Chapter 346
Jim Reeves International Award winner Keith Urban (center) is pictured with ACM’s Bob Romeo (left) and Kix Brooks.
Inviting fans to the ACM Honors turned out to be an excellent idea – the event was punctuated by star-struck cheers of delight and spontaneous standing ovations.
There was a whole new level of energy at this fourth annual gig. The appearances of Randy Travis, Kenny Rogers, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Martina McBride and Keith Urban were greeted with fans’ shouts. Kenny’s performance of “The Gambler” drew a standing ovation, as did Randy’s medley of “On the Other Hand” and “Forever and Ever Amen.” Event host Lee Ann Womack got an s.o. for “You Don’t Know Me.” So did Marty Stuart with “Big Iron” and Ronny Robbins with Larry & Steve Gatlin for “El Paso.”
Staged at the Ryman Auditorium on Monday (9/20), the eve’s most important function was bestowing Pioneer Awards to Mel Tillis and the late Marty Robbins. “Daddy would be so proud of this,” said Marty’s son Ronny.
Lee Ann described singer-songwriter Mel as somebody “who can make you laugh as easily as he can make you cry.” John Rich did “Coca Cola Cowboy” for the honoree. “God bless Mel Tillis,” he said. After singing his career-launching, Mel-penned “Ruby Don’t Take Your Love to Town,” Kenny added, “I will be forever indebted to Mel Tillis. There are people who can write, and there are people who are songwriters.”
“I didn’t know they gave awards to dinosaurs,” responded Mel. He recalled coming to Nashville in 1956 and being told by Wesley Rose, “You wanna sing? Hell, you can’t even talk!” Also, “Webb Pierce would write ‘em, and he’d give me half of ‘em,” a reference to his famously split copyrights. Mel introduced four of his five kids in the audience (Pam was on the road), his two sisters, his girlfriend and his Statesiders band members. “I’d like to thank all of you folks,” he said to the cheering throng. “God bless all of you.” Mel drew yet another standing ovation.
The Poet Awards went to Don Schlitz and the late Cindy Walker. Lee Ann pointed out that Cindy had hits across five decades. Making their industry debut were The Secret Sisters performing a very spiffy version of Cindy’s “Dream Baby.” Cindy’s nieces Molly Dusenberry and Jerry Lawrence accepted.
After Randy and Kenny did his tunes, Don took the stage to a standing ovation. “Thank you, thank you, thank you,” he began. “I’m just a lucky guy who got to hear some pretty good songs first….And I find this all to be very encouraging.” He strapped on a guitar to do a snippet from “When You Say Nothing at All,” then brought out Chapin to sing their co-penned “He Thinks He’ll Keep Her.”
The Jim Reeves International Award went to Keith, in light of his multi-nation touring during the past year. Presenter Kix Brooks recalled seeing a then-unknown Keith at the Guitar Bar on Nolensville Pike at the insistence of Scott Hendricks. “He was already a superstar – the rest of the world just didn’t know it,” said Kix. “He is our Wonder from Down Under.”
Keith got an s.o. before he ever spoke a word. “Country has a long, rich history touring internationally,” he said. “It’s been great recently to see a resurgence of that. This music is global. It crosses all language barriers because we speak and sing about the human condition. I feel incredibly honored. I’ll keep carrying the message everywhere I go.”
The Tex Ritter Award was given to the double Oscar winning film Crazy Heart. CMT’s Brian Phillips accepted, pointing out that Robert Duvall got the movie made, that it was Scott Cooper’s first film-directing job and that the feature was shot in just 28 days in the heat of New Mexico. He dedicated the award to the late Stephen Bruton.
The Musician of the Year winners were all repeat honorees. Presenter Frank Liddell noted that this was the 11th award for Brent Mason, the 9th award for Paul Franklin, the 8th award for Stuart Duncan, the 7th award for Michael Rhodes, the 3rd award for Randy Scruggs, the 3rd award for Shannon Forrest and the 2nd award for Michael Rojas.
“This is a very humbling position to be in,” said Scruggs. “There are so many incredible musicians in this town.”
“I’d like to thank the Academy for bringing us out of the engine room and up onto the deck to get a little sunshine,” added Rhodes. Franklin pointed out that he’d served four-and-a-half years as a Statesider, and Duncan noted that his first recording session was for Randy Travis.
The winning musicians gathered to perform “Passing Through,” which drew a standing ovation. Scruggs sang lead, and each winner got an instrumental solo.
Justin Niebank won his 3rd Academy of Country Music honor as an engineer. Dann Huff was also repeating, with his 2nd producer honor and 7th ACM trophy overall.
“Thanks Frank,” quipped wife Lee Ann after Liddell finished presenting. “What are you doing later?”
