Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Craig Morgan: All Access Outdoors Set to Hit The Airwaves this weekend

CRAIG MORGAN: ALL ACCESS OUTDOORS SET TO HIT THE AIRWAVES THIS WEEKEND ON OUTDOOR CHANNEL
From the Tour Bus to the Outdoors; Craig’s new reality show debuts on July 3rd
Nashville, TN – Music lovers wanting to catch a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes life and lifestyle of hit-maker and Gold-selling artist CRAIG MORGAN will get that chance starting this weekend as the new reality-based series CRAIG MORGAN: ALL ACCESS OUTDOORS will debut on Outdoor Channel on July 3rd at 11 am (EST).
Craig’s everyday life is an adventure and he allows everyone to come along with him on tour, at home and on his outdoors adventures. Whether he’s bungee jumping in New Zealand or playing jokes on his band and crew – you will get an all access pass to enjoy the thrills, suspense and laughs. Ride along as he’s motocross racing, feel the rush of screaming fans at sold-out shows or head off into the great outdoors.
Craig’s life is high-octane and his schedule is unrelenting…and it’s all captured in a cutting-edge visual presentation. This new reality show gives viewers an all access, backstage pass to Craig’s travels, as he and his crew pursue big thrills and big laughs worldwide in a quest for the ultimate adventures.
Craig’s fellow country music artists, as well as professional athletes and motocross celebrities, join him each week as Craig and his crew pursue big shows, wild adventures and loads of fun.
You can catch Craig every Saturday morning at 11 am (EST) on Outdoor Channel starting on July 3, 2010. Definitely a must-see!! View the trailer at www.craigmorgan.com and check out http://www.outdoorchannel.com to find Outdoor Channel in your area!”
Meet the Host
When Craig Morgan was ten years old and on a school field trip to Nashville, he sang "The Star-Spangled Banner" well enough to catch the ear of a distinctive older lady in the crowd. "She walked up to me and said, ‘Son, someday you’re gonna be a famous singer,’" Morgan remembers. Two-plus decades later, he’d be looking at a picture of the woman—Minnie Pearl—in the Ryman Auditorium dressing room that bears her name, getting ready for his first performance on the Grand Ole Opry. What Minnie didn’t know was that before his moment in the spotlight finally came, Morgan would be an EMT, a contractor, a sheriff’s deputy and a -Wal-Mart assistant dairy manager. He’d also spend ten years serving his country in the U.S. Army.
About Outdoor Channel
Founded by outdoorsmen for outdoorsmen, Outdoor Channel features quality programming designed to educate and entertain sportsmen of all skill levels. The channel promotes the traditional outdoor activities that are a vital part of our national heritage including fishing, hunting and shooting sports. The programs are designed to appeal to "traditional sportsmen" of all ages with a focus on activities that the entire family can enjoy in the great outdoors.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Mountain Heart adds guitar Phenom Jake Stargel

“Mountain Heart” is thrilled to announce the addition of guitar phenom Jake Stargel as a member of the band effective immediately. Jake’s first show with Mountain Heart will take place on Thursday, July 2, 2010 when he joins them in the long awaited co-bill with guitar legend Tony Rice at the prestigious Red, White & Bluegrass Festival in Morganton, NC.
Jake is replacing long time guitarist Clay Jones, who is leaving the band for personal reasons. Clay’s impending departure was known within the group for some time and only announced after a search for his replacement was completed. Mountain Heart enjoyed a very successful association with Clay and the band wishes him the very best in his future endeavors.
Jake Stargel is a native Georgian, seemingly born with a guitar in his capable hands. Only 19 years of age, Jake has a phenomenal feel for his instrument and is blazing a trail to become one of the masters of the genre. After being named the Georgia Flat-picking Champion as a very young teen, Jake first came to national attention with stints in the Lovell Sisters at the tender age of 15, later as a member of Grammy nominated “The Greencards” and most recently “Bearfoot”.
Acoustic guitar legend Bryan Sutton has high praise for this young man’s talents and future. “Jake is great! He can do pretty much anything on the guitar. He seems to have a good character, too. He’s going to be a monster addition to Mountain Heart.”
In addition to the guitar, Jake also plays piano, mandolin, mandola and electric guitar. Jake's intensity, fire, and unbelievable musicianship are the stuff legends are made of!

