The Genesis Sessions: Where Songs Begin

Join us for an inspiring evening of music, storytelling, and fellowship at "The Genesis Sessions: Where Songs Begin".

A Christian Writer's Round/Concert celebrating original songs and the stories behind them.

Hosted at the Farragut Church of Christ in Farragut, Tennessee, this FREE EVENT brings together talented Christian songwriters to share their heartfelt creations and the faith-filled journeys that inspired them.

Event Details:

When: Typically every 3rd Thursday of the month (next date October 16th)

Location: Farragut Church of Christ

136 Smith Rd, Knoxville, TN 37934

Time:

Doors open at 6:00PM

Concert: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Admission: Free to the public

Don’t miss this monthly opportunity to connect with others, be inspired by original songs of faith, and hear the stories behind the music. Whether you're a music enthusiast, a fellow songwriter, or simply someone who loves uplifting worship or songs with a message of hope. The Genesis Sessions offers a joyful space of creativity, encouragement, and praise.

No tickets or registration required, just come as you are and enjoy a night of heartfelt music and fellowship.

"The Genesis Sessions: Where Songs Begin", because every song has a story, and every story begins with Him.

THIS MONTH'S SONGWRITERS

Meet The Songwriters

Karen Bowles: Born and raised in the majestic mountains of East Tennessee, Karen cut her teeth on gospel, country, pop and blues. Being influenced by great artists such as Dolly Parton, Roy Acuff and Elvis Presley, Karen fell in love with meaningful songs.

Karen has been writing song since the 1980’s while raising her children. She is a member of the Knoxville Songwriters Association and continues to write, co-write and perform with other songwriters. Her instruments of choice are the baritone ukulele and the 4 stringed tenor guitar.

Karen, along with KSA members David Lauver and Bobby Johnston have had two songs co-written and produced with and by Jerry Salley of Billy Blue Record Label in Nashville. The first song, titled "Appalachian Blue" was recorded by Kristy Cox.

"Appalachian Blue" was released January of 2021 and garnered a Grammy nomination in 2022. In 2023, "Appalachian Blue" also received a “Song of the Year” nomination for the International Bluegrass Music Association.

Their second song titled, “The News That Never Changes,” was recorded by the King James Boys. It was released in April of 2025 and debuted at #1 on the Bluegrass Today gospel charts. It fell to #5 and went back up to # 1 two more times. As of September 27, 2025 it was back at #1!

Karen has had the opportunity to work for Dolly Parton at Dolly's local radio station WSEV/WDLY. During that time she was an extra in Dolly’s 1990 “Home For Christmas”Christmas movie. Karen was in video production at The Louise Mandrell Theater and also worked as a producer for the 1950’s, Stars Of The Grand Ole Opry video series for Albert Gannaway of Gannaway Productions.

Karen has had the opportunity to sing at DP’s Celebrity Theater, Ole Red in Gatlinburg, Dolly’s DreamMore Resort, The Listening Room and to stand in the legendary wooden circle at The Grand Ole Opry.

David Easterling: David Easterling is an Americana singer/songwriter/storyteller living in Oak Ridge, TN. His folky Appalachian tales are often comedic, sometimes little bit scary, but always connect with the head and the heart! Spooky Songs Live is his newest CD and he has recorded 5 more CD’s of original music. David’s music can be found on the usual media outlets including ReverbNation, YouTube, Facebook, etc. and has been played on radio stations from WDVX in Knoxville, TN to K2K radio in London, England. He has performed at festivals and many venues as diverse as Madlife in Georgia, Moonlight on the Mountain in Alabama, Stones Throw in Wisconsin, Capones in Indiana, Iron Horse in North Carolina, and Sugarlands and The Listening Room in TN. And Nashville gigs including 12 Keys Saloon, Sam Ash Music, The Commodore and Millennium Maxwell House!

Candace Sutter: Candace Sutter’s passion for music and faith comes alive in every song she writes and performs. Her debut album, Open Your Heart, introduced listeners to heartfelt tracks like Open Up for Us the Gates of Heaven, She Taught Him How to Pray, and Here Am I.

Building on that momentum, Candace recently released two powerful singles, Redeemed and Heal, which have resonated deeply with her fans. She has now released her latest praise and worship song, Lord Almighty, a moving anthem of faith and devotion.

Candace also brings a sense of peace and reflection to her music with her Christmas Meditation Aria, a beautiful collection of traditional hymns for piano and voice. In addition, Melody Air, the first release from her Reflective Moments collection of piano solos, showcases her gift for creating music that soothes the soul. Through every note and lyric, Candace’s mission remains clear—to share God’s love and message through the power of music. You can learn more about Candace and her music at https://candacesutter.com/

Troy Stavros (Host): Troy’s ability to craft songs that connect with both artists and audiences has brought his music to listeners worldwide. From international artists to award-winning songs featured in independent films, his work resonates on a global scale. Troy’s songs not only inspire but also elevate the projects they’re a part of, making him a sought-after collaborator in the entertainment industry. Whether penning heartfelt ballads or crafting high-energy anthems, Troy Stavros continues to leave an indelible mark on the music world, one song at a time.

Want to Be Part of The Genesis Sessions?

Are you a songwriter interested in performing in a writer's round at The Genesis Sessions?

Or would you like to support the event as a sponsor or donor?

We’d love to hear from you!

If you’re a writer and would like to participate, please email us with:

*A link to a video of you performing

*A demo and lyrics of the songs you'd like to share

(a simple guitar/vocal demo is fine)

For sponsorship or donation inquiries, feel free to reach out as well.

Contact: [email protected]

Thank you for your interest! We look forward to connecting with you!