Presented by Bob Romeo, The Mae Boren Axton Award for service to the Academy of Country Music was given to lovable Rod Essig. Making their industry debut to sing “Big Blue Sky” for him was the new team of Sarah Buxton and Jedd Hughes. As Buxton Hughes, they sounded and looked adorable. At Rod’s request, Martina did “In My Daughter’s Eyes.”
Duo Buxton Hughes are pictured with Rod Essig, who received the ACM’s Mae Boren Axton Award. Pictured left to right are Jed Hughes, Rod Essig and Sarah Buxton.
Reigning ACM Top New Artist winner Luke Bryan presented five ACM industry accolades. Winning its 8th Nightclub of the Year trophy was Billy Bob’s Texas. Winning his 4th Promoter of the Year was Brian O’Connell. The Talent Buyer honor went to an ill and absent Todd Boltin. Casino of the Year was The Green Valley Ranch, Resort Spa & Casino in Las Vegas. Earning its first award as Venue of the Year was Music City’s own Bridgestone Arena. Brock Jones accepted.
Fabulons attending included Shawn Camp, Josh Thompson, Thom Schuyler, Jim Owens & Lorianne Crook, Dave Pomeroy, John Grady, John Dorris, Mike Dungan, Michael Gray, Mary Ann McCready, Steve Dahl, Bill Mayne, Ansel Davis, Lib Hatcher Travis, Charlie Monk, Neil Portnow, Susan Stewart, Alanna Grace, Greg Essig, Chuck Flood and Jay Orr.
• • •
ACM Official Release Info [edited]
The Academy of Country Music Special Awards are voted on by the ACM Board of Directors and are awarded during years where the Board of Directors feels there are clear and deserving candidates. The evening’s honorees included:
Jim Reeves International Award: Keith Urban received the Jim Reeves International Award, presented to an individual for outstanding contributions to the acceptance of country music throughout the world. Urban, who was born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, has achieved international superstar status since he moved to Nashville in 1992. A six-time ACM Award winner, Urban is known for his many hits including several chart-toppers such as “Somebody Like You,” “You’ll Think of Me,” “Making Memories Of Us” and “Sweet Thing.” Past recipients of the Jim Reeves International Award include Garth Brooks, Dick Clark, Roy Clark, Merv Griffin, Charlie Nagatani, Buck Owens and Dolly Parton, among others.
Cliffie Stone Pioneer Award: Marty Robbins and Mel Tillis received the Cliffie Stone Pioneer Award honoring individuals who are pioneers in the country music genre. Robbins charted his first No. 1 single, “I’ll Go On Alone,” in 1953 and began an illustrious career that lasted four decades. Robbins was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1982 and passed away two months later. Tillis earned his first writing deal after country star Webb Pierce took the Tillis-penned tune “I’m Tired” to No. 3. The songwriter charted his own first Top 40 hit with “The Violet and a Rose” and continued to perform his own songs, charting the hits “Wine,” “Stateside,” “Life Turned Her That Way,” “Good Woman Blues,” “Coca Cola Cowboy” and “I Ain’t Never,” which gave him his first No. 1 hit in 1972. Tillis continues to perform today and was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry cast in 2007.
Poet’s Award: Don Schlitz and Cindy Walker received the Poet’s Award, which honors songwriters for outstanding musical and/or lyrical contributions throughout their careers in the field of country music. One of Schlitz’s first cuts as a songwriter, a story song he titled “The Gambler,” was recorded by Kenny Rogers and became a massive crossover hit. From there Schlitz went on to find great success co-writing with Paul Overstreet for a new artist named Randy Travis. Schlitz also crafted Keith Whitley’s signature hit, “When You Say Nothing at All.” Walker’s career launched when the legendary Bing Crosby recorded her song “Lone Star Trail,” which became a Top 10 hit. That break began a 13-year stint in Hollywood, where Walker appeared in and wrote songs for Western films. Western Swing legend Bob Wills recorded more than 50 of Walker’s songs, including “Cherokee Maiden,” “Bubbles in My Beer” and “You’re From Texas.” After Walker’s death in 2006 she willed the rights to her body of work to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Previous recipients of the Poet’s Award include Bill Anderson, Merle Haggard, Harlan Howard and Fred Rose.
Tex Ritter Award: Crazy Heart recieved the Tex Ritter Award, given to a movie released and/or receiving major exposure during the preceding calendar year, featuring or utilizing country music. The romantic drama stars Academy Award-winner Jeff Bridges as “Bad Blake,” a broken down country singer/songwriter who wants to turn his life around after establishing a relationship with a young journalist named Jean, played by Oscar nominee Maggie Gyllenhaal. The movie soundtrack, produced by T Bone Burnett, featured work by late guitarist Stephen Bruton. The original song “The Weary Kind,” performed and written by country singer/songwriter Ryan Bingham, won both the Golden Globe and the Oscar in 2010. Crazy Heart is produced by Scott Cooper, Robert Duvall, Rob Carliner, Judy Cairo and T Bone Burnett and is executive produced by Jeff Bridges, Michael A. Simpson, Eric Brenner and Leslie Belzberg. The film is directed by Scott Cooper. The studio production companies for Crazy Heart are Informant Media and Butcher’s Run Films. Past recipients of the Tex Ritter Award include Beer For My Horses, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, O’Brother, Where Art Thou, Sweet Dreams and Walk the Line, among others.
