Showing posts with label superstars. Show all posts
Showing posts with label superstars. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

"Soul Of The South" - Doug Gray - A Review

This is an eight song EP, that Doug Gray recorded with the other remaining members of the MTB, except for Tommy Caldwell, who had died in a vehicle accident. This was a project of R & B songs that he was working on for a major label. The songs were picked from a large number of catalog demos. There recorded by country great recording engineer of Nashville, Billy Sherrill in Spartansburg. The band was in between labels and Doug was using this time for the project, intentions were for it to be a full album, but the MTB was signed by Warner Brothers and He felt his responsibility to move on with the band. Pianist Ronnie Godfrey, and local guitarist Rusty Milner were also involved in the project, Milner later took Toy's place as lead guitarist for the MTB.




Gray says that he picked seven songs from three hundred demos. He said He did "More Today Than Yesterday", because Sherrill bet he could not hit the high notes. Gray then takes the tape to Nashville and changes it, adding, almost a totally different band. Riddle is still very evident as the only drummer. There is a song that I like alot called "Sandman", a bouncy sounding ,jazzy piece that sounds like Toy on lead guitar, some very nice lead guitar, I might add. I can't say that I hear Toy anywhere else on the CD.



"Let Me Be The Fool" is another jazzy sounding number. It has some great sax on it , which I am thinking is Jerry Eubanks. Bassist Bob Wray was added in Nashville and sounds good playing with Riddle. "Who" has a lot of Synth in the mix and He has some backup singers called The Cherry Sisters, who add a Motown touch to the mix.



"Guilty" is a funk, disco type song with funky disco groove going on. Doug Gray sounds good on this type of material.



"Don't Blame it on The Rain" has lots of orchestration from the synthes. The funky bass is excellent, good guitar here, definitely not sounding like Toy or George.



"Still Thinking Of You" (Michael Bolton) sounds good, excellent song by the star to be. It is a slower number, fit's Doug's voice well.



"More Today Than Yesterday" is one of the best sounding songs on the EP. Doug's vocals really do justice to the popular cover song. The rhythm guitar could be McCorkle, sounds like his style. This CD along with the New MTB greatest hits CD are both available on Amazon and MTB website. This CD is a good recording in the end, I would have loved to hear the version before it left Spartanburg.

http://www.marshalltuckerband.com/

Thursday, June 10, 2010

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!!

Thursday, May 27, 2010

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

Monday, April 26, 2010

Wynonna's Next Release a Cracker Barrel Exclusive

WYNONNA’S NEXT RELEASE AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY AT CRACKER BARREL
New CD will benefit Wounded Warrior Project
LEBANON, TENN (April 26, 2010) – Multi-platinum Curb Records recording artist and five-time GRAMMY® Award winner Wynonna Judd has joined Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® in its support of Wounded Warrior Project with the release of Love Heals, a collection of Wynonna’s top singles and three other tracks not available for sale until now. The new CD can be pre-ordered beginning today and will arrive in all Cracker Barrel locations on May 24th.
In addition to sharing new music with her fans, Wynonna is honored and humbled to support Wounded Warrior Project and its efforts to assist wounded service men and women and their families. Cracker Barrel will donate a portion of the proceeds from the sale of every Love Heals CD to Wounded Warrior Project. In 2008, Wounded Warrior Project started coordinating retreats for caregivers who help their wounded loved ones facing a range of physical and mental challenges. The retreats provide the caregivers with rest, rejuvenation and a place to connect with other caregivers.
“I am deeply moved by the caregivers who take on the responsibility of caring for our wounded warriors,” said Wynonna. “I appreciate Cracker Barrel for their continued support of Wounded Warrior Project and its mission to honor and empower wounded warriors as they continue life beyond the injury.”
Beginning today, fans can pre-order the Love Heals CD by visiting the Cracker Barrel website (crackerbarrel.com). The exclusive CD features many of Wynonna’s biggest hits (No One Else On Earth, Only Love and She Is His Only Need) along with three tracks that have not been available for sale, including Let Your Light Shine, a new song never before released.

“We’re very excited to provide our guests with this collection of Wynonna’s most popular songs,” said Peter Keiser, Vice President of Marketing at Cracker Barrel. “Wynonna welcomed the idea of producing a project that would benefit our nation’s service men and women. Her appreciation of veterans is very sincere, and we’re honored to have Wynonna by our side as Cracker Barrel continues its support of Wounded Warrior Project.”

During the pre-order process, fans 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 get to visit many of Nashville’s top attractions. Other prizes including autographed Wynonna Love Heals CDs and complimentary meals at Cracker Barrel. 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.

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Superstar George Strait Announces Big News For San Antonio and Nashville

SUPERSTAR ENTERTAINER GEORGE STRAIT
ANNOUNCES BIG NEWS
FOR SAN ANTONIO AND NASHVILLE


Nashville, TN (March 12, 2010) – At the opening festivities of the 28th Annual George Strait Team Roping Classic finals in San Antonio today, George Strait announced to the hometown crowd that he is bringing his superstar tour to the Alamodome. The stadium show is scheduled for May 1st and includes the King of Country Music along with Reba and special guests Lee Ann Womack and the Randy Rogers Band. Tickets go on sale March 27th at 10:00am through Ticketmaster.

