In the heart of Medina, Tennessee, a unique cultural gem is redefining what it means to blend hospitality, family heritage, and the independent music scene. Passantino’s Concert Café, a new venture from Tinamarie and Vito Passantino—alongside their daughter and industry trailblazer Josie Passantino-Boone—has quickly become more than just a destination for great food. It’s a stage for rising voices and a proud extension of one of the fastest-growing movements in music: the Josie Music Awards (JMAs).
A Café with Rhythm and Roots
Passantino’s Concert Café delivers an authentic taste of Chicago-style Italian cuisine with a side of soul. Think homemade meatballs, perfectly crisp cannoli, and marinara sauce straight from a generations-old family recipe. But what truly sets the café apart is its live music programming, which has turned Saturday nights in Medina into must-attend events for locals and travelers alike.
The café also doubles as a launchpad for emerging talent. In its short time since opening, it has already hosted live competitions, including a vocal contest that recently crowned a standout 16-year-old singer-songwriter known as Gio. His prize? A performance slot at the prestigious Josie Music Awards and appearances at the pre-show Music Festival & Conference.
The Josie Music Awards: The World’s Largest Celebration of Indie Music
Founded in 2015 by Josie Passantino-Boone and Tinamarie Passantino, the Josie Music Awards have grown into the largest independent music awards show globally. Held annually in Nashville, the JMAs provide a high-profile platform for independent artists of all genres to be recognized—not by popular vote, but through a professional, genre-specific judging process.
The 2025 Josie Music Awards are set for November 2 at the legendary Grand Ole Opry House, following a Music Festival & Conference on November 1 at the Belle Air Mansion. These events are more than just performances and accolades—they are celebrations of hard work, originality, and community within the independent music world.
From Kitchen to Opry Stage: A Family-Fueled Vision
The synergy between Passantino’s Concert Café and the JMAs is no coincidence—it’s part of the Passantino family’s broader mission to support and amplify independent voices. Their café isn’t just a business venture; it’s an extension of the family’s dedication to authentic expression, inclusive opportunity, and cultural storytelling.
From hand-prepped Italian dishes to heartfelt performances under the café lights, every detail reflects the same passion that fueled the creation of the JMAs. It’s a place where food, family, and music create a welcoming, dynamic atmosphere that invites both seasoned performers and fresh talent to shine.
What’s Next
As excitement builds for the 2025 Josie Music Awards, Passantino’s Concert Café continues to serve as a hub of artistic energy. Expect more competitions, themed music nights, and maybe even a few surprise performances leading up to the main event in Nashville.
Whether you’re a fan of live music, a supporter of independent artists, or just in search of the perfect Italian bite in West Tennessee, Passantino’s Café is where stories are told—one song, one plate, one standing ovation at a time.
Follow Along:
🎶 Visit https://www.josiemusicawards.com
for details for the award show and tickets
🍝 Follow Passantino’s Concert Café on social media for event updates and menu highlights