CARRIE UNDERWOOD HAS ENOUGH SOUL FOR SMOKEY ROBINSON
Written by Neil Haislop
Aug 06, 2009 at 10:57 AM
CARRIE UNDERWOOD HAS ENOUGH SOUL FOR SMOKEY ROBINSON
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In online interview Smokey Robinson was asked about any young artists and songwriters that he likes these days. Robinson replied, "There are a bunch of them. ‘Cause I listen to everybody, man. I have everybody from Nelly to Muddy Waters in my CD player at one time. I love music. You have people like Alicia Keys and Mariah Carey and Justin Timberlake and Usher and Maxwell and John Legend and Beyonce and Carrie Underwood out there, who are making some great music.
JON ANTHONY JOINS CHESNEY'S NO SHOES RADIO.COM THAT DEBUTS TODAY
Jon Anthony,Sirius XM VP/Country Programming, has partnered Kenny Chesney on his new No Shoes Radio.com, that debuts TODAY at Noon from Kenny's Orange Beach, AL tour stop, followed by webcasts from the rest of the weekend's destinations.
Chesney states, "Jon was such a force in the creation of our XM channel last summer, and really got me thinking about how I can be a musical presence in the fans' lives whenever they want. So when we decided to do 'No Shoes Radio,' he was the perfect person — he's been there from the beginning of this, he understands what I want to be, and he's not afraid to think outside the box."
LUKE BRYAN RELEASES SOPHOMORE ALBUM “DOIN’ MY THING” OCTOBER 6
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Luke Bryan is set to release his sophomore Capitol Records Nashville album, Doin’ My Thing, October 6. The follow-up to his # 2 debut album, I’ll Stay Me, that produced the hit singles “All My Friends Say” and “Country Man” is being driven by Bryan’s current power ballad “Do I” which is steadily climbing the country charts.
“I can’t wait for my fans to hear my new record,” says Bryan. “I have wrapped 3 years of touring, hard work and most importantly meeting fans and I think all of that growth is reflected on this album. Doin' My Thing will make my die hard fans very happy and hopefully will reach out and grab some new fans. I am very proud of the music on this album and can’t wait to get it out there!"
HANK IS GRETCHEN WILSON AS SHE TAKES OVER HANK 106.3
Gretchen Wilson added on-air personality to her resume on Friday, as she took over the morning show of HANK 106.3 FM in Merced, CA with station PD Brian "B-Mo" Montgomery. Listeners were aware of Montgomery's search for a new co-host but were not told who was filling the seat that morning. "My phone lines where jammed the entire morning show," said Montgomery. "So much in fact that I had to extend it an extra hour and had people standing outside the station hoping for a glance of her." She handled traffic, weather and news, and the conversation ranged from new music and touring to her decision to return to school, funny moments from growing up with her grandmother and Miss Daisy, aka Cujo the Chihuahua.
"She was as entertaining and comfortable as I thought she'd be," added Montgomery. "She's a natural. When the HANK brand was created, Howard Kroeger and Mike Anthony had her in mind as to what a core artist should be and it's like I said 'Gretchen is HANK, HANK is Gretchen!'"
Fans can catch a glimpse of Gretchen at home and and on her farm outside Nashville in People Magazine's new Country Music special issue, which hits stands this Friday, August 7, 2009, and on the television special "People Country on CMT," which begins airing that same afternoon. o Makeup Needed: MCA's Lee Ann Womack will host the 2nd Annual ACM Honors Sept. 22 at Nashville's Schermerhorn Symphony Center. The evening recognizes special honorees and off-camera winners from the 44th Annual ACM Awards. This year's special award recipients include Merle Haggard, Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Randy Travis and Hank Williams, Jr. as well as, posthumously, Harlan Howard and Jerry Reed.
OTTO'S SINGLE SELLS GOLD
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James Otto’s Warner Bros. Records debut single, “Just Got Started Lovin’ You,” has achieved sales of 500,000 units and has been certified Digital Gold by the RIAA!
STEVE AZAR: TUNE IN ALERT!
Steve Azar will appear on the nationally syndicated show Inside Music Row airing in select cities this week. The focus of the piece will be Steve’s hilarious new video for his latest single "Moo La Moo." The video features appearances by actors Gary Valentine (King of Queens) and Paula Trickey (The O.C.), and has inspired a dance craze with fans all over the country doing the Moo La Moo. The song is the debut from Steve's brand new album SLIDE ON OVER HERE, that hit stores, Tuesday, August 4. The episode airs locally in Nashville on Sunday, August 9 at 9:30pm on the CW network.
