern Star” for Alabama, “It Takes a Little Rain” for the Oak Ridge Boys and “Hearts Aren’t Made to Break” for Lee Greenwood. Steve’s first single, “Don’t Your Mem’ry Ever Sleep at Night”, was recorded by Steve Wariner in 1983. other hits include “Fast Lanes and Country Roads” for Barbara Mandrell, “Just Enough Rope” for Rick Trevino, “One Bridge I Didn’t Burn” for Conway Twitty, “The More I Learn” for Ronna Reeves and “Cool To Be a Fool” for Joe Nichols. “Cool To Be a Fool”and “Watching You” have earned Bethar Music, Steve’s publishing company, BMI Publisher Awards. to date, Steve has earned 10 BMI awards. Steve is a performing songwriter doing “In The Round” shows around the country. “being a singer / songwriter is the best of both worlds” Steve says. “I can take my music to the people in it’s purest form . Dean's myspace last at the Inn February 2011

Lisa Shaffer-Australian country artist, Kristy Cox's new single "It's Hard to Stop a Heart," written by Lisa Shaffer, Jen Stegall, and Jerry Salley, has climbed to number 4 this week on the Australian "Country Tracks Top 30." The Music Video has finally been releaed and is now on YouTube. It will debut on CMC in the coming weeks -Lisa Shaffer has a song on Colt Ford's Record, Chicken and Biscuits. It's called Hip Hop In A Honkytonk. You can download the single on Amazon.com She has made quite a name for herself as a Lyric Street Recording Artist and impressive young songwriter. Originally from Kentucky, she has one of the most pure, beautiful voices. She sounds like an angel when she sings. She had recent success as a songwriter with Rhonda Vincent's, I Gotta Start Somewhere ...-NASHVILLE, TN – April 28, 2010 – Average Joes Entertainment recording artist Colt Ford’s sophomore country album, CHICKEN AND BISCUITS (released April 20, 2010), debut #8 on Billboard’s “Top Country Albums” chart. To date it has sold over 100,000 copies! -GMA DOVE award winners Jeff and Sheri Easter recently recorded a song of Lisa's called, "I Know I Love You." It is on their latest record, "Expecting Good Things." Lisa on Facebook
Last at the Inn February 2011

Chadley Brassfield and brother Bradley Brassfield, are native Mississippians and NEW to Nashville (May 2010).

Mentored by Nashville Hit Songwriter and Record Producer Kenny Beard they have gotten off to a quick start writing and preparing for their debut as recording artist along with their new partner Singer/ Songwriter Aly Cutter.

Their sibling vocal blend is easy to listen too and their genuine good nature d personalities are always fun to be around. Last at the Inn Nonember 2010

Kenny Beard written hits with Trace Adkins (" Where the Stars and Stripes and Eagle Flies", Jeff Bates, Clay Davidson, Deryl Dodd, Tracy Lawrence, and Aaron Tippin, to name a few. Notable and legendary artists George Jones, John Conlee, Gene Watson, Jimmy Fortune, John Michael Montgomery, Joe Diffie, Joe Nichols, Tim McGraw, duo Brooks and Dunn, Collin Raye and entertainers Montgomery Gentry, and many others have collectively recorded over 100 songs written by Kenny.

As a Producer KB recently finished recording Country and Gospel Hall Of Fame Member Statler Brother Jimmy Fortune as well as Long time friend and Multi Platinum Recording Artist Trace Adkins’ current CD “Cowboy’s Back In Town” having written the title cut with Trace and fellow writer/Artist Jeff Bates. Last at the Inn Nonember 2010

Richard Fagan was born and raised in South Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He’s a Vietnam veteran.
He spent 5 years in L. A. where he had a Pop record deal on Mercury Records, and got his first cut, “The Good Lord Loves You” by Neil Diamond.
His songs are in 6 feature films, including George Strait’s PURE COUNTRY, and on more than 30,000,000 records.
Fagan’s had three #1 Country singles; “Be My Baby Tonight”, “Sold, (The Grundy County Auction Incident)”, and “I Miss You A Little” all by John Michael Montgomery. He’s had 6 top-tens and 18 charted Country singles.
Fagan’s songs have been cut by George Strait, George Jones, Hank Williams Jr., Shania Twain, Clay Walker, Patty Loveless, Collin Raye, Ricochet, Shenandoah, The Crickets, The Blues Brothers Band, and many others. Most recently, Fagan has a cut on the new Jason & The Scorchers CD, Halcyon Times. Show was September 2010

Amanda Williams to appear at the Balsam Mountain Inn Songwriters in-the-round Amanda Williams grew up in the music business as the daughter of legendary song writer, Kim Williams.
The first song she had recorded was the 2002 Grammy nominated release "Beer Run", recorded by Garth Brooks and George Jones.
Since then, Amanda has written over 500 songs with releases on up and coming artists such as Todd O’Neil, Tyler Dickerson, and Jessie James.
Hailing from East Tennessee, Amanda’s voice drips with the smooth and spicy flavor of Appalachian honey. She harkens to another era when women could cook, sew & chop wood. Show was September 2010
Amanda's web site OR Amanda's Myspace. web site

Kim Williams - In 1994, Kim won the ASCAP Country Songwriter of the Year Award. His songs have been on over 131 million CDs and tapes. He now splits his time between Nashville and his East Tennessee cabin on top of Clinch Mountain that he calls home. He is excitedly watching the career of his talented singer/songwriter daughter, Amanda, with whom he wrote the Grammy nominated "Beer Run," a duet with George Jones and Garth Brooks.
With Garth Brooks he has had four #1 singles: "Papa Loved Mama," "It's Midnight Cinderella," "Ain't Goin' Down ('Til the Sun Comes Up)" and "She's Gonna Make It," as well as numerous album cuts.
In the past 15 years Kim has had many number one singles to include; "Three Wooden Crosses" by Randy Travis which was #1 in both Country and Christian genres and winner of the CMA, CCMA, GMA, NSAI, and ACM song of the year. His album, Rise and Shine, won a Grammy [2004 -- Best Southern, Country, or Bluegrass, Gospel Album].
Kim has had Christian #1s with "One Perfect Son" and "A Little Bit Of Faith" by Jeff Silvey. His song "Overnight Male" was featured in the soundtrack of the George Strait hit movie Pure Country and his song "It's Not Like You" was in the movie Cadillac Ranch. Show was September 2010
Kim's complete bio and web page.

