Cody Belew's Success Providing Inspiration for Other Arkansans
By: Brittney Johnson, KARK 4 News
Updated: November 13, 2012
"The Voice" contestant and Arkansas native Cody Belew's first performance in Nashville, Tenn. was at Whiskey Bent, where bands are on from noon until 3:00 a.m. seven days a week.
That's just how tough competition is in the Music City.
Carrying his guitar case, Jerry Don is getting the hang of his new life in Nashville.
"It's the one place for me I can do what I love soon and do it full time," he says.
Like voice contestant Cody Belew, he came here after playing for years in his home state of Arkansas.
They're among countless musicians relocating in hopes of getting the exposure they couldn't back home.
"It can be intimidating, you have to stick to your guns of you believe in something," Jerry Don says.
Andy Aquino's inbox is bombarded by dozens hoping for a spot at Rutledge live music venue.
"There are a lot of 'next big things' in this town," he says. "It's like being struck by lightning, the chances of really making it as far as you can. I guess it can be really discouraging for someone like Cody who really sees beyond Nashville."
But Cody's friends say the competition couldn't knock his confidence.
Cody performed only a couple of times in Nashville before heading To Los Angeles to strut his stuff for Cee Lo and company in front of millions.
His story is now a beacon of hope for others hoping to make it in Music City.
"It's always inspiring, it's always great to hear from someone at least close to your hometown excelling in your career or doing really well in it."
That's just how tough competition is in the Music City.
Carrying his guitar case, Jerry Don is getting the hang of his new life in Nashville.
"It's the one place for me I can do what I love soon and do it full time," he says.
Like voice contestant Cody Belew, he came here after playing for years in his home state of Arkansas.
They're among countless musicians relocating in hopes of getting the exposure they couldn't back home.
"It can be intimidating, you have to stick to your guns of you believe in something," Jerry Don says.
Andy Aquino's inbox is bombarded by dozens hoping for a spot at Rutledge live music venue.
"There are a lot of 'next big things' in this town," he says. "It's like being struck by lightning, the chances of really making it as far as you can. I guess it can be really discouraging for someone like Cody who really sees beyond Nashville."
But Cody's friends say the competition couldn't knock his confidence.
Cody performed only a couple of times in Nashville before heading To Los Angeles to strut his stuff for Cee Lo and company in front of millions.
His story is now a beacon of hope for others hoping to make it in Music City.
"It's always inspiring, it's always great to hear from someone at least close to your hometown excelling in your career or doing really well in it."
