Underwood closes the show with "Blown Away," the current single and title track from her latest album.
Carrie Underwood brought The Blown Away Tour to Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last night (Sun., Sept. 24) touching down on a packed and enthusiastic crowd. In the first few minutes it became very clear this show was going to live up to its name.
Using a massive video wall, special effects and a rising floor, we were transported to the scene of a tornado when Underwood entered the stage performing her mega hit, “Good Girl.” She followed the powerful opening number with hits “Undo It” and “Wasted.”
After spending countless hours watching husband Mike Fisher play for the Nashville Predators, she told the audience, “You have no idea how much time I spend at Bridgestone.” She said Fisher joked before the show, “You’re on my turf now.” She replied, “I was here first!”
After performing “I Told You So” and “Two Black Cadillacs,” she made a quick costume change and followed with “Last Name” and “All-American Girl.” She thanked everyone for coming and told the fans $1 of every ticket purchased from the entire tour is going to the American Red Cross. Based on last night’s performance, we can expect that’s going to be a really big check.
Next, her stellar and compelling performance of “Temporary Home” sent onlookers down a powerful emotional ride. Followed by “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” many in the crowd didn’t make it through with dry eyes. She then pulled everyone back into party mode with “Cowboy Casanova.”
Underwood next appeared wearing Fisher’s Predators jersey and cut off blue jean shorts to a cheering crowd. She joined a few members of her band on a section center stage, which levitated above the crowd and moved toward the back of the arena. She performed several songs from her current Blown Away album including, “Nobody Ever Told You,” “Thank God For Hometowns,” and “Do You Think About Me.” She tossed Hawaiian leis from the floating stage while oversized beach balls bounced around the stadium, and performed “One Way Ticket,” telling us we all deserved a vacation.
She brought opening act, Hunter Hayes back on stage to duet on “Leave Love Alone.” Hayes had captured the audience’s attention earlier that evening performing “Storm Warning” and “Wanted” among several other songs. Peter Strickland, Sr. VP of Warner Music Nashville and other members of the staff presented Hayes a plaque during his set for his No. 1 single, “Wanted.” Hayes then returned the favor, surprising the Warner staff with a plaque of their own honoring them for all of their hard work.
Underwood then gave her rocking rendition of “Sweet Emotion” that would have easily put a smile on Steven Tyler’s face. But perhaps the biggest highlight of the evening, and there were many to choose from, was Underwood’s performance of “Remind Me.” While the Brad Paisley duet is usually performed via video on tour, she was completely taken back and surprised when Paisley walked on stage singing his part. An emotional Underwood took a few moments while singing to wipe away the tears as the audience gave them a thunderous and deafening applause. The energy was there to stay as she followed up with “Cupid’s Got a Shotgun” and “Before He Cheats.”
Brad Paisley surprises Carrie during the performance of their #1 hit "Remind Me."
Underwood’s vocals were perfection and it was obvious we were watching a superstar. Although the stage was sophisticated and impressive, the set design kept Underwood’s talent center stage. She had five costume changes and looked beautiful, as always, in each one.
The encore took us back to the scene of the tornado, which had apparently gained strength during the concert. Underwood performed her last song of the night, “Blown Away,” before literally disappearing into the tornado’s vortex. And just like Underwood, we were also blown away.
Before taking the stage last night at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena for “The Blown Away Tour,” Carrie Underwood was presented a Platinum plaque for sales of over one million copies of her latest album, "Blown Away." (L-R): Paul Barnabee, SVP Marketing, Sony Music Nashville; Caryl Healey, VP Sales, Sony Music Nashville; Underwood, Gary Overton (Chairman/CEO, Sony Music Nashville), Alaina Vehec (Dir., Digital Sales, Sony Music Nashville). Photo: Alan Poizner
Jerrod Niemann Plans to “Rock Your Room”
/by Eric T. ParkerThe sweepstakes, which continues through Oct. 22, will award one student a live dorm room performance from Niemann and over $700 worth of Sony electronics including a 32” TV, PlayStation Vita Madden NFL 13 Bundle, 2GB W series Walkman and portable iPod + iPhone speaker.
The first runner-up will receive an autographed limited edition vinyl copy of Free the Music, drum head, and black light poster. The next five runners-up will each get an autographed copy of the album.