Mae Boren Axton Award: Rod Essig received the Mae Boren Axton Award, which is given in recognition of years of dedication and service by an outstanding individual to the Academy of Country Music. Former ACM Chairman Essig started his expansive career in the music industry as vice president and co-owner of Variety Artists International, a booking agency based in Minneapolis. In 1992, Essig joined Creative Artists Agency in Los Angeles before moving to Nashville, where he was instrumental in opening the agency’s Music City operation. Essig currently steers the careers of some of country’s biggest acts, including Tim McGraw, Reba McEntire, Martina McBride and LeAnn Rimes. He has served on the Academy’s board of directors in various capacities for 14 years. During his tenure as chairman, the Academy rebranded and re-launched its charitable arm, ACM Lifting Lives™, as well as expanded its reach in the digital realm with fan voting for the Entertainer of the Year and Top New Artist categories and increased its presence on television. Past recipients of the Mae Boren Axton Award include Jack Lameier, Marge Meoli, Ray Pilzak, Gaynelle Pitts, Gene Weed and David Young.
MBI & INDUSTRY AWARD
Winners of the MBI (Musician/Bandleader/Instrumentalist) categories:
Stuart Duncan – Top Fiddle Player of the Year
Shannon Forrest – Top Percussionist/Drummer of the Year
Paul Franklin – Top Steel Guitar Player of the Year
Dann Huff – Producer of the Year
Brent Mason – Top Guitarist of the Year
Justin Niebank – Audio Engineer of the Year
Michael Rhodes – Top Bass Player of the Year
Michael Rojas – Top Piano/Keyboard Player of the Year
Randy Scruggs – Top Specialty Instrument(s) Player of the Year
Winners of the Industry Awards categories:
Todd Boltin, Variety Attractions, Inc. – Don Romeo Talent Buyer of the Year
Brian O’Connell, Live Nation – Promoter of the Year
Billy Bob’s Texas (Ft. Worth, TX) – Nightclub of the Year
Green Valley Ranch Resort, Spa and Casino (Las Vegas, NV) – Casino of the Year
Sommet Center – renamed Bridgestone Arena (Nashville, TN) – Venue of the Year
Shelton to Headline CRS Music City Jam
/by contributorThe annual Music City Jam is one of Country Radio Seminar’s premier events and has showcased some of the biggest stars in country music, including performances by Taylor Swift at CRS 2010, Tim McGraw (2009), Brad Paisley (2008), Toby Keith (2007) and Keith Urban (2006).
“Blake Shelton is unquestionably one of the hottest artists in country music today,” says CRB President Mike Culotta. “His trademark sense of humor and string of No. 1 hits have endeared him not only to his fans, but country radio as well. I can’t think of a better fit for this year’s Jam, and I know he will put on a memorable performance for those attending one of Country Radio Seminar’s most anticipated events.”
The Academy of Country Music will once again sponsor the Music City Jam, now in its sixth year at CRS.
“The Academy is thrilled to continue our long-standing partnership with CRB, to host the Jam and bring talented artists directly to country radio,” said Bob Romeo, CEO of the Academy of Country Music. “With Blake there is never a dull moment, and I can’t wait to see him entertain the crowd.”
Shelton is having one of the best years of his career in 2010, releasing two SIX PAK albums, Hillbilly Bone and All About Tonight, as well as receiving a flood of honors and awards. Both SIX PAK title-track singles, “Hillbilly Bone” (recorded with Trace Adkins) and “All About Tonight,” went to No. 1. All About Tonight debuted at No. 1 on the SoundScan Top Country Albums chart and No. 6 on Billboard’s Top 200 chart, making it his highest charting record to date. Shelton is the only solo male Country artist to earn more than one chart-topper so far this year on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart.
Shelton’s career thus far has seen him hit No. 1 seven times, including “All About Tonight,” “Hillbilly Bone,” his back-to-back multi-week No. 1 singles “She Wouldn’t Be Gone” and “Home,” his five-week No. 1 debut single, “Austin” and two additional multi-week No. 1 singles with “The Baby” and “Some Beach.”
So far in 2010, Shelton has won both an ACM and CMT Award and earned four CMA Award nominations, including one for Male Vocalist of the Year.
