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Enjoy Live Music from Nashville Bands at Your Event with SongStory Music

The Best Way to Hire a Live Band in Hilltop, TN

Have you ever been at a birthday party, corporate event, or wedding and couldn't help but dance when the live band started playing? There's just something special about live music that gets your endorphins flowing and your energy pumping. Even slow songs are better when a live band plays them.

Live music truly elevates an event from good to unforgettable. While hiring a DJ has its perks, live music often proves to be a better choice for everyone. A live band brings a unique energy to any occasion, whether it's lively and upbeat or slow and romantic. The music can be classic and timeless or upbeat and in line with today's top hits. Whatever kind of event you're hosting, there's a live musical act out there ready to make your event truly memorable.

And while you might think that finding a real-deal band at an affordable price is next to impossible, it's now easier than ever to hire a live band in Hilltop, TN, with Song Story Music by your side.

Live Music for Your Special Occasion by Nashville Artists

At SongStory Music, we specialize in sending real-deal Nashville musical artists to your next big event or party. From country and folk music to pop and just about everything in between, we work with musicians who know how to turn an average event into something you'll remember for a lifetime.

Creating Memorable Moments Since 2020

SongStory Music was created in November 2020 in Nashville, TN, where dreamers can be found on every corner. After a devastating year for the creative community here in Nashville, founder Sarah Moseley wanted to find a way to help her music community and also provide an opportunity for songwriters to make additional money. As a local songwriter herself, she began to dream up the idea of a business that let customers hire a live band consisting of Nashville artists and local talent from Music City.

Some of the events best suited for a live band from SongStory include the following:

  • Live Bands for Corporate Events
  • Live Bands for Weddings
  • Live Bands for Parties
  • Live Bands for Birthday Party
  • Live Bands for Work Events
  • Live Band for Anniversaries
  • More

By being a part of SongStory Music, you're a part of a mission and we can't wait to take your event to a whole new level of awesome.

Gatlinburg Live Music Hilltop, TN

Why Book a Live Band in Hilltop, TN from SongStory Music?

Regardless of the type of event you're hosting, you've got guest needs, event goals, and a budget to stick to. So, why should you hire a live band from SongStory Music? You could just call a friend or family member and pay them with a twelve-pack. The simple answer is that your friends aren't professional artists. Chances are he's not part of a band that knows how to engage a crowd and put on a memorable performance.

Whether your event is local to Nashville or somewhere else in the U.S., our writers have years of experience as professional songwriters and live music players. They know how to bring fun and excitement to your event because they've done it at a high level for years. Some of our past performances include live music at the Grand Hyatt, The Listening Room Café, My Go Red Fundraiser, the W Hotel in Nashville, and many more.

 Live Band Performance Gatlinburg Hilltop, TN

The best part is that we've made hiring a live band seamless, so you don't have to worry about guesswork or musicians no-showing your event. Customers refer their friends and family to SongStory Music because we provide:

  • Professional Live Bands from Nashville
  • Guaranteed Artist Availability
  • Affordable Pricing
  • Flexible Packages Customized to Your Needs
  • Quick Booking Turnaround Times
  • Excellent Communication with Our Team
  • Access to Artists with Varying Music Styles
  • Custom Songs and Hit Songs at Your Event
  • A One-of-a-Kind Nashville Experience!

Our Live Bands Love to Play These Events

Our live bands from Nashville have played a wide range of events and special occasions. If you can imagine a type of event, chances are our bands have played something similar. Some of the most common events our musicians love to play include the following:

 Live Music Venue Gatlinburg Hilltop, TN
 Gatlinburg Music Scene Hilltop, TN
Weddings

Your wedding day is one of the most important events of your life. Shouldn't the live music at your wedding be amazing, too? Our artists have performed and toured all over the world, so we can guarantee that you'll love what they bring to the table. Whether you want heartfelt, slow songs for daddy-daughter dances or fun tunes to get your guests on the dance floor, we've got you covered.

 Band Playing In Gatlinburg Hilltop, TN
Corporate Events

Corporate and work events have a reputation for being drab and slow-moving. But when you book a live band in Hilltop, TN, from SongStory, your corporate team building exercises will be anything but boring. Our artists have experience in all types of corporate events and know how to show your team a good time.

