Rural Rhythm Records Signs Rodney Dillard and the Dillard Band

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Rural Rhythm Records Signs RODNEY DILLARD & The Dillard Band
" I Wish Life Was Like Mayberry" Album for September Release
Listen to a Clip of the new single, "There is a Time"

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July 6, 2010 (Los Angeles, CA) Rural Rhythm Records is very proud to announce they have signed RODNEY DILLARD & The Dillard Band to the label and will release the group’s new album, “I WISH LIFE WAS LIKE MAYBERRY” on September 14, 2010.

RODNEY DILLARD is a founding member of the legendary group THE DILLARDS, and beloved member of the most often seen Bluegrass group in the world, THE DARLINGS. His long and illustrious career has resulted in two GRAMMY® Nominations, induction into the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, a well-known acting stint on The Andy Griffith Show, and worldwide acclaim for over 50 years of recording both traditional bluegrass and his own brand of “DillardGrass”.

In 1962, THE DILLARDS, who had a new recording contract with Elektra Records, were asked by the producers of The Andy Griffith Show to play a bluegrass-playing family (The Darlings), whose patriarch was to be played by popular Hollywood actor Denver Pyle… and to this day THE DILLARDS are seen nearly every day somewhere in the world thanks to the still enormous popularity of The Andy Griffith Show re-runs. October 2010 is the 50th Anniversary of the first airing of this popular show.

Rodney Dillard wrote and collaborated with others to write such classic songs as “There Is A Time”, “The Darlin’ Boys”, “Ebo Walker”, and “Dooley.” These songs, plus more DILLARD and MAYBERRY classics, can be found on their upcoming album.

“I WISH LIFE WAS LIKE MAYBERRY" contains all the Darlings / Dillards classics performed here by RODNEY DILLARD & The Dillard Band including the first radio single release, “There Is A Time.” The song will be released to both bluegrass and country radio stations on July 19th via Rural Rhythm Record’s Fresh Cuts & Key Tracks CD and also available at www.AirplayDirect.com at that time.

In addition to all the classics, there are four new original songs written by RODNEY DILLARD and friends of Rodney including: “There Goes The Neighborhood”, “Wicker Rocking Chair”, “The Mayberry Hat” and “The Andy Griffith Show”.

As a BONUS, the album will also contain five episodes from the popular radio show “Mayberry Minute” – a show that ran nationally for 3 years and was narrated by RODNEY DILLARD.

RODNEY DILLARD & THE DILLARD BAND have been chosen as an official International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Showcase performer at this year’s IBMA World of Bluegrass held in Nashville, TN this coming October. For more information on Rodney Dillard, please visit: Rodneydillard.tv/ and RuralRhythm.com

"Tears ,Lies and Alibis" - Shelby Lynne - A Review

This is a bit of a new sound for Shelby and she produced it, sounds a bit like "Identity Crisis" ,which she also recorded partly.
She wrote all ten songs here and there is a variety of acoustic ,jazz like, with some interesting lyrics and melodies.

This CD has areal mellow vibe to it. "Old Dog" - She sings this with some sarcastic lyrics. She plays some sweet syncopated rhytmn guitar.

"Alibi" is a different type of Cheating song, about a guy and his Alibi. "Home Sweet Home" is a very good acoustic song, with a real sweet sound, thanks Doug Sax and mastering lab. "Home sweet Home" has mostly just her on it.

"Why Didn't you call me?" This is a very good jazzy sounding tune, with some horns. This was engineered by Brian Harrison and she helped. "Something To Be Said About Airstreams" - I love this song, she really has good lyrics in this recording. Just a real audiophile sound and a song that has a great groove.

"Rains Came" has the most electric guitar on it, yet nothing loud, just some quiet licks, This was mastered by Doug SaX and his assistant @ The Mastering Lab,


www.shelbylynne.com

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.

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!

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

"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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"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 .

"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

"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

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

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

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

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

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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!!

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
http://www.somuchmoore.com
MySpace, Linked In & Facebook
Twitter: @skates23

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!!!

"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

Some Comments by attenders of Mountain Heart Concert at Sellersville

Search Amazon.com for mountain heart Maria
"The keyboard playing of Josh Shilling was the highlight of the show for me; I could have listened to it all night."

Craig
"Having not heard Mountain Heart perform live in about 7 or 8 years, I was quite surprised by their changes in musicianship and style. Their early reputation was built on first-rate traditional bluegrass and gospel numbers, performed with a skill and emotion not often matched anywhere. Now the traditional bluegrass playing represents only a portion of their repertoire, with a balance consisting of southern rock standards and soulful rock and blues ballads. Along with acoustic rythm and lead guitar duties, Josh Shilling lends consummate keyboard playing and fiery vocals to the band, infusing Mountain Heart with a new style and life, while Barry Abernathy's traditional vocals, humor, and custom 5-string banjo help anchor the band. While I was surprised by their new direction, I must say it was a pleasant surprise. Those coming to a show expecting only a bluegrass concert would leave disappointed, but for those who want a little something extra, they will be more than satisfied. Mountain heart is obviously undergoing a musical transformation; I wish them the best of luck as they blaze their path into the future."

Mountain Heart - Live At Sellersville Theatre, Sellersville, Pa.- A Review

Mountain Heart has been around quite a while as an excellent bluegrass band, they are in the process of changing into a country rock, Southern rock jam band, The newest member, Josh Schilling, has sang and played with several types of bands, and I read he has a separate project on the side, which would not surprise me. This is exciting, I thought I was going to a bluegrass show last and it turned into a jam session with several cover songs, some new songs for the new CD that they are working on, They are looking for a label, but their manager Brian says they are going on with or without a label, they can get some Distribution help and keep on Touring. They are already working on the CD. He gave me a three song demo CD, I can't let anyone hear it, but He said I can tease folk about. Here's a tease for ya, if your good, I will give you another tease at end of review, This CD has drums on it.