Country Radio Seminar 2011 is held March 2–4, 2011, at the Nashville Convention Center. For more information about Country Radio Broadcasters or Country Radio Seminar 2011, visit the official CRB website at www.CRB.org.
Bobby Karl Works The ACM Honors
/by Bobby KarlChapter 346
Jim Reeves International Award winner Keith Urban (center) is pictured with ACM’s Bob Romeo (left) and Kix Brooks.
There was a whole new level of energy at this fourth annual gig. The appearances of Randy Travis, Kenny Rogers, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Martina McBride and Keith Urban were greeted with fans’ shouts. Kenny’s performance of “The Gambler” drew a standing ovation, as did Randy’s medley of “On the Other Hand” and “Forever and Ever Amen.” Event host Lee Ann Womack got an s.o. for “You Don’t Know Me.” So did Marty Stuart with “Big Iron” and Ronny Robbins with Larry & Steve Gatlin for “El Paso.”
Staged at the Ryman Auditorium on Monday (9/20), the eve’s most important function was bestowing Pioneer Awards to Mel Tillis and the late Marty Robbins. “Daddy would be so proud of this,” said Marty’s son Ronny.
Lee Ann described singer-songwriter Mel as somebody “who can make you laugh as easily as he can make you cry.” John Rich did “Coca Cola Cowboy” for the honoree. “God bless Mel Tillis,” he said. After singing his career-launching, Mel-penned “Ruby Don’t Take Your Love to Town,” Kenny added, “I will be forever indebted to Mel Tillis. There are people who can write, and there are people who are songwriters.”
“I didn’t know they gave awards to dinosaurs,” responded Mel. He recalled coming to Nashville in 1956 and being told by Wesley Rose, “You wanna sing? Hell, you can’t even talk!” Also, “Webb Pierce would write ‘em, and he’d give me half of ‘em,” a reference to his famously split copyrights. Mel introduced four of his five kids in the audience (Pam was on the road), his two sisters, his girlfriend and his Statesiders band members. “I’d like to thank all of you folks,” he said to the cheering throng. “God bless all of you.” Mel drew yet another standing ovation.
The Poet Awards went to Don Schlitz and the late Cindy Walker. Lee Ann pointed out that Cindy had hits across five decades. Making their industry debut were The Secret Sisters performing a very spiffy version of Cindy’s “Dream Baby.” Cindy’s nieces Molly Dusenberry and Jerry Lawrence accepted.
After Randy and Kenny did his tunes, Don took the stage to a standing ovation. “Thank you, thank you, thank you,” he began. “I’m just a lucky guy who got to hear some pretty good songs first….And I find this all to be very encouraging.” He strapped on a guitar to do a snippet from “When You Say Nothing at All,” then brought out Chapin to sing their co-penned “He Thinks He’ll Keep Her.”
The Jim Reeves International Award went to Keith, in light of his multi-nation touring during the past year. Presenter Kix Brooks recalled seeing a then-unknown Keith at the Guitar Bar on Nolensville Pike at the insistence of Scott Hendricks. “He was already a superstar – the rest of the world just didn’t know it,” said Kix. “He is our Wonder from Down Under.”
Keith got an s.o. before he ever spoke a word. “Country has a long, rich history touring internationally,” he said. “It’s been great recently to see a resurgence of that. This music is global. It crosses all language barriers because we speak and sing about the human condition. I feel incredibly honored. I’ll keep carrying the message everywhere I go.”
The Tex Ritter Award was given to the double Oscar winning film Crazy Heart. CMT’s Brian Phillips accepted, pointing out that Robert Duvall got the movie made, that it was Scott Cooper’s first film-directing job and that the feature was shot in just 28 days in the heat of New Mexico. He dedicated the award to the late Stephen Bruton.
The Musician of the Year winners were all repeat honorees. Presenter Frank Liddell noted that this was the 11th award for Brent Mason, the 9th award for Paul Franklin, the 8th award for Stuart Duncan, the 7th award for Michael Rhodes, the 3rd award for Randy Scruggs, the 3rd award for Shannon Forrest and the 2nd award for Michael Rojas.
“This is a very humbling position to be in,” said Scruggs. “There are so many incredible musicians in this town.”
“I’d like to thank the Academy for bringing us out of the engine room and up onto the deck to get a little sunshine,” added Rhodes. Franklin pointed out that he’d served four-and-a-half years as a Statesider, and Duncan noted that his first recording session was for Randy Travis.
The winning musicians gathered to perform “Passing Through,” which drew a standing ovation. Scruggs sang lead, and each winner got an instrumental solo.
Justin Niebank won his 3rd Academy of Country Music honor as an engineer. Dann Huff was also repeating, with his 2nd producer honor and 7th ACM trophy overall.
