Monday, November 11, 2013

Country Music City Promotions Veterans Day Message









Throughout the years men and women brave the impossible, put their lives on the line for our country. Many never make it back home and those who do live with the outcome of war. Every sacrifice they make is rewarded though in reality it always isn't, they fight to be heard. On this Veteran's day thank a Vet for their service. They are our unsung hero's.

To our military and troops I pray for them and pray they come back home to their families. To our hospitalized veterans, wounded warriors they remain in my heart.

God Bless all our Veterans, 
Shellie Palmer from Country Music City Promotions.

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

CMA Winners and Highlights

The 47th annual Country Music Awards may have had it's hits and misses of the night though in country music fashion hosts Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood continue to give a show full of parodies and jokes that no one can contain from busting a gut, from Obama Care, to twearking, feuding duels and Duck Dynasty.  From several costume changes Underwood grabbed attention while Paisley gives corny new meaning. Paisley and Underwood are a fitting match when it comes to hosting the CMA's and in it's 6th consecutive year I say the Country Music Association will bring these two back together in 2014.
Of the night's performances some were less than desired though the highlights out weighs them. Keith Urban and Miranda Lambert team up to perform "We Were Us" Urban's newly released single to country radio. The budding duo's vocals were crisp and refreshing, the vibes and chemistry was spot on. Lady Antebellum debuted their new single "Compass", the light, fun upbeat song has it's infusion of country folk and blues aside from the country pop crossover appeal, still it doesn't disappoint. Little Big Town performed their newly released single "Sober" from their hit album Tornado, the harmonious vocals showcase a light atmosphere starting the performance acapella, Jimi, Karen, Kimberly, and Phillip bring such freshness to country music. Of the night's collaborative efforts Taylor Swift with Vince Gill and Alison Krauss were well matched, the acoustic performance of "Red" had an old time flare of traditional country. As that wasn't enough newly inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame Kenny Rogers is this years Lifetime Achievement Award honoree. Rogers career has spanned over the past decade performing for fans across the globe and continues to bring the light of music into homes today. With performances from Jennifer Nettles, Rascal Flatts and Darius Rucker the gambler lives on. They say real country isn't dead it only lives on and it did with a special performance and tribute to the late great George Jones, "He Stopped Loving Her Today" was  performed by George Strait and Alan Jackson. Yet the night wasn't complete without Taylor Swift receiving the Pinnacle award. Swift's career began at 16 and since then has shaped and changed the way of country music today, her influence, positivity, charitable efforts and raising awareness is Taylor Swift. The humbled Swift sincere speech of appreciation was felt by her fellow artists and peers. There is much to be said of the 47th Annual CMA Awards and I for one see talent and passion in an artist or act. If they don't have it don't flaunt it.



Many congratulations to this years winners, get the full list below and I'll see you there next year at the 48th Annual CMA's.



Winners List

Musical Event of The Year  "Highway Don't Care" Tim McGraw with Taylor Swift and Keith Urban

Single of The Year  "Cruise"  Florida Georgia Line

Song of The Year "I Drive Your Truck" written by Jessi Alexander, Connie Harrington and Jimmy Yeary - performed by Lee Brice

Vocal Duo of The Year  Florida Georgia Line

New Artist of The Year  Kacey Musgraves

Vocal Group of The Year  Little Big Town

Music Video of The Year  "Highway Don't Care" Tim McGraw,  Taylor Swift and Keith Urban - Directed by Shane Drake

Album of The Year  Based On A True Story Blake Shelton - Warner Bros. Records - Produced by Scott Hendricks

Male Vocalist of The Year  Blake Shelton

Female Vocalist of The Year  Miranda Lambert

Musician of The Year  Mac McAnally

Entertainer of The Year  George Strait




Follow the Country Music Association on G+, Twitter, Facebook and their official website.

Kellie Pickler The Woman I Am Press Release, Events and Appearances



Photography Credited to Robert Ascroft




Less than a week away Kellie Pickler's highly anticipated fourth album The Woman I Am will be released to country music and her legion of fans. The album produced by Luke Wooten and Frank Liddell, contains 12 new songs including her current single "Little Bit Gypsy". In anticipation of the release fans are now able to pre-order digital versions of The Woman I Am on iTunes, and will automatically receive a digital download of Pickler's current single "Little Bit Gypsy, with their purchase.