 Gatlinburg Concert Hilltop, TN
Private Parties

Are you hosting a special party but want live music instead of a DJ? Our live bands bring Nashville to you! Whether you need some ambiance music in the background so your guests can mingle or some high-energy music to get the party started, we can help. Our packages are tailored to your needs.

 Smoky Mountains Live Music Hilltop, TN
Award Ceremonies

Award ceremonies are often formal occasions, but they don't have to be lifeless. A live band can entertain guests with music during cocktail hour and dinner, and then switch to more lively tunes for the after-party. Live music helps create an enjoyable and unforgettable experience for all those present – especially award recipients and their families.

 Gatlinburg Nightlife Music Hilltop, TN
Anniversaries

Whether you're celebrating a wedding anniversary or something else like a business anniversary, you want your guests to be happy and entertained. Hiring a live band is one of the best ways to achieve that goal while also adding a unique vibe and soundtrack for the occasion.

Gatlinburg Live Music Hilltop, TN
Holiday Parties

If you're like most folks, Christmas party season has a way of sneaking up that can leave you in a tizzy. If you're organizing a special gathering for your colleagues, friends, or relatives, hiring a live band is a great way to spread holiday joy. Musicians from SongStory can perform traditional Christmas tunes as well as a diverse selection of popular party songs that will encourage everyone to dance and enjoy the season.

What Makes Live Bands from Nashville So Unique?

Nashville, known as Music City, is the heart of country music, attracting a diverse mix of musicians and songwriters. It's a melting pot of musical genres, drawing people from all over the world to witness the incredible talent on display at every turn. Nashville is often referred to as the city of dreamers, as it's a place where aspiring songwriters flock to bring their musical ambitions to life.

 Live Band Performance Gatlinburg Hilltop, TN

The road to becoming a professional songwriter is challenging, but those who are truly passionate about their craft can find the success they seek. Moving to a city where everyone is as talented as you are can be daunting, requiring confidence in your abilities and a clear understanding of what sets you apart. That competition drives high-quality music across the board. At SongStory, we work with the best and brightest Nashville musicians available. So, when it's time to book a musician in Hilltop, TN, you can rest easy knowing your live band will rock the show.

In fact, our live bands have performed with some of the biggest names in country music, including Katy Perry, Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, Jason Aldean, and even Garth Brooks.

Live bands from Nashville are some of the best in the business because they're surrounded by an immense amount of talent and passionate songwriters. From downtown Broadway to famous music row, the city is filled with incredible venues where talented live bands play every night. We're grateful to be surrounded by so many music lovers and dedicated artists, because it gives our customers access to the best live bands around.

Every live band at SongStory Music possesses a unique sound and specializes in a specific genre. Some are even versatile enough to write music in multiple genres! Each band brings a fresh sound to our lineup and has honed their skills through collaborations with other songwriters and dedicating time to perfecting their craft. By booking a musician from SongStory, you give us the chance to bring a piece of the beloved Nashville music scene to you.

What makes Nashville such a special place for musicians and music lovers alike? Nashville has a long history of fostering local music artists and live bands, dating back decades to when Elvis Presley was the talk of the town. But that's just the beginning. Before you hire a musician in Hilltop, TN, check out these facts about Music City:

  • Bon Jovi, Michael Buble, and Sheryl Crow all were made in Nashville.
  • Tin Pan South is home to the largest songwriters festival in the world, bringing in nearly 350 songwriters performing original music.
  • Elvis recorded more than 200 songs at Nashville's RCA Studio B.
  • The Ryman Auditorium was first used as a place for gospel meetings and is now known as the "Mother Church of Country Music."
  • The Grand Ole Opry is the world's longest-running live music radio show.
  • 82 people move to Nashville every day!
  • Nashville is considered the songwriting capital of the world.

Now that you know more about SongStory Music and what makes our musicians from Nashville so special, let's

5 Reasons to Have Live Music at Your Next Event

Live music has the power to create an unforgettable atmosphere at any occasion, be it a wedding, corporate event, or private party. But what exactly are the benefits of having a live band perform? Let's take a closer look at the advantages of incorporating live music into your event.

