Alive Again
Submitted by Country Music Alive Blog
Hi there,
Yes… it certainly has been awhile since I have posted. There many reasons that I’m sure in the coming days and weeks I will discuss. The biggest though has been my schedule. It has really been hectic these past few months, and still is in a lot of ways. However, I am feeling a routine coming, finally.
A second reason, probably a result of the hectic schedule and all, the passion to write wasn’t there. Pretty simple. Last week though, I noticed that I really do miss it and have made my inner pledge to get back into something I really enjoy… writing this blog and running my website that go hand and hand with one another. In fact the creative juices in my mind started to flow again last night. The gerbil is back on the wheel, if you will.. ha!
With that said, I am first and foremost interested in a total overhaul of the website first and foremost. I have thought about it and did some research into my stats, which everyday still amazes me how many people visit and from where they come from. I’ve decided that the website itself needs help.. a lot. So, in the coming days and weeks, that will have what I hope to be a new fresh look. Less features, but more impact on the features you all want to see and use.
There so many websites out there these days on country music that the material, is well, basically the same. You can go to those sites for the details and such. I want to be your starting block. That goes back to the core feel of Country Music Alive, to promote country music in a positive way and bring more fans into a music that I dearly love. What will be on the new website? What will it look like? Your guess is good as mine… I am thinking through writing right now. I have ideas, I have a few visions.. but no visual plan yet.
I do know the blog isn’t going anywhere, nor is the Twitter feed, nor the website, and I am to the point now I can’t wait to get started and stop typing here… so I will stop.
I will keep you updated on its progress and can’t wait to see the finished product.
Bellamy Brothers, Bacon Brothers “Guilty of the Crime”
New Video Debuts on CMT Pure, CMT.com
(Nashville, TN - June 29, 2009) Legendary Country duo, The Bellamy Brothers, have released a new single and video with The Bacon Brothers, titled “Guilty of the Crime.”
“Guilty of the Crime” is currently in medium rotation on CMT Pure and featured worldwide on CMT.com. Directed by Laura Lyness, the video was shot in a single day inside an actual prison in Memphis, Tenn. The video features both sets of brothers and former “Beverly Hills 90210″ star Shannen Doherty.
“This song gave all of us an opportunity to do something a little different,” says David Bellamy. “We had a great time recording and filming with the Bacon Brothers and feel like we had the perfect song to bring both of our styles together. Having Shannen Doherty in the video was an added bonus, and shooting in a real, working prison gave the whole thing the right look and vibe.”
“Guilty of the Crime” is the first single from the Bellamy Brothers forthcoming album, The Anthology, Vol. 1. It will be available Aug. 1 on their website (www.BellamyBrothers.com) and at iTunes. The collection will be released in stores on Sept. 29.
Visit www.BellamyBrothers.com for more information.
About The Bellamy Brothers: The Bellamy Brothers, most recognized for their smash hit “Let Your Love Flow,” continue to enjoy a career that has produced fourteen No. 1 hits across the Country and Pop charts, including “Old Hippie,” “Kids of the Baby Boom” and “If I Said You Had a Beautiful Body (Would You Hold It Against Me),” among others. The duo will celebrate their 35th anniversary in 2010 and will release Anthology, Vol. 1 later this year in advance of that milestone.
Charlie Daniels To Appear on “Legends & Lyrics” Show July 4
New Weekly Series Features Performances and Interviews with Hit Songwriters, Legendary Artists
(Nashville, TN - June 29, 2009) Charlie Daniels will appear on a new singer-songwriter series called “Legends & Lyrics,” airing Saturday, July 4 at 10 p.m. on local Nashville public television channel WNPT.
The program, which debuted on May 9, pairs legendary songwriters and performers with promising new talent in an “in-the-round” writer’s format that features performances and interviews with the artists.
Daniels’ episode will also feature appearances from Phil Vassar and Jimmy Webb.
Daniels recently returned from his third international trip to visit military troops in Iraq and Kuwait and is currently touring the U.S. through the end of 2009.
The first season of “Legends & Lyrics” features acts including Kris Kristofferson, Kenny Loggins, Patty Griffin, Shawn Colvin and John Hiatt, as well as rising artists The Laws, Stephanie Chapman, Corinne Chapman, Jonathan Singleton, Nathan Lee, Mike Musick, Will Hoge and more. Each episode will also include a one-on-one conversation with a featured guest, such Garth Brooks, Loretta Lynn, Ray Stevens, Steve Cropper, Cowboy Jack Clement and others.