Earlier this week, Strait announced plans to perform a full concert in Nashville, for the first time since 2004 when he broke the house record for most attendance. The Music City date is set for April 28th at the Bridgestone Arena and will also include 2010 tour mates Reba and Lee Ann Womack. Tickets for the Nashville show go on sale March 20 at 10:00am at www.ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-5300 and at the Bridgestone Arena Box Office.

Tickets can be charged by phone at Ticketmaster Express 800-745-3000 or online at www.ticketmaster.com.

George Strait has sold out and broken numerous attendance records on his tour again this year including Phoenix, AZ, Wichita, KS, Tulsa, OK, New Orleans, LA, Kansas City, MO, Omaha, NE, Orlando, Fl and Des Moines, IA. Among those, he set a house attendance record of 18,000 at the Bank of Oklahoma Center in Tulsa, OK.

Strait, named Artist of the Decade last year, is nominated this year for ACM Entertainer of the Year for the 12th time and Top Male Vocalist for the 20th time, bringing the ACM Artist of the Decade’s all-time record to 81 ACM nominations. The ACMS will air live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Sunday, April 18 at 8:00 PM live EST on CBS.

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

Strait’s CD Twang debuted at #1 on The Billboard 200 and the Top Country Albums chart. This is the fourth time in Strait's career that a new release has debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and the 13th time debuting at #1 on the Top Country Albums chart. The current single, “I Gotta Get To You,” is Number 20 on Billboard and Media Base singles charts.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

SunnyD and Country Music Songstress Martina Mcbride Encourage moms to share Stories of Children's Shining Moments

SunnyD And Country Music Songstress Martina McBride Encourage Moms To Share Stories Of Their Children’s Shining Moments For The Chance To Win $10,000 And A VIP Trip To Meet Martina At A Performance in Nashville

Nashville, Tenn. (March 10, 2010) --- SunnyD partners with Martina McBride – Superstar and Mom – to encourage the shining moments of children in a national marketing campaign. This marks SunnyD’s first music and entertainment partnership. The partnership is a fun and exciting way for SunnyD to connect with Martina’s fans who share an optimistic and youthful outlook with the brand. The campaign includes a national TV, print and retail campaign, national consumer promotion, and concert tour sponsorship.

"SunnyD is delighted to be partnering with Martina McBride for the Time to Shine promotion. This partnership is a great fit as it brings together two enduring, spirited brands that encourage children to achieve their best,” said Mark Ozimek, Assistant Brand Manager for SunnyD. "Martina's music is all about optimism. And since 1964, SunnyD has been bringing out the best in kids."

"Every child has their own unique qualities and interests and as a mom I know how important it is to help nurture those attributes," said Martina. "I love that SunnyD is celebrating and encouraging the spirits of kids nationwide and am honored they asked me to help. I can't think of anything more important to champion than our children's future."

Both Martina and SunnyD believe that every child shines at something and they are celebrating kids’ bright spirits through the “Time to Shine” promotion. Consumers are encouraged to pick up a bottle of SunnyD, go to www.sunnyd.com and share a brief story about how their child shines. The grand prize winner receives $10,000 and a VIP trip to meet Martina at a performance in Nashville! Monthly winners are also chosen to receive gifts which are scholarships and/or other prizes to encourage them to continue achieving excellent results (for example, a soccer player may receive a scholarship to a soccer camp). No one goes home empty handed because each entrant receives a free three-month Martina McBride fan club membership and access to exclusive behind the scenes footage from the SunnyD Shine All Night Tour.

As part of the campaign, Martina is featured in SunnyD television commercials which feature shadows of children celebrating in every day moments. Martina also recorded the “Shine On” jingle for the commercial campaign. In magazines such as People and Better Homes & Gardens, SunnyD print ads feature Martina and drive consumers to SunnyD.com to enter the “Time to Shine” promotion.

A new website, featuring video and audio of Martina, was also developed for the “Time to Shine” promotion. Consumers can either enter the contest, or scroll through the numerous entries that are posted on the site.

Fans will also find Martina and the “Time to Shine” promotion featured on select SunnyD bottles and on retail merchandising materials.

SunnyD’s mobile tour, including the brand’s signature VW van, will be visiting select concerts to offer fans fun and interactive experiences. Text to Screen Promotions allow fans to send messages to Martina and enter to win a new ipod fully loaded with Martina McBride music along with other SunnyD prizes. Playing into the party atmosphere of the SHINE ALL NIGHT TOUR, SunnyD will be tossing T-shirts, Beach balls, and distributing other items to the crowd during the concert. Fans receive a free bottle of SunnyD on the way out the door allowing fans to “Shine On” long after the concert experience.