Pickler co-wrote 3 of the 12 tracks including the title cut she wrote with her husband Kyle Jacobs. The Woman I Am is her first album on her brand new label home, Black River Entertainment, and her follow up to 100 Proof, which Rolling Stone named as the No.1 Country Album of 2012.
"I can't wait for my fans to hear this music," said Pickler. "It is pure 'Kellie Country' and may be the most 'me' album that I've created yet".

Pickler will celebrate "Country Music's Biggest Night" by presenting  an award on the 47th Annual CMA Awards Wednesday Night  November 6th at 8 pm EST/7 pm CT on ABC Television.

The reigning Mirror Ball Trophy winner is looking  forward to returning to ABC's "Dancing With The Stars" Monday November 11th to sit in the audience and cheer for all of this year's contenders. After the show, she will have the opportunity to celebrate her recent American Country Awards nomination for Music Video of The Year: Female for "Someone Somewhere Tonight" with former dance partner Derek Hough who co-starred with her in the video.

On Wednesday, November 13th Kellie will perform on both syndicated programs "The Ellen Degeneres Show" and CBS Television's "Late, Late Show with Craig Ferguson".

Later in the month on November 26th Pickler will perform on The View.
Announced earlier Pickler will ride a float and perform in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Thursday November 28th Live on NBC. And there is more, Kellie will help everyone get into the holiday spirit when she performs  on the "CMA Country Christmas" special airing on ABC December 2nd.


There is even more for Kellie Pickler and her fans as pre-ordering has begun of autographed copies of The Woman I Am in a variety of bundled packages.
Go to the Kellie Pickler store here;
The Kellie Pickler Store

New Singles From Thomas Rhett and Toby Keith For The Month Of November




Thomas Rhett experienced his first number hit with "It Goes Like This" now Rhett is ready to follow up with a new single coming to country radio November 18th "Get Me Some of That", with any indication of the song we could hear another hit on our hands. Rhett is on the rise and one to watch in 2o13.

Download "Get Me Some of That" on Amazon here
Thomas Rhett "Get Me Some of That" MP3 Download





Toby Keith takes reign on new material on his recently released album Drinks After Work, the first single of the same name "Drinks After Work" speaks for itself, fans loved the song so much country radio heard it loud and clear from Toby Keith fans. The song still has no sign of slowing down yet either. In the meantime Keith releases a brand new single "Shut Up and Hold On". The approach on this song may surprise everyone.


Download "Shut Up and Hold On" on Amazon here
Toby Keith "Shut Up and Hold On" MP3 Download

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Sarah Darling Brings The Joy of Christmas With The Release of A Brand New E.P Have A Merry Little Christmas Darling Tuesday November 19th


Photo Credit to Amanda French at Marquee Public Relations


Though Sarah Darling has been performing and bringing music to fans for quite some time she has truly been the lime light and joy to country music. Tis the season for Darling who sets to release a 4 track Christmas EP Tuesday November 19,2013. Have A Merry Little Christmas Darling covers the classics "The Christmas Song" ("Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire"),
"I'll Be Home For Christmas", "Silent Night" and the original Joni Mitchell "River". The new, independently released E.P is intricately crafted to Darling's "crisp, powerhouse voice", as hailed by the New York times. Collaborating in the studio with Steve Gibson, Darling feels they have created an E.P that is the best representation of herself as an artist in a holiday timepiece. "You will hear so much of who I am in every track and will be taken away to nostalgic times of Christmas past. It was such a magical project to record", she says.
Produced by the long -time musical director of the CMA Awards, CMA Country Christmas,the Grand Ole Opry and the recent Emmy Award nominee Steve Gibson, Darling and Gibson will bring the pure magic of Christmas to country music fans around the world. The holidays will sure be filled with plenty of music from the heart this season.

Moreover, tickets are on sale now for the "Sarah Darling and Friends Acoustic Christmas" concert at the Franklin Theatre on December 13th where she will debut the new tracks alongside Matthew Perryman Jones, Jenn Bostic and other to-be-announced special guests. The historic theatre is nestled in the charming town of Franklin, Tenn, the perfect picturesque holiday setting for Darling and her special guests to showcase their critically-acclaimed talent.

