Sunday, December 27, 2009

Charlie Daniels To Be Featured In Geico Commercial

CHARLIE DANIELS TO BE FEATURED IN GEICO COMMERCIAL
Tune in beginning Monday, Dec 28th


On Monday, 12/28 GEICO will launch four TV spots as part of a new campaign, called “Rhetorical Questions.” The new creative joins their on-air rotation as the fifth current storyline, in addition to the Gecko, Cavemen, “Talking Accidents” and googly-eyed “Kash.”


During the last 15 years, everyone’s heard GEICO’s famous tagline: “15 minutes could save you 15% or more on car insurance.”

With that in mind, GEICO’s savings message has a refreshed twist. The idea: people know this tagline so well, we could phrase it as a rhetorical question.

Each spot begins with an investigative reporter-type host, played by Mike McGlone (from The Brothers McMullen,) asking the question: “Could switching to GEICO really save you 15% or more on car insurance?”

Well…

“Is Ed “Too Tall” Jones too tall?”

“Does Charlie Daniels play a mean fiddle?”

“Does Elmer Fudd have trouble with the letter R?”

“Did The Waltons take way too long to say goodnight?”

Obviously, GEICO’s answer is a resounding “yes.”


(Charlie's GEICO commercial will be posted on www.charliedaniels.com 12/28)

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

"He Stopped Lovin' Her Today" To Go In Library Of Congress Historical Archives

George Jones’ “He Stopped Loving Her Today” to be featured in Library of Congress historical archives
“The Sounds of American Culture” radio special to air nationwide this weekend on Public Radio International’s Studio 360 program


Nashville, TN – George Jones’ “He Stopped Loving Her Today” was selected by the Library of Congress’ National Recording Preservation Board and will be featured on this weekend’s “The Sounds of American Culture” program on PRI’s Studio360. The award winning radio series continues to draw attention to the Library of Congress’ National Recording Registry. This weekend show's featured guests include George Jones and Bobby Braddock, the song’s co-author and country columnist Hazel Smith who will discuss the history of the song, its recording and the impact it has had on music throughout the years.

"He Stopped Loving Her Today” George Jones (1980)
George Jones has said that he initially thought “He Stopped Loving Her Today” was too sad to be very popular, but, at one of the lowest points of his career and personal life, he made it one of country music’s defining and most enduring songs. Billy Sherrill’s restrained production highlighted the plaintive yet highly nuanced vocals that were the hallmark of Jones’ mature style, a style that stretched back to his days singing for tips in the streets of his hometown, Beaumont, Texas, in the 1940s.

Since 2002, the Librarian of Congress, James H. Billington, with advice from the Library of Congress' National Recording Preservation Board, has named a limited number of recordings each year to the National Recording Registry for preservation. These recordings are considered “culturally, historically or aesthetically significant.” This is the fourth year of the series, where the first three years won the Bronze, Silver and Gold Medals at the International Radio Programming Festival.

Selections from the seventh annual registry exemplify the rich diversity of the nation's aural history. The series began the weekend of December 5/6, 2009 and will be available as podcasts at a later date.

George Jones – a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame – is a country music icon, frequently referred to as "the greatest living country singer". A native of Beaumont, Texas, Jones began his career as a radio host and has successfully scored over 150 hits during his fifty-plus year career. In 2008, Jones received the prestigious Kennedy Center Honor. Now in 2009, Jones continues to tour extensively in North America and overseas promoting his latest album, A Collection of My Best Recollection, exclusively through Cracker Barrel Music.

For more information on George Jones, please visit www.georgejones.com

The Library of Congress, the nation’s oldest federal cultural institution, is the world’s preeminent reservoir of knowledge, providing unparalleled integrated resources to Congress and the American people. Founded in 1800, the Library seeks to further human understanding and wisdom by providing access to knowledge through its magnificent collections, which bring to bear the world’s knowledge in almost all of the world’s languages and America’s private-sector intellectual and cultural creativity in almost all formats. Many of the Library’s rich resources and treasures may also be accessed through the Library’s award-winning Web site at www.loc.gov and via interactive exhibitions on a new, personalized Web site at www.myLOC.gov.

Studio 360 delve deep into the ever-changing cultural landscape with novelist and co-founder of legendary "Spy" magazine, Kurt Andersen. "Studio 360" is public radio's only national program devoted to arts and culture, co-produced by PRI and WNYC. Streaming audio, podcasts, and airtimes are available at www.studio360.org

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Country Weekly Celebrates 15th Anniversary with Special Issue sale Dec. 21

COUNTRY WEEKLY CELEBRATES 15TH ANNIVERSARY
WITH SPECIAL ISSUE ON SALE DEC. 21

America’s only weekly country entertainment magazine
has been bringing fans un-matched coverage since
Taylor Swift was 5 years old!

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Garth Brooks was on the cover and Faith Hill was just launching her career on April 12, 1994, when Country Weekly magazine hit the streets for the first time. Since then, the Nashville-based publication has seen and covered pretty much anything worth seeing and covering in the country music world—from the highs of hit records, major award shows and stadium concerts to the sad stories of divorces, lost record deals and the deaths of beloved stars.

Along the way Country Weekly has earned the rabid loyalty of fans throughout the U.S., as well as in several other countries, and has acquired a reputation as the “go to” source for country radio personalities who want the latest scoop on stars ranging from legendary icons to newcomers.

In a special Dec. 28 collector’s edition of Country Weekly, on stands Dec. 21, the publication takes a look back at how far the magazine and the industry have come since 1994. It includes a timeline of major industry happenings over the past 15 years, plus often-funny photos of how current stars looked way back when. FYI, Taylor Swift was as cute as a 5-year-old as she is now, having just turned 20 on Dec. 13.

Also in the special issue are memorable covers throughout the years, selected photos from visits to artists’ homes and a great selection of more than 50 comments from country stars—from the biggest superstars to the newest newcomers—wishing Country Weekly well and congratulating the publication for leading the way in covering country music for so many years.

“It’s hard to believe 15 years have passed since Country Weekly was launched,” says Editor in Chief Larry Holden. “Covering the industry and the music we love has been a labor of love for all of us on staff, and we couldn’t be more grateful to our loyal readers and to the artists who’ve been so cooperative through the years as we’ve endeavored to tell their stories.

“Our goal is always to take our readers places they’d like to go—whether backstage at a concert, on an artist’s tour bus, in a star’s living room or inside the recording studio. We look forward to doing that and much more for at least another 15 years.”

Check out Country Weekly’s website countryweekly.com for the latest in country music news. And you can see every cover of CW for the past 15 years at countryweekly.com/covers.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Performers Announced for CRS 2010 New Faces of Country Show

Performers Announced For CRS 2010 New Faces of Country Music Show®

CRB-Country Aircheck Awards To Be Presented Between Performances


(Nashville, TN – Dec. 14, 2009) Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has announced the performers for the CRS 2010 New Faces of Country Music Show® to be held Friday, Feb. 26, 2010.

This year’s performers are:

Gloriana (Emblem Records)
Randy Houser (Universal South)
Love and Theft (Lyric Street)
Justin Moore (Valory Music Co.)
Chris Young (RCA)

The New Faces of Country Music Show (co-sponsored by the Country Music Association) is one of the most anticipated events of the annual Country Radio Seminar. Five emerging artists that have achieved significant success at Country radio during the qualification period are selected to perform at the event, held in the CMA Performance Hall. Each act plays a 20-minute set during the show, which officially closes CRS every year.

“The CRS New Faces show is a great way to stay ahead of the curve and see tomorrow’s stars today,” says CRB President Becky Brenner. “Artists like Taylor Swift, Sugarland, Blake Shelton, Rascal Flatts, Brad Paisley and Keith Urban were all New Faces performers at one time, and that’s only in the last decade!”

The inaugural CRB-Country Aircheck Awards will also be presented at this year’s New Faces show. The awards recognize those individuals that have demonstrated outstanding efforts in the Country radio and music industries in the past year. A total of 28 awards will be presented between performances.

Country radio registrants who attended the previous year’s Country Radio Seminar select the New Faces of Country Music Show artists. The Nashville-based firm of Flood, Bumstead, McCready & McCarthy, Inc. validates the voting process.

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 2010 will be held Feb. 24-26, 2010 in Nashville, Tenn. Advance Rate registration expires Dec. 18 and is currently available online at www.CRB.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters at 615-327-4487. Follow CRS 2010 on Facebook, or on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/OfficialCRS.

About CRB:

Wednesday, December 09, 2009

Zona Jones along many Country Artists hit Small Screen with music available on new DVD

ZONA JONES along with BO BICE, PAM TILLIS, TRACY BYRD, MARK CHESNUTT, TRACY LAWRENCE and others hit the small screen with their music on new DVD hitting stores on Dec 22nd

Los Angeles, California - After a successful 4-week theatrical run, the independent feature film “Noble Things” will be made available on DVD at Amazon.com and other major retail outlets on December 22nd. Bonus features include “The Making of”, 5.1 Dolby Surround Mix.

About Noble Things:
Noble Things features the big screen debuts of country music stars Lee Ann Womack and Tracy Byrd in a supporting role.

Hollywood icon Michael Parks (Grindhouse, Kill Bill, From Dusk ‘Til Dawn) delivers a must-see performance along with Ryan Hurst (Sons of Anarchy, Remember The Titans, Saving Private Ryan) Dominique Swain (Alpha Dog, Face/Off, Lolita) and Wes Brown (True Blood, We Are Marshall).

The movie introduces up-and-coming talent Brett Moses (Beautiful Dreamer, Buffy The Vampire Slayer) in a powerful and touching performance as rising country singer “Jimmy Wayne Collins”.

Noble Things features never before heard original songs produced by Clay Walker's E L Music. Soundtrack now available on iTunes, Amazon.com & Rhapsody.

Mark Chesnutt
Bo Bice
Pam Tillis
Tracy Byrd
The Drew Davis Band
Blaine Larsen
Nikki Williams
Tracy Lawrence
Dobie Gray
Lane Turner
Zona Jones
The Rachels
Brock Goodwin with Jenny Gill

For more information please visit:
noblethingsmovie.com or noblethingssoundtrack.com
facebook.com/pages/Noble-Things/80435569688
myspace.com/noblethingsmovie

Monday, December 07, 2009

Grammy Nomination for Michael Martin Murphey

Grammy Nomination for Michael Martin Murphey
"Buckaroo Blue Grass" Nominated for Best Bluegrass Album


Rural Rhythm Records is very proud to announce Michael Martin Murphey’s GRAMMY® nomination for BEST BLUEGRASS ALBUM, “BUCKAROO BLUE GRASS” released last February. "We are so happy for Murph on his Grammy® Album Nomination! He has worked so hard to get his bluegrass album done right in a way that honors, respects and maintains the integrity of bluegrass music and at the same time presents his classic songs in a new and fresh Buckaroo Blue Grass style. Certainly having some of today's top bluegrass artists performing on the album has helped accomplish Murph's vision for the Buckaroo Blue Grass album,” said Rural Rhythm Records President, Sam Passamano, Jr.

