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REAL COUNTRY ~ 99.3 KDST ~
Country Music News
Keith Urban Back In Action After Vocal Cord Surgery
Keith Urban returned to the stage Friday night for his first public
appearance since undergoing vocal cord surgery in November. His
appearance was during a sold-out performance of the Grand Ole Opry at
Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium. Urban’s set included a version of “Long
Hot Summer,” “Making Memories of Us” and his newest single, “You Gonna
Fly.” He then remained onstage for a fourth, unplanned performance of
“Somebody Like You” and returned to play guitar during Steve Wariner’s
performance of “Let My Guitar Do the Talking.” The show was a historic
moment at the venue as it served as the final performance before the
61-year-old stage floor is replaced next week. Other performers for the
evening included the Del McCoury Band, the Oak Ridge Boys and Country
Music Hall of Fame member Charley Pride.
Reba’s New Sitcom To Air On ABC
Reba McEntire’s new sitcom project, “Malibu Country,” has been picked
up by ABC, according to thewrap.com. The sitcom will be written by
Kevin Abbott, executive producer of her former sitcom, “Reba.” The new
series will star McEntire as a singer who moves to Malibu with her
mother and three children to revive her singing career shortly after
her rock-star husband cheats on her and spends most of her money.
Miranda Lambert’s Dog Dies
That old superstition that bad things happen in threes seems to be true
for Miranda Lambert. First, her father-in-law, Dick Shelton (Blake
Shelton’s dad), passed away in January after a lengthy illness, and
just days later, one of her best childhood friends, Mark Adams, was
killed in a tragic accident. Now, Miranda has received word that the
beloved dog she’s had since she was about eight years old has died. “My
best friend, father in law and now my dog Dixie,” Miranda tweeted
Friday. “My dog died Thursday. My parents just told me. Headed now to
bury my friend of 20 years.” Dixie was one of Miranda’s first dogs,
joined by several other pets on her Oklahoma farm, including horses,
pot-bellied pigs, chickens and dogs named Black Betty, Cher, Delilha,
Delta, Jessi, Virginia Bluebell and Waylon. Steve, another pooch
Miranda rescued with Blake, was hit and killed in an accident back in
2010. Several of Miranda’s dogs served as “bridesmaids” in her wedding.
George Strait Gets Himself A Jammer
George Strait has a new four-legged friend. The Grammy winner has added
an English crème golden retriever to his family. Strait reportedly
picked up the retriever from a North Carolina breeder. The new pup’s
name is Jammer.
Trial Begins In Garth Brooks’ Lawsuit Against Hospital
A trial began yesterday in Garth Brooks’ lawsuit against a hospital in
Yukon, Oklahoma, over the naming of a new building at the medical
complex. In 2009, Brooks filed the breach-of-contract suit against
Integris Canadian Valley Regional Hospital to ask for his $500,000
donation to be returned. Brooks said he pledged the money to the
hospital in December 2005 with the understanding that a new building
would be named for his mother, Colleen Brooks, who died of cancer in
1999. He added that he was shown preliminary drawings of buildings with
his mother’s name on them. However, the hospital replied to the lawsuit
saying the donation was “anonymous and unconditional” and that naming
rights for the building were not a provision of the agreement. Brooks
and his wife, Trisha Yearwood, were present during the court
proceedings in Claremore, Oklahoma.
Chesney’s Camp Denies He Wants A New Label
Kenny Chesney doesn’t want to be a pop star. The New York Post quoted
an unidentified source as saying Kenny wants a new record label deal –
and that he wants to be more “mainstream.” “He’s very displeased with
how Sony has handled him,” the source said. The Post claimed Kenny is
looking for a $30 million, five-album deal. But Kenny’s manager tells
the newspaper, “This is very inaccurate. We have no plans to be
anything but a country-music artist. ... Also, we have enjoyed a
long-term, successful relationship with Sony.”
John Rich Receives Angels Among Us Award
John Rich and Alabama lead singer Randy Owen have enjoyed a close
friendship over the years, with John even producing Randy’s 2010 solo
album, “One on One.” Now Rich has become the very first recipient of
the Randy Owen Angels Among Us Award. The honor, given during the
recent Country Cares for St. Jude Kids seminar, recognizes someone in
the country music community who has demonstrated extraordinary
commitment to the children battling cancer and other life-threatening
diseases at St. Jude. John raised more than $1.4 million for the
organization while on “Celebrity Apprentice.” John will head back into
the studio with his Big & Rich duo partner, Big Kenny, in 2012. The
pair will also perform several dates, including a stop at Country
Thunder in Arizona.
