Country On-Demand

Thursday, July 31, 2008

James Otto opens up for Alan, Trace this fall

Warner Bros. Records' James Otto unites with two of country music's most exciting and accomplished artists when he joins Alan Jackson's Good Time tour featuring Trace Adkins, as a special guest this Fall. The tour will kick-off Oct. 2, 2008 at Crown Coliseum in Fayetteville, NC and make 17 stops through the Midwest, Northeast, Canada and the West Coast. Tickets are currently on sale for the first dates and are available at www.ticketmaster.com

Otto’s debut album on Warner Bros. Records, Sunset Man, was released in April. The first single off the album, “Just Got Started Lovin’ You” spent two weeks in the No. 1 position on the Billboard, Mediabase and R&R top country singles charts, and is Country Radio’s most played song of 2008 to date, according to mediabase. Otto’s second single, “For You,” is currently climbing the charts.

Labels: Alan Jackson, James Otto, Trace Adkins

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Sugarland scores first #1 album of career

Sugarland band members Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush can celebrate -- and relax. Their new album Love On the Inside sold 314,000 copies in its first week on shelves.

This is the Mercury Nashville act's best sales week and highest-charting album. The band's previous high came when its last album, Enjoy the Ride, debuted and peaked at No. 4 with 211,000. It's also the best sales week for any country act since Eagles' Long Road out of Eden shifted 359,000 in its second week of release last fall.

Sugarland has another reason to celebrate -- Love on the Inside is its first No. 1 on the Top Country Albums chart. Its first two sets, Twice the Speed of Life and Enjoy the Ride, peaked at Nos. 3 and 2, respectively.

The debut single from Inside, "All I Want To Do," is also in a tight race with Keith Urban's "You Look Good In My Shirt" for the #1 spot on next week's Hot Country Singles chart.

Labels: Sugarland

Faith Hill to heavily promote holiday album

Faith Hill might just be as busy as Santa Claus come this fall as she promotes her first Christmas album Joy To The World. The set hits stores on September 16.

The album features new versions of ten traditional and modern classics, complete with horns, strings, woodwinds, percussion and chorales, much like the big-band orchestras of the '40s and '50s. Also spotlighted

is a new song, "A Baby Changes Everything," which will go to radio to promote the album.

Hill will do the promotional rounds, making major television appearances and appearing in print ads. The exact schedule has not yet been finalized.

Also part of the promotional package for Joy will be the "Faith Hill Christmas" special to air on XM Radio's holiday channels as well as on other appropriate music channels, including an
"Artist Confidential" on a dedicated online channel for 30 days.

The singer will also record a PBS "Soundstage" special, complete with a 40-piece orchestra and full band, which will broadcast during the holiday season.

Included on Joy To the World are classics such as "The Little Drummer Boy," "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town," and "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing!"

Labels: Faith Hill

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Wow... NOW That's What I Call Country!

NOW That's What I Call Music!, the world's top-selling multi-artist album series, has announced plans to release it

s first compilation featuring only Country Music. The album will hit stores August 26.

NOW That's What I Call Country will feature 20 hit songs, including 15 Top-5 singles. Country superstars Kenny Chesney, Keith Urban, Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood and Taylor Swift are among the artists included.

Purchasing the compilation will allow fans to unlock songs from some of Country Music's up-and-coming artists. Tracks from Eric Church, Jamey Johnson, The Lost Trailers, Ashton Shepherd, Emily West and Chuck Wicks will be available for free download for those who buy the album.

The NOW That's What I Call Music! series has sold over 200 million copies worldwide over the past 20 years. Since debuting in the U.S. 10 years ago, the series has sold over 70 million copies.