I got to Sellersville Theatre right after the first act was done (Fitzmaurice), heard they were good, from the nice couple behind me, This guy sent me some nice pics tonight,I had asked him if He would, and he did, will see if I can add a couple to the review, when it goes on CSO.

A little about Mountain Heart, in a big way ,this is a shame, I sampled some of their stuff, they have a real big discography. They have been a big bluegrass band, making lots of great songs. But on the other hand, When I talked to Jim Van Cleve He is excited about it. They know how great that Josh Schilling is, There is a great chemistry in the group, everyone plays together. Josh Schilling could take them places. He is a great singer, his vocals are so mature and strong, heard a youtube of him singing the national anthem with the rest of the group. He is an incredible keyboard player, reminds me of a young Chuck Leavell.(Who can sing and play guitar)

I really was not prepared for what I heard last night. I was expecting a show like the Ark,
but I got like a professional cover band. They started out playing an instrumental. It was good, one of the many short ones the group does. After that, the small crowd in the front started chanting, Louder!! Louder!! , Well, The Mountain Heart sound guy complied. From then on, it was real loud. The room right behind me, the rest of the Theatre that was empty
was loud, but the room had lots of noise, which made the signal midrangey.

Next, I heard a very familiar bass thump and the ride began as Jason Moore, on bass played the intro to "Whipping Post" by the Allman Brothers. They virtually nailed the song note for note, in an acoustic way. The hi guitar parts were played by Jim on fiddle. The difference is Josh slows it down in the middle and does some sct singing with it.He is on electric piano here. Aaron Ramsey , their new mandolin player really is a great player and adds alot to the show.

They did an accapello gospel number and I thought it was weird that 2 members went into the side stage.

The show was pretty much focused on the very talented Josh Shilling , who has a great voice, is a great guitarist and played a lot of electric piano this night. I'm listening to the Ark show as I write this, The group seemed more focused that night, tonight ,they are sort of p rowling the stage. I also miss Barry's ongoing dialog with the crowd at the Ark.

The band jams on and on, and for a while, they settle down and do a few really nice songs. All of which will be on the new CD. They do a real nice version of Bruce Hornsby's "That's Just the Way it Is" , That one really caught me off guard as it is just plain rock music.
Also, "Very Superstitous" with some wah, caught me off guard. I did notice some people leave during the show, as they were expecting bluegrass, I mean, we are in a small town, in rural, Pa. This is a country/bluegrass group venue where the group is playing mostly rock and jam oriented music. They ended with more jamming, and left the stage, I mean, you knew they were coming back. Pretty soon, Josh and the bass player Jason come back and and Josh sits at the keyboard for another Allman brothers song, a newer one "Soul Shine".

And that was it, that's just the way it goes. The group sticks around and sign some Cds and stuff, I talk to Brian and JIm, very nice, down to earth group. I'm looking forward to this new CD.


www.countrystarsonline.com
www.countryreviews.blogspot.com

Lynyrd Skynyrd To Release Live From Freedom Hall CD/DVD set

LYNYRD SKYNYRD TO RELEASE LIVE FROM FREEDOM HALL CD/DVD SET ON JUNE 22nd; LAST CONCERT RECORDED WITH LONGTIME MEMBERS BILLY POWELL AND EAN EVANS

SUMMER TOUR DATES ANNOUNCED

New York, NY: Lynyrd Skynyrd will release Live From Freedom Hall on June 22 as both a CD/DVD set and as a stand-alone DVD. Live From Freedom Hall not only captures the band in its most natural state – on stage- but is also one of the last concerts to be recorded with longtime members Billy Powell and Ean Evans, both of whom passed away last year. The release is a tribute to and a celebration of Skynyrd.

The track listing for Live From Freedom Hall is as follows:
“Travelin’ Man”
“Workin'”
“What's Your Name?”
“That Smell”
“Simple Man”
“Down South Jukin’”
“The Needle and the Spoon”
“Ballad Of Curtis Loew”
“Gimme Back My Bullets”
“Tuesday’s Gone”
“Red White and Blue”
“Gimme Three Steps”
“Call Me The Breeze”
“Sweet Home Alabama”
“Free Bird”
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s latest, Gods & Guns, was released via Roadrunner/Loud & Proud, debuting on the Billboard Top 20 at #18, representing their highest debut since 1977. Throughout the past year, the band has been enjoying continued success and increased visibility, appearing on The Tonight Show, The Late Late Show With Craig Ferguson, FOX News Channel’s Huckabee, Hannity, Fox & Friends, PBS Soundstage and more.
The band was recently inducted into The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Their classic and beloved American rock anthem “Sweet Home Alabama” has surpassed the two million mark in downloaded ringtones. With a catalog of over 60 albums and sales beyond 30 million, Lynyrd Skynyrd remains a major cultural icon that appeals to all generations.
Lynyrd Skynyrd will return to the road for the next several months, touring with Bret Michaels and 38 Special in June before embarking on the Hannity Freedom Concert Series in August.
Tour dates are as follows:
Gods & Guns Tour 2010
May 28 - Starlight Theatre - Kansas City, MO
May 29 - Harrah's Metropolis - Metropolis, IL
May 30 - Horseshoe Casino - Elizabeth, IN
Lynyrd Skynyrd w/Bret Michaels and 38 Special
June 10 - Cruzan Amphitheatre - West Palm Beach, FL
June 13 - Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion - Spring, TX
June 17 - Verizon Wireless Music Center Birmingham - Pelham, AL
June 18 - Time Warner Pavillion @Walnut Creek - Raleigh, NC
June 19 - Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre - Charlotte, NC
June 20 - Verizon Wireless Music Center - Virginia Beach, VA
June 24 - DTE Energy Music Center - Clarkston, MI
June 25 - First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre - Tinley Park, IL
June 26 - Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre - Maryland Heights, MO
June 27 - Verizon Wireless Music Center - Noblesville, IN
July 1 - PNC Bank Arts Center - Holmdel, NJ
July 2 - Comcast Theater - Hartford, CT
July 3 - Jiffy Lube Live - Bristow, VA
July 8 - Blossom Music Center - Cuyahoga Falls, OH
July 9 - DTE Energy Music Center - Clarkston, MI
July 10 - First Niagara Pavilion - Burgettstown, PA
July 11 - First Niagara Pavilion - Burgettstown, PA

