In 1973, the 20-year-old Don Schlitz moved from Durham, North Carolina to Nashville, Tennessee with just $80 in cash and a country music dream. For years, he worked outside of the music industry while honing his craft.
Eventually, two songwriters on Music Row, Bob McDill and Bobby Bare, recognized his talent and mentored him. He then paired up with musician Paul Overstreet at The Bluebird Cafe listening room, spearheading their “In the Round” series featuring intimate performances by songwriters and the stories behind their works. The performance style became a mainstay in Nashville culture, and his creative work with Overstreet produced multiple hits.