NOW That's What I Call Country Track Listing

    1. CARRIE UNDERWOOD                "All-American Girl"

    2. RASCAL FLATTS                   "Winner At A Losing Game"

    3. GARY ALLAN                      "Watching Airplanes"

    4. REBA McENTIRE w. K. CLARKSON    "Because Of You"

    5. KEITH URBAN                     "Everybody"

    6. SUGARLAND                       "Stay"

    7. LADY ANTEBELLUM                 "Love Don't Live Here"

    8. TAYLOR SWIFT                    "Picture To Burn"

    9. DIERKS BENTLEY                  "Trying To Stop Your Leaving"

    10. LUKE BRYAN                      "All My Friends Say"

    11. BRAD PAISLEY                    "Letter To Me"

    12. GEORGE STRAIT                   "I Saw God Today"

    13. JULIANNE HOUGH                  "That Song In My Head"

    14. SARA EVANS                      "As If"

    15. KENNY CHESNEY                   "Don't Blink"

    16. TRACE ADKINS                    "You're Gonna Miss This"

    17. CHRIS CAGLE                     "What Kinda Gone"

    18. KELLIE PICKLER                  "Things That Never Cross A Man's Mind"

    19. JOSH TURNER ft. TRISHA YEARWOOD "Another Try"

    20. JASON MICHAEL CARROLL           "Alyssa Lies"

Labels: Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney

Monday, July 28, 2008

Taylor Swift no longer high school senior

It's official. Ms. Taylor Alison Swift is a high school graduate. The young country star received her high school diploma, via mail, from Aaron Academy, a private Christian school in Hendersonville, TN.

"I never expected that my senior year would go the way it has," said Swift upon receiving her dipolma. "There's something really exciting about getting to live your dream and continue your education at the same time."

Swift has received awards from the CMA and ACM, had five top 10 singles including a #1 hit, sold over 3 million records, and made Billboard history -- all while in high school.

The singer is readying a new album set for release this fall.

Congratulations to Taylor from all us here at Country On-Demand!

Labels: Taylor Swift

Chesney joins Farm Aid lineup

Farm Aid today announced that country star Kenny Chesney will join board members Willie Nelson, Neil Young, John Mellencamp and Dave Matthews for its first-ever New England music festival at the Comcast Center in Mansfield, Mass. on Sept. 20.

"American family farmers are what this country is built on...and they have fed us and kept us strong and healthy for how many generations?" said Chesney, who is from Luttrell, Tennessee. "Growing up in a small town outside Knoxville, it was a big part of who we were -- and it's something we as a country shouldn't lose. If I can help be part of that -- whether it's raising money, or awareness, or just letting those family farmers know someone knows and cares -- well, that's why I'm coming to New England."

Singer/songwriter Kenny Chesney is a four-time Country Music Association and three-time, as well as the current, Academy of Country Music's Entertainer of the Year. He will bring his unique country sound to Farm Aid's annual benefit concert just weeks after closing his sell-out Poets & Pirates 2008 Tour.

Tickets for Farm Aid 2008 Presented by Whole Foods Market and Horizon Organic will go on sale July 28 at 10 a.m. EDT and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, ticketmaster.com, livenation.com or by calling (866) 448-7849. Tickets are priced at $35 for lawn, $55 for uncovered seats, $95 for covered seats and $200 for VIP plus a $7 parking and facility fee for all tickets.

Labels: Kenny Chesney, Willie Nelson

Faith Hill will countdown to game time each Sunday on NBC, returns for second year

NBC Sports will again feature five-time Grammy Award-winner and multi-platinum recording artist Faith Hill performing the opening theme for NBC "Sunday Night Football," "Waiting All Day for Sunday Night." In conjunction with her participation, NBC has also announced that Hill will be part of an ongoing promotional campaign, the first of which will begin running as part of the Indianapolis Colts versus Washington Redskins telecast of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game on Sunday, August 3. The spots will continue to air during NBC's coverage of the Olympics August 8th-25th.

This first promo, which sees NFL players preparing game-time snacks for Faith and her girlfriends, was filmed in Pasadena in June. It features a cast of All-Pros including Indianapolis Colts' defenders Dwight Freeney and Bob Sanders, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Tony Gonzalez, Rams wide receiver Torry Holt and Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis.

"Waiting All Day for Sunday Night" debuts Sunday, Sept. 7, NBC's first regular season "Sunday Night Football" broadcast of 2008 featuring Peyton Manning and the Colts hosting the Chicago Bears, in the opening game of the Colts new home, Lucas Oil Stadium. The opening theme will continue weekly, kicking off "Sunday Night Football" every Sunday night throughout the NFL season on NBC.

"What a thrill it was to be invited back this year. I'm a huge football fan and I love being part of the Sunday Night Football family," said Faith. "The promo piece is one of the funniest things I have ever seen. Fans will be in for a real treat getting a glimpse of these guys in the kitchen. We had a blast!"

"We are fortunate to have a star the caliber of Faith Hill back to sing our song," said Fred Gaudelli, "NBC Sunday Night Football" producer. "Once again she delivered a knockout performance."

