Tuesday, March 31, 2009

"The Session Players" First Webisode Begins Airing

"The Session Players" First Webisode Begins Airing TodayEpisode One Sand Bank Road Is Now Available For Viewing NASHVILLE, TN - Sand Bank Road, webisode number one in an ongoing series, begins airing today on "The Session Players" (www.thesessionplayers.com). Developed by Creative Video Entertainment, this innovative, multiplatform experience gives viewers a look inside the recording studio through the eyes of the session musicians. Our 'A' list of Nashville session musicians, under the direction of session leader Tom Wild, creates something special at each recording session and the creative process is the star of "The Session Players". Viewers will see inside the process as it unfolds and feel the creative energy that is essential to success in the recording world. Each webisode in the series will be available for download to the viewer's computer creating a comprehensive library of entertaining and valuable resources. The music created during the series is also available for download, and with the webisodes, showcases the history of each song. The website also includes a wide array of information from the musical instruments used by the players to resources for the recording industry. A forum has been established on the site as a place for aspiring musicians, seasoned professionals and any music fan to meet, exchange ideas and just talk about music. "The Session Players" website is also the destination for great special events. Final plans are underway to host a special live chat with members of the series' musicians. Fans of "The Session Players" can join in from anywhere around the globe to talk to the players, ask questions about their careers and get their unique perspectives of life in the studio. An announcement containing final details about the chat, the musicians confirmed and how to take part in the chat will be announced and posted on "The Session Players" website later this month. "When they come to the session they've never heard the tune before, but in half an hour they will play it like they've known it forever" and on "The Session Players" you will experience it like never before. "The Session Players" webisodes and special events change often, so visit www.thesessionplayers.com often! #### Contact:Megan Burns - media@thompsonentertainmentgroup.com/615-742-8004

1300 Division Street, Ste 105Nashville, TN 37203615-742-8004media@thompsonentertainmentgroup.comwww.thompsonentertainmentgroup.com

"IN OVERDRIVE" - Aaron Tippin

Aaron Tippin, Cobra, Barjan and Petro
Launch Cobra Coast to Coast With Aaron Tippin Contest
(Nashville, TN - 4/1/09) - In the world of country music, trains and trucks rule. And when it comes to trucks, the man whose music mines the seam between trucks and country is none other than the hardest working man in country music and former trucker, Aaron Tippin. And now he's announcing a contest that marries the old form of communication with the new, Cobra Coast-to-Coast With Aaron Tippin.
This country legend has recorded a blistering album, IN OVERDRIVE, of his favorite trucking songs on the NIPPIT Records/Country Crossing Records label and it is lighting up sales in truck stops across the country.
Rolling down the road with his band and crew in the Aaron Tippin tour bus reminding American truckers that they are not forgotten, Tippin comments, "wow, I had no way of knowing how much fun this was going to be when I decided to re-record some of the greatest truck drivin' songs of all time. Man, we had a great time in the studio and I thought that was pretty cool but this album just keeps getting' bigger and more fun."
Now, inspired by an unbelievable live concert where he wowed a throng of over 8,000 truckers at Freedom Hall Arena in Louisville, KY, Tippin has been motivated by real truck drivers to do something that hasn't been done in over 40 years. He's going to recreate the pony express of the trucking world by sending a message cross country just to show that it can still be done.
There have been a lot of important messages sent out by the CB radio long before there were cell phones or easy-access Internet communications. Truckers finding out their wives had given birth, stories of engagements by CB, life saving stories of CB heroes and miraculous stories of bravery and kinship among the brotherhood of truckers, almost too numerous to list. And some to fantastic to believe, yet such is the legend of the CB radio among professional truckers.
Tippin talked and visited with hundreds of fellow truckers at the MATS show in Louisville, KY, where he helped announce the winner of Arrow's Back On The RoadTM 2009 and played to the masses at Freedom Hall. After the show he created this concept of a contest designed to try to relive those great old memories when the CB was king. We want to prove the old CB can still send a message just as fast as ever. He's now organized an event to show the world that the truckin' pipeline is alive and well.
About the Contest: And now, Tippin has joined forces for this landmark contest with Cobra, Barjan, and Petro to pass the word across the country that Aaron Tippin is saluting America's 14 million plus workforce of trucking professionals whose daily sweat and energy keeps our country moving. And that's what this contest is all about. Moving some thanks, appreciation, good will and good news, brother trucker-to-brother trucker. "My partners at Cobra, Barjan and Petro have just knocked me out. This couldn't happen without their expertise and encouragement," Tippin exclaims.
Guidelines: On Friday, April 17th at 7:30 PM CST at the Petro truck stop in Kingston Springs, TN, Aaron Tippin will launch the Cobra Coast to Coast Contest with Aaron Tippin, sponsored by Cobra, Petro and Barjan. He'll send out a secret code to all truckers going east to west and west to east to see how long it takes to send the message [that free CB's and Aaron Tippin gift bags are to be won], the old fashioned way from coast to coast. That code will be announced the night of the launch by Tippin at 9:30 PM CST.
He will be manning his Cobra CB radio at the Kingston Springs Petro and will announce that two lucky truckers will win special Cobra Radios and "Aaron Tippin" prize packages at select Petro truck stops on both the east and west coast. He will announce a secret pass code on his Cobra from Tennessee and see how long it takes the lucky truckers to pass the code word on to the East and West coast Petro truck stops to claim the Grand Prizes. These winning Petro locations are (East Coast) Mebane, NC and (West Coast) Wheeler Ridge, CA. The first trucker to arrive at each truck stop and announce the "secret pass code" to management will receive the prize package which will include a Cobra CB Radio, a Cobra bluetooth wireless headset, and a special Aaron Tippin gift bag that includes, CD, concert backstage passes, tee shirts, ball caps and more.
"This is going to be a ton of fun for all of the guys and gals truckin' across the country," says Tippin. "Plus, a trucker on each end of I-40 will be an instant winner as soon as they walk into the winning Petro location in California and North Carolina. Along with those winners, any driver that relays the message will have the chance to win the same prizes in an online contest on www.aarontippin.com by going to the site and registering and logging in the secret code word. If you are hauling cross-country, don't miss your chance to win and have a great time while you're at it.
For additional information visit www.aarontippin.com.

"Way Up On a Mountain" - Spring Creek

Nashville, TN - Since forming five years ago, Spring Creek has emerged as the hottest young band among the newest generation of pickers in the Rocky Mountain bluegrass scene. In 2007, the Lyons, Colorado-based foursome rocketed onto the national stage when they became the only group to ever capture the band competitions at the Telluride and RockyGrass Festivals in the same year. Since those celebrated wins, the band has toured extensively, solidifying their status as lively and skillful performers. Spring Creek signed with Rebel Records last fall and will be unveiling their label debut, Way Up on a Mountain on May 5th.Way Up on a Mountain projects a sound that derives its inspiration from the soul of the Rocky Mountains but maintains its footing in the Appalachian hills and piedmont of the bluegrass heartland. Drawing from the same creative wellspring that produced traditional bluegrass bands such as Hot Rize and Open Road, the album bursts with a freshness that is guaranteed to earn Spring Creek a spot among Colorado's bluegrass innovators. Equally, Way Up on a Mountain demonstrates the band's keen mastery of traditional bluegrass and their deep respect for its Appalachian origins. The resulting product is a sound that is both traditional and original, daring yet indebted to the forefathers of bluegrass. Way Up on a Mountain is certain to win the hearts of listeners in the bluegrass heartland as well as those of the genre's ever-broadening fan-base worldwide.The album's content flows just like a spring creek should: a perfect blend of fast and slow currents. On "Another Lonesome Night My Dear" bassist Jessica Smith delivers resonant, heartfelt vocals over fast-paced string interplay, while banjo player Chris Elliott contributes a smooth baritone harmony on the chorus. The following track, "Tangled in the Pines," moves at a much slower pace complemented by measured, mournful vocals and blues-tinged Dobro riffs. Throughout the album mandolin player Alex Johnstone, guitarist Taylor Sims and Elliott provide deft, tasteful instrumental leads. The eight original compositions feature candid lyrics that balance customary bluegrass with contemporary themes. Additionally, the album features material by Ricky Nelson and Bill Monroe - the homage to Monroe highlighting Spring Creek's respect for the legends of bluegrass. IBMA award-winning fiddler Michael Cleveland contributes his masterful work on several tracks.Prior to Way Up on a Mountain, Spring Creek released two independent albums, Rural & Cosmic Bluegrass and Lonesome Way to Go. The track "High Up in the Mountains" off of the former won an Independent Music Association's Vox Populi Award.In support of Way Up on a Mountain, Spring Creek will spend 2009 performing at festivals and venues nationwide, including stops at the prestigious MerleFest in Wilkesboro, North Carolina and Old Settlers Festival in Austin, Texas.

