Article in the

April 6 th
By Hilary Howard

KEY WEST, FLA.
The 13th Hog’s Breath Saloon Key West Songwriters’ Festival (www.keywestsongwritersfestival.com), from April 30 to May 4, will bring together more than 125 songwriters for five days of performances, socializing and kicked-back fun in the sun, including sunset sailing trips with smaller, unplugged shows. The festival, known for its intimacy and casual environment, will feature the Texas singer-songwriter Robert Earl Keen; Raul Malo, formerly of the Mavericks; Jeffrey Steele, who’s written for Rascal Flatts, and whose band will perform in the parking lot of the Hog’s Breath Saloon on May 3; and Scotty Emerick, who’s written for Toby Keith. Admission to most shows is free. The Beachside Resort and Conference Center (www.beachsidekeywest.com), one of the performance venues, will have a Songwriters Special for the festival, offering its lowest rates of the season, from $199 a night; call (800) 546-0885. For more lodging options, visit www.fla-keys.com.