KEITH URBAN: Plays for the First Time Since Surgery
Keith Urban will hit the stage next month for the first time since his
vocal cord surgery in November. He'll play the Grand Ole Opry on
February 3rd, the final night of its stay at the Ryman Auditorium
before it moves back to the Grand Ole Opry House. Keith is also on the
books to play the Opry again on March 9th.
GARTH BROOKS: Vegas Journey
Garth Brooks says it's easier to perform in a huge stadium than in his
intimate theater setting in Las Vegas. Every Vegas performance is
different depending on the crowd's mood and what they want to hear.
Garth says, "It's just you and a guitar and people have been so sweet
to me and they take the journey with me." He also says the audience is
surprised how funny the show is on some nights. "People go, 'Dude, I
had no idea I would laugh this much.'"
FAITH, LADY A, BRAD: Playing CMA Fest
The CMA Music Festival has added more performers. Luke Bryan, Eric
Church, Faith Hill, Lady Antebellum, Brad Paisley, Rascal Flatts and
Zac Brown Band join a bill that already includes Jason Aldean, The Band
Perry and Carrie Underwood.
The CMA Music Festival takes place June 7th-10th, and tickets are still
available through Ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-CMA-FEST.
Underwood Foundation Contributes $350K To Hometown
Carrie
Underwood made wishes come true this holiday season for the schools in
her hometown of Checotah, Oklahoma, with donations amounting to
$350,000 through her C.A.T.S. Foundation – Checotah Animal, Town, and
School Foundation. Each of the four schools – Marshall Elementary,
Checotah Intermediate School, Checotah Middle School and Checotah High
School – received the donation, which will go towards items such as new
computer labs for each school, plus playground equipment, physical
fitness equipment, band uniforms, furniture, storage and instruments
for music programs. Underwood’s C.A.T.S. Foundation partnered with
national non-profit organization KaBOOM!, and with the help of more
than 200 local volunteers built a playground in one day at Marshall
Elementary School designed by the school’s students.
Brad Paisley Renames His Tour
Brad
Paisley has changed the name of his upcoming tour to “Virtual Reality
World Tour 2012” to reflect the high-tech visuals onstage. The Band
Perry and Scotty McCreery will also perform on the tour. “When you see
plans and sketches on paper, it’s one thing, but to actually see it in
real life is something else, and that’s what happened to me when we
were in tour rehearsals. When I saw the visuals and how exciting and
sometimes mind-blowing they were, I just felt the tour name needed to
reflect what the fans were going to see,” Paisley said. “For two hours
each night of the tour, they can be taken away from reality –
literally.” The tour had been previously billed as the “Camobunga! 2012
World Tour.”
Miranda’s ‘Record’ Goes Gold
Miranda
Lambert’s latest album, “Four the Record,” has been certified gold.
Released on November 1st, it’s her fastest-selling album to date. “Four
the Record” also makes Miranda’s career one for the record books. It’s
the singer’s fourth consecutive album to debut at No. 1 on the
Billboard charts, something no other country artist has ever achieved
with their first four albums in the 48-year history of the chart.
Following the album’s hit debut single, “Baggage Claim,” Miranda’s
latest single is “Over You,” a tearjerker co-written with husband Blake
Shelton. The song was inspired by Blake’s brother, who died in a car
accident in 1990. Miranda’s headlining “On Fire” tour kicks off January
12th in Rockford, Illinois. Chris Young and Jerrod Niemann are also
along for the ride, opening for the CMA Female Vocalist of the Year in
more than 30 cities.
Dolly Parton Wore Heels For Movie Food Fight
Dolly
Parton narrowly avoided injury during a comedy foodfight scene in her
new movie musical, “Joyful Noise” after sliding and skidding across the
floor in high heels. Dolly plays Queen Latifah’s rival in the
gospel-themed film and insisted on wearing heels on set so her co-star
didn’t tower over her. That proved problematic during one chaotic scene
that had Parton wishing she had a taller stunt double. The petite
singer said, “Well, of course, I had to wear my (high-heeled) shoes,
but I kept sliding and skidding around in the spaghetti. It’s a wonder
I didn’t break a wrist or a neck.”
Bentley, Rucker To Play Super Bowl Concerts
Dierks Bentley and Darius Rucker will be among the artists giving free
concerts leading up to the Super Bowl in February in Indianapolis. The
concerts will be held between January 27th through February 5th in
Super Bowl Village. Bentley performs January 29th along with Will Hoge.