Oklahoma Country Rocker, Shawna Russell, releases new Single, -"Fire In The Desert"

Oklahoma Country Rocker, Shawna Russell, releases new single - “Fire In The Desert”


For Immediate Release:

Nashville, TN (March 31, 2009) – Oklahoma Country Rocker, Shawna Russell, released her new Way Out West Records single - “Fire In The Desert” to country radio stations across the US this week!
Anticipation for the new single has been high - and music reviewers have been enthusiastic with their support. Chris Neal, Music Editor of Country Weekly says the song is a “Scorcher, soaked in the influence of 1970’s country-rock,” while Maverick Magazine exclaims that “Fire In The Desert” “is a superb country rocker that shows just how good Shawna’s voice really is.”

“Fire In The Desert” is Russell’s follow-up release to her hit single and video, “Should’ve Been Born With Wheels.”"Fire In The Desert" is a hot summertime rocker delivered with power and passion by singer/songwriter, Russell, who co-wrote the song with father/guitarist, Keith, and uncle/producer, Tim. The track features an all-star line up of musicians including famed L.A. session drummer Russ Kunkel (Lyle Lovett/James Taylor/Stevie Nicks) and bassist David Santos (John Fogerty/Elton John). Russell’s vocals were engineered by Grammy award-winning Julian King (Tim McGraw/Faith Hill), and the track was mixed by Emmy and Grammy recipient Nathaniel Kunkel (The Police/Diana Ross). "Fire In The Desert" is from Russell’s critically-acclaimed debut CD 'GODDESS.'

"Fire In The Desert" is available on CDX Vol. #471 and CD Tex Music Delivery Service Vol. #74b. Radio programmers may also download an airplay quality version of the single and other songs by Russell at AirPlay Direct: www.AirPlayDirect.com/shawnarussell.

For more information, visit Shawna Russell’s online sites at: www.ShawnaRussell.com and www.MySpace.com/shawnarussell878 *Photo credit: Cynthia Donati-Stepping Stones Photography
About Shawna

Shawna Russell was introduced onto the national music scene with the release of her debut CD, GODDESS, in early 2008. But her reputation as a world-class talent had already caught the attention of many folks in the music industry. Prior to the release of the CD, Shawna made her national television debut on the popular show "INSIDE MUSIC ROW" and the COUNTRY MUSIC ASSOCIATION named her as one of their "Who New To Watch in 2008" artists. Since then, Shawna’s music has received rave reviews from the CMA Close Up, Country Weekly, The Oklahoman, and esteemed Music Row critic, Robert K. Oermann. And she has earned International acclaim from some of Europe’s top music publications, including Maverick Magazine (UK) and DreamWest Magazine (France).
_____________________________________________________________

Media Contacts:

For media or interview requests please contact:Webster & Associates Public RelationsDonna Schacher / donna@websterpr.com (615) 777-6995 x 24Kirt Webster / kirt@websterpr.com (615) 777-6995 x 30-or-
For CD, mp3 song files, hi-res photos contact:
Way Out West Records
Nashville-Oklahoma

Oak Ridge Boys To Perform On the "Marty Stuart Show"

OAK RIDGE BOYS TO PERFORM ON "THE MARTY STUART SHOW" SATURDAY APRIL 4TH




NASHVILLE, TN – (April 4, 2009) – The Oak Ridge Boys will make a musical guest appearance on The Marty Stuart Show Saturday April 4th at 7pm CT / 8pm ET on RFD-TV.

The 30-minute episode, hosted and produced by Stuart at Nashville’s NorthStar Studios, features the mega-hits “Elvira” and “Y’all Come Back Saloon” from The Oak Ridge Boys and “Have A Little Talk With Jesus” as a sing-along with Marty Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives. Radio personality Eddie Stubbs serves as the show’s announcer and Stuart’s sidekick on every episode.

“This show is about authenticity,” said Stuart, “…from the artists who visit us in the studio every week to the people watching at home in America.”

RFD-TV is a rural lifestyle network with programming that focuses on agriculture, equine, rural lifestyle and music/entertainment. Broadcasting to 40 million homes across the country, the RFD-TV line-up includes Imus In the Morning, Crook & Chase, Big Joe’s Polka Show and Ralph Emery LIVE. www.rfdtv.com

Please visit www.oakridgeboys.com for information on their upcoming album ‘The Boys Are Back’, scheduled to release May 19th.
For Further Information Please Contact:

Webster & Associates Public Relations 615-777-6995
Jeremy Westby /
jeremy@websterpr.com
Kirt Webster / kirt@websterpr.com

The Brokaw Company (310) 273-2060
Sanford Brokaw / brokawc@aol.com

Monday, March 30, 2009

Inside Music Row Brings Newcomer Megan Munroe to Viewers Nationwide March 30

Inside Music Row Brings Newcomer Megan Munroe To Viewers Nationwide March 30 - April 5Nashville, TN (March 30, 2009) -- The Inside Music Row cameras were on hand for Megan Munroe's recent performance at Nashville's 12th & Porter club, catching the talented singer/songwriter winning over the SRO crowd with songs from her current CD, ONE MORE BROKEN STRING. Host Kelly Lynn chatted with Megan about acting and living in Los Angeles, finding her place in the Nashville songwriting community and her upcoming Summer tour. Munroe's current single, "Moonshine," is "bubbling under" on the Music Row chart. The program airs in Nashville on WNAB at 9:30 p.m., Sunday, April 5, and nationally March 30 through April 5.The Seattle native and Nashville resident has been busy since the release of her CD in February. Recent performances include The Bluebird Cafe and Tootsie's Back Room, and she also participated in her first Country Radio Seminar.Inside Music Row airs in approximately 80 markets, including WBKO in Bowling Green, KY, WKAG in Hopkinsville, KY, KLAS-TV One Las Vegas, KXXV-TV Waco, TX, KCTU-TV 5 in Wichita, KS, WRDW-TV in Augusta, GA, WFFT -Fox in Fort Wayne, IN, WHNT-CBS in Huntsville, AL, WWCI TV10 in Vero Beach, FL and on the AMG-TV network. This show is also available online starting Wednesday, April 1 at www.InsideMusicRow.com, www.DigitalRodeo.com, iTunes, and AOL Television. Fans can enjoy Megan's blog, audio clips and video at www.meganmunroe.com, or visit her at Facebook, Digital Rodeo or MySpace. For interviews, email somuchmoore@charter.net or call Martha at 615-746-3994.
Photo Credit: Bev Moser

Thursday, March 26, 2009

"Intimate Evening series with "Always... Patsy Cline Star Mandy Barnett

650AM WSM Continues "Intimate Evening" Series with "Always... Patsy Cline" Star Mandy Barnett
(Nashville, TN - March 24, 2009) Legendary Nashville radio station 650AM WSM will continue its "Intimate Evening" series on Monday, April 6 with the star of "Always... Patsy Cline," Mandy Barnett. Hosted by night-time personality Eddie Stubbs, the show will feature one-on-one interviews with both singer Barnett and Cline's widower, special guest Charlie Dick.
"Our 'Intimate Evening' series with Eddie Stubbs is a rare opportunity for WSM listeners to get up close and personal with the legends and superstars that we play on the air," says WSM Program Director Joe Limardi. "You can't buy tickets to this series, so the only way to see the show is to win passes over the air or online through our website."The April 6 show with Mandy Barnett will broadcast live from 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. CST at the Ford Theater inside the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Tenn. It will also be available for online streaming at the WSM website, www.WSMonline.com. WSM's "Intimate Evening" series is a monthly program that first began broadcasting in November 2005. Previous artists that have appeared on the series include Emmylou Harris, Patty Loveless, Dierks Bentley, Brad Paisley, Porter Wagoner and more.
About WSM:650 AM WSM's first official broadcast day was October 5, 1925. The Nashville-based station is the radio home for the Grand Ole Opry, which has been broadcast live over the airwaves on WSM since its inception. The 50,000-watt, low frequency station can be picked up in 38 states on 650 AM and heard worldwide at www.WSMonline.com.

