A Musical Twist: Songwriters Take the Stage at ARTS'
This year, ARTS Round the Square 2024 brings something new and exciting to the table—an entire day dedicated to the art of songwriting! For the first time, the Paris Henry County Arts Council will feature an impressive lineup of talented songwriters, celebrating the beauty of original music and storytelling through song. With acoustic sets from local songwriters throughout the day, this year’s event highlights the creativity and heart that goes into crafting lyrics and melodies.
In addition to our roster of songwriters, we’re proud to welcome the Stringed Beats, our only band this year, who will fill the air with their Irish, folk, and old-time music influences. This unique combination of acoustic performances and live band music is sure to make this year’s event truly memorable.
Read on to discover more about the songwriters and musicians performing at this year’s event!
9:00-10am
Mark Johnson
Mark Johnson is a native of Paris and a local real estate agent. Mark has been involved in music since he was young, mainly as a drummer. He has played in several local bands over the years and currently plays drums in the orchestra at First Baptist Church in Paris.
Mark began writing songs as a teenager and songwriting is still one of his favorite hobbies. His influences date back to the late 60’s, early 70’s singer songwriters, and most of his original material leans toward a mix of folk and country.
Mark is also a professional storyteller which he says goes hand in hand with writing songs.
10:00am-12:00pm
Stringed Beats
Stringed Beats is a West Tennessee-based trio that blends the rich traditions of Irish, folk, and old-time music to create a unique and captivating sound. Their performances feature the talented Inge McGrath on violin, guitar, and vocals, Jan Clark on guitar and vocals, and Karen Black on bodhran. Together, they bring a dynamic fusion of harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and rhythmic beats that transport listeners to the roots of Celtic and folk traditions, making them a standout group in the local music scene.
12:00Pm-1:00pm
Lindsey Russell
Lindsey Russell is a country music singer-songwriter from Lexington, Tennessee. She began composing songs at the age of twelve, inspired by her grandparents, who were singer-songwriters, too. Lindsey’s music was heavily influenced by their own rockabilly style, and she particularly enjoys writing songs that capture the “old-school” country music sound. Lindsey is the recent winner of the 2023 West Tennessee Top Voice Competition, and she currently resides in Jackson, Tennessee with her three children.
1:00-3:00pm
Mike Mitchell
Mike Mitchell is a performing songwriter with an Americana/Folk feel that is originally from living in Nashville, TN. Various musicians’ renditions of his songs have allowed his songs to have many labels. He released his first album "North Carolina" in 2009. It has been called a “labor of love” by Gone Country magazine. His second album "Open Mike" was released in 2018 and was recorded in Nashville. In 2023 Mille Ville Records released the single "Memory Train".
3:00-4:00pm
Shannon Davis
Shannon Davis is an Appalachian-born singer-songwriter with deep roots in storytelling and perseverance. Raised by her grandmother, Betty, in Mansfield, Tennessee, Shannon's musical journey was shaped by the strong women in her life. Betty, a singer who was forbidden from following her passion, once told Shannon, "When you grow up, you go sing and don't listen to no man." Shannon took those words to heart, carrying that grit and determination into every song she writes. With her unique blend of Appalachian influence and heartfelt lyrics, Shannon's music reflects the resilience of her upbringing and the stories of those who came before her.
This year’s ARTS Round the Square is not just about visual arts—it’s a full celebration of creativity, with music playing a central role. Whether you’re a fan of live bands, acoustic sets, or songwriting that tells a story, this event offers something special for everyone.
Mark your calendars for September 28th, 2024, and bring your friends and family for a day filled with music, food, and artistic inspiration. We can’t wait to see you there!
Want to see the full list of artists and food trucks that will be part of the event?
Check out our other blog post here with all the details on the incredible visual artists and food vendors who will make this year’s ARTS Round the Square even more special!