No date was set for Rucker.
Tim McGraw In Talks With Record Labels
Tim McGraw is reportedly searching for a new record label, now that he
has been released from his obligations to Curb Records. McGraw’s
manager Coran Capshaw has been in contact with major labels including
Warner Music Group, Universal Music, Sony Music and Capitol Records in
addition to heavyweight indie label Big Machine Records. Curb Records
still owns all the rights to McGraw’s music recorded before November.
Gary Morris Returns
Gary Morris is back. The “Wind Beneath My Wings” singer, who placed a
slew of hit singles on the Billboard Country Songs chart throughout the
1980s, has taken a self-imposed sabbatical from the music business for
much of the past decade. That break is now over. Morris just released a
new album, “Faith And Freedom,” and also announced a return the stage.
Morris will appear in the musical “Soul Doctor: Journey of a Rock-Star
Rabbi” beginning on Christmas Day in Miami Beach at the Colony Theatre.
“Soul Doctor” marks the first stage work from Morris in over two
decades, having previous roles in “Les Miserables” and “La Boheme.”
Clay Walker Singing On ‘Rachael Ray’
There’s country on Rachael Ray’s menu this Friday as Clay Walker
performs his new single, “Like We Never Said Goodbye.” The episode was
taped last week for an audience of military personnel. Walker sings
while special video is shown. The video was sent to the show from
military families.
Miranda Lambert’s Surprise Mexican Honeymoon
Following their May nuptials, Miranda Lambert and hubby Blake Shelton
had to dive right back into work – but not before deciding to spend
three “laidback” days together on what Lambert called a “hometown
honeymoon.” Lambert agreed to go on Shelton’s tour of his hometown in
Oklahoma – but was actually thrown a surprising curveball. “We drove to
a private airport, and I was like, ‘Oh, what are you doing?,’" Lambert
said on “The Talk” yesterday. “You got a private jet to Cabo?’”
Lambert, who was genuinely “surprised” by the trip, says she and
Shelton were joined by two of their best friends in Cancun for three
days. “It was awesome,” she gushed.
Willie Nelson Blasts Corporate Farming
Farmer’s rights advocate Willie Nelson has spoken out against corporate
involvement in the farming industry. In an op ed piece for the
Huffington Post, the Farm Aid founder says corporate involvement in
America’s food system is not only bad for society, but also for our
health and the environment. “Ninety-three percent of soybeans and 80
percent of corn grown in the United States are under the control of
just one company,” he wrote
Josh Turner’s ‘Time To Love’
Josh Turner has released “Time Is Love,” the debut single from his
as-yet-untitled fifth MCA album. “This song grabbed me from the first
listen because it has such an infectious melody, and lyrically it
really tells a message that I have been wanting to say for a long
time,” Josh said. “It’s not about quality time, but quantity time and
taking the time to get to know the person better and develop a
relationship with that person.” Turner has been on a roll. “All Over
Me,” the second single from his latest album, “Haywire,” was chosen as
BMI’s 2011 Song of the Year and was one of ASCAP’s Top Five Most Played
Songs of 2011. His previous single, the four-week No. 1 hit “Why Don’t
We Just Dance,” was the Most Played Song of the Year for 2010,
according to Mediabase.
Trace Adkins, Big & Rich Ring In New Year In New York
Trace Adkins and Big & Rich will be on “All American New Year” on
December 31st on Fox News. The show, which airs from 11 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
[ET], will be hosted by Megyn Kelly and Bill Hemmer to ring in 2012
live from Times Square in New York City. The live program also includes
the cast of the Tony Award-nominated “Rock of Ages.” Viewers will be
encouraged to participate in the program by texting special holiday
messages which will appear on a screen ticker throughout the entire
show.
REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin Wants A Country Hit
All REO Speedwagon frontman Kevin Cronin wants for Christmas is for
Keith Urban to record one of his songs. “I’ve had a lot of musical
goals in my life, but getting Keith Urban to do one of my songs is one
of my last ones,” Kevin tells CountryWeekly.com. “His talent amazes me.
If he did just even one of my songs, I can die a happy man.” The idea
isn’t that farfetched. Kevin first stepped foot on Music Row when he
was just a teen, heading to Nashville straight from Chicago to write a
handful of songs before hitting it big with REO Speedwagon. In 2010, he
played the We’re All for the Hall benefit concert and found himself
starstruck. “Here we are playing ‘Roll With the Changes’ and I look out
and see people like Brad Paisley and Martina McBride singing every
word,” he said. “It blew my mind.” He learned some guitar licks from
Vince Gill at the third annual Los Angeles All for the Hall and has
been back to Nashville to write with Martina McBride, Deana Carter and
a number of songwriters from Nashville’s talent pool.
