Countrify

Beautiful Lies - Jaron ATLRTL feat. Big Kenny

2011-04-07T08:00:00.001-07:00

ACM Awards 2011 Performances

2011-04-05T04:41:00.000-07:00

ACM Awards 2010 Winners

2011-04-03T20:15:00.000-07:00

ACM Video of The Year: Miranda Lambert “House That Built Me”

ACM Vocal Event of the Year: Alan Jackson and The Zac Brown Band for “As She’s Walking Away”

ACM Song of the Year: Miranda Lambert “House That Built Me”

ACM New Artist of the Year: The Band Perry

ACM New Solo Artist of the Year: Eric Church

ACM Single Record of the Year: “The House That Built Me” Miranda Lambert

ACM Album of the Year: “Need You Now” Lady Antebellum

ACM Best Vocal Group of the Year: Lady Antebellum

ACM Vocal Duo of the Year: Sugarland

ACM Male Vocalist of the Year: Brad Paisley

ACM Female Vocalist of the Year: Miranda Lambert

ACM Entertainer of the Year: Taylor Swift

Friday - The Abrams Brothers (Music Video)

2011-04-02T03:11:00.001-07:00

Friday - The Abrams Brothers - The Abrams Brothers Videos

Just Fishin' - Trace Adkins (New Single)

2011-04-02T03:01:00.001-07:00

Trace Adkins - Just Fishin'

I'm lost in her there holdin' that pink rod and reel.
She's doing almost everything but sittin' still.
Talkin' bout her ballet shoes and trainin' wheels,
and her kittens. And she thinks we're just fishin'.

I say Daddy loves you baby one more time,
she say's I know, I think I got a bite.
An all this laughin', cryin', smilin', dyin' here inside
is what I call livin'

(Chours)
An she thinks we're just fishin' on the river side,
throwin' back what we could fry,
drownin' worms an killin' time,
nothin' to ambitious
she ain't even thinkin' bout what's really goin' on right now
but I guarantee this memories a big'in
and she thinks we're just fishin'

She's already pretty, like her momma is
Gonna drive the boy's all crazy
giver her daddy fits
and I better do this every chance I get
'cause time is tickin'

She ain't even thinkin' bout what's really goin' on right now
but I guarantee this memories a big'in
and she thinks we're just fishin'
Yeah, aww she thinks we're just fishin'
We ain't only fishin'
This ain't about Fishin'

Don't You Wanna Stay - Jason Aldean ft. Kelly Clarkson (Acoustic)

2011-04-01T19:42:00.001-07:00

I Told You So - Lauren Alaina & Scotty McCreery

2011-03-31T22:22:00.001-07:00

Country Comfort - Scotty McCreery

2011-03-31T05:03:00.000-07:00

Collide - Kid Rock ft. Sheryl Crow (Music Video)

2011-03-28T21:29:00.001-07:00

Collide - Kid Rock - Kid Rock Videos

Paper Airplane - Allison Krauss & Union Station (Music Video)

2011-03-28T21:26:00.001-07:00

Paper Airplane - Alison Krauss & Union Station - Alison Krauss & Union Station Videos

Born This Way - Lady Gaga (The Country Road Version)

2011-03-25T00:16:00.000-07:00

So here's the country road version of Lady Gaga's Born This Way promised by her yesterday. Doesn't exactly sound country except for the steel guitar riffs, but with the wide variations of the genre nowadays, who knows? Anyway, enjoy!

Stuck Like Glue - Sugarland (Live on Idol)

2011-03-24T22:26:00.001-07:00

For Once In My Life - Scotty McCreery (American Idol)

2011-03-23T22:09:00.000-07:00

Since he's undeniably staying for some time, I'm gonna start posting Scotty McCreery's Idol performances. This guy is no doubt gonna be a future country legend, what with such an amazingly deep voice. So, people, start voting for Scotty!

ALAN JACKSON TEAMS WITH CAPITOL’S EMI RECORDS NASHVILLE

2011-03-23T21:54:00.000-07:00

Nashville, TN – Country music superstar Alan Jackson and Capitol Records Nashville President and CEO Mike Dungan, are joining forces for the next chapter in Jackson’s prolific music career. Jackson’s new music will be released as a joint venture between ACR (Alan’s Country Records) and Capitol/EMI Records Nashville. Jackson – who is heading into the recording studio soon – will be released and marketed through Capitol’s EMI Records Nashville label.

“Mike Dungan and I go way back. He was right there during my early days at Arista, and it’s going to be great to work with him and his team there at Capitol,” Jackson says. “I’m happy to be joining the hottest label in Nashville.”

“Everyone here at Capitol/EMI is beyond thrilled to represent Alan Jackson,” responds Dungan.

“A true American original, a future Hall of Famer, and an artist whose work to date is not only commercially successful, but is of historical cultural significance. We are honored, and we are jacked!”

Jackson is one of the most successful singer-songwriters in music. He’s sold nearly 60-million albums worldwide, topped the country singles charts 35 times, and scored more than 50 Top-10 hits. He’s a 16-time award winner at both the CMA and ACM Awards, a tally that includes three CMA Entertainer of the Year honors. Jackson is also a two-time Grammy-honored artist, whose songwriting has earned him the prestigious ASCAP Founders Award. He’s known for music that celebrates the common man (“Where I Come From”), speaks to generations (“Drive [For Daddy Gene]”) and for our nation (“Where Were You [When the World Stopped Turning]”).

Capitol Records Nashville is one of Country Music’s most prominent imprints, having been named label of the year by Billboard, Country Aircheck, Music Row and the Country Radio Seminar for both 2009 and 2010. The label is part of EMI, the world’s largest independent music company, and is home to a roster of country music legends, emerging artists, and global superstars. In 2010 Capitol Records Nashville announced its newest imprint EMI Records Nashville, which is designed to be a sister label to Capitol Nashville.

ACR (Alan’s Country Records) was formed by Jackson when he released his 2002 Let It Be Christmas album, followed by the platinum-selling Precious Memories in 2005.

Like A Prayer - Sugarland ft. Little Big Town (Live)

2011-03-23T04:17:00.001-07:00

Somebody Else Calling You Baby - Luke Bryan ft. Boyce Avenue

2011-03-21T10:08:00.001-07:00

Smoke A Little Smoke - Eric Church ft. Mitch Rossell

2011-03-21T10:04:00.001-07:00

Stuck Like Glue - Sugarland ft. Savannah Berry

2011-03-21T09:54:00.001-07:00

If I Die Young - The Band Perry ft. Tyler Ward

2011-03-21T09:53:00.001-07:00

RASCAL FLATTS ANNOUNCE 2011 SUMMER TOUR "FLATTS FEST"

2011-03-19T22:45:00.001-07:00

By Tour Begins June 18 with Sara Evans, Easton Corbin And Justin Moore

NASHVILLE – (March 18, 2011) – Rascal Flatts announced today they will launch a brand new tour this summer, “Flatts Fest,” on June 18th in Bristow, Virginia with opening acts Sara Evans, Easton Corbin and Justin Moore.The tour is currently slated to run through September with approximately 24 shows.

The “Flatts Fest” tour will include a new stage production design and set list with a high-energy stage show Rascal Flatts fans have come to expect. The tour will also include an interactive pre-show festival atmosphere and tailgating experience, with activities spread throughout the plaza and parking areas for all fans who want to make a whole afternoon/evening of the show. Plans include a mobile karaoke vehicle, carnival games, photo booths, putt putt golf, food vendors, and plenty of exciting contests. More detailed information will be provided closer to the start of the tour.

Rascal Flatts – Gary LeVox, Jay DeMarcus and Joe Don Rooney – debuted their first album on Big Machine Records, Nothing Like This, last November at #1 on the country album sales chart and became one of only four country acts to debut six consecutive studio albums at #1. Since their musical debut in 2000, the band has sold 20 million albums and 25 million digital downloads and delivered 12 #1 singles to the top of the chart. Rascal Flatts is the most awarded country group of the past decade with nearly 40 trophies from the American Country Awards, Academy of Country Music, American Music Awards, Country Music Association, People’s Choice Awards and more. Since their touring career began, they have sold over 6 million concert tickets.

RCA Nashville songstress Sara Evans debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart this week with the release of her sixth studio album, Stronger,featuring her current smash, the RIAA-certified Gold Digital Single, “A Little Bit Stronger.” An ACM and CMA Award-winning singer/songwriter, Evans’ chart-topping career includes more than five million albums sold and such #1 hits as“Suds in the Bucket,” “A Real Fine Place to Start,” and “Born to Fly.” In addition to her successful music career, Sara is an emerging author whose second novel, Softly and Tenderly (Thomas Nelson), was released in January. Previously recognized as one of People magazine’s “50 Most Beautiful People,” Evans was also the first Country Artist to appear as a contestant on ABC’s Dancing with the Stars. Visit her online at www.saraevans.com.

Mercury Nashville recording artist Easton Corbin is the most successful new artist in country music in the last year. The native of rural Gilchrist County, Fla., is being lauded for his traditional country sound, authentic lyrics and mastery of understatement. USA Today says Easton “is a country music throwback with an easygoing, old-school style.” He is the first country male artist in 17 years to have his first two consecutive singles reach No. 1 -- “A Little More Country Than That” and “Roll With It.” He has received three Academy of Country Music Award nominations this year for Top New Solo Vocalist, and Song and Single of the Year for “A Little More Country Than That.” He recently won all of the Breakthrough Artist awards in December at the American Country Awards – Artist of the Year: Breakthrough Artist, Single of the Year: Breakthrough Artist and Music Video: Breakthrough Artist for “A Little More Country Than That.” Billboard named Corbin as the Top New Country Artist of 2010. “I Can’t Love You Back” is his current single. Visit www.eastoncorbin.com orwww.umgnashville.com to learn more about the Florida native.

Justin Moore’s star has grown significantly since he was named Billboard’s “Top New Country Artist of 2009.” The Southern Country Stylist has sold over 1.2 million digital downloads to-date and has scored three consecutive smash hits from his debut album (the #1 “Small Town USA”; Top 5 “Backwoods”; and Top 20 “How I Got To Be This Way”). The 2010 CMT Music Award nominee's self-titled album, which debuted in the Top 10 of the Billboard Top 200, was recognized as one of the best albums of 2009 by The New York Times. Moore’s new single from his upcoming sophomore album, "If Heaven Wasn't So Far Away," continues it's ascent up the charts, this week breaking into the Top 25 at Country Radio.

