Country Music Goes To New York City

Is anyone left in Nashville? Seems like some of country music's biggest stars spent the holiday in New York City.

The "tall man in a black hat" was everywhere. Country music superstar and Celebrity Apprentice finalist Trace Adkins was back in the Big Apple for the Macy's Day Parade. You also saw him on Fox and Friends and The O'Reilly Factor.

Sugarland remains a favorite of this blog. Here taping a performance in NYC. Click here to check out the Sugarland "movie" trailer. It's fun!

Darius Rucker rocked country at the parade. Click here to check out the pics on his web site.

Did you see Faith Hill on David Letterman? Here's the video. Man, can she sing!

And, of course, who can get enough of Tim McGraw on SNL?

On the Left Coast, Taylor Swift performed live at the AMAs.

Country Music News Today: Taylor Swift, Tim McGraw & Kevin Costner

Lots of exciting news in country music today, especially because it seems as if everywhere you look these days in entertainment you see country music in the mainstream.

Taylor Swift, Tim McGraw and Kevin Costner are making country music news today.

Taylor Swift is on the cover of the Dec./Jan. CosmoGirl, and the magazine rightly likens her to a phenomenon.

Says the popular teen/young women publication: "Whether she is climbing up the country music charts or teaming up with politicians to fight for causes important to her, Taylor Swift is what we like to call a phenomenon."

Adding: "Taylor knew she wanted to be singer since the age of 10, but it wasn’t until two years later when she learned to play the guitar and wrote her first song (yes, she was only 12!) that she tapped into what would really allow her to connect with an audience and soon make her a star. Her music is relatable because she puts her life, her relationships, and her struggles on paper and shares it with the world — and at only 18 she has so many more experiences ahead and so many more songs to write."

Check out the Dec./Jan. issue of CosmoGirl to read about Taylor and learn the little secret she says Faith Hill taught her.

Live from New York! Tim McGraw hosted Saturday Night Live last weekend. Click here to see a video.

Versatile actor and director Kevin Costner was in Nashville with his band Modern West. Click here for an interview with Kevin Costner on Opry Live before he plays the Opry.

Read All About the 2008 Country Music Award Winners

Are you a country music fan? You can read all about your favorite country music superstars and the winners of the 2008 Country Music Awards in the Black Book Guide to Official Country Music Fan Clubs: The Top 100 and on this blog.

And the winners are...

Entertainer of the Year
Kenny Chesney


Female Vocalist of the Year
Carrie Underwood

Male Vocalist of the Year
Brad Paisley

New Artist of the Year
Lady Antebellum

Vocal Group of the Year
Rascal Flatts

Vocal Duo of the Year
Sugarland

Single of the
"I Saw God Today" George Strait
Produced by Tony Brown and George Strait
MCA Nashville

Album of the Year
Troubadour George Strait
Produced by Tony Brown and George Strait

Song of the Year
“Stay” Jennifer Nettles
Jennifer Nettles Publishing

Musical Event of the Year
Robert Plant and Alison Krauss
“Gone Gone Gone”

Music Video of the Year
“Waitin’ On A Woman” Brad Paisley featuring Andy Griffith
Directed by Jim Shea & Peter Tilden

Musician of the Year
Mac McAnally – Guitar

Country Music News Today: Taylor Swift, Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood & Toby Keith

Taylor Swift Talks about Love and Writing on MTV

Taylor Swift talked about her breakup with teen heart throb Joe Jonas and the song she wrote about it, "Always & Forever," on MTV News.

The parting came in a brief phone call, Swift said.

She admitted her writing comes from a personal place.

"I like to write personal songs," Swift said. "I like to write songs that are very obviously about people. It's kind of hard to change your stripes. I like to write songs about love, and I like to write songs about relationships, and I like to write songs about boys."

Click here to read the complete story.

Country Music Awards Countdown

It's one day and counting until the Annual Country Music Awards, which airs live from Nashville at 8 p.m. on Wednesday on ABC.

Country music superstars Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood, the current male and female vocalists of the year, will host the big event.

Paisley and Underwood are schedule to perform, along with Trace Adkins, Brooks & Dunn, Kenny Chesney with The Wailers, the Eagles, Alan Jackson, cross-over Kid Rock, Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert, George Strait, Sugarland, Taylor Swift and Keith Urban.

Toby Keith Gripes about the CMA in People Magazine

Toby Keith says that in spite of being the top-earning country performer he gets no respect from the Country Music Association.

Toby is quoted as saying the Country Music Association "screwed him" in People Magazine. That's why he doesn't attend the awards show.

Click here to read the article in People.

Country Music Superstars Featured in Parade

Parade Magazine went country this Sunday (11/2/08) with a feature on Keith Urban's beautiful wife, actress Nicole Kidman, and Carrie Underwood's favorite country music albums.

