Tag Archive for: featured-2

DISClaimer: A Stack Of Worthy Work

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bobby bare darker than lightWe have no superstar product this week, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty of fine listening. Doing worthy work in this stack of platters are Thomas Rhett, Royal Wade Kimes, Dakota Bradley, Sleepy LaBeef and Chance Cody & Spur 503. In various ways, all of them perked up my ears. Our Disc of the Day award goes to incoming Country Music Hall of Famer Bobby Bare. His entire Darker Than Light album is essential listening. We turn our gaze toward the Lone Star State to find the identically talented Rankin Twins. They more than earned a DisCovery Award. Their record is the first of what will surely be many albums to come.
HEM/Seven Angels
Writers: Dan Messe/Steve Curtis; Producer: Gary Maurer/Dan Messe; Publisher: Peep/Steve Curtis/ASCAP; Waveland
-Hem is an eight-person, mainly acoustic band featuring winsome, breathy lead vocals by Sally Ellson. The enchanting, folk-Americana sound with gentle keyboards and strummy guitars is augmented by atmospheric violin on this featured track and by pedal steel, glockenspiel, choirs and/or full orchestra on others. Hem’s entire Departure & Farewell album is lovely listening.

The Rankin Twins

The Rankin Twins


THE RANKIN TWINS AND DREW WOMACK/Holdin’ Pattern
Writers: Django Walker/Amy Rankin/April Rankin/Drew Womack; Producer: Ken Tondre; Publisher: none listed; RT
-The sisters look retro-stylish and beautiful on cover of their Moonshine & Maybes CD. Its single demonstrates that they sing as good as they look. And the sizzling vocal presence of former Sons of the Desert frontman Womack doesn’t hurt one bit. The mid-tempo tune is made even more punchy and addictive by the chopping mandolin and keening steel work. Lend this your ears.
BOBBY BARE/Lookout Mountain
Writers: Dennis Linde; Producer: Don Cusic/Bobby Bare; Publisher: EMI Blackwood, BMI; Plowboy
-Now that Bobby Bare is going into the Country Music Hall of Fame, don’t you think it’s time that you paid attention to his excellent current album Darker Than Light? One highlight of the neo-folk collection is this rhythmic, driving depiction of the Battle of Lookout Mountain. He sings it with dramatic conviction, and the production underscores his every note with drumming and electric guitars simulating cannon blasts.
AMY ROSE/Party Like A Redneck
Writers: Fraser/Coulson/Beecroft; Producer: After Tuesday Productions (Marty Beecroft/Glenn Coulson); Publishers: none listed; SOCAN; Wild Rose
-I have praised her singing in the past. But this song sucks.
ROYAL WADE KIMES/Dixie Burns
Writers: R.W. Kimes; Producer: George Bradfute/Mike Noble/Royal Wade Kimes; Publisher: Blue Whistler, ASCAP, Wonderent
-This is the title tune to a Civil War era movie written and directed by singer-songwriter Kimes. It is an emotional ballad about the burning of Atlanta, told from the point of view a surviving Georgia man. His tremulous, throaty singing has never sounded more authentic or believable. Well done. The album containing it, A Proud Land, is consistently compelling.
DAKOTA BRADLEY/Somethin’ Like Somethin’
Writers: Mark Irwin/Josh Kear/Shane McAnally; Producer: Byron Gallimore/Tim McGraw; Publisher: none listed; Streamsound
-Streamsound is Byron Gallimore’s Sony-distributed imprint. Dakota Bradley’s jaunty tenor on this sunny, summertime bopper is a worthy addition to a catalog that includes the fine Streamsound tunes already issued by Jaida Dreyer. Catchy and lively.
SLEEPY LaBEEF/Honey Hush
Writers: Joe Turner; Producer: Dave Pomeroy; Publisher: Unichappell, BMI; Earwave
-Veteran road warrior LaBeef blew through town a couple of weeks ago to perform one of his typical barn-burner club sets, celebrate the movie about him at the Nashville Film Festival and sit in with The Time Jumpers. His new live CD kicks off with his roaring rockabilly treatment of this jump-blues standard. Recorded at Douglas Corner in January 2012, this record captures his abundant, multi-genre charm perfectly. Hop on board while he romps through a repertoire that spans Hank Williams, Willie Dixon, The Delmore Brothers, Hank Ballard, Merle Kilgore, Fats Domino and more. Producer Pomeroy is on bass and the esteemed Kenny Vaughan provides the hot electric-guitar licks.
JASON CHARLES MILLER/The Way You Still Want Me
Writers: J.C. Miller/Steve Freeman/Jon Nite; Producer: Dan Hodges/Jason Charles Miller; Publisher: Count Mecha/Bike/Songs of Colton Entertainment/Propps House/EMI April/Jon Mark Nite, BMI/ASCAP; Render
-The guitars scream, the drums pound, everyone makes noise and the song has loads of hooks. But his singing voice takes some getting used to.
THOMAS RHETT/It Goes Like This
Writers: Rhett Akins/Ben Hayslip/Jimmy Robins; Producer: Michael Knox; Publisher: EMI Blackwood/Rhettneck/WB/Tar-Cam-Knox/Get A Load Of This/Universal/Extraordinary Allen, BMI/ASCAP; Valory
-Thomas didn’t have to look far to find his new single, since his daddy Rhett Akins co-wrote it. It’s a rumbling thumper about finding new romance that features a super melodic chorus. Rollicking and righteous.
CHANCE CODY & SPUR 503/The Legend Grows
Writers: Chance Cody/Jared Mitchell; Producer: Greg White; Publisher: none listed; Spur 503
-The sound is “outlaw” all the way with echoey atmosphere, doom-laden guitars, slow and deliberate drumming, searing fiddle and the like. And that’s perfect, since the quasi-spoken lyric is about a renegade gunslinger. Cody’s baritone voice conveys the threatening messages as well as he speaks. Aged perfectly. Featured on the CD The Legend Grows.

