From Strum Magazine · Introductory Issue, Fall 2008

Courtney Dashe: Soaring Into the Music Scene

The Vanderbilt grad went from receptionist to songplugger to the first writer signed to John and Martina McBride's publishing company. Now her debut EP, Paper Airplane, is out.

By Krys Midgett · As published in Strum Magazine's Introductory Issue, Fall 2008

Courtney Dashe's songwriting talent is showcased in the release of her first 6 song EP, 'Paper Airplane.' The title cut was written from the perspective of a daughter conversing with her mother who has Alzheimer's. Each one of her songs has a unique story to which people can relate. The EP was mixed by Paul Worley (producer, Lady Antebellum, Dixie Chicks) and Chip Matthews.

Although a far cry from the Human and Organizational Development degree she attained at Vanderbilt University, Courtney knew music was what she wanted to do. Before getting her publishing deal, she held internships during college, and various industry positions thereafter, making her no stranger to the way Nashville works.

"Right out of college, I got hired as the receptionist for Mercury and MCA Records. Quickly after that, I became an A&R assistant there. When one of my bosses left to go work for Dann Huff's publishing company, Diver Dann Music, he took me with him. Craig Wiseman's publishing company Big Loud Shirt was in the same building so I worked for that company in addition to Diver Dann. I worked for them as office manager for about a year and then got hired as a songplugger for a different publishing company called Stage Three Music. I loved working for Big Loud Shirt & Diver Dann but the position at Stage Three offered me a better opportunity to get out there, dive in, and understand how the industry works," says Courtney.

"I didn't even know you could be a songwriter for a living back then. It was so eye opening to see how Craig could make a killing of a living, get to be creative and have a real life, too. It was awesome! That's when I realized, Wait, I don't really want to be a big artist. I want to be a songwriter! I just want to write songs that other people can record. I can play my own little underground shows whenever I feel like it, but how cool would it be to have other people record my songs? …so I just kept writing, writing, writing."

In October 2006, Courtney was signed as the first songwriter to John and Martina McBride's publishing company in a joint venture with Skyline Music. She was brought to their attention through Mark Mason at BMI, a performing rights organization.

"Out of the blue, this guy at BMI heard some guitar vocals that I'd done. Basically, nobody in town knew I wrote. I kept it very secret because I didn't want it to look like I had a conflict of interest between representing writers as a songplugger and actually writing myself. But, somehow Mark Mason got a hold of my guitar vocals and asked why I hadn't signed with BMI yet. 'I don't have a reason to sign with you guys…I don't have any cuts and I don't have any songs on the radio yet.' I said. When he asked what would be a reason that would make me sign I said, 'Well, if I had a publishing deal!' And, he said, 'We'll work on it!' He picked up the phone and set me up with a bunch of publishers in town and within four months I had an offer from John and Martina McBride and Skyline Music. They did a joint venture, and that's where I've been for the last two years – writing full time. I quit my other job, obviously, and have been writing professionally since!"

"No Tomorrow Here Tonight" was the first of her songs to be recorded and released to radio by another artist, Fisher Stevenson. The song was featured in People magazine, in the March 2008 issue. It was produced by Nathan Chapman (producer, Taylor Swift).

Despite her amazing voice, Courtney wants her focus to remain on the songwriting. She grew up singing all the time, although her family is not musical; as a matter of fact her father is very business-oriented. Growing up, she was under the impression that all singers wrote their own songs, so she started writing and ultimately found her niche. She wanted to attend college but also wanted to get to Nashville and start figuring out how to break into the music business, so when she was accepted to Vanderbilt in Nashville, TN her path was set.

Though Courtney has been writing professionally for only two years, she has been writing songs since she was 13. Like so many, her first song was written about a break-up and was written at 2:00 in the morning. While in college, at the age of 21, Courtney won the Fifth Annual National John Lennon Songwriting Contest sponsored by the BMI Foundation in New York. She won a five hundred dollar scholarship for her country/pop song 'You Must Have Found A Reason.' The contest was established in 1997 by Yoko Ono, in conjunction with the BMI Foundation. It recognizes talents of aspiring songwriters between the ages of 15 and 24.

Growing up, Courtney had a variety of musical influences from the Beach Boys and Buffett that her mom listened to the Oak Ridge Boys and George Jones her dad preferred. "My dad would tell you that the first song I ever learned was either 'Elvira' or 'I'm Going to Hire a Wino'. I'm sure my mom was horrified"

Once in high school, Courtney started listening to modern day country music and was drawn to artists like the Dixie Chicks, Faith Hill and Martina McBride. "One of the coolest things about my publishing deal now is that one of my childhood idols was Martina McBride. So when I heard, 'Martina McBride wants to sign you as the first songwriter to her publishing company' I just thought, Wow, are you serious? I've been writing there now for two years and she hasn't recorded one of my songs yet, but it will be so cool if she ever does. It would also be so cool to have Faith Hill record a song of mine since she was another childhood idol. Someone outside of country music like Jimmy Buffett would be insane! I don't even know if he'll do more albums – he probably will – though he probably writes everything himself. But, I grew up with Buffett and the Beach Boys, so why not dream right?"

"This may come as a surprise, but I think I get a lot of my melodic ear from Mariah Carey and Celine Dion. I was such a fan of theirs in the 90s. If I ever had one of them cut my songs, I think that would just be unreal!" says Courtney.

Courtney's current influences include Craig Wiseman and Bobby Pinson, some of the writers she worked for before attaining her publishing deal, as well as Hillary Lindsey and Patty Griffin. "I just love writers and their songs! I could tell you [what songs they are], but you probably wouldn't know any of them, because they haven't been recorded yet. But, I'm just such a fan of writers! Patty Griffin, to me, is really amazing! I just learned one of her songs called 'Time Will Do the Talking,' and I thought the guitar sounded so cool on it. I've only been playing guitar for about three years, so I'm constantly getting better at that. So, any song that I think sounds cool, I'll take to my guitar teacher and she'll help me figure it out. I'm so inspired by writers!" says Courtney.

Her current guitar teacher, Ellen Britton, has made a huge impact on Courtney's life. "A lot of people can teach themselves guitar, but they might not know what they're doing. For me, I have to understand exactly what I'm doing and why I'm doing it, and Ellen just makes it all make sense. It's like learning theory, but you don't feel like you're learning theory. For years, I tried teaching myself and just felt like I wasn't getting anywhere. So, I went to her. Now, I can chart my own music, I can understand the Nashville Number System. I can totally communicate in this whole other language, and there's no way I'd be able to do that without her having taught it to me."

Another side to Courtney is her love of giving back. Her family has been affected by Alzheimer's disease, so she is donating all funds from the digital bonus track 'The Story Behind Paper Airplane' to The Fisher Center For Alzheimer's Research. "One of my songs is called 'Paper Airplane,' which is about Alzheimer's disease. I would love to be more involved with the Alzheimer's Association. I have fundraising ideas that tie into my song. But, if nothing else, at least my song will hopefully raise awareness about Alzheimer's."

She also volunteers at The Ronald McDonald House on a regular basis. "I volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House in Nashville. It's affiliated with the Children's Hospital. They house families who have children [staying long term] in the hospital. … I feel like I can relate to what the families are going through there. I do stuff around the house to help them out. I feel like it gets my mind off my writing, puts me into somebody else's life for a little while and helps me regain perspective on what really matters."

What does Courtney hope to accomplish most with her music? "I just hope people feel something when they listen to my music. That's what got me into it; that's what keeps me doing it. Hopefully, I'm providing music that other people can relate to."

Courtney hopes to be in this for the long run and become a successful, sought-out songwriter. "Ten years from now, I hope to be able to listen to the radio and see that a bunch of people have recorded my songs and I hope to be further along in my writing career. Hopefully, I'll be a well-respected songwriter who people will seek out because they identify with something real in my writing. At this point, I'm this up-and-coming indie singer/songwriter who is chipping away at it; hopefully, the doors will blow wide open soon!"

When this story ran, the EP was available on iTunes, Amazon and anywhere digital music was sold, with physical copies and free downloads at CourtneyDashe.com.

To find out more about the Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research, go to alzinfo.org. For the Ronald McDonald House, go to rmhc.org.

From the Strum archive · 2009

Aaron Tippin in Overdrive

The old truck driver on his trucking album, the kitchen fight that became "Kiss This" and why visiting the troops is an honor, not charity.

By Krys Midgett · Originally interviewed for Strum Magazine

“Country boy can survive, I guess.” —Aaron Tippin, asked for the phrase that describes him

This country boy has survived plenty. Aaron Tippin drove trucks, welded to support what he calls his music habit, and has watched the business flip "upside down three or four times." Now he has made the record he wanted to make for years. "Got the new album out, Aaron Tippin in Overdrive," he said. "It's something I wanted to do for a long time—put out kind of a trucking album, because I'm an old truck driver, and kind of do some of the old tunes that I used to listen to when I was driving up and down the highway."

His biggest influence is close to home. "My dad, without a doubt," he said. "In music, several people, but in life, my dad's probably my biggest influence." Musically, he still talks about Mickey Fowler, "the greatest honky-tonk singer from where I grew up. I really admired him. He was a local hero, you know, and I'll never forget the first time I got to play with him." Fowler was "a cool guy, great voice, just a really cool old honky-tonk singer."

Aaron writes his own hits. "I'm the lucky guy. Most of the hits I've had, I wrote or co-wrote every one of them," he said. "So that's always a plus, I think, in the fact that I get the chance to sing the songs that I crafted." One of his favorite co-writers is his wife, Thea. Together they've written songs including "Kiss This," "Love Like There's No Tomorrow," "Best Love We Ever Made" and "He Believed."

"Kiss This" started with a fight. "That started an argument in the kitchen," Aaron said. He asked Thea, "Hey, honey, why don't we kiss and make up?" Her answer: "You can kiss this," plus a suggestion about where to point it. Then she added, "You know, that sounds like a song title." "Two weeks later," he said, "we wrote one of the biggest hits in our career."

He's seen the business turn over more than once. Leroy Van Dyke once gave him advice he still remembers: "Country music's like a pendulum; swings this way, swings that way. Why don't you take a seat, relax? It'll swing back your way."

His advice to new writers and artists is simple. "Make sure you love it," he said. "If you're a hobby writer, do it because it's fun and just enjoy what you do, and rejoice in your own accomplishments. If you want to be in the business, love it. Be tough. Your time comes if you put the time in."

He plays "little rhythm guitar, little banjo, harmonica, little bass." He started singing in the church choir. "I can't remember what song that was. Something churchy." Welding was "one of those jobs I had to support my music habit." He also makes his own wine. "When I started enjoying red wine, I thought, 'I wonder if I can make this stuff.' Lo and behold, I could." He flies, hunts and works out, but "my favorite hobby are my two boys. That'd be Ted and Tom."

Aaron gives back in a lot of ways. He has supported Bike for Toys for Tots, a benefit to help a truck driver get a new truck and a contract "so that he can kind of get back on his feet again," the Boy Scouts, children's radiothons and cancer research centers. He toured for U.S. troops overseas in early 2003, and Doha, Qatar, was "the last stop before we came home." He doesn't call that charity. "I consider that an honor."

As for unfulfilled dreams, he's past chasing them. "When you get to 50, just enjoy every single minute you draw a breath," he said. "I don't want to be king anymore. I just want to enjoy every minute that's left."

And to his fans: "Appreciate everybody that comes to Aaron Tippin shows. Always have, always will. That's why I started signing autographs 20 years ago, and I'm still doing it today beside the bus every night. I try to show the appreciation that they show for me. So, thanks. I like this job. I hope you get to keep it a little bit longer."

From the Strum archive · 2009

Karissa Hope la Cour: Moved by the Music

The young pop singer and the Bread founder who heard her voice, started a label and dusted off the Finnigan Brothers tapes.

By Krys Midgett · Originally interviewed for Strum Magazine

“When I saw him up on stage, I knew right then that this is what I want to do.” —Karissa Hope la Cour, on seeing Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

Karissa Hope la Cour found her calling at her first concert, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. But she can't remember a time she wasn't singing. "I've been doing it ever since I was little… My mom got me and my older sister involved in church choirs and doing little solos," she said. "I always loved to sing."

In high school she picked up a guitar and started writing. "It started out as me putting my poetry to music."

She still wasn't sure music would be her career. "But then I realized that was the only thing that really made me happy. So I came out to Nashville to see if I could do anything with it." Through a mutual friend, she met Robb Royer and played him a couple of songs. "He really liked my voice and wanted to start working with me."

Robb remembers it the same way. "I said, 'Well, let's go crazy and sing a song,' and she did. I went, 'Oh, okay, all right, she can actually sing,'" he said. "It just kind of went from there. We decided to go in the studio and see what happens."

Robb, a founding member of the '70s band Bread, came to Music Row planning a film company, NashFilms. It became a record label when he started working with Karissa, and her single "Moved by the Music" was its first release. "Our idea is to combine feature film and musical ventures," he said. "We tried starting with the film… But having artists like [Karissa] show up, and the decision to put out the Finnigan Brothers, put a whole new direction on it. Right now, I just want to ride this train wherever it goes."

The Finnigan Brothers record brought old friends back together. Mike Finnigan, Robb said, "is one of the world's finest organ players, and a great singer." Mike played on Jimi Hendrix's Electric Ladyland and worked with Crosby, Stills & Nash and Bonnie Raitt. He, his brother Sean and Robb recorded together around 1990. "We did a bunch of records," Robb said.

Then the tapes sat. "Somebody said, 'Whatever happened to that record?' And I went, 'You know what? I have a label now. I forgot,'" he said. "So we put them together, and quite amazingly, a lot of people really liked this record." NashFilms released it as The Finnigan Bros.: The 1990 Sessions.

Now Karissa and Robb are "getting back into the studio, writing more and working on some more pop songs," she said.

She knows the road isn't easy. "I think right now the music business is going through a transition, and I don't think they're really sure where they're going. And then just getting out to Nashville was a challenge in itself." Fame isn't the point, though. "I just love doing music, and that's what I want to do. It doesn't really matter if I reach [fame] or not. My goal is to be able to make music my career and live off that."

The person who has shaped her most is her mom. "She's been through a lot of stuff, and yet she just keeps going on," Karissa said. "She's continually giving to other people and is a kind, kind person."

Karissa gives, too. "I volunteer quite a bit. I help at my church with the youth, and downtown there's a place where homeless people go," she said. "Once a week, they bring them into the gym, feed them, and make sure they get what they need."

Update: Mike Finnigan died Aug. 11, 2021, at age 76.

From the Strum archive · 2009

Abe White: Laying the Foundation

The bassist who learned on a one-string guitar talks Detroit, Miami, studio work and his band, Cold Truth.

By Krys Midgett · Originally interviewed for Strum Magazine

Abe White learned bass on a guitar with one string. He was about 16, and his brother had an old guitar with a single string left on it. Abe would put on records and work out the bass lines by ear. Once he realized how much he enjoyed it, his mom bought him a bass for his birthday. By 18, he was playing professionally.

He started out in rock, then spent years studying and learning other styles. Detroit gave him its great rock and R&B scene, he said, and Miami opened his ears to Latin and Caribbean music. Along the way he has played blues, jazz and plenty more.

In a band, Abe sees his job in two parts. The bass has to give the music a solid foundation, he said, but he also likes to add some color. The secret is listening. He tries to make his part fit what everyone else is playing instead of playing over the top of it.

In the studio, he plays on everything from songwriter demos to music for film and television. A lot of that work happens remotely now, with musicians recording their parts at home and sending the files back. He still loves being in the room together, though, where everyone can shape a track as it comes to life.

His main project is Cold Truth, a band he has been with for about ten years. They play original classic rock, and they're getting ready to start their third album. The goal now is to tour and get the music in front of more people.

Why does he keep at it? Music means a lot to people, Abe said. If you're lucky enough to play well and share it with an audience, you can bring people happiness. That's a big part of what keeps him playing.

From the Strum archive · 2009–2010

Adam Fisher: Real Country Music

The Jacksonville, N.C., singer went from Elvis impersonator to Lofton Creek Records, with a tip of the hat to his daddy along the way.

By Krys Midgett · Originally interviewed for Strum Magazine

“Mama Tried.” —Adam Fisher, when asked for the song that describes him

Adam Fisher's mama didn't have to try very hard. His parents are behind his music "really, really, really, probably too much," he said. "So they're so good to me." He grew up with them in Jacksonville, North Carolina, "down on the coast," on gospel music, Merle Haggard and Waylon Jennings.

The first song he ever sang wasn't country at all. "The first song I ever sang was a Prince song. It was probably 'Kiss,'" he said. He also sang "Mammas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys" early on, and the first song he learned on guitar was "That's All Right, Mama."

That Elvis song turned out to matter. Adam spent time in Memphis performing as an Elvis impersonator, and he still laughs about the older women who tossed underwear at the stage when he was young. It was in Memphis that Stella Parton heard him and encouraged him to move to Nashville and make his own music.

His first project was small but all his. "It's just a small EP, just a little three-song thing, but it's all my stuff. Everything I wrote with buddies of mine, and it's real rootsy, kind of raw," he said. "Just traditional country music, real country music. We tried to be as non-poppy with it as we could. One song sounds like a Stone song, one song sounds like a Waylon song, the other one's a fun bar song."

The song closest to his heart is "Just a Gamble." "I wrote it with all my buddies that we all moved here pretty much at the same time," Adam said. "We wrote it about most of our dads played music and wanted to come to Nashville and everything, and really didn't get to do it—so it's kind of a little tip of the hat to my daddy." His dad, he said, is "one of my best friends."

Things moved quickly after that. Adam signed with Lofton Creek Records and went out on radio tour with his single "Cotton Town," an everyman story about leaving home to chase a dream and coming back to find the hometown changed. The response was good, he said. He was doing interviews and meeting DJs, though he hadn't yet heard the song on the radio himself, and he was hoping it would reach the Billboard chart. A full album was on the way.

He plays guitar, some bass and keyboards, and enough drums for demos, and he was learning harmonica. He describes his music as honest, roots-oriented country, and he praised the people at Lofton Creek.

Adam has sung for and spent time with children at the Ronald McDonald House, and he had a visit planned to Vanderbilt Children's Hospital in March. His first Country Radio Seminar was exciting but hectic, he said, like a busy bar at closing time.

From the Strum archive · 2010

Coldwater Jane: Ten Years in the Making

Sisters Brandon and Leah grew up singing gospel on the road. Now their first single is all about loving your neighbor.

By Krys Midgett · Originally interviewed for Strum Magazine, 2010

“We've been here for 10 years, so it's not like… it's an overnight.” —Leah of Coldwater Jane

Ten years. That's how long it took sisters Brandon and Leah to become Coldwater Jane's “overnight” success.

"It's the two of us. It's my sister Brandon and I. My name's Leah," Leah said. The sisters from Lucedale, Mississippi, started making their record two years ago, and Mercury Nashville signed them about a week later.

They have been singing even longer. "We've been singing since we were little," they said. "We grew up singing in church, and then when we were young teenagers, we traveled and sang gospel music on the road with our family."

Their influences run from rock to roots. "I love the Eagles. Lee loves the Eagles. Lee loves Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers… Emmylou Harris. I love Patty Griffin," they said, and they count Faith Hill, Patty Loveless and Shania Twain among their favorites too.

Their debut single, "Bring On the Love," is their own. "We wrote it. Brand and I and Wayne Kirkpatrick," they said. Producers Wayne Kirkpatrick and Kevin Kadish worked on it with the sisters. "It's basically just a fun summer song… by the second or third time you hear it, you start knowing it's about… loving your neighbor, loving people. Being kind."

When it comes to the one song that sums them up, they aim high. "The one song that has always come around is 'Red Dirt Girl' by Emmylou Harris," they said. "That's kind of been the bar for us."

Children are close to their hearts. "We just visited St. Jude's… and I don't think we'll ever, ever forget that experience," one sister said. The other is drawn to children's charities and to orphans in Ethiopia.

And the craziest thing nobody knows about them? It involves their aunt and a trip to Hudson's Salvage. She took over the feminine products aisle and started lobbing packages over the shelves at the shoppers on the other side. "It was hilarious."

Update: "Bring On the Love" reached No. 47 on the country chart, and its video aired on CMT and GAC. Coldwater Jane's album, Marionette, followed on Mercury Nashville in August 2011, co-written and produced in part by Brandon's husband, Kevin Kadish. The duo's run wrapped up in 2011.

From the Strum archive · 2010

Chris Carpenter: Songwriter Rock

The Kentucky-born singer on his new record If I Run, landing songs on TV and the best still hiding up his sleeve.

By Krys Midgett · Originally interviewed for Strum Magazine, 2010

“I'd like to think the best of me is still hiding up my sleeve.” —Chris Carpenter

Chris Carpenter loves that line, and it fits a singer who is just getting started. He even has a name for his sound. "Introspective, heartfelt songwriter rock," he said. Or, for short, "songwriter rock."

He has been singing since he was 3 or 4 years old, and he has been trying to make it professionally since about 19. The Winchester, Kentucky, native came to Nashville for Belmont University, where he was a music major. "I was a… commercial voice guy," he said. After his sophomore year he left school to play, sing, write and record full time. Doing both was too hard to balance.

That choice is paying off. "We finished my second record called If I Run with guys in a production team called Crew 22… and got that on iTunes," he said. It follows his first record, Falling Out of the Atmosphere.

His songs are finding their way to television. "One and Only" was on The Young and the Restless, and "We'll Never Know" was played on Men of a Certain Age.

Chris says luck had a lot to do with it. He started working with John and Rodney, who had been building relationships with the people who pick music for TV, and he came along at the right time. "The first week I worked with John, he said, 'I hope you won't mind, but I took the liberty of… sending [your songs] over to… music supervisors.'"

"A good frame of reference is always chriscarpentermusic.com," he said. If I Run and Falling Out of the Atmosphere are on iTunes.

Update: Chris went on to land 26 songs on TV, including The Young and the Restless, Men of a Certain Age and Hollywood Heights, plus a Kraft Foods commercial. He released Next Right Thing, Every Daydream and Love and War, his fifth album, in 2015, along with his first radio single, "Moonshine Baby." A self-titled acoustic album followed in 2020, and the single "When the Night Is Over" in 2023.

From the Strum archive · 2011

Chelsea Ray Turns Up the Guitar

The country rocker on writing with Bo Bice and Bridget Tatum, a song for a brave young man and chasing a dream every day.

By Krys Midgett · Originally interviewed for Strum Magazine, 2011

"If anyone has a dream, especially a musical dream, to seriously don't be afraid to follow it," Chelsea Ray said. She's living her own advice.

She calls her music country rock, though she admits that "could be a million things." Here's the short version: "When I want to write something fun, I'm going to put as much guitar on that as I can, and still call it a country song."

Her new record shows it. "It's got six new songs on it," she said. "I got a chance to get together with Bridget Tatum and Bo Bice on a couple different songs. … Everything turned out really rock and country, and that's my personality, and that's what I've grown up listening to a mix of those two."

One standout is "Asphalt Smoke," which she wrote with Bridget. "It was an idea that I'd been rolling around with for a while," Chelsea said. "It's kind of got like a Cajun backbone to it. We put a lot of like different instruments on there, and there's a really cool jam out in the middle."

Music got serious for her at 13. "I started writing my own songs, and taking guitar lessons, and doing talent shows, and paying more attention in choir, and things like that. And it just grew from there."

She put out two EPs in 2010. "Ember, the newest one, came out in November," she said, and she has been "trying to find stages to get up on and play those songs." She also picked up a sponsor. "I was blessed with an opportunity to get some sponsorship from a new clothing company called Huewear."

One song carries a story close to her heart. She and Walker Hayes wrote "Justice" for a young man who was badly hurt in an accident. "I admired how brave and positive he was," she said. She later sang the song at his service.

Her advice comes with a work ethic attached. "Network as much as you can, and work on it every day. Wake up with a goal in mind, and just work at it as hard as you can, and hope for the best. But enjoy the ride while you're at it."

Find Chelsea's music through her fan page on Facebook.

From the Strum archive · 2011

Colt Ford: Every Chance He Gets

The country rapper on "Country Thang," a song about his daughter with Craig Morgan, "Dirt Road Anthem" and why friendship comes first.

By Krys Midgett · Originally interviewed for Strum Magazine

"I love the relationships and the friends that you make along the way. Music's kind of a secondary thing, really," Colt Ford said. That's a big statement from a man with a new single on the radio and a new album on the way.

"Got the new single out there, 'Country Thang,'" he said. He wrote it with Dallas Davidson, Rhett Akins and Ben Hayslip. The album, Every Chance I Get, "comes out May 3," and he promises "more ass stomping kind of badass kind of stuff," along with "a couple of things that are pretty serious songs."

One of those is personal. "I got Craig Morgan to sing on a song called 'She Likes to Ride in Trucks,' and it's about… my daughter," Colt said. The song is about her growing up and "not needing me around as much anymore." He summed it up like any dad would: "I'm proud of her, but scared at the same time."

Beyond the album, he's keeping it simple. "Just out playing, just doing what I do," he said. "You know, trying to get radio to give me a chance a little bit more and stop being so scared of everything. It's going better."

His songs are getting heard in other ways, too. Jason Aldean's next single, "Dirt Road Anthem," is "my song," Colt said. He co-wrote it, and he's heard the talk that it could be the biggest song of Aldean's career. He hopes everyone's right. He's also up for an ACM Award. "Being nominated for ACM is really cool," he said. The nomination is for Vocal Event of the Year, for "Cold Beer" with Jamey Johnson.

For Colt, that's the part that lasts. "The friendship—that's what makes the world go around anyway," he said.

Update: Every Chance I Get reached No. 3 on Billboard's Top Country Albums chart and No. 26 on the Billboard 200. Jason Aldean's "Dirt Road Anthem" went to No. 1 on the country chart in 2011. Colt went on to release Love Hope Faith (2017), We the People, Volume 1 (2019) and Must Be the Country (2023). He survived a heart attack in April 2024.

From the Strum archive · 2011

Clay Walker: Roll the Windows Down

Why his new single is built for the open road, and what he hopes to bring to the CMA Songwriters Series in New York.

By Krys Midgett · Originally interviewed for Strum Magazine

Clay Walker went into his new album with one goal for every song. "The only thing we wanted to do with each song was to make sure it made a connection, a deep connection with fans," he said.

His new single, "Where Do I Go from You," taught him that a connection doesn't always come from the words. "You can have a song that has a beat that people hook into, that they can listen to and not have to think about," Clay said. "So I think sometimes you got to give the fans a break. You can't be serious with every lyric. Sometimes you got to be a little lighthearted."

That's where an up-tempo song earns its keep. "I think that having an up-tempo song helps a lot because people can just roll their windows down, drive down the road, and have their own memories of the song," he said. Don Cook, Clint Daniels and Ryan Tyndell wrote it, and it's the second single from his album She Won't Be Lonely Long.

Next up for Clay is the CMA Songwriters Series in New York, his first time on it. "I'm really looking forward to going to New York and representing songwriters in Nashville," he said. He's expecting a great crowd. New York City doesn't have a country station, he said, "so there are some hardcore country music fans."

For him, the stories are the heart of the night. "The songwriting part of this is probably the most important part because it's… those stories and those songs that those people are living," Clay said. "They're living them. They have memories with those songs. That's what makes it special. And for me to get to go deliver those stories firsthand and tell… my own stories behind songs is going to be very special."

Update: "Where Do I Go from You" peaked at No. 26 on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart in March 2011. Clay played the CMA Songwriters Series at Joe's Pub in New York in June 2011 with songwriters Bob DiPiero, Carson Chamberlain and Mark Sanders; Easton Corbin played the series there the same week.

From the Strum archive · 2012

Colt Ford Declares His Independence

He's promoting his own tour, roping off a family section and keeping tickets at 25 bucks so parents can bring the kids.

By Krys Midgett · Originally interviewed for Strum Magazine

“It's important for those folks that want to be able to come to a show to be able to come to it without breaking the bank.” —Colt Ford

That's why Colt Ford is taking his show on the road his own way this year, and paying for it himself.

"I'm doing my own tour this year, this Declaration of Independence tour," he said. "I got a lot of little kids that like what I do… I said, 'You know what? I'm gonna do my own tour.'" For him, it's "a labor of love."

The tour is built for families. "I got family-friendly, roped-off area. You can get rowdy over here on this side," Colt said. "And over here, a family can sit there with their six-year-old, their eight-year-old, or 10-year-old, and watch the show maybe the first time ever together, and they can afford to do it. And tickets are 25 bucks."

There's no big promoter behind it. "There is no promoter. It's me. I'm doing it. We're doing it all ourselves. I'm buying radio spots… I'm paying for it all," Colt said. "I just decided I'd do it my own way because most people said it couldn't be done anyway." The dates are already posted. "I'm going to do 24, I think, in the spring." The tour opens April 6 in Albany, Ga.

He's just as excited about the music. "Probably best record I've ever made, I reckon," he said of his new album. He wrote with David Lee Murphy, Jeffrey Steele and Craig Wiseman, and he went back to the feel of his debut, Ride Through the Country. "Complete, open, honest, like no rules."

To his fans, he has a thank-you and a simple request for radio. "Thanks to all my fans and all the people that have given me a chance," Colt said. "All I wanted to do was play my music the same amount of times you play everybody else. And if people like it, then play it. If they don't, I'm totally cool with that."

Update: The new album came out Aug. 7, 2012, as Declaration of Independence. It went to No. 1 on Billboard's Top Country Albums chart and No. 5 on the Billboard 200.

From the Strum archive · August 2012

Dolly, Cracker Barrel Find Gold

An Evening With … Dolly went Gold in about a month, giving the Cracker Barrel label its first Gold Record. Dolly brought the jokes.

By Hollis Wren · Reporting by Phil Sweetland · 2012

Dolly Parton's first radio single, back in 1967, was called "Dumb Blonde." Forty-five years later, she's still proving the title wrong.

In August, Dolly and Cracker Barrel Old Country Store celebrated the first Gold Record in the seven-year history of the Cracker Barrel label. Their two-disc CD and DVD set, An Evening With … Dolly, came out April 2 and was certified Gold by the RIAA about a month later.

Dolly arrived ready to have fun. "I'm very proud to be working with Cracker Barrel. They're the best people in the world," she said. "In fact, I was a little late getting here because I had breakfast over there, and I've gotta run back because I'm gonna have lunch."

She wasn't actually late. And it's hard to imagine a better partner for a brand built on country roots than a woman who charted 111 Billboard country singles between 1967 and 2008.

"But seriously," she said, "I think we make a wonderful, wonderful team. I've really enjoyed working with Cracker Barrel. They seem to be happy too." Awards still matter to her, too. "It makes you feel like every project you do, if somebody recognizes it then that makes it worthwhile because you know all the time you put in it," she said. "You never get too old or too callous to enjoy the success, and at my age, I'm thrilled to get anything."

Reporters also asked about the water and snow park Dolly and Gaylord Entertainment had announced for land near the Gaylord Opryland Resort, a project some expected to open in early 2014. Since then, Gaylord had agreed to turn over management of its hotels to Marriott, and Dolly sounded unsure. "That's kind of in a holding pattern right now," she said. "There are a lot of changes going on, I am not really sure. We are still working on that."

Her reach has always gone far beyond Music Row. Her first No. 1, "Jolene," came in 1974, and her most recent, "When I Get Where I'm Going" with Brad Paisley, came in 2006. Along the way she crossed over to pop with "Here You Come Again," topped both charts with "9 to 5," which she wrote, and with "Islands in the Stream," her duet with Kenny Rogers. Movies like 9 to 5, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and Steel Magnolias brought her to millions of people who rarely listen to country radio.

"If anyone wants to ask me somethin', you know me, I'll make up somethin' for you," she said with a giggle as the questions started.

