Inside The Recording Academy Nashville Chapter's 2024 Block Party: A Tribute To Music City's Thriving Scene

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The Nashville Chapter of the Recording Academy kicked off the summer in style on May 20, 2024, with its 23rd annual Block Party — a beloved event that celebrates the vibrant and diverse music scene of Music City. Despite a minor nuisance from the seasonal cicadas, the energy was high, and nothing could stop the festivities from going full swing. Held at 6th & Peabody in downtown Nashville, the event attracted Recording Academy members from across Tennessee, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, and even the Memphis Chapter for a night filled with incredible live performances, food, and camaraderie.

With artists from a variety of genres taking the stage, the Block Party highlighted the diversity of Nashville’s musical community. From country to gospel to jazz/funk guitar, the lineup showcased both independent and major label talent, many of whom had pivotal career milestones or GRAMMY memories to share. A Night of Unforgettable Performances

The evening kicked off with rising country star Brittney Spencer, who delivered an enchanting five-song set featuring tracks from her debut album *My Stupid Life*, released earlier this year. Spencer, whose star has been on the rise, even made a notable guest appearance on Beyoncé’s *Cowboy Carter* earlier this year, further proving her dynamic range as an artist. “Thank you so much to everybody that is here who is helping make artists' dreams come true every day,” Spencer expressed to the crowd, acknowledging the hard work of the industry professionals behind the scenes.

Country artists Hannah Dasher and Rissi Palmer not only performed but also served as the evening's emcees. Dasher treated the audience to a sneak peek of her upcoming project *Don’t Wanna Be An Outlaw*, while Palmer celebrated the re-release of her iconic 2007 track "Country Girl," which she now releases independently. Their performances captured the essence of country music's roots while also showcasing their unique artistry and the journeys they’ve each taken in the industry.Gospel’s Powerful Presence: Tasha Cobbs Leonard

Tasha Cobbs Leonard, one of the most celebrated names in gospel music, brought a spiritual and emotional depth to the event. Her powerful rendition of "Break Every Chain" — the song that earned her a GRAMMY in 2014 for Best Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Performance — resonated deeply with the audience. Reflecting on her journey, Cobbs Leonard shared that she had lost her father just one week before her GRAMMY win. "I was on a mountaintop, but I was also in a deep, dark place," she said. Her performance reminded everyone that music can be both a personal and collective healing experience.Genre-Spanning Talent: Cory Wong and Carly Pearce

Jazz/funk guitarist Cory Wong set the tone as the sun began to set, delivering his signature grooves with a flair that got the crowd moving. Known for his energetic performances and precision on the guitar, Wong’s set was a highlight for those craving something a little different from the night’s predominantly country and gospel lineup.

The evening closed with an unforgettable performance by country star Carly Pearce. Her 30-minute set included her latest single "We Don't Fight Anymore," featuring Chris Stapleton, as well as her GRAMMY-winning hit with Ashley McBryde, "Never Wanted To Be That Girl." For Pearce, the performance was a personal full-circle moment, as she reflected on her 15-year journey in Nashville. “I moved here 15 years ago because all I wanted to do was sing country music… Any time I play in Nashville, I think of that 19-year-old girl with big dreams," she told the audience. "I feel like I've been coming to the GRAMMY Block Party, or aware of it, and wanting to be a part of it for so long, so I'm so grateful to be here."A Celebration of Nashville’s Tight-Knit Community

Beyond the incredible performances, the Block Party was a testament to the strong sense of community that Nashville’s music scene is known for. Attendees enjoyed food from local favorites White Duck Taco Shop and Daddy’s Dogs, while sipping on drinks from Yeehaw Brewing Co., Ole Smoky Moonshine, and Music Water. The cicadas might have made an appearance, but they only added to the atmosphere as artists and industry professionals mingled and caught up with one another in this annual summer kickoff.

As the event came to a close, Pearce and other performers lingered to hug friends and fans, a sweet and fitting end to an evening that exemplified the deep-rooted connections within the Nashville music community. This year’s Block Party was a beautiful reminder of what makes Music City so special: the music, the talent, and the unbreakable bond between artists, industry professionals, and fans alike.A Look Ahead

With performances from some of Nashville’s most exciting voices and a celebration of both independent and major-label artists, the 2024 Recording Academy Nashville Chapter Block Party will be remembered as a joyful and genre-spanning event. As the Nashville music scene continues to evolve and thrive, events like these play an essential role in highlighting the diversity, talent, and sense of community that make Music City a global epicenter for musical

innovation and collaboration.