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

The breadth of her talents - as recording artist, producer, songwriter, and concert entertainer - has made her an in-demand performer and personality, appearing on such high-profile programs as VH1 Divas (singing with Jordin Sparks), Dancing with the Stars, the Today Show's "Today Throws a Wedding," American Idol, The Bachelorette, Private Sessions, a 20/20 special, and much more.

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

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

About the Sunny Delight Beverages Co.

Sunny Delight Beverages Co., based in Cincinnati, OH, is a leading producer of juice-based drinks in North America and Western Europe. The company is dedicated to helping Moms improve the vitality of their families by creating and marketing more wholesome beverages. Privately held, the company's brands include SunnyD citrus punch, Elations, FruitSimple fruit smoothies, Fruit F2O flavored waters, VeryFine 100% juices and juice drinks, and Bossa Nova "superfruit" beverages.

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For Press Materials or Media Requests, Go to www.frontpagepublicity.com or

Saturday, February 20, 2010

"Come Together Now" Single Available at all Digital Retailers, Music Video Debuts This Week

“Come Together Now” Single Available at All Digital Retailers, Music Video Debuts This Week

NASHVILLE, TENN. (February 18, 2010) – Artistic communities around the world continue to come together in efforts to aid the island nation of Haiti after the devastating earthquakes of January 12, 2010. Music City has done its part with the recent collaboration of the biggest names in Nashville’s own Country, Christian and Gospel music communities.

Multi-Platinum, GRAMMY and Dove Award winning artist Michael W. Smith gathered a community of Nashville-based artists on January 27 at Belmont University’s Ocean Way Studio to record “Come Together Now” – a song written by Smith, David Mullen and Cindy Morgan – to benefit Haiti relief efforts.

Released under the banner Music City Unites For Haiti (Various Artists), and with the studio’s, artists’ and musicians’ time all donated, proceeds from the single will go to designated charity and relief work through Samaritan’s Purse and American Red Cross.

The single is now available at all digital retailers.

Bringing aid and relief efforts to Haiti is a personal mission for Michael W. Smith, who has already traveled to the island with Samaritan’s Purse, a non-denominational evangelical Christian humanitarian organization, in the wake of the earthquake, and whose wife Debbie has done missionary work in the nation in the past.

“I’m deeply grateful to Michael for all his efforts to help those suffering in Haiti, shares Franklin Graham, president and CEO of Samaritan’s Purse. “Every artist and every individual who can use their talent and ability to shed light on those in need, when it’s all added together, it makes a huge difference. My prayer is that God will use this song and video to touch the hearts of this nation to give generously to the people of Haiti.”


The music video for “Come Together Now” will be distributed by The AristoMedia Group. Please visit http://aristovideopromo.com/michael-w-smith-brings-music-city-together-to-help-haiti/ to stream the video. To request a copy of “Come Together Now” for additional streaming or broadcast purposes, contact Craig Bann at cbann@aristomedia.com.

In addition, “Come Together Now” will be the lead track for the March 2nd Healing4Haiti, a full album project featuring songs by artists including Israel Houghton, DecembeRadio, Kari Jobe, The Afters, Hawk Nelson, Flyleaf’s Lacey Mosley, Canton Jones, Lincoln Brewster and Mary Mary. For more information on the album, please visit: www.healing4haiti.info or www.samaritanspurse.org.

Artists part of “Come Together Now” Music City Unites for Haiti include:
Aaron Shust, Alathea, Amy Grant, Vince Gill, Ashley Cleveland, Austins Bridge, Brandon Heath, Britt Nicole, Chris McClarney, Chris Rodriguez, Chris Sligh, Don Poythress, Dorothy Savage, Duane Allen, Echoing Angels, Everlife, Francesca Battistelli, Jaime Jamgochian, Jared Anderson, Jody Davis, John Schlitt, Kate Lazar, Katinas, Kevin Max, Kirk Sullivan, Lee Greenwood, Manic Drive, Margaret Becker, Mark Hall, Matt Dowley, Matthew West, Matt Maher, Meredith Andrews, Michael Tait, MIKESCHAIR, Mike Weaver, Paige Armstrong, Phil Stacey, Point of Grace, PureNRG, Rachael Lampa, Restless Heart, Selah, Steven Curtis Chapman, Toby Mac, Veronica Petrucci, Wynonna, and Yellow Cavalier.

About Michael W. Smith: (Reunion Records/Provident Music Group):
Throughout his 27-year career as a recording artist, Michael W. Smith has amassed an impressive catalog of achievements. His 21 albums have garnered multiple honors including an American Music Award, three GRAMMY ® Awards (from 13 nominations), 44 GMA Dove Awards and 33 No. 1 radio hits. In addition, he holds 16 Gold and five platinum albums for career sales approaching 15 million.

Smith, who was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2009, has scored several film projects, written 11 books and has been featured by media outlets including, NBC’s Today Show, Good Morning America, NBC Nightly News, Larry King Live, FOX and Friends, Hannity and Colmes, USA Today, NY Times, The Washington Post, LA Times, Newsweek, has been named one of People Magazine's "Most Beautiful People" and has presented multiple times on the GRAMMY Awards show. His tours consistently rank among the best attended in the country, and he has performed to capacity crowds throughout the world.