A. J. Master

Some of A.J. Master's songwriting honors include:

A BMI Millionaire Award for "Change My Mind" by John Berry

A Multi-Platinum Award for "Love Ain't Like That" by Faith Hill.

His songs are on CDs by The Oak Ridge Boys, Randy Travis, Diamond Rio, Gene Watson, Ray Scott, Steve Azar, Jo-El Sonnier, and Jennifer Hanson. - July 2010 Show A.J. on MYSPACE

Victoria Banks

EMI/OnRamp recording artist and 2009 seven-time CCMA nominee

Victoria Banks has penned songs for American Idol's Kristy Lee

Cook, Sara Evans ("Saints & Angels"), and broke Billboard's highest
country debut record with Jessica Simpson's "Come On Over."
The winner of three international songwriting competition awards, she has performed with Pam Tillis, Crystal Shawanda, the supergroup Alabama and the legendary Patti Page,. She has headlined festivals from Toronto to Belfast. Her debut CD “You Don’t Know Me” is available on iTunes. Victoria hails from Muskoka, Canada. The Vtoria has played many times at the Inn the most recent being July 2010
- www.VictoriaBanks.net

Picture of Todd Cerney - Singer songwriter Todd Cerney

A Grammy-nominated songwriter for "I'll Still Be Loving You" (Restless Heart) His hits include “Good Morning Beautiful,” recorded by Steve Holy (spent five weeks at Number One), "Smokestack Lightning" (Lynard Skynyrd), "Blues is My Business" (Etta James and featured on HBO hit series “The Sopranos. Cerney’s cinematic credits include songs in “Tequila Sunrise” with Mel Gibson and Michelle Pfeiffer, “I’m Gonna Get You, Sucka,” and “Angel Eyes” with Jennifer Lopez.

Also he has performed mandolin for the Dixie Chicks tour and Nashville Mandolin Ensemble. Cerney spent seven years attending Nashville’s Creative Workshop with Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Olivia Newton John, and Jimmy Buffet. Lynyrd Skynyrd, Eddie Money, Loverboy, and The Four Tops, all recorded Cerneys’ songs. MORE ABOUT TODD HERE

Leslie Ellis

Grammy®- Winning vocalist (with Celine Dion) on "My Heart Will Go On" from Titanic. Performed "Six Times Around the Sun" (CBS TV mini-series Perfect Murder, Perfect Town) Starring in a new film "My Name is Wallace " Leslie Ellis and Casey Kelly have taken their show around the US and to Norway. Leslie offers a uniquely feminine perspective in contrast to Kelly. Most notably, when she sings the Dottie West part in the duet recorded with Kenny Rogers. “A US Navy Carrier Group adopted Leslie's "The Flyer Song” and made into a video as a tribute to the troops and their families. MORE on her web site HERE >>

Wood Newton's biggest hits are; "Bobbie Sue" for The Oakridge Boys, "Twenty Years Ago" for Kenny Rogers, “What I Didn’t Do” for Steve Wariner, and his most recent “Riding With Private Malone” which he produced for David Ball. All four of these songs have received BMI awards for being played over a million times. Wood won a Grammy for co-producing, and singing harmony with David Ball on “Old Folks at Home”, a track on “Beautiful Dreamer, The Songs Of Stephen Foster”. Other artist who recorded Newton’s songs include George Jones, Restless Hearts, Alabama, Ann Murray, Willie Nelson, Gary Stewart, B.J. Thomas, and Marty Robbins. More on his web site HERE >>

Tom Kimmel's business card jokingly reads Overnight Success, but the truth is far from it. After college he worked as a cook, bus boy, taxi driver, shipping clerk, lab technician, janitor, bartender and window washer on his way to establishing himself as an award winning songwriter for film (Twins, Runaway Bride, Serendipity), television (Touched By An Angel, Dawson’s Creek, As the World Turns) and a host of major artists (Johnny Cash, Linda Ronstadt, Joe Cocker, Randy Travis). A critically acclaimed performing artist in his own right, he tours widely, has released seven albums and published a book of poems. Read more about Tom >>> HERE photo credit to Scott Housley

Candi Carpenter
The crowds first warm up to her enchanting smile and serene beauty, then become totally enthralled by her tremendously powerful voice and magnetic stage presence. Candi Carpenter is like nothing Nashville has ever seen.

Whether she's wringing every last drop of emotion from a country music ballad, or singing her own compositions, Candi’s amazing vocal range and power-packed delivery leave the audience screaming for more.

Her ever-growing list of accomplishments, and the star-studded list of country music greats with whom she’s performed, seem hardly possible for some one who has just turned 19.

The incomparable Jack Greene, Grand Ole Opry legend and multiple CMA award-winner, has featured Candi on his “Yesterday and Today Show” for the last three years. As Jack & Candi have toured around the country, fans are taken down memory lane by Jack’s timeless voice as he brings his multiple #1 hits to life, then treated to Candi’s amazing renditions of country music’s beloved standards. More on Candi. Parafrased from Gerald Murray Music web site.