2011 “FLATTS FEST” dates:

6-18 - Bristow, VA - Jiffy Lube Live

6-19 - Virginia Beach, VA - Farm Bureau Live at Virginia Beach

6-24 - Oshkosh, WI - Country Festival USA

6-25 - Chicago, IL - First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre

6-26 - Maryland Heights, MO - Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

7-8 - Cuyahoga Falls, OH - Blossom Music Center

7-9 - Camden, NJ - Susquehanna Bank Center

7-17 - Craven, SK - Craven Country Jamboree

7-22 - Cincinnati, OH - Riverbend Music Center

7-23 - Noblesville, IN - Verizon Wireless Music Center

7-24 - Twin Lakes, WI - Country Thunder Festival

7-28 - Atlanta, GA - Lakewood

7-29 - Charlotte, NC - Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre

7-30 - Raleigh, NC - TWC Music Pavilion\

8-4 - Detroit, MI - DTE Energy Music Theatre

8-6 - Detroit Lakes, MN - WE Fest

8-11 - Hartford, CT - Comcast Theatre

8-12 - Darien Lake, MN - Darien Lakes PAC

8-13 - Ottawa, ONT - Rideau Carelton Raceway-OLG Slots Casino

8-19 - Tampa, FL - 1-800-ASK-GARY Amphitheatre

8-20 - West Palm Beach, FL - Cruzan Amphitheatre

8-27 - Oro Station, ONT - Burls Creek Family Event Park

9-9 - Salt Lake City, UT - USANA Amphitheatre

9-10 - Denver, CO - Comfort Dental Amphitheatre

9-11 - Albuquerque, NM - Hard Rock Casino Albuquerque Presents The Pavilion

9-15 - Sacramento, CA - Sleep Train Amphitheatre

9-16 - Mountain View, CA - Shoreline Amphitheatre

9-17 - San Bernardino, CA - San Manuel Amphitheatre

9-18 - San Diego, CA - Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre

Not a “Flatts Fest” date: 6/24, 7/17, 7/24, 8/6, 8/13, 8/27

Without You - Keith Urban (Music Video)

2011-03-15T08:35:00.001-07:00

Without You - Keith Urban - Keith Urban Videos

Easy - Rascal Flatts ft. Natasha Bedingfield (Live)

2011-03-14T03:32:00.001-07:00

Old Alabama - Brad Paisley ft. Alabama (New Single)

2011-03-14T03:18:00.001-07:00

That Should Be Me - Justin Bieber ft. Rascal Flatts (Music Video)

2011-03-13T05:49:00.000-07:00

New Single from James Wesley

2011-03-11T10:16:00.000-08:00

James Wesley recently released his latest single, hot off the heels of Real, to radio stations. It is titled Didn't I. Click here to listen.

Freedom to Fall - Jaron and the Long Road to Love (Music Video)

2011-03-10T07:26:00.001-08:00

Eli Young Band's 'Crazy Girl' Reaches Three #1 Spots in a Week

2011-03-09T23:33:00.001-08:00

Republic Nashville recording artist the Eli Young Band is off to a blazing start with their new single, “Crazy Girl,” wracking up three #1s in a week. “Crazy Girl” topped the charts as the #1 most added single at Billboard and the #2 most added at Mediabase. with 38 stations on by add date. The band catapulted to the top of the iTunes Country singleschart landing at #1 in just 15 hours. The video for “Crazy Girl” also made its debut at #1 on CMT.com and is currently in rotation on CMT, GAC and TCN.

When the bandheard about their first weeks adds they we’re thrilled. “We’ve been visiting stations all over the country and there is a different kind of response to this song,” said Jon Jones, bass player for EYB. “We had no idea we’d have this many adds out of the box.” Drummer Chris Thompson added, “hopefully a big first week means a big first single for the new album!”

With the newsthat they were most added at Billboard and topped the iTunes Country Singles Chart Mike Eli said, "The song just came out and there's already this huge response at iTunes and radio. We are so very lucky to have such loyal fans that love the song as much as we do. We’re also grateful for the support at country radio, thanks for believing in us and our song!”

The momentum at radio and online is matched with a surge in hard ticket sales on the road. In the last two months, EYB has sold out eight 1,500 to 3,000 capacity venues.

The band recently wrapped recording their new studio album with producer Mike Wrucke and plans to release an EP this May with the full album due in stores this Fall.

For a complete list of dates log onto: eliyoungband.com.

CMT Music Awards Scheduled for June 8

2011-03-08T20:19:00.000-08:00

The 2011 CMT Music Awards show has been scheduled for June 8 in Nashville, it was announced Tuesday (March 8). Information about the venue, hosts, performers and ticket information will be announced a later date. The fan-voted show, which honors the year's top country videos, will take place the night prior to the official opening of the CMA Music Festival taking place June 9-12 in downtown Nashville.

Rascal Flatts TV Special Takes Fans on Personal Journey

2011-03-07T20:25:00.000-08:00

If you weren't able to catch Rascal Flatts in concert during the last leg of their Nothing Like This tour, don't fret. You will be able to experience it for yourself when their first network television special, 'Rascal Flatts: Nothing Like This presented by JCPenney,' airs Saturday (March 12) at 8:00 PM ET on ABC.

The special won't be all performances, though. "We wanted to make this thing very special and try to take people on a journey of what Rascal Flatts is all about," Joe Don Rooney tells The Boot. "So we did some really good behind-the-scenes stuff with some on-camera, personality stuff with Jay, Gary and me. Getting to know us a little bit better stuff for those people who don't really know Rascal Flatts yet. The whole idea is to try to get new fans to latch on to Rascal Flatts and maybe introduce us for the first time."

"We probably had about 35 minutes of music we could get in, because you have commercials and sponsorships," he explains. "We also wanted to do some fun stuff, too, like have these special guests that just made the show much more dynamic and better."

Making a special appearance in the special will be teen heartthrob, Justin Bieber, in a never-before-seen clip of the Flatts-Bieber video, 'That Should Be Me,' as well as behind-the-scenes footage from the making of the video. In fact, making their debut in the clip will be Gary LeVox's two daughters, Brittany (11) and Brooklyn (7), who got to meet Justin for the first time on the set. Gary felt he had to set up a meeting with the pop star, or else, "I wouldn't have been able to go home!"

Also featured on the show will be Natasha Bedingfield, who made a surprise appearance during the band's January concert taping in St. Paul, Minn. She joined the band for their duet, 'Easy,' which appears on Rascal Flatts' latest album, 'Nothing Like This.'

The trio saw the final edit of the special last week and were blown away by some of the shots and the great production. "You really concentrate and focus so hard to make it the best that it could be because it's a big deal to have a network special and we certainly didn't take it for granted," Gary explains. "We wanted to bring out all the bells and whistles, and brought in the best cast we could to knock it out. They captured everything we wanted to put across to the world."

Rascal Flatts will perform their latest hit, ' I Won't Let Go,' when they appear on ABC's 'Good Morning America' Thursday (March 10), followed by an appearance at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo that night.

Hysteria - Daniel Smith (Live)

2011-03-05T07:02:00.000-08:00

It's A Shore Thing - Luke Bryan (Music Video)

2011-03-04T18:04:00.001-08:00

It's a Shore Thing - Luke Bryan - Luke Bryan Videos

Montgomery Gentry Join Average Joe's

2011-03-04T17:56:00.000-08:00

Nashville, Tenn. (Friday, March 4, 2011) – Average Joe’s Entertainment is pleased to announce the addition of multiplatinum-selling county music duo Montgomery Gentry to their label roster. The celebrated performers are expected to release their first single in the spring of 2011.

"We couldn't be happier to be signing with Shannon [Houchins] and Tom [Baldrica] and the guys at Average Joe's,” says Eddie Montgomery. “Those guys are cut from the same cloth we are and man, they are so creative. We can't wait to get this new project out there to our fans!" Troy Gentry adds, “Eddie and I are really excited about this new partnership with Average Joe's. We love the team they have in place and the passion and excitement that they bring. We look forward to going in and making a project we're all proud of."

Prior to entering Average Joe’s Entertainment as President, label executive Tom Baldrica had the pleasure of working with the act during his 17 years at Sony and is an avid fan of not only their music but their passion for entertaining. “'Hell Yeah,’ Montgomery Gentry is coming to Average Joe’s!” says Baldrica. “Their music, attitude, and blue collar work ethic are the perfect fit with our label model, and our staff is excited to hit the ground running with Eddie and Troy."

Montgomery Gentry first got their start on Columbia Records in 1999 with the release of “Hillbilly Shoes.” Since, hit singles including “If You Ever Stop Loving Me,” “Something To Be Proud Of,” “Lucky Man,” “Back When I Knew It All,” “My Town,” “Hell Yeah,” and “Roll With Me” have catapulted the duo into the spotlight and helped them secure accolades including CMA Duo of the Year (2000) and ACM Top New Group/Duo (2000).

Beautiful Every Time - Lee Brice (Music Video)

2011-03-04T06:15:00.001-08:00

Beautiful Every Time - Lee Brice - Lee Brice Videos

Georgia Clay - Josh Kelley (Listening Party)

2011-03-03T21:00:00.000-08:00

Release Date: March 22

Josh Kelley
"Georgia Clay"
(MCA Nashville)

Track List:

1."Georgia Clay"

2."A Real Good Try"

3."Gone Like That"

4."Baby Blue Eyes"

5."Naleigh Moon"

6."Two Cups Of Coffee"

7."Rainin' Whiskey"

8."Great Idea"

9."Learning You"

10."Ain't Lettin' Go"

11."Don't You Go"

If I Were A Boy - Reba McEntire (Music Video)

2011-03-02T04:24:00.001-08:00

You Lie - The Band Perry (Music Video)

2011-02-28T16:10:00.001-08:00

This - Darius Rucker (Music Video)

2011-02-28T06:17:00.000-08:00

You Lie - The Band Perry (Music Video)

2011-02-28T06:14:00.001-08:00

UMG Nashville Honors Jamey Johnson for Gold Certification of The Guitar Song

2011-02-25T01:59:00.001-08:00

Universal Music Group Nashville presented Jamey Johnson with a plaque commemorating the gold certification of his ambitious 25-song double album, The Guitar Song, during a gathering Friday at the Palm in Nashville.

