Conversations with Missy: Mark MacKay at The Ryman
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CMA Fest 2019 with Missy: Mark Mackay
When I received a text message from Mark MacKay telling me that he was going to be opening for the one and only Ted Nugent at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee, I was beyond excited for him. When he then asked me if I would be the one to interview him and his band backstage on the day of the show, I was completely blown away and grateful that he thought of me. Honored to have been asked to take part in such a special moment for MacKay, I wanted to make sure that Center Stage Magazine was able to be there. Thankfully, my schedule was cleared and we were able to attend.
Arriving a few minutes before the band, both Tommy and I were able to watch each of the guys and their guests enter the Johnny Cash room with an abundance of happiness easily seen through the smiles on their faces.
As we sat for our very fun and extremely special on-camera conversation, I knew that we were about to share a very memorable moment together. What I did not realize was that for one of the band members, this moment of being at the Ryman had another reason for being momentous. In fact, no one knew until then why this experience of performing on the Ryman stage was indeed as extraordinary as it really was for him.
Continuing our fun conversation in a room where legends like Cash once were, MacKay shared that one of his inspirations is the late Glen Campbell. While most country artists will agree, Mackay explained the reasons why he gravitated to Campbell as an influence to him as an artist. When the rest of the band was asked about their influences, they just all agreed that Campbell was indeed a great influencer. Along with Cash, Campbell has definitely left a long-lasting impression on many artists today and I have no doubt that Mackay will leave one on you as well.
For more information on MacKay, please visit his website and be sure to follow him on social media. If you do not yet have a copy of Trials and Tribulations, I encourage you to click the link below to grab your copy today. You will love it. ~Missy
About Missy Wolf
Co-Founder, Editor, Journalist & Vice President of the American Country Music AssociationFrom an early age I knew music and entertainment were in my blood. I have always been enamored with the idea of being in this industry, though I never wanted to be a front and center "Star". Taking the audience behind the scenes for up close conversations with the artists they love is where I want to be. Life in lyrics has always been my style, so as my favorite country artist Wade Hayes sings, I am living my life and chasing my dreams! Conducting interviews, meeting talented people and sharing stories and adventure are my passion. My new favorite hashtag is #iaskyouanswer, so stay tuned for more interviews, articles and adventures!
