Jason Aldean is daddy to daughters Keeley and Kendyl. Their summer vacation is their daddy’s busy time, but he’s excited about them going back to school: “I love having my two daughters’ home. Usually when I get home, I’m home Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and when they’re out of school I get to spend a lot of time with them during the day. But also starting school, gets us all back in our normal routine. I think they’re kinda ready to get school started again.” So, how did back to school clothes shopping go this year with his 5 and 8 year olds? “As far as the back to school shopping goes – momma handles all that stuff.”
Twenty years ago, Brooks & Dunn debuted as a new country duo, manufactured by a producer who thought they might be good together. Kix Brooks reminisces about the early days with Ronnie: “Our big dream was a Gold record. That was like almost unreachable, but it was just kind of a goof. If we could pull that off, it was worth getting together and seeing what we can do. We didn’t even talk in those lofty terms until that first single took off. We went, ‘Gosh we might actually have something for six months or a year, ya know! This could be a gig while we’re trying to get the rest of our lives together.” They did alright for themselves, didn’t they?
Lynyrd Skynyrd has been added to the list of performers at the Republican National Convention in Tampa. They’ll take part in a fundraiser for Citizens Helping Heroes on August 26th, and kicks off the four-day event that also includes Trace Adkins and Kid Rock. You can catch Lynyrd Skynyrd before that on FOX & Friends All American Concert Series this Friday morning.
Congratulations to Love and Theft for their first #1 song, “Angel Eyes,” which has just been certified gold for half a million paid downloads. The guys are marveling at how things are working out for them: “To get to see the song climb the charts, have people singing it back to us at our live shows—it’s really cool. It puts a big smile on our face and helps us realize we’re in the right spot!”
Dolly Parton has also just been awarded a gold plaque, for half a million in sales of her “An Evening With Dolly” double-album set, sold only at Cracker Barrel. Where will that award go? According to Dolly, “I’m lucky I have the Chasing Rainbows Museum up at Dollywood, and that’s going to go in a special place. I’m very proud to be working with Cracker Barrel – they’re the best people in the world.”
Carrie Underwood will be on the Today Show tomorrow morning.
Showing posts with label Brooks and Dunn. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Brooks and Dunn. Show all posts
Monday, February 20, 2012
Today's Country Tidbits
For two decades, Brooks & Dunn made music and had hits together. Last year, Ronnie Dunn released his debut solo effort, and now it's Kix Brooks' turn. He'll release the song "New to This Town," a song he co-wrote with long-time friends and collaborators Marv Green and Terry McBride. About songwriting, Kix says, “It’s really hard to describe when one falls in your lap and it comes so easy and the thoughts are so well organized in your mind. And then some days you try so hard and no matter what it just doesn’t want to work. I don’t know why.” This song is the first from a solo album due out later this year.
Taking a page out of the tour books of Garth Brooks and George Strait, Jason Aldean's 2012 My Kinda Party tour includes a 360-degree experience for the fans. Jason says, “For me, it’s a little bit of a challenge just making sure that those people sitting behind you are as involved in the show as everybody else. But, the way we’ve got the show set up, I mean, there’s ways for me to get back there to them. And it’s nice—I’ll probably be in the best shape of my life after this tour though! There’s a lot of running around going on this year, but that’s good. I need the exercise!” The round stage allows arenas to sell more seats, and that's what's happening. Jason's May 19th Atlanta Georgia show sold out in 4 minutes. A second show on the 18th has been added - bet it'll be a sell-out, too.
Tonight, The Band Perry plays to a sold-out Ryman Auditorium, inaugurating the new stage. The trio is thrilled at the enthusiasm for their music: [Kimberly] “Folks keep saying, ‘What was your favorite moment of the whole year?!’ and I’ll have to say, we’ve had a lot of beautiful ones, but the morning we got the wakeup call that we’d sold out the Ryman was probably hands down my favorite of the whole year. [Neil] It definitely was cause it’s our first headlining show at the Ryman, too! So it was like double plus. And I’ve even talked to friends who didn’t even get tickets! [Laughs] [Kimberly] And they are like begging us for tickets! But we did get one for our grandmother though, so she is coming.”
Dierks Bentley says he wrote 70 songs for his current cd, "Home." They cut nearly 25 of them, and then narrowed the field to the 12 songs that made it onto the project. Sounds like a stockpile of "from the vault" and "rare, unreleased tracks" for future album releases to me!
VH1 compiled a list of the 100 Greatest Women in Music of the past 20 years, and country artists pepper that list. Carrie Underwood, Shania Twain, Faith Hill, Taylor Swift, Miranda Lambert and Hillary Scott of Lady Antebellum all show up on it. The entire list is on the VH1 website, but here's where our country ladies (or in some cases, ladies with country connections) landed:
89. Hillary Scott
82. Miley Cyrus
62. Leann Rimes
58. Miranda Lambert
43. Taylor Swift
41. Jewel
39. Dixie Chicks
37. Faith Hill
35. Shania Twain
25. Sheryl Crow
23. Carrie Underwood
19. Kelly Clarkson
In spite of all those love-lorn songs she writes, Taylor Swift says she's really good a being single. She says she's very independent, and her friends tell her that they have no clue what her "type" is where guys are concerned.
Did you catch the season premier of "The Apprentice" last night? John Rich to the rescue! "They asked me to come in towards the end, and kinda weight in on the situation. Kinda advise Trump with my first impression with several of ‘em when he was trying to thin them out a little bit.”
The Voice rolls on in America, and Keith Urban is headed to Australia to be a judge on their version of the show. He says as a mentor, he's focused on “looking for the strengths in people” and “working with players and trying to have a vision.”
BamaJam 2012 headliners have been announced - Tim McGraw, Zac Brown Band and Kid Rock anchor the three-day festival which runs June 14, 15 and 16. Tickets go on sale March 2nd.
The tweet of the day is from Chris Young: "Ummm. So I may have split my pants on stage tonight and didn't know it hahaha!!! That's what I call a good time!!"
Friday, September 3, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
The Brooks & Dunn "Last Rodeo" last show ended at about 11:45 central time last night, marking the end of the most successful duo ever. Kix and Ronnie started off as songwriters and were put together by record executive Tim DuBois in 1991. Over the years, they've charted more than 50 singles, with 20 of those going to #1. In 1992 they started raking in awards, and just from the major award shows, they picked up 67 trophies. The show last night featured most of their biggest hits, and after seven songs, Kix told the crowd, "Thanks for making the last go-around for us very special. This is not a funeral… we came to party…and I hope you guys are not in a hurry. Cause this is the first time all year that I've got about 15 min to go to get home…" There was one special guest - Reba joined them on stage, singing just one chorus of "Cowgirls Don't Cry." She got a standing ovation.The show lasted more than three hours, and the two encore songs were "Boot Scootin' Boogie" and "Brand New Man." When the house lights were turned back on, the band could be seen, still on stage and all hugging each other. Tennesseean.com has a slide show of last night's last concert.
Blake Shelton is featured on People.com talking about his "All About Tonight" six-pak, his favorite song on it, and what it's really like to sing a duet with Miranda Lambert.
There's a Loretta Lynn tribute cd in the works, and the Country Music Hall of Famer hand-picked the women she wanted on it and the song each would sing. "Coal Miner's Daughter: A Tribute to Loretta Lynn" will feature Martina McBride, Miranda Lambert, Carrie Underwood, Reba, Gretchen Wilson and Lee Ann Womack. Oh, and she picked a few guys, too - Alan Jackson, Steve Earle and Kid Rock will be part of the project. It hits stores on November 9th.
New Taylor Swift greeting cards are out, exclusively at Target.
The tweet of the day is from Brad Paisley: "Recording with Darius today. Its between a song we wrote and a Bluegrass version of Ebony and Ivory. Tuff choice."
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
Tonight is it - Brooks & Dunn will perform their last concert together and put a cap on their 20-year career with a show in Nashville. It's at Bridgestone Arena, it's sold out, and it's a benefit for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Kix Brooks might be tipping us off on what to expect: “Hopefully there will be some buds that come to hang with us and sit in and it should be a good time.”
Yesterday during the announcement of the nominations for the CMA awards, Miranda Lambert's name was called a lot. Nine times, as a matter of fact, making her the record-holder for female artist with the most nominations for one CMA show. How did that make her feel? “Um, I don’t even have a word, they don’t even make a word for the way I feel. I’m gonna have to make one up and get back to you on that one. (laugh)” She's nominated for entertainer of the year, female vocalist of the year, album of the year, song of the year, video of the year, single of the year and vocal event of the year.
Love the beach? Love Brad Paisley? Then you'd better plan a trip to Gulf Shores, Alabama on October 17th. He'll be putting on a free concert to promote tourism, and you get tickets by reserving a rental.
Got any emerging fashionistas in your house? Then you'll want to know that the Hot Topic apparel company has found one country act stylish enough to be part of their "When Music and Fashion Collide" campaign. Yes, that's Gloriana as part of their back-to-school campaign.
