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Day 4: Toby Keith Week!

Friday, October 31, 2008


Want to win a copy of Toby Keith's newest CD "That Don't Make Me A Bad Guy" and an autographed picture from the "Biggest and Baddest Tour?" Its easy. Just e-mail the name of the song you see in the video below, your name and city/state. Include "Day 4" in the subject line. The e-mail address is:
contest@countrymusicalive.com.

Each of the 5 days, you will be entered into the random drawing for the prize pack. Entries for each day are due by 11:59pm EST. You can only win once, and one entry person. No advanced entries are allowed, because you need the name of the video below....







Today's video is "As Good As I Once Was" from his 2005 release Honkytonk University... Enjoy!

Today's Toby Keith Fact: Toby Keith has opened 2 resturants named "I Love This Bar and Grill" in Oklahoma and Las Vegas.

The newest album from Toby Keith is available now for download and in stores!

See you tomorrow for another chance to win!



George Strait Named ACM's Artist of the Decade

Thursday, October 30, 2008

In 1969, it was Marty Robbins. In 1979, it was Loretta Lynn. In 1988, it was Alabama. In 1998, it was Garth Brooks. The Academy of Country Music announced today that George Strait is added to the roll call of "Artist of the Decade" honorees.



Well, what can be said. A pick of perfection. No other artist really can come to mind that has had such an impact on country music in the past decade.. from the beginning to the end.A television special will be taped to air on CBS next year that will spotlight George Strait's award. This award is a pretty big deal. For one, it only can happen once every 10 years, and second, look at the past honorees.

That is cool news and all, but you know, I was thinking.... 10 years from now, who will be the next artist of the decade. Whomever it is, we probably don't even know them as a country star yet, just coming on to the scene, or just now becoming established. Its pretty darn cool to think of whats ahead of us in life and in music. Indeed, pretty awesome.

Day 3: Toby Keith Week!


Want to win a copy of Toby Keith's newest CD "That Don't Make Me A Bad Guy" and an autographed picture from the "Biggest and Baddest Tour?" Its easy. Just e-mail the name of the song you see in the video below, your name and city/state. Include "Day 3" in the subject line. The e-mail address is:
contest@countrymusicalive.com.

Each of the 5 days, you will be entered into the random drawing for the prize pack. Entries for each day are due by 11:59pm EST. You can only win once, and one entry person. No advanced entries are allowed, because you need the name of the video below....







Today's video is "How Do You Like Me Now" from his album of the same title released in 1999... Enjoy!

Today's Toby Keith Fact: In 2007, Toby Keith was honored for having over 50 million airplays.

The newest album from Toby Keith is available now for download and in stores!

See you tomorrow for another chance to win!




Warner Brothers Records Nashville A&R Team

Wednesday, October 29, 2008


Warner Brothers Nashville has come up with an idea that I think will be very interesting and fun for country music fans. They have launched a brand new section on their website called the A&R Team. Basically, you sign up for a free account on their website and you, the fan, get to share your opinion on some of the many decisions the record label has to make routinely such as which songs go to radio and even which artists make it to your store shelf or you online shopping cart.

For an example, right now on the site is a survey of a few songs of a new and upcoming artist. You listen to several songs, rate them and answer a couple yes/no questions, and then you can comment on the track.

The site is open and free to anyone that wishes to join and be apart of the A&R Team. To sign up, visit http://www.wbrnashville.com/arteam

Warner Brothers Nashville artist roster includes not only their country music artists, but their comedians as well. Big and Rich, Blake Shelton, Cowboy Troy, Faith Hill, James Otto, Jason Jones, Point of Grace, Randy Travis, The Dirt Drifters, The Wreckers, Whitney Duncan, Bill Engvall, Blue Collar Comedy, Frank Caliendo, Gladys Hardy, Henry Cho, Jeff Foxworthy, Kathleen Madigan, Larry the Cable Guy, and Lisa Lamppanelli make up the full Warner Brothers label.

Now, what do I think of this? Well, let's put it this way, I signed up before I posted this blog. This is a truly awesome idea. Not very many, if any, of the other labels have anything like this. They may have a site for rating songs, but usually those ratings are for songs already out on the radio and I am thinking are there to gauge more about how long should the song stay on the radio, rather than who should be on the radio in the first place.