One reporter asked if the audio version of her new book would be sold at Cracker Barrel. "It could be, you'll have to talk to Putnam and Penguin Books. That would be a good one," she said. "That would be a wonderful connection, so probably." A Cracker Barrel executive standing nearby settled it: the audio book would be in their stores.

Business handled, Dolly headed out, presumably to lunch.

Update: In late September 2012, Dolly withdrew from the Nashville water and snow park project after Gaylord's deal with Marriott.

From the Strum archive · 2012

The Roys Take Bluegrass to New Audiences

Sibling duo Lee and Elaine Roy on New Day Dawning, opening for Jason Aldean and putting a little hope out there.

Strum Magazine · 2012

Siblings Lee and Elaine Roy have been playing music since they were in grade school. But it’s only been for the past few years that the bluegrass duo known as The Roys has been getting the attention they deserve for their family harmonies.

New England natives who grew up in far eastern Canada, The Roys came to Nashville six years ago to play in the music capital of America. Since then, their first album on the Rural Rhythm Records label, Lonesome Whistle, earned them a spot on Billboard’s Top 50 Bluegrass Albums of 2011 chart, and their new CD, New Day Dawning featuring Nashville’s finest session players and co-writes with some big-name songwriters has just been released.

The duo is also the reigning Inspirational Country Music Bluegrass Artist of the Year, and with their new album, they stay true to their bluegrass roots while trying to infuse some positive vibes.

“There’s such negativity in the world that we want to inspire people, to put a little bit of hope out there if we can,” said Elaine, who plays guitar and sings.

The duo is an odds-on favorite for more recognition at the Inspirational Country Music Faith, Family & Country Awards Show on Oct. 18. The Roys have been touring non-stop, opening for some major artists as well as playing for crowds who are just there to see the talented brother-sister act.

“This summer we’ve been slammed [with dates],” Elaine said. “We’ve been extremely busy and extremely fortunate that our music seems to really be on a roll right now.” The Roys have travelled extensively throughout the U.S. and Canada, and even performed in Australia earlier this year. The Roys have also appeared on numerous television outlets, including Great American Country and RFD-TV.

As an opening act, The Roys have shared the stage with the likes of Lady Antebellum, John Rich, Luke Bryan and more — quite a feat for an act that plays a type of music that is country’s cousin, but isn’t something that today’s country industry has a lot in common with.

“We’ve been very fortunate to open for people like Jason Aldean and Eric Church,” said Lee, who concentrates on mandolin and vocals, although he plays other instruments as well. “We actually did more of a mainstream country record, and it’s very difficult to get airplay, to compete with the major labels and the major indies. So we went back to where our heart was, to just doing good music that we love that is more traditional. Somehow, in doing so, we’ve ended up getting to open for these major country artists, to have a Jason Aldean come up and say, ‘Wow, we really miss this kind of music’ and to really embrace what we do.”

“Still Standing” is the first single from New Day Dawning, which features members of Ricky Skaggs’ Kentucky Thunder, Dobro ace Randy Kohrs, Michael W. Smith drummer Steve Brewster, and the Time Jumpers’ accordionist Jeff Taylor. Recorded at Skaggs Place Studios, the album includes two songs co-written with one of Nashville’s most successful songwriters, Steve Dean.

“We were fortunate to run into Steve at the ACMs (Academy of Country Music awards) a few years ago, and we hit it off and ended up writing together,” Lee said. “We’re big fans of Steve’s and he’s a great guy and we love writing with him.”

Dean has had major cuts by the likes of George Strait, Rodney Atkins and others. Another songwriting partner on the album is Jenee Fleenor, fiddle player and background vocalist with Blake Shelton.

So for now The Roys are living the dream, continuing to hit the road in support of the new album and taking their music to the masses who, so far, are welcoming it with open ears.

“We’ve just been really fortunate to be able to do what we’re doing, to be able to play music we love and have the success we’re having,” Lee said. “We’re definitely blessed.”

From the Strum archive · 2012

Dawes: Laurel Canyon Sound, New Generation

The Los Angeles band behind Nothing Is Wrong has Jackson Browne in its corner and a new album on the way.

By Hollis Wren

Dawes sounds like a band that found an old tape in the back of a Laurel Canyon closet. That's the point.

The Los Angeles four-piece grew out of an earlier group, Simon Dawes. When co-writer Blake Mills left, brothers Taylor Goldsmith (vocals and guitar) and Griffin Goldsmith (drums) kept going, joined by bassist Wylie Gelber and keyboardist Tay Strathairn. The music moved from indie rock toward the warm folk-rock of the 1970s West Coast, and the comparisons followed: Jackson Browne, The Band, the Laurel Canyon songwriters.

Their 2009 debut, North Hills, was recorded live to analog tape in Laurel Canyon. The follow-up, Nothing Is Wrong, came out on ATO Records in June 2011 and reached No. 64 on the Billboard 200 and No. 5 on the folk albums chart.

The heroes they get compared to have become friends. Jackson Browne has championed them, and on Dec. 1, 2011, Dawes played alongside him at the Occupy Wall Street protests in Zuccotti Park. Robbie Robertson of The Band has backed them too.

They have spent most of the last year on the road. Dawes co-headlined a U.S. tour with Blitzen Trapper, appeared as themselves on NBC's Parenthood in February 2012, and headed to Australia in April to open for My Morning Jacket and play Bluesfest in Byron Bay.

Strathairn summed up the band's approach that spring as "four guys playing non synthesised instruments on stage," and called the Jackson Browne and Springsteen comparisons "nothing short of a dream come true" (May The Rock Be With You, April 2012).

With the Nothing Is Wrong tour now behind them, the plan is to take time off the road, record the songs Taylor has been writing and testing at soundchecks, and release a new album in the spring.

Update: That album, Stories Don't End, came out April 9, 2013, and reached No. 36 on the Billboard 200. Dawes went on to release All Your Favorite Bands (2015), which topped the folk albums chart, followed by We're All Gonna Die (2016), Passwords (2018), Good Luck with Whatever (2020), Misadventures of Doomscroller (2022) and Oh Brother (2024), by which time the band had become a duo of the Goldsmith brothers. In January 2025 the brothers lost their studio, their instruments and Griffin's home in the Eaton Fire; weeks later Dawes played the FireAid benefit and opened the Grammy Awards with "I Love L.A."

From the Strum archive · 2011

Andy Velo: Music, Movies and the Football Field

The Georgia country singer on landing a role in We Are Marshall, his radio days, coaching and the causes close to home.

By Krys Midgett · Originally interviewed for Strum Magazine

"God is my foundation, so there's where it starts, and then it goes family after that, and then it goes passion after that," Andy Velo said. That order runs through everything he does, from country music to movie sets to the football field.

His film career started almost by accident. He was home from touring when he went to an open casting call for We Are Marshall, the 2006 movie starring Matthew McConaughey. "Long story short, they actually selected me to be title role in the film, a smaller role, and so that's kind of how it got started," he said.

That first part opened the door to more film work, including stunts. He likes the close-knit feel of a film set, where he often works with the same stunt performers and crew from one production to the next. Film has helped his music, too, through the connections he has made. He was once invited to play as the live band for a film shoot, but it fell during a tour and he had to pass.

Radio was another early love. He started as an intern at a small station and was soon given his own on-air shifts. "Radio would be what would be awesome. Radio would be fun," he said. "I tell you, if country music wasn't where God wanted me, the football field coaching is the second place I try."

Coaching football matters to him for reasons that go beyond the scoreboard. "The game of football, yes, it is measured in wins and losses, but it's really about making young men, and I think that a lot of times coaches get away from that," he said. He believes young athletes learn from both winning and losing, and that skipping the score or giving everyone the same trophy can take some of those lessons away.

His single "Southern Thing" came together while he was getting ready for a show, after he had been working on a chord progression for a while. The song is about pride in his Southern roots and growing up as his hometown changed around him.

When he builds a set list, it doesn't matter who wrote the song. "My job is to have the best possible songs in my set, whether I wrote them or I didn't write them," Andy said. "The best songs that I identify with, that my brand identifies with, and my fans identify with."

He gives back to several causes. The Brain Tumor Foundation for Children is close to his family's heart, and he also supports the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Kenya Medical Outreach, help for people experiencing homelessness, and Operation Homefront, which supports military families.

Update: Andy moved to Nashville in 2014. His video for "Half-Truths & Other Lies" spent two weeks as the No. 1 video on CMT.

From the Strum archive · 2012

Corey Wagar: Jersey Meets Country

The New Jersey singer behind "I Hate My Boyfriend" talks about Music City, a mentor named Kent Wells and the holiday shows she plays for people who need them most.

By Krys Midgett · Originally interviewed for Strum Magazine, 2012

“Laughter is timeless. Imagination has no age, and dreams are forever.” —Walt Disney, the quote Corey Wagar lives by

Corey Wagar says she lives by those words "every single day," and at 18 she is chasing the dream full time. She has a simple way to describe her sound: "Jersey meets country." She hears Bruce Springsteen in it, along with Gretchen Wilson and Colbie Caillat. "I really spend a lot of time songwriting, and that's like one of the biggest things that I focus on is that making sure all the songs are real," she said.

Take "I Hate My Boyfriend." She was catching up with songwriter Preston Brust of the LoCash Cowboys after a show when he asked about her boyfriend. She joked that she hated him, and the two knew they had a title. So what does her boyfriend think of it? "It's about my ex-boyfriend," she said. She wrote it with Preston and her co-writing partner and guitarist, Gordon Brown. The song went to country radio in September 2011 as the second single from her debut album, On The Edge. Corey said the single climbed to No. 35, and The Country Network picked up the video. She is hoping CMT and GAC will be next.

Music was always around the house. Her father played in bands, and that is where Corey made her public debut. "I was three years old. I sang at a local bar," she said, "and he was playing 'Brown Eyed Girl.'" Her part was the "sha-la-las."

Country came a few years later. Her first album of her own was a gift from her uncle in third grade. "Yes. And it was the Dixie Chicks," she said. "Travelin' Soldier," "Cowboy Take Me Away" and "Sweet Dreams" are still among her favorites.

For four years, Corey made the trip from New Jersey to Nashville about once a month to write. She had just finished high school, and keeping up took teamwork. She missed 92 days of her senior year, with her school's support. Then she made the move for good. "I just moved to Nashville two weeks ago, so it's like my first time living on my own," she said when we talked. "But, um, yeah, I'm only 18." Along the way she has written with Lonnie Wilson, Jamie O'Neil and Billy Montana.

The person she credits most is producer Kent Wells, best known for his work with Dolly Parton. Corey calls him a mentor and a father figure in Nashville. She first recorded a song with him when she was about 14, and he produced "I Hate My Boyfriend" at The Sound Kitchen.

On The Edge is almost all her own writing. She co-wrote every song but one, a country take on REO Speedwagon's "Take It on the Run."

Earlier this year, Corey earned a golden ticket to Hollywood on American Idol. She can't share all the details yet.

Every holiday season, Corey goes home to give back through Holiday Express, a New Jersey program that brings music to people who need it. From Nov. 20 through Christmas, she plays about 50 shows in soup kitchens, homeless shelters, psychiatric centers and children's hospitals. "It's one of my favorite things," she said. "I look forward to it."

For a singer who started with the "sha-la-las" in her dad's bar band, it is a long way from Jersey to Music City. Corey Wagar is making it sound like home.

Update: Corey followed "I Hate My Boyfriend" with "Take Ya Back" in 2012, written with Cece DuBois and Beau Fuller and produced by Kent Wells. In 2014 she was featured on Brooke Gerhart's "Without a Warning."

From the Strum archive

Chris Gantry: Lead the Parade

The writer of "Dreams of the Everyday Housewife" on Elvis, poetry and turning every setback into something you can use.

By Krys Midgett · Originally interviewed for Strum Magazine

“When you feel like you're being run out of town by a mob, pretend you're leading a parade.” —Chris Gantry

Chris Gantry has led a few parades in his time. His first big hit took him about 45 minutes to write.

He was upstairs, thinking about his wife. "I was thinking of my wife downstairs… I saw her bustling around, and so I got the vision off that, and I just wrote it out in about 45 minutes," he said. The song was "Dreams of the Everyday Housewife." Wayne Newton recorded it first, and in 1968 Glen Campbell took it to No. 3 on the country chart.

"It gave me the knowledge that I can do this thing, and this is really the only thing that I'm any good at," Chris said. "So I should really jump into it."

Music was in the house growing up in New York. "My father was a concert pianist, so I dabbled in the piano, but I had no feel for it," he said. Then he saw Elvis. "As soon as I saw Elvis playing the guitar and doing his rockabilly thing, that was it. I immediately went and got a guitar."

He didn't wait long to make a record. "I got started in New York City in 1955 with a friend of mine named Len Chiriaka," Chris said. The two were starting their first year of military school together. "Of course we were impressed by the Everly Brothers, so we did a duo… We got a recording contract with ABC Paramount and had some doo-wop records out. We had actually three singles, and it immediately put that spark in you: 'This is it. This is what I've been looking for my whole life.'"

The duo's name came with a story. "We went under the name of Tom and Jerry," he said. Simon and Garfunkel had recorded as Tom and Jerry first. "When they dropped that name, we picked it up because we had the same producer."

Chris came to Nashville in the fall of 1963 "and just fell in with a bunch of wild guys who all played music," he said. "We started a bluegrass band, and we played in Printer's Alley." His first cut was "Play It Smart, Little Girl," a song he wrote with John Hurley, who co-wrote "Son of a Preacher Man." Over the years Johnny Cash, Roy Clark and Glen Campbell all recorded his songs.

Over the years his approach changed. "When you're a novice… you learn the tricks of the trade… and how to put a song together. Then there comes a point in time when you have learned all the techniques. You throw them all away," he said. "The songs that come to you start to write you instead of you writing the song… You get out of the way and let the song write you."

He also learned that he couldn't stick to one kind of music. "I love to write all kinds of songs: Latin songs, show tunes, jazz songs," he said. He had Latin bands and rockabilly bands, played with jazz trios, did rock and spent a long time in folk music. "I never had the great success that some of my people that I came up with had, but… those guys had never experienced the thrill of jumping out into the unknown and really just sucking up everything you can suck up and trying to learn a little bit of everything."

Chris is a poet, too, and to him there is hardly any difference. "Not at all. Songs are poetry," he said. "The only thing with songs is you have to make them understandable to people, where they can go, 'Ah, I feel just that way. I know exactly what he's talking about.'… With poetry, it's a little bit more abstract."

He has watched the business change. "At one particular point in time, songwriters controlled what was played on the radio," he said. Now radio programmers control it, and writers "have to dumb it down in order to stand a chance of getting something recorded and played on the radio, and that's tough." But he sees a way around that. "Now with the advent of the internet, you can do what you want to do and put out your own product and build up your own fan base."

He likes co-writers who think the same way, like his friends Sam Cooper and John Roniger. "I enjoy writing with my friend Sam Cooper here because he's an outside-the-box guy," Chris said. "He likes to have fun with his music, and he doesn't particularly care what anybody thinks… I like to write with people who don't care, like to have fun, and are progressive and visionary in the way they approach their art."

Sam has his own way of describing Chris. "He's Nashville's Beatles. George Carlin, Sacha Baron Cohen, the guy who played Borat and Ali G, you know, and Mick Jagger all rolled into one," Sam said. "Nashville doesn't know what they have. They just haven't got a clue."

Chris returns the compliment. "He's in the ring trying to do the same thing that a lot of writers that he admires have done before him," he said of Sam. "He's got the mojo, he's got the juice, and he spreads the bread out on the waters. He tries to help people." Other than his songs, Chris said, Sam will be known for "the people that he's helped along the way, and that's big. That's big."

That credo is the advice he gives young songwriters. "Treat every instance, even a negative one, as something that you can use to further your deal," he said.

Ask him for a song or phrase that describes him, and his answer fits a man who is still writing. "I'm still trying."

Update: Chris has enjoyed a late-career comeback. In 2017, Drag City released At the House of Cash, an album he recorded at Johnny Cash's home in 1973 that had sat on the shelf for decades. His album Nashlantis includes "Box of Crayons" with Bill Callahan, and in October 2026 Appalachia Record Co. released his new album, Worth Every Nail. His friend and co-writer Sam Cooper passed away in April 2024.

strummag.com · November 2012

Tracy Lawrence Urges Community to Make Turkey Donations for 7th Annual "Mission Possible" Turkey Fry

Nashville Rescue Mission needs turkey donations to help feed the homeless during the Thanksgiving holiday.

Press release · As published on strummag.com, November 2012

As Tracy Lawrence prepares to host the 7th annual "Mission Possible" Turkey Fry on Tuesday, November 20, the Nashville Rescue Mission will need an estimated 1,000 turkeys that will serve more than 5,000 meals to feed the homeless in Middle Tennessee this Thanksgiving holiday season. The Nashville Rescue Mission has only received a small amount of turkey donations to date. Lawrence is urging everyone to bring turkeys, cash donations and clothing by simply dropping off the items to the Nashville Rescue Mission.

In addition, the singer released a documentary-style video on YouTube that tells the story of just how important the Nashville Rescue Mission's work is to the community.

Launched in 2006, the Tracy Lawrence "Mission Possible" Turkey Fry has brought in close to 6,000 turkeys and provided more than 35,000 meals to help the Nashville Rescue Mission feed the homeless in Middle Tennessee.

This year's Turkey Fry is Tuesday, November 20, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the parking lot of the Nashville Rescue Mission, located at 639 Lafayette Street, Nashville, TN. Tracy's goal is to fry over 500 turkeys for the homeless and hungry during this year's annual event.

Each year Lawrence gets a little help from entertainment and sports celebrity friends to prepare food and fry turkeys. The event has been supported by some of music's finest, such as Jason Aldean, John Rich, 3 Doors Down front man Brad Arnold and Restless Heart. Sports celebrities such as Tennessee Titans Rob Bironas, Daniel Graham and Jordan Babineaux have donated and prepared turkeys for the event. This year Tennessee Titans player Rob Bironas and the Tennessee Titans Cheerleaders will be on deck to support the cause.

"The Nashville Rescue Mission is a blessing to our community," says Lawrence. "Each year I am humbled by the outpouring of support from friends who give their time to be part of the Turkey Fry. This special day allows us the opportunity to help raise awareness of the great services the Mission provides every day to the homeless and those in need."

The event is free and open to the public, though donations are appreciated. If you can't make it, follow @NashvilleRescue on Twitter for updated information throughout the day, and like the Mission's Facebook page, facebook.com/nashvillerescuemission, to see photos of your favorite celebrities frying turkeys.

Sponsorship partners Sam's Club, LouAna (oil), Blue Rhino (propane) and the Rankam Group will be providing fryers, oils and propane for the event. Other supporting organizations include Ink on Paper and Breeze Coaches.

About Tracy Lawrence: Tracy Lawrence is one of country music's most recognizable voices, with songs such as "Paint Me a Birmingham," "Time Marches On" and "Find Out Who Your Friends Are." The critically acclaimed, multi-platinum-selling CMA and ACM award-winning artist is celebrating 20 years of music and has enjoyed 22 songs in the Billboard top 10, with 18 No. 1 singles. Awards include 2007 CMA Vocal Event of the Year and 2007 ACM Vocal Event of the Year for "Find Out Who Your Friends Are." Website: tracylawrence.com. Facebook: facebook.com/therealtracylawrence.

About Nashville Rescue Mission: The Nashville Rescue Mission is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to helping the hungry, homeless and hurting. The Mission strives to restore hope and transform lives by offering programs that focus on spiritual growth, education, employment and life recovery. The Nashville Rescue Mission is located at 639 Lafayette Street, Nashville, TN 37203.

strummag.com · July 27, 2012

Catfish, Music and Fun in Perry County

Just down Interstate 40 West, right past Bucksnort, Tenn, is the small town of Lobelville. It is quiet and there is a lot there. You'll see a Dollar General Store…

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, July 27, 2012

Just down Interstate 40 West, right past Bucksnort, Tenn, is the small town of Lobelville. It is quiet and there is a lot there. You'll see a Dollar General Store and Heath's Grocery store. Heath's has been there for decades. Perry County, Lobelville and Linden, are on the Buffalo River and are known for the great canoeing, kayaking and fishing.

Fish frys are quiet the popular past-time and the people of Perry County can bring on some Catfish cooking. So where better to host the Inaugural State of Tennessee Catfish Cookoff.

So, the Buffalo River Resort is the place to be on Saturday and Sunday, July 27 and 28. Not only will there be Catfish, but some of the best bands around will be playing. The Charlie Daniels Band, Blackberry Smoke, The Marshall Tucker Band, Stacy Mitchhart and several more acts. The complete lineup is on their website at www.buffaloriverresortfest.com

It is a family event, including Rock Climbing, Bungee Run, Mechanical Bull, Bounce houses, various vendors selling all kinds of homemade sweets, crafts and arts of all kinds. There will be TV Celebrities, NFL Football Players and, of course, music. Lots of top of the line music.

Festivals of these caliber typically have a hefty ticket price. But you can go to this festival for only $70 for both days. One-day passes are available, however, two-day passes are the best deal. Also, children 12 and under are free. VIP Passes are also available, to enjoy the show up close.

Thanks to the Governor of the State of Tennessee, this festival is the Official site of the Inaugural State of Tennessee Catfish Cook-off. Be a part of history and participate in the first of this annual cook-off. There are $6,000 in cash and prizes. There will also be a silent auction to benefit a local charity.

The event is sponsored by Timber Ridge U.S.A., Bud Light, Nick and Bubba's, Bank of Perry County and Right Care Clinic.

The event is the brainchild of Nick Spicer and Rob Inman. They have been friends for over 25 years and are business partners at Nick & Bubba's in Hohenwald. The goal is to help out the community and bring in revenue from all over.

“We hope it brings a big economic stimulation to the community,” says Nick. “This is something new and original that everyone could be proud of and rally behind. We have hopes to bring people from other areas of the state to create an economic circle.”

With their highly marketable “Tennessee State Championship Catfish Cook-Off”, which is in fact the only state-sanctioned event of its kind in Tennessee, Rob and Nick may have created just what this region needs. “We knew we needed something original, and when we thought about it a while, it dawned on me that something original was a state-championship cook-off.”

Mayor John Carroll and the Perry County Commissioners endorsed the idea, after Spicer submitted the request.

“They jumped on board, loved the idea, and passed it along to their state representative. He was on board, too, and it was unanimously voted on in the house March of 2012 by Representative John Tidwell, Senator Roy Herron and Senator Jim Tracy.”

Beginning early Saturday morning, the cook off will host teams from Madison, Decatur, and Lewis Counties.

Gates open at 7 a.m., and on site camping is available. For more information, visit www.BuffaloRiverResortFest.com, follow them on Twitter, and like them on Facebook for updates and more information. Come join the fun for this pioneering idea and community-focused event.

strummag.com · July 11, 2012

Summer NAMM Is in Nashville

Music Industry professionals are being treated to Summer NAMM. For three days, there will be music products and technology showcases, as well as live music and…

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, July 11, 2012

Music Industry professionals are being treated to Summer NAMM. For three days, there will be music products and technology showcases, as well as live music and entertainment. The event starts July 12th and ends July 14th. The Nashville Convention Center will be filled with music and music enthusiasts. They have a wide variety of events scheduled.

The Nashville Association of Music Merchants (NAMM), is the not-for-profit association that promotes the pleasures and benefits of making music and strengthens the $17 billion global music products industry. The association and trade show serve as a hub for people wanting to seek out the newest innovations in musical products, recording technology, sound and lighting. NAMM's activities and programs are designed to promote music making to people of all ages. On Wednesday, July 11th, a free concert was held featuring Gary Morris, John Oates, Drake White and The Little Kids Rock Band. A silent auction was held to benefit The Little Kids Rock.

There are over nine-thousand companies in NAMM, over ten-thousand music industry professionals from at least 20 countries are planning to attend. Come see what the professionals see, play the newest instruments and enjoy the live entertainment. On Saturday, July 14th, the renowned convention will be open to the public. For $15, the public is welcomed to attend and participate in the additional events that are geared to music enthusiasts.

Summer NAMM highlights the newest musical instruments and state-of-the-art music-making technologies while featuring instruments that visitors can drum and strum, along with pianos, DJ gear, ukuleles, lighting andsound equipment and everything in between.

Instrument demos, professional workshops and interactive workshopsset the stage for a lively week of Music City events.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 11

6:30 p.m. / “A Celebration of Music”/ Events on Third (in Printer’sAlley)

Two Old Hippies, Bedell Guitars, The Music Trades and NAMM present John Oates, Gary Morris, Drake White and The Little Kids Rock student band. The free party features live music, a silent auction benefitting Little Kids Rock and food. http://rocknandreeln.com/

THURSDAY, JULY 12

8 a.m. / NAMM U’s “NAMM Retail Summit” / Renaissance Hotel GrandBallroom

Joe Lamond, NAMM President/CEO, with Chip Averwater, authorand Amro Music Stores Chairman, offer an in-depth discussion of retail success.

http://www.namm.org/nammu/namm-retail-summit

13NAMM U Sessions are offered every ½ hour @ NAMM IdeaCenter (Booth 837, Level 1)

Topics can be accessed here: http://www.namm.org/summer/2012/namm-u-grid

6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. / “Best of Nashville” Music Event / Renaissance Hotel Grand Ballroom

The Nashville Musicians Association and NAMM present a live summer music event featuring The Duffy Jackson Big Band, Three Ring Circle, 18 South, The Charles Walker Quartet and more.

http://www.namm.org/summer/2012/articles/tune-best-nashville-summer-namm

FRIDAY, JULY 13

8 a.m./ NAMM U Breakfast Session “Becoming a Category of One: How Extraordinary Companies Create and Sustain Success”/Renaissance Hotel Grand Ballroom

Joe Calloway, author of Becoming a Category of One, presents an exciting session about what creates marketleaders in today's hyper-competitive marketplace.

Ten additional NAMM U sessions are offered throughout the day @ NAMM Idea Center (Booth 837, Level 1). Topics can be accessed here:

http://www.namm.org/summer/2012/namm-u-grid

Recreational Music Making Sessions / NAMM Foundation Lounge (Rooms209/210, Level 2)

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. - Joe Lamond/Bill Ivey - Discussion with founding director of the Curb

Center for Art, Enterprise and Public Policy at VanderbiltUniversity

1:30 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. - Debra Perez - Finding and training the right facilitator foryour store 2:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. - Kala Brand Music - Starting and running a Strum and Drum Program 3:30 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. - NAMM - Reaching more customers by providing aplace to play

6:45 p.m. / NAMM’s Top 100 Dealers Awards / Renaissance HotelGrand Ballroom

NAMMhonors 100 of the industry’s most innovative and enterprising music retailerswith awards in several categories including “Dealer of the Year,” curb appeal,use of social media and more.

http://www.namm.org/summer/2012/top-dealer

*8:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. / Muriel Anderson's All Star Guitar Night/ Renaissance Hotel Grand Ballroom

Presented by Yamaha Guitars and benefitting the non-profit LittleKids Rock, experience a guitar-centric eventfeaturing acoustic and electric artists. Tickets are available from Yamaha’sbooth or at the door for $20. *There are recording restrictions for media http://allstarguitarnight.com/about-us/muriel-anderson/

SATURDAY, JULY 14

8 a.m. / NAMM U Breakfast Session “Best in Show: This Year’sHottest Products”/ Renaissance Hotel GrandBallroom

Joina panel of well-respected retailers and buyers who have combed the show floorin search of the best products, ideas and trends for their top picks in fourcategories.

“PUBLIC DAY” / Nashville Convention Center

Summer NAMM opens its doors to the general public and musicenthusiasts of all ages for live music, a rare look at new music-makingtechnologies and interactive musician workshops.

9:15 a.m. – 10a.m. RichardGilwitz, Fingerstyle Guitarist, Foundation Lounge, Room 210

10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. World’s FastestDrummer preliminary competition / Level 1, East Lobby

10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. “Haiti 10 - Faith, Love and Music” / Idea Center Booth 837, Level 1

11:00a.m. How to Use a Work Station in a studio setting / Room 102, Level 1 10 Best Social Networking Sites for Marketing to Fans / Room 211, Level 2

Win a Digital Record Deal with Guitar Player Records / Room 214, Level 2

Sticks 'n' Skins - The Sessions / Idea Center Booth 837, Level 1

Ergo We Play performs (SchoolJam USA winners) / Foundation Lounge,Rm. 210

Ukedelics Perform / Exhibit Hall Acoustic Stage

12:00 p.m. NewTC-Helicon Vocal Effects for the Acoustic Singer / Songwriter / Room 102, L1

Live Sound Basics / Room 207, Level 2 10 Ways to Make Better Sounding Recordings / Room 211, Level 2

12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Ukulele Circle hands-on demo / Foundation Lounge, Room 210

1:00p.m. So, You Want To Be a Session Player panel discussion/ Room 208, Level 2

10 Tips for Effective Pre-Production / Room 211, Level 2

1:30p.m. Live Sound Tips & Tricks / Room 207, Level 2

1:30 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. Ukedelics Perform / Foundation Lounge, Room 210

2:00 p.m. The Psychology of Producing Hit Songs / Idea Center Booth 837, L1

GigEasy Demowith Darren Kramer / Room 102, Level 1

10 Elements of a Hit Song / Room 211, Level 2

2:00p.m. – 4:00 p.m. World’s Fastest Drummer Competition Finals / Level 1 East Lobby

3:00p.m. Drum Circle hands-on demo / Level 3, East Lobby

10 Ways to Exploit Facebook forSuccess / Room 211, Level 2

Recreational Music Making Sessions and Acoustic Performances /NAMM Foundation Lounge (Rooms 209/210)

Enjoy a variety of concerts throughout the day in the NAMMFoundation Lounge

Members of NAMM and the Music Industry can still register for the summer event: http://www.namm.org/summer/2012/badges

For more information regarding Summer NAMM, visit http://www.namm.org/summer/2012

###

AboutNAMM The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) is the not-for-profitassociation with a mission to strengthen the $17 billion music products industry and promote the pleasures and benefits of making music. NAMM's activities and programs are designed to promote music making to people of all ages. NAMM is comprised of approximately 9,000 Member companies located in more than 87 countries. For more information about NAMM or the proven benefits of making music, interested parties can visit www.namm.org, call 800-767-NAMM (6266) or follow the organization on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

strummag.com · July 6, 2012

Roger Waters: The Wall in Nashville

On June 19, 2012 Nashville experienced perhaps the most anticipated and visually stimulating concert event of the year as Roger Waters performed The Wall at…

By Jason S. Rittenberry · Photos by the author · As published on strummag.com, July 6, 2012

On June 19, 2012 Nashville experienced perhaps the most anticipated and visually stimulating concert event of the year as Roger Waters performed The Wall at Bridgestone Arena. A tour that is currently in its’ second year, seen all over the world, and even profiled on CBS’s 60 minutes television program. The Wall would not only examine social and political bricks surrounding our world but it would also bridge a generation gap of music fans.

Roger Waters is credited as being the primary songwriter for his former band, classic rock icons Pink Floyd. The Wall is called the masterpiece of his work. A claim that is undeniable as his current touring edition of the production is selling out venues over thirty years since the original release of Pink Floyd’s The Wall album. It was obvious fans who have enjoyed The Wall for the last thirty years as well as a whole new generation of fans were there not only to be entertained but to also pay their respects to Waters. As Waters was such a significant former piece of their favorite band, the hopes of a Pink Floyd reunion tour seem to grow dimmer with each passing year. This night could have been their last chance to applaud the man whose work has stood the test of popular music for so many decades.

With an opening number that was spectacular enough that a lesser act would wish to have it as a finale, and a finale that was dramatic and emotional enough to rival the best that Broadway could offer, The Wall is an event to behold. You find yourself wrapped up in the production to the point where you feel as much as a character in the production as you are a spectator. Amongst the political themes of not trusting the government, anti-war, and being bombarded with corporate logos and dollars, are humanitarian themes of standing up against terror and fighting for those less fortunate.