The Guitar Song is up for Album of the Year at the Academy of Country Music Awards and received two Grammy nominations -- Country Album of the Year and Best Male Country Vocal performance for "Macon."

The Nashville Scene’s 11th annual Country Music Critics’ Poll named The Guitar Song the best album of 2011 and named Johnson Artist of the Year, Best Male Vocalist and Best Songwriter. Both Rolling Stone and Spin ranked the album No. 5 on their lists of the Best Albums of 2010 and "Macon" was ranked No. 23 on Rolling Stone’s Best Singles of 2010.

UMG Nashville chairman Luke Lewis presented Johnson with the framed plaque. "I can’t be any prouder than to hand my friend Jamey Johnson a gold record," Lewis told the crowd.

Also on hand to receive gold plaques were the album’s producers, Arlis Albritton, Dave Cobb and The Kent Hardly Playboys, and his manager, Ken Levitan.

Johnson thanked his band, producers, management and label staff for all they did to make the album a success.

"It’s always cool to stop what you’re doing and bring the whole team together," he says. "These guys and gals usually don’t get to see each other on a regular basis, so it’s good that when they do, we’re celebrating an accomplishment like that. It’s something everybody worked equal parts on and holds an equal amount of responsibility for the success of it.

"Everybody in this room has earned their money," he says with a laugh, "and I appreciate it."

Johnson is thankful for the honors and accolades the project has received and even more delighted that he could share the spotlight with those who don’t often receive attention for their work.

"We get positive feedback from the audience every night, so that is our thank you. But the people who work behind the scenes that maybe aren’t on the road with us and don’t’ get that immediate feedback, that immediate thank-you from people, it’s real important for them to get to come out and share a night like this with everyone else.

"If it hadn’t had gone gold, we’d probably still have a party and patted each other on the back no matter what because it is a good team. It’s a great team of people working hard and getting it done. Music ain’t exactly the easiest profession to be in, but it’s one of the best, if you ask me."

After the presentation, Johnson walked across the street to the Bridgestone Arena, where he performed as part of the Kid Rock tour.

Don't You Wanna Stay - Jason Aldean ft. Kelly Clarkson (Live on Ellen)

2011-02-25T01:55:00.001-08:00

Colder Weather - Zac Brown Band (Live)

2011-02-23T04:21:00.001-08:00

Something to Do With Your Hands - Sarah Darling (Music Video)

2011-02-19T03:54:00.000-08:00

Something to Do With Your Hands - Sarah Darling - Sarah Darling Videos

Kiss My Country Ass - Blake Shelton (Music Video)

2011-02-19T03:49:00.001-08:00

Kiss My Country Ass - Blake Shelton - Blake Shelton Videos

Homeboy - Eric Church (New Single)

2011-02-15T06:55:00.003-08:00

Crazy Girl - Eli Young Bad (Music Video)

2011-02-15T02:00:00.000-08:00

Crazy Girl - Eli Young Band - Eli Young Band Videos

Colder Weather - Zac Brown Band (Music Video)

2011-02-14T16:39:00.000-08:00

Finally, it's out! The video stars actor Liam Hemsworth, who played the leading male role in Disney's 2010 hit film The Last Song.

That Should Be Me - Justin Bieber ft. Rascal Flatts (New Single)

2011-02-14T05:23:00.001-08:00

Country Music Winners At the 2011 Grammy Awards

2011-02-13T20:23:00.000-08:00

Record of the Year

"Need You Now"
Lady Antebellum

Song of the Year

"Need You Now"
Lady Antebellum

Best Male Country Vocal Performance

"'Til Summer Comes Around"
Keith Urban

Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group With Vocals

"Need You Now"
Lady Antebellum

Best Country Collaboration With Vocals

"As She's Walking Away"
Zac Brown Band and Alan Jackson

Best Country Instrumental Performance

"Hummingbyrd"
Marty Stuart

Best Country Song

"Need You Now"
Lady Antebellum

Best Country Album

Need You Now
Lady Antebellum

Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media

Crazy Heart
Various Artists

Best Song Written for Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media

"The Weary Kind"
Ryan Bingham

Brown Chicken Brown Cow - Trace Adkins (Music Video)

2011-02-11T00:24:00.001-08:00

Brown Chicken Brown Cow - Trace Adkins - Trace Adkins Videos

I Won't Give Up - Jana Kramer (New Single)

2011-02-10T06:20:00.000-08:00

Zac Brown Band Previews their New Video, Colder Weather Out On Valentine's Day

2011-02-09T15:45:00.001-08:00

CMA Music Festival 2011 Announces First Round Of Performers

2011-02-08T20:21:00.001-08:00

The iconic CMA Music Festival will celebrate its 40^th anniversary when it takes over the Downtown Nashville campus for four days this summer, Thursday-Sunday, June 9-12, 2011. The event that USA Today calls “the crown jewel of Country Music festivals” started in 1972 as Fan Fair®. Forty years later, the legendary festival has become Nashville’s signature music event, which annually attracts thousands of fans from all 50 states and around the globe while raising millions of dollars for music education in Metro Nashville Public Schools. 2011 will also mark the eighth consecutive year that CMA Music Festival will be filmed for a network television special, shining a national spotlight on both the Country Music format and “Music City USA.”

The reigning CMA Female Vocalist of the Year Miranda Lambert, Male Vocalist of the Year Blake Shelton, and Vocal Group of the Year Lady Antebellum join Trace Adkins, Jason Aldean, The Band Perry, Sheryl Crow, Martina McBride, Rascal Flatts, Reba, Darius Rucker, and Keith Urban as the first artists announced as performers during the Nightly Concerts at LP Field during CMA Music Festival. This will be Crow’s first performance at CMA Music Festival. Additional names and performance schedules will be announced in coming weeks.

“This is an excellent collection of superstar artists to launch 2011 CMA Music Festival, continuing the legacy started 40 years ago by artists such as Chet Atkins, Waylon Jennings, Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton, and Tammy Wynette at the first Fan Fair,” said Steve Moore, CMA Chief Executive Officer.

Fans can stay in the loop by visiting the all-new CMAfest.com, the official website of CMA Music Festival, which makes its debut today. On CMAfest.com fans can buy tickets, sign up for the CMA Exclusive e-news, watch helpful videos to make their CMA Music Festival experience better than ever, follow the CMA Facebook and Twitter feeds for more insider info and of course see the entire lineup of Country Music’s biggest stars as they are announced for the event.

CMA Music Festival celebrates the unique relationship between Country Music artists and their fans in the heart of Music City USA. The artists participate for free, and on their behalf, CMA donates half the net proceeds of the Festival to support music education in Metro Nashville Public Schools through the Keep the Music Playing program.

To date, more than $4.7 million has been donated to purchase musical instruments and supplies, providing thousands of Metro Nashville Public Schools students with the resources and opportunities they could not have afforded on their own, and giving many of them a strong reason to remain in school. The total also includes an annual endowment gift for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s Words & Music program, which assists language arts and music teachers with classroom instruction in the basics of songwriting.

Featuring concerts, autograph signings, family activities, and more, CMA Music Festival is an unparalleled celebration of America’s music. In 2010, the event drew a record-setting 65,000 fans from all 50 states and 26 nations and, for the first time, sold out each night at LP Field for the star-packed nightly concerts in advance. According to the Nashville Convention and Visitors Bureau, direct visitor spending generated by the Festival totaled more than $23 million. CMA Music Festival is a four-time winner of the International Entertainment Buyers Association’s LIVE! Award for Festival of the Year (2004, 2006, 2008, 2010).

Fans can purchase their tickets through Ticketmaster at Ticketmaster.com or 1-(800)-745-3000. They can also purchase them through CMAfest.com or 1-(800)-CMA-FEST (262-3378). Ticket prices are based on the level of seating at LP Field for the Nightly Concerts, and range from $115 to $325 plus handling fees.

Ticket prices are subject to change without notice. All sales are final and non-refundable. Four-day ticket package categories correspond to a different level of seating at LP Field. Children 3 years and younger are admitted FREE. For information on ADA seating, please call 1-800-CMA-FEST.

A limited number of four-day parking passes for LP Field are available. Call toll-free 1-800-CMA-FEST, 1-800-345-3000 (Ticketmaster) or www.ticketmaster.com to order. The price is $32 for cars; $64 for vans/shuttles; and $124 for RVs/motor coaches. Prices do not include handling fee. Spaces are limited, and no overnight parking is allowed. All persons planning to park at LP Field must pre-purchase the parking pass. Free shuttles (for four-day registrants) will run daily between major Festival event locations.

CMA Music Festival will once again be filmed for a national television special to air on the ABC Television Network late this summer. This is the eighth consecutive year that the event has been filmed for a network television special, a feat no other music festival has achieved. CBS aired the first CMA Music Festival special in 2004, with ABC airing it from 2005 onward. "CMA Music Festival: Country's Night to Rock" will be executive-produced by Robert Deaton.

Daniel Smith Launches Valentine Promotion For “Until I Close My Eyes For Good”

2011-02-08T20:06:00.000-08:00

Singer/songwriter Daniel Smith is offering country radio stations a sweet Valentineʼs Day promotion built around his new romantic single, “Until I Close My Eyes For Good.”

Each participating station will get five giveaway copies of Smithʼs album, The EP, which features the single, and a chance to enroll their listeners for the grand prize, which includes two tickets to the 2011 CMA Music Festival, an acoustic concert and barbecue dinner for two at Smithʼs home, limousine transportation to and from the concert and dinner and a prize package of all Smithʼs albums plus merchandise items.

The grand prize winner will be announced on Valentineʼs Day. Smithʼs earlier singles include “Life, Liberty And The Pursuit Of Happy Hour,” “Livinʼ The Good Life, and “Thank You.”

Details about the Valentineʼs Day promotion are available through Jerry Duncan

Promotions at (615) 329-1032 or Susan Collier PR (615) 356-0375.

CMT Crossroads: The Pretenders and Faith Hill Live From Pepsi Super Bowl Fan Jam

2011-02-07T19:22:00.001-08:00

If Heaven Wasn't So Far Away - Justin Moore (Music Video)

2011-02-07T19:21:00.001-08:00

If Heaven Wasn't So Far Away (Studio Version) - Justin Moore - Justin Moore Videos

David Nail Debuts New Single from Upcoming Album

2011-02-04T19:28:00.000-08:00

Newly anointed with Grammy nominee honors for Best Male Vocal Country Performance for his last single “Turning Home,” MCA Nashville’s David Nail is wasting no time in delivering what’s sure to be another vocal standout.

