For Belmont student Anna Vaus, pursuing a career in songwriting is happening before she even graduates. The rising senior was recently signed to the Black River Publishing roster. According to Dave Pacula, Black River Entertainment’s vice president of publishing, Vaus showed off her skills at a songwriting workshop where he was instantly impressed. He recalled, “I knew immediately I had to invite her over to Black River and hear more songs… and we now we are thrilled to officially welcome Anna to the Black River family!”
This is not Vaus’ first success in the music business. In 2016, she was awarded the first scholarship from the Miranda Lambert Women Creators Fund, which grants a scholarship to female singers/songwriters attending Belmont University. Vaus has also performed opening acts for artists such as Hunter Hayes, and she regularly performs at venues around Nashville.
Vaus was raised on country music in her hometown and admits to writing songs inspired by her roots. She said, “All of my songs tend to be a little bit true, and a little bit twisted.”
Black River Publishing is a part of Black River Entertainment and is based in Nashville. It is home to many writers including songwriters/artists Ben Caver, Nikita Karmen, John King, Scott Stepakoff, Kelsea Ballerini, hit songwriter/producer Doug Johnson and Grammy-winning songwriter Josh Osborne.
Vaus says that she will continue her education at Belmont in addition to advancing her career with Black River. “I’m already so grateful that I get to write songs every day, but to get to do that surrounded by the team of people at Black River, is just so dang exciting!” she said.
