A Hub of Musical Talent in Meridian, Mississippi
Meridian, Mississippi, has long been recognized as a city with a rich musical heritage. Known as the “Queen City,” it has produced numerous talented musicians and songwriters over the years. Today, the city continues to nurture this legacy through events like the Mississippi Songwriters Festival, which aims to inspire and educate aspiring songwriters.
The festival, organized by the Mississippi Songwriters Alliance, is designed to provide participants with the tools and knowledge needed to create their own music. This year’s event took place over two days, with the second day focusing on the art of songwriting. The session was led by Clay Mills, a Grammy-nominated and ASCAP award-winning songwriter who has made a name for himself in the industry.
Mills emphasized the importance of songwriting as a means of self-expression. “There’s nothing better than songwriting,” he said. “I think we live in a time where it’s hard to express our voice in the world, and songwriting gives you a chance to discover who you are, express your voice, and share it with other people.” He added that his work now extends beyond just writing songs—he also enjoys teaching others how to find their own voices through music.
The festival not only serves as an educational platform but also celebrates the city’s deep connection to music. Richelle Putnam, the event organizer, highlighted Meridian’s status as a hub for songwriting talent. “Well, the Queen City is the perfect place because if you just look at all the songwriters we’ve had from here, Chris Etheridge, Paul Davis, just to name two. So we are the Queen City of Music,” she said.
Throughout the festival, participants had the opportunity to engage with experienced songwriters, learn about the creative process, and gain insights into the industry. Workshops covered various aspects of songwriting, including lyric composition, melody development, and storytelling techniques. These sessions were designed to help attendees turn their musical ideas into fully realized songs.
The festival concluded with a special event known as the Grand Finale, held in the MAXX courtyard. This closing ceremony brought together participants, local musicians, and community members for a night of performances and celebration. It served as a fitting end to a weekend filled with creativity, learning, and inspiration.
For those interested in staying updated on future events and musical happenings in the area, there are opportunities to subscribe to newsletters and follow local news sources. These platforms often feature information on upcoming festivals, workshops, and other cultural activities that highlight the vibrant music scene in Meridian and beyond.
As the Mississippi Songwriters Festival continues to grow, it reinforces the city’s role as a breeding ground for musical talent. By providing access to education, mentorship, and performance opportunities, the festival helps ensure that the legacy of songwriting in Meridian remains strong for generations to come.
