Mark Parsell President
Mark began booking music for the Memphis Farmers Market in 2010 and never really looked back.
In 2015, after 3 decades in media sales, he and Brad Mathews opened South Main Sounds. The venue has become a haven for local and touring songwriters from around the globe.
Originally from Michigan, Memphis has been home for nearly 20 years.
Photo Credit: Danny Day
Amber Rae Dunn Vice President
Amber is the longest running and most active full time singer-songwriter on the MSA board. Her passion for promoting Memphis music is evident in the many radio, video, live shows and festivals she hosts and emcees around town. This Arkansas native enjoys helping new artists find their true "voice" in exploring their creativity. In her spare time she works at a barbershop and as a visual art/music teacher. She enjoys traveling, gardening, cooking and of course turtles!
Jil Sweeney Treasurer
Jil Sweeney’s love for the music business began in the early 2000's as backstage manager for Snowden Grove Amphitheater hosting many artists over the years. By day, Sweeney works in the finance department of an internationally recognized non-profit organization and plays around on her ukelele when night falls. As a part time music promoter, she hosts songwriter Showcases throughout the year as JKool Productions.
Photo Credit: Danny Day
Mike Mielenhausen Recording Secretary
Mike is a singer-songwriter. He is originally from the great state of Minnesota (hence is stage name, Minnesota Mike), but has called Memphis home for almost 9 years. In addition to serving on the MSA Board, Mike also writes a blog about songwriting for the Association, and does a vlog series to go along with the blogs. (You can find links to both below).
Blog: https://memphissongwriters.org/msa-blog
Vlogs: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLMXqBEMqwDlkbfH1btob6O4fBLPdz6p_z
When Mike isn’t out being a part of the Memphis music scene, he can be found in his classroom teaching Spanish or at the University of Memphis, where he is currently obtaining his master’s in Romance Languages and Literature. He is passionate about constantly honing his craft as a songwriter and helping others do the same.
Joe Matthews Secretary of Records
Joe is Memphis-based musician, producer, and recording engineer. Joe has been making music for over 50 years. He enjoys mentoring those wanting to grow as songwriters, performers, and musicians. Joe is knowledgeable of music production, music theory, and songwriting and looks forward to working on new projects with musicians and songwriters.
Deion Corely
(Deion James)
Director at Large
Hailing from the Midwest and finding inspiration in the heart of Memphis, Deion Corley (Artist name is Deion James) is a passionate songwriter known for his authentic expression. With the 2023 release of his debut EP, "Dirt From The Broke Road," Corley showcases a soulful blend of country, folk, and blues. His songwriting is a reflection of genuine emotions, capturing the essence of his experiences and delivering a heartfelt narrative through his music. With a recent signing to Red Curtain Records, Corley is hopeful that a full length album will add to the musical heartbeat of Memphis.