The iTunes store is getting a facelift today. iTunes 10 is rolling out, and has been described as "Facebook and Twitter meet iTunes." Customers can keep track of their favorite artists, artists can interact with fans, and everyone can interact with their circle of friends, seeing what they're listening to, buying and which concerts they're planning to attend.
Congrats to Little Big Town on hitting the top spot on the country charts with "The Reason Why." First-week sales of nearly 42,000 units propelled them to the top.
The tweet of the day is from 9-time CMA nominee Miranda Lambert: "OH MY DEAR LORD!!! I can't believe this is happening. Thank you country music for letting me live my dream. God bless this industry!"
Friday, August 13, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
If you're Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman, you probably need houses in LA, Nashville and New York. They had the first two covered, and now they have the third. They plunked down about 10 million on a Manhatten penthouse with views of the Hudson River from two terraces and lots of space for Sunday Rose to race around inside. Here's the huge perk of the building - it's called the Sky Garage, and is geared for people trying to avoid papparazzi. They drive into the garage, drive into the large elevator, and the elevator delivers them, car and all, to the front door of their home.
Is Zac Brown Band the new Brooks & Dunn? Could be - ZBB's fourth single from their debut cd has reached #1 on the Billboard chart. The only other group to have four #1's from a debut cd is Brooks & Dunn. "Free" is #1 this week, and Zac Brown Band's sophomore cd, "You Get What You Give," is scheduled for a September 21st release. Zac's working hard on the song order - “I want it to be like a, you know, like a good, classic record where you could put it on and listen to it start to finish.”
What happens if you buy Blake Shelton's new 6-pak, "All About Tonight?" What happens if you don't? Blake gives you his best guesses and talks about his upcoming marriage to Miranda Lambert.
What happened at the end of Jimmy Kimmel Live when Luke Bryan visited this week? He played his new single, "Someone Else is Calling You Baby."
Martina McBride and SuddyD juice drink have teamed up to donate free books to classrooms with the SunnyD Book Spree. Send in 20 labels and 20 books will be donated. Martina said, "As a mom, I'm proud to join the SunnyD Book Spree to bring free books to your child's classroom."
Shania Twain's name is coming up again as a potential judge on American Idol. She loves the show, loved the experience of guest-judging and mentoring this past season, and apparently the show's producers loved working with her.
Wednesday, it was tea and crumpets for Lady Antebellum, as they did a show in London, England. Tonight, it's corn dogs and funnel cakes as they perform at the Illinois State Fair. Wow...culture shock!
Sunday morning on A&E, watch "Private Sessions" featuring Brooks & Dunn. The show features an in-depth interview, plus performances of many B&D favorites. The show airs at 9am eastern on A&E.
Happy birthday to Andy Griggs, who turns 37 today.
The tweet of the day is from Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts: "Auto spell on the iPhone can kiss my ASPECT!!!"
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
Tim McGraw made a big confession - he's not very punctual, and relies on his wife Faith Hill and his assistant to keep him on time and on focus. “I’m not good at that at all. I’m just like the meat that just shows up and does the job. ‘Okay, where do I go next?’”
Brooks & Dunn's "Last Rodeo" tour is winding down, and Gary Allan played his final show with them on Sunday night. He hung a banner on his bus which read, “Kix, Ronnie and the B&D Family - Thanks for having us on 82 shows over the past 10 years! You guys are the gold standard of how it should be done. If we ever grow up, we want to be just like you guys. Thanks — Gary and the Gang.”
While some tours suffered such anemic ticket sales this year that dates had to be eliminated, Rascal Flatts' "Nothing Like This" tour is doing so well the guys have added eight more shows.
9-24 West Palm Beach, FL at the Cruzan Amphitheatre
9-25 Tampa, FL at the Ford Amphitheatre
9-30 Albuquerque, NM at the Hard Rock Casino
10-1 Phoenix, AZ at the Cricket Pavilion
10-2 San Diego, CA at the Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre
10-7 Sacramento, CA at the Sleep Train Amphitheatre
10-8 Mountain View, CA at the Shoreline Amphitheatre
10-9 Irvine, CA at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre
Calling all country music fans - can you help recover a stolen motorcycle? In Lexington, KY, thieves stole a 2010 Harley-Davidson Sportster from the Susan G. Komen offices there. The motorcycle was in a locked trailer and has been signed by country stars like Taylor Swift, Tim McGraw and Dolly Parton. It was expected to raise $100,000 for an October 16th fund-raiser in the fight against breast cancer. The trailer and motorcycle were stolen on Monday, and police feel certain that whoever has it will brag about it. If you hear any rumblings, please contact the Komen offices in Lexington at 859-368-7133 or email Penny Gilbert, Executive Director, at penny.gilbert@komenlexington.org
Kellie Pickler is talking about her wedding plans, though no one is quite sure what's a joke and what's for real. She says fiance Kyle Jacobs is a disaster on the dance floor, so they're skipping the first dance. The ceremony is going to be in a church, and they want all of their pets to play a part. While Kellie worries about an "accident" if the dogs come down the aisle, she is telling people that she's thinking of having her python be the ring bearer. Could be a slow, slow processional!
Love to sing? Love Taylor Swift songs? There's an app for that. Mix Me In2 Taylor Swift for iPhone is now available, and there's a contest that goes with the app. Mix yourself into "Your Song" and "You Belong With Me", upload your tracks and Taylor heself will determine the winner. Oh, the first 10,000 who download the game get it free.
You can hear a track by track sample of Trace Adkins' new cd this week. And if you're afraid you'll forget to pick up Trace Adkins' new cd, "Cowboy's Back in Town" next Tuesday when it comes out, Sign up to get a wake-up call from Trace.
Catch Blake Shelton on Good Morning America and the Today Show tomorrow morning. David Nail will sing "Turning Home" on Fox & Friends Friday morning.
The tweet of the day is from Zac Brown: "Zac Brown Band: where social networking means playing in a volleyball league."
Monday, July 19, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
Could Brad Paisley be going soft? Known for his pranks onstage, he surprised Josh Thompson Saturday night during their show by ... joining him onstage to play guitar with his band. Not much of a prank, Brad!
Darius Rucker's sophomore country album, "Charleston, SC 1966," will be out on October 12. Darius wrote or co-wrote 77 songs for the project, winnowing it down to the best 12. If the title sounds a little bit familiar, you know your country - Darius is a huge fan of Radney Foster, and followed his title format for "Del Rio, TX, 1959."
A special version of Craig Morgan's "That's Why" will be available through Cracker Barrel starting July 26th. The collector's edition includes previously unreleased tracks "You" and "Evel Knievel." As part of the launch, Cracker Barrel and Craig Morgan are teaming up to send someone on a four-day flyaway to have lunch with Craig in Washington, DC. The contest begins today.
Did you come into a little bit of cash over the weekend? Want to see Brooks & Dunn's last show ever? There are 25 remaining "Play Something Country" seats, which sell for $300 each, and about a hundred "Friend of the Museum" tickets, which sell for $250. Each is a great seat for the show, plus extras. Check it out and grab up the last tickets before you miss out.
The tweet of the day is from Lady Antebellum: "Just found out we sold 19 albums in Poland. Is it too early to say we're huge in Poland?"
Happy birthday to Doug Stone who turns 54 today.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
Last night at the "Nashville Rising" concert, more than just country superstars showed up for the 4.5 hour-long show. Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw's Oscar-winning co-star in the movie, "The Blind Side," appeared and brought out Faith Hill when it was her turn to perform. People came from all over, not just from in and around Tennessee. One fan came from the Northwest Territories in Canada just to be part of the show. It's projected that last night's take was between two and 3 million, and music publishing house BMI will match all of the Nashville Rising donations, up to a limit of $50,000, until July 31st, so if you'd like to help, your dollars will be doubled.
Trace Adkins was honored by the Daughters of the American Revolution and the city of Brentwood, TN. He was given the DAR Medal of Honor, the most prestigious award given by the group, and in addition, the mayor of Brentwood proclaimed the day Trace Adkins Day. The reason for all the hooplah? Trace is a huge supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project, the USO, Stand Up for the Cure, and the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network. When it came his turn to speak, Trace said, "You wanted to honor me. You've succeeded. I feel honored."
Monday night, Trace Adkins and Tim McGraw helped raise nearly two million dollars for Gulf Coast aid. The two-hour CNN special, "Larry Kind Live: Disaster in the Gulf" benefits the United Way, The National Wildlife Federation and the Nature Conservancy.
Ronnie Dunn is on a doctor-imposed three week vocal rest. Most of the Brooks & Dunn "Last Rodeo" shows will be re-scheduled, but three won't, and he was sad to miss performing at "Nashville Rising" last night.
Kenny Chesney's readying a new cd, "Hemingway's Whiskey," for release on September 28th. It's his first all-new-material cd in three years, since "Just Who I Am: Poets & Pirates" came out.
Keith Urban, Nicole Kidman and their daughter, Sunday Rose, are featured in a People.com slide show.
Lady Antebellum ticket sales for their first headlining tour have been brisk. Their show in Augusta, GA sold out in seven minutes.