George Jones Funeral Service To Be Open To Public

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georgejonesGeorge Jones’ funeral will take place on Thursday, May 2 at The Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tenn. The service will begin at 10 a.m. and will be open to the public. Doors will open at 9 a.m.
“George would have wanted his fans and friends everywhere to be able to come and pay their respects along with his family,” says Jones’ publicist Kirt Webster.
“Thanks to George’s friends, fans, and loved ones for the outpouring of love at this terrible time,” says the entertainer’s wife, Nancy Jones. “I love you all.”
Jones died on Friday (April 26), at the age of 81. He has been a member of the Grand Ole Opry since 1956, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1992.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that contributions be made to the Grand Ole Opry trust fund. Donations can be mailed to Opry Trust Fund, 2804 Opryland Drive, Nashville, TN 37214, or can be made online at countrymusichalloffame.com.
••• Update: Music industry members who wish to attend the event should park in the public parking lot shared by Opry Mills and the Grand Ole Opry House. At the front of the Opry Plaza you will be directed to the Music Industry entrance doors of the Opry House, and from there you will be seated in an area reserved for Music Industry professionals. This seating will be accommodated on a first come, first-served basis.

Alan Mayor Archives: George Jones Through the Years

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[Updated] Nashville Reacts to George Jones' Passing

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George Jones

George Jones


As news of George Jones’ passing hits audiences, the Nashville music industry takes time to share initial thoughts via social media.
MusicRow has gathered a sample of postings from artists and industry who have reflected on the tragedy, thus far. Among this morning’s reactions are postings of various YouTube performances from the Possum’s “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” including a Keith Urban tribute (below).
An email address has been set up to share your own thoughts, prayers, love and memories with Jones’ widow, Nancy and family.
Mayor Karl Dean: “Like me, I’m sure music fans around the world can’t get “He Stopped Loving Her Today” out of their head on this sad day. Nashville has lost a legend. When I moved to Nashville in 1978, one of the first places I visited was George’s Possum Holler nightclub. It was a great introduction to Nashville. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Nancy, his family and his dear friends.”
George Strait: RIP in George Jones THANK YOU for everything!!
Loretta Lynn: It’s a sad day for country music and a great loss for those of us who knew him. I was blessed to call George my friend. He was one of the best country singers there ever was. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Nancy, and all of his family. It’s a sad, sad day
Barbara Mandrell: I believe if you ask any singer who was the greatest country music singer of all time, they would say ‘George Jones.’ He was without question and by far the BEST! I first met and worked with him when I was 13 years old; I am so very grateful that he was my friend.
Kenny Rogers: “George Jones will always be one of the most amazing singers who ever lived.  He was a true Country Music legend who made music very personal to the listener – I think more than anyone else.  He will be dearly missed, but always remembered.”
Dolly Parton: My heart is absolutely broken. George Jones was my all time favorite singer and one of my favorite people in the world. My heart goes out to Nancy and the rest of his family.
Dierks Bentley: man….heartbroken. Nancy and @gjpossum had a beautiful marriage and special relationship. Love you Nancy. Long live the Possum. Gonna miss my buddy. As sad as I am, I know my friend Terry Eldredge @TheGrascals is devastated. No bigger fan. Many nights listening to Jones together. #thedoor
Trisha Yearwood: The Yearwood/Brooks household is sad today. Rest in peace, George Jones. Our hearts go out to Nancy and family. There are some shoes that just can’t be filled…
Vince Gill: There aren’t words in our language to describe the depth of his greatness. I’ll miss my kind and generous friend.
Easton Corbin: “I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of one of my all time heroes, George Jones. Georges’ music was real and he was able to touch thousands through his songs. Not only was he a great singer, but he also had the ability to make you relate to every one of his songs, no matter who you are. He and his music will remain timeless in the world of country music. My thoughts and prayers are with his family through this difficult time.”
Bill Anderson: So sad to hear the news about George Jones’ passing. He was the definitive country singer, and I was proud to call him a friend. Who’s gonna fill his shoes? Nobody….at least not for a long, long time. Rest in peace, my friend.
Reba: My prayers go out to Nancy Jones today. Her partner and husband George Jones passed this morning. We’ll miss George very much. RIP.
Blake Shelton: Really REALLY bad news. We’ve lost a country music legend. And I’ve lost a hero and a friend. Goodbye George Jones…
Little Big Town: There will never be another George Jones. You are and always will be country music. Rest in peace. #GeorgeJones
Faith Hill: We lost one of the best voices God created this morning. Our hearts are saddened to hear that George Jones has passed away…Our thoughts and prayers are with Nancy and all of the family.
Luke Bryan: George. You will be deeply missed. Thanks for the beautiful memories.
Carrie Underwood: Prayers going to George Jones’ family today. Rest in piece, George. You are loved and will be missed greatly.
Gary LeVox of Rascal Flatts: “He was the greatest country vocalist that ever lived! Through the years we have all tried to emulate the passion in his voice, but no one can fill his shoes.”
Brad Paisley: My friend, the greatest singer of all time, has passed. To those who knew him, our lives were full. To those of you who don’t: discover him now. George Jones’ life is an example of so many wonderful things; How someone’s God-given gifts can make this a richer, better place. How one human being can overcome adversity, addiction, and life threatening obstacles time and time again. That it is not the stumble or fall that counts, but the willingness to stand again. How a keen sense of humor and a twinkle in a person’s eye can still prevail even after all of life’s hard knocks. How mistakes, missteps, and bad choices are not the end of the world if a person chooses to turn them into something good. And George’s life is above all the strongest example of how the love of a great woman can get a man through anything. All of this made its way beautifully into every note of the greatest voice country music will ever know and one of the greatest friends you could ever have. We miss you already, George.
