When you hear your favorite song, it’s easy to assume that the singer and the writer are the same person. Oftentimes, that’s just not the case. The Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival is coming this October to showcase the legends behind the lyrics.
Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival
Venture out to the sandy shores for the ninth annual Pensacola Beach Songwriters Festival. The festival, which takes place October 4–8, will feature 15 stages, 90+ songwriters, and 200+ performances at beachside resorts, restaurants, and bars all within a one-mile radius. You can easily walk between the venues at this family-friendly event and hear the stories behind your favorite songs.
In addition to celebrating today’s hit writers, the festival nurtures the songwriters of tomorrow. This is the first year that the Songwriters Festival has partnered with the Nashville Country Music Hall of Fame to bring songwriting workshops into three local schools. Elementary and middle school students interested in creative writing or music will get hands-on experience and the chance to perform their songs on stage.
Who Will Be There
The festival caters to both budding and established songwriters. Here are a few of the names to look out for.
- Quinn Loggins – As the son of Songwriters Hall of Fame Member Dave Loggins, Quinn is making name for himself already. His music has been featured on TV shows like “Bones” and “Heartland.” He also wrote this year’s no. 3 Australian single, “Rope” for Rachel Fahim.
- Thom Bresh – Known by fans as the Breshman, this guitarist and songwriter was inducted into the Thumbpickers Hall of Fame in 2001. In addition to being a successful musician, Bresh has received two Grammy nominations and one Academy Award nomination.
- Laura Ashley – You may recognize Ashley as an on-air radio personality for 105.1 the Bull. Along with radio, this two-time CMA Fest performer is a country singer-songwriter to watch out for. She was voted Local Artist of the Year by KTTS. Her debut EP is coming out soon.
Venues to Visit
While you’re wandering between venues, make sure to check out what each has to offer. Many of these locations feature great food, drinks, and services that are worth a trip back.
- Bamboo Willie’s
- Hemingway’s Island Grill
- Holiday Inn Resort Pensacola Beach
- Islander Bar and Lounge
- La Playita
- Margaritaville Beach Hotel
- Paddy O’Leary’s Irish Pub
- Paradise Bar and Grill
- Sandbar
- Spyros’ Gyros
- The Beach Church
- The Drowsy Poet Coffee Company
- Upper Room at Innerlight
- WSRE/StudioAmped
Knowing where your favorite songs come from fosters a whole new appreciation for music. The same can be said for your car. Know that you’re getting an exceptional value from a team who will stand behind you 100 percent. Visit Lee Nissan in Fort Walton Beach today, where the deals are music to your ears.
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