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Brittney Spencer
ACM Hats Off to Alumni
The 2022 Academy of Country Music Awards show saw plenty of representation for MTSU. Michael Knox (’91, Recording Industry) won a hat trophy for producing the ACM single of the year (“If I Didn’t Love You,” Jason Aldean and Carrie Underwood). Michael Hardy (’13, Commercial Songwriting), known as Hardy professionally, was named ACM songwriter of the year and nominated for best new artist. Former students performing included Chris Young, the top nominee with seven nods, and Mitchell Tenpenny (’12, Commercial Songwriting); Brittney Spencer (Public Relations, ’17); and nominee Hillary Scott of Lady A.
mtsunews.com/acm-awards-2022
Pet Project for Student Stress
Love on a Leash pet therapy program has partnered with the CME Mental Health Committee to connect stressed-out students with unconditionally loving furry friends. In recent semesters, including this spring and fall, the volunteer organization has visited the Bragg Media and Entertainment Building on a scheduled day every month. Especially in the tumultuous time before finals, students may find that the opportunity to connect with these animals is just the reprieve they’re seeking. The Nashville chapter, which mostly boasts dogs of varying breeds, also visits nursing homes, hospitals, schools, small businesses, libraries, and even individuals who need a little brightness in their day.
mtsunews.com/love-on-a-leash-pet-therapy-program-helpsbrighten-students-day/
Studio Synergy
The lead guitar is ringing. The snare and the bass are keeping the beat. The horns are perfection. The vocalists are just right. Sometimes the human element and the technology all fit together, as several Recording Industry and School of Music students learn during “Studio Saturdays.” Making use of the new Main Street Studios, Recording Arts and Technologies master’s students and Audio Production students record performances by music majors to showcase artistry on both sides of the studio glass. The interdepartmental collaboration provides professional experience before they’re officially professionals.
mtsunews.com/studio-saturdays-fall21
Torrance “Street Symphony” Esmond
Distinguished Honor
Known by the rap moniker “Street Symphony,” under which he won Grammy (twice), Dove, and Stellar awards, producersongwriter Torrance Esmond (’03) introduces himself lately by his birth name, and as the founder of Track or Die, a production and music publishing company. Esmond, who earned MTSU’s 2021–22 Distinguished Alumni Award, has created a scholarship, and is an adjunct faculty member who teaches Hip-Hop/R&B Songwriting in the Recording Industry program, where he earned his degree. “It was a scholarship that helped me get through college,” he said. “I thought it would be a great way to give back to the university that gave to me.”