Bill LaBounty recorded his first album at the age of 19 for RCA Records, followed by an album for 20 th Century Fox, and three albums for Warner/Curb records which spawned the pop hits "Never Gonna Look Back" (with James Taylor), "Livin' It Up," and "This Night Won't Last Forever." He also established himself as a songwriter for an array of other Pop and Country artists such as Patti LaBelle, Jimmy Buffet, The Judds, The Temptations, Alan Jackson, Steve Wariner, Brooks and Dunn, Steve Goodman, Phoebe Snow, Neil Diamond, Tim McGraw & Peter Cetera. His hits include Robbie Dupree's "Hot Rod Hearts," Michael Johnson's "This Night Won't Last Forever," Steve Wariner's #1's "The Weekend, "Lynda," and "I Got Dreams," the Grammy Award winning duet by Allison Kraus and Shenandoah, "Somewhere in the Vicinity of the Heart," Shenandoah's #1 "I Want To Be Loved Like That," Lonestar's "Tequila Talkin'," Brooks and Dunn's "Rock My World Little Country Girl," and Peter Cetera's "No Explanation," the end theme for the movie, Pretty Woman. To date he has had over 100 songs recorded by other artists, resulting in 25 BMI Awards,including 10 “Million Performance” Awards. Click here for Bill's web site

Boby Tomberlin Bobby is a Grammy, CMA and ACM nominee. Bobby Tomberlin started in the music business at the early age of 11 as a disc jockey interviewing legends Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash and Tammy Wynette. Mel Tillis gave Bobby his first publishing contract and since that time, Bobby has had great success co-writing the number one country and Top 5 AC single, "One More Day" recorded by Diamond Rio. Bobby also co-authored an inspirational book by the same name. Bobby also co-wrote the Top 10 single, "A Good Day To Run" recorded by Darryl Worley. Bobby's songs have also been recorded by Faith Hill, Josh Turner, Kenny Rogers, Rodney Atkins, The Oak Ridge Boys, Eddy Arnold, Joe Nichols, Jerry Lee Lewis, Terri Clark, Joe Diffie, Ty Herndon, Lee Greenwood and others.Some of Bobby's co-writers include Phil Everly, Mac Davis, Steve Wariner, Bill Anderson, Josh Turner and Brenda Lee. Bobby has been a staff writer for Mike Curb Music for the past 13 years. Bobby's MySpace

Chas Sandford - Get to know Chas; Raised in Atlanta his live highlights include opening for The Eagles on their “Hotel California” European tour,composed one of the most played songs of all time, "Missing You," made famous by John Waite, but also a #1 hit for both Tina Turner and Brooks & Dunn, appearing in and recording live in the Robert Altman film, “A Perfect Couple” (including a show at the Hollywood Bowl with the L.A. Philharmonic); two months on Broadway in “Divine Madness” with Bette Midler (appearing in the film of the same name); and playing with the late, great James Brown for a charity show in Augusta, Georgia. Chas is the recipient of twelve (YES 12) ASCAP “Most Performed Songs” awards, including John Waite’s “Missing You” (over 6,000,000 plays), Chicago’s “What Kind of Man Would I Be” and Stevie Nicks’ “Talk To Me.” His songs have also been recorded by Tina Turner, Rod Stewart, Melanie, Roger Daltrey, Berlin, Millie Jackson, Brooks & Dunn, Alison Krauss, Rick Springfield, Sammy Hagar, Jimmy Barnes, Don Johnson, David Wilcox, Tyler Hilton and Sheila B. Devotion to name a few. Chas is now a BMI writer/publisher. Click here for Chas's Myspace. Last here May 2009 TOP

Shannon LawsonBiography from Wikipedia,

Rock music, blues, bluegrassto a bluegrass band named the Galoots. The Galoots recorded two albums independently. Lawson began writing songs for the band, his material eventually landing him a deal with a publishing house in Nashville, Tennessee.

On moving to Nashville, signed with MCA Nashville Records in 2001, with his solo album Chase the Sun being released a year later.The album's producer, Mark Wright allowed Lawson to use experimental instrumentation on this album. Chase the Sun produced two chart singles in "Dream Your Way to Me" and "Goodbye on a Bad Day", which reached #45 and #28, respectively, on the Billboard Hot Country Singles.
Lawson co-wrote former Alabama lead singer Randy Owen's 2008 single "Like I Never Broke Her Heart" and James Otto's 2008 single "These Are the Good Ole Days"."

Lawson's MySpace http://myspace.com/shannonlawson

Steve Williams - Cowriter Of 'Redneck Yacht Club' Yields First #1 Song

This dynamic performer/songwriter holds your attention. Like watching a great movie, his poignant songs make you laugh, cry and dance. St. Louis native, Steve Williams made the move to Nashville in ’95, and has performed with Kenny Chesney, Tanya Tucker, Buddy Jewell, Doug Stone and many more but his true passion is writing.
Steve celebrated the success of his first #1 hit song with the smash “REDNECK YACHT CLUB” (recorded by Craig Morton) which crossed over into the pop charts and became one of the most downloaded songs of 2005! ASCAP called the song, “The summer song of 2005.” “I GET TO” rose to the #1 spot on the Christian Music charts soon after. He’s had songs recorded by Trick Pony, Buddy Jewell, Blake Shelton and more. Recording artist Star De Azlan is soon to release his song “I Didn’t”. Be sure to visit http://www.stevewilliamssongs.com/ and http://www.rednectyachtclub.com/. Last show was March 2009

