Country Music Hall of Fame To Honor Reba With Exhibit

rebaWith a career spanning four decades, Reba is a powerful recording artist, a dynamic and compelling performer, a shrewd businesswoman, a star of television, film and Broadway and a versatile entertainer. The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum will pay tribute to this  multi-talented artist with the biographical cameo exhibition Reba: All the Women I Am, which opens in the museum’s East Gallery on Aug. 9, 2013, and runs through June 8, 2014.
“Reba is the most successful female country performer of her generation, and a major influence on many of the female recording artists who have followed her,” said Museum Director Kyle Young. “Her achievements and accolades are almost too numerous to mention: She has sold more than 40 million records, charted nearly 60 Top Ten singles and 24 #1 hits, and been honored with nearly 50 major awards, including two Grammy awards, the Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year award and the Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year award; she is also one of only four entertainers in history to receive the National Artistic Achievement Award from the U.S. Congress. And, of course, she was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2011.
“It’s impossible to overstate Reba’s impact on country music, and her contributions go well beyond recording,” Young continued. “She heightened production values for country concerts, adding elaborate stages, video screens and multiple costume changes. Such innovations are now de rigueur on the tours of top country artists. Furthermore, through her work on Broadway, in film, and as the star of two television comedies, Reba has helped to heighten and expand the profile of country music, lifting all boats in her magnificent wake. We are looking forward to telling the rich, inspiring and always entertaining story of one of country music’s brightest lights.”
Reba Nell McEntire was born in McAlester, Okla. on March 28, 1955, and grew up in Chockie, Okla., on a cattle ranch. Influenced by their mother, Jackie, who was a talented singer, Reba and her siblings Pake and Susie began performing as the Singing McEntires while in high school.
In 1974, Reba sang the national anthem at the National Rodeo Finals in Oklahoma City; cowboy singer Red Steagall heard her and financed a recording session, which led to her signing with Mercury Records in 1975.  She garnered her first NO. 1 singles in 1982 and 1983 with “Can’t Even Get the Blues” and “You’re the First Time I’ve Thought About Leaving.”
After a move to MCA Records in 1983, Reba produced a slew of now-classic country hits including “How Blue,” “Somebody Should Leave,” “Whoever’s in New England,” “The Last One to Know” and many more. During this time, music videos became an important vehicle for reaching fans; Reba’s clip for “Whoever’s in New England” sparked an interest in acting, and in 1990 she appeared in her first film, Tremors.  She went on to appear in 10 more films, to date.
In March 1991, Reba suffered a personal tragedy when seven members of her band, her road manager, and the pilot and co-pilot of a chartered private jet were killed in a plane crash.  Reba took an extended break from touring and recorded the album For My Broken Heart.  The record, which included “Is There Life Out There” and “The Greatest Man I Never Knew,” became one of her best sellers.
Throughout the 1990s, Reba continued her chart success:  Her many hits during the decade include “The Heart Won’t Lie” (with Vince Gill), “Does He Love You” (with Linda Davis) and “The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter.”
In January 2001, Reba starred in the Broadway musical Annie Get Your Gun.  She parlayed that success into  her own comedy series, Reba, from 2001 to 2007, Reba starred in her own hit comedy series, Reba. In 2008, she left MCA Records and signed with Valory Music Group, a subsidiary of Big Machine Records.  Her first album for the label, Keep on Loving You, was released in August 2009; it featured the No. 1 single “Consider Me Gone.”
In 1988 Reba founded Starstruck Entertainment, a multi-dimensional corporation encompassing booking, management, music publishing, a recording studio and transportation services.  In 1989, she married her manager, Narvel Blackstock; he continues to oversee Starstruck’s many enterprises.
Although Reba was awarded country music’s highest honor in 2011 with her election to the Country Music Hall of Fame, her career shows no signs of slowing down:  She is currently starring in the ABC comedy Malibu Country; her most recent album, All the Women I Am, spawned the No. 1 hit “Turn on the Radio.”