CMA Pledges $10 Million To Hall Of Fame
The Country Music Association has pledged $10 million to the
fundraising campaign that will significantly expand the Country Music
Hall of Fame and Museum in downtown Nashville. The donation is the
largest in the Hall of Fame’s history. The Museum’s expansion will
include the state-of-the-art CMA Theater, which will feature a 500-seat
main floor and two balconies of 150 seats each. The theater’s
back-of-house will include a green room, band room and four dressing
rooms. The museum’s expansion from 140,000 square feet to 350,000
square feet is scheduled to be completed in 2014.
Wade Hayes Battling Colon Cancer
Wade Hayes, who had a No. 1 hit with “Old Enough to Know Better” in
1995, underwent surgery for stage IV colon cancer last Thursday in
Nashville. Hayes, 42, will continue treatment at Vanderbilt University
Medical Center in the coming weeks. On Monday, his Facebook page
administrator wrote, “I’ve talked with Wade’s mother and she wants you
to know how much she appreciates your prayers and support. His surgery
for cancer was long and complex, but went better than the surgeon had
anticipated. Though recovery is difficult and painful, he is doing
well.”
Grammy Changes
The changes in this year’s Grammys will be felt among country acts. As
part of its reshuffling of awards, the 54th Grammys will see the number
of categories whittled from 109 to 78. And as part of the changes, men
and women will compete against each other in vocal categories in
country music as well as in pop and R&B. That cuts down the number
of nominees since there won’t be separate categories for each sex.
Paisley Playing Quietly With Urban
Brad Paisley says he can do enough talking for two – especially if the
other person includes his buddy, Keith Urban. Urban has been ordered on
complete vocal rest for the next couple of weeks after having surgery
last week to remove a polyp on his vocal cord. Paisley says when he
gets together with Urban, he plans for them to bust out some guitars
and amps and just play music. Paisley says he is “very capable” of
talking while Urban stays mute. He says while he chats away, Urban can
“just nod and grunt and do whatever he’s allowed to do.” Paisley says
he can’t imagine what it’s like not to be able to talk for a month, but
says in Urban’s case, it’s got to be great for his wife, Nicole Kidman.
Grammy Nod Has Special Meaning For Gill
Vince Gill received a Grammy nomination for his single “Threaten Me
With Heaven” for Best Country Song. The song was not a hit for Gill,
but it had special meaning to him. He co-wrote the song with his wife,
Amy Grant, Dillon O’Brian and Will Owsley. Gill is appreciative of the
nomination because it serves as a lasting tribute to Owsley, who took
his own life since the song was recorded for Gill’s new album, “Guitar
Slinger.” “I couldn’t be more thrilled for my late friend Will,” Gill
said. “This would have meant the world to him.” Gill says the song has
a profound impact on him because of Owsley’s death.
Aldean Stunned By Grammy Nominations
Jason Aldean snagged his first ever Grammy nominations Wednesday night
and tied for the most nods of any country artist with three in the
categories of Best Country Album for “My Kinda Party,” Best Country
Solo Performance for “Dirt Road Anthem” and Best Country Duo/Group
Performance for Don’t You Wanna Stay” with Kelly Clarkson. Aldean said
he was “totally stunned.”
Toby Keith To Perform At ACAs
Toby Keith will make his broadcast performance debut of “Red Solo Cup”
at the American Country Awards, airing live from the MGM Grand Garden
Arena in Las Vegas Monday on FOX. “Red Solo Cup” appears on Toby’s
latest album, “Clancy’s Tavern.” The song also will be featured on the
next all-new episode of “Glee,” airing next Tuesday on FOX.
Pregnant Mindy McCready Kidnaps Son
Authorities in Lee County, Florida, are searching for Mindy McCready
and her son. According to police, McCready took her son Zander, 5, from
his father Bill McKnight’s home in Cape Coral and disappeared.
McCready’s mother has custody of the boy following bitter divorce
proceedings. A judge ruled that McCready has until 5 p.m. today to
surrender Zander to authorities, or face arrest. McCready, who has had
drug and alcohol problems, lost custody of her son in 2007 after a
fight with her mother. McCready said on Facebook that she is not
missing. “I have been fighting the Florida court system to protect my
son, and bring him home,” she posted, adding that she spoke with Cape
Coral Police via Skype, which the agency confirmed. McCready later
revealed she’s expecting again – saying she is five months pregnant
twins. The father of her unborn babies is unknown.