Monday, June 28, 2010

Ricochet signs with Cody Entertainment for Booking

Ricochet Signs With Cody Entertainment For Booking


Nashville, TN (June 29, 2010) – The members of the award winning vocal group Ricochet have signed with Cody Entertainment for exclusive booking. The band’s responsible agent will be the firm’s president, Phil Smallwoood.

In 1995 the members of Ricochet signed with Columbia Records (later Sony Music) and in 1996 vaulted to the top with their sophomore single, “Daddy’s Money”. More albums and hit singles followed until the band parted ways with their label. But the live shows all over the globe continued. Attesting to their popularity as a concert attraction, in 2004 the group released The Live Album, which included another of their signature tunes as a stage act – the Steve Young-penned classic “Seven Bridges Road”, which has also been covered by the Eagles, Dolly Parton, and Alan Jackson, to name just a few.

Then in 2009 the group released Ricochet Reloaded giving their fans new music from the band, and also treating them to technologically advanced - but faithful - re-recordings of the songs that catapulted the group into the record books. Throughout it all Ricochet continues to tour relentlessly, performing shows across the United States and in numerous foreign countries, logging thousands of miles on the road each year.

About Cody Entertainment
Founded 34 years ago in Winchester, VA Cody Entertainment has provided entertainment, full production services and staging for fairs, festivals and events throughout the United States.


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Contacts For Cody Entertainment
Cody Entertainment
Phil Smallwood
540-772-4625 - office
phil@codyentertainment.com

Contacts For Ricochet
Thompson Entertainment Group
Chuck Thompson
615-742-8004 - office
cthompson@thompsonentertainmentgroup.com

Mark Hybner Management
Mark Hybner
361-772-5678 - office
mhybner@hybnerent.com



1300 Division Street, Ste 105
Nashville, TN 37203
615-742-8004
media@thompsonentertainmentgroup.com
www.thompsonentertainmentgroup.com

Sunday, June 27, 2010

"Letters In The Deep" - Cadillac Sky - A Review

Cadillac Sky is a group that has put out 2 very good contemporary bluegrass CDs on Skaggs Family Records. They went to Dualtone so they metamorphosis into a band without boundaries. Here is a group that has the best instruments that money can buy, use Blue Chip picks ($35), Collings guitars and mandolins, Nechville Banjoes, Daddario strings, TAAG violins, Their promo says they sleep easy knowing their instruments are protected by Colorado Cases. They have a Bible verse on their CD. I visited their website that has some Cd making footage, Dan Auerbach (frontman of another group) produced it for them, they basically wanted an old fashioned type recording without overdubs and cut and paste, that will sound better the more that a listener listens to it.

Well, it is very different than their previous CDs , lots of dissonance in the melodies, all acoustic , you hear talking in the background of songs. "Lee Of The Stone : West" is a very pretty instrumental, but it is only 44 seconds long. Honestly, I find it very odd to say the least, electronic sounds , mellotrons. There is a good amount of clipping in the recording, it is a very loose affair. "Hypocrite" is a song about hypocrites, "Say one thing and you do another, repeat.

"Bathsheeba" is a frantic sounding tune, that has some nice mandolin and guitar with some good tone. Then, some harmonies ,like from "Pet sounds" ,come in the mix. The voices sound poor, like they were meant too, "Pitiful Waltz" is a good description of the song. Well, I have spent alot of time with this and I loved their first 2 Cd's. You make up your own mind, This a Free country. All I can give you, is what I am given.

www.cadillacsky.net

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Saturday, June 26, 2010

"Farmboy" - Ray Stephenson - A Single Review

This story song has a real old time country sound to it, that is not real slick, but it is toe tappin music. This is written by Ray and Bob DiPiero. "I was born in Dixie, like it or not
I'm southern by the grace of God" - This song is a classic , really is catchy and the words are country as can be. I love the sound of the drums, almost sound like someone poundin' on a bucket, and I have seen a southern group do this. Find out more about Ray @ www.raystephenson.com .