Atmosphere

Live Bands Create the Perfect Atmosphere

Looking to set a lively and festive tone? A live band is an excellent choice. For a more relaxed atmosphere, consider hiring a solo musician. Live music can really help to establish the vibe you're aiming for. Don't forget that live music can also create an intimate setting. The personal touch of live musicians will make your guests feel special and give them moments to cherish, especially during significant occasions like walking down the aisle or the first dance.

Flow

Live Bands Go with the Flow

Live music offers an interactive and engaging experience, while a DJ's performance can sometimes be more passive. When hiring a band, there are numerous focal points aside from the lead singer, especially if all band members are fully engaged and enjoying the performance. A great band knows how to energize the crowd like a DJ, while also delivering unique, customized renditions of songs. They can choose to faithfully reproduce the original sound or infuse their own distinct style, making the performance truly one-of-a-kind.

Personal

Live Music is More Personal

Live musical performers bring a unique element to any occasion. When you book a live band in Hilltop, TN, you can add personal touches to your event in a way that other forms of entertainment cannot provide. For instance, you can select songs that hold special significance for you or your guests or choose music that complements the theme of your event. When you collaborate with SongStory, you even have the option of having a musician compose a personalized song for you and arrange for a live band to perform it. It doesn't get more personal than that!

 Live Music Venue Gatlinburg Hilltop, TN

Live Bands Get Your Guests Moving

Live bands have a remarkable way of getting people on their feet. Whether they're dancing or simply tapping along to the beat, it adds an infectious energy to any event. This is especially advantageous for occasions that involve a lot of sitting, such as conferences and seminars. Live music helps break up the monotony and keeps guests engaged throughout. Furthermore, a lively band that can engage with the crowd adds an extra level of vibrancy, ensuring that your event will be memorable long after it's over.

Professionalism and Reliability

When you hire live bands, you are bringing on board professional performers skilled at captivating and entertaining the audience. They come fully equipped, sparing you the hassle of renting sound systems or instruments. Their expertise guarantees a seamless event and an enjoyable experience for your guests.

Listening to Live Music is Good for Your Health

Yes, you read that right! Live music has been found to be good for people's health and well-being. Studies have shown that watching live music can help reduce stress hormones, including cortisol. Scientists have recently looked into the positive mood-altering effects of live music and found that cortisol levels decreased after witnessing a live performance. Also, dancing to the live band of your choice can give you the same benefits as 30 minutes on a treadmill. That means you're exercising and burning calories without having to go to the gym or go for a run.

A Live Nashville Experience is Only a Few Clicks Away

Looking for live music for your next event? Whether it's a corporate gathering, wedding, private party, or birthday, SongStory Music has got you covered. No matter where you are, our talented artists can make it happen. With experience performing at various events in Nashville and beyond, we're ready to bring your musical vision to life.

Our team recognizes that every event is special, and we'll collaborate closely with you to deliver exactly what you need. Whether it's cover songs, personal requests, or original music, our artists are up to the task. Get ready for a one-of-a-kind live performance from our team of Nashville artists!

Get Your Free No Obligation Quote!

Latest News in Hilltop, TN

Groovy Tunes, Sizzling Ribs: Clarksville’s Hilltop Supermarket launches 2024 Dwayne Byard Memorial BBQ Cook-Off

Mark Hayneshttps://www.clarksvilleonline.com/2024/05/04/groovy-tunes-sizzling-ribs-clarksvilles-hilltop-supermarket-launches-2024-dwayne-byard-memorial-bbq-cook-off/

Clarksville, TN – The 2024 Dwayne Byard Memorial BBQ Cook-Off commenced on Friday evening at Hilltop Supermarket in Clarksville, TN. The event started with a lively party featuring a 70s-80s Tribute Band and an array of delectable food available. Despite a drizzle earlier in the day, the weather cleared up in the afternoon, creating perfect conditions for the festivities.“The weather worked out well. Around 10 o’clock, we were afraid, and it was still drizzling a little bit. But then the rain cleared...

Clarksville, TN – The 2024 Dwayne Byard Memorial BBQ Cook-Off commenced on Friday evening at Hilltop Supermarket in Clarksville, TN. The event started with a lively party featuring a 70s-80s Tribute Band and an array of delectable food available. Despite a drizzle earlier in the day, the weather cleared up in the afternoon, creating perfect conditions for the festivities.

