During Governor Bill Lee's 2024 State of the State Address, he highlighted significant advancements in Tennessee's rural communities and the state's thriving music industry. The address, delivered on March 7, 2024, emphasized the importance of local opportunities and the need to protect the state's rich musical heritage.

One of the key stories shared was that of Derek Montague, a recent graduate from Haywood County. Montague's journey illustrates the positive impact of local educational institutions, such as TCAT Jackson, which provided him with immediate enrollment in an industrial maintenance program. This training led to a job at Technor Apex, an auto supplier that expanded operations in Tennessee. Governor Lee underscored that such opportunities are a result of collaborative efforts to invest in rural areas, asserting that the growth in rural Tennessee is vital for all residents of the state.

The governor also addressed the music industry, which has seen a remarkable 21% growth over the past five years, making Tennessee the leading state for music industry jobs. However, he acknowledged the challenges posed by artificial intelligence, particularly its potential to impersonate artists and create unauthorized works. In response, Governor Lee proposed the "Elvis Act," named in honor of Elvis Presley, aimed at safeguarding the rights of Tennessee artists against such threats. This legislation seeks to establish Tennessee as a leader in protecting artistic integrity, potentially serving as a model for other states.

The address concluded with a call to action, emphasizing Tennessee's role as the music capital of the world and the importance of legislative measures to maintain that status. Governor Lee's remarks reflect a commitment to fostering economic growth in rural areas while simultaneously protecting the cultural heritage that defines Tennessee. As the state moves forward, the proposed initiatives signal a proactive approach to addressing both economic and artistic challenges.