New Wynonna Music and Retail Collection Arrives At Cracker Barrel

Search Amazon.com for WynonnaNEW WYNONNA MUSIC AND RETAIL COLLECTION ARRIVES AT CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE®

Purchase of any Cracker Barrel Wynonna product provides donation to Wounded Warrior Project


LEBANON, TENN (May 24, 2010) – As the nation appreciates American service men and women this Memorial Day weekend, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is honored to have five-time GRAMMY® Award winner Wynonna Judd share in its efforts to support Wounded Warrior Project. Wynonna’s new CD and exclusive line of retail products have arrived at Cracker Barrel, and a portion of the proceeds from the sale of each item will be donated to Wounded Warrior Project. Additionally, from now until May 31st, Cracker Barrel will double the portion of proceeds donation for every Wynonna and Wounded Warrior Project retail item sold, including the CD.

“For several years, Cracker Barrel has supported Wounded Warrior Project and the organization’s efforts to honor and empower injured service men and women who have returned to the United States,” said Peter Keiser, Vice President of Marketing at Cracker Barrel. “Given Wynonna’s long history of philanthropy, we were confident that she would share our commitment to support wounded warriors who are making the transition back to civilian life.”

On sale now at all Cracker Barrel locations, Wynonna’s new Love Heals CD features a collection of her top singles and three other tracks that had not been available for sale until now. One of the new tracks, Let Your Light Shine, is a song that Wynonna and her young daughter would sing every day before school, and it speaks to the importance of being true to oneself.

“Let Your Light Shine is a real affirmation song for men and women,” said Wynonna, a multi-platinum Curb Records recording artist and best-selling author. “So much of what we see in the world is not very life-giving. This is a very life-giving song. The message is be who you were meant to be.”

In addition to the Love Heals CD, Cracker Barrel has introduced a collection of retail products inspired by Wynonna’s creativity and spirit. Wynonna helped design the products that she believes will help women who balance the responsibilities of family, career and their own personal enrichment. The Wynonna retail products include shirts, mugs, writing journals, wallets and other accessories.

Cracker Barrel is also proud to feature a new collection of Wounded Warrior Project retail products including hats, bandanas, t-shirts and mugs. Similar to the Wynonna line of products, Cracker Barrel will donate a portion of the proceeds from the sale of any of these items to Wounded Warrior Project. In fact, from now until May 31st, Cracker Barrel will double the portion of proceeds donation for every Wynonna and Wounded Warrior Project retail item sold, including the CD.

“Wounded Warrior Project is deeply grateful to Wynonna and Cracker Barrel for their ongoing support,” said Steve Nardizzi, Executive Director of Wounded Warrior Project. “The funds raised through this partnership will support our injured warriors who have given so much for our country and help us ensure this generation of veterans is the most successful and well-adjusted in our nation’s history.”

About Cracker Barrel
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store provides a friendly home-away-from-home in its old country stores and restaurants. Guests are cared for like family while relaxing and enjoying real home-style food and shopping that’s surprisingly unique, genuinely fun and reminiscent of America’s country heritage…all at a fair price. The restaurant serves up delicious, home-style country food such as meatloaf and homemade chicken n’ dumplins as well as its signature biscuits using an old family recipe. The authentic old country retail store is fun to shop and offers unique gifts and self-indulgences.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (Nasdaq: CBRL) was established in 1969 in Lebanon, Tenn. and operates 594 company-owned locations in 41 states. Every Cracker Barrel unit is open seven days a week with hours Sunday through Thursday, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. For more information, visit crackerbarrel.com.

Larry Gatlin Snags Imus Vacation Seat

For Immediate Release
May 19, 2010


LARRY GATLIN SNAGS IMUS VACATION SEAT

NASHVILLE, TN – Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last year, you know that country music legend Larry Gatlin is back in a big way… and it just got a lot bigger. This June, Gatlin will guest host the Fox Business Network’s Imus in the Morning, filling-in for vacationing broadcasting pioneer Don Imus.

“The I-man is the gold standard, which, according to Gordon Liddy, is worth more than ever and has never had a worth of zero” says Gatlin. “No one can ever replace my buddy, Don Imus. I am honored to hold his place until he returns from a well deserved vacation!”

Gatlin takes the reins for Imus June 14 – 18, and will broadcast live from the Fox Business Network studios in New York City. Gatlin plans to talk the day’s news with various political analysts and of course will invite some of his closest musical friends for in-studio performances.

