Steve McWilliam’s and Deb Bionaccorsi’s (The Truehearts) will be playing Magnolia Roads American Roots Hoedown Fri. April 26th at 9:00pm. A portion of the proceeds from American Roots Hoedown IV will be donated to the Ben Eyestone Fund at Music Health Alliance.
Thank you so much for talking with us! What are you looking forward to most playing the Magnolia Roads American Roots Hoedown IV?
We are looking forward to meeting and hearing the other bands and being a part of a Magnolia Roads event. We've gone to the American Roots Hoedown in the past and always loved the music so we are excited to be on the bill. We always look forward to playing with our band at The 5 Spot, one of our favorite places to play and hear music in Nashville.
A portion of the proceeds from the show will be donated to the Ben Eyestone Fund at Music Health Alliance. What does that mean to you to give back?
It's a great cause. Any one of us at any time can be struck with an unexpected illness or injury. It's great to know that there is someone out there who cares and who would be willing to help cover the costs medical care which can be overwhelming.
What song are you most excited for old and new fans to hear?
"Mamzelle Marie." It's the newest song on our upcoming album. It was inspired by a historical figure that we both have an affinity for, the New Orleans Voodoo Queen, Marie LaVeau.
What’s a song you may have written ‘just for you,’ but has had a lot of response from listeners?
"Hey, Hey." It seemed almost too simple when we wrote it, but sometimes simple is good. The 'carpe diem' theme of the song seems to connect with people.
Tell us about your new music that is coming out.
We are releasing a new album of original music on 6/21, called Songs for Spike. It's more rocking than our last album and it takes a close look at the American experience. On this album we've collaborated with some of Nashville's finest, including Richard Bailey of The Steeldrivers and Paul Niehaus of Calexico and of course our amazing producer Dave Coleman and band, Brian Hinchliffe (bass) and Pete Pulkrabek (drums).
At the end of the day, what do you hope is the message of your music? What do you hope people take away from your songs?
Hope and optimism. Despite all we see day to day, we still believe in the good in our fellow man. It takes hope to make change, so we've got to hang on to that hope. We hope that our music, even if it sometimes tackles dark issues and themes, carries with it that spirit of love and light.
What do you do on a day off in Nashville, no work allowed?
First of all, quality time with our puppy! Usually a long walk in Shelby Park and maybe a trip to Wags and Whiskers for a bath and new treats and toys. We like to hit up our favorite record and thrift stores. And then date night, usually dinner and a movie, at home, when we promptly fall asleep on the couch.
Who is the bigger foodie in the band?
I don't know who is a bigger foodie. We both love eating! We are vegetarians and cook a lot at home. We are always looking for new recipes and new unique, healthy and delicious flavors. We love to make everything from Shakshuka to vegetarian Reuben's and we are always working on perfecting veggie lasagna and chili.
Being a Nashvillian, what are some of your favorite dishes and where are the best places to find them?
Wild Cow has tons of amazing dishes, one of them being the vegetarian Reuben that first inspired us to make our own. Graze has an incredible vegan tiramisu that even non-veggie types would LOVE. Rosepepper is one of our favorites especially the vegetable tamales. We love Indian food and Green Chili in Madison is one of our favorites. The falafel platter at King Solomon on Gallatin is a favorite on nights we don't feel like cooking. Also the beans and 3 at Calypso is great. Deb especially loves the orzo salad and the callaloo and Steve loves the sweet potatoes.
Is there a place you haven't ate you have been dying to go?
Folk and Saint Anejo.
If you could be sponsored by one food/drink brand who would it be and why?
There's a company called Field Roast, an artisan, vegan, grain-meat company that we like. We were introduced to their foods at The Gentle Barn Tennessee, a farm animal rescue in Christiana, TN. We love their products and we would love to spread the word that you can eat delicious, hearty plant based foods that are good for you and the planet.
Any last words for our readers and your fans? How do they connect with you? Come to the Magnolia Roads American Roots Hoedown IV! So many great bands on both nights, including our friend and environmental activist, Mike Younger. Follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/thetruehearts) to find out when we're playing and what we are up to and get yourself a copy of our new album, "Songs for Spike" on June 21st! Or go to our website, www.thetruehearts.com .
Magnolia Roads presents the fourth annual American Roots Hoedown, inspired by the music that grew from the roots of America at honky-tonks and dive bars, juke joints and roadhouses to backyards and campfires. It will feature artists who epitomize American Roots music through their blend of Bluegrass, Blues, Country, Folk, Funk, and Rock n Roll, flavored with the deep grooves of the South and an occasional West Coast psychedelic twirl. A showcase of the Magnolia Roads family of artists and friends. Twelve bands over two nights The 5 Spot located at 1006 Forrest Ave., Nashville, TN 37206.
A portion of the proceeds from American Roots Hoedown IV will be donated to the Ben Eyestone Fund at Music Health Alliance. The event will include a silent auction to raise funds for the non-profit advocacy group; the Alliance provides for members of the music community. www.musichealthalliance.com
Founders Brewing Co. is sponsoring the event and their brews will be available on draft and in cans both nights. www.foundersbrewing.com
GHS Strings is also sponsoring the event. http://www.ghsstrings.com
CommUNITY Canvas Project will be hosting a live art project for attendees who will be invited to paint, doodle, or play on a big blank canvas.
American Roots Hoedown IV Night One April 26, 2019: 9:00-9:35 The Truehearts 9:50-10:30 Chris Wilson & The Heresy 10:45-11:35 Don Gallardo & How Far West 11:50-12:40 Funkyjenn & The Fringe Benefits American Roots Hoedown IV Night Two April 27, 2019: 6:00-6:20 Bryan Haraway 6:25-6:45 Mike Younger 6:55-7:30 Jason Daniels Band 7:45-8:30 Jeff Mix & The Songhearts 8:45-9:30 Arkansas Dave 9:45-10:30 Rich Mahan Band 10:45-11:35 Bonnie Blue 11:50 Silent Auction winners announcement 11:55-1:15 Lady Couch