The newest class of the Country Music Hall of Fame was inducted at last night’s Medallion Ceremony, pictured (L-R): Jean Shepard, Bobby Braddock, and Reba McEntire. Photo: Donn Jones
Chapter 365:
There are bigger and glitzier events on Music City’s annual calendar, but none can match the warmth and camaraderie of The Country Music Hall of Fame Medallion Ceremony.
You can’t beat the music, either. The Sunday evening (5/22) ceremony in the Hall of Fame’s Ford Theater began with a rafter-raising gospel collaboration between Vince Gill and The McCrary Sisters on “Down by the Riverside.”
“We gather here for powerful words and familiar music,” said Hall of Fame board chairman Steve Turner. “We are honored for the presence and fellowship of each and every one of you.” Steve Moore and Kyle Young also welcomed the 300 lucky seat holders.
The Hall of Fame inductions began with Kyle telling the Bobby Braddock story. Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton were sensational on Bobby’s co-penned masterpiece “Golden Ring” and drew enthusiastic whoops from the crowd. They were fresh from their honeymoon. Blake, you will recall, was discovered and first produced by Bobby, and they remain close to this day.
Tracy Lawrence was in fine voice for “Time Marches On.” “Thank you, Bobby,” he said. “Biggest hit of my career.”
Billy Currington was relaxed and charming on “People Are Crazy.” Kyle reminded the attendees of Bobby’s 1981 induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and of his nine BMI Million-air songs. He proclaimed Bobby Braddock, who is a youthful 70, “one of the greatest songwriters in the history of country music.”
Bill Anderson read some of Bobby’s most distinctive song lyrics, to everyone’s delight. “It’s no secret that Bobby Braddock doesn’t like to dress up,” Bill added. “But he’s dressed up tonight. Not ‘to go away,’ but to go into the Country Music Hall of Fame.” Bill then placed the Medallion around his fellow songwriter’s neck while the crowd rose in a standing ovation.
“When I hit the red carpet, I saw all the fans….saying, ‘Who’s that?,’” said Bobby wryly. “It’s like getting to go to your own funeral without having to die. How awesome is that?” He thanked George Jones for recording 29 of his songs, producer Billy Sherrill and his co-writers. “I don’t know if I deserve it, but I’m glad to get it,” he concluded.
Jimmy Capps, Charlie McCoy and Millie Kirkham were on the original recording of “He Stopped Loving Her Today.” They joined Bobby as he sat at the piano and began the iconic tune. Then George Jones appeared to do the recitation and to finish the song. The All-Star 2011 Medallion Band flawlessly recreated its ambiance. The members, led by John Hobbs, were Paul Franklin, Steve Gibson, Eddie Bayers Jr., Michael Rhodes, Deanie Richardson, Dawn Sears, Biff Watson and Jeff White.
Next, Kyle told the Jean Shepard saga. Bill Anderson reappeared to perform “A Dear John Letter” with Elizabeth Cook. Their efforts resulted in a spontaneous standing ovation. Vince stepped up to perform Jean’s “I Want to Go Where No One Knows Me.” His arms in casts for treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome, Doug Green of Riders in the Sky glided through “Second Fiddle,” complete with its climactic yodel.
“She sang proudly of her gender,” said Kyle of Jean, who is arguably the greatest female honky-tonk stylist in country-music history. Her husband Benny Birchfield was in the house, as were sons Cory and Harold and her granddaughters.
George Jones warmly inducted his old friend. “Thanks, George, for showing up,” Jean quipped. “I was happy to do my part. I hung in there like hair on a grilled-cheese. Bobby, how did I miss [singing] one of your songs?”
“I don’t know,” replied her fellow inductee. “It’s not too late.”
Jean continued by citing Skeeter Davis, The Wilburn Brothers, Jimmy C. Newman, The Browns and Mac Wiseman as people she feels strongly should also be honored with induction.
“I love what I do, and I do what I love,” she concluded. “Thanks to the wonderful country-music fans. God bless you.”
At 77, she proved she still has what it takes by delivering a powerfully moving version of “A Satisfied Mind.” Jean, by the way, is writing a book. “It’s going to be a tell-all,” she promises. Oh goody!
