What is NSAI?
Founded in 1967, Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) is the world’s largest not-for-profit trade association for songwriters. NSAI’s current membership of more than 5,000 amature and professional songwriters spans the United States and six other countries. NSAI is committed to the education, elevation, and celebration of professional and amateur songwriters, regardless of musical genre. NSAI is also firmly committed to protecting the legal rights of songwriters everywhere and routinely plays a pivotal role in the advancement of federal legislation that furthers the interests of music creators.
International Mission Statement
“The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) consists of a body of creative minds, including songwriters from all genres of music, professional and amateur, who are committed to protecting the rights and future of the profession of songwriting, and to educate, elevate, and celebrate the songwriter and to act as a unifying force within the music community and the community at large.”
“It All Begins With A Song”
These words are more than simply a slogan for NSAI and its members and leaders. Indeed, they convey immediately what NSAI is all about – the fundamental recognition that without original musical compositions, there is no music industry.
Membership Benefits
The benefits of belonging to NSAI far exceed the cost, particularly for those members who take advantage of NSAI’s extensive regional chapter network. The following are just some of the many benefits of NSAI membership:
- Legislative Support
- Song Evaluations
- Online Video Library
- Regional Chapters
- Exclusive Events
- One-On-One Mentoring
- Nashville Workshops
- Member Hotspots
- Access to NSAI’s Music Row Facilities
The Bluebird Café
Most musicians are familiar with Nashville’s Bluebird Café, the legendary venue in which some of country music’s most successful songwriters and musical artists were first discovered. Recognizing NSAI’s more than 40 years of service to songwriters and the craft of songwriting, in 2008, The Bluebird Café’s founder and original owner sold the venue to NSAI. NSAI recognizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of this musical institution and continues to operate The Bluebird in the same fashion as its original ownership.
For years, The Bluebird Café has strictly limited auditions for its famous Sunday Writers Night to Nashville residents and those who reside within 100 miles of Nashville. However, active members of NSAI regional chapters (such as the NSAI Charleston, WV Chapter) are the only exceptions to this rule. This is just one of the many benefits of NSAI membership.
Please visit The Bluebird Café website for more information about the venue, to view its calendar of events, and to reserve seats for an upcoming show.
More Information About NSAI
For more information about NSAI’s history and leadership, the many benefits of membership, or to become a member, please visit the NSAI website.
