It was the hit of Indie Impact day during Gospel Music Association’s Music Week in Nashville – a showcase that was a bit out of the ordinary and which followed a brand new format!
First came the “tell.” Tom Jackson, top Live Music Producer in the industry, talked to Christian and Gospel artists and professionals about what it takes to connect with an audience. Tom teaches that everyone onstage needs to be aware that it’s about “creating moments,” capturing and engaging, and leaving the audience with a message that’s life-changing.
Then Tom did a mini-makeover with Christian band Rush of Fools.
The audience was excited about seeing this 2007 ASCAP Song of the Year award-winning group. But when Tom began to rearrange their songs and pull out special musical and vocal moments, the applause meter doubled!
Lead vocalist of the band, Wes Willis, says about Tom, “working with Tom Jackson is one of the greatest pleasures we’ve had as a band. It’s not just work – it’s educational and fun!”
Finally came the “show” part of the evening. A number of artists were randomly selected to perform for a panel of industry professionals as the audience listened in. Tom Jackson, along with world music artist Mary-Kathryn, and Elliott Cunningham, former president of Rhythm House Records, provided honest feedback and valuable direction.
But the audience learned as much as the performers. They even got the benefit of visual examples as Tom helped some of the performers with hands-on work on various parts of their presentation.
One of those artists was Bernadette Cleare, a Gospel artist from New York. “Tom Jackson is Godly outrageous in his assessment of the live show of a Christian artist,” said Bernadette. “He’s got wisdom, he’s anointed, he’s creative, and he’s practical all at the same time. My ministry definitely went up several levels!”
After listening to a singer/songwriter present his worship song, Tom went onstage to help this artist get creative. When Tom reworked the intro and first verse, the crowd went wild!
Tom even called Mary-Kathryn up to the stage to help another artist with a song that just cried out for rhythmic movement.
This was a showcase that was more than a showcase. Dozens of artists and industry attendees left the venue that night hoping GMA will continue this session every year for years to come!
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