Get to know our casts of the Tennessee Legends and Music City Nights shows!

Amber Leigh is a Nashville-based singer/songwriter and fiery fiddle player known for her signature red hair and energetic performances. Originally from South Florida, she began performing at age 10 and now plays over 200 shows annually across the U.S. Her sound—"Country with a touch of Celtic flair"—has earned her a loyal fan base and opportunities to share the stage with artists like Keith Urban, Kelsea Ballerini, and Lady Antebellum. Leigh has released nine acclaimed albums, with her latest EP Dust to Gold showcasing her songwriting and live performance energy. She's been featured on national platforms including CMT, USA Network, and Disney Channel, and is a resident performer at Nashville's Wildhorse Saloon and General Jackson Showboat. Outside of music, she's passionate about fitness, family, and supporting causes like Wounded Warriors and the American Cancer Society.

Maggie Richardson is a true Nashville native—born and raised in Music City—who began her professional singing career in the studio at just five years old. A graduate of Belmont University with a BFA in Musical Theatre, she has performed across the country in a variety of professional productions. Maggie currently brings her vocal talents to the stage aboard the General Jackson Showboat, where she stars in the hit show Tennessee Legends. Known for her versatile voice and lifelong dedication to music, she continues to captivate audiences both live and in the studio. 

Nathan Belt, a Texas native raised on the Texarkana state line, has built a career rooted in traditional country music. Influenced early by family musicians and legends like Merle Haggard and Elvis Presley, he began performing on the Texas Opry circuit before moving to Nashville. There, he signed a publishing deal with Acuff Rose and formed his band, Nathan Belt & The Buckles, becoming a staple on Broadway stages like Robert's Western World and The Nashville Palace. He currently hosts Music City Nights aboard the General Jackson Showboat and performs weekly at Chief's on Broadway. Belt's recent singles, including "Clean Livin' Is Killin' Me" and "I Can't Stand No More," reflect his classic country style, with more music set to release in 2025. His upcoming EP, produced by Bryan Simpson, marks a new chapter in his enduring journey through country music.

Perry Danos, originally from Chicago, IL, brings a rich blend of musical influences to Nashville, where he's become a sought-after performer and studio vocalist. His dynamic career spans coast to coast, with appearances on stages from New York to Las Vegas. Perry is a featured performer in the hit shows Tennessee Legends and Tribute to the King aboard the General Jackson Showboat. He's also appeared in music videos with stars like Shania Twain and Randy Travis, and in national commercials for brands including Coors, Toyota, and Ford. Known for his versatile voice and engaging stage presence, Perry continues to captivate audiences across genres and platforms.

Dusty has been performing music since he was 3 years old in the genres of Blues, Country, Classic Rock, and Christian Contemporary. A current resident of Nashville, TN, Dusty has performed as a soloist, worked as a studio musician, and played at venues ranging from small fairs and festivals, to local clubs, private parties, weddings, and more. Dusty approaches every gig, audience and venue with an attitude of gratitude.

Dave Salyer is a world-class guitarist and entertainer who has toured globally with Barbara Mandrell, performed at the White House, and appeared on numerous television shows. Praised by legends like Roy Clark and Barbara Mandrell, Dave is known for his virtuosic guitar skills and dynamic stage presence. Influenced by his uncles—bluegrass icons Jim & Jesse McReynolds—Dave's musical roots run deep in country and bluegrass traditions. He regularly performs at the Grand Ole Opry and stars in the Tennessee Legends show aboard the General Jackson Showboat. His solo repertoire spans from "Orange Blossom Special" to "The Flight of the Bumblebee," showcasing his versatility as a musician, vocalist, and humorist. Dave continues to inspire audiences with his God-given talent and heartfelt performances.

Ray Von Rotz has been one of Nashville's most in-demand drummers and percussionists since 1979. He has performed around the world with artists like Boots Randolph, Lee Greenwood, Chet Atkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Grand Ole Opry members Jeannie Seely and Little Jimmy Dickens.He has played on numerous shows on radio and television including Nashville Now, Crook and Chase and many more. Ray performed for years in shows at the Opryland Theme Park, and has been working as a drummer onboard the General Jackson Showboat for several years. 