Parade Picks asked American Idol winner and country superstar Carrie Underwood to name her all-time favorite country music albums. She selected:

1. Greatest Hits by Martina McBride
2. The Right Place by Bryan White
3. The America Farewell Tour by Alabama
4. Greatest hits by Alan Jackson
5. Always & Forever by Randy Travis.

Click here to get information about Bryan White's fan club.

Fan club information for Martina McBride, Alabama, Alan Jackson and Randy Travis, as well as Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban, is in The Black Book Guide to Official Country Music Fan Club: The Top 100.

Johnny Cash is Still a Voice for America

Johnny Cash remains a voice for America.

"I Am The Nation" is a spoken word documentary DVD/CD from the Johnny Cash vault. It is scheduled to be released by Legacy Recordings on Oct. 28th.

According to a spokesperson, "The film Johnny Cash's America is poignantly placed in the context of today'spolitical climate and this oration "I Am The Nation" reminds us what our country stands for at a time when Americans seem more divided than ever.

Johnny Cash’s America examines how Johnny became the most authentic celebrity voice our country had. He embraced all of America’s diversity without prejudice or partisanship and he had so much clout with the American people that every President in office during his lifetime courted Johnny Cash. Both the right and the left claimed him, although he remained non partisan.

He was championed by teenage punks, their parents, and their grandparents. He was embraced by soldiers and anarchists, by conservatives and liberals, yuppies and rednecks. When times demanded change, he was not afraid to change with them. When times were good, he sang in celebration. Untainted by partisanship and spin, Cash still remains a rare bridge in our culture. "

Click here to see a Quicktime clip.

Visit the website at http://www.johnnycash.com/

Country Music Award Nominations

It's time for the Country Music Award nominations again, and Kenny Chesney leads the pack with seven nominations.

Kenny, the hardest touring man in country music, is the reigning "Entertainer of the Year," and he is up for the honor again this year.

George Strait and Sugarland received five nominations each.

Congratulations to all the nominees. They are:

Entertainer of the Year: Kenny Chesney, Brad Paisley, George Strait, Sugarland and Keith Urban.

Female Vocalist: Alison Krauss, Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride, Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood.

Male Vocalist: Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson, Brad Paisley, George Strait and Keith Urban.

New Artist: Jason Aldean, Rodney Atkins, Lady Antebellum, James Otto and Kellie Pickler.

Vocal Group: Eagles, Emerson Drive, Lady Antebellum, Little Big Town and Rascal Flatts.

Vocal Duo: Big & Rich, Brooks & Dunn, Montgomery Gentry, Sugarland and The Wreckers.

Single of the Year (to artist & producer): "Don't Blink" by Kenny Chesney, produced by Buddy Cannon and Kenny Chesney; "Gunpowder & Lead" by Miranda Lambert, produced by Frank Liddell and Mike Wrucke; "I Saw God Today" by George Strait, produced by Tony Brown and George Strait; "Stay" by Sugarland, produced by Byron Gallimore, Kristian Bush and Jennifer Nettles; "You're Gonna Miss This" by Trace Adkins, produced by Frank Rogers.

Album of the Year (to artist and producer): "Carnival Ride" by Carrie Underwood, produced by Mark Bright; "Cowboy Town" by Brooks & Dunn, produced by Tony Brown, Dunn and Brooks; "Good Time" by Alan Jackson, produced by Keith Stegall; "Just Who I Am: Poets & Pirates" by Kenny Chesney, produced by Buddy Cannon and Kenny Chesney; "Troubadour" by George Strait, produced by Tony Brown and George Strait.

Song of the Year (To Songwriter): "Good Time" Alan Jackson; "You're Gonna Miss This" Lee Miller, Ashley Gorley; "I Saw God Today" Rodney Clawson, Monty Criswell, Wade Kirby; "Letter to Me" Brad Paisley; "Stay" Jennifer Nettles.

Musical Event of the Year: "Another Try" Josh Turner featuring Trisha Yearwood; "Every Other Weekend" Reba McEntire & Kenny Chesney; "Gone, Gone, Gone" Robert Plant & Alison Krauss; "Life in a Northern Town" Sugarland featuring Little Big Town and Jake Owen; and "Shiftwork" Kenny Chesney (duet with George Strait).

Music Video of the Year: "Don't Blink" Kenny Chesney; "Good Time" Alan Jackson; "Stay" Sugarland; "Waitin' on a Woman" Brad Paisley; and "You're Gonna Miss This," Trace Adkins.Musician of the Year: Jerry Douglas, Paul Franklin, Dann Huff, Brent Mason and Mac McAnally.

The awards show will be held in Nashville on Nov. 12 and televised live on ABC.

get the inside scoop on all of your favorite fan clubs in the Black Book Guide to Country Music Fan Clubs: The Top 100.

Jimmie Wayne has a country muisc hit

Jimmie Wayne has his first big country music hit.

