About Us

Dedicated to bare songs and stories, the WRITERS IN THE RAW format consists of four (4) performers playing “in the round” with nothing else but an acoustic guitar or piano. Each artist is drawn from a different genre of music, representing various levels of success and longevity in their careers. Performers trade songs and stories, inspiring each other as well as playing off one another to create a true, once-in-a-lifetime event.

The artists face the audience in a crescent shape on the stage, in a “living room” type of setting. All shows will last four (4) rounds, approximately two (2) hours. Artists ask each other questions about their songs, craft, career, etc. The dialogue is non-scripted and “off the cuff,” creating a casual and relaxed environment that allows artists to generate spontaneous and insightful questions with less guarded answers.

The WRITERS IN THE RAW experience is intimate and inspiring. The audience is made to feel like they are actually part of the show, breeding camaraderie and community among performers and attendees. It is unlike any other type of concert event. WRITERS IN THE RAW allows the audience an opportunity to understand each other’s music. As the boundaries melt away, both artist and audience become united through “the song”.

History

WRITERS IN THE RAW is the premiere show of its kind in the tri-state area, drawing standing-room only crowds since its debut in Asbury Park in December 2003. The concept draws inspiration from music scenes in Nashville and New York City.

Past WRITERS IN THE RAW performers include: Pete Yorn, Patti Scialfa, Jesse Malin, Steve Forbert, Pat Dinizio of The Smithereens, Dar Williams, Ari Hest, John Hampson of Nine Days, Brian Vander Ark of the Verve Pipe, Jeffrey Gaines, The Bacon Bothers (Kevin Bacon), Willie Nile, Jen Chapin and Glen Burtnick, just to name a few.

WRITERS IN THE RAW was co-founded and is produced by Gordon Brown and Barry Dorsey, and supported by a staff of industry veterans. Brown, best known for years as a Jersey-shore performer and whose bands Mr. Reality, Samhill and Highway 9 were all signed to major labels, is also an established songwriter with BMG Publishing. He is the co-founder of the annual emerging music festival “Wave Gathering” and producer of some of today’s most promising new talent with his company All Hour Entertainment, LLC. Dorsey’s career started at The Bottom Line (NYC) and includes managing Marley Marl’s House of Hitz recording studio as well as managing nationally-touring corporate events. He has promoted at several Jersey Shore music venues, including The Metro and Harry’s Roadhouse.

The goal is to foster a sense of community, bring the artists together in a shared musical experience, and present the art and craft of songwriting in a compelling way, both to the performers and audience alike.