Sally Jaye Smithwick
Nashville,TN
Summary
Accomplished Songwriter/Artist and Producer with a proven track record of enhancing song quality and artist careers, notably with Grammy-nominated Brent Cobb. Expert in lyric writing and musical collaboration, I've significantly contributed to projects across TV, film, and live performances. My work at Cafe Rooster Records showcases my ability to innovate and lead successful creative projects, raising substantial funds for various causes and helping launch careers for independent artists.
Overview
44
44
years of professional experience
Work History
Songwriter/Artist
Self Employed Writer
01.1993 - Current
- Songwriter with cuts for Grammy-nominated artist, Brent Cobb, Leah Blevins, Pink Birds, The Rodgers, Brian Wright, Ladies Gun Club, The Bennett Cale Project and my own solo albums.
- Improved overall song quality by consistently seeking feedback from peers and mentors within the industry and co-writing with multiple Grammy nominated artists, HIT writers and indie writers including Kim Richey, Mando Saenz, Aaron Lee Tasjan, Leah Blevins, Lilly Hiatt, Jamie Lin Wilson, Jaime Wyatt and more.
- Adapted writing style to fit artist''s voice while preserving the authentic message of each song produced.
- Songwriter/artist for multiple feature films and Network Television series
- Toured as a singer/songwriter/musician that has shared the stage with Patty Griffin, Allison Moorer, Civil Wars, Aaron Lee Tasjan, America, Lucinda Williams, Shooter Jennings, Lilly Hiatt, The Mavericks, and more.
- Contributed instrumental arrangements when needed, demonstrating versatility beyond lyric-writing capabilities.
- Created compelling demo recordings that effectively showcased songwriting skills, leading to increased interest from publishers or record labels.
- Established a positive reputation among fellow musicians through consistent professionalism during co-writing sessions.
- Mentored aspiring songwriters through workshops and one-on-one sessions
- Developed thought-provoking lyrics that resonated with fans, leading to a growing fan base and social media following.
- Played various instruments professionally, including guitar, piano and drums.
Producer
Live From Little Hollywood
02.2024 - Current
- Presented production ideas and determined creative scenarios for production and delivery for talk/variety show that showcases songwriters
- Oversaw post-production processes, including video editing and sound mixing, to ensure a polished final product.
- Developed schedules for production and editing
- Coordinated logistics, schedules, and talent management for smooth production flow and optimal results.
Creative Director
Cafe Rooster Records
09.2016 - Current
- Launched careers for independent artists making music across genres that include singer/songwriter, Americana, and rock n roll.
- Monitored industry trends to keep creative materials fresh and engaging.
- Negotiated worldwide distribution deal for artists that included digital and placement in physical stores.
- Oversaw publicity campaigns for all artists securing stories in major media outlets such as Rolling Stone, Pop Matters, Associated Press, Chicago Tribune, Philadelphia Inquirer, American Songwriter, The Tennessean, and many more.
- Produced five AmericanaFest events with 600-700 in attendance.
- Produced two live Gospel albums at historic 250+ year old church in Newton, NC to raise money for Feed the Children
- Produced Holiday album with various Nashville artists to raise money for Southern Alliance for People and Animal Welfare
- Produced and released on Cafe Rooster Records Strange Freedom: Songs of Love and Protest with various artists including Mary Gauthier. Proceeds went to ACLU and Planned Parenthood
- Produced and participated in various fundraising shows for Musicares, Musician’s Health Alliance, Guitars 4 Vets, Second Harvest Food Bank, and more.
Actor
Self-employeed
04.1980 - Current
- Began acting as a child professionally in television and onstage
- Studied musical theater at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music (2 years)
- Recurring actor in CBS TV series with highlights such as playing alongside Oscar winning actor, Tess Harper and singing with Judy Collins
- Co-starring role in the feature film playing alongside Oscar nominated actor, Jon Hawkes, and performing music in scenes
Education
BBA - Music Business
Belmont University
Nashville, TN08.1996
Skills
- Lyric Writing
- Song Structure
- Performance skills
- Melody Creation
- Instrument Proficiency
- Recording Techniques
- Genre Versatility
- Music Publishing
- Music Licensing
- Musical Collaboration
Timeline
Producer
Live From Little Hollywood
02.2024 - Current
Creative Director
Cafe Rooster Records
09.2016 - Current
Songwriter/Artist
Self Employed Writer
01.1993 - Current
Actor
Self-employeed
04.1980 - Current
BBA - Music Business
Belmont University
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