Friday, June 25, 2010

"Are You The One" - Guy Penrod - Single Review

This is a single from Guy Penrod's debut country CD "Breathe Deep". Singles are fun to review, you just get into one song, not 12 or 15. This is a fine sounding Nashville Country song, produced by Brent Rowan who probably plays electric guitar on the CD too.
Being his first single puts a lot of pressure on it. Guy has sang 14 years with the Gaither Vocal Band, a household name in Gospel Bands. So, Penrod decides to step away from this group and sing on his own. Well, the lyrics to this song, really make you think about yourself, written by (Tammy Hyler and Shaye Smith). It is a very familiar sounding song with the typical "A call" studio musicians in Nashville playing on the disc with Brent producing it. Penrod has a very nice voice with the help of Wes Hightower on vocals. Give this a listen, there is a message here for you and me.

wwww.guypenrod.com

Friday, June 18, 2010

"Anchor In The Valley" - Anchor In The Valley - A Review

Kelsey Waldon or her alias 'Anchor In The Valley" is quite a remarkable young lady. Her sound is innocent, pretty and there is a nice blend of music that sounds like a simple recording. She seems to be a product of her small town, Barlow ,Kentucky near the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers.

Her songs can cut to your heart when you listen to the words, her her instrumentalists play some great fills. Now, she resides in Paducha ,Kentucky. She recorded this in Nashville at Battle Ridge Studios. She produced this with Phil Harris who won a grammy for recording best country instrumental in 06 "Whiskey Before Breakfast" (Bryan Sutton and Doc Watson).

She wrote all ten songs, mostly acoustic ballads and she herself plays acoustic guitar on the CD. The CD pic of her on the back looks like a young Linda Ronstadt, who is in her list of influences.

Her music faithfully captures the spirit of The Carter Family, it's music from the hills. Track # eight "Miss What I've Known" has some great fiddle and backup vocals. This sounds like a once and done recording, no overdubbing.

Track 9 "You Don't Believe(in loving me)" is one of the fullest sounding songs with the most instruments, some great electric guitar. She has a very good collection of musicians to help her out in the studio.

Track 10 "My Eyes are Open, Now I see" is a gospel song of hers. She said it was from parts of songs that she remembered singing in Church growing up ,when she was young.

The guitarist Andrew Sovine is an incredible player as is the lap steel player , Mike Witcher.

Track 2 "Ballad for Modern Times, Part 2" (Where is Part 1?) is a very good song, would love to hear Part One if it so exist.
Waldon has a way with words. She will be in the middle of a sentence in a song and the song will just end.

Track #5 "Waitin On My Man" is from another time as a lot of her music is, She has discovered like 50s-60s Kentucky/mountain music, and it is just plain pretty, I thought that the CD sounded like it was an analog tape recording. I was close, it was recordd om a Hard drive system and then mastered from analog tape. The infamous Doug Sax likes to do that and it gives the recording a very warm feel.

Track 4 "Young Girl (who grew up with the country) is a Deep song, the words are cerebral. Sovine is blowing me away with some beautiful fades on his electric guitar. He just plays a simple long sustaining line that is so full of emotion.

Do yourself a favor, don't download this, buy the CD, When I put it in my disc player for the first time ,the change in sound quality from the mp3 to CD is more than minimal, her producer does some beautiful stuff with The Stereo field, that I did not notice on the computer.

The artwork is cool too. It is designed to look like a small LP. It has a huge body of water as the Front pic, a nice small pic of her on the back. It says Hi - Fi Recording on the back. There is some just plain great music here that is different from the norm of what you see artists doing today.You can download her songs from Amazon, ITunes, CD Baby or you can order a hardback copy from
www.anchorinthevalley.bigcartel.com

www.myspace.com/anchorinthevalley
www.facebook.com/anchorinthevalley

Thursday, June 17, 2010

New Tennessee State song "Smoky Mountain Rain"

Ronnie Milsap’s hit song 'Smoky Mountain Rain' Wins Race to Become New State Song
Nashville, TN – The competition to become Tennessee's new state song has been won by "Smoky Mountain Rain," made famous by country music star Ronnie Milsap who has had 40 #1 hits, "Smokey Mountain Rain" being one of them.

Here are the first couple of lines from the resolution:

WHEREAS, made famous by country music legend Ronnie Milsap, "Smoky Mountain Rain" pays homage to the Great Smoky Mountains, which draw 2.2 million tourists annually to the State of Tennessee from around the world; and
WHEREAS, written by Nashville songwriters, Kye Fleming and Dennis Morgan, "Smoky
Mountain Rain" tells the story of a special, enduring love of a Tennessee sweetheart and the storyteller's return to Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains in search of that which he holds most dear; and

WHEREAS, the Tennessee cities of Knoxville and Gatlinburg are featured as part of the
storyline of the song;

The House Budget Subcommittee unanimously approved the resolution designating the tune an official state song last week at its final meeting. The "Smoky Mountain Rain" resolution has already been approved by the Senate.

