Music endures, but first it must find an audience.
That’s why songwriter Randy Riggs and Lisa Misosky, co-owner of The Bird and the Book, came up with a Songwriters’ Series of concerts, to be held monthly in the Five Points pub.
Riggs came up with the idea while looking around for a venue to promote the latest album by Robert Hayden, So You Want a Piece of Me? Riggs approached Misosky, and by the time the conversation was done, they had not only planned Hayden’s concert, but a whole series showcasing regional songwriters.
The kickoff songwriters concert took place June 21, and regular shows will occur on the first Saturday of each month at 6 p.m. The next, on July 5, will showcase Mark French, John W. Rose, Troy Stavros and Mitch Townley.
Fellow songwriter and series co-host Vicki Lynn Smith started collaborating with Riggs right from the start. She’s been writing music since she was seven years old, and she’s delighted to be able to share her art at one of her favorite local hangouts.
“It’s important to get our songs out there,” she said. Songwriters need to “share our stories for others not just to enjoy, but to connect to in whatever way they need to, to gain hope, validation, to find a reason to smile, or release buried emotions.”
Music, she believes, has “such healing power.”
Riggs and Smith are active in the Knoxville Songwriters Association, who share inspiration and feedback in their weekly meetings. The series draws from this organization for The Bird and the Book performers.
“I have made some wonderful friends” among the songwriter community, Riggs said. He took up guitar playing and songwriting after his retirement in 2019. He found it more interesting to make up his own music rather than to play covers.
Having several songwriters perform on one program is special, Smith said. “A songwriter’s round is a unique experience,” she explained. “The songwriters share their stories, feed off of each other, banter back and forth, even jump in and play and sing along with each other.”
That give-and-take approach brings audiences a richer experience, she said. “Each songwriter has their own style so you can get to hear a diverse night of music which is also unique.”
Both Riggs and Smith expressed their gratitude to Misosky for the opportunity to bring this Songwriters Series to life. “We feel very blessed,” Smith said.
There is no cover charge for the Songwriters Series. The Bird and the Book, 1509 E. Broadway Ave., is a family-friendly venue. They serve a full food menu, including vegan options. The pub has a large drink list, with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Unless a special event is taking place, The Bird and the Book is open from 5:30-10 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays.
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