However, at its’ core, this was indeed a celebration of a phenomenal classic rock album and the band assembled by Waters did not disappoint as they matched every musical and vocal note of the missing Pink Floyd members perfectly. Highlights of the show musically included Waters performing a solo acoustic guitar duet with a video of himself from over thirty years ago on “Mother”, the anticipation of “Hey You” as it was performed with the band completely unseen behind the enormous wall prop and “Comfortably Numb” bringing the crowd to their feet.

Waters thanked the Nashville audience repeatedly and seemed genuinely appreciative of his reception in the Music City. Nashville Pink Floyd fans were honored to host this tour stop. For unless Pink Floyd as a whole are able to tear down the walls preventing a reunion tour, this was as good as it gets.

strummag.com · June 15, 2012

Mark Wills Makes Fan Club Party More Intimate

Mark Wills made some changes to his annual fan club party this year to make it a more intimate experience for fans. The fans approved of the changes.

Rick's Point of View · By Rick Amburgey · As published on strummag.com, June 15, 2012

Mark Wills made some changes to his annual fan club party this year to make it a more intimate experience for fans. The fans approved of the changes.

The party had been held at Hard Rock Café. The breakfast was held downstairs in the restaurant and the performance and meet and greet was held upstairs in the Reverb Room. This year, Wills moved it Country Music Hall of Fame. He said he thought some of the people might have never been in the Hall of Fame.

I really like this change. The breakfast was more low-key than at previous fan club parties I had attended at the Hard Rock Café. Everyone seemed to be happy and it was a delicious breakfast. It seemed to be quicker and allow more time for music as well.

The performance was held at the Ford Theater inside the Country Music Hall of Fame. I love this venue because it provides such an intimate setting and the sound it great.

Wills said he also limited the number of tickets available to make it more personal. With around 100 people in attendance, the theater was far from full, which allowed fans to sit in the first few rows. This gave fans the opportunity to have more interaction with Wills, which is something Wills and the fans both enjoyed. He said the smaller number would allow him to spend more time with fans at the meet and greet and not feel so rushed.

The performances at the Hard Rock Café had been acoustic performances, which were great. However, Wills had the band behind him. He had asked his fans what songs they wanted him to perform. Songs included “I Hate Chicago,” “Don’t Laugh At Me,” and “19 Somethin’.”

Wills said the party was announced so late this year because they were finalizing details so they could do the party at Country Music Hall of Fame. He said they will try to do the party there next year as well.

strummag.com · June 15, 2012

Lee Brice and Jerrod Niemann Team Up for a Fantastic Fan Club Party

Having a joint fan club party during the CMA Music Festival for two rising stars didn’t just combine two fan clubs in one room, it brought two good friends together…

Rick's Point of View · By Rick Amburgey · As published on strummag.com, June 15, 2012

Having a joint fan club party during the CMA Music Festival for two rising stars didn’t just combine two fan clubs in one room, it brought two good friends together on stage. Separate, both Lee Brice and Jerrod Niemann are amazing artists, but together they create a certain magic that’s fun to watch.

Brice and Niemann played songs acoustically and joked around with each other, as well as the fans. Sometimes, it’s hard for a fan to get to know who an artist is outside of their music, but Niemann and Brice are exceptions. They did not make any apologies for drinking on stage – it is just a part of their personality. It felt like the fans were getting a glimpse inside what a night might be like with these two friends just hanging out.

There’s much more to these men than drinking, though. They are very caring people and that shined through with their work for MDA. The fan club party helped raise money for “Make A Muscle, Make A Difference” campaign. A young man with muscular dystrophy introduced the two stars, and they brought him out again during the performance. Not only were Niemann and Brice photographed making a muscle for MDA, their fans were invited to do so as well. The event was streamed live on the internet.

The songs performed included “One More Drinking Song,” “She Ain’t Right,” “What Do You Want,” “Love Like Crazy,” “Lover,Lover,” and “A Woman Like You,” among others. Both stars performed song that were recorded by Garth Brooks – Brice co-wrote “More Than A Memory” with Billy Montana and Kyle Jacobs, while Niemann co-wrote “Good Ride Cowboy” with Brooks.

They revealed themselves to be very grateful for getting to where they are and they thank the fans that put their songs on the top of the country music charts. Niemann said they weren’t really sure what to expect from a fan club party since they never really had fans. Nevertheless, the fans packed Third and Lindsley.

Both stars did a meet and greet with everyone that wanted a picture and an autograph. When it was over, the meet and greet lasted for ten hours. It took so long that they moved the meet and greet from Third and Lindsley to their tour busses. Fans who went through the line said they weren’t giving a regular meet and greet, either. Both singers were taking the time to talk to fans.

strummag.com · June 15, 2012

Carrie Underwood's Fan Club Party One of the Best CMA Fest Events

Carrie Underwood provided a special event for her fan club members during CMA Fest. First, Underwood is one of a handful of artists that does not require fan club…

Rick's Point of View · By Rick Amburgey · As published on strummag.com, June 15, 2012

Carrie Underwood provided a special event for her fan club members during CMA Fest. First, Underwood is one of a handful of artists that does not require fan club members to pay an extra fee to attend the fan club party.

The event was held on Tuesday, June 5, at the Grand Ole Opry House. I think it sets a certain tone by having the event at the Opry house. It adds an additional level of class. It is also a larger venue than other places, which allows Underwood to accommodate a large number of fans. No one had to sit in the balcony and everyone had the opportunity to have a good seat.

This was my first Underwood fan club party and I was pleasantly surprised. I had heard from fans that this was an absolute must-attend party and they were right. Underwood took the stage with a partial band and a backup singer and played for almost an hour. She did play some of her biggest hits like “Before He Cheats,” but many of the tracks were from her recently-released Blown Away CD. I hadn’t bought the CD yet, but I left the event thinking it was one that needed to be added to my music library.

Underwood’s party didn’t end with just a performance. She had a Q & A session with fans, which was very upbeat. This time allowed Underwood to joke some and allow her fans to get to know her better. I really respected Underwood a great deal for this, as it showed that she truly cared about her fans and she went the extra mile to make sure fans felt a personal connection with her.

Fans were also treated to a preview of the Blown Away music video, which looks like it could be a major contender for Video of the Year awards. It appears to be more than just a typical music video. It plays like a short film.

After the Q&A, she played a game with fans to see how much Underwood trivia they knew. She gave awards like autographed items and concert tickets as prizes for these games.

Underwood did not do a meet and greet, but everyone did receive a autographed poster and a t-shirt as they left.

I had been an Underwood fan since her days on American Idol, but I left the Opry House that had having much more respect for Underwood, and ultimately an even bigger Underwood fan. This is definitely a party that I plan to attend annually. It’s worth arriving in town a couple days early for CMA Fest.

strummag.com · May 27, 2012

Monday Is Deadline for CMA Fest Lottery

Monday, May 28 is the last day to register for the lottery to meet stars in Fan Fair Hall during the 2012 CMA Music Festival. The Country Music Association has said…

Rick's Point of View · By Rick Amburgey · As published on strummag.com, May 27, 2012

Monday, May 28 is the last day to register for the lottery to meet stars in Fan Fair Hall during the 2012 CMA Music Festival. The Country Music Association has said they may extend the deadline to allow fans the opportunity select artists that had not been confirmed when the selection process began on May 14. However, CMA has not made an official statement that the deadline will be extended, so we’re operating under the assumption that the cut-off date for registering will be Monday.

Some of the stars included in this drawing are Brantley Gilbert, Craig Campbell, Craig Morgan, David Nail, Easton Corbin, Jerrod Niemann, Joe Nichols, Josh Thompson, Josh Turner, Justin Moore, Martina McBride, Montgomery Gentry, The Band Perry, surprise artist(s), and more.

Fans are given two options – registering as an individual or registering for themselves and a friend. If a person registers as an individual, they may also register for themselves and a friend. People who are selected will have to pick up wristbands the day before the scheduled signing.

People will be notified on Friday, June 1 which artists there were selected to get to meet. The CMA said they would notify people either way, so fans will know which artists they are guaranteed to meet. At this time, there is no definitive answer on whether there will be hopeful lines at this year’s CMA Music Fest. According to Chris Young’s web site, he is going to have a hopeful line when he signs. People standing in a hopeful line are not guaranteed autographs, but will be allowed to meet Young if time permits after everyone with a wristband from the lottery has gone through.

During Q & A sessions, the CMA said there may not be a second round as previously thought, as they are waiting for more artists to confirm. Some fans expressed a concern they may not be able to print confirmations if the deadline was extended because they would be en route to Nashville. The CMA tried to ease those concerns by reassuring fans there would be computers available on-site.

The CMA has also said there will be numerous opportunities on-site to meet, so people who have not been selected to meet their favorite artist should not be discouraged. Also, not all artists will be included in the lottery. CMA encourages fans to come in Fan Fair Hall, even if they do not have a wristband.

strummag.com · May 26, 2012

Herrick's "New Dance" Is Mighty Refreshing Stuff

There has been no shortage of female artists with powerful voices in country music. Now, you can add Donna Herrick to a list that includes such artists as Martina…

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, May 26, 2012

There has been no shortage of female artists with powerful voices in country music. Now, you can add Donna Herrick to a list that includes such artists as Martina McBride, Jennifer Nettles and Dolly Parton. Herrick also includes Kerry Herrick, Jefferson Rogers and Zach Ballard, all of which are great musicians and add to Herrick’s unique sound. However, it’s Donna’s vocals that manage to set Herrick’s music from other bands. With the release of the CD, “New Dance,” Herrick has established itself as a high-energy band that’s very diverse. The CD has a combination of country, classic rock and R&B that is very refreshing. This is one of the CDs you can just play all the way through, and listen to over and over again.

It’s been almost three years since I first heard “Walk a Mile.” It still remains one of my favorites, and I’m glad the band decided to use the story to make it the first track on the CD. It sets the tone for the entire album and gives a new listener a sneak preview of the range of Donna’s voice.

Herrick’s new single, “Do You Love Me,” is a story to which many couples can unfortunately relate – staying in a relationship and going through the motions, while wondering if the other person’s feelings for them has changed. It’s a familiar story, but the vocals on this song make it heartbreaking.

I also love the superb instrumentation in “Do You Love Me”. It just feels like the addition of a mandolin on the song makes the sound complete.

Another of my favorite songs is “Drive,” which talks about wanting to back to the hometown. The lyrics and music of this song just seem so haunting and reflective that it’s hard not to think about where you’re from while listening. The description of the town in the song paints a peaceful image, and it’s seems that going back would provide the perfect remedy for the hustle and bustle of a fast-paced life.

When I listen to a CD, I like to hear unique songs or at least a new perspective on an old idea. There’s a lot of that on this CD, but one of the best songs is “Satan and Grandma.” It’s one of those titles that catches your eye when you look at the track listing. I know I was very curious about this song. It’s actually a sweet song that tells the story of a woman’s faith.

This a complete album that is sure to satisfy most musical tastes. Through strong vocals, great music, and emotional lyrics, Herrick has released a winner.

strummag.com · May 21, 2012

Montgomery Gentry Set to Kick Off FOX & Friends "All American Concert Series"

“All American Concert Series” Friday, May 25

Press release (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, May 21, 2012

“All American Concert Series” Friday, May 25

New single, “So Called Life,” Making Waves at Country Radio

Nashville, Tenn. (May 21, 2012) — Average Joes Entertainment’s high-powered country duo, Montgomery Gentry, will kick-off FOX & Friends “All American Concert Series,” this Friday, May 25, during the 8:00am EDT hour. This free live performance is the first of the 14-week outdoor concert series held in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, directly outside the FOX News studios (48th & 6th). The concert is open to the public with free food offered all morning from Famous Dave’s BBQ. Viewers will also be able to visit the FOX & Friends website at www.foxandfriends.com, which will feature post-performance coverage of the duo's appearance.

Montgomery Gentry, known for their hard-core country anthems, will perform “So Called Life,” their second single from their seventh studio album, Rebels On The Run. Written by Sean Patrick McGraw and Bruce Wallace, Billboard Magazine recently reviewed the new single calling it a “fiery anthem.” “So Called Life” is the follow-up single to Montgomery Gentry’s Top 10 radio smash “Where I Come From.”

Currently nominated for the 2012 CMT Music Awards “Duo of the Year” award, fans can vote online for Eddie Montgomery and Troy Gentry at CMT.com, and on their mobile device at CMT Mobile or the CMT Insider app available on iPhone, iPad and Android, now through June 4. The 2012 CMT Music Awards will air live from Nashville on Wednesday, June 6 on CMT and CMT.com.

More About Montgomery Gentry Montgomery Gentry has been on a steady journey on their road to gold and platinum albums, CMA and ACM awards, and Grammy nomination. The journey has been paved both with musical integrity and with an abiding respect for the people and the genre they represent. They have released more than 20 charted singles, with anthems like "My Town" and "Hell Yeah" becoming indelible parts of the honky-tonk landscape. They have hit the top of the singles charts five times, with "If You Ever Stop Loving Me," "Something To Be Proud Of," "Lucky Man," "Back When I Knew It All" and "Roll With Me."

For up-to-date information on Montgomery Gentry, visit www.montgomerygentry.com

strummag.com · April 29, 2012

Gary Hannan's CD Pulls Heartstrings

One thing I love about Nashville is the opportunity to hear songwriters play hits and future hits in a casual, acoustic setting. The essence of that experience has…

Rick's Point of View · By Rick Amburgey · As published on strummag.com, April 29, 2012

One thing I love about Nashville is the opportunity to hear songwriters play hits and future hits in a casual, acoustic setting. The essence of that experience has been captured in Gary Hannan’s new CD, “Rough Cuts Volume 1.”

Hannan’s two #1 hits, “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off” and “Back When I Knew It All,” are present here. I have always enjoyed singing along to both of these tunes, but I love the versions here. They are different – more intimate, personal snapshots. “Back When I Knew It All” strikes me as good advice from a friend. I think the acoustic version really adds to the message.

Besides the hits, there are treasures in these tracks. One of my favorites is a song called “Things You Have To Live With” It’s well placed on the CD, immediate following “Back When I Knew It All.” This is another song that carries a powerful message and good advice. The first time I heard the full hook, “Things you have to live with when you die,” I had goose bumps all over my body.

It’s one of those rare songs that will convict us all because they are real. This type of unapologetic truth is a common thread on this album. The CD is very special, as when it was over I felt like I had a re-focused look on life and a bigger smile on my face.

Another one of my favorites is “The Next 100 Years.” I am guilty of getting super busy with life and not taking time to relax and enjoy the gifts that life gives us. This song reminded me of that. I love the lyrics here. “Women are made for loving/And money is made for spending/ Life is made for living/ Right up until it’s ending/ And this world is just a bus stop/ On the way to a better place/ And time keeps slip, slip, sliding away/ If we stay right here and have a few more beers/ Tell me what’s it going to matter in another hundred years.”

These songs are great and Hannan and his talented co-writers have a way of weaving life lessons, prolific lyrics and great melodies. One of the most haunting songs on the CD is one Hannan wrote himself. “When War Was Just A Game” is extremely relevant in today’s times of conflict in the Middle East and around the world. It made me flack back to the mid-80s when I was playing war in the backyard, not realizing how hard our generation would be hit by the realities of war in the twenty some years that followed. A few lines in particularly hit me hard: “There’s a girl who waits at home/ She’s all I’m living for/ But her greatest fear is a preacher at the door.” Those lines are just another reminder that freedom isn’t free.

There are some fun songs on the CD, such as “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off” and “Friend of a Friend.” I’d say that this really isn’t the kind of CD that you put on while you party. These songs are meant to be listened to, and demand that you think about what is being said. This is the kind of CD that everybody needs to hear, and some people might get the point through a song when they wouldn’t get the point any other way. This is the kind of music that can change your life.

strummag.com · April 20, 2012

Lee Brice and Bud Light Join Forces

Chart-topping Country Artist Receives Endorsement From America’s Best Selling Beer

Press release · Article and photo courtesy of Webster PR · As published on strummag.com, April 20, 2012

Chart-topping Country Artist Receives Endorsement From America’s Best Selling Beer

Nashville, TN - (April 20, 2012) Country Star Lee Brice, whose #1 single, “A Woman Like You,” was recently certified Gold, is the newest addition to the Bud Light family of select country artists endorsed by Anheuser-Busch. The long-term endorsement deal will expose Brice to a broader audience of fans nationwide through Anheuser-Busch’s extensive marketing platforms and reach.

Brice, who is busy touring and preparing for the release of his album, Hard 2 Love, on April 24 took time out to comment on this new partnership.

“Looks like all the years I spent supporting Bud Light are paying off,” Brice commented upon the news of being backed by the beer powerhouse. “I’m honored that they recognized my efforts. We will make quite a team!” Brice joins a multitude of country stars that have been endorsed by the Anheuser- Busch subsidiary including Tim McGraw, George Strait and Dierks Bentley.

Over the next few weeks, Brice has a jam-packed schedule with national TV appearances on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” “The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson,” “Fox & Friends,” “Huckabee,” "IMUS in the Morning," “The Better Show,” and CNN’s “Showbiz Tonight.” Fans can also see him live as he will be visiting the following cities in the next couple months:

04/20 – Fayetteville, AR – SLR Yard
04/21 – Star City, AR – StarDaze Festival
04/23 – New York, NY – Joe’s Pub
04/26 – Louisville, KY – 4th Street Live
04/27 – Savannah, GA – Desperado’s
04/28 – Charlotte, NC – Coyote Joe’s
04/29 – Biloxi, MS – Mississippi Coast Coliseum
05/04 – Murray, KY – CFSB Center
05/10 – Ruston, LA – Rabb’s Steak and Spirits
05/11 – Jasper, TX – Jasper Lions Club Rodeo Ground
05/12 – Mission, TX – Las Palmas Race Park
05/18 – Topeka, KS – Landon Arena
05/19 – Batesville, MS – Springfest
05/23 – Ship Bottom, NJ – Joe Pop’s Shore Bar
05/24 – Foxborough, MA – Toby Keith’s I Love this Bar & Grill
05/25 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun – Wolf Den
05/26 – Roanoke, VA – Elmwood Park
06/01 – Bloomington, IN – Bluebird Nightclub
06/02 – Harlan, KY – Harlan Poke Sallat Festival
06/08 – Sparta, IL – World Shooting & Recreation Complex
06/09 – Lincoln, NE – Celebrate Lincoln Festival
06/16 – N. Lawrence, OH – Clay’s Park Amphitheater
06/17 – Big Flats, NY – Tag’s Summer Sound Stage
06/22 – Oshkosh, WI – Country USA
06/24 – Cardott, WI – Chippewa Valley – Country Fest
06/29 – Bluefield WV – Mitchell Stadium
06/30 – Huntington, WV – Harris Riverfront Park

For further information on Lee Brice and a complete list of tour dates, please visit, www.leebrice.com

strummag.com · April 20, 2012

Darryl Worley Donating His Time and Talents to Raise Funds for a Fan

I think music in itself is healing. It's an explosive expression of humanity. It's something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we're from, everyone…

By Krys Spain Midgett · As published on strummag.com, April 20, 2012

I think music in itself is healing. It's an explosive expression of humanity. It's something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we're from, everyone loves music. -Billy Joel

Music has definitely had a healing impact on one music fan. Bobbette Miller of Lobelville, Tenn. was in need of a donor kidney and her health was deteriorating. Last year, she received a new kidney, thanks in part to Donnie Wahlberg of New Kids On The Block (NKOTB).

Miller and her new kidney are doing well since the transplant last June. However, medical expenses are overwhelming, required monthly prescriptions and doctor bills can add up to a lot more than most people can afford. With this in mind, another of her favorite musicians has stepped in to lend a voice and help to ease the financial burden.

Tenacity/Crazytown Recording Artist, Darryl Worley, has donated his time and talents to a benefit for Miller. The event is 'An Intimate Evening With Darryl Worley'. It will be held on May 8th at 6:30 pm. They will start serving dinner at 5:30. Opening acts include Matt Farris and Gypsy. Many Cedars Campground and Trail Rides in Hohenwald, Tenn is the venue and they are encouraging fans to camp and enjoy the Buffalo River by donating a portion of the campers fee to Miller.

Miller is a longtime fan of Worley. He had heard that Frogking Konfections and Strum Magazine were putting together Songwriter Nights to help raise money for Miller and suggested an Acoustic set to help out. Many Cedars came aboard to offer a nice venue.

Worley is currently promoting his new single 'You Still Got It.' It is available on iTunes, on radio, on CMT and on his website, www.darrylworley.com. Worley is known for such hits as 'Have You Forgotten?', "I Miss My Friend', "Tennessee River Run' and many more. Benefit attendees will be treated to new music from him and there will be autographed auction items to help raise funds for Miller.

The tickets are $25, which includes dinner and dessert, provided by Frogking Konfections. The menu will include BBQ, Coleslaw, Potato Salad, Baked Beans and an array of Fruit Cobblers for dessert. Reserved seating guarantees a table and chair, general admission is available, also. Dinner and dessert will be included but you may want to bring a chair.

Advance tickets can be purchased by calling Frogking Konfections at 931-589-2424 or 931-796-0698 or by sending $25 via PayPal to frogkingkonfections@gmail.com. Many Cedars is located at 233 Pollock Cemetery Rd. Hohenwald, Tenn. If you get lost, call 931-796-4384 or 931-796-0513.

Bobbette's status on Twitter, the social media site that brought her DonnieWahlberg, is @auntbobbie 'I am blessed with great friends and family.I love God beyond words. Music is the best medicine ever. I LOVE NKOTB and Darryl Worley 4 a lot of reasons.'

“Darryl, members of his fan club The 'Worleybirds' and his family have been very supportive of Miller throughout the years. He truly takes care of his fans and this is a perfect example of how music can heal. (or in this case; musicians can heal) Come out on Tuesday, May 8th and show your support,” says Patti Havlat co-owner of Frogking Konfections.

Miller's story was all over the news last year, after Wahlberg retweeted a tweet from her best friend about Bobbette needing a donor kidney. Vanderbilt was flooded with calls from NKOTB fans who wanted to help. She had six anonymous matches and several other kidney recipients were saved because of 140 characters and a simple retweet.

Wahlberg checks in on Miller from time to time and has been interviewed on shows such as Rachael Ray about the 'small' act that saved lives.

strummag.com · April 20, 2012

Billy Dean Rescues Protected Great Blue Heron While Vacationing on the Gulf Coast

Nashville, Tenn. (April 19, 2012) - Last week while vacationing on the Gulf Coast, country music star Billy Dean rescued a Great Blue Heron, a protected species,…

Press release (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, April 20, 2012

Nashville, Tenn. (April 19, 2012) - Last week while vacationing on the Gulf Coast, country music star Billy Dean rescued a Great Blue Heron, a protected species, from an abandoned fishing line and lures. The bird was trapped in a fisherman’s line, leaving it immobilized with multiple lures in its wings.

Dean had just finished a three day concert series at his farm and was spending time with family members on the coast. Dean and his wife Stephanie were walking along Mexico Beach when they noticed a group of teenagers in deep water, attempting to cover the injured bird with a towel and bring it to shore. Dean went out to the group of high school students and with the bird biting his hands, grabbed it by its feet and carried it out of the water.

“The bird was live but had several cuts and was clearly distressed," says Dean. "A fisherman must have cut the line but it was hard to determine how long it had been trapped. Though we did get the bird to safety, I did end up with a nice gash on my pickin' finger... those Blue Heron bites aren't pretty."

Dean was proud of the young students who went out to rescue the bird. “The girls of Port St. Joe High School and a few other vacationers were the true heroes but I was fortunate to have been there to help them untangle the bird and bring it to shore,” he notes.

Dean and his wife called the local wildlife management who took the protected species to treat its multiple wounds and rehabilitate it back to health before releasing it back into the wild.

For additional information on Billy Dean, visit www.billydean.com.

strummag.com · April 17, 2012

The McClymonts: Wrapped Up Good

The McClymonts have returned with a new album. Not that they had ever left, but they’re here for good. Brooke, Mollie, and Samantha McClymont now reside in…

By Lisa Giaramita · As published on strummag.com, April 17, 2012

The McClymonts have returned with a new album. Not that they had ever left, but they’re here for good. Brooke, Mollie, and Samantha McClymont now reside in Nashville, Tennessee. Though they miss their native Australia, they have a new home - their music home.

Growing up, music has always surrounded The McClymonts. They were influenced by a wide range of artists. "The Judds, Dolly Parton, The Eagles, ABBA, Heart. Dad was a huge fan of Don Williams and Charley Pride. Mum was into Shania Twain and Trisha Yearwood. So we listened to everything." A combination of these genres can definitely be heard in their music.

With their sophomore release, Wrapped Up Good, the three sisters continue to make their presence known in country music. They co-wrote all but one of the twelve songs on the album. The title track hit the radio charts as the first single, and the video for the song is being aired on CMT and GAC. As far as the next single being released to radio? According to Brooke, "We chose the second single from what the fans liked the best. ‘I Could Be A Cowboy’ was the most downloaded off our iTunes. So, we’re releasing the songs that people want to hear." This incredibly gifted trio stayed busy touring much of the fairs and festivals circuit in promotion of their new album.

The sisters experienced a lot of significant firsts in their career. They were one of the opening acts during Jason Aldean’s Wide Open Tour. Brooke added, "It was our first time on a bus. We’d never done the whole touring on a bus, and the whole radio tour. It’s been a fun experience." The McClymonts also made their debut on the Grand Ole Opry in September of 2011. And if that wasn’t enough, they were honored with the 2011 CMA Global Country Artist Award. They were beyond ecstatic, to say the least. To this day, they find it hard to imagine their accomplishments so far.

This won’t be the last you’ll hear of The McClymonts because they are going to be around for a long time. Their music is timeless. Their talent is flawless. Their hearts are priceless.

Pick up your copy of Wrapped Up Good now.

For more information on The McClymonts, visit their website at www.themcclymonts.net.

strummag.com · March 14, 2012

Have the ACM Experience, March 30–April 1

VOCAL DUO OF THE YEAR NOMINEE STEEL MAGNOLIA, 2010 ACM TOP NEW VOCAL GROUP WINNERS GLORIANA AND MORE ANNOUNCED TO PERFORM AT THE ACM EXPERIENCE FREE,…

Press release (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, March 14, 2012

VOCAL DUO OF THE YEAR NOMINEE STEEL MAGNOLIA, 2010 ACM TOP NEW VOCAL GROUP WINNERS GLORIANA AND MORE ANNOUNCED TO PERFORM AT THE ACM EXPERIENCE FREE, OPEN-TO-THE-PUBLIC Event for Country Music Lifestyle FANS To be held March 30 - April 1, 2012 at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino includes ACM BBQ THROWDOWN, ACM EXPO, RAM Ride and Drive & more!

THE ACM EXPERIENCE is the first-ever, free, 3-day open-to-the public country music lifestyle event for fans during The Week Vegas Goes Country®. Enthusiasts will “shop country, taste country, ride country, and hear country” throughout the weekend all leading up to the 47th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards. Talent appearances at THE ACM EXPERIENCE are just part of the fun, that includes ACM BBQ Throwdown, ACM EXPO, Ram Ride and Drive and more! Visitwww.ACMcountry.com to learn more.

Friday, March 30, 2012, 10am – 6pm:
12:30pm – Thomas Rhett (Country Thunder Stage)
1:00pm – Greg Bates (ACM EXPO Acoustic Stage)
1:30pm – Dance Y’all Showcase (Country Thunder Stage)
2:00pm – Edens Edge (Country Thunder Stage)
3:00pm – Ira Dean (ACM EXPO Acoustic Stage)
3:30pm – Dance Y’all Showcase (Country Thunder Stage)
4:30pm – PBR & KWNR Battle of the Bands Finalist (Country Thunder Stage)
5:00pm – Andy Gibson (ACM EXPO Acoustic Stage)
5:30pm – Kip Moore (Country Thunder Stage)

Saturday, March 31, 2012, 10am – 9pm:
11:00am – Maggie Rose (ACM Expo Acoustic Stage)
11:30am – Sonia Leigh (Country Thunder Stage)
12:00pm – Darren Warren (ACM EXPO Acoustic Stage)
12:30pm – Dance Y’all Showcase (Country Thunder Stage)
1:00pm – Mallary Hope (ACM EXPO Acoustic Stage)
1:30pm – Steel Magnolia (Country Thunder Stage)
2:30pm – PBR & KWNR Battle of the Bands Finalist (Country Thunder Stage)
3:00pm – Dance Y’all Showcase (Country Thunder Stage)
3:30pm – The Dirt Drifters (Country Thunder Stage)
5:30pm – Gloriana (Country Thunder Stage)

Sunday, April 1, 2012, 10am – 4pm:
11:00am – Canaan Smith (Country Thunder Stage)
11:30am – Morgan Frazier (ACM EXPO Acoustic Stage)
12:00pm – Blackberry Smoke (Country Thunder Stage)
12:30pm – Dance Y’all Showcase (Country Thunder Stage)
1:00pm – Chris Janson (Country Thunder Stage)
1:30pm – Dance Y’all Showcase (ACM EXPO Acoustic Stage)
1:30pm – Levi Lowrey (ACM EXPO Acoustic Stage)
2:00pm – David St. Romain (ACM EXPO Acoustic Stage)
2:30pm – LoCash Cowboys (Country Thunder Stage)
3:30pm – PBR & KWNR Battle of the Bands Finalist (Country Thunder Stage)

Watch the 47th ACM Awards live Sunday, April 1, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on CBS.

strummag.com · March 14, 2012

"MyChildren MyBride" Is a Good Surprise

You can’t judge a book by its cover, as the saying goes. Similarly, you can’t always judge an album by its single. This is a lesson I had to relearn after hearing…

By Daniel Kreipe · As published on strummag.com, March 14, 2012

You can’t judge a book by its cover, as the saying goes. Similarly, you can’t always judge an album by its single. This is a lesson I had to relearn after hearing MyChildren MyBride’s first single off their self-titled third album, and thinking to myself "this is trash." Some important backstory to this narrative, I lived for several years in the city of Madison, Ala. This same city birthed the band MyChildren MyBride, as well as a slew of musically challenged grindcore groups. The scene was practically choking on down tuned sludge metal acts, and MCMB was the one national heavy act that I could look to with pride.

After the band was signed to Solid State Records, they released their label debut Unbreakable. The album showed a giant leap forward in musical and personal maturity, featuring melodic lead lines that were nowhere to be seen on past albums as well as lyrics that were surprisingly deep.

There was trouble in paradise, however. Original drummer Brian Hood, who was also responsible for writing and recording most of the guitars on the first record, left the band. The change in lineup showed on the band’s second effort Lost Boys, as a more simplistic approach to songwriting was taken. The harmonious lead lines were all but absent, and listeners were left with simple low, heavy metal guitars. Feeling myself thrown back into the choked scene of Madison, I felt a twinge of panic.

When MCMB released the first single of their new record, "On Wings of Integrity Pt. II," that twinge turned to full-fledged disappointment. The lyrics seemed like something off a 90s worship record, and the guitar work was too simple for a band on their third record. After hearing the second single "God of Nothing" and feeling like I was listening to a Korn b-side, I wrote the album off and gave it no more thought.

But then the album dropped. Much to my surprise, the response the album generated was largely positive. I swallowed my pride and gave the album a listen. The haunting lead line of the intro track, and the faint sounding drums grabbed my attention immediately, and held it over the remaining ten tracks. The melodic lead lines were back in full force on songs such as "Anathema" and "The Endless." Granted, the guitar work is still nowhere close to rivaling acts such as August Burns Red, MCMB does a great job from start to finish staying in their comfort zone and relying on band’s natural energy to carry the record. Even the tracks that were previously underwhelming seemed more enjoyable in the context of the album. The simplistic nature of "Wings Pt. II" served to offset the longer more complex tracks. It was a song crafted to be screamed back at the band in a crowded venue. The creepy Korn-like vocals aside, "God of Nothing" is a fun track if it’s given the chance to shine.