Constantly giving back to the community, one of Smith’s current projects is Rocketown--a nightclub for teens in his hometown of Nashville, Tenn.--which serves as safe place for young people to enjoy music and for artists to be discovered. He and wife Debbie Smith are the proud parents of five children. For up-to-date information on Michael W. Smith, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com or www.providentpress.com.

About AristoVideo:
A division of The AristoMedia Group, AristoVideo has built a 25-year history of marketing artists through visual mediums, including music videos, EPKs, liners and interview features, which are serviced to television, closed-circuit and Internet outlets across the globe. Visit www.AristoVideoPromo.com for more information.

For radio servicing of “Come Together Now” please contact Andrew Patton at andrew.patton@pattonhouseentertainment.com

Sunday, February 07, 2010

Breaking News From "The Early Show" ,Saturday Edition

BREAKING NEWS FROM "THE EARLY SHOW," SATURDAY EDITION:

LEGENDARY COUNTRY SOUL DIVA WYNONNA JUDD WILL
REUNITE WITH NAOMI JUDD FOR FINAL “THE JUDDS” TOUR

Legendary country soul diva Wynonna Judd announced today on The Early Show, Saturday edition that she will reunite with her mother, Naomi Judd, for a final “The Judds” tour.

As part of CBS News’ broadcast plans leading up to Super Bowl XLIV, THE EARLY SHOW, Saturday edition (check local listings) broadcast from Lummus Park in South Beach. The broadcast, anchored by Chris Wragge and Erica Hill, featured a special live performance by Wynonna Judd.

Five-time GRAMMY winner Wynonna Judd first gained fame as part of one of the most successful musical duos of all time, The Judds. 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.

Michael Rosen is the executive producer of THE EARLY SHOW, Saturday edition.




Media Contacts:
For media inquiries, please contact:
Webster & Associates Public Relations

Kirt Webster / kirt@websterpr.com
(615) 777-6995 x 30

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Wynonna, The Oak Ridge Boys, Lee Greenwood, and Restless Heart join Michael W. Smith and a community of Artists to Record "Come Together Now" to benefit Haiti Relief Efforts

WYNONNA, THE OAK RIDGE BOYS, LEE GREENWOOD, and RESTLESS HEART JOIN MICHAEL W. SMITH AND A COMMUNITY OF ARTISTS TO RECORD “COME TOGETHER NOW” TO BENEFIT HAITI RELIEF EFFORTS

A Children’s Choir of More than 250 Elementary School Students – Including 14 from Haiti - Joined Artists Wynonna, Steven Curtis Chapman, Casting Crowns, The Oak Ridge Boys, Mandisa, Matt Maher, Lee Greenwood, Phil Stacey, TobyMac, Travis Cottrell, Darwin Hobbs, Restless Heart, Point of Grace, Brandon Heath, Margaret Becker, Michael Tait, Kevin Max, The Newsboys, Ashley Cleveland, The Katinas, Kirk Sullivan, Meredith Andrews, Matthew West, Francesca Battistelli, Everlife and More

NASHVILLE, TENN. – Yesterday at Belmont University’s Ocean Way Studios, multi-platinum, GRAMMY and Dove Award winning artist, gathered a who’s-who list from the music community to record “Come Together Now.” The song, penned by Smith, David Mullen and Cindy Morgan – and produced by Bryan Lenox – was written to remind people of the need to help those in Haiti.

“The crisis in Haiti has left us all trying to figure out how we can help,” shares Smith. “We wanted to create something that the community could support, for the greater good of those in Haiti. Everyone gave of their time: the studio was donated, the musicians donated their time and all proceeds from this song will go to designated charity/relief work through The American Red Cross and Samaritan’s Purse. It’s incredible to be part of something that is going to help so many people.”

In addition to lending their voices in song, several artists also recorded PSA’s for The American Red Cross and Samaritan’s Purse for use in upcoming months.

Contributing artists include: Aaron Shust, Alathea, Amber Hezlep, Anthony Moreino, Anthony Skinner, Ashley Cleveland, Austins Bridge, B. Reith, Brady Toops, Brandon Heath, Britt Nicole, Byron Chambers, Calvin Nowell, Charmaine, Chris McClarney, Chris Sligh, Chuck Girard, Dana Jorgensen, Darwin Hobbs, David Mullen, Don Poythress, Donovan Tea, Dorothy Savage, Duane Allen, Echoing Angels, Everlife, Francesca Battistelli, Greg Jennings, Hillary McBride, Jaime Jamgochian, Jared Anderson, Jasmine Sagginario, Jason Baird, Jason Dunn, Jimmie Allen, Jody Davis, John Ford Coley, John Schlitt, Joseph Martino, Julia Ross, Justin Rivers, Kate Lazar, Kate Schettler, The Katinas, Kevin Max, Kirk Sullivan, Lara Landon, Lanae Hale, Lannie Anderson, Lee Greenwood, Mandisa, Manic Drive, Margaret Becker, Mark Hall and Megan Garrett of Casting Crowns, Matt Dowley, Matthew West, Matt Maher, Melinda Doolittle, Meredith Andrews, Michael Cavallo, Michael Olson, Michael Tait, Michael Tash, MIKESCHAIR, Mike Weaver, Natalie Grant, Nicole C. Mullen, The Oak Ridge Boys, Paige Armstrong, Phil Stacey, Point of Grace, PureNRG, Rachael Lampa, Rachel B. James, Reco Hight, Restless Heart, Ruben Mundo, Russ Mohr, Sarah Ross, Sarah Sadler, Selah, Shannon Cochran, Shawn Cavallo, Stephanie Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman, Terrence James, TobyMac, Tommy Coomes, Travis Cottrell, Trey Heffinger, Wynonna, and Yellow Cavalier. (Artist list subject to change.)