Tickets can be purchased now here:
Franklin Theatre Events - Sarah Darling and Friends Acoustic Christmas

For more information on the Franklin Theatre please visit the official website here  The Franklin Theatre

A VIP media reception will be held prior to the concert. To RSVP, contact Amanda French  at amanda@marqueepr.com

Craig Campbell Featuring The Raging Idiots Release Country Version of Royals




Country artist Craig Campbell is taking on a new approach on Billboards Hot 100 chart topper "Royals" with radio personality Bobby Bones and The Raging Idiots.  Buzzfeed  calls out Campbell and The Raging Idiots recording as one of six awesome covers of Lorde's "Royals" and shares the creatively quirky music video, which as amassed more than 50,000 streams in just the last few weeks.

The song releases today on iTunes and all proceeds from the download of "Royals" by Craig Campbell featuring The Raging Idiots will benefit the Human Society.
To download "Royals" by Craig Campbell featuring The Raging Idiots go here
Craig Campbell Royals featuring The Raging Idiots





From the Bobby Bones Show watch the video here
Video credit to Bobby Bones


Monday, November 4, 2013

Dolly Parton Brings Joy To Lifetime Movie A Country Christmas Story November 9th

 
Photo Credit to: Karolina Wojtasik




Dolly Parton makes her return to TV this holiday season in a brand new Lifetime Christmas story A Country Christmas Story with Grammy award nominated R and B singer and producer Brian McKnight featuring new comer Desiree Ross as Grace and Megyn Price.

A Country Christmas Story  follows a young Appalachian mountain girl  as she pursues her dreams of becoming  a country star despite her mothers unwillingness. Her journey to stage at Dollywood with a singing competition  hosted by Dolly Parton reunites her with her musical father played by McKnight uncovers the musical legacy of African-Americans in the world of country music.

A Country Christmas Story airs Saturday November 9,2013 at 8 pm EST / 7 pm Central
on Lifetime. For times in your area check local listings.

For more on the movie, cast, the story visit the site here
Lifetime A Country Christmas Story

Saturday, November 2, 2013

2013 Giveaway Winner Announced

Country Music City Promotions 2013 Giveaway was the largest this year with the combination of two previous giveaways the Madonna Nash giveaway and the Maggie Rose debut album giveaway including items of album releases,  rising artist Dylan Scott's EP, a signed Sarah Darling 8X10 from a Stage It show I attended, special issues of country weekly, The hot fall fashions issue of US Weekly featuring Kellie Pickler and a limited edition Tim McGraw gift card.

September was Country Music City Promotions 2 yr. anniversary and all month long brought fans interviews from independent artists Tammie Davis and Doug Briney to a first time Livestream video despite technical issues that were resolved.

Through out September and October Country Music City Promotions gave you the country music fans to talk about their favorite country artist, after all it's about "you" the fans.

I've heard from a lot of fans on G+, some on twitter and even Facebook. Your dedication is well, awesome!!


The WINNER of the 2013 Giveaway IS.................
Sharon Michano

Her comment on Vince Gill melt my heart
"Vince Gill has always been my favorite and his songs are heart warming and touching!", she exclaimed.

CONGRATULATIONS TO COUNTRY MUSIC CITY PROMOTIONS 2013 GIVEAWAY WINNER!!

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Happy Halloween From Country Music City Promotions

Photo Courtesy and Credited of Country Music City Promotions



Country Music City Promotions is wishing everyone a safe and fun Halloween !

Country music fans have the chance to win the BIG giveaway of 2013.
Winner will be announced on Twitter and Facebook at midnight 
Thursday October 31st.

Go to Country Music City Promotions on G+ and Facebook to leave your comment. 
Who is your favorite country artist and why? 
Most original comment will win the entire package.
Comments don't need to be in essay form, a simple few lines will do, 
have fun!!!
Winner will be notified by Facebook or Twitter.


G+ page


Facebook Page


Twitter 




4th Annual ACA Nominations Announced

Photo Credit To ACA, American Country Awards




The 4th Annual American Country Awards return Tuesday December 10,2013 at 8 pm from 10 pm PT from the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Nevada.  Marking his return as host Trace Adkins will be joined by NASCAR driver Danica Patrick for the fan voted awards show.