The resolution was sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Tim Burchett, R-Knoxville, while Rep. Joe McCord, R-Maryville, handled it in the House.

Tennessee already has seven official state songs, more than any other state, "Tennessee Waltz" and "Rocky Top" being the most famous. The lyrics to all seven - plus the "official Tennessee Bicentennial Rap Song" are available at http://www.tennesseeanytime.org/homework/songs.html




Media Contacts:
For media inquiries, please contact:

Webster & Associates , LLC
Kirt Webster / kirt@websterpr.com
(615) 777-6995 x 230

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

New Country Single by Mason Douglas

New Country Single Release by Mason Douglas
Rural Rhythm Records Launches Country Arm of Label



Nashville, TN (Tuesday, June 15, 2010) Rural Rhythm Records is very proud to announce the first single release, “Anything Can Happen” by country music entertainer, Mason Douglas. This original song is from his upcoming July 27, 2010 album, “MY WILD HEART.” This will be the first country album release by Rural Rhythm Records who also launched their new country music arm of the label including a brand new website at: www.ruralrhythmcountry.com

Popular radio host, “Big D and Bubba” have been spinning Mason’s music for years and were thrilled to bring him into their studio recently to record an interview and play his new single, “Anything Can Happen.” Big D and Bubba’s syndicated radio show can be heard in Nashville and throughout the country.

“Putting everything you love back into country music” is what singer/songwriter Mason Douglas set out to do on this debut album. Mason’s fans have become addicted to his distinguished diversity, some saying he sounds like Chris Isaak with his signature, sexy falsettos; some saying Garth Brooks with his honesty and range; and other even saying he’s country music’s Rob Thomas. Look for a feature article on Mason in the June/July 2010 issue of the Country Music Association’s CMA Close-Up Magazine.

The single, “Anything Can Happen” is available for purchase now via iTunes, Amazon.com and other digital retailers with album pre-ordering also available.

Radio is being serviced via DMDS and AirplayDirect.com:

- More info on DMDS: YANGAROO's patented Digital Media Distribution System (DMDS) is a leading secure B2B digital delivery solution for the music and advertising industries. DMDS is a Web-based delivery system that pioneers secure digital file distribution by incorporating biometrics, high-value encryption and watermarking. DMDS replaces the physical distribution of audio and video content for music, music videos, and advertising to television, radio, media, retailers, award shows and other authorized recipients with more accountable, effective, and far less costly digital delivery of broadcast quality media via the Internet.

- More info on AIRPLAY DIRECT: AirPlay Direct is a digital delivery system developed for artists, radio programmers and music industry professionals sending secure broadcast quality music and digital press kits to radio stations, booking agents, promoters and music supervisors worldwide.

Mason Douglas is currently on tour including upcoming performances in Boise-ID, Portland-OR, Los Angeles-CA, Tucson-AZ, Newnan-GA, Chattanooga-TN and more. For more information on Mason Douglas please visit www.masondouglasmusic.com.

Media inquiries including high res photos and available at: http://www.hoperiverentertainment.com/masondouglas.htm

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RECORD LABEL: Rural Rhythm Records
Radio Contact: Sammy Passamano, III Email

RADIO - AIRPLAY DIRECT

MEDIA CONTACT: Hope River Entertainment

Cover Art and photo by: Anthony Ladd, KneelinDesign

Rural Rhythm 55 year Celebration and Live Record

On June 4, 2010, some of bluegrass music’s favorite artists took part in Rural Rhythm Records 55th Anniversary Celebration at the Graves Mountain Festival of Music in Syria, Virginia. The day-long event was emceed by Sirius-XM Radio Host, Kyle Cantrell who said, “I don't know when I've had a better time or heard better music! In this picturesque, out-of-the-way place in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the top stars in bluegrass shared songs with adoring crowds that had come from all over, and on that stage you could feel the love of both musician and fan. It was truly a great experience that you had to hear to believe.”