Kyle continued the proceedings by relating the Reba McEntire story. She has more No. 1 albums than any other female country artist and at age 56 is still knocking out chart-topping hits. Trisha Yearwood and Reba’s sister Susie McEntire were note-for-note perfect on “How Blue.” Vince sang “Somebody Should Leave.” Garth Brooks did “Whoever’s in New England.” But the real vocal fireworks were delivered by Martina McBride and Kelly Clarkson on “Does He Love You,” which was rewarded with another standing ovation.
Reba’s mother, sisters, son and husband/manager Narvel Blackstock were recognized. As a surprise to the inductee, Dolly Parton appeared to present her Medallion.
“This is a great honor and a great privilege,” said Dolly. “They said it was a surprise to Reba. I said, ‘Oh, I don’t think there’s anything Reba don’t know.’” But it was, indeed, a surprise to the redheaded superstar.
“Awards are fun, but it’s the camaraderie and the fun you have getting there [that count],” said Reba. “Having such a fun time and a wonderful career and having somebody to share it with — my partner, my buddy, my husband, I love you.
“Miss Shepard, thank you for coming before me and paving the way. I’m honored beyond words to be inducted with you. Bobby Braddock, I am a huge fan.
“Thank you all very much from the bottom of my heart. I couldn’t have done it without you. And, by God, I wouldn’t have wanted to.”
The traditional, mass-sung “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” finale was less of a train wreck than usual this year. Ray Walker took vocal control; The McCrarys were an immense addition and Vince conducted the band.
The event drew a sizable crowd of sidewalk fans who yelled loudly as the stars’ limos arrived at the red carpet. The always-genial Bill Cody presided out there.
Inside, a pre-inductions cocktail supper was held in the Conservatory and on the plaza. Roast turkey, hearts of palm with arugula and parmesan salad, burger sliders, assorted raw veggies with dip, rolled lox with cream cheese and capers, shrimp & grits, roasted potatoes and a tomato-onions-cucumber toss were among the flavors to sample.
Heading the guest list were 16 Hall of Fame members – George Jones (inducted in 1992), Jo Walker-Meador (1995), Brenda Lee (1997), Bud Wendell (1998), Dolly Parton (1999), Bill Anderson (2001), Gordon Stoker, Curtis Young and Ray Walker of The Jordanaires (2001), Jim Foglesong (2004), Harold Bradley (2006), Sonny James (2006), Ralph Emery (2007), Vince Gill (2007), Jimmy Fortune of The Statler Brothers (2008), Barbara Mandrell (2009), Charlie McCoy (2009) and Billy Sherrill (2010).
In addition, the crowd was liberally sprinkled with performers such as Jan Howard, Red Steagall, Donna Stoneman, Patsy Stoneman, Rafe Van Hoy, Matraca Berg, Don Henry and Bob DiPiero. Also in the house were David Anderson, David McCormick, David & Susana Ross, John Grady, John Siegenthaler, John Guess, Don Light, Donna & Gerald Nicely, Bill Carter, Bill Denny, Tony Conway, Tony Brown, Troy Tomlinson, Tom Roland, Jerry & Ernie Williams and Jody Williams.
Working the room were Rod Essig, Roy Wunsch & Mary Ann McCready, Pat Collins, Peter Cooper, Dick Frank, Dixie Gamble, Dann Huff, Steve Buchanan, Scott & Sandi Spika Borchetta, Eddie Stubbs, Beverly Keel, Michael Kosser, Alice Randall, Lon Helton, Ed Morris and Chet Flippo. The End. Until next year.
Hirings At CRB and My Good Girl Music
/by Sarah SkatesAshley Hertzog
My Good Girl Music has hired Ashley Hertzog as Creative Manager. My Good Girl Music is a joint venture between platinum producer Mark Bright and Sony/ATV Music Nashville.
Hertzog makes the move from Combustion Music, where she had worked since 2005 as Catalog Manager. She can be reached at (615) 259-5447 or ashley@mygoodgirlmusic.com.
• • • •
Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.® has hired Michelle Tigard Kammerer and Cheri Lynn Martin as Directors of Brand Marketing and Strategic Partnerships, effective June 6, 2011.