Rural Rhytmn Records Signs GOLD HEART

Rural Rhythm Records Signs GOLD HEART

Arcadia, CA (3.25.09) Fans of bluegrass music have no doubt heard of the highly entertaining and award-winning family band, GOLD HEART, so it is with great pleasure Rural Rhythm Records announces they have signed the group to their label. “The buzz on Gold Heart was incredible at last years IBMA World of Bluegrass convention. This emerging new group seemed to be a main topic of many discussions regarding what new music is hot! On the last day, sandwiched in between a day of wall-to-wall meetings, Trent Gold asked if we could meet with Gold Heart for a few minutes and that’s when I discovered what the buzz was all about. We were all impressed with Analise, Jocelyn and Shelby and their high level of professionalism, confidence and the articulation of the music and career goals,” said label President, Sam Passamano, Jr.GOLD HEART, individually and as a whole, has received a multitude of awards and recognitions in a short amount of time and credit their Mother with teaching them their vocal harmony that has drawn so much attention to this young band. Members include the three Gold sisters, Analise (mandolin, vocals); Jocelyn (guitar, vocals); Shelby (fiddle and vocals); along with their Dad, Trent Gold (bass); plus Owen Piatt (banjo). The group is currently in the studio recording their soon to be released new album with Producer, Justin Carbone. "Gold Heart is blown away with the opportunity to work with Rural Rhythm Records! Just to think that less than four years ago we were still trying to figure out how to hold our instruments and now we have the support of a fantastic label! We believe the time was right and we're ready to deliver the finest music we can make. We look forward to a successful relationship with Rural Rhythm Records,” said Analise. GOLD HEART has a busy tour schedule in the U.S. plus their first overseas tour next month in the United Kingdom. Two fellow Rural Rhythm artists have had the opportunity to see the band perform, including Sammy Shelor (Lonesome River Band) saying, "Gold Heart is a great vocal unit with strong instrumentation - a great show to see,” and Bill McBee (Cody Shuler and Pine Mountain Railroad) agreeing by saying, "Their songwriting and performances are stellar!" More announcements will be made soon regarding a release date and tour announcements, so please visit www.goldheartbluegrass.com or www.ruralrhythm.com for more information.
RECORD LABEL:Rural Rhythm Records Radio Contact: Sammy Passamano, IIIEmailMEDIA CONTACT:Hope River Entertainment678.377.3298Email

Carrie Hassler and Hard Rain Welcome New Banjo Player

CARRIE HASSLER & HARD RAIN WELCOME NEW BANJO PLAYER

CARRIE HASSLER AND HARD RAIN are pleased to announce the new addition to the band, seventeen-year-old, Zach Gilmer. The Virginia native and extremely talented musician began playing the banjo at age 10, began formal lessons at 14, and the same year placed third in the Virginia Folk Music Association’s (VFMA) Junior Entertainer category. The following year he placed second in the Adult State Banjo category and in 2007 became the Adult State Banjo Champion. "We are very excited about the energy and freshness that Zach brings to the band. It is amazing the talent and maturity he has at such a young age,” said Hassler. CARRIE HASSLER & HARD RAIN are celebrating their current album, CHHR2 that includes 3 current chart songs. The track, “Devil’s Den” appears in the Sirius-XM Top 40 Bluegrass Songs; “I Can Go Back Anytime” climbs to the #4 position on Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine’s Top 30 singles chart (April); holds the #9 spot on Bluegrass Music Profiles Magazine’s Top 30 (March); and the powerful “Country Strong” is #9 in the United Kingdom (March). The album, “CHHR2” hit #1 on Cashbox Magazine’s Rockygrass Chart (February) and appears at #6 on the Bluegrass Unlimited Magazine’s Top 15 album chart (April). Rural Rhythm recently announced the second official single release, "Faith and Hope" from CHHR2," and also the new stand alone digital release, "Amazing Grace," now available on ITUNES, Amazon and other digital outlets. The song was produced and performed by CARRIE HASSLER and will also appear on the label’s new RURAL RHYTHM CHRISTIAN imprint label.Carrie Hassler & Hard Rain’s next appearance is the Early Bird Bluegrass Festival in Hugo, Ok this weekend and then onto the popular National Cornbread Festival in South Pittsburg, TN in April. They have a very busy tour schedule this year including their first overseas tour (July) at the Country Rendez-Vous Festival and the International Bluegrass Festival in France, plus shows in Switzerland. For a complete tour schedule and more information, please visit: www.CarrieHasslerandHardRain.comwww.RuralRhythm.comwww.HopeRiverEntertainment.com
###Rural Rhythm Records800-776-8742 BOOKING AND MEDIA REQUEST: Hope River EntertainmentPenni McDaniel Email

Digital Rodeo Launches New Songwriter Series, "In The Round, On The Row"

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:Jeff Walker - AristoMedia - 615.269.7071 - jwalker@aristomedia.comChristy Watkins - AristoMedia - 615.269.7071 - christy@aristomedia.comJohn Pyne - Digital Rodeo - 615.397.5758 - john.pyne@digitalrodeo.comScotty Huff - "In the Round On the Row" - scotty@scottyhuff.com
Digital Rodeo Launches New Songwriter Series, "In The Round On The Row"
Series Premiere Thursday, March 26 on DigitalRodeo.com
(Nashville, TN - March 25, 2009) Online social network and country lifestyle portal Digital Rodeo has unveiled "In The Round On The Row," a bi-weekly songwriter series available for viewing exclusively at DigitalRodeo.com. The series, hosted by Robert Reynolds, features some of Nashville's most successful songwriters performing and discussing their songs at the weekly "In The Round On The Row" events held at Music Row's Edgehill Studios Café last fall."Listening to songs performed acoustically by the artist that created them is a unique musical experience. You hear them on the radio, but songwriters have a very personal relationship with their music, and it affects their delivery in an amazing way," says Reynolds, Digital Rodeo's Director of Industry Relations. "Even though it's an intimate setting at the show, thanks to this series we're able to bring that intimacy worldwide now."
Songwriters Jason Matthews ("Must Be Doin' Somethin' Right"), Michael Peterson ("Drink, Swear, Steal & Lie") and Jason White ("Red Ragtop") are the featured performers on the premiere episode."We realized that songwriter nights are nothing new here in Nashville," says the show's co-producer Scotty Huff. "But, we also realized that for most of the world, it would be a unique way to get insight into how some of the biggest hits in country music are made and the songwriters behind those hits. By posting episodes online at DigitalRodeo.com, we hope that it makes for some new and exciting content for our viewers."Glenn Sweitzer, owner of Fresh Film & Design, began filming the show in October 2008. Webisodes will be posted every other Thursday as an original installment of DRTV at www.DigitalRodeo.com. New episodes of "In The Round On The Row" will resume filming in the coming weeks.The 20-25 minute installments are sponsored by Big Horn Safe Co. and Ariat Boots and recorded on audio equipment provided by 16 Ton Studios in Nashville. About DigitalRodeo.com:DigitalRodeo.com is the premier country news, music and lifestyle site for country music fans everywhere. Community membership is free and offers fans and artists alike the opportunity to connect with each other, upload and download audio and video, watch exclusive DigitalRodeo.com content and stay updated on what's happening in the world of country music. For more information, visit www.DigitalRodeo.com

What A Trip Entertainment Teams with Bob Kingsley's Top Forty For Country Music Fans

What A Trip Entertainment Teams with Bob Kingsley's Country Top 40 to Bring Fans of Country Music to the CMA Music Festival in 2009!