A free download of Niemann’s current single, “Shinin’ On Me,” is available to fans who pre-order exclusive merchandise bundles, limited edition vinyl, posters, and CDs on his official site.
Lyor Cohen Resigns From Warner
/by Sarah SkatesLyor Cohen
Warner Music Group has announced the resignation of Recorded Music Chairman and CEO Lyor Cohen, effective Sept. 30, 2012. After joining the company in 2004, Cohen oversaw the restructuring of WMG’s Recorded Music division following its acquisition from Time Warner. The company grew in the U.S. and U.K. under his leadership, during a time that included transitioning to digital music and multi-right artist partnerships. During his tenure, WMG enjoyed success with country artists including Blake Shelton and Zac Brown Band, and with pop/rock acts including The Black Keys, Bruno Mars, Cee Lo Green, Flo Rida, fun., James Blunt, Jason Mraz, Paramore and Rob Thomas.
In making the announcement, Cohen said, “To all the artists and employees who live and die for the music every day, and who personally sacrifice for the good of the creative process: ‘keep on keepin’ on’ in the tradition of a company that respects and honors the artistic community.”
Following Cohen’s departure, the company’s senior label executives will report directly to CEO Stephen Cooper. Cooper was brought in by Access Industries, the conglomerate that bought Warner last year.
Cohen’s career includes time heading Universal Music Group’s Island Def Jam Music Group, and founding Rush Management with partner Russell Simmons.
According to the New York Times via Warner’s annual report, Cohen earned nearly $11 million in total compensation last year, more than any other employee. The Times also reports talk of former EMI Chief Executive Roger Faxon moving to a leadership role at Warner. Faxon resigned last week following regulatory clearance of Universal’s purchase of EMI.
Len Blavatnik, Chairman and founder of Access Industries, said, “I personally want to thank Lyor for his dedication and contributions to Warner Music. He has been both a business partner and personal friend and I wish him only the best.”
Cooper added, “Lyor Cohen has built something very special here. While we understand his desire to move on to his next challenge, the enduring success of our recorded music division will serve as a great testament to the progress we’ve made during Lyor’s time at WMG. We are grateful for Lyor’s contributions, and we wish him the best. I’m confident that given the strength of our talented management team in Recorded Music, we’ll be able to drive further success.”
Rodeowave Wrangles New Promo Staffer
/by Freeman“The Rodeowave Entertainment team feels very fortunate to have such an accomplished music industry veteran such as Jennifer join us,” said Rodeowave General Manager Teddi Bonadies.
Shaffer was most recently a Southeast regional promotion manager for Warner Music Nashville’s W.A.R. promo team. The Fairmont, WV, native graduated from James Madison University and began her career at Sony Music Nashville in 1993. Her resume also includes time at Atlantic, Warner Bros. Nashville, MCA Nashville, Lyric Street, and Columbia Records.
Her first day on the job will be October 1, 2012. Congratulate her here.
Underwood “Blows Away” Arena
/by Sherod RobertsonUnderwood closes the show with "Blown Away," the current single and title track from her latest album.
Carrie Underwood brought The Blown Away Tour to Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena last night (Sun., Sept. 24) touching down on a packed and enthusiastic crowd. In the first few minutes it became very clear this show was going to live up to its name.
Using a massive video wall, special effects and a rising floor, we were transported to the scene of a tornado when Underwood entered the stage performing her mega hit, “Good Girl.” She followed the powerful opening number with hits “Undo It” and “Wasted.”
After spending countless hours watching husband Mike Fisher play for the Nashville Predators, she told the audience, “You have no idea how much time I spend at Bridgestone.” She said Fisher joked before the show, “You’re on my turf now.” She replied, “I was here first!”
After performing “I Told You So” and “Two Black Cadillacs,” she made a quick costume change and followed with “Last Name” and “All-American Girl.” She thanked everyone for coming and told the fans $1 of every ticket purchased from the entire tour is going to the American Red Cross. Based on last night’s performance, we can expect that’s going to be a really big check.
Next, her stellar and compelling performance of “Temporary Home” sent onlookers down a powerful emotional ride. Followed by “Jesus, Take the Wheel,” many in the crowd didn’t make it through with dry eyes. She then pulled everyone back into party mode with “Cowboy Casanova.”