“Legends & Lyrics” is produced by Nashville-based production company Song-Writers In The Round, LLC. Season one episodes were filmed on location in 1080 high-definition in Nashville, Tenn. at the Masonic Lodge and Shreveport, La. at the Scottish Rite Theatre.
For more information, visit www.CharlieDaniels.com or www.LegendsandLyrics.com
GMV Nashville Expands Digital Catalog with Addition of New Releases, Classic Titles
‘This Is My America’ Set, Charlie Daniels, Toy Caldwell Albums Added, Among Others
(Nashville, TN - June 22, 2009) Digital distribution label GMV Nashville has announced the addition of several new titles to their online catalog, including the epic This Is My America set, out-of-print titles from the Charlie Daniels Band and Toy Caldwell, and more.
This Is My America is a three-disc compilation of original material that chronologically recounts the history of America through songs from 58 of Nashville’s finest award-winning singers and songwriters. The project features artists such as Dolly Parton, Kathy Mattea, Charley Pride, Billy Dean, Beth Nielsen Chapman, the Nashville Symphony, the Fisk Jubilee Singers and more.
Renowned music critic and author Robert K. Oermann called Dean’s “Wave On, Old Glory, Wave On,” single “an anthem for a new era,” and HistoryNet.com’s Senior Online Editor Gerald Swick said, “Listening to this three-CD set is like watching an epic motion picture!”
This Is My America can be purchased as single track downloads or as individual albums at www.GMVNashville.com. Physical copies of the limited edition box set can be purchased at www.ThisIsMyAmerica.com.
The Charlie Daniels Band’s Road Dogs was originally released in 2000 and widely regarded as a return to the band’s Southern Rock roots. The digital release through GMV now includes a previously unreleased, live version of “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.”
Toy Caldwell’s Son of the South is also available in digital format for the first time. The critically-acclaimed album from the former Marshall Tucker Band guitarist and singer features guest spots by Gregg Allman, Willie Nelson, Mickey Raphael and Charlie Daniels.
“GMV Nashville is very excited to add to our expanding, worldwide catalog of Country titles,” says GMV spokesperson Matt Watkins. “This Is My America is a historic undertaking that features some of the most talented singers and songwriters in the business, and artists like Charlie Daniels and Toy Caldwell are legendary in their influence across multiple genres. Some of these albums have been unavailable for years, and we’re extremely proud to continue releasing a series of niche titles, special products and new releases for the growing audience of digital Country music fans.”
Additional titles recently added to the GMV catalog include Sisters Wade (self-titled), Luke Reed (Corridos), Don King (The Days of You and Me) and Vol. 2 in the Country Hits You Missed series. All titles in the GMV catalog are available for worldwide purchase at the GMV website (www.GMVNashville.com) and other major online outlets.
About GMV Nashville:
GMV Nashville is a digital distribution label based out of Nashville, Tenn. Founded in 2007 as a subsidiary of The Goodland Group, the GMV catalog offers hard-to-find titles by classic artists, as well as current releases and special products. All of GMV’s titles are available exclusively as digital downloads at most major online music retailers, including iTunes, Amazon, Napster, Rhapsody and more. Visit www.GMVNashville.com and www.myspace.com/gmvnashville for more information.
“Inside Music Row” Celebrates 100th Episode
Country Music News and Entertainment Show Airs in Nashville June 7
(Nashville, TN - June 1, 2009) Country music news and entertainment television series “Inside Music Row” will air its 100th episode this Sunday, June 7, on WNAB/CW58 in Nashville at 9:30 p.m. CST.
The milestone episode will re-cap memorable moments from the show’s history. It airs nationally during the week of June 1-7 and can be also be viewed online at www.InsideMusicRow.com beginning Wednesday, June 3.
“We hoped that when we launched ‘Inside Music Row’ a couple years ago we would receive positive feedback from the local country music community and then expand into other markets,” says IMR Executive Producer Jeff Moseley. “We’re pleased to say that the demand has exceeded our expectations.”
A production of CJM Productions and The Program Factory, LLC, “Inside Music Row” first aired in October 2006 and has continued to increase its viewership, currently airing in nearly 100 markets since partnering with the AMG-TV network in December 2007. The weekly show now reaches a total of 24 million homes.