Sherrie’ Austin
Australian born Sherrie’ Austin signed with Arista in ’97, releasing two albums and charting several singles including “Luck In Love”, “One Solitary Tear” and “Never Been Kissed”. After the acquisition of Arista records by RCA, she went on to make two independent records and in ’03 had her first top 15 hit with the title track from her record “Streets of Heaven”. In 2005, she stretched her theatrical wings in New York, receiving critical acclaim for her role as Bonnie Parker in “The Ballad of Bonnie and Clyde”. Using this as a springboard to Broadway, she joined the cast of
”Ring of Fire”. The last few years she’s focused on writing, landing songs with Ronnie Milsap, Dolly Parton, Tammy Cochran, Hal Ketchum, Trick Pony and Danielle Peck. Tim McGraw recorded her song “Shotgun Rider” on his 2007 releast “Let it Go”. Austin’s success continues with upcoming singles by Blake Shelton, “Starting Fires”, Emily West, “That Kinda Happy” and “I Didn’t”, Star De Alzlan. Letterman, The Today Show, CMA Awards Show, ACM Awards Show, Hee Haw, Prime Time Country plus numerous other TNN appearances Click here for more at Sherrie' Austin's fan site Last show was March 2009

Linda Davis - Through the years, Davis has played to sold-out crowds with the likes of Garth Brooks, George Strait, Reba McEntire and Kenny Rogers just to name a few. Kenny Rogers, a long-time friend and fan proclaims, "In this business, there are people who can sing and there are singers. Linda Davis is absolutely one of the best singers in the business. I defy you to find anyone who's ever worked with her or heard her sing to disagree with that statement. She is the best." A dedicated career woman, consummate entertainer, inspirational motivator, and devoted wife and mother are just a few ways to describe Grammy winning singer/songwriter Linda Davis. Labeled a 'song stylist', Davis' unique ability to interpret a song soon made her one of the most sought after session singers in Nashville. She caught the attention of label executives and landed her first record deal with CBS/Epic Records. Davis quickly gained a legion of friends and fans in the music industry, one being superstar Reba McEntire. Their mutual respect led them into the studio together where they recorded a duet entitled Does He Love You that went on to become a #1 hit and earn both artists several awards including a Grammy for Best Country Vocal Collaboration. . MORE at Linda’s Website Here Last here Feb 2009 TOP

Bill Whyte's unique presentation of funny and twisted songs makes him a favorite everywhere he entertains.

Whether he's picking on pseudo celebrities in his song "Celebutard" or wondering how much he could get away with in "King of Karaoke" he always leaves the crowd laughing. Bill's song "I'm Goin Ugly Early Tonight" which has been recorded by Cledus T. Judd is the perfect howling climax for his stand up-singing routine.

Bill's other career is that of a morning radio guy. Bill has been a morning guy in Cincinnati and has also been on the air doing morning shows in Milwaukee, Indianapolis and Nashville and has won numerous broadcast awards including the CMA Award for Best Large Market Personality.

However, there is also a serious side to Bill which has resulted in many songs written with songwriters and Artists like: Keith Anderson, Billy Dean, Linda Davis, Craig Morgan and others. His work has been recorded by Cledus T. Judd, Linda Davis, Sli Dawg and The Redneck Ramblers, Brent Burns and more.

Bill’s current comedy cd is titled "Off The Wall" and was recorded "live" at the Bluebird Café in Nashville. Current projects include co-writing a movie script about his first experience in small market radio.
For more information go to www.billwhytecomedy.com Last here Feb 2009. TOP

Lang Scott grew up in the Lowcountry of South Carolina just west of the beautiful Charleston coast. Since moving to Nashville in 1982, some of Lang's accomplishments include:
Former MCA Recording Artist
Multiple Grand Ole Opry appearances
Guitarist and background vocalist for Reba McEntire (7 years)
Has had songs recorded by LeeAnn Rimes, JoDee Messina & Linda Davis
Has Toured With: Linda Davis, Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, Kenny Rogers, The Statler Brothers Television Appearances
The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The Late Show with David Letterman, The Today Show, CMA Awards Show, ACM Awards Show, Hee Haw, Prime Time Country plus numerous other TNN appearances Discography:
Lang Scott: "It's The Truth" – Solo Album
Linda Davis: "Some Things Are Meant To Be", "I Have Arrived", (Producer, Background Vocals)
Reba McEntire: "Greatest Hits Volume 2", "It's Your Call" (Guitarist/Background Vocals)
LeeAnn Rimes: "Blue" (Songwriter on "Fade To Blue") Lang has been married to recording artist Linda Davis since 1984, where they continue to live in Nashville with their two children Hillary & Rylee - Last here Feb 2009. TOP

Jerry Vandiver, songwriter, appearing at Balsam Mountain inn Songwriters in the round 27 Sep @)08 Jerry Vandiver has had songs recorded by Gene Watson, Wild Rose, Lee Greenwood, Barbara Mandrell, The Oak Ridge Boys, Phil Vassar, Dusty Drake and two by Tim McGraw, one on the platinum 6 album “Not A Moment Too Soon” and one on the quadruple platinum 1998 CMA Album of the Year, “Everywhere”, as well as Tim’s quadruple platinum “Greatest Hits” CD. Most recently Jerry has seen his songs recorded on Phil Vassar’s “Greatest Hits” CD, Lonestar’s “Mountains” CD, and a special Canadian project entitled “CanoeSongs Volume II”. Thanks to these artists, Jerry has seen his songs on over 16 million records.