Underwood next appeared wearing Fisher’s Predators jersey and cut off blue jean shorts to a cheering crowd. She joined a few members of her band on a section center stage, which levitated above the crowd and moved toward the back of the arena. She performed several songs from her current Blown Away album including, “Nobody Ever Told You,” “Thank God For Hometowns,” and “Do You Think About Me.” She tossed Hawaiian leis from the floating stage while oversized beach balls bounced around the stadium, and performed “One Way Ticket,” telling us we all deserved a vacation.
She brought opening act, Hunter Hayes back on stage to duet on “Leave Love Alone.” Hayes had captured the audience’s attention earlier that evening performing “Storm Warning” and “Wanted” among several other songs. Peter Strickland, Sr. VP of Warner Music Nashville and other members of the staff presented Hayes a plaque during his set for his No. 1 single, “Wanted.” Hayes then returned the favor, surprising the Warner staff with a plaque of their own honoring them for all of their hard work.
Underwood then gave her rocking rendition of “Sweet Emotion” that would have easily put a smile on Steven Tyler’s face. But perhaps the biggest highlight of the evening, and there were many to choose from, was Underwood’s performance of “Remind Me.” While the Brad Paisley duet is usually performed via video on tour, she was completely taken back and surprised when Paisley walked on stage singing his part. An emotional Underwood took a few moments while singing to wipe away the tears as the audience gave them a thunderous and deafening applause. The energy was there to stay as she followed up with “Cupid’s Got a Shotgun” and “Before He Cheats.”
Brad Paisley surprises Carrie during the performance of their #1 hit "Remind Me."
Underwood’s vocals were perfection and it was obvious we were watching a superstar. Although the stage was sophisticated and impressive, the set design kept Underwood’s talent center stage. She had five costume changes and looked beautiful, as always, in each one.
The encore took us back to the scene of the tornado, which had apparently gained strength during the concert. Underwood performed her last song of the night, “Blown Away,” before literally disappearing into the tornado’s vortex. And just like Underwood, we were also blown away.
Before taking the stage last night at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena for “The Blown Away Tour,” Carrie Underwood was presented a Platinum plaque for sales of over one million copies of her latest album, "Blown Away." (L-R): Paul Barnabee, SVP Marketing, Sony Music Nashville; Caryl Healey, VP Sales, Sony Music Nashville; Underwood, Gary Overton (Chairman/CEO, Sony Music Nashville), Alaina Vehec (Dir., Digital Sales, Sony Music Nashville). Photo: Alan Poizner
Hunter Hayes Presents WMN With Plaque
/by Freeman“Being surprised by Hunter on Sunday evening was such an honor, and indicates the humility Hunter has retained on his path to becoming a superstar,” said Peter Strickland, Sr. VP of Brand Management and Sales (WMN). “Warner Music Nashville and Atlantic Records are proud to have such a wonderful team such as Hunter’s as a member of our musical family.”
Hayes released his self-titled debut in fall 2011, and entered the history books as the only country artist to play every instrument, write or co-write every song, and co-produce on a debut album. He is currently supporting Carrie Underwood on the Blown Away Tour.
Southern Ground Takes Nashville
/by Eric T. ParkerThe ‘No Re-entry’ tickets locked in guests for the music and food festival where the Zac Brown Band served as the late night main stage house band. The group shuffled through signature tunes with John Mayer, Sheryl Crow, Gregg Allman, Alan Jackson and Dwight Yoakam.
Playing before the headliner guests were some of music’s finest artists including David Gray, Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, and Amos Lee. Perhaps the one transcendent aspect about the diverse lineup was a common support for Zac Brown’s Camp Southern Ground designed for children with neurobehavioral disorders, for which the festival was a benefit.
Food aspects of the event offered credentialed VIP or Pit access for price premiums, while Stage Box seats treated the elite to stage-side four course meals with beverages. For the general masses, food trucks including Cookie, Zac Brown Band’s mobile kitchen, were available for additional charges alongside beverages from sponsors LandShark and Jack Daniel’s.
Highlights included Mayer, the last minute roster addition, who rested his voice throughout both evening appearances. Instead, he relied on guitar skills while Brown sang a mashup between Stevie Wonder’s “Isn’t She Lovely” and Mayer’s “Neon,” among others. Mayer also accompanied Yoakam, who delivered two hits “Fast As You,” and “Guitars, Cadillacs,” for his Saturday evening performance with the band.