Country music fans have the power to vote for their favorite artist and the line up of nominations are fierce this year.

The nominations are

Artist of The Year
Jason Aldean
Luke Bryan
Florida Georgia Line
Blake Shelton
Taylor Swift

Artist of The Year: Male
Jason Aldean
Luke Bryan
Kenny Chesney
Eric Church
Blake Shelton

Artist of The Year: Female
Kelly Clarkson
Sheryl Crow
Miranda Lambert
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood


Artist of The Year: Duo or Group
Lady Antebellum
Little Big Town
Rascal Flatts
The Band Perry
Zac Brown Band

Artist of The Year: Breakthrough Artist
Lee Brice
Hunter Hayes
Randy Houser
Scotty McCreery
Justin Moore

Artist of The Year: New Artist
Florida Georgia Line
Kip Moore
Kacey Musgraves
Cassadee Pope
Thomas Rhett

Album of The Year
"Night Train", Jason Aldean
"Here's To The Good Times", Florida Georgia Line
"Two Lanes of Freedom", Tim McGraw
"Based On A True Story", Blake Shelton
"Pioneer", The Band Perry


Single of the Year
"Cruise", Florida Georgia Line
"How Country Feels", Randy Houser
"Beer Money", Kip Moore
"Better Dig Two", The Band Perry
"One of those Nights", Tim McGraw


Single of The Year: Male
"Every Storm (Runs Out of Rain", Gary Allen
"One of Those Nights", Tim McGraw
"The One That Got Away", Jake Owen
"Wagon Wheel", Darius Rucker
"Sure Be Cool If You Did", Blake Shelton


Single of The Year: Female
"Easy", Sheryl Crow
"American Heart", Faith Hill
"Mama's Broken Heart", Miranda Lambert
"Begin Again", Taylor Swift
"Two Black Cadillacs", Carrie Underwood


Single of The Year: Duo/Group
"Downtown", Lady Antebellum
"Tornado" Little Big Town
"Better Dig Two" , The Band Perry
"If I Didn't Have You", Thompson Square
"Goodbye In Her Eyes", Zac Brown Band


Single of The Year: Breakthrough Artist
"I Drive Your Truck", Lee Brice
"All Over The Road", Easton Corbin
"Somebody's Heartbreak", Hunter Hayes
"How Country Feels", Randy Houser
"Till My Last Day", Justin Moore


Single of The Year: Vocal Collaboration
"The Only Way I Know", Jason Aldean with Luke Bryan and Eric Church
"Don't Rush", Kelly Clarkson and Vince Gill
"Highway Don't Care", Tim McGraw, Taylor Swift and Keith Urban
"Boys 'Round Here", Blake Shelton with Pistol Annies


Touring Artist of The Year
Jason Aldean
Luke Bryan
Kenny Chesney
Miranda Lambert
Brad Paisley
Rascal Flatts
George Srait
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood
Zac Brown Band


Great American Country (GAC) Music Video of The Year
"Cruise"  Florida Georgia Line
"Tornado"  Little Big Town
"Sure Be Cool If You Did"   Blake Shelton
"Begin Again"  Taylor Swift
"Better Dig Two"  The Band Perry


Music Video of The Year: Male
"Take A Little Ride" , Jason Aldean
"Every Storm (Runs Out of Rain)"  , Gary Allan
"One of Those Nights" , Tim McGraw
"Wagon Wheel" , Darius Rucker
"Sure Be Cool If You Did" , Blake Shelton


Music Video of The Year: Female
"American Heart", Faith Hill
"Mama's Broken Heart", Miranda Lambert
"Someone Somewhere Tonight", Kellie Pickler
"Begin Again", Taylor Swift
"Blown Away", Carrie Underwood


Music Video of The Year: New Artist
"Don't Ya'", Brett Eldredge
"Cruise" Florida Georgia Line
"Crying On A Suitcase", Casey James
"Beer Money", Kip Moore
"Merry Go Round", Kacey Musgraves


Music Video of The Year: Group or Collaboration
"Tornado", Little Big Town
"Highway Don't Care", Tim McGraw, Taylor Swift and Keith Urban
"Come Wake Me Up",  Rascal Flatts
"Better Dig Two",  The Band Perry
"If I Didn't Have You",  Thompson Square