The only downfalls of the album that remain are a lack of diversity and originality. The songs are all fast, rhythm driven metal tracks dripping with testosterone. Apart from some interesting sampling and keyboard work scattered throughout the album, there isn’t much that truly makes one track more interesting than the next. The lack of originality is something that rears its head in almost every album. You may feel like the album not dissimilar to a great deal of A Plea for Purging’s discography, but the unfortunate truth is that the majority of metal bands sound like a dozen other metal bands.

Overall, the album is a pleasant surprise, and well worth the listen. Even if you are sitting down with preconceived ideas, as I did, the record has a good chance of winning you over if you’re a fan of the genre. Just don’t expect to be treated to something totally unlike the rest of the metal heavyweights around today

strummag.com · March 12, 2012

"Autism Sings!" Benefit Concert on Tuesday at Margaritaville Nashville

Bucky Covington, Ty Herndon, Bo Bice, Carter's Chord, Mockingbird Sun and Katie Chance are treating Margaritaville in Nashville to acoustic performances to show…

By Krys Midgett · As published on strummag.com, March 12, 2012

Bucky Covington, Ty Herndon, Bo Bice, Carter's Chord, Mockingbird Sun and Katie Chance are treating Margaritaville in Nashville to acoustic performances to show their support in the fight against Autism. The event will be emceed by CMT host Evan Farmer. The cost is a minimum five dollar donation. Advanced tickets are sold out but limited tickets will be available at the door. Autism Sings is Tuesday night, March 13th and doors open at 7:00 pm. Thirteen-year-old singer, Katie Chance, serves as the Junior Ambassador for Autism Speaks Tennessee Community. She was diagnosed with autism when she was two years old.

Meet-and-Greet passes with one of the artists and an autographed guitar, signed by all the artists, can be bid on at autismsingsnashville.com. Proceeds from the auction and the event will benefit Autism Speaks – Tennessee.

Autism Sings is sponsored by Aristo PR, Grassroots Production, Fox 17, CMT and Margaritaville.

In the past five years, Autism Speaks has given back over $2 million to Nashville’s Autism Treatment Network at the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center.

Autism affects 1 in 110 children, with 1 in 70 being boys. More children are diagnosed with autism yearly than cancer, diabetes and AIDS combined. Look around you. How many people do you know who are autistic? With the proper research and awareness, advancements will be made. It is o the fastest growing serious developmental disability in the United States.

Over $35 billion per year is spent yearly on Autism treatment. Over the next decade, that number will grow significantly. However, less than 5% of childhood disease research funding is used to research Autism.

At present, there is no medical detection or cure for autism.

Autism Speaks wants to change those figures. With the help of musicians, such as Ty Herndon, Bucky Covington, Bo Bice and the other caring musicians who donate their time, Autism Sings will help fund the research in the battle against autism. To help in this fight and enjoy great music, purchase your tickets in advance at autismsingsnashville.com. A five dollar donation is the same amount as a large cappuccino. Donate a week's worth. It will be good to help with funding research.

Go to www.autismsingsnashville.com is the website to find out more about the event, to bid on the items and to find out more about Autism.

strummag.com · March 6, 2012

Charlie Daniels, Gary Sinise, Darryl Worley, Chris Young and The Grascals for Free Tuesday, March 6

Charlie Daniels, Gary Sinise, Darryl Worley, Chris Young and The Grascals are scheduled to perform at Operation Yellow Ribbon at David Lipscomb University's Allen…

By Krys Midgett · As published on strummag.com, March 6, 2012

Charlie Daniels, Gary Sinise, Darryl Worley, Chris Young and The Grascals are scheduled to perform at Operation Yellow Ribbon at David Lipscomb University's Allen Arena. The show is on Tuesday, March 6 at 7 pm. It is absolutely FREE. How often is there a chance to see any of these artists perform for FREE, let alone all of them?

Actor Gary Sinise will join legendary musician Charlie Daniels in a special free event to support Lipscomb University’s Yellow Ribbon Enhancement Program as part of the inaugural stop on the Charlie Daniels’ Scholarships for Heroes Tour 2012. Performances by Daniels and Sinise along with Chris Young, Darryl Worley, The Grascals and other special guests will be part of the program set for Tuesday, March 6 at 7 p.m. in Lipscomb’s Allen Arena.

Daniels and friends are touring the country in 2012, creating greater awareness of the Veterans Yellow Ribbon education program. Lipscomb’s Yellow Ribbon Program offers eligible Post 9/11 GI Bill veterans and their family members an undergraduate degree tuition-free or a graduate degree tuition-free or at a greatly reduced tuition rate.

Lipscomb’s Yellow Ribbon Program offers eligible Post 9/11 GI Bill veterans and their family members an undergraduate degree tuition-free or a graduate degree tuition-free or at a greatly reduced tuition rate. It is a partnership that Lipscomb entered into with the Department of Veteran's Affairs. The VA will match what they contribute dollar for dollar, on top of the Veteran's GI Bill.

The University Giving Program allows donations to be designated if someone wants to donate to a specific program.

"We have so many heroes whose needs fly below our radar. This shouldn’t be happening and this event is helping to make sure it doesn't,” said Daniels.

“We've made a commitment to contribute an amount that once the VA matches it and the GI Bill is paid, eligible veterans can go to college tuition-free,” says David Hughes, Director of the Yellow Ribbon Program. “To be eligible, you have to have served three years of active duty after 9/11 or have had a medical discharge after serving at least 30 days. It is only for Post 9/11 veterans and is stipulated by the VA. Students can qualify for different percentages depending on how much time they served.”

Performers are chosen by Charlie Daniels' production team. “We are so blessed to have the Charlie Daniels' production team put the event together. They volunteer their time. When people from Charlie Daniels' team calls, you usually get response,” says Hughes.

Ninety-five veterans are currently enrolled at Lipscomb under the Post 9/11 GI Bill. Seventy-five of those students are attending tuition-free. These veterans are getting a $100 K plus education for free thanks to this program.

"A number of students have told me they grew up around here and knew about Lipscomb but never dreamed they could have gone. It is a private university and was out of there price range,” says Hughes. "The Post 9/11 GI Bill was created and the VA offered the Yellow Ribbon program. Lipscomb joined it and they hired me to get the program started. If you are transferring from another school, credits transfer and we try to get all the military credits to transfer as well."

The Grascals became involved with the event because of their association with Charlie Daniels. “We've done some things with Charlie in the past couple of years. He said that he wanted us to be involved with the show if we were available. This is the first time performing at this show but we'll be more than happy to do it again. Anything for the military,” said Terry Elredge of The Grascals.

Tickets for the event are free and are available at all Middle Tennessee Daily’s locations and the Lipscomb University box office. Call 615.966.7075. Members of the military and their families will be invited as guests of the event’s corporate sponsors. Proceeds from the event benefit Lipscomb University’s Yellow Ribbon Program.

Sinise, who currently plays Detective Mac Taylor on the CBS hit show “CSI:NY,” has family members who have served in World War I, World War II, Vietnam, Afghanistan and his father was in the Navy during the Korean War. When not filming the series, he travels worldwide performing for troops and their families with his Lt Dan Band.

“These servicemen give their all to protect our freedom, and by showing up to play music and give them and their families a bit of entertainment is a way I can give back," said Sinise.

Daniels and Sinise will be joined by some of music’s hottest artists. Young’s current single, “YOU,” is his fifth consecutive No. 1 hit. Having just released his sixth album, Worley has 18 chart hits and has produced one of the most wide-ranging catalogs in contemporary music. The Grascals have become one of the most acclaimed bands on today’s bluegrass scene for their innovative mingling of bluegrass and country music.

Event sponsors include iostudio, Lipscomb University, Cracker Barrel, Daily's, Humana, Tennessee National Guard, Spirit Broadband, Military Systems Group, Ezell Foundation, DSI and Aegis Science Labs.

For veterans who qualify for 100 percent of the Post-9/11 GI Bill, Lipscomb University has committed to allocate the necessary funds to allow them to earn a tuition-free undergraduate degree through the Yellow Ribbon Enhancement Program. The university also offers qualifying student veterans a variety of graduate degrees tuition-free or at a greatly reduced tuition rate. Lipscomb University officials believe strongly in helping open doors for student veterans through the Yellow Ribbon Program. Since its inception in fall 2009, Lipscomb’s Yellow Ribbon Program has grown from 20 original participants to more than 150 veterans enrolled this spring. Students have performed well academically with 71 percent of currently enrolled student veterans maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA, with 13 percent of those maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA.

“Our veterans know that freedom isn’t free, but we think their education should be. At Lipscomb we have a very unique opportunity to help open doors for our veterans through higher education,” said Jim Humphrey, assistant dean of campus life and director of veterans services at Lipscomb.

For more information about Lipscomb University’s Yellow Ribbon Enhancement Program, call 615.966.5176 or visit veterans.lipscomb.edu.

strummag.com · February 19, 2012

Brandi Chaney Benefit at 3rd & Lindsley

February 11, 2010, 3rd & Lindsley held one of the biggest benefits ever. This benefit was held for Brandi Chaney. Brandi was a resident of Gonzales, Louisiana…

Karen's Korner · By Karen Hampton · As published on strummag.com, February 19, 2012

February 11, 2012, 3rd & Lindsley held one of the biggest benefits ever. This benefit was held for Brandi Chaney. Brandi was a resident of Gonzales, Louisiana before moving to Nashville with her family. She was one of the sweet waitresses at 3rd & Lindsley before she was stricken with cancer. Brandi has been going through some tough times, and 3rd & Lindsley has been so generous to hold a couple of benefits for her at the place that she called her second home. Brandi had many friends come out on the day of this event. It started in the afternoon and lasted into the night with some awesome guest on hand to share their music with everyone. They had a silent auction with autographed guitars as well as enlarged photographs of the flood of 2010, and other items. The highlight of the evening was Chris Young for me. Chris sang "Getting You Home", "Tomorrow" and "You". Chris has added 5 #1 hits to his portfolio. He is one of the top performers in todays Country Music to listen to. Starting off the evening of music was The Wooten Brothers. After them, the night just got better and better as everyone took the stage to raise money for Brandi. Here is the list of performers for the night: The Wooten Brothers, Chris Young, Maureen Murphy, Marc Alan Barnett, Ashli Chaney (her first performance on the 3rd & Lindsley stage, and she is also Brandi's sister), Rhett Anthony, Tony Phillips, David Borne', Steve C, Jeanne Richardson, Hugh Mitchell, Rachel Loy, Dave Pahanish, (accompanied by Bruce Wallace and his beautiful wife, Kristin Lee), Old Union with Johnny Neel and Bekka Bramlett, Kentucky Thunder (Jonell Mosser, Etta Britt, Sheila Lawrence and Vicki Carrico), Shelly Fairchild, Rick Huckaby, Josh Hoge, and the "Guitar Jam" started with Ashley Cleveland and Pat Buchanan along with many other awesome guitarist.

strummag.com · February 19, 2012

O.A.R. Makes a Triumphant Return to Nashville

On February 17, 2012, O.A.R. (Of A Revolution) performed in Nashville for the first time in over 2 years.

By Jason S. Rittenberry · Photos by the author (@JasonRitt) · As published on strummag.com, February 19, 2012

On February 17, 2012, O.A.R. (Of A Revolution) performed in Nashville for the first time in over 2 years.

Sandwiched between nights in Memphis and Atlanta on their 2012 Winter Tour, this show would achieve the first sell out at the Music City’s newest live music venue, Marathon Music Works, since opening in November of 2011.

Fans lined up outside for several hours before O.A.R. would take the stage. There was a positive vibe in the air which coincided with the upbeat music of both O.A.R. and opening act Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers, whose 45 minute set complete with a cameo appearance from O.A.R.‘s Jerry DePizzo playing saxophone for a song, was the perfect segue into the approximately two hour long O.A.R. show.

O.A.R. Frontman Marc Roberge would remark during the show that there was just something about Nashville having "a true love of music...and we love music too". It was easy for any music lover to appreciate O.A.R.’s tight sound with Roberge playing acoustic and electric guitars, DePizzo playing Saxophone and electric guitar, Richard On playing electric guitar, Benj Gershman on bass, Chris Culos playing drums, and O.A.R. touring member MikelParis playing keyboards and percussion.

Opening the set with “Dangerous Connection” from their newest studio album, 2011’s “King”, an album filled with a theme of returning and conquering, it was a fitting choice to set the tone for the show.

Having released seven studio albums and four live albums since 1997, O.A.R. has compiled an extensive catalog in which the setlist changes for each show. This creates a new show at every stop, and keeps the fans following O.A.R. to multiple cities in a given tour and eagerly anticipating if the next song is one of their favorites. This was the case with the next two O.A.R. staples “Untitled” and the always well received “Mr. Brown”. Other historical fan favorites keeping the audience singing along throughout the set included “Anyway”, “About an Hour Ago”, “Love and Memories”, “One Shot“, “Hey Girl”, and “City On Down” along with songs from newer albums such as “On My Way” and “Shattered (Turn The Car Around)” from the 2008 album “All Sides” as well as “The Last Time”, “Heaven” and current single “Gotta Be Wrong Sometimes” from “King”.

At one point during the show, Parachute lead singer Will Anderson came on stage to join O.A.R’s Roberge and On as the trio performed a soulful cover of the Ryan Adams song “Desire”.

Stephen Kellogg returned to the stage during the O.A.R. encore to share vocals on “Irish Rose”, a song he co-wrote with O.A.R.’s Roberge.

For the final song of the night, O.A.R. could not leave without performing their signature song “That Was a Crazy Game Of Poker”. A song that like the band itself, seems to constantly evolve year after year getting updated and polished but keeping the essential foundation of where it all began.

Part of the appeal of O.A.R., aside from the great music, is the genuine likeability of the band. They seem to truly be friends making great music who appreciate and respect their fans. That is a combination that will lead to many more triumphant returns.

strummag.com · February 11, 2012

Ban-Joey Football Blog: The Super Bowl Shuffle

With Super Bowl XLVI quickly approaching it is hard to imagine that Super Bowl XX, or 20 for you non-Latin speakers, was actually played twenty-six years ago on…

By Joseph S. Bonsall · As published on strummag.com, February 11, 2012

With Super Bowl XLVI quickly approaching it is hard to imagine that Super Bowl XX, or 20 for you non-Latin speakers, was actually played twenty-six years ago on January 26, 1986, when the 1985 Super Bowl Shuffling Chicago Bears creamed the then-Bradyless, Steve Grogan New England Patriots, 46-10. The Oak Ridge Boys and our girls were all inside the Super Dome for this one and here is how it happened.

In 2012, there will be a ton of talk surrounding the 30th anniversary of The Oak Ridge Boys’ mighty1982 Cookin’ Tour, because it was the biggest country music arena tour of its day and age, featuring production that had never been seen before on a country stage. I, in fact, wrote a whole chapter on this magical piece of Oaks’ history in the book, An American Journey, in the chapter called Glory Days.

In actuality, the American Made Tour of 1983, the Deliver Tour of 1984, and the Step On Out Tour of 1985 did not take much of a back seat to the aforementioned Cookin’ Tour, because The Oak Ridge Boys were a hot commodity throughout the 80‘s and everything was going our way . . . hit records, big shows, cool stages and production, lots of pertinent television show appearances, and overall success at every level of the music business.

Now, we have never taken anything for granted, and we have never used our success in any way to garner a favor that I can remember . . . except for this one time! The Ford Motor Company asked us to do a private show for them the night before Super Bowl XX in New Orleans. The Ford event was a big deal affair, and they were paying us a sizable amount of money, plus expenses, to provide the entertainment. As it has always been (and still is) we were taking a vacation in January and several of us would be basking in the sunshine on some mysterious island earlier that month, so we knew that, if we said ‘yes’ those expenses would be a bit high (logistically, there would be some real hoop jumping in order for some of us to get there).

It was about time to get back to work anyway, so we threw in a extra special request nonetheless . . . We will do to the show if Ford can come up with good Super Bowl tickets. Well, Ford said ‘yes’ and came up with the tickets. So, on or around January 24,1986, we were all New Orleans bound.

Mary and I had been in the Virgin Islands for about ten days and changing flights was not an easy—or a cheap deal—back then. But our good friends at Ford made it all happen. We flew to New Orleans via Puerto Rico, Miami, and Dallas, and then wearily arrived at a hotel way out of town on the evening of January 24th. Our fancier rooms by the Super Dome would not be ready until the next day, so Mary and I put our suntanned bods to rest in the Fleabag Hotel in Somewhere, Louisiana, and waited for the Oaks’ bus to come pick us up the next day and take us in to N’Orleans.

We put on a big show that night for Ford, and the next day we found ourselves sitting right there in the Super Dome, about forty rows up on the 50 yard line on DA BEARS side of the field.

My wife is not a big football fan but having grown up around Freeport, Illinois, she was stoked to see Chicago in their first ever Super Bowl. (Note: They would be in one other, on a rainy night in Miami in 2006, where they proceeded to lose to the Peyton Manning Colts. But on THIS day, they clobbered the Patriots, as you know.)

After the game we all boarded the tour bus and trekked back to Hendersonville, Tennessee.

Looking back now as I am doing, a few things stick out to me about the game itself.

Jim McMahon hitting Willie Gault with one bomb after another. What made Jim a good QB in his day was that he could throw the ball a long way, and the world-class speed of Gault could always catch up to it, while outrunning the entire secondary. The huddle must have been like kids in the park. “Go long, Willie, and I’ll just put it out there!”

Then there were the Monsters of the Midway Defense. Defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan had introduced the 46 D that year, and players like Super Bowl MVP Richard Dent, William “The Refrigerator” Perry, and defensive player of the year, middle linebacker Mike Singletary, who only lost one game over the entire 1985 season under head Coach Mike Ditka, held New England to just 123 yards which included minus nineteen yards in the first half.

But seeing the man called “Sweetness” run the football was the highlight of the game for me. We had met Walter Payton once at a charity event, and I have never forgotten that moment. I have a signed picture on my wall to this day (thanks to Mary) to commemorate that event.

Seeing Walter run across the Super Bowl turf was really something. I had watched OJ Simpson in his hey days with the Buffalo Bills, and he was pretty amazing. And I have seen many great RB’s since. But there was just something special about watching this man do his thing.

There was also one negative event that transpired, which I have never forgotten. With the game well in hand and just a bit of time left on the clock, the Bears found themselves on the two-yard line. Now, up to this point Payton had NOT scored a touchdown in the Super Bowl, but instead of giving the ball to his star running back, Coach Ditka went circus on us and installed the “Refrigerator” into the backfield.

McMahon handed Perry the ball and, yes, it was very funny to see the Big Guy rumble across the goal line with five Patriots hanging all over him, but it was also very sad that Coach Ditka did NOT decide to give the ball to Sweetness so that he could score a touchdown in his only Super Bowl. I have actually held this against Ditka all of these years!!

So a few final thoughts...

- Walter Payton died at a very young age and will never be forgotten!

- The Oak Ridge Boys have played inside the Super Dome three times. Once with Kenny Rogers in 1979, and once on our Cookin’ Tour in 1982. The only other time was at the Republican National Convention in 1988, when our friend George H. W. Bush was given the nomination of the party to run for President. We were right there on the stage singing when the balloons and confetti fell, and this was also incredibly memorable!

- Mary’s father Albert Bell died in a boating accident in July of 1985 and missed his beloved Chicago Bears winning the Super Bowl by just six months. He loved Mike Singletary, but he was pretty old school. I don’t think he would have approved of The SHUFFLE!

- Being the football geek that I am, I have only ever been to one other Super Bowl. That was in Miami on January 29, 1995. We were way up in the nosebleeds and watched a very small Forty Niner team dismantle an even smaller San Diego Chargers!

- The halftime show at Super Bowl XX was provided by Up With People. I think I was getting hot dogs.

- I have always been a Chevy truck kind of guy, but next time . . . I think I’ll buy a Ford.

- SUPER BOWL XLVI pick . . . They say defense wins Super Bowls, however The Big D Ravens and Niners are now ice fishing. That does leave the Giants’ defense, which is really cooking. But, to me, it will be the quarterback who makes the difference. So, with all due respect to Eli (who just happens to be the only Manning who will play in Indianapolis this season), I am going with Tom Brady and the New England Patriots to overcome the New York football Giants and WIN this SUPER BOWL!!! (Howard Cosell voice).

strummag.com · January 30, 2012

Candid Conversations With Eric Lee Beddingfield

We haven't had a chance to really catch Eric this week with his schedule being so full but we want to keep you up to date on all the happenings in the world of Eric…

By Sherryl Craig · Photo courtesy of ELB · As published on strummag.com, January 30, 2012

We haven't had a chance to really catch Eric this week with his schedule being so full but we want to keep you up to date on all the happenings in the world of Eric Lee Beddingfield. His schedule is full to say the least and this past week he made appearances at 3rd and Lindsley Bar & Grill giving a spectacular show. Eric's show's are always filled with fire.

There is never a moment when you feel he isn't giving his all. He also appeared at the GTR Jam and stole the show. With ELB fans, he always rocks the house. Eric and the band also just recently returned from doing a show at the Snorty Horse Saloon in Missouri.

2012 is hot for Eric with his song “The Great Depression' making an impression on the charts thanks to so many radio stations across the country keeping it hot with heavy duty air play.

Eric will also begin taping on February 2nd at the Hard Rock in Nashville where he will be hosting several show's for TCN called "Breaking Out." Everyone here at Strum and of course the fans are all very excited and can't wait to see the show.

Eric will be the first to tell that hard work is rewarded and he has no plans to stop any time soon. I promise we'll catch him this week and bring you all the spicy stuff.

Keep up with Eric and his busy schedule with show dates and the latest happenings by visiting www.elbrocks.com

strummag.com · January 27, 2012

Pretty Woman: A Night of Music in Memory of Barbara Orbison

On January 26, 2012, there was a benefit to honor Barbara Orbison in her memory and benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Tennessee at The Listening Room…

Karen's Korner · By Karen Hampton · As published on strummag.com, January 27, 2012

On January 26, 2012, there was a benefit to honor Barbara Orbison in her memory and benefiting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Tennessee at The Listening Room Cafe in Nashville. This benefit was put together by Sarah Silva, one of Nashvilles very beautiful as well as talented singer/songwriters. Sarah asked some friends of hers to join her in paying tribute to Barbara Orbison, of whom was a very talented Publisher in Nashville and had a very straight forward effect on some of those that were under her advisement. Moments of remembrance were shared with the audience of Barbara's guidance to help singer/songwriters under her. Performances through the night were: Sarah Silva (host), Alyssa Bonagura, Shelly Fairchild, Tommy Lee James, Tony Martin, Kevin Kadish & Annie-Rose Robinson, along with special appearances by Hailey Steele & Kathie Baillie. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society raised over $1,600 from this event. A silent auction was held as well.

strummag.com · January 23, 2012

Kristy Lynn's Heart Shines Through Her Music

There are thousands of talented people who audition every year for reality shows like American Idol and never are given an opportunity to shine. A good example is…

Rick's Point of View · By Rick Amburgey · Photo by Glen Switzner/Fresh Film Nashville · As published on strummag.com, January 23, 2012

There are thousands of talented people who audition every year for reality shows like American Idol and never are given an opportunity to shine. A good example is Kristy Lynn of Albemarle, North Carolina. She’s auditioned for American Idol seven times, X Factor twice and The Voice once. Still she’s not found her big break yet, but she’s not considered giving up.

“I believe I am good,” she said. “I believe I have what it takes.”

So she continues working hard. She’s released a three song EP on iTunes and released a music video for the song “If People Never Dreamed.” She didn’t write the three songs on her first release, but selected from songs that were pitched to her. She said she didn’t know the songwriters personally, but just chose the songs she thought fit her best.

Kristy Lynn is currently working on her next project and she’s concentrating on writing this time around. She and her mom are writing all the songs for the upcoming project, and she’s come up with some tunes she really likes.

“I want to do a whole CD actually,” she said, adding that it’s expensive to record in Nashville, so she will have to see what she’s able to do.

Kristy Lynn keeps a positive attitude and she has a great personality. She dreams of finally finding success in the music business, but until then, she has some fans that love to hear her sing. She is a CNA in a nursing home and she said her residents enjoy listening to hear her sing, adding that they are very supportive. She said the residents make signs to support her and cheer her on when she goes to audition for American Idol.

strummag.com · January 22, 2012

Dierks Bentley Says New CD Combines Country and Bluegrass

Dierks Bentley is looking forward to the release of his next album, his first release since the bluegrass-themed “Up On The Ridge.”

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, January 22, 2012

Dierks Bentley is looking forward to the release of his next album, his first release since the bluegrass-themed “Up On The Ridge.”

Bentley held a live online chat with his fans last week to answer questions and give fans information about the “Home” CD, which will be released on Feb. 7. An album release party is scheduled at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium on Feb. 2. He explained to fans that this album probably mixes the country and bluegrass genres better than any album he has released.

The current single and title track of the CD is “Home,” which is in the Top 10. Bentley said the song is really special to him. “Certainly for me, it’s the most special song I’ve written,” adding he gets goose bumps when he plays the song.

Bentley said it’s hard to pick a favorite song , because all the tracks are favorites in one way or another. He added that he probably wrote 70 songs and listened to thousands of tunes to find the best songs for this CD.

There are so many songs that there’s actually going to be a special edition of this CD that will be available only at Target Stores. “Country and Cold Cans,” the track that is also the name of Bentley’s new concert tour, will not be available on the regular edition of the CD, but will be present on the special edition.

One of the most memorable tracks on the “Up On The Ridge” CD was “Bad Angel,” which also featured Bentley’s friends Jamey Johnson and Miranda Lambert. He said he likes to bring other artists in to sing with him on each CD. This time around, fans can hear Karen Fairchild (From Little Big Town) singing with Bentley on “Waiting To Come Around.”

The “Sideways” singer said he tried out a lot of songs during his tour last year, and admits that there were a lot of great songs that didn’t make the cut. One song that he listened to that didn’t make the cut was “Barefoot Blue Jeans Night,” which was recently a big hit for Jake Owen. Bentley said he’s always glad to see a song he liked but didn’t record find a home and become a hit for someone else.

The Country and Cold Cans Tour has been included in CMT’s list of Top 10 Country Tours In Early 2012. The tour begins Jan. 21 and will also feature Jerrod Niemann and the Eli Young Band. Bentley said Fan Club passes for this tour will contain embarrassing pictures of the band. “The goal should be to collect all five,” Bentley said.

strummag.com · January 19, 2012

The Oak Ridge Boys and Cracker Barrel: A delicious combination!

The Oak Ridge Boys ended 2011 on a high note. Their new Cracker Barrel Old Country Store exclusive album, 'It's Only Natural' came out with tremendous fan support.…

By Krys Midgett · As published on strummag.com, January 19, 2012

The Oak Ridge Boys ended 2011 on a high note. Their new Cracker Barrel Old Country Store exclusive album, 'It's Only Natural' came out with tremendous fan support. The Oaks celebrated the album with a whirlwind press tour, sold-out shows and standing-room only events. They were immortalized with their caricatures on the wall of Nashville's hot spot, The Palm last year and had success with social networking.

As guests on a live chat with Twitter host Jessica Northey of #CMChat, their Twitter chat generated nearly 84 million impressions and reached nearly three million people in one night. YouTube sensation, Keenan Cahill and the Oaks created a video featuring 'What'cha Gonna Do' which has almost 300,000 views and growing. It is directed by MTV award-winning director Sherman Halsey with digital promotion headed by Steven Haddad.

Last year, The Oaks had many reasons to celebrate. They were inducted into the Grand Ole Opry and celebrated a very special anniversary. It marked the 30th Anniversary of the hit that made them a household name, 'Elvira'.

“To say that this has been a monumental year for The Oak Ridge Boys may be understating the fact. Celebrating 30 years of “Elvira,” being asked to join The Grand Ole Opry, the amazing success of our Cracker Barrel project, and a full year of concert dates ranging from fairs, festivals, and theaters--leading up to a sold-out 19 state Christmas tour featuring 38 shows in partnership with Save the Children,” Joe Bonsall says of last year's success. “To top it all off, our single, “What’cha Gonna Do,” is gaining huge momentum at country radio stations all over the nation. An amazing year to be certain for the older guys on the block, but we are a very blessed group.”

'It's Only Natural' came out on September 19th and is available exclusively at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store or at www.crackerbarrel.com. The album features six well-known Oak Ridge Boys favorite, including Elvira, as well as five new songs.

“We're very happy with this association with Cracker Barrel. With the nature of the record business right now, with outlets closing, there are not that many places where people can go and physically buy music now. I think Cracker Barrel has filled that niche and now, for us to be with Cracker Barrel, it is a very exciting thing. They are in over 600 stores around the country, last year they had well over 225 million customers come through their store. That means our product is in front of a lot of people, we have some great exposure as a result of this association with Cracker Barrel. We are thankful to them, they have given us this chance.

We were able to find a balance, a nice happy medium between recording hits, familiar titles that people associate with The Oak Ridge Boys along with something that really keeps us going and that's creating new music at the same time. We feel like we have a nice happy medium there. There are six familiar songs and five brand-new songs. Like I said, it is really a nice balance. We are really happy with the way it turned out,” says Richard Sterban, about the songs.

“One of the familiar songs that is on there of course is Elvira, with this being the 30th Anniversary of Elvira, it is a song that Cracker Barrel wanted us to record. We decided to give our old producer, Ron Chancey a call, he is the one who produced the original version. He was reluctant at first but then finally decided to come and produce Elvira. We ended up with kind of like a 'freshed' up version of it. It still sounds like Elvira, it still sounds like us singing it, but it is a more up-to-date version. It turned out really, really well. I think the same things can be said with the other familiar songs that we recorded. We gave them an all-new, fresh approach. While you recognize the songs, they sound like the hits, they sound like a fresher version. It is really kind of nice. We are excited about the new songs, the new music is something that keeps us going, it puts new excitement, new energy into us. The whole thing just turned out really, really well,” Sterban adds.

William Lee Golden says, when asked if he had a favorite song, “There are several songs I really like on the album. Some of them are songs we have recorded before, but you know, I think we all have a different taste and different feelings of the songs we like.”

On August 6th of last year, The Oaks became members of the Grand Ole Opry. According to Duane Allen, that was a feeling that was very hard to put into words.

“We have been working the Opry for many years as friends of the Opry. They have always been our friend, they have always treated us like family. But we had no idea what it would feel like to actually become a member of the family of the Grand Ole Opry brothers and sisters. That was a huge feeling that we had no way of knowing what that would feel like. We highly anticipated the day once we learned that we were going to be invited to join.

Basically, we learned that by Little Jimmy Dickens coming out on the stage, dressed as William Lee, complete with a long beard, sunglasses, a hat, and the sparkly suit. He came out and he doesn't speak very loud so we put the microphone down where we could hear what he was saying. He said, 'I always wanted to be a little, bitty Oak Ridge Boy, and maybe someday that will come true because we're gonna all be one big family because on August the 6th, you boys are going to be the newest members of The Grand Ole Opry,” continues Allen.

“That is how we learned and he was saying it really softly, and the people went wild. And right then, he left, and Joe was doing all the talking at that point. All at once, we had been invited to join the Grand Ole Opry and the man who invited us to join, looking like a little William Lee Golden, has walked off to the side of the stage and here we are, left with our jaws dropped. We didn't hardly know what to say. We had to gather our thoughts and process the moment first before we tried to do anything else, because everything from that point on, everything we would say, the audience went wild. So we finally got through the last song, which was Elvira.