“Let It Rain,” written by Nail and Jonathan Singleton and produced by Frank Liddell and Chuck Ainlay, is the debut single from his forthcoming 2011 as-yet-untitled release. “Rain” officially goes for radio adds Monday but can be sampled now at www.davidnail.com. The single will be available for purchase at www.itunes.com and www.amazon.com beginning Tuesday, February 8.

“Jonathan came in with the groove, and the words just came rather effortlessly,” explained Nail about the 2010 summer writing session that produced “Rain.” “As the track came together in the studio, it just became more and more evident that this particular song was unique. Having Sarah Buxton play such an important background vocal role brought it to an even-more-powerful, emotional level. I’m extremely excited to be back on the radio with something new.”

Despite the weather conditions, Nail made good on his show last night in St. Louis Park , Minnesota , and will play Chicago ’s famed Joe’s Bar tonight and Pontiac , Illinois ’ Crystal Palace Saturday night. Nail will then take to the West Coast with a couple California gigs before opening an already sold-out show at Los Angeles’ Troubadour alongside Dierks Bentley.

Click here to listen to David Nail's latest single, Let It Rain!

Looking for America - Mark Wills (Music Video)

2011-02-03T08:34:00.001-08:00

Little Big Town Pleased with ACM Nominations

2011-02-01T17:11:00.001-08:00

Platinum-selling country group Little Big Town—which consists of members Karen Fairchild, Jimi Westbrook, Kimberly Schlapman, and Phillip Sweet—continues to build on their already incredible year that has included a top hit, “Little White Church,” #1 debut album, The Reason Why, their fourth GRAMMY nomination, and now, the news of their 2011 ACM Awards nomination in the Top Vocal Group of the Year category.

"I hold my breath hoping for a nomination every year. It was nice to wake up this morning and hear the great news," said Schlapman in response to the nomination.

In celebration of their recent ACM and GRAMMY nominations, the group will perform on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon on Tuesday, February 8 at 12:35 AM ET/11:35 PM CT on NBC.

In 2006 Little Big Town took home the ACM Award for Top New Vocal Duo or Group.

Jamey Johnson On His ACM Nominations

2011-02-01T17:09:00.000-08:00

Jamey Johnson has received two nominations from the Academy of Country Music Awards, including Album of the Year for The Guitar Song, the most-lauded country album of 2010.

"The triumph of a gold-selling double album is shared by my family, my friends/bandmates/producers, my staff, my label, my booking agents, my publishers, my management, my publicists, my handlers, my wranglers, my fans, my dog, Willie's braids and that beautiful brunette in Toledo,” Jamey says. “Thanks all for the hard work and dedication. You all deserve each accolade. And thanks to the Academy voters for the recognition."

Jamey also received an ACM nomination in the category of Vocal Event of the Year for his performance with Colt Ford of “Cold Beer.”

"If working with Colt in the studio was a ball, touring with him on the road with the Grascals and Hank Williams, Jr. was several balls,” Jamey says. “He's a unique artist in a day where uniquity is not usually rewarded. I'm proud to be nominated alongside my friend."

Jamey is a two-time winner in the ACM Song of the Year category, taking home trophies in 2009 for “In Color” and 2007 for “Give It Away,” which was recorded by George Strait.

The Guitar Song was produced by Arlis Albritton, Dave Cobb and The Kent Hardly Playboys, all of whom received nominations as well in the Album of the Year category. In addition, two members of The Kent Hardly Playboys received individual nominations. Jim “Moose” Brown is nominated for Top Piano/Keyboard Player of the Year, and “Cowboy” Eddie Long is nominated for Top Steel Guitar Player of the Year.

Jamey’s The Guitar Song, an ambitious 25-song double album, also recently received two Grammy nominations -- Country Album of the Year and Best Male Country Vocal performance for “Macon.” (He received a third Grammy nomination in Best Country Collaboration with Vocals for “Bad Angels” with Dierks Bentley and Miranda Lambert.)

In addition, The Guitar Song was recently certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America.

Last week, the Nashville Scene’s 11th annual Country Music Critics’ Poll named The Guitar Song the best album of 2011 and named Jamey Artist of the Year, Best Male Vocalist and Best Songwriter.

The Guitar Song was ranked No. 5 on Rolling Stone’s Best Albums of 2010 and “Macon” was ranked No. 23 on Rolling Stone’s Best Singles of 2010.

“What does Jamey Johnson keep under all of that hair? Songs,” says Rolling Stone. “Nashville’s gruffest and grittiest star turns out to be its most reliable traditionalist, a Music Row pro who can write a song for every emotional season. Johnson pulled out a whole slew of them – 25, clocking in north of 105 minutes – four his double-disc fourth album: acoustic confessions and rugged boogie blues, big weepers and grim reapers, cover tunes and novelty ditties, not to mention “California Riots” and “Playing the Part,” a pair of fiercely funny, unrepentantly redneck swipes at the frou-frou blue states.”

The Washington Post, which ranked the album at No. 2 on its list of 2010’s greatest hits, says, “He sings in the baritone of God and carries a guitar covered in Sharpie squiggles – autographed from the likes of Haggard, Nelson and other country music royalty. Now Johnson’s sweeping double album raises the question: How long before he has to sign it himself?”

Spin also named The Guitar Song as No. 5 on its list of The 40 Best Albums of 2010. “Johnson’s double-album opus isn’t one of the past decade’s best country records because he’s a boundary-pushing subversive,” Spin says.

The New York Times included “Even the Skies Are Blue” on its list of Top Songs, while People included The Guitar Song in its Top 10 Music list, noting, “In an era when much of country music is designed for bite-size radio consumption, this old-school outlaw – and Matthew McConaughey BFF – served up a meaty, 25-track double album that sticks to your bones.”

He also made best-album lists of The Boston Globe, Los Angeles Times, Paste, The Philadelphia Inquirer, Detroit Free Press, The Arizona Republic and other publications.

Jamey is currently on tour with Kid Rock.

Craig Campbell Joins Willie Nelson's Country Throwdown Tour

2011-02-01T17:05:00.001-08:00

With the exciting news that “Family Man” Craig Campbell will join Willie Nelson on the 2011 Country Throwdown Tour, the singer’s label, Bigger Picture Group, has shifted the release of the Campbell’s self-titled debut album to April 5 to coincide more closely with the start of the tour. Nineteen dates have so far been announced for the Country Throwdown Tour, including Denver, CO, Philadelphia, PA, Nashville, TN and Del Mar, CA.

Campbell worked in the studio with legendary producer Keith Stegall (Zac Brown Band, Alan Jackson) to record his debut album. The singer co-wrote nine of the eleven songs on his forthcoming record, including the hit single “Family Man,” which is quickly climbing the charts, already at #22 Billboard / #23 Mediabase.

Craig Campbell Track Listing:

1. “I Bought It” written by Craig Campbell, Philip Douglas, Dan Murph
2. “Family Man” written by Craig Campbell, Jon Henderson, Joel Shewmake
3. “When I Get It” written by Craig Campbell, Jason Matthews, Jim McCormick
4. “My Little Cowboy” written by Craig Campbell, Dan Couch
5. “Makes You Wanna Sang” written by Craig Campbell, Rob Hatch, Lance Miller
6. “That Going Away Look (About Her)” written by Michael White, Wade Kirby, Carson Chamberlain
7. “Fish” written by Craig Campbell, Arlos Smith, Ashe Underwood
8. “Chillaxin’” written by Craig Campbell, Rob Hatch, Brice Long
9. “That’s Music To Me” written by Craig Campbell, Tim Nichols, Carson Chamberlain
10. “You Probably Ain’t” written by Craig Campbell, Keith Stegall, Michael White
11. “All Night To Get There” written by Keith Stegall, Vicky McGehee, Lee Brice

To learn more about Craig, visit www.craigcampbell.tv and follow him on Twitter @craigcampbelltv.

2011 ACM Awards Nominees

2011-02-01T07:47:00.000-08:00

Entertainer of the Year
Jason Aldean
Toby Keith
Brad Paisley
Taylor Swift
Keith Urban
Miranda Lambert

Album of the Year
Hemingway's Whiskey - Kenny Chesney
Need You Now - Lady Antebellum
The Guitar Song - Jamey Johnson
Speak Now - Taylor Swift
Up On the Ridge - Dierks Bentley
You Get What You Give - Zac Brown Band

Top Vocal Duo
Joey + Rory
Montgomery Gentry
Steel Magnolia
Sugarland
The Janedear Girls

Top Vocal Group
Lady Antebellum
Little Big Town
Randy Rogers Band
The Band Perry
Zac Brown Band

Top Male Vocalist
Jason Aldean
Brad Paisley
Blake Shelton
George Strait
Keith Urban

Top Female Vocalist
Reba McEntire
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood
Lee Ann Womack
Miranda Lambert

Top New Solo Vocalist
Eric Church
Easton Corbin
Randy Houser

Top New Vocal Duo or Group
The Band Perry
the JaneDear girls
Steel Magnolia

Song of the Year
A Little More Country Than That, Easton Corbin Songwriters: Rory Lee Feek, Don Poythress, Wynn Varble
As She's Walking Away, Zac Brown Band featuring Alan Jackson Songwriters: Zac Brown, Wyatt Durrette
If I Die Young, The Band Perry Songwriter: Kimberly Perry
Love Like Crazy, Lee Brice Songwriters: Tim James, Doug Johnson
The House That Built Me, Miranda Lambert Songwriters: Tom Douglas, Allen Shamblin

Vocal Event
As She's Walking Away, Zac Brown Band featuring Alan Jackson Producers: Zac Brown, Keith Stegall
Blue Sky, Emily West featuring Keith Urban Producer: Mark Bright
Coal Miner's Daughter, Loretta Lynn, Sheryl Crow and Miranda Lambert, Producers: John Carter Cash, Patsy Lynn Russell
Cold Beer, Colt Ford featuring Jamey Johnson Producers: Shannon Houchins, Adrian Young
Good to Be Me, Uncle Kracker featuring Kid Rock Producer: Kid Rock