This Billboard™ TOP 50 BLUEGRASS chart album (retail sales) album has received other impressive attention this year including holding the #1 spot on the Roots Music Bluegrass Report (airplay) for three weeks in a row last month. CMT.com recently posted a feature article “Michael Martin Murphey Embraced by Bluegrass”, plus named the album in their Top 10 Independent Releases Worth Checking Out article earlier this year.

“BUCKAROO BLUE GRASS” includes numerous fan favorites including, “Carolina in the Pines,” “Lone Cowboy,” and many more. Another track from the album, “Close to the Land (America’s Heartland),” is now in its fourth year as the theme song for the national hit television show America’s Heartland, and also includes a VIDEO RELEASE. This music video includes images from Paul Mobley’s book, THE AMERICAN FARMER - a recent winner of the Book of the Year Award from the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

Murphey was extremely grateful for the nomination and said, “It’s wonderful to be mentioned as a Grammy® nominee in the company of people like Steve Martin who has done so much for the bluegrass genre this year. I am so thankful to the Producer, my son, Ryan Murphey and Patt Flynn who organized the players (Sam Bush, Rob Ickes, Charlie Cushman, Andy Leftwich, Ronnie McCoury, Ryan Murphey, Craig Nelson, Pat Flynn, Tim Stidolph, Clay Riness, Matt Wilkes, David Davidson), Keith Compton (Engineer), and Rhonda Vincent who provided vocals and is also a Grammy® nominee in the same category.”

“I’m very grateful to all of the bluegrass bands that have recorded my songs over the years. I’m so blessed to have the support of my real family including my wife Karen, plus my new adopted family, Rural Rhythm Records that includes all the Passamano family and Penni McDaniel. I’m thankful for my Agent, Mike Drudge who introduced me to the Rural Rhythm family. He keeps us very busy on the road and I appreciate the support from PLA Media as well," he continued.

Murphey's performances were extremely well received during the recent International Bluegrass Music Association’s World of Bluegrass convention held in Nashville. Fans were thrilled when he appeared on stage with #1 bluegrass artist, Carrie Hassler, to perform a duet of “WILDFIRE,” and also “RUNNING GUN” with bluegrass veteran, Audie Blaylock & Redline. Both of these new single releases will appear on “BUCKAROO BLUE GRASS II (Riding Song) set for a February 9, 2010 release.

Thursday, December 03, 2009

Rural Rhytmn Releases First Single by Brand New Strings "Merry Go Round"

Rural Rhythm Releases First Single by Brand New Strings
"Merry Go Round" Now Available
From Upcoming Album: "No Strings Attached"


Rural Rhythm Records is very proud to announce the new single, “Merry Go Round” by BRAND NEW STRINGS. The song is from their upcoming album, “NO STRINGS ATTACHED” set for release Feb 9, 2010. “Real bluegrass from the real deal”, says album producer and top bluegrass artist, Steve Gulley. "Merry Go Round" is now available to radio via Airplay Direct and also next week's Fresh Cuts and Key Tracks #6 radio compilation CD.

BRAND NEW STRINGS bring the sounds of East Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains to their music - combining hard drivin’ traditional bluegrass with gospel mountain music as well. Their fine instrumentals and harmony vocals combined with two strong lead vocalists make up this exciting new band. Band members include: Randall Massengill (lead vocals and guitar), Mike Ramsey (lead vocals and mandolin), Tim Tipton (bass), Stuart Wyrick (banjo) and Matt Leadbetter (Resonator Guitar) who also deliver incredible original songs to the complete their fresh new sound.

"This is a band that demands national attention before the release of their debut CD. They embody all the best traits of a modern day bluegrass band with their masterful musicianship and flawless harmonies built from a lifetime of loving and respecting the fathers while reaching to the future with an anticipation that shows in the freshness of their music. You can't go wrong with BRAND NEW STRINGS,” said radio host, Charlie Hansen of CFCY FM 95.1 radio in Charlottetown, PEI, Canada.

The members have all worked together in many other band configurations during the years, including Ramsey and Wyrick touring over 10 years with the gospel bluegrass band, New Road, and Massengill also part of that group for a time. Tipton was a founding and long-time member of the popular group, Blue Moon Rising, which Massengill and Leadbetter were also previous members of as well. These friends came together to form BRAND NEW STRINGS late in 2008 and by February of 2009, they won numerous honors including the Society and Preservation of Bluegrass Music in America’s (SPBGMA) Band Competition plus went on to have a very successful tour season this year despite the tough economic times.

For more information on BRAND NEW STRINGS, please visit their site, Rural Rhythm Records, or Hope River Entertainment.

WWE Diva Mickie James Signs recording contract with Acclaimed Nashville Producer Kent Wells

WWE® DIVA MICKIE JAMES SIGNS RECORDING CONTRACT WITH ACCLAIMED NASHVILLE PRODUCER KENT WELLS

(Nashville, TN) – Today WWE® Diva Mickie James announced the signing of an exclusive personal recording contract with famed Nashville music producer Kent Wells.

Wells has produced projects for country artists Dolly Parton, Michael Peterson, and Neal McCoy among others. He also played guitar on and co-produced Dolly Parton’s GRAMMY-nominated album, “Halos And Horns” and the GRAMMY and Oscar-nominated song “Travelin’ Through.” He also produced Parton’s most recent album, “Backwoods Barbie,” which was the highest debuting Billboard Chart album release of her historic career.

James and Wells are currently in the studio working on her first recording project. A spring 2010 debut release is anticipated.

Last month, James announced signings with Sherry Massaro’s Nashville-based Skyline Management Group, Inc., as well as Don Grubbs’ Absolute Publicity, Inc. for public relations representation.

# # #

Tuesday, December 01, 2009

Martina Mcbride Delivers Country Music Like a "Rock Star" On Opening Weekend Of Shine All Night Tour

MARTINA MCBRIDE DELIVERS COUNTRY MUSIC
LIKE A “ROCK STAR” ON OPENING WEEKEND OF
SHINE ALL NIGHT TOUR


Nashville, Tenn. (December 1, 2009) – The SunnyD Presents Shine All Night Tour Starring Martina McBride & Trace Adkins kicked off before the Thanksgiving holiday and night after night, McBride commanded legions of fans and critics to take note - The powerhouse vocalist can rock an arena with an all-out, swing-for-the-fences, no-holds-barred high energy production the size and scale of a rock star. Enthusiastic crowd reaction and highly animated audience participation proved McBride shattered all illusions of a sit-in-your-seat-and-clap-politely evening as the superstar entertainer unveiled surprise after surprise during her impressive 90 minute set of hit country music, costume changes, and elaborate production and staging.

View Martina performance highlights at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suIDJR6aZb4

“Opening night in Moline was nothing short of magic,” said McBride. It was not coincidence that this was the location of her Great Performances tv special and subsequent live DVD. The entertainer knew her enthusiastic Quad City audience was the perfect “home” to share such a special night.

“I wish I could describe how amazing it feels to be on the receiving end of all that love and positive energy,” McBride added.


She explained the first show is always electric and much of the excitement is due to the thrill of the unknown but a return to Moline heightened that experience. After countless hours of planning and rehearsing for the Shine All Night Tour, the moment to step onstage in front of thousands of anticipating fans arrived and McBride was anxious to see how well the new show would be received.

“We just had to cross our fingers, say a prayer, and go out there and rock," said Martina. “Luckily, it was a nearly flawless show...one of the best shows I have ever done...and the crowd was truly unbelievable!”

The Quad City Times couldn’t agree more and noted “The mutual love affair between Martina McBride and the Quad-Cities continued and grew stronger Friday night.”

That was just the beginning. After St. Paul on Saturday, the Pioneer Press headline read “Martina McBride earns major country-star status Saturday” and went on to include whole-hearted praise from beginning to end with statements “Striding about a stage as large as what remained of the main floor at the Xcel, she exuded the air of a rock star. Her 18-song set was filled with spectacular singing, the emotion she poured out clearly transfixing most of the audience," and “If this tour is intended to reassert McBride's status as a major country star, then Saturday's show certainly made her case well.


Milwaukee’s performance capped off the weekend and reinforced what fans from the previous night were already saying about the unique pairing of Martina McBride and Trace Adkins as Shine All Night headliners - this is an exceptionally fun-filled evening of superstar entertainment.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel wrote “The two musicians brought together opposite ends of popular country music spectrum to create a cohesive package” and further explained, “McBride was comfortable straddling the lines between pop star and country girl” and for Adkins “With a deep baritone voice and a hulking frame, the former oil rig worker performed a hit-filled set that traveled from rowdy fun to emotionally gripping nostalgia and romance.”


For the nearly 40 dates through Spring 2010, the Shine All Night Tour will run the gamut of emotional release combining countless radio hits and award-winning music of McBride and Adkins. Songs flavored with boisterous revelry, sexy romance and honest reflection leave fans no choice but to dance in the aisles, fist wave and chant and hold on tight to loved ones while remembering what matters most.

# # #

Visit www.ShineAllNight.com for dates, ticket links, exclusive content, contests and to sign up for updates. For fans engrossed in the Twitter phenomenon, follow the official Twitter feed at ShineAllNight for the latest news, photos and contests. Also, Martina’s newly redesigned website (MartinaMcBride.com) offers more interactivity and features content as well as ticket presales exclusively for fan club members. In addition, eager fans can access ticket presales and other offers through TraceAdkins.com, AmericanExpress.com and several other online outlets.

In addition to new content on www.shineallnight.com and artist websites, CNN will feature McBride online in a new segment that reinvents the postcard “Wish You Were Here.” CNN.com will post short video clips, snapshots and text from McBride as she describes her activities in the various towns and cities she travels while on tour. The first McBride postcards will begin this week.

About Martina McBride
One of the most spectacular voices in any genre of music, Martina McBride is a four-time CMA Female Vocalist of the Year and GRAMMY winning recording artist with more than 18 million in album sales and 23 Top 10 singles, including six that hit #1.

The breadth of her talents - as recording artist, producer, songwriter, and concert entertainer - has made her an in-demand performer and personality, appearing on such high-profile programs as VH1 Divas (singing with Jordin Sparks), Dancing with the Stars, the Today show's "Today Throws a Wedding," American Idol, The Bachelorette, Private Sessions, a 20/20 special, The Oprah Winfrey Show, In The Spotlight With Robin Roberts: Bright Lights. Big Stars. All Access Nashville, In Performance At The White House - Celebrating The Music Of Stevie Wonder and much more.

Celebrated for her beauty and sense of fashion, as well as her everywoman perspective in life and music, Martina is a wife and mother of three who has been featured on the covers of publications like Redbook and Shape.

Among her hits are such anthemic and empowering songs as "Independence Day," "This One's for the Girls," "Anyway" and "Ride," all of which have underscored her incredible popularity as one of music's preeminent female vocalists. Her latest album is the chart-topping Shine, which includes her beautiful current single, "I Just Call You Mine."