Jerry has played many times at theiInn the most recent being 27 September 2008

Songwriter Drake appearing at Balsam Mountain inn Songwriters in the round 27 Sep 2008 Newcomer Dusty Drake is no newcomer to making great music. As a recording artist for Warner Brothers Records and Big Machine records, Dusty has enjoyed watching his releases – “One Last

Time” and “Say Yes” both reach the Top 40. As a writer he has had songs recorded by Joe Diffie, Ricochet, The Oak Ridge Boys, Mark Chestnutt and Janie Fricke. You also might have seen him open for Brooks & Dunn on their Neon Circus Tour and on the stage of the Grand Old Opry. www.DustyDrake.com Appeared 27 eptember 2008

Pam Rose the songwriter Wrote Restless's I'll still be loving you Pam Rose is a two-time Grammy nominee singer/songwriter. She is half of Kennedy/Rose, a female duo that opened for Sting on a world tour. She has written several #1 hits in the Contemporary Country market including Martina McBride’s “Safe in the Arms of Love”, Restless Heart’s crossover hit “I’ll Still Be Loving You”, and Lee Greenwood’s “Ring on Her Finger, Time on Her Hands”.

Although classically trained, she has never betrayed her roots in acoustic rock and folk, nor her Southern soul. "I never thought there was much difference between a Taj Mahal blues riff or Samuel Barber's Adagio for Strings," says Rose.

www.pamrose.com TOP

Picture of Jon Vanzer to perform at the Balsam Mountain Inn Grammyaward-winning songwriter Jon Vezner is a tunesmith of rare sensitivity and dry wit. His catalogue of recorded songs, topped by the poignant “Where’ve You Been,” reflects his straight-to-the heart sensibility and sensitivity. Vezner weaves the particulars of his own feelings with the lives of people he has known, creating universal themes that deeply touch listeners’ emotions. Artists who have recorded Vezner’s works include Martina McBride, Paul Williams, Faith Hill, Janis Ian, Steve Wariner, Reba McEntire, Kathy Mattea, Lorrie Morgan, Vonda Shepard, Aaron Tippon, John Mellencamp, Ronnie Milsap, McBride & The Ride, Nanci Griffith, Clay Walker and Diamond Rio. Jon’s songs have been also featured on the cd/documentary project THIS IS MY AMERICA. Learn more about Jon at www.jonvezner.com

Sally Barris is a Nashville based artist and Wrensong Publishing writer who has managed to be successful in the mainstream world of country music without giving up her folk and Celtic roots. Whether in her own hands or those of a well established artist such as Lee Ann Womack, or a newcomer like American Idol finalist Kellie Pickler, Sally’s music is unmistakably recognizable. She has received a 2009 Grammy nomination for Best Country Collaboration with vocals for her song “Let The Wind Chase You” recorded by Trisha Yearwood & Keith Urban. Sally’s songs have been also featured on the cd/documentary project THIS IS MY AMERICA. More about Sally HERE >> www.sallybarris.com

Sarah Majors has been a professional songwriter since 1994. The Tennessee native has enjoyed having songs recorded in country, pop, bluegrass, contemporary folk, alt-rock, and gospel genres. After the success of her first cut, “Love Lessons” by TRACY BYRD (which was the title track, a top-five hit, and won her a BMI Millionaire award), her place among the Nashville songwriting community was firmly established. Sarah’s songs have also been featured on the hit ABC show EXTREME MAKEOVER, the horror film (and soundtrack) TRAILER PARK OF TERROR, and the cd/documentary project THIS IS MY AMERICA. Performed at the inn July 4th 2009 More on Sara Majors HERE.

Randy Sharp - Has written over 20 TOP FORTY hits Randy Sharp has had over 20 TOP FORTY hits, including 5 songs that went to #1, resulting in his induction into BMI’s “Million-Airs Club.” He has written for artists such as Linda Ronstadt, Restless Heart, Blood Sweat and Tears, Kathy Mattea, Dolly Parton, Exile, Karen Brooks, Patty Loveless, and Alabama.

His music can be heard on numerous movie soundtracks including “The Apostle”, “Horse Whisperer”, “Speechless”, and “Follow that Bird”. Randy’s new release “The Connection” is now available for purchase.

Visit www.randysharp.ws.
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Maia Sharp is a gifted singer/songwriter, guitarist, pianist, and saxophonist. She has written with Carole King and Art Garfunkel, among others. Her first three albums were released to critical acclaim, earning her a nomination for Triple-A radio’s Artist of the Year. Maia’s songs have been recorded by such artists as Bonnie Raitt, Trisha Yearwood, Cher, Edwin McCain, and Lisa Loebs. Her song “Home” is the title cut of the Dixie Chicks' multi-platinum album. “She has become one of my favorite artists.” – Bonnie Raitt Visit www.maiasharp.com
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SONGWRITER OF TWO NUMBER ONE SONGS FOR GARTH BROOKS!
BENITA WAS IN THE ALLMAN BROTHERS AND SANG WITH CONWAY TWITTY.
Following is an extract of a brief bio, written by Susan Passi-Klaus, from the Nashville City Paper:
Born to singer mom-Carmen Revelle-who performed with the house band at the Aragon Ballroom in Chicago, Benita Hill has the music of the late 1940s and early 50s in her bluesy blood. But she's also got rocknroll in her toes, jazz in her vocal chords and pop and Latin music in her fingertips. Lucky for Nashville, and many top recording artists, shes also blessed with a little bit of country in her soul.
Now adopted as a hometown girl, Hill both writes and sings songs that you no doubt have sung along to at one time or another: Garth Brooks Two Pina Coladas and Its Your Song; Kirk Whalums The Moment I Prayed and I Loved You In Memphis performed by Isaac Hayes. She has worked with producer Ben Folds on a CD of original songs by William Shatner . Recently, Benita had a song she co-wrote with legendary Brill Building era songwriter Philip Springer (most famous for Santa Baby by Eartha Kitt and How Little We Know by Frank Sinatra) premier in the New York show Shared an evening with us all, May 2009 and December 2005 .
Benitas is the Santa Baby voice for Jaguar Automobiles .MORE >>>>