For years, What A Trip Entertainment has been recognized as the leading source of unique trips and travel planning for an elite group of recording artists as well as radio and television stations. For the first time, What A Trip Entertainment is now offering their celebrated trip packages directly to the country music fans! In conjunction with the popular radio show, Bob Kingsley's Country Top 40, What A Trip Entertainment is offering several exclusive trip packages that include private events and performances hosted by the iconic Bob Kingsley himself!
With trip packages starting as low as $560 per person, this partnership brings the most exclusive experience to the fans at prices that are easy on the wallet. Offering great flexibility, the available packages give the fans the opportunity to get a flavor of CMA Music Festival for their choice of two consecutive nights or jump in with both feet and stay for all five nights! And if you need even more flexibility, fans can add nights to their trip for as little as $250 per night.
“We want to be sure CT40 listeners not only have a unique experience but one with value and flexibility. What A Trip! has created both, and no other entertainment company knows their way around country music events like these folks,” tells Bob Kingsley.
Delivering the ultimate VIP experience to the guests while offering reasonable prices and flexibility were a top priority to What A Trip Entertainment CEO, Grace Reinbold. “Being able to offer fans “insider” country music trips is great fun for everyone! We focus on the over-all experience and make these trips the most memorable events of a fan’s lifetime.”
And when we say unique, we mean it!

The packages include a private event exclusively for Bob Kingsley Country Top 40 CMA Music Festival Trip participants hosted by Bob Kingsley featuring Jeffrey Steele and Friends.
Jeffrey Steele is a hit songwriter and producer with accolades including two-time BMI Songwriter of the Year and Nashville Songwriters Association International's writer of the year for three consecutive years. His song "What Hurts The Most," recorded by Rascal Flatts, received several awards in 2007 as well as a Grammy nomination for the best country song. He also produced Montgomery Gentry's album "My Town" and "Some People Change" as well as projects by Keith Anderson, John Waite and the LoCash Cowboys. On the road, Jeffrey Steele has performed with Lynyrd Skynrd, Keith Urban and Brad Paisley. His publishing company, 3 Ring Circus, has churned out hits including "My Wish," "Brand New Girlfriend," "Help Somebody," and "Everyday You Saved My Life." And yes, you saw Jeffrey Steele along with Jewel and John Rich as a judge on "Nashville Star."
Bob Kingsley will also host the "New Artist Show," which will feature some of Nashville's most exciting new artists chosen by Bob Kingsley's Country Top 40 for a very exclusive acoustic performance just for CMA Music Festival Trip guests. Guests will meet the artists, get autographs and enjoy a private event unlike any other presented during the Fan Fair Festival days in Nashville.
About What A Trip! Entertainment

Since launching in 1998, What A Trip! co-founders Grace Reinbold and Darlene Williams have guided the company to unprecedented success. Today, What A Trip! Entertainment is recognized as the leading purveyor of unique trips and travel planning for record labels as well as radio and television networks. In 2009, packages offering the public an opportunity to experience the extraordinary trips that What A Trip! Entertainment is known for have been introduced. What A Trip! Entertainment continues to offer the very best in exclusive experiences to everyone from industry leaders to celebrity artists to the fans that make it all possible, treating everyone as a VIP along the way.
About Bob Kingsley's Country Top 40

Every time he gets in front of the microphone, Bob Kingsley adds to his status as the most listened-to radio voice in country music history. The Host and Executive Producer of Bob Kingsley's Country Top 40, far and away the most successful show of its kind, has been the king of the country countdown for three decades now, and to hear him tell it, the process retains every bit of its magic. Bob's love for the genre, its people and its history has always been evident in that warm, rich voice, and the combination has given him both a vast and loyal audience and legendary status within the industry. He has twice been named the CMA's National Broadcast Personality of the Year and his show received Billboard's Network/Syndicated Program of the Year award no fewer than 16 times. Bob also received the ACM’s National Broadcast Personality of the Year Award in 2007 and, perhaps most tellingly, he was inducted in 1998 into the Country Music DJ Hall of Fame.
Media Contact

For Further Information Please Contact:Webster & Associates Public Relations 615-777-6995Bonnie Brozik / Bonnie@websterpr.comKirt Webster / Kirt@websterpr.com
Webster and Associates Public Relations

Pam Tillis Prepares to Cross The Pond for Ireland,UK Tour Run

Pam Tillis Prepares to Cross 'The Pond' for Ireland, UK Tour Run
Mar 26, 2009
(Nashville, TN) - Grammy Award winning Country music star Pam Tillis is prepping her band for a trip across the Atlantic with dates scattered throughout Ireland and the United Kingdom filling her April tour itinerary. With 14 dates scheduled throughout the region, Tillis will depart for Ireland later this month, giving her a little extra time to play tourist on the "The Emerald Isle." "I've looked forward to this tour for such a long, long time. I'm happy to learn there's an awareness and interest in my music in Ireland and the United Kingdom." Tillis notes. "Everyone I know that has had the chance to tour there came back totally smitten with the people and the landscape. It's also a personal pilgrimage for me as I have Scotch Irish ancestry and feel very drawn to the music. Quite simply, I just can't wait!" Tillis currently has a new project in the works in which she plans to release later this year. IRELAND / UNITED KINGDOM TOUR DATES: April 11, Coleraine, Ireland April 12, Letterkenny, Ireland April 13, Belfast, Ireland April 15, Armagh, Ireland April 16, Enniskillen, Ireland April 18, Tipperary, Ireland April 19, Dublin, Ireland April 21, Cookstown, Ireland April 23, BBC Radio (National Performance) April 24, Barrow-in-Furness, UK April 25, Bedford, UK April 26, Buxton, UK April 28, Basingstoke, UK April 29, Aberdare, UK ###
www.pamtillis.com

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Larry Gatlin and The Gatlin Brothers Host New Opry Country Classics Show

Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers Host New Opry Country Classics Show This Thursday
(Nashville, TN - March 24, 2009) - Larry Gatlin and The Gatlin Brothers host the debut of country's newest and coolest live concert series to hit Nashville in years with the launch of the Opry Country Classics concert series this Thursday March 26, 2009 at The Grand Ole Opry.
Presented by Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, the debut kicks off with host Larry Gatlin at the mic. There have been many great voices in country music and one golden one: Larry Gatlin. His bell-like tones and soul-stirring vibrato are works of art in themselves, quite apart from the lyrics they illuminate. Of course, Gatlin is equally distinguished as a songwriter. Of the 42 songs he charted between 1973 and 1990, including 17 Top 10s and the Grammy-winning "All The Gold In California," he single-handedly wrote every one, an achievement unmatched by any other artist in popular music.
"One of the great joys of my life is being a member for the world famous Grand Ole Opry," says Gatlin. "I look forward to being one of the hosts on the new Opry Country Classics show!"[Rumored to be recording a new album for a major label in Nashville], Larry and the boys, known for such signature hits as "Houston," "Broken Lady" and "All The Gold In California" are sure to light up the Opry stage, while Country Music Hall of Famer Loretta Lynn and Lorrie Morgan promise nothing but the finest for country music fans looking for that classic sound and spirit performed live by the originators.
For tickets call 1-800-see-opry or visit opry.com.
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_____________________________________________________________________
Media Contact:
THE PRESS OFFICE
Jim Della Croce, Owner / Publicist
o. 615.750.5938
c. 615.419.9989
f. 615.810.9492
e. mailto:thepathfinder@mindspring.com
1009 16th Avenue South
Nashville, TN 37212
http://www.mynewsletterbuilder.com/tools/refer.php?s=482265795&u=18980581&url=aHR0cDovL3d3dy50aGVwcmVzc29mZmljZS5jb20=&key=bab85808b87423bd05bf268d37face45
Publicity Support:ABSOLUTE PUBLICITY INC.
Don Murry Grubbs, Owner / Publicist
o. 615.275.8380
f. 615.810.9492
e. don@absolutepublicity.com
1009 16th Avenue South
Nashville, TN 37212
http://www.mynewsletterbuilder.com/tools/refer.php?s=482265795&u=18980583&url=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5hYnNvbHV0ZXB1YmxpY2l0eS5jb20=&key=31a5f787d0be86cc25acfee2d5d25abaMAXIMUM PR!For the Entertainment Industry
The Press OfficeProudly Representing:John Anderson, Aaron Tippin, Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers, Billy Dean, Leon Redbone, Thompson Ward, NASCAR's Chase Mattioli, The Liquid Fence CompanyAbsolute Publicity Inc.Proudly Representing:Pam Tillis, Alabama's Jeff Cook, 2008 Colgate Country Showdown Champions Nash Street, Bread's Robb Royer, The Finnigan Bros., Karissa