The site itself is pretty easy to use and sign-up is quick and simple. Also, the whole idea opens up so many different windows for Warner Brothers Nashville. They now have a way to do 2 things. 1) The initial purpose of gathering information on songs to market to radio. 2)They have a way to directly connect to country music fans...but not just any fan. This is something an active fan of the music will love and be able to target directly the best of the best fans. With this site, its going to enhance brand loyalty, which can influence buying choices, at least some. This is such a great example of how technology can be put to work perfectly. The fans win by getting to hear some new music, share their opinions directly with the label, and hopefully in the future may some type of rewards/contests. The label wins by getting the feedback from the fans that most likely would buy the music.

I think this is a great start, and have a feeling that the label will expand it even more. There so many options they have with a feature like this. It will be exciting to see what comes of it in the future.

So, what would make it fail? Couple things. 1) Not maintaining the site... the members will need frequent updates to the surveys and activities on the site. If they don't do anything new for a few months or so, interest will be lost. 2) Lack of new content. If it just remains a couple surveys here and there with the same input being looked for, some people may lose interest. 3) This is a big one. The label will need to post comments in some form that make us believe that our opinion really did count. Now, I know, and most people know, that the opinion of the listener is a big part, but not the only part of making the decision on what is played, when, and where its heard. However, to what extent they can without giving too much detail that would be not for general public knowledge, let us know how our opinion and comments played into the decision that was made. Without the feedback from the label side, the members of the site won't take it seriously. 4) Don't promote it too much. Let the bloggers like myself get the information out and to some of the country music sites. Keep it within the country music community, those are the people that will be listening and buying the music. Its a great idea, no doubt, it isn't for everyone. Yes, you want a good cross-section of big fans and the casual listener, but need a good balance.




Those are my thoughts on this new program from Warner Brothers Nashville, what do you think?

Again, to sign up it is free. Jut visit: http://www.wbrnashville.com/arteam


Day 2: Toby Keith Week! Win CD and Autographed Picture


Want to win a copy of Toby Keith's newest CD "That Don't Make Me A Bad Guy" and an autographed picture from the "Biggest and Baddest Tour?" Its easy. Just e-mail the name of the song you see in the video below, your name and city/state. Include "Day 2" in the subject line. The e-mail address is:
contest@countrymusicalive.com.

Each of the 5 days, you will be entered into the random drawing for the prize pack. Entries for each day are due by 11:59pm EST. You can only win once, and one entry person. No advanced entries are allowed, because you need the name of the video below....











Today's video is his first #1 single, "Shoulda Been A Cowboy" from 1993 ... Enjoy!

Today's Toby Keith Fact: His self-titled debut album was released in 1993. It included the chart-topping single "Should've Been a Cowboy." Three other songs from that album, "Wish I Didn't Know Now," "A Little Less Talk and a Lot More Action," and "He Ain't Worth Missing" all made the Top Five. The album sold over two million copies.

The newest album from Toby Keith is in stores and online now! See you tomorrow for another chance to win!

Day 1: Toby Keith Week! Win CD and Autographed Picture

Tuesday, October 28, 2008




Want to win a copy of Toby Keith's newest CD "That Don't Make Me A Bad Guy" and an autographed picture from the "Biggest and Baddest Tour?" Its easy. Just e-mail the name of the song you see in the video below, your name and city/state. Include "Day 1" in the subject line. The e-mail address is:
contest@countrymusicalive.com.

Each of the 5 days, you will be entered into the random drawing for the prize pack. Entries for each day are due by 11:59pm EST. You can only win once, and one entry person. No advanced entries are allowed, because you need the name of the video below....






Today's video is "God Love Her" the second single from the new album... Enjoy!

Today's Toby Keith Fact: Toby Keith was born July 8, 1961 in Clinton, Oklahoma.

The newest album from Toby Keith hits stores today! See you tomorrow for another chance to win!

Toby Keith Week Starts Tomorrow

Monday, October 27, 2008

At 12:01 AM EST starting tonight, check the website version of the blog for your chance to win 1 of 5 Toby Keith autographed picture and a copy of "That Don't Make Me A Bad Guy" that comes out tomorrow, October 28, 2008!

As a preview...here is how it works. Starting tomorrow, for 5 days, a blog post will appear at midnight. You then email the provided e-mail address with your name, city/state, and the name of the video featured on the blog post with the subject line as the number of the day. (ie. the first day, subject line "Day 1")

Deadline for entries for that day is 11:59pm EST. Then, the next day begins. One entry, per day, per person.

