Meet Al Andrews | Founder of Porter’s Call

We had the good fortune of connecting with Al Andrews and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Al, how do you think about risk?
I can’t imagine a life without risk, daring to move into the unknown. Whether it’s in my personal life or in the vocation I’ve chosen, I’m not sure if there’s any way to grow without it. When I think about my life/career, every significant movement forward involved risk.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My passion has been to create a safe and confidential place for recording artists – a place where they can step off the stage, and with a trusted guide, deal with the issues they face in the crazy and wonderful world of music. One of the things that sets us apart is that our staff knows and understands the music industry, and we’re not distracted by the fame or notoriety of our clients. Another uniqueness is that there is no charge for our services. In an industry where the artist is the commodity, most everyone makes money from them. By taking money off the table, we find that it greatly increases trust.

As to what I’m most excited about – gosh, there are several things. The first is that Porter’s Call is set up to continue into the future with new leadership. I’ve just retired after 23 years, and it thrills me to know that this work will go on past my tenure here. I’m so proud that artists have a place to get help, and so glad to have been able to have a front row seat to watch them change and grow. I’m proud too that Porter’s Call has been embraced and supported by the Nashville music community. I feel like we’re in this together.

Was it easy? Not at all. However, it didn’t seem as hard because I was surrounded by an incredible board and a staff who believed in the mission. In hard times, we held each other up. I had one board president who, when things were rough financially and we wondered if the funds would come in, always said, “Looks like it’s time for God to show off again!” And sure enough, the funds came in. Hers was an often repeated phrase!

Our brand is about hope and story. Helping artists to look at their lives, tell a better story, and share that story through song to a world that needs it – what a privilege!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
DAY 1. Breakfast at the Cafe at Thistle Farms. It’s a cafe with a story. Thistle Farms is a community that helps women get off the streets, heal from their traumas, and live productive lives. The Cafe is a part of that. After breakfast, we’ll tour the facility and meet some incredible people. Afternoon – Tour of the Ryman and, if the stars align, a show at the Ryman that night.

Day 2. Brunch at Pinewood Social, and a bowling game at their vintage alley. Afternoon – Country Music Hall of Fame Dinner: downtown at Etch.

Day 3. Take out from Deg Thai, my favorite Thai Lunch and tour of Cheekwood Gardens. Evening – A night at the Bluebird Cafe

Day 4. A day in Franklin, TN, starting with breakfast at Merridee’s. A tour of one of the historical sites. Followed by shopping in downtown Franklin. Dinner: Cork and Cow in Franklin.

Day 5. A morning at the National Museum of African American Music. Dinner: Good Tex/Mex at Superica, followed by a hang at Rudy’s Jazz Room, just down the street.

Day 6. Options: A Sounds game. Geodis Park for a Nashville Soccer Game. A night on Broadway. Pontoon Boat trip on Percy Priest Lake.

Thanks so much, Call or write with any questions.

Best,

Al Andrews

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have two shout-outs!

The first is my wife Nita. When I began thinking about starting a non-profit, offering free counsel and support to recording artists, I had a successful private counseling practice. When I presented her with this idea, I didn’t know how she’d react, but knew it would be a reasonable response for her to say, “Are you crazy?” Instead, she said “Let’s do it!” and she’s been my biggest supporter ever since.

The second is my dear friend, Peter York, former Chairman/CEO of Capitol Christian Music Group. 24 years ago, I went to Peter with this idea of coming alongside artists with mental health support. My plan was to invite 5 labels to buy a day of my counseling practice, offering my services to artists for free. Peter, the first leader I visited, did just that. He not only bought a day off. my practice, but said, “My only stipulation is that you must be willing to see any artist from any label, not just ours. If this is something helpful to artists, it’s helpful to every artist.”

Peter’s spirit of generosity spread to other labels and other leaders and is responsible for helping Porter’s Call to get started. I’ll forever be grateful for his encouragement and leadership.

Website: https://www.porterscall.com

Instagram: porterscall

Image Credits
No names to be credited.