JOHN FORD COLEY,(from his web page) :singer, musician, actor and author, continues to play for a worldwide audience. Most famous for his work as half of the grammy-nominated duo “England Dan and John Ford Coley”, where he's received double platinum and gold records. Famous hit makers that John has performed alongside include: Elton John, Heart, Fleetwood Mac, Chicago, Carole King, Bread, Loggins and Messina, Led Zepplin, Carly Simon, Bill Cosby, Dave Mason, Steve Miller Band, Randy Bachman, Jesse Colin Young, Air Supply, and Gordon Lightfoot..John also did teen films and a few TV roles in the 1980s, has written songs for films, and continues to produce other artists.
He has produced two new country acts in Nashville and most recently played on the bill with such acts as Lou Gramm (Foreigner), Poco, Ambrosia, and Alice Cooper, as well as with Terry Sylvester (formerly of the Hollies). John Ford Coley is most famous for hit songs such as: “Love Is The Answer”. “Gone Too Far”, “I’d Really Love To See You Tonight”, “Nights Are Forever”, “We’ll Never Have To Say Goodbye Again”. “Come Back To Me”, “Soldier In The Rain”, “Sad To Belong”, “Simone”, “Westward Wind”, “Part of Me, Part of You.” In 2003, the “Nights are Forever” song appeared in the feature film “Dickie Roberts Former Child Star”. Another hit appeared in the film “Long Kiss Goodnight” with Geena Davis and Samuel L. Jackson. MORE >>> TOP

Danny Flowers may be best known for having penned classic hits for other artists, but as a solo artist his bluesy blend of raw emotion combined with a heartfelt yearning will speak to your very soul. Danny’s instrumentality has also earned him a high level of notoriety in the industry. Eric Clapton said, “I think this [music] is tremendous. I consider Danny a good friend and a great musician in the truest, old school country-rock style. There is just not enough of this kind of stuff around any more.” More quotes on Danny >>>>>HERE>>>>
Flowers’ writing credits span several genres and his flexibility as a guitarist and wordsmith is well-known. He penned “Tulsa Time” for Eric Clapton, which Don Williams also cut. Williams then had hits with “Back In My Younger Days,” “Senorita,” and “To Be Your Man.” Emmylou Harris recorded “Before Believing” as the title cut for her Pieces Of The Sky album. “Gulf Coast Highway” was recorded by Emmylou and Willie Nelson as well as by Nanci Griffith and Evangeline. The list goes on.
With all this under his belt, Flowers still manages to maintain the poise and humility of a Zen master while tossing off riffs with incredible taste and feeling reminiscent of Ry Cooder’s gospel-like grooves with the slide guitar virtuosity and delicate upper-register vocal vibratos of David Lindley.
Danny Flower’s latest release is the critically acclaimed “Tools For the Soul”, his stunning debut on Brash Records and available now. Above information provided bu M. Hitchcock Managememt. Danny.s myspace TOP

Becky Hobbs Songwriter. Appeared at the Balsam Mountain Inn Becky Hobbs (from her web page) Becky Hobbs is one-of-a-kind. She is a gifted songwriter, as well as a captighjvating entertainer. She plays the piano like no other female on stage. High Energy best describes Becky, yet she can rope you in like an Oklahoma cowgirl with her poignant ballads. Her voice is unique. Becky has performed all over the world, including nine countries in Africa, and in Bosnia. She co-wrote the powerful "Angels Among Us," recorded by Alabama, which stayed on the Billboard Top Singles Sales Chart for over a year. She also co-wrote "I Want To Know You Before We Make Love," which went to #1 for Conway Twitty. She's written other songs recorded by Alabama, George Jones, Loretta Lynn, Emmylou Harris, Glen Campbell, John Anderson, Janie Fricke, Lacy J. Dalton, Moe Bandy, Shelly West, Helen Reddy, Shirley Bassey, Jane Oliver, and Ken Mellons.
Becky shared herself with us on May 2009 MORE on Becky>>>>>>

Craig Carothers, (www.craigcarothers.com ) Trisha Yearwood recorded “Little Hercules” in l995 and received a gold record for this song. In recent years, Craig’s songs have been recorded by artists including Kathy Matea, Lorrie Morgan, Sons of the Desert, Kate Markowitz, Andrea Zonn, Steve Seskin, Berkley Hart and Peter, Paul and Mary.