The song will be made available for sale soon, with all proceeds going to benefit relief efforts to Haiti. More details on the song’s release date are forthcoming.








Media Contacts:

Wynonna and Wyclef Jean To Perform on CBS News "The Early Show", Saturday Edition Super Bowl Stage

WYNONNA & WYCLEF JEAN
TO PERFORM ON CBS NEWS' “THE EARLY SHOW", SATURDAY EDITION SUPER BOWL STAGE
Music Superstars come together for the first time for monumental performance
Nashville, TN – “Are You Ready For Some Wynonna!” -- The country soul diva will take THE EARLY SHOW, Saturday edition Super Bowl stage on Saturday morning, February 6th to continue CBS News’ coverage of Super Bowl activities. THE EARLY SHOW, Saturday edition will broadcast from Lummus Park in South Beach, Florida, anchored by Chris Wragge and Erica Hill, with Weather anchor Lonnie Quinn.

Fans looking for ticket information to this one-time performance can resource:
http://www.1iota.com/shows,CBS---The-Early-Show,149.html

Wynonna will be making a special announcement on this ‘live’ broadcast while Wyclef Jean will talk about the recent earthquake in Haiti and the Nation’s recovery efforts.
About Wynonna
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 released 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.
Visit www.wynonna.com to learn more!

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Country SuperGroup Lonestar Debuts new Studio Album, Party Heard Around The World

COUNTRY SUPERGROUP
LONESTAR DEBUTS NEW STUDIO ALBUM,
PARTY HEARD AROUND THE WORLD,
IN STORES APRIL 27TH

SAGUARO ROAD RECORDS BRINGS GROUNDBREAKING NEW MUSIC FROM MULTI-PLATINUM LEGENDS

Nashville, Tennessee – The New Year of 2010 launches with the promise of the much-anticipated return to the charts of a true country music super-group—LONESTAR –whose career path to date has been marked by countless multi-platinum milestones.

The band is releasing their first studio album in four years—cause enough for celebration to the universe of country/pop cross-over fans who have long embraced them. And the news gets better. Party Heard Around The World, their 10th album, is a total ‘hands on’ creative effort, produced by the band with eight of the ten tracks written by the foursome. Noted lead guitarist and original member Michael Britt said in a recent interview: “We feel that this album is a complete reflection of the group, circa 2010. It’s personal and powerful music that reflects the core values of Lonestar through lyrics, performance and production.”

Lonestar’s commitment to open the new decade with a new chapter of music will have the full label support of Saguaro Road Records and be the subject of a major multi-phase national retail/radio/media/marketing campaign set to roll-out in advance of the April 27th street date.

Known both for their strong country roots as well as their multi-genre crossover appeal that’s led to a history of success on the pop/rock charts, Lonestar has only their own career records to break. To date, the band has RIAA certified sales in excess of 10 million album units since their national launch in 1995. The Texas bred band has had an impressive list of hit singles on the country charts, including ten #1’s as well as nine Top 40 songs on the pop charts. Signature songs in the mid-90’s included early #1 hits such as “No News,” and “Come Cryin’ To Me.” Their 1999 album release, Lonely Grill, produced Lonestar’s biggest crossover smash to date, the ballad “Amazed,” which spent eight weeks at the #1 spot on the country charts as well as reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The dual win made them the first country act since Kenny Rogers & Dolly Parton’s “Islands In the Stream” in 1983 to accomplish this career milestone. Three more singles from the band (“Smile,” “What About Now,” and “Tell Her”) followed to #1 as the Lonely Grill album was certified multi-platinum. Lonestar dealt listeners a follow-up platinum hand with the release of their I’m Already There album (2001) with the title track lead-off single spending six weeks at #1 as the album was on the way to platinum certification.

In addition to garnering music accolades, Lonestar has been oft- lauded for their continuous outreach in the arena of humanitarian goodwill. The band was recognized by The Academy of Country Music with the coveted Home Depot Humanitarian Award in 2003 for their continued commitment to help build the dreams of those in need—this in recognition to the group’s single handed dedication to the building of a playground for children in tornado ravaged Jackson, Tennessee. America’s military forces have been a major focus for concert and fund raising efforts by the band as has St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, to mention only a few of their ongoing humanitarian interests.