"Waiting All Day for Sunday Night" is set to the original Joan Jett song, "I Hate Myself for Loving You." Hill has sold 30 million records worldwide and topped the charts with 11 No. 1 singles and 20 No. 1 videos throughout her 15-year career.

Labels: Faith Hill

ON-DEMAND FIRST: Details emerge of new Chesney album

Country On-Demand has learned first that Kenny Chesney will be releasing a new album this October via BNA and Blue Chair Records. The album, titled Lucky Old Sun, is expected in stores on October 14.

A representative from BNA Records could not confirm these details until an official release is issued from the label.

The title track, "Lucky Old Sun," is a Frankie Laine hit that features Willie Nelson. The collaboration of the two superstars lead Chesney to produce Nelson's latest album.

The lead single "Everybody Wants To Go To Heaven" is expected at country radio this week and will formally impact on August 10.

Labels: Kenny Chesney, Willie Nelson

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Chesney goes to 'Heaven' with new track

Kenny Chesney is getting ready to release his first new music in over a year with the calypso-leaning "Everybody Wants To Go To Heaven." The Sunday August 10th release date may be unusual, but it follows the song's thematics.

"I think, you know, everything in that song is everything we all think," Chesney says. "It's one of those songs that says I'm not only not ready, I've got a little but more fun to have... and I think that's a great way to live."

Chesney is putting final touches on an album he's calling "more personal than anything I've done yet."

Look for Chesney to kick off his XM No Shoes Radio channel at noon, July 26th, with a live from the parking lot broadcast from Boston's Gillette Stadium, which Chesney sold out in less than 15 minutes.

Labels: Kenny Chesney

CCMA announces nominees for Fan Choice Award

The Canadian Country Music Association has announced the nominees for the Fans' Choice Award: Paul Brandt, George Canyon, Doc Walker, Emerson Drive and Jessie Farrell.

Beginning Friday, July 25 until Sunday, September 7 at 11:59 EST, the public can vote online at CMT.ca for their choice. The winner will be announced during the CCMA Awards in Winnipeg, Manitoba on September 8, 2008. The show will be broadcast nationally on CBC Television at 8pm with encore broadcasts on CMT.

"We are thrilled to be able to give the fans the opportunity to get involved and vote for their favorite artist" said Chair of the CCMA Awards & Balloting Committee, Lynne Foster. "All of the artists always comment that this is one of the most memorable awards, as it is direct from the fans."

Previous winners include Shania Twain and Terri Clark.

2008 CCMA Awards Nominees will be announced July 30 at press conferences in Winnipeg and Toronto.

Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Tim McGraw will star in second motion picture feature

Singer Tim McGraw is working on a new movie based on a true story, news broke today. The movie, "Get Low," tells the story of Felix Bush, a man who lived in Tennessee in the late 19th century who held a funeral for himself when he was 74.

"Get Low" will star McGraw along side Oscar winners Robert Duvall and Sissy Spacek. The movie is expected to hit theaters in 2009.

McGraw will appear in "Four Christmases," starring Duvall, Spacek, and Reese Witherspoon, later this year. In 2006, he was in "Flicka," while in 2004, he appeared in "Friday Night Lights" with Billy Bob Thorton.

Labels: Tim McGraw

Randy Travis - Around The Bend

Randy Travis storms the country charts at No. 3, making the album release his highest selling first week ever and his first top five release in his career, since Nielsen Soundscan started reporting. Travis' first country album in eight years, Around the Bend, was released by Warner Bros. Records on July 15.

Randy was in New York City, last week, in support of his new release and appeared on several national television shows including: "The Late Show with David Letterman," "Good Morning America," "Regis & Kelly," "The Today Show" and "Entertainment Tonight."

With over 23 years on the charts, Randy Travis is one of the top ten selling solo country artists of all time. Having sold over 21 million albums, he has 22 #1 hits, six Grammy Awards, five Country Music Association Awards, nine Academy of Country Music Awards and ten American Music Awards to his name.

Labels: Randy Travis

Alan Jackson's 33rd #1!

Superstar Alan Jackson just scored the 33rd #1 single of his career with "Good Time," the title track to his 17th album, and he achieves another incredible career landmark with news that he has now crossed the 50-million album sales milestone.

"Alan's songs and shows have propelled him to this incredible level of success," said Sony BMG Nashville Chairman Joe Galante. "He has never lost touch with the fans, and they've shown their appreciation year after year with #1 singles and Platinum sales."