Media Reaction: Lorrie Morgan Files Bankruptcy

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Lorrie Morgan has filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy. The reasoning in reports advise it is business related expenses. Apparently, in 1992 she filed chapter 11 bankruptcy and withdrew it after all her debtors were paid. I certainly wish her the best and hope that she will be able to put things back together and regain her focus on country music.

Now, that's the end of the story. It should be a paragraph or two on country music related websites, and in the Tennessean (Nashville's newspaper.)

However, that's not how it is being treated. Most of the stories for some reason believe that they need to mention that she has been married 5 times. I'm not sure how that exactly fits into the story. Some of the reports make note of 2 hits she had, "What Part of No" and "I Didn't Know My Own Strength." However, it doesn't mention 19 top 25 hit songs, 9 albums that were in the the top 15 on the country music album charts, nor that she has been a member of The Grand Ole Opry since 1984. Nothing about making her first appearance on the Opry stage in 1972 aside her father, the Hall of Fame member and Opry star, George Morgan that died in 1975. If you want to write a story that people will read that just may not know much about country music, I certainly think it should mention a lot more about the person than 2 hits and that she's been married/divorced 5 times.

I find it very interesting. Yesterday, it was ranked as the 2nd most read story on CNN.com. It was listed as the #2 story in their entertainment listings. Google lists 264 news stories about it, not counting blog posts, and other websites that aren't listed in their news section. Apparently this is bigger news than I thought. There comments on a lot of the posts with people's opinions and such, not just notes of support. Sure, its a news bit and most of the information is public court filings, but really... its a personal issue that doesn't need the attention it has apparently received.

As I was doing some reading on Lorrie Morgan this morning, I did notice that she has a new album out, and a couple weeks ago I heard her perform a single from it, "I Walk Alone," on The Opry. However, the new album is only available to fan club members on her website. Very odd way of handling a CD release I think, especially when money is an issue. Hopefully, we will see the album available for the public, without dropping $20+ dollars to join a "club" and then the cost of the album.

Zona Jones: "You Should've Seen Her This Morning"

Friday, October 24, 2008

I mentioned awhile ago,  I mentioned Zona Jones is now on Rocky Comfort Records.  Man, you just gotta love this artist.  If you want to hear a real country vocal and a real country music sound, check him out.


His new single "You Should've Seen Her This Morning" is out and I hope you take a listen, request it on your local radio station and satellite radio.  Also download it and get hooked.  The new single is excellent.  Simply put-- real country music.  What a great lyric and distinct vocal work.  This is my kind of country music, no doubt.

Take listen/Download on I-Tunes:

Zona Jones - You Should've Seen Her This Morning - Single - You Should've Seen Her This Morning

You can also take a listen on his Myspace Page
Learn more about Zona Jones on his website

Pure Country Music Blog

If you love reading different blogs on country music, as I do, I have one I was happy to hear from in the past few days.  It has been added to my blogroll on the right.



Pure Country Music Blog features posts that are geared more toward the classic side of country music.  Some real good stuff here.  It does feature some new music posts, but its overall topical interest is on the classic side.

I think you will find some really interesting posts there and hope you will visit there often.

I've said it often, please don't just read one blog.  There so many different blogs out there, so many different opinions and things.  Just do remember to make Country Music Alive one of your daily stops along with the rest...

Lean on Country Music In The Current Economy

Wednesday, October 22, 2008




#9 Billboard Top 200 Chart. #1 on the Billboard Country Album Chart. Thats where Tim McGraw's "Greatest Hits 3" ends up on the charts. I don't that would be too bad, however, Curb Records wasn't happy with the sales, like Tim McGraw was.

Curb's response to McGraw's comments earlier is this:
"We share Tim McGraw's disappointment with the first week's sales levels 44,000 albums reports say), and we acknowledge that unfortunately the week that this album was released was right at the peak of the collapse of the economic and finance markets. We are going to work hard to try to take the current single "Let It Go" to number one in hopes that the economic climate is improving and that sales will also improve." They also mention they are unsure of a release date for his next full studio album.

Just thought I would be sure to post both sides of the argument.

However, that certainly does bring up an important point. The past weeks have been hard, alright very hard on the economy. We've all watched the markets go way down and prices rise on basics like food. It's tough as it is to make it paycheck to paycheck before, not for many people its even harder.

So, with that thought in mind, where do people first start saving money? My guess is in entertainment sources of expenses like movies, day trips, vacations, and yes, music and concert tickets. I expect the music industry felt an immediate punch in sales and will feel it in upcoming concerts (since tickets are on-sale so far in advance.)

