Aldean Extends Successful Run

Jason Aldean will extend his Wide Open arena tour into the fall, with an additional 25 dates across the nation. After selling out 39 shows on the first leg, and breaking attendance records on both coasts, the tour will kick back off on Sept. 10 with special guest Luke Bryan joining a majority of the dates.

“We’ve had such a great year with some really big songs and our first big arena tour, and I’m just not ready to move on from it quite yet,” says Aldean. “All of us…my band, crew, Luke, and his guys…we’ve been having a blast out on the road together. I think the fans can feel that too. There are a few things to count on…the music will be loud, the beer will be cold, and college football will be on every TV backstage and in the parking lot!”

Aldean is currently in the studio preparing the follow up to 2009’s platinum selling Wide Open. His first three albums have sold more than 3.5 million copies.

Photos: David Nail, Jaron, Dierks and Jason Sturgeon

David Nail makes baseball debut…Jaron joins Toby’s trek…Jason Sturgeon hooks up with Dierks Bentley for July 4th show.

David Nail makes his national baseball debut in the MLB's All-Star Legends & Celebrity game in Anaheim, Calif. He joins other players like Jon Hamm, Andy Richter, Michael Clarke Duncan, MC Hammer, James Denton, Bo Jackson, Mike Piazza, and Ozzie Smith. The game airs tonight at 10:30 PM/ET on ESPN. Pictured: Nail and former MLB player/commentator John Kruk.

Jaron And The Long Road To Love will join Toby Keith's American Ride Tour. Pictured recently in Nashville with twin brother Evan (far right), WDSY/Pittsburgh's Jane Omalia and Big Machine's Erik Powell.

Toolpusher Records' Jason Sturgeon joined Capitol's Dierks Bentley to perform on the Fourth of July holiday weekend at House of Blues in Atlantic City.

New Singles, Albums, Artists

New Curb artist Dylan Robinson shared a backstage moment with Neal McCoy and basketball great Karl Malone, after he joined McCoy onstage in Branson.

A new album from Reba is expected this fall. The first single from the Starstruck/Valory album, “Turn On Your Radio,” launched this week.

The lead single from Kenny Chesney’s latest album debuts today. “Boys of Fall” is an ode to high school football written by Casey Beathard and Dave Tumbill. Chesney’s album Hemingway’s Whiskey will be out Sept. 28.

Randy Rogers Band’s Burning The Day will be released Aug. 24 via MCA Nashville. Also coming out that day, the debut from Warner Music Nashville artist Chris August.

Joe Nichols turned to some trusted hitmakers for his new single, “The Shape I’m In.” It was written by Rhett Akins, Dallas Davidson and Ben Hayslip, aka the “Peach Pickers,” who also penned his recent three-week No. 1 “Gimmie That Girl.”

Josh Kelley’s debut single for MCA, “Georgia Clay,” goes for adds Aug. 9.

“King Me” is the new single from ACM award-winner Dave Gibson. The accompanying video was filmed in Goodlettsville, Tennessee at an old country store. This song is one of many Gibson has penned with Craig Monday.

Foster & Lloyd (Radney Foster and Bill Lloyd) are working on a new album.

Nashville rock band American Bang will release their self-titled major-label debut album on Reprise Records August 31. Produced in Music City by Bob Rock, the album’s lead single “Wild & Young” is out now.

Niemann’s Debut Out Tomorrow

Jerrod Niemann’s debut album streets tomorrow (7/13), and will be the first release via the Sea Gayle/Arista Nashville partnership. The lead single, “Lover, Lover,” is at No. 5 on MusicRow’s Country Breakout chart and has sold over 337,000 digital downloads, according to Nielsen SoundScan.

For those anxious to hear more from Niemann, the new album Judge Jerrod & The Hung Jury is streaming in its entirety at www.JerrodNiemannOfficial.com, where it is also available for pre-order. And Nashvillians can join him tonight (7/12) for the free and open CD Release Party at The Basement. Doors at 6:30 PM, showtime at 7 PM sharp.

The album’s 20 tracks include twelve songs, and eight “personality-packed skits.” Niemann has writing credits on ten of the songs.

Walmart’s Soundcheck Risers
program is spotlighting Niemann with exclusive video content, including an interview and performance footage, airing in stores and online.

Niemann spent the weekend near Austin, Texas performing at the AquaPalooza 2010 Signature Event, headlined by Brad Paisley. The free lakeside concert welcomed thousands of fans watching from their boats.

In September, Niemann is set to hit the road on Gary Allan‘s Get Off on the Pain Tour, which also features Randy Houser.

David Adam Byrnes

“Sweet Distraction”

Better Angels Music

“Sweet Distraction” is the country radio debut for David Adam Byrnes, and it goes for adds Monday, July 19. The song was written by Andi Zack and Better Angels writer Josh Thompson (Columbia Nashville) and produced by industry veteran Rob Rappaport and Tom Drenon for Better Angels Music.

