Think you might like to book a "listening room" songwriters-round style evening of entertainment for your next private party, birthday bash, or corporate event?  Also, check out the Living Room page for more information.

What is a "songwriters-round style" show?

A show of this style offers an intimate, up-close, setting for the performers and audience.   The performers are seated in a row or in a round, depending on the room characteristics.  The photos below depict the Writers-in a-Row format.

Songwriters take turns playing original published and unpublished songs, usually, but some favorite covers do get thrown in there.  There are just so many great songs out there!  These are typically acoustic guitar/singer/songwriter shows that are delivered through a lo-fi sound system, although they are sometimes unplugged.  Also, keyboardist singer/songwriters are frequently included, when available, as well as those with specialties in other instruments, such as mandolin, banjo, etc.

Why are these "round" and "row" entertainment formats so popular?

These shows are popular because of the limitless high-quality variety of music created and presented, of all genres, plus the added spontaneity and interaction of the performers among themselves and with the audience.  The material presented is lyrically/melody driven, which in and of itself illicits the "listening room" situation.  Audience participants have only to wait for the round to come around again to hear a great new song of their liking, or a cover song done in a new way or with a new twist from some very creative people!

Where did this format originate?

It's hard to say to some extent, since the format is used world-wide because of its popularity.  The Nashville Songwriters Round is most likely one of the main starting points because of the famed Blue Bird Cafe in Nashville.  Other venues such as Swallow in the Hollow and Eddies Attic (both in Atlanta), others out on the west coast, the mid-west, the east coast, and New York, have continued success with the format.  Venues in New York, and other places (including Tallahassee and the Florida coasts) have also included the "purist" unplugged version of the "round".   Ultimately, Nashville being the songwriting capital of the world, most likely leads the pack as far as establishing and maintaining the integrity of this extremely entertaining format.

Who do I contact to book this type of entertainment?

Contact Ron Patrick at ron@greaterbigbendmusic.com.  Cost for a 2-hour show is minimum $150, including sound system.  Other costs might include out-of-town mileage plus the cost of any acquired special corporate venues.  However, the most intimate and lower cost shows are the "Living Room Concerts"  (click here).   A minimum three week lead time is preferrable for lining up performers, venues, and other logistical planning.