“I can’t believe this is already our one hundredth episode,” says IMR Director Brian Covert. “It seems like just the other day that we were filming our first one! Being a part of a show like this and watching it continue to grow is extremely gratifying. In fact, just recently we’ve seen increased interest from the country music community overseas, which lets us know that what we’re doing is really catching on.”
“Inside Music Row” receives nearly 10,000 hits each month and has generated international interest in the program from countries like England and France.
“Inside Music Row” currently airs in Nashville on WNAB/CW58 every Sunday night at 9:30 p.m. It airs nationally in select markets and is also available for viewing online at www.InsideMusicRow.com, www.DigitalRodeo.com, iTunes, and AOL Television.
About Inside Music Row:
“Inside Music Row” is one of country music’s premier entertainment news programs. The weekly show brings viewers the latest on their favorite artists, plus feature stories, interviews and behind-the-scenes coverage. From No. 1 parties to red carpet events to independent artist showcases, Inside Music Row brings a new perspective to country music fans. Visit www.InsideMusicRow.com for more information.
About CJM Productions:
CJM Productions was founded in 1983 by Jeff Moseley. The company’s television series and specials include Music Row Profiles, On Solid Rock, Southern Psalms, Soundcheck, Fantasy Vacation, 25 Years Around the World with the Bellamy Brothers, An Evening with the Gatlin Brothers, Legends Fest and the gospel music specials CrabbFest and The 40th Annual Brumley Sing. These specials have aired on Great American Country (GAC), CMT, CMT International, America One, FamilyNet, NRB and the Gospel Music Channel as well as syndicated worldwide.
CRB, Inc. Now Accepting Nominations For 2010 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame
Submit Nominations Now at www.CRB.org
(Nashville, TN - June 1, 2009) Nominations for induction into the Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® 2010 Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame can now be made online at www.CRB.org.
The Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth and development of country radio.
“The Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame honors long-term, outstanding achievements by country radio personalities and executives, each of whom have committed themselves to their community and the most enduring musical genre in America,” says CRB Hall of Fame Chairman R.J. Curtis. “On behalf of CRB, I strongly urge our industry peers to nominate a deserving country radio professional for this prestigious honor.”
Applications for eligible nominees, either living or deceased, may be submitted by anyone. Contact information for the nominee or their next of kin must be included. CRB, Inc. will contact that party with the appropriate information to complete the process. Each nominee must then fill out an application, and may submit materials (air-checks, press clippings, awards listings, etc.) in support of the nomination. These materials must be received in the CRB offices (819 18th Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37203) no later than September 18, 2009.
Nominees cannot be current members of the Board or Agenda Committee of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. A voting committee of country radio and industry veterans will make all final decisions regarding inductees.
Country Music DJ Hall of Fame Criteria:
* Must have at least a 20 year on-air career in radio, minimum of 15 in the Country format.
* Significant contributions to the growth and development in the country radio industry and ongoing contributions to the preservation and enhancement of country music as an art form.
Prior DJ Hall of Fame inductees include: Chuck Collier and Gerry House, Bill Cody, Coyote Calhoun, Charlie Douglas, Ralph Emery, Lon Helton, Rhubarb Jones, Bob Kingsley, Joe Ladd, Bob Mitchell, Billy Parker, Charlie Walker, and more.
Country Radio Hall of Fame criteria:
* Must have at least a 20 year career in radio, minimum of 15 in the Country format.
* Significant contributions to the growth and development of the country radio industry and ongoing contributions to the preservation and enhancement of country music as an art form.
Prior Radio Hall of Fame inductees include: Bob McKay and Moon Mullins, Jaye Albright, Les Acree, Larry Daniels, Jonathan Fricke, Dan McKinnon, Bob Moody, Ed Salamon, and Mack Sanders.
About CRB:
The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure the vitality of the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487.
About CRS:
The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. CRS-41 will take place Feb. 24-26, 2010 in downtown Nashville.
Martina McBride Added to Canadian Country Music Awards Lineup
(Nashville, TN - May 27, 2009) The Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) announced today that multi-platinum recording artist Martina McBride will perform at the 2009 Canadian Country Music Awards.
The awards will be held at General Motors Place in Vancouver, BC, September 13, 2009. Broadcast nationally on CBC with encore airings on CMT in Canada, this year’s CCMA Awards show promises to be a colossal country music party for fans across Canada.
“Fans are in for a real treat this year at the CCMA Awards,” said Executive Producer, Scott Henuset of Corkscrew Media. “Whether you’re attending the show at GM Place or watching from the comfort of your own living room, having the powerhouse vocals of Martina McBride on the show, along with the stars of Canadian country music, will be a night for the record books!”