Additional artists on the bill included The Wheeler Boys, Vintage Trouble, Holly Williams, Los Lonely Boys, Dugas, The Lumineers, Levi Lowrey, Clay Cook, Blackberry Smoke,The Jerry Douglas Band, John Driskell Hopkins & Brighter Shade, Michael Franti & Spearhead, and Nic Cowan.
Aldean Announces “Concert For the Cure”
/by Freeman“This is one of the nights I look forward to most every year,” said Aldean. “I’m really proud of the money we’ve raised so far, and it feels great to be able to honor our friend who passed away at such an early age from breast cancer. Everyone has been affected by this disease at some point, and I want to do my part to help find a cure before my daughters grow up. I know Dallas is ready to help us!”
Less than two weeks before the Concert For the Cure, Aldean will release his new Broken Bow Records album Night Train on Oct. 16. It is currently available for pre-order on Aldean’s website, and its lead single “Take a Little Ride” is accelerating for the top of the charts. Aldean also has CMA Awards nominations for Entertainer of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, and Single of the Year for “Dirt Road Anthem.” His My Kinda Party Tour has sold over 1.9 million tickets since it launched.
Loretta Lynn’s 50 Years With Opry; Waylon Jennings’ Last Recordings
/by Sarah SkatesFans are invited to post their favorite memories of Lynn via Twitter using #Love4Loretta, and some of the Tweets will be compiled on opry.com and shared at tomorrow night’s show.
Opry flagship station 650 AM-WSM is scheduled to play a Lynn song every hour tomorrow, while other artists call in with congratulations for the iconic artist.
Also, opry.com will stream a press conference featuring Lynn and other artists on tomorrow night’s show live from backstage at the Opry House at 6:30 p.m.
The Opry show can be heard live on 650 AM WSM and opry.com.
• • • •
A new album from outlaw country legend Waylon Jennings is filled with recordings made during the years preceding his death in 2002. Goin’ Down Rockin’: The Last Recordings of Waylon Jennings will be released tomorrow (9/25) via Saguaro Road Records. No one has ever heard these performances, they are Waylon’s last gift to his fans.
Jennings and his longtime accompanist Robby Turner laid down twelve tracks using Jennings’ guitar/vocals and Turner’s bass. Ten years after the artist’s passing, Turner finished each song to honor Jennings’ vision and brought in some of his favorite sidemen including Reggie Young, Richie Albright and tour mate Tony Joe White.
CRS Previews 2013 Agenda
/by FreemanThe daily speaker initiative will offer attendees a different presentation every morning of CRS 2013, which runs Feb. 27-March 1 in Nashville. Each guest speaker will be given a priority time slot when no other events or panels are being held. The CRS 2013 keynote speaker and daily speakers will be revealed in the coming weeks.
With a focus on technology, social media, and adaptation to market challenges, CRS 2013 will also include its usual mix of expert panelists, research, and industry leaders. Early confirmed speakers include talent coach Valerie Geller (Geller Media International), brand management and social media marketer Jeff James, and talent experts Beth and Matt Sunshine (The Center For Sales Strategy). Check out the agenda and a select panel descriptions at www.countryradioseminar.com.
Legislation Seeks To Lower Online Radio Royalty Rates
/by Sarah SkatesUnder current circumstances, a high percentage of company income goes to pay artist and songwriter royalties. These royalty rates are based on individual song plays, and though they are fractions of a cent, can add up very quickly to large sums. In Pandora’s case, the artists’ share alone cost the service half of last year’s revenue, according to CEO Tim Westergren.
By comparison, SiriusXM pays about 8 percent of its revenue for artist performance royalties.
Terrestrial radio stations only pay songwriters and publishers, not artists. The recent exception to this rule is the deals made by Big Machine Label Group with terrestrial radio broadcasters Clear Channel and Entercom. The model has BMLG and its artists being paid terrestrial performance royalties in exchange for a lower rate for digital performance royalties, which will distribute the royalty cost more evenly between both kinds of radio.
The Internet Radio Fairness Act was introduced in the House by Jason Chaffetz (Rep.-Utah), and Jared Polis (Dem.- Col.), and in the Senate by Ron Wyden (Dem.-Oregon).
More from the New York Times.