"Do You Believe Me Now" is sitting at No. 5 on the Billboard country music chart.

Check out his website at www.jimmiewayne.com for free screensaver downloads and videos where Jimmie talks about each song on his album.

Jimmie has no formal fan club yet.

Upcoming appearance include:

York County Fair
September 10, 2008
York, Pennsylvania

10 Man Jam
September 26, 2008
Ft. Myers, Florida

WSLC Acoustic Show
October 3, 2008
Roanoke, Virginia

Wolf Den
October 8, 2008
Greensboro, North Carolina

Religious Event of Hope Restoration and Worship
October 17, 2008
Ft. Wayne, Indiana

Madison County Music Awards
October 25, 2008
Madison, Wisconsin

Coyote Joe's
November 14, 2008
Charlotte, North Carolina

Uptown Theater
November 19, 2008
Kansas City, Missouri

Mohegan Sun Arena
November 21, 2008
Uncasville, Connecticut

Darius Rucker Goes Country

Darius Rucker appeared on CNBC's Power Lunch. Click here to see his interview "Basking in Country Success."

Check out his new country music video "Don't Think I Don't Think About It" here.

There is no official fan club yet, but you can join his online community for free at www.dariusrucker.com

Toby Keith on Glenn Beck: Country Music Star Talks About Hollywood, His New Movie, Politics and Ted Nugent

Toby Keith did an hour-long interview on the Glenn Beck show, talking about everything from Hollywood to movie making to politics to Ted Nugent.

Toby's new movie Beer For My Horses is in theaters on Friday.

Here is an excerpt from the show:

GLENN: Okay. Toby, you've got a new movie that is coming out and it is, from what I understand, I haven't seen it yet, but it comes out is it wide release? What is it August 5th?

TOBY: It comes out August 8th.

GLENN: August 8th.

TOBY: We're in about a hundred locations, and Lion's Gate doing it. Roadside Attractions, Lion's Gate are doing this thing, they take these kind of movies, they know how to market them, they know how to blow them up. The last thing you want to do is spend twice as much as it costs to make the movie trying to decide. We'll find out here in the next two or three weeks what we have and if the public likes it, then we'll blow it up, it'll be a huge expansion.


GLENN: From the way you described it, it is kind of like the old Smoky and the Bandit. It's kind of that fun, light hearted, make fun of yourself, you know, rebel but not a jerk kind of you know, charming rebel.

TOBY: Right, I always make fun of myself first and then I can just rare back and laugh at everybody else. So, hey, you know what, it I met Burt Reynolds on a project a couple of years ago and he said, you know what, you're very charming and you you have the persona to be a very charming but when crossed dangerous guy, he said, that's the same quality, not that I'm not this guy, this is Burt Reynolds, I can quote him, he said, John Wayne had that charming but dangerous thing. He said if you'll gravitate to that, you can do what I do for a living, have fun at the same time. When I wrote this script with Rodney Carrington, comedy, it was a tip of the hat to Burt Reynolds.


GLENN: Willy Nelson is in the movie. Everybody is in the movie. Ted Nugent is in the movie. You're close with Ted, aren't you?

TOBY: You know, Ted has a great heart. Ted gets a bad rap for being an extreme right wing radical.


GLENN: He is one of the most giving man I've ever seen.

TOBY: Ted doesn't get any credit, which is the way it are usually works. They pick out one thing about you, blow it up. As extreme as he is, as hard as he drives it. He does a lot for kids, he is auto he never done drugs or alcohol, he appreciates that, tells kids not to open doors (those doors at his camps. He wants to live off the land like his four fathers did, God bless him, if he wants to eat deer every night for dinner, go for it.

Click here to read the interview or to listen to an audio playback at glennbeck.com.

Click here for more info about the Toby Keith fan club. The cost starts at $25.

Click here to get your copy of the Black Book Guide to Official Country Music Fan Clubs: The Top 100.

All I Want To Do Is Listen to Sugarland

That song! That do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do-do...all I want to do.

All I want to do is listen to Sugarland's hot new single from their third album, Love on the Inside, which drops today. Click here to see the video.

I heard Jennifer on a local radio station, and she said Kristian's daughter inspired the little ditty that makes the song irresistible. It's flat fun!

"All I Want To Do" is #3 on the Billboard country music chart. There's a short review in praise of the album at Billboard with one error: Sugarland is not on the "cusp of super stardom"; Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush have broken through the barrier that separates new sounds we like and making music that will last a lifetime.

Nettles' star has long been shining. Before Nashville took notice, she fronted one of my all time favorite Georgia bands and the subject of my best obscure mix DVD - Soul Miner's Daughter. She had it then - a voice that could make you see inside yourself and cry- playing folk rock at bars around Athens. She's a little less angry and the songs are a little lighter, but the voice remains true. She can make you smile, too.