There is no real solution. I'd be foolish to remind you to support the music and buy, when there isn't money there to buy with. Sure, a CD is only between say $9-18, pending where you purchase, but hey, that's just that little more that can go into the gas tank or pay a portion of an overdue bill.

Downloading music (legally) is also a way to curb some costs. Consider buying your favorite tracks at $1, rather than the full CD. Amazon sells them without any copyright protection that may get in the way of creating your own CD or playing them on different computers. I-Tunes does have the protection, but may be more accessible to an I-Pod user.

There is a way to support country music though. Tell a friend about your love of the music, share one of your CDs with them to hear, turn the radio station to your favorite country music station when they are with you and give them a chance to get hooked. You know they will... I've done it many times with friends. Then, when things do get better, and that money is available for entertainment, just maybe they will support country music.

Also, remember your local country music radio. Heck, its free. If you're an satellite subscriber, remember all the great channels at your fingertips. Your local restaurants and clubs have great music in them as well that for most likely cheaper than an album purchase, you can get your country music fix.

Another great way would be to invite some friends and family together. Make it a two-piece potluck night. Bring your favorite dish and your favorite country CD. Enjoy the meal and good music, sampling from the CDs that were brought by others.

Now, something so very awesome to remember is the power of country music alone. If you are feeling stressed balancing the checkbook, paying the bills, and checking the status of any funds you have, turn on that favorite artist or album. Country music will be there, just like always, to help you through life via the songs of life, true life. Sing 'em out loud, so loud that I can hear you and feel your insides let some of the stress bottled up in you release. No, it won't cure the problems, or make them just go away, but it will help you with clear thinking and a little bit brighter outlook.

That's just how I feel about it... hope you do as well.

Coming Soon: Toby Keith Week!


Toby Keith's newest album "That Don't Make Me a Bad Guy" hits stores next week and Country Music Alive has 5 albums and autographed photos to giveaway!

Beginning October 28th, watch the blog for special daily postings through November 1 for your chance to win!

Until its released, enjoy the video for the newest single "God Love Her" from the album above.

Here is the track list for the album:
1. That Don't Make Me A Bad Guy
2. Creole Woman
3. God Love Her
4. Lost You Anyway
5. Missing Me Some You
6. Hurt A Lot Worse When You Go
7. Time That It Would Take
8. You Already Love Me
9. She Never Cried In Front Of Me
10. Cabo San Lucas
11. I Got It For You Girl

The album has been available for pre-order for a little while already, so order yours today. Its a great deal at $7.99! If you spend $25 at Amazon, shipping is free. Just click below....


Don't forget to check back daily for your chance to win a copy!


Brad Paisley Arrested (on the Other End of A Prank)

Monday, October 20, 2008

We hear it time after time, Brad Paisley having fun out on the road with the other artists.

Lets see, Brad Paisley ran a video introducing Kellie Pickler that featured some photos that had been Photoshoped a bit and a plastic surgeon's take on the question whether Kellie has had some work done to a particular area of her body. The segment was called "You Be The Judge." View it on YouTube.

Jack Ingram had to get into a cage they built out of PVC pipe just as he was about to walk onstage and then wheeled him out in the cage with only his microphone and a hacksaw. He had to be freed 2 songs into the set. Video here

Paisley sent out a few men dressed as Cinderella out on stage during Chuck Wicks' performance of 'Stealing Cinderella.' Jewel had a prank that included a man dressed as a condom.

There so very many more examples. Tons. They have a lot of fun out on tour... and the audience is treated to a show that they just never know what just might happen.

Now, don't worry, everything done is in all good fun, and Brad Paisley does get his fair share in return. Well, Jewel has gotten her fun revenge in coordinating a mock arrest of Brad Paisley. It just may be the best prank in a long while. 1st, it happened not on stage, but when he least expected it, and 2nd, it was a really good prank. The video is below, and boy it is great. He was taken off his plane when he landed in Nashville and put into a police car when they told him he had been arrested for "excessive noodling." Watch It Here

In other Paisley news, his family is getting just a little bit bigger. His wife is expecting baby #2 to join his 20 month old son Huck. Kimberly is expected to have the second child in April.

Don't forget, Brad Paisley's newest album, "Play" comes out November 4. Read back through the blog to find detailed information.

Something A Little Different: Honeyhoney

I was told about a group called Honeyhoney in the last few days and thought I would share it with you all. Its not exactly country, well, ok it isn't country. This group I think is highly talented and has blended so many different sounds together to create the music. Lots of blues, jazz, independent rock, and some country, bluegrass, and folkish type sounds fill their music.