THE GIRLS OF GLORIANA GRACE THE COVER OF JUSTINE MAGAZINE
GLORIANA DEBUTS #1 I TUNES
Gloriana have had a lot to celebrate in the last twenty-four hours with the release of their self-titled album (Emblem Music Group/Warner Bros. Records) yesterday that debuted at #1 on iTunes. Now the girls of Gloriana, Cheyenne Kimball and Rachel Reinert, are celebrating their first national magazine cover together, on Justine Magazine’s August/September issue, on newsstands now.
“I have to keep pinching myself to make sure I am not dreaming,” said Rachel. “The last couple of days have been so surreal and so amazing. As a group we could not have asked for a better debut and now I am on the cover of a magazine with Cheyenne. It’s a dream come true.”
Justine Magazine is a premiere teen magazine circulated nationally that features “real girls” and addresses real teen issues. Cheyenne and Rachel were chosen for the cover as “real girls pursuing their dreams.” The four-page article explores how Gloriana came to be a group, their debut album, life on the road opening for Taylor Swift on her “Fearless 2009 Tour,” and of course their thoughts on their band mates Tom and Mike. Fans can pick up a copy on newsstands now.
STEVE WARINER TO VISIT COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME AND MUSEUM ON AUGUST 29 FOR INTERVIEW, PERFORMANCE
Steve Wariner will visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum on Saturday, August 29, for a performance and interview. Wariner will discuss and perform selections from his upcoming release, Steve Wariner, c.g.p.: My Tribute to Chet Atkins. The disc includes selected interpretations of Atkins' work, interspersed with Wariner originals written in Atkins' style. Guitarist John Knowles, who, like Wariner, is an Atkins-designated "c.g.p."--certified guitar player--will also appear. The program, which will begin at 1:30 p.m. in the Ford Theater, is included with Museum admission and is free for Museum members. Immediately following the program, Wariner will sign copies of Steve Wariner, c.g.p.: My Tribute to Chet Atkins in the Museum Store. Please visit the Museum's Web site for signing details.
TELLURIDE RAISED $24,000 FOR VFW/SINGING AT NASCAR RACE
American Roots Records group TelluRide wrapped up their west coast radio and concert tour on Sunday. A two-night stint headlining the Tenino Wine and Music Festival raised $24,000 for the local Veterans of Foreign Wars organization. The group is now trekking back across the country for several dates throughout New York this week. The four-man-band wrap up the week at the Watkins Glen race track performing an international fan concert on Saturday and singing the National Anthem live on ESPN prior to the network's coverage of the NASCAR Sprint Cup road race at the famed road course. Last month, the band was featured in Country Weekly Magazine's "Who's New" and the newest issue on stands now offers a free download of their debut single, "Pencil Marks," in the popular "Listen Up!" section. The band's Ricky Schroder-directed music video for the single was completed last week and will begin hitting television and internet airwaves in the next couple of weeks.
Last Updated ( Aug 06, 2009 at 11:26 AM )
GEORGE STRAIT'S ALBUM MAKES HIM GOOD NOW TO NEXT DECADE
Written by Neil Haislop
Aug 05, 2009 at 06:20 PM
GEORGE STRAIT'S ALBUM MAKES HIM GOOD NOW TO NEXT DECADE
After listening to George Strait's new album "Twang," you figure he won't be in a studio again until well into the second decade of the century considering the depth and potential hits on this release. With songs like the title tune "Twang", George is showing that singer's half his age would kill to get their hands on a song like that. Ballad singers would kill for tunes like "Where Have You Been All My Life." And the song George puts his soul into and will help you take a different view of life is "The Breath You Take." It contains life changing lyrics like, "It's not the breath you take, but the moments in life that take your breath away."
Strait is singing better than ever on this diverse collection that includes his single, "Living For the Night," to the raucous, "Hot Grease and Zydeco." You can tell he had a blast cutting this one from his upbeat comments about all the songs on the album.
Run don't walk to your record store of favorite online store and buy this important George Strait album.
SUGARLAND'S "LIVE ON THE INSIDE" IS ON SHELVES
Sugarland's live collection, "Live On The Inside" is available now as a download and now inside WalMart and Sam's Club stores now. It's got them performing their best stuff for their best crowds.
