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 July 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.

JULY SONGWRITERS

Meet The Songwriters

Gary Gilleran: Gary was born and raised in Chicago. He started playing drums at 13 and started playing guitar and writing songs at 18. He was influenced early on by Cat Stevens, John Prine, Bob Dylan and other popular folk/rock artists from the late '60's and early '70's. He moved to Nashville in 1973 to pursue a music career where he met his wife. They have raised 5 children and are blessed with 16 grandchildren....so far! Gary performs mostly in songwriter rounds and open mics in his spare time. He also serves other musicians and bands as a sideman playing percussion and harmonica. He is an active member of the Knoxville Songwriters Association and Red House Round songwriter's cooperative.

Andy Miller: I’m just a guy from East Tennessee who’s been blessed to write songs since 1995. That year was a big one for me... it’s when I met Jesus. I was 30 years old when He changed my life, and with the help of the Holy Spirit, I’ve been walking with Him ever since. These days, I call Knoxville home. I’ve been married to my wonderful wife for almost 28 years, and we’ve got a son, Drew, who’s about to start at UT. (GO VOLS!)

If you’re into Gospel music, you’ll find some of the songs God’s laid on my heart on all the major streaming platforms, just search for Andy Miller. Right now, I’m working on a new CD, and Lord willing, it’ll be out soon. I truly hope these songs stir your heart the way they’ve stirred mine.

John Rose: John W. Rose grew up in Johnson City and Jonesborough, Tennessee where he started playing guitar at 8 years old, performing and singing at bluegrass festivals and churches with his banjo playing brother Glen throughout high school. When John was 13 years old he and his brother performed on The Grand Ole Opry as special guests of Lester Flatt and The Nashville Grass. He began writing songs as a teenager. John graduated from East Tennessee State University where he had been a member of the university and chamber choirs traveling to perform in Yugoslavia, Italy, and Austria as well as at Freedom Hall Civic Center in Johnson City singing backup with Foreigner.

He has continued to perform and write songs throughout his adult life, with a focus on gospel music. John recently achieved a childhood dream by getting his first commercial cut "Down The Jericho Road" recorded by Finland's own Jussi Syren and The Groundbreakers. He is also the song leader at his church. Samples of John's work are available at www.johnwrose.co

Troy Stavros (Host): Troy Stavros is an East Tennessee Americana/Roots Country artist (artist name: Troy Cross) and songwriter whose timeless acoustic style turns everyday struggles into songs of hard-won hope. As a recording artist, Troy blends Country, Americana, Bluegrass, and Gospel influences into story-first writing that feels lived-in and honest. For Troy, music is more than a career, it’s a calling. His faith shapes the foundation of his work, but he delivers it through characters and scenes that welcome both lifelong believers and those still searching for what’s missing. Whether he’s singing a quiet ballad or an uplifting anthem, Troy’s songs aim to tell the truth with tenderness, offering dignity, encouragement, and a clear reminder that no one is alone in the fight. On stage and on record, Troy creates a space where faith meets Roots music and hope feels within reach.

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!