Blog Author: Charlene Baker
I started working as a volunteer with Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion in 2002, prior to the third annual event. I co-chaired the festival’s marketing committee and later became chair. When the opportunity to become an employee presented itself in 2010, I never looked back.
I equate my job at BCM as that of a professional cheerleader. Between sending out press releases, working on newsletters, and updates on web and social media, I am constantly shouting praises for our organization and urging folks to visit Bristol. You gotta be clear, flexible, and fast on your feet. I just can’t do the splits.
My background is actually in media, an experience that began as a broadcasting student at East Tennessee State University when I thought it would be fun to work at the campus radio station. I ended up in television working for WCYB-TV, the NBC/Fox/CW affiliate here in the Tri-Cities. From running camera to directing, I eventually joined the marketing and promotions department there. One of the best parts of my job now is having the opportunity to call on my former TV colleagues to pitch story ideas.
As a proud Bristolian and daughter of a musician and luthier – and as a former struggling singer myself – music has always been a big part of my life in one way or another. Sometimes I feel fate has drawn me here, and I am very proud of my work, our organization, and my hometown.
My proudest accomplishment in life is being a wife and mother. When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me out and about with my husband Tim and my daughter Callie – the two loves of my life. We do our best to take part in everything Bristol and our region has to offer, from live music to the great outdoors.
Recent Posts by Charlene Baker
February 22, 2018
By
Charlene Baker
When I go to music festivals, it’s not just about the music. I also always look for something special to bring home with me to remind me of the trip. Generally, I’m on the look-out for a piece of unique […]
December 27, 2017
By
Charlene Baker
Sometimes it ain’t easy living with a musician. Amps and instruments are your furniture. There are long, late nights of waiting at home or holding up a bar stool while he/she is out practicing with the band or playing a […]
October 25, 2017
By
Charlene Baker
The Wizard of Oz has always been my favorite movie. It’s a love I now share with my 8-year-old daughter Callie who, by the way, has gone through dozens of pairs of red ruby slippers since before she could walk. […]
September 20, 2017
By
Charlene Baker
As another stellar Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion has now come to a close, the staff at the Birthplace of Country Music (BCM) is in mourning. Sleep deprived and squinting through bloodshot eyes, we were back in the office on […]
July 21, 2017
By
Charlene Baker
“It’s hot. We’re hungry. Why are we just standing here?” Whiny, yet totally legit complaints heard at every summer festival in existence since the advent of festivals. Why not move on? Find some shade? Go get a snack? You can’t. […]
July 5, 2017
By
Charlene Baker
The primary marketing piece for any music festival or event is the commemorative poster. Companies like Nashville’s Hatch Show Print, Knoxville’s Status Serigraph, and Asheville’s Subject Matter Studio have built their businesses – and stellar reputations – creating distinct artistic visions […]
June 27, 2017
By
Charlene Baker
Over the course of my work at the Birthplace of Country Music, and in particular with Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, I have heard variations of the same sentiment over and over from people who haven’t been to the festival […]
June 23, 2017
By
Charlene Baker
Valerie June Carter is my Momma! She was born in 1929 to Ezra and Maybelle Carter in Maces Springs, Virginia, and by all accounts, especially hers, she came out talking! She was an entertaining baby and absolutely her Daddy’s knock-kneed, […]
June 3, 2017
By
Charlene Baker
In the Technicolor rearview mirror of my childhood, Bristol circa 1970s, I fondly recall shopping downtown on State Street almost exclusively. There was Christy’s Shoes where I’d pine for the shiny black patent leather Mary Janes with ribbons, begging my […]
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