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Discover the stateside roots of the musical American South + win flights to the USA

Talk about a dream team! Chris Watson Travel, Travel South USA, Gate 7 and Dream Plan Go have teamed up for the 'Where Music Was Born' consumer campaign – an in-person and online opportunity to discover the rich musical heritage of the American South – plus win return flights to explore the US musical heartland.

Talk about a dream team! Chris Watson Travel, Travel South USA, Gate 7 and Dream Plan Go have teamed up for the ‘Where Music Was Born’ consumer campaign – an in-person and online opportunity to discover the rich musical heritage of the American South – plus win return flights to explore the US musical heartland.

Gate 7 and Dream Plan Go, in partnership with Chris Watson Travel and Travel South USA, have launched a dedicated digital portal that showcases the legendary music destinations of Louisiana, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama and South Carolina.

Travel advisors and travellers can learn about the iconic music hotspots, upcoming events and festivals, attractions and culture that make these American South destinations so unique.

Elvis impersonators at Parkes Elvis Festival.
Elvis impersonators at Parkes Elvis Festival.

In addition, Mississippi and Tennessee will man pop-up activations at two Australian music festivals – Parkes Elvis Festival (9-10 January 2025) and Tamworth Music Festival (23 & 25 January 2025) – inviting music fans to enjoy exclusive performances, Southern-style barbecue and meet-and-greets.

The ‘Where Music Was Born’ campaign includes a competition to win two return flights to the US with Delta Air Lines to explore America’s music destinations for the ultimate road trip. Music fans can enter online or in person at the music festival pop-ups.

Busy Nashville main street – Musical American South
Nashville is Honky Tonk heaven.

Travel South USA President & CEO Liz Bittner said the campaign brings the American South’s rich musical legacy to life for Australians.

“From iconic cities to hidden gems, it celebrates the culture and spirit of a region where every town has a sound, and every stop tells a story,” she said.

In clubs and on street corners, you’re likely to hear everything from Jazz and Afro-Cuban to Dixieland, Rhythm and Blues, and Zydeco. Musical American South
In clubs and on street corners, you’re likely to hear everything from jazz and Afro-Cuban to Dixieland, R’n’B and zydeco music in New Orleans.

Gate 7 Founder & Managing Director Jo Palmer added: “‘Where Music Was Born’ is a tribute to the South’s deep connection between music and travel. It offers Australians a window into the region’s vibrant culture, history and unforgettable charm, inspiring them to explore its legendary destinations.”

For more info, head to wheremusicwasborn.dreamplango.com.au

Karryon was at the recent Travel South USA International Showcase – find out all about it here.