With more than 100 major industry awards to his credit, Jackson is a three-time Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year and the most-nominated artist in CMA history. A prolific songwriter, Jackson penned 23 of his 33 #1 singles, including his Grammy-winning Best Country Song, "Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)."

Jackson's Good Time collection recently became the fourth album of his career to debut simultaneously at #1 on Billboard's Top Country Albums and all-genre Billboard 200 sales charts. The 17-song release also marked a career first for Jackson, as the only time he has been the sole writer on each of the songs on his album.

Labels: Alan Jackson

Tuesday, July 22, 2008

Simpson well received at Thunder, will make Opry debut

Jessica Simpson received boos and ovations in what her team is calling a successful gig this weekend at Country Thunder. She performed covers of Willie Nelson and Shania Twain hits as well as songs from her new album, Do You Know.

Simpson, a pop star in her own right, is trying to make a successful bid on the country charts. Her debut single "Come On Over" has hit the top 20 on Billboard. The video debuted on CMT last week.

According to the Grand Ole Opry's website, the singer will make her debut on Sept. 6 on the legendary stage.

Her debut album hits stores Sept. 9 via Columbia Records.

Labels: Jessica Simpson

42nd Annual CMA Awards to air Nov. 12 from Nashville

The Country Music Association and ABC Television Network announced today that "The 42nd Annual CMA Awards" will air live on Wednesday, Nov. 12 (8:00-11:00 PM/ET) on ABC from the Sommet Center in Nashville, Tenn.

The 2007 CMA Awards, held in Nashville during the November Sweep (11/7/07), ranked behind only the Academy Awards and Grammy Awards during the 2007-2008 season for award season.

The CMA Awards nominees and winners are determined by the 6,000 industry professional members of CMA. The organization, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, was the first trade organization formed to promote an individual genre of music in 1958. A total of 12 CMA Awards in the following categories are presented: Entertainer of the Year, Single of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, Vocal Group of the Year, Vocal Duo of the Year, Musical Event of the Year, Musician of the Year, Music Video of the Year and New Artist of the Year (formerly known as the Horizon Award).

Labels: CMA Awards

Shelton releases follow-up to smash 'Home'

Multi-platinum Blake Shelton's #1 single "Home" is at its second week in the top spot on the R&R Country Singles chart. His follow up single, "She Wouldn't Be Gone," from his forthcoming album premiered on CMT.com yesterday, July 21. The single is written by Cory Batten and Jennifer Adan and produced by Scott Hendricks.

"As a country music artist I'm always looking for "that song". Something unique, something special, something that matters. This song has all of the above. What a melody!," says Shelton.

"She Wouldn't Be Gone" will also be digitally delivered to country radio on Monday, July 21 and will be available for sale at all digital retailers on July 29. Ringtone will be available at all carriers on August 3.

Labels: Blake Shelton

Saturday, July 19, 2008

"Do You Know" Jessica's New Album Is Available September 9th?

Jessica Simpson's New CD Do You Know hits music stores September 9th on Epic/Columbia Nashville. The title track is a song written by country superstar Dolly Parton.

"I am walking into the country music world with my heart on my sleeve basically. I feel like a brand new artist and I love this new challenge of having to prove myself as a musician." says Jessica.

The CD will be released as a standard 1-disc CD, as well as a CD/DVD packaging with the "Come On Over" video, behind the scenes of the making of the video, a photo gallery, and more!

"Come On Over", Jessica's current single, is available at radio now and can be downloaded from the iTunes Store and Amazon.com's MP3 store.

Labels: Dolly Parton, Jessica Simpson

Brad Paisley's "Play" In Stores This September

Brad Paisley's new instrumental abum, Play hits stores September 2, 2008. Here's the track listing:

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

Labels: Brad Paisley

Friday, July 11, 2008

Randy Travis' first country album in eight years in stores next Tuesday

With one of the most recognizable voices in country music, Randy Travis returns to his roots with his first new country album in eight years, Around the Bend, whichwill be released by Warner Bros. Records on July 15, 2008. Randy will be in New York City in support of his new release and will be appearing on several national television shows including: "The Late Show with David Letterman" (7/15,) "Good Morning America" (7/16), "Regis & Kelly"(7/17) and "The Today Show" (7/18.) He will be performing the current single off of the album, "Dig Two Graves" and big hits such as "ForeverAnd Ever Amen."