“The weather worked out well. Around 10 o’clock, we were afraid, and it was still drizzling a little bit. But then the rain cleared off, and everything is great now, so I couldn’t ask for any better,” said Cody Jackson, Hilltop Supermarket.

The event began promptly at 5:30pm, with live music entertaining attendees from 6:00pm until 9:00pm. The band, a returning favorite from last year, delighted the crowd with their music. Notably, this year’s turnout was one of the largest since the inception of the BBQ Cook-Off.

Hungry visitors had a variety of options, including barbecue sandwiches, barbecue by the pound, whole racks of ribs, potato salad, coleslaw, cupcakes, and refreshing drinks.

The owners of Robinson BBQ Sauce, available since December 2023, were present, distributing complimentary samples of their flavorful BBQ sauce. Attendees raved about its taste, and you can find Robinson BBQ Sauce for purchase at Hilltop Supermarket.

“There has been a great turnout tonight. I want to thank everyone for showing up and making this the great event it has become,” Jackson stated. “This is an event we put on for the community to enjoy, and it’s great to see everyone embrace it.”

The main event, the Dwayne Byard Memorial BBQ Cook-Off, will kick into high gear on Saturday. Twenty teams from the surrounding area will compete for trophies and cash prizes. Judging begins at 10:00am, with winners announced around 2:00pm. While most teams hail from Tennessee and Kentucky, some are traveling from as far as Alabama. The Dwayne Byard Memorial BBQ Cook-Off has truly become a regional celebration of barbecue excellence.

“Everyone should come back out tomorrow for the BBQ Cook-Off. There will be plenty of food for sale along with some competitive teams trying to become this year’s Grand Champion,” said Jackson.

Hilltop Supermarket is located at 400 Highway 149, Clarksville TN. From Clarksville, you would take Hwy 48/13 south across the Cumberland River, turn right on highway 149, and Hilltop Supermarket is located on the left at the top of the hill next to Freds. Hilltop Supermarket serves the grocery needs of the southern Montgomery county area.

Visit their website at: www.hilltopsupermarket.com.

Clarksville, TN – The 2024 Dwayne Byard Memorial BBQ Cook-Off commenced on Friday evening at Hilltop Supermarket in Clarksville, TN. The event started with a lively party featuring a 70s-80s Tribute Band and an array of delectable food available. Despite a drizzle earlier in the day, the weather cleared up in the afternoon, creating perfect conditions for the festivities.

“The weather worked out well. Around 10 o’clock, we were afraid, and it was still drizzling a little bit. But then the rain cleared off, and everything is great now, so I couldn’t ask for any better,” said Cody Jackson, Hilltop Supermarket.

The event began promptly at 5:30pm, with live music entertaining attendees from 6:00pm until 9:00pm. The band, a returning favorite from last year, delighted the crowd with their music. Notably, this year’s turnout was one of the largest since the inception of the BBQ Cook-Off.

Hungry visitors had a variety of options, including barbecue sandwiches, barbecue by the pound, whole racks of ribs, potato salad, coleslaw, cupcakes, and refreshing drinks.

The owners of Robinson BBQ Sauce, available since December 2023, were present, distributing complimentary samples of their flavorful BBQ sauce. Attendees raved about its taste, and you can find Robinson BBQ Sauce for purchase at Hilltop Supermarket.

“There has been a great turnout tonight. I want to thank everyone for showing up and making this the great event it has become,” Jackson stated. “This is an event we put on for the community to enjoy, and it’s great to see everyone embrace it.”

The main event, the Dwayne Byard Memorial BBQ Cook-Off, will kick into high gear on Saturday. Twenty teams from the surrounding area will compete for trophies and cash prizes. Judging begins at 10:00am, with winners announced around 2:00pm. While most teams hail from Tennessee and Kentucky, some are traveling from as far as Alabama. The Dwayne Byard Memorial BBQ Cook-Off has truly become a regional celebration of barbecue excellence.

“Everyone should come back out tomorrow for the BBQ Cook-Off. There will be plenty of food for sale along with some competitive teams trying to become this year’s Grand Champion,” said Jackson.

