If I mention “Andy Griffith,” you start whistling. I’m almost willing to bet on it. But, as familiar as you are with the tune of “The Fishin’ Hole,” from the hit TV show that ran for decades (and still does, if you know where to look), did you know it has lyrics? Good lyrics! I’ve been singing it for days – ever since I got an email telling me about a project to help Tennessee Wildlife Resource Foundation and benefit our lakes, rivers and wildlife.
Opry Star, Darryl Worley and TWRF
OK, this is supposed to be a site for independent artists, why am I writing about a chart-topping Nashville star? Simple. Darryl Worley has taken it upon himself – with the help of his management, and songwrititng partner, Wynn Varble, along with Outdoor Music – to do something great for Tennessee’s waters and wildlife. Not only does the project benefit Tennessee, but the other 49 states, as well! I’ll let Darryl tell you a bit about it in his own words (from his site, www.darrylworley.com ):
“Some of you may know I’ve become an outdoor ambassador for the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. The outdoors has always been a big part of my life. I grew up in Tennessee and have always looked forward to my time in the woods and on the water. Whenever I get a little down time, I love to get away from it all and relax. I’m honored to be able to lend a hand to those who take care of our fish and wildlife.
If you like the outdoors as much as me you can text the word FISH to 50555, which allows a ten dollar donation to be added to your phone bill. As a thank you gift, a link to a free ringtone of my “The Fishin’ Hole” song will be sent to your phone. These funds are received by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation, and the net proceeds are then used to help restore levees, replace equipment lost or damaged in the disasters and re-stock fish in waters affected by flooding, tornadoes, drought and more. Donations from other parts of the country are distributed back to the state of origin’s wildlife agency.”
Get Involved!
We happen to know first hand how much independent musicians enjoy supporting their favorite causes. Shoot, the number of charitable organizations MTM and our staff support grows all the time! We are just tickled to be able to show this project some love.
I’m sure that some of our friends will be interested in doing something to help the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Foundation (or it’s “sister” programs in their home states). So, I did a little bit of leg-work for you. I contacted Mike Bradley – Marketing Director of TWRF and Don King – Director of Education and Communications, and they were kind enough to offer a direct line of communication for you. So, if you would like to use your art or music to help support TWRF, drop Mr. Don King an email at don.king@tn.gov — it’s that simple, he’d be glad to hear your ideas and let you know what they need help with. Perhaps you would like to offer the proceeds from the sale of a song or mp3 downloads, or maybe some artwork. I know you guys are full of great ideas, so put the ol’ thinkin’ cap on and see what you come up with!
Credits:
“The Fishin’ Hole” music video, which features Darryl, Wynn and Bassmaster Elite professional anglers Terry Scroggins, Gerald Swindle, Kota Kiriyama, and Brent Chapman was debuted during the Southeastern Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies meeting held recently in Nashville. [The video] was produced and directed by Jon Ward (Jonny Grand Films & Media) and Richard Prather (Dalia Entertainment Group) with Executive Producers, Eric Rhodes (All Star Cast) and Craig Brinks (Dalia Entertainment Group) and may be viewed at www.twrfdonate.org. “The Fishin’ Hole” song is available on iTunes by clicking here and at http://www.outdoormusic.com/.
http://www.outdoormusic.com/?page_id=213
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/gone-fishin/id478172093
http://www.twrf.net/About/about.php
http://darrylworley.com/index.cfm?id=1