Song of The Year (award go to the songwriter(s)
"Better Dig Two",  Brandy Clark, Shane McAnally and Trevor Rosen
Recorded by The Band Perry

"Cruise",  Tyler Hubbard, Brian Kelley, Joey Moi, Chase Rice and Jesse Rice
Recorded by Florida Georgia Line

"Hard To Love" ,  Ben Glover, Billy Montana and John Ozier
Recorded by Lee Brice

"Highway Don't Care",  Mark Irwin, Josh Kear, Brad Warren and Brett Warren
Recorded by Tim McGraw, Taylor Swift and Keith Urban

"I Drive Your Truck",  Jessi Alexander, Connie Harrington and Jimmy Yeary
Recorded by Lee Brice

"Like Jesus Does", Casey Beathard and Monty Criswell
Recorded by Eric Church

"Mama's Broken Heart",  Brandy Clark, Shane McAnally and Kacey Musgraves
Recorded by Miranda Lambert

"Merry Go' Round" , Shane McAnally and Kacey Musgraves
Recorded by Kacey Musgraves

"Pontoon",  Barry Dean, Natalie Hemby and Luke Laird
Recorded by Little Big Town

"Wagon Wheel", Bob Dylan and Ketch Secor
Recorded by Darius Rucker




Vote for your favorite artist, it is the fans choice.
Register and vote at ACA.com here
American Country Music Awards



November Album Releases

2013 has flown by and with only a couple months left before we ring into 2014 these new albums will keep country music fans taping their toes and singing along.




Photography credit to Black River Entertainment

Kellie Pickler is more the woman she is with her fourth coming album featuring her singles "Someone Somewhere Tonight" and climbing the charts "Little Bit Gypsy". Pickler is as traditional as she is mainstream and for any fan of any age will identify with the songs on this album. The Woman I Am will hit stores on November 11th.
Pre-order your Kellie Pickler bundle at the Kellie Pickler online store

Request Little Bit Gypsy on country radio.

Download Little Bit Gypsy and Someone Somewhere Tonight on 
Amazon

Stay tune to Country Music City Promotions for media appearances and events







Photography Credit to Tate Music Group

Independent artist Doug Briney is ready to ride away into the sunset with his Tate Music Group debut Super Country Cowboy on the heels of his first independent release It's All Country. Briney's traditional positive country has flare and fire. There is simply versatility and all heart on the ten track album to be released November 5th.

Celebrate with Doug on Veteran's Day CD release party November 11th at the Pavillion on Demonbreun at 6pm in Nashville. Admission is Free with a suggested $5.00 donation for veterans is being accepted.

Pre-order Super Country Cowboy at Doug's store here

Doug Briney on Amazon


Stay tune to Country Music City Promotions for the latest on Doug Briney.


Monday, October 28, 2013

Country Songs Made Famous By Other Artists

When it comes to country music we think instantly of the artist performing a song or songs recorded on an album, where do these songs come from?, it is the songwriters and producers that make it happen. Several songs are written a day, in most cases songwriters end up with more than 100 songs a year to count. 

I have dug deep into the country music vault and have found that these songs have made it into the albums of Kellie Pickler, Dolly Parton,  Faith Hill, Kenny Rogers, Martina McBride and JoDee Messina over the years. These songs were on the artists album released as singles to country radio that  left an impression on the artist or artists who re-recorded them that were previously recorded by their musical peers. These songs have been redefined and have made a staple in country music.


Kellie Pickler "Someone Somewhere Tonight"    
Kenny Rogers  
written by:  Davis Rains and Walt Wilkins


Faith Hill  "Piece of My Heart"      
Janis Joplin
Written by: Jerry Ragavoy


Martina McBride " (I Never Promised You A) Rose Garden"   

 Lynn Anderson
Written by: Joe South
Produced by: Glenn Sutton



Kenny Rogers  "Lady"  
Lionel Richie
Written and produced by: Lionel Richie



JoDee Messina   "A Lesson In Leavin'"  
Dottie West
Written by:  Randy Goodrum and Brent Maher
Produced by: Larry Butler



Dolly Parton  "Tracks Of My Tears"  
Smokey Robinson
Written by: William Smokey Robinson Jr, Warren Moore and Marvin Tarplin
Produced by: Smokey Robinson