This historic live event was recorded for a special album titled, “GRAVES MOUNTAIN JAM – RECORDED LIVE (Rural Rhythm’s 55 Year Celebration)”scheduled for release on October 26, 2010. Sirius-XM will broadcast highlights of the show on Labor Day holiday weekend 2010.

The tremendous task of sound engineering was handled by Gene Daniell who has over 30 years experience in the Audio Arts specializing in Bluegrass and Acoustic performances. Gene Daniell and Mark Newton will begin the mixing and mastering process in a few weeks at Gene’s Studio in Marietta, Georgia.

Sam Passamano, Jr., President of Rural Rhythm Records said, “The Graves Mountain Festival of Music is a wonderful place to enjoy Bluegrass Music and the Graves Family are the finest people you will ever meet. We are so grateful to the Graves Family who totally embraced our Rural Rhythm 55 Year Celebration event along with thousands of bluegrass fans. I would especially like to thank Kyle Cantrell, Mark Newton, Carl Jackson, Gene Daniells and all our Rural Rhythm artists who made this a very special historic event.”

The show was produced by bluegrass artist, Mark Newton and Rural Rhythm Record's President, Sam Passamano, Jr. "This live recording done at such a wonderful venue and established festival like Graves' Mountain Festival of Music will be a Landmark project and one for the history books that fans will enjoy for years to come. It doesn't get any better then the talent on stage like The Crowe Brothers, Carrie Hassler, Brand New Strings, Audie Blaylock & Redline, Lou Reid & Carolina, The Lonesome River Band and Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out. You add Carl Jackson and myself along with the talent above on the original song that Carl wrote ‘Graves Mountain Memories,’ and it makes for a memorable special gathering that will stand the test of time and represents this music at its best" said Newton.

The song, “Graves Mountain Memories," was performed by: Lou Reid (Vocal), Russell Moore (Vocal), Audie Blaylock (Vocal), Carrie Hassler (Vocal), Carl Jackson (Vocal & Guitar), Mark Newton (Vocal & Guitar) with Sammy Shelor (Banjo); Mike Hartgrove (Fiddle); Wayne Benson (Mandolin), and Mike Anglin (Bass). Other magical and once of a lifetime special performances included:

"When I Stop Dreaming", "More Pretty Girls Than One" – The Crowe Brothers with special guests: Russell Moore, Sammy Shelor and Mike Hartgrove
"Grandma's Boardside Cabin" – The Crowe Brothers (New song written by Josh Crowe)
"Head Over Heels" – Carrie Hassler with Brand New Strings and special guest Brandon Rickman
“When You Say Nothing At All", "Crazy", "I Surrender All" – Carrie Hassler with Brand New Strings
"High On A Hilltop", "Sunny Side Of The Mountain" – Audie Blaylock and Redline
"Old Dangerfield" – Audie Blaylock and Redline with special guest Wayne Benson
"Once More" – Audie Blaylock and Redline with special guests Russell Moore and Lou Reid
"Get In Line Brother" – Audie Blaylock and Redline with special guests: Russell Moore and Carrie Hassler
"Lonesome River" – Lou Reid & Carolina with special guest Russell Moore
"Oh, Lord Have Mercy On My Soul" – Lou Reid & Carolina (a capella)
"Time", "When It Rains", "Amanda Lynn" (Hits) – Lou Reid & Carolina
"Hold What'cha Got" – Lonesome River Band with special guest Audie Blaylock
"Roll In My Sweet Baby's Arms", "Cabin Home On The Hill" – Lonesome River Band with special guest The Crowe Brothers
"Carolyn The Teenage Queen", "Long Gone", "Them Blues" (Hits) – Lonesome River Band
"Wade In The Water" – Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out (a capella)
"John & Mary", "Erase The Miles", "Grandpa's Mandolin", "Hard Rock Mountain Prison" (Hits) – Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out
"I've Waited As Long As I Can" – Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out with special guest: Mike Hartgrove
"Ground Speed", "Home Sweet Home" - ALL-STAR JAM featuring Carl Jackson and Sammy Shelor - Twin Banjos

More about Graves Mountain:
The Graves Mountain Festival of Music has been a tradition for 18 years. Graves Mountain is east of Charlottesville, VA located 38 miles at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Graves Mountain Lodge has been in existence close to 400 years which has been passed down from one generation to the next.
It’s a family operation that is owned by Jimmy and Rachel Graves with their sons Lucky and Lynn. Part of the tradition is their apples, jams and jelly’s which they distribute in the southeast. Over the years, the festival has developed into one of the largest in the State of Virginia – and for that matter, some folks say one of the best in the U.S. Historically, it is arguably one of the hottest markets for bluegrass music. The fans in the area very educated in bluegrass music which has been passed down from one generation to the next.