Martina McBride’s awe-inspiring vocals have earned her more than 18 million in album sales, garnered 22 Top 10 singles and resulted in numerous honors, including a record-tying four CMA Female Vocalist of the Year trophies. This will be McBride’s first time as a guest at the CCMA Awards.
Other stars performing on this year’s broadcast include 2008 CCMA Male Artist of the Year, Johnny Reid, six-time 2008 CCMA Award winners and 2009 JUNO recipients, Doc Walker, and multiple CCMA Award winner Terri Clark. More stars will be announced in the coming weeks.
Tickets to the CCMA Awards are on sale through all Ticketmaster locations, online at www.ticketmaster.ca and by phone at 604-280-4444. There are tickets priced for all budgets, with prices ranging from $20 to $125 (plus applicable taxes and service charges).
For more details about the 2009 CCMA Awards, visit www.countrymusicvancouver.com or www.ccma.org.
Nominees for the 2009 CCMA Awards will be announced July 29 at a media conference in Toronto.
Charlie Daniels Recruits Marty Stuart For Surprise Opry Appearance
(Nashville, TN - May 20, 2009) Charlie Daniels poses with Marty Stuart prior to his Grand Ole Opry performance in Nashville on Saturday, May 16. In spirit of the Opry’s tradition of unexpected appearances, Daniels invited Stuart on stage to play during his set for a performance of “Long Haired Country Boy.”
Pictured: Charlie Daniels with Marty Stuart.
Photo Credit: Dean Tubb.
International Country Music Conference to Host Book and Journalism Awards
Belmont Book Award, Lifetime Achievement Award, Charlie Lamb Awards to be Presented Friday, May 22 at Belmont University (Nashville, TN - May 19, 2009) The 26th annual International Country Music Conference will honor some of the top authors and journalists in the field of country music on May 21-23, 2009 at Belmont University in Nashville, Tenn. The Belmont Book Award, Lifetime Achievement Award and Charlie Lamb Awards will be presented during a special noon luncheon, underwritten by the Mike Curb Family Foundation, on Friday, May 22 in the Frist Lecture Hall at the Gordon E. Inman Center. This year’s Belmont Book Award will be presented to Patrick Huber for “Linthead Stomp: The Creation of Country Music in the Piedmont South.” Huber’s book focuses on the early country music recorded in the Piedmont region in the Southern U.S. The University of Illinois Press will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for their series, “Music in American Life.” In addition to the book awards, the Charlie Lamb Awards for Excellence in Journalism will be presented to Alanna Nash in the Career category and Barry Mazor in the Contemporary category. The Charlie Lamb Awards are underwritten by Gary and Peggy Walker. The 26th annual ICMC will feature authors of books on a variety of country music subjects, including Jimmie Rodgers, Ernest Tubb, Eddy Arnold, Gene Autry, Johnny Cash, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans. Featured events include the Thursday evening panel at the Quonset Hut with Shelby Singleton, Jerry Kennedy and Bob Moore, moderated by Don Cusic, and a panel discussion at RCA Studio B on Friday evening with Harold Bradley, Fred Foster and Ray Edenton with moderator John Rumble. There will also be presentations from prominent country music historians and scholars, including panels “The Songs of Jimmie Rodgers” and “Defining Country Music: What It Is and Does It Matter?” Registration for the International Country Music Conference is $100 and should be sent to: James Akenson, Box 5042, Tennessee Tech University, Cookeville, Tennessee 38505. To view the 2009 ICMC Program Schedule: www.InternationalCountryMusic.org/schedule.html For more information, visit: www.InternationalCountryMusic.org
d. corlew films’ David Corlew documents Charlie Daniels visit to U.S. military troops in Kuwait and Iraq.
(Nashville, Tennessee - May 6, 2009) d. corlew films’ David Corlew made a recent trip overseas with Charlie Daniels to visit U.S. military troops in Kuwait and Iraq. Corlew was on hand to document the seven-show, nine-day visit which was organized by Stars for Stripes, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing celebrity entertainment to troops deployed overseas.
Pictured L to R: David Corlew, Lt. Regina Koetters, and Charlie Daniels at Al Asad military base in Iraq, April 2009
CMA Global Artist Party and AristoMedia Global Showcase Jump Start CMA Music Festival Week on June 8 and 9
(NASHVILLE, TN - May 11, 2009) Sixteen prominent international Country artists will convene in Music City next month to participate in a series of global Country Music events, beginning June 8 in downtown Nashville, Tenn.
