Belmont University Sponsors Music City Roots on NPT

Belmont University is proud to serve as a lead sponsor of the inaugural televised series of “Music City Roots: Live from The Loveless Cafe,” which will premiere on its hometown station, Nashville Public Television, on Fri., Sept. 13 at 7 p.m. Central. Soon thereafter, the 13-episode series, distributed by American Public Television, will debut in tens of millions of homes, having received commitments from markets covering over 60 percent of all U.S. households, including WNET in New York, WGBH in Boston, plus stations in Los Angeles, Austin and over 75 other markets. New markets will be added every month.

This historic premiere answers the prayers of generations of Nashville artists, producers, business people and civic leaders for a national television showcase for the diverse artistry happening in Nashville, beyond the well-publicized country music industry. Launched and run as a live radio show with a focus on artistry and community, Music City Roots celebrates the diversity and dynamism of the new Nashville and the national revival of folk and roots music.

Belmont President Dr. Bob Fisher said, “When Board Trustee Eugenia Winwood suggested partnering with Music City Roots, her enthusiasm was inspiring. Belmont University has a long history in the music industry and as ‘Nashville’s University,’ we’re proud to show our support for the unique and unparalleled talent of Music City.”

“Music City Roots is a community of bands, fans and brands, and we created the show to shine a light on musical diversity, quality and authenticity and to push that out through live radio, live streaming, syndicated radio and now nationwide television,” said Executive Producer Todd Mayo. “Our musical culture is our number one export as a city, and we are all very proud to be partnering with NPT to present Music City Roots to a nationwide audience.”

Twelve of the season’s 13 episodes are condensed looks at shows from the Fall 2012 season of MCR. Performances include the blazing emerging talent of Nashville’s Delta Saints, who met as students on Belmont’s campus. The thirteenth show will survey some of the best performances on the show in 2013.

Belmont University joins Col. Littleton, Griffin Technology and Star 129 Diamond Production to make this national broadcast possible.