Monday, March 23, 2009

"Alison Krauss and Union Station, Live In Louisville"- Some Thoughts

Are we getting near the end of the Best bluegrass band in the Land, AKUS? Possibly, I reviewed her double live CD "Live in Louisville" quite awhile back, recently, I bought a nice universal Disc player by OppoDisc, nice player, so I could listen to CDs in higher definition sound and also watch music DVDs and SACDs. The DVD is from both of the shows at the Louisville Palace, quite a nice place for a concert. I never heard the band sound better, and Krauss sounded awesome, with the production of guitars sounding tonally incredible. They definitely enjoy playing together and they are all different. In case no one noticed, they have a drummer, can't think of the guys name, but I remember He played for Seatrain many years ago, a great crossover rock, bluegrass group. He just uses brushs most of the time.
Something you do not notice from listening to her sing and play, she has quite a sense of humor, since she is the spokesperson for the group, she has a very dry but funny way about her. Ron Block, lead guitar player and banjo player is quite good, but different than your average bluegrass picker, who mostly riffs off scales and fast note connections, Block stays near the melody, also has a nice voice, heard that he has recently put out a Christian CD. Tyminski's "Wheels" was a recent great success. There is something about Dan, when the band broke into "Man Of Constant Sorrow", The crowd went nuts. Very good version too. The group basically does all of their popular stuff, plus some of their individual cuts.
In closing, Jerry Douglas played a couple of songs, one by himself, There are many good Dobro players out there , but if you listen to Douglas's solo CDs you will know what I mean , this guy is the Josh Graves of the decade. Let us hope, that they continue on in their excellent ways.

Saturday, March 21, 2009

"Heartbreaker's Hall Of Fame" - Sunny Sweeney - A Review

Sunny Sweeney is a very attractive young lady who has an exciting old time country record and a real good emotive country voice with a a set list of twelve very good songs by herself and some of country's best, including Jim Lauderdale. Sweeney has a way with a song and this Texas country soundin' band cooks with some great chickin' pickin' and plenty of great pedal steel and country fiddle.
Her songs range from rockabilly to hot Texas swing. I love the sound, her vocals are real country like the guitars and pedal steel. She really reminds me of nobody, but I love her sound. This disc will definitely get you moving. a lot of upbeat country rockers. Produced by Tommy Detamore and Tom Lewis, co-produced by Sunny Sweeney. Recorded, mixed, mastered by Tommy Detamore, who does more than an adequate job on this old timey masterpiece. "Lavender Blue" with Jim Lauderdale is a very good country love song. The CD starts out rockin' with a song called "Refresh My Memory" ,this song moves real well and is the sign of things to come, with an acoustic/ electric sound. She has such great control over her vocals, and the country accent is real, growing up in Eastern Texas. She was fronting her first band in 2004, doing what she says is the hardest she ever worked in her whole life, but loving it. Her Label "The Big Machine" is a good label for an artist like herself. She really sounds like the real thing, "If I Could" is a hot cooking song that is super fast and definitely sounds live with audience sound.
"16th Avenue" - This song ends the disc, she shows how she can sing a slow ballad. What a voice, nice harmonica here. A song about people following their dreams. Some more great country guitar. What else can I say , but Sweeney is a refreshing artist, and this whole album refreshed my memory. Check this out!!!

www.sunnysweeney.com --

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Jeff Cooks Up Downtown Nashville As New Album Hits The Internet

JEFF 'COOKS' UP DOWNTOWN NASHVILLE AS NEW ALBUM HITS INTERNET CONSUMER MARKET
Alabama Co-Founder and Lead Guitarist Celebrates New Album Release in Heart of Music City, USA
(Nashville, TN - March 19, 2009) - After tearing the roof off The Billy Block Show last Tuesday night, Country Music Hall of Famer Jeff Cook decided he wasn't done 'pickin' on Music City, USA.
Cook and his entourage (Allstar Goodtime Band saxophonist Jim Nelson, 2008 Colgate Country Showdown Champions Nash Street and publicist Don Murry Grubbs) hit Nashville's lower Broadway hard, first making a stop at Legend's Corner. Much to the delight of fellow St. Patrick's day celebrators, Cook announced, "Well I'm not wearing green, but this will have to do," as he pulled his custom made lime-green Parker Fly guitar from its casing. Cook and Nelson took Legends' stage with a rockin' version of the Merle Haggard fan favorite, "Workin' Man's Blues."Legendary Tootsie's Orchid Lounge was the next stop on Cook's honky-tonk blitz. Cook and Nelson, joined on stage by Tootsie's own John Stone, filled the premises with onlookers as they plowed through Nitty Gritty Dirt Band's "Fishin In the Dark," Kid Rock's "All Summer Long" and Hank Jr.'s "Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound." The former Alabama lead guitarist and fiddler then jumped on keys with a ‘funtryfied' rendition of the Jerry Lee Lewis classic, "Great Balls of Fire.""I couldn't think of a better way of celebrating my album release," says Cook of his St. Patrick's Day pub-crawl. "Now THAT was fun!"Cook and his Allstar Goodtime Band digitally released Ashes Won't Burn the same day.***High resolution photos available upon request(Photo Credit: Randi Radcliff) _____________________________________________________________
Publicity Contact:
ABSOLUTE PUBLICITY INC.Don Murry Grubbs, Publicisto. 615.275.8380f. 615.810.9492don@absolutepublicity.com1009 16th Ave SNashville, TN 37212www.absolutepublicity.com