The CMA Global Artist Party (presented by CMA and sponsored by NiteTrain Coaches) unofficially marks the beginning of the 2009 CMA Music Festival with its annual showcase on Monday, June 8. The event, hosted by Country artist Jace Everett, will feature a total of eight artists from Australia, Ireland, U.K., Canada and New Zealand, including Australia’s “Telstra Road to Tamworth” winner, Peter McWhirter. The showcase begins at 6:15 p.m. at The Stage on Broadway.
CMA Global Artist Party Performers: Kirsty Lee Akers (Australia), Colm Kirwan (Ireland), Lucie Silvas (U.K.), Alex J. Robinson (Canada), Peter McWhirter (Australia), Ashley Cooper (New Zealand), The McClymonts (Australia) and George Canyon (Canada).
The annual AristoMedia Global Showcase (presented by AristoMedia and sponsored by CMA, NiteTrain Coaches and Digital Rodeo) will be held Tuesday, June 9 at 3 p.m. at The Second Fiddle. International artists from France, U.K., Norway, Switzerland, Australia and Canada will perform, including the “Telstra Road to Tamworth” Songwriter’s Award winner Corey Colum. Former Mavericks bassist and Digital Rodeo Director of Industry Relations Robert Reynolds will host the event.
AristoMedia Global Showcase Performers: Pierre Lorry (France), Brianie (U.K.), Tore Andersen (Norway), Rolf Fritschi (Switzerland), Dianna Corcoran (Australia), Codie Prevost (Canada), Corey Colum (Australia) and David Bradley (U.K.).
“Both of these events are certainly a highlight for the global Country Music community each year,” says AristoMedia President Jeff Walker. “Music City is regarded as the heart of Country Music and the CMA Music Festival is one of the best live events in the world. The chance for these artists to travel and perform here is not only an exciting opportunity for the artists, but for the city of Nashville and the entire international Country Music movement as well.”
Previous performers at the annual Global Events include: Troy Cassar-Daley, Jasmine Rae, Adam Gregory, Johnny Reid, Doc Walker, the Road Hammers and Lisa Brokop, among others.
2009 CMA Music Festival is held Thursday-Sunday, June 11-14, in Downtown Nashville. For ticket information, event schedule, and more, visit www.CMAfest.com.
For interview requests or more information about these events, please contact AristoMedia at 615.269.7071 or publicity@aristomedia.com.
Follow Country Music Alive on Facebook
Submitted by Country Music Alive Blog
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Country Music New Release Update
Submitted by Country Music Alive Blog
Country Music Alive’s New Album Release Calendar has been released. It is probably the most comprehensive list of new releases available that are official and available as of this posting.
To visit the list, follow this link:
http://www.countrymusicalive.com/albums/releases.php
Amazon’s 50 for $5
Submitted by Country Music Alive Blog
These days, any kind of deal certainly comes in handy. For the music lover, Amazon.com makes available 50 albums available for download for $5. Pretty cool. It seems to change each month.
3 of the 50 are indeed country albums, and each of them are worth buying at this price hands down.
- Dolly Parton “Backwoods Barbie”
- Jamey Johnson “That Lonseome Song”
- Kenny Rogers “The Gambler”
Wow, what a list to be able to get at this price… it is really amazing, because ech and everyone is worth so very much than that in quality. These are just any albums.
Check them out!
International Country Music Conference To Offer Broad Historical Perspectives on Country Music May 21-23
Conference to Cover Variety of Country-Related Genres with Diverse Range of Panels
(Nashville, TN - May 6, 2009) The 26th annual International Country Music Conference, to be held May 21-23 in Nashville, Tenn. at Belmont University, will host a broad cross-section of panels and topics in the field of country music.
This year’s ICMC will feature more than three-dozen panels on a variety of influential artists and subjects in all country-related genres, including Bluegrass, Americana, Western Swing, Country Rock, Honky-Tonk, Gospel and more. Notable artists to be profiled in selected presentations will include Bill Monroe, Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Waylon Jennings, Gram Parsons, Kitty Wells, Cowboy Troy, Charlie Louvin and Jimmie Rodgers, among others.
Renowned author and country music expert Don Cusic will co-host the panel “Defining Country Music: What It Is and Does It Matter?” His recent book, “Discovering Country Music,” chronicles the evolution of the genre “from the fiddle to the Pop charts” and will be an ICMC Special Feature at this year’s event.