Jo Dee Messina: Ugh! Thoughts and prayers go out to the jones family. Such sad news to wake up to. Heavy heart today.
Alan Jackson: Well, heaven better get ready for some great country music. While George was known for his wild and crazy days, I’ve known him for 25 years as a friend. He had grown into a real good man. Of course, he’ll always be the greatest singer and interpreter of real country music – there’ll never be another. Like the song says, ‘You know this old world is full of singers, but just a few are chosen to tear your heart out when they sing. Imagine life without them…Who’s gonna fill their shoes.”
Martina McBride: So sad to hear about George Jones. His voice and music will be with us forever. I really think George Jones’s voice was country music. “I’ve spent so many hours listening to George, and he just knew his way around a country song,” said McBride to ABC News Radio. “There’s a lot of people that can sing country music, but there’s something about George, his voice, he just knew what to do with a country song. To make it come alive, and to have so much emotion, and just make you feel it. Thoughts go out to all his family, friends and fans.”
The Henningsens: “We are saddened by the news of George Jones passing today. Like many artists, he was one of our all time heroes. This is truly a loss for country music.
Alabama: We’re very saddened to hear of the death of our amazing friend George Jones. George was an all time great in country music and it won’t be the same without him. We’re thankful for his life and we’ll miss him very much.
Ashley Monroe: Wow.. Sweet George SURE will be missed down here.. But I can only imagine the celebration Heaven is having today..
Blair Garner: RIP George Jones. Passed at 81. Your music, sir, will keep you alive forever. #timeless
Garth Brooks: The greatest voice to ever grace country music will never die.
John Rich: The world will miss the great #georgejones A giant has passed on. Proud to say we were true friends. Who’s gonna fill his shoes? Nobody.
Shane McAnally: Thank you, George Jones, for…well…everything.
NotJakeOwen: As the riding mower approached the Pearly Gates, Hank, Keith and Waylon said ‘Don’t mind him St. Pete, he’s with us.’ RIP Possum
Kix Brooks: Possum, angels got a serious lead singer today – God bless Nancy his loving wife – what a guy- what a voice – that was one hell of a show!
Ronnie Dunn: The greatest country blues singer to ever live
LeAnn Rimes: So sad we lost “the possum” today. R.I.P George Jones and know we didn’t stop loving you today. You will live on forever in our hearts.
Collin Raye: “Country music and the world will miss George Jones.  He was someone who set a high standard in our industry for great music and lyrics that tapped into the emotions of the human heart at a very deep level.  His music has touched the lives of country music lovers for over five decades. My prayers are with his family and I pray for the repose of his soul.  May you rest in peace, brother.”
Tracy Lawrence: I am so saddened by the news of George Jones’s passing. He was a wonderful friend and I will always treasure the times we had together. My thoughts and prayers are with Nancy and the entire family. George left a tremendous mark on Country music and inspired us all. I will miss him. God Bless you George.
Ricky Skaggs: THE Country Music singer of all time. The words ‘Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes’ has never been more true than today.
Larry Gatlin: Years ago someone asked Coach Bum Phillips if Earl Campbell was in a class by himself. Bum replied, ‘Well if he ain’t, it sure don’t take long to check roll.’ I say the same of the late great George Jones. Rest in peace POSSUM. You were always kind to me… THANKS.
Sammy Kershaw: George Jones has been a major part of my personal and professional life for a long time. I have been inspired by his music for the last 50 years and for 42 of those, I had the pleasure of knowing him personally and professionally. He was IT to me. George was and will always be my guy. I am luckier than a lot of people on this Earth because God let me be a part of George’s life and him a part of mine. And on this day, his song couldn’t be more true: ‘He Stopped Loving Her Today.’
Mel Tillis: I met George when he came to Nashville and we became good friends. I’m really going to miss him. The world has lost the greatest singer to have ever lived.
Ray Stevens: George Jones may be gone but his music will live on forever. What a great voice and a great friend.
Pam Tillis: Country music as we know it would be vastly different if it weren’t for George Jones. He’s in our musical DNA. All country artists will have to figure out how to even begin to live up to his kind of legacy. ‘Honky Tonk Heaven,’ here he comes… though we’re not ready to let go.
Restless Heart: The greatest most soulful voice in history is gone. RIP George Jones… the guys of Restless Heart will miss you greatly.
The Marshall Tucker Band (Doug Gray): We met George many times over the past 50 years. This is a terrible loss for his family, friends, the country music industry and the world. He’s the most identifiable and inspirational country artist that has ever lived.
Billy Dean: George Jones was a mentor and a giant to my generation of country singers. He was there for my first Ralph Emery Show appearance. Backstage I was so nervous and expressed concern to George that if Ralph Emery didn’t like me, my career may never get off the ground. The first thing George said to Ralph when they went on air was how nice of guy he thought I was. George Jones was our country music soul singer, no doubt. Who’s gonna fill those shoes?
The Bellamy Brothers: We’ve lost one of the greatest voices in history. Prayers and condolences to his family.
Sweethearts of the Rodeo: Sharing the same vocal booth with George Jones on ‘Traveller’s Prayer’ was without a doubt THE highlight of our career. He was a true legend, generous and supportive and he will live on and on in our hearts.
Trace Adkins: George Jones was my friend, and I loved him.
Thompson Square: Such a sad say today. We lost one of the greatest country singers to ever live. Rest in peace George…
Charlie Daniels: Rest in peace George Jones There will never be another one like you and we’ll miss you a bunch Buddy.
Billy Ray Cyrus: I’m stunned and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my good friend George Jones. The very definition of a legend. Thoughts and prayers.
Manuel: We at Manuel American Designs are very sad to hear about the passing of the legendary George Jones! A very sad day for country music fans across the world. R.I. P Possum, you will be missed by many. Love to his family in this difficult time.
Keith Urban: If I’m blessed enough to make it there, I look forward to you giving me the grand tour. Rest in peace George Jones!!!!!
YouTube video

