In support of the students and programs of the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business, Great American Country’s Nan Kelley will host Belmont University’s 2009 Country Showcase live in the Curb Event Center on Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. Kelley is host of GAC’s “Opry Live” show and also interviews artists on GAC’s “Top 20 Countdown.”
“I’m so excited to be involved,” said Kelley. “As a member of the country music community, I’ve known for years the positive impact Belmont has had on students who long to have a career in the music business. The fact that Belmont is doing its part to ensure the future of country music is in good hands will be obvious to the audience that night, and I’m glad I get to take part in it.”
Erik Parker, producer of the 2009 Country Showcase said, “We are so honored to have Nan as our host. She’s the epitome of what the country music industry should be about—authenticity, humility and positive impact. It’s humbling to know she’s chosen to support our student production.”
Kelley said she understands how important education is, and appreciates programs like the ones Belmont has to offer. “I had the opportunity to receive a first class education in my field and it’s been an invaluable leg up to the career of my dreams,” Kelley said. “It’s important to me that students today are receiving those same opportunities.”
This year’s artists include Jenna Basso, Steven Darden, Cassidy Lynn, W.C. Marion and bluegrass act The Westbound Rangers. To hear a demo reel with selections from of all of this year’s artists, visit www.belmontshowcaseseries.com/country.
Belmont’s Country Showcase is a component of the Showcase Series which includes five other genres — Christian, Urban/Pop, Rock, Alumni and Best of the Best. Each event is entirely produced by students enrolled in audio engineering, production, audio/visual production and music business programs. Performing artists participate in a rigorous application and audition process and are selected based upon their proficiency in voice, songwriting, stage presence and business expertise.
This year’s performances will be judged by some of the industry’s knowledgeable experts including Gina Keltner, talent Mmanager of the Grand Ole Opry; Freeman Wizer, creative manager of Universal Music Publishing Group and Steve Powell, general manager of Bandit Lites.
Admission to the 2009 Country Showcase is free and open to the public. Parking will be provided in the Curb Parking Garage, located off of Belmont Boulevard and Bernard Avenue. VIP seating can be reserved for music industry professionals who RSVP at country@belmontshowcaseseries.com.