With over 23 years on the charts, Randy Travis is one ofthe top ten selling solo country artists of all time. Having sold over21 million albums, he has 22 #1 hits, six Grammy Awards, five Country Music Association Awards, nine Academy of Country Music Awards and ten American Music Awards to his name.

Travis will be launching his new fan club, to coincide with the release of Around The Bend on July 15, 2008. Membership to the fan club includes; a $20 gift certificate to Randy's online store, fan club member only merchandise, the chance to participate in exclusive contests, and access to exclusive videos, photos, downloads and more on www.randytravis.com.

Labels: Randy Travis

Billy Ray Cyrus back on radio with new single

After a string of hit songs at country radio and the recent top 5 smash "Ready, Set, Don't Go," Billy Ray Cyrus is back with the new single, "Somebody Said A Prayer." The song will be shipping to country radio on Monday, July 14.

"'Somebody Said A Prayer' is such a great song," says Billy Ray. "It moved me from the first time I heard the demo. It's powerful and a great message about hope and faith. And the writers Neil Thrasher and Craig Wiseman have an amazing track record of writing songs that speak from the heart."

Produced by Mark Bright, the new CD, Back To Tennessee, is expected to release later this year. Billy Ray co-wrote two of the tracks on the new project. He has also been busy filming the upcoming feature film, "The Hannah Montana Movie" and hosting NBC's "Nashville Star."

Labels: Billy Ray Cyrus

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Jack Ingram judges GAC Star

The 2008 Academy of Country Music's Best New Male Vocalist Jack Ingram will provide his personal insights and advice to the six hopeful finalists during the finale of Great American Country's (GAC) Next GAC Star talent competition.

"It's never easy to act as an expert and 'judge' someone else whose music style or approach may be different from yours, but I think I can assist these artists by providing feedback they can take into consideration and use to better their music," says Ingram. "I'm honored GAC asked me to contribute my experiences and that I can help them as they provide aspiring artists an opportunity to receive critiques and national television exposure.”"

Ingram has toured nationally with Brooks & Dunn, Brad Paisley, Toby Keith, Dierks Bentley, Sheryl Crow, and currently with Martina McBride.

Currently, the network has announced 10 of 16 semi-finalists, five chosen by national voting online and five chosen by music industry insiders. On September 3, the network will present a one-hour special on the six finalists who are vying to win a record deal with Original Signal Recordings, a Gibson Hummingbird Guitar, and a music video, which will air on GAC. Ingram will join Desmond Child and Victoria Shaw during the LIVE 90-minute program on September 10 that will broadcast from Nashville and feature finalist performances and viewer voting to name the Next GAC Star.

Labels: Jack Ingram

Phil Stacey makes televised Opry debut

Lyric Street Recording artist and American Idol Season 6 finalist Phil Stacey will make his first televised appearance on the Grand Ole Opry this Saturday night, July 12th. Phil will perform songs from his recently released self-titled CD, including the single "If You Didn't Love Me," co-written by RascalFlatts front man Gary LeVox. The Grand Ole Opry airs live at 8pm EDT on GAC.

Phil's very first Opry experience was on March 29th, 2008. Of his special night,Phil commented, "I'm blown away, I'm absolutely on cloud nine, this is one of the biggest experiences of my life."

His self-titled debut CD released April 2008.

Labels: Phil Stacey

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Patty Loveless goes indie with new release

After a dozen years at Epic Records, country star Patty Loveless is going the indie route with her next album, the September 9 release Sleepless Nights.

The disc will be released on Saguaro Road Records, the nascent imprint of Direct Holdings Americas, which sells mainly oldies music and video directly to consumers under the Time Life brand.

Produced by her husband and frequent collaborator Emory Gordy Jr., Sleepless Nights will include the Kentucky-born traditionalist's versions of 14 classic country hits, including "Why Baby Why," "He Thinks I Still Care," "Crazy Arms," "Don't Let Me Crossover," "Please Help Me I'm Falling," "There Goes My Everything" and "Cold Cold Heart."

Loveless, who scored five No. 1s on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart since her debut on MCA Nashville in 1985, released her Epic swan song Dreamin' My Dreams in 2005.