The live tracks included are: Love Circle Better Man Sex On Fire All I Want To Do Irreplaceable Nightswimming/Joey The One I Love Love Shack Stay
CRITIC'S FOLLOWING GLORIAN'AS NEW ONE WITH POSITIVES
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Top new country group Gloriana released their debut album today (Emblem Music Group/Warner Bros. Records) to critical praise. “First Sugarland, then Lady Antebellum and now Gloriana…destined for glory,” proclaimed People Magazine, who gave GLORIANA three and a half stars. “Incredible four-part harmonies…a sonic delight,” said Billboard Magazine. “Catchy country-pop,” stated USA Today. “On the debut album there's a real affection for the gender-war harmonies of Fleetwood Mac and the open-road earnestness of John Mellencamp,” said the Los Angeles Times. “A harmonic blend of country character and rocking pop beats, infectious enough to launch the group to the top of the charts,” said OK! Magazine, just to name a few.
And while the critics rave, the fans act, buying up the group’s debut single “Wild At Heart” to the tune of more then 200,000 digital copies, giving Gloriana the best selling song from a new country act in 2009.
VIVA LAS VEGAS WITH WYNONNA" SWEEPSTAKES
If you haven’t seen Wy live, then you haven’t seen Wy! Wynonna and GAC have teamed up with The Orleans Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, offering the chance to win a trip for two to her show on September 26th. The winners will also attend a pre-show fan appreciation party with Wynonna as well as the chance to introduce her on stage.
Wynonna will perform for three nights at The Orleans, including hits from her last 25 years as well as songs from the legends that inspired her, from Sing: Chapter 1, her latest album release.
We’re raising the stakes - - In celebration of Wynonna's 25th anniversary GAC is turning the show into a ‘superfan’ event including a free "You Are Loved" pre-show fan appreciation party for one night only at The Orleans Hotel & Casino. The first 25 fans to RSVP by Monday September 14th will have the chance to win a meet and greet with Wynonna before the show. RSVP to
with the subject line ‘RSVP Fan Party’. Fans will receive a confirmation email if they’re on the guest list the week of their RSVP.
Need a hand getting there? Feeling lucky? Wy's flying one winner and a guest to Vegas on American Airlines to introduce her on stage at the show in the "Viva Las Vegas with Wynonna" Sweepstakes. NOTE: NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY TO ENTER. Log on to www.GACTV.com/superfan. First-time users: When you register to become a GAC Superfan, you will receive 5,000 points to use toward your chance to win. Beginning on Tuesday, August 4, 2009, after you register, go to the "bonus code" area and click on "Viva Las Vegas with Wynonna". Use the code word "Wy5000". Existing GAC Superfans: Beginning on Tuesday, August 4, 2009, every 500 points you have equals one chance to win. To enter your points, go to "use points" sweepstakes then click on "Viva Las Vegas with Wynonna".
KELLIE PICKLER GETS INVITATION TO ENTERTAIN U.S. TROOPS OVERSEAS WHILE VISITING THE BIG D AND BUBBA SHOW
While visiting The Big D and Bubba Show in Nashville, Tenn., Kellie Pickler got a surprise from fellow BNA Recording Artist Craig Morgan. Morgan called the program to personally invite Pickler to accompany him on his next trip to entertain U.S. Troops overseas this fall.
A video of the interview can be seen at: http://www.bigdandbubba.com/pages/youtube.html
The Big D and Bubba Show is nationally syndicated by Premiere Radio Networks on more than 50 Country radio stations.
EMERSON DRIVE GET CCMA NOD
The Canadian Country Music Association nominations have been announced and Country group Emerson Drive is honored to be included. This year’s Group/Duo of the Year nomination marks the band’s eighth consecutive nomination in the category and their 18th CCMA nomination overall. With 6 CCMA Award wins to their credit the band is thrilled about the possibility of reaching lucky number 7.
“We’re excited about this nomination and about joining everyone up in Vancouver for the awards this year,” states Brad Mates. “It’s a great feeling to be included in the nominations. Each year that we read Emerson Drive on the nomination list we realize how incredibly lucky we are to make a living performing each night.”
Last Updated ( Aug 05, 2009 at 06:23 PM )
STRAIT'S NEW ALBUM ON THE WAY
Written by Neil Haislop
Aug 04, 2009 at 10:34 AM
STRAIT'S NEW ALBUM ON THE WAY
George Strait moved up the release of his 38th album, Twang, to August 11th, and MCA Records is now letting the media have a listen as well this week.
After so many albums, George says, he feels the same he's always felt from the first one to this one. "Even though I've been doing this for a long time, I still feel the same when I walk on stage and pretty much feel the same I always have."
TWANG WASN'T IN THE RUNNING FOR THE TITLE but, George says, "Twang didn't emerge for the title, but that was such an obvious choice. Twang is what I do."