So, if you are in the mood for something a bit different, yet still quiet talented, give it a listen and pick up a copy. Posted above is there video for their single "Little Toy Gun." Below, is your Amazon link to pick up a copy and when album is released, you can listen to clips.

The video features Keifer Sutherland which also directed the video. His label, Iron Works, has signed Honeyhoney for this debut album titled "First Rodeo." The digital version of the album is available for download beginning October 28. The CD will be released November 4.

Enjoy something a little bit different than what you are used to. You never know what might catch your ear.




"Time Flies" John Michael Montgomery

Wednesday, October 15, 2008


First and foremost, congrats to Suzanne of Boxford, MA on winning the autographed copy of the CD! Stay tuned to Country Music Alive for other chances to win! A very special week of giveaways are upcoming very soon....

At the very bottom of this review, click on the player to listen to clips from the album. Also, at this time "Forever" is available on Amazon as a free download... enjoy!

John Michael Montgomery's newest release "Time Flies" makes the 10th album he has released, and his consistency remains strong as ever. The album’s first impression is simply this; one heck of a country album.

The album starts off with a fun song titled “What Did I Do” that really sets a nice pace for the album that talks about what a guy did to deserve a particular girl… pretty darn good start. A bit slower 2nd track, “Let’s Get Lost,” shows that John Michael Montgomery still has that special talent for a love song. “Forever” also shows that side of Montgomery. This may be the best track lyrically on the album, full of powerful lyrics and his strong, and familiar, vocals. “Fly On” again shows off those distinct vocals that are immediately noticed on a song with a beautiful arrangement that deals with loss. “Drunkards Prayer” is another song full of moving lyrics that deals with alcoholism. Tough topics, but John Michael knows how to deliver… flawlessly.

Now, we must remember, Montgomery has another side of him that can’t be missed. He can make you laugh with his songs as well. “With My Shirt On” is a great example, and well, you just gotta hear it… I won’t give it away. “Mad Cowboy Disease” is also a great fun song from the album that you will not want to miss for its lighter side.

“All in a Day” (the song where the title of the album comes from) deals with how life passes by so very fast and the final track “Brothers ‘Til the End” discusses the bond of brothers. Again, Montgomery shows a serious side, dealing with what country music deals with best… true to life topics and stories.

This album immediately brings up a couple points. The path to a strong country music album is song selection based on lyrical excellence, strong vocal delivery, and country music traditional sound brought to keep up with the times. “Time Flies” does this perfectly. I whole heartedly believe this is the result of being on an independent label, his own label, Stringtown Records. He has full control over what and how he records the songs and it shows that his country music talent is stronger than we’ve been opened to hear than ever before.

It may have been awhile since we have had a new album from Montgomery, but it was worth the wait, no doubt. I sure hope time does fly on by until the day he releases his next album.

For more information visit:


Listen to Clips below, then download from Amazon DRM-Free:


Tim McGraw Upset on Greatest Hits 3

Tim McGraw released the following statement on his website:

"I am saddened and disappointed that my label chose to put out another hits album instead of new music," said Tim McGraw. "I've only had one studio album since my last hits package. It has to be just as confusing to the fans as it is to me. I had no involvement in the creation or presentation of this record. Sure I love the songs and I don't want to take anything away from all the creative people who were a part of making those records. But the whole concept is an embarrassment to me as an artist. In the spirit of an election year, I would simply say to my fans 'I'm Tim McGraw and I don't approve their message."


Curb Records defends their decision saying that McGraw's staff was involved in the process of creating the album, but focused most of their statements on low sales for the release week due to the economic issues of the week rather than detailed discussion on McGraw's major points.

Now. I can easily understand how something like this could happen in Nashville's world of big music labels and corporate management. I've heard of situations like this before with Curb Records. I agree that the concept of the album is an embarrassment.

However, a couple things stick out to me in all of this:

1) Tim McGraw didn't just walk into the store this past Tuesday and poof!... there's a CD on the shelf he didn't know about or have some involvement with. So, why didn't he say something Monday before the release date or the very day he did learn about the 3rd greatest hits release. If he had such a problem with the album, make a lot noise and as early as possible. The fans would support it, if the artist made a good case for them not to buy the CD.

2) This isn't the first time McGraw has had an issue with release dates. His first greatest hits album McGraw didn't want released, yet that album has remained on Billboard's Top Country Catalog Albums chart for 412 weeks.