 

MusicRowPics: Ash Bowers Artist Visit

Ash Bowers visited MusicRow headquarters earlier this month (March 4) to talk about his upcoming album Shake It Off. The Tennessee native wrote nine out of the 12 songs on the record.
He played an acoustic set that included his current single, “Red,” currently out at radio, along with “Driving Nails,” “Shake It Off” and “Justice.”
For more information on Bowers and his music, visit ashbowers.com.
[slide]

Tim McGraw Bio-Comic to be Released

timmcgrawTim McGraw’s biography will be told in Bluewater Productions’ FAME: Tim McGraw, a bio-comic. The bio-comic, which will be released tomorrow (March 20), was written by David A. McIntee and brought to visual life by artist Jed Mickle. The cover was painted by William Sleeper.
“It was fun to do,” McIntee said, of working on the comic. “Tim has had a wider career and area of interest than people might think. I loved the chance to do something with a hint of the Western, to go with the musical genre. I think his fans will enjoy that tone to it.”
This is not Bluewater’s first foray into the country music world. The comic book publisher recently released a bio-comic on Taylor Swift. Bluewater also has Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley comic books in production.
To order the comic book in print exclusively at Comic Flea Market for $3.99, click here.
Digital copies will also be available for $1.99. Download the comic to your e-reader from iTunes, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, Google Books, DriveThru Comics, Wowio, iVerse, and more.

Artist Updates (3-19-13)

Kenny Chesney has partnered again with Costa Sunglasses for 2013, with proceeds benefiting the Coastal Conservation Association. Chesney introduced five new Chesney-inspired limited edition sunglass styles for the start of his No Shoes Nation Tour, which launched March 16.
The entertainer played a large role in the design of several of this year’s sunglass styles, including the on trend metal aviator appropriately named “KC.” Other Kenny Chesney Costa sunglasses in the 2013 collection include the new retro Prop, and a re-introduction of the popular Grand Catalina, Caballito and Hammerhead.
“I took my time working on the design of these glasses, because more than just looking good, I wanted to know they’d work at the beach, on a boat or on the road. I’m always moving, so I need sunglasses that can keep with me,” said Chesney. Five dollars from the sale of each pair of Kenny Chesney Costa sunglasses will be donated to the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA), a grassroots advocacy organization dedicated to ocean and coastal conservation programs.
Each of the new Kenny Chesney Costa sunglass styles will retail from $129 to $199 and will be available for purchase while supplies last at participating authorized Costa retail partners and online at costadelmar.com.
Pictured (L-R): Pat Murray, president, Coastal Conservation Association; Kenny Chesney; Amanda Perryman, marketing manager, Costa Sunglasses; Brett Palmer, president, AbiJack Management

Pictured (L-R): Pat Murray, president, Coastal Conservation Association; Kenny Chesney; Amanda Perryman, marketing manager, Costa Sunglasses; Brett Palmer, president, AbiJack Management

• • •

Pictured (L-R): Yarn’s Robert Bonhomme, Rick Bugel, RPM Management’s Amanda Fletcher, Yarn’s Andrew Hendryx, Blake Christiana, Whizbang’s Jennifer Wolczyk, Yarn’s Rod Hohl,and RPM’s Scott Siman.

Pictured (L-R): Yarn’s Robert Bonhomme, Rick Bugel, RPM Management’s Amanda Fletcher, Yarn’s Andrew Hendryx, Blake Christiana, Whizbang’s Jennifer Wolczyk, Yarn’s Rod Hohl,and RPM’s Scott Siman.

RPM Management’s Brooklyn-based Americana band Yarn has recently signed a music licensing deal with Whizbang.

 “We are excited to represent Yarn for music licensing placements,” said Whizbang’s President Jim Scherer. “They are musically unique among our clients and have a talent we think will resonate with those in the licensing world.”
Whizbang has secured hundreds of placements for its clients in films, television, commercials, video games, and more. Founded in 2000 by industry veteran Scherer, the company’s long-term relationships with film and television studios and networks, advertising agencies and music supervisors combined with its reputation for finding innovative and creative artists drive the company’s successful work on behalf of its clients and licensees.

• • •
 
stars for second harvest1O’Charley’s and Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee are gearing up for the 9th annual Stars For Second Harvest benefit on June 4, 2013 at 7:30pm at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN. Presented by O’Charley’s and hosted by acclaimed hit songwriter Craig Wiseman, this concert features an unplugged acoustic style performance by some of country music’s brightest songwriters, a comedic performance by Ralphie May and a performance by duo Florida Georgia Line.
Concert tickets are on-sale beginning Friday (March 22) for $35 plus applicable service charges and are available via the Ryman box office, ryman.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. For preferred VIP seating ($50), contact the Second Harvest Food Bank at 615-329-3491. Proceeds from the concert to benefit the Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee in their efforts to feed hungry people and work to solve hunger issues in our community. For more information, visit secondharvestmidtn.org.
 