Regarding the first single that's turned into his fastest rising release ever, George says, "'Living For The Night' George says, "I had the idea for the song for a long time but just never got around to sitting down to write it."
When George's son, Bubba, got interested in writing songs, he began writing some with his son. Then he brought in Dean Dillon and says, I wasn't worried about Dean I was worried about Bubba and Me," George said laughing, but he now says he's going to continue writing.
George returned to Shimpboat Studios in Key West for the third time to record Twang. "It was very laid back, I enjoyed the ocean there, it w as good for my voice."
BILLY CURRINGTON AND CREW SURVIVE CLOSE CALL ONE FAN DIES
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Due to severe storms and tornadic weather activity on Saturday night, the stage at the Big Valley Jamboree music festival in Camrose, Alberta, Canada’s largest country music festival, collapsed where singer Billy Currington was performing. Currington was on the last song of his set when the wind blew the staging down on top of him and his band.
Currington was taken to the hospital and suffered a minor concussion but is expected to make a full recovery. He has been released from the hospital and has returned to his home in Nashville. Currington’s bass player Alex Stevens was pinned under the wreckage of the stage for half an hour while rescue personnel removed debris to free him. Stevens underwent immediate surgery to repair a severed artery and nerves in his left arm and is currently receiving treatment in Nashville. Currington sent a message to his fans today via Twitter, “The boys and I are very grateful to be home and for life itself. We thank you for your prayers and concern and will see you on the road again soon.” Currington also comments from his home in Nashville, “My heart goes out to the family of Donna Moore who was killed and all of the other fans who were hurt on Saturday.”
Big Valley Jamboree organizers on Sunday canceled the closing day of a country music festival in central Alberta. Approximately 21,000 people attended this year’s jamboree.
DARIUS RUCKER GARNERS THIRD CONSECUTIVE NO. 1 WITH "ALRIGHT"
AS YOU KNOW, Darius Rucker has landed at No. 1 on the Billboard, Mediabase, and Music Row charts with his with his upbeat hit, "Alright." His third consecutive No. 1 single follows the debut two-week No. 1 "Don't Think I Don't Think About It," and the three-week chart-topping ballad, "It Won't Be Like This For Long." "Alright" was written by Rucker and LEARN TO LIVE Producer, Frank Rogers. "It's crazy," says Rucker in hearing of his third chart-topping single. "I never dreamed this record would have this type of success. I am so thankful to country fans and country radio for welcoming me to the family."
Rucker is one of four artists--the first single artist since Wynonna--to have their first three singles land at No. 1 on Billboard Country Chart. Prior to Rucker, only Clint Black, Brooks & Dunn, and Wynonna, respectively, have reached this achievement in the last 20 years.
JASON'S "TRACTOR" PULLING ITS WEIGHT AS BIG HIT FOR ALDEAN
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Jason Aldean’s latest song, “Big Green Tractor,” has becoming the biggest hit of his career, and one sign of that is the fact that it has been the top downloaded ringtone of all genres of music for four consecutive weeks on the iTunes ringtone chart. Also, Verizon Wireless’ 84 million customers have also chosen it as the most downloaded ringtone ahead of artists like Mariah Carey, The Black Eyed Peas and Michael Jackson.
WANNA BUY ALAN JACKSON'S YACHT? BEST GET BIDDING
According to AskTheBoater.com, Alan Jackson has shipped his gorgeous 1966 yacht built by the Burger Boat Company to Clayton, New York, for the Antique Boat Show & Auction happening there this weekend. The 72’ vessel named the Neon Rainbow will be on display during the show and it’s reported that Alan, an avid boat collector, has also shipped five antique boats to be auctioned off this weekend. You can see pictures of Alan’s yacht on AskTheBoater.com.
STANLEY REMOVES CRITICISM OF TIM McGRAW FROM BOOK
Perhaps to boost sales of his new book, Ralph Stanley alluded to Tim McGraw as having disrespected Stanley at some point. It seemed strange that Ralph wouldn't go public with how he had been insulted. Now, either Ralph or his publisher finally decided there was no insult, altho Stanley does insult McGraw in his statements. Apparently between the release of the review copies of the book and now, the publishers decided to remove Ralph’s criticisms of Tim from the final version of the book. Good choice.
CHESNEY WILL SKIP VISITING NEW ORLEANS SAINTS TRAINING CAMP
For the past two years Kenny Chesney has joined the New Orleans Saints for some of their training camp workouts, but this season head coach Sean Payton has asked Kenny not to come to camp. There’s no scandal, according to the New Orleans Times-Picayune, Coach Payton is looking for any edge to get his team back to the playoffs so he’s keeping everything in training camp strictly business. He and Kenny are still good friends and he says with a smile, “I told Kenny to stay away this year.” Plus, he says, “We can't hook up; he's on a West Coast tour when we're in camp.''