Tim McGraw Wins Battle Against Curb Records
A judge has ruled in favor of Tim McGraw in his legal battle with Curb
Records, which means he’s free to record new music apart from the
label. McGraw hugged both his wife, Faith Hill, and his attorney when
he got the good news in court yesterday, and said that he is “just very
happy” with the outcome. Tim first signed with Curb 21 years ago and in
recent years had been feeling eager to release new music, but was tied
down by their five-album deal. It has been two years since McGraw
released “Southern Voice,” his most recent album with all-new material.
The court proceedings with Curb will continue in July, but that will
only be to determine if there was a breech in McGraw’s contract, and if
damages are owed as a result of the dispute.
Hank Jr. Walks Offstage During CMT Artist Of The Year Event
Hank Williams Jr. stole the spotlight Tuesday night at a taping of
CMT’s annual Artist Of The Year event honoring Taylor Swift, Jason
Aldean, Kenny Chesney, Brad Paisley and Lady Antebellum. But it wasn’t
for his stellar performance. Williams walked offstage in the middle of
his duet with Aldean. Williams’ publicist said the reason for his
abrupt departure was due to quality control. “He didn’t feel like he
was giving an adequate performance while joining Jason on his song,
‘Tattoos on This Town.’” Aldean praised Williams before the show,
calling him “awesome” and “the real deal.” Williams’ rep added that
Williams wanted only to honor Aldean and that “turning in a poor
performance would only ruin that effort.” Williams issued a statement
explaining, “I’ve heard people mess up my songs and screw up [Hank
Williams Sr.] songs. I was here to honor Jason, a kid I really like.
When I walked out there, it didn’t feel right, it didn’t sound right. I
didn’t want to disrespect him.” Aldean ended up performing a do-over of
the song by himself without incident. That is the version viewers will
see when the show airs on December 13th.
Vince Gill Donates $12,000 To Oklahoma Music Hall Of Fame
Oklahoma native Vince Gill recently made a $12,000 donation to the
Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame to help finish construction on a new
children’s music exhibit. Gill was inducted into that Hall in 1999 and
he’s now challenging other musicians and music lovers to follow his
lead and donate to the cause. The new state-of-the-art children’s
exhibit is nearing completion, and though the hall has been raising
funds for the past year, they’re still a bit shy of what they need to
finish the exhibit. The project is designed for children of all ages
and will be hosted by Jeremiah the Bullfrog from Three Dog Night’s hit
“Joy to the World,” which was written by Oklahoma native Hoyt Axton. In
the exhibit, children will be able to build a band, observe the
different sounds of musical instruments and learn about Oklahoma’s many
contributions to music.
Oak Ridge Boys Team With Save The Children
The Oak Ridge Boys are kicking off the season with a 31-city holiday
tour, and teaming with Save the Children to lend a hand to those in
need. For those who miss them on stage, the group will bring their
sounds into homes across the nation, with a broadcast television show,
“The Oak Boys Christmas Special.” It’s set to begin airing on December
2nd, and will be featured on TLN (Total Living Network), WHT (World
Harvest Network) and Inspiration Network as well as in various markets,
including New York, Chicago, Philadelphia, Miami, Houston, Phoenix,
Memphis, San Francisco, Honolulu, and many more. Check local listings
throughout the holiday season for the half-hour special. The program
will also be featured on Save the Children’s YouTube Channel and
include “CMT Insider” host Katie Cook, a long-time child sponsor
through the organization.
Hank Jr. To Perform Intimate Show At Country Music Hall Of Fame
Hank Williams Jr. has announced that he will be performing in a special
acoustic concert at Ford Theatre in the Country Music Hall Of Fame in
Nashville. The acoustic performance will take place on December 6th.
Tickets for the show, which includes an autograph session afterwards
and an autographed limited edition “Family Tradition,” poster, are $500
each. For more info visit www.countrymusichalloffame.com.
Joe Nichols And Wife Trying For Baby
Joe Nichols and his wife Heather are hoping their next project is a
family. Nichols tells People Country they’ve “been working on having a
baby for the better part of four years now.” He says they have seen
fertility specialists to help move the process along. Joe says it’s his
wife’s resilience that keeps them going and her toughness amazes him.
Joe and Heather Nichols have been friends since they were 18. They got
married five years ago. They’re now 35. Joe Nichols’ just released his
new album, “It’s All Good.”
