The annual Key West Songwriters Festival presented by BMI celebrated its 30th anniversary April 29-May 3, as the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association and Rams Head Presents hosted more than 250 BMI creators. The largest event of its kind offered more than 80 shows across five days ranging from morning poolside rounds and sunset showcases to intimate showcases and a packed block party and free concert on Duval Street.
The festival started with the traditional Sunset Pier Kick Off Party at Ocean Key Resort. Fans then filled the Key West Theater for a lineup featuring Ashley Cooke, Thomas Edwards, Aaron Raitiere, Tyler Reeve and James Slater.
Venues included festival headquarters Rams Head Southernmost Bar & Grill, Blue Heaven, Key West Theater, Sloppy Joe’s, San Carlos Institute, The Marker Resort, Curry Mansion Inn, Blue Flamingo and the 200 block of Duval Street.
On May 2, Ernest, who made his festival debut in 2019, headlined the annual block party at Main Stage on Duval Street, with appearances by Ashley Cooke and Cody Lohden.
Photos by LARRY BLACKBURN/Keys Weekly and CAROL TEDESCO/BMI