Kammerer has more than 10 years of experience in the music industry, including almost seven years at the Nashville office of CAA. As a past chairman of the popular charity event Young Nashville Party, Kammerer helped secure sponsorships with brands including Coca-Cola, Loews Hotels and Virgin America Airlines.
Martin joins CRB from Seattle, Wash., where she specialized in A&R Development at Pledge Music. She has worked on marketing campaigns for artists, record labels including Warner Bros. Records, Sony Music Nashville, Capitol Records, and outfits like Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital. From 2006-2010, Martin ran her own promotions and marketing firm, where she promoted artists including Carrie Underwood, Brad Paisley, Sugarland and Phil Vassar. Martin also spent time as a National Promotion Director with RCA Label Group.
Kammerer and Martin will be charged with events including CRS 2012, set for Feb. 22-24, 2012, in downtown Nashville.
(L-R): Cheri Lynn Martin and Michelle Tigard Kammerer
Sara Evans Returns To "Dancing With The Stars" For Performance
/by Sarah Skates“Being on Dancing with the Stars was such a fun experience and one of the highlights of my career,” says Evans. “I’m so honored and excited to go back and sing for this season’s finale!”
Elsewhere, country music has been front and center on network television with John Rich being crowned winner of The Celebrity Apprentice last night, and the upcoming American Idol showdown Tuesday and Wednesday (5/24-25) with country finalists Lauren Alaina and Scotty McCreery.
Sara Evans and dance partner Tony Dovolani on "Dancing With The Stars."
Eminem, Bieber, and Swift Win At Billboard Music Awards
/by FreemanSwift’s three wins came for Top Country Album (for Speak Now), Top Billboard 200 Artist, and Top Country Artist. Eminem’s wins included Top Artist, Top Billboard 200 Album (for Recovery) and Top Rap Album (for Recovery). Social Media phenom Bieber nabbed awards for Top New Artist, Top Social Artist, and Top Streaming Song (for “Baby” feat. Ludacris).
Beyonce was given Billboard’s special Milennium Award, and an all-star tribute from First Lady Michelle Obama, Barbara Streisand, Lady Gaga, U2’s Bono and Stevie Wonder. U2 was awarded as Top Touring Artist, and Neil Diamond was given the Icon Award for his numerous career accomplishments.
Show performances included the much-discussed Rihanna and Britney Spears collaboration “S&M,” Cee Lo Green, Lil Wayne with Mary J. Blige, and Diamond on his classic “Sweet Caroline.” ABC carried the show, which had been on hiatus since 2006.
HFA Offers Reduced Commissons
/by adminThe Harry Fox Agency (HFA) has announced a new program which offers publishers a chance to greatly reduce the commission rate on royalty distributions from HFA. Under its new Reduced Commission Program (RCP), publishers are guaranteed a rate of 5.25% in exchange for centralizing all their U.S. mechanical licensing and royalty processing with HFA. Additional publisher benefits include advances and the inclusion of all musical works in HFA’s Royalty Compliance Examinations.
Churgin
According to Gary Churgin, President & CEO of HFA, “In these unpredictable and ever-evolving times in our industry, we want to do everything possible to help publishers in making their businesses more cost effective and more importantly, cheaper to run. We are ecstatic to be able to offer to our clients more services at an even more attractive price.”
HFA is a leading provider of rights management, licensing and royalty services for the music industry with over 46,000 music publishing clients.
Bobby Karl Works The Medallion Ceremony
/by Bobby KarlThe newest class of the Country Music Hall of Fame was inducted at last night’s Medallion Ceremony, pictured (L-R): Jean Shepard, Bobby Braddock, and Reba McEntire. Photo: Donn Jones
Chapter 365:
There are bigger and glitzier events on Music City’s annual calendar, but none can match the warmth and camaraderie of The Country Music Hall of Fame Medallion Ceremony.
You can’t beat the music, either. The Sunday evening (5/22) ceremony in the Hall of Fame’s Ford Theater began with a rafter-raising gospel collaboration between Vince Gill and The McCrary Sisters on “Down by the Riverside.”