View a Flickr SLIDESHOW of more photos from Graves Mountain Festival of Music

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RECORD LABEL:
Rural Rhythm Records
Radio Contact: Sammy Passamano, III Email

RADIO - AIRPLAY DIRECT

MEDIA CONTACT:
Hope River Entertainment
Penni McDaniel
678.377.33928
Email

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

The Grascals Invite Country Radio to Hop Aboard !!!

The Grascals Invite Country Radio To Hop Aboard "Last Train To Clarksville"
Group Gives MONKEES 1966 Hit A Country/Bluegrass Twist

Nashville, TN (June 15, 2010) --Two-time International Bluegrass Music Association Entertainers of the Year, The Grascals (www.grascals.com), invite country radio to jump on board their latest release, "Last Train To Clarksville." Delivered to programmers via CDX Vol. 501, the single is a proven winner; the driving up-tempo song was a smash for The Monkees in 1966. On the new version, three-part harmonies (Eldredge, Johnson, Smith) run throughout the track - setting this outing apart- and creating a literal "wall of sound." The Grascals juice things up with Kristin Scott Benson's ripping banjo and Jeremy Abshire's amazing fiddle work. Terry Eldredge keeps the track moving with lightning-fast guitar work, while Terry Smith (bass) and Danny Roberts (mandolin) round out the group's signature sound. "We all were familiar with this song, and it was a blast to record," says Johnson. "We put a little grass and a little bit of country in it." "Last Train To Clarksville" is from their newest disc, the critically-acclaimed THE FAMOUS LEFT FLYNN'S (Rounder).
Pre-production is underway for a video to accompany the new release, and filming on the project begins later this month. The single is already attracting a legion of devoted bluegrass fans, debuting at #20 on the Bluegrass Music Profiles Chart, while THE FAMOUS LEFTY FLYNN'S enters at #4.
"Last Train To Clarksville" is only the third single that the group has released to country radio. The hugely-popular "Viva Las Vegas" (with special guest Dolly Parton) debuted at #3 on the Billboard Top Country Singles Sales Chart in 2004 and spent over a year in the Top 10.
RADIO: "Last Train To Clarksville" can also be downloaded directly from www.airplaydirect.com/thegrascals

Saturday, June 12, 2010

Larry Gatlin Takes IMUS Guest Host Reins Next Week

LARRY GATLIN TAKES IMUS GUEST HOST
REINS NEXT WEEK
NASHVILLE, TN – June 11, 2010 – Next week, country music legend Larry Gatlin goes where no country star has ever gone before as he sits in for broadcasting pioneer Don Imus on the Imus in the Morning program.

Gatlin guest hosts the show June 14-18 (6 AM EST) and is bringing in plenty of friends, including brothers Rudy and Steve Gatlin, Governor Mike Huckabee, country artist Steve Warner, Art Laffer, Dick Armey, David Asman, and the Million Dollar Quartet, among others. (more names to be added as they confirm).

Also next week, Gatlin will guest host FoxNews.com’s Strategy Room (June 17), will make guest appearances on the Fox Business Network’s America’s Nightly Scoreboard (June 14-17) and will appear on the Fox News Channel’s Redeye (June 15).
Tune In:
Fox Business Network
Imus in the Morning
June 14-18
6 AM EST

*Also simulcast on nationally syndicated radio and online at www.imus.com.
Click here for station listings.

Fox Business Network
America’s Nightly Scoreboard
June 14-17, 2010
7 PM EST

Fox News Channel
Redeye
June 15
3 AM EST

FoxNews.com
Strategy Room
June 17
3 PM EST

# # #

Thursday, June 10, 2010

The Judds Kick Off The "The Last Encore " Tour

Nashville, TN – (June 10, 2010) Country Music’s legendary duo, The Judds, delivered a riveting performance for over 10,000 fans in downtown Nashville as they launched this year’s 2010 CMA Music Festival. Wynonna and Naomi Judd helped kick off what USA Today calls “the crown jewel of Country Music festivals,” setting the stage for their highly anticipated final tour, The Judds: The Last Encore. It has been over 10 years since their 2000 “Power To Change” tour, and this final reunion promises to be nothing short of spectacular.

