We recently connected with Beth Raebeck Hall and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Beth thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I started playing piano at age 3, studied piano for 18 years, had bands, – basically have been obsessed with music, and words my whole life. And, I have always been on stage since I was little, and was always producing things.

I knew I wanted to do something creative but didn’t really understand you could have a career in it, Once I got to college, I realized that was possible.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

The entrepreneurial spirit is in my DNA. Both grandfathers started their own businesses,my Dad had his own business. Both my parents were incredible writers and respected leaders. They had an enormous circle of interesting friends from many walks of life and places and entertained alot. I loved it! Like many other founders, I don’t travel in packs but have a wide group of friends and colleagues.

I’ve been obsessed with music and writing forever. Of course I did all the typical things – chorus, choir, plays, had bands, wrote for whatever publication I could. I even wrote an original musical for our senior play and had a chance to take it off-Broadway, but I just wanted to go to college and get away!

Throughout my career, I’ve made a living writing for myriad communication platforms. Print, agencies, individual clients, radio/tv, and most digital platforms. I did hundreds of voiceovers, on-camera talent stuff. Even had a AAA Radio show, called ‘The Music Row Minute’, If it was creative, I wanted in. Truly, I’ve been on all sides of the creative equation.

One of the most fun things was being a jingle producer, writing and producing for Disney, McDonalds, and Tidy Cat 3.

So, I’ve always been a rebel – I’m that person who says what other people won’t say and have always stood up for the underdogs. The same holds true for my music which is probably why I’ve been able to have success.

Got signed to my first music publishing deal after college and dove headfirst into the music business. Wrote and produced four records. As an indie artist, I learned how to do everything – writing songs, publishing, management, music publicity, and promotion, and started an independent publishing company.

Nashville was small at the time, and I got to know everybody. Because I love people and am a connector, I’ve been involved in industry groups and organizations forever. Am totally blessed to have started when and where I did. It’s why I have such an extensive network today.

A lifelong learner, I’ve been a giant sponge. Fortunately, I’ve worked with and learned from some of the best business people in the world in music, and other areas. Today, I share that knowledge through mentoring and coaching.

Our music companies, MusicRow411 and Superstarsongwriting (www.superstarsongwriting.com) teach people the essential songwriting basics and how to navigate the music business in a no bs way. Our education products are thorough, concise, and super affordable! They’re the real deal.

For many years, I’ve coached hundreds of songwriters, creatives, and founders about what it takes to succeed in business – networking, brand building, and strategic thinking. On a limited basis, I do group coaching in a mastermind setting. Reach out if that’s of interest to you.

Most importantly, I believe everybody matters and we all have unique gifts and a purpose. What sets me apart from others is I tell people what they need to hear, not what they want to hear. My goal is to help them move the needle and make hard decisions that benefit them and their business. My experience is extensive; I have a 360-degree view of what’s needed to succeed and move forward.

In addition, I’ve served as a Mentor for over 100 Music Tech companies and other startups. I’m a Master Mentor at Vanderbilt University’s Launch Accelerator & Wondry, the Nashville Entrepreneur Center, GRAMMY U, the Association of Independent Music Publishers, and several other groups. Can you tell I love people and teaching?

Professionally, I’m most proud of being nominated for a GRAMMY in Best Contemporary Blues – (with no record label or publicist) and also for co-founding and branding Tin Pan South, (the largest songwriting festival in the world). Personally, my greatest hits are my 3 grown children and being married for 42 years!

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Throughout history, creative people have been misunderstood, marginalized, and vastly underpaid. As a society, we need to encourage opportunities and education for young people. Creative talent takes many forms. It’s the foundation for innovation.

The arts uplift people and bring much-needed human connection. Increased funding is absolutely necessary to support this ecosystem and the people who make magic.

By the same token, creatives need mental health support. Many people struggle with depression and other conditions. More affordable resources need to be available on a wider basis. With education and resources, people who suffer from mental health issues can lead productive lives.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

At this point in my life, it’s very important to me to help younger people learn the right ways to do things, and to be supported. Most people today don’t have access to experienced older people or mentors who can help songwriters and artists sift through the confusing world of the arts. Creators are brands and small businesses and they need help.

Being creative, writing songs and music, and writing as a living was a priceless gift. Sadly, many young people have no idea how to go about pursuing a career path. They believe in a ‘fantasy story’ about making it and lack the opportunity for meaningful connections.

Younger people need to understand the realities, both creative and economic, of what they must face and deal with. Sometimes, people just need to treat their art as a hobby.

My goal is to help people discover their gifts, speak in their own voice, and develop as people first, then as creators. The two are inextricably intertwined. Young people need both education and support to create meaningful lives.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.superstarsongwriting.com www.musicrow411.co
• Instagram: @musicrow411
• Facebook: MusicRow411
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethraebeckhall
• Youtube: MusicRow411

Image Credits
The Wondry picture – credit Vanderbilt University Wondry Center for Innovation & Design