Odessa Settles :: Andy May

Andy May-Room for Roots-Release Party-Station Inn

Photos: “Room for Roots” Release Party at the Station Inn

"Room for Roots" at the Station Inn - 2016-09-01

Station Inn, Nashville, TN. September 1, 2016. Official release party for Andy’s 2016 CD, Room for Roots. It was a great night with a cast of thousands: Andy on guitar(s), Maura O’Connell, Jennifer O’Brien, Odessa Settles, and Nellen Dryden on vocals, Tony Paoletta on pedal steel, Kenny Malone on percussion…

The Woman in the Wings

©Andy May, Lauren LeCroy May, James Heffernan (Swift River Music)

Andy: Many folks ask me if this song is about my mom. As I started to write it, I surely was inspired by her example. Then, Lauren LeCroy May added her wise touch to the lyric, and Jim Heffernan brought some good insight, as well. When the song was complete, I felt like we had created something that not only honored my mom but also made a statement about all people who encourage good things in the lives of those around them. Their encouragement lives on long after it is given. (… more, credits, lyrics)

Haggard and the Queen

©Andy May (Swift River Music/BMI)

Andy: This song is a short chapter in my book of true road stories, dedicated to my late friend and band-mate, Tabby Crabb. Tabby and I opened for Merle Haggard and The Strangers – with Leona Williams and Bonnie Owens – in 1978. About that time, we also played a private event held for Kitty Wells, “The Queen of Country Music” and her husband, Johnnie Wright. I am glad to have been a little part of all of that! (… more, credits, lyrics)

Comeback

©Andy May (Swift River Music/BMI)

Behind the Song

Andy: Everybody needs a comeback now and then.

Maura O'Connell, Andy and Nathan Smith - Listening.

Studio Update

2015-02 "Room for Roots" Sessions at Mainframe Studio

View full-size on Flickr

What an amazing week in the studio! Calling in the supporting vocalists – always a lot of fun! Unfortunately, we didn’t get photos of everybody, but here’s a good taste: Maura O’Connell, Brittany Allyn, Joanie Keller Johnson, Odessa Settles, and Bruce MacKay. Then, the legendary Curtis McPeake dropped by and added his banjo to a song. Thanks to all!