In typical fan-friendly Judd fashion, Wynonna and Naomi recently invited dedicated “Judd Heads” and country music fans across the country to name their upcoming tour in The Judds “Name That Tour” contest. The response was overwhelming. Thousands of fans jumped at the opportunity to solidify their place in Judds HERstory and ultimately Jacqualine Budgell from Murfreesboro, TN was chosen as the lucky winner.

According to Naomi, The Last Encore tour is an opportunity to celebrate the relationship with their fans one last time. “There is nothing like music and laughter to connect people,” she says. “How I’ve missed that encounter with the very ones who’ve allowed us that awesome privilege! I’m counting the days till I can be back on my bus, visiting their towns.”

In addition to their enduring 26-year relationship with the fans, Wynonna shares her sentiment on reuniting with her mother, Naomi, again. “This tour gives me a chance to enjoy where Mom and I are in our relationship. I look forward to celebrating our personal and professional journey...together.” And, for the fans who have followed their journey together through the years, this final curtain call will be yet another reason to celebrate.

The tour will kick off on November 26, the day after Thanksgiving, in Green Bay, Wisconsin and will continue on to their home state of Kentucky with a play in Louisville alongside dates in Salt Lake City, UT, Los Angeles, CA and Las Vegas, NV. The Judds will close their final tour with a full circle moment in Phoenix, AZ where their 2000 “Power To Change” tour began. The Judds: The Last Encore tour will feature new Judds and Wynonna music from the upcoming album while also shining a bright light on all of the fan’s Judds and Wynonna favorites. And for the first time ever, they will also celebrate the holiday season during their final tour by weaving several classic Christmas songs in their immensely diverse set list.

CMT Awards Show, 2010

Search Amazon.com for country music cdsThis year the CMT awards show was a fun affair ad if you go over to CMT.com, you can catch the best of it. Kid Rock opened the affair with a song and was the emcee. The Zac Brown Band performed a very good acoustic song. Best Female video was Miranda Lambert singing "White Liar". Carrie Underwood took 2 video awards home, best performance and video of the Year, "Temporary Home". Best male video was Tim Mcgraw and "Southern Voice". Keith Urban did a song with John Mayer playing with him that was really good.

My favorite was "Another American Saturday Night" by Brad Paisley, He has a wild looking new telecaster and he really was loaded for bear, Sounded awesome. The last place in the show was left for "Lady Antebellum" , This group can flat out sing, I really enjoyed them on the Nashville flood relief show, a really talented unit. Sure, I know, we wish that alt/country and bluegrass would do as well, well face it, Our groups don't do stadium tours, that's where the big money is. We should be happy for these folk who are living their dream, it's something the worked for!!

Wednesday, June 09, 2010

Susan Hickman's Debut Country CD Set For US release, July 20

Susan Hickman's Debut Country CD Set For U.S. Release July 20

Includes Songs By Brett James, Mila Mason, Bobby Pinson, Gregg Allman

Nashville, TN (June 3, 2010) -- Susan Hickman's debut Country CD, SUSAN HICKMAN (4L Clover) is set for U.S. release on July 20. The disc, released overseas in December 2009, has already garnered quite a bit of attention for this Texas newcomer. She's enjoyed five international charting singles ("Sunday Paper," "Wrapped Up In Me," "Friday At The Latest," "You Just Missed This Train," "Whipping Post") and her current U.S. single release, "Hell Still Ain't Frozen Over" (Bobby Pinson/Melissa Pierce) is showing movement on both the European and stateside charts. "We wanted to develop a buzz about the music before we released the CD over here," says Susan from her Houston-area home. "Now that we have that, things are moving forward very quickly," she adds.