Born and raised in Sherwood, Arkansas, Byrnes has had the dream of being a country singer since his parents took him to his first George Strait concert. By the time he reached high school, he had the opportunity to be one of the opening acts for Hank Williams Jr., among others. After selling out local clubs in Arkansas such as the Hollywood Country Club, Bad Bob’s, and The Rock City Lounge, his name has become known across the state.

To quote one of Byrnes’ songs, “he loves a bar room band, has worn a cowboy hat, cranks his music up loud, loves his family, respects his country, has known heartache, has been called a backwoods redneck…” That should give listeners a little clue as to who he is musically and personally.

http://www.myspace.com/davidbyrnes
http://twitter.com/davidadambyrnes

[wpaudio url=”https://musicrow.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/dab-swtdtrct.mp3″ text=”David Adam Byrnes – Sweet Distraction” dl=”0″ autoplay=”1″]

People.com Gets Scoop On Underwood Wedding

People.com has all the exclusive details about Carrie Underwood’s weekend wedding to Canadian hockey star Mike Fisher. The couple exchanged vows on Saturday (7/10) at the Reynolds Plantation Ritz-Carlton Lodge on Lake Oconee in Greensboro, Georgia.

The bride’s Chantily lace gown was designed by Monique Lhuillier, who also designed the bridesmaids’ dresses.

About 250 guests were in attendance.

Big Kenny Sings (and Works) For Africa

Big Kenny has created a new anthem celebrating the continent’s first-ever World Cup. “Heart Of Africa” will have its debut at a special concert in Nairobi which will benefit the UN World Food Programme.

“Big Kenny was an excellent choice to write this song and perform it as he is regarded as a true humanitarian, as his previous work in the Sudan and Uganda bear testament,” said Dr. Bonnie Dunbar, owner of the Karen Blixen Coffee Garden of Out of Africa fame. “His songs are uplifting, which is certainly what we needed for the occasion of Africa staging its first World Cup. Big Kenny underscores the diverse nature of everyone who finds a home in the heart of Africa.”

Because of his ongoing commitment to children in need (particularly in Africa), Big Kenny wanted to see the UN World Food Program in action. To fully understand the importance of the WFP school meals program, the singer/songwriter rolled up his sleeves and helped feed children at the Mathare Community Outreach School.

“We’re gratified that Big Kenny took the time to come to Nairobi to support our work.” said Rose Ogola, WFP Public Information Officer in Kenya.  “Hungry children cannot learn effectively. By providing them with nutritious food, they learn better and have a fighting chance to break the circle of poverty. We’re grateful that Big Kenny helped raise awareness for our school meals programs which assist the most vulnerable among us: our children.”

Big Kenny will debut “Heart Of Africa,” a song he co-wrote with Damien Horne, on July 11th – right before the World Cup Final, at a benefit concert for the UN World Food Programme staged at the Karen Blixen Coffee Garden. The “Heart Of Africa” studio recording with Horne will be available for sale on www.bigkenny.tv shortly after it is debuted in Nairobi.

“Big Kenny was an inspired choice to write “Heart Of Africa,” said event Executive Producer David Clark, CEO of David Clark Cause, and creator of President Mandela’s “46664” initiative. “He is probably the only American country music star who actively promotes causes in Africa; his recent work in Sudan to help build the Kunyuk Girls School and support for the Children’s choir from Uganda are proof enough. This song Big Kenny has created is a true anthem that all Africans can be proud of.”

The World Cup Celebration will take place on Sunday, July 11, and will set the stage for a future star-studded “Heart Of Africa” benefit concert hosted by Big Kenny and featuring world-renowned performers.

Ash Street Signs With Bluewater For Admin.

Bluewater Music has announced the signing of a worldwide administration and creative placement agreement with Ash Street Music. Ash Street’s extensive catalog includes  songs penned by Monty Holmes, Greg Crowe, Ronnie Laws and Andi Zack, as well as singles from George Strait, Randy Travis, Josh Thompson and Will Hoge.

(l-r) Peter Roselli, Bluewater COO; Tom Gould & June McHugh, Ash Street co-owners; Rob Baker, Ash Street attorney.

Ride For a Cure and More Friday News

Ride For a Cure Hosted by Little Big Town
The 4th Annual Ride for a Cure will be held this Sunday, July 11. The event kicks off with registration and live music from 8:00 AM-10:00 AM at the Tin Roof on Demonbreun Street. Artists performing at the Tin Roof include Brett Eldredge, Randy Montana and Cali Rodi. The ride will leave Nashville at 10:30 AM and head south to Harley-Davidson Columbia (I-65 & Exit 46). For non-riders, gates in Columbia open at 10:30 a.m. The party will continue once the riders arrive around noon, when Little Big Town takes the stage for an afternoon jam. Scheduled to appear are Luke Bryan, Josh Thompson, the Band Perry, Randy Houser and Storme Warren. Tickets are $300 for VIP, $35 for riders and $20 jam only. For more information visit www.nashvillerideforacure.com.