Thursday, October 24, 2013

Kip Moore Reveals New Single Young Love

Photo Credit Courtesy of UMG

Early this week singer songwriter Kip Moore reveals a preview of his brand new single "Young Love" to fans. What a better way to connect with fans other than through Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Kip's official website. To unlock a preview of the single your instantly entered to win a trip to Nashville to meet with Kip himself, and who wouldn't want to meet Kip Moore. Moore's sophomore album release is yet to be announced and as the single is yet to be officially released to country radio we can possibly expect a 2014 album release.
Do you feel the sense of young love, go to KipMoore.net and enter to win, you'll receive a preview of "Young Love".  Kip Moore Reveal and Win

Follow Kip on Twitter and Facebook. #hash tag YoungLove



Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Sarah Darling and Guy Penrod To Duet At 2013 Inspirational Country Music Awards


Sarah Darling photo credit to Marquee Public Relations



On Thursday October 24,2013 country artist,musician and songwriter Sarah Darling will join Guy Penrod  on stage at the 2013 International Country Music Awards  to perform "Knowing What I Know About Heaven", a song Sarah was moved to write in 2009 after her grandfather succombed to a serious illness. Written with Nashville writers Dave Robbens and Billy Austen Sarah released "Knowing What I Know About Heaven" on her debut album  Every Monday Morning in 2010. Later on former Gaither Vocal Band, international-known Christian recording artist Guy Penrod was compelled to record the song and was released on his top selling album Breath Deep. "Knowing What I Know About Heaven" is one of those songs anyone at any age would feel an instant connection to", Shellie Palmer of Country Music City Promotions explains.
This will mark a first for Darling and Penrod to perform together.

The 19th Annual Inspiration Country Music Awards will take place at Two Rivers Fellowship Opryland in Nashville, TN at 7 pm Thursday October 24,2013.

For the full list of the 2013 ICM Nominee's visit the page here
Faith Family and Country 2013 ICM Nominee's

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Jessica Northey of Country Music Chat Takes Fans Into A Twitter Chat With Lee Brice Monday Oct.21st




Country artist, songwriter and musician Lee Brice is a triple threat in country music, with the hit singles
 "A Woman Like You","Hard 2 Love", "I Drive Your Truck" and his newest single "Parking Lot Party" one 
may feel threatened by his success, however that is not the case. Brice may not perform every song he's ever written or produced he sure has a good grasp on career and reality. As real and honest as Lee Brice is he sure stands firmly on who he is mistakes and all. In Monday night's +Country Music Chat ~ #CMchat+  twitter chat hosted by country music social media "IT" girl +Jessica Northey.  Brice and Northey bring the best out in each other on a professional level it's hard to fathom these two not getting along. On the contrary these two are much like two peas in a pod. What you see is what you get!
Northey asks Brice some hard hitting questions, though livens it up at times without the boring effect, among community fan questions from the fans themselves. Though at times questions and answers are run through quickly without a breath to stop and catch I was unable to comment on every fan question asked to Lee. With a possible couple community fan questions from Northey  and one that mainly come to mind is, what is your favorite Lee Brice song and why? As an answer I would give honestly is having a personal connection to the lyrics of a song and that one song is Hard 2 Love, I have my quirks and flaws yet still can be hard to love. Brice's easiness is as comfortable as it would be just being with family. Lee Brice is more than a country music star he's a pretty normal guy, down to earth and quite laid back.




Did you miss Monday night's twitter chat with Jessica Northey and Lee Brice?
Get the entire interview and chat right here.





Jessica Northey #CMchat Q 1: How did you get started in country music?
LB A 1: I decided it was what I wanted to do with my life and moved to Nashville.

Jessica Northey #CMchat Q 2: Was there ever a plan "B" or did you always want to be a musician?
LB A 2: Honestly music was always where my heart was.

Jessica Northey #CMchat Q 3: Who has had the biggest influence on your career?
LB A 3: That's a really hard one I have had a lot of really influential people in my life, but my parents, gospel, and Garth Brooks were a really big part of my beginnings. But I will say I just went to a Bruno Mars concert recently.