GEORGE JONES DEAD AT 81

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georgejonesCountry Music Hall of Famer, Grand Ole Opry member, and Kennedy Center Honoree George Glenn Jones died Friday, April 26, 2013 at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. He was hospitalized April 18 with fever and irregular blood pressure.
[MusicRow gathers reflections and reactions from artists and the Country Music industry]
 
Born September 12, 1931, Jones is regarded among the most important and influential singers in American popular music history. He was the singer of enduring country music hits including “She Thinks I Still Care,” “The Grand Tour,” “Walk Through This World With Me,” “Tender Years” and “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” the latter of which is often at the top of industry lists of the greatest country music singles of all time.
“A singer who can soar from a deep growl to dizzying heights, he is the undisputed successor of earlier natural geniuses such as Hank Williams and Lefty Frizzell,” wrote Bob Allen in the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s “Encyclopedia of Country Music.”
Jones was born in Saratoga, Texas, and he played on the streets of Beaumont for tips as a teenager. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps before returning to Texas and recording for the Starday label in Houston, Texas. In 1955, his “Why Baby Why” became his first Top 10 country single, peaking at number four and beginning a remarkable commercial string: Jones would ultimately record more than 160 charting singles, more than any other artist in any format in the history of popular music.
Jones’ first number one hit came in 1959 with “White Lightning,” a Mercury Records single that topped Billboard country charts for five weeks. He moved on to United Artists and then to Musicor, notching hits including “She Thinks I Still Care,” “The Race Is On,” “A Good Year for the Roses” and “Walk Through This World With Me.”
Jones signed with Epic Records in 1971 and worked with producer Billy Sherrill to craft a sound at once elegant and rooted, scoring with “The Grand Tour,” “Bartenders Blues” and many more. Sherrill also produced duets between Jones and his then-wife Tammy Wynette, and in the 1970s they scored top-charting hits including “We’re Gonna Hold On,” “Golden Ring” and “Near You.”
By the time “Golden Ring” and “Near You” hit in 1976, Jones and Wynette were divorced, and Jones was battling personal demons. His solo career cooled until 1980, when he recorded “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” a ballad penned by Curly Putman and Bobby Braddock that helped Jones win Country Music Association prizes for best male vocal and top single. “He Stopped Loving Her Today” revived a flagging career, and Jones won the CMA’s top male vocalist award in 1980 and 1981. He also earned a Grammy for best male country vocal performance.
In 1983, Jones married the former Nancy Ford Sepulvado. The union, he repeatedly said, began his rehabilitation from drugs and alcohol and prolonged his life. He signed with MCA Records in 1990 and began a successful run, and he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1992. His guest vocal on Patty Loveless’ “You Don’t Seem To Miss Me” won a CMA award for top vocal event in 1998, and it became his final Top 20 country hit.
In 1999, Jones nearly died in a car wreck, but he recovered and resumed touring and recording. He remained a force in music until his death, playing hundreds of shows in the new century and collecting the nation’s highest arts award, the Kennedy Center Honor for lifetime achievement, in 2008. In late 2012, Jones announced his farewell tour, which was to conclude with a sold-out, star-packed show at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on November 22, 2013. Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks, Randy Travis, Charlie Daniels, Kenny Rogers, Sam Moore, The Oak Ridge Boys and many others were set to perform at Jones’ Bridgestone show.
Jones is survived by his loving wife of 30 years Nancy Jones, his sister Helen Scroggins, and by his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Bobby Karl Works The Johnny Cash Museum