“The history of country music is being preserved by these academics and journalists,” says Cusic. “We treasure the present by honoring the past, and the International Country Music Conference demonstrates the impact country music has had, and is still having, on culture throughout the world.”
Additional ICMC panels will cover subjects ranging from international topics (”Teaching Country Music in Australia: Teaching Australian Country Music” and “New Zealand Country”), regional interests (”A Cajun Music Mystery: Dr. James F. Roach, ‘Song of the Crocodile,’ and the First Commercial Recording of a Cajun Folksong”) and political themes (”Barack Obama, Country Music Stardom, and a New Black American Narrative”).
A number of panels will be packaged together and presented on specific themes, including the Bluegrass genre and artists Hank Williams and Jimmie Rodgers.
The Belmont University Book Awards, Lifetime Achievement Award and The Charlie Lamb Awards will also be presented at this year’s conference.
Registration is $100 and checks should be sent to James Akenson, Box 5042, Tennessee Tech University, Cookeville, TN, 38505.
The complete 2009 ICMC Program Schedule can be found here: www.internationalcountrymusic.org/schedule.html
For more information, visit: www.internationalcountrymusic.org
Taylor Hicks Tries Country Crossover? - The Boot
Submitted by Country Music Alive Blog
Alright. This news is exactly what I find wrong with country music these days.
Taylor Hicks couldn’t make it in pop scene after his American Idol success, and currently is playing a role in a theater play of “Grease” out on the West Coast. His first album sold double platinum, which is great. But, honestly, we haven’t heard much about him in a good while. He does have a new album out and a single from it has made it to #22 on the AC/Pop chart. His 15 minutes of fame should be be out of snooze button pushes. But, not so fast.
Taylor Hicks is now ready for country radio. Yes, you read that right, and you probably know good and well where I am going with this. I have a problem with this. Big time. Yes, I think he is talented, and enjoyed watching that season of American Idol because of him. That was the last season I actually paid attention to, in fact. Thinking back on his performances and his influences, I don’t really think he mentioned country music that much. Influences on his music include Ray Charles, Michael McDonald, and Steve Winwood for example. Um, not really country to me. Yes, great artists, no doubt, but not country. He is from Alabama, but that doesn’t mean a thing either.
So, why in the world did he think a country single was the way to go? I have no idea. His website even calls it a re-mix version going to country radio. Now, that’s an oxymoron if I’ve ever heard it. “remix” and “country” doesn’t ever make me want to listen to it. 99.9% of the time, its not going to be traditional or even pop country, nor any good to listen to for that matter.
Here is yet another example of someone that made a decision to head to country music if you can’t make it in pop. Just maybe one day those decision makers will understand the true difficulty and the natural passion that the skill to be a country music artist takes. Country music is not a dumping ground, its a style of music that takes a certain level of love, skill in delivery of a story in song of real-life. Not a style that just anyone can produce well just as a genre to come into to try to make a buck. Plus, if you have made it in the top 25 on the Adult Contemporary/Pop chart, why would you want to try another genre? I think that’s pretty good myself.
Under the article on “The Boot” I see comments about this being a country song to them, well, I’ve listened to it, and I certainly don’t hear it.
I just hope that country radio wakes up and decides not to add the song to the play list, and take notice, for once, that someone that isn’t country, doesn’t belong on country radio. However, I have a feeling we will be hearing it in no time.
The Oak Ridge Boys on QVC
Submitted by Country Music Alive Blog
Joe Bonsall, William Lee Golden, Richard Sterban, and Duane Allen, better known as The Oak Ridge Boys make up one of the finest American vocal groups ever. No, you don’t hear about them as much as we should, but they are still touring and better yet, still producing country music.
In fact tomorrow night, The Oak Ridge Boys are scheduled to make their QVC debut Wednesday, April 29 at 7:30 PM (ET) during a special QVC Presents The Oak Ridge Boys Qsessions Live show. The group will perform a selection of songs from their from their newest release ‘The Boys Are Back’ from Spring Hill Music Group.
The album is set to go on sale May 19, 2009 everywhere. QVC will be offering a package that includes an additional 5-track bonus and will be available April 29 for order.
Win A Copy of “Naked Willie”
Submitted by Country Music Alive Blog
Win A Copy of “Naked Willie”
How To Enter:
Send an email to contest@countrymusicalive.com no later than 12:00pm EST on May 1, 2009. The email subject should be “naked willie” and include your name and city/state. Only one entry per-person. No exceptions and multiple entries will void all entries.