About Trace Adkins
Since Trace Adkins broke onto the country music scene more than a decade ago, he has become an undeniable musical force and has evolved into a bona fide country music superstar.

An esteemed member of the Grand Ole Opry since 2003, Adkins has built a strong legion of fans by recording songs that possess insightful lyrics and cover a wide range of interests--many from his own life experiences. With his unmistakable basement-deep voice, he has had twenty-seven charted hit singles, 14 of which broke Billboard's Top 10. His albums have achieved gold or multi-platinum certification and three have made their debut at #1.

In 2008, Adkins received a string of nominations from multiple music award shows including the CMA's, and the Grammy's for his beautiful ballad "You're Gonna Miss This." That same year he also picked up the ACM Single of the Year Award for the chart-topping song. Adkins gained a new fan base when he became a semi-finalist on Donald Trump's first season of The Celebrity Apprentice and brought national recognition to his charity.

Adkins has performed for millions of fans worldwide and consistently sells out venues across the nation. His hard-driving stage show is chock-full of hits, making him one of today's top headlining country artists. Adkins' latest hit single climbing the charts is "All I Ask For Anymore," the tender ballad from "X," his tenth album on Capitol Records Nashville.

About SunnyD
Sunny Delight Beverages Company, based in Cincinnati, OH, is a leading producer of juice-based drinks in North America and Europe. The company is dedicated to helping Moms improve the vitality of their families by creating and marketing delicious, more wholesome beverages. Privately held, the company's brands include SunnyD citrus punch, Elations ® dietary supplement for healthier joints, FruitSimple ® 100% natural fruit smoothies, Fruit2O ® flavored waters, VeryFine ® fruit beverages, and Bossa Nova ® superfruit beverages.

About BC Powder
BC Powder®, which was first introduced in 1906 by Bernard and Commodore Council, offers temporary relief for discomfort associated with headaches, minor body aches and fever. Because BC is a powder, it gets into your bloodstream fast to provide fast, effective relief.

About Great American Country (GAC)
Great American Country is the leader in country music entertainment. GAC delivers to viewers the widest variety of country music, its artists and the lifestyles they influence. GAC broadcasts original country music programming, country music performance specials, live concerts and music videos. GAC is available in more than 58 million households and online at www.GACTV.com. GAC is owned by Scripps Networks, the leading developer of lifestyle-oriented content for television and the Internet, including HGTV (www.hgtv.com), Food Network (www.foodnetwork.com), DIY Network (www.diynetwork.com) and Fine Living Network (www.fineliving.com). Scripps Networks is based in Knoxville, Tenn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Detroit, Atlanta and Nashville, and is a unit of Scripps Networks Interactive (NYSE:SNI).

For updated tour dates, visit www.MartinaMcBride.com.

Monday, November 30, 2009

Susan Hickman Spreading Holiday Cheer

Susan Hickman Spreading Holiday Cheer
Radio Promo Tour Continues Dec. 1 - 3

Nashville, TN (November 30, 2009) -- Houston-based Susan Hickman is spreading holiday cheer as she continues to promote her latest country single, "Whipping Post" with an in-depth radio promotion tour. By December 3, Susan will have covered 57 stations in Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico and traveled 4,000 miles.

"It has been a fantastic experience," Susan says excitedly. "Everyone has been so kind!" Hickman's been blogging from the road, and is building a "monster" scrapbook full of memories.

Fans can listen to "Whipping Post," read Susan's blog and see her complete schedule at www.MySpace.com/susanhickman. For interviews, hi resolution photos, email somuchmoore@charter.net or call Martha at 615-746-3994.

Susan and legendary broadcaster Dr. Bruce of KFTX (Corpus Christi) share holiday stories.
(Photo Credit: Sharon Kay)




Martha E. Moore / so much MOORE media - Established in 1988!
(O) 615.746.3994 / (M) 615-202-1313

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Better TV, Fox and Friends and Hannity to Welcome Lee Greenwood

Better TV, Fox & Friends and Hannity
to Welcome Lee Greenwood

Multi-Award Winner Releases Holiday Collection


Nashville, TN - Lee Greenwood has released a collection of holiday classics on Country Crossing Records.

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas features Greenwood on such beloved classics as “What Child is This,” “Little Drummer Boy,” “We Need A Little Christmas” and the wish-filled title cut. Lee’s rendition of “Joy To The World” is jubilant in medley with “Hark The Herald Angels Sing.”

The two-time CMA Male Vocalist of the Year and winner of CMA Song of the Year will share beloved songs and talk about family traditions as he makes several television appearances next week.

On Monday, Nov. 30th, Greenwood is set to guest on Fox & Friends, Better TV, Fox Entertainment and Hannity. He’ll also visit with several Sirius/XM shows including Roadhouse, NASCAR and Prime Country. Check local listings for programming schedules.


ABOUT RONNIE GILLEY ENTERTAINMENT
Ronnie Gilley Entertainment, a division of Ronnie Gilley Properties, is a full service entertainment company located in Enterprise, Alabama. RGE is active in all facets of the entertainment industry, including recording/engineering, music publishing and artist management/promotion.

RGE’s music interests include Stroudavarious Records, Country Crossing Records and BamaJam Records. The company also produces the annual Verizon Wireless BamaJam Music and Arts Festival.

For more information, visit www.ronniegilleyproperties.com

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Just In Time For Christmas:Jeff Cook on Daytime TV!

JUST IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS:
JEFF COOK GETS COOKIN' ON DAYTIME TV!

(Nashville, TN) – With Christmas just a few weeks away, TV's nationally syndicated show, Daytime, welcomes Alabama guitarist Jeff Cook to the show next Monday, November 30. Cook will be on-hand for a very special cooking session, as well as a rockin’ holiday performance from his first ever solo Christmas album, Christmas Joy.

The Country Music Hall of Famer joins hosts Lindsay MacDonald, Dave Nemeth and Cyndi Edwards on-set to catapult viewers into the Christmas spirit!

Cook will also serve up a country-style hors d'oeuvres platter, perfect for those upcoming holiday gatherings!

Daytime is syndicated in 119 markets nationwide. Check your local listings here.

Jeff Cook and Alabama have a career that to date has resulted in 21 gold, platinum and multi-platinum albums and more than 78 million records sold. The band garnered 42 #1 Hits and were named the RIAA’s “Recording Group Of The Century.” In 2005, Alabama was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and in 2001 Cook was named “Guitarist of the Year” by the Gibson Guitar Company.

Friday, November 20, 2009

Announcing Two Upcoming Charlie Daniels Apperances In Support of new Christmas CD

Announcing Two Upcoming Charlie Daniels Appearances
In Support of Joy to the World: A Bluegrass Christmas CD/DVD

Autograph Signing at Opry Originals
-and-
Autograph Signing at Charlie Daniels Museum


Appearance No. 1: Autograph Signing at Opry Originals
WHO: Legendary Blue Hat/E1 Entertainment artist Charlie Daniels


WHAT: Daniels will meet fans and sign autographed copies of his new Christmas CD/DVD release, Joy to the World: A Bluegrass Christmas.


WHEN: 9-10 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 21 (after The Charlie Daniels Band’s Opry performance at the Ryman)


WHERE: Opry Originals – (300 Broadway, Nashville, TN)


About Joy to the World: A Bluegrass Christmas:
Charlie’s new deluxe, two-disc set includes a CD and a bonus DVD, A Twin Pines Christmas. The project features collaborations between Daniels and guests Kathy Mattea, Dan Tyminski, Jewel, Suzanne and Evelyn Cox of the Cox Family, Aaron Tippin and The Grascals. A Twin Pines Christmas DVD contains live performances, as well as additional commentary and interview footage with Daniels and the rest of the artists.

Appearance No. 2: Autograph Signing at Charlie Daniels Museum

WHO: Legendary Blue Hat/E1 Entertainment artist Charlie Daniels


WHAT: Autograph signing at The Charlie Daniels Museum


WHEN: 5:30 p.m., Monday, Nov. 23 (prior to The Charlie Daniels Band’s Christmas For Kids performance at the Ryman)


WHERE: Charlie Daniels Museum – (110 2nd Ave. N., Nashville, TN)


For more information, visit www.CharlieDaniels.com

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

George Strait Adds fellow Texan Lee Ann Womack to Tour

COUNTRY MUSIC SUPERSTAR GEORGE STRAIT ADDS
FELLOW TEXAN AND TRADITIONALIST
LEE ANN WOMACK


Nashville, Tenn. (November 18, 2009) - The King of Country Music George Strait has added award-wining and platinum recording artist Lee Ann Womack to his previously announced arena tour with Entertainment Superstar Reba McEntire. The tour kicks off in early 2010 and continues through late Spring.

“'Does Ft Worth Ever Cross Your Mind'? 'Whoever's In New England'? 'The Fireman'? 'Little Rock'? 'Wrapped'? 'The Last To Know'? We're talking classic country from the source,” praises Womack. “I can't imagine a better tour to be on than George Strait and Reba McEntire --- and now I'm not imagining!”

Womack added jokingly, “I'm trying to figure out what to wear...cause you can't out-starch George and you sure can't out-spangle Reba!”

Lee Ann Womack has sold over 6 million albums, won two Grammy’s, numerous other milestone awards, and received notoriety for her last album There’s More Where That Came From. Released February of ’05 on CD and classic vinyl, There’s More swept CMA Award trophies fall of the same year for “Album of the Year” and “Single of the Year” (“I May Hate Myself In The Morning”). She is also recognized for #1 singles “The Fool,” “A Little Past Little Rock,” “I’ll Think Of A Reason Later” and the mega smash “I Hope You Dance”.

Womack’s current album Call Me Crazy has garnered critical acclaim from Rolling Stone, USA Today, Entertainment Weekly, Billboard and The New York Times, to name a few. She was nominated for “Top Female Vocalist” at this year’s ACM Awards and the debut single “Last Call” was nominated for a Grammy earlier this year in the “Best Female Country Vocal Performance” category. Womack was recently nominated for “Musical Event of the Year” with George Strait for “Everything But Quits” at this year’s CMA Awards. Current single “There Is A God” is currently #43 on the charts.

With a career spanning more than 25 years, George Strait has the most number one singles of any artist in history including Elvis (57 To Date). He has sold more than 67 million records and with 33 different platinum or multi-platinum albums has the most RIAA platinum certifications in country music and the third in all genres, behind The Beatles and Elvis Presley.

Strait’s recent release TWANG debuted at #1 on The Billboard 200 and the Top Country Albums chart. This is the fourth time in Strait’s career that a new release has debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and the 13th time debuting at #1 on the Top Country Albums chart. The current single and title track sits at #17 on Mediabase charts and #19 on Billboard charts.

