Description: Explore how Tennessee's creative entrepreneurs are navigating industry transitions and building sustainable futures through two unique perspectives. Featuring DeMarcus Akeem Suggs on reimagining Memphis's creative economy through innovative government support, and Nashville indie folk-rock artist Purser on forging an independent path while developing collaborative relationships in a changing music landscape.

Key Topics:

• Building new government structures to support local artists
• Creating artist-centered policies like the Artist Bill of Rights
• Balancing economic impact with community development
• Navigating creative careers during and after pandemic disruptions
• Building sustainable artistic practices alongside day jobs
• Developing collaborative relationships that fuel creativity
• Establishing authentic connection with audiences and community
• Investing in local residents rather than focusing solely on tourism

Featured Guests:

• DeMarcus Akeem Suggs - Director of Creative and Cultural Economy for the city of Memphis; Dance artist; Arts administrator; Educator
• Purser - Independent folk-rock musician from Nashville; Digital marketer for other musicians; Recently released EP "Three Times"

Notable Quotes:

"One thing I'm also looking at in addition to the economy is how are we a hospitable city for artists and cultural workers to be, to also just be and to live." - DeMarcus Akeem Suggs

"As long as you are still making sacrifices, no matter how big or how small, whether that's sacrificing your time, sacrificing some energy, sacrificing some income, as long as you are prioritizing art in at least one sphere of your life, then you're still an artist." - Purser

Connect with our guests:

• DeMarcus: Follow City of Memphis on social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn)
• Purser: pursermusic.com and @pursermusic on social platforms

Music 365 Initiative: Look for Memphis's upcoming program to have live music every day of the week.

Purser's EP Release Show: April 12th in Nashville for "Three Times" EP

Follow Could Be Pretty Cool News: @couldbeprettycool | couldbeprettycool.com | couldbeprettycoolnews.substack.com

Keywords: Tennessee arts, creative economy, Memphis arts office, government arts support, indie musicians, Nashville music scene, artist sustainability, creative careers, pandemic adaptation, cultural policy, artist validation, arts collaboration