‘Red Solo Cup’ Officially Toby Keith’s New Single
Toby Keith’s Red Solo Cup is officially the second single from
“Clancy’s Tavern” after the song went viral. While the collection’s
first single, “Made In America,” shot to No. 1, its successor had a
head start. Already the top downloaded country song, the video has
surpassed 4 million web views and is the lead request on CMT. The hit
Fox show “Glee” will feature the song in its December 6th episode.
Loretta Lynn, Bret Michaels Hint At Future Duet
Loretta Lynn has bounced back from a pneumonia scare and spent
Thanksgiving with rocker Brett Michaels. Lynn was hospitalized last
month after falling ill with bacterial pneumonia, prompting her to
scrap two concerts. The 76-year-old singer recovered in time for the
holidays and celebrated Thanksgiving by inviting the Poison frontman to
her home in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee. Michaels tweeted a photo of
himself hugging Lynn, writing: “I cannot thank Loretta Lynn and her
family enough for inviting us into her home for Thanksgiving.” He also
hinted at a possible collaboration, writing, “Future duet in the
works?”
Trace Adkins Rebuilding Home After Fire
Nearly six months after a fire destroyed his Nashville home, Trace
Adkins is ready to talk about his house he is building on the same
property. Akins tells The Boot that he and his wife, Rhonda, have
designed a relatively modest home rather than a garish mansion. “We’re
just not into that,” Trace said. “We want it to be warm and welcome.
It’s going to be reasonable. It’s not going to be ridiculous.” The one
extravagance is a swimming pool – something Trace didn’t have before.
“I’ve heard that the new one is going to have a pool, so I guess I’m
finally going to be one of those snooty homeowners that has a pool,”
Trace said. The devastating fire took place in June and was caused by
an overheated and/or loose electrical connection in the garage.
Gretchen Wilson Puts Ranch On Market Following Uncle’s Death
Gretchen Wilson is still mourning the loss of her beloved Uncle Vern
Heuer, who passed away suddenly from a heart attack in September at the
age of 44. Now she has decided the home they shared on her 360-acre
farm holds too many memories, so she has put it on the market. “We just
can’t be there without him,” Wilson tells the Nashville’s Tennessean.
“It’s not the same anymore. Everywhere I look, I see him. I miss him.”
Gretchen shared the ranch with her daughter Grace, plus various other
family members, but says it’s time to move on.
Top of the Charts: Scotty McCreery
After a few weeks, Scotty McCreery's Clear as Day is once again the
nation's top-selling country album after selling another 33,000 copies
in the pre-Thanksgiving week, according to the latest SoundScan
figures. Lady Antebellum's Own the Night also climbs up a spot to
number two with another 32,000 copies sold.
That pushes Miranda Lambert's Four the Record to number three. Luke
Bryan's Tailgates and Tanlines climbs two slots to number four, and
Jason Aldean's My Kinda Party rounds out the Top 5.
Sugarland Named in Lawsuit
Sugarland have been named in a lawsuit over the August stage collapse
in Indianapolis in which seven people died and more than 40 people were
injured. The suit, filed on behalf of those hurt in the accident,
claims that the band and others should have provided a safe environment
for concertgoers.
Sugarland were about to perform at the Indiana State Fair when a sudden wind gust caused the stage to collapse.
Jackson, Brooks Visit GAC Show On Walk Of Fame
Alan Jackson and Kix Brooks – the newest members of the Music City Walk
of Fame on downtown Nashville’s Music Mile – will appear on “Masters
Series,” premiering today on Great American Country. Viewers will be
treated to the induction of the current class that includes Peter
Frampton, the late Les Paul, the late Dottie Rambo, Bobby Jones,
clothier Manuel, and Nashville news anchor, the late Dan Miller, in
addition to Jackson and Brooks. Host Bill Cody chats at length with
Jackson, Brooks and Reba McEntire, an inductee since ‘06; he also talks
with Russ Paul, son of late guitar icon Les Paul and Manuel, longtime
clothier to the stars. The walk is a tribute to those from all genres
of music that have contributed to the world through song or other
industry collaboration and made significant contributions to the music
industry.
Toby Keith Named 2012 Inspire Award Recipient
Toby Keith has been announced as one of the AARP The Magazine Inspire
Award recipients. Keith’s work in supporting U.S. troops has been
lauded by the magazine. The singer has completed eight USO/Armed Forces
tours since 2002, when he first toured in honor of his late father, who
was an Army veteran. He has also sponsored the care-package
distribution USO2GO program for U.S. service members abroad and
received the 2009 Distinguished Service Award from the Military
Officers Association of America for his awareness-raising efforts with
the organization.