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Tommy Joanne Cash11

Tommy Cash and Joanne Cash Yates


Let’s get the “reviewing” part of this story out of the way, right away. Are you ready? Here’s the review: The new Johnny Cash Museum is awesome.
That’s it. Seven words. Now I’ll tell you why. At Thursday morning’s Private Viewing of Nashville’s newest attraction (April 25), a treasure trove of memorabilia was unveiled. In addition to items from the old House of Cash museum in Hendersonville, the new facility includes contributions from fans, artifacts taken from other museums and, most of all, the stunning collection of a man named Bill Miller.
“I became a fan and a collector as a boy,” said Miller at the event. “I saw my first Johnny Cash show at age 12. And I kept going back, again and again. Eventually they said, ‘Just give him a backstage pass.’ So I got to know Johnny, and Johnny was also a collector. We swapped things.”
Miller says “We’ve scoured the world” for the items on display in this terrific  museum on 3rd Avenue South, just off Broadway downtown.
You enter and depart through the gift shop, which has the coolest Cash t-shirts ever, by the way. Your first stop inside is the Dyess, Arkansas section of the museum, which spotlights Johnny’s childhood. Vintage family photos are displayed, alongside the star’s Sears guitar, his boyhood toys, a cotton-picking sack filled with cotton bolls and the family’s wooden radio. Nearby is a case displaying the instruments of The Tennessee Three.
Johnny’s sister, Joanne Cash Yates, became teary-eyed as she looked at the memorabilia. His brother, Tommy Cash, graciously accepted compliments from attendees.
The next section of the museum spotlights Johnny’s years in the Air Force. His uniform, service papers and transmitter are in cases. Many of the items have never been seen by the public before.
Cash inside11In the Memphis/Sun Records section are Johnny’s J-200 Gibson guitar as well as collectible 45 r.p.m. and 78 r.p.m. records. “Johnny Cash may be the only artist who charted in every format while he was living, including digital downloads,” Miller said.
The San Quentin exhibit spotlights the recordings that Johnny made at prison concerts. It includes jailhouse tin cups, a set list, guard badges, a cell door, the lyrics to “Folsom Prison Blues” and the Grammy Award that resulted.
A section spotlighting the 1960s showcases a red silk shirt, his “Man in Black” suit, his first custom-made leather boots, Maybelle Carter’s autoharp, Johnny and June Carter’s wedding license, posters, letters, lyrics and manuscripts. Nearby is a wall of Gold and Platinum records. In front of it are Johnny’s CMA Awards in individual display cases.
A video room is dedicated to the star’s patriotism. Another room displays posters from the various films he appeared in, as well as a wealth of costumes and hats. The museum also contains antique furniture from Johnny and June’s home. The old sign from the House of Cash museum is there as well.
“It had been taken to Arkansas, but we got it back,” said Johnny’s niece Kelly Hancock, who used to work at the old museum. “So now I’m back at the House of Cash.”
In another room, there are artifacts from Johnny’s time spent in The Highwaymen with Waylon Jennings, Kris Kristofferson and Willie Nelson. Beyond that are items relating to his late-career revival with producer Rick Rubin. A studio console, books written by Cash, his paintings and drawings and various other artifacts are also there.Cash Inside 2 photo11111
Scattered throughout the museum are listening stations and video viewing stations highlighting everything from “I Walk the Line” to “Hurt.” There is an event space available for rent behind the exhibit area.
“We’re having a ‘soft’ opening tomorrow [Friday, April 26] and then a Grand Opening in June, when there are more people in town,” said Kelly. “The Johnny Cash [postage] stamp comes out on June 5.
“There will be a lot more,” she promised. “We’re still adding things.”
“The collecting continues,” confirmed Bill Miller. “My wife thinks it’s a sickness.”
Peter Cooper, Sherod Robertson, Shannon Miller, Tom Roland, Chuck Dauphin, Pam Lewis, Mark Logsdon and the other members of the media at the preview event were enthusiastically taking notes and snapshots.
Here’s my advice: Go and experience The Johnny Cash Museum NOW, before the rest of the world finds out that it’s open and it becomes too crowded to enjoy properly.
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Weekly Chart Report (4/26/13)

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SPIN ZONE

Show Dog Universal’s Joel Crouse recently shared his debut single, “If You Want Some” with KWOF PD, Jonathan Wilde.

Show Dog Universal’s Joel Crouse recently shared his debut single, “If You Want Some” with KWOF PD, Jonathan Wilde.