Lonestar consists of original members Dean Sams, Keech Rainwater, and Michael Britt, as well as lead vocalist Cody Collins who joined the group in 2007.

Party Heard Around The World is set to make a legion of new fans, as well as re-connect Lonestar to a universe of dedicated fans for whom their latest studio project has been eagerly awaited. Tour dates in support of the new album release are expected to be announced within the next few weeks.

About Saguaro Road Records and Direct Holdings:
Saguaro Road is an imprint launched by Direct Holdings Americas Inc, the company that markets and sells audio and video entertainment products under the Time Life brand, using it under license from Time Warner Inc. The label focuses on artists that have a uniquely American roots oriented sound and has recently released albums from Patty Loveless, the Blind Boys of Alabama, Tanya Tucker, Joan Osborne and Edwin McCain.

Time Life and the Time Life logo are registered trademarks of Time Warner Inc. and affiliated companies, used under license by Direct Holdings Americas Inc., which is not affiliated with Time Warner Inc. or Time Inc. Headquartered in Fairfax VA, Direct Holdings Americas Inc.'s history began in 1961 as a direct marketing division of Time Incorporated specializing in music and books. The business has been operated as a separate company since the mid-1970s when it relocated to Virginia, and has since grown to become one of the world’s largest direct marketers of audio and video products throughout North America, Europe and Australia. The Company has set the standard in the direct response industry by pioneering direct marketing techniques and building one of the most trusted and recognized brands in commerce. The Company now also sells its products through major traditional and non-traditional retailers around the world as well as via the Internet. The Company was sold in 2003 to private investors. Saguaro Road Records is a trademark of Direct Holdings Americas Inc.

Monday, January 04, 2010

Twenty Acts will Perform in Three Days, combining 66 #1 hits and 120 million albums Sold

TRACY LAWRENCE, JOE NICHOLS, DARRYL WORLEY,
NEAL McCOY, JOHN ANDERSON, PAM TILLIS,
THE COMMODORES, LORRIE MORGAN, AARON TIPPIN,
THE BELLAMY BROTHERS AMONG OTHERS TO PERFORM
FOR COUNTRY CROSSING’S JANUARY
GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION – FREE TO THE PUBLIC

Twenty Acts Will Perform in Three Days – Combining 66 No. 1 Hits and 120 Million Albums Sold

DOTHAN, Ala. – Country Crossing announces artists to perform during its three-day grand opening event, January 15-17, 2010. Headliners for the event include Tracy Lawrence, Darryl Worley, Lorrie Morgan and John Anderson, who all have interests in the development. All live shows will be free to the public.

“As we’ve said all along, Country Crossing will provide first-class country music entertainment and this lineup is just the beginning,” says Ronnie Gilley, president, Ronnie Gilley Entertainment and developer of Country Crossing. “Our grand opening will be nothing short of spectacular, and we are looking forward to many more great performances in the months and years to come.”

Dates and confirmed artists include:

Friday, January 15:
5 p.m. Matt Kennon
6:30 p.m. Confederate Railroad
8 p.m. Restless Heart
9:30 p.m. Little Texas
11 p.m. Aaron Tippin
12:30 a.m. Neal McCoy

Saturday, January 16:
3:30 p.m. The Grascals
5 p.m. Houston County
6:30 p.m. John Conlee
8 p.m. Pam Tillis
9:30 p.m. Blackhawk
11 p.m. Joe Nichols
12:30 a.m. Tracy Lawrence

Sunday, January 17:
3:30 p.m. LoCash Cowboys
5 p.m. Blackberry Smoke
6:30 p.m. Bellamy Brothers
8 p.m. John Anderson
9:30 p.m. Lorrie Morgan
11 p.m. Darryl Worley
12:30 a.m. Commodores

Bluegrass sensation, The Grascals, will also perform in the Worley Bird Saloon on Saturday night, Jan. 16

The performing artists have combined record sales of more than 120 million, 66 No.1 hits and 200 top ten singles.

“This is the first time in history that 20 artist, with a combined 120 million record sales and 66 No. 1 hits, will perform in three days at one venue – all free to the public,” adds Gilley. “You won’t have to go to a big city anymore to find high-caliber entertainment. We are bringing it right here.”

Ribbon cutting ceremonies for the venues with artists and officials will begin at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 17. George Jones will attend the ribbon cutting for the George Jones Possum Holler Bed & Breakfast. Exact times for the individual ribbon cuttings will be released at a later date.

Venues for ribbon cuttings include:
George Jones Possum Holler Bed & Breakfast
The Grascals Bluegrass Hollow RV Park
Lorrie Morgan’s Hot Chicken
John Anderson’s Cafeteria
Darryl Worley’s Worley Bird Saloon

Artists will be available for interviews at the ribbon cutting ceremonies. Artists performing each night will also be available for interviews. To schedule an artist interview, please contact Claire Ratliff at claire@websterpr.com.