 

 
 

Dial Global Names CEO

Dial Global CEO Paul Caine

Dial Global CEO Paul Caine


Audio content syndicator Dial Global has announced that Paul Caine will become its Chief Executive Officer and a member of the company’s board of directors effective April 5. Caine’s appointment coincides with the resignations of existing CEO Spencer Brown, and President Ken Williams, also effective April 5.
Dial Global maintains exclusive rights to distribute for broadcast prominent live events including the Grammys, the NFL primetime games (including the Playoffs and Super Bowl), and the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. The company supplies more than 8,500 radio stations and other distribution platforms.
Caine spent the past 23 years at Time Inc. where he led the development of digital formats for some of the world’s most storied media brands. He has also created and sold highly successful multi-platform programs for many top advertisers. He ran Time Inc.’s Style & Entertainment Group (PEOPLE, InStyle, Entertainment Weekly) before becoming Chief Revenue Officer and Group President of the company’s Advertising Group.

Artist Snapshots (3-19-13)

Carrie Underwood continued to spread country music around the globe by taking her international “Blown Away Tour” to Ireland and to the United Kingdom. Her sold-out dates in Dublin and Belfast were not only her debut performances, but also marked her first visit to the countries of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Underwood wrapped up her trip in London by closing the “C2C:Country To Country” Festival at the O2 Arena.

Carrie Underwood performs at the C2C: Country To Country Festival at the 02 Arena.

Carrie Underwood performs at the C2C: Country To Country Festival. Photo: Matthew Sperling


At the sold-out Belfast show at Waterfront Hall during St. Patrick’s Day weekend, Underwood invited a couple who happen to be some of her biggest Irish fans onto the stage where the gentleman proposed to his girlfriend of 10 years. As Underwood and the teary audience looked on, his girlfriend said yes to thunderous applause from the enthusiastic crowd.
belfast proposal11

A fan proposes to his girlfriend during Underwood’s concert in Belfast. Photo: Matthew Sperling

 • • •

Back in the States, Luke Bryan entertained over 75,000 fans at the Houston Rodeo. It marked Bryan’s first performance at the Houston Rodeo as a headliner and the largest crowd of his career. At the close of the show, the rodeo reported that this was the second-largest crowd in their history.
“I may have said it last year,” Bryan said from the rodeo stage, “but I grew up dreaming of playing the Houston Rodeo. To sell this place out on a Saturday night is a country boy’s dream!”

Photo: Michael Monaco

Photo: Michael Monaco


Photo: Michael Monaco

Photo: Michael Monaco

 • • •

More than 40,000 people from over 35 countries joined the Jason Crabb Love Is Stronger CD Release Celebration held recently at Free Chapel, where Pastor Jentezen Franklin welcomed Jason Crabb along with special guests, producers Jay DeMarcus (of Rascal Flatts) and Wayne Haun, and New York Times Bestselling Author Andy Andrews.
A very special moment came when producers of the project, DeMarcus and  Haun were asked to join Crabb onstage for a look behind the making of the project, Love Is Stronger.

Fellow Grammy® Award Winner, Micah Massey, interviewsproducers Jay DeMarcus, Wayne Haun and Jason Crabb.Photo by Dan Harr / AdMedia

Fellow Grammy® Award Winner, Micah Massey, interviews producers Jay DeMarcus, Wayne Haun and Jason Crabb.
Photo by Dan Harr / AdMedia


 

Keds Partners For Swift's RED Tour

KedsKeds will again partner with Taylor Swift, this time on the road as a sponsor for the North American RED Tour with the release of a limited edition Champion sneaker featuring the names of each city on the tour.
Throughout the length of the tour, Keds will run a series of giveaways including seat upgrades and backstage tours in every city. Inside each venue at the Keds pop-up Style Studio, fans will be able to receive exclusive access to ordering and girls will be encouraged to share their stories of bravery, self-confidence, friendship and style for the Fearlessly video set.
“The tour shoe is the first of its kind and is a really unique memento of the concert experience,” said Rick Blackshaw, president, Keds. “We can’t wait to meet our fans and help inspire as many girls as possible to be fearless.”
The 23-year-old singer’s tour kicked off this past week (March 13) in Omaha, Neb. and continues through September.