More Carrie Underwood wedding rumors are swirling - July 10th is the date that keeps popping up, and the locations that are most discussed are the golf course in Augusta, GA, Reynolds Plantation in Greenville, GA and a farm in Franklin, TN. A bachelor party for Mike Fisher was held in Miami this past weekend, but the wildest behavior reported was a lot of shots being downed. Mike apparently only had one.
Tweet of the day comes from Martina McBride after 1am this morning, tweeting about "Nashville Rising:" "Tim sounded better than ever. Miranda rocked. Luke Bryan was great. Everybody just brought their best. And the crowd was amazing! Happy nite!"
Trace Adkins was honored by the Daughters of the American Revolution and the city of Brentwood, TN. He was given the DAR Medal of Honor, the most prestigious award given by the group, and in addition, the mayor of Brentwood proclaimed the day Trace Adkins Day. The reason for all the hooplah? Trace is a huge supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project, the USO, Stand Up for the Cure, and the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network. When it came his turn to speak, Trace said, "You wanted to honor me. You've succeeded. I feel honored."
Monday night, Trace Adkins and Tim McGraw helped raise nearly two million dollars for Gulf Coast aid. The two-hour CNN special, "Larry Kind Live: Disaster in the Gulf" benefits the United Way, The National Wildlife Federation and the Nature Conservancy.
Ronnie Dunn is on a doctor-imposed three week vocal rest. Most of the Brooks & Dunn "Last Rodeo" shows will be re-scheduled, but three won't, and he was sad to miss performing at "Nashville Rising" last night.
Kenny Chesney's readying a new cd, "Hemingway's Whiskey," for release on September 28th. It's his first all-new-material cd in three years, since "Just Who I Am: Poets & Pirates" came out.
Keith Urban, Nicole Kidman and their daughter, Sunday Rose, are featured in a People.com slide show.
Lady Antebellum ticket sales for their first headlining tour have been brisk. Their show in Augusta, GA sold out in seven minutes.
More Carrie Underwood wedding rumors are swirling - July 10th is the date that keeps popping up, and the locations that are most discussed are the golf course in Augusta, GA, Reynolds Plantation in Greenville, GA and a farm in Franklin, TN. A bachelor party for Mike Fisher was held in Miami this past weekend, but the wildest behavior reported was a lot of shots being downed. Mike apparently only had one.
Tweet of the day comes from Martina McBride after 1am this morning, tweeting about "Nashville Rising:" "Tim sounded better than ever. Miranda rocked. Luke Bryan was great. Everybody just brought their best. And the crowd was amazing! Happy nite!"
Monday, June 21, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
How did Keith Urban celebrate Father's Day yesterday? He didn't. June 20th is his wife Nicole's birthday, so they decided to celebrate her birthday instead of trying to celebrate both. They'll celebrate Australia's Father's Day, which is the first Sunday in September.
What did the members of Lady Antebellum plan to do for their Dads for Father's Day? Hillary says her Dad is always talking about how he wants his home more organized, so a trip to the Container Store was in store for her. Charles Kelley planned to recycle a gift, saying his Dad loves to get the awards that his son wins. And Dave Haywood said his Dad wanted tickets to see Tim McGraw and Lady Antebellum. See how creative they are - not a tie in the bunch!
Taylor Swift was given the Hal David Starlight Award last week. The award is a songwriter's award, and John Mayer was the presenter. His words were right on target: "She's no accident." "You could put her in a time machine in any era and she would have a hit record. Don't confuse everybody loving one thing as hype. Sometimes that's everyone agreeing that it's fabulous."
There are still tickets available for the very last Brooks & Dunn show, August 10th at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, but they're going to cost you. The "Hillbilly Deluxe Package" is $750 per person, and includes dinner with Brooks & Dunn the night before, a floor seat and meet & greet at the show, a parking space and a Brooks & Dunn merchandise package with at least one autographed item. If that's too rich for your blood, how about the $300 "Play Something Country Package" which includes a floor seat, merchandise package and autographed B & D item. Or you could support the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum at the $250 level and get a tickets. The show is a benefit for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
There were more weddings in Little Big Town's Little White Church reception tent on Friday in Bakersfield, CA. People at nearly every tour stop are asking to be married in the tent before Little Big Town goes on stage, so they're going to be on a lot of people's marriage certificates as official witnesses.
If you go to an American Ride tour stop, keep an eye on the karaoke area. Toby Keith is threatening to take his "Incognito Bandito" persona there occasionally and see if anyone knows it's him. I doubt he'll keep that secret long!
Jimmy Buffett will throw a free concert on July 1st in Gulf Shores to bring people to the gulf area. With oil washing up on some of the prettiest beaches in America, tourism is hurting, and Jimmy's bringing his show to the rescue.
People magazine has free country music for you, including some Merle Haggard, Jaron and the Long Road to Love's "Pray for You," and nine more free cuts.
Tweet of the day is from Blake Shelton. He's had a lot that have made me laugh, but finally, here's one I can share in a family-friendly blog: "My show tonight in Detroit is gonna be more fun putting binaca in grandma's eye drops!!!!"
What did the members of Lady Antebellum plan to do for their Dads for Father's Day? Hillary says her Dad is always talking about how he wants his home more organized, so a trip to the Container Store was in store for her. Charles Kelley planned to recycle a gift, saying his Dad loves to get the awards that his son wins. And Dave Haywood said his Dad wanted tickets to see Tim McGraw and Lady Antebellum. See how creative they are - not a tie in the bunch!
Taylor Swift was given the Hal David Starlight Award last week. The award is a songwriter's award, and John Mayer was the presenter. His words were right on target: "She's no accident." "You could put her in a time machine in any era and she would have a hit record. Don't confuse everybody loving one thing as hype. Sometimes that's everyone agreeing that it's fabulous."
There are still tickets available for the very last Brooks & Dunn show, August 10th at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, but they're going to cost you. The "Hillbilly Deluxe Package" is $750 per person, and includes dinner with Brooks & Dunn the night before, a floor seat and meet & greet at the show, a parking space and a Brooks & Dunn merchandise package with at least one autographed item. If that's too rich for your blood, how about the $300 "Play Something Country Package" which includes a floor seat, merchandise package and autographed B & D item. Or you could support the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum at the $250 level and get a tickets. The show is a benefit for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
There were more weddings in Little Big Town's Little White Church reception tent on Friday in Bakersfield, CA. People at nearly every tour stop are asking to be married in the tent before Little Big Town goes on stage, so they're going to be on a lot of people's marriage certificates as official witnesses.
If you go to an American Ride tour stop, keep an eye on the karaoke area. Toby Keith is threatening to take his "Incognito Bandito" persona there occasionally and see if anyone knows it's him. I doubt he'll keep that secret long!
Jimmy Buffett will throw a free concert on July 1st in Gulf Shores to bring people to the gulf area. With oil washing up on some of the prettiest beaches in America, tourism is hurting, and Jimmy's bringing his show to the rescue.
People magazine has free country music for you, including some Merle Haggard, Jaron and the Long Road to Love's "Pray for You," and nine more free cuts.
Tweet of the day is from Blake Shelton. He's had a lot that have made me laugh, but finally, here's one I can share in a family-friendly blog: "My show tonight in Detroit is gonna be more fun putting binaca in grandma's eye drops!!!!"
Monday, June 7, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
TV specials boost album sales. That's always how it works, but it doesn't usually work this well. After the Brooks & Dunn-The Last Rodeo special on CBS, their double-set, #1's...and them some saw a 211% jump in sales, landing it at the #2 spot on the Billboard Country Albums chart. Their Greatest Hits Collection had a 174% rise, putting it at the top of the Billboard Top Catalog Country Albums chart.
Something even better came out of that special - a $1,000,000 donation to the ACM Lifting Lives Foundation, given by the artists who were part of the show. The money is helping with flood relief in Nashville.
All sorts of other fund-raisers have cropped up in the wake of Nashville's flood, so why not an NRA charity event? It'll happen on Thursday, with Blake Shelton hosting the sporting clay shoot and Trace Adkins, Rodney Atkins, Gretchen Wilson, Justin Moore, Josh Thompson, John Rich and more country stars shouldering their shotguns for a few clay pigeons. Proceeds go to the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee for flood relief.
The CMT Music Awards are Wednesday night, and tomorrow is the last day to vote for your favorite artist. Taylor Swift's first award ever was a CMT Music Award, which she took with her to every meet & greet. Why? Taylor says, “The reason why I took the CMT Award from autograph line to autograph line and let people take pictures with it is because it was strictly fan voted. They got me that award and they deserve to get a picture with it.”
Miranda Lambert and Laura Bell Bundy have put together a video asking fans to vote for their videos. It's got a little twist to it - they're not playing themselves in the video. Not even close!
Dierks Bentley has a crazy, crazy day today. It started with a 3am lobby call to get him to the Don Imus show on time, then at 10am he was scheduled to tape a segment of the Today show, then fly to Boston to play a few songs at a small event, then on another plane to fly to Washington DC. Crazy, crazy day!
Keith Urban is hosting a live chat tonight starting at 6 eastern. You can submit questions in advance via his Facebook page or Twitter account.
Rascal Flatts will perform on the Today show this Friday morning.