When we walked off stage, we didn't know this ahead of time but we were then ushered immediately into the green room where TV cameras were pointing everywhere we looked, it was another camera and another microphone and it was like a massive press conference. We had no idea that was happening, so we were there for another hour, just one interview right after another.

We still hadn't had time to really process what had just happened. Going out to the bus, I was kinda walking with our road manager and I got out to bus and Joe and Richard were just ahead of me. The three of us go to the back of the bus, that is where we dress, there is a lot more room there. William Lee dresses in the aisle. I walk in and Joe and Richard were just there. Joe turned to look at me and his eyes were just full of tears. He was crying, he couldn't say anything and I said something to Richard, Richard said 'I can hardly talk, I'm having to process this.' I haven't heard Richard like that any time in my life of singing together 38 years, I have very seldom ever heard him speechless, especially when we're alone. He is a man of few words out in the public but when we are alone, what he says counts, and I realized at that point that these two guys from the North, Richard from New Jersey and Joe from Philadelphia, they had the same kind of feeling that I had, being raised in Texas, listening to the Grand Ole Opry before my family had electricity.. We had a battery-powered radio and we would listen to the Grand Ole Opry until the battery ran down, every Saturday night. And we would only hope that it would recharge or we'd have to get a new one so we could listen to the Grand Ole Opry again on Saturday night.

I was wondering how these guys would react and when I walked back there that night all the questions were answered because I could tell it was a huge honor. I still don't have all the right words. I don't know if I know enough good words that would truly express how it made all of us feel. We still feel that today. When we mention that we are members of the Grand Ole Opry in our concert dates everywhere we go, people pop out of their chair and go wild. In Biloxi, Mississippi, we had to tell the people to sit down, they kept applauding, standing and applauding and yelling at us.

To see the respect that the Grand Ole Opry has gained and earned all these years and to see it as a member of that family, it's just more than words can say, but we are experiencing it.”comments Allen.

Joe Bonsall says of the bands longevity, “The Oak Ridge Boys are the epitome of what it is like to stay at it, and never give up on your career and never give up on yourself. Every guy in this group, as individuals and as a group. It's the work ethic, it's the whole thing, you work real, real hard, good things happen and we have been very blessed as well. Luck comes into play, I heard Golden say, the harder you work, the luckier you get, I guess that seems to be true, you have got to put the work in, you have to put in the time, you've got to put in the effort, and you have to have a product that people care about and you've got to have something you care about with all your heart and soul to put all you have into it.”

In December, the band was featured in a broadcast television program, The Oak Ridge Boys Christmas Special. It was to help raise awareness about Save the Children. Its mission is to make a lasting change around the world. It was also shown on Save the Children's YouTube Channel and includes CMT Insider host Katie Cook, a long-time child sponsor through the organization.

strummag.com · January 15, 2012

Making the Dream a Reality: Brittany Lee Aultman

If you have been to Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge in the last three years, Brittany Lee Aultman might look and sound pretty familiar. She bar-tends regularly at the…

By Rick Amburgey · Photos courtesy of Aultman · As published on strummag.com, January 15, 2012

If you have been to Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge in the last three years, Brittany Lee Aultman might look and sound pretty familiar. She bar-tends regularly at the Tootsie’s on Lower Broadway in downtown Nashville, a bar that is sometimes called the #1 Honky Tonk in the world. Aultman can also be heard regularly on the Billy Block Show,which is broadcast from Tootsie’s on WKDF (103.3 FM) each Sunday night starting at 6 PM.

While all those opportunities have given her a large amount of exposure in Nashville and the surrounding areas, it was her father that connected her to Grammy-winning producer Stephen Short, who has produced such artists as Paul McCartney and Donna Summer. Aultman said a man her father met, sent her music to Short, who liked what he heard.

Aultman has started a page on the fund-raising website, kickstarter.com, to raise enough money to make her dream of working with Short a reality. The goal is to raise $15,000 by Feb. 2 or she will lose the opportunity. People interested in donating can go to http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/brittanylee/pop-country-project?ref=live.

She has wanted to be a singer as long as she could remember, adding that her uncle was a pastor and she began singing in church at age five. She was so nervous the first time that she tried to run out, but eventually got up there and sang anytime she could after that. Aultman’s parents have been a huge influence on her, supporting her and helping her every step of the way. They drove her all over Minnesota to different events where she had the opportunity to sing. At the age of 8, Aultman wrote her first song, which led her to be even more interested in music.

“And then I wanted to play an instrument so I got a guitar and that definitely helped me take my music to the next level and I started writing more and more,” Aultman said. The decision to move to Nashville was not a hard one to make at all. She knew that’s where she had to be. “I really can't see myself doing anything else. I needed to move here to have a chance to make it to the level I wanted to take my career.”

Aultman went to Nashville to record some songs about a month before moving permanently. While she was there, she heard about an open mic at Tootsie's. She went to the event, and played one original song, as well as two covers.

“About an hour later tootsies called me back to sing the 6-10 shift. So when I moved down I had a job right away which was very nice,” recalled Aultman. She said Tootsie’s has been a great experience and has really helped with getting exposure. “You never know who is gonna walk inhere,” she said.

Although primarily cover songs are performed at Tootsie’s are cover songs, she said she works a few originals in during her 6-10 PM set. Those originals are catching the attention of people who hear her play. She said she received a comment from a fan that said she loved two of Aultman’s songs because they reminded her of her ex.

Aultman responded that she had written those particular songs about one of her exes. “it's always nice to know that people can relate to your songs. That's what it's about!”

Aultman said it is hard to pick a favorite original song because they are all such a part of her. She said the song “Touch This” is a fun song to sing. “If I'm feeling in a lovey mood, I definitely would pick"feel it all" because it's simple, different and makes you feel like you want to fall in love. Ha I think it'd be great for a movie,” Aultman said.

strummag.com · December 10, 2011

Ira Dean releases new song “Beer or Gasoline”

While the debate over the debt crisis lingers singer songwriter Ira Dean releases his newest song “Beer or Gasoline”. With the economy crisis hanging over our heads…

By Sherryl Craig · As published on strummag.com, December 10, 2011

While the debate over the debt crisis lingers singer songwriter Ira Dean releases his newest song “Beer or Gasoline”. With the economy crisis hanging over our heads and so many people are saying should I just drink away my blues or spend a fortune on a gallon of gas Ira wrote this song in 2005 and it will be the introduction to his latest single coming out “Something About A Sunday”.

Formerly a member of the group Trick Pony Ira branched out of his own in February of 2008 and eventually wrote songs for Montgomery Gentry and in July of 2011 he signed with Average Joe’s Entertainment.

His career has kept a steady climb and his songs are known world wide. His chart topping songs written while still performing with Trick Pony such as “Pour Me” and “Just What I Do” established him among the top songwriters in the business.

Once he took his career to being single again he began writing songs for other artists such as Joe Nichols, Chris Young, and Jake Owen.

His first solo self-titled album will be released before the end of this year and will include “Beer Or Gasoline” which he wrote but was originally recorded by Chris Young, and “Something About A Sunday”.

Look for Ira’s new music in stores soon and also please visit www.iradean.com for further information and news of Ira Dean and his amazing talents.

strummag.com · December 10, 2011

Hank Williams Jr. Song Hits 150,000 Downloads in 24-Hour Period

Hank Williams Jr. is no rookie when it comes to selling albums or making the grade with a hit song. He always delivers.

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, December 10, 2011

Hank Williams Jr. is no rookie when it comes to selling albums or making the grade with a hit song. He always delivers.

The latest in his endeavors occurred this past October when his song “Keep The Change” acquired 150,000 free downloads in less than 24 hours.

Talk about setting a record. Hank Williams Jr. has received the Entertainer of the Year Award five times and also received the Pioneer Award from the Academy of Country Music in 2009. His accolades have brought him world wide acclaim and his roots have solidified him in the business.

The son of legendary Hank Williams Sr, Hank Jr. has not only made some of the most sold albums in history but has been the main attraction to many with his opening "Are you ready for some football" for Monday night football on ESPN.

While speaking of Barack Obama Hank made an analogy of Hitler, which stirred uncomfortable feelings for ESPN, which in turn resulted in Hank leaving ESPN after more than twenty years. Williams apologized for his statements but the apology wasn’t enough to hold things together. Let it be known that Hank Williams Jr. is proud of our country and is highly respectful of our President.

Hank was vindicated by many of his friends and other television personalities who felt he was disrespected. Sarah Palin, Rush Limbaugh, Whoopie Goldberg and many others have spoken out that he was simply making a comparison. We know beyond a shadow of a doubt that ESPN has lost an icon and of course Monday night football will never be the same.

Hank has also just recently helped raise over $75,000 for the Country Music Hall of Fame Museum and enjoyed the company of his beautiful wife Mary Jane and friends Shooter Jennings and Jamey Johnson.

With over 70 albums to his credit and mastering the country rock genre he has made history. Known to his closest friends as “Bosephus” and known to the world as one of the music industries most gifted artists Hank Williams Jr. has made his name famous with such hits as “All My Rowdy Friends”, “There’s A Tear In My Beer”, and of course we can’t forget “A Country Boy Can Survive”.

And he will.

For more information on Hank Williams Jr. please visit www.hankjr.com

strummag.com · December 9, 2011

Country Music Artist Eric Lee Beddingfield busts through Music Row’s Top Twenty

Currently holding the #18 spot on Music Row’s Top Twenty Charts Eric Lee Beddingfield is once again claiming the spot he well deserves in the ranks of some of…

By Sherryl Craig · As published on strummag.com, December 9, 2011

Currently holding the #18 spot on Music Row’s Top Twenty Charts Eric Lee Beddingfield is once again claiming the spot he well deserves in the ranks of some of Country Music’s most requested entertainers.

While working on a radio tour and traveling cross country Eric has kept his promises and has been diligent in working to bring his music to everyone all across the country.

He has traveled through snow, sleet, rain, and over hills and valleys. No he’s not the mail man, but he is the “Man”. The newest in the hottest and fastest rising stars in Nashville and the man to watch for 2012 when we make the announcements for best new artist.

His video “The Gospel According to Jones” is still currently airing across the nation and has brought notice to those who help promote and excel the best of the best to where they need to be. The video is now in the running for GAC’s Top 50 Video’s of 2011. There is no stopping ELB. He is defiantly on a roll. Both of his singles "The Gospel According to Jones" and "The Great Depression" charted higher and were given more air play than any other independent releases. His position at #18 has placed him in the ranks of being the third independent artist to reach this spot in the history of the charts.

His debut on the Grand Ole Opry to celebrate the 80th birthday of legend George Jones proved he had the right stuff and he has kept his promise to give his fans the best and only the best.

Currently holding the #18 spot on Country’s Music Row’s Charts his hit “The Great Depression” had 1572 spins just last week. The song has been on the charts for 21 weeks and has moved up quickly.

A proud father and family man Eric is highly involved in several community charities and has been working with several here in the Nashville area. Just this past month he helped lend his support for raising money for St Jude’s and he also made an appearance at the downtown Mission Turkey roast with Tracy Lawrence and he has also supported benefits this last year to help raise money for the Red Cross to support victims of the tornadoes in Alabama.

His album “This Life Ain't for Everybody” is available at www.elbrocks.com and if your out and about on the town in Nashville check the local venues such as 12th and Porter and 3rd and Linsley, you never know when Eric will make a visit and share his amazing talents with the fans.

For more information on all things ELB please visit :

http://www.elbrocks.com
http://www.myspace.com/ericleebeddingfield
http://www.facebook.com/elbrocks
http://www.twitter.com/elb_rocks

strummag.com · October 21, 2011

“Red Solo Cup” by Toby Keith gets toasted

“Red Solo Cup,” a new video by none other than Toby himself, has created a craze on the internet that just keeps getting bigger and bigger. The tune is off of Mr.…

By G. Edwin Craig · As published on strummag.com, October 21, 2011

“Red Solo Cup,” a new video by none other than Toby himself, has created a craze on the internet that just keeps getting bigger and bigger. The tune is off of Mr. Keith's new album, “Clancy's Tavern” which isn't even released until October 24th. In the first few days of the video's introduction, it had over 600,000 hits and is averaging 100,000 a day since then. The blogs are overflowing too with posts coming out from Village Voice, Houston Press, New York Magazine, AOL, Slate and a boat load of others! The video is acted out to the words about one of the most used drinking vessels from picnics to parties, the red solo cup! It has a scad of celebrity cameo appearances from Ted Nugent to Larry Bird to Carrot Top and many others in between.

“The new party anthem” is the moniker being dubbed this hilarious video by blogger, “Beverage Underground”. It's become so popular that Eric Church and his whole entourage showed up onstage one night wearing giant red solo cups. Eric has been touring with Toby during his “Locked and Loaded” World Tour. Along with this zany video, Toby has already acquired a no. 1 hit with “Made in America.” Being the 15th studio album that Toby has recorded, “Clancy's Tavern” is in reality, a denotation to the name of a bar that use to belong to his grandmother and resonates in a line from his previous song, “Honkeytonk U” which goes, “my grandmother owned a nightclub/on the Arkansas-Oklahoma line.” There's just no telling what will happen once this album is released. Cheers Toby!

For news on the release of “Clancy's Tavern,” and the “Locked And Loaded” tour dates go to www.tobykeith.com

strummag.com · October 20, 2011

Neal McCoy has two tricks up his sleeve

It seems that twice awarded, Entertainer of the Year, Neal McCoy has been a

By G. Edwin Craig · As published on strummag.com, October 20, 2011

It seems that twice awarded, Entertainer of the Year, Neal McCoy has been a

busy man this year with two major projects coming up soon.

On November 8th, Neal teams up with DPTV media, which is WTVS Detroit

Public Television, to bring to America, “Music of Your Life with Les Brown

Jr. and His Band of Renown, Starring Neal McCoy, and Special Guests Charley

Pride and Janie Fricke.” The CD will have 13 titles and the DVD will have

21, many of which will include Neal's Top 10 hits and favorite standards

from throughout the years. McCoy was quoted as saying, "My DPTV project

with Les Brown gave me the opportunity to do something I always wanted to

do, sing with horns and a Big Band. And I’d like to do more of that.” It's

no coincidence concerning the guests he has either. Janie Fricke actually

discovered Hubert Neal McGaughey Jr., which is Neal McCoy's birth name, at a

Dallas Supper Club in 1981 and Charley Pride was the first artist that he

ever went on tour with. So it looks like he is keeping it in the family on

this one! “I’m a big Neal McCoy fan,” says Executive Producer, Jamie

Westrick of DPTV Media. “Les Brown and Neal McCoy have created something

very unique. We’re proud to be a part of it, and to be sharing it on PBS

stations through DPTV Media.”

Neal McCoy and Les Brown Jr. have more in common than just recording

this album together. When Neal was starting out playing gigs in Texas,

after being a shoe salesman for a 3 years, he performed with a jazz

combo, singing standards such as, “Sentimental Journey” by Les Brown's Band

of Renown. (Les Brown Sr.) In later years, McCoy met Les Brown Jr. in

Branson, Missouri, where he has a radio show on the “Music of Your Life”

network. Les was very happy to know that Neal has his father's music in his

songlists! Neal says, “I grew up on pop music and Great American Songbook,

and I love melody and good phrasing in whatever I’m singing. As I

established my cred in country, I started putting songs like ‘Sentimental

Journey’ and ‘I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face,’ back in the shows. People

love the old songs because it’s just great writing all around.”These two

are also linked through the U.S.O. McCoy has entertained troops all over

the world including Germany, Bosnia, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iraq. Les

Brown Sr. also performed many shows for the soldiers during World War II,

including shows with Bob Hope.

The other deal in the making is McCoy's largely awaited 12th studio

album, “XII”. Not only is this his 12th album called 12, in Roman numerals,

but it will contain 12 songs to boot. This will be Neal's first endeavor

with his new label, “Blaster Records,” and he will have plenty of talent on

the production side, being produced by Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert and

Brent Rowan. Neal goes on to say, “Having Miranda and Blake involved in

‘XII’, the first project at my new label, Blaster Records, is huge for me.

Not only do they have great vision, but they know when to have fun and when

to get serious along with being fantastic musicians. I’m so excited about

everything that’s coming up.” The first radio airplay from this album will

be, “A-OK,” written by Brett Eldredge, Barry Dean and Luke Laird and is due

to hit the airwaves in October 2011. The album itself should be on sale in

January 2012.

For more information, go to www.nealmccoy.com

strummag.com · October 14, 2011

Farm Aid still going strong after 26 years

Ever since the first concert in Champaign, Illinois in 1985, Farm Aid has journeyed around the United States to help the family farmer survive and to keep the…

By G. Edwin Craig · As published on strummag.com, October 14, 2011

Ever since the first concert in Champaign, Illinois in 1985, Farm Aid has journeyed around the United States to help the family farmer survive and to keep the American consumer connected to the foods that our farmers grow. Executive director of Farm Aid, Carolyn Mugar was quoted as saying, "Farm Aid is a movement inspired not only by the passion of Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp, Neil Young and Dave Matthews, but also by the more than 400 artists who have donated their performances at our shows over the years. This year, we are thrilled to welcome back several familiar faces to the Farm Aid stage as well as some first-timers for what is sure to be a remarkable day of music, food and inspiration."

The concert this year was held at Livestrong Sporting Park in Kansas City, Kansas on August the 13th. Just some of the talent included in this year's show was Jamey Johnson, Billy Joe Shaver, John Trudell, Rebecca Pidgeon, Robert Francis, Will Dailey & The Rivals, Pegi Young & The Survivors, Jason Mraz, Jakob Dylan and Lukas Nelson & The Promise Of The Real. The all day event highlighted music and homegrown food at the HOMEGROWN Village, which is Farm Aid's answer to the farmer's petting zoo! Visitors could get their hands in the dirt and see just how the food is grown and harvested and also meet the farmers and their families themselves. The same farmers that are trying to save our lands and water.

Over 39 million dollars have been raised since the beginning of Farm Aid to keep programs going that promote the American farmer and the Good Food Movement. To construct a system of family farms centered in the agriculture of America is the main goal of the Farm Aid movement. More power to you!

strummag.com · October 4, 2011

Songwriters Support a Cause at Hohenwald, Tenn., Bakery

'But when you get words and music together, that can be a very powerful thing,' Bryan Ferry

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, October 4, 2011

'But when you get words and music together, that can be a very powerful thing,' Bryan Ferry

Once a month, good music and good food come together for a cause. A small bakery in Hohenwald, Tenn., along with an internet magazine decided to put together a monthly writers night to benefit a kidney transplant recipient.

Bobbette Miller, of Lobelville, Tenn., has had kidney problems since birth. She has undergone surgeries and hospital stays all her life. Last year, her health got worse and she needed a donor kidney. Thanks in part to Donnie Wahlberg, from the band New Kids On The Block, she found a kidney donor.

Wahlberg had seen a tweet on Twitter about Miller needing a kidney and retweeted the message to his fans. Out of his fans, Vanderbilt hospital found a match for Miller and at least nine other recipients on the list of patients. There have been numerous interviews with Wahlberg about this small act that saved a life. He even spoke about it on a recent interview with Rachael Ray.

Frogking Konfections and Strum Magazine started a monthly songwriter night to help Miller with the massive expenses associated with the transplant that occured in June. Miller and her new kidney are doing well. The doctor has her house-bound until her immune system is back to normal, so she has not been allowed to return to work. Starting in September, Hitmakers and soon-to-be hitmakers will come together and make music for Miller.

The event will start at 6 p.m. The bakery/bistro located at 27 N. Park Ave. in Hohenwald, Tenn. will have a dinner and dessert special for that evening. The writer's round will be an intimate, acoustic set and there will be door prizes.

Featured songwriters at Frogking Konfections have included Crystal Chandler, Nicollette Hayford, Douglas Kent, Greg Barnhill, Tiffany, Herrick, Makky Kaylor and Gyspy. Future performers scheduled are Darryl Worley and many other great singer/songwriters.

Barnhill is a well-known hit songwriter. He has many hits and awards. He has well-known cuts by Tim McGraw, Amy Grant, Vince Gill, Lonestar, Martina McBride, Etta James, Bryan White, Lee Ann Womack, Ty Herndon, Sherrie Austin, Pam Tillis, and Jessica Simpson, among others. He wrote 'House of Love' for Vince Gill and Amy Grant, as well as being nominated for a Grammy for 'Walkaway Joe' with superstars Trisha Yearwood and Don Henley.

The next songwriter night is Oct. 5th at 6 pm. For more info go to www.frogkingkonfections.com or visit Frogking at 27 N. Park Ave. Hohenwald, TN call 931-796-0698 for reservations.

strummag.com · September 19, 2011

Blackhawk and Jim Lauderdale to Play Lyrics for Lyric This Tuesday

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness. It is fitting that the Lyric Frizzell Foundation became incorporated this month. The Foundation was created by Corey…

By Krys Midgett · As published on strummag.com, September 19, 2011

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness. It is fitting that the Lyric Frizzell Foundation became incorporated this month. The Foundation was created by Corey Frizzell and Mark Newton in honor of Lyric Frizzell. The goal is to raise funds for childhood cancer research.

“Incorporating the Lyric Frizzell Foundation is one step closer to our ultimate goal of creating a regular ongoing music based concert series, establishing a foundation and partnering with Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital in order to raise monies to further childhood cancer research in my daughter Lyric’s name, whom also suffers from a rare aggressive form of Leukemia. I think that it’s perfect timing, being that it’s also childhood cancer awareness month. We have some exciting things in the works and more to come,” says Corey Frizzell.

Each month is jam packed with Nashville's best established talent in the Country, Bluegrass, Americana and Roots genres to benefit the Lyric Frizzell Foundation, named after two year old Lyric Alana Frizzell whom was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive form of Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML).

This Tuesday, September 20th, will be the tenth installment in the Lyrics for Lyric event. It is hosted by Mark Newton, IBMA Award winning Stylist/ Musician and one of today's most respected interpreters of bluegrass music. The event is held on the 4th Tuesday of every month at the “Man VS. Food” famed venue, Roosters TX Style BBQ & Steakhouse.

Special guests pop in often. You never know who you might see. This Tuesday will be no exception.

“For this show, a $10 benefit charge will be taken at the door, people can enjoy a first-class great show. We give away a lot of stuff, two cases, which range from $500 to $1000, an autographed poster signed by all the artists from that night. There are only about 18 of the posters in existence from each show. They become a cool collectors item, a lot of other stuff is donated to us at each show to give away,” adds Frizzell.

A $10 benefit charge will be taken at the door and go to the Lyric Frizzell Foundation.

7:00 pm – Jenee, Thomm Jutz, Charley Stefl

7:30 pm – John Austin McDaniel

8:00 pm – Blackhawk www.blackhawk.com

9:00 pm – Jim Lauderdale www.jimlauderdale.com

Multi-platinum-selling country group BlackHawk is Henry Paul (guitar, mandolin and vocals) and Dave Robbins (keyboards and vocals). They along with third founding member Van Stephenson exploded on to the country music landscape in 1993 with their debut smash "Goodbye Says It All". With a dozen top ten hits including two number ones to their credit and album sales that exceed 7 million records, they continue to carve out their own place in music history. In 1999 tragedy struck when Van was diagnosed with melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer.

In 2001 after a long courageous fight Van lost his battle. Henry and Dave have since followed through with his dying wish that BlackHawk continue to make great music and that they try and help find a cure. They established the Van Stephenson Memorial Cancer Research Fund in his memory, donating the proceeds of their efforts to the Vanderbilt Cancer Research Center. They continue to write and record new music and with their incredible band continue to spread BlackHawk's unique musical message. BlackHawk's faithful followers have continued to grow in numbers over the years based on the consistency of quality in their live show. Night after night BlackHawk puts on an inspired performance that resonates in the hearts and minds of music enthusiasts everywhere.

Jim Lauderdale, two time Grammy winner, is a multi-talented performer and songwriter, with successes in both country and bluegrass music. His roots stem from the Carolinas, yet his career has taken him all over the United States and abroad, making him an international recording artist with an ever-growing fan base. Jim won “Artist of the Year” and “Song of the Year” at the first “Honors and Awards Show” held by the Americana Music Association in 2002. Subsequently, he has hosted this same show for the last seven years.

He is among Nashville’s “A” list of songwriters, with songs recorded by artists such as: Patty Loveless, George Jones, The Dixie Chicks, Solomon Burke, Mark Chesnutt, Dave Edmunds, John Mayall, Kathy Mattea, Lee Ann Womack, Gary Allan, Blake Shelton. Vince Gill, and George Strait. He also contributed several songs to the successful soundtrack of the George Strait film, “Pure Country.” Not content to just write hits for the stars, he’s toured with the likes of Lucinda Williams, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Rhonda Vincent and Elvis Costello and more.

Jim’s musical influences include the legendary Dr. Ralph Stanley and George Jones. These influences and his unique sense of melody and lyric help forge a sound that is truly his own.

For more information on Lyrics for Lyric, Corey & Lyric Frizzell, Mark Newton, Rooster’s, Alane Anno Photography, TKL Cases, D’Addario Strings, Rural Rhythm Records, MyTV or Double E Promotions please visit the following websites; www.facebook.com/lyricsforlyric www.coreyfrizzell.com www.lyricfrizzell.com www.marknewtonband.com www.roostersbbqnashville.com

strummag.com · September 15, 2011

Bluebird Cafe Hosts Benefit Featuring Toby Keith

(Nashville, TN) Toby Keith has been a very busy man in the last several years, explaining why he was named Songwriter Of The Decade by the Nashville Songwriters…

By G. Edwin Craig · As published on strummag.com, September 15, 2011

(Nashville, TN) Toby Keith has been a very busy man in the last several years, explaining why he was named Songwriter Of The Decade by the Nashville Songwriters Association, not to mention he has acquired in excess of 70 million plays on the radio. He has always professed to be a songwriter above everything else and from the looks of things, he chose wisely. Although he does have his hand in a lot more than just that, along with being a dynamic performer, he also is into the production side of the business and he has started his own line Mezcal called "Wild Shot".

When Mr. Keith was invited to the Birdsong Series, which is a benefit to help maintain the renowned Bluebird Cafe, he was more than happy to oblige. Along with friends Bobby Pinson and Scotty Emerick, they collected $20,000 for the cafe. It was a star-studded performance for the intimate crowd and at the close of the show, two Takamine guitars, signed by Toby himself, were auctioned for $10,000.

"God blessed me to be a songwriter first and foremost," Keith says. "I remember going to writer's night at the Bluebird. It's great to have a place for songwriters to showcase their songs. It can open a door that just makes a song fly. Just one moment of inspiration and you're off. Nashville needs to keep the Bluebird alive and thriving."

The trio definitely gave the audience their money's worth by performing for almost three hours and it wasn't your average set list. They played a variety of tunes including well known chart toppers, parts of tunes with never before heard lyrics and Toby's infamous bus songs were a big hit. Even though some songs were uncensored, a good time was had by all. Sharing of Keith's signature "Wild Shot" Mezcal might have had a little something to do with that! There was even a Marine in the crowd that had met Toby overseas during one of his USO tours and he said a few words about the memorable experience.

It's been five years since he has had a hit rising as fast as his newest "Made In America" and is currently on the "Locked And Loaded" tour which is sponsored by Ford F Series. Mr. Keith continues to accrue kudos from his public being named "Top Earning Country Performer" by Forbes magazine and it doesn't look like he plans on slowing down any time soon.

strummag.com · August 19, 2011

Lyrics for Lyric Scheduled for This Tuesday, Vince Gill Added to the Lineup

“When you have a child, a baby, who gets cancer, not only has cancer but the only known case of it, it rocks your world, I don't care who you are, what you do, what…

By Krys Midgett · Photos courtesy of Corey Frizzell · As published on strummag.com, August 19, 2011

“When you have a child, a baby, who gets cancer, not only has cancer but the only known case of it, it rocks your world, I don't care who you are, what you do, what your name is, it will turn your world upside down,” says Corey Frizzell.

On his birthday, July 28, 2009, Corey's world was turned upside down. Corey's 10 month old daughter, Lyric was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive form of Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). The strain of AML that affected Lyric had not been discovered before. This is the only case known and fewer than 10 percent of the people with the more common AML are children. The average age for AML is 65 and older.

Lyric was named in honor of the Frizzell musical heritage. Corey is the son of Allen Frizzell and nephew of David and Lefty. Following that family heritage, Corey is a singer/songwriter. But he didn't stop there. He has been a boxer, an artist, but his most important role is 'Dad'. Since Lyric was born, he has spent all of his time with her. While she was in Vanderbilt, he practically lived in her hospital room.

After responding well to six months of chemo, Lyric is in 'partial remission' but will frequent Vanderbilt Cancer Clinic once a month for the next four years to be treated and monitor her progress. The first two years after chemo have a high chance of relapse, but she will be declared in full remission once she reaches the five year mark with no relapse.

“For a while I had to struggle with why would something like this happen, I just came to the conclusion that things happen for a reason, sometimes they are horrible and sometimes it happens to good people but it is for a reason. Lyric has already touched the hearts of the world. We had people praying for her all over the world. The whole music community praying for her and following her story on her website. I'd like to carry that on and be able to give back and do something in her name and keep that going especially after witnessing it firsthand with my own child and seeing other situations while we were there that were just unbelievable,” says Frizzell.

Lyrics for Lyric was started in November of last year. Wade Johnson and his wife approached Corey and said they would like to do a monthly benefit to help offset the medical costs for Lyric. They continued the event at Pick's Nashville until they closed. The event has brought out a number of talented musicians, such as Marty Raybon, Bo Bice, Carl Jackson, Trent Tomlinson, Claire Lynch, Cia Cheryholmes, Missy Raines, Larry Cordle, Jerry Salley, Michael Peterson, Whitney Duncan and Billy Yates.

The event is now being held at Rooster's on 12th avenue in Nashville. This Tuesday will be the ninth Lyrics for Lyric event. It is being hosted by Mark Newton and is called 'Mark Newton's Lyrics for Lyric.

“We are in a good place with Lyric, we are not out of the water but I have a burden, with everything that I have been through, I would like to give back to Vanderbilt. So starting with our last show, we are going in a direction of trying to establish the Lyric Frizzell Foundation, make it a non-profit organization and start giving back to Vanderbilt in Lyric's name,” says Frizzell.

Mark started working with Corey after they met at a Keith Whitley tribute in Nashville Palace in October of 2009. Corey does graphic design work and Mark noticed the poster he had created. Since then, they have worked on a lot of projects together and so Corey asked for Mark's help with the event and upcoming Lyric Frizzell Foundation.

“We have had a lot of support, not only from the industry people, we have gotten to a place now where we have sponsors who have come aboard to help. TKL Cases, D’Addario Strings, Double E Promotions, MyTV, an internet TV network,.Rural Rhythm Records and Paige Capo. And of course, Rooster's,” says Newton.

The event will be the 4th Tuesday of every month at the “Man VS. Food” famed venue, Roosters TX Style BBQ & Steakhouse.

The Mark Newton’s Lyrics for Lyric Benefit Show will be packed with talent for the August 23rd event featuring Rural Rhythm recording artists, The Roys, Mason Douglas and Brandon Rickman. Also taking the Roosters stage will be Kevin Denney and The Wells Band. Special guests pop in often. You never know who you might see.

“For this show, a $10 benefit charge will be taken at the door, people can enjoy a first-class great show. We give away a lot of stuff, two cases, which range from $500 to $1000, an autographed poster signed by all the artists from that night. There are only about 18 of the posters in existence from each show. They become a cool collectors item, a lot of other stuff is donated to us at each show to give away,” adds Frizzell.

A $10 benefit charge will be taken at the door and go to the Lyric Frizzell Foundation.

7:00 pm – The Wells Family Band

8:00 pm – Kevin Denney and Rural Rhythm Records Artists Brandon Rickman & Mason Douglas

9:00 pm – Rural Rhythm Records Artists The Roys

Vince Gill has been added to the line up of amazing artists for this event.