3) There is discussion that McGraw is ready to leave Curb, but still is under contract. Could this be a way for McGraw to start some internal business friction to help get him released from his contract at Curb early or just public exposure to the wild business country music really is? Curb is probably trying their hardest to have as much material released from him before they don't have a choice in his leaving to ensure their money continues for the longest time possible, whenever he does leave Curb. I don't blame them. I don't blame McGraw for being mad over the release of the album.

4) If Curb's statement is right that his staff was apart of the project, then McGraw's staff has a communication problem that he needs to be sure it is corrected.

5) I'm also wondering if the sale numbers for this album are going to be so low that there is a need for excuses for its lack of performance. We shall see tomorrow when the charts release.

So, as you can see there points and counterpoints for it all. No one will be crowned "right" in the decisions that were made, however, they both still win in the end as the money rolls in from sales.... even if they are "low."

Win Autographed John Michael Montgomery CD

Sunday, October 12, 2008

One final reminder.... You have until Monday at noon EST to submit your name and city/state to contest@countrymusicalive.com for the "Time Flies" CD autographed by John Michael Montgomery!

Get your name in the hat now... and good luck!!

2008 CMA Broadcast Award Winners

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Each year, the CMA Awards announce the winning broadcast winners. These winners are from country music radio. They are announced well before the actual CMA Awards... here are this year's winners. If you live in their markets, I hope you will give them or call or drop them a line congratulating them on their award. Also, be sure you are supporting their award winning services to country music....

2008 CMA Broadcast Personality of the Year Winners:

  • National - Lon Helton, "CMT Country Countdown USA with Lon Helton," (Westwood One)
  • Major Market - Randy Price and Dave McKay, "Randy & Dave," WQYK, Tampa-St. Petersburg, Fla. (CBS Radio)
  • Large Market - Gerry House, Mike Bohan, Duncan Stewart, Al Voecks, and Richard Falklen, "Gerry House & The House Foundation," WSIX, Nashville, Tenn. (Clear Channel)
  • Medium Market - Andy Ritchie, Alison West and Jimmy Holt, "Andy & Alison and the Morning Crew," WIVK, Knoxville, Tenn. (Citadel)
  • Small Market - Brian Gary and Todd Harding, "The Good Morning Guys," KUAD, Ft. Collins-Greeley, Colo. (Regent Broadcasting)

2008 CMA Radio Station of the Year Winners:
  • Major Market - WQYK, Tampa/St. Petersburg, Fla.
  • Large Market - WFMS, Indianapolis, Ind.
  • Medium Market - WIVK, Knoxville, Tenn.
  • Small Market - WGSQ, Cookeville, Tenn.

Vote For Eli Young Band on Yahoo's Who's Next!

Friday, October 10, 2008

Over on Yahoo Music, there is a feature called "Who's Next." Basically, visitors vote on 4 different artist. The one with the most votes gets invited into the Yahoo Music Studios to record an exclusive performance. This week, you will find The Eli Young Band featured as one of the choices.
Check out this new group and their new album "Jet Black and Jealous" in stores now, including their single "When It Rains" through the above video. Then, visit Yahoo's Who's Next to vote for The Eli Young Band now!


CBS' Harry Smith Sing Country "Red State, Blue State Blues"

Thursday, October 09, 2008

This past week, with the 2nd Presidential Debate in Nashville, it gave a chance for some of the news outlets to show off the town a bit. I noticed a few reporters reporting with the Country Music Hall of Fame in the background and such the days before the debate. However, CBS took it a step further. First, Bob Schieffer performed on the Grand Ole Opry. That's amazing in itself, that must have been a thrill for his group. But then, yesterday on The Early Show on CBS, Harry Smith showed off that he can write a song and perform it. Believe it or not, I think its a really great song.

Its titled "Red State, Blue State Blues" and it can be downloaded at http://www.sarahdarling.com/ Sarah Darling is a newly signed artist on the Black River Music Group in which currently is home to Jeff Bates as well. Her new album is due out next year according to her website. Her vocals are incredible and can't wait to hear more from her.

Anyway, not only is the song really good, a nice little current events song, but the lyrics are great. They were written by Harry Smith himself. He said it only took about 15 minutes or so. Now, I can't tell you how many times I've heard some of today's greatest hits taking a very short time to write. Also, what is pretty cool about this are depicted in the 2 videos from CBS below. Its a nice insight to the recording of a song. The first is the best for that, and the second video is more of a music video style. The studio he recorded in was built by the great Ronnie Milsap, which is featured in the first segment.




