ENTERTAINMENT

Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival announces lineup

Dave Paulson
dnpaulson@tennessean.com

Fine songwriting enthusiasts can start mapping out their schedules for the 23rd annual Tin Pan South Songwriters Festival, which returns to Nashville March 24-28. The festival — presented by the Nashville Songwriters Association International — has released its performer lineup and showcase schedule for the five-day event.

As expected, you'll recognize a number of country favorites — among them Vince Gill, Lady Antebellum's Hillary Scott, Brandy Clark, Larry Gatlin, Charlie Worsham and Craig Campbell. But the 300-plus list covers a lot of bases.

Rockers John Oates (Hall & Oates) and Tom Johnston (The Doobie Brothers) are part of the lineup, along with Christian rockers Brandon Heath and Mac Powell. Former "American Idol" champion Kris Allen will take the stage, as will former "Idol" judge Kara DioGuardi. ABC's "Nashville" star Sam Palladio has a showcase slot, and Chris Carrabba of acoustic rock act Dashboard Confessional is a surprising addition.

Festival showcases will take place in 10 local venues, including The Bluebird Cafe, Station Inn and 3rd & Lindsley. "Fast Access Passes" granting priority admission to all showcases sold out in advance, but tickets to individual concerts will be available at the door. For more information, visit www.tinpansouth.com.