So, to correct Billboard, Sugarland has reached super stardom, and Love On The Inside is the fruit of their labors, ripe and lush and ready to be picked and played and enjoyed by country music fans everywhere.

A "deluxe fan edition" of the album was released last week at itunes.com. It includes a chance to WIN one of 5 Ultimate Sugarland Fan Experience Trips to the CMA Awards in Nashville, TN in the "PLATINUM TICKET" Instant Win Game. Check out the details at the Sugarland website -- http://www.sugarlandmuisc.com/

Upcoming shows:

TONIGHT 7/29/2008
Mississippi Valley FairgroundsDavenport, IA

8/1/2008
Oregon JamboreeSweet Home, OR

8/3/2008
BIG VALLEY JAMBOREECAMROSE, AB, CANANDA

Of course, Sugarland is in the Black Book Guide to Official Country Music Fan Clubs: The Top 100. Get your copy today at Black Book Press. Join the fan club today.

Country Music Today: 5 Reasons Why Jessica Simpson Ain't Daisy Duke

1. She's "gone country" but ain't country. Who sold more records last year, Carrie Underwood or Jessica Simpson?

2. Remember, if you must, her short lived reality show: "I thought Chicken of the Sea was chicken." Please, Daisy Duke knows you can't chicken-fry tuna!

3. Who do you want on your side in a bar fight -- Gretchen Wilson or Jessica "Oh, My, I Broke a Nail" Simpson?

4. Daisy Duke's shorts weren't cut from designer jeans. Get some Wranglers, girl!

5. Do not disrespect Dolly Parton by forgetting the words to her song in the house of country.

Photo link: Us Magazine

Montgomery Gentry #1

Montgomery Gentry holds the #1 spot on the Billboard Country Music Singles chart with Back When I Knew It All.

Blake Shelton is #2 with Home, and Kenny Chesney takes the #3 spot with "Better as a Memory."

Rounding out the Top 10 are:

4. Good Time, Alan Jackson
5. Trying to Stop Your Leaving, Dierks Bentley
6. Put a Girl In It, Brooks & Dunn
7. Last Name, Carrie Underwood
8. All I Want To Do, Sugarland
9. I'm Still a Guy, Brad Paisley
10. I still Miss You, Keith Anderson

All of these Top 10 country music superstars are featured in the Black Book Guide to Country Music Fan Clubs: The Top 100. Find out how to join these fan clubs and get free stuff. You could even get to meet your favorite singer backstage at his/her next concert.

"Sweet Gravity": New Country Muisc from Due West

Have you checked out the new music from Due West, the popular newcomers from the Big Star competition?

Click here to listen to free downloads from their self-titled CD Due West.

Not on the download is their new song "Sweet Gravity," but you can call your local radio station and request it.

Due West has two fan club activities:

1. Every Monday is “Me and Due West Mondays.” Fans post pictures of themselves with the band.
2. The band does free giveaways of different things on occasion.

The fan club is free. Join by emailing duewest@duewest.com or visit the website at http://www.duewest.com/

Jason Coley In Nashville Aug. 8 - 10

Jason Coley and his band is slated to play Nashville this summer.

The places and dates are:

August 8, 9:30PM - 11:00PM - Cadillac Ranch
August 9, 6 PM - 10 PM - Tootsies
August 10, 10 PM - 2 AM - Tootsies

Check out his website for more dates and info, and to see a video of a live performance, at www.jasoncoleybyrd.com

Snoop Dogg Raps Country Music: "My Medicine" Featuring Willie Nelson

Rapper Snoop Dogg goes country with "My Medicine." Willie Nelson joins him on the track.

The new song and video is dedicated to Johnny Cash, "my American Gangster."

It's not exactly mainstream country, with lines like "The more medicated the more dedicate" and "You can bet I'm high everyday" and "My loves going to last as long as my high."

Click here to see the "My Medicine" video.

Click here to see Willie Nelson and Snoop Dogg perform "My Medicine" live in Amsterdam.

Billy ray Cyrus On Miley

Click here to see Billy Ray Cyrus on The Today Show. He talks about Miley's Vanity Fair photographs and Nashville Star.

Country Music Fan Clubs in the News

Read about country music fan clubs and Black Book Press at Article Circulation -- How to Get Free Stuff From Country Muisc Fan Clubs!

Miranda Lambert Fan Club Members Get Chance to Meet "Gunpowder & Lead" Singer Songwriter

Are you a Ran Fan?

Miranda Lambert's fan club offers a host of benefits for members, including the chance to meet the popular singer songwriter.

The official fan club kit includes:

• Official Ran Fans T-shirt (optional)
• 8” x 10” photo
• Official Ran Fan membership card
• 7 1⁄2” x 4” bumper sticker
• Welcome letter, fun facts, bio
• Koozie
• Keychain

Additional benefits include:

• Meet & greet opportunities
• Fan club party
• Exclusive online content
• Advance ticket sales

The annual Ran Fan bash was held over the weekend at the CMA Music Fest in Nashville.