Something even better came out of that special - a $1,000,000 donation to the ACM Lifting Lives Foundation, given by the artists who were part of the show. The money is helping with flood relief in Nashville.
All sorts of other fund-raisers have cropped up in the wake of Nashville's flood, so why not an NRA charity event? It'll happen on Thursday, with Blake Shelton hosting the sporting clay shoot and Trace Adkins, Rodney Atkins, Gretchen Wilson, Justin Moore, Josh Thompson, John Rich and more country stars shouldering their shotguns for a few clay pigeons. Proceeds go to the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee for flood relief.
The CMT Music Awards are Wednesday night, and tomorrow is the last day to vote for your favorite artist. Taylor Swift's first award ever was a CMT Music Award, which she took with her to every meet & greet. Why? Taylor says, “The reason why I took the CMT Award from autograph line to autograph line and let people take pictures with it is because it was strictly fan voted. They got me that award and they deserve to get a picture with it.”
Miranda Lambert and Laura Bell Bundy have put together a video asking fans to vote for their videos. It's got a little twist to it - they're not playing themselves in the video. Not even close!
Dierks Bentley has a crazy, crazy day today. It started with a 3am lobby call to get him to the Don Imus show on time, then at 10am he was scheduled to tape a segment of the Today show, then fly to Boston to play a few songs at a small event, then on another plane to fly to Washington DC. Crazy, crazy day!
Keith Urban is hosting a live chat tonight starting at 6 eastern. You can submit questions in advance via his Facebook page or Twitter account.
Rascal Flatts will perform on the Today show this Friday morning.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
Tonight in Nashville, a birthday celebration begins, and the city gets the gifts. The "Opry Guitar Jam for Flood Relief," featuring Vince Gill, Brad Paisley, Ricky Skaggs and Steve Wariner, is the inaugural event in the Grand Ole Opry's 85th anniversary celebration. Donations for flood relief will be accepted during the show, which will stream online.
Alan Jackson gave of his time and talents on Sunday in West Virginia, where he played a benefit concert for the families affected by the Montcoal mine explosion in April. The 27 families who lost relatives in the disaster attended the show free, and were also taken backstage for a reception with Alan. The money from the show will go to the families, and online donations are still being taken.
Reba could be headed to Broadway. Last week, she attended a reading for the Broadway production of "The Unsinkable Molly Brown." She was supposed to play the role of Molly Brown in the movie, "Titanic," but had to back out because of schedule conflicts.
11 million people watched the Brooks & Dunn special on Sunday night. Relive your favorite performances whenever you wish, as they're archived online.
Also on Sunday night, Taylor Swift was storming around onstage, when her feet went right out from under her. She's a pro, though...got right back up and kept right on singing.
Can't get enough Taylor Swift? Check out People magazine's photo gallery of Taylor and her purses, and Us Weekly's collection of her best style moments.
If your travels take you past a Cracker Barrel Old Country Store today, pick up Wynonna's "Love Heals." A portion of the proceeds goes to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Alan Jackson gave of his time and talents on Sunday in West Virginia, where he played a benefit concert for the families affected by the Montcoal mine explosion in April. The 27 families who lost relatives in the disaster attended the show free, and were also taken backstage for a reception with Alan. The money from the show will go to the families, and online donations are still being taken.
Reba could be headed to Broadway. Last week, she attended a reading for the Broadway production of "The Unsinkable Molly Brown." She was supposed to play the role of Molly Brown in the movie, "Titanic," but had to back out because of schedule conflicts.
11 million people watched the Brooks & Dunn special on Sunday night. Relive your favorite performances whenever you wish, as they're archived online.
Also on Sunday night, Taylor Swift was storming around onstage, when her feet went right out from under her. She's a pro, though...got right back up and kept right on singing.
Can't get enough Taylor Swift? Check out People magazine's photo gallery of Taylor and her purses, and Us Weekly's collection of her best style moments.
If your travels take you past a Cracker Barrel Old Country Store today, pick up Wynonna's "Love Heals." A portion of the proceeds goes to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
The Brooks & Dunn special last night was a tribute to two men who've had 23 number one songs, sold over 30 million albums and who have won more ACM awards than anyone else - 27, with three being Entertainer of the Year awards. The star-studded show was taped in Las Vegas, right after the ACM award show.
Lady Antebellum is ready to hit the road as headliners. The 35-city Need You Now 2010 tour launches on September 20th and runs through November. David Nail is the opening act.
Alan Jackson's Freight Train tour is over already - Saturday night, Charleston West Virginia was the last stop. Chris Young, who was his opening act, tweeted that it was over way too soon, and really enjoyed learning from AJ on the tour. “Alan was a huge, huge influence on me and still is. And you know, I think that’s one of those things. I mean, he is that guy. He is a traditionalist, singer/songwriter. I probably run around on stage a lot more than Alan does, but other than that…. I mean, it’s really been amazing to watch his show.”
Taylor Swift leads the Billboard Hot Tours list, with $8.1 million in revenue from eight tour stops. She's made their list six times this year, but this is the first time she's topped it.
Jimmy Wayne has made it to Albuquerque New Mexico in his walk across America. He estimates he'll reach Phoenix Arizona on July 8th, and you know there'll be a huge party when he does. As a former homeless teen, he's spending half of this year simulating what life is like for homeless teens, who have gotten too old for foster care and have no one to lean on. The kindness of strangers has lifted Jimmy's spirits along his trek. Learn more and follow Jimmy's progress on the official Project Meet Me Halfway website.
Danny Gokey's flood relief center is open and taking donations. His non-profit Sophia's Heart Foundation is providing food, water, clothing, cleaning supplies and other needed items to people who lost their homes in the Nashville floods. Mail or drop off donations to 5320 Hickory Hollow Parkway, Antioch, TN 37013, or make a $10 donation by texting ONEHEART to 85944.
Country Weekly features a story about how country artists are helping with Nashville's flood relief efforts. A story that's not in there features Trace Adkins, who's raising money on his tour stops and radio station visits. In Portland, Oregon, his visit to a radio station raised a guitar case full of cash when he offered to do an impromptu meet and greet for anyone who donated at least $5. Fans flocked to the studios, and Trace signed everything from a hubcap to a pair of bull horns.
Looking for a new place to call home? Got about seven and a half million dollars to plunk down on it? Then you might be interested in Sheryl Crow's 150-acre estate outside of Nashville. It comes complete with a recording studio.
New music available tomorrow includes a 3-song download from iTunes by Chris Young. He says his musical influences are Keith Whitley, John Anderson and Vern Gosdin, and he's recorded versions of their biggest hits. The "Voices EP" features "Chisled in Stone," "I'm Over You" and "Swingin."
Happy birthday to Rosanne Cash, who turns 55 today.
Lady Antebellum is ready to hit the road as headliners. The 35-city Need You Now 2010 tour launches on September 20th and runs through November. David Nail is the opening act.
Alan Jackson's Freight Train tour is over already - Saturday night, Charleston West Virginia was the last stop. Chris Young, who was his opening act, tweeted that it was over way too soon, and really enjoyed learning from AJ on the tour. “Alan was a huge, huge influence on me and still is. And you know, I think that’s one of those things. I mean, he is that guy. He is a traditionalist, singer/songwriter. I probably run around on stage a lot more than Alan does, but other than that…. I mean, it’s really been amazing to watch his show.”
Taylor Swift leads the Billboard Hot Tours list, with $8.1 million in revenue from eight tour stops. She's made their list six times this year, but this is the first time she's topped it.
Jimmy Wayne has made it to Albuquerque New Mexico in his walk across America. He estimates he'll reach Phoenix Arizona on July 8th, and you know there'll be a huge party when he does. As a former homeless teen, he's spending half of this year simulating what life is like for homeless teens, who have gotten too old for foster care and have no one to lean on. The kindness of strangers has lifted Jimmy's spirits along his trek. Learn more and follow Jimmy's progress on the official Project Meet Me Halfway website.
Danny Gokey's flood relief center is open and taking donations. His non-profit Sophia's Heart Foundation is providing food, water, clothing, cleaning supplies and other needed items to people who lost their homes in the Nashville floods. Mail or drop off donations to 5320 Hickory Hollow Parkway, Antioch, TN 37013, or make a $10 donation by texting ONEHEART to 85944.
Country Weekly features a story about how country artists are helping with Nashville's flood relief efforts. A story that's not in there features Trace Adkins, who's raising money on his tour stops and radio station visits. In Portland, Oregon, his visit to a radio station raised a guitar case full of cash when he offered to do an impromptu meet and greet for anyone who donated at least $5. Fans flocked to the studios, and Trace signed everything from a hubcap to a pair of bull horns.
Looking for a new place to call home? Got about seven and a half million dollars to plunk down on it? Then you might be interested in Sheryl Crow's 150-acre estate outside of Nashville. It comes complete with a recording studio.
New music available tomorrow includes a 3-song download from iTunes by Chris Young. He says his musical influences are Keith Whitley, John Anderson and Vern Gosdin, and he's recorded versions of their biggest hits. The "Voices EP" features "Chisled in Stone," "I'm Over You" and "Swingin."