His platinum-selling Troubadour was named “Best Country Album” at the 51st Grammy Awards and in April, Strait was the fifth artist ever to receive the Academy of Country Music's Artist of the Decade honor. Strait has won 19 Academy of Country Music Awards including "Entertainer of the Year."

Strait, who holds the record for the most CMA wins and a record 17 CMA Entertainer of the Year nominations, is known for giving fans exactly what they want and expect at countless sold out shows across the country. This year will be no exception.

One of the most successful female recording artists in history, Reba has sold over 55 million albums worldwide, earned 33 #1 singles and was recently recognized as the biggest female hit-maker in country music history by “Billboard,” “Mediabase” and “Country Aircheck.” She is the winner of 15 American Music Awards, 12 Academy of Country Music Awards, 9 People’s Choice Awards, 7 Country Music Awards and 2 GRAMMY Awards. Once again Reba is nominated for the American Music Awards’ “Favorite Country Female” and will appear on the AMAs this Sunday.

Reba’s new album, Keep On Loving You, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart – her first solo studio album to do so. With 11 #1 albums, Reba holds the record as the female artist with the most #1 albums in the history of the Billboard Top Country Albums chart. The superstar also recently scored her third consecutive Top 10 single of 2009, as her new song “Consider Me Gone” jumped into the Top 10. It currently sits at #4 on the Billboard Country Singles chart and #5 on the Mediabase charts.

In November 2008, McEntire signed with The Valory Music Co. reuniting her with multimedia entertainer and industry leader Scott Borchetta, President & CEO of Big Machine Records and sister label The Valory Music Co.

2010 TOUR DATES

Date City Venue
22-Jan Baltimore, MD 1st Mariner
23-Jan Greensboro, NC Coliseum
29-Jan Knoxville, TN Thompson Boling
30-Jan Charlottesville, VA JPJ Arena
5-Feb Phoenix, AZ US Airways
6-Feb Las Vegas, NV MGM Garden Arena
18-Feb St Louis, MO Scottrade Center
19-Feb Wichita, KS Intrust Bank Arena
20-Feb Tulsa, OK BOK Arena
25-Feb Atlanta, GA Philips Arena
26-Feb Orlando, FL Amway Arena
4-Mar Memphis, TN FedEx Forum
5-Mar New Orleans, LA New Orleans Arena
6-Mar Little Rock, AR Verizon
26-Mar Portland, OR The Rose Garden
27-Mar Tacoma, WA Tacomadome
8-Apr Omaha, NE Qwest Center
9-Apr Kansas City, MO Sprint Center
10-Apr Des Moines, IA Wells Fargo Arena

George Strait's Official Website - GeorgeStrait.com

Wynonna Judd and The Santa Train Visit Appalachia This Weekend

For Immediate Release

WYNONNA JUDD AND THE SANTA TRAIN VISIT APPALACHIA THIS WEEKEND


JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Wynonna Judd will join Santa Claus aboard the 67th annual Santa Train this Saturday, Nov. 21, kicking off the holiday season for thousands of families in Appalachia.
Wynonna, along with her two children, will join Santa Train volunteers from the train’s sponsors CSX, Food City and the Kingsport Area Chamber of Commerce to distribute more than 15 tons of toys and gifts to thousands of people gathered at scheduled stops along the train’s route from Shelby, Ky, to Kingsport, Tenn. tracks. Riding the Santa Train marks Wynonna’s return to the Appalachian region after having grown up near the train’s route in Ashland, Ky.

“I decided to ride the Santa Train this year because I wanted to bring my children home to Appalachia for the holidays,” Wynonna said. “It is important to me for them to experience the joy of Christmas giving.”

Wynonna, winner of five Grammy awards and eight CMA awards, recently celebrated 25 years in the music business and will kick off her third annual ‘A Classic Christmas’ tour the weekend following Thanksgiving.

“The Santa Train is such a special way to begin the holiday season, and we are thrilled to have Wynonna join us for this wonderful event,” said Tori Kaplan, director of corporate citizenship and special events for CSX.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Photos of Wynonna aboard the 2009 Santa Train will be available Monday, Nov. 23, by e-mailing Kristen Strauss at kstrauss@mpf.com.

About Wynonna
Wynonna Judd first gained fame as part of one of the most successful musical duos of all time, The Judds, selling over 20 million records. On top of that amazing feat, she also holds multiple gold, platinum and multi-platinum certifications from the RIAA in excess of 10 million units sold for albums released throughout her illustrious solo career. In 2005, Wynonna became a New York Times best-selling author with the release of her long-awaited autobiography, Coming Home to Myself, released in conjunction with her live CD and DVD Her Story: Scenes from a Lifetime; the latter of which having been certified Gold.

Wynonna will release her first novel Restless Heart in April of 2010. Scheduled for release by Penguin books, it's a story about of love, sacrifice and putting your heart on the line. Its main character is an ambitious, hard-driving, but big-hearted young woman from Kentucky who is committed to making herself a star. Written with the experience and wisdom of a true superstar, Wynonna's debut novel is a celebration of family and friends, love and loss, of success and surrender, and one woman's path to self-discovery.

Wynonna recently released her seventh solo studio album, Sing: Chapter 1, an eclectic assortment of standards paying homage to all the different genres and songs that have formed the soundtrack to her life.

Visit www.wynonna.com to learn more!


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Monday, November 09, 2009

Susan Hickman

Nashville, TN (November 9, 2009) - Texas country rocker Susan Hickman will take her edgy live show global Saturday, November 28 as she streams the show from Houston-area nightspot Rowdy Buck's Saloon beginning at 9:30 p.m. on www.susanhickman.com.
"The internet has given me some amazing opportunities to connect with my fans," says the tech-savvy Hickman. "This is something I've always wanted to do - and I'm excited to be connecting with a larger audience. It's the first chance for my fans outside of Texas to catch my live performance."

The twenty-four-year old, high-energy performer has already shared the stage with Tracy Byrd, Jo Dee Messina, Kevin Fowler, Steve Holy, The Lost Trailers and Phil Vassar, to name a few. And, for reviewers and radio personalities nationwide, Susan is already "connecting" with her brand new single, "Whipping Post."

"It takes a lot of guts to cover a classic Greg Allman tune like "Whipping Post" and Susan Hickman delivers it with guts, grit, and a woman's blues soul!" - TX Rebel Radio Network

"Her fiery new single "Whipping Post" is burn-the-stage-down hot." - Roots Music Report

"'Whipping Post' shows off her sultry, smoky vocals that are reminiscent of sisters Shelby Lynne or Allison Moorer." - Roughstock

Hickman released "Whipping Post" in the wake of six nods in the First-Round 52nd Annual Grammy Awards Nominating Ballot for: Album of the Year (SUSAN HICKMAN), SONG OF THE YEAR (for "Wrapped Up In Me" - goes to writers Clayton, James, Monroe) and BEST NEW ARTIST. Additional first-round nominations include: Best Country Female Vocal Performance, Best Country Song ("Wrapped Up in Me") and Best Country Album (SUSAN HICKMAN, regionally- released in February of this year. National release planned for Q2 in 2010).



FANS can purchase Susan's music at iTunes, CDBaby and www.susanhickman.com.
ROWDY BUCK'S INFO: 6210 Lindstrom Rd. (Crosby) / 281-462.1731/ www.rowdybucks.com. Cover charge for Hickman's show is $ 5.Crosby, TX 77532
MEDIA: For interviews, email somuchmoore@charter.net or call Martha @ 615-746-3994.

(Photo Credit: David Clements)

Lou Reid and Carolina hit #1 on BMP

The new album, “MY OWN SET OF RULES” by Lou Reid and Carolina hit the #1 spot on this month’s Bluegrass Music Profiles Magazine (BMP) Top 10 albums and also made its debut at #11 on the Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine (BU) Top 15 album chart. The single, “Amanda Lynn” is #9 on the BMP Top 30 Singles and jumped five spots to reach #20 on the BU Top 30 Singles also this month.




“The bluegrass genre is always one that is interesting for its combination of styles and musicianship and Lou Reid and Carolina have given fans a modern twist on the foundation of bluegrass while keeping the traditions well in tact on My Own Set Of Rules,” said Today’s Country Magazine.





Lou Reid and Carolina will be a guest of SIRIUS-XM Radio Host, Kyle Cantrell on the Bluegrass Junction Track by Track show on Wednesday, November 18, 2009 at 11:00 am EST and rebroadcast Thursday, November 19 (9:00 EST) and Sunday, November 22 (11:00 am EST) featuring “My Own Set of Rules.” The album was produced by Lou Reid, and also includes band members, Christy Reid, Shannon Slaughter, Trevor Watson, with special guest Ron Stewart on fiddle.



During last month’s International Bluegrass Music Association’s (IBMA) World of Bluegrass convention, Lou joined fellow Rural Rhythm artists for a VIP Showcase where he performed “Carolina in the Pines” with Michael Martin Murphey and Audie Blaylock. He also took part in a performance of “Graves Mountain Memories” and the announcement of the upcoming Rural Rhythm Records 55 Year Celebration at the Graves Mountain Festival of Music. Lou Reid and Carolina will perform at this live recorded event to be held on June 4, 2010.



Lou Reid tours with Lou Reid and Carolina, The Seldom Scene and Longview. For more information including a complete tour schedule, please visit: www.loureidandcarolina.com

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Wednesday, November 04, 2009

Alan Jackson Meet Fans In Downtown Nashville CMA Week

ALAN JACKSON WILL MEET FANS IN


DOWNTOWN NASHVILLE CMA WEEK



Cracker Barrel constructs a “pop-up” store that will feature the

Alan Jackson Collection; store is dedicated to country music and lifestyle merchandise



LEBANON, Tenn. – Country music fans coming to Nashville during CMA Week will have the opportunity to meet Alan Jackson at a new attraction – a temporary Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® retail shop right in the middle of downtown, at lst & Broadway. This one-week-only attraction, open November 7th – l2th (see hours below), will be dedicated to country music and the lifestyle its fans enjoy, and feature the newly released Alan Jackson Collection. The highlight of the week will be an in-store appearance by superstar Alan Jackson on Tuesday, November l0, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.



Photos of The Alan Jackson Collection:

http://www.dbaronmedia.com/component/option,com_phocagallery/Itemid,100/id,1/view,category/



When guests visit this “pop-up” store, they will enjoy the same Cracker Barrel hospitality they have come to expect from the popular restaurant concept, just without the biscuits. “We wanted to create something special for country music fans right in the heart of downtown Nashville to help celebrate CMA Week,” said Cracker Barrel’s Vice President of Marketing Peter Keiser. “Building a temporary store that features all 40+ items in The Alan Jackson Collection, as well as other Cracker Barrel retail merchandise related to music and our branded food products, is a good way to provide some extra excitement during CMA Week, a very special time for country music fans.” Keiser added, “While we couldn’t build a whole kitchen in this temporary store, we invite fans to also come on over to one of the many other Cracker Barrel restaurants in the Nashville area for some good country cookin’.”