Join the club for $10 at www.mirandalambert.com

Click here to read James Brady's In Step With article about Miranda that appeared in Parade Magazine.

Country Music Fans in Nashville for 2008 CMA Music Festival

Country music fans and entertainers are heading to Nashville for the annual CMA Music Festival, June 5 – 8, 2008

This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, with country music favorites ranging from Celebrity Apprentice Trace Adkins to Wynonna.

The festival is billed as: “4 days, 30 hours of autograph signings, 100 hours of live music, 400 Country Music artists and celebrities, and thousands of revved up music lovers all combine to create the ULTIMATE COUNTRY MUSIC FAN EXPERIENCE!”

The 2008 CMA Music Festival is all about the music and the fan. Many of country music’s elite as well as newcomers are scheduled to perform. The list includes many of the entertainers featured in the Black Book Guide to Official Country Music Fan Clubs: The Top 100.

On stage this year are:
Adam and the Couch Potatoes
Trace Adkins
Charlie Allen
Deborah Allen
Bill Anderson
Keith Anderson
Katie Armiger
Rodney Atkins
The Band of Heathens
Jeff Bates
The Bellamy Brothers
John Berry
Bo Bice
Bonnie Lou Bishop
Brittini Black
Ash Bowers
Lee Brice
Lane Brody
Dean Brody
Brother Trouble
Jason Brown
T. Graham Brown
Luke Bryan
Laura Bryna
Sonny Burgess
Tracy Byrd
Carolina Rain
Jason Michael Carroll
Carter's Chord
Cash Creek
Troy Cassar-Daley
Katie Chance
Mark Chesnutt
Eric Church
The Clark Brothers
Will Clements
Stephen Cochran
Austin Cody
Dan Colehour
American Idol Bucky Covington
Cowboy Crush
Cowboy Joe & The Babcocks
Timothy Craig
Crossin Dixon
James Taylor Curtis
Billy Ray Cyrus
Justin David
Star DeAzlan
Kassie DePaiva
Drew Davis Band
Whitney Duncan
Eli Young Band
Emerson Drive
Erika Jo
Sara Evans
Eve & Mare
Jace Everett
Jessie Farrell
Shea Fisher
Flynnville Train
Colt Ford
Jimmy Fortune
Ashley Gearing
Billy Gilman
Gloriania
American Idol Josh Gracin
Grand Bob
The Grascals
Chris Gray
The Greencards
Ben Gregg
Adam Gregory
Bailey Grey
Jeff Griffith
Andy Griggs
Dennie Hall
Greg Hanna
Jennifer Hanson
Heartland
Ty Herndon
Faith Hill
Hot Apple Pie
James House
Randy Houser
Rick Huckaby
Jedd Hughes
Sierra Hull
Con Hunley
Indian Rodeo
Jack Ingram
James Intveld
Alan Jackson
Emma Mae Jacob
Jewel
Buddy Jewell
Sarah Johns
Jamey Johns
Ben "Cooter" Jones
Kat'Lee Jones
Jypsi
Sage Keffer
Kid Fiddlers
KingBilly
Jimmy Kish the Flying Cowboy
La Familia
ACM winner Lady Antebellum
Miranda Lambert
James LeBlanc
Zane Lewis
Little Big Town
Little Joe
Little Nashville
LoCash Cowboys
Lonestar
The Lost Trailers
Lucky Bucks
Rockie Lynne
Raul Malo
Miko Marks
Bobby Marquez
Marshal Reign
Daniel Lee Martin
Jason Matthews
Cody McCarver
Jeremy McComb
Neal McCoy
Mindy McCready
Mel McDaniel
Richie McDonald
Jason Meadows
Jo Dee Messina
Augie Meyers
Miss Lori
Chase Mitchell
Montgomery Gentry
John Michael Montgomery
Justin Moore
Craig Morgan
Lorrie Morgan
Zak Morgan
Cory Morrow
Brooke Morton
Mountain Heart
Megan Mullins
Michael Martin Murphey
The Murphy Band
Minnie Murphy
Mustang Creek
David Nail
Heidi Newfield
Gary Nichols
Joe Nichols
The Oak Ridge Boys
One Flew South
Jamie O'Neal
Todd O'Neill
James Otto
Jake Owen
Ashlee Page
Noe Palma
Rissi Palmer
Danielle Peck
Michael Peterson
Kellie Pickler
Pro Kids Show (Tim Hannig)
Jasmine Rae
Ruben Ramos
Eddy Raven
Johnny Reid
Reunionaires
Charlie Rich Jr.
Riders In The Sky
Rio Grand
The Road Hammers
Julie Roberts
Mica Roberts
Kenny Rogers
The Roys
Shawna Russell
Ryano
Ray Scott
Dennis Scott
Michael Scott
Crystal Shawanda
Ashton Shepherd
Thom Shepherd
Simply Barbara of Colorado
Damon Smith
Daniel Smith
Phil Stacey
SteelDrivers
Jeffrey Steele
John Stephan
Fisher Stevenson
Doug Stone
Sugarland
Trent Summar
Sunny Sweeney
Taylor Swift
TelluRide
The Hollow Trees
Keni Thomas
Brandi Thornton
Mel Tillis
Aaron Tippin
Rhonda Towns
Trailer Choir
Randy Travis
Josh Turner
Two Timers
Dan Tyminiski
Carrie Underwood
Phil Vassar
Wim van de Vliert
Jenna von Oy
Taylor Ware
Jimmy Wayne
Well Hungarians
Emily West
Whiskey Falls
Bryan White
Chuck Wicks
Rachel Williams
Trent Willmon
Mark Wills
Gretchen Wilson
Tommy Joe Wilson
The World's Greatest Fishing Band
Darryl Worley
Michelle Wright
The Wrights
Kyle Wyley
Wynonna
Billy Yates
Dwight Yoakam
Chris Young
Zac Brown Band
The Zinghoppers