The Band Perry Readies Full-Length Debut
Republic Nashville’s The Band Perry will release their first album on October 5. The self-titled album will contain the trio‘s current single, “If I Die Young,” Written by the band, “If I Die Young” is now available on the trio’s self-titled EP, released in April and available through all major online music sites. 

“The song is The Band Perry’s second single for Republic Nashville. Their debut single, “Hip To My Heart,” was a Top Twenty hit. The video for “If I Die Young,” directed by David McClister, (Lady Antebellum, LeAnn Rimes), was shot at Nashville’s historic Two Rivers Mansion. In between summertime tour dates opening for such artists as Keith Urban, Brooks & Dunn, Alan Jackson and Zac Brown Band, the band is busy putting the finishing touches on their debut album.

Lee Brice Makes Top 10 Debut
Curb Records artist Lee Brice has scored his first Top 10 single with “Love Like Crazy,” the title track to his just released debut CD. While the recording artist is no stranger to hit songs from a songwriter’s perspective (he penned Garth Brooks’ “More Than a Memory,” and Tim McGraw’s “Still”), Brice says it’s an entirely different feeling when you hit that section of the charts as a recording artist.

“When this song hit Top 20, I remember thinking, it just can’t get any better than this,” Brice said. “But it did. To have a song break through the Top 10 is just an incredible feeling. I hope I get to experience what a Top 5 feels like!”

Kenny Chesney and The Steve Miller Band On CMT Tonight
Kenny Chesney and The Steve Miller Band take the stage for Friday night’s premiere of the newest installment of CMT’s hit series, Crossroads. Chesney says he never thought his life would bring him to a point where he would be performing with Miller.

“When I was in high school, I think all four years, and even into college, I know there was one CD that was a mainstay, and it was Steve Miller’s Greatest Hits. I listened to his music all the time and never thinkin’ my life was gonna turn out into a place where I would share the stage with him and sing with him…it’s really special.”

Restless Heart Signs With Big Show Music
Venerable country hitmakers Restless Heart has teamed with Big Show Music Co. for management. The band, currently reunited with all its original members – Larry Stewart, John Dittrich, Paul Gregg, Dave Innis, and Greg Jennings – has racked up seven No. 1 hits and four gold albums throughout its 27-year career, crossing over from country with several pop and AC hits.

Big Show Music Co., owned by partners Al McManus and Jeff Lysyczyn, is located at 818 18th Ave. South, Third Floor, Nashville, TN 37203. For more information on Restless Heart visit www.RestlessHeartBand.com.

Lifenotes
Congratulations to Curb Records A&R Music Consultant Kelly Lynn and BNA Recording artist Chris Janson who were married July 4th in Franklin. The small, private wedding took place on Panaroma Farms and included a performance by the groom.

“Nashville Sound” Engineer Bill Porter Passes

Chet Atkins (left) and Bill Porter at the mixing console

Bill Porter, the prolific sound engineer whose work was an integral part of what became known as the Nashville Sound, passed away in St. Louis, Missouri on Wednesday (7/7). He was 79.

After starting his career at Nashville’s WLAC, Porter went to work for RCA and producer Chet Atkins in 1959. He would work with Atkins for the next four years. Over the course of his lengthy career, Porter recorded more than 579 charting records, including 49 top 10s, 11 No. 1s and 37 Gold records and engineered hit after hit for artists including Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, the Browns, Boots Randolph and Al Hirt, to name a few. When asked by producer Owen Bradley how he achieved his winning studio sound, Atkins reportedly replied, “it was Bill Porter.”

In 1964, Porter moved from RCA to Columbia Records, where he spent six months before going to work for Fred Foster and his Monument label. At Monument, Porter perfected the sound that would bring Orbison a steady stream of hits, including “Only the Lonely,” “It’s Over,” “Running Scared,” and “Oh, Pretty Woman.”

Porter left Monument in 1966, moving to Las Vegas to manage United Recording of Nevada for audio engineering pioneer Bill Putnam of United Western Recorders in Los Angeles. When Presley’s Vegas sound engineer was unavailable for a show, Porter was called. He would serve as Presley’s live sound engineer until the singer’s death in 1977.

After finding some success as a music publisher, Porter was named director-at-large of the Country Music Association in 1972. For that organization, he prepared an instructional primer on sound techniques, describing microphones and their usage, loudspeaker types, audio mixers, and providing operating tips.

Over the years, Porter also worked with televangelist Jimmy Swaggart and engineered sessions with artists including Barbra Streisand, Diana Ross and Sammy Davis, Jr.

Despite never having graduated from college, Porter spent much of his later life in academia, co-writing the first college-level curriculum for audio engineering. His innovative techniques and are still taught in colleges and universities today.

In 1992, the TEC Foundation inducted Porter into their TEC Awards Hall of Fame, along with synthesizer pioneer Robert Moog and record producer Phil Ramone. In 2003, Porter won the William T. Kemper Award for Excellence in Teaching, and he was honored with a lifetime achievement award from the St. Louis chapter of the Audio Engineering Society.