Happy birthday to Rosanne Cash, who turns 55 today.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
Forbes Magazine is out with their annual "Country Music's 10 Top-Earning Stars" list, and Kenny Chesney tops it, with an estimated $50 million raked in in 2009. Here's the rest of the Top 10:
Toby Keith - $48 million
Taylor Swift - $45 million
Rascal Flatts - $45 million
Tim McGraw - $30 million
Keith Urban - $28 million
George Strait - $25 million
Brad Paisley - $22 million
Alan Jackson - $15 million
Carrie Underwood - $13 million
Brad Paisley's "H2O" tour opens tonight in Virginia Beach, in spite of losing nearly all of his stage gear in the Nashville flood. The show is more than just a show - there's the "Water World Plaza" which includes a fishing simulator, a dunking booth and a "Hope Through Healing Hands" booth. After the gates open but before the main stage fires up with Justin Moore and Darius Rucker, there's a Plaza Stage, featuring Easton Corbin, Steel Magnolia and Josh Thompson.
Carrie Underwood, as reigning ACM Entertainer of the Year, gets to decide where donations to ACM's Lifting Lives initiative go this year. Together, they've launched the Temporary Home Fund to support Tennessee flood relief efforts. She's encouraging those who want to help to text ACM to 501501 to make a $10 donation.
Lady Antebellum was tapped to sing "Need You Now" in Simish for the new Sims3 game, available in June. Catch the performance, and the sims of Hillary, Charles and Dave.
Jimmy Wayne is still walking across America to raise awareness of the issues teens in foster care face when they age out of the system. His nephew joined him on the road a couple of days ago, and is making videos of their travels & travails.
The Bonaroo line-up is published by date and stage, so if you're going, you can be sure to see your favorite artists. Miranda Lambert, Jamey Johnson and the Zac Brown Band are just some of the country stars that'll be part of the festival June 10-13 in Manchester, TN.
Yesterday, Dierks Bentley found himself somewhere he's never been before - the Oval Office, meeting the President of the United States. He tweeted, "kind of making it hard to fall asleep" last night.
On tv today, catch Dolly Parton on the Oprah Winfrey Show, and tonight, Brooks & Dunn and Reba are on The Late Show with David Letterman. That same threesome shows up on the Today show Sunday morning, then Sunday night, it's "The ACM Presents: Brooks & Dunn - The Last Rodeo." The show taped the night after the ACM awards in Las Vegas, and the show is a star-studded, music-filled tribute to the duo who've given us 20 years of great music. There are also a lot of laughs in the show, including Ronnie Dunn doing an impersonation of Taylor Swift. Can't wait to see that!
Carrie Underwood will perform "Undo It" on American Idol next week.
Happy birthday to Jewel, who turns 36 on Sunday.
Toby Keith - $48 million
Taylor Swift - $45 million
Rascal Flatts - $45 million
Tim McGraw - $30 million
Keith Urban - $28 million
George Strait - $25 million
Brad Paisley - $22 million
Alan Jackson - $15 million
Carrie Underwood - $13 million
Brad Paisley's "H2O" tour opens tonight in Virginia Beach, in spite of losing nearly all of his stage gear in the Nashville flood. The show is more than just a show - there's the "Water World Plaza" which includes a fishing simulator, a dunking booth and a "Hope Through Healing Hands" booth. After the gates open but before the main stage fires up with Justin Moore and Darius Rucker, there's a Plaza Stage, featuring Easton Corbin, Steel Magnolia and Josh Thompson.
Carrie Underwood, as reigning ACM Entertainer of the Year, gets to decide where donations to ACM's Lifting Lives initiative go this year. Together, they've launched the Temporary Home Fund to support Tennessee flood relief efforts. She's encouraging those who want to help to text ACM to 501501 to make a $10 donation.
Lady Antebellum was tapped to sing "Need You Now" in Simish for the new Sims3 game, available in June. Catch the performance, and the sims of Hillary, Charles and Dave.
Jimmy Wayne is still walking across America to raise awareness of the issues teens in foster care face when they age out of the system. His nephew joined him on the road a couple of days ago, and is making videos of their travels & travails.
The Bonaroo line-up is published by date and stage, so if you're going, you can be sure to see your favorite artists. Miranda Lambert, Jamey Johnson and the Zac Brown Band are just some of the country stars that'll be part of the festival June 10-13 in Manchester, TN.
Yesterday, Dierks Bentley found himself somewhere he's never been before - the Oval Office, meeting the President of the United States. He tweeted, "kind of making it hard to fall asleep" last night.
On tv today, catch Dolly Parton on the Oprah Winfrey Show, and tonight, Brooks & Dunn and Reba are on The Late Show with David Letterman. That same threesome shows up on the Today show Sunday morning, then Sunday night, it's "The ACM Presents: Brooks & Dunn - The Last Rodeo." The show taped the night after the ACM awards in Las Vegas, and the show is a star-studded, music-filled tribute to the duo who've given us 20 years of great music. There are also a lot of laughs in the show, including Ronnie Dunn doing an impersonation of Taylor Swift. Can't wait to see that!
Carrie Underwood will perform "Undo It" on American Idol next week.
Happy birthday to Jewel, who turns 36 on Sunday.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
Going to the CMA Music Festival? Big fan of great songwriting? Then you want to put this benefit concert on your list: the Musicians on Call Songwriter Series will host a tribute to Kenny Chesney on June 10th, with a guitar pull featuring Mac MacAnally, Craig Wiseman, Brett James, Neil Thrasher Wendell Mobley and Casey Beathard. You can buy tickets online before you get to Nashville for the CMA Music Festival.
Brooks & Dunn have a house named for them on Music Row. Knoxville Habitat for Humanity and the Charlie And Moll Anderson Family Foundation are teaming up to build a neighborhood over the next 10 years. A major part of the fund-raising happens at benefit concerts, and Brooks & Dunn headlined the first one. Next year's home will be named for Martina McBride, who headlined the second concert last year.
Martina McBride has a new manager - Clint Higham of Morris Artist Management. Clint is the same guy who manages Kenny Chesney and Jake Owen, and Martina's excited about working with him. Of Martina, Clint says, "Martina is a superstar at the top of her game, but I believe there are many layers to her career that have yet to be explored."
Donations are still pouring in to GAC for the Music City Keep On Playin' benefit for flood relief. You can donate through this Sunday, either online or by texting GAC to 501501. Proceeds benefit the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee.
When we think of Nashville musicians, we think of the superstars with big fan clubs and big bucks. But most musicians in Nashville live and play in relative obscurity, and have lost not just their livelihood but the instruments they used to make a living in the flood waters. Music Rising, a partnership formed after Hurricane Katrina to assist musicians with instrument repair and replacement, is pitching in after Nashville's floods. Administered by the Gibson Foundation, the charitable arm of Gibson Guitars, Funds will also be used to help flood victims get back into their houses more quickly. Donations are appreciated, and you can donate and read more about it online.
Here's a sneak-peek at this Sunday night's Brooks & Dunn tribute show.
Do you have kids who own Miley Cyrus jewelry? Toss it - Wal-Mart has pulled it from the shelves due to high levels of cadmium, a toxic element. It's thought to be safe to wear, but ingestion can cause bone softening, kidney failure and cancer.
Reba and Brooks & Dunn were on the Today show this morning, and they'll be on the Late Show with David Letterman tomorrow night.
Brooks & Dunn have a house named for them on Music Row. Knoxville Habitat for Humanity and the Charlie And Moll Anderson Family Foundation are teaming up to build a neighborhood over the next 10 years. A major part of the fund-raising happens at benefit concerts, and Brooks & Dunn headlined the first one. Next year's home will be named for Martina McBride, who headlined the second concert last year.
Martina McBride has a new manager - Clint Higham of Morris Artist Management. Clint is the same guy who manages Kenny Chesney and Jake Owen, and Martina's excited about working with him. Of Martina, Clint says, "Martina is a superstar at the top of her game, but I believe there are many layers to her career that have yet to be explored."
Donations are still pouring in to GAC for the Music City Keep On Playin' benefit for flood relief. You can donate through this Sunday, either online or by texting GAC to 501501. Proceeds benefit the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee.
When we think of Nashville musicians, we think of the superstars with big fan clubs and big bucks. But most musicians in Nashville live and play in relative obscurity, and have lost not just their livelihood but the instruments they used to make a living in the flood waters. Music Rising, a partnership formed after Hurricane Katrina to assist musicians with instrument repair and replacement, is pitching in after Nashville's floods. Administered by the Gibson Foundation, the charitable arm of Gibson Guitars, Funds will also be used to help flood victims get back into their houses more quickly. Donations are appreciated, and you can donate and read more about it online.
Here's a sneak-peek at this Sunday night's Brooks & Dunn tribute show.
Do you have kids who own Miley Cyrus jewelry? Toss it - Wal-Mart has pulled it from the shelves due to high levels of cadmium, a toxic element. It's thought to be safe to wear, but ingestion can cause bone softening, kidney failure and cancer.
