help your career, help a fellow songwriter

$

610

Rusty Gaston figured out early that his passion was to be on the business side of the music industry. Right out of college he headed for Nashville where he roomed with fellow Texan and aspiring artist Keith Anderson.

Music Row veteran Jerry Smith immediately recognized Rusty's potential and hired him to work for his artist-development company SmithHaven Music. While there he helped land deals for Yankee Grey and rock artist Will Hoge. Rusty was the first person to bring the amazing talents of Jeff Bates to Nashville and he stood by him through a drug bust and prison sentence. His support helped Jeff turn his life around and Rusty finally landed him a deal on RCA.

That kind of track-record and dedication doesn't go unnoticed and at the ripe old age of 24 he was hired as General Manager of Song Garden, the publishing company owned by Byron Gallimore, producer of top acts Tim McGraw, Faith Hill and JoDee Messina and many more. Under Rusty's leadership the company had over 200 cuts including "In My Daughter's Eyes" (Martina Mc Bride), "Something's Gotta Give (LeeAnn Rimes) and "You're Like Coming Home" (Lonestar).

When he was ready to strike out on his own he partnered with hit writers Tim Nichols (Live Like You Were Dying) and Connie Harrington (Girls Lie Too) to form This Music, a joint venture with Warner Chappell. In only two years of operation this new company has had 24 cuts including the singles Tim McGraw's "Unbroken" and Jack Ingram's "Wherever You Are."

As busy as he is running companies and getting hits for his staff-writers, Rusty is well known for his generous spirit and his willingness to take time to listen to talented new writers. He enjoys giving back to the town that has given him success and he is giving 30 minutes of his time to help Nashville songwriter Lorna Flowers.

Lorna has been a bright light in ther Nashville songwriter scene for years. She is well known and loved for her up-beat personality, her support for her friends and cowriters and her willingness to take time helping newcomers learn the lay of the land. Now that cancer is getting in her way Music Row has rallied to make sure she has the money she needs to win the fight.

If you win this auction you can schedule 30 minutes to spend with Rusty playing your songs for him or just asking questions about the music business and your career. Every dollar (minus Ebay fees) will go to help Lorna pay for medical treatment.

The appointment must be scheduled at a time convenient for Rusty and made within one year.

If you can't bid but want to help you can send a donation through Pay Pal to lornasbenefit@hotmail.com or mail a check to Lorna Flowers, 9 Music Square South #369, Nashville TN 37203.