“We gather here for powerful words and familiar music,” said Hall of Fame board chairman Steve Turner. “We are honored for the presence and fellowship of each and every one of you.” Steve Moore and Kyle Young also welcomed the 300 lucky seat holders.
The Hall of Fame inductions began with Kyle telling the Bobby Braddock story. Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton were sensational on Bobby’s co-penned masterpiece “Golden Ring” and drew enthusiastic whoops from the crowd. They were fresh from their honeymoon. Blake, you will recall, was discovered and first produced by Bobby, and they remain close to this day.
Tracy Lawrence was in fine voice for “Time Marches On.” “Thank you, Bobby,” he said. “Biggest hit of my career.”
Billy Currington was relaxed and charming on “People Are Crazy.” Kyle reminded the attendees of Bobby’s 1981 induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and of his nine BMI Million-air songs. He proclaimed Bobby Braddock, who is a youthful 70, “one of the greatest songwriters in the history of country music.”
Bill Anderson read some of Bobby’s most distinctive song lyrics, to everyone’s delight. “It’s no secret that Bobby Braddock doesn’t like to dress up,” Bill added. “But he’s dressed up tonight. Not ‘to go away,’ but to go into the Country Music Hall of Fame.” Bill then placed the Medallion around his fellow songwriter’s neck while the crowd rose in a standing ovation.
“When I hit the red carpet, I saw all the fans….saying, ‘Who’s that?,’” said Bobby wryly. “It’s like getting to go to your own funeral without having to die. How awesome is that?” He thanked George Jones for recording 29 of his songs, producer Billy Sherrill and his co-writers. “I don’t know if I deserve it, but I’m glad to get it,” he concluded.
Jimmy Capps, Charlie McCoy and Millie Kirkham were on the original recording of “He Stopped Loving Her Today.” They joined Bobby as he sat at the piano and began the iconic tune. Then George Jones appeared to do the recitation and to finish the song. The All-Star 2011 Medallion Band flawlessly recreated its ambiance. The members, led by John Hobbs, were Paul Franklin, Steve Gibson, Eddie Bayers Jr., Michael Rhodes, Deanie Richardson, Dawn Sears, Biff Watson and Jeff White.
Next, Kyle told the Jean Shepard saga. Bill Anderson reappeared to perform “A Dear John Letter” with Elizabeth Cook. Their efforts resulted in a spontaneous standing ovation. Vince stepped up to perform Jean’s “I Want to Go Where No One Knows Me.” His arms in casts for treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome, Doug Green of Riders in the Sky glided through “Second Fiddle,” complete with its climactic yodel.
“She sang proudly of her gender,” said Kyle of Jean, who is arguably the greatest female honky-tonk stylist in country-music history. Her husband Benny Birchfield was in the house, as were sons Cory and Harold and her granddaughters.
George Jones warmly inducted his old friend. “Thanks, George, for showing up,” Jean quipped. “I was happy to do my part. I hung in there like hair on a grilled-cheese. Bobby, how did I miss [singing] one of your songs?”
“I don’t know,” replied her fellow inductee. “It’s not too late.”
Jean continued by citing Skeeter Davis, The Wilburn Brothers, Jimmy C. Newman, The Browns and Mac Wiseman as people she feels strongly should also be honored with induction.
“I love what I do, and I do what I love,” she concluded. “Thanks to the wonderful country-music fans. God bless you.”
At 77, she proved she still has what it takes by delivering a powerfully moving version of “A Satisfied Mind.” Jean, by the way, is writing a book. “It’s going to be a tell-all,” she promises. Oh goody!
Kyle continued the proceedings by relating the Reba McEntire story. She has more No. 1 albums than any other female country artist and at age 56 is still knocking out chart-topping hits. Trisha Yearwood and Reba’s sister Susie McEntire were note-for-note perfect on “How Blue.” Vince sang “Somebody Should Leave.” Garth Brooks did “Whoever’s in New England.” But the real vocal fireworks were delivered by Martina McBride and Kelly Clarkson on “Does He Love You,” which was rewarded with another standing ovation.
Reba’s mother, sisters, son and husband/manager Narvel Blackstock were recognized. As a surprise to the inductee, Dolly Parton appeared to present her Medallion.