“Thanks Frank,” quipped wife Lee Ann after Liddell finished presenting. “What are you doing later?”
Presented by Bob Romeo, The Mae Boren Axton Award for service to the Academy of Country Music was given to lovable Rod Essig. Making their industry debut to sing “Big Blue Sky” for him was the new team of Sarah Buxton and Jedd Hughes. As Buxton Hughes, they sounded and looked adorable. At Rod’s request, Martina did “In My Daughter’s Eyes.”
Duo Buxton Hughes are pictured with Rod Essig, who received the ACM’s Mae Boren Axton Award. Pictured left to right are Jed Hughes, Rod Essig and Sarah Buxton.
Reigning ACM Top New Artist winner Luke Bryan presented five ACM industry accolades. Winning its 8th Nightclub of the Year trophy was Billy Bob’s Texas. Winning his 4th Promoter of the Year was Brian O’Connell. The Talent Buyer honor went to an ill and absent Todd Boltin. Casino of the Year was The Green Valley Ranch, Resort Spa & Casino in Las Vegas. Earning its first award as Venue of the Year was Music City’s own Bridgestone Arena. Brock Jones accepted.
Fabulons attending included Shawn Camp, Josh Thompson, Thom Schuyler, Jim Owens & Lorianne Crook, Dave Pomeroy, John Grady, John Dorris, Mike Dungan, Michael Gray, Mary Ann McCready, Steve Dahl, Bill Mayne, Ansel Davis, Lib Hatcher Travis, Charlie Monk, Neil Portnow, Susan Stewart, Alanna Grace, Greg Essig, Chuck Flood and Jay Orr.
• • •
ACM Official Release Info [edited]
The Academy of Country Music Special Awards are voted on by the ACM Board of Directors and are awarded during years where the Board of Directors feels there are clear and deserving candidates. The evening’s honorees included:
Jim Reeves International Award: Keith Urban received the Jim Reeves International Award, presented to an individual for outstanding contributions to the acceptance of country music throughout the world. Urban, who was born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, has achieved international superstar status since he moved to Nashville in 1992. A six-time ACM Award winner, Urban is known for his many hits including several chart-toppers such as “Somebody Like You,” “You’ll Think of Me,” “Making Memories Of Us” and “Sweet Thing.” Past recipients of the Jim Reeves International Award include Garth Brooks, Dick Clark, Roy Clark, Merv Griffin, Charlie Nagatani, Buck Owens and Dolly Parton, among others.
Cliffie Stone Pioneer Award: Marty Robbins and Mel Tillis received the Cliffie Stone Pioneer Award honoring individuals who are pioneers in the country music genre. Robbins charted his first No. 1 single, “I’ll Go On Alone,” in 1953 and began an illustrious career that lasted four decades. Robbins was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1982 and passed away two months later. Tillis earned his first writing deal after country star Webb Pierce took the Tillis-penned tune “I’m Tired” to No. 3. The songwriter charted his own first Top 40 hit with “The Violet and a Rose” and continued to perform his own songs, charting the hits “Wine,” “Stateside,” “Life Turned Her That Way,” “Good Woman Blues,” “Coca Cola Cowboy” and “I Ain’t Never,” which gave him his first No. 1 hit in 1972. Tillis continues to perform today and was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry cast in 2007.
Poet’s Award: Don Schlitz and Cindy Walker received the Poet’s Award, which honors songwriters for outstanding musical and/or lyrical contributions throughout their careers in the field of country music. One of Schlitz’s first cuts as a songwriter, a story song he titled “The Gambler,” was recorded by Kenny Rogers and became a massive crossover hit. From there Schlitz went on to find great success co-writing with Paul Overstreet for a new artist named Randy Travis. Schlitz also crafted Keith Whitley’s signature hit, “When You Say Nothing at All.” Walker’s career launched when the legendary Bing Crosby recorded her song “Lone Star Trail,” which became a Top 10 hit. That break began a 13-year stint in Hollywood, where Walker appeared in and wrote songs for Western films. Western Swing legend Bob Wills recorded more than 50 of Walker’s songs, including “Cherokee Maiden,” “Bubbles in My Beer” and “You’re From Texas.” After Walker’s death in 2006 she willed the rights to her body of work to the Country Music Hall of Fame. Previous recipients of the Poet’s Award include Bill Anderson, Merle Haggard, Harlan Howard and Fred Rose.