Alabama Reuniting For Concerts In 2012
Alabama will reunite for more than a dozen concerts in 2012, band
members Jeff Cook and Teddy Gentry have confirmed. The reunion shows
come after Cook, Gentry and Randy Owen were featured on Brad Paisley’s
No. 1 single, “Old Alabama.” The first scheduled date takes place
February 28th at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. “Alabama’s
agreed to do 15-20 shows next year, and possibly if that works out, we
will do an overseas tour in 2013,” Cook said. Longtime drummer Mark
Herndon was not featured on Paisley’s single and will not be involved
in the band’s reunion shows. The three founding members are also
planning to record a new album.
Josh Thompson Is ‘Comin’ Around’
Josh Thompson will release “Comin’ Around” as the lead single from his
second studio album, due out next year. Thompson says the song offers
an introspective look at how growing up can sometimes draw people back
to the places and things they once turned away from. Thompson is
currently in the studio putting the finishing touches on his new album
for which he wrote every song.
Brad Paisley Makes New York Times Best-Seller List For Two Weeks
Brad Paisley’s first major book, “Diary Of A Player,” was released on
November 1st and has been on the New York Times Best-Seller list for
two consecutive weeks. The book is written as a thank-you and pays
tribute to the guitar heroes that were and are in Paisley’s life. It is
co-written with David Wild, a contributing editor to Rolling Stone and
an Emmy nominated television writer and producer.
Billy Currington Announces Headline Tour
Billy Currington spent last summer opening for tour king Kenny Chesney.
Now Currington is getting ready to go out as the top draw next year.
His opening acts will be David Nail and Kip Moore. Nail just released
his second album and Moore will release his first next year. Tour dates
haven’t been announced yet.
Performers, Presenters Join CMT Artists Of The Year
CMT has announced a list of performers and presenters for the 2011 CMT
Artists of the Year special, airing December 13th. The list includes
the All-American Rejects, the Avett Brothers, Ellen DeGeneres, Gavin
DeGraw, NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon, celebrity chef Stephanie Izard,
Nickelback’s Chad Kroeger, Miranda Lambert, Matthew McConaughey, New
Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton, Lionel Richie, Joe Walsh of the
Eagles and Hank Williams Jr. The 90-minute special will honor Jason
Aldean, Kenny Chesney, Lady Antebellum, Brad Paisley and Taylor Swift
for their successes in 2011. Rob Lowe will host.
Shania Twain’s Stalker Released
Shania Twain’s stalker has been released from jail with credit for time
served. A judge sentenced Dr. Giovanni Palumbo yesterday to three years
of probation. He was also ordered to stay half a mile away from the
singer and her family. Palumbo – who interrupted Shania’s testimony at
his trial in September to declare he would plead guilty to criminal
harassment – is forbidden from having any contact, direct or indirect,
from the singer under the terms of his probation and was told to
continue having treatment. Palumbo repeatedly interrupted the hearing
and was seen muttering to himself, but was described as having “nothing
to say” when given the chance to speak. One interruption came when Dr.
Helen Ward testified to declare a psychiatric review found Palumbo to
be suffering from bipolar disorder and narcissistic personality
disorder. Palumbo shouted: “I’m not narcissistic, I agree you’re all
superior to me.” Palumbo was arrested in March after he was spotted in
the crowd at an awards ceremony she was attending despite being
forbidden from going within 500 yards of her.
Shelton To Headline Free NASCAR Show
Blake Shelton will headline the Coca-Cola Racing Family Concert at
NASCAR Championship Drive tomorrow at the Homestead-Miami Speedway in
Miami Beach. Hunter Hayes, who just released his debut in October, will
be the featured guest. The free concert will help kick-off the NASCAR
Champion Drive event festivities.
Decades Old Campbell Live Disc Dropping In January
A “new” Glen Campbell disc recorded three decades ago will see the
light of day in January. Campbell’s 1975 “Live in Japan” was originally
issued only across the Pacific. The album will receive its worldwide CD
release on January 24th. Campbell played a slew of his own hits along
with covers of Conway Twitty’s “It’s Only Make Believe” and Paul Anka’s
“My Way.” The album was released in a gatefold package that has
reproduced along with other graphic elements. Campbell, who has
Alzheimer’s disease, received the tribute treatment at last week’s
Country Music Association awards show. He also released what he said
would be his final disc, “Ghost on the Canvas,” in August.
