The Goal: Perform at 80 venues in 24 hours to beat the current standing record of 65, set back in 2012 by Norway-based band Helge Toft.

The artist: James Hatem is changing what it means to be a blues artist in 2021. Hailing originally from New Jersey, James moved to Nashville in 2013 and has been captivating audiences with his high energy live show. With extensive nationwide touring experience, it makes sense that James would attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the most live shows played in 24 hours.

The message: support and give back as much as possible to the amazing venues and bars in Nashville who have been affected by COVID-19. All donations will go directly to the U.S. Bartenders Guild and Music Venue Alliance

“It’s about helping the venues. They’ve gone months without live shows and everyone needs to be reminded that without them, this isn’t Music City. Not only will we be raising money to give back to all the venues, but our goal is to show that live music can be brought to everyone again in both a fun and Covid safe manner.

The idea is quite noble as well as extremely relevant. Music venues, bartenders. musicians, artists and the whole rest of the entertainment and service industry has been heavily impacted by the pandemic and James and his team came up with a very innovative idea to raise awareness and money in support of the very people that make Nashville city ‘Music City”.

James partnered up with the U.S. Bartenders Guild and Music Venue Alliance in a concerted effort to bring awareness to Nashville’s local music scene and how resilient it is and he made it happen. 80 venues in 24 hours, Nashville thanks you, James!