Labels: Patty Loveless

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Lady A. records exclusive Olympic song

Need a snazzy tune to help you run longer, leap higher, swim faster or live life with a little more zest? Check out what leading artists, including Lady Antebellum, are recording for the world-class Team USA athletes as they prepare for and compete in the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.

AT&T Inc. today announced that several of today's headlining artists — including Colbie Caillat, Sheryl Crow, Nelly, and Three Doors Down — will record exclusive tracks for the AT&T Team USA Soundtrack to inspire and support U.S. Olympic Team athletes as they pursue their dream of competing in the Olympic Games.

The music — debuting during the NBC broadcasts of the 2008 Olympic Games — will offer motivational songs for Team USA, youth, sports enthusiasts, music aficionados and U.S. Olympic Team fans across the country. The songs will be available for download only during the Olympic Games in August through AT&T MEdiaTM Net on AT&T wireless phones and online at att. net/TEAMUSA. Consumers can also access music through NBCOlympics. com. The proceeds from the tracks will benefit Team USA.

Labels: Lady Antebellum

King George announces a 'Classic Christmas'

"The King of Country Music" George Strait will brighten this year's holiday season with his album, Classic Christmas, to be released October 7. The album's ten traditional holiday songs are Strait's personal favorites and they were recorded with the Texas Troubadour’'s own country flare.

Songs on the CD include the Christmas anthem "We Three Kings," the playful "Up on the Housetop," and enduring classics such as "Hark, The Herald Angels Sing," "Deck the Halls," "O Come, All Ye Faithful," and "We Wish You A Merry Christmas," among others.

"I wanted to put together a collection of my favorite traditional Christmas songs that I grew up listening to," says Strait. "It was hard to narrow it down to ten of them, but I think I've done it. I hope these songs bring back good memories for my fans like they have for me."

Some of the tracks were first released on the Hallmark exclusive Fresh Cut Christmas album in 2006.

Labels: George Strait

Monday, July 7, 2008

Blake Shelton hits a home-run with 'Home'

Warner Bros. recording artist Blake Shelton has reached the top of the R&R Singles Chart and MediaBase Singles Chart with his rendition of "Home," written by Michael Buble, Amy Foster-Gillies and Alan Chang and originally recorded by Buble. This is the fourth career No. 1 for Shelton including "Austin," "The Baby" and "Some Beach," which collectively held the No.1 spot for thirteen weeks.

"I loved 'Home' the first time I heard it and I really love it now," jokes Shelton. "I'm glad I'm not the only one that thought it was a country song. I've had the honor of performing 'Home' with Michael Buble on a couple of occasions and can honestly say he is a really great guy and I think as a writer he's probably pretty excited that it's reached No. 1, too."

The track features Shelton's girlfriend Miranda Lambert on background vocals and is from his most recent release Pure BS: Deluxe Edition.

Labels: Blake Shelton

BREAKING: Keith and Nicole welcome baby girl

A publicist for Keith Urban says Nicole Kidman has given birth to a baby girl in Nashville.

In a statement e-mailed to The Associated Press, the publicist said: "Nicole and Keith Urban are delighted to announce that Nicole Kidman gave birth to a baby girl on Monday morning, July 7, 2008, in the United States. Sunday Rose Kidman Urban weighed 6 pounds, 7 1/2 ounces. Husband Keith was by Nicole's side and mother and baby are very well."

During a concert Saturday in Nashville, Urban, a singer and guitarist raised in Australia, said, "I'm going to dedicate a song to my very, very, very, very, very pregnant wife" before singing his hit, "Better Half."

On his website, Urban says the family is "very blessed and grateful that we can share this joy with all of you today."

The baby is the first for Kidman and Urban. She has two children, Isabella and Connor, from her marriage to Tom Cruise.

Labels: Keith Urban

Thursday, July 3, 2008

Phil Stacey releases 'Glory' to iTunes

Due to overwhelming response, Phil Stacey's recording of "Old Glory" has been made available for digital download via iTunes.

"I think the sentiment of this song speaks to so many people in this country," says Stacey. "Despite our differences in politics or our differences as people, we're all united as Americans and the stars and stripes represent our strength and dignity as a country."

Phil was inspired to write "Old Glory" while serving active duty in the United States Navy as a Musician Third Class at Navy Band Southeast in Jacksonville, Florida. Phil recently released his self-titled debut CD after competing in the sixth season of American Idol and continues to remain active in the Navy Reserves.