Reba and Brooks & Dunn were on the Today show this morning, and they'll be on the Late Show with David Letterman tomorrow night.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
Proof positive that performing on awards shows helps an artist's career: Miranda Lambert's album sales were up 105%, Brooks & Dunn's were up 84%, Carrie Underwood's rose 54%, Luke Bryan's spiked 49%, Lady Antebellum's increased about 35%, and Zac Brown Band's sales were up 26%.
While in Vegas, Charles Kelley of Lady Antebellum tried his luck at roulette. “One time I put 25 dollars on zero and it hit. Then I turned around and lost it the next hour, but that was the greatest moment in my life in Vegas.” Wow...wonder if he means even greater than winning those ACM awards?
Luke Bryan is still celebrating his ACM award for Top New Artist, apparently. “Coming back from Vegas, and I went to Talladega and all this. Its like, at some point me and the old liver are going to have to get together and chill out for a second so we have been having a good time. You know, you never want to come down from the clouds after something like last weekend. So were still having a good time.”
George Strait breaks records all the time, and this time, he's broken his own. The old record for seats sold at the Alamo Dome in San Antonio dates back to 1997 - it was 47,000 seats. The new record is 51,000 tickets sold for this Saturday night's concert, featuring George Strait, Reba McEntire and Lee Ann Womack. A limited number of tickets will be released for sale today, so the record will be pushed even higher.
Toby Keith is about to head overseas for the 8th time to entertain the troops in the Persian Gulf, Korea and Germany for two weeks. Does he give the same shows there as he does here? “My songs for the troops are a little different, they are a little humorous. I’ve got my own little group of songs. She didn’t say no, she said hell no, I try to entertain the troops with a smile.”
Do you like to see how things are made? Have a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Miranda Lambert's "The House That Built Me."
Joe Nichols has a number one song with "Gimme That Girl" and a new endorsement contract with Roper Apparel and Footwear. Starting Saturday, watch for him in commercials and on posters at Roper retailers nationwide.
Josh Turner is in Country Weekly, where he's giving guys marital advice. He says, “If you don’t want to do the weekly chores just buy your wife really nice appliances.” Josh's wife Jennifer likes her new washer and drier so much that she won't let him touch them. Score...he's gotten out of having to do laundry!!
Speaking of Country Weekly, here's the list of country music's hottest bachelors, according to the magazine's readers:
1.Gary Allan
2.Chris Young
3.Josh Thompson
4.Chuck Wicks
5.Keith Anderson
6.Danny Gokey
7.Jake Owen
8.Bucky Covington
9.Phil Vassar
10.Stephen Barker Liles
Laura Bell Bundy will be on the Tonight show with Jay Leno, and Trisha Yearwood is on the Bonnie Hunt show tomorrow.
While in Vegas, Charles Kelley of Lady Antebellum tried his luck at roulette. “One time I put 25 dollars on zero and it hit. Then I turned around and lost it the next hour, but that was the greatest moment in my life in Vegas.” Wow...wonder if he means even greater than winning those ACM awards?
Luke Bryan is still celebrating his ACM award for Top New Artist, apparently. “Coming back from Vegas, and I went to Talladega and all this. Its like, at some point me and the old liver are going to have to get together and chill out for a second so we have been having a good time. You know, you never want to come down from the clouds after something like last weekend. So were still having a good time.”
George Strait breaks records all the time, and this time, he's broken his own. The old record for seats sold at the Alamo Dome in San Antonio dates back to 1997 - it was 47,000 seats. The new record is 51,000 tickets sold for this Saturday night's concert, featuring George Strait, Reba McEntire and Lee Ann Womack. A limited number of tickets will be released for sale today, so the record will be pushed even higher.
Toby Keith is about to head overseas for the 8th time to entertain the troops in the Persian Gulf, Korea and Germany for two weeks. Does he give the same shows there as he does here? “My songs for the troops are a little different, they are a little humorous. I’ve got my own little group of songs. She didn’t say no, she said hell no, I try to entertain the troops with a smile.”
Do you like to see how things are made? Have a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Miranda Lambert's "The House That Built Me."
Joe Nichols has a number one song with "Gimme That Girl" and a new endorsement contract with Roper Apparel and Footwear. Starting Saturday, watch for him in commercials and on posters at Roper retailers nationwide.
Josh Turner is in Country Weekly, where he's giving guys marital advice. He says, “If you don’t want to do the weekly chores just buy your wife really nice appliances.” Josh's wife Jennifer likes her new washer and drier so much that she won't let him touch them. Score...he's gotten out of having to do laundry!!
Speaking of Country Weekly, here's the list of country music's hottest bachelors, according to the magazine's readers:
1.Gary Allan
2.Chris Young
3.Josh Thompson
4.Chuck Wicks
5.Keith Anderson
6.Danny Gokey
7.Jake Owen
8.Bucky Covington
9.Phil Vassar
10.Stephen Barker Liles
Laura Bell Bundy will be on the Tonight show with Jay Leno, and Trisha Yearwood is on the Bonnie Hunt show tomorrow.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
Brooks & Dunn's Last Rodeo tour includes local active-duty military marching across the stage while they perform "Only In America," confetti cannons shooting red, white & blue streamers out over the audience and "Brand New Man" and "Boot Scootin' Boogie" as the encore songs. There are less than 50 shows remaining in the duo's 20-year career, so catch them if you can.
About 500 miles away, Sugarland kicked off their "Incredible Machine" tour, minus the machine set pieces, which didn't make it to the venue. Fans didn't seem to notice, as Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush tore through not just their own songs, but a medly of hits from Jackson 5, Beyonce and Miley Cyrus wrapped inside "Everyday America."
"Kenny Chesney: Summer in 3D" made over a million dollars in it's first four days in theatres. It's only supposed to be in theatres through this Sunday, so catch it quick if you want to see it on the big screen.
Well, the two Auburn University seniors who were angling for a hug from Taylor Swift got it yesterday, in typical Taylor style. Brian and Michael got an email from Taylor Swift at 12:30, telling them to go to a theatre at AU and sing some karaoke to her songs. They rounded up a bunch of friends, and of course the video cameras were rolling.
Have you seen Taylor Swift's Sony commercial for the new Cyber-shot camera, which takes panoramic view shots?
Garth Brooks popped in to entertain child patients at Denver Health, and to help with the grand opening of the new Child Life ZONE, funded by Garth's Teammates for Kids Foundation and the Troy Aikman Foundation. In the zone, kids have a library, playground, tv studios and creative areas where needles and treatments are not allowed.
Jimmy Wayne is about 550 miles short of his destination of Phoenix, Arizona in his walk across America. His new goal is to get Oprah Winfrey's attention, so she can help him raise awareness about the problems foster teens have when they age out of the foster care system. With nowhere to go, they become homeless, helpless and often hopeless. Project Meet Me Halfway is hoping that Oprah will do a segment on teen homelessness to help the mission.
New country music in stores today includes Lonestar's "Party Heard Around the World" and Jo Dee Messina's "Unmistakable: Love."
If you pick up a copy of "Chicken and Biscuits" by Colt Ford, you also have a good shot at getting a free meal from Zaxby's. There are 50,000 coupons out there, so good luck!
Lady A has scored triple-platinum status with the single, "Need You Now," and double platinum certification for the CD of the same name.
Before Lady Antebellum had a big hit with their first song, "Love Don't Live Here Anymore," the trio was tapped to be part of Jim Brickman's latest compilation, "Never Alone." They sing the title cut, and the CD is available for purchase today.
Don't forget that it's country music week on American Idol. Shania Twain is the mentor tonight, and Lady Antebellum and Rascal Flatts perform tomorrow night on the results show.
Dierks Bentley is on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
About 500 miles away, Sugarland kicked off their "Incredible Machine" tour, minus the machine set pieces, which didn't make it to the venue. Fans didn't seem to notice, as Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush tore through not just their own songs, but a medly of hits from Jackson 5, Beyonce and Miley Cyrus wrapped inside "Everyday America."
"Kenny Chesney: Summer in 3D" made over a million dollars in it's first four days in theatres. It's only supposed to be in theatres through this Sunday, so catch it quick if you want to see it on the big screen.
Well, the two Auburn University seniors who were angling for a hug from Taylor Swift got it yesterday, in typical Taylor style. Brian and Michael got an email from Taylor Swift at 12:30, telling them to go to a theatre at AU and sing some karaoke to her songs. They rounded up a bunch of friends, and of course the video cameras were rolling.
Have you seen Taylor Swift's Sony commercial for the new Cyber-shot camera, which takes panoramic view shots?
Garth Brooks popped in to entertain child patients at Denver Health, and to help with the grand opening of the new Child Life ZONE, funded by Garth's Teammates for Kids Foundation and the Troy Aikman Foundation. In the zone, kids have a library, playground, tv studios and creative areas where needles and treatments are not allowed.
Jimmy Wayne is about 550 miles short of his destination of Phoenix, Arizona in his walk across America. His new goal is to get Oprah Winfrey's attention, so she can help him raise awareness about the problems foster teens have when they age out of the foster care system. With nowhere to go, they become homeless, helpless and often hopeless. Project Meet Me Halfway is hoping that Oprah will do a segment on teen homelessness to help the mission.