# # #

Tune In:

Fox Business Network
Imus in the Morning
June 14-18, 2010
6 - 9 AM EST









Media Contact:




Don Grubbs, Publicist / President
o. 615.275.8380
don@absolutepublicity.com

1009 16th Ave S
Nashville, TN 37212


Proudly Representing: Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers, Pam Tillis, Mickie James, Trent Tomlinson, Danielle Peck, Alabama's Jeff Cook, Jerry "The King" Lawler, Mishavonna (American Idol), Scott Lindsey, Tay Humphrey and Nash Street

www.absolutepublicity.com

New Album From Steve Gulley and Tim Stafford "Dogwood Winter"

Rural Rhythm Gearing Up for Steve Gulley-Tim Stafford Album
New Single Now Released
Click here for a clip of the new single, "Just Along for the Ride"



Rural Rhythm Records is very proud to announce the upcoming new album by Steve Gulley and Tim Stafford. “DOGWOOD WINTER” is comprised of all original songs by this award-winning songwriting team. The first single, “Just Along For the Ride” is being serviced to radio and available now via Airplay Direct.

Gulley and Stafford’s songs have been recorded by many artists over the years including “Through the Window of a Train,” winner of the 2008 IBMA Song of the Year, and recorded by Blue Highway. “While Steve and I have been fortunate to have quite a few songs cut by various artists over the years, this record began as a vehicle to get our songs out there that—with one exception--hadn’t been previously recorded. We picked 14 of our best tunes that we felt would be a good cross-section of our work, and the record, from the beginning was going to be all about the song. Since most were bluegrass, we decided to enlist our friends Adam Steffey, Ron Stewart, and Justin Moses to help Steve and I lay down grass tracks that would highlight those songs. Our tastes are eclectic, and we ended up having two tunes that needed arrangements that featured percussion from Mark Laws and, in the case of Nebraska Sky, Michael Alvey’s great piano playing. Dale Ann Bradley added the heavenly harmonies where we needed a trio with a female,” said Stafford. Tim Stafford is a current and founding member of award-winning Blue Highway – a band continuing to celebrate significant success with all five original members in tact.

Gulley also explains the origin of “DOGWOOD WINTER” saying, “This recording project is, quite simply, two good friends and writing partners recording some of their songs in the way they heard them when they were originally written. It was truly a great experience to record and create a collection of music that was all original. Tim has been my primary writing partner for years - as well as a one of my best friends. Besides being a good friend and collaborator, Tim is one of best musicians on the planet, so it was really cool to finally get to work with him in the studio on our own project. I think this a singer-songwriter record in every sense of the word. There’s traditional bluegrass, country-flavored tunes, middle-of-the road ballads and stripped down arrangements with just guitar and vocal. It’s a wide variety of styles but has one underlying theme or focus – the songs themselves.” Gulley is a current and founding member of the award-winning band, Grasstowne who also have a new album releasing on Rural Rhythm later this year.

New updates on “DOGWOOD WINTER” will be posted soon on the Rural Rhythm website.

##

MORE INFORMATION ON STEVE GULLEY
Steve Gulley’s career highlights include: being a longtime performer and former Music Director at the legendary Renfro Valley Shows in Kentucky; former member of Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver and part of a Grammy nominated and IBMA award-winning album with the group; founding member of “Mountain Heart” where he was part of five albums and two IBMA award wins; founding and current member of the award-winning band, Grasstowne” where he has been a part of two chart-topping and award- winning albums including the 2008 SPBGMA Album of the Year “The Road Headin’ Home.”

MORE INFORMATION ON TIM STAFFORD
Tim Stafford has an impressive career including: having nearly 200 songs recorded by various artists; serves on the IBMA Hall of Honor Panel of Electors (2006-present); former member of Alison Krauss and Union Station in the early 90’s; current and founding member the award-winning group, Blue Highway; recipient of over 15 IBMA Awards; recipient of a Dove Award; two Grammy nominations; produced two IBMA Award-winning records, Knee Deep in Bluegrass, which received the Instrumental Recording of the Year in 2001, and The Infamous Stringdusters’ Fork in the Road, which was named the co-album of the year in 2007; currently teaches guitar at East Tennessee State University’s famed Bluegrass and Country Music Program; and co-author (with Caroline Wright) of the book, Still Inside: The Tony Rice Story, released in 2010 by Word of Mouth Press.

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

RADIO - AIRPLAY DIRECT

MEDIA CONTACT: Hope River Entertainment
Penni McDaniel | 678.377.329| Email

GAC Three Hour Relief Concert for Nashville Flood

Search Amazon.com for lady antebellum This Three Hour televised concert from the Ryman Auditorium was a winner for me and I think that a lot of folks that hate Nashville Country music would at least like it, if they saw this side of country music. First off, it is a very stripped back affair, mostly acoustic and the full band songs were not as full of effects and the pageantry usually associated with a Country concert.

Brad Paisley's wife and actor James Denton were the hosts of the show. There were celebrities manning the phones and a lot of flood footage during songs, but the music ruled.
Brad came running out ,starting the show with "Welcome To The Future", you could tell that folk did not have their usual road bands so a lot sung solo or with the house band. The drummer on Paisley's first song was great, really keeping a groove, and it seemed that Brad was happy letting other guys play lead guitar some since he did not have his effects, just a Dr Z amp with what looked like one pedal on top. He usually has a full rack with several pedals which were all destroyed in the flood. Dierks Bentley played with him on another song "American Saturday Night" and Brad was having fun playing, talking to the audience.

Martina was there singing about 3 or 4 songs and sounded very good. The crowd seemed to get the most excited when Keith Urban came out and did 2 acoustic songs, The first,"The Beatles -Help", which came out well. Then He did an upbeat version of an original song. He got the crowd involved in the song.

A couple of Nascar drivers showed up with the Head of Nascar to show their Support. The artists were really good at picking their songs and usually picked one out of their repertoire intended for encouragement. Some artists just showed up to man the phones ,and not even do a song.

New Nashville native Kebmo was there with another guy playing banjitar with him. He played a very appropriate song and sounded quite good. Two Christian artists who make Nashville their home did a song, CeCe Winans and Jaci Velasquez. They both were very good.

Sheryl Crow came out and did one new song that she had written on piano by herself. She talked about how much Nashville felt like home to her.

