People often get to Nashville and think, “If I could just write with this person or that person, then I’d make it.” But the truth is, if you just hang with your high school class you’ll likely be fine. What do I mean by “high school class”?
I like to think of each year in Nashville as having a new high school class. This year saw a brand new freshman class. Everyone is experiencing similar things — How do I meet people? What’s the best venue to try and play at? What’s a publishing deal? How do I get one?
Try to connect with as many of your “classmates” as you can. In five years, you’ll be astonished at at the number of connections you have and how established in the community you are. Many of you will be having success. And its a shared success. You’ll be in the mix. Those relationships are what will bring you more work and opportunities.
I’m not saying that you don’t ever hang out with upperclassmen (forgive the metaphor). I’m just saying that it’s easier to “get in” with people who are in your class. So start there, keep doing good work, and be patient.