Near the heart of Nashville, hundreds of GRAMMY U members eagerly assembled to gain insight from seasoned touring music professionals.

Held at the Johnson Theater at Belmont University on Oct. 21, the GRAMMY U Fall Summit centered on the world of live music and touring. Panel-style discussions from Nashville-based acts Greta Van Fleet and Lainey Wilson touched on topics such as the art of self-care on the road and the intricacies of show production, equipping attendees with invaluable advice toward building a thriving career within the live music industry.

Anticipation and excitement wafted through the air as attendees took their seats to watch the panels moderated by Theresa Wolters, the Vice President of Human & Health Services at MusiCares, and songwriter/producer Dallas Wilson.

"Resilience on the Road is such an important initiative," Wolters said. "Through conversations like we had at the Grammy U Fall Summit, we have an opportunity to get resources and support into the hands of more music professionals and shape the way we approach life on the road."

Laykin Milton, GRAMMY U member from the Nashville Chapter, arrived more than an hour early to secure a front row seat for the panel discussions. She expressed her appreciation for the exclusive insights shared by the touring professionals, as the advice aligns with her aspirations of pursuing a career in the live music industry.

GRAMMY U members also had the opportunity to collect exclusive branded merchandise, network with their fellow peers, and attend a lively afterparty at Riverside Revival. GRAMMY U member Peedy Chavis kicked off the afterparty festivities, and local country artists Lindsay Ell and Lily Rose gave electrifying performances while attendees got a glimpse into the live music space.

If you missed the live broadcast, you can still catch the panel discussions on YouTube here. Read on for the five pieces of advice from the 2023 GRAMMY U Fall Summit in Nashville.

Family Comes First

Greta Van Fleet with moderator Theresa Wolters ┃Ed Rode

Greta Van Fleet consists of three brothers, though Josh, Jake, and Sam Kiszka still consider their additional bandmate, Daniel Wagner, to be part of their family. 

Building upon the idea of keeping a tight circle, the band mentioned how family goes beyond blood relation and that it is paramount to surround yourself with the right people.

"There is a tight-knit nature to what we do," said Jake when asked about how to navigate the maintenance of relationships while on tour. "Family, I think, is at the peak of it."

Prioritize Taking Breaks 

Many might expect actual live performances to be the most exhausting part of touring, but for Greta Van Fleet, it’s a different factor: the constant traveling. When you’re constantly bouncing from one place to another, it can become easy to get stuck in a dizzying loop.

"As fun as [touring] can be, it can also be equally as exhausting," Josh said. "It is about finding the time for rest and exercise, which is integral."

The band emphasized the importance of taking a step back to regain clarity. Whether it be physically exercising or connecting with nature, Greta Van Fleet stressed the significance of disconnecting every once in a while from the fast lifestyle that accompanies touring. Without stepping back or taking breaks, that touring would be unsustainable.

There’s Never An 'I' In Team

Although Lainey Wilson may be a solo artist, the country singer made a point to mention the crucial role of her behind-the-scenes touring crew. Assembling the right touring team can make or break a run, she noted, and should be one of the most important considerations when going on tour.

"It’s gotta be the right vibe," Lainey said when asked about her approach toward the crew selection process. "One bad egg can throw it all off."

Moderator Dallas Wilson noted that you're with your tour crew around the clock — making it imperative to prioritize good character and connection above all else.

Embrace Your Roots & Unique Quirks

Renowned for her eclectic style, Lainey characterizes her musical and sartorial aesthetic as "Bell Bottom Country." It’s also the title of her fourth studio album.

"[Bell Bottom Country] is about finding whatever it is about you that makes you unique and different and leaning into it as much as you possibly can," Lainey said. "It can be where you’re from, the way that you talk, the way that you dress, your story — whatever it is, it’s about embracing that."

Self-expression through wardrobe is just as key as self-expression through music. For Lainey, it’s imperative to embody your own "Bell Bottom Country," in whatever form that resonates for you. 

Don’t Be Afraid To Assert Yourself

Meg Miller, Lainey's tour manager, acknowledged that the industry can still feel like a "boy's club." However, Miller spotlighted the importance of confidently occupying space in the live music arena.

"You’re meant to be there," Miller stressed. "You’re a part of it."

Miller was firm in rejecting the notion that women in the industry should alter their behavior to please others. She emphasized that she approaches every situation with the same confidence and composure, as any other established professional would.

10 Artists Who Are Outspoken About Mental Health: Billie Eilish, Selena Gomez, Shawn Mendes & More