The groundswell includes a tour of Germany, Holland and Switzerland in March; inclusion on the CMA Close Up Who New To Watch In 2010 list; a 2500 mile-long U.S. country radio promotion tour, and her first CMA Music Fest appearance next week. In July, Hickman returns to Europe to perform at the prestigious 23rd Annual Country Rendez-Vous Festival in Craponne-sur-Arzon, France.
That's quite a bit of activity for an "indie" artist, but Susan is used to being the "exception" rather than the "rule." One listen to her new self-titled CD proves that Hickman is truly one of a kind. Her gritty yet glorious voice shows influences ranging from Miranda Lambert to Janis Joplin, and she shines on this Doug Deforest production (Todd Fritsch, Doug Spartz, Jonathan Edwards). Top-notch Nashville tunesmiths (Brett James, Mila Mason, Bobby Pinson and others) brought their best songs to the table, and Hickman's able interpretations hit the mark every time. Highlights include: "Red," a dark tale of jealousy and rage; the two-steppin' fun-loving, "Wrapped Up In Me" and the poignant ballads, "Hell Still Ain't Frozen Over" and "One Of Those Who Make It Up There." Closing the disc is Hickman's soulful take on Gregg Allman's classic southern rocker, "Whipping Post."
Recent media coverage includes: COUNTRY WEEKLY, DREAMWEST, MAVERICK, COUNTRY MUSIC PEOPLE, HOUSTON HOT COUNTRY, UP COUNTRY and ROUGHSTOCK.
SUSAN HICKMAN can be purchased at iTunes, CDBaby and all major e-tailers.
Fans can catch up with Susan at www.MySpace.com/susanhickman and www.susanhickman.com. For interviews, press materials and more, email somuchmoore@charter.net or call Martha at 615-746-3994.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Martha E. Moore
so much MOORE media - Established in 1988!
(O) 615.746.3994 / (M) 615.202.1313

somuchmoore@charter.net
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Sunday, June 06, 2010

CMT AWARDS SHOW, This WED 6/9/10


This week, Kid Rock takes the stage to host the CMT Awards show, I think that this says a little bit about the success of country music, just about everyone is invited to the party. Jewel,Bon Jovi, all these types have made a country record, Country music usually has something that people can relate to, it's the peoples music. People say that it is too slick, that does not bother me, usually that means a high quality recording, Anything that gets as much guff and imitation is doing something right. Rhonda Vincent, and many others started out in country music to move on to something else.
Country Music showed it's class by a relief show for the big Nashville Flood, Brad Paisley , Martina Mcbride, Lady Antebellum ,Keith urban and many others put on a pared down version of their music which was classy. And it showed what they could really do without all of the fancey stuff.

ENJOY!!!

Friday, June 04, 2010

"Crying Heart Blues" - Audie Blaylock and Redline - A Review

Audie Blaylock's second CD from Rural Rhythm Records is a very warm sounding affair. Blaylock sings a lot of Bluegrass ballads with three and four part harmonies. His four member band sounds very sweet and the banjo's and vocals are so warm.

Blaylock produces this with help of recording engineer Scott Vestal. Vestal recorded the band at Digital Underground in Greenbriar, Tenn. Mastering was done by Benny Quinn Mastering, in Franklin , Tenn.

The songs were written by a wide variety of well known and some not so well known, but talented song writers. Blaylock is a talented acoustic guitar player and plays all guitar, both lead and rhythm. There is a live feel to the disc, as it is not a bunch of layers of guitars. Sounds like there was minimal overdubbing done.

Evan Ward plays banjo and helps out with vocals. He is an excellent player that has a very fluid style with some neat bends once in awhile.

Patrick McAvinue plays fiddle, mandolin and also helps out with vocals. Finally, we have Matt Wallace on Bass and vocals. This guy is an excellent acoustic bass player.

This disc showcases different parts of Haynie's band's talents. "Pray The Clouds Away" (J Martin, P Williams) is a beautiful slow gospel quartet type song with four part harmonies and a lovely lo bass vocal part.

"Let's Part The Best Of Friends" (Carter Stanley) is an upbeat old timey tune that sounds modern, makes full use of modern recording techniques to an old song.

What is real unique on this recording is how natural all of the instruments sound with no effects in the way. It sounds perfectly natural, a real audiophile quality recording. I would love to hear this in SACD.

"He Is Near" (D Parmley) is another beauty of a four part harmony, wow, just noticed, this is acapella,(no instruments, just vocals).

Well, the band ends the disc with "Rummie's Run"(John Glich) (instrumental) which is a real upbeat tune where everyone gets involved. Fiddler Pat MacAvinue plays two fiddle parts, (overdubbed) and also a mandolin part.

This is a great release of songs and I would say better than his first CD, but maybe different is a better description. This is a must have for any true bluegrass fan.

www.audieblaylock.com
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