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

American Roots Music Superstars Mix it Up _ _ _

American Roots Music Superstars Mix It Up With Uzbek Jam Band, Jadoo,
To Form CEDAR HILL REFUGEES
John Carter Cash and Jack Clift Produce Culturally Transcendent Pale Imperfect Diamond
Nashville, TN - Although globalization has become a popular buzzword and topic in the twenty-first century world of business, music remains delineated as influenced by Eastern or Western culture. With the release of Pale Imperfect Diamond, on May 19, 2009, listeners all over the world will get the unique opportunity to enjoy an attuned blend of Eastern and Western musical influences.
Pale Imperfect Diamond is an ambitious collection of roots music standards and original tracks recorded in cultural poles. Co-producer Jack Clift met with John Carter Cash and the idea to marry the musical styles with an album formed; the two producers were committed to unifying American folk ballads and traditional Uzbek instrumentation from the album’s inception. Jadoo, an American-Uzbek band Jack Clift co-founded while living in Uzbekistan, recorded Pale Imperfect Diamond’s base tracks in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The bones of the album were then taken to Cash Cabin Studio in Hendersonville, Tennessee where they were masterfully blended and complemented with American roots music instrumentation and vocals. The lustrous cast that assembled at Cash Cabin included The Peasall Sisters, Dr. Ralph Stanley, Marty Stuart and John Cowan. The collective of participants from both countries, including Jack Clift and Cash, became known as Cedar Hill Refugees.
Of Pale Imperfect Diamond’s thirteen tracks, seven are roots standards dating back to the twentieth century or earlier. The other five songs were written specifically for the record and include the title track, penned by Jack Clift, Jack Propps and John Carter Cash. “Pale Imperfect Diamond” and the other originals aim to capture the renegade spirit and vitality of both genres. Among the standards, an album standout is the re-imagined “Wildwood Flower,” a touchstone of the American folk catalogue made famous by the Carter family. The Cedar Hill Refugees’ version features Peasall Sisters vocals and closes with an Eastern jam that lasts over four minutes.
Jack Clift realizes the importance of the Cedar Hill Refugees collaboration to the greater world view. “Globalization is, obviously, not an entirely painless process,” Clift explains. “It’s just a joy and honor to be a part of something so passionately positive and showing that divergent cultures can not only work together but that the final result actually enhances the richest qualities of each.” Jack Clift is also candid about the legacy of Pale Imperfect Diamond. “Certainly this is something that would be a great relief to all if it could be carried into the greater scheme of socio-political interaction,” Clift states. “This has not been lost on the participants in these projects.”
Intrigued by the music of Uzbekistan, composer and producer Jack Clift began visiting the Central Asian country to learn more about the music though studio work with Jadoo, a group of musicians who improvise using traditional Uzbek music. Clift’s first trip took place in 2004 and, almost immediately, he began to identify the similarities between Uzbek music and the music of his youth; he likened it specifically to Appalachian mountain music that stirred his imagination. Rather than think the rhythms and tones a world away from one another, Clift noticed the parallel construction.
Although thousands of miles separated the Cedar Hill Refugees musicians during the recording of Pale Imperfect Diamond, the result is a beautiful testament to the boundless reach and power of music.
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Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Bill Monroe Memorial Bean Blossom Bluegrass Festival 8 Days

Bill Monroe Memorial Bean Blossom Bluegrass Festival8 Days – Over 50 Bands Scheduled June 13-20, 2009Are you ready for the biggest bluegrass week of the year?The legends of bluegrass are rollin’ into town!
BEAN BLOSSOM, IN –Saturday, June 13, 2009 will mark the forty-third anniversary for the oldest, continuous running bluegrass festival in the world- the Bill Monroe Memorial Bean Blossom Bluegrass Festival. A local legacy for the state of Indiana, this annual event features the top names in bluegrass drawing thousands of people from all over the world to make the pilgrimage to the historical Bill Monroe Music Park & Campground in Bean Blossom, Indiana.Saturday, June 13th: Kick-off the festival with the great sounds of the The Grascals, Larry Cordle & Lonesome Standard Time, Larry Stephenson Band, Danny Paisley & Southern Grass, Tommy Brown & County Line Grass, Country Saloon Band from Russia and Bill Monroe’s son- James Monroe & The Midnight Ramblers. Music 11am-11pm.Sunday, June 14th: The Bean Blossom tradition continues as we worship and praise with Bill Monroe’s preacher- The Real Apostle Pastor Paul Baggett. Enjoy the sounds of bluegrass gospel from Paul Williams & Victory Trio, The Sullivan Family, Danny Paisley & Southern Grass, Harvest Wind, Tommy Brown & County Line Grass, Reel Tyme String Band and New Old Timers. Music 9am-6pm.Monday, June 15th: Start your week off with the hard driving bluegrass from Lonesome River Band, Steep Canyon Rangers, David Davis & Warrior River Boys, Monroe Crossing, Karl Shiflett & Big Country Show, Tim Graves & Cherokee, and New Old Timers. Music 11am-11pmTuesday, June 16th: Join us for another Bean Blossom tradition as we enjoy a hot bowl of Ham & Beans and Miss Dixie Halls’ famous cornbread at the annual Ham & Bean Supper. Kick back and enjoy the bluegrass sounds of: Randy Waller & Country Gentlemen, Kenny & Amanda Smith, Cody Shuler & Pine Mountain Railroad, Cadillac Sky, Wildfire, Karl Shiflet & Big Country Show, Bluegrass Parkway from Australia and Youth Boot Camp Band. Music 11am-11pmWednesday, June 17th: Get ready for the reigning IBMA Entertainer’s of the Year Dailey & Vincent are back in town! Other artists performing include: IIIrd Tyme Out, The Lewis Family, Special Consensus, Lizzy Long & Legacy, Lorraine Jordan & Carolina Road, Wildwood Valley Boys and Lost River Risin’. Music 11am-11pm Thursday, June 18th: Enjoy the soulful sounds of bluegrass with Larry Sparks & The Lonesome Ramblers and the hard driving banjo of J.D. Crowe & The New South. Also performing are Charlie Sizemore Band, Carrie Hassler & Hard Rain, David Parmley & Continental Divide, Melvin Goins & Windy Mountain, Special Consensus, and Bluegrass Parkway from Australia. Music 11am-11pm Friday, June 19th: Bring your instruments and jam with the stars at the oldest of Bean Blossom traditions- the Bill Monroe Sunset Jam. On stage: Longview, Ralph Stanley II, J.D. Crowe & New South, James King Band, Ronnie Reno & Reno Tradition, Jesse McReynolds & Virginia Boys, Melvin Goins & Windy Mountain, Hard Ryde from Canada, Midnight Ramblers and New Old Timers. Music 11am-11pm Saturday, June 20th: This will be a night to remember featuring the Dan Tyminski Band, Dr.Ralph Stanley & The Clinch Mountain Boys, Bobby Osborne & Rocky Top Xpress, James King Band, Dixie Bee Liners, Don Rigsby & Midnight Call, Goldwing Express, Larry Keel & Natural Bridge and Summertown Road. Music 11am-MidnightAdvance Ticket Prices thru June 1st: $15-$30 for a single day admission; and $75-$150 for multi-day tickets. Juniors 13-16yrs SAVE $5 OFF per day; Children 12 and under are free. Included with your festival ticket is admission to Bill Monroe's Bluegrass Hall of Fame, Country Star Museum & Uncle Pen's Cabin self-guided tour; all music and instrument workshops and activities scheduled at the Artist Workshop Stage; access to all food concessions and merchants. Gates open at 7am. Parking is FREE and handicap accessible. Bring your lawn chairs; no large coolers or alcohol allowed in the concert area. No pets or smoking allowed in the concert area. On-site tent camping and self-contained RV camping is available. Youth Bluegrass Boot Camp will take place Sunday-Tuesday, June 14-16. Interested youth ages 6-18 years of age will be allowed to sign up prior to June 1st for the fun but structured camp. The Youth Bluegrass Booth Camp consists of professional instructors and will teach students in small group and one-on-one sessions-brand new through advanced. There will be over 15 hours of hands on instruction (banjo, mandolin, fiddle, guitar and bass) covering topics such as: basic instrument care and handling, vocals and harmonies, stage presence and working with microphones, songwriting, jam etiquette-you name it! Additional Admission charged: Youth Bluegrass Boot Camp (Single Child) $35. Youth Bluegrass Boot Camp (Multiple) $30For more information and directions call (800)414-4677 or visit www.BeanBlossom.com

Get Your Band Canned

GET YOUR BAND CANNED

NASHVILLE— Vietti Vinyl, an innovative program created by the makers of Vietti Chili, a popular product that has been enjoyed in American households for years, has launched its 2009 campaign to promote emerging and established musical talent through collectible product labels and other grassroots marketing initiatives. Vietti produces 150,000 to 200,000 cans of chili per label run and with distribution in more than 30 states, the power of your music and branding has unique potential to reach new audiences!
In 2007/2008, the Vietti brand featured musical entertainers such as The Grascals, the Warren Brothers, Heartland, Restless Heart, John Corbett, Riders in the Sky, Cherryholmes, Nashville Star winner Chris Young, Aly Sutton, Tom Hambridge, Lucy Angel, the Isaacs, the Povertyneck Hillbillies, Alecia Nugent, and Pat Flynn.
In addition to the can branding music fans are able to download the artist’s music right from the Vietti Vinyl website and actually track the traffic and downloads. This is a new way to build a fan base, gain recognition, brand an artists career in new markets and introduce the band to a whole new demographic!
All artists and bands wishing to be considered for this campaign should submit a press kit and music sample to:
Vietti Vinyl Music ProgramP.O. Box 23015Nashville, TN 37202(615) 777-6995 x30

The Oak Ridge Boys Set To Perform on SXSW

For immediate release
THE OAK RIDGE BOYS SET TO PERFORM ON SXSW LIVE MARCH 20TH AT 7PM CT/8PM ET ON DIRECTV’S THE 101® NETWORK

Nashville, TN – The Oak Ridge boys are making a special appearance this week at Austin, Texas’ trendsetting South by Southwest (SXSW) Music Festival. They will perform on SXSW Live, a live television broadcast airing exclusively on DIRECTV’s original entertainment channel, The 101® Network. Broadcasting live in HD and 5.1 surround sound, their performance will air Friday March 20th at 7pm CST / 8pm ET.

