While this phenomenal music town of course has a constant surplus of different songwriting events taking place all over town, there are some that certainly remain in a positively appealing league of their own. Terry and Wanda Seay’s house concerts are among these special events that keep house guests and writers alike, coming back for more. Originally being a consistent house concert goer since their earliest shows, I had looked forward to each event, always penciling them in as a priority on my calendar above other obligations and/or weekend pastimes. However, some career demands and deadlines of responsibilities of the past few months had kept me from getting to the last few, and I must say, it felt EXCELLENT to be back! I had missed everything from the Seay’s songwriting passion and hospitality, to the personable and relaxing environment, to the interaction, and of course the original lyrics and music written by some of Nashville’s most prolific writers. Well, when I was able to return on Saturday, January 21, 2012, I felt that I was able to pick right up where I had left off and was in awe all over again. As always, the Seay’s were welcoming, the crowd was lively, the food was delicious, and the music was out of this world.
A cool side note of the evening in addition to the obvious, was when Terry announced that all through 2012, they are partnering with the WO Smith School of Music in order to raise money for disadvantaged children so that they may receive music lessons for just $.50. He went on to say that he and Wanda will MATCH all funds collected! If I hadn’t already had enough of an incentive to attend these fun-filled events already, that was just another reminder of how much good can happen through music, and how we can all help one another to experience that same great joy that we receive from it.
Without fail, these events always begin with entertaining rounds of gifted writers. As discussed with another one of the house guests, we agreed that these living room shows make us realize how many talented people we have in Nashville, as we meet new songwriting friends, and are introduced to new music every single time we attend. That’s truly the beauty of what the Seay’s do for songwriters. They bring people together, and everyone unites because of the love of music. Friendships are made, new connections are formed, and new songs are written all as a result of these rounds.
What stood out to me the most with the first round of three (other than obvious talent of course), consisting of Mark Vikingstad, Keith Elder and Tim Roland was how well they provided variety as a group…A variety that shows the versatility and capacity of what country music is and all that it stands for. They were deep, catchy, humorous and commercial.
It is without exaggeration that I say, that I was once again blown away by the second round. The women sang like angels and the guy gave me hope that true country music is still very much alive and well. Jennifer Brantley, (accompanied by guitarist/husband David Hand) is nothing short of a complete vocal powerhouse. While I can hear the Allison Krauss influence in her voice, it is clear that she has something extra special in her approach. Not only did her vocals lock me in, but her lyrics further sold me as she sings with so much conviction and feeling. There couldn’t have been a better addition to this round than Rebecca Walker-Jones, as she and Jennifer complimented each other perfectly. Rebecca writes with true honesty in which she is not afraid to let her audience know exactly who she is. Aside from the fact that she is an unforgettable writer and singer, she is also a strong performer. Paul Bogart is precisely the type of singer/songwriter that needs to be at the top of the charts. With his “catchy, feel good, real deal country music,” he not only gives respect to traditional country, but he also has the ability to appeal to fans of all genres.
Last but certainly not least of the performers to take the stage before the headliners, was special guests Susan Labillois and Kyle Samuel Brooks (Kyle Brooks Music), consisting of 4 members total. Their harmonies were nothing short of amazing, and their songwriting selection shows that they are a group that knows how to work together and utilize their God-given talents. They know how to keep the audience’s attention by surprising them with a whole new style and spin on each tune they bring. I would call them country with a twist of bluegrass and a hint of something extra special.
I have to admit this was one house concert I was particularly excited about since knew I would be hearing some of my absolute favorite songs of all time. Aside though, from the anticipation of getting to hear some of my classics, I already knew Billy Montana would put on a great show as he had previously given his time and talent to a special past benefit concert I had organized and hosted. I remembered how much I had enjoyed him before and was certain I would again. He definitely met and exceeded expectations once again!
If you read my reviews, you know full well that I have never been to a house concert that I was anything less than thoroughly impressed by. This night followed suit and surpassed accordingly. Not only is a typical night at the Seay’s concerts filled with great music, it is also filled with great humor. There seems to be a correlation between songwriters and stand up comedy , and this particular night, house guests were practically on the floor with laughter.
This may have been the first time I had the privilege of seeing Steve Dean but I can assure you that it won’t be my last. With six #1 hits under his belt, including song of the year “Watching You” for Rodney Adkins, this BMI songwriting winner is definitely a force to be reckoned with. He began his round with his George Strait hit “Roundabout Way.” He continued the evening with telling house guests interesting stories behind some of his hit songs. I learned a lot of cool facts that I wouldn’t have otherwise known about some of my favorite songs. I confessed to Steve that I still listen to his #1 Alabama hit “Southern Star,” a good ten times a week, as it is truly still one of my favorite songs. I also particularly enjoyed his performance of Joe Nichol’s “Everythings a Thing.” While there wasn’t enough of a time slot for Steve to play all of his great hits, he also has scored cuts with Reba McEntire (Walk On), Oak Ridge Boys (It Takes a Little Rain) Lee Greenwood (Hearts Aren’t Made to Break), Craig Morgan, Lee Ann Womack, Dierks Bentley, John Michael Montgomery and many others. I think it’s safe to say that Steve Dean is the definition of a country songwriter!
Speaking of the definition of a quintessential Nashville hit maker, Billy Montana is another perfect example! I always admire Billy’s variety because all in one concert, he can bring you the fun, quirky #1 hit that he wrote for Sara Evans (Suds in the Bucket), the deep, emotion filled, #1 Garth Brooks smash hit(More than a Memory), and last but certainly not least, the encouraging, uplifting Grammy nominated #1, (Bring on the Rain), recorded by Jo Dee Messina. These are all songs that I along with so many others will always turn up the radio for! Excitedly, Billy just earned another cut entitled “Songs for Sale” with David Nail for his upcoming project! He also played songs that were cut by Martina McBride and Le Ann Womack. Billy Montana simply shines with his God-given talent, and I’m certain, he will be selling a lot more of those “Songs for sale.” :)
If it weren’t enough to have two very talented acts like Dean and Montana at front and center, we also had the incredible Bill Whyte to add to the mix. Not only will he soon be inducted into the Country Radio Broadcasters Hall of Fame, but to say that he is also one of the funniest comedians I have ever met, would be an understatement. It was obvious that the audience was instantly intrigued by him, as he immediately received active crowd participation. In no time at all, everyone was laughing and singing along. He writes fun, witty lyrics in a way that listeners quickly catch onto, and he never ceases to impress with each song he brings. Whether he was singing his hilarious tunes, “You Can’t Be Ugly and Be a Star in This Town,” or “Retired,” laughter filled the room. Not surprisingly, he has scored three cuts with the always funny, Cledus T. Judd.
Once again, it was a successful night of great entertainment and great company. The next concert taking place on February 4th will feature Greg Friia, Pete Sallis and Jessica Rae. Alongside these fabulous three house concert returners, house guests will also have the pleasure of meeting “The Kennedys” ..Juli and Carli from Canada. Be sure to check out www.itsallaboutZmusic.com for more information.
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