Win John Michael Montgomery's "Time Flies" Album

Wednesday, October 08, 2008



Win an Autographed Copy of "Time Flies"

John Michael Montgomery's new album "Time Flies" hits stores this coming Tuesday, October 14, 2008 and Country Music Alive has one autographed copy of the CD to giveaway to a reader of the blog...

Send an email with your name, city, and state to contest@countrymusicalive.com
by Monday October 13, 2008 at 12:00pm EST to enter. I can only ship to the United States mailing addresses and please, one entry per person only. Muliple entries will disqualify you totally.

Be sure to visit the Blog on Monday afternoon for the review of the album and to see who wins the autographed copy of "Time Flies" by John Michael Montgomery. The winner will be contacted by e-mail to respond with their mailing address.

Good Luck!

Brad Paisley "Play" Instrumental Album Coming Nov. 4

Tuesday, October 07, 2008


Here is a bit more information on the upcoming Brad Paisley Intrumental Album titled "Play." It is available for pre-orders and here is cover (how cool is that?)



Track Listing:

1. Huckleberry Jam
2. Turf's Up
3. Start A Band (Featuring Keith Urban)
4. Kim
5. Departure
6. Come On In (Featuring Buck Owens)
7. Playing With Fire
8. Kentucky Jelly
9. More Than Just This Song (Featuring Steve Wariner)
10. Les Is More
11. Pre-Cluster Cluster Pluck Prequel
12. Cluster Pluck
13. Cliffs Of Rock City
14. Let The Good Times Roll (Featuring B.B. King)
15. What A Friend We Have In Jesus
16. Waitin' On A Woman (With Andy Griffith)


Amy Grant "She Colors My Day" Supports Breast Cancer Research


October is Country Music Month. The Opry does a lot of special things and its a time for you to be sure to get another friend hooked on country music. However, October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month.


Amy Grant has teamed up with the Entertainment Industry Foundation’s Women’s Cancer Research Fund to record a song titled "She Colors My Day" with proceeds going to the Fund. To download the song for the standard 99 cents cost and hear the song visit: http://www.shecolorsmyday.com/ or http://www.amygrant.com/

The organization dedicated to developing an early detection biomarker test so that women’s cancers can be detected years before current tests allow. She Colors My Day is a partnership between Amy Grant, Philosophy, inc., a personal care company, and Art of Grace, a company for greater purpose and not profit, that coincides with breast cancer awareness month.

Inspired by the artwork of her daughter, Cristina Carlino (founder of philosophy and art of grace) and her friend, Stuart Mathis, authored and co-created a heartwarming song called she colors my day that celebrates the relationship between a mother and her daughter. The uplifting song was recorded by multi-platinum artist Amy Grant, and its lyrics have inspired both a Philosophy Fantasy Bubble Bath ($20) and an Art of Grace keepsake gift and sketch book ($20) to build hope and awareness for all women's cancers. Philosophy has also created a special microsite, www.philosophy.com/shecolorsmyday, to allow women everywhere to download the single for $0.99 and support the cause in a number of other ways. Philosophy, Art of Grace and Amy Grant will donate 100% of their net proceeds from the sales of the products and song to the Entertainment Industry Foundation’s Women’s Cancer Research Fund.

Check out this special song and show your support at the same time.

"Beer For My Horses" To Air on CMT

Sunday, October 05, 2008

Click for more on Beer For My Horses.


Recently, I told you about the Toby Keith and Rodney Carrington movie "Beer For My Horses" being released to select theaters. It didn't come to very many theaters, but now, everyone will get the chance to see it.

On November 2, 2008 CMT will premiere the movie at 7pm EST. Following the premiere on CMT, the DVD will be released on Tuesday November 11.

"Beer For My Horses" stars Toby Keith, comedian Rodney Carrington, Claire Forlani, (“CSI: NY”), guitar legend Ted Nugent, Willie Nelson, Barry Corbin, (“No Country For Old Men,” “Dukes of Hazzard”), and Tom Skerritt (“Brothers and Sisters”). Written by Keith and Carrington, the movie follows the exploits of small town deputies and best friends who defy the local sheriff to embark on an outrageous road trip to save Keith's girlfriend from drug lord kidnappers.

Toby Keith is also releasing a new album on October 28 titled "That Don't Make Me a Bad Guy" which includes his newest single "She Never Cried In Front Of Me."