Alan Jackson has an international reputation built up over twenty years of performing and recording, but he rarely makes public appearances like this, preferring to spend his off-stage time privately with his family. He decided to meet up with fans at this special Cracker Barrel location because he believes in the quality of this merchandise collection and because he likes the food at Cracker Barrel himself! “I grew up in the South, so Cracker Barrel has been a part of my family since I was a young man,” says Alan Jackson. “I was really flattered when they came to me with the idea of working together to create a collection for their country store, and I’ve been very impressed with the variety and quality of the items that we have put together. I think my fans and their families will appreciate everything in the collection.”



THE CRACKER BARREL ‘POP UP’ OLD COUNTRY STORE - HOURS

101 Broadway, Nashville, TN

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7 / 11:00am-7:00pm

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8 / 12:00pm-6:00pm

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9 / 11:00am-6:00pm

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10 / 6:00am-6:00pm (Alan Jackson 9:00-ll:00am)

(Starting at 6:00 AM, fans who purchase an item from The Alan Jackson Collection will be able to get numbered tickets for a place in the autograph line. Tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Alan Jackson will meet as many fans as possible during the time period and will autograph merchandise from The Alan Jackson Collection)

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 11 / 11:00am-6:00pm

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER / 11:00am-6:00pm

Nershi-Law and Van Ghost Team UP For The Breakdown Acoustic Tour

NERSHI-LAW AND VAN GHOST TEAM UP FOR THE BREAKDOWN ACOUSTIC TOUR




DATES CONFIRMED FOR INTIMATE VENUES IN THE MIDWEST AND UPSTATE NEW YORK



Chicago, IL – October 23, 2009. String Cheese Incident front man, Bill Nershi, and his acoustic duo Nershi-Law make their inaugural trip to the country's interior with Chicago Americana rockers Van Ghost in support.



Bluegrass with just the slightest twist, Nershi-Law contemporizes the storytelling tradition while paying impressive homage to the genre. Featuring String Cheese Incident founder Bill Nershi and Melvin Seals collaborator Scott Law, Nershi-Law released the album Honkytonk Homeslice in 2005 and continue to have a great time playing together. Bill's tight flat-picking and paradoxically strong, yet vulnerable vocals mesh nicely with Scott’s clear harmonies, contrapuntal rhythms and searing guitar breaks.



Chicago-based Americana outfit Van Ghost is riding a wave of momentum that began with high-profile gigs at Rothbury ’09, Wicker Park Fest and Hoxeyville Music Festival. The band has shared bills with Buddy Guy, Drive-By Truckers and The Derek Trucks Band. Their debut album, Melodies for Lovers, is making waves on college radio and has received strong reviews in the independent press. Van Ghost will appear as a stripped-down, acoustic version of the full band and will feature founding members Michael Harrison Berg and Jennifer Hartswick (Trey Anastasio Band) with able support from guitarist/vocalist Chris Gelbuda (Matthew Santos, Todd Carey).

Tommy Cash Undergoes surgery For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

TOMMY CASH UNDERGOES SURGERY FOR CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME




(NASHVILLE)--Guitar playing for more than four decades has taken its toll on traditional country artist TOMMY CASH, who underwent surgery this morning in a Nashville-area hospital for carpal tunnel syndrome, a painful progressive condition caused by compression of a key nerve in the wrist.



Currently touring in support of his brand-new FADE TO BLACK album for InLight Records, Tommy is expected to resume his concert schedule in early December following a doctor-recommended break for adequate recovery time.



Hooah Radio (www.hooahradio.com), in honor of Veteran's Day, will rebroadcast its recent interview with Tommy during the online, troop-supported and veteran-operated station's Nov. 11 day of webcasting.



For more information, please contact Lisa L. Rollins at lisa@rollinsmedia.com

Tuesday, November 03, 2009

The "King of Country" is back!

Nashville, Tenn. (November 2, 2009) - The “King of Country” is back! 17x CMA Entertainer of the Year nominee George Strait will kick off his arena tour early next year and this time, he’s bringing along one very special lady – Reba McEntire.




The superstar acts performed together for the first time in many years for a sold-out crowd at the Cowboy’s Stadium inaugural event in Dallas. Selling out in less than an hour, fans and critics proclaimed the show one hot ticket! The concert was hailed by the Dallas Morning News as “an extravaganza” that “showcased Strait at the pinnacle of his musical game” and Ft. Worth Star Telegram wrote “Reba McEntire’s performance was a breathtaking master’s class in effortless brilliance.”



With 57 number one hits, 33 multi-platinum albums and countless sold-out shows year after year, Strait who holds the record for the most CMA wins and a record 17 CMA Entertainer of the Year nominations, is known for giving fans exactly what they want and expect. This year will be no exception.



“I can’t wait to get back out there and perform some of my new favorites from Twang along with hits the fans already love,” says Strait. “And with my friend Reba, we will make it a really spectacular night.”





Strait’s recent release TWANG debuted at #1 on The Billboard 200 and the Top Country Albums chart. This is the fourth time in Strait’s career that a new release has debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and the 13th time debuting at #1 on the Top Country Albums chart. It has become a critically acclaimed album and received rave reviews in USA Today, Entertainment Weekly, People, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, Houston Chronicle, The Dallas Morning News, The Boston Globe, Billboard and many more.



Strait co-wrote three songs on TWANG including the debut single, “Living for the Night.” The current single and title track of the album sits at #22 on Billboard and Mediabase/Country Aircheck chart.



At last year’s CMA Awards, George became the artist with the most CMA Awards in history with Album of the Year for Troubadour and Single of the Year for “I Saw God Today.” He adds 4 nominations this year with nods for “Entertainer of the Year,” “Male Vocalist of the Year,” “Video of the Year” for “Troubadour” and “Vocal Event of the Year” for “Everything But Quits” with LeeAnn Womack.



His platinum-selling Troubadour was named “Best Country Album” at the 51st Grammy Awards and in April, Strait was the fifth artist ever to receive the Academy of Country Music's Artist of the Decade honor. Strait has won 19 Academy of Country Music Awards including "Entertainer of the Year."



With a career spanning more than 25 years, Strait has the most number one singles of any artist in history including Elvis (57 To Date). He has sold more than 67 million records and with 33 different platinum or multi-platinum albums has the most RIAA platinum certifications in country music and the third in all genres, behind The Beatles and Elvis Presley.



One of the most successful female recording artists in history, Reba has sold over 55 million albums worldwide, earned 33 #1 singles and was recently recognized as the biggest female hit-maker in country music history by “Billboard,” “Mediabase” and “Country Aircheck.” She is the winner of 15 American Music Awards, 12 Academy of Country Music Awards, 9 People’s Choice Awards, 7 Country Music Awards and 2 GRAMMY Awards.



Reba’s new album, Keep On Loving You, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart – her first solo studio album to do so. With 11 #1 albums, Reba holds the record as the female artist with the most #1 albums in the history of the Billboard Top Country Albums chart. The superstar also recently scored her third consecutive Top 10 single of 2009, as her new song “Consider Me Gone” jumped into the Top 10 this week on both the Billboard Country Singles and the USA Today/ Country Aircheck Chart powered by Mediabase) charts.





In November 2008, McEntire signed with The Valory Music Co. reuniting her with multimedia entertainer and industry leader Scott Borchetta, President & CEO of Big Machine Records and sister label The Valory Music Co.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Martina Mcbride Makes Her 2nd Oprah Appearance in less than 8 days!

Martina McBride Makes Her 2nd Oprah


Appearance in Less than 8 Days!



Nashville, Tenn. (October 30, 2009) – Superstar Martina McBride makes her second appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show in barely a week as she follows her performance this past Monday on Oprah’s State Fair of Texas episode with a return visit on November 3rd. Last Monday's show actually taped two weeks prior but the amazing part was that Martina got the call on a Friday and by Monday morning was on the Texas stage singing. This time, the Oprah segment takes Martina to her home state of Kansas with only a couple days notice.



The theme of the November 3rd show is celebrities’ “first jobs,” and who better to be one of the featured guests than Martina who served up ice cream and burgers at her hometown DQ. Oprah’s crew took Martina back to revisit the Hutchinson, Kansas, Dairy Queen which is still owned by the same couple who employed Martina after high school.



“Getting the call to be on Oprah’s show twice in such a short time period was exciting,” admits McBride. “I’ve done Texas and Kansas … maybe Oklahoma is next,” McBride jokes.



McBride also recently taped a segment in Nashville for In The Spotlight With Robin Roberts: Bright Lights. Big Stars. All Access Nashville. The ABC special gives viewers an unprecedented, all-access pass into the homes and private lives of country music’s biggest stars, and introduces America to the up-and-coming singer/songwriters working to become Nashville’s next hit sensations. The special will air November 10 on ABC at 10:00/9:00pm central.



McBride’s Shine All Night Tour presented by SunnyD starring Trace Adkins kicks off November 20th and covers 40 cities across the U.S. through the spring of 2010. Both McBride and Adkins will each perform full-length shows. Visit www.shineallnight.com for tour dates, exclusive content and more.



Martina is currently nominated for CMA Female Vocalist of the Year, an award she has won 4 times, tying her with Reba McEntire for the most wins. The 2009 CMA Awards will air November 11th on ABC at 8:00/7:00 central.



# # #

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Lorrie Morgan Releases A moment In Time, her collection of new interpretations of 14 country classics

Nashville, TN - Lorrie Morgan is releases A Moment In Time, her collection of new interpretations of fourteen country classics, on October 26 through Country Crossing Records. The album, produced by Wally Wilson and Chip Voorhis, was recorded live in the studio without overdubs.




A Moment In Time showcases Morgan’s crystalline vocals and features a stellar cast of studio musicians. Included are such timeless treasures as “Leavin’ On Your Mind,” “Cry” and “Are You Lonesome Tonight?” The album also features duets with Raul Malo (“Easy Lovin’”) and Tracy Lawrence (“After The Fire Is Gone”).



Fans will have numerous opportunities to catch Morgan and learn more about A Moment In Time. She’ll appear on numerous outlets on GAC and CMT throughout October and is set to make appearances on nationally syndicated programs Daytime TV on October 29th and The Daily Buzz on November 2nd.



Morgan will also head to New York this week for appearances on Sirius/XM satellite radio, Fox News’ outlets Huckabee and Hannity as well as HLN’s The Joy Behar Show. She will also tape a segment of the popular Food Network program, Iron Chef, on which she’ll appear as a celebrity guest judge. Check local listings for program schedules.



The album will also be featured prominently in Amazon.com’s digital download store as the “MP3 Daily Deal” on Wednesday, October 28th.



Early next year, Morgan will return to New York to begin rehearsals for the Broadway adaptation of Pure Country, the 1992 film starring George Strait. Morgan will star as “Lula”, in the role originally played in the movie by Lesley Ann Warren. Starring opposite Morgan is fellow country star Joe Nichols in the role of “Dusty”.



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Breaking News: Country Artist Eric Durrance ties the knot in Surprise Oct. 24 wedding!