Brandon is from a little place called Martinsville, VA. He is a graduate of Shenandoah Conservatory where he studied acting and musical theater. Performing is a huge passion of his and he is very fortunate to have been able to perform for audiences all over the world. When home, Brandon enjoys taking time with other young aspiring performers sharing his experiences and vocal coaching. He has been performing on various cruise ships for the past six years and is excited to be grounded for a while and welcomed by the beautiful city of Nashville. 

Brooklyn McDaris, born and raised in Temple, Texas, is a Nashville-based performer with a diverse background in music and acting. She earned her degree in Musical Theatre from a conservatory college in 2017 and has since performed across the globe, including on cruise ships and national stages. Her vocal range spans musicals, cabarets, studio work, and live band performances. Brooklyn's acting credits include appearances on HBO, Amazon, ABC, BYU TV, and Roku, with roles in productions like Impulses, Rideshare, and Hacks. She currently stars in Music City Nights aboard the General Jackson Showboat and is passionate about animal welfare, hoping to work with a sanctuary in the future. Outside of performing, she enjoys beach days, hiking, cooking, and spending time with her partner Jimi and their dogs.

Cat Stone is an independent country artist whose music is rooted in storytelling and emotional connection. Raised in a military family, her nomadic upbringing shaped a global perspective that now informs her heartfelt songwriting. After earning a talent scholarship to Belmont University, she performed in over 80 countries before returning to Nashville in 2019 to launch her solo career. Her debut single, Take It In, landed on Spotify's "Fresh Finds Country: Best of 2022" playlist, followed by fan-favorite tracks like Who I Was (Montana Memories), Dopamine Deprived, and Home Alone. Cat describes her sound as "cozy country"—warm, reflective, and deeply personal. With a growing catalog and dedicated fanbase, she continues to make her mark in country music, one sincere lyric at a time.

James Jessup is a dynamic vocalist and performer originally from Maui, Hawaii, whose passion for music began in his youth singing in bands. His career has taken him around the world, performing as a featured vocalist aboard cruise ships and with the internationally acclaimed group The Young Americans. With them, he toured extensively, combining high-energy performances with music education and cultural outreach. James brings charisma, versatility, and aloha to every stage, including his current role in Music City Nights aboard the General Jackson Showboat. Whether performing or teaching, he uses music as a universal language to uplift and connect with audiences. His journey reflects a deep commitment to authenticity, creativity, and global unity through song.

Kara Eknes, originally from Dayton, Ohio, has been performing professionally around the world for over 15 years in theaters, cruise ships, and theme parks. A graduate of Bowling Green State University with a degree in Musical Theatre, she was nominated "Best Female Performer" by the Smoky Mt. Opry for the 2017 IAAPA awards. Kara is a member of the international jazz group The Satin Dollz, helping launch their Nashville troupe with vintage flair. She's also a seasoned recording artist, with studio credits from New York to Los Angeles. Currently, Kara stars in Music City Nights aboard the General Jackson Showboat, celebrating her fourth season with the cast. Her passion for performance and timeless style continue to charm audiences in Music City and beyond.

Kyle Henry discovered his love for singing in church and quickly found his passion for the stage through local theater performances. After high school, he moved to Tennessee and began performing at The Smoky Mountain Opry and Dollywood. He later became an inaugural vocalist with Carnival Cruise Lines, entertaining audiences at sea for three years. Kyle then settled in Nashville, where he toured with Live From Nashville and now stars in Music City Nights aboard the General Jackson Showboat. When not performing, Kyle enjoys family life with his wife and two children, traveling, and attending horse shows. His versatile talent and warm stage presence continue to make him a favorite among Nashville audiences.