Single Record of the Year
A Little More Country Than That, Easton Corbin Producer: Carson Chamberlain
As She's Walking Away, Zac Brown Band featuring Alan Jackson Producers: Zac Brown, Keith Stegall
If I Die Young, The Band Perry Producer: Paul Worley
Love Like Crazy, Lee Brice Producers: Lee Brice, Doug Johnson
The Boys of Fall, Kenny Chesney Producers: Buddy Cannon, Kenny Chesney
The House That Built Me, Miranda Lambert Producers: Frank Liddell, Mike Wrucke

Song of the Year
A Little More Country Than That, Easton Corbin Songwriters: Rory Lee Feek, Don Poythress, Wynn Varble
As She's Walking Away, Zac Brown Band featuring Alan Jackson Songwriters: Zac Brown, Wyatt Durrette
If I Die Young, The Band Perry Songwriter: Kimberly Perry
Love Like Crazy, Lee Brice Songwriters: Tim James, Doug Johnson
The House That Built Me, Miranda Lambert Songwriters: Tom Douglas, Allen Shamblin

Video of the Year
Hillbilly Bone, Blake Shelton featuring Trace Adkins Producer: Randy Brewer, Director: Roman White
Only Prettier, Miranda Lambert Producer: Trent Hardville, Director: Trey Fanjoy
Stuck Like Glue, Sugarland Producer: Tony McGarry, Director: Declan Whitebloom
The Boys of Fall, Kenny Chesney Producer: Don Lepore, Director: Shaun Silva
The House That Built Me, Miranda Lambert Producer: Trent Hardville, Director: Trey Fanjoy

Sugarland's Incredible Machine Goes Platinum!

2011-01-31T19:38:00.000-08:00

Sugarland’s latest album, The Incredible Machine, recently received platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) indicating sales of more than one million albums.

This recent certification marks the fourth consecutive release from the international super-duo that has reached platinum or multi-platinum status, resulting in more than 9 million records sold.

Sugarland will begin their 2011 The Incredible Machine Tour this spring beginning in Houston , TX on March 3 and ending in their hometown of Atlanta , GA on October 22. Last year’s The Incredible Machine Tour was one of Pollstar’s Top 50 North American Tours of 2010 and has been described as “stunning,” “fantastically fun” and “not one to be missed.” Tickets are currently on sale in select markets at www.sugarlandmusic.com/events.

For more information on Sugarland, visit www.sugarlandmusic.com

Bleed Red - Ronnie Dunn (New Single)

2011-01-31T07:49:00.001-08:00

Heart Like Mine - Miranda Lambert (Live)

2011-01-29T21:05:00.001-08:00

Fiddlin' Around - Dierks Bentley (Music Video)

2011-01-29T03:32:00.001-08:00

From A Table Away - Sunny Sweeney (Music Video)

2011-01-28T18:14:00.001-08:00

From a Table Away - Sunny Sweeney - Sunny Sweeney Videos

Toby Keith's New DVD '10' Is Available for Pre-order Now

2011-01-27T19:56:00.000-08:00

From the news release:

The new DVD release by Toby Keith' called '10' collects exactly that many of Keith's most engaging videos, giving everyone the chance to see just how much the small screen loves Toby ... and vice versa. The Western imagery and story-telling of his debut single "Should've Been A Cowboy," his Willie Nelson collaboration "Beer For My Horses" and his latest "Bullets In The Gun" butts up against the fun and frivolity of "I Love This Bar" and "As Good As I Once Was." And Keith's never afraid to take a hard stand or drive home wry social commentary, as in "Courtesy Of The Red, White And Blue" and "American Ride." In fact, of his literally dozens of major awards, 10 (fittingly) have been for his videos.

His current single "Bullets In The Gun" is shooting up to the top of the charts. The album for which it serves as title track debuted at No. 1 all-genre. And his American Ride Tour was ranked as one of the year's top tours by Pollstar. He's also nominated for the Best Male Country Vocal Performance Grammy for his emotional tribute to his late friend Wayman Tisdale, "Cryin' For Me (Wayman's Song)." And on Jan. 29, Toby will return to the Grand Ole Opry stage eight years after his first and only performance there.

Pre-Order Toby Keith's "10" Here!

"10" Track Listing:

1. Should've Been A Cowboy
2. How Do You Like Me Now?!
3. Courtesy Of The Red, White And Blue (The Angry American)
4. Beer For My Horses (Toby Keith & Willie Nelson)
5. I Love This Bar
6. American Soldier
7. As Good As I Once Was
8. American Ride
9. Bullets In The Gun
10. God Love Her

The Music Inside: A Collaboration Dedicated To Waylon Jennings Volume 1 (Listening Party)

2011-01-27T19:55:00.000-08:00

Release Date: February 8

Various Artists
"The Music Inside: A Collaboration Dedicated To Waylon Jennings Volume 1"
(Big Machine Records)

1. "This Time" - Jamey Johnson

2. "Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way" - Alabama

3. "I'm A Ramblin' Man" - Randy Houser

4. "Belle of the Ball" - Shooter Jennings

5. "Good Hearted Woman" - Sunny Sweeney & Jessi Colter

6. "Don't You Think This Outlaw Bit's Done Got Out Of Hand" - James Otto

7. "Just To Satisfy You" - John Hiatt with Waylon Jennings

8. "Rose In Paradise" - Kriss Kristofferson & Patty Griffin

9. "You Ask Me To" - Trace Adkins

10. "Go Down Rockin'" - Waylon Jennings

11. "The Wurlitzer Prize (I Don't Want To Get Over You)" - Chanel Campbell (Bonus Track)

CW Exclusive: Reba Among ACM Honorees

2011-01-26T20:02:00.001-08:00

Country Weekly has learned that country superstars Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride, Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland, Reba McEntire and Carrie Underwood will be honored by the Academy of Country Music at Girls Night Out: Superstar Women of Country, which will be taped on Monday, April 4 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and which will later air on CBS. Additional honorees and participating talent for the special tribute concert are forthcoming.

Each woman will be honored for the special achievements in their careers.

Miranda will be recognized for being the only female artist in the Academy’s history to ever win Album of the Year twice. First for Crazy Ex-Girlfriend in 2007 and again for Revolution in 2009.

Martina will be recognized by ACM Lifting Lives for her dedication to raising social consciousness through songs such as “Independence Day” and “Concrete Angel,” which raise awareness of domestic violence and encourage female empowerment. She has won Top Female Vocalist three times, in 2001, 2002 and 2003.

Meanwhile, Jennifer will be recognized for being only one of two female artists in the Academy’s history to ever solo write and perform Song of the Year, in 2007, with “Stay.”

Reba will be recognized for winning Top Female Vocalist more times than any other artist in the Academy’s history – an impressive seven times.

Carrie will be recognized for being the only female artist in the Academy’s history to ever win Entertainer of the Year, twice, first in 2008 and again in 2009.

Tickets for Girls’ Night Out: Superstar Women of Country are on sale now at Ticketmaster and are priced at $200, $150 and $100. Ticket sales will benefit ACM Lifting Lives, the charitable arm of the Academy.

For more information on Girls’ Night Out or the ACM Awards, visit acmcountry.com.

The Shape I'm In - Joe Nichols (Music Video)

2011-01-24T19:09:00.001-08:00

The Shape I'm In - Joe Nichols - Joe Nichols Videos

Lorraine - Lori McKenna (Listening Party)

2011-01-23T17:29:00.001-08:00

January 25

Lori McKenna
"Lorraine"
(Signature)

Track List:

1. "The Luxury Of Knowing"

2. "The Most"

3. "If He Tried"

4. "Lorraine"

5. "You Get A Love Song"

6. "Rocket Science"

7. "Buy This Town"

8. "All I Ever Do"

9. "That's How You Know"

10. "Sweet Disposition"

11. "American Revolver"

12. "Ladders And Parachutes"

Source(s): Amazon, Mediabase

Josh Kelley Will Release Country Debut Album 'Georgia Clay' on March 22

2011-01-22T18:53:00.000-08:00

MCA Nashville singer/songwriter Josh Kelley will release his debut country album, Georgia Clay, on March 22.

The industry excitement surrounding the project led to Josh’s inclusion in a recent Tennessean feature on “11 Artist to Watch in 2011.”

Georgia Clay is Josh’s most autobiographical album to date and powerfully describes the most important moments of his life, including his marriage to actress Katherine Heigl, their adoption of daughter Naleigh and the family’s move to Utah.

“This record is a time capsule,” says Josh, who wrote or co-wrote every song on the album. “It’s by far the best thing I’ve written and I’ve never been more proud. I’m proud to be in a genre where people pay attention to meaningful lyrics and truly appreciate storytelling. I feel like I’ve become more of a man with the writing of this record.”

“Georgia Clay,” the project’s first hit and title track, recalls the carefree summers of Josh’s youth. He wrote the song with his brother, Charles Kelley of Lady Antebellum, while they were at Charles’ house with Josh’s producer, Clint Lagerberg. They began reminiscing about high school, remembering fondly the times when they would hook up jet skis behind their father’s 1977 Chevy Silverado and go to the lake.

“I asked Charles whatever happened to that old truck Dad used to let us drive,” he says. “He said it was in a junkyard somewhere. I said, ‘Man, if there’s still some Georgia clay underneath it, if that Georgia clay could speak, what would it say?’ It would have seen our childhood and seen Charles and I experiencing our first everythings.

“This song takes me back to Georgia every time I sing it. No matter where I go in this world, I will never wash away my Southern roots, just like that ‘Georgia Clay’ on my dad’s old truck.”

Another album standout is “Gone Like That,” which depicts a sensitive man who keeps running into someone who could be the woman of his dreams. “This was the song that actually started my journey into country music,” he says. “I had written and presented it to my music publisher to pitch to other artists, but they liked my demo and encouraged me to cut it. It was the first song I wrote that gave me the confidence to pursue a career as a country singer.”

“Raining Whiskey” is destined to become a favorite at honkytonks across the country. Quoting the song’s lyrics, he says, “It’s hard staying dry when it’s raining whiskey. That’s my favorite forecast!”

“Naleigh Moon” poignantly captures the intense connection he has with his daughter. “We’d only had Naleigh for a couple of weeks when I wrote this and I think it’s the best song I’ve ever written,” he says. “The way the chords and the melody intertwine, it really tugs on your heartstrings. I mean every word of it each time I sing ‘Naleigh Moon.’”