New country music in stores today includes Lonestar's "Party Heard Around the World" and Jo Dee Messina's "Unmistakable: Love."
If you pick up a copy of "Chicken and Biscuits" by Colt Ford, you also have a good shot at getting a free meal from Zaxby's. There are 50,000 coupons out there, so good luck!
Lady A has scored triple-platinum status with the single, "Need You Now," and double platinum certification for the CD of the same name.
Before Lady Antebellum had a big hit with their first song, "Love Don't Live Here Anymore," the trio was tapped to be part of Jim Brickman's latest compilation, "Never Alone." They sing the title cut, and the CD is available for purchase today.
Don't forget that it's country music week on American Idol. Shania Twain is the mentor tonight, and Lady Antebellum and Rascal Flatts perform tomorrow night on the results show.
Dierks Bentley is on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
The Last Rodeo tour is officially underway. Brooks & Dunn kicked it off in California over the weekend. Ronnie Dunn was caught reminiscing about their early days as baby country stars, opening for Reba. “We just had I think our second hit and being back there and being absolutely star struck over how it went down and coming in with jets and big limos.”
Martina McBride has tapped Blake Shelton and Luke Bryan to open the last three shows of her Shine All Night tour, and decided to have a little fun with them. They'll be with her in Greensboro, Atlanta and Columbia, SC.
Chris Young had a bad Friday night, and so did a bunch of fans. He was supposed to play Wild West in Waco, Texas, but the show was shut down before it even started...the fire marshal wouldn't allow the show to happen. Chris ended up signing autographs for everyone out by his bus, and will probably work hard to reschedule the show sometime soon.
James Otto had a bad Friday night, too. He was supposed to play at an outdoor venue in Biloxi, but the show got canceled because of rain and predicted bad storms. As soon as the equipment was torn down and packed back in the trucks, it stopped raining. James tweeted, "I hate it cause all we wanna do is play." Bet that show gets rescheduled soon, too.
Justin Moore's Friday night show at Springfest in Southaven, MS was moved up a few hours in order to try to get it done before the weather moved in.
Keith Urban took the stage at The Joint in Las Vegas with Kris Allen, American Idol alum and Keith duet partner on the show last year. Keith tweeted that he had a great time on stage with Kris, so expect that pairing to pop up again.
Miranda Lambert and her Mom are the cover girls of Country Weekly's Mother's Day issue, out a week from today. Miranda will also be on a special edition of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, where she'll work on the house and also perform her new song, "The House that Built Me."
Yesterday in Dallas, Dierks Bentley took his Miles and Music for Kids ride & concert out on a beautiful day. The concert last night helped to raise tens of thousands of dollars for Texas children's charities.
Martina McBride has tapped Blake Shelton and Luke Bryan to open the last three shows of her Shine All Night tour, and decided to have a little fun with them. They'll be with her in Greensboro, Atlanta and Columbia, SC.
Chris Young had a bad Friday night, and so did a bunch of fans. He was supposed to play Wild West in Waco, Texas, but the show was shut down before it even started...the fire marshal wouldn't allow the show to happen. Chris ended up signing autographs for everyone out by his bus, and will probably work hard to reschedule the show sometime soon.
James Otto had a bad Friday night, too. He was supposed to play at an outdoor venue in Biloxi, but the show got canceled because of rain and predicted bad storms. As soon as the equipment was torn down and packed back in the trucks, it stopped raining. James tweeted, "I hate it cause all we wanna do is play." Bet that show gets rescheduled soon, too.
Justin Moore's Friday night show at Springfest in Southaven, MS was moved up a few hours in order to try to get it done before the weather moved in.
Keith Urban took the stage at The Joint in Las Vegas with Kris Allen, American Idol alum and Keith duet partner on the show last year. Keith tweeted that he had a great time on stage with Kris, so expect that pairing to pop up again.
Miranda Lambert and her Mom are the cover girls of Country Weekly's Mother's Day issue, out a week from today. Miranda will also be on a special edition of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, where she'll work on the house and also perform her new song, "The House that Built Me."
Yesterday in Dallas, Dierks Bentley took his Miles and Music for Kids ride & concert out on a beautiful day. The concert last night helped to raise tens of thousands of dollars for Texas children's charities.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
Did you watch the season finale of Project: Runway last night? Faith Hill was the guest judge, and she says that was something that came naturally to her, because she's always had an eye for detail and a good fashion sense. She's open to producing a fashion line of her own, and would design for the busy mom with great style.
Reba had a few dress changes at the AOM awards. Which dress was her favorite?
Brad Paisley has been invited to be part of the 2010 National Memorial Day Concert, which airs live on PBS from the west lawn of the Capitol building.
One of the highlights of the Brooks & Dunn tribute show filmed Monday night was Jennifer Hudson singing "I Believe." Not only did she get a standing ovation, but many in the audience were moved to tears. Such is the power of a great song, no matter who sings it. During the show, artists reminisced about touring with Kix and Ronnie, and there were a lot of tour pranks revealed. For the finale, everyone hit the stage together for a rendition of "Play Something Country." The "Last Rodeo" tour kicks off tonight near Sacramento, CA.
Kenny Chesney was the surprise host of the first showing of "Summer in 3D" in Chicago. Because of the overwhelming demand for tickets, the movie will add screenings and theatres.
Mongtomery Gentry has hit the road in their Bourbon Suburban...guess who their tour sponsor is?
Randy Houser fan? Willing to trade a vote for a Randy Houser laughing ringtone? Vote for Randy Houser's "Boots On" in the 2010 CMT Music Awards Video of the Year category, then text in all caps "IVOTEDRH" to 66937 to get the free laughing ringtone.
Sugarland fan? iPhone user? Get their free app.
Tim McGraw fan? iPhone user? Get his free app
Shania Twain will be the mentor on next week's American Idol, and Rascal Flatts and Lady Antebellum will be performing on next Wednesday night's episode. Rascal Flatts has also been tapped to perform the National Anthem at the 136th running of the Kentucky Derby on May first. Also going to the races, Little Big Town will perform the Star Spangled Banner the day before at the Kentucky Oaks, a race for 3-year-old fillies.
Tonight, Jason Aldean is on the Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, and Rascal Flatts is on "Food Revolution."
Reba had a few dress changes at the AOM awards. Which dress was her favorite?
Brad Paisley has been invited to be part of the 2010 National Memorial Day Concert, which airs live on PBS from the west lawn of the Capitol building.
One of the highlights of the Brooks & Dunn tribute show filmed Monday night was Jennifer Hudson singing "I Believe." Not only did she get a standing ovation, but many in the audience were moved to tears. Such is the power of a great song, no matter who sings it. During the show, artists reminisced about touring with Kix and Ronnie, and there were a lot of tour pranks revealed. For the finale, everyone hit the stage together for a rendition of "Play Something Country." The "Last Rodeo" tour kicks off tonight near Sacramento, CA.
Kenny Chesney was the surprise host of the first showing of "Summer in 3D" in Chicago. Because of the overwhelming demand for tickets, the movie will add screenings and theatres.
Mongtomery Gentry has hit the road in their Bourbon Suburban...guess who their tour sponsor is?
Randy Houser fan? Willing to trade a vote for a Randy Houser laughing ringtone? Vote for Randy Houser's "Boots On" in the 2010 CMT Music Awards Video of the Year category, then text in all caps "IVOTEDRH" to 66937 to get the free laughing ringtone.
Sugarland fan? iPhone user? Get their free app.
Tim McGraw fan? iPhone user? Get his free app
Shania Twain will be the mentor on next week's American Idol, and Rascal Flatts and Lady Antebellum will be performing on next Wednesday night's episode. Rascal Flatts has also been tapped to perform the National Anthem at the 136th running of the Kentucky Derby on May first. Also going to the races, Little Big Town will perform the Star Spangled Banner the day before at the Kentucky Oaks, a race for 3-year-old fillies.
Tonight, Jason Aldean is on the Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, and Rascal Flatts is on "Food Revolution."
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
Tonight, Brad Paisley walks the red carpet at the Nashville Film Festival. What started as a prank on his wife, Kimberly, has turned into quite the box office draw. His film, "While Mom's Away," is part of the closing night line-up of the festival, and features a doll the size of their two-year old, Huck, doing dangerous things like riding a horse, shooting a gun and careening down a hill in a stroller. Brad describes it as "horrifying but hilarious."
Ok, so we know they'll have wedding cupcakes instead of a wedding cake, and we know that the wedding will be somewhere around Nashville, but other details about Carrie Underwood's marriage to Mike Fisher are being kept pretty close to the vest. Carrie told Ellen DeGeneres that the date is set, but is not being openly talked about, and also that they're trying to keep it small. But...he has lots of family members and she has lots of friends and family, so they're now trying to keep it "as small as possible." They know where the wedding will be and what food will be served, and Carrie says they're so laid back about the rest of it that they really don't care. Carrie Underwood - the Anti-Bridezilla!
Joe Nichols wants you in Dover. He's going to fly a couple of fans to the Autism Speaks 400 at Dover International Speedway, where the winners get tickets to all three races, pit passes, driver meet & greet, Joe Nichols meet & greet, and an autographed Joe Nichols swag bag. Of course round trip air fare and three nights in a hotel are included.