For more information on Lyrics for Lyric, Corey & Lyric Frizzell, Mark Newton, Rooster’s, Alane Anno Photography, TKL Cases, D’Addario Strings, Rural Rhythm Records, MyTV or Double E Promotions please visit the following websites; www.facebook.com/lyricsforlyric www.coreyfrizzell.com www.lyricfrizzell.com www.marknewtonband.com www.roostersbbqnashville.com www.alaneanno.com www.tkl.com www.daddario.com www.doubleepromotions.com www.ruralrhythm.com www.mytv.com

strummag.com · August 10, 2011

Willie Nelson to Be Inducted Into the Agricultural Hall of Fame

The words Farm Aid are as common in most households around the country as the two other words that go with them, Willie Nelson. Willie Nelson and his dedication to…

By Sherryl Craig · Photo by Rick Olivier, courtesy of Shock Ink · As published on strummag.com, August 10, 2011

The words Farm Aid are as common in most households around the country as the two other words that go with them, Willie Nelson. Willie Nelson and his dedication to America’s farmers around the nation is legendary, almost as legendary as his music.

His dedication and commitment to the farmers of our nation has made him a true hero among many. What Willie began in 1985 is still going strong today and continues to inspire others through out the country to come on board to support our farmers and the communities that keep them thriving.

Along with his close friends Neil Young and John Mellencamp, Willie has helped to raise millions of dollars and attract huge attention to our great need for assistance with our farming communities, especially now that our country faces such enormous challenges in the economic crisis we are now struggling through.

Farm Aid Founder and President Willie Nelson has been established as a champion among champion’s in his cause to bring awareness and knowledge to the world about the devastating struggles that the loss of family farms has brought to our country. His fight to raise money and to keep these farms going is not just for the product but the families that live and work these farms.

Farm Aid has raised almost $40 million to help ensure strong and stable agricultural systems that will promote fair living for the farmers, strengthen farming communities, help protect the natural resources of these communities and deliver safe and healthy food to everyone.

As a young man growing up in farming territory Willie knows all to well about the hard work and dedication needed to work a farm and make it productive. His respect and admiration for those who still farm today is tremendous. His work with Farm Aid is not only local but national and has given a loud and clear voice to the family farmer by standing up for the hero’s of America’s farm lands, those family farmers who till and work the land.

Farm Aid executive director and close friend Carolyn Mugar said, “Willie has said he realized early on that playing the guitar was a heck of a lot easier than being a farmer. The family farmer has never had a better friend that Willie Nelson; he has worked tirelessly to stand up for family farmers and the good food we all want.

It was announced in mid July that Farm Aid and the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame would be inducting Farm Aid Founder and President Willie Nelson into the Agricultural Hall of Fame. The ceremony will be the day before Farm Aid 2011 on August 13th at the Livestrong Sporting Park in Kansas City, Kansas. Other inductee’s include George Washington Carver, Thomas Jefferson, John Deere, and Louise Stanley. Willie we salute you and those who work with you in continuing to support the nations farmers. Congratulations.

strummag.com · August 8, 2011

Keith Urban's "Get Closer" Tour Comes Home to Nashville

On August 6, 2011, Keith Urban brought his “Get Closer” tour home to Nashville, TN for a special Saturday night at the Bridgestone Arena his fans in attendance will…

By Jason S. Rittenberry · Photos by the author · As published on strummag.com, August 8, 2011

On August 6, 2011, Keith Urban brought his “Get Closer” tour home to Nashville, TN for a special Saturday night at the Bridgestone Arena his fans in attendance will not soon forget... and a few lucky ones will always remember. Having seen him in concert before, this show would have a different feel than how I remembered a Keith Urban show. I left this night with a feeling that “Get Closer” was not just the name of his current album release and tour, but a goal to have more than just a performer-to-audience relationship with his fans.

Beginning the show by walking through smoke at the back of the main stage playing his guitar, Urban started the show with the upbeat “Put You In A Song” followed by another fast song, “Days Go By”. It was then off to the first of four satellite stages, this one to the side stage left, for “I Told You So” and then he returned back to the main stage for “Raining on Sunday”.

Taking a break for several minutes to read aloud and acknowledge many of the handmade signs that fans were holding up, Keith honored the request of one of them by bringing 3 women up on the stage for a picture with him. He then discussed his new stage set for this tour, which from a distance resembled a rollercoaster track with a giant video screen to the side, as a way to remove the barriers between him and the fans saying that “There is no me and you”, tonight it is “just us”.

Another fast paced song, “Long Hot Summer”, kicked off the next series of songs followed by “Stupid Boy”, giving Urban a chance to show off his lead guitar talents that would stand up next to any rock guitarist in the music world today. I do not think a big enough deal is made in general about how truly talented of a musician Keith Urban is. Of course he is a good singer, has fashion model looks, and puts on an energetic and entertaining show, but what sometimes seems overlooked is the fact that his guitar playing steals the evening and at times makes you forget that there are actually lyrics to be sung accompanying these melodic riffs played so effortlessly by a master of his craft. This portion of the show ended with him covering a verse of Paul McCartney’s “Silly Love Songs” serving as an intro to one of Urban’s biggest hit love songs, “Making Memories of Us”.

Now with his backing band playing on the main stage, Keith made his way to a second satellite stage, this time in the middle of the arena floor about two thirds of the way between the main stage and the last section of floor seats. This small stage, round and only big enough for one performer, brought back images of Elvis Presley’s performance on a similar style stage set up during his 1968 “Comeback” Television Special especially as both performers were surrounded by screaming fans. After standing for “I’m In” and “Blue Jeans On”, he utilized a stool to sit for the extended version of “You’ll Think Of Me”, slowly turning 360 degrees around the stage before it eventually rose from eye level of the crowd on the floor to about 10 feet higher.

“You’re Gonna Fly” began the return of Urban to the main stage and ended with a transition into a duet to a partial version of “Boondocks” with Little Big Town via the video screen. “Georgia Woods” followed by “Until Summer Comes Around” were performed and then came a visit to the third satellite stage located to the side and stage right for “Sweet Thing”. It was then back to the main stage for “Kiss A Girl” which included 3 fans being chosen to come up on stage and sing the chorus. Audience applause determined the crowd’s favorite fan singer who was rewarded by singing with Keith at his microphone in the front of the stage while the two runner-ups sang with band members at their positions behind and to either side of Urban.

Keith dedicated the next song “Without You” to his daughter Sunday, who he stated was there in the arena with her mother (Keith’s wife Nicole Kidman) and up past her bedtime. He then performed “I Wanna Love Somebody Like You” and joined in on his second video screen duet of the night, this time with Waylon Jennings on “Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way”. This segment of the show ended with “Who Wouldn’t Want To Be Me” while playing a guitar covered in lights that changed colors throughout the song.

Having already showcased Drummer Chris McHugh with a drum solo earlier in the show, Urban now introduced the remaining members of the band as each one took to the front of the stage to sing. Jerry Flowers, Bassist and former member with Keith in the band “The Ranch” sang U2’s “With Or Without You”. Banjo Player Danny Rader then sang Tom Petty’s “American Girl” followed by Guitarist Brian Nutter performing AC/DC’s “It’s A Long Way To The Top”.

For the last song of the set, “You Look Good In My Shirt”, Keith made his way to the fourth satellite stage located in the center of the first level of the lower bowl seating directly on the opposite end of the arena from the main stage. During this song he paused from playing his guitar, signed it, and gave it to an excited fan beside him. He made his way back to the main stage to finish the song, thank everyone for coming, and then retreat backstage with the band.

After a few minutes, Keith returned to the stage with his band for an encore set, bringing with him Jake Owen, who was the opening act for the show, to perform John Mellencamp’s “Jack And Diane”. Owen then left the stage and Urban performed “Tonight I Wanna Cry”. While again thanking the fans for coming to the show, he acknowleged the tough economic times many are facing, and stated to everyone that he appreciated “whatever it took” for them to be there tonight. “Better Life” was the final song of the night as confetti and streamers fell from the rafters. While waving good-night, he threw his wristbands that he had been wearing during the show in to the crowd for two more fans to take home a special souvenir. The wrist bands had the phrase "I GOT CLOSER" inscribed on them...perhaps Keith should have kept one half of the wrist band set as a keepsake for himself.

Urban’s efforts to “Get Closer” to his fans were evident. Once you get past being in awe of his talents, he makes you feel like that no matter how big of a superstar he is, you are spending the evening partying with one of your good friends. That is an artist who gets it. That is an artist you root for no matter how big of a superstar they are.

strummag.com · July 6, 2011

Arizona Act Wins Esongwriter.com Song Contest

An Arizona artist has taken first prize in an international songwriting contest, which was based in New York.

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, July 6, 2011

An Arizona artist has taken first prize in an international songwriting contest, which was based in New York.

The winner was Saith, who entered the song “Now’s The Time.” According to Saith’s Nathan Gangadean, “This song was one of those tunes that just pour out of you effortlessly in a couple hours time.” He said song started with an old guitar riff that he couldn’t get out of his head.

Gangadean said he has been writing songs since he was about 15 years old. He said he was ignited by songs like John Lennon’s “Imagine.” Gangadean said, “ I loved the idea of song being socially influential in such a positive and forward thinking way. I became obsessed with writing music in the spirit of positiveley influencing, awakening and, even healing the listener in some way. As many times that I have tried to convince myself to just write a song that doesn't say something that was based on this theme of awakening, I couldn't help it. The songs kept coming out that way.”

Saith has released a two-CD, 22-song project that that was released in late July. “Now’s The Time” is the only track on the project that Gangadean did not produce.

The second place winner was 2Late from Poland and Big Blind Special from Israel.

Samantha Foggle won the youth division of the contest. The 13-year-old Connecticut girl said she wrote the song when she was 11 years old. The song, “Just A Dream,” was inspired when she liked a boy that did not like her back.

Said Foggle, “I write whenever the songs come to me because sometimes I get parts of a song but not the whole thing. The process could take as little as an hour to write, or as long as a couple of years. I'd say a few songs each year would be how often I write.”

The instrumental winner was Eduardo de la Iglesia, of Spain, who won with his composition called “From Despair To Glory.”

The song contest was held by CJC Music Publishing and Associates and songs were submitted through Sonicbids.

strummag.com · July 3, 2011

U2 Creates a Beautiful Day in Nashville

On July 2nd, 2011, for the first time in nearly 30 years, arguably the most popular rock band in the world, U2, performed in Music City, USA. A fact that lead…

By Jason S. Rittenberry · Photos by the author (@jasonritt) · As published on strummag.com, July 3, 2011

On July 2nd, 2011, for the first time in nearly 30 years, arguably the most popular rock band in the world, U2, performed in Music City, USA. A fact that lead singer Bono would almost apologetically reference during their show before proclaiming “We’re here now”...and were they ever!

The hot and humid Nashville evening began with a warm up set by British Pop/Rock band Florence + The Machine. Lead Singer Florence Welch is an amazing vocalist who would seemingly be as comfortable performing on an opera stage as she was in front of nearly 50,000 people packed in to Vanderbilt Stadium. With her pale complexion, radiant red hair, flowing green dress and microphone stand adorned with flowers, Welch delighted the Nashville audience with her vocals as the band, complete with a harp player, undoubtedly made many new fans that may not be familiar with the music of this 2011 Grammy nominee for Best New Artist. I am anxious to see what the future holds for the very talented Florence + The Machine.

With darkness now surrounding a jam-packed Vanderbilt Stadium it was time for U2 to take the gigantic, cross between a crane claw and a launch portal for a spaceship looking stage that engulfed nearly three-quarters of the field inside the stadium. This was the 100th performance of U2's 360-degree tour. With David Bowie’s song “Space Oddity” playing through the outstanding sound system, smoke began to come from the four corner legs and the roof of “The Claw” stage. The video screens lit up and showed the four members of U2: Bono- dressed in black leather and trademark sunglasses, looking every bit the part of the biggest Rock star in the world, Guitarist The Edge, Bass player Adam Clayton and Drummer Larry Mullen, Jr. all wearing white shirts, walking into the stadium as a foursome side by side. This entrance was very reminiscent of watching a space shuttle flight crew walking to board the space shuttle. The video screen and stadium lights went dark momentarily until the band, lights, and video screen lit up the stadium with “Even Better Than The Real Thing”. The energy was electric as everyone in the stadium was standing while U2 played “The Fly“, “Mysterious Ways“, “Until The End Of The World“, “I Will Follow“, “Get On Your Boots“ and “I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For” which transitioned into a tribute to Country Music Legend Johnny Cash with “The Wanderer”, a song performed with Cash on U2’s “Zooropa” album in 1993. Bono spoke of having good times in Nashville with Johnny and his wife June Carter through the years. He said Johnny had a "...beautiful, beautiful, beautiful spirit..." and "...next time we're going out to Hendersonville, Tennessee to say good-bye." Being in the epicenter of the Country Music world, the audience cheered with gratitude for Bono’s acknowledgment and respect.

Next on the setlist was “Stay (Faraway, So Close!)”. Bono then dedicated the next song to U.S. Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and directed the audience’s attention to the video screen for the introduction of “Beautiful Day” by U.S. Astronaut Commander (and husband of Giffords) Mark Kelly who greeted concert goers with “Hello Nashville from the International Space Station.“ Kelly stated “I’m looking forward to coming home." and then quoted a line from Bowie's "Space Oddity."

After an amazing performance of “Beautiful Day” the audience continued to stand, dance and sing along with U2 to “Elevation“, “Pride (In The Name Of Love)”, “Miss Sarajevo“, “Zooropa“, with the “Claw” extending spotlights as far high as the eye could see and the video screen and light show providing more colors than any previous part of the show for “City Of Blinding Lights“. Closing the set were “Vertigo“, “Miss You”, “I'll Go Crazy If I Don't Go Crazy Tonight”, “Discotheque”, “Psycho Killer”, “Life During Wartime”, “Sunday Bloody Sunday“, “Scarlet” and “Walk On” including a portion of “You'll Never Walk Alone”

The first encore began with a speech shown on the video screen by Nobel Peace Prize Winner Archbishop Desmond Tutu discussing the “One Campaign” which seeks to increase government funds for international aid in which Bono is a co-founder. U2 then performed “One“, “Amazing Grace” and “Where The Streets Have No Name”. The second encore included “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me“, “With Or Without You“, and “Moment of Surrender“. The band then came to the front of the stage to say good-night and take a bow.

Highlights of the show included the Cash tribute, “Beautiful Day” with the Mark Kelly introduction, and a moment where Bono asked everyone to take out their cell phones as the lights in the stadium were turned off giving an amazing view as thousands of cell phones created a star-like galaxy. Ironically, it was the performance of “All I Want Is You”, after the bows had already taken place, with a blind fan selected from the crowd who asked to perform the song with Bono singing for the fan’s wife that was the show stealer. Bono obliged, asking someone to bring him his guitar for the fan to play. As Bono sang and the fan played, eventually the rest of the band joined in. At the conclusion of the song Bono gave the fan the guitar to keep. That was a moment that had no special lights or video effects yet created a memory better than what I had just witnessed: the most impressive visual and audio concert production I have ever seen.

strummag.com · June 17, 2011

CMA Music Festival Sells Out for Second Year in a Row

The CMA Music Festival sold out again this year, marking the second year in a row that all four nightly shows have been sell-outs.

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, June 17, 2011

The CMA Music Festival sold out again this year, marking the second year in a row that all four nightly shows have been sell-outs.

"To meet the outstanding sell out of 2010 again in 2011 speaks volumes about the strength of this event, the dedication of our fans, the support of our local community, and the popularity of our music and artists," said Steve Moore, CMA Chief Executive Officer.The 2010 audience grew 16. 9 percent over the 2009 audience.

Moore said there was a “terrific amount of support” for the CMA Music Festival that followed the floods that hit Nashville last May. We hit a benchmark that was higher than anyone expected and to meet that number again this year is an accomplishment and speaks directly to the music,” he said.This year, 65,000 fans are reported to have attended the concert each evening.

According to the CMA, that figure account for four-day pass holders and single-day ticket holders. Another record was also set Saturday with another CMA Fest stage – the Chevrolet Riverfront Park Stage. The attendance on Saturday hit 25,000.

The performers on Saturday included Lonestar, Jason Michael Carroll, Steve Holy, Mel Tillis, Crystal Bowersox, Corey Smith, Chuck Wicks, David Nail, David Lee Murphy and Billy Ray Cyrus.Moore explained that 80 percent of four-day ticket holders live outside of Tennessee. "And we are seeing gains with our locals who are coming out to support our free areas and purchasing a growing number of tickets to attend the single night concerts at LP Field,” Moore said.

According to the Nashville Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, the CMA Music Festival brought about $24 million in visitor’s revenue in 2010. The numbers for this year’s festival have not received yet, but are expected to be higher than last year. "Almost unbelievably, this event continues to get bigger and better every year," said Butch Spyridon, President of the NCVB. "CMA Fest is not only Country Music's biggest bash, it's Nashville's too, and we anticipate record spending again this year."

The Country Music Association donates half of proceeds from the CMA Music Festival every year to benefit music education in Middle Tennessee through the Nashville Alliance for Public Education called “Keep The Music Playing.” So far, the CMA has donated $4.7 million to “Keep The Music Playing.”

strummag.com · June 16, 2011

Survey Says... CMA Music Fest Rocked

The Country Music Association has compiled research information from people who attended the 2011 CMA Music Festival. The results indicated that satisfaction was…

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, June 16, 2011

The Country Music Association has compiled research information from people who attended the 2011 CMA Music Festival. The results indicated that satisfaction was extremely high, with 94 percent of those surveyed indicating they intend to return to the CMA Music Festival next year.

The Country Music Association used three major ways to gather information from festival attendees – one-on-one interviews, CMA insider information and a mobile survey.

More than 600 people were interviewed throughout the festival using iPads. Not only were those people asked about their experience at the CMA Music Festival, they were also asked about things like the size of the group they travel with to CMA Music Festival and their participation in social networking websites.

More than 1,300 people signed up to be a CMA Insider, which is a group that allows country music lovers to share their opinions with the CMA and help shape the future of country music.

A group of more than 100 people were selected at CMA Music Festival 2011 to participate in a mobile qualitative survey.

RESULTS OF THE SURVEY There was a wide range of people who attended the 2011 CMA Music Festival, ranging from children to senior citizens. According to the survey results, the average age of attendees was 38.6.

The results also showed that the majority of people who attend the CMA Music Festival are well educated. The survey indicated that 69 percent are college-educated.

Most of those interviewed traveled to CMA Music Festival in a group, and the average group size was 3.2 people. Other data compiled by the CMA showed that 80 percent of all people who attended this year’s festival traveled from outside Tennessee to get there. Every state was represented at the festival and there was also a large international presence at this year’s event.

The data compiled by the interviews conducted also indicated that festival attendees have a strong presence on social networking sites such as Facebook. 85 percent of those surveyed are active on Facebook with 74 percent of those reporting that they are the social networking site more than once a day.

The Country Music Association page on Facebook was an extremely popular spot for festival attendees in the weeks leading up to the festival, as well as during the festival and in the days following the event.

strummag.com · May 27, 2011

Toby Keith's Launch of Wild Shot Mezcal Spirit

Born Toby Keith Covel in July of 1961 and raised in Oklahoma, he is one of Country Music’s true legendary performers. Just shy of the age of 50, he has made a huge…

By Sherryl Craig · Photos by Silver Treft · As published on strummag.com, May 27, 2011

Born Toby Keith Covel in July of 1961 and raised in Oklahoma, he is one of Country Music’s true legendary performers. Just shy of the age of 50, he has made a huge mark in the Country Music industry and around the world with his humanitarian work and his support of our military troops. Singer, Actor, Songwriter, Record Producer, Entrepreneur and family man, patriotic and loyal all describe Toby Keith.

Toby is one in a million who’s always looking for something new and something with an edge. He never lets down the fans and he surprises us constantly with new interests and ideas. Currently he has 11 restaurants, the “I Love This Bar &Grill' chain launched in 2005 here in the US, as well as a line of clothing launched in 2009 called “TK Stealman”

So it comes as no surprise to everyone with the launch of Wild Shot in March of this year during CRS week in Nashville. Toby was in Nashville at BMI to give the public the first glance at Wild Shot, a brand new liquor similar to Tequila, that Toby is inspired to share with others. Toby has vacationed in Mexico often and loves the soothing, relaxing atmosphere there, along with the intoxicating drinks he has come to favor. This one of a kind drink is made from the green agave or pinas and comes complete with a worm. The worm of course, is not just there for conversation but to be eaten. Mexican history and Mezcal is special to Toby and so it only made sense to give the public something they might not have an opportunity to find in many places. That’s when Toby Keith special Mezcal became the focus and Wild Shot became a brand. It is estimated that the drink will be available in the UK within months and will also be available in all his restaurants.

Wild Shot is the product of Toby’s love of the old west, and the Mexicali tradition of drinks. It is similar in taste and style to Tequila and even comes complete with a worm in the bottle, the difference is in the brewing. When asked about the worm Toby says, “Well, they say that if you eat the worm you’ll have visions, but I think that if you drink all that liquor and you make it to the bottom of the bottle and to the worm that’s the real reason for the visions.”

Not afraid to express himself and be true to his beliefs he supports our troops with tours yearly, to visit with our men and women on the front lines, bringing them a small part of home and enriching their lives by keeping the heart of our country alive for them through the music that they love. Recently completing his ninth USO Entertainment tour Toby is more than proud to give back to our troops.

For more information on Toby, his tour and the new and exciting Wild Shot please visit www.tobykeith.com

strummag.com · May 26, 2011

Vocal Coach for Nashville Rising Stars

Our voice, the sometimes angelic sound that reverberates when we open our mouth, can be more of a famous signature than a smile or a set of gorgeous eyes. Melissa…

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, May 26, 2011

Our voice, the sometimes angelic sound that reverberates when we open our mouth, can be more of a famous signature than a smile or a set of gorgeous eyes. Melissa Ellen has them all. Voice coach to some of the music and entertainment industries most well known performers she resonates in more ways than one.

Her gifts as a voice coach go well beyond learning scales and doh-ray-me. Her advanced knowledge of how to take care of your vocal cords, how to use diet, exercise and some good old fashion common sense to save your voice from running away from you have saved many a concert show and helped transform many a voice of talented greats by giving them the insider tips on how to protect their voice, make it last longer and sound even stronger.

Melissa is trained, certified and educated in not only teaching but performing. Her studio expertise lends an authentic air to her training and you will be highly impressed as soon as she gives her first instruction.

Great talent comes with hard work and practice and yes, for some it's a natural gift but we all at one time or other need guidance to make that wonderful talent even better and with a veteran of over 18 years experience Melissa Ellen is the one to help make it happen.

A member of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, the Nashville Songwriters Association International, and ASCAP or American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, Melissa Ellen is true to her calling. She is the best of the best.

Melissa taught at Jan Smith Studios in Atlanta GA for many years, and has shared the stage with greats such as Geoff McBride, Caron Wheeler, and Toni Braxton.

She is not only a vocal coach but she is a singer, performer, songwriter, recording artist and music industry business consultant. When I spoke to Melissa she said her goal is to inspire singers and performers to be the best they can be. As a teacher she thrives on helping her students to grow within the industry.

Country music artist Joe Nichols is just one of many artists who trust in Melissa's guidance to help them strengthen and hone in on the techniques to make their voice last through days of touring and performing.

A few of her highly suggested techniques is don't smoke, don't drink alcohol and when the voice is beginning to fade just close your mouth and don't say a word. At all.

Sounds like this little lady knows exactly how to take care of a beautiful instrument that we all share. Our voice.

For more information on Melissa Ellen please visit:

http://melissaellen.com/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Melissa-Ellen-Professional-Vocal-Coach/241486138379

strummag.com · April 8, 2011

The Running Kind: "Old Girl"

The Running Kind is California-based duo that have a unique sound of their own, which they classify as Americana. “Old Girl” is a good example of what they can do,…

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, April 8, 2011

The Running Kind is California-based duo that have a unique sound of their own, which they classify as Americana. “Old Girl” is a good example of what they can do, demonstrating their lyrical strengths and their vocal talents. The melody, particularly the intro music, reminded me of the soundtrack from the spaghetti westerns in the 60s. This may sound like an odd mix, but it sounds greats and works well with the lyrics of the song.

strummag.com · April 8, 2011

Alice: "Troubled Upbringing"

Alice’s “Troubled Upbringing” may not be completely mainstream, but it’s good music nonetheless. It reminds me of classic rock and her voice has a bit of a Stevie…

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, April 8, 2011

Alice’s “Troubled Upbringing” may not be completely mainstream, but it’s good music nonetheless. It reminds me of classic rock and her voice has a bit of a Stevie Nicks feel to it. Her lyrics are good and the music compliments the words nicely.

This is music that is not overly produced and allows the focus to be where it needs to be – on the lyrics and the melody. Alice’s music won’t appeal to everyone but those they like the more Americana type sound will love Alice.

strummag.com · April 6, 2011

Melanie May Wins Strum Magazine Songwriting Contest

Strum Magazine is proud to announce that Melanie May has won the first Strum Magazine Song Contest with her song “Green,” which was co-written by Nashville based…

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, April 6, 2011

Strum Magazine is proud to announce that Melanie May has won the first Strum Magazine Song Contest with her song “Green,” which was co-written by Nashville based producer David Norris. It was not the first time the staff of Strum Magazine had heard the song – May was selected to have the song on a joint digital release of Strum Magazine and UAradio.net in April, 2010. We are delighted that May decided to enter the contest with the song. She was picked as a top 10 finalist in the contest and ultimately selected by Stan Webb, who co-wrote the song “I’m From The Country.” Out of everyone who entered the contest, Webb selected May as the person with whom he’d like to co-write a song.

“Green” is a touching song about a young lady who is in love with a soldier who is serving his country overseas. She is awaiting his return, but terrified something might happen to him. Not only does the song have emotionally wrenching lyrics and a great melody, it is a song many women can relate to with so many American soldiers deployed.

As an independently released single, “Green” has already touched and affected a lot of people. This is evident by the number of people have used the song to make their own videos to a love one currently overseas. You can view the official video for “Green” at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AKKnXHILo00

As a winner of the Strum Magazine Songwriting Contest, May will get to co-write a song with Stan Webb. She will receive a four-day pass for the Nashville Songwriters Festival on Music Row, which will be held June 3-5. May will also be performing at the Nashville Songwriters Festival on Music Row, as well as Pick’s Nashville, The Listening Room Café and a performance at Cadillac Ranch in downtown Nashville during the week of CMA Music Festival. The prize package also a performance on the Billy Block Show, which is broadcast from Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge and airs each Sunday night on 103.3 WKDF. May will also receive a single song publishing contract with Ash Street Music, which has published many songs including “Beer on the Table,” which was made a hit by Josh Thompson.

Travel fees to Nashville are not included in the prize package. May is currently selling t-shirts to help her cover her travel expenses. The shirts can be purchased at http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160568566468

Strum Magazine is currently hosting another songwriting contest. The featured songwriter for this contest is Gary Hannan, who wrote “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off” and “Back When I Knew It All.” The winner will be hand-picked by Hannan and will co-write with him. The rest of the prize package will be the same as the other contest. The deadline to submit is Friday, April 8. Submission can be made through www.sonicbids.com.

strummag.com · April 4, 2011

Greg Symons: "One If By Sea"

Michigan-based songwriter Greg Symons has quite a talent. His lyrics of his songs are well crafted, but the strongest part of his talent is his melody writing.…

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, April 4, 2011

Michigan-based songwriter Greg Symons has quite a talent. His lyrics of his songs are well crafted, but the strongest part of his talent is his melody writing. Symons provided the staff of Strum Magazine a instrumental only track of his song. As I listened to it, I didn't feel like I was sounding to an music track to a song. It sounded like I was listening to a instrumental track that could stand on its own. That's quite a compliment to a writer.

Symons entered the Strum Magazine contest, which gives songwriters the opportunity to win a co-write with a professional songwriter as well as a number of performances in the Nashville area.

strummag.com · March 28, 2011

Frist Center to Celebrate Ten Years of Art and Activity

Music City’s most well-known art museum will celebrate its tenth anniversary this April. On Friday, April 8, the Frist Center for the Visual Arts will commemorate…

By Rick Brown · As published on strummag.com, March 28, 2011

Music City’s most well-known art museum will celebrate its tenth anniversary this April. On Friday, April 8, the Frist Center for the Visual Arts will commemorate its 2001 opening with two days of free admission and an assortment of receptions and art-making activities.

A fixture of Nashville’s artistic community, the Frist is arguably the most popular art museum in Middle Tennessee, and certainly one of its most famous. Created in 2001 as the result of a unique partnership between the Frist Foundation and the City of Nashville, the Frist rapidly established itself as the Music City’s most prominent art museum.

The Frist owes at least part of that success to its location in the heart of Nashville. With over 20,000 square feet of gallery space and renowned Art Deco architecture, the institution has become almost as well known for its building—the former Nashville post office—as its exhibitions.

Those exhibitions, however, are perhaps the Frist’s most notable feature. With no permanent collection, the museum features a diverse array of rotating domestic and international exhibitions. Changing displays every six to eight weeks, the Frist has displayed pieces from an impressive collection of artists over the years, including Dale Chihuly, Georgia O’Keefe, Claude Monet, and Pablo Picasso.

The center has also played a leading role in displaying art from local Middle Tennessee and Southern artists as well, featuring work by Aaron Douglas, Marilyn Murphy, and local art students. The Frist also has a number of community outreach programs, including its own Martin ArtQuest Gallery, a unique creative-activity area with thirty interactive workstations featuring a variety of diverse art forms.

That diversity is reflected in the Frist’s current exhibitions, which feature work from artists as far away as India—and as close as Memphis, Tennessee. “Vishnu, Hinduism’s Blue-Skinned Savior” (Feb. 20-May 29) features more than 170 paintings and sculptures dedicated to the eastern religion’s famous deity, and “William Eggleston: Anointing the Overlooked” (Jan. 21-May 1) highlights an introspective photographer’s look at the seemingly mundane.

The museum will put those exhibits on prime display on Friday, April 8, when the Frist will begin its three-day tenth-anniversary celebration. April 8-9 will see the center open its doors to the public with free admission. Special public events will include a free performance by the Belmont Bluegrass Ensemble on April 8 at 6:00pm, and a day of collaborative art on April 9 as the Frist invites patrons to recreate one of the center’s first community artworks.

The Frist Center for the Visual Arts is located at 919 Broadway Avenue in Nashville. For more information about the museum’s tenth anniversary celebrations, visit http://www.fristcenter.org or contact the Frist at (615) 244-3340.

strummag.com · March 27, 2011

Tin Pan South Starts Tuesday

Songwriters and music fans alike are gearing up for the 19th Annual Tin Pan South Festival, which is put on every year by the Nashville Songwriter Association…

By Rick Amburgey · Photos courtesy of NSAI · As published on strummag.com, March 27, 2011

Songwriters and music fans alike are gearing up for the 19th Annual Tin Pan South Festival, which is put on every year by the Nashville Songwriter Association International (NSAI). The Fast Access Passes sold out quickly, but tickets will still be available to each individual show. The prices of each show vary and they are listed on the web site at www.tinpansouth.com. Fast Access Pass holders are allowed access into the venue first, which also allows them to select their seat first. After all Fast Access pass holders are in, each venue will begin selling tickets until there are no more seats available.

There are nine venues this year. Some of them are the same as last year, but there have also been some changes. The venues include: Belcourt Taps and Tapas, The Bluebird Café, Commodore Grille, Douglas Corner Café, Hard Rock Café Nashville, The Listening Room Café, Puckett’s 5th and Church, The Rutledge Live Music Venue, and The Station Inn. Except for an exception or two, there are two shows each night at each venue.