He unveils a beautiful falsetto in “Baby Blue Eyes,” which he co-wrote with Lee Brice. “Let’s just say I’ve caught a lot of crap for this one because my wife has brown eyes,” he says. “What can I say? It’s like I tell my wife, I wrote that one with Lee, and maybe his girl has blue eyes. While the eye color has changed for artistic reasons, the feeling and emotion is true.”

While the man in “Ain’t Letting Go” isn’t desperate, he remains acutely aware of the mistakes he’s made. “He’s having a hard time trying to let her go, so he wants to give her a hard time as well,” says Josh, who co-wrote the song with his brother, Charles, and Patrick Davis. “The whole song is basically a phone conversation that he’s having with her answering machine. He’s going, ‘I want you back. I ain’t letting you go.’”

He singlehandedly wrote “A Real Good Try,” which is about never giving up. “’A Real Good Try’ is about letting my family and friends and my wife know, ‘Bear with me. I have a goal in mind here. It’s going to take a lot of work.’”

Indeed, Josh has been working hard lately, whether it’s touring with Miranda Lambert and Eric Church, singing at the Grand Ole Opry or performing his own shows.

“Everybody that knows me has said it’s by far the best album I’ve ever made,” says Josh, who co-produced the project with Lagerberg. “Everything I’ve learned over the last seven years has led up to this point.”

Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way - Alabama (Music Video)

2011-01-21T02:16:00.001-08:00

Darius Rucker on Letterman

2011-01-20T06:59:00.001-08:00

My Kinda Party Certified Platinum

2011-01-18T20:17:00.000-08:00

Just eleven weeks after its release, Billboard’s 2010 Top Male Country Artist Jason Aldean is celebrating PLATINUM certification for sales of one million copies for his fourth studio album MY KINDA PARTY. The 15 track disc becomes Aldean’s third career PLATINUM album and brings the country rocker to five million total albums sold since his debut five years ago.

"I just can't say enough about country music fans and the amount of loyalty they have for their favorite artists," said Aldean. "To think that a million people already bought this record is hard for me to get my head around. And five million since I started? No way! I am so grateful to them for giving me the opportunity to play music every night."

MY KINDA PARTY opened big in Nov. with an impressive first week moving over 193,000 units and earning the biggest first week debut by a male vocalist in over three years. The album’s lead and title track recently earned GOLD certification for digital downloads and took the No. one spot on Mediabase’s country chart. Aldean’s powerful duet with Kelly Clarkson “Don’t You Wanna Stay” follows closely behind, jumping into the Top 15 this week. Both singles also remain in the Top 10 on iTunes’ Country Songs Chart.

Aldean will kick off the sold out first weekend of arena dates on his MY KINDA PARTY TOUR this Friday in Little Rock, AR. The 30 city run through May features special guests Eric Church and the JaneDear girls.

RASCAL FLATTS' ABC TELEVISION SPECIAL TO AIR MARCH 12

2011-01-18T15:47:00.000-08:00

Rascal Flatts in the Hot Ticket on ABC with the Television Special - "Rascal Flatts: Nothing Like This Presented By JCPenney"

The ABC Television Network presents “Rascal Flatts: Nothing Like This Presented by JCPenney.” One of the best touring acts in country music with over 6 million concert tickets sold, Rascal Flatts will film a live music special from the Xcel Energy Center this Friday, January 21st in St. Paul, Minnesota. The show is being filmed during a regularly scheduled date on their “Nothing Like This” tour, which launched this past weekend. “RASCAL FLATTS: NOTHING LIKE THIS PRESENTED BY JCPENNEY” AIRS SATURDAY, MARCH 12 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET) on ABC.

George Flanigen will direct the special and Robert Deaton will executive produce.

Rascal Flatts – Gary LeVox, Jay DeMarcus and Joe Don Rooney – debuted their first album on Big Machine Records, Nothing Like This, in November at #1 on the country album sales chart and became one of only four country acts to debut six consecutive studio albums at #1. Since their musical debut in 2000, the band has sold 20 million albums, 25 million digital downloads, and delivered 12 #1 singles to the top of the chart. Rascal Flatts is the most awarded country group of the past decade with nearly 40 trophies from the American Country Awards, Academy of Country Music, American Music Awards, Country Music Association, People’s Choice Awards and more.

SUGARLAND TO HEADLINE FIRST EVER ACM FAN JAM

2011-01-17T21:27:00.000-08:00

Country superduo Sugarland will headline the first-ever ACM Fan Jam, a fans-only live concert event taking place in Las Vegas during and after the 46th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards broadcast Sunday, April 3, 2011 at 8:00 PM live ET/delayed PT on the CBS Television Network.

The ACM Fan Jam will take place at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, during and after the ACM Awards from the MGM Grand Garden Arena, and will give fans the ultimate opportunity to be part of the LIVE telecast. Throughout the three-hour live show from the MGM Grand Garden Arena, there will be performances from the Mandalay Bay Events Center by Sugarland and other top-tier music acts, to be announced at a later date. Tickets for the ACM Fan Jam will go on sale Wednesday, priced at $35 and $55.
"We sell out our Awards show tickets within minutes of going on sale, every year," explains Bob Romeo, CEO of the Academy of Country Music. "With Sugarland's help, the Academy is answering the demand of more and better access to the Awards show with the Fan Jam, with a family-friendly ticket price and a promise that this experience will be like no other in ACM Awards history."

"I am wound up about the ACM Fan Jam," said Jennifer Nettles. "It's going to be like hosting our own ACM party for the fans. They'll get to see the show AND have their own private show in the same evening! It's like having your biscuit and eating it too, all in one big jar of Fan Jam!"

The ACM Fan Jam will include three LIVE remotes into the 46^th Annual ACM Awards telecast-one for each hour of the show-and will also include a profusion of entertainment, including live performances by upcoming country music acts, prizes and special giveaways only for attendees, such as autographed guitars, trip packages to country music events and merchandise. Fans at the ACM Awards wear cocktail or dressy attire, but at the Fan Jam, concert attire is key because the night continues with many more live performances and appearances after the Awards' taping ends.

"This is the ultimate fan experience and we couldn't be happier that Sugarland is kicking it off! We'll have cameras there bringing all of the action to millions of viewers on CBS," said Orly Adelson, President of dick clark productions and Executive Producer of the Awards.

Tickets for ALL Academy of Country Music events in April will be on sale beginning Wednesday, January 19^th at 10:00 AM PST at Ticketmaster.com including 46^th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards on Sunday, April 3, 2011 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, ACM Fan Jam on Sunday April 3, 2011 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center, and Girls' Night Out: Superstar Women of Country taping on Monday, April 4, 2011 featuring an A-list cast in tribute performances to country music's most amazing female performers.

For more information on Sugarland, please visit sugarlandmusic.com. You can also follow them on Twitter (@Sugarlandmusic) for up-to-the-minute information on the ACM Fan Jam and their 2011 Incredible Machine Tour.

CMT News - Rascal Flatts: 10 Prime Hits

2011-01-16T00:36:00.001-08:00

These days, Rascal Flatts have racked up more country hits than a set list can hold. Yet, when they launch the second leg of their Nothing Like This tour on Friday (Jan. 14) in Sioux Falls, S.D., fans will surely stand when they hear their favorites. We can't take you there ... but, hey, why wait? Check out these 10 prime hits by Rascal Flatts, chosen by members of the CMT.com staff.

"Bless the Broken Road"
"Bless the Broken Road" remains for me the most satisfying and expressive vocal effort by those three very versatile voices of Rascal Flatts. And the song has taken on a vital life of its own. "Broken Road" itself had a very rich musical history even before it reached the members of Flatts. "Broken Road" was written by Marcus Hummon, Bobby Boyd and Nitty Gritty Dirt Band member Jeff Hanna. It appeared on the Dirt Band's 1994 album Acoustic and got no attention. Hummon included his version on his 1995 debut Columbia Records album, All in Good Time. Again, it got no notice. The much-anticipated Nashville group Sons of the Desert cut it in 1998 for what was to be the group's sophomore album. Alas, a dispute with the record label resulted in the album's cancellation. The song was still alive, though, and was recorded in a very melodic version by the heralded vocalist Melodie Crittenden on her debut Asylum album. Not much ensued from that. The Christian group Selah also recorded it. Enter Rascal Flatts in 2004, and the rest is history. Their version spent five weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard country songs chart and won a Grammy as best country song. Carrie Underwood has performed it, both with Flatts and solo. In addition to becoming a huge hit, the song is now one of the most-performed at weddings. -- Chet Flippo

"Here Comes Goodbye"
I think one of the things that makes Rascal Flatts so appealing is the way they can switch gears between emotional extremes. They're equally believable whether they're singing about the best day of their lives or the worst. "Here Comes Goodbye" obviously focuses on the latter. The title sums up the song perfectly, and I appreciate its slightly different take on the standard breakup song. While it seems like too many of those are written about experiences after the fact -- trying to move on, make things right or just plain forget -- "Here Comes Goodbye" is sung just before the hammer falls to end the relationship. The guy has clearly been through this before and knows what to expect, but that just makes it worse. The descriptions are so clear that a sense of dread underlines the whole thing. Could be a mood-killer, for sure. -- Chris Parton

"Mayberry"
Like the first line of the chorus, I miss Mayberry. In fact, I often go back there in my mind. "Mayberry" is what I like to call my mother's hometown in Illinois -- a place we used to visit where Grandpa would take me by the hand and mimic train whistles as we'd walk the tracks behind his home. It was a place where we'd go to the local post office to see his friends or enjoy a chat on his rickety chairs in the front yard. Even those who lived there were picture perfect, real-life characters with homegrown names like Mrs. Prittle, Gladys and Grandpa's next-door neighbor, Smitty. It was a place where I could breathe and feel completely at home. Each time I hear this wistful tune, the clock turns back about 20 years. There I am, fumbling over the unsteady ground as I look up and ask, "Grandpa, how far do these tracks go?" And he always smiles and replies the same, "As far as you want them to." -- Whitney Self

"Prayin' for Daylight"
I will never, ever forget the first time I heard "Prayin' for Daylight." I was instantly hooked. Not only was Gary LeVox's twang so refreshing -- at a time when singers were trying to hide theirs -- and the up-tempo arrangement so infectious, but the idea that this guy is so crushed by a breakup that he just wants morning to come so he can try to win her back was a solid little country story. It's certainly not the band's deepest song, but in 2000, it was the perfect way for a trio to debut a new kind of pop-country sound. -- Alison Bonaguro

