Music Row

First of all, let me say one big "I'm sorry" to all of you who are giving me grief about not blogging the past week. What am I supposed to do? Just say, "excuse me Vince and Amy, I need to go blog while you grill my steak medium-well." (Vince = Vince Gill, Amy = Amy Grant) Haha! I can't tell you how much fun we've been having in Nash-Vegas the past ten or so days! To all of our friends here, let me say a million thanks for all you've done in making our stay the most wonderful time. You have helped us in so many ways, and I pray God will reimburse you greatly for your kindness.

The services have been awesome! The town is amazing! The people are so friendly! Colton played out with some friends, and made some new friends in the music business. It was great hanging with Ryan, Chauntay, and Teresa. (Thanks for the BBQ!) And after playing with Adam Clarke, Colton has convinced me to buy my own mandolin. I even picked around on a few of them today at the music store. I also played some Martin D28's that sold between $1,800 and $3,900. I told the salesman I would need to get back to him with my decision. But the mandolins really were sweet! I can probably pick one up without a permission slip.

I got chills when I turned on to Oak Valley Lane where my friend Kevin McManus has produced so many wonderful and anointed tunes! I can't imagine all the hundreds of world-renowned musicians and singers who have graced that studio with their talents through the years. I felt magic simply by walking through the door.

Last night's dinner at Shoney's was more than a typical Shoney's experience. We were able to hang out with my long-time friend David W. Huff (of David & the Giants fame). It had been way too long! I am always amazed at those who are as gifted as David is. I've known him for 30 years and he was as dazzling last night as I've ever seen him. After we did our concert near Opryland Hotel, we hurried over to where he was playing to catch the end of his concert. After doing his signature song, "Noah", and as the altar call was being given, the pastor asked if I would come play along on the keyboard. I must say, it all brought back memories of when I was 15 years old... and would often do the same thing. It was moments like those that played such a big part in me wanting to become a musician. I felt the same little tingle last night... and today I've decided once again that when I grow up, I want to become a musician.

The other night I took the boys downtown to see the sights. I love walking the streets, shopping in the tourist traps, doing Printer's Alley, and listening to the music coming outside onto the sidewalk! It seems to sound more clear in Nashville. I really can't explain it. I did however notice the best sounding system I heard all night was the honky tonk using JBL speakers for their house mains and monitors. Man I love JBL! And no, even though I was taunted and made fun of for not "sitting in" with any of the bands, I remained strong outside on the sidewalk, and simply walked away from trouble... (in the words of a Kenny Rogers tune).

Other things I love about Nashville:
(in no particular order)

Opryland Hotel & Opry Mills Outlet Mall
ALL of our friends in town... (too numerous to try to name)
Cock of the Walk (best catfish in town)
The thrill I feel when I am on Music Row
The weather whenever it isn't too hot
Downtown Nashville, Printer's Alley, Broadway Ave.
White Castle between downtown and 17th Avenue
Vanderbilt University area
Rotier's Restaurant
Tennessee Titans' football stadium
The view of downtown from many parts of the city

This list could go on an on... but I'll stop at this point.

I need to let you know the best hamburger I've had (possibly EVER) is across from Vanderbilt University at Rotier's! Even with all of my Food Network experience, even I never thought of placing a hamburger on french bread. The onion straws weren't too bad either. All in all, Nashville is a terrific town!