“This is a great honor and a great privilege,” said Dolly. “They said it was a surprise to Reba. I said, ‘Oh, I don’t think there’s anything Reba don’t know.’” But it was, indeed, a surprise to the redheaded superstar.
“Awards are fun, but it’s the camaraderie and the fun you have getting there [that count],” said Reba. “Having such a fun time and a wonderful career and having somebody to share it with — my partner, my buddy, my husband, I love you.
“Miss Shepard, thank you for coming before me and paving the way. I’m honored beyond words to be inducted with you. Bobby Braddock, I am a huge fan.
“Thank you all very much from the bottom of my heart. I couldn’t have done it without you. And, by God, I wouldn’t have wanted to.”
The traditional, mass-sung “Will the Circle Be Unbroken” finale was less of a train wreck than usual this year. Ray Walker took vocal control; The McCrarys were an immense addition and Vince conducted the band.
The event drew a sizable crowd of sidewalk fans who yelled loudly as the stars’ limos arrived at the red carpet. The always-genial Bill Cody presided out there.
Inside, a pre-inductions cocktail supper was held in the Conservatory and on the plaza. Roast turkey, hearts of palm with arugula and parmesan salad, burger sliders, assorted raw veggies with dip, rolled lox with cream cheese and capers, shrimp & grits, roasted potatoes and a tomato-onions-cucumber toss were among the flavors to sample.
Heading the guest list were 16 Hall of Fame members – George Jones (inducted in 1992), Jo Walker-Meador (1995), Brenda Lee (1997), Bud Wendell (1998), Dolly Parton (1999), Bill Anderson (2001), Gordon Stoker, Curtis Young and Ray Walker of The Jordanaires (2001), Jim Foglesong (2004), Harold Bradley (2006), Sonny James (2006), Ralph Emery (2007), Vince Gill (2007), Jimmy Fortune of The Statler Brothers (2008), Barbara Mandrell (2009), Charlie McCoy (2009) and Billy Sherrill (2010).
In addition, the crowd was liberally sprinkled with performers such as Jan Howard, Red Steagall, Donna Stoneman, Patsy Stoneman, Rafe Van Hoy, Matraca Berg, Don Henry and Bob DiPiero. Also in the house were David Anderson, David McCormick, David & Susana Ross, John Grady, John Siegenthaler, John Guess, Don Light, Donna & Gerald Nicely, Bill Carter, Bill Denny, Tony Conway, Tony Brown, Troy Tomlinson, Tom Roland, Jerry & Ernie Williams and Jody Williams.
Working the room were Rod Essig, Roy Wunsch & Mary Ann McCready, Pat Collins, Peter Cooper, Dick Frank, Dixie Gamble, Dann Huff, Steve Buchanan, Scott & Sandi Spika Borchetta, Eddie Stubbs, Beverly Keel, Michael Kosser, Alice Randall, Lon Helton, Ed Morris and Chet Flippo. The End. Until next year.
Swift Dress Rehearsal Raises $750,000 For Tornado Victims
/by Sherod RobertsonThis was the first opportunity for the public to see Swift’s new live show and no one walked away disappointed. The elaborate production included several costume changes, dancers suspended from bungee chords, an elaborate set design, and fireworks. Highlights also included Swift spending time in the back of the arena for an intimate performance, as well as singing the last song of the night, “Love Story,” from a suspended balcony that traveled in the air around the venue. Full of energy, emotion, and spectacular production, this “rehearsal” treated fans to a polished, attention grabbing night of entertainment.
“We were at rehearsal and we turned on the news and we saw that our beloved friends and neighbors in the Southeast were losing their homes, losing their loved ones, losing everything due to tornadoes and I felt like if it was possible for us to help them in any way, then we should do it,” Swift explained to the crowd.
Swift’s sentimental comments made after the first two numbers were the only hints that the show was indeed a dress rehearsal.
Taylor Swift's final dress rehearsal for her Speak Now Tour.
John Rich Wins "The Celebrity Apprentice"
/by Sarah SkatesJohn Rich hears he is winner of The Celebrity Apprentice.