“For the third year in a row, DIRECTV customers will be able to experience SXSW Live with a front-row seat and an exclusive look into one of the premier music festivals in the world,” said Eric Shanks, executive vice president of Entertainment for DIRECTV.

The broadcast will originate from updated state-of-the-art venue – the Lonestar Lounge - constructed from the ground up in the Austin Convention Center to host the exclusive SXSW Live performances on DIRECTV.

SXSW Live is produced through a partnership with the SXSW Music and Media Conference, Blaze TV (www.blaze.tv ) and DIRECTV

For more information on the SXSW Music Conference, please visit: http://2009.sxsw.com/music

For more information on SXSW Live, please visit: www.sxswlive.com

About The Oak Ridge Boys
The Oak Ridge Boys have one of the most distinctive and recognizable sounds in the music industry. Their string of hits includes the pop chart-topper Elvira, as well as Bobbie Sue, Dream On, Thank God For Kids, American Made, I Guess It Never Hurts To Hurt Sometimes, Fancy Free, Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight and many others. They've scored 12 gold, three platinum, and one double platinum album, plus one double platinum single, and had more than a dozen national Number One singles and over 30 Top Ten hits.

The four-part harmonies and upbeat songs of the Oak Ridge Boys have earned them Grammy, Dove, CMA, and ACM awards and garnered a host of other industry and fan accolades. The Oak Ridge Boys continue to tour extensively, performing over 160 concerts each year. Every time they step before an audience, the Oaks bring three decades of charted singles to bear on a stage show widely acknowledged as among the most exciting anywhere.

About DIRECTV, Inc.
DIRECTV, Inc. (NASDAQ:DTV - News), the nation’s leading satellite television service provider, presents the finest television experience available to more than 17.6 million customers in the United States and is leading the HD revolution with more than 130 HD channels. Each day, DIRECTV subscribers enjoy access to over 265 channels of 100% digital picture and sound, exclusive programming, industry-leading customer satisfaction (which has surpassed national cable companies for eight years running) and superior technologies that include advanced DVR and HD-DVR services and the most state-of-the-art interactive sports packages available anywhere. For the most up-to-date information on DIRECTV, please visit directv.com.

About SXSW
South By Southwest (SXSW) Music and Media Conference, taking place March 18 - 22, 2009, features a legendary festival showcasing more than 1,800 musical acts of all genres from around the globe on over eighty stages in downtown Austin. By day, the Austin Convention Center comes alive with conference registrants doing business in the Trade Show and partaking of a full agenda of informative, provocative panel discussions featuring hundreds of speakers of international stature. In its 23rd year, SXSW remains an essential event on the music industry calendar.
For more information, access our website at http://sxsw.com/
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For Further Information Please Contact:

Webster & Associates Public Relations 615-777-6995Jeremy Westby / jeremy@websterpr.comKirt Webster / kirt@websterpr.comThe Brokaw Company (310) 273-2060Sanford Brokaw / brokawc@aol.com
DirecTV Contacts:
Paki Newell, Lauren Kelcher Darris Gringeri
The Lippin Group DIRECTV
323-965-1990 212-205-0882
pnewell@lippingroup.com dagringeri@directv.com

Friday, March 13, 2009

"Cherryholmes III - Don't Believe" - A Review

Well, here we are at the third CD of this very talented group already. I loved their 1st CD very much, to me their second CD was a bit of a disappointment. Especially in the sound quality department.
Jere (Dad) was not happy with the sound quality of the second CD either and talked to label head Ricky Skaggs about it. Well, I guess the talk did something because this disc sounds great. From the talented production of Ben Isaacs to the HDCD mastering of Andrew Mendelsohn and friends at Georgetown Masters.
This is a well balanced mix of bluegrass and acoustic country music. The instruments sound rich and natural. Their self written songs are very good. Some subtle sound effects on some of the tracks are really neat, some nice tastefully used.
The whole mood of the disc is a bit on the dark side, the photography is really interesting. In the booklet with the lyrics, the centerfold is the 3 male Cherryholmes sitting on biker choppers with the women standing beside them in jeans and not how you would think this original family oriented group would look. The lightning bolts are back from the second CD, maybe they will be gone next time. The inside of the disc behind where the CD sits (jewel Case) is dark and moody, on the back of the jewelcase it is like fireworks and party time.
Very interesting upbeat cover of (Parsons, Hillman) "Devil in Disguise".
The CD has two short instrumentals and the first one "Sumatra" Has an Allman brothers like theme going on in the background. The second one "Mansker Spreel O Coughlins Reel" This let's their twin fiddles play some. The main instrumentalists of the group are Cia's banjo, Sandy's mandolin and Skip on guitar. But Skip is mainly the rhytmn player and leader of the group I have heard. I would like to see Skip playing lead guitar in the future. They should at least have someone like Bryan Sutton playing some bluegrass leads during the CD. (hint, hint) They do use Rob Ickes to play dobro a lot on this disc.

Just noticed something interesting ,the title "Don't Believe" does not have Mom "Sandy" on it. I think that possibly she did not the lyrics, so BJ puts his fiddle down and joins them on mandolin for this song and also the first instrumental.
"This is My Son" - Beautiful bluegrass ballad about a mom sending son off to war. It compares this to God's only son and what he does for us. Cia sings this one very much from the heart. Background vocals are not getting their Kudos here. I could have misread Cia's distress, but someone aint happy for this.
I have really enjoyed this review. I love bluegrass and this has more of a bluegarss twist than anything else. This group has grown since their first disc. Sidebar, I hate Discs and CDs, ok, had to get that out of my system. I am analog man the third. I record CDS I like on good Cassettes and frisby the sterile sounding DISCS. Was that a little too hard to get, I will say it again, Digital music stinks and is ruining the music business. There, (sorry Jere, had to say it). This is a creative album , musically even down to the artwork like on a LP. That stands for longplaying record. Vinyl. It's been a while since I sat and reviewed a CD on the first few listens because I like it so much, then typed it the same day. Not that I haven't been enjoying the music I review, cause I only review what I like. Well, it is getting early, like almost 4 in the morning.
Coming soon, new music by Mindy Smith and also The GreenCards. God Bless You til then.

www.cherryholmes.com

Carlene Carter Updates from Yep Roc

Check out Carlene Carter's latest record, Stronger

Order Stronger at the Yep Roc Web Shop and get the digital version FREE! The DRM-free MP3s will be available in your Stash right away.
"I couldn't let a day go by without writing a note about C.C.'s record. It is astounding." – Elvis Costello
"First album in more than a decade for the Carter Family scionette and rebel country star, after a succession of travails, so it's great to hear her again." –
USA Today
"A magnificent, and welcome, return." – Harp
"After a lifetime of highs and lows, Carlene Carter finds the key to survival at the core of her family tradition." – No Depression
"It may well stand as one of the best albums of this year." – Country Standard Time
"By fusing catchy choruses with downhome twang and sweet harmonies, Carter deftly straddles the fence between classic country and pop. Welcome her back." – Toronto Sun
"The emotional centerpiece is the title cut, which recalls her departed sister. Carter's stark, brave vocals are nothing short of stunning." – The Arizona Republic
"A meatier, juicier, more savory comeback than I Fell in Love was, this isn’t Carter coming back, this is our fair lady roaring back, in touch with the press on spirit that guided her mom and led her granny to invent country music... Betcha this is the comeback story of the year." – Midwest Record
"
Stronger proves she can still write and that her sometimes-throaty, always-seasoned country vocals can still sell a song." – Fort Worth Weekly
As part of country music royalty (the daughter of June Carter Cash and Carl Smith and step daughter to Johnny Cash) Carlene Carter has seen both the ups and downs of the music business and life. Inspired by her life experiences, Stronger is a raw but touching recollection of her life of the past few years. Years that included the wrenching sorrow of the sudden death of her stepfather, mother, sister and ex-lover, as well as the euphoria of falling in love with the cowboy of her dreams.