"Skin (Sarabeth)"
It is virtually impossible to describe this quiet, gut-wrenching ballad without a box of Kleenex by your side. I dare you. Just one line in, after a fiddle intro, there is mention of a doctor. Then there's talk of red cells and white, over a swelling piano. Yet there's something about Rascal Flatts' take on teen tragedy that makes it so compelling. You can't turn this 2005 track off. You have to find out how it ends. This one has a happy ending when the girl with leukemia not only gets to go to the prom, but does so with a boy compassionate enough to shave his head to match hers. -- Alison Bonaguro

"Summer Nights"
Got a case of the winter blues? I do. I hate absolutely everything about winter weather. The surefire remedy I've found is Rascal Flatts' party anthem, "Summer Nights." The track serves as a helpful reminder that warm weather is right around the corner, and I can't help but sing along to "everybody's feeling sexy." And when Gary LeVox belts out, "Holler if you're ready for some summer nights," I immediately want to jump in my car, head to the beach and find a party like the one in this music video. Oh, Gary, can you hear me? I'm hollering as loud as possible. -- Stephanie Pendergrass

"Take Me There"
Sweet, cheery and charming, the Flatts boys capture the early stages of a young love with "Take Me There," a tune that always reminded me of something a guy might hum to himself as he walks home from a really good first date. ("I-I-I-I wanna know, everything about you!") Imagine being in that moment when the world seems a little more forgiving and the future looks promising, and you would want to dig deeper into the reason for all that happiness, too. Gotta love that hopeless-romantic stuff. Plus, the hook in the beginning is really catchy: "Tell me 'bout your mama, your daddy, your hometown!" -- Chris Parton

"These Days"
This pining cry for a past love provided the gang with their first No.1 country single -- a track from their 2002 sophomore album,Melt. A song about old flames and happenstance, the lyrics depict a brief meeting between two past lovers who haven't seen each other in years. Though she's moved on and married a rodeo cowboy, he finds himself struggling with his feelings for her. A relatable message, the song speaks to anyone who still carries memories of their past loves. "These Days" marked the beginning of a string of major hits. Since that time, their career has flourished as they've nabbed several CMA, ACM and CMT awards. But here's an interesting tidbit: The production set of "These Days" is where bassist Jay DeMarcus met his wife, CMT Insider correspondent Allison DeMarcus. What's more, just this month they welcomed their first child. -- Whitney Self

"What Hurts the Most"
If you're listening to "What Hurts the Most" as a breakup ballad, the song is easy to relate to -- dealing with the loneliness, pretending to be OK and wondering if you should have tried harder. But when you watch the cinematic video, as a high school student loses her serious boyfriend in a car wreck, the vivid lyrics make the whole thing almost unbearably tragic. The production is big and sweeping, which is pretty typical with Rascal Flatts' music of that era, but in this case, the storyline is equally dramatic. I think the lyrics also hit an elusive songwriting goal by conveying a complex emotion in just a few words: "What hurts the most was being so close." Anyone who's reeling from an unexpected loss of a loved one can immediately understand that message. -- Craig Shelburne

"Why Wait"
How many times do you hear a song on the radio and have no earthly idea who's performing it? Say what you will. Whether you love them, hate them or fall somewhere in between, when you hear a Rascal Flatts track, there's no doubt whatsoever. You knowit's Rascal Flatts. And that's a huge accomplishment and a huge compliment by any standard. "Why Wait" doesn't have the emotional power of songs such as "Bless the Broken Road" or "What Hurts the Most," but that wasn't the intention when songwriters Neil Thrasher, Jimmy Yeary and Tom Shapiro collaborated on it. Yes, a message is there, but there's a lot to be said for well-crafted songs that are tailor made for the arena stage. The unexpected guest stars in the music video make it worth watching, too. -- Calvin Gilbert

Lady Antebellum's 'Hello World' to be Featured on TV Show NCIS

2011-01-14T17:30:00.000-08:00

GRAMMY nominated superstar trio Lady Antebellum’s epic ballad “Hello World” is slated to be featured on an upcoming episode of CBS’s hit drama NCIS (Navel Criminal Investigative Service) set to air Jan. 18. “Hello World” is currently in the Top 15 and climbing on Billboard’s country chart and comes on the heels of three consecutive No. one’s off their TRIPLE PLATINUM album NEED YOU NOW.

Steel Magnolia - Steel Magnolia (Listening Party)

2011-01-13T20:51:00.000-08:00

Steel Magnolia - "Steel Magnolia" (JAN 11, 2011)

[LISTEN] 1. "Ooh La La"

[LISTEN] 2. "Keep On Lovin' You"

[LISTEN] 3. "Just By Being You"

[LISTEN] 4. "Edge Of Goodbye"

[LISTEN] 5. "Bulletproof"

[LISTEN] 6. "Not Tonight"

[LISTEN] 7. "Last Night Again"

[LISTEN] 8. "Without You"

[LISTEN] 9. "Rainbow"

[LISTEN] 10. "Eggs Over Easy"

[LISTEN] 11. "Homespun Love"

[LISTEN] 12. "Glass Houses"

Source: Mediabase

Back to December - Taylor Swift (Music Video)

2011-01-13T03:29:00.000-08:00

Taylor Swift More CMT Music More CMT Music Videos

Rascal Flatts Launch Second Leg Of Their “Nothing Like This Tour”

2011-01-12T23:46:00.000-08:00

Rascal Flatts will launch the second leg of their “Nothing Like This Tour” this Friday, January 14 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota at the Sioux Falls Arena featuring opening acts Luke Bryan and Chris Young. The tour with then wrap in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on March 12.

When Rascal Flatts closed the first leg of the “Nothing Like This Tour” in October 2010, the band had performed for more than 650,000 fans in all of 2010, including earlier shows on their “Unstoppable Tour.” Since their touring career began, they have sold over 6 million concert tickets.

Rascal Flatts – Gary LeVox, Jay DeMarcus and Joe Don Rooney – debuted their first album on Big Machine Records, Nothing Like This, in November at #1 on the country album sales chart and became one of only four country acts to debut six consecutive studio albums at #1. Since their musical debut in 2000, the band has sold 20 million albums and 25 million digital downloads and delivered 12 #1 singles to the top of the chart. Rascal Flatts is the most awarded country group of the past decade with nearly 40 trophies from the American Country Awards, Academy of Country Music, American Music Awards, Country Music Association, People’s Choice Awards and more.

Capitol Records Nashville artist Luke Bryan leaps into the New Year still enjoying the success of his current album, Doin’ My Thing, which contains his co-penned, #1 hits “Do I” and “Rain Is A Good Thing” and current smash “Someone Else Calling You Baby,” as well as his recent award accolades. Bryan was named the 2010 Academy of Country Music’s Top New Artist and Top New Solo Vocalist, both fan-voted, and won a 2010 CMT trophy for the fan-voted USA Weekend Breakthrough Video of The Year for his “Do I” music clip. For more information on Luke, visit www.lukebryan.com.

Accomplished singer/songwriter and 2011 GRAMMY® Award nominee Chris Young has topped the charts with back-to-back #1 singles with “Gettin’ You Home” and “The Man I Want to Be.” His current Top 5 single, “Voices,” also from his acclaimed sophomore album, The Man I Want to Be, is quickly moving up the charts. With his rich, warm baritone and penchant for writing classic slice-of-life songs, Young emerged as an immediate fan-favorite when his self-titled first album became the highest-selling debut by a new country male in the year of its release. In 2010 Chris was named the winner of the Breakthrough Songwriter Award at the 22nd Annual MusicRow Awards and received his first CMA Award nomination as New Artist of the Year. He recently earned his first GRAMMY nomination for Best Male Country Vocal Performance for his co-penned “Gettin’ You Home.” For more information, visit www.chrisyoungcountry.com.

For additional information on Rascal Flatts and their tour go to www.rascalflatts.com.

2011 “Nothing Like This Tour” dates:
1/14 Sioux Falls, SD Sioux Falls Arena
1/15 Rapid City, SD Rushmore Civic Center
1/21 St. Paul, MN Xcel Energy Center
1/22 Omaha, NE Qwest Center
1/27 Lexington, KY Rupp Arena
1/28 Dayton, OH Nutter Center
1/29 Champaign, IL Assembly Hall
2/3 Cedar Park, TX Cedar Park Center
2/4 New Orleans, LA New Orleans Arena
2/5 Tupelo, MS Bancorp South Arena
2/17 Erie, PA Erie Civic Center
2/18 Uncasville, CT Mohegan Sun Arena
2/24 Rochester, NY Blue Cross Arena
2/25 Uniondale, NY Nassau Coliseum
2/26 Manchester, NH Verizon Wireless Arena
3/4 Moline, IL iWireless Center *(no Luke)
3/5 Springfield, MO JQH Arena
3/6 Kansas City, MO Sprint Center
3/12 Oklahoma City, OK Oklahoma City Center

Love Don't Run - Steve Holy

2011-01-12T03:14:00.000-08:00

This song is amazing! Way better than I initially thought it would be. Steve has a very rich, emotional voice, which fits extremely well with this song. Click on the link below to listen to it:

AUDIO : [LISTEN] (Mediabase)

Full Details Emerge On New Johnny Cash Double-Disc Bootleg Album

2011-01-10T15:33:00.001-08:00

The musical treasures left behind by Johnny Cash at the House Of Cash estate in Hendersonville, Tennessee, continue to provide insight into his character as an American music icon – perhaps the American music icon. The rich backwoods archive first bore fruit on Columbia/Legacy nearly five years ago, with the release of Personal File aka Bootleg Vol. 1, a fascinating double-CD collection of 49 privately recorded, intimate solo performances dating from 1973 to 1982.

From Memphis To Hollywood: Bootleg Volume 2 continues the series, as compilation producer Gregg Geller focuses on the dawning of Johnny Cash’s recording career at Sun Records in Memphis from late 1954 to late ’57 (on CD One), into his first decade at Columbia Records in Nashville, from 1958 to 1969 (on CD Two). Bootleg Vol. 2 will be available at all physical and digital retail outlets starting February 22, 2011, through Columbia/Legacy, a division of Sony Music Entertainment.