Labels: Phil Stacey

Kenny Chesney gets own XM radio show; premieres July 26

Perhaps the biggest star in country music, Kenny Chesney is about to get a whole lot bigger. Soon he will have is own radio show. "No Shoes Radio" launches July 26 on XM radio as a 24-hour station, featuring music from Chesney's audio catalog, including never-before-heard recordings, an uncut, exclusive concert broadcast from the 2008 Poets & Pirates Tour, plus random drop-ins from fans, friends and music.

"There's a lot of hits, but there are also a lot of album tracks, songs from the early part of my career, stuff from our "Keg in the Closet" shows and obscurities that you had to be there to hear," said Chesney. The show will also include music featuring both those artists who influenced Chesney's world and the kind of music capturing the sonic culture of his current "Poets & Pirates Tour."

"The way a lot of bands were for us, we're what they're listening to when they're hanging out, when they're having fun, when they need to gear up for something," said Chesney. "That's what music always did for me... and it's kind of mind-blowing to think that your songs could be that for someone else. So for all those fans out there, get ready for something pretty cool."

Other XM artist specific stations are for George Strait, Led Zeppelin, Michael Jackson and Coldplay.

Labels: Kenny Chesney

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Charlie got his golden ticket, now Sugarland offers platinum ticket

Willy Wonka did it, so why not Mercury's Sugarland? When the releases their third album, Love on the Inside, on July 22, some fans may get more than bargained for. Five lucky winners who purchase the Deluxe Fan Edition will receive a platinum ticket inside the album announcing their status as a winner of the platinum ticket instant win game.

The five will receive a trip to Nashville for two including airfare and two nights stay accommodations. They will also receive 2 tickets to attend the 2008 CMA Awards, a "meet and greet" with Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush, an intimate Sugarland performance, and a fan pack of select Sugarland merchandise.

The Deluxe Fan Edition will include 17 tracks (12 regular and 5 bonus) in special packaging with an expanded CD booklet, as well as access to download exclusive music video and "behind the scenes making of the album" footage.

"Love On The Inside Regular Edition" will consist of 12 songs and a regular CD booklet and hits stores a week later on July 29.

Labels: Sugarland

Gretchen Wilson lends voice to TNT series theme

Grammy-winning country music recording artist Gretchen Wilson takes center stage in TNT's multi-platform marketing campaign for the second season of the network's provocative drama "Saving Grace," starring Oscar winner Holly Hunter. The campaign is centered on the concept "Embrace Your Grace," which invites viewers to celebrate who they are – flaws and all – and follow their instincts to live life to its fullest, much like Hunter's character in the series.

Wilson performs her new song "Work Hard, Play Harder" from her upcoming fall release in a special music video that features clips from "Saving Grace." The video will be shown a number of times on TNT, including during the network's live coverage July 5 of the NASCAR Coke Zero 400. The video will also be seen on TNT's sister networks, TBS and truTV. It will also appear in Regal Cinemas nationwide and is currently viewable online at tnt.tv.

"This campaign is about strong women who follow their instincts, their intuition and their guts. It's about women who never back down," said Tricia Melton, senior vice president of marketing for TNT. "Gretchen Wilson truly embodies the 'Embrace Your Grace' code, especially with her new song 'Work Hard, Play Harder.' The video showcases her strength, attitude and defiant spirit, all of which match the heart and soul of Holly Hunter's Det. Grace Hanadarko in 'Saving Grace.'"

Wilson's "Work Hard, Play Harder" music video opens with the singer driving a vintage Corvette convertible with gleaming hubcaps. On the radio, the grainy sound of a female announcer says, "Now folks, it's time to Embrace Your Grace. Time to work hard, then play harder." Wilson sings the song as she drives down a scenic road, long hair flying in the wind.

"Saving Grace" stars Hunter as Grace Hanadarko, an intense Oklahoma City police detective at the top of her field. She is a forceful investigator whose wild personal life translates into a no-holds-barred approach to her detective work. When her life reaches its darkest, Grace begins being visited by an unconventional angel named Earl (Leon Rippy), who is determined to help her come to terms with her past so that she can get her future on track. The show co-stars Kenneth Johnson, Bailey Chase, Laura San Giacomo, Lorraine Toussaint, Gregory Cruz and Dylan Minnette. "Saving Grace"returns for its second season Monday, July 14, at 10 p.m. EST.