Tuesday, March 03, 2009

40th Celebration of Country Radio Seminar

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Jeff Walker - AristoMedia - 615.269.7071 - jwalker@aristomedia.comEd Salamon - CRB - 615.327.4487 - ed_salamon@crb.org
Nashville Gears Up For 40th Anniversary Celebration of Country Radio Seminar®
CRS-40 Begins Wednesday, March 4
(Nashville, TN - March 2, 2009) Mark your calendar this week to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Country Radio Seminar in downtown Nashville, the preeminent annual event for country music radio industry personnel. Who: Country music radio industry executives, artists and employees from all across the countryWhat: The 40th anniversary of Country Radio Seminar, the annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas within the country music industryWhen: Wednesday, March 4 through Friday, March 6, 2009Where: The Nashville Convention Center in downtown Nashville, Tenn.This year's CRS-40 boasts an impressive lineup of educational panels, talented speakers and performances from some of the hottest names in country music. "Although there is no denying that our nation's economy affects the country radio industry greatly, Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. feels that the 40th anniversary of CRS continues to offer exceptional value to our attendees. We have created a good balance of education, entertainment and networking opportunities, the importance of which cannot be overstated in our industry," says CRB Executive Director Ed Salamon.A streamlined agenda of panels, performers and events at this week's CRS-40 follows below.Tuesday, March 3:The Country Music DJ and Radio Hall of Fame events unofficially mark the beginning of CRS each year. The Hall of Fame Cocktail Party begins at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday evening. The Dinner and Induction Ceremony follows at 6 p.m. This year's 2009 inductees are Chuck Collier and Gerry House (DJ Hall of Fame) and Bob McKay and Moon Mullins (Radio Hall of Fame). Merle Haggard will receive the Career Achievement Award and Shelia Shipley Biddy will be presented the President's Award.Wednesday, March 4:Wednesday's events kick off at 9 a.m. with the Opening Ceremonies and Award Presentation. The keynote address, delivered by marketing expert Seth Godin, will follow at 10 a.m. in the Performance Hall, with the Motivational Speaker/Life Coach panel at 11:15 a.m. This year's speaker will be former No. 1 country artist Sylvia Hutton.New label Golden Music will sponsor Wednesday's luncheon, featuring performances by Benton Blount and Williams Riley. The previously scheduled morning Artist Radio Taping Session (sponsored by SESAC) will now be combined with the afternoon A.R.T.S. panel. As a result, the afternoon session will be extended by one hour (2:30 p.m. - 4:50 p.m.).Performers at ASCAP's KCRS Live! will include artists and songwriters Jimmy Wayne, Kelley Lovelace, Ashley Gorley and Jonathan Singleton. The popular Music City JamTM (7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. in the Performance Hall) will be hosted this year by Tim McGraw and sponsored by the Academy of Country Music. Additionally, two educational panels will be featured Wednesday afternoon: "Country Radio As Seen Through The PPM Lens," sponsored by Arbitron, and "Back to the Future: 1969-2049."Thursday, March 5:Designated as Music Industry Town Meeting Day, single day registration for Thursday's activities may be purchased on-site for $265. The day's agenda includes the return of the Tech Track and Small Market Track panels. Tech Track panels include "Spinning a Web" and "40 New Media Ideas." Small Market panels include "Come Hell or High Water: Disaster Preparedness," "You're a PD, Now What?" and "Champagne Production on a Beer Budget." Sixteen panels will be offered in all during the day between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Thursday's events begin at 9 a.m. with The Country Music Association revealing the results of its 2008 Country Music Consumer Segmentation Study, conducted by Leo Burnett Co. and Starcom MediaVest Group. Sony Music Nashville's luncheon (noon - 1:50 p.m.) will feature performances by Miranda Lambert and Jake Owen. At 4:10 p.m. Bobby Pinson, Paul Overstreet, Josh Turner and Jamey Johnson will perform during WCRS Live! (sponsored by BMI and Country Aircheck).Friday, March 6:Friday is Radio Sales Day. Single day registration, including entrance to the New Faces of Country Music Show®, is available for $370 on-site. Friday's events will kick-off with the Managers' Breakfast at 8 a.m., followed by CRS-40's second research study, which will present findings from the Edison Research / CRB National Country P1 Study 2009 at 10 a.m. Panels during the day will focus on important topics that affect the Country Radio format, such as consumer habits, promotional and research ideas, voicetracking and tools to increase sales. Prominent sales panels include "20 Ideas Even a PD Would Love," "PPM! Selling the Country Format," "What's NTR Got To Do With It?" "Creative Closing" and "A Car Dealer Tells All About Advertising." More than a dozen panels will be offered during Friday's activities. Friday's luncheon, sponsored by Capitol Nashville, will feature performances from Darius Rucker and Little Big Town. Also during lunch, Operation Troop Aid, a non-profit charity organization, will send 500 care packages from CRS-40 to deployed U.S. troops. Packages will contain phone cards, MP3s, beef jerky, trail mix, hand wipes, hand sanitizer, cookies, candy, granola bars, toiletry items and thank you letters. At 4:10 p.m., Barbara Mandrell will interview Kix Brooks during the Life of a Legend series.

One of Country Radio Seminar's most popular events, The New Faces of Country Music Show and Dinner (sponsored by R&R and CMA) starts at 6:30 p.m. with performances from Lady Antebellum, James Otto, Kellie Pickler, Chuck Wicks and The Zac Brown Band. CRS-40 will then officially close with the unique 40th Anniversary Jam: A Musical Thanks to Radio, to be held at Cadillac Ranch and sponsored by DigitalRodeo.com. Artists will cover their favorite radio hits from the last 40 years, featuring performances by Emerson Drive, Andy Griggs, Julianne Hough, Jamie O'Neal, James Otto, Blake Shelton, Jimmy Wayne, Chuck Wicks, Mark Wills and Darryl Worley, among others.
A new CRS documentary can be seen during the three-day seminar at the Renaissance and Hilton hotels in downtown Nashville. The film, produced by Art Vuolo and titled WCRS-TV, chronicles various CRS highlights over the last 21 years.CRS-40 will be held March 4-6, 2009 at the Nashville Convention Center in Nashville, Tenn. Detailed seminar information and a full agenda can be found online at www.CRB.org. On-site registration is still available for $699 and may be purchased at the Convention Center.About CRB:The Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. ® is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to bring radio broadcasters from around the world together with the Country Music Industry to ensure vitality and promote growth in the Country Radio format. More information may be obtained at: www.CRB.org or at the CRB office at 615-327-4487.About CRS:The Country Radio Seminar is an annual convention designed to educate and promote the exchange of ideas in the country music industry. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.
The AristoMedia GroupP.O. Box 22765 Nashville, TN 37202Phone: 615-269-7071 Fax: 615-269-0131 Email: publicity@aristomedia.com
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