How To Win:
A winner will be picked at random after 12:00pm EST May 1,2009 and will be notified by email to provide full mailing address. You will have 2 days to respond before another entry will be selected.
“Naked Willie” is available in stores and online now from RCA Nashville/Legacy Records.
Willie Nelson “Naked”
Submitted by Country Music Alive Blog
Willie Nelson has released countless albums, almost literally. He is a master of the pen, the vocal delivery of a country song, and music in general. Anything he touches his distinct vocals to turn into history immediately and adored by the country music community. His newest release, “Naked Willie,” is no exception to this thought. This album is something special, indeed. You see, when Nelson began his career in 1964 with RCA, he didn’t have total control over how his music was recorded. He had to rely on the decisions of his upper management. So what was produced was great music, however, not exactly how Nelson would have wanted it… it was called “The Nashville Sound” back then. It was pioneered by the legendary Chet Atkins, among others at RCA that had a slick sound to it… with background vocals and lots of string musicians. Now, its 2009… Nelson is an icon of music in general and let’s face it; he can record what he wants, when he wants, and exactly how he wants.
On “Naked Willie,” Nelson takes a collection of seventeen songs from 1966-1970 and were re-mixed to the way Nelson would have wanted to record them… well, naked. No overpowering strings or backup singers…just Nelson, the lyrics, and the music shining through.
Below this posting, you will find 2 Amazon MP3 players. One is just a few original recordings of the songs that appear on “Naked Willie.” The second player is of this new album. Just listen to the amazing difference… both good, “Naked Willie” just more special, no doubt.
This album is a relaxing, enjoyable listen right from the start. The very first track, “Bring Me Sunshine,” had me snapping along as Nelson’s voice clearly fills the air. Each track reminds you sharply how distinctive Nelson’s vocals are. Take a listen to “I’m A Memory” in your own Nelson collection or a clip on Amazon, I-tunes, etc. and then play this version. The new re-mastered version has a whole new feel to it. This album is really an education on music. It teaches us how even slight changes to a song, keeping the same vocal talent and lyrics can change the feel of the song totally. Toning down the instrumentation and letting a vocal shine just is so enjoyable, especially vocal of Nelson.
Among the great music that is served “naked” on this album, the booklet in itself is worth picking up the CD, as long as you can get over the mild shock of a Willie Nelson in a bathtub. Let’s just thank God for bubble baths. However, the writing in the booklet is a wonderful read about Nelson’s career and how this album came along. It is worth reading, most definitely.
From the die-hard fan of Nelson to the just general music lover, you will enjoy every moment of Willie… “naked.”
Enter To Win The Bocephus Bailout Package
Submitted by Country Music Alive Blog
Every now and then, I find a contest to enter that actually seems like something worth taking the time to enter. Boy, have I found it this time.
First and foremost, take a listen to te single from Hank Williams Jr. “Red White & Pink-Slip Blues.” Amazing song, wow. I’m sure I’ll be writing more about this one soon…. just maybe another classic Hank Jr. song in the making right before your eyes (well, ears.)
Once you are blown away by the song, take a minute and enter the contest…
The Bocephus Bailout Package includes:
- $1,000 Spending money
- Plus an additional $1,500 toward airfare & hotel
- Winner plus one guest:
- Premium seats to the concert
- Meet & greet with Hank Jr backstage - One Limited Edition Collector’s Tin featuring three
classic CDs
- Family Tradition
- Whiskey Bent & Hell Bound
- The Pressure Is On - One Limited Edition Monday Night Football Guitar
- One autographed copy of the brand new single, “RED WHITE & PINK-SLIP BLUES”
One entry per signup via the Bocephus Bailout website between the sweepstakes dates as indicated above. No purchase necessary to enter. To enter via mail, send in a 3×5 postcard complete with name, address, phone number, and email to:
Curb Records, Inc.
ATTN: BOCEPHUS BAILOUT
48 Music Square E.
Nashville, TN 37203
Visit Visit: http://www.bocephusbailout.com/ for complete rules and much more information…
I’m Back
Submitted by Country Music Alive Blog
Wow, its been one month to the day since the last posting. I am very much relaxed and have returned from a honeymoon I’ll never forget. Full of enjoyment and relaxation. The past months have been extremely busy for myself. Its almost incomprehensible. From the purchase of a new home, a new position at my work, a wedding, and a honeymoon, I am now ready to get back into a normal schedule.