The festival officially begins on Tuesday. With so many great shows going on at the same time, people are going to have to make hard decisions. The staff of Strum Magazine has watched performances by nearly all of these performers at one time or another. We have put together some suggestions about which shows we recommend. Make sure you check out the schedule and make a decision for yourself. The following summaries are from the Tin Pan South web site.

Tuesday, March 29, Douglas Corner Café 6:00 / $10Gary Hannan, Sam Tate, Kim Tribble, John Wiggins

The songwriting of these skillful song scribes have kick started careers, renewed careers, won awards, taken songs to the top of the charts and entertained and impressed People Like Us – who love songs like these: Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off, Back When I Knew It All, Bring It On, If You’re Going Through Hell, Somebody, Shut Up And Drive, Moments, One In Every Crowd, A Feeling Like That, It’s My Time, Guys Do It All The Time, Anything Goes, Who Are You When I’m Not Looking. . . Tuesday, March 29, The Rutledge 9:00 Steve Wariner, Rick Carnes, Bobby Tomberlin w/ guest Bryan White, special guest

It’s A Good Day To Run straight to this show in an effort to catch these songwriters/artists and their songs – both either written or sung by these gentlemen - while you can: One More Day, She Misses Him On Sunday The Most, Holes In The Floor Of Heaven, Longneck Bottle, All Roads Lead To You, Small Town Girl, I Got Dreams, Some Fools Never Learn. Plus, there’s special guest White and the songs he sang to the top of the charts: Someone Else’s Star, Rebecca Lynn, So Much For Pretending and Sittin’ On Go. Wednesday, March 30, Bluebird Café 6:00 / $12 Storytelling Tom T. Hall, Eric Brace, Peter Cooper

Grammy-winning Country balladeer/storyteller Hall is a lyrical genius and a living legend. He has had 11 songs reach #1 – a small sampling of those classics include: DJ For A Day, Harper Valley PTA, A Week In County Jail, I Love, Country Is, I Care, Faster Horses. . . Tonight he will be joined by song scribes Brace (of Last Train Home) and Cooper (journalist, songwriter, author). Brace and Cooper often collaborate – prime examples include their joint efforts You Don’t Have To Like Them Both and Master Sessions. It will be interesting and exciting to see what happens when Brace and Cooper collaborate with hero Hall at the legendary Bluebird. Wednesday, March 30, Bluebird Café 9:00 / $12Pat Alger, Tony Arata, Craig Fuller, Jon Vezner

A round of career-making songwriters and artists! Recent Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Alger wrote some of Garth Brooks’ biggest hits: The Thunder Rolls, Unanswered Prayers, That Summer, What She’s Doing Now. Arata also contributed The Dance to Garth’s catalogue, as well as Here I Am, Holding My Own, Sing You Back To Me, The Change for other artists. Vezner scored a Grammy for writing the Kathy Mattea hit Where’ve You Been. He also penned: Whole Lotta Holes, A Few Good Things Remain, Then What. Fuller has had quite a career – he co-founded Pure Prairie League, wrote their monster Aime and was at one time or another in both American Flyer and Little Feat. Without these guys, the face of Country music would look a lot different than it does today.

Thursday, March 31, Puckett's Grocery 6:00 PM

Richie McDonald, Billy Montana, Frank Myers, Eddy Raven / Jimmy Nichols (accompanist)

These guys write the songs that make stars: Everything’s Changed, Amazed, No News, I’m Already There, My Front Porch Looking In, Mr. Mom, Bring On The Rain, Suds In The Bucket, More Than A Memory, Not Me, I Swear, Once In A Lifetime, You And I, I Got Mexico, Shine Shine Shine, Bayou Boys, In A Letter To You, Joe Knows How To Love, I’m Gonna Get You

. .

photo by Bev Moser

Thursday, March 31, Hard Rock Cafe 9:00

Steve Cropper, Jeffrey Steele & Band

Cropper is one of the newest members of the Songwriters Hall of Fame. He was inducted in October 2010 and with good reason. His classic songs have been covered more times than most: (Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay, In The Midnight Hour, Green Onions, Knock on Wood, See Saw, 634-5789 (Soulsville, USA), Time Is Tight. . . Prior to his songwriting contributions, Cropper was the go-to guitarist for Stax Records in Memphis. He contributed to recordings by Sam & Dave, Carla Thomas, Eddie Floyd, Johnnie Taylor, Rufus Thomas, Wilson Pickett and Otis Redding and he was a member of both The Mar-Keys and Booker T. & The MGs – the latter has been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Cropper is joined by fan favorite Steele (These Days, My Town, Chrome, Speed, Gone, What Hurts The Most, Everytime I Hear Your Name, My Wish, Me And My Gang, Brand New Girlfriend) and his band. With songs like these, perhaps it won’t be long before Steele is inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, too.

Friday, April 1, The Listening Room 6:30 / $8 Hillbilly Philosophers

Tommy Barnes, Randy Boudreaux, Amanda Williams, Kim Williams

The aptly titled Hillbilly Philosophers are here to share with you their thoughts, and oftentimes hit songs, about love, outlaws, family, hardship, good times, bad times, life and how to live it: Indian Outlaw, Man To Man, My Love, I Fell, Better Way, All Over Town, Brokenheartsville, One Day Let To Love, Girls Of Summer, Beer Run, Ain’t Going Down Till The Sun Comes Up, Papa Loved Mama, Stranger In My Mirror, Three Wooden Crosses, All Of Me Loves All Of You, While You Loved Me, Pickin’ Wildflowers. . . They seem to know what they’re writing/singing about, so take notes!

Friday, April 1, Station Inn 9:30 / $10

Eddie Heinzelman, Tammy Cochran, Julie Roberts, Billy Yates

We know you have many Choices when it comes to which of the Tin Pan South shows you will go to tonight. May we suggest this one? Singers, songwriters, artists, guitarists . . . it’s got it all, especially when it comes to the songs: Friendship On Fire, She’s Water, Angels In Waiting, If You Can, So What, I Cry, Love Won’t Let Me, Breakdown Here, The Chance, Wake Up Older, Men And Mascara, I Don’t Need Your Rocking Chair, Honky Tonk Song, Turn For The Worst, These Days. . .

Saturday, April 2, Hard Rock Cafe 6:30 / $10Bob DiPiero & The Floating Stones

Hall of Fame songwriter Bob DiPiero (Southern Voice, You Can’t Take the Honky Tonk Out Of the Girl, Worlds Apart,Blue Clear Sky, Daddy's Money, Wink, American Made) rocks the Rock with his band, The Floating Stones – don’t miss!

Saturday, April 2, The Rutledge 9:30 / $20

Blue Sky Riders

Gary Burr, Kenny Loggins, Georgia Middleman

These hit songwriters and artists have united to create a most interesting side project – Blue Sky Riders. The BSRs are comprised of award-winning, hit songwriters Burr (In A Week Or Two, What Mattered Most, Sure Love, I Try To Think About Elvis, Till You Love Me, Nothin’ ‘Bout Love Makes Sense) and Middleman (I’m In, Dearly Beloved, It’s All How You Look At It, Table 32) and Grammy-winner Loggins (What A Fool Believes, This Is It, Footloose, Danger Zone, I’m Alright, Danny’s Song) of Loggins & Messina fame. The mysterious BSRs do not yet have a website, so it’s anybody’s guess as to just what they’ve been up to and just what they’ll sound like (though we’d wager they’ll sound freakin’fantastic – with those voices how could they not?) when they debut at TPS.

strummag.com · January 23, 2011

It Is a Little Odd on Printers Alley

“You leave little notes on my pillow. Told you a-hundred-fifty-eight times I cannot stand little notes on my pillow. "We are all out of cornflakes. F.U." Took me…

By Krys Midgett · As published on strummag.com, January 23, 2011

“You leave little notes on my pillow. Told you a-hundred-fifty-eight times I cannot stand little notes on my pillow. "We are all out of cornflakes. F.U." Took me three hours to figure out "F.U." was Felix Ungar.”

Ahh! Neil Simon's The Odd Couple just started at The Nashville Dinner Theatre. Simon wrote this Broadway comedy in 1964. It had a long run on Broadway and inspired the Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau movie in 1968. That led into a television series that ran from 1970 to 1975 starring Tony Randall and Jack Klugman. The Odd Couple is a standard for most theatre groups, with several well-known actors playing the leads over the years. The performance at The Nashville Dinner Theatre is no exception. Richard Moll is playing Oscar Madison and Patrick Kramer plays Felix. Moll is best known for his character 'Bull' on the sitcom 'Night Court' which ran from 1984 to 1992. Along with Moll; Harry Anderson, John Larroquette and Markie Post starred in the series about the night shift in a Manhattan court and the hilarious antics that insued. Another big addition to the cast is Jaime Dudney. She played Georgia Tucker in As The World Turns in 1998, was Miss Tennessee Teen USA in 1993. She is the daughter of Country Music Superstar Barbara Mandrell and Nashville Businessman Ken Dudney and represents The Fontanel for events and tours. The Odd Couple is being directed by Kaine Riggan and Joyce DeWitt (Janet from Three's Company fame). The performances are from January 21st to March 5th, every Wednesday through Sunday. Dinner starts at 6 and the show starts at 7:15 on Wednesday through Saturday. Sunday is a matinee and begins at 1pm for dinner and the show starts at 2:15. The performance is being sponsored by Hotel Indigo. This is the second show for the newest dinner theatre in Nashville. It is located on Printer's Alley, just a few blocks from Broadway. The dinner being served before the performance is a chicken and steak combo, made in house. Desserts can be ordered for an additional charge during intermission. Riggan wrote his first play in play in 2004. “Could it be love?” starred Helen Cornelius and Jeannie Seely. It was performed at the Donelson Senior Center. He plans to bring it to the Nashville Dinner Theatre in the future. The first performance was the Kaine Riggan original 'Scattered, Smothered, And Covered Christmas starring Joyce DeWitt last month. Along with the help of good friends, Riggan transformed the amazing 1880s building into the next big dinner theatre in only four weeks. The floors were done by Concrete Mystique. The Phantom Of The Opera artwork on the bottom floor is amazing. “At noon on opening day it looked like we were not going to be finished but we pulled it together before opening,” said Riggan. The building, located on historic Printers Alley in Nashville, TN, has been anything from an 1880s brothel to a Model T Dealership. In 1975, Boots Randolph turned the building into a Supper Club. There is a great deal of history surrounding this building. The ambiance of the venue is wonderful. Big things are in the works. Go to www.nashvilledinnertheatre.com to see the schedule and order tickets. Volunteer positions are available. The perks to volunteering is free tickets, lots of fun and never a dull moment.

strummag.com · January 11, 2011

Ripped Off? Should the Bellamy Brothers Hold That Against Britney Spears?

Listen closely to the lyrics of the new Britney Spears single and then to the 1979 Bellamy Brothers hit 'If I said You Had A Beautiful Body would you hold it…

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, January 11, 2011

Listen closely to the lyrics of the new Britney Spears single and then to the 1979 Bellamy Brothers hit 'If I said You Had A Beautiful Body would you hold it against me'.

According to a statement released today, Spears' new single 'Hold It Against Me" struck a familiar chord with David and Howard Bellamy of the Bellamy Brothers. The song was brought to their attention when the YouTube video for their 1979 hit “If I Said You Had A Beautiful Body, Would You Hold It Against Me” received over 270 thousand views overnight.

“Back in 1979, I wrote a little song called ‘If I Said You Had A Beautiful Body, Would You Hold It Against Me,’” recalls David Bellamy. “That little song went #1 and has since become one of the defining songs of our career. If you listen to the lyrics of Britney Spears’ new single, ‘Hold It Against Me,’ you’ll find some major similarities.”

Discussion boards on sites such as PerezHilton.com and EW.com had visitors making the comparison and calling the song a rip-off. The visitors were leaving comments like "Bellamy Brothers rip-off" and "the Bellamy Brothers used the same lyrical hook in 1979."

“Howard and I have no personal beef with Britney. She’s a talented gal. But professionally, well, in all honesty, we feel completely ripped off. Where's the originality?" says David Bellamy.

Howard Bellamy comments, "Hey Brit... If I said you ripped off our song, would you hold it against me? Thanks."

Spears’ latest single was leaked on the internet Monday and officially released Tuesday.

In 1979, the Bellamy Brothers' "If I Said You Had A Beautiful Body, Would You Hold It Against Me," was named 'Record of the Year' by the United Kingdom.

Throughout their 30+ year career, the Bellamy Brothers have charted 14 #1 Hits on the US country and pop music charts. The brothers are still riding high. This week, their Anthology Volume 1, hit #1 on the Norwegian Music Charts and last fall, the brothers spent 7 weeks at #1 on the Swiss Music Charts with their Bellamy Brothers & Gola: The Greatest Hits Sessions. The album recently went double-platinum in Switzerland. This May, the Bellamy Brothers are celebrating 35 years since the release of their first #1 Hit, "Let Your Love Flow," and in conjunction, will release Bellamy Brothers: Greatest Hits Volume 1 this spring.For more information on the Bellamy Brothers, visit www.bellamybrothers.com.

strummag.com · January 11, 2011

Ladysmith Black Mambazo to Perform at Schermerhorn Symphony Center on March 14

NASHVILLE, TN. (January 11, 2011) Nashville Symphony is pleased to announce that Ladysmith Black Mambazo will perform at Schermerhorn Symphony Center on Monday,…

Press release · Article and photo courtesy of the Nashville Symphony · As published on strummag.com, January 11, 2011

NASHVILLE, TN. (January 11, 2011) Nashville Symphony is pleased to announce that Ladysmith Black Mambazo will perform at Schermerhorn Symphony Center on Monday, March 14 at 7 p.m. Tickets will go on sale to the public Friday, January 14, at 10 a.m. This concert will be presented without orchestra. Known for melding South African harmonies and rhythms with the sound and soul of gospel music, the group formed more than 40 years ago. They took their name by combining Ladysmith, director Joseph Shabalala’s hometown; the color black, which symbolizes the strength of a black oxen; and the Zulu word mambazo, which means ax. The group’s sound is based on traditional music called isicathamiya (is-cot-a-ME-Ya), created by workers in the mines of South Africa. Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s harmonies were so tight and their performances so professional that during their early years they were banned from local competitions. For the past 25 years, they have circled the globe with their uplifting and energetic concerts.Ladysmith Black Mambazo were instrumental in Paul Simon’s 1986 album

Graceland and in the years since have since recorded with Dolly Parton, Stevie Wonder, Emmylou Harris, among many others. Their voices have been heard on the soundtrack of such films as Disney’s The Lion King, Coming to America, A Dry White Season and Cry the Beloved Country, starring James Earl Jones. Continuing to sing and record, the group will release a trilogy of CDs in 2011 that share their life experiences. Volume one is titled Songs From a Zulu Farm and will be released this month. Tickets for Ladysmith Black Mambazo’s performance at Schermerhorn Symphony Center will be available online at NashvilleSymphony.org or by phone at 615.687.6400.

♦♦♦♦

The GRAMMY® Award-winning Nashville Symphony has a growing international reputation for its recordings and innovative programming. With 140 performances annually, the 83-member orchestra is an arts leader in Nashville and beyond, offering a broad range of classical, pops and jazz concerts, special events, children’s concerts and community engagement programs. As a national and international ambassador for the citizens of Tennessee, the Nashville Symphony has received far-reaching acclaim for its 18 recordings on Naxos, making the ensemble one of the most active recording orchestras in the country. These recordings have received fifteen total GRAMMY® nominations.

strummag.com · October 12, 2010

Gary Hannan Is Enjoying Nashville Success

Gary Hannan has made a name for himself in the last few years in Nashville. “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off” and “Back When I Knew It All” were some of his…

By Rick Amburgey · As published on strummag.com, October 12, 2010

Gary Hannan has made a name for himself in the last few years in Nashville. “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off” and “Back When I Knew It All” were some of his biggest co-writes, so far. He has co-written with some of the biggest names in the business and “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off” has been played on the radio more than a million times. Cartoonist Guy Gilchrist paid homage to Hannan in his nationally syndicated “Nancy” comic strip.

He’s definitely come a long way. Halfway around the world, to be exact. He is from Africa and lived in the country now known as Zimbabwe. Hannan explained that there wasn’t anywhere like Nashville in his home country. Still, his mother believed in him and she knew that would find success with his music.

Unfortunately, Hannan’s mother passed away before he had a chance to find success in Nashville. He said if he had the power of God, he would bring his mom back so she could see what he’s been able to accomplish. She never saw him successful as a songwriter, and he regrets that because she was the one that always believed in him.

Besides his mother, one influence he has had since childhood was Johnny Cash. “I really enjoyed the simplistic yet profound lyrical content of his songs,” Hannan said. Those songs led him to pick up his guitar and start writing.

Hannan moved to the United States 21 years ago and became an American Citizen. Then, one day his love for golf helped him get his break in Nashville. Hannan explained that he was playing golf, there were two men playing in front of him, and they didn’t let him through, so he decided to hit the ball between them. Afterwards, the men asked Hannan if he wanted to play through or join them. He decided to join them and revealed that he was a songwriter. It turned out the men both worked for a record label and invited him to come to Nashville. “That’s how I got my publishing deal,” Hannan said.

Hannan’s first big hit came when he co-wrote “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off.” Hannan recalled that it was a phrase he heard when he was in the army. He served in the army in Rhodesia and later in the South African Special Forces. “It’s been around since the first world war, that expression. I just happened to be a co-writer on that song.”

The overwhelming success of that song and the success of “Back When I Knew It All” a few years later did not change Hannan. He still helps songwriters who haven’t had their big break yet. He even started “Beer For Breakfast” in 2010. The weekly event at Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge brought established songwriters and up-and-coming writers together. The show often featured jam sessions between hit songwriters and less known writers.

Hannan explained that all songwriters are equal in his eyes. “I’ve never believed that one songwriter is better or more important than another because they have success,” he said.

Aside from helping aspiring songwriters, Hannan has a strong passion for working with homeless veterans.

Although Hannan has been writing nearly all of his life, he just recently started performing in public. In fact his first public performance was only three years ago at 12th and Porter. That performance was part of Tin Pan South, an annual festival sponsored by NSAI that features performances by numerous songwriters throughout the week. Watch for him at events around Nashville. For more info on Gary Hannan go to http://www.garyhannan.net/.

strummag.com · June 8, 2010

The Journey: Frank Myers

Songwriter Frank Myers is no stranger to success, but the journey to his many awards and accolades hasn’t been easy. It has been through hard work and faith that…

By Amelia Tritico · Photo courtesy of frankmyersmusic.com · As published on strummag.com, June 8, 2010

Songwriter Frank Myers is no stranger to success, but the journey to his many awards and accolades hasn’t been easy. It has been through hard work and faith that Myers has risen to his impressive songwriter status in Nashville, Tenn. Myers got involved in music at the tender age of 9, learning to play the guitar and jamming with his musical family in Dayton, Ohio. In 1981, he decided that if he wanted to make a career out of music and songwriting, he needed to be where the action was: Nashville, Tenn.

Upon moving to Nashville, Myers was hired as the lead guitarist for artist Eddy Raven and eventually became a bandleader and road manager. He also began to co-write with Raven, and thus began his songwriting career.

“I didn’t really take songwriting seriously until I moved to Nashville,” Myers said. “I had played around with adding melodies to lyrics I had written, but didn’t get serious about it until I started co-writing with Eddy Raven.”

Since then, Myers has amassed hundreds of songs in several different catalogs and has written or co-written several number 1 hits. Included in these hits are “I Swear,” co-written with songwriter Gary Baker and recorded by artist John Michael Montgomery, and “You and I,” recorded by Eddie Rabbit and Crystal Gayle.

“You and I,” holds a special place in Myers’ heart. He wrote it around the time that he and his wife first moved to Nashville, and he wasn’t making very much money.

“My wife was working second shift, we had one car, and I just wasn’t making much money yet. She was starting to get discouraged, so one day I took her to work, came home and wrote ‘You and I.’ I played it for her when she got home, and she just started crying,” Myers said.

Throughout the years, along with his supportive wife, Myers has used his faith to keep moving forward. He uses one of the choruses from a song he co-wrote called “Faith” to describe how he tries to live his life.

“Faith gives you hope

Hope gives you strength

Strength gives you courage to go on each day

When you’re praying for answers

To things you can’t change

When it’s out of your hands

You hold on to faith.”

(Faith (2007), Myers/Eustice/McDonald)

Myers has overcome many obstacles since moving to Nashville and understands the ins and outs of the songwriting business. He’s seen the industry undergo many changes and knows how important it is to keep networking and putting his name out there in order to stay in the game.

His advice to up and coming songwriters: “Read, supply the knowledge you need to write songs, and write songs everyday. Write whether or not you feel like you’re inspired to write because sometimes you have to create the inspiration. You have to write a lot of really bad songs to get to the good ones, and you have to write a lot of good songs in order to get to the great ones. It’s all just a process.”

Myers recently co-wrote and produced a song on Kenny Loggins’ Target project and continues to write and stay involved in the Nashville songwriting scene. For more information on Frank Myers, check out www.frankmyersmusic.com.

strummag.com · June 3, 2010

People Helping Each Other: Art Crawl

Every month Downtown Nashville hosts the First Saturday Art Crawl, an event where the galleries on the Fifth Avenue of the Arts and in the Arcade showcase their…

By Christopher Merchant · Photo by Aaron Garyum · As published on strummag.com, June 3, 2010

Every month Downtown Nashville hosts the First Saturday Art Crawl, an event where the galleries on the Fifth Avenue of the Arts and in the Arcade showcase their latest exhibits as part of one large, coordinated show.

On the first Saturday of May, though, the torrential storms that contributed to the catastrophic flooding in Nashville caused most of the galleries to close shop, and the crawl was canceled.That didn’t stop Nashvillians from coming out to see the new exhibits, said Sera Davis, owner and advisor at Davis Art Advisory.

“The night of the storms, the Fifth Avenue galleries closed, but a lot of people came to the Arcade galleries,” Davis said. “We sold things, and got a sense that the Nashville community is really resilient.”

It was after this, Davis said, that the galleries decided to organize a benefit for victims of the Nashville flood.

“You can’t separate art and philanthropy,” Tonia Trotter, director at The Rymer Gallery on Fifth Avenue, said. “We all had someone we knew that was affected by the flooding – we couldn’t not do something.”

Trotter said that she and one of her interns began thinking about a name and logo for a benefit for the flood victims, and when they talked to the other gallery staff in the area, everyone agreed that a simple rescheduling of the art crawl was not enough.

“After what had happened, it didn’t seem right to just have a party,” Trotter said.

The gallery community agreed to have a special opening, entitled We Art Nashville, on Friday, May 21, to provide art crawl regulars and others an opportunity to make donations to The Community Foundation’s flood relief effort.

“The galleries downtown already work collaboratively anyway,” Susan Tinney, of Tinney Contemporary, said, “so we got together to give back to the community as an art group, not as individual galleries.”

Outside of the galleries, there were booths set up where attendees could make a suggested contribution of $10 for a red We Art Nashville wristband, which would allow them free access to all of the galleries and to the Frist Center for the Visual Arts.

In addition, the wristbands granted customers a ten-percent discount on all purchases that night, and the galleries plan to continue offering special incentives to wristband purchasers throughout the summer, Davis said.

In a strange coincidence, many of the pieces in various exhibits that were originally intended to be presented at the first Saturday art crawl had a theme of natural disasters and flooding.

For instance, Jonathan Ferrera, an artist from New Orleans, was showing a series of his work entitled “Rising” at The Rymer Gallery. The project, which was a response to Hurricane Katrina, represents water flowing over a section of walls, and is composed of dust from the broken levee and silt from the floodwaters.

“The work was eerily timely,” Trotter said.

Sisavanh Phouthavong and Jarrod Houghton, who are married and teach at Middle Tennessee State University, presented their series on natural disasters, entitled “Pin Pieces,” at Tinney Contemporary.

The works were composed of five cast-aluminum branches with small parts of aerial maps pinned to the structure. The map fragments were sections of Haiti, Chile, China, Iceland, and New Orleans where natural disasters have recently occurred.

“The work was unplanned,” Tinney said. “It shows how connected we are to our environment, to our world, to each other.”

One piece, though, was directly inspired by the flooding in Nashville. Herb William’s “Manifest Equality” is a piece of salvaged wood that was painted to represent water, Trotter said.

In addition, Blend Studio is planning to have a flood-themed opening sometime in the near future. Other shows are also being planned. The art-crawl galleries are cooperating with Retune Nashville, an organization salvaging flood-damaged instruments and musical equipment and repurposing them into artwork. Sales of the pieces will be used to provide for displaced musicians in Nashville.

Other opening benefits are also in the works.

“We knew we had a limited time to put together an event,” Trotter said. “Now we are talking with the other galleries about doing another [benefit.]”

While an exact count of the funds earned had not yet been reported, all of the gallery staff agreed that We Art Nashville was a special event.

"That's what Nashville is about - people helping each other," Tinney said. "It makes you proud to live here."

strummag.com · April 7, 2010

Comedy and Romance Are Alive in Nashville: Shakespeare in the Park

For where is any author in the world Teaches such beauty as a woman's eye? Learning is but an adjunct to ourself. Love's Labour's Lost, 4. 3

By Rachael Herron · Photos by Rick Malkin, courtesy of Nashville Shakes · As published on strummag.com, April 7, 2010

For where is any author in the world Teaches such beauty as a woman's eye? Learning is but an adjunct to ourself. Love's Labour's Lost, 4. 3

Love’s Labour’s Lost, will be performed every weekend at Shakespeare in the Park. Denice Hicks is directing this year’s production.

“Love’s Labor’s Lost is a very silly, frivolous, extremely romantic comedy. I see it as a play about the “birds and the bees,” so consequently we’re going to have some fun creating some stylized movement based on the courtship rituals of birds,” says Hicks.

Shakespeare in the Park, this year held August 19-September 12, doesn’t just honor Shakespeare once a year. Throughout the year, the organization puts on productions, and has readings through their program Shakespeare Allowed.

The most recent production, The Tempest, was held at the Trout Theatre at Belmont University in January. Claire Syler directed this wonderful winter production.

The Tempest is Shakespeare’s magical tale of old enemies and young lovers, timeless folly and enduring wisdom. Their performance received rave reviews from local media outlets.

Shakespeare in the Park, this year held August 19-September 12, doesn’t just honor Shakespeare once a year. Throughout the year, the organization puts on productions, and has readings through their program Shakespeare Allowed.

The Nashville Shakespeare Festival's production of The Tempest is part of Shakespeare for a New Generation, a national initiative sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts in cooperation with Arts Midwest and supported by grants from the Tennessee Arts Commission and The Metro Arts Commission.

This organization also hosts a reading of a different play each month called Shakespeare Allowed. They will be reading every play in the order they were written. Plays are read on the first Saturday of every month at the Nashville downtown Public Library and the third Saturday of the month at the Brentwood Public Library. So bring your swords, old English accent, scandal, a copy of the script and join in on the reading. And yes, nerdiness is allowed.

To find out more about Shakespeare Allowed and Shakespeare in the Park go to www.nashvilleshakes.org.

strummag.com · April 1, 2010

What a Ride: Casey Kelly

If life is a journey, Casey Kelly’s music career has been one awesome ride. The trip has included things like being a founding member of one of the South's most…

By Rick Amburgey · As published on strummag.com, April 1, 2010

If life is a journey, Casey Kelly’s music career has been one awesome ride. The trip has included things like being a founding member of one of the South's most iconic bands, and writing dozens and dozens of songs for artists in various genres of music.

Kelly explained when he was 18; all he wanted to do was play and sing. He wasn't satisfied with just playing occasionally. He wanted the opportunity to play with more experienced performers at more high-profile clubs. Kelly was given a chance to do that when he received a phone call to fill in for a band member that was under the weather. During the show, the band played covers of popular groups such as the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. He said the crowd went wild and described the show as "four hours of magic."

Kelly went back to the club the following night when the guitar player was feeling better and ready to play. The band called Kelly up after about five songs and they finished the night together. "We played the next weekend; this time with two of the other players I'd stood in awe of and watched for years, Duke Bardwell and Tommy Miceli. They played mostly South Louisiana R&B standards, and I played those with them and took an occasional turn at the mic singing early English rock material," he said.

Within a couple of weekends, they weren't only playing to a packed house, but also a packed parking lot. "You couldn't get near the place," Kelly said. They formed a band, the Greek Fountains. "I had gone from playing in my garage, to fronting the most popular and well paid band in the south."

The Greek Fountains gave Kelly his first real musical success, but he says music has influenced him all of his life. He started listening to the radio and watching Disney productions when he was very young. He cites early rock artists such as Elvis, Buddy Holly and the Everly Brothers as being some of his musical influenced. He added the R&B artists of New Orleans, such as Ernie K. Doe and Benny Spellman, also influenced him. "When the Beatles came along, I was hugely moved by their music as was everyone else. Later influences were Jackson Browne, James Taylor, and Joni Mitchell."

Kelly said probably the first song he ever wrote was a song about a hippopotamus, which he wrote with a friend on the way back from a class trip in the fourth grade.

After leaving Baton Rouge, Kelly moved to New York City and worked for Shelby Singleton, who Kelly credits with opening many doors for him. In New York, Kelly was part of Singleton's production team. He played on the records, led the sessions, sang background vocals and helped with mixing. "In the office, I was the one who listened to songs that were being pitched to the publishing company," Kelly said. "Hearing what other writers are pitching can tell you a lot. I started offering some advice when I felt I knew what would improve a songs chance of being accepted by our company."

It wasn't long before Kelly was doing sessions and playing guitar on other people's records. He started trying to pitch some of his songs and discovered how difficult of a process it was. "But still, it was quite a learning experience. Most of all, I was writing every day and with people of very different methods and musical background to me."

Kelly later moved to Los Angeles, where he continued to learn from artists and producers about music. He went on the road with Tom Rush playing guitar. Joe Wissert signed him to Warner Brothers Records and he met people such as Randy Newman and Harry Nilsson. "It was a magical time for me and I soaked up everything I could. I moved on to A&M Records with a deal that they would co-publish anything I wrote and recorded," he said. Kelly recorded two albums for Elektra and went on tour opening shows for Loggins & Messina.

Around 1975, Kelly was working for Phil Everly, who suggested he pursue trying to get his songs recorded in Nashville. He signed with House of Gold Music Publishing Company and found out he had already had cuts in Nashville and he had even received ASCAP awards, but was unaware of it. "Phil was right," he said. "Many of my songs were well-suited for the country music market and with Bob Montgomery pitching them I had many cuts right away."

Kelly explains about songwriting that he always wrote a song how it came to mind. “If I had an idea that seemed like a country song, I wrote it that way. When I was playing with the Fountains, we played whatever we liked, especially if it was on the radio," he said. Buck Owens' song, "Waitin' In The Welfare Line" was on the pop charts and the Fountains played it in their shows. "These days, my opportunities are for country music cuts, but if I get a rock idea, that's the way I write it."

Kelly says that writers always hope a song will do well. They hope the publisher will like it, the artist they think it is perfect for will put it on hold and then record it, and later release the song as a single. "But it's just asking for heartbreak and disappointment to 'expect' it to do anything," he said.

Kelly has had more than a few songs that took off and became huge hits. He said one of his favorites is "The Cowboy Rides Away," which was recorded by George Strait, as well as other artists. "’The Cowboy Rides Away’ has done very well for Sonny Throckmorton and me. That always felt like something really special and I've received many important and rewarding compliments on it," he said. He had to add some other songs as favorites as well, including "Soon," "That Road Not Taken," "Somewhere Down the Line," "Let Me Sing for You" and "Anyone Who Isn't Me Tonight." "Soon" and "Anyone Who Isn't Me Tonight" were nominated for Grammy awards.