CMA Music Festival is a charitable event benefiting music education in Metro Nashville Public Schools through a partnership with the Nashville Alliance for Public Education. To date, CMA has donated more than $1 million to purchase instruments and fund music programs for Nashville’s 75,000 school students. The philanthropic program, aptly titled “Keep the Music Playing,” was founded in 2005 as a way for the CMA Music Festival and its participating artists to give back to the community. Thanks to the generosity of HCA/TriStar, 800 Metro students were given tickets to attend the Saturday, June 7, concert at LP Field.

If you can’t attend CMA Music Festival this year, be sure to order your copy of the Black Book Guide to Official Country Music Fan Clubs: The Top 100. You’ll get all the information you need to know about how to join your favorite singer’s fan club and how to get backstage passes and free stuff.

For more information about the 2008 CMA Music Festival, visit the website at www.cmafest.com

Black Book Guide to Official Country Muisc Fan Clubs: The Top 100

Are you a country music fan? Here's a book for you: The Black Book Guide to Official Country Music Fan Clubs: The Top 100, from Trace Adkins to Trisha Yearwood.

The Black Book Guide includes the latest news and information about how to join your favorite country music fan clubs.

Want free stuff? The book lets you know how to get free pictures, music and more.

Are you a business owner or company manager? This and other fine Black Book Press titles are available as private editions for promotional use.

Private editions are printed with your logo or message on the cover and a personalized introduction to company history included with the text.

For more information, visit the website at http://www.blackbookpress.com/ or email amy@blackbookpress.com

Julianne Hough Dances with the Stars and Sings

Dancing with the Stars dancer Julianne Hough is really a country music singer at heart.

Paired with Indy car driver Helio Castroneves and Olympic speed skater Apolo Anton Ohno, she won two DWTH titles.

Hough just released her first album, self-titled Julianne Hough, and dropped the first single "That Song in My Head."

Her first taste of fame came from Dancing with the Stars, but Hough says she always had a song in her heart.

Said Hough: "Before I was on the show, I was planning to move to Nashville, but then I was asked to be on Dancing with the Stars. I thought, I can't turn down this much exposure. This could be a very big platform in helping me get my foot in the door. So we put (the music) on hold, and after the season, we went straight to Nashville and started meeting with producers and songwriters and record labels. It was going really well, and then the next season of (Stars) started, and I had to put the music on hold again. But even if I wasn't going to get signed, we were going to go ahead and do it ourselves."

That didn't happen. "Luke Lewis (head of Mercury Records) had never seen the show, but he'd heard about me. When I met him, it felt like I connected with him really well. It just felt right. The minute I got finished with (Stars), I went to Nashville, and we started rocking and rolling. We literally made the album in two months."

To check out Hough's freshman effort "That Song in my Head," visit at her website at http://www.juliannehough.com

Kenny Chesney Takes Home Top Honors at the 2008 Academy of Country Music Awards

There were no big surprises last night at the Academy of Country Music Awards show held at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, with Kenny Chesney taking home the top honors.

Well, maybe there were a few mild rumblings with the Best New Duo or Group award. Lady Antebellum edged out Carolina Rain and The Wreckers. It had to be close. Congratulations to all for a year of good music.

Country music is jam-packed with talent. Even the losers are winners when it comes to album sales and fan appreciation.

And the award goes to:



Entertainer of the Year: Black Book favorite Kenny Chesney took home the Entertainer of the Year Award for the fourth time.

"This one is really actually special because long before I had a hit record, the fans always came to the shows. And I want to thank you guys for voting and for being there for me," Kenny said.
Click here for info on Kenny Chesney's fan club.