Breaking News: Country artist ERIC DURRANCE ties the knot in surprise Oct. 24 wedding!




(TALLAHASSEE, Fla.)--Country singer-songwriter ERIC DURRANCE, who's country hits include "Turn It Off" and "Angels Fly Away," wed fiance Jennifer Weeks, a fellow Floridian, in a private ceremony at sunset Saturday, Oct. 24, on the artist's farm near Tallahassee.



Currently writing and recording for his next CD release, Durrance said time off the road afforded him time to take the plunge with Jennifer, a paralegal, and he couldn't be happier. This time last year, Durrance was on tour with Jason Aldean and Lady Antebellum, and marriage wasn't on the radar, but my what a difference a year makes, the singer says.



Although the couple didn't announce their planned nuptials in advance, fans might have had an inkling that Durrance had met someone special after he uploaded a new song, "Once In A Lifetome (Jennifer's Song," to his MySpace (www.myspace.com/ericdurrance) recently. Said tune is the same song that Eric sang to Jennifer during their Saturday nuptials, which were performed by the Dove-nominated artist's stepfather.



"All in all, it was a perfect day," Durrance says of Oct. 24, 2009. "I can't wait to see what songs I write now. I've never felt so complete!"



The first wedding for both, Eric and the new Mrs. Durrance will spend their honeymoon in Mexico.



PHOTO: Country singer Eric Durrance and bride Jennifer cut their wedding cake Oct. 24, 2009. Photo credit: Alan Dust.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Chris Brackett,Star of Sportsman Channel's Smash Hit "Arrow Affliction", to Star in Video

Chris Brackett, Star of Sportsman Channel's Smash Hit "Arrow Affliction," to Star in Video

Nashville, TN - With more than six top ten and three number one songs on the country charts, including the smashes, "19 Somethin'," "I Do, Cherish You," and "Don't Laugh At Me," Mark Wills has the option of selecting country's best video directors to develop and produce his music videos. For his next single, "Crazy White Boy," Mark is asking his fans not only to give their input, but to put themselves both behind and in front of the camera.

"'Crazy White Boy' is my theme song and is a favorite of our fans every time we play a concert," Mark explains. "Often, after shows, fans will come up to me not only telling us how much they love the song but how the song is also their personal theme song. They then proceed to tell us these funny and unbelievable stories of the crazy things they and their friends do while listening to our music." It was during one of these meetings that the idea of having a fan make his video came about. "I thought that these stories portrayed the fun and true spirit of the song more than anything we could imagine. So, why not give our fans a chance to show us just how crazy they are? And then give the fans a chance to vote on their favorite video submissions."

To ensure that he reaches the most fans and to encourage ideas from everyone, Mark is taking his contest to the Internet through his official website and social networks like Facebook, MySpace, Twitter and of course, YouTube. "These are the perfect channels for reaching the most fans and for getting the best ideas, especially YouTube. I often watch YouTube and believe that I am looking at the video directors of tomorrow. The ideas are so fresh and impact is immediate. What better place to reach the best creative minds of today and tomorrow than YouTube and the social networking sites?" explained Mark.

And the results are sure to be immediate. Mark has created a special web page where fans can not only submit and view the video entries, but also cast their vote on which videos should be the winners. Mark is also excited about the voting process. "Voting is immediate and in real-time. Fans can see which video is in the lead at any time. It's easy for everyone to get their families and friends involved in the voting and picking the winners selected to be included my next video." These winning clips will be included along with footage shot with Mark and Chris Brackett, star of Sportsman Channel's top rated show, "Arrow Affliction."

Fans and future music video makers can visit www.markwills.com for more details, contest rules and a link to the online submission form. Winners will have their video played on Mark's websites and will receive a special Mark Wills prize package and a congratulatory call from Mark.

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Lantana Partners with Dallas Cowboys to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Event

LANTANA PARTNERS WITH DALLAS COWBOYS TO KICK OFF BREAST CANCER AWARENESS EVENT

Trio Performs Twice This Sunday At COWBOYS vs FALCONS Game

October 21, 2009-- The rockin' country trio known as LANTANA will perform before an estimated crowd of 100,000 at the COWBOYS Stadium - East Plaza this Sunday, October 25 (Approximate show times: Pre-Game, 2 - 3 p.m. & Post-Game, 6 - 8 p.m. CENTRAL) as the football giants kick off their first BREAST CANCER AWARENESS Month event. "We're all avid Cowboys fans and we are honored and thrilled to be a part of the NFL's commitment to this cause," says LANTANA's founder, Biz Haddock.

The Dallas Cowboys' "GameDay Productions" Team spotted the trio during LANTANA'S recent performance before a crowd of 92,000 at the State Fair of Texas during the University of Texas vs Oklahoma University game. The talent buyers knew immediately that they had found the perfect act for the COWBOYS first home-game in October. "We are very excited to present LANTANA to 100,000 of our closest friends," says Lathy Williams, Executive Producer/Dallas Cowboys Productions.

LANTANA has spent the past year working on songs for a new CD, perfecting their new stage show and building a solid fan base in their home state of Texas. Biz Haddock, Dalene Richelle and Lisa Underwood know how to entertain big crowds - they're edgy and fun; sassy and smart, and their vocal talents are legendary. LANTANA has performed at venues ranging from the Houston Astrodome, Louisiana Superdome, Texas Stadium, Nashville's Wildhorse Saloon to the State Fair of Texas (2006, 2009). The Dallas Morning News named the trio one of the "Top 10 Concerts of '06" and their debut CD, UNBRIDLED, was tagged as one of the publication's "Top 10 CDs of '06."

To experience LANTANA's music right away, log on to www.lantanamusic.com. For interviews, contact somuchmoore@charter.net or call Martha @ 615-746-3994.

LANTANA pictured at the State Fair of Texas last weekend ( L to R): Lisa Underwood, Biz Haddock, Dalene Richelle. Photo Credit: Mark Davis

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Oak Ridge Boys to be on Early Show and Fox News Channel

The Oak Ridge Boys are set to perform on CBS’ The Early Show and Fox News Channel’s Huckabee this Saturday, October 17th. On each show, The Oaks’ will be performing a Jamey Johnson-penned, soon-to-be-classic called ‘Mama’s Table’, their 2nd single released on The Boys Are Back (Spring Hill Music, May 2009). Following will be a brief interview and a performance of; you guessed it, the eternally hip hit that everybody knows, ‘Elvira.’ The Oak Ridge Boys appearance on CBS’ The Early Show is slated to air on Saturday morning, October 17th. Their appearance on Fox News Channel’s Huckabee will air multiple times October 17th and 18th. Governor Huckabee will join The Oak Ridge Boys on bass. Check your local listings.

In October 2009, Spring Hill Music released the Oaks’ second single from The Boys Are Back. Mama’s Table was written by Jamey Johnson and George G. Teren and celebrates the best of family memories. A music video is now in pre-production. Check www.oakridgeboys.com for updates.


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Media Contacts:


For media inquiries, please contact:
Webster & Associates Public Relations
Kirt Webster / kirt@websterpr.com
(615) 777-6995 x30
Mary Michael / mary@websterpr.com
(615) 777-6995 x 23
Victoria Varela / victoria@websterpr.com
(917) 250-2110

Traditional Country Artist Tommy Cash lands Two Honors

JUST CALL HIM ‘COLONEL CASH’: TRADITIONAL COUNTRY ARTIST TOMMY CASH LANDS TWO HONORS


(NASHVILLE)—After 40-plus years as a country performer, he’s scored a string of chart-topping hits, recorded with everyone from George Jones to Marty Stuart—not to mention his iconic brother—and served proudly and honorably in the United States Army.


But thanks to the powers that be, the living legend known as TOMMY CASH has managed to accomplish a career first by being recognized by Tennessee Gov. Phil Bredesen as an honorary colonel.


Currently touring in support of his newly released Fade To Black CD on the InLight label, Tommy was taken by surprise recently when he was presented with the “Colonel Aide de Camp,” an honorary commission in the State of Tennessee that has been awarded to individuals for meritorious service since 1943.


According to information from the governor’s office, only elected officials may request Colonel Aide de Camp certificates. In turn, the Arkansas-born hit-maker was nominated for the honor by Sen. Jim D. Tracy for his many contributions to and on behalf of the Volunteer State, especially his esteemed history of traveling worldwide to promote Tennessee through his musical talents, as well as his dedication to aiding the music industry through service.


In addition to touring more than 120 shows annually in both the United States and Europe, Cash is “known for (his) music and willingness to serve on boards to help promote the music industry,” according to the senator’s nomination, which lists Cash’s longtime membership and service to the Reunion of Professional Entertainers, also known as ROPE, where he currently serves on its board of directors.


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COLCASH

Add 1


And speaking of ROPE, the Nashville-area entity, like the governor's office, touted its appreciation for Cash and his service to the music industry earlier this month at its 22nd Annual Golden ROPE Banquet & Awards Show, where Tommy was presented with its 2009 Business Award.


"I am honored to have received the Business Award for the year from ROPE," shared Cash, who did time as Hank Jr.'s guitarist back in the day. "I was thrilled to be nominated, but winning was a great surprise!"


As for his honorary Colonel Aide de Camp recognition, which was coincidentally bestowed on Cash during the ROPE event, "Making country music and supporting it comes naturally to me; there is no prize or trophy I see for doing what I think I was born to do," he says. "However, I am humbled and most grateful to have been chosen as a recipient of the Tennessee Colonel honor that was signed by our governor. I am so blessed to have such dear friends who would support me in this way."




About the honorary title of Colonel


The honorary title of Colonel is conferred by some states in the United States of America and certain units of the Canadian Forces. The origins of the titular colonelcy can be traced back to colonial and antebellum times when men of the landed gentry were given the title for financing the local militia without actual expectations of command.

Reportedly, the practice originated during the English Renaissance, when a colonelcy was purchased by a lord or prominent gentleman, but the actual command would fall to a lieutenant colonel, who would deputize for the proprietor.




—30—

Sunday, October 11, 2009

21st Gstaad Festival, Switzerland

21st Gstaad Festival, Switzerland

Kenny Rogers and Lady Antebellum were the latest addition to the amazing line-ups of legendary and future superstars presented by the Gstaad Festival, Switzerland (Sept. 11-12) these past 21 years. Rogers wowed the crowds with his string of hits that had everyone singing along and Lady Antebellum had the audience on their feet hollering for more.

Rogers is known for his talent as a photographer. Therefore, while in Gstaad, promoter Marcel Bach rented a helicopter so Rogers could soar above the Alps and take breathtaking photos. Rogers also visited a castle, a special waterfall and other wonderous sights. These photos will be included in his next coffee-table book, coming out in the near future.

Of the Gstaad festival and their first overseas performances, Lady Antebellum says: "We had such a great time in Switzerland and seeing country music fans from all over Europe come together. It was an honor to open for Kenny Rogers, who is such an international music icon!"