TRACY LAWRENCE COMFORTS CANADIAN STORM VICTIMS
Tracy Lawrence who was scheduled to perform yesterday at the Big Valley Jamboree (Sunday, August 2, 2009) did not appear as the third and final day of the event was canceled. As Tracy changes routes to head home toward Nashville, he has these words to offer, "This was such an unexpected tragedy and I know that it is difficult to understand the reasons why,” Lawrence said. “On behalf of the entire Tracy Lawrence organization, I wish to offer my heartfelt condolences to those who have lost a loved one or are suffering with injuries and grief. Our hearts and prayers go out to all of our friends in Camrose, Alberta.”
JASON MICHAEL CARROLL TO L.A. AREA
Jason Michael Carroll, one of country music’s hottest new stars, will bring his high-energy show to the Los Angeles Area on Monday, August 24, when he performs at the Antelope Valley Fair in Lancaster, CA. The FREE concert (with fair admission) will kick-off at 7:30pm and will also feature Heidi Newfield and Keith Anderson.
STEVE AZAR'S SLIDE ON OVER HERE OUT TODAY
AZAR RELEASES SLIDE ON OVER TODAY on his independently formed label, Ride Records, with Redeye Distribution. The album is Azar's second release on the label he formed in 2006.
"Every note on this record is honest and a reflection of who I am musically," notes Azar who produced, engineered and played most of the guitar work on the new project.
The album's lead single, "Moo La Moo" is presently climbing the country charts and the music video featuring Azar's Hollywood actor friends Gary Valentine (King of Queens) and Paula Trickey (The O.C.), is currently airing on GAC, CMT Pure and online at CMT.com and GACtv.com.
Last Updated ( Aug 04, 2009 at 07:05 PM )
DARIUS RUCKER MOVES UP TO #1 WITH "ALRIGHT"
Written by Neil Haislop
Aug 03, 2009 at 03:44 PM
Countryforever.com
DARIUS RUCKER MOVES UP TO #1 WITH "ALRIGHT," WHILE BILLY CURRINGTON'S "People Are Crazy," slips one to #2...as..
TAYLOR SWIFT'S "You Belong With Me," holds fast to #3 and...
RASCAL FLATTS' "Summer Nights" moves up to #4..with..
RANDY HOUSER's "Boots On," rounding out the Top 5 at #5.
RASCAL FLATTS OFFERS iTUNES PASS "SUMMER OF FLATTS"
This summer Rascal Flatts brings you the Summer of Flatts in a unique format called an iTunes Pass. It's 28 Rascal Flatts demos, live or studio recordings; some you have never been heard before! The tracks will be released over a period of 7 weeks all the way to Labor Day. At www.lsrpromo.com find all the tools below to notify your listeners and even download the songs for your station. Check it out at www.itunes.com/summerofflatts.
The microsite www.summeroflatts.com is a fun website focused solely on this unique offering of content. Direct your listeners here to learn more about the pass, sign up for alerts, see the summer tour schedule and even be a "Summer Nights Photographer."
TAYLOR SWIFT STARS IN ROMANTIC COMEDY FILM
INFDAILY
The film is called, "Valentine's Day," starring Taylor Swift and an ensemble cast that includes Patrick Dempsey, Jamie Foxx, and Julia Roberts.
According to MTV News, the Garry Marshall-directed film follows five interconnected stories set in Los Angeles on Valentine's Day. It is being produced by New Line and
INFDAILY
expected to be released just prior to Valentine's Day in 2010. Although it has not been announced what their roles are, Swift was photographed on set with Lautner. This is not Swift's first film role. She also appeared briefly in Hannah Montana: The Movie earlier this year. She'll also appear at WE Fest on Aug. 7 in Detroit Lakes, Minn., with an additional performance with Keith Urban in Kansas City the next day. The next headlining date on her Fearless tour will be Aug. 9 in Omaha, Neb., with guests Kellie Pickler and Gloriana.
Swift also has two concerts scheduled in Chelmsford, UK, on Aug. 22-23, before returning to a sold-out concert in New York City's Madison Square Garden on Aug. 27.
