Meet Rebekah Cole | Independent Promoter

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

Hi Rebekah, what’s your definition for success?
Success is knowing at the end of night knowing your actions and words were full of integrity . No matter how great of a turn out to a show, or how bad a turn out could have been – you showed kindness and respect to everyone involved. Success is making sure every band that plays one of my shows has an amazing time and is able to perform at their best level. It’s having a venue be excited to read your next email.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am always most excited about seeing the bands I have hosted in small clubs announce a huge festival date or that they are now touring as an opener for a big touring band. Knowing that I had a small part, as a stepping stone, just bring me so much joy. Seeing bands you have known about and worked with for years grow and thrive is the best feeling.

I think what sets me apart is that I actually care about the wellbeing of musicians and want them to have the best possible night. Not that others don’t; but I love going the extra mile for touring artists because I know how difficult life on the road can be.
I also pride myself in communication; whether it be with the venue, touring manager, or sound engineer – I want to make sure everyone is on the same page so there are no surprises and the night can be as smooth as possible.

It hasn’t been easy – I have definitely had some not so good nights along the way. I’ve had moments where I second guessed if I should continue booking shows or not. I have had to learn how to effectively communicate, I have had to learn that asking questions is ok, not knowing everything right away is ok.; and that not everyone has it together 100% of the time. The biggest lesson I have learned is that you have take ownership when you mess up and do your best to mediate the situation quickly.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love the suburbs that surround Nashville – so many little pockets of adventure. East Nashville has a ton of local shops and unique restaurants. I am also partial to Columbia, the town square has become vibrant and full of local shops and restaurants as well. Franklin has a ton of history and I love touring the historical homes.
-The Listening Room is a great ‘touristy’ option without the crazy of Broadway.
-The Cobra always has great heavy shows to check out.
-Tubing down the Duck River is so beautiful and tranquil.
-My go-to breakfast/brunch favorite is Fido in Hillsboro Village.
-Eating at Blanco before going to a Preds game has also become a tradition.
I am partial to just parking somewhere and walking around with no plan – seeing what you find is half the fun.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My mom definitely deserves recognition. I started booking shows at my church when I was a teenager. She has always been supportive, even though she doesn’t understand how one can listen to ‘screaming music’. Whether it’s cooking for the bands, or just asking me how everything went – she has never once told me to quit or how I should do things. Always there for support and guidance when needed.

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Image Credits
@capturedbykharris snapped the two middle photo’s!