Hilltop Supermarket is located at 400 Highway 149, Clarksville TN. From Clarksville, you would take Hwy 48/13 south across the Cumberland River, turn right on highway 149, and Hilltop Supermarket is located on the left at the top of the hill next to Freds. Hilltop Supermarket serves the grocery needs of the southern Montgomery county area.

Visit their website at: www.hilltopsupermarket.com.

Clarksville, TN – Austin Peay State University (APSU) graduate Kaytah Mejia, who finished her master’s degree in industrial-organizational psychology in December 2023, recently earned the Best Thesis of 2023 award from the Tennessee Conference of Graduate Schools.

Her thesis, “The Impact of Organizational Justice Perception on Organizational Commitment: “Exploration on the Military Mindset,” showcased her commitment to understanding complex organizational dynamics and involved countless hours of work.

“My research was the hardest thing I have ever done, even more so than childbirth and military service, simply because of the mental challenge that it takes to overcome,” she said, reflecting on her journey through APSU’s Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology that began in August 2021.

Throughout her academic tenure, Mejia demonstrated a passion for her field. She served as a graduate teaching assistant and collaborated closely with mentors such as Dr. Kevin Harris, Dr. Nicole Knickmeyer, Dr. Jessica Haatz and Dr. David Earnest.

Before pursuing her master’s degree, Mejia obtained a Bachelor of Science in psychology from APSU, where she discovered her desire to pursue a master’s. She said Dr. Adriane Sanders’ Intro to Applied Psychology course sparked her interest in the intersection of psychology and the workplace.

Mejia’s involvement in research projects enriched her academic pursuits, which included collaborations with faculty on a COVID survey and socioemotional mindfulness research for Moshi Kids. Her unique perspective and drive to excel academically and professionally were shaped by her background as an adopted Latina/Hispanic/Native American woman and her experience as a former Army medic in Germany.

“We spend roughly one-third of our lives working,” Mejia said. “After my military service, I realized how I could fit into the puzzle of bringing positive changes into the workspace.”

After completing her master’s degree, Mejia applied her knowledge and skills to her career and became the HR screening specialist at Project 2231 in Clarksville. Leveraging her expertise in workplace ethics, human resources, and organizational development, she plays a vital role in the HR department and contributes to the company’s growth and success.

Mejia said her accomplishments, including her award-winning thesis, were made possible with the support of her mentors, committee members, and family. She credited Earnest, Harris, and Dr. Chanda Murphy for guiding her through the challenging research process and pushing her to surpass her expectations.

“I was sitting in my car and cried happy tears,” she said. “I never thought I would have won, and having done so, I was extremely proud of myself. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I am so grateful for experiencing it.”

Interested in following Mejia’s footsteps in industrial-organizational psychology? APSU offers an MSIO program that prepares students for diverse roles. Learn more at www.apsu.edu/ioprogram.

Clarksville Gears Up for the Ultimate BBQ Showdown at Hilltop Supermarket’s 2024 Dwayne Byard Memorial BBQ Cook-Off

Mark Hayneshttps://www.clarksvilleonline.com/2024/04/25/clarksville-gears-up-for-the-ultimate-bbq-showdown-at-hilltop-supermarkets-2024-dwayne-byard-memorial-bbq-cook-off/

Clarksville, TN – The savory scent of barbecue smoke will once again fill the air as Hilltop Supermarket prepares to host the highly anticipated 2024 Dwayne Byard Memorial BBQ Cook-Off on May 3rd and 4th.Located just outside of Clarksville, Tennessee, this annual event pays homage to the late Dwayne Byard, a beloved community member known for his passion for grilling and generosity.As tradition dictates, the cook-off festivities will kick off on Friday, May 3rd, at 5:30pm. Attendees can groove to the tune...

Clarksville, TN – The savory scent of barbecue smoke will once again fill the air as Hilltop Supermarket prepares to host the highly anticipated 2024 Dwayne Byard Memorial BBQ Cook-Off on May 3rd and 4th.

Located just outside of Clarksville, Tennessee, this annual event pays homage to the late Dwayne Byard, a beloved community member known for his passion for grilling and generosity.

As tradition dictates, the cook-off festivities will kick off on Friday, May 3rd, at 5:30pm. Attendees can groove to the tunes of a live 70s- 80s Tribute Band while enjoying games and prizes from 6:00pm until 9:00pm. Of course, the star of the show will be the mouthwatering barbecue and ribs available for purchase, ensuring that guests satisfy their cravings for smoky flavors.