Tex Ritter Award: Crazy Heart recieved the Tex Ritter Award, given to a movie released and/or receiving major exposure during the preceding calendar year, featuring or utilizing country music. The romantic drama stars Academy Award-winner Jeff Bridges as “Bad Blake,” a broken down country singer/songwriter who wants to turn his life around after establishing a relationship with a young journalist named Jean, played by Oscar nominee Maggie Gyllenhaal. The movie soundtrack, produced by T Bone Burnett, featured work by late guitarist Stephen Bruton. The original song “The Weary Kind,” performed and written by country singer/songwriter Ryan Bingham, won both the Golden Globe and the Oscar in 2010. Crazy Heart is produced by Scott Cooper, Robert Duvall, Rob Carliner, Judy Cairo and T Bone Burnett and is executive produced by Jeff Bridges, Michael A. Simpson, Eric Brenner and Leslie Belzberg. The film is directed by Scott Cooper. The studio production companies for Crazy Heart are Informant Media and Butcher’s Run Films. Past recipients of the Tex Ritter Award include Beer For My Horses, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, O’Brother, Where Art Thou, Sweet Dreams and Walk the Line, among others.
Mae Boren Axton Award: Rod Essig received the Mae Boren Axton Award, which is given in recognition of years of dedication and service by an outstanding individual to the Academy of Country Music. Former ACM Chairman Essig started his expansive career in the music industry as vice president and co-owner of Variety Artists International, a booking agency based in Minneapolis. In 1992, Essig joined Creative Artists Agency in Los Angeles before moving to Nashville, where he was instrumental in opening the agency’s Music City operation. Essig currently steers the careers of some of country’s biggest acts, including Tim McGraw, Reba McEntire, Martina McBride and LeAnn Rimes. He has served on the Academy’s board of directors in various capacities for 14 years. During his tenure as chairman, the Academy rebranded and re-launched its charitable arm, ACM Lifting Lives™, as well as expanded its reach in the digital realm with fan voting for the Entertainer of the Year and Top New Artist categories and increased its presence on television. Past recipients of the Mae Boren Axton Award include Jack Lameier, Marge Meoli, Ray Pilzak, Gaynelle Pitts, Gene Weed and David Young.
MBI & INDUSTRY AWARD
Winners of the MBI (Musician/Bandleader/Instrumentalist) categories:
Stuart Duncan – Top Fiddle Player of the Year
Shannon Forrest – Top Percussionist/Drummer of the Year
Paul Franklin – Top Steel Guitar Player of the Year
Dann Huff – Producer of the Year
Brent Mason – Top Guitarist of the Year
Justin Niebank – Audio Engineer of the Year
Michael Rhodes – Top Bass Player of the Year
Michael Rojas – Top Piano/Keyboard Player of the Year
Randy Scruggs – Top Specialty Instrument(s) Player of the Year
Winners of the Industry Awards categories:
Todd Boltin, Variety Attractions, Inc. – Don Romeo Talent Buyer of the Year
Brian O’Connell, Live Nation – Promoter of the Year
Billy Bob’s Texas (Ft. Worth, TX) – Nightclub of the Year
Green Valley Ranch Resort, Spa and Casino (Las Vegas, NV) – Casino of the Year
Sommet Center – renamed Bridgestone Arena (Nashville, TN) – Venue of the Year
Monroe Re-Signs; Bice Opines
/by adminWrensong/Reynsong reports it has re-signed Ashley Monroe to a new publishing deal.
(L-R) Ashley Monroe and Wrensong President Ree Guyer Buchanan
Bo Bice stopped into the WKLB Boston Country 102.5 studio for a live webcast last week, where he played songs from his latest album ‘3’, including the current country single “You Take Yourself With You” and answered some questions with morning show host Lori Grande.
(L-R) New School Entertainment's Chris Borchetta, WKLB Intern Ashley Cook, morning show host Lori Grande, Bice, WKLB MD Ginny Rogers and WKLB Promotion Director Dawn Santolucito.
MTV And Swift Offer “Speak Now” Promotion
/by contributorThe online contest, Speak Now With Taylor Swift In New York City, is live now at www.WinWithTaylor.com, offering fans the opportunity to see Swift perform live in New York and join her on a cross-country flight to Los Angeles, where they will have the chance to ‘speak now’ with the superstar mid-air.
CMT and many MTV Networks web properties worldwide, including CMT.com, MTV.com, VH1.com and websites across Europe, Asia, Australia and Latin America, will stream the event from New York at approximately 5:00 PM ET, which is set to include an intimate performance from Swift. CMT and MTV Networks recently hosted the global video premiere of “Mine,” which reached more than 160 countries. MTV Music Group ranks as the most visited online music destination according to the newly released U.S. comScore MediaMetrix numbers for August 2010.
In addition to their international reach, Big Machine Records will offer select radio partners from across the United States the opportunity to qualify winners for their own Speak Now With Taylor Swift In New York City similar contest.
Following the New York City event, a select number of Grand Prize winners from both radio and international entries will also fly across the United States with Swift from New York City to Los Angeles. While mid-flight, the winners will ‘speak now’ with Swift at more than 30,000 feet above America, conducting live radio interviews with the superstar. Winners will experience first-hand the whirlwind surrounding a major album release.