These days, Kelly is working with artist Leslie Ellis. "She says I've been writing songs for her for years and I just didn't know it. She has tremendous energy, a fantastic voice and a Grammy Award for singing on "My Heart Will Go On" with Celine Dion," explains Kelly. She is a also a writer and they are working on some of her songs along with his own. They recently demoed a song that makes him feel the way "The Cowboy Rides Away" did when it was new.

Kelly said writing is one of those things that everyone can do, but very few can do well. He wishes the music industry could do more to recognize the true masters of art instead of applying what he calls the McDonald's rating system to today's songs and their creators. "Judging the quality of songs and the craftsmanship of the writers who created them on the basis of the number of units sold is to me the same as declaring the hamburgers at the Golden Arches the finest food ever conceived or prepared. The height of the Culinary Art. Billions sold!"

Although he would like to see that happen, he isn't sure how they would do it - whether they would pick a panel or do it in some other way. "But please can't we find a way to reward the best, most moving, truly original, etc... examples of the musical and lyrical arts and not just assign those qualities to the most sold."

In his career, he has played for just about all charities at one time or another. "I try to do anything I can to help with Diabetes research or programs," he said. He is also supporting of Hospice, and adds the people at Hospice do a fantastic job that necessary without very much support.

strummag.com · February 17, 2010

Mamma Mia! at TPAC March 2–7

MAMMA MIA! WALKS DOWN THE AISLE OF THE TENNESSEE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER!

Press release (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, February 17, 2010

MAMMA MIA! WALKS DOWN THE AISLE OF THE TENNESSEE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER!

THE GLOBAL SMASH HIT WILL RETURN FOR ONE WEEK ONLY!

Performance dates: March 2-7, 2010, Andrew Jackson Hall Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC), 505 Deaderick Street, Nashville

Performance times: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; 8:00 p.m. Friday; 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Saturday; 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sunday

Tickets: $26-71 for single tickets, depending on seat locations. Tickets available at www.tpac.org/mammamia, by calling 615/782-4040, or by visiting TPAC Box Office locations (Downtown and at Davis-Kidd Booksellers in The Mall at Green Hills) Web sites: www.tpac.org/mammamia; www.mamma-mia.com

Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus’ MAMMA MIA!, the smash hit musical based on the songs of ABBA, returns to the Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s Andrew Jackson Hall, March 2-7, 2010, as part of HCA/TriStar Broadway at TPAC.

Tickets to MAMMA MIA! are on sale now, and range from $26-71, depending upon performance time and seat locations. For tickets, visit www.tpac.org/mammamia, call 615/782-4040, or visit the TPAC Box Office (Downtown or at Davis-Kidd Booksellers in The Mall at Green Hills). For groups of 15 or more, contact TPAC Group Sales at 615/782-4060 or groups@tpac.org. Seen by over 40 million people around the world, Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus’ global smash hit musical MAMMA MIA! is celebrating seven sold-out years at the Winter Garden Theatre on Broadway, and currently is playing a record-breaking engagement on its National Tour in the United States. The original West End production has played more than 4,000 performances, an international tour has played in more than 40 foreign cities, and the blockbuster feature film adaptation, produced by Judy Craymer and Gary Goetzman, is the most successful movie musical of all time grossing $600 million worldwide.

“The show that’s about a walk down the aisle – and leads to audiences dancing in the aisles – is back by very popular demand,” said Kathleen O’Brien, TPAC’s president and CEO. MAMMA MIA! is all about feel good fun, and it makes a great outing for everything from girls’ night to date night. It’s nearly impossible to not have a good time at this performance, which is why audiences keep coming back. If you haven’t yet experienced MAMMA MIA!, take a chance and see.”

An independent, single mother who owns a small hotel on an idyllic Greek island, Donna is about to let go of Sophie, the spirited daughter she has raised alone. For Sophie’s wedding, Donna has invited her two lifelong best girlfriends—practical and no-nonsense Rosie and wealthy, multi-divorcee Tanya - from her one-time backing band, Donna and the Dynamos. But Sophie has secretly invited three guests of her own.On a quest to find the identity of her father to walk her down the aisle, she brings back three men from Donna’s past to the Mediterranean paradise they visited 20 years earlier. Over 24 chaotic, magical hours, new love will bloom and old romances will be rekindled on this lush island full of possibilities.

Inspired by the storytelling magic of ABBA’s songs from “Dancing Queen” and “S.O.S.” to “Money, Money, Money” and “Take a Chance on Me,” MAMMA MIA! is a celebration of mothers and daughters, old friends and new family found. Produced by Judy Craymer, Richard East and Björn Ulvaeus for Littlestar in association with Universal, the creative team responsible for bringing MAMMA MIA! to theatrical life includes some of the most gifted and celebrated talents of musical theatre and opera.

With music and lyrics by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, MAMMA MIA! is written by Catherine Johnson and directed by Phyllida Lloyd. MAMMA MIA! has choreography by Anthony Van Laast, production design by Mark Thompson, lighting design by Howard Harrison, sound design by Andrew Bruce and Bobby Aitken, and musical supervision, additional material and arrangements by Martin Koch.

The special edition cast recording of MAMMA MIA! is available on Decca Broadway. For information about MAMMA MIA! around the world, go to www.mamma-mia.com. This performance of MAMMA MIA! is an HCA/TriStar Broadway at TPAC special performance.

Institutional sponsors for TPAC include American Airlines and Coca-Cola. Nissan North America, Inc. is a Sustaining Partner for TPAC. Media sponsors for MAMMA MIA! are the Tennessean, WJXA Mix 92.9, and WSMV Channel 4.

The Tennessee Performing Arts Center is a private, non-profit corporation dedicated to providing and supporting the presentation of the performing arts to the citizens of Tennessee. Its four stages are home to Broadway in Nashville at TPAC, Nashville Ballet, Nashville Opera, Tennessee Repertory Theatre and a variety of special engagements. TPAC administers one of the largest and most comprehensive arts-in-education programs in the United States, offering learning opportunities for children and adults. The organization has served more than 1.5 million students from pre-school to high school over the past two decades. For more information, visit the web site, www.tpac.org

strummag.com · February 9, 2010

Art and Mythology at The Frist

The Frist Center continues that is being called “the most ambitious exhibition schedule yet” with “Masterpieces of European Painting from Museo de Arte de Ponce.”…

By Rick Amburgey · Photo courtesy of The Frist · As published on strummag.com, February 9, 2010

The Frist Center continues that is being called “the most ambitious exhibition schedule yet” with “Masterpieces of European Painting from Museo de Arte de Ponce.” This second major exhibit of 2010 is expected to continue to wow visitors and bring in record numbers beginning Feb. 19. “Undoubtedly, 2010 will be a benchmark year for the Frist Center and for Middle Tennessee,” says Frist Center Executive Director Susan H. Edwards, Ph.D. “It really is a magnificent lineup of exhibitions.

The next unique exhibit brings works from Puerto Rico’s Museo de Arte de Ponce to Nashville. The exhibit has spectacular significant as Museo de Arte de Ponce houses on of the world’s best collections of Western art.

Museo de Arte de Ponce opened on Jan. 3, 1959 in Ponce Puerto Rico. The museum was founded by Luis Ferre, a governor and philanthropist in Puerto Rico, for the people of Puerto Rico to enjoy. Now, exhibits travel around the world for many people to enjoy. Collections are currently visiting 11 cities throughout the world In addition to Nashville, collections from Museo de Arte de Ponce are also visiting cities such as Memphis, Phoenix, Monterrey, Bogata, Buenos Aires, London and Madrid.

It contains a number of pieces from the Italian Baroque period Among the 60 paintings that will be in Nashville will be “La Crucifixion,” which was painted by Francisco Zurbaran. He is most famous for his religious paintings. “La Crucifixion” was painted oil on canvas in 1627 and shows Jesus on the cross.

People visiting the exhibit should be prepared for a variety of art. The pieces visiting Nashville will range from works of the 14th century to early 20th century and covers major periods of art including Baroque and Victorian. The topics captured in the individual pieces vary as well. Inspirations for these pieces range from mythological figures to religious figures.

The highly successful “Heroes: Mortals and Myths in Ancient Greece” exhibit will stay at the Frist through April 25. Further exhibits will showcase art by such brilliant artists such as Dale Chihuly and Eduard Manet. “This entire year presents Middle Tennesseans and visitors from beyond the region with many exciting opportunities to see some of the greatest art in the history of the world— art in an array of mediums from all time periods and from some of the world’s greatest institutions,” Edwards said.

strummag.com · February 1, 2010

Sara Evans Starts a New Chapter in Her Life

Sara Evans has been a major force in country music for more than a decade, having a string of hits including “No Place That Far,” “Born To Fly” and “Suds In The…

By Rick Amburgey · Photos by Randi Radcliff · As published on strummag.com, February 1, 2010

Sara Evans has been a major force in country music for more than a decade, having a string of hits including “No Place That Far,” “Born To Fly” and “Suds In The Bucket.” She made some guest appearances on television shows during her career and competed on “Dancing With The Stars” in 2006.

Still, there’s one thing Evans said she never thought she would do – write a novel. Her first novel was released January 5 and it is already getting positive reviews from critics and readers alike. “The Sweet By and By” is the result of the creating pairing of Evans and Christian author Rachel Hauck. The book is the first in a series of four novels.

Evans explained the main character in the novels is Jade Fitzgerald. She said the first book sees Fitzgerald engaged to be married to a prominent lawyer in Chattanooga, and she trying to decide if she’s going to send her mother an invitation to her wedding. “It sets up all these struggles that she’d had in her life,” Evans said.

Evans said the book is not an autobiography. “Her life has a lot of similarities to my life,” she said. Even though the character and Evans may be alike in many ways, there are some major differences. “I’ve never had an abortion,” Evans said. She said that she and Hauck tackled the touchy subject because they wanted to bring up a difficult topic. Fitzgerald also has a lot of conflict with her mother, and Evan said that isn’t a similarity either. “That is not my mom.”

Evans said she wanted to include the conflict so Fitzgerald would have to deal with her mother. She said the character is angry with her mom because she was never there in her life. “We all deal with our mothers,” she added.

While working on the book, Evans said she felt like Fitzgerald was her friend. Instead of talking about her problems, she was talking about the character. Evans explained that she sent many text messages to Hauck about the story. She said she knew Fitzgerald had to be traumatized as a child.

Evans spoke very highly of Hauck, saying that she could not have written the book without her. Hauck is the one who did the majority of the writing, and then she would send pages to Evans for review. “I’m the idea girl,” Evans said.

Although the first book was recently released, the second novel in the series is already written. “The second book is even better,” Evans said. “That’s when everything explodes into full-force drama.”

She hinted that the second novel would see Fitzgerald encounter an issue with her husband. “She’s going to have to depend on her relationship with Jesus. She’s going to have to depend on her relationship with Him to get her through it.”

Evans is working on a new album, which is being produced by Nathan Chapman. “I’m trying to write most of the songs,” she said, adding that her goal for the new CD is for the vocals to be bigger and better than ever.

strummag.com · January 10, 2010

Keith Follese

Keith Follese has become one of the top songwriters in Nashville, having co-written such hits as “Before You Kill Us All” for Randy Travis, “Something Like That”…

By Rick Amburgey · As published on strummag.com, January 10, 2010

Keith Follese has become one of the top songwriters in Nashville, having co-written such hits as “Before You Kill Us All” for Randy Travis, “Something Like That” for Tim McGraw, and “The Way You Love Me” for Faith Hill. Although much of his success has been in the Country genre, Follese said he has always been a fan of many genres. The Beatles were a major influence on him and he can’t pick a favorite Beatles song. “I was such a fan of all of them,” he said. After the Beatles, Follese said he was influenced by Rhythm and Blues artists. He said he started writing songs when he was about five or six years, but he wasn’t sure where it would fit in. Two of the first songs he had recorded were called “You Said Goodbye” and “You’ve Been Telling Lies.” Follese still has the 45 record with those two songs on it. Follese recalled being in a band around age 13 and the band would perform a number of his original tunes. “We played 13 of my songs in a set at that time,” he said.

Follese had his first Number One hit with “Before You Kill Us All,” which was recorded by Randy Travis. “It was so exciting for me,” he said. He recalled asking other writers in the business if they thought it would do well and they told him it was a no-brainer. The song was co-written with Max T. Barnes and Follese said they wrote the song in about 30 minutes. It ended up being the first single released off of Travis’ “This Is Me” CD. “I think we wrote it in July or August and it was #1 in May,” Follese said. He doesn’t find it difficult to write in both country and pop genres. In fact, Follese finds it refreshing. “I think it keeps you fresh to write in both genres.” He often writes with his son Ryan, who is lead singer for the band Hot Chelle Rae, which record on Jive Records. When it comes to country, Follese often writes with country artists. He said when he writes with an artist, they are trying to write a song for that artist. It doesn’t always work out that way though, adding that sometimes another artist will record the song if the artist that co-wrote the song opts not to include it on their project. It’s hard for Follese to pinpoint his favorite of the songs he’s had recorded by country artists, citing he likes different songs for different reasons. He said he likes “A Good Man,” which was written by Emerson Drive, because of what is says. However, he also likes songs like Tim McGraw’s “Something Like That” and Faith Hill’s “The Way You Love Me” because they are unique. Throughout his career, Follese has been given a number of awards. He said the one that means the most to him is the Billboard Songwriter of the Year award, which he received in 2002. He said it means he was lucky enough to be noticed and the timing of the songs came around the same time. “I think it’s just an act of God almost,” he said. Follese said he writes with his wife, songwriter Adrienne Follese, about half the time these days. The couple co-wrote “A Good Man” and “I Love You” for Martina McBride, among others.

Follese does quite a bit of charity work. He said he recently worked with American Cancer Society and he will often volunteer to do benefits for various charity organizations.

strummag.com · January 8, 2010

Livin' the Dream: Jeremy Spillman

“Around the time I was 18, a friend of mine told me people made a living as songwriters,” said Jeremy Spillman. “Pretty much from that point on, I knew that's what…

By Rick Amburgey · As published on strummag.com, January 8, 2010

“Around the time I was 18, a friend of mine told me people made a living as songwriters,” said Jeremy Spillman. “Pretty much from that point on, I knew that's what I wanted to do. I never pursued anything else.” Since that time, he’s worked hard to make that dream come true. He’s had songs recorded by artists such a Trace Adkins, Josh Turner and Trent Willmon. Now, he’s one of the co-writers on Eric Church’s current single, “Hell On A Heart.”

Spillman wrote the song with Church and Deric Ruttan. Spillman said he’s truly a fan of Church and enjoys working with him. “Eric doesn’t really need anyone’s help to write great songs, but luckily for me and a few other writers he doesn’t have time to do it by himself,” he said.

He recalled being heavily influenced by the old gospel standards, adding that his parents were in a gospel quartet. In addition to being influenced by gospel music, he was heavily influenced by artists like the Eagles, Linda Ronstadt and Emmylou Harris because his mom listened to those artists a lot.

Spillman sang a little in church when he was young, but he was always more interested in writing than performing. He started writing songs around age 15 and described the first song he wrote as “amazingly awful.”

Though he was clear as to what he wanted to do, Spillman said it took him a while to find the courage to make the move to Nashville. He said he went to college for a year and a half, dropped out and worked at a factory to save money to move to Nashville. “I would come to Nashville every now and then and play some open mic nights.”

He moved to Nashville in 1996, where he became friends with Trent Willmon, who has released singles such as “Beer Man” and “On Again Tonight.” Spillman and Willmon were roommates for seven years. Spillman played with Willmon’s band a little, but mostly just played at writer’s nights.

Willmon has cut six of Spillman’s song and their combined songwriting efforts have appeared on projects released by other artists as well. “Clint Ingersoll, Trent and I were thick as thieves in those days and wrote tons of songs. I would go so far as to say we basically learned how to write commercial music from each other.”

Spillman co-wrote the song “Arlington” with Dave Turnbull. The song was recorded by Trace Adkins. The song was inspired by a friend’s son. Turnbull saw a photo on David Nixon’s wall of his son, Patrick. Nixon told him the very moving story of his son being killed in battle in 2004 and how proud he was of his son. “Dave was so moved by it that he wanted to write a song for him and that’s what we did.” Spillman said they didn’t think anyone would appreciate the song besides him. “We weren’t even going to turn it into our publisher,” he said. They made a work tape of the song and it wasn’t long until Adkins recorded it.

Spillman also co-wrote “Another Try,” which was recorded by Josh Turner and Trisha Yearwood. He said it wasn’t meant to be a duet when it was written. “But Josh and Trisha performed it beautifully. We actually wrote that song six years before it was recorded.”

Spillman said there are so many talented people in Nashville. “The level of excellence and the great songs and artists that are not heard is astounding. “ In his opinion, if people don’t like what’s going on in music right now, there is plenty of amazing music for any taste. “You just have to look a little harder to find some of it.”

strummag.com · December 22, 2009

Giving a Hand Up: Jett Williams

"It's not that Hank Williams was my father, it's that my daddy wanted me."

By Shauna Sessions · As published on strummag.com, December 22, 2009

"It's not that Hank Williams was my father, it's that my daddy wanted me."

These powerful words pale in comparison to what it actually must feel like to be Jett Williams. She was a little girl who spent her childhood bouncing around in the Alabama state foster care system. She became a woman who found out that her father had made every provision to ensure that he would be the one to care for her. No one could possibly know that he would suddenly pass away at the age of twenty-nine. Learning that that same man was the legendary Hank Williams must have come as quite a shock to the little guitar picking orphan.

Jett Williams was born in Montgomery, Alabama on January 6, 1953, only five short days after the death of her father. Her mother, Bobbie Jett of Nashville, had relinquished her rights to the infant before she was even born. Hank's mother, Lillian Williams, brought the tiny infant home from the hospital and started a very lengthy adoption process. The adoption was completed in December of 1954. Lillian died within the next two months, leaving behind an unwanted infant as far as the Williams family was concerned. Hank’s sister, Irene Smith, was supposed to have been the one to care for Jett in the event that anything should happen to Lillian. Instead, she placed her in foster care at age three, and took over as administrator of Hank Williams' estate.

Jett was later adopted and was raised with no idea who her father was, but she loved his music. She carried her guitar everywhere, and was singing and playing as far back as she could remember. After high school, she enrolled at the University of Alabama. It was there that her adoptive father told her of the rumor that she could be the daughter of Hank Williams, and urged her to pursue an investigation.

In September 1984, Jett hired Keith Adkinson as her investigative attorney, and the lengthy courtroom battles commenced. She fought for her right to be acknowledged as her father’s daughter as any child would have done. "For the first twenty-three years of my life, the administrators and attorneys kept my father’s estate open, and kept my money in a trust fund. They used my existence to justify their business and make themselves money," says Jett. "It all boils down to greed." Before Jett Williams presented her case, Alabama State Law stated that an adopted child was not to be considered a legal heir. Her case changed that law. "I'm really proud that what I had to go through has actually made an impact on the laws here in our great country."

Not only has Jett's amazing story aided in changing laws, her desire to reach out to others has enabled her to help change lives. She was asked to be the spokesperson for one of the largest scholarship givers in the country, the Orphans Foundation of America. This organization gives out over six thousand scholarships a year to foster children across the country. "Kids in the foster care system wake up at the age of eighteen and the system says, "OK, you're out," and there they are left standing with nothing," says Jett. "This organization is privately funded, corporately funded and federally funded. It steps in and gives these kids a chance for a college education. It's not just writing them a check, it's giving them financial assistance, living expenses, internships and a 24/7 support group. It gives them a family and puts them back into a care system of sorts. They have a saying, "It's not a hand out, it's a hand up." Ninety-one cents of every dollar donated goes directly to the program. You can mentor these children or send a care package through Fed-Ex." You can hear the excitement in Jett's voice as she speaks of this organization. "If we can give back every chance we get, we can certainly make this a much better world!"

You can find Jett Williams on Myspace Music and on her website at www.jettwilliams.com.

To aid Jett in her pursuit to give "a hand up" to young adults who may not otherwise receive a college education, go online and find the Orphan Foundation of America at www.orphan.org.

strummag.com · December 6, 2009

Old Memories: Charlie Craig

Legendary songwriter Charlie Craig recently released his autobiography, “Old Memories and Me,” telling his stories of his time and experiences in the music…

By Rick Amburgey · As published on strummag.com, December 6, 2009

Legendary songwriter Charlie Craig recently released his autobiography, “Old Memories and Me,” telling his stories of his time and experiences in the music business. It’s a project that has been about 15 years in the making. Craig said his reasons for writing the book have changed over the years, but he wanted to share his stories with those outside of the music industry. “I want fans to know I’m appreciative of what they have done for my career,” he said.

People who read the book, which is available at Barnes and Noble and Amazon Web sites as well as in some Barnes and Noble stores, should not expect a tell-all, controversial book. This book isn’t like that. Craig said he didn’t ask the artists involved for permission to tell the stories because they are his stories. Craig is a lover of music and has forged many friendships in the more than four decades he has spent working in the music business. Readers are likely to find stories behind some of the most loved songs in country music and how those songs came to become recorded by some of country music’s most talented artists.

The book also tells the story of Craig’s part in helping some talented singers become superstars, such as Alan Jackson and Randy Travis. Craig said his book puts many country stars on a pedestal.

Although released a very short time, Craig’s book has already sold hundreds of copies on Amazon, as well as a number of copies on Barnes and Noble’s Web site as well. The book has received positive reviews since its release.

Craig said his love of country music started as a small child. He remembered listening to the Grand Ole Opry a lot, even while WWII was going on, when he was in the second or third grade. He cited Carl Perkins and Merle Haggard as two of his biggest influences when he was young. Other influences included The Platters, The Drifters, Bo Didley, BB King and Marty Robbins.

He graduated high school in 1955 but he didn’t make the move to Nashville until 1968. He had already written 15 to 20 songs when he relocated to Nashville. However, Craig explained he still wanted to be an artist when he moved to Nashville. He would use the house bands for artists like Conway Twitty, but they didn’t know his original songs. One person who encouraged Craig to focus on his writing was Tammy Wynette. “I think the songwriting kind of dictated itself,” he said, admitting he thinks he probably had more talent in the area of songwriting. Since that time, more than 300 of his songs have been recorded by country artists. Some of those songs have appeared on the charts more than once, performed by different artists.

Craig said a lot has changed since he came to Nashville in 1968. “It was a little more laid back when I came here,” he said. Craig explained that the label executives had to gain trust of his judgment of songs. He said in the early days, a person could walk into a label and if an executive was free, they would probably talk to you. It’s not like that today. It’s harder to get appointments and get in doors as it was in the 60s and 70s.

It’s wasn’t easy exactly back then, either. Craig used hit songwriter Kris Kristofferson as an example. He said Kristofferson came to Nashville and he couldn’t get anything done. “It’s all a matter of timing,” Craig said. Kristofferson ended up having a string of hits including “For The Good Times,” “Me and Bobby McGee” and “Help Me Make It Through The Night.”

Craig said one of his favorite songs is “Between An Old Memory And Me,” a song that was recorded by Keith Whitley and Travis Tritt. He said he was very appreciative of both of those artists. He said he really enjoyed the song being performed by Tritt and Ray Charles on CMT’s series “Crossroads.” Craig said the song really became his favorite when Betty, his wife of 41 years, passed away after a battle with cancer. “After my wife died, it became special to me.” Craig explained the song captures his emotions, as his love and the memories he made with his wife will carry him through.

Another of his favorite songs is a song he wrote when his wife was dying of cancer. The song was called “What A Day Yesterday Was.” The raw lyric of the song captured his feelings in that moment, as he was going through old photographs and crying – “If our forever ends today and there’s no tomorrow for us, what a day yesterday was.” When Betty passed away, the title of that song was engraved in her headstone.

Craig said Jackson had commented that the song probably should have been a single. However, Craig said only so many songs can be released from one CD and there had already been a lot of hits from the “High Mileage” CD. “I think if they had pulled another single, that probably would have been the next single,” Craig said.

During his career, he has worked with a different record labels and producers. One of the artists that Craig helped get started was Randy Travis. He said they just knew that Travis would be a star because he had such a distinct voice.

Craig credits his late wife for any success he has had during his lifetime, adding that she was the strength he leaned on and the one he still leans on. “I’m not sure I would have had the courage to be here (Nashville) if it hadn’t been for her.”

He said he is also very thankful for all the blessing God has given him, especially for allowing Betty to be with him for 41 wonderful years.

strummag.com · November 6, 2009

Gettin' You a Number One: Cory Batten

It’s not been that long since Cory Batten was just a dreamer trying to make it in Nashville. The last couple of years have been especially kind and he’s quickly…

By Rick Amburgey · As published on strummag.com, November 6, 2009

It’s not been that long since Cory Batten was just a dreamer trying to make it in Nashville. The last couple of years have been especially kind and he’s quickly developing a reputation for writing some hit songs.

His most recent hit is “Gettin’ You Home,” which recently went to number one for Chris Young. He wrote the song with Kent Blazy and Chris Young. Batten said the song began about six months before they collaborated with Young on the song. “Kent had the idea to play it for Chris thinking he might like to work on it.” Batten said. “He loved it and ran with it right away and wrote the first couple of lines in like five seconds. Then, we were all off to the races.”

Batten said the “black dress” line was Blazy’s idea and Batten said he thought it might be a little racy. Blazy told him that people would like the line. “He was right and now it’s the line everyone talks about,” he said.

Batten had two big hits last year – Crystal Shawanda’s “You Can Let Go” and Blake Shelton’s “She Wouldn’t Be Gone.” He said he’s surprised anytime a song goes national because of the journey it takes to get there. “But with the great label and promotion people and the way those artists represented those tunes, I am not surprised.”

He admits that he was very surprised, however, by the e-mail messages and Myspace messages he received relating to “You Can Let Go.” He said some people told him they had to stop the car when they heard it because they were crying. “That right there is why I write and perform – because it means that much to people,” Batten said.

Batten now writes for Kent Blazy Music, but Blazy is much more to him than just a boss. He describes Blazy as a great friend, a mentor, and someone that believed in him at a time when no one else did. “He not only put food on my table while I was trying to break in, he has taught me so much,” Batten said. “Mostly he has taught me about hope and how things can be greater than even we think.”

One of the greatest lessons that Blazy passed onto Batten was that “the heart” is most important. Another valuable lesson, according to Batten, was to “really complete that lyric so every line nails people and has no holes.”

It’s not surprising that Blazy is one on Batten’s favorite people to write with, but he also lists other favorite co-writers as Karyn Rochelle, Chris Young and Mason Douglas. He also said Douglas is from Tucson as well so it’s like hanging out with a little piece of home. “Plus, I feel so much better looking when he’s around,” joked Batten.

Batten has the following advice for anyone with a dream, “Seriously, jump in your truck and chase it because it’s a blast no matter how it shows up.”

He said he knew he wanted to write and perform music for a living when he would schedule his college classes at the University of Arizona around sneaking into the piano room to write and sing. Right now, he said one of his favorite original songs is “Nothin’ But A Country Boy.” He said the song is about a city boy gone country, much like him. “But I usually like whatever I wrote last week,” he said.

Batten said he likes working with charity organizations for children like Optimist Club, Make a Wish and Big Brothers Big Sisters.” My family has been involved with all of them and I have seen the change and joy created first hand…awesome!”

strummag.com · October 27, 2009

Monsters of Vanceingville

On November 1st, Patterson Park in Murfreesboro, TN is featuring two movies in the auditorium. Taylor Gentry wrote and stars in The Monsters of Vanceingville.…

Strum Magazine (no byline listed) · As published on strummag.com, October 27, 2009

On November 1st, Patterson Park in Murfreesboro, TN is featuring two movies in the auditorium. Taylor Gentry wrote and stars in The Monsters of Vanceingville. Gentry is only 16 and been making movies for years but this is first major showing. Come out and support Gentry in his debut.

Gentry has acted in and been a stage manager for a number of plays presented by the Murfreesboro Sunshine Players.

After the movie, stay for a viewing of Mel Brook's Young Frankenstein starring Gene Wilder.

strummag.com · Date not recorded

Country Girl Goes International: Brinn Black

Brinn Black is excited about her opportunity to play a MIDEM in January. MIDEM, which will take place in Cannes, France, is considered the largest…

By Rick Amburgey · As published on strummag.com

Brinn Black is excited about her opportunity to play a MIDEM in January. MIDEM, which will take place in Cannes, France, is considered the largest international music business conference in the world. Black said representatives from international labels, distributors and publishers will be present at the conference and will see her showcase.

“The cool thing is that there are no country music artists who are going, so there is a huge window of opportunity for me,” she said.

Black is currently working on a new song EP that she will take to MIDEM, as well as release in the United States. She said she plans to start recording the new EP as soon as they can nail down a producer.

She is already having some success with her song, “Sweet Virginia Sunset.” The song is currently being played by about 75 radio stations, including Jack FM in Nashville. Black said she wrote the tune in about 30 minutes after watching “The Wizard of Oz” outside in Pinkerton Park in Franklin, TN in August of 2007. “I went into the studio to record my first EP a month later and that became everyone’s favorite.”

Black said she was surprised that she received so much airplay because it was the first thing she had ever put out, but added she is really thankful. Black is also very thankful for the support she’s received from Jack FM since she moved to Nashville. She said the station has connected her with so many amazing people over the years. “I have also performed at a lot of their events and been able to sing a lot of commercials and song spoofs for them.”

ITunes and CD Baby have also helped Black get her music to the people and build her fan base. “On CD Baby, you can see who buys your CD so you can have a direct connection with your fans,” she said.

By listening to her country songs, most people would never guess that she was trained to sing opera. Black admits that making the switch to country was a big adjustment, but she grew up listening to everything from George Jones to Celine Dion and having a huge love for commercial music.

With her mom being a choir teacher, she said she grew up listening to a little bit of everything from Broadway songs to the Indigo Girls to country artists like Tim McGraw, Jo Dee Messina and Sara Evans. “I started taking voice in the 9th grade and became a voice major at MTSU,” recalled Black. However, she said she realized classical music wasn’t her passion and she wanted to focus on country music. “Country music really helped me cope with a lot through life and I want to be able to do that for other people.”

Black does quite a bit of charity work as well. She said she blogs on the charity web site, www.theonelove.org. “Every time my blog gets a hit, money goes to my charity of choice, the American Cancer Society,” she said. She also does a lot of work with the Susan G. Komen foundation, The March of Dimes and Autism Speaks.

“Every time I go play out of town, I try to play for cancer patients at a local hospital,” said Black.

Both of Black’s grandparents on her dad’s side died suddenly from cancer in 2007 and her music mentor from church also died of lung cancer that year. Now, one of her best friends has leukemia. “I am trying to give back as much as I can and raise money to stop this nasty disease,” Black said.

strummag.com · Date not recorded

Forgotten Fable

A Nashville melodic rock/metal band that cares about its fans, reviewed live.

By Kristina Rigsby · As published on strummag.com

Where should I begin? I rarely see bands that care about their fans as much as this band does. They give a great show. They have recently been labeled Nashville’s next big thing. I have recently gotten the chance to see them perform on three separate occasions and each time was different and unique.

The band consists of five members: Jarod Delgado drums, Tim Gleaves lead guitar, Paul Garcia rhythm guitar, and Craig Alspaugh bass and last but certainly not least Andrew Taylor vocals. They love what they do and it shows in their performance. Forgotten Fable is a melodic rock/ metal band from Nashville TN. They have a MySpace band profile www.myspace.com/forgottenfableband where you can check out pictures, upcoming dates, and songs.

You can also tune in and listen to them on your local 102.9 the buzz on Sundays or request them to be played. The next time you can check them out live is November 21st at The Rock Bar starting at 9pm 21+ no cover charge and again December 19 same time and place. If you haven’t been lucky enough to see them I suggest you go one or both of these dates and I guarantee if you are a metal/rock fan you will not be disappointed. To the band you have a great sound and stage presence keep on doing what makes you who you are and can’t wait to see you again live.