The DVD and Toby Keith's new album are both available below for pre-order, shipped right to your door on or just after its release date. The Soundtrack is now available for download or CD as well. Remember, orders of $25 or more on Amazon gets you free shipping.



Blake Shelton's New CD Moved Up To November 18

Friday, October 03, 2008



It seems that most of the time lately albums get pushed back. Release dates are set, and then we notice they don't come out then. For different reasons the label decides its not time to release it or the artist gets dropped from the label. Today, however, there is quiet the opposite.

Blake Shelton's new album was scheduled for January. The new single from the upcoming album was released recently titled "She Wouldn't Be Gone" that I just love. Its one of those songs that make you want to turn up the volume. It shows off Shelton's great vocals and good song selection. The song is having so much success that Warner Brothers Nashville has moved up the release date. Yes, you read that right. The album is now scheduled for November 18. The album will be titled "Startin' Fires."

The album will include a duet with (girlfriend) Miranda Lambert titled "Bare Skin Rug"

Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton begin their co-headlining tour tonight in (my hometown) Richmond, Virginia at the Virginia State Fair. For other tour dates and tickets click here

Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood To Host CMA Awards

Thursday, October 02, 2008

Last year's winners of the CMA Male and Female of the Year will be hosting this year's CMA Awards. Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood will share in the hosting duties. They will perform on the show as well.

Now, that is something to get excited about. Underwood will do a good job I believe for the show, and will help bring in a few viewers from a pop cross-over prospective. Paisley, however, is a choice that excites me. First, he is a great artist, a true country music artist that has the respect for the music I am always looking for. Second, his personality is great for this role. He can be extremely funny and professional at everything he does.

This year's show is just starting to shape up and is sounding really great.

"The 42nd Annual CMA Awards" airs live from the Sommet Center in Nashville, Wednesday, Nov. 12 (8:00-11:00 PM/ET) on the ABC Television Network.
Tickets are still available for the show

Nashville Gab

Looking for another site to visit as you read through the blogs, I certainly hope you don't just read one. There is a ton of stuff out there. A few links are on the sidebar of this blog. The newest addition is Nashville Gab that I just ran across.

Check out http://www.nashvillegab.com There is a lot of good stuff over there and pretty fun to read... oh, yea, don't forget to come back to where you started... ha!

Opry To Honor Little Jimmy Dickens on Nov. 1

Wednesday, October 01, 2008

Little Jimmy Dickens is above iconic in country music. I had a chance to meet him shortly at Fan Fair one year, and has always been one of my most favorite artists. I must say, I'm the proud owner of his Bear Family Box Set...and love it. He is humorous, the textbook description of a country music gentleman, and incredible artist. Dickens just so happened to be born in the same year that The Grand Ole Opry got its start, in fact a matter of weeks apart. In August of 1948, Jimmy Dickens' dream came true. He became a member of the Opry.


60 years later, he is still apart of the Opry family and is the longest standing member. Pretty amazing. On November 1, The Opry will honor Dickens for his 60 years in a special Signature show. Brad Paisley, Trace Adkins, and George Jones have been announced to take part in this special evening.

“Jimmy Dickens is uniquely and forever tied to the Grand Ole Opry,” said Pete Fisher, Opry vice president and general manager. “He is one of the most beloved and respected people in the history of not only the Opry, but all of country music, and we are thrilled to celebrate this landmark anniversary with him.”

This will be a night of the Opry that should not be missed. In person, on WSM-AM, on XM, or however else, this will be a special night

1st Round of CMA Awards Performers Annouced


Brooks & Dunn, Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson, Miranda Lambert, George Strait, Sugarland, Taylor Swift, and Keith Urban make the list of the first release of performers at the CMA Awards. Pretty good start. No surprises yet, too early for that to start quiet yet.


You can keep up with all the CMA Awards news on my special website, http://cmaawards.countrymusicalive.com/ There you will find updates on the performers and presenters, the list of nominees, clips and links of nominated music, and information on purchasing tickets to the show itself!


Check it out today, and I'm sure more news to come.
photo: Taylor Swift will perform on "The 42nd Annual CMA Awards" on Nov. 12, 2008, broadcast live on ABC Television from the Sommet Center in Nashville, Tenn. Swift is pictured performing on "The 41st Annual CMA Awards." Photographer: John Russell / CMA

Back up and Running

My Internet connection issue as been resolved... thank goodness. Now back to business...