Former “American Idol” contestant opening Charlotte wine bar to support other artists

Songbirds Wine Bar will cater to independent artists and music lovers when it opens in University City this fall.

Why it matters: Owner Ashley Hunt plans to use the wine bar as a platform to showcase local talent and supply artists with resources.

Context: Hunt, a former contestant on “American Idol” Season 20, says the challenges she faced as an independent artist inspired her to create a business that supports others on their musical journey.

  • “As an independent artist, it’s hard, you know, you’re your own, you’re your own investor, you’re your own cameraman, your own content creator, just everything. And so I realized that a lot of people are not given the opportunity to even have some of those resources, to get to the next level,” said Hunt.

Zoom in: In addition to offering a weekly performance space, Songbirds will provide artists with access to discounted or free professional photos and videos of their sets to showcase their skills.

  • Songbirds will have DJs three times a week and live music at least once.
  • Artists interested in performing should contact Hunt through the Instagram page or email, and her team will review and potentially schedule them for future performances.

What to expect: Songbirds’ menu will focus on wine and feature a selection of Black-owned wines. It’ll also have coffee, beer, a few rotating cocktails, light bites, pastries and sweet treats…

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