To enter to win or for more information, visit www.WinWithTaylor.com.
Next Big Nashville/Digital Summit Announce Lineup
/by contributorNBN’s line-up of artists includes Yeasayer, RJD2, WAVVES, David Bazan, Tennis, Washed Out, Dylan LeBlanc, The Ponys, Moon Duo, The Knocks, Chief, Jonathan Tyler & The Northern Lights, Vonnegutt, Free Sol, A Place To Bury Strangers, The Hood Internet, The Infamous Stringdusters and more. NBN maintains a strong focus on the best local and regional artists from across all genres including Jeff The Brotherhood, The Protomen, Keegan DeWitt, The Ettes, Madi Diaz, Tristen, Tallest Trees, The Apache Relay, Turbo Fruits and more than 100 others. Click here to view entire lineup
The LMDS will present a compelling two-day exploration of the new music business featuring panel topics such as, The Evolution of the 360 Deal, Discovery and Development In the Digital Age: Art or Science, New Challenges and Opportunities for Songwriters and Music Publishers, Working Around Legal Barriers To Achieve Innovation, The Art & Science of Measuring Your Audience, Developing Artists The Old Way In The New World and The Current State Of The Touring Industry.
These special events will feature some of the brightest minds, risk takers, and innovators from the digital music world, including, Tim Westergren (CEO, Pandora), Ian C. Rogers (CEO, TopSpin), Troy Carter (Atom Factory Management, Lady Gaga), David Israelite (CEO, NMPA), Eric Garland (Big Champagne), Jeff Price (CEO, TuneCore), Dorrian Porter (CEO, Mozes), Mitch Bainwol (President, RIAA), Alex White (CEO, Next Big Sound), J Sider (CEO, RootMusic), Scott Borchetta (Pres., CEO, Big Machine), Jim Lucchese (CEO, The EchoNest), and Jon Cohen (Co-Founder, Cornerstone) among many others.
Click here to see all topics, panels and speakers.
For ticket sales information details about artists, speakers and schedules, please visit www.nbnsummit.com
For press information about Next BIG Nashville & Leadership Music Digital Summit, please contact Jim Flammia at All Eyes Media (615) 227-2770 or jim@alleyesmedia.com or Brent Bowers at contact@alleyesmedia.com.
Lady A Plays For Musicians On Call
/by contributorMOC has partnered with many renowned artists for its annual fundraising events—James Taylor, Seal, and John Mayer have all been featured acts in the past. This year, as the organization launches its Month of
Music initiative for the first time, MOC is particularly excited to be working with such a critically-acclaimed group as Lady Antebellum.
“MOC prides itself on working with the most talented and relevant artists in the music industry and Lady Antebellum certainly fits the bill,” said MOC’s Executive Director, Dr. Leslie Faerstein. “We’re also extremely impressed by their thoughtfulness and generosity. They are really going above and beyond to make the evening unforgettable for their fans.”
Salamon Named CEO of Savannah Music Group
/by MichelleEd Salamon and Chairman Jeff Cohen. (PRNewsFoto/Savannah Music Group)
Ed Salamon has been named chief executive officer of Savannah Music Group, effective Oct. 1. Salamon approached SMG President Dave Gibson after Savannah took the unprecedented step among music publishing companies and record labels of opposing mandatory Performance Rights fee legislation. Since both believe that proposed legislation could reduce the amount of music played on radio and be especially damaging to small independent companies like SMG, the veteran broadcast executive offered his help. Having known Salamon from his days as namesake of the Gibson-Miller Band and pleased to find a like-minded executive with a broad background in the music industry, Gibson introduced Salamon to Savannah Music Group Chairman Jeff Cohen.
“Ed is one of the most dynamic and well-connected people in the music industry,” says Cohen in making the appointment. “He has a great track record in the entertainment industry and with start ups, and we are pleased to have him lead Savannah Music Group.”
Salamon is former President-Programming of Westwood One Radio Network and a co-founder and partner with Dick Clark in the United Stations Radio Network. Most recently he served as Executive Director for Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc., the non-profit organization that presents the Country Radio Seminar (CRS).
Mandy Barnett Brings Holidays To Cracker Barrell
/by contributorIn recapturing a golden era for holiday music, Barnett was aided by a cast of musical veterans including Harold Bradley, Lloyd Green, Louis Nunley, Gene Chrisman and Tony Migliore. Guitarist Bradley and back-up singer Nunley actually appeared on the original versions of several of these songs, including “Jingle Bell Rock.” The album is available only at Cracker Barrel.
“I wanted this album to be a classic and to remind people of the simpler times they had when they were children,” said Barnett. “It was important to record these songs in an authentic fashion so people would connect with them emotionally.”