For the early birds eager to sink their teeth into some freshly grilled goodness, fresh BBQ will be available for purchase starting at 10:30am on Friday. But the real excitement unfolds on Saturday, May 4th, when the BBQ Cook-Off officially commences. Teams will vie for top honors in categories such as chicken, ribs, pork, beef brisket, and dessert, with turn-in times staggered throughout the day.

The competition promises to be fierce, with cash prizes awaiting the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers in each category, along with coveted trophy prizes. The Grand Champion, crowned at the end of the day, will earn bragging rights as the ultimate pitmaster.

The Turn-In Times are as follows:

Behind the scenes, a dedicated Judging Team comprising local community members will meticulously evaluate each entry, considering flavor, tenderness, and presentation. The winners will be announced after 2:00pm, adding more anticipation to an already thrilling event.

Whether you’re a seasoned barbecue aficionado or simply looking for a fun-filled weekend activity, the Dwayne Byard Memorial BBQ Cook-Off is a must-attend event for all. So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and join in the festivities as the community comes together to celebrate the joy of barbecue and honor the memory of a cherished neighbor.

Hilltop Supermarket is located at 400 Highway 149, Clarksville TN. From Clarksville, you would take Hwy 48/13 south across the Cumberland River, turn right on highway 149, and Hilltop Supermarket is located on the left at the top of the hill next to Freds. Hilltop Supermarket serves the grocery needs of the southern Montgomery county area.

Visit their website at: www.hilltopsupermarket.com.

Hilltop Studios Celebrates 60 Years [Interview]

Liza Andersonhttps://musicrow.com/2023/04/hilltop-studios-celebrates-60-years-interview/

When stepping from under the forest green awning into the infamous Hilltop Studios during a session, creativity fills the air and stimulating tempos welcome you inside, evoking that sense of unity music often provides.Founded in the mid-1960s by veteran music engineer Jack Linneman and his son Billy, Hilltop celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, making it one of the longest-running recording studios in the Nashville area. Located just outside of Music City in Madison, Tennessee, the studio has re...

When stepping from under the forest green awning into the infamous Hilltop Studios during a session, creativity fills the air and stimulating tempos welcome you inside, evoking that sense of unity music often provides.

Founded in the mid-1960s by veteran music engineer Jack Linneman and his son Billy, Hilltop celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, making it one of the longest-running recording studios in the Nashville area. Located just outside of Music City in Madison, Tennessee, the studio has remained in the same spot since its inception, and boasts a hefty client list of both rising and renowned stars such as Bill Anderson, Dolly Parton, Jeannie Seely, Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn, Merle Haggard, Vince Gill and many more.

Seely, a frequent client of Hilltop Studios, shares with MusicRow, “Hilltop remains my go-to studio. I feel so comfortable there, the sound is always great, John Nicholson is always so accommodating and knowledgeable, and the vibes are just there! The history alone gives you a sense of belonging. I’ve made so many memories there and I look forward to making more.”

Today, Hilltop is managed by Nicholson, an established engineer and Hilltop’s former owner. He has help from staff engineer Matt Huitt, who oversees the studio’s social media platforms and has his own production company in partnership with Hilltop, Huitt Productions. MusicRow recently sat down with both of them to talk about the history of Hilltop and sit in on a session at the iconic studio.

Hilltop founder Jack Linneman got the idea to build the studio while working as an engineer for country label Starday King Records.

“Jack saw the need to create a quality recording studio for a clientele including independent artists and people who didn’t have huge budgets, but nevertheless wanted to make a good record,” notes Nicholson. He then left Starday to build Hilltop from the ground up. The bottom floor served as a studio while the top floor served as Linneman’s residence. In the early days, he worked with many legendary artists prior to their record deal signings.

“Our bread and butter ever since day one—and what I believe has contributed to our longevity— is catering to independent artists. That’s still our business model today,” Nicholson continues.

Born and raised in Hohenwald, Tennessee, Nicholson began his music career as a self-taught drummer in a local band, eventually finding himself more interested in the audio and production side of things. After high school, he attended the Nashville School of Broadcast Technique with an initial goal of becoming a television cameraman. But when the school debuted a course called “How To Be A Recording Engineer,” his dreams quickly shifted back to music.