Craig has shared the stage with a wide variety of acts: Mose Allison, Karlo Bonnoff, Roseanne Cash, John Hiatt, Michael McDonald, Crash Test Dummies, Donovan, Peter Himmelman to name a few.
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Don Henry's songs (www.donhenry.com )have been recorded by legends like: Ray Charles, Patti Page and Conway Twitty and by country crooners like: Gene Watson, John Conlee and B.J. Thomas and by young hit makers of today like: Blake Shelton, Lonestar and Kathy Mattea … and the list goes on.
He has shared the stage with: Joey Ramone/Al Gore/Pete Seeger/Steve Earle/Graham Gouldman/Ray Price/Livingston Taylor/Emmylou Harris/Jimmy Webb/Guy Clark/David Crosby/P.F. Sloan/John Prine/Michael McDonald / Felix Cavaliere/Rodney Crowell/Don Williams/Faith Hill/Richie Havens/Keith Urban/Shawn Colvin/Dan Seals/Michael Johnson/Janis Ian/Sonny Curtis/Nanci Griffith/Jim Messina/J.D.Souther... just to name a few! Don has won a grammy for the country classic "Where've you been"
He also penned the biker lullaby "Harley"

Grammy, CMA and ACM nominee Bobby Tomberlin started in the music business at the early age of 11 as a disc jockey interviewing legends Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash and Tammy Wynette. Mel Tillis gave Bobby his first publishing contract and since that time, Bobby has had great success co-writing the number one country and Top 5 AC single, "One More Day" recorded by Diamond Rio. Bobby also co-authored an inspirational book by the same name. Bobby also co-wrote the Top 10 single, "A Good Day To Run" recorded by Darryl Worley. Bobby's songs have also been recorded by Faith Hill, Josh Turner, Kenny Rogers, Rodney Atkins, The Oak Ridge Boys, Eddy Arnold, Joe Nichols, Jerry Lee Lewis, Terri Clark, Joe Diffie, Ty Herndon, Lee Greenwood and others.Some of Bobby's co-writers include Phil Everly, Mac Davis, Steve Wariner, Bill Anderson, Josh Turner and Brenda Lee. Bobby has been a staff writer for Mike Curb Music for the past 13 years.
click here for Bobby's Myspace TOP

Jon Michaels' distinctive and risky songwriting has earned him the title of Nashville's Hidden Gem among the Music Row scene. Jon's music shows a range of colors and emotions rarely found in country music. Michaels is a "songwriter and performer whose songs have been recorded by Clint Black and Tracy Lawrence, and whose own performances have been showcased weekly on the PBS show "Chistina Cooks." original ballads and mid-tempo numbers that favor the warm vibrato of John Denver, but with a hint of Raul Malo's romantic flair. His music is exceptionally easy on the ears, but unlike Nashville's cross-over product, Michaels leans to adult contemporary rather than pop or rock sounds. The result is surprisingly moving and devoid of the practiced artifice of major label country product. The lyrics may be a bit tender for the average male country music fan, but female listeners will appreciate Michaels' sensitivity and openness." ©2008 redtunictroll at hotmail dot com TOP www.Jonmichaelsmusic.com and recent flyer

Picture of Tim Bupert who has appearing at the Balsam Mountain Inn Songwriters in the round. Tim Buppart One of Nashville's most sought after singers. In addition to singing demos for virtually every writer in town, he has performed on albums for Trisha Yearwood, Michael Peterson, Meredith Edwards, Paul Brandt, Anita Cochran and Kevin Sharp and on jingles for Pepsi, Luvs Diapers, TNN and many more.

As a songwriter Tim has had cuts by Trisha Yearwood, The Wiggins, Continental Divide, Marty Haden and Perfect Stranger. He's also penned the hit single by Yankee Grey called, Another Nine Minutes; a #1 single by Kevin Sharp, She's Sure Taking it Well, the #5 song of 1997 according to R&R magazine and included in ASCAP's list of top 50 songs of the 90's.

TIM's MYSPACE TOP

Ashley the Fiddler - Ashley says it herself:
" I'm a member of Randy Kohrs' band as the fiddle player and harmony singer, and also handle much of the PR and radio marketing for the band and Randy's studio, Slack Key Studio, under his Left of Center Records. I've also co-written with him four songs on his last CD, Old Photograph. Occasionally, I do session work, including harmony vocals and fiddle, as well. Musically, before all of this new stuff, I played in several bands of all genres, won some fiddle contests (TX Jr. State Championships in '95, Indiana State Champ. in '05, and so on...), played in a couple of Pigeon Forge theaters, taught private music lessons, and I still sit in with other bands when I can. Aside from our own stuff, I was also privileged to sing harmony on a song on the Grammy-winning CD of Jim Lauderdale's, The Bluegrass Diaries, and played and sang on his latest release, Could We Get Any Closer". TOP More >>> HERE

Will Nance recently hit the top of R&R & Billboard with his Brad Paisley smash "She's Everything", which stayed at #1 for three weeks. In addition; he also wrote the song "Hard To Say Hello", which was on Brad Paisley's TIME WELL WASTED "bonus cd , In 1999, Wil received a BMI Award for "ROUND ABOUT WAY" , a #1 Hit Single for George Strait (*MCA) (co-writer Steve Dean) and in 2004 received a BMI Award for "COOL TO BE A FOOL" (Joe Nichols- Single *Universal South),
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Picture of Bart Allmand who appeared at the Balsam Mountain Inn Bart Allmand got his first cut with Brooks and Dunn entitled You Cant Take The Honky Tonk Out Of The Girl. This was his first demo, hold, cut and single. In the winter of 2003, the song was peaked in the charts at ..3 and stayed in the top five for 9 weeks. In September 2006, Bart had his first 1 song with Steve Holy's "Brand New Girlfriend" (which he co-wrote with Shane Minor & Jeffrey Steele). Presently, Bart writes with several current and former songwriters of the year including Bob DiPiero, Jeffrey Steele, Craig Wiseman, Al Anderson, Thom Schuyler and Tim Nichols. March 2008 show. MORE >>>>

Bob Regan is a California native & his compositions have been recorded by Keith Urban ('Your everything'), Ty Herndon ('Steam'), Billy Ray Cyrus ('Busy man'), Terri Clark ('Every time I cry'), Rick Trevino ('Running out of reasons to run'), Trisha Yearwood ('Thinkin’ about you'), Tanya Tucker ('Soon') & Reba McEntire ('Til love comes again').