Reba Wants To Trim Your Tree With ‘Fancy Christmas Collection’
Reba McEntire already has a line of clothing, shoes and luggage and
home furnishings, including bedding and furniture. Now she’s adding a
line of Christmas ornaments to her extensive collection of namesake
products. Dubbed “Reba’s Fancy Christmas Collection,” the festive
ornaments will be sold exclusively at Dillard’s department stores and
online.
Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw: Joint Tour
Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw will reunite next year for the Brothers of
the Sun Tour. The 19-stadium tour pairs up the friends who first toured
together 10 years ago. Jake Owen and Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
will join Kenny and Tim when they kick things off June 2nd in Tampa,
Florida. The last announced date is August 25th in Foxboro,
Massachusetts.
Dierks Bentley: Tragedy Inspired Song
Phoenix native Dierks Bentley wrote his latest single, "Home," after
the tragedy in which Arizona congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords was shot
and six bystanders were killed. He tells People Country, "It was so
senseless. There was a need on my part to find some way to heal."
Dierks' new album, Home, will be released on February 7th. He'll do an
album-release concert February 2nd at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium.
Toby Keith: Going South With Sammy and Santa
Toby Keith duets with rocker Sammy Hagar on one of the most interesting
pairings of the season, "Santa's Going South." Sammy's also recorded
the song with the Grateful Dead's Bob Weir and Mickey Hart.
Miranda, Blake Surprised By CMA Wins
Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton didn’t expect to win the Female
and Male Vocalist trophies at the CMA Awards this year, they admitted
to reporters backstage Wednesday night in Nashville. It’s the second
consecutive year the couple, who got married in May, claimed those
awards. “Last year when it happened, in the back of my mind, I had that
idea that maybe I’ll win this because I’ve been doing this so long and
the industry probably feels sorry for me a little bit!” Shelton joked.
“And maybe I got the underdog vote. But this year, I didn’t think I
could get away with that. It means a lot to me because for the first
time I feel secure in the country music industry because it’s such a
fickle industry.”
Lambert said she was “surprised” and “humbled.” She added, “I had a
great year last year. I won three CMAs on my birthday. So I was just
here to be here and to be a part of it. But I was totally expecting
someone else to take this home this year.” Miranda is all over the
radio now with her song “Baggage Claim,” and she says that being
married to Blake hasn’t changed her love for songs about love gone
wrong, but it is changing her thinking about music in general – at
least a little.
2011 CMA Music Awards
Blake Shelton and Kenny Loggins opened an eclectic Country Music
Association Awards last night with a high-energy version of Loggins’
hit “Footloose,” but Hank Williams Jr. stole the show. Williams made a
surprise during the opening skit with hosts Brad Paisley and Carrie
Underwood, who lampooned his recent troubles with ESPN and his “Monday
Night Football” theme song. “It was all Brad’s idea,” Underwood said in
a panic. The crowd gave Hank Jr. a hardy standing ovation. Underwood
and Paisley picked on Tim McGraw and Faith Hill next. The two brought
out the pair’s new Barbie dolls and began playing with them before
forcing the dolls to make out. Then they wondered if they dolls were
anatomically correct. “There’s nothing there,” Underwood said with her
back to the crowd and a very embarrassed McGraw and Hill watching.
“Poor Faith,” Paisley answered. The winners last night:
Entertainer of the Year: Taylor Swift
Female Vocalist of the Year: Miranda Lambert
Male Vocalist of the Year: Blake Shelton
New Artist of the Year: The Band Perry
Vocal Group of the Year: Lady Antebellum
Vocal Duo of the Year: Sugarland
Song of the Year: “If I Die Young” – The Band Perry
Single of the Year: “If I Die Young” – The Band Perry
Album of the Year: “My Kinda Party” – Jason Aldean
Music Video of the Year: “You and Tequila” – Kenny Chesney f/ Grace Potter
Musical Event of the Year: Jason Aldean and Kelly Clarkson – “Don’t You Wanna Stay”
Musician of the Year: Mac McAnally
Billy Currington’s Stalker
Billy Currington recently found out that one of his
neighbors has been stalking him for the past six months. According to
Currington’s official Twitter page, the peeping tom has been scoping
out the singer through a pair of binoculars. The stalker himself
actually told Currington that he has been watching him – and that he
would love to go fishing with the singer. Currington tweeted about the
incident, writing, “Just found out this guy has been watchin’ me thru a
telescope and binoculars from his house for 6 months. So creepy. I know
this cause he knocked on my back door and told me this and that he
knows when I come and go and says he wants to take me fishin.
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