Tennessee
songwriters week

2024 CONTESTANTS

CLICK A HIGHTLIGHTED ARTIST TO VISIT THEIR SOCIAL MEDIA/WEBSITE!

FINALIST!

“Shayla McDaniel is a singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer and mental health advocate based in Knoxville, TN, who crafts guitar-driven indie pop. Her music has been featured on MTV, Disney+, The CW and more.”

FINALIST!

“With a name like Danielle Tennessee, she was born to perform! Originally from the birthplace of country music, Bristol, TN, Danielle is a singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist with an eclectic repertoire of folk, Americana, jazz, and blues with a sprinkle of country and bluegrass for good measure.”

“Singer/songwriter. 65 years young.
Americana, country/blues.
Been in Knoxville since 1994.
US Army Veteran 13 years.
BS Business from UF.
Married 27 years.
Self taught musician. Began playing ukulele and singing at age of five. Proud Grandfather with two adorable great grandchildren. Wrote first song in 2016. Recorder first album 2019.”

“Hi! I am a Knoxville based musician that’s been playing and writing songs since I was 7 years old. I’ve played all over the country from LA to Atlanta and back but I proudly call Knoxville home. I lead a band called Alex and the Animals, but have written music for multiple artists and organizations. Honored to be a part of this Songwriters competition for the second time!”

“Mark Dudek is a veteran vocalist/guitarist from Knoxville, Tennessee. He’s been performing for eight years as “Henry Culpeper” with his band The Crossjacks at outdoor festivals in eleven states, among other venues far and near. He also performs as a solo artist, featuring his own original music as well as classic rock, classic and neo-traditional country, Appalachia and folk.”

“Music is Becki Grace’s passion in life… Becki Grace performed both originals and covers regionally with her late husband in 3 Mile Smile for eight years until his tragic untimely death in January 2021. Music was their first connection, and she still feels it still in the music she plays. She is in the process of finding her way through music without him, as you can imagine the bitter sting. She is working on her own music, again, as she collaborates with other local musicians.”

“Hey Knoxville and surrounding areas ! My name is whiskey Jenkins. I play a mix of tunes from country to some rock. I have some of my own music coming out soon on all of the music platforms!”

“My name is Jacob Beach! I’m a local singer songwriter and Knoxville Tennessee. I’ve been playing music since I was about 7 years old and doing shows since I was 20 years old. I have a lot of original material and would love to share it!”

“British country artist now based in Nashville. Made my Opry debut in 2023.” 

“Been singing, playing, and writing most of my life. Have started playing out locally for the last couple of years and am looking forward to booking more shows in the coming new year.”

“I was born and raised in Chattanooga, TN! I’ve been singing since I could talk and I’m currently studying music.”

” I am a musician of 20+ years, writing and performing in a variety of styles over the years.”

TIM KESSLER

“Grew up on a dairy farm in Kentucky.”

“I’m just an upcoming artist looking to build a career in the live setting. I’m up for anything.”