For all entertainment-related questions, contact Kirt Webster with Webster & Associates at kirt@websterpr.com

Country Crossing is a one-of-a-kind entertainment destination resort located in Dothan, Ala. It has been designed to create lasting family memories and to bring the spirit of music to the community and visitors. Attractions include celebrity themed restaurants: John Anderson’s Cafeteria, Darryl Worley’s Worley Bird Saloon and Lorrie Morgan’s Hot Chicken. Phase One also includes George Jones Possum Holler Bed & Breakfast, The Grascals Bluegrass Hollow RV Park, a 78-space RV park, and an electronic bingo entertainment center. Phase Two of the project is already underway and will include two hotels, a family entertainment center and much more. Country Crossing is located at 300 Country Crossing Parkway, Cottonwood, AL 36320

For more information about Country Crossing, please visit www.countrycrossing.net

Thursday, December 17, 2009

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday, December 01, 2009

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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


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

# # #

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday, October 11, 2009

21st Gstaad Festival, Switzerland

21st Gstaad Festival, Switzerland

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

Friday, October 09, 2009

George Jones to Appear On CBS Sunday Morning This Sunday!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

Wednesday, July 01, 2009

Country Thunder USA Festival

COUNTRY THUNDER USA FESTIVAL JULY 15-18 TO BE SHOWCASED ON GREAT AMERICAN COUNTRY TELEVISION

Neal McCoy and newcomers KingBilly and Gloriana added to the lineup this week; New festival ownership preparing the grounds for a completely retooled weekend country music party



(Nashville, TN) – The 17th Annual Country Thunder USA festival, held in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin July 15-18, 2009 will be showcased on Great American Country television network. GAC festival hostess SUZANNE ALEXANDER will be filming from the festival grounds - visiting with country music stars and their fans for GAC Nights and GAC’s Top 20 Country Countdown. (Actual airdates / times TBD)

Also announced today are three ‘new’ performers – superstar Neal McCoy will play for a full 90 minutes Friday night in the all-ages Howlin’ Coyote Dance Hall following Alan Jackson’s main stage performance. Newcomers Gloriana and GAC’s web series stars KingBilly will also entertain. KingBilly is scheduled for 10:30pm Wednesday, Gloriana at 10:30pm Thursday.

“We’re so excited to be partnered with such a great country television network. We couldn’t be happier – having GAC on-hand to celebrate the weekend with us… and with the great lineup. Adding Neal McCoy will make Friday night a huge party – and he puts on an incredible show. We’ve made a lot of changes this year – from traffic routing, to a less-cluttered festival ‘bowl’ area, more vendors, cheaper concessions and keeping the price low,” said festival Executive Producer Brian Andrews.

General Admission ticketholders will get closer access to the stage – as VIP and reserved seating areas have been reduced to allow for those who cannot afford those seats to get up, close and personal to their favorite performers with their four-day general admission pass.

Country Thunder USA information, tickets, campsites, directions and contact information available by visiting www.countrythunder.com or by calling 877-999-8008


2009 Country Thunder USA Festival Lineup – Twin Lakes, WI

WEDNESDAY - JULY 15, 2009
5:30pm - Colt Ford
7:15pm - The Lost Trailers
9:00pm - Tracy Lawrence


Howlin' Coyote Dance Hall (all-ages):
10:30pm - KingBilly

THURSDAY - JULY 16, 2009
1:00pm - Burns Poe
2:00pm - The Bellamy Brothers
3:30pm - Jack Ingram
5:00pm - Mark Chesnutt
6:15pm - Williams & Ree
7:00pm - Kellie Pickler
9:00pm - Taylor Swift


Howlin' Coyote Dance Hall (all-ages):
10:30pm - Gloriana
11:30pm - Chasin Mason

FRIDAY - JULY 17, 2009
1:00pm - Shawn Hammonds
2:00pm - Restless Heart
3:30pm - Heidi Newfield
5:00pm - Jake Owen
6:15pm - Williams & Ree
7:00pm - Phil Vassar
9:00pm - Alan Jackson


Howlin' Coyote Dance Hall (all-ages):
10:30pm - NealMcCoy
12:30am - TBD

SATURDAY - JULY 18, 2009
1:00pm - The Grascals
2:00pm - Joey & Rory
3:30pm - Terri Clark
5:00pm - Diamond Rio
6:15pm - Williams & Ree
7:00pm - Rodney Atkins
9:00pm - Tim McGraw


Howlin' Coyote Dance Hall (all-ages):
10:30pm - Jason Jones
11:45pm - Chasin Mason