Darius Rucker‘s infectious hit “Wagon Wheel,” featuring the members of Lady Antebellum on background vocals, topped the MusicRow CountryBreakout Chart this week. Eric Church‘s “Like Jesus Does” comes in at No. 2, followed by Tim McGraw with Taylor Swift‘s “Highway Don’t Care” and Kenny Chesney‘s former No. 1 “Pirate Flag,” at No. 3 and No. 4, respectively. Brantley Gilbert‘s “More Than Miles” holds at No. 5 again this week, while The Band Perry‘s “Done” rises from No. 8 to No. 6. Jake Owen‘s “Anywhere With You” ups one notch from No. 9 to No. 8. The Henningsens‘ “American Beautiful” breaks into the Top 10 this week, while Kelly Clarkson featuring Vince Gill‘s “Don’t Rush” remains at No. 10.
Luke Bryan has brought quite the party to the charts–his single, “Crash My Party,” is the greatest gainer again this week, with 516 spins, jumping from No. 26 to No. 16. Carrie Underwood‘s “See You Again”  rises from No. 30 to No. 23, with additional 426 spins. Underwood’s tourmate, Hunter Hayes,” has his own swiftly rising single with “I Want Crazy” climbing from No. 40 to No 31. Little Big Town‘s “Your Side of The Bed” jumps from No. 33 to No. 27, while Blake Shelton‘s “Boys Round Here” rises two spots from No. 14 to No. 12 this week.
Eric Paslay has the top debut this week with “Friday Night” at No. 55, followed by Lee Brice‘s “Parking Lot Party” at No. 68, Joanna Smith‘s “Girls Are Crazy” at No. 73, Chris Cagle‘s “Dance Baby Dance” at No. 77 and Casey Donahew Band‘s “Whiskey Baby” at No. 79.
Frozen Playlists:  WWBE, WOOZ, KWEY, WDHR, WRHT
 
Upcoming Singles
April 25
Steve Richard/Keep On Rollin’/Force MP
April 29
Joanna Smith/Girls Are Crazy/RCA
IMAJ/Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner/Triomphe Records
Dakota Bradley/Somethin’ Like Somethin’/Streamsound
David Shelby/Kick A Little Dirt Around/Highway South
Morgan Frazier/Yellow Brick Road/Sidewalk
May 6
Scotty McCreery/See You Tonight/Mercury-19-Interscope
Chuck Wicks/Salt Life/McGhee
Thomas Rhett/It Goes Like This/Valory
May 13
Joe Nichols/Sunny and 75/Red Bow
Chris Young/Aw Naw/RCA
June 16
Travis Tritt (feat. Tyler Reese)/Sometimes Love Just Ain’t Enough
• • •
New On The Chart—Debuting This Week
Artist/song/label — chart pos.
Eric Paslay/Friday Night/EMI Nashville – 55
Lee Brice/Parking Lot Party/Curb – 68
Joanna Smith/Girls Are Crazy/RCA Nashville – 73
Chris Cagle/Dance Baby Dance/Bigger Picture Group – 77
Casey Donahew Band/Whiskey Baby – 79
Most Added
Artist/song/label — New Adds
Eric Paslay/Friday Night/EMI Nashville – 24
Hunter Hayes/I Want Crazy Atlantic/WMN – 17
Lee Brice/Parking Lot Party/Curb – 14
Carrie Underwood/See You Again/Arista – 13
Luke Bryan/Crash My Party/Capitol-UMG Nashville – 13
Little Big Town/Your Side Of The Bed/Capitol – 12
Chris Weaver Band/So Damn Beautiful/Tygart Music – 12
Steve Richard/Keep On Rollin’/Force MP – 12
Kacey Musgraves/Blowin’ Smoke/Mercury Nashville – 10
Thomas Rhett/It Goes Like This/Valory Music Group – 10
Greatest Spin Increase
Artist/song/label — spin+
Luke Bryan/Crash My Party/Capitol-UMG Nashville – 516
Carrie Underwood/See You Again/Arista – 426
Hunter Hayes/I Want Crazy/Atlantic-WMN – 404
Little Big Town/Your Side Of The Bed/Capitol – 307
Blake Shelton/Boys Round Here/Warner Bros. – 305
On Deck—Soon To Be Charting
Artist/song/label — spins
Emerson Drive/She’s My Kind Of Crazy/Open Road Recordings – 171
Jason Cassidy/Blame It On Waylon/Blake Records – 157
Breelan Angel/It’s My Turn/MisBhavin’ – 155
Scotty McCreery/See You Tonight/19 Ent.-Mercury – 154
Katie Armiger/Playin’ With Fire/Cold River – 145
 
Blaster Record’s Jared Ashley recently visited WGAR in Cleveland for a visit and performance to promote his latest single, "Last Train To Memphis." Pictured (L-R): Dave Collins (Blaster Records), Jared Ashley, Charley Connolly (PD, WGAR), Tom Porter (CEO, Blaster Entertainment), Dan Barbera (Management, Blaster).

Blaster Record’s Jared Ashley recently visited WGAR in Cleveland for a visit and performance to promote his latest single, “Last Train To Memphis.” Pictured (L-R): Dave Collins (Blaster Records), Jared Ashley, Charley Connolly (PD, WGAR), Tom Porter (CEO, Blaster Entertainment), Dan Barbera (Management, Blaster).