Male Vocalist: Brad Paisely

Female Vocalist: American Idol Carrie Underwood.

Best Duo: Brooks & Dunn

Best Group: Rascal Flatts

Best New Female Vocalist: Taylor Swift

Best New Male Vocalist: Jack Ingram

New Duo or Vocal Group: Lady Antebellum

Song of the Year: "Stay" by Sugarland

Album of the Year: Crazy Ex-Girlfriend by Miranda Lambert

Vocal Event: "Find Out Who Your Friends Are," by Tracy Lawrence with Tim McGraw and Kenny Chesney

Best Video: "Online" by Brad Paisley

Crystal Milestone Award: Garth Brooks

Click here to see red carpet photos of the stars arriving at the Academy of Country Music Awards.

Like Johnny & June is Heidi Newfield's New Hit

Heidi Newfield has a great big hit with her new song "Like Johnny & June."

I heard it on the radio on Saturday for the first time. Even though I had arrived at my destination (the grocery store) I stayed in the car to listen to the entire song. Awesome!

Great melody. Great lyrics. Her voice aches as she sings. Made me a believer. Yes, I want a love like Johnny & June!

You can hear the song online at http://www.heidinewfield.com/.

Do yourself a favor and go to the website right now and listen to "Like Johnny & June." I guarantee you'll listen again and again to this great big old hit in the making.

Good job, Heidi. A well deserved hit for the artist who went solo in 2007 after years with Trick Pony.

Call your radio station and ask to hear "Like Johnny and June." Buy the record. Go to Heidi's website and take a listen. This is the first big hit of the summer. You read it here first at the Country Music Fan Club blog!

Heidi doesn't have an official fab club yet, but we are predicting it won't be long until she makes the Black Book Guide to Official Country Music Fan Clubs: The Top 100. Until then, check out her website for a bio, news and, of course, "Like Johnny & June."

Click here to listen to the song and commentary on her myspace page.

Toby Keith Concert Photos

Check out the Toby Keith Concert photos at The Palm Beach Post.

Kenny Chesney Needs Your Vote

Are you a Kenny Chesney fan? (And who isn't?) Well, it's time to show your support by voting for Kenny for this year's Entertainer of the Year honors.

I admit that I adore Kenny. His music makes me smile, lifts my heart, gets my foot to tapping.

So I am going to show him some love by voting for him...at least twice, maybe three times.

50 million Americans called in a vote for American Idol last week. Certainly country music fans can do better than that!



Here is the news we received: Leading the industry with 11 Academy of Country Music (ACM) Award nominations, including a nod for what could be his 4th consecutive win for Entertainer Of The Year, Kenny Chesney needs your help.

For the first time ever, the ACM has given the fans the power to determine who receives the coveted honor of Entertainer Of The Year. From now through May 18, go to ACMVOTE.com and show your support for Kenny as Entertainer Of The Year. With this win, Kenny would join Garth Brooks and Alabama as the only artists to receive four Entertainer Of The Year awards. Help Kenny make history!

From his annual summer concert tours, that this year will include 14 NFL stadium stops, to his “Next Big Star” contest, which gives local musicians a chance to shine, Kenny works harder for his fans than any other artist.

And as a thank you to his fans, go to kennychesney.com, where you can enter to win an all expense paid fly away contest to see Kenny’s Poets & Pirates tour in San Diego, CA. Entries for the contest can be submitted beginning today through May 19. The winner will be chosen on May 21.

The “Boots at the Beach” contest includes (for a winner and one guest):

• Three-night stay in deluxe accommodations at Loews Coronado Bay Resort. The hotel is known for its captivating views, cool ocean breezes and island-like setting. Winners are greeted with hand-shaken margaritas and freshly-made salsa verde and pico de gallo waiting for you in your guestroom.
• All flights and transportation are included.
• Pair of Premium tickets to Kenny’s Poets & Pirates tour stop at Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre in San Diego.
• Surfing lessons at the nearby Silver Strand State Beach with soft surfboards, wetsuits and professional lessons by the best instructors around.
• Picnic on the Pacific with everything you need to enjoy lunch on the beach in one convenient basket.

Remember to tell your friends and family to vote for Kenny at ACMVOTE.com and sign up to win this amazing trip to enjoy Kenny on the beach in San Diego at kennychesney.com. Also, be sure to check kennychesney.com for the most up to date touring information.

Gunpowder & Lead: Miranda Lambert

Miranda Lambert fights back!

Gunpowder and Lead is an angry anthem. It ranks at the top along side the Dixie Chicks' Independence Day.

After being smacked around and shaken like a rag doll, she's gonna get a little crazy.