Macy Ruggiero is a singer, actress, dancer, and choreographer from Nashville, Tennessee. With a wide variety of performance credits in musical theatre, in film, as the lead vocalist in the 30Vice band, and as a dancer, Macy is a true triple threat. She is also a passionate teacher and competitor in Latin/Rhythm, Ballroom, and Country dance. Macy's love for the arts and her extensive experience serving communities in need has led her to use the arts as a vessel for activism and healing.

Andy was born in Nashville TN and got his start playing bass in his church student band. He went on to study bass at Belmont University where he graduated in 2019 with a classical performance degree. Andy has since been working as a bass player in the cruise industry, local musical theaters as well as performing around the US with various bands and artists. 

Douglas Waterbury-Tieman is a Nashville-based actor, musician, and writer originally from Georgia and raised in Kentucky. A Belmont University graduate in Musical Theatre, Douglas has performed Off-Broadway, regionally, and on television, with credits including Succession, The Robber Bridegroom, and Fiddler on the Roof. He began playing violin at age ten and now performs with a 100-year-old family heirloom fiddle named "Chauncey." Douglas is a founding member of The Lobbyists and the creator of the award-winning Americana musical Johnny & the Devil's Box, which premiered at Cumberland County Playhouse and is currently being developed for Broadway. He stars in Music City Nights aboard the General Jackson Showboat and lives in Franklin, TN with his wife Annabelle, son Oliver, and their golden doodle, Dandy. His work celebrates community, storytelling, and the unifying power of music.

Eric is from Centre, Alabama and moved to the Nashville area in 2021 to pursue a master's degree in music. Since then, Eric hasregularly performed in a variety of genres, including country, rock, bluegrass, and jazz. He has worked both in the studio and in the pit orchestra for various theatre productions. In addition to performing on the General Jackson Showboat, Eric can regularly be heard performing in Nashville's famous lower Broadway honky-tonks. Eric holds a Master's Degree in jazz studies from Middle Tennessee State University and is a music faculty member at both Motlow State Community College and Columbia State Community College.

Jim Kirby is a seasoned Nashville keyboardist whose career spans decades of live performance, studio work, and television appearances. A graduate of Austin Peay State University with a degree in Music Education, Jim was originally certified to teach K-12 music before being invited to tour with Roy Orbison. His work with Orbison included appearances on Saturday Night Live, The Tonight Show, Austin City Limits, Farm Aid, and international broadcasts like The Don Lane Show and Sky Holland. Jim has also performed with a wide range of artists including Vince Gill, Kathy Mattea, Steve Cropper, Michael McDonald, and Rhonda Vincent. He continues to play regularly at the Grand Ole Opry and is currently the pianist at South End United Methodist Church in Nashville. Jim's legacy is marked by versatility, professionalism, and a deep love for music.

Mike Swope is a seasoned drummer originally from Altoona, Pennsylvania, who began playing at the age of nine. After serving in the U.S. Army with the 101st Airborne Division Band, he continued his musical journey at Austin Peay State University and with the Tennessee National Guard Band. Mike has performed with legends like Lee Greenwood and Boots Randolph, and toured extensively with Louise Mandrell since 1993, appearing on national TV alongside artists such as Linda Davis, Terri Clark, and Crystal Gayle. His career includes performances for President George H.W. Bush and collaborations with renowned musicians in clinics and live shows. Mike currently performs aboard the General Jackson Showboat and serves as pianist at South End United Methodist Church in Nashville. His dedication to music and performance continues to inspire audiences across the country.

Nicole Renee is a Nashville-based singer/songwriter originally from Elmhurst, Illinois. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Commercial Voice and Music Business from Belmont University, where she collaborated with artists like Josh Turner, Clay Walker, and Russell Dickerson. In 2021, she signed her first professional contract with Dollywood, performing in shows such as Forever Country, Dreamland Drive-In, and Christmas In The Smokies until early 2024. Nicole was a semi-finalist in the 2023 Tennessee Songwriters Week, earning a spot to perform at The Bijou Theater in Knoxville. Now back in Nashville, she's thrilled to be part of Music City Nights aboard the General Jackson Showboat. Her music blends heartfelt storytelling with a fresh country sound, and she's currently working on new releases.