Kellie Pickler showed up for a song and some phone time, You know, this young lady is really doing herself well, she just has a great way about her and a good attitude. She sang a song with a couple of acoustic guitarists which came off real well.

I have always kind not liked Lady Antebellum, I guess for their super slick productions or some dumb thing, but their live appearances really won me over, They really got a large crowd reaction during their performances. They harmonize so well even live and their lo key demeanor can really win you over. What a vocal performance!!

All in all, This was very well done, and I think it really showed the good parts of Nashville and what The volunteer state is all about. They raised 2 million dollars for the surrounding 52 counties that need help, just a dent, but a good dent. Go to GAC's website if you would like to make a donation, the money goes to the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. It was hard to get thru on the phone lines, They showed the show back to back, and I got thru about a half hour into the second showing, and now I could kick myself, cause I talked to a nice sounding lady named Nicole, who was probably Nicole Kidman, because she was helping on the phones. Why couldn't I have at least asked?? A lot of people hung up om Brad Paisley who was on the phones alot.

http://www.gactv.com/gac/pac_ctnt/text/0,,GAC_26058_98169,00.html

Blue Chip Picks - A review of a very Different pick!!

Search Amazon.com for Guitar Picks I found out about Blue Chip Picks listening to a CD that I was reviewing this year by a Bluegrass group named "GoldHeart" , that consists of 3 young ladies. The self-titled Cd was excellent. I saw the endorsement for Blue Chip picks on the Cd liner. I checked out the website and what impressed me other than the $35 price per pick was the list of artists who swore by them, mostly Blue grass players, and mostly mandolin players.
Here is a list of some you might recognize, Chris Thile, Adam Steffey, Rhonda Vincent, Danny Roberts(Grascals), Charlie Cushman, and Doyle Lawson. Of course I considered they used instruments that ran in the thousands, but I was still curious, so I e-mailed the place in Knoxville, Tenn. where I grew up. Matt Goins got right back to me and offered to send me one to review if I sent him my address, so I did. Pretty soon, I got a Blue Chip TD 35, same shape as a Martin or Fender medium pick I would use, but a bit thicker, .89. That is not far off though seeing I use picks that are .75 . I was at my local guitar store today playing a D/ced Alvarez MD80 for 499, which is a bargain, but still out of my range, I have a 3 year old black RD20S which has also been D/ced, I am a big lover of Alvarez instruments, My plans are to keep my RD20S for awhile, it sounds good and is a very playable guitar with a Taylor like neck.
Hate to disappoint you, but this is going to be a short review, I did find some good build up though. What all can you say about a pick. Well, I will say that The Blue Chip Company is manned by 5 guys, who make all of the picks with CNC machines for tight tolerances, they are made for longevity and tone, they are a bargain for the crowd that still uses tortoise shell, and less maintenance too.
I decided to compare it to a Fender medium, because it was almost exactly the same size, I ran thru a song, playing some chords and a lead run and it sounded like always, good(well, to me). (BTW), have no idea what these picks are made of, they are a brown color, nothing Fancy.
I played the same song with the Blue Chip and stopped, There was a very noticeable difference, One thing, The Blue Chips are very tacky, so they stick to your finger, it took me a while to get used to this, I discovered , that I must adjust the pick alot unconsciously, to get different lengths and so on, no big deal. The other thing is the tone was noticeably a good bit better, btw, I had a set of polyweb elixirs on my guitar, that I always use, probably a no no for hardcore bluegrass pickers.
Once I decided they were better, I kept playing with the BC, finding it very useful, especially in playing rhythm guitar, it gave me a much better rhythm tone. I honestly struggled a bit with the lead playing because of the tacky part, I probably could do without that, because I have been playing for over 30 years and to go from non sticky to sticky for the first time is different, but apparently, its part of the composition of the material they use. This is a winner, If guys like Chris Thile love this and the others , plus it is noticeably better for me, I like it. I generally do not have trouble losing stuff, that is where problems for people come in, I do know this, for me, the right pick has always been a big deal, and amongst the different plastics, celluloid's , THe right pick has meant alot. These are only available from Matt's website, btw, if you do not like your pick, within thirty days, you can return it for a full refund.
www.bluechippick.net

Verizon Wireless Bamajam Music and Arts Festival Welcomes New Sponsors

Verizon Wireless BamaJam Music & Arts Festival Welcomes New 2010 Sponsors


Dodge Ram Trucks, Kraft onboard with June 3-5 Event

Entertprise, AL - As the excitement continues to build for the 2010 Verizon Wireless BamaJam Music & Arts Festival, so does the list of today hottest performers and the sponsors who will help to make the June 3-5 event the most thrill-filled festival to date.

Fans from around the globe, who flock to Alabama for the 3-day music extravaganza, will enjoy food, games, activities, prizes, giveaways and oodles of fun, thanks to the generosity of sponsors like Dodge Ram Trucks, and Kraft.

Dodge will display a variety of the all-new, biggest and baddest Ram Trucks, named the 2010 Motor Trend Truck of the Year.

Kraft will feature two tents with artist meet-and-greets and tasty macaroni and cheese for the music-loving masses.

The Verizon Wireless BamaJam Music & Arts Festival has become synonymous with the biggest names in music entertainment. The festival boasts dozens of Grammy award-winning, platinum selling artists; all in one place, all at one jam-packed 3-day event.