LandStar Entertainment's Adam Fears visited the staff at WUSY Chattanooga and performed his new single "There's a Girl Out There.” Pictured (L-R): Cowboy Kyle, Styckman, Gator Harrison, Adam Fears, Melissa Wagner, Bill "Dex" Poindexter.

LandStar Entertainment’s Adam Fears visited the staff at WUSY Chattanooga and performed his new single “There’s a Girl Out There.” Pictured (L-R): Cowboy Kyle, Styckman, Gator Harrison, Adam Fears, Melissa Wagner, Bill “Dex” Poindexter.


 
 

Weekly Register: Shared Streaming Challenges—Video And Music

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nflixThe video streaming business is experiencing similar challenges as the music industry as it struggles become profitable.
Earlier this week Netflix stock careened 24% (+$42.73) in after hours trading as the company announced robust first quarter gains in streaming subscriber growth. As of March 31, Netflix had about 29.2 million subscribers, revenue of $1.02 billion and profits of 5¢ a share. For comparison, HBO’s 2012 year end subscriber count was 28.7 million.
That’s a lot of numbers, but what is the underlying story? Netflix operates on a subscription model much like Pandora and Spotify. For $7.99 a month Netflix customers can stream unlimited content to a variety of screens—HD TV, mobile, tablet or desktop. Unlike Pandora and Spotify, there is no free (ad-supported) service. Another differentiator between the video and music streamers, Netflix is actually producing and creating its own exclusive content. Earlier this year the channel debuted “House Of Cards” which received critical acclaim and boosted subscriptions. Talking about the effect of the mini-series on subscriptions, Netflix CEO Reed Hastings told stock analysts “It’s a nice long-term tailwind.” The company plans to spend $5.63 billion over the next few years on original and exclusive content.
weeklygrid4-21-13Like the music industry, Netflix also has a piracy problem with its consumers and or multiple family members (over) sharing the same log-in. According to a Bloomberg article, Netflix is facing a crossroads where in order to remain profitable and add subscribers they must either raise prices or tighten up sharing rules. Currently two people can watch different programs at the same time using the same subscription. The article quotes former EMI Music Group exec John Rose, now managing director for media, technology at Boston Group Consulting who says, “In general consumers don’t see sharing accounts as theft.” Rose notes consumers have many choices and raising prices, for example creates a risk they will go elsewhere for content. In fact, despite the rosy quarter, stock analysts seem to be quite unsure whether Netflix can actually reach a scale where it can achieve long-term health. Current research shows Netflix customers enjoy 87 minutes of daily streaming per customer. Hastings hopes reaching his goal of 90 million U.S. customers (a 300 percent increase) over two years will help pay for all the content they are purchasing. Will he raise prices, tighten sharing, attract attention with great content or a combination of all three? Or will Netflix get into the music business and offer one subscription for music and video content?
weeklygrid4-14-13Grid Talk
The sales week ended 4-21-13 had little to distinguish itself. The big ACM bump happened last week, and country mustered just one Top Ten debut this week–Texas troubadors, the Casey Donahew Band who grabbed lucky No. 7 with over 13k (75 percent digital) in sales. I’m not familiar with the CDB, but a quick look at the band’s web site reveals a professionally run organization that any Music City manager would be proud to helm.
cdbMr. “Voice” Shelton reclaimed the No. 1 Top Country Album position with over 42k units and The Band Perry (37k) moved from No. 4 last week to No. 2. Sales for Brad Paisley’s No. 1 debut last week fell 66 percent to about 34k giving him a two week total of 135k.
Other notable debut releases included Steve Earle and the Dukes (No. 12; 11k); Granger Smith (No. 15; 10k) and Willie Nelson (No. 16; 10k).
Country track sales were off 21 percent w/w but remain ahead of last year by 6.6 percent. Florida Georgia Line continues to ignite the country tracks chart as its combined versions of “Cruise” continue to be the week’s screamin’ stream (No. 1; 129k) . The track is now at 2.85 million downloads and will soon pass three!
Readers may want to click over to MR’s Album Release calendar to take a look at what’s on the way. It looks like another light week and then I’d suggest you fasten your seat belt…

DISClaimer: Summer's Comin'

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Ashley Monroe Publicity photoThis week, country artists must be feeling those summer breezes in the air, because an awful lot of them are putting out sunny tempo tunes.
Eric Paslay, Frank Ortega, Lee Brice and the star trio of Joe Diffie, Sammy Kershaw and Aaron Tippin all have new singles that scream summer airplay. Another country rocker comes from our DisCovery Award winners The Sins Country. They not only sing it splendidly, they co-wrote it, to boot.
Nevertheless, it is a hypnotizing, mid-tempo effort that truly won my heart. The loveliness of “You Got Me” earns the divine Ashley Monroe her second consecutive Disc of the Day award.
JOE DIFFIE, SAMMY KERSHAW & AARON TIPPIN/All In The Same Boat
Writers: Jamey Johnson, Wynn Varble, Don Poythress; Producer: Sammy Kershaw; Publisher: Warner-Tamerlane/Precious Flour/Universal/MGB/Don Poythress, BMI/ASCAP, Big Hit
-All three of them are such superb country vocal stylists. So I would have preferred a mix where the backing track wasn’t quite so amped up. That said, this bopper has plenty of infectious fun in it.