Jessica Northey #CMchat Q 4: What is your biggest pet peeve when you are on the road with other musicians?
LB A 4: I don't really have one. I'm pretty laid back.

Jessica Northey #CMchat Q 5:  How do you decided which songs to keep or give to another artist?
LB A 5: I write so many songs a year so there's plenty to go around but if one is just magical or personal I keep it. Although  I've given a few away that were tough to part with.

Jessica Northey #CMchat Q 6: What is your greatest accomplishment so far in regards to your career?
LB A 6: As a performer nothing better than the crowd singing back to you which isn't really on paper. It may not be my biggest accomplishment but it sure feels great every night.

Jessica Northey #CMchat Q 7: When your not doing music do you have any hobbies?
LB A 7: Spending time with my family. I don't get much time at home so when I do I try and make it special.

Jessica Northey #CMchat Q 8: What is something most people would be surprised to learn 
about you?
LB A 8:  I was in PentHouse magazine for the album launch and I was really worried my momma would be disappointed.

Jessica Northey #CMchat Q 9: Best advice you've ever received from anyone in the music industry and who was it?
LB A 9: Never stop loving it. From my friend and long time producer Doug Johnson.

#CMchat Q 10: What would you want fans to leave #CMchat knowing about you?
LB A 10: I'm real, I'm fun, and I'm real Fun!

Monday, October 21, 2013

Rising Artists Casey James, Sarah Darling, Striking Matches, Mark Wilkinson and NAfME Salute Music Teachers

Sarah Darling, Casey James, Striking Matches and Mark Wilkinson will perform at the opening ceremony of the 2013 NAfME National In-Service Conference at the Grand Ole Opry house in Nashville on Monday October 27,2013.

James who is best known for his days on American Idol season 9 has gone on to release his self titled debut album in March of 2012, touring across the country, releasing 3 singles "Let's Don't Call It A Night", "Crying On A Suitcase" and "The Good Life". Casey's love and passion for music and music education ring true for the musician who picked up his first guitar at the age of 14. "I really appreciate what music teachers are doing for aspiring musicians", he said. "Music is very important to me and I'm glad I can be a part of NAfME's conference". 



Photography credit to Sara Kauss

For Sarah Darling it is a huge honor who is named the 2013 recipient of NAfME's
"Stand For Music" award adds, "My 7th and 8th grade music teacher, Ms.Stephanie Rumple, was a great influence on me. It was her careful guidance and passion for the arts that started me on my musical journey. I feel like I owe her, and all of the music teachers out there who help preserve music in our schools a huge "thank -you', for all they do. This concert will hopefully resonate with them as our way of showing thanks for their work that sometimes goes unrecognized!" 


James and Darling will join their peers Striking Matches ( MTV, VH1, CMT's O Music Awards finalist) and Australian chart topper Mark Wilkinson ("Middle Ground", "All I Ever Wanted") to perform their fan-favorite songs in an exclusive intimate setting reserved for those who inspire students through music.








The concert at the Grand Ole Opry house is one of the many highlights planned for the four day NAfMe National In-Service Conference taking place from October 27th through the 30th, where the main theme centers around ways in which "Music Education Orchestrates Succcess"- in school, in work and in life.



Teachers and school administrators who attend will address the proposed re-authorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, gain new insights into how classroom teaching styles are being evaluated, attend targeted professional development workshops, and celebrate the achievements of some of the nation's most distinguished student musicians.

For additional information and to get involved with the 2013  NAfME National In-Service Conference direct yourself to the official website here
2013 NAfME National In-Service Conference

For media credentials upon request contact Nelson Duffle at NelsonD@nafme.org 
or Amanda French at amanda@marqueepr.com


There are several ways to get involved with NAfME, follow them on Twitter and Facebook and help make a difference in music education.
@NAfME  National Association For Music Education