Single day and 3 day discounted tickets on sale now. Tickets available at all Ticketmaster outlets, to charge by phone call 1-800-745-3000 or visit www.bamajammusicfestival.com
THURSDAY, JUNE
3rd ArtistsFRIDAY, JUNE
4th ArtistsSATURDAY, JUNE
5th Artists
Tyler Bryant
Dierks Bentley
Miss Willie Brown
Citizen Cope
The Cleverly’s
The Defibulators
The Dirty Dozen Brass Band
Danny Gokey
The Grascals
Chad Hall
Jim Beam Band 1
Jim Beam Band 2
Robert Earl Keen
Miranda Lambert
Led Zeppelin 2
LoCash Cowboys
Wes Lopez
Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives
Rio Grand
Stuckey & Murray
Chris Young
The Wells
Zac Brown Band



Blackberry Smoke
Alexa Carter
The Cleverly’s
The Defibulators
The Disco Biscuits
Colt Ford
Bill Gentry
Brantley Gilbert
Randy Houser
Chris Hurt
Jim Beam Band 3
Jim Beam Band 4
Jamey Johnson
Lucero
Rick Monroe
Sean Patrick McGraw
Spoonful James
Stuckey & Murray
Train
Travis Tritt
Jonathan Tyler & Northern Lights
Universal Songwriters
Wayne Mills Band
Hank Williams Jr.


Gregg Allman & Friends
Rodney Atkins
Chris Carpenter
Kenny Chesney
Louis Copeland
The Defibulators
Larry Frick
Buddy Guy
Beth Hart
Houston County
Jim Beam Band 5
Jim Beam Band 6
Matt Kennon
Stoney LaRue
Rick Monroe
Sean Patrick McGraw
Jake Owen
Shane Owens
Duece Poppi
Joanna Smith
Stealing Angels
Stuckey & Murray
Gretchen Wilson
Edgar Winter

Wynonna Judd Adds Her Own Personal Touch To Product Line At Cracker Barrel

Search Amazon.com for wynonna judd cd,WYNONNA JUDD ADDS PERSONAL TOUCH TO NEW PRODUCT LINE AT CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE®

Lifestyle products include shirts, writing journals, cosmetic bag and wallets


LEBANON, TENN (May 10, 2010) - Multi-platinum Curb Records recording artist and best-selling author Wynonna Judd has found a new home for her creative talents: Cracker Barrel Old Country Store®. A special collection of retail products, personally selected by Wynonna, will be available at all Cracker Barrel locations starting May 24th. The products reflect the savvy and successful lifestyle of a woman who is recognized as one of country music’s most accomplished artists.

“I think that Cracker Barrel represents everything that the Judds stood for: family, food and fellowship. I love the rocking chairs and I feel really good when I go to Cracker Barrel,” said Wynonna. “When we talked about a Wynonna collection of retail products for Cracker Barrel, I wanted items that women would see as useful in their everyday lives. All of our selections are high-quality, too. It’s like my mother said, ‘do it right, or don’t do it at all’.”

Wynonna’s partnership with Cracker Barrel started as a discussion about an exclusive CD of her music, and the conversation quickly grew to include a collection of retail products that mirrors her personal tastes. Wynonna believes the products will be well-received by women who balance the responsibilities of family, careers and their own personal enrichment.

The Wynonna collection of retail items includes:

Shirts: a knit shirt with subtle sparkles and a jersey knit shirt with rhinestones
Mugs: a wonderful gift for Wynonna fans - perfect for coffee and conversations with friends
Journals/Notepads: beautiful keepsakes to capture heartfelt moments and quick thoughts
Clutch Wallets: a sleek and convenient option for carrying your essentials
Cosmetic Bag: a stylish and sturdy case for your make-up needs
Sunglasses: classic frames with rhinestone studs and lenses that offer 100% UV protection

“For years, Wynonna has shared her creativity and style through her songs and performances,” said Terry Maxwell, Senior Vice President of Retail at Cracker Barrel. “With this collection of retail products, Cracker Barrel has become a new stage for Wynonna’s incredible talents. We believe these items will resonate well with our guests who identify with Wynonna’s experiences as a mother and daughter.”

The arrival of Wynonna retail products coincides with the May 24th release of the Love Heals CD, an exclusive recording for Cracker Barrel which features many of Wynonna’s number one hits along with three tracks not previously offered for sale. Both Cracker Barrel and Wynonna are honored that the CD and other Wynonna retail products will support American service men and women who have been severely wounded in battle. Cracker Barrel will donate a portion of proceeds from the sale of Wynonna-related products to Wounded Warrior Project, a nonprofit organization that provides assistance to wounded service men and women.

Wynonna fans can now pre-order the Love Heals CD through the Cracker Barrel website (crackerbarrel.com). They can also register to win A Weekend with Wynonna in Music City Sweepstakes. The grand prize package includes a trip to Nashville to meet Wynonna and see her perform at the Grand Ole Opry®. The lucky winner will also visit many of Nashville’s top attractions. Pre-order and contest information can be found on the Cracker Barrel website (crackerbarrel.com).




About Cracker Barrel
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store provides a friendly home-away-from-home in its old country stores and restaurants. Guests are cared for like family while relaxing and enjoying real home-style food and shopping that’s surprisingly unique, genuinely fun and reminiscent of America’s country heritage…all at a fair price. The restaurant serves up delicious, home-style country food such as meatloaf and homemade chicken n’ dumplins as well as its signature biscuits using an old family recipe. The authentic old country retail store is fun to shop and offers unique gifts and self-indulgences.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (Nasdaq: CBRL) was established in 1969 in Lebanon, Tenn. and operates 594 company-owned locations in 41 states. Every Cracker Barrel unit is open seven days a week with hours Sunday through Thursday, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday, 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. For more information, visit crackerbarrel.com.