The Sins Country

The Sins Country


DAVID SHELBY/Kick A Little Dirt Around
Writers: F.J. Turner/D. Shelby/C. Virzi Producers: F.J. Turner, D. Shelby & C. Virzi, Publisher: Zavitson, BMI, Highway South
-It’s an invitation to dance. Thanks, but I’ll sit this one out.
RANDY ROGERS BAND/Fuzzy
Writers:Shane McAnally/Trevor Rosen/Josh Osborne; Producer: Jay Joyce, Publisher: Crazy Water/Little Blue Egg/Kobalt/Want a Fresh One/Black River, ASCAP, MCA Nashville
-Producer Joyce adds innovative audio touches to the track, which is his hallmark. The performance is enthusiastic, but the song is nothing to write home about.
FRANK ORTEGA/Two Places at Once
Writers: Ira Dean/David Lee Murphy/Kim Tribble, Producer: none listed, Publishers: Hillbilly Rich/Sony-ATV Tree/Old Desperado/N2D/Carol Vincent/Beechtree/Do Write, BMI/ASCAP, Villa One
-It has been a few years since we’ve heard from this fine indie artist. As before, he has excellent choice in songs and superb production values. On this rocking country outing, he fronts a deep-thump rhythm track and carries a catchy melody with aplomb. Stay tuned for the extended instrumental ride at the fade. A winner. Again.
LUKE BRYAN/Crash My Party
Writers: Rodney Clawson/Ashley Gorley, Producer: Jeff Stevens; Publisher: Big Red Toe/Amarillo Sky/Big Loud Bucks/External Combustion/Out of the Taperoom/Songs of Southside Independent, BMI/ASCAP, Capitol
-Don’t let the title fool you: This is a love song with a steady groove and a sensuous melody. Stevens’ production layers strings, an electric guitar solo, percussion and echo effects to good effect.
ERIC PASLAY/Friday Night
Writers: Eric Paslay/Rose Falcon/Rob Crosby, Producer: Marshall Altman; Publisher: Cal IV/Wadmalaw, ASCAP/BMI, EMI
-In this bright, sunshiny bopper, he wants to be her ride to good times. Thumpers like this are the perfect summertime soundtrack. Put the top down and turn it up.
LEE BRICE/Parking Lot Party
Writers: Lee Brice/Thomas Rhett Atkins/Rhett Akins/Luke Laird; Producer: Jon Stone and Lee Brice; Publishers: Mike Curb/EMI Blackwood/Rhettneck/Universal-Careers/High Powered Machine, BMI, Curb
-I am fed up to here with country-music party songs. But this guy is just so darn likeable and believable that I found myself bopping along with his tailgate tune in spite of myself.
HANNAH BETHEL/No Where Left To Roam
Writers: H. Bethel; Producer: Andy Sheridan and Hannah Bethel; Publisher: Hannywyn, BMI, HB
-She has a very cool Appalachian vocal style. The upbeat tune is produced perfectly with plenty of open spaces between the fiddle, dobro and steel lines and restless, relentless brushed drumming. The accomplished singing is as impressive as the fact that she wrote or co-wrote all five of the EP’s fine songs.
ASHLEY MONROE/You Got Me
Writers: Ashley Monroe/Karen Fairchild, Producers: Vince Gill and Justin Niebank, Publishers: Reynsong/Ayden/Warner-Tamerlane, BMI
-Drawn from one of the best country albums of the year to date, this is a moody, swooning, shuffling, softly sexy and atmospheric gem of a disc. She is inescapably drawn into a love that’s not good for her. But, dang, it feels so good.
THE SINS COUNTRY/Romeo and Juliet Sparks
Writers: Joe Sins/Kristen Sins; Producer: none listed; Publisher: none listed; GTR Nashville
-They’re both really strong country singers, whether swapping lines or harmonizing together. The song is a well-written, uptempo saga of love persevering despite parental disapproval. Very worthy of your spins. Send more.

Phil Keaggy To Be Honored With ASCAP Golden Note Award

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phil keaggy11

Phil Keaggy. Photo by Sean Hagwell


The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) will honor songwriter and guitarist Phil Keaggy with the prestigious ASCAP Golden Note Award during the 35th Annual ASCAP Christian Music Awards. The awards will be held on Monday, May 6 at The Franklin Theatre in Franklin, Tenn. The invitation-only event will also honor the songwriters and publishers of ASCAP’s most performed Christian songs of the past year.
ASCAP’s Golden Note Award is presented to songwriters, composers and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones. Past recipients include Michael W. Smith, Bob McDill, Don Williams, Garth Brooks, Lindsey Buckingham, Alan Jackson, Reba McEntire and J.D. Souther, among others.
ASCAP’s Michael Martin commented, “Phil Keaggy’s influence on both the contemporary Christian and mainstream music markets is immeasurable. We are very proud to honor him with the ASCAP Golden Note Award in recognition of his incredible career.”