Nicholson began his job search following graduation, flipping through the phone book and calling every Nashville studio his finger landed on. Not many were hiring at the time, but he continued to make calls. Finally, his finger found Hilltop, and as fate would have it, Linneman answered the phone while their secretary was away from the desk—a rarity—and shared that they could use somebody.

In March of 1981, he moved in with his brother, who lived only a few miles from the studio, and met with Linneman. The two hit it off and he began work immediately. Nicholson learned the ropes from both Jack and Billy, as well as Kevin McManus, one of the chief engineers during that time. Nicholson was manning the console within a month of starting and has now been with the studio for over 40 years, working with an array of world-class musicians.

“Even to this day [the sessions] are all fun. When you’re working with studio musicians that are the world’s best—and they all are—every time we have a session it’s always made up of that caliber. That makes a session fun everyday,” he says. “There’s some notable people I’ve worked with that have been fun. I know it’s cliché to say that they’ve all been great, but for the most part, they have been. I can’t think of one I’ve enjoyed more than another.”

In 1994, Nicholson bought Hilltop from the Linnemans and ran it as an owner for nearly two decades. He updated the decor as well as the technology as it evolved from analog tape to Pro Tools and computer recording, and added isolation booths to the space. He shares that he didn’t want to mess with the physical properties of the studio too much because everything already sounded great acoustics-wise. In 2013, he sold Hilltop to music and production company Virginia Dreams, LLC, who said they would only purchase it if he agreed to stay on and run it.

Hilltop currently houses two studios, Studio A and Studio B. Studio A is located on the ground floor and includes a 56 channel SSL 9000J analog recording console. It is the larger of two and the one that primarily caters to all of the musicians with its stunning Yamaha C7 grand piano and four isolation booths. The stone walls that frame the control room give it a cabin-like, comfortable and cozy feel. Studio B is a smaller extension of Studio A located on the second floor. With a Digidesign Pro Tools HD system, C24 control surface and two isolation booths, it’s designed to record mainly vocals and is where most of the mixing takes place.

What separates Hilltop from other recording studios in Music City is that it is “off the beaten path” and gives a sense a privacy that can be hard to find. As long as he’s been in charge, Nicholson has only ever had one other main person helping him. He keeps the team lean partially as a result of low staffing need due to technology advancement, but mostly because he wants clients to truly get to know the members of the Hilltop team, so that they make recording experiences more intimate and personal. Today, he and Huitt are the only primary team members.

Huitt has been with Hilltop for more than a decade now, and his love for music production shines through his work ethic and the way he communicates with his clients.

“Matt reminded me of myself in a way. He would kind of just hang out [at Hilltop] because he just wanted to learn. We would invite him to come watch sessions and help here and there,” Nicholson recalls.

Clients quickly got to know and trust Huitt as he took on more and more projects. “I like to say if you hang out here long enough, you’ll end up working here,” jokes Nicholson. In 2021, he was encouraged by Nicholson to start Huitt Productions in partnership with Hilltop to help expand their production services.

“For me, this is a dream career, going way back to when I loved the audio of the drums and learning how to make sound. The thing that is most rewarding everyday is working with world-class musicians. It makes me realize just how good we have it to be able to do this everyday,” Nicholson shares. “There’s nothing better than watching a song start off as an idea and grow all the way into a radio production.”

Huitt says what he loves most about his job is, “watching somebody’s dream come true, because most of the time, we’re dealing with an independent person who has saved up a lot of money and they are working hard to record. To see the look on their faces when they say, ‘It has always sounded like that in my head,’ [is fulfilling.]”

The walls of Hilltop Studios have heard many a song and story, and plan to continue to for hopefully 60 more years and beyond.

As Subscription Manager/Writer, Liza Anderson contributes to many functions of MusicRow. She produces content, carries out general office tasks, assists in the daily news operations, and provides support to all team members. Liza graduated from the University of Alabama in May of 2021 with a B.A. in English and a minor in communication studies. Prior to MusicRow, she worked as an administrative assistant at Anderson Benson where she assisted the firm’s departments, such as the Entertainment Specialty Practice, with various tasks.

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