It’s time to turn up the volume on music! On Wednesday, March 2, 2016, Georgia Music Day will be proclaimed by both the Georgia House of Representative and the State Senate, to identify the impact of Georgia’s music industry on the state. Throughout the morning, an array of musical artists will address the state government representatives, including Brandon Bush (songwriter, musician, producer — Sugarland, Train, Kristian Bush, John Mayer), John Driskell Hopkins (Zac Brown Band), Michelle Malone (singer-songwriter, guitarist, producer), Matt Still (producer, engineer, mixer — Outkast, Lady GaGa, Elton John), Peter Stroud (guitarist — Sheryl Crow, Don Henley, Sarah McLachlan) and The Whisky Gentry. The musicians will speak about key issues needed to create jobs and grow the music industry in Georgia, which generates $3.7 billion in annual revenue.

At 12 p.m., the Georgia State Capitol’s rotunda will transform into a stage with musical performances including Atlanta Country Music Hall of Fame Inductee and singer/performer Katie Deal (daughter of Georgia Governor Nathan Deal), followed by two-time Georgia Music Hall of Fame inductee Ed Roland of Collective Soul. The day at the Capitol will conclude with a special performance from Georgia’s own Yacht Rock Revue.

“I am proud to be a part of Georgia's rich musical heritage and am excited to be a part of this day as we continue to grow the music industry here in our state,” said Collective Soul’s Ed Roland.

On February 10, Representative Bert Reeves (District 34) introduced House Bill 956, which is aimed at bolstering the Georgia music industry.

“For the first time ever, a music bill which aims to grow the music industry has been introduced in the Georgia legislature,” said Georgia Music Partners Co-President, Tammy Hurt. “The introduction of this bill allows us a long overdue dialogue with state leaders about the value of investing in music and music education. The goal of Georgia Music Day is to raise awareness on the importance of our industry, to support an explosive growth opportunity, and to celebrate the music makers and music businesses that call Georgia home.”

In addition to these public events, music lovers throughout Georgia are encouraged to support Georgia music by wearing their favorite band’s T-shirt to work/school, and by sharing photos/videos of their shirts on social media with the tag #GeorgiaMusic.

At 7 p.m., Venkmans — a restaurant and live music venue — will partner with Georgia Music Partners (GMP) to present Georgia Music Night featuring the Georgia Mountain String Band. A portion of the proceeds will go towards GMP’s advocacy efforts.

Recently, on January 26, Governor Deal declared 2016 the “Year of Georgia Music” — a year-long initiative to promote the music industry in Georgia. Music will be featured on multiple marketing platforms including the ExploreGeorgia.org website, social media channels, marketing materials, advertising opportunities and special events.