About Wounded Warrior Project
The mission of the Wounded Warrior Project is to honor and empower wounded warriors. Its purpose is to raise awareness and to enlist the public’s aid for the needs of severely injured service members, to help severely injured men and women aid and assist each other, and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. WWP is a national, nonpartisan organization headquartered in Jacksonville, FL. To get involved and learn more, visit www.woundedwarriorproject.org

About Wynonna Judd
5-time GRAMMY Award winning artist, Wynonna Judd first gained fame as part of one of the most successful musical duos of all time, The Judds. On top of that amazing feat, she also holds multiple gold, platinum and multi-platinum certifications from the RIAA in excess of 30 million units sold for albums released throughout her illustrious 25-year career. In addition to her countless musical achievements, Wynonna became a New York Times best-selling author in 2005 with the release of her long-awaited autobiography, Coming Home to Myself, released in conjunction with her live CD and DVD: Her Story: Scenes from a Lifetime.

Wynonna recently announced she plans to reunite with her mother, Naomi, for a final Judds tour in 2010. She is also presently touring in support of her critically acclaimed seventh solo studio album, Sing: Chapter 1, an eclectic assortment of standards paying homage to all the different genres and songs that have formed the soundtrack to her life.
To learn more, visit www.wynonna.com



Media contacts:

Grascals Appear On NPR'S Mountain Stage Show

The Grascals Go "Public:" Appear On NPR's Mountain Stage Show May 14 - 16
Episode Also Features Patty Loveless, Loudon Wainwright III And More

Nashville, TN (May 10, 2010) -- Two-time International Bluegrass Music Association Entertainers of the Year, The Grascals, make their debut appearance on National Public Radio's two-hour Mountain Stage with Larry Groce, May 14-16. In an episode that was recorded live at the Creative Arts Center on the campus of West Virginia University March 21, The Grascals joined a lineup that included one of Country music's most beloved vocalists, Patty Loveless; songwriter and Grammy winner Loudon Wainwright III; West-coast country singer Leslie Stevens, and songwriter Pieta Brown.

The group's genre-bending blend of bluegrass and country was a natural fit for the show, which is in its 26th Season, and is the longest running public radio program of its kind. Mountain Stage is distributed to over 130 NPR stations nationwide and overseas on the Voice of America Satellite Service. Produced by WV Public Broadcasting (WVPB), station listings and air-times can be found at www.mountainstage.org . The show will be posted at NPR.org/mountainstage the following week, and archived for continued access.

Their performance for Mountain Stage included Happy Go Lucky; Only Daddy That'll Walk The Line; their current single, Last Train to Clarksville; Satan and Grandma; a medley of Hank Williams, Jr's hits (Born to Boogie/Women I Never Had/All My Rowdy Friends) and Sally Goodin'. The taping coincided with the release of their fourth CD, THE FAMOUS LEFTY FLYNN'S (Rounder Records). The 12-song disc is drawing stellar reviews, including:

"Plenty of bluegrass outfits shred as impressively as heavy metal groups ... The Grascals manage the feat on their fourth album." - BILLBOARD

"The Grascals make exceptional music sound easy. 'Lefty Flynn's' is packed with both the Grascals' signature close, affecting harmonies and memorable lead singing ... and the boundary between country and bluegrass is beautifully blurred." - THEBLUEGRASS SPECIAL.COM

"If praise from the 'old guard' is any indication of the future of this truly American genre of music, then The Grascals seem to have passed the generational test with flying colors."
- AMERICAN ENTERTAINMENT MAGAZINE

Additional recent media coverage includes: The Grand Ole Opry; SiriusXM Radio's Track By Track with Kyle Cantrell and The Bluegrass Junction On Stage; RFD-TV'S Larry's Country Diner and CMT's Southern Fried Flicks.

Fans can get all the news on The Grascals @ www.grascals.com.
(PHOTO CAPTION) L to R- Kristin Scott Benson, Terry Smith, Jamie Johnson, Terry Eldredge, Jeremy Abshire and Danny Roberts.

"I Am What I Am" - Merle Haggard - A Review

Merle Haggard's newest CD in 5 years is a refreshing acoustic affair with a touch of pedal steel and some electric pickin'. I had to fight to get a finished copy, but it was well worth the fight. Haggard is a smart man sticking with what is tried and true. His band, The Strangers accompany him, in his studio, the California "Shade Tree Manor Studio". Reggie Young helps out on guitar, with Rob Ickes on Dobro.

Every song is a Hag written affair, except for one. Some of the songs have a swing/jazz feel to them. The whole vibe of the album is informal. Haggard sounds refreshed in this take. Reggie Youngs twangy guitar adds alot to the mix. Lots of great guitar including Haggard. Haggard's wife writes a very inspired piece in the small insert, plus adding some sweet vocals on the CD. "Live and Love Always" features husband and wife singing together, while Merle talks in the background.

What makes an album great, Great Musicians mostly. That is what we have here. Whether it's Haggard's great vocals or Ickes' Dobro in the background, this is a great album. You won't find a better recording, unless this was put in the SACD format. This is available on CD or vinyl, if you download stuff, you can probably do it that way too. I just love "How did you Find me Here?", great bluesy sounding song , Haggard has a great way of putting hooks in his songs and as a producer, he knows where to emphasize what, He really sounds like he is Having fun. By the Way, Merle is on a new Label, This is his first record for Vanguard Records.

In closing, this is a great find in today's market, a real icon, playing iconic music. He still has it. I love the artwork, Just a simple picture of The Hag with his Hat. OK, drum roll, my two favorite songs are the first song, "I've Seen It All Go Away" and the last song which is the title track "I Am what I am". The opener is a brilliant song about Hag's experience with life, a bit political, a it about his experience, just a great song. He really gets into it. Sometimes , He sounds a bit like The man in Black. Who better, to do it, but Merle Haggard. Well, enjoy, it turned out to be worth the wait!!!

www.vanguardrecords.com

Rural Rhythm Signs Grasstowne

Rural Rhythm Records Signs Grasstowne


Rural Rhythm Records is proud to announce they have signed Grasstowne to the label and will release the band’s new album early 2011 with a new single coming later this year. "Steve has been a friend of our family for many years, so we all feel like this is a dream come true homecoming for Rural Rhythm. Steve and Alan have firmly established Grasstowne as a major Bluegrass band attaining many key awards, top charted songs and two critically acclaimed albums since their formation late in 2006. With great anticipation, we look forward to being a part of Grasstowne's rapidly growing success," said Sam Passamano, Jr., President of Rural Rhythm Records.