One of the biggest things I’ve missed in the past months is writing this blog and my website upkeep. Something had to give in all the physical and mental work that had to be done. I can’t wait to get back into it, no doubt.
So, since February, what have I missed? What interesting stories have you read about country music, what new and upcoming artist has caught your ear? How did you enjoy the ACM Awards? Yes, for the first time in my memory, I missed that particular show.
On my drive back from Charleston, SC yesterday, I had XM Highway 16 on, as I usually do. However, this time, it was a little different. No, the station hadn’t changed nor really the music had changed, with exception of a few new songs… what had though was I had been away from country music for a week or so, on a cruise ship. It was calming, enjoyable, and really just a great feeling to hear country music again.
Well, that’s all for now, I must start to sift through the hundreds of emails that await my attention about this great music we love.
You will be hearing more from me very soon, that is for sure.
I will be back, promise
Submitted by Country Music Alive Blog
I am logging on to my computer for the first time in over a week. I hope to able to post at least something this upcoming week. I promise, I am not gone, just very busy from moving to a new house, a new position at my job, and then will be getting married on March 21st.
If you are so happened interested in the wedding plans etc, you can visit kirkandcatherine.com
Thanks for your understanding, and believe me, I can’t wait to post again soon
Taking Some Time Off
Submitted by Country Music Alive Blog
Just wanted to drop a line to let you all know that I will be away from the blog and website for a bit. I am in the process of buying a new home, getting married, and also a changing responsibilities all my full time job.
I hope to post from time to time, at least something here and there, but a lot of things take a higher priority right now.
I will be in touch and hopefully soon will return to daily postings, or at least a normal schedule of postings.
I thank you for your support and keep checking and keep your subscriptions to the blog, I will be posting on ocassion, however, just not on the schedule I would hope to maintain.
–Kirk Fitzgerald
News From The Week: January 10, 2009
Submitted by Country Music Alive Blog
Apple I-Tunes News
Apple will begin making songs available in its iTunes store at 69 cents, 99 cents and $1.29 in April, with most albums remaining $9.99. Apple is also extending to all four major labels and thousands of indpendents its DRM-free iTunes Plus format with higher-quality 256 kbps AAC encoding. Customers can upgrade their existing library to the new codec for 30 cents a track or 30% of the album price. In a significant breakthrough beyond Wi-Fi capability, consumers with iPhones now will be able to preview and buy music via the 3G network at no extra charge.
Cledus T. Judd New Single
Cledus T. Judd has re-signed with Koch Records and will release a new single this month, “Waitin’ On Obama” after being away from the music for three-years. The song is a parody of Brad Paisley’s hit single, “Waitin’ On A Woman.”
Keith Urban Announces Tour Stops, No Dates.. Yet.
Keith Urban has announced all the cities his 2009 tour will stop in. He will also have a new CD out March 31, 2009.
One supporting act, either Sugarland, Taylor Swift, Jason Aldean, Lady Antebellum, Dierks Bently, Glen Campbell or The Zac Brown Band will appear at each show.
Tour stops include:
Uncasville, CT Philadelphia, PA
State College, PA Rochester, NY
St. Paul, MN Little Rock, AR
Chicago, IL Tulsa, OK
Green Bay, WI Kansas City, MO
Charleston, WV Pittsburgh, PA
Roanoke, VA Columbus, OH
Indianapolis, IN Louisville, KY
Huntsville, AL Hershey, PA
Cincinnati, OH Washington DC
Detroit, MI Cleveland, OH
Fort Wayne, IN Charlottesville, VA
St. Louis, MO Buffalo, NY
Memphis, TN Knoxville, TN
Atlanta, GA Nashville, TN
Greenville, SC Salt Lake City, UT
Charlotte, NC Portland, OR
Raleigh, NC Seattle, WA
Des Moines, IA Spokane, WA
Moline, IL Boston, MA
Milwaukee, WI Vancouver, Canada
Omaha, NE Calgary, Canada
Wichita, KS Edmonton, Canada
Dallas, TX Saskatoon, Canada
Denver, CO Winnipeg, Canada
Glendale, AZ London, Canada
Las Vegas, NV Toronto, Canada
Los Angeles, CA Albany, NY
Ontario, CA New York, NY
There we have a short look at the news from the week! Check back next Saturday for more updates!