Labels: Gretchen Wilson

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

Carrie Underwood's next single rings military bell

Country's hottest female is getting ready to release her third single from her sophomore album, Carnival Ride. The song "Just A Dream" comes on the heels of her sixth career #1 "Last Name."

"Just A Dream" was wrote by Hillary Lindsey, Stephen McEwan, and Gordon Sampson, and is a powerful song dealing with the effects of war on a young bride-to-be.

Underwood filmed the video recently in a small town in Tennessee. Details about the release of the video have not been released. Roman White, who has directed all of Underwood's music videos to date, was at the helm.

The single adds at country radio on July 21.

Labels: Carrie Underwood

Josh Gracin set to appear on 'Fox & Friends'

Josh Gracin will appear on Fox News Channel's Fox & Friends Weekend this Saturday, July 5. Gracin will perform his latest hit, "We Weren't Crazy," which is already at #14 on Billboard's country singles chart. Fox & Friends Weekend is broadcast Saturday and Sunday on the Fox News Channel from 6-10a EST.

"We Weren't Crazy" is the latest hit single from Josh Gracin and is from his recently released sophomore CD by the same name. The autobiographical song was written by Gracin, Tony Lopacinski, and Bobby Pinson about Gracin's personal journey from childhood to raising children and having a family of his own.

Labels: Josh Gracin

Arena rock and country collide on stage for new CMT Crossroads

Great Britain's premiere arena rock band and one of country music's hottest stars will come together for another episode of the hit series CMT Crossroads. CMT Crossroads: Def Leppard & Taylor Swift premieres Friday, Nov. 8 on CMT.

Before an invitation only audience in Nashville in October, Swift will join her all-time favorite rock band on stage for a night that is sure to be a memorable one for the young star.

"Every time I've seen Crossroads on CMT I've always thought, 'If I ever get to do one of those, it HAS to be with Def Leppard!,' so this is really a dream come true for me," says Swift. "I have been screaming the words to Def Leppard songs for years... so it's amazing that I'm going to get to share a stage with them this year!"

"How cool is this?! Country's hottest young star wanting to work with us!!" says Def Leppard's Joe Elliot.

Def Leppard and Taylor Swift join an elite group of performers who have taped CMT Crossroads, which pairs country music stars with popular artists from other genres—pop, rock, R&B—to play together, swap stories, and share their common love of music. Previous episodes of Crossroads have included Bon Jovi and Sugarland; Kelly Clarkson and Reba McEntire; Robert Plant and Alison Krauss; and most recently Maroon 5 and Sara Evans.

Labels: Def Leppard, Taylor Swift

Rucker, a former rocker, to make Opry debut as country star

Darius Rucker, the lead singer of rock band Hooty and the Blowfish will perform for the first time on the Grand Ole Opry stage on July 15. Rucker says its a dream come true.

"When I was asked if I wanted to perform on the Grand Ole Opry, I yelled, 'Are you kidding me?!? I've been waiting for that my whole life,' " said Rucker. "To be invited where so many of the greatest country artists have performed is an honor, and I still can't believe it has been bestowed on me."

One of the songs that Rucker will perform on the Opry is his debut single for Capitol Records Nashville, "Don't Think I Don't Think About It," a Top 20 hit - and climbing - on the country singles charts. His first album for the label, the Frank Rogers-produced Learn to Live, will be released this fall.

Labels: Darius Rucker

Keith's "Shirt" going on his Hits cd

"You Look Good In My Shirt," one of the fastest rising singles in the career of Capitol Records Nashville recording artist Keith Urban, will be added to Urban's most recent album on August 19, requiring a slight title change to the project: Keith Urban's Greatest Hits: 19 Kids. The single is currently available for download online, and will continue to be available for download as a single track.

"You Look Good In My Shirt" - currently #11 and #12 on two major country singles charts after just five weeks - first appeared in its original version on Urban's breakout 3x platinum recording Golden Road. Plans torelease the song as that CD's 5th single were scrapped when "Days GoBy," the first single from the follow up project Be Here was ready."

"Over the years it ("Shirt") has always played like a hit song," saidUrban. "That, combined with numerous requests from both fans and radio about why it was never a single, inspired us to get back into the studioand re-record the song. I'm glad that we finally have the opportunity to give everyone what they've been asking for."

To date, Keith Urban's catalog has sold more than 10 million units worldwide; Urban has charted seven #1 singles and nine Top 5 hits.