Steve Gulley agreed saying, “I couldn’t be happier or more excited about being a part of the Rural Rhythm family. The company’s track record speaks for itself. It’s a truly artist friendly label that believes in providing its artists with the creative freedom and tools it takes to make great music and, at the same time, make sure their music is heard in as many places as possible. All the guys in Grasstowne are looking forward to being associated with the fine folks at Rural Rhythm for a long, long time to come.”

Grasstowne just announced their new line-up that includes: Steve Gulley (guitar, vocals); Alan Bibey (mandolin, vocals); Adam Haynes (fiddle, baritone & bass vocals); Justin Jenkins (Banjo and baritone vocals); and Kameron Keller (bass).

“Steve and I as well as all the guys in Grasstowne are really pumped about being a part of the Rural Rhythm family. We feel like our beliefs and outlook on music are the same and love the work ethic exhibited by this great label. We look forward to what we think will be a wonder and prosperous venture for all of us,” said Alan Bibey.

Grasstowne will be performing May 6 at the Doyle Lawson Bluegrass Festival in Denton, NC and May 8 at the Bluegrass on the Waccamaw in Conway, SC. Please visit www.grasstowne.com for a complete tour schedule and other band information.

For more information on Rural Rhythm Records, please visit www.ruralrhythm.com

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BAND CONTACT
Grasstowne, Alan Bibey
Phone: 843-457-6662
Email
Website
RECORD LABEL:
Rural Rhythm Records
Radio Contact: Sammy Passamano, III
Email

Rural Rhythm Releases "Look To The Light" songs by Rick Lang

Rural Rhythm Christian is proud to announce the May 4, 2010 album release of “LOOK TO THE LIGHT: Songs of Faith from the Pen of Rick Lang.” Christian songwriter, Rick Lang has had well over two dozen of his songs recorded and performed by a variety of top, well-known and award-winning bluegrass groups. Also serving as Executive Producer, Lang hand picked award-winning bluegrass artists to perform on the album including: Russell Moore, Dale Ann Bradley, Jeff Parker, Junior Sisk, and Barry Scott; with musicians, Michael Cleveland, Ron Stewart, John Miller, Jesse Brock and more.

The album, arranged and co-produced by John Miller and Jesse Brock, features newly written songs by Rick Lang and co-writing assistance on three tracks from Pete Goble, Ted DeMille and Justin Carbone. The first single release, “How Far Will I Fall,” includes the incredible lead vocals by Russell Moore who said, “This is a wonderful project and I'm very proud that Rick asked me to be a part of it. I hope that my vocal contributions have given justice to his heartfelt messages." The song is now available to radio via AirPlay Direct and will also be serviced to Bluegrass, Southern Gospel and Country Gospel radio stations.

“LOOK TO THE LIGHT’ is more than a great gospel album, it’s a tour de force of bluegrass’ finest, coupled with heartfelt songs from the pen of preeminent bluegrass gospel songwriter Rick Lang. "A must have,” said Terry Herd, Bluegrass Radio Network.

Rick Lang is featured in the new issue of Bluegrass Music Profiles, Songwriter Profile and also in the current issue of Power Source Magazine, Bluegrass News section, New Release Spotlight. Rick explains his goal for “LOOK TO THE LIGHT ” saying, “To touch the heart and stir the soul of all who listen to these songs. Each was written from personal experiences and my own struggles with day-to-day life and my faith.”

Tracks include:
1. THIRST & HUNGER (Russell Moore & Dale Ann Bradley)
2. BEAUTIFUL HALL (Jeff Parker)
3. LOOK TO THE LIGHT (John Miller, Jesse Brock & Dale Ann Bradley)
4. ANGEL AT YOUR SIDE (Barry Scott & Dale Ann Bradley)
5. I’VE BEEN REDEEMED (Junior Sisk)
6. BAD NEWS FOR THE DEVIL (John Miller & Dale Ann Bradley)
7. HIS LOVING CARE (Junior Sisk)
8. HE’LL LEAD YOU UP (Jeff Parker)
9. HOW FAR WILL I FALL (Russell Moore & Dale Ann Bradley)
10. I LONG TO SEE HIS FACE (John Miller & Jesse Brock)
11. THE GOOD SAMARITAN (Jeff Parker)
12. MOMMA’S PRAYER BEADS (John Miller & Dale Ann Bradley)
13. HE UNDERSTANDS (Barry Scott & Dale Ann Bradley)
14. SAILING ON (Russell Moore & Dale Ann Bradley)

Les Butler, Syndicated Radio Host, Front Porch Fellowship / Singing News Magazine said, “Add simple Christian lyrics to some high powered singing and playing and you’ve got an equation for success!”

“LOOK TO THE LIGHT” will be available nationwide at top bluegrass locations including iTunes, Amazon.com, Ernest Tubb Record Shops, County Sales, Music Shed, Rural Rhythm Records and more.

Please visit www.RuralRhythm.com for more information.

PREORDER YOUR COPY HERE



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DOWNLOAD HIGH RES CD COVER HERE

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

RADIO - AIRPLAY DIRECT

MEDIA CONTACT: Hope River Entertainment
Penni McDaniel | 678.377.329| Email