Putting the Bootleg Vol. 2 collection in historical perspective is a carefully detailed essay written by Ashley Kahn, author of Kind of Blue: The Making of the Miles Davis Masterpiece (DaCapo Press, 2000), and other titles. Kahn also contributes to National Public Radio.

The trove of archival material on Bootleg Vol. 2 begins with a 15-minute live radio broadcast from KWEM in Memphis, hosted by Johnny Cash, who worked for Home Equipment Company, the show’s sponsor right across the street from the radio station. The date was Saturday, May 21, 1955, in the same month that Cash recorded his first Sun single, “Cry! Cry! Cry!” b/w “Hey Porter.” In addition to his lively palaver, Cash and the Tennessee Two – guitarist Luther Perkins and bassist Marshall Grant – performed a handful of tunes, including the honky tonk “Wide Open Road,” a cover of “One More Ride” (from the Sons Of the Pioneers), the gospel “Belshazzar,” and the guitar showpiece, “Luther’s Boogie.” The broadcast is followed by a one minute spot advertising an upcoming show at the Overton Park Shell, starring Webb Pierce, Red Sovine, Elvis Presley, Cash, and other country acts.

CD One continues with a dozen historically-significant, pre-Sun demos by Cash, 11 of them previously unreleased. These rare home-recorded demos served as blueprints to such enduring Cash originals as “I Walk The Line,” “Get Rhythm” and “Country Boy,” and provide new insight into Cash’s songwriting. Two of these demos would soon turn into rockabilly hits for Roy Orbison (“You’re My Baby”) and Warren Smith (“Rock And Roll Ruby”).

Under the heading Sun Rarities are seven outtakes produced between late 1954 and late 1957 by Sam Phillips and Jack Clement. In addition to familiar Cash titles (“Big River,” “Wide Open Road”), there are covers of tunes by Jimmy Rodgers (“Brakeman’s Blues”), Marty Robbins (“I Couldn’t Keep From Crying”), and Lead Belly (“Goodnight Irene”), an indication of Cash’s abiding interest and love for the burgeoning folk music movement, whose embrace of him was a hallmark of his career. CD One concludes with two final demos, “Restless Kid” (later recorded by Ricky Nelson), and “It’s All Over.”

The 25 tracks on CD Two span Cash’s first 11 years at Columbia Records; he was ultimately with the label for 28 years, through 1986. This disc presents a fresh gathering of Columbia non-album singles, outtakes, and B-sides being released digitally for the first time in the U.S. (11 of them previously unreleased in the U.S.).

The move to Columbia also meant a move to Los Angeles for Cash and his family as he developed a taste for film and television work, both as a songwriter and as an actor. In the Golden Age of TV westerns and movies, Cash was a natural. His larger-than-life presence boosted the popularity of the gunfighter ballads and Americana tales that became a pop music genre at the end of the 1950s and into the ’60s, exemplified by such titles as “Restless Kid,” “Johnny Yuma Theme,” and “Hardin Wouldn’t Run.” Another example is “Shifting, Whispering Sands,” a spoken-sung collaboration with Lorne Greene, better known as Bonanza TV patriarch Ben Cartwright.

The musical passions of Johnny Cash – from traditional gospel and folk, to Tin Pan Alley and Music Row, among many other sources – were given full rein in 1969, when The Johnny Cash Show became a weekly event on ABC-TV. It is at that point, with the evocative theme of the show’s central feature, “Come Along And Ride This Train,” that Bootleg Vol. 2 concludes.

“To know the tree,” Kahn sums up, “one should begin at the root – so goes an old saying. Yet one is well advised to take in all the branches as well. From Memphis To Hollywood: Bootleg Vol. 2 offers the opportunity to hear Johnny Cash’s earliest performances plus a wealth of unreleased and unfairly forgotten recordings, to grasp his commanding, old-growth legend in full.”

FROM MEMPHIS TO HOLLYWOOD: BOOTLEG VOL. 2 by JOHNNY CASH (Columbia/Legacy 88697 60051 2)

CD ONE: THE 1950s

A. On The Air

1. KWEM Announcements and Advertisements • 2. Johnny Cash Show Intro and Theme • 3. Wide Open Road • 4. Home Equipment Company Advertisement • 5. One More Ride • 6. Home Equipment Company Advertisement/Luther Perkins Intro • 7. Luther’s Boogie • 8. Belshazzar Intro • 9. Belshazzar • 10. Closing Comments and Theme • 11. Overton Park Shell “Country Music Jamboree” Advertisement by “Texas” Bill Strength, broadcast August 4, 1955. (Tracks 1-10 recorded May 21, 1955 in West Memphis, Arkansas. Tracks 1-11 previously released as bonus CD in limited edition of The Legend boxed set, 2005.)

B. Early Demos

12. I Walk The Line (demo) • 13. Get Rhythm (demo) • 14. Train Of Love (demo) • 15. Country Boy (demo) • 16. My Treasure (demo) • 17. Belshazzar (demo) • 18. He’ll Be A Friend (demo) • 19. When I Think Of You (demo) • 20. I Just Don’t Care Enough (To Carry On) (demo) • 21. I’ll Cry For You (demo) • 22. You’re My Baby (demo) • 23. Rock And Roll Ruby (demo, recorded probably late 1955; West Memphis, Arkansas, courtesy of Sun Entertainment Corporation.)

(Tracks 12-22 previously unreleased, recording dates and locations unknown.)

C. Sun Rarities

24. Wide Open Road (recorded late 1954; produced by Sam Phillips)
25. Leave That Junk Alone (recorded August 4, 1957; produced by Jack Clement)
26. Brakeman’s Blues (incomplete) (recorded April 2, 1956; produced by Sam Phillips)
27. Big River (recorded November 12, 1957; produced by Jack Clement)
28. I Couldn’t Keep From Crying (recorded probably 1955; produced by Sam Phillips)
29. New Mexico (recorded probably 1955; produced by Sam Phillips)
30. Goodnight Irene (recorded November 12, 1957; produced by Jack Clement)
(Tracks 24-30 recorded in Memphis, courtesy of Sun Entertainment Corporation.)

D. More Demos

31. Restless Kid (demo) • 32 It’s All Over (demo). (Tracks 31-32 previously unreleased, recording dates and locations unknown.)

CD TWO: THE 1960s

1. All Over Again
2. You Dreamer You
3. I’ll Remember You
4. Johnny Yuma Theme (previously unreleased in the U.S.)
5. Five Minutes To Live (previously unreleased in the U.S.)
6. The Losing Kind (previously unreleased in the U.S.)
7. Locomotive Man
8. Girl In Saskatoon
9. There’s A Mother Always Waiting (previously unreleased in the U.S.)
10. Johnny Reb (previously unreleased in the U.S.)
11. Shifting, Whispering Sands-with Lorne Greene (previously unreleased in the U.S.)
12. Send A Picture Of Mother
13. Hardin Wouldn’t Run (demo)
14. Thunderball (previously unreleased in the U.S.)
15. One Too Many Mornings (previously unreleased in the U.S.)
16. The Frozen Logger (previously unreleased in the U.S.)
17. Foolish Questions (previously unreleased in the U.S.)
18. Bottom Of The Mountain
19. Put The Sugar To Bed
20. You Beat All I Ever Saw
21. On The Line (previously unreleased in the U.S.)
22. Roll Call
23. The Folk Singer
24. Six White Horses (demo) (previously unreleased)
25. Come Along And Ride This Train (demo) (previously unreleased).

(Tracks 1-6 recorded in Nashville, produced by Don Law.)
(Tracks 7-12, 14-21 recorded in Nashville, produced by Don Law and Frank Jones.)
(Tracks 22-23 recorded in Nashville, produced by Bob Johnston.)

Craig Campbell Slates Debut Album for March 1 Release

2011-01-10T15:32:00.000-08:00

Craig Campbell will release his self-titled debut album on March 1. It follows his well-received 2010 Family Man EP.

More details in the press release:

Produced by Keith Stegall (Zac Brown Band, Alan Jackson), Craig Campbell’s debut record blend’s the singer’s masculine, no-nonsense baritone vocal with solid, salt-of-the-earth songs about America’s working class and a classic sense of wordplay. Campbell and Stegall’s combined talents have delivered an unapologetically country album that builds upon the singer’s many musical influences – including Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, Clint Black and Travis Tritt– while at the same time distinctly defining Campbell’s unique sound and musical perspective.

“Before moving to Nashville I would read CD booklets to see who wrote the songs, who played on the records and who produced the tracks,” explains Campbell. “Keith Stegall's name would consistently show up as Producer on all my favorite music, so getting to work with Keith, let alone releasing my debut record, is a dream come true!”

Craig Campbell co-wrote nine of the eleven songs on his debut record. The project’s lead-single, the autobiographical anthem “Family Man is quickly climbing the charts, already at #24 Mediabase / #25 Billboard.

Family Man Track Listing:

1. “I Bought It” written by Craig Campbell, Philip Douglas, Dan Murph
2. “Family Man” written by Craig Campbell, Jon Henderson, Joel Shewmake
3. “When I Get It” written by Craig Campbell, Jason Matthews, Jim McCormick
4. “My Little Cowboy” written by Craig Campbell, Dan Couch
5. “Makes You Wanna Sang” written by Craig Campbell, Rob Hatch, Lance Miller
6. “That Going Away Look (About Her)” written by Michael White, Wade Kirby, Carson Chamberlain
7. “Fish” written by Craig Campbell, Arlos Smith, Ashe Underwood
8. “Chillaxin’” written by Craig Campbell, Rob Hatch, Brice Long)
9. “That’s Music To Me” written by Craig Campbell, Tim Nichols, Carson Chamberlain
10.“You Probably Ain’t” written by Craig Campbell, Keith Stegall, Michael White
11.“All Night To Get There” written by Keith Stegall, Vicky McGehee, Lee Brice

Look It Up - Ashton Shepard (Music Video)

2011-01-07T23:44:00.003-08:00

Don't Grow Up Too Fast (If I Had a Little Sister) - Daisy Mallory (Music Video)

2011-01-07T23:44:00.001-08:00

Can't Cheat In A Small Town - Mark Cooke (Music Video)

2011-01-07T23:43:00.001-08:00

Tim McGraw on Chelsea Lately

2011-01-07T23:40:00.001-08:00