Barnett is best known for portraying country music legend Patsy Cline in the stage show Always…Patsy Cline at the Ryman Auditorium. Her performances were sold out nightly and received impressive reviews across the country. Barnett went on to record various albums, including one with legendary producer Owen Bradley. She is an active performer nationally and internationally, and is a frequent guest on the Grand Ole Opry.
“Mandy has a strong, resonant voice that warms your heart as soon as you hear it,” says Cracker Barrel’s Vice President of Marketing Peter Keiser. “Cracker Barrel is very pleased to provide this high quality, pleasing CD for our guests’ holiday entertainment and gift-giving.”
Music Rising Supports Gulf Coast Culture
/by contributorMusic Rising has worked closely with Nick Spitzer, professor of anthropology and American studies and creator of Tulane’s public radio program American Routes, in creating the connection with Tulane. The curriculum for the program on music and culture of the Gulf Coast will be implemented at Tulane and available to other universities through web and print materials. In addition to drawing from field, studio and live interviews, programs and performances of the American Routes Collection, the curriculum will draw upon the resources of the William Ransom Hogan Archive of New Orleans Jazz as well as the Maxwell Music Library, the Louisiana Collection, the Southern Institute and the New Orleans Gulf South Center, all housed at Tulane.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without the unique musical heritage that is New Orleans,” said U2’s the Edge. “So much has come from that part of America. From the birth of jazz, the roots of Rock ‘n’ Roll and R&B, to the traditional celebrations in the streets, New Orleans has provided all of us with great musical traditions. This new curriculum, which I am personally very proud of, will help preserve this history and educate for many years to come.”
“Our goal has always been to preserve the musical culture of New Orleans and the Central Gulf. We started by replacing instruments that were lost in the hurricanes of 2005,” said Bob Ezrin. “And now we are thrilled to be working with the wonderful folks at Tulane University to develop a course of study that will allow people from the region and all over the world to study and understand that culture and the music that creates it.”
The Music Rising curriculum at Tulane will preserve the great musical heritage of the Gulf Coast region and eventually be adapted to educational levels ranging from elementary through high school. Preserving the music of the region has always been the driving force behind the many initiatives Music Rising has supported since its inception in 2005 after the devastating hurricanes of Katrina and Rita. It is critical to the organization that the various styles of music which have borrowed from earlier traditions be understood and taught to future generations. Building the Music Rising curriculum will also serve as a catalyst to develop a comprehensive system of archives that will preserve a vast amount of Gulf Coast based cultural history.
“Tulane University is the perfect partner for this venture,” said Henry Juszkiewicz, Chairman and CEO of Gibson Guitar. “From their Music and Humanities departments, which are world renowned, to Nick Spitzer’s American Routes and the amazing archives that they have built over the decades. Now, all of these departments and disciplines will be engaged in a historical collaboration in creating this amazing course of study. We are very proud that Gibson Foundation could play such an integral role.”
Loretta Lynn’s 50th Anniversary Celebration
/by contributorHeld on-site at Lynn’s 18,000 square foot Coal Miner’s Daughter Museum and billed as A Tribute to an American Icon, the evening’s activities include a catered reception, media Q&A session and a performance by Lynn’s sister, Crystal Gayle, following the official unveiling of Gayle’s new display inside the museum. Event invitations were extended to select industry, media and artists, as well as Lynn’s family and closest friends.
The media Q&A session begins at 5:30 PM/CT, with the reception following at 6:00 PM. Lynn will appear at the reception to briefly address the event’s attendees and mingle with other artists, industry and media. Gayle’s performance is at 9:00 PM and is open to the public.
Lynn’s A Tribute to an American Icon 50th anniversary celebration coincides with the superstar’s final performance of the year at her Hurricane Mills ranch and home, to be held Saturday, Sept. 25. The concert is open to the public and is one of the special attractions available during the weekend events for Lynn’s fans and the general public.
Lynn’s much-anticipated tribute album, Coal Miner’s Daughter: A Tribute to Loretta Lynn, will be released on Columbia Records on Nov. 9, 2010. The project, which features special guests Sheryl Crow, Steve Earle, Faith Hill, Alan Jackson, Kid Rock, Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride, Allison Moorer, Paramore, Reba, Carrie Underwood, The White Stripes, Lucinda Williams, Gretchen Wilson and Lee Ann Womack, features an updated version of her classic track, “Coal Miner’s Daughter.” The single, performed by Lynn with Lambert and Crow, shipped to Country radio on Sept. 14 and is available for digital download purchase on Sept. 28.
The Loretta Lynn Ranch and Coal Miner’s Daughter Museum is located at 44 Hurricane Mills Road, Hurricane Mills, TN, 37978. Call (931) 296-7700 or visit www.LorettaLynn.com for tickets and more information.