John Rich was named winner of NBC’s The Celebrity Apprentice last night (5/22) by Donald Trump. The season finale aired live from the Skirball Theatre in New York City, where Rich became the show’s first country music winner, beating out actress Marlee Matlin.
In last night’s episode, Rich surprised everyone by playing his “Trump card” and becoming the first contestant to bring in additional money in the finale. Rich added a donation of $250,000 from Dollar General and Reckitt Benckiser, and $25,000 from The Melting Pot. Rich also performed his new song “For the Kids” during the episode.
As the newest Celebrity Apprentice, Rich received a $250,000 prize for his charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The show’s charity earnings for the season totaled $3,120,852 – the largest amount ever raised by a TV series.
“Today has been an unbelievable day!” said Rich. “I got Trump to put on a Stetson hat on national television and now I get to drive down to Memphis with a $250,000 check for St. Jude Children’s Hospital. This entire experience has been for the kids and I’m so excited to raise money for this cause and help save lives. Everyone, please purchase the song ‘For the Kids.’ All of the proceeds will go straight to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital!”
Last week, Rich released two new Six Pak albums via Warner Music Nashville: Rich Rocks and For the Kids. He has also teamed with fellow Celebrity Apprentice contestants Meat Loaf, Lil Jon and Mark McGrath to record “Stand In The Storm,” a new single benefiting their respective charities from the show.
John Rich chats with St. Jude patient T'Ara during a recent visit to the hospital to shoot for the show's finale episode.
Grant Williams Offers Singer Mini-Clinic
/by admin“What you get in a MiniClinic that you don’t get in a private session is the opportunity to learn by seeing these techniques at work in other singers,” says Grant-Williams, vocal coach to the Dixie Chicks, Faith Hill, Christina Aquilera, Tim McGraw, Martina McBride, Kenny Chesney, Miley Cyrus, Keith Urban, Linda Ronstadt, Charlie Daniels and others.
Voice coach Grant-Williams has appeared on numerous broadcast outlets including MTV, ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, GAC, CMT, and USA. She has been quoted by and written for numerous print publications including Cosmopolitan, TV Guide, US Weekly, the New York Times, Associated Press and Country Weekly. For more details visit www.MyVoiceCoach.com.
Americana Nominees To Be Announced Live From NY
/by adminRosanne Cash will read the nominee list and music will be offered from Levon Helm and his Dirt Farmer quartet, Jim Lauderdale, The Civil Wars and some surprise guests! Nashville Mayor Karl Dean will be in attendance to make remarks about the association and Music City.
Paisley To Debut Video & Release Album
/by Michelle(L-R): Brad Paisley, Teddy Gentry, Rick Hendrick, owner Hendrick Motorsports; Randy Owen and Jeff Cook Photo: Ben Enos
Brad Paisley will attend the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race on May 21 in Charlotte, North Carolina, and world premiere his new video, “Old Alabama,” on multiple platforms, including SPEED, NASCAR.com and the world’s largest HD video board at the Charlotte Motor Speedway.
The video for “Old Alabama” features NASCAR legends Darrell Waltrip, Jeff Gordon and Rick Hendrick and Alabama. It was directed by Jim Shea and produced by Mark Kalbfeld, who also directed and produced Paisley’s award winning videos “Waitin’ On A Woman,” “Start A Band,” “When I Get Where I’m Going” and “Welcome To The Future.” The video was shot on country roads in Charlotte, NC, and several takes took place at Hendrick Motor Sports Complex in Concord, NC.
As previously announced, artist royalties from the digital single sales of “Old Alabama” are being donated for tornado relief via the American Red Cross.
His 9th studio album, This Is Country Music, will be released on Monday, May 23. Paisley’s 15-track collection, with 12 co-written by Paisley, is produced by Frank Rogers. His first studio album since American Saturday Night (July of 2009) includes guest performances by Carrie Underwood (the duet, “Remind Me”), Don Henley (“Love Her Like She’s Leavin’”), Blake Shelton (“Don’t Drink the Water”), Marty Stuart, Sheryl Crow and Carl Jackson (“Life’s Railway to Heaven”) and Clint Eastwood (the instrumental, “Eastwood”).
(L-R): Jim Shea, director and Brad Paisley Photo: Ben Enos