NEW SINGERS TO PAY ATTENTION TO
Mercury Records' shiny new artist, Easton Corbin, debuts with a unique way to say I love you song, called "A Little More Country Than That." It's the tale of chivalry country style, about a guy who's too country to B.S. the woman he loves. Born and raised in rural Gilchrist County, Florida, the college educated singer has genuine country roots to make his vocals ring true on this simple, but powerful-good country tune written by Wynn Varble, Rory Feek and Don Poythress.
ALSO LIKE... MALLARY HOPE...also from UMG (MCA Nashville)...she's got a big ol' ballad out there called, "Love Lives On," she helped write with Shane Stevens and Mathew West. She's got a big ol' voice to deliver this tune...think Sara Evans meets Faith Hill...for phrasing and delivery, yet totally Mallary.
Last Updated ( Aug 03, 2009 at 04:27 PM )
EL REY (THE KING) GEORGE STRAIT RELEASES "EL REY"
Written by Neil Haislop
Jul 31, 2009 at 02:13 PM
EL REY (THE KING) GEORGE STRAIT RELEASES "EL REY"
George Strait released "El Rey" yesterday, a full blown, entirely-in-Spanish tune that he sings like a full blown, born in Mexico, Mariachi cowboy. Strait's accent, phrasing and pronunciation are spot on authentic right down to the AyyyYayyyYay!
Of course, George will always have a soft spot in his heart for Mexico. That's where he took his teenaged girl friend Norma when they eloped to get married. George once told us that, amazingly, their families weren't too mad at them for eloping...as long as he and Norma got married again in Texas. "They just wanted us to get married again, so they could all join in on the celebration," George explained.
ZAC BROWN SAYS SECOND SINGLE MAKES BIG STATEMENT FOR THE BAND
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Zac Brown says the band's second single, "Whatever It Is" was chosen to make a big statement for the group.The song describes that intangible quality a woman has that words just don't do justice. And it was important for me to let people know that we could write a a pretty song and put it out as a single...that we're not one dementional and not just to have beer in every song."
LEE ANN WOMACK'S NEW VIDEO BOWS TODAY
Lee Ann Womack's hot new video "Solitary Thinkin'" on PEOPLE.COM tomorrow July 31st. The video was shot in downtown Nashville in historic Printers Alley and exudes Womack's style and charisma unlike any of her videos before. The Grammy-winning singer will also be discussing filming the video and what its like to live life in 5 inch heels.
KELLIE PICKLER TURNS HANDS-ON HOUSE BUILDER
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Kellie Pickler and the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition crew surprised the Terpenning family yesterday morning with a ring on the doorbell at their home in Beavercreek, OH. The unsuspecting family learned that their home had been chosen to receive a makeover. As the celebrity volunteer, the country starlet will trade in her stiletto heels for a hard hat and hammer as she helps with the demolition and building process. Later this week, Kellie will perform at the family’s final and emotional reveal.
“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition is such a magical show because it is all about giving back,” says Pickler. “I’m thrilled to be a part of it.” The episode is set to air on ABC in the fall.
Kellie’s current single “Best Days Of Your Life,” just became her first Top 10 hit and continues to scorch the country airwaves. The Gold certified single from her self-titled sophomore album has already crossed the 600,000 threshold for digital sales.
CHRIS YOUNG BIRDIES ON THE GOLF COURSE
RCA recording artist, Chris Young, stood out on the Old Natchez golf course Monday in Franklin, TN. Not because of his imposing 6’ 4’ frame and not because he was volunteering as the caddy for an all ladies’ foursome at the 22nd Annual Music Row Ladies Golf Tournament & Tupperware party. The man Country Weekly readers voted “Country’s Hottest Bachelor” has proven he’s also hot on the golf course. Chris’s moment of glory came when he played the 18th hole for an ailing member of the foursome and birdied the hole.
According to Chris, “It was an awesome moment. I was asked to play the last hole and my drive skyrocketed from the tee to the green and from there it all just came together. I wound up with a birdie even while playing with some borrowed, very short clubs. I’m just glad nobody saw me bogey the first four holes!”
Chris Young’s latest single “Gettin’ You Home (The Black Dress Song),” continues to be one of this summer’s hottest singles as it continues to climb the country radio charts.
Last Updated ( Aug 01, 2009 at 10:54 AM )
TAYLOR SWIFT CAREER GROWING BIGGER THAN EVER
Written by Neil Haislop
Jul 30, 2009 at 01:22 PM
TAYLOR SWIFT CAREER GROWING BIGGER THAN EVER
Taylor Swift continues to have a lot to crow about, but she leaves that to her PR folks and they're more than happy to report all the good things happening in her career. For instance, Taylor's triple-platinum-plus FEARLESS CD has notched 2O weeks as the #1 selling album in country music. FEARLESS is the top-selling album in all genres of music so far this year.