Wednesday, October 16, 2013

WQMX 94.9 FM Akron's Country 14th Annual Bosom Buddies Benefit Raises Awareness

Bosom Buddies Benefit FM 94.9 WQMX Photo Credit: Country Music City Promotions


The real survivors are what it's about, those who leave an impact on us.  Tuesday night at the Tangiers in Akron, Ohio  lit it up pink for breast cancer awareness month honoring breast cancer and it's survivors, those affected by the disease. To kick off the 14th annual Bosom Buddies Benefit breast cancer survivor and country musician Sheryl Crow gave the crowd a warm welcome via video. Her message as touching as she is lit up the faces in the room. The night's festivities focused on raising awareness, early detection and prevention. The money raised from the event is donated to Akron General's muffin's for mammograms program in which provides free mammograms for women and men who can't afford them. WQMX Sue Wilson of Wynn and Wilson In the morning also program director of station began the program with honoring breast cancer survivors in attendance, these women in the room each received a rose from WQMX personalities Lynn Kelly and Sarah Kay courtesy of Pam's Posies, a sponsor of WQMX along with a special performance of America The Beautiful from Maria Rizzo, the daughter of WNOA vice president Domanic Rizzo, she's  a third year junior of the University of Akron, a mechanical engineer and a pulpit grad. Maria's performance was a special highlight of the evening along with the live and silent auction that was held to raise money for Bosom Buddies Muffin's For Mammograms. 



In it's 14 years Bosom Buddies continues to strive to support and dedicate themselves for the cause. Scott Wynn partner and co-host of Wynn and Wilson In the Morning through out the evening reminded folks to get their bids in on items for the auction. Items up for bid an autographed pink electric guitar signed by Miranda Lambert,  a signed Luke Bryan guitar, signed and autographed items from Jason Aldean, Taylor Swift, Tyler Farr, Rascal Flatts, Sheryl Crow and many others among the stations sponsors Miller Bud Lite, Pam's Posies, Klaben Auto Stores, The Dusty Armadillo, Legends Sports Pub and Grille and more. The raffle of the evening a signed guitar autographed by Kellie Pickler herself, the winner of the guitar met with Kellie in receiving the signature, what a treat for the lucky winner. The combination of fundraisers through out the year makes it all possible for Bosom Buddies muffins for mammograms program. Every dollar raised is one step closer in helping women and men get treatment.


Pink electric guitar signed by Miranda Lambert



signed Luke Bryan guitar

The evenings main performances from artists Frankie Ballard and Kellie Pickler was nothing short of amazing, Ballard himself took his time to be a part of the event, his unselfishness was truly rewarded. A true showman Frankie performed his current single Helluva A Life among one titled Don't Take Much and a cover version of The Eagles "Ain't That America". Ballard's 15 to 20 minute set was refreshingly upbeat and harmonious. I'm sure looking forward to pushing his music in the coming months.
Kellie Pickler gives meaning to country music these days, her wit, sass and traditional sound are felt through her performances. New songs from her forthcoming album The Woman I Am were performed from "Someone Somewhere Tonight", "Ring For Sale" and "her brand new single "Little Bit Gypsy" among fan favorites  "Tough", "Makin' Me Fall In Love Again" and "Red High Heels". "My own personal connection to "My Angel" is a constant reminder of my childhood, my grandma and I use to sit on our front porch swing singing the hymns Amazing Grace and Jesus Loves Me, she taught me those songs, although she's no longer with us she would be proud how far I've come in my life, she knew of my talents, she saw it in me when many others didn't, I seem to always have to hold my composure when Kellie performs this song live", Shellie of Country Music City Promotions explains. Pickler's performance of "My Angel" had the room in a hush, many can relate to Kellie and her music as you may hear from fans. It wasn't only her own material she performed during the hour long set, Kellie covered the classics from George Jones "White Lightning",  Loretta Lynn's "You Ain't Woman Enough" and Tammy Wynette's "Stand By Your Man". For Pickler to be involved with Bosom Buddies hits close to home as she herself has been affected by breast cancer when her best friend Summer Miller was diagnosed in June of last year, Summer's journey has been Kellie's journey in which Kellie joined Summer in shaving their heads last year fighting it together. To have the support and encouragement from family and friends is so important to get through the struggle. Summer will finish chemo and treatments in November.

The evening was a successful one and I feel blessed to have been a part of the event as I myself am a survivor, a two time co-survivor. My own mom was diagnosed in 1993 and again in 2005. This past may a high school friend of mine Shelby was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, she's currently finishing chemo and will begin radiation and reconstruction in the coming month. Every day someone is diagnosed with breast cancer and together we can fight the fight to make a difference.

Many thanks to 94.9 WQMX, the staff and it's sponsors to continue to bring awareness.