National Swiss television will air a one-hour "Gstaad special" this month and the radio special was broadcast throughout Switzerland on Sunday, 13th September.For more information, log on to www.countrynight-gstaad.ch .


Unique B&B "Suite Blair - Your hideaway in the heart of Nashville

Music industry vets Trisha Walker-Cunningham and husband Rusty Cunningham are opening "Suite Blair" early November. Located upstairs on the first floor of their historic 1918 cottage in Hillsboro Village, they will offer made-to-order breakfasts from an extensive menu with room service only. "Suite Blair" is spacious with wood walls and floor, totally fenced in and surrounded by trees. A high-end grocery store and pharmacy is 114 footsteps away, yet the suite offers total seclusion and and privacy (even from the hosts and when breakfasts are delivered.) Guests have their own private fenced-in entrance and patio, barbe Q grill, chairs and table for entertaining, parking for two cars outside keyed gate, one and half acre private field at the rear and is pet friendly. Inside comprises: Comfortable sitting room with remote-control electric fireplace, HDTV with full digital cable, CD/DVD player, Internet service, dining area, separated bedroom with queen size bed, walk-in wall to wall closet, single bed in another area for child or third person, bathroom with mirrors, make-up lights and a beautiful skylight, kitchen area with full-size fridge, microwave and coffee pot. Numerous shelves are located throughout the suite. Air conditioning for summer or warm days is in a separate area.

13 minutes from the airport and 2 minutes from interstate I-440, 2 minutes from Music Row and 5 minutes from downtown Nashville, the hosts say "We want our guests to feel totally at home and yet be close to everything. Working in the music industry, we understand the needs for total seclusion and privacy (even from us.) "Suite Blair" will also offer many other items on request or by special arrangement."

Trisha Walker-Cunningham remains the Talent Buyer/Producer of "Country Night Gstaad" in Switzerland and the "Festival de Craponne" in France. Rusty Cunningham will continue to work with Brantley Sound Associates.

For more information, contact: 615 269 0856 or e-mail TWINASHVIL@aol.com .

Friday, October 09, 2009

George Jones to Appear On CBS Sunday Morning This Sunday!

TUNE-IN RELEASE
GEORGE JONES TO APPEAR ON CBS SUNDAY MORNING THIS SUNDAY!

NASHVILLE, TN - Country music legend George Jones will appear on CBS Sunday Morning this Sunday October 11, 2009. Host and interviewer Bob Schieffer visited George’s Nashville home and also stopped by Nashville’s legendary Ryman Auditorium late this summer to talk about life, love and a lot of musical history, as well as all that George is up to today.

Jones is travelling throughout Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan Canada this week on the northern most leg of his sellout 2009 North American tour.

CBS Sunday Morning:
http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/sunday/main3445.shtml

For local times and an affiliate list, please visit:
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/04/17/sunday/main1502683.shtml

ABOUT GEORGE JONES
George Jones – a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame – is a country music icon, frequently referred to as "the greatest living country singer". A native of Beaumont, Texas, Jones began his career as a radio host and has successfully scored over 150 hits during his fifty-plus year career. In 2008, Jones received the prestigious Kennedy Center Honor. Now in 2009, Jones continues to tour extensively in North America and overseas promoting his latest album, A Collection of My Best Recollection, exclusively through Cracker Barrel Music.

For more information on George Jones, please visit www.georgejones.com

For more information on Cracker Barrel, please visit www.crackerbarrel.com



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Media Contacts:
For media inquiries, please contact:
Webster & Associates Public Relations
Kirt Webster / kirt@websterpr.com
(615) 777-6995 x 30

Thursday, October 01, 2009

Lynyrd Skynyrd on Huckabee this Weekend

LYNYRD SKYNYRD TO APPEAR ON THE LATE LATE SHOW WITH CRAIG FERGUSON AND HUCKABEE THIS WEEKEND!

New York, NY – American rock legends Lynyrd Skynyrd are set to appear on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson on Friday, October 2nd performing their new single, “Simple Life” from their album God & Guns; released this past Tuesday (9/29) on Loud & Proud/Roadrunner Records. Lynyrd Skynyrd will also be appearing on Fox News Channel’s Huckabee, which airs Saturday, September 26th & Sunday, September 27th. Lynyrd Skynyrd will be performing “Simple Life” and also one of their classic hits with Governor Huckabee on bass. Tune in this weekend to see which signature Skynyrd hit the Governor picks!

God & Guns is the band’s first full length studio album since 2003’s Vicious Cycle, and their first release on Loud & Proud/Roadrunner.

Gibson.com calls attention to, “catchy choruses and the kinds of themes that drive modern country hits — plainly advertised in the titles, ‘Simple Life,’ ‘God & Guns,’ and ‘That Ain’t My America.’” Ted Drozdowski of Gibson.com continues,proclaiming God & Guns as a “Mission accomplished….boasting all the guitar signatures of classic Skynyrd — melody-ripe solos, crunchy chords that swell like shockwaves, and Rossington’s unmistakable slide playing — but with a little extra beef thanks to an exacting writing, recording, and mixing process that took two years…”concluding, “Lynyrd Skynyrd may indeed be heading to the charts for the first time since their reformation in 1987.”

The first rock single, “Still Unbroken,” reflects the true spirit of a band with a unique ability to power through tragedy and end up stronger than ever. The video for “Still Unbroken” has been added to VH-1 Classic, and the track continues to make impressive headway at rock radio. It is top 20 at Mainstream Rock and #1 at Classic Rock, already with spins on KDKB, KSAN, KSHE, KZRQ, WAXQ, WBSX, WDHA, WHJY, WLUP, WRAT, WRTT. The band has also shipped their first ever single to country radio with “Simple Life.” The video made its CMT and GAC premiere this week.

2009 marks a key point in Lynyrd Skynyrd’s storied career. The band has enjoyed continued success and visibility in the past few years including a recent Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction. Their American rock anthem “Sweet Home Alabama” has passed the 2 million mark in downloaded ringtones. Their last single, “Red White & Blue” reached #1 on the Rock Charts. This summer, the band co-headlined one of the most successful tours of the year on their second run with Kid Rock. High profile appearances, including the show closer at last year’s VH1 Fashion Rocks helped to expose the band to a younger audience. With a catalog of over 60 albums and sales beyond 30 million, Lynyrd Skynyrd remains a major cultural icon that appeals to all generations

Lynyrd Skynyrd recently appeared on The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien in support of their new album. Watch Oct. 8th for a SPECIAL announcement on Fox News Channel's HANNITY show.

Wednesday, September 02, 2009

Bellamy Brothers and Bacon Brothers make first Public Apperance on Grand Ole Opry

Bellamy Brothers and Bacon Brothers Make First Public Appearance Together on Grand Ole Opry



(Nashville, TN - Sept. 2, 2009) Legendary country duo The Bellamy Brothers appeared with special guests The Bacon Brothers on the Grand Ole Opry Tuesday, Sept. 1. The Bellamys performed "If I Said You Had a Beautiful Body (Would You Hold It Against Me)," then invited the Bacons on stage for their current single and collaboration, "Guilty of the Crime." The two pairs of brothers closed out the set with a rocking version of "Let Your Love Flow." The appearance marked the first public appearance for the Bacons and the Bellamys together.

Photo credit: Chris Hollo
2009 Copyright Grand Ole Opry



Pictured (l to r): The Bellamy Brothers (Howard and David) and The Bacon Brothers (Kevin and Michael) perform on the Grand Ole Opry on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2009.




Pictured (l to r): Grand Ole Opry VP/GM Pete Fisher, Howard Bellamy, Kevin Bacon, Michael Bacon, David Bellamy and Grand Ole Opry Group President Steve Buchanan.








Aristo P.R. | The AristoMedia Group | P.O. Box 22765 | Nashville, TN 37202
Phone: 615-269-7071 | Fax: 615-269-0131 | publicity@aristomedia.com

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Becky Schlegal has a great new Country song!!

Just click here and have a good free listen

http://airplaydirect.com/music/beckyschlegel


Enjoy
Jim
or, click on page title

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Hank Williams Jr joins Carrie Underwood,Jake Owen, and John Rich to Support The Troops

HANK WILLIAMS JR. JOINS CARRIE UNDERWOOD, JAKE OWEN, AND JOHN RICH TO SUPPORT THE TROOPS


Nashville, TN – Hank Williams Jr. has been added to the lineup for Budweiser's Salute to the Troops! concertat the Division Parade Fieldtaking place in Ft. Campbell, KY on Friday, August 14th as part of the 2009 Week Of The Eagles. The event-filled biannual celebration this year runs from August 14-20 and pays tribute to the Screaming Eagles of the 101st Airborne Division who will be returning from their service in the Middle East.

Williams joins already announced artists Carrie Underwood, Jake Owen, and John Rich as part of two nights of multi-artist concerts taking place during the Week of the Eagles, presented by Fort Campbell’s Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) in partnership with Cumulus Broadcasting.

For a complete schedule of events, visit www.fortcampbellmwr.com, and click on the Week of the Eagles button on the homepage. While honoring veterans, troops and their families, the Week of the Eagles is also free and open to the public. In observance of post protocol, all visitors will be required to present valid photo ID and will need to show current registration and proof of insurance for any vehicle admitted.

Wednesday, August 05, 2009

Update on Alana Levandoski's new CD

One of Canada’s leading progressive roots artists Alana Levandoski will perform this weekend at the Edmonton Folk Music Festival (Aug. 6-9) in Edmonton, Alberta.

Her new album “Lions & Werewolves,” recorded in a 100-year-old church in rural Manitoba, and at the upscale Parr Street Studios in Liverpool, was released in Canada July 21 (2009) on Blue Lily Records, distributed by EMI Music Canada.

Levandoski's performance at the 2009 Winnipeg Folk Festival aired nationally on CBC Radio 2’s “Canada Live on Aug. 4. The show was recorded July 9th at Birds Hill Park near Winnipeg, Manitoba.

The show has also been posted as a "Concert on Demand" on the CBC Radio website http://www.cbc.ca/radio2/cod/concerts/20090709alana

Levandoski gained the respect, and endorsement of much of the international roots music world with her outstanding debut album "Unsettled Down" released by Rounder Records in 2006.

Reviews of "Unsettled Down" were plentiful and enthusiastic. Levandoski was profiled in numerous UK publications, including Maverick and The London Times, and in such national Canadian magazines as Maclean's, Chart and Penguin Eggs.

“Levandoski created waves with her debut, “Unsettled Down,” and her second album, partly recorded in a church in rural Manitoba has some stunning songs,” wrote Robin Eggar recently in The Sunday Times.

Levandoski's name evokes thundering tributes that go far beyond the customary comments made about hot new artists.