PLUS...
Taylor joins Garth Brooks and Shania Twain as the only country artists in the Billboard SoundScan era to have TWO albums spend 20 weeks at #1 on the Top Country Albums sales chart. FEARLESS, returned last week to the #1 spot atop Billboard’s Top Country Albums sales chart, 36 weeks after its initial release, and holds firm this week, marking the collection’s 20th week at #1. Her self-titled debut CD, released 2006, also remains one of country’s top sellers, claiming the #11 spot on the sales chart this week. Taylor is the only artist this decade to have two albums spend 20 weeks at #1 on the Top Country Albums chart. Taylor’s career CD sales to date now top 7.75 million albums, her paid song downloads now exceed 18 million, and her MySpace music streams are over 246 million. Taylor’s current single, “You Belong With Me,” currently holds the # 3 position and is climbing BOTH Billboard’s Top Country Songs chart and the Hot 100 pop chart, making Taylor the only artist in the 25-year archival history of Billboard’s airplay charts to have a song greater than #5 on both charts in the same week. In addition, Taylor currently holds the Billboard all-genre record for most Top 20 debuts in a calendar year
AUDIENCES LOVE THE ALPHA DUDES' ENCORE FROM TOBY & TRACE
When superstar Toby Keith tapped Trace Adkins for his current "America's TESTOSTERONE Tour" ...uh, sorry, "America's Toughest Tour" with Trace Adkins opening for Toby you figured that was gonna be strong. But nothing could have prepared the two for the reaction they've been getting when Toby brings Trace back out on stage for an encore performance of Keith's monster hit "Courtesy of the Red, White & Blue (The Angry America)."
The natural connection between the two artists is obvious to the crowds and, in retrospect, to Toby as well. "We came from the same honky-tonk family," Keith recently told the Palm Beach Post. "It's amazing we had to wait this long to work together."
Keith has been bringing Adkins out for the explosive performance each night of the tour, which started in June and runs through September.
"I thought for years that doing a tour with Toby made too much sense," says Adkins. "Toby and I have a lot in common: we play the same style of music - ballads, good time songs and tributes to the military; we also share a similar fan base, and our backgrounds are the same - we both came out of the oil fields and are definitely blue collar people...so this should be a lot of fun."
SUGARLAND'S WORLDWIDE MOVIE PREMIERE AUGUST 6TH
"LIVE ON THE INSIDE" SHOWING IN 35 THEATRES ACROSS THE COUNTRY
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Sugarland will be debuting the upcoming DVD from their CD/DVD release Live On The Inside in 35 theatres across the country on Thursday, August 6th. This is a cinematic treat for all music lovers and will feature the powerhouse duo in high definition digital cinema performing 16 songs from their nationwide tour.
Cities: Auburn, AL - Wynnsong 16 Huntsville, AL - Monaco Pictures Mobile, AL - Wynnsong 16 Troy, AL - Continental Cinema 5 Surprise, AZ - UltraStar Surprise Pointe 14 Lake Havasu, AZ - UltraStar Lake Havasu 10 Apple Valley, CA - UltraStar Apple Valley 14 Oceanside, CA - UltraStar Mission Marketplace Riverside, CA - UltraStar University Village 10 San Diego, CA - UltraStar Poway Creekside Plaza Coral Springs, FL - Coral Square 8 Gainesville, FL - Gator Cinemas Columbus, GA - Carmike 15 Savannah, GA - Victory Square Stadium 9 Iowa City, IA - Coral Ridge 10 Chicago, IL - Orland Park Cinemas Woodhaven, MI - Emagine Woodhaven Detroit, MI - Emagine Canton St. Paul, MN - Marcus Ultra Cinema at Oakdale Fayetteville, NC - Market Fair 15 Jacksonville, NC - Carmike 16 Fargo, ND - Century-Fargo Omaha, NE - Twin Creek Cinema Buffalo, NY - McKinley 6 Theatres Buffalo, NY - Lakewood Cinema 8 Columbus, OH - Pickerington UltraScreen Chattanooga, TN - Northgate 14 Murfreesboro, TN - Wynnsong 16 Cookeville, TN - Highland 12 Nashville, TN - Thoroughbred 20 Edinburg, TX - Carmike 20 Tyler, TX - Carmike 14 El Paso, TX - Carmike 16 Madison, WI - Point UltraScreen Cinema Milwaukee, WI - Ridge Cinemas
The concert footage, which was shot at Rupp Arena in Lexington, KY by director Shaun Silva captures Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush in their most comfortable and adored setting...on stage. This one-time event will give fans an inside look at their upcoming CD/DVD set, Live On The Inside, available exclusively at Walmart August 4th. To view the movie trailer click: http://www.dandeentertainment.com/sugarland/trailer/trailer.html For all participating theaters and to purchase tickets click: http://www.dandeentertainment.com/sugarland/home.html#<http://www.dandeentertainment.com/sugarland/home.html>
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GRETCHEN WILSON PARTS WAYS WITH SONY MUSIC NASHVILLE
Gretchen Wilson and her longtime record label group, Sony Music Nashville, have mutually decided to part ways. The Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter and Best Selling author, who exploded on to the country music scene and the national spotlight in 2004 with her smash hit "Redneck Woman,” released three #1 albums with Here For The Party, All Jacked Up, and One Of The Boys. Wilson and Sony will work together on future catalogue projets.