On Monday night, Lady Antebellum was part of the tribute show for Brooks & Dunn, and performed "If You See Him/If You See Her." They were surprised onstage by Ronnie Dunn and Reba, who sang the song with them. They loved doing the song so much that it's probably going to be part of their concerts. “It’s one of those things that is such a moment for us, we’re going to want to relive it.” They're also planning a headlining tour this fall.
Dave Haywood of Lady Antebellum posted a short blog about his favorite memories of last weekend's Vegas trip. One of them was finally getting to meet one of his all-time-favorite performers, Brad Paisley.
Luke Bryan had a lot to grin about on Sunday night, winning two ACM awards and flaunting a wife with a baby bump. Their second child is due in August, and two-year-old Bo is excited to have a new baby brother or sister.
New Montgomery Gentry music, plus a video to go with it...here's While You're Still Young.
Darryl Worley is headed back to Iraq for the 8th time with the Stars for Stripes Tour next week, and he's making it easy for fans to be part of the trip. He's using the event to raise funds for the Wounded Warrior Project and the Darryl Worley Foundation, which helps wounded veterans. From an 8 by 10 photo to sponsorship of the documentary, there's something for every budget.
Taylor Swift is the next country artist to have her life turned into a comic book. Look for her biographical comic book to be released in July by Bluewater Comics' Fame.
The Country Music Marathon and Half Marathon is this weekend in Nashville, so Friday night, it's Tim McGraw, carbs and bowling. "Bowling for Brains" is Tim's annual fund-raiser for the Tug McGraw Foundation, a way of raising money and keeping his dad's memory alive.
Faith Hill is on the season finale of Project Runway tonight, where she's the guest judge. Reports say that Faith was a hit with the cast with her strong point of view and constructive criticism.
Happy birthday to Glen Campbell, who turns 74 today.
Ok, so we know they'll have wedding cupcakes instead of a wedding cake, and we know that the wedding will be somewhere around Nashville, but other details about Carrie Underwood's marriage to Mike Fisher are being kept pretty close to the vest. Carrie told Ellen DeGeneres that the date is set, but is not being openly talked about, and also that they're trying to keep it small. But...he has lots of family members and she has lots of friends and family, so they're now trying to keep it "as small as possible." They know where the wedding will be and what food will be served, and Carrie says they're so laid back about the rest of it that they really don't care. Carrie Underwood - the Anti-Bridezilla!
Joe Nichols wants you in Dover. He's going to fly a couple of fans to the Autism Speaks 400 at Dover International Speedway, where the winners get tickets to all three races, pit passes, driver meet & greet, Joe Nichols meet & greet, and an autographed Joe Nichols swag bag. Of course round trip air fare and three nights in a hotel are included.
On Monday night, Lady Antebellum was part of the tribute show for Brooks & Dunn, and performed "If You See Him/If You See Her." They were surprised onstage by Ronnie Dunn and Reba, who sang the song with them. They loved doing the song so much that it's probably going to be part of their concerts. “It’s one of those things that is such a moment for us, we’re going to want to relive it.” They're also planning a headlining tour this fall.
Dave Haywood of Lady Antebellum posted a short blog about his favorite memories of last weekend's Vegas trip. One of them was finally getting to meet one of his all-time-favorite performers, Brad Paisley.
Luke Bryan had a lot to grin about on Sunday night, winning two ACM awards and flaunting a wife with a baby bump. Their second child is due in August, and two-year-old Bo is excited to have a new baby brother or sister.
New Montgomery Gentry music, plus a video to go with it...here's While You're Still Young.
Darryl Worley is headed back to Iraq for the 8th time with the Stars for Stripes Tour next week, and he's making it easy for fans to be part of the trip. He's using the event to raise funds for the Wounded Warrior Project and the Darryl Worley Foundation, which helps wounded veterans. From an 8 by 10 photo to sponsorship of the documentary, there's something for every budget.
Taylor Swift is the next country artist to have her life turned into a comic book. Look for her biographical comic book to be released in July by Bluewater Comics' Fame.
The Country Music Marathon and Half Marathon is this weekend in Nashville, so Friday night, it's Tim McGraw, carbs and bowling. "Bowling for Brains" is Tim's annual fund-raiser for the Tug McGraw Foundation, a way of raising money and keeping his dad's memory alive.
Faith Hill is on the season finale of Project Runway tonight, where she's the guest judge. Reports say that Faith was a hit with the cast with her strong point of view and constructive criticism.
Happy birthday to Glen Campbell, who turns 74 today.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Today's Country Tidbits
So, did you wonder who was hitting Carrie Underwood's cellphone when she was making her acceptance speech for Entertainer of the Year Sunday night? Right in the middle of a sentence, she declared that her phone was going off. Now we know...it was fiance Mike Fisher, texting his congratulations to her from Ottawa, where he was playing hockey with the Senators. Neither is stressing about wedding details, but they are looking forward to being together more often.
The ACM awards telecast on Sunday won the night in the ratings. Congrats to the producers, the talented artists who performed and also to Reba, the hostess with the mostest again this year.
Backstage at the ACM Awards, Miranda Lambert had a little visitor she said brought her luck. Her newly rescued Chihuahua puppy, Cher, visited backstage before the show, and that made Miranda feel lucky. Never mind that the award results had been tallied and the envelopes sealed before the visit - if you know Miranda, you know she'll give credit to her critters when she can.
Meanwhile, Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert had some pressure put on them while in Vegas. “Reba and Ronnie Dunn were pushing us a little bit, ‘Might as well go to the church.’ We were out having dinner and I was like, ‘No, I’m not going to let him off the hook that easy. He’s got to do the ring and the whole deal.’ But no, we’re not because my family would kill me. My mom would be so mad.”
While the rest of us were watching the award show, Celebrity Apprentice featured Trace Adkins, Luke Bryan and Emily West. You missed it, too, and would like to see it? Here's the full episode, complete with the Donald's bad hair.
Rascal Flatts "Nothing Like This" tour details were revealed yesterday. They'll hit the road on June 25th in Raleigh, NC and tour through September 19th. Kellie Pickler and Chris Young will tour with them.
There's a fashion show in Nashville today, benefiting the Nashville Symphony's educational and outreach programs. Famed designer Isaac Mizrahi will be there, and the members of Little Big Town will perform and serve as the event emcees.
Congrats to Jeff Bates and his wife Kelly...their first child, Brianna Nadine, was born last Monday. Mom and daughter are doing great.
Condolences to Steve Wariner and family. On Friday, Matt Wariner, Steve's nephew, was killed in a car accident. "I loved Matt's passion and enthusiasm for music. He came about it naturally. In fact, he had his guitar and amp in the car with him at the time of the accident, getting ready for a show that night. He was full of life, and we just can't believe that his life was cut so short. Someone said to me that our loss is heaven's gain. I couldn't agree more."
Catch Jason Aldean on Lopez Tonight.
Happy birthday to Wade Hayes, who turns 41 today.
The ACM awards telecast on Sunday won the night in the ratings. Congrats to the producers, the talented artists who performed and also to Reba, the hostess with the mostest again this year.
Backstage at the ACM Awards, Miranda Lambert had a little visitor she said brought her luck. Her newly rescued Chihuahua puppy, Cher, visited backstage before the show, and that made Miranda feel lucky. Never mind that the award results had been tallied and the envelopes sealed before the visit - if you know Miranda, you know she'll give credit to her critters when she can.
Meanwhile, Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert had some pressure put on them while in Vegas. “Reba and Ronnie Dunn were pushing us a little bit, ‘Might as well go to the church.’ We were out having dinner and I was like, ‘No, I’m not going to let him off the hook that easy. He’s got to do the ring and the whole deal.’ But no, we’re not because my family would kill me. My mom would be so mad.”
While the rest of us were watching the award show, Celebrity Apprentice featured Trace Adkins, Luke Bryan and Emily West. You missed it, too, and would like to see it? Here's the full episode, complete with the Donald's bad hair.
Rascal Flatts "Nothing Like This" tour details were revealed yesterday. They'll hit the road on June 25th in Raleigh, NC and tour through September 19th. Kellie Pickler and Chris Young will tour with them.
There's a fashion show in Nashville today, benefiting the Nashville Symphony's educational and outreach programs. Famed designer Isaac Mizrahi will be there, and the members of Little Big Town will perform and serve as the event emcees.
Congrats to Jeff Bates and his wife Kelly...their first child, Brianna Nadine, was born last Monday. Mom and daughter are doing great.
Condolences to Steve Wariner and family. On Friday, Matt Wariner, Steve's nephew, was killed in a car accident. "I loved Matt's passion and enthusiasm for music. He came about it naturally. In fact, he had his guitar and amp in the car with him at the time of the accident, getting ready for a show that night. He was full of life, and we just can't believe that his life was cut so short. Someone said to me that our loss is heaven's gain. I couldn't agree more."
Catch Jason Aldean on Lopez Tonight.
Happy birthday to Wade Hayes, who turns 41 today.
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