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

"Walk Through The Fire" - Mark Karan - A Review

I became interested in reviewing Mark Karan for one reason only, because He played in Ratdog, Bob Weir's Band, and He had played with the Other Ones a few years ago, a group consisting of The Dead without Jerry. He and Steve Kimock were the guitarists. This is a very eclectic recording, but one thing is consistent , Mark provides lots of good guitar chops and jams many a song out at the end. Mark is a super talented guitarist, with many tones being shared in the mix. His guitar sound reminds me a bit of Dickey Betts and others.
"Walk Thru The Fire" is a song wrote while going thru cancer treatments, which is a slow paced, but victorious song. He plays some beautiful slide on this song. He has some help with some all star musicians like the Persuasions, Billy Payne (Little Feat), The Rowan Brothers, and a release of rock legend Delaney Bramlett, that was released after his death.(Love In Vain)
"Leave A Light On" (Mark Karan) is my favorite, it has a real nice slow, groove to it and I love the guitar jam at the end of the song. The whole album has a neat Americana, bluesy type sound to it. He does a great job at jamming out on the Dead's "Easy Wind" which is the only Dead song here. His vocals have some Pigpen Grit here, John Molo, sounds great on drums.
Walk Through The Fire was recorded over a four year period in six studios by eight engineers with twenty five musicians. Mark produced the record himself. It was mixed by Davy Vain, and mastered by the great Gavin Lurssen at Lurssen Mastering(student of the great Doug Sax). "Memphis Radio" is another bouncy song I like alot, real melodic, great hooks, nice guitar.
Mark's present band "Jemimah Puddleduck" shows up all over the place. This group showcases Mark on lead and all guitar, John Molo on drums, JT Thomas (Bruce Hornsby) on keyboards, and Bob Gross (Albert King, Delaney Bramlett) on bass. This is a solid recording, go on and pick up a copy.


http://www.walkthroughthefire.com/blog/

Monday, June 08, 2009

Martina, Jamey Johnson , Jamie Oneal, Jason Michael Carroll to Perform

MARTINA McBRIDE, JAMEY JOHNSON, JAMIE O’NEAL, JASON MICHAEL CARROLL SET TO PERFORM AT LITTLE BIG TOWN RIDE FOR A CURE




NASHVILLE, TN – Little Big Town is set to host Ride For A Cure on Sunday, June 14, 2009 benefiting the T.J. Martell Foundation. The event, presented by Roberts and Lyons, marks the third year of Little Big Town’s involvement that features a motorcycle ride from the Harley-Davidson of Cool Springs to the Harley-Davidson of Columbia, a barbecue lunch provided by Applebee’s and a post ride performance by Little Big Town, Martina McBride, Jamey Johnson, Jamie O’Neal, Jason Michael Carroll, Kate & Kacey, Ray Scott, and Shelly Fairchild.

Both motorcycle riders and non-riders are welcome to attend. The T. J. Martell Foundation is offering a special VIP ticket for $300 that includes breakfast, access to the VIP areas during the ride, lunch, a gift bag, t-shirt and performance. Rider and non-rider tickets are $35 and include the ride (if a rider), lunch, t-shirt and performance. Tickets may be purchased on line at www.nashvillerideforacure.com.

Proceeds from Ride for a Cure locally supports cancer research at the Frances Williams Preston Laboratories at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. The T.J. Martell Foundation supports leukemia, cancer and AIDS research at six top hospitals in the United States. The Frances Williams Preston Laboratories were named after Frances Preston, past President and CEO of BMI and current President of the national T.J. Martell Foundation.

For more information on Ride for a Cure or the T.J. Martell Foundation, contact the T.J. Martell Foundation at (615) 256-2002 or logo onto www.tjmartellfoundation.org. Be sure to vote for Little Big Town with the CMT Awards at http://www.cmt.com/cmt-music-awards/index.jhtml.

About the T.J. Martell Foundation
The T.J. Martell Foundation is a national 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization that supports innovative research for leukemia, cancer and AIDS at six top research hospitals in the United States. In Nashville, the Foundation supports cancer research at the Frances Williams Preston Laboratories at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center.

The Frances Williams Preston Laboratories were established in 1993 in honor of Frances Preston, longtime president and CEO of BMI, president of the T.J. Martell Foundation board of directors and founder of Country in the Rockies.

To learn more about the T.J. Martell Foundation, please go to www.tjmartellfoundation.org.

About Little Big Town
Little Big Town is currently working on their upcoming release for Capitol Nashville. Their sophomore CD, critically-acclaimed A Place to Land included the Grammy nominated song “Life in a Northern Town.” The band released Platinum-selling record, The Road to Here, in 2005 and in 2007 they were awarded Academy of Country Music’s Top New Vocal Group. In the last year they scored a nomination for CMA Vocal Group of the Year and two Academy of Country Music nods for Top Vocal Group and Vocal Event of the Year for “Life In A Northern Town.” The band has headlined their own tour as well as toured with Martina McBride, George Strait, and others. To learn more, visit http://www.littlebigtown.com.

______________________________________________________
Media Contacts:

RIDE FOR A CURE / FOR EVENT CREDENTIALS CONTACT:
Webster & Associates / (615) 777-6995
Kirt Webster – kirt@websterpr.com

FOR LITTLE BIG TOWN
FrontPage Publicity / (615) 383-0412
Kathy Best – kathy@frontpagepublicity.com

TJ Martell Foundation / (615) 256-2002
Laura Heatherly – Lheatherly@tjmartellfoundation.org
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