Entries by Robert K Oermann

DISClaimer Single Reviews (5/04/11)

A look at the current Bluegrass Unlimited chart shows that there are lots and lots of new faces popping up with popular tunes. Alongside the field’s superstars such as Rhonda Vincent, Alison Krauss and Peter Rowan are a number of up-and-comers. In fact, there are several on the BU chart who are there with debut CDs, including The Boxcars, who win this column’s DisCovery Award.

DISClaimer Single Reviews (4/27/11)

It will come as no surprise to most of you that Kenny Chesney has hit another home run. “You and Tequila” is a minor masterpiece of songwriting, vocal performance and production. And it wins Disc of the Day.

Hazel Dickens Passes

Renowned Appalachian vocal stylist Hazel Dickens has died at age 75. The West Virginia native was noted for her strongly feminist song lyrics, support of coal miners and participation in bluegrass and folk-music groups such as The Strange Creek Singers and Hazel & Alice. She recorded for the Rounder, Folkways and Arhoolie record labels. The […]

Dot Records Magnate Randy Wood Dies

Randy Wood, who founded Dot Records and brought Nashville native Pat Boone to pop-music stardom, has died in California at age 94. The entrepreneur’s Randy’s Record Shop, based in Gallatin, was a key institution in the evolution of rock ‘n’ roll. Wood sold r&b records to white teenagers via mail order by advertising via the […]

DISClaimer Single Reviews (4/13/11)

Every doggie has his day. This week, it’s the puppy platters that are in the winner’s circle. None of the major-label offerings made my ears wild with excitement. But two pieces of indie product did.

Radio Veteran Coyote McCloud Dies

Music City radio icon Coyote McCloud died Wednesday afternoon, April 6 at age 68.
A veteran of the Nashville airwaves for more than 30 years, McCloud’s slogan when he broadcast pop oldies was, “He played them when they were new.”

DISClaimer Single Reviews (4/6/11)

Our top tune this week might be from an unknown act to some of you kiddies. Yes, there was country music before Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney and Taylor Swift. Once upon a time, there was a very popular male duo. No, I’m not talking about Brooks & Dunn.