As NSAI’s current President, Bob has lobbied with NSAI in Washington, D.C., and was instrumental in NSAI’s introducing the Songwriters Capital Gains Tax Equity Act. Under Bob’s stewardship, NSAI purchased the Music Mill, the organization’s first permanent headquarters on Music Row. March 2008 show. Bob's myspace

Mike Loudermilk One way or another, Mike has been making music most of his life. He has toured, recorded, and/or written songs with artists from John Schneider to Crystal Gayle, and from Tracy Lawrence to Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown. As an artist, he has recorded several albums internationally...including a recent duet record,” Wildwood Flower”, with bluegrass fiddle legend Buddy Spicher. He has performed on numerous television shows and specials and has played on world stages from the London Palladium to the Crazy Horse Saloon, and from the casinos of Las Vegas to the White House. To Mike's web page. Nov. 2009 show

Picture of Lisa Carver who appeared at the balsam mountain inn located in North Carolina. Lisa Carver has harnessed and mastered the power of crafting a song that can hold an audience in awe with only a smoky sultry voice and an acoustic guitar. Carver is a storyteller who breathes life in and out of the characters that inhabit her songs of love, heartache, longing, cheating and murder. She is one of the lucky ones getting to earn a living writing songs on Nashville’s famed Music Row.

Carver has had songs cut by Jewel, Julie Roberts, Shelly Fairchild, Tim McGraw, Reba McEntire, Tanya Tucker and Willie Nelson, as well as Sugarland’s “Everyday America.” Lisa's web page. Nov. 2009 show

Picture of Walt Aldridge, songwriter who appeared at the Balsam Mountain Inn Walt Aldridge has worked as a producer, writer, artist, engineer, session singer and player on hundreds of albums in a variety of genres that have touched lives the world over.

Billboard magazine named Aldridge one of the Top Ten Country Songwriters of the year twice on the strength of such songs as Ricky Van Shelton's "I Am A Simple Man". His song "No Getting Over Me" was named one of ASCAP's most performed country songs. "Holding Her and Loving You" was named Song of the Year by the Nashville Songwriters' Association International. The Alabama Music Hall of Fame awarded Aldridge with a star in their Walk of Fame and their Musical Creator's Award. To Walt's site. Nov 2009 show

Ann Kennedy - Mary Ann Kennedy (From her myspace) Ann's life has been made up of animals and music . . . . . . . . (horse owner, and, of course, dogs, too!) and oh, yes Grammy nominations …...... Arriving in Nashville in 1978, she signed my first publishing deal. Within 3 years time she was signed to a record deal as part of the group Calamity Jane and was experiencing her first single as a songwriter, the Grammy nominated "Ring On Her Finger, Time On Her Hands". Ann has had the pleasure of singing backgrounds and playing mandolin on many Nashville records, and on some of the songs she has had recorded. Ann has recorded with Martina McBride, Faith Hill, LeAnn Rimes, Art Garfunkel, Reba McEntire, Diamond Rio, Pam Tillis, Hank Williams Jr., John Berry, Kathy Mattea, Emmylou Harris, Blackhawk, Maura O'Connell, Ashley Cleveland, Mindy McCready, Anita Cochran and Caroline Dawn Johnson, to name a few. Ann and Pam Rose have had the wonderful opportunity to join Emmylou Harris as her harmony singers, and have since performed as singers and players on several of her tours and concerts. Ann received a Grammy nomination for "I’ll Still Be Loving You" by Restless Heart. Ann co-wrote with Pam Rose and Pat Bunch Another Priceless experience of Ann and Pam's was touring with Sting.
To Ann's MYSPACE WesCare's dinner show in november 2009.

Picture of Clare Dunn songwriter who appeared at the Balsam Mountain Inn Care Dunn - If you are known by the friends you keep … then Clare is doing very well with – Eric Clapton as a friend on myspace !!

Clare has earned the ASCAP Songwriter's Scholarship, has won the ASCAP Writer's Night Series, and has been a featured artist in the Best of the Best Showcase honoring VInce Gill .

Other featured performers of the showcase included such legends as Amy Grant, Rodney Crowell, and Vince himself. Sure to be GREAT “The first time I heard Clare sing and play I was taken aback by her passion. She felt the song and put 150% into it, so much so that I felt it, too. Getting to know her since then, I've discovered her ability to fully develop a song idea as a writer and get to the heart of a story without missing anything along the way. She's one of the ones!” - Drew Ramsey (Multiple Grammy Award Winning Songwriter/Producer) Paraphrased from Clare's Myspace. June 2009 Show.

Picture of Holly Hefner Nance Songwriter who appeared at the Balsam Mountain inn Holly Hefner Nance.

Holly has been the opening act for artists such as Loretta Lynn, George Jones, Lorrie Morgan and Keith Urban.

She was a Regional Finalist in the Nashville Star 2005.

She has been featured in a number of music videos on CMT and VH-1. Holly performs frequently at popular Nashville venues and corporate events. To Holly's myspace March 2005 show.

Picture of Kasey Jones Kacey Jones, a frequent guest on NPR’s Prairie Home Companion, is the former lead singer of Ethel and the Shameless Hussies.

A live version of her CD “Every Man I Love is Either Married, Gay or Dead” was released March 1.

Some of her memorable songs include: “1-900-Bubba,” “Never Wear Panties to a Party,” “You’re the Reason Our Kids are Ugly” and “I Could Get Over Him (If I Could Get Under You).” Kacyy's Web site. May 2005 show.

Tom Kimmel to perform at the Balsam Mountain Inn 23 July 2009

Tiffany Goss - more on Tiffany later