Don’t miss the Franklin Theatre Songwriters Series on June 12, featuring Jessica Willis Fisher, Emily Shackelton, James House, and Zoee.
About Jessica Willis Fisher
Jessica Willis Fisher is a singer-songwriter-fiddler with a storyteller’s heart. Raised playing traditional folk music from an early age, she performed with her family band in the Irish, Country, and Bluegrass music scenes and made appearances on the Grand Ole Opry and America’s Got Talent. Her Americana-leaning debut solo album “Brand New Day” features both deeply autobiographical lyrics and foot-stomping anthems. Her sophomore record “Blooming” (coming Spring 2025) is an ode to the power of knowing who we are, all our beautiful scars and vulnerable strengths included. Its main theme is the celebration of healing and growth as illustrated through the vibrant beauty of nature and features a blend of acoustic centered folk-Americana, singer-songwriter, and old-time sounds, including fiddle driven instrumentals.
Jessica is also the author of “Unspeakable: Surviving My Childhood and Finding My Voice” and is a passionate advocate for survivors of trauma. She lives in Nashville, TN with her husband Sean and Australian Shepherd, Bucky.
About Emily Shackelton
Emily Shackelton is a singer/songwriter hailing from Biwabik, Minnesota. She celebrated her first Number 1 with Carly Pearce’s breakout single “Every Little Thing” in 2018, and recently celebrated her second Number 1 with Pearce’s hit song “What He Didn’t Do”. Both songs won coveted NSAI “Ten Songs I Wish I’d Written” awards. Emily was awarded “Breakout Songwriter of the Year 2018” by Music Row Magazine. Her writing catalog also includes singles and cuts by Reba McEntire, Joe Nichols, Runaway June, Sara Evans, Jana Kramer, David Cook, Lauren Alaina, Chrissy Metz, Joy Williams and more, as well as tv shows like Nashville, American Idol, and Dancing With the Stars. She recently made her television debut performing and presenting alongside Carly Pearce on the ACM Honors Awards, streaming now on Hulu.
About Zoee
Zoee’s journey from Tasmania’s rugged coastlines to Nashville’s vibrant music scene is a story of resilience, heart, and an unshakable love for storytelling. Growing up diving for abalone and crayfish, she once dreamed of being a dirt bike racer—until she found her true calling in a shipping container filled with her parents’ vinyl collection. Inspired by the likes of Merle Haggard, Loretta Lynn, and Kip Moore, she discovered the magic of music.
Often likened to Kasey Musgraves and Adele, Zoee has captivated fans with her soulful voice, magnetic performances, and raw, evocative songwriting. A multi-award-winning artist, she has topped the Amazon and iTunes Country Charts, won Song of the Year at the 2021 Women of Country Awards, and toured across the US, UK, Ireland, and Scandinavia. Her single Jackie surpassed 340,000 streams, contributing to over 1.5 million total streams and a growing fanbase of over 100,000 followers.
Since moving to Nashville in 2022, Zoee has collaborated with Grammy and CMA-winning songwriters, including Clayton Johnson (recent #1 with Lana Del Rey), Steve Dorff, Jeff Cohen, Kyle Jacobs, Bonnie Dymond, Chris Rafetto, and Sam Palladio (Nashville). She’s graced iconic stages like the Bluebird Cafe, Whiskey Jam, and Bridgestone Arena—carving out her own space in Music City. From busking (street performing) on four continents, to living in her car to making her mark in Nashville, Zoee’s journey is as compelling as her music.
Now, Zoee is set to release her highly anticipated debut album in July 2025—a collection of songs chronicling the heartbreak, resilience, and self-discovery that come with chasing a dream across the world. Led by the first single Wendy (out April 4), the album blends rich storytelling with a modern country-pop edge, cementing Zoee as one of the most exciting new voices in country music.
About James House
James House is a Grammy and CMA-nominated singer/songwriter whose impact on the music industry spans decades. Celebrated for his ability to craft timeless hits, House earned Country Song of the Year nominations for Martina McBride’s powerhouse anthem “A Broken Wing” and Dwight Yoakam’s iconic “Ain’t That Lonely Yet.” Both tracks achieved the rare BMI 5 Million Radio Airplay Award, solidifying his legacy as one of the most respected songwriters in modern music. His chart-topping success also includes Diamond Rio’s #1 hit “In a Week or Two,” which boasts over 2 million radio plays, and a total of four prestigious BMI songwriting awards.
With over 100 cuts to his name, House’s songs have been recorded by an impressive roster of artists, including Joe Bonamassa, The Mavericks, Tina Turner, Rod Stewart, Olivia Newton-John, Bonnie Tyler, Sara Evans, Ricky Van Shelton, The Warren Brothers, Lori Morgan, Kylie Minogue, and Rita Coolidge. His versatility and talent transcend genres, leaving an indelible mark on rock, pop, and country music alike.
As a recording artist, House found his own success on the Billboard charts. Signed to Epic Records, his single “This Is Me Missing You” soared to the top, anchoring his acclaimed album Days Gone By.
One of House’s most recent project, the critically acclaimed audiobook and album Lost in Laurel Canyon, chronicles his extraordinary 50-year journey in music. Through a unique blend of storytelling and song, the collection captures the highs, struggles, and inspirations that have shaped his career.
Born into a musical family in Sacramento, California, House’s passion for music was evident from an early age. After high school, he enrolled at American River College but quickly found himself drawn to the stage, playing nightly at local clubs such as the Elegant Barn and Shires Pub. Unable to balance classes with his burgeoning music career, he left college to pursue his dreams full-time. By age 21, he had secured his first of four major record deals with Warner Bros. Records.
After honing his craft in Los Angeles and New York, where he contributed to numerous movie soundtracks and developed his artistry, House found his true creative home in Nashville, Tennessee. It was there that his songwriting flourished, establishing him as one of Music City’s most influential figures.
Today, James House continues to inspire audiences with his music, including his dedication to heartfelt projects like a forthcoming record honoring PTSD veterans. His new album “Stronger Than the Dark” features 5 tracks he wrote with veterans and 5 tracks showcasing his love of 70’s country rock.
His career stands as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the enduring magic of a great song.