"Alana Levandoski is as refreshing as an ice cold drink on a hot summer night,” says iconic Canadian singer/songwriter Jann Arden. “And I mean that. She has an old soul and it shows up in every single line she writes. She sings as though she has circled the globe a half a dozen times, and yet remains optimistically innocent. Her voice is delicate and fragile and terribly wonderfully unique. Her music is about simple sentiment. LIving. Losing. Finding. Her voice is surrounded with organic sounds that could have stepped off the front porch somewhere in the Smokey Mountains of Tennessee. Hear her music once and become a fan for life."

Adds fellow Canadian singer Serena Ryder, "Alana has a palpable honesty in her writing and in her voice that makes you feel like you're having a conversation with a friend who knows you inside out."

“Lions & Werewolves” was produced by ace British producer Ken Nelson, renowned for his work with Gomez and Coldplay. He has also worked with Badly Drawn Boy, Snow Patrol, Polly Paulusma and Paolo Nutini.

"I had always wanted Ken to record this album,” Levandoski says. “I wanted someone outside of the roots world who is a fan of popular music. Somebody who could come from somewhere that, to me, was fresh. Unlike me, Ken didn't grow up listening to Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn. But I had no idea how I was going to go about getting him.”

One of Levandoski’s writing partners provided a link.

"I was writing with (Canadian songwriter) Simon Wilcox, and she mentioned that she knew Ken from working at his studio," recalls Levandoski. "I got in touch with Ken and heard my songs. I also played a gig in Liverpool. He agreed to work with me. I think he was intrigued by me, and he thought I was a good songwriter.”

Indeed, Nelson was intrigued enough to hop on an airplane across the pond to record Levandoski in her rural hometown, the small village of Kelwood, Manitoba with a population of 300. "Ken came to Kelwood to record in the middle of winter," Levandoski says, laughing. "Him, his son Mike and his engineer Mark Phythian flew in and my dad picked them up at the airport in Winnipeg."

“Lions & Werewolves” was primarily recorded at the St. John Divine Anglican Church in Kelwood.

“Before we started recording, Ken would walk a mile or two every morning,” recalls Levandoski. “My dad would pick him up on the road. He and the musicians were always all trying to find cell phone (signals) to connect. You’d see them walking around holding up their cell phones. They all had loved ones at home and wanted to stay in touch.”

While “Unsettled Down” was a coming-of-age album, “Lions & Werewolves” is a poised and mature work that stands with the works of the best of ‘60s story-tellers.

“With my first album, I felt that I had told a lot of the (prairie) stories that I didn’t need to retell them again,” says Levandoski. “As you grow and meet different people, life goes on. You have to acknowledge that this (being a performer) is your real life and it’s not fake. (For me) those stories started bubbling underneath the surface and then came out.”

Levandoski is proud of how the album turned out.

“It's very true. It’s not a contrived piece of work. Some people might be surprised that it evolved as much as it did. But I had over two years of touring in eight countries. And Ken is a very soft, subtle person who kind of goes through the room with a broom and cleans it up. I remember the musicians (bassist Milos Angelov, keyboardist David [Soul Fingaz] Williams, guitarist Murray Pulver and drummer Eric Paul) talking about how they felt naked when we were recording.”

"The last night that all the musicians were there we threw a listening party in the church just to hear the bed (tracks). We just blasted them out in the church and then we moved from there to the Canadian Legion Hall, because that's the only pub in town. Then someone came in and yelled, 'Northern lights!' Ken, Mike, and Mark had never seen northern lights before so we all went out to watch. It was a great way to end the sessions before I went to Liverpool to record final vocal tracks."

Levandoski was raised in Kelwood but she was born in nearby McCreary. Kelwood is where both her parents attended school and where her mother's family have received their mail for 50 years. Her father grew up on a farm 10 miles south and attended school in the village of Riding Mountain.

Alana's childhood came as rural Western Canada was undergoing a significant makeover, from a pastoral setting into corporate farm Canada. Kelwood was no longer a bustling farming community. The railway, along with the grain elevators, had been removed and the main highway had been rebuilt a mile to the west. So most businesses had closed.

After attending kindergarten in Kelwood, Levandoski was educated at home with her older sister Nadia, and younger brother Matthew.

Levandoski’s first involvement with music began at 9 until 13 performing in the gospel-styled band Family & Friends in her parents living room each week. She picked up a guitar when she was 12. She also took piano lessons for many years.

At 15, Levandoski began entering and winning local talent contests, performing mostly her own songs. Her first fully realized song was "Sailing From Holland" about being a sailor. "It's a good song but I was still developing my sound," she says.

At 17, Levandoski played off-and-on with 600 Bones, a Brandon, Manitoba group that performed jazz, folk and world beat. By 2001, after living briefly in Turkey, she was residing in Winnipeg and performing with Jamoeba, a 6-piece 'jam' band.

“People are always asking me to describe my music,” Levandoski laughs. “If you have to throw me into a genre say progressive roots, but I love the old country songwriters. I love Emmylou Harris. But I also grew up being a fan of British bands like U2, Radiohead, and Coldplay. All of these bands. There is something about them that is just fantastic. And I love AC/DC.”

Following "Unsettled Down” Levandoski toured the U.K. and Europe four times. She first performed in the UK and Europe in early 2006 with Dar Williams, Lynn Miles and Caroline Herring as well with Jess Klein. She returned to the UK in 2006 opening for the Elana James Trio, and fellow Canadians Blue Rodeo, and playing Canada Day 2006 in Trafalgar Square. She did a tour of Ireland and England in 2007 with fellow Canadian Lynn Miles

In Canada, she toured nationally with the Corb Lund Band and did dates with Stephen Fearing, the Arrogant Worms, and Tanya Tucker.

Over the years, Levandoski has co-written with such leading American songwriters as Quinn Loggins, Sam Ashworth, James LeBlanc, Rebecca Lynn Howard, Rachel Thibodeau, and Gary Nichols. She has also co-written with Canadians Sylvia Tyson, Colin Cripps, and Simon Wilcox.

“I totally love being with other songwriters, especially with those people who consider themselves to be story tellers. I feel like I am understood without having to talk about it.”

In 2007, Levandoski was featured on “Borrowed Tunes Two,” a two-CD musical tribute to Neil Young. It features Canadian artists including Barenaked Ladies, Ron Sexsmith, Dave Gunning, Finger 11 and Chantal Kreviazuk performing their favorite Neil Young song. Alana sings “Don’t be Denied.”

The same year, Levandoski was featured on the U.K. compilation "Bob Harris Presents" along with Alison Krauss, Cindy Bullens, John Prine, Billy Joel Shaver and Kathleen Edwards.

"I really believe in Alana,” says the legendary BBC Radio 2 announcer Bob Harris. “She is part of an emerging generation of new artists who are reflecting the range of influences that make Canadian music so exciting, from the brilliant free-form collective Broken Social Scene, to the authentic Country twang of Corb Lund. Her songs are intelligent, warm and strong. She's a fine artist, and a trouper."

--30--

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Rural Rhythm Records Announces #1 Albums and Singles

Rural Rhythm Records Announces #1 Albums and Singles



Los Angeles, CA (7.8.09) Rural Rhythm Records is pleased to announce numerous #1 Albums and #1 Singles on various July 2009 charts. First up is the Lonesome River Band’s “NO TURNING BACK” remaining the #1 Album for the third consecutive month on Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine’s (BU) Top 15 Albums. The album also made a huge jump to #4 on Cashbox Magazine’s Top 25 Albums and appears at #7 on the Bluegrass Music Profiles Magazine Top 10 Album charts this month. Their single, “Them Blues” holds two #1 spots on both the BU Top 30 Singles and the BMP Top 30 Singles charts. Yet another song, “Like a Train Needs a Track,” is also charting as well, climbing to #19 on the BU Top 30 and at #13 on the BMP Top 30 charts.

Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out also have a #1 Album to celebrate as it DEBUTED at #1 on this month on the BMP Top 10 Bluegrass Albums and climbed to #5 on Cashbox Magazine’s Top 25 Album chart for their new self-titled release. The band’s current single, “Hard Rock Prison (Til I Die)” debuted at #7 on BMP’s Top 30. This is the 15th career album for this award-winning band.


Audie Blaylock & Redline have not only been wowing audiences at their live shows, but their self-titled new album is having great chart success as well. This month the album climbed to #2 on the BMP Top 10, #8 spot on the BU Top 15, and #12 on Cashbox Magazine’s Top 25 album charts. The band's current single, “Whispering Waters” holds the #3 spot on the BMP Top 30 Singles and made an impressive jump to #16 on the BU Top 30 Single charts.

Carrie Hassler & Hard Rain reached #1 on May’s BU Top 30 Singles for “I Can Go Back Anytime,” and the song is still going strong appearing at #7 on the BU Top 30 and #17 on the BMP Top 30 single charts. The album, “CHHR2” is also having great chart success as well appearing at #11 on the BU Top 15 Albums and #13 on Cashbox Magazine’s Top 25 Rockygrass Album Chart. Two other singles are currently making waves including the bluegrass song, “Faith & Hope” at #7 on Powersource Magazine’s Top 10 Bluegrass Songs Chart and the gospel song, “Amazing Grace” at #12 on WBTX Radio’s Top 20 song chart for July.

Tommy Webb’s new Rural Rhythm album, “HEARTLAND” is also gaining a lot of attention with two chart singles this month: the title track, “Heartland” climbing to #8 on Powersource Magazine’s Top 10 Bluegrass Songs and “Teardrop Inn” climbing to #12 on the BMP Top 30 Singles.

Melonie Cannon’s current album, “And The Wheels Turn” includes the first bluegrass single release, “I Call It Gone” now appearing at #11 on the BU Top 30, #28 on the BMP Top 30 and recently reaching #1 on the SIRIUS Radio’s Top 40 Songs. This incredible album was produced by Buddy Cannon and Ronnie Bowman with tracks appealing to such a wide range of music genres including: the second Bluegrass radio release, “Dark Shadows;” the Country radio release, “Back to Earth” that includes the VIDEO with Willie Nelson and Melonie, still in running for CMT’s Pure 12 Pack Countdown; plus, the emotionally charged, “Cactus in the Coffee Can” that is set for an Americana radio release later this month.

Mountain Heart also celebrates a #1 song this month for “Road That Never Ends” on the Powersource Magazine Top 10 Bluegrass Song chart. Click here to watch the "Road That Never Ends" VIDEO. Mountain Heart has been busy headlining concerts and also performing with other artists such as Tony Rice and also Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Cincinnati's own Tim Hensley wrote “What a Sight to Behold” that appears on his debut album "LONG MONDAY." He invited special guests Vince Gill and Sonya Isaacs to join him on the song which climbed this month to #5 on Powersource Magazine's Top 10 Bluegrass Song chart. Tim is currently on tour providing guitar and vocals for Kenny Chesney.


Last but most certainly not least are The Crowe Brothers at #25 on Cashbox Magazine’s Top 25 Bluegrass Album Chart for their album, "Brothers-N-Harmony."

For more information on these artists and their music, please visit www.ruralrhythm.com. To book any of the artists at your next event, please see individual band sites for contact information.

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