GLORIANA DEBUTS NEW ALBUM VIA “THE LEAK” ON RHAPSODY.COM AND CMT.COM
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Gloriana are gearing up to release their debut album August 4t hon Emblem Music Group/Warner Bros. Records and fans will get the chance to hear the album, GLORIANA, in it’s entirety exclusively from “The Leak” on Rhapsody.com and CMT.com starting today.
Fans of Gloriana can now hear their album exclusively at www.Rhapsody.com/gloriana and www.CMT.com one week before it hits the streets. The much anticipated 13-track album includes their hit single “Wild At Heart,” which is the best selling single by a new country act in 2009. GLORIANA, the album, also includes “The Way It Goes,” “Time To Let Me Go” and “You Said,” all tracks from their four-song digital collection that was released at the end of May due to an overwhelming demand from fans for new material.
ALSO... Gloriana has been chosen as Rhapsody’s “Ones To Watch” for the month of August. Throughout the month, Rhapsody® will make exclusive Gloriana content available to fans, including an interview and a celebrity playlist chosen by the four-some. Rhapsody will also release an exclusive “Rhapsody Originals” performance, featuring songs performed live during Gloriana set at the Rhapsody Rocks the CMT Music Awards event in Nashville on June 15, 2009. Fans can also check out that performance on CMT.com starting August 3rd.
REBA MCENTIRE ADDED TO CANADIAN COUNTRY MUSIC ASSOCIATION AWARDS LINE-UP
The Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) is thrilled to announce the addition of Reba McEntire to the superstar line-up of performers at the 2009 CCMA Awards. This year's celebration, to be broadcast nationally on CBC TV with encore airings on CMT in Canada, will take place in Vancouver, BC on September 13th at GM Place.
Jon Anthony,Sirius XM VP/Country Programming, has partnered Kenny Chesney on his new No Shoes Radio.com, that debuts TODAY at Noon from Kenny's Orange Beach, AL tour stop, followed by webcasts from the rest of the weekend's destinations.
After listening to George Strait's new album "Twang," you figure he won't be in a studio again until well into the second decade of the century considering the depth and potential hits on this release. 
Sugarland's live collection, "Live On The Inside" is available now as a download and now inside WalMart and Sam's Club stores now. 
For the past two years Kenny Chesney has joined the New Orleans Saints for some of their training camp workouts, but this season head coach Sean Payton has asked Kenny not to come to camp. There’s no scandal, according to the New Orleans Times-Picayune, Coach Payton is looking for any edge to get his team back to the playoffs so he’s keeping everything in training camp strictly business. He and Kenny are still good friends and he says with a smile, “I told Kenny to stay away this year.” Plus, he says, “We can't hook up; he's on a West Coast tour when we're in camp.''
This summer Rascal Flatts brings you the Summer of Flatts in a unique format called an iTunes Pass. 
George Strait released "El Rey" yesterday, a full blown, entirely-in-Spanish tune that he sings like a full blown, born in Mexico, Mariachi cowboy. Strait's accent, phrasing and pronunciation are spot on authentic right down to the AyyyYayyyYay!
For instance, Taylor's triple-platinum-plus FEARLESS CD has notched 2O weeks as the #1 selling album in country music. FEARLESS is the top-selling album in all genres of music so far this year.
When superstar Toby Keith tapped Trace Adkins for his current "America's TESTOSTERONE Tour" ...uh, sorry, "America's Toughest Tour" with Trace Adkins opening for Toby you figured that was gonna be strong. But nothing could have prepared the two for the reaction they've been getting when Toby brings Trace back out on stage for an encore performance of Keith's monster hit "Courtesy of the Red, White & Blue (The Angry America)."
