VIE’s editor-in-chief Lisa Marie Burwell joined long-time friends, singer-songwriter/Broadway star Morgan James and Sinfonia Gulf Coast music and artistic director Demetrius Fuller, in the stunning Alys Beach home of Bryan and Tina Corr for a meet and greet on May 28. James and Fuller took center stage for a patriotic summer kick-off concert at the Alys Beach Amphitheater.

Songwriters in Paradise has just unveiled the artist lineup for the second annual SIP Healdsburg taking place July 18-22 in Healdsburg, California.   Songwriters in Paradise is a series of boutique, unique and very exclusive experiences that showcase a number of the world's most gifted singer-songwriters performing in some of the most awe-inspiring destinations.

30A Songwriters returned for its 13th year. The event featured 175 talented artists and 225 performances spread throughout 30+ venues all over South Walton. Six acts headlined the outdoor amphitheater stage at Grand Boulevard on Saturday and Sunday. The lineup included Mavis Staples, Emmylou Harris, Chris & Rich Robinson (the Black Crowes), Dawes, Jenny Lewis, and Rickie Lee Jones. there was truly something for everyone, with genres ranging from blues to folk, soul, Americana, and country. It's safe to say guests had a fabulous weekend, and we are already marking our calendars for next year!

We're so excited that former VIE intern Sammi Accola released her debut single, "Nostalgia," on April 16! The song was inspired by a quote by John Pantana that said, "Nostalgia has a way of rose-coloring our past misery." As a self-described Folk-Pop Americana artist, Sammi has released a debut song that is as dreamy as it is relatable. The accompanying music video released on April 30, and you can watch it here. Congratulations, Sammi!

Before writing, performing, and releasing the powerful song, Paralyzed, singer-songwriter Marina Morgan struggled with a life-threatening illness. Her incredible story is heartbreaking, heartwarming, and, above all, inspiring.