The Mavericks, Tim Rushlow Plan Nashville Concerts

mavericks black and white1

The Mavericks


Grammy-Winning The Mavericks will host a benefit for Manuel Cuevas Jr. of “Wear it Out Manuel” Fame. The Mavericks will perform at the benefit to show their support for Manny Jr. as well as to raise awareness for diverticulitis. Raul Malo of The Mavericks notes, “We are honored to be a part of such a special night for such a special friend.”
The event will take place on April 23 at the Cannery Ballroom (One Cannery Row, Nashville, TN 37203). General admission until April 22 is $20.00. General admission on April 23 is $25.00. Stage Level VIP tickets with private cash bar and food is $45.00. A private table for four next to the stage, access to private cash bar and food is $400.
Manuel “Manny” Cuevas Jr. has followed in his father Manuel’s footsteps by becoming an internationally known fashion designer. His father was responsible for making Johnny Cash the “man in black” and designed countless costumes for “The King” himself, Elvis Presley. Growing up with an “artist and costumer” extraordinaire for a father, Manuel Jr. couldn’t wait to try his hand at designing. He currently owns and operates a design studio, workshop, and retail store all located in east Nashville, Wear it out Manuel.”
Unfortunately, last year Cuevas was rushed to the hospital with intestinal complications from Diverticulitis, and endured a number of very intricate surgeries that left this father of three unable to work. Diverticulitis is a condition where small bulging sacs in the large intestine become inflamed or infected. It can be dangerous by causing tears in the intestine or the narrowing of the colon. A benefit concert and auction in Manny’s name has been coordinated by fellow Nashvillians to show support for his family and help them get back on their feet financially.
To order tickets or leave a donation, visit wearitoutmanuel.com/splash or call (615) 953-0111.

• • •

rushlow in the round11Tim Rushlow, former front man for Little Texas, will continue with the second installment of “Rushlow in the Round” on Tuesday March 26), featuring songwriters Danny Myrick (“She’s Country” and “Truck Yeah”), Danny Orton (“Stand” and “Fall Into Me”) and Leslie Satcher (“When God-Fearing Women Get The Blues” and “Troubadour”).
“Rushlow in the Round” is an interactive show where the stories, questions from fans and songs go to a deeper level than your typical writers’ night. “I have always thought that a crowd deserved more than just the traditional set up quote ‘Here’s another song and it goes like this,'” says Rushlow.
“Rushlow in the Round” will take place on the last Tuesday of every month in the Reverb Room inside the Hard Rock Cafe in downtown Nashville at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 for the general public and $5 with active military ID.

 
 

Artists Tee Up For Christmas 4 Kids Celebrity Golf Tournament

christmas for kids golf tournament11Sports, music and television celebrities and personalities will team up on April 23 at the Pine Creek Golf Course in Mount Juliet, Tenn., to benefit Middle Tennessee children during the annual Christmas 4 Kids Celebrity Golf Tournament, presented by Prevost.
Tracy Lawrence, Bo Bice, David Ball, Fox17’s Kelly Sutton and Nick Paranjape, Lisa Matassa, Del Gray of Little Texas, Mickie James, Mark Cooke, Ty Brown, Lucas Hoge and Eric Heatherly are all slated to take part in the tournament, with more announcements to be made in the coming weeks. Bluegrass duo The Roys will return as the tournament hosts. The tournament is a three-player scramble with a celebrity as the fourth player.
Registration will begin at 10 a.m. on April 23; lunch will take place at 11 a.m. and tee time is at noon. The cost to participate in the event is $125 per person (includes lunch, dinner and drinks). There will be multiple prizes in multiple flights and a minimum hole-in-one prize of $25,000. For registration information, visit christmas4kids.org.
Every registrant becomes an instant winner thanks to the generous donations from area sponsors and the fun continues on the course. Last year, prizes were awarded for “Closest to the Pin,” “Ball Chip in Challenge,” “Vegas Hole” two “Hole-In-One” contests and more.

Sheryl Crow To Headline Music City Center Grand Opening Concert

SHERYLCROWNashville resident Sheryl Crow will headline the Music City Center grand opening and free outdoor concert on Monday, May 20. Festivities are open to the public during the two-day celebration taking place on Sunday, May 19 and Monday, May 20.
The concert will highlight the multiple genres of music represented in Nashville, including pop, gospel, country and bluegrass. The concert also will feature performances by The Time Jumpers, the Grammy-nominated bluegrass act featuring Vince Gill; Fisk Jubilee Singers; and Mikky Ekko, a singer-songwriter who was most recently featured in Rihanna’s chart-topping duet “Stay.”
“I can’t think of a more fitting way to open the Music City Center than with a diverse lineup of great music representing the best of what Music City has to offer,” Mayor Karl Dean said.
The concert will take place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday, May 20. The star-studded lineup will be followed by a fireworks display produced by Pyro Shows.
“The opening of the Music City Center is an important milestone in the city’s history, and I am honored to have been asked to perform,” Crow said. “Nashville is home to some of the world’s best musicians and songwriters, and that creativity is one of the many reasons why I live here.”
Mayor Dean will present his State of Metro address at the Music City Center at 10 a.m. on May 20 as part of the grand opening festivities. A free open house will take place both Sunday and Monday.
The grand opening is being organized by the Mayor’s Office, the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. and the Nashville Convention Center Authority.