His fist is big but my gun's bigger
He'll find out when I pull the trigger
I'm goin' home, gonna load my shotgun
Wait by the door and light a cigarette
He wants a fight well now he's got one
And he ain't seen me crazy yet
Slapped my face and he shook me like a rag doll
Don't that sound like a real man
I'm gonna show him what a little girl's made of
Gun powder and lead

Even if you're not mad at your boyfriend, this song is infectious. You can't help buy sing along.

Miranda's voice is pure and true, and that wall of country sound behind her is awesome.

Check out this single and a few more from her Crazy Ex-girlfriend CD online at her website at www.mirandalambert.com.

Join the Ran Fan Club for only $20. You get:

• Official Ran Fans T-Shirt (optional)
• 8” x 10” photo
• Official Ran Fan membership card
• 7 1⁄2” x 4” bumper sticker
• Welcome Letter, Fun Facts, Bio
• Koozie
• Meet & greet opportunities
• Presale tickets
• Fan club party
• Exclusive online content

For more information about this and other fan clubs, buy the Black Book Guide to Official Country Music Fan Clubs: The Top 100, available at www.blackbookpress.com

Gretchen Wilson Graduates

Gretchen Wilson, country's favorite redneck women, finally received her high school diploma.

She took and passed the GED at age 34 because she wanted to set a good example for her daughter.

Gretchen has an awesome website at http://www.gretchenwilson.com/. You can watch five full-length videos online. There are also links to her photo gallery.

The Gretchen Wilson fan club is called Club 27. For only $25 USD a year you can get access to behind-the-scenes photos and exclusive video as well as your chance to purchase pre-sale tickets and maybe even meet Gretchen backstage

Dolly Parton

From appearing on American Idol to songwriting to running Dollywood, Dolly Parton is a whirlwind of country music success these days. She's done it all -- performing before thousands and appearing in movies. Now she is putting out her own CD. See her new video, "Jesus & Gravity," on GAC.

Dolly News from GAC:

Dolly Parton has always been one of country music's most ambitious performers, and even now, more than 40 years after she first started appearing on the national charts, she continues to churn out projects.

The most obvious one is her recent album Backwoods Barbie, but it's hardly the only thing on her plate. She's about to open another season at the Dollywood theme park with a new ride and a new tribute to her former duet partner, Porter Wagoner. In the fall, she'll debut the theatrical stage version of 9 To 5. And she's also working on an autobiographical musical and a children's TV show, among several other projects.

"I can't tell anybody else how to run their life or their business, but I really believe I've got a good bead on myself," she told Billboard magazine. "I know who I am, I know what I can and can't do, I know what I will and won't do, I know what I'm capable of."

Dolly's latest video, "Jesus & Gravity," will air Friday on GAC's Top 20 Country Countdown.

Amy Grant Makes Small Changes

“Small Changes” encourages families to share the simple changes they make in their lives to better their family’s health and well-being. Amy Grant believes that these little things can add up to make a big difference, whether that involves taking a bike ride after dinner, walking to work instead of driving or going to a concert to enrich the mind, body and soul through music.

The campaign also includes a television program, aptly named “Small Changes,” that showcases Amy Grant and some of the biggest names in country music. “Small Changes” will air on the Great American Country channel starting April 24th at 8:30 p.m. EST and will focus on what these stars are doing to make positive differences in the lives of their families.

For information about Amy Grant's fan club, see the Black Book Guide to Country Music Fan Clubs: The Top 100 at www.blackbookpress.com

Michelle Branch Online and in Concert

Michelle Branch has a new website online at www.michellebranch.com.
The site include news, message boards, a blog, photos and a YouTube clip from Michell's 2008 Sundance appearance.
You can listen to streaming audio of her new song "Lay me Down."
There are five tracks you can purchase and download: All You Wanted, Are you Happy Now, Everywhere, Breathe and Goodbye to You.
Upcoming dates:
April 10th at the Norvo in Norfolk, VA.
April 11th at the Azalea Fest.

Willie Nelson: One Hell of a Ride

Listen to WIllie Nelson's new album One Hell of a Ride free on AOL's music site.

Good times! The 4-CD set features the best of Willie and friends. Is that Waylon singing? Yes, it is. This compilation of music spans his five decade career and includes rough cuts, duets and #1 hits.

A can't miss for Willie Nelson fans. Pop a top and take a listen. Did I mention it's free.

My Top 10 George Strait Songs

It is a big day for George Strait fans. His new album, Troubadour, is released today. And XM radio is launching Strait Country on XM 17.

To mark the occasion, here are my Top 10 favorite George Strait songs:

In alphabetical order:

1. All My Exes Live in Texas
2. Carried Away
3. Carrying Your Love With Me
4. Easy Come, Easy Go
5. How ‘Bout Them Cowgirls
6. I Cross My Heart
7. I Hate Everything
8. She Let Herself Go
9. You Look So Good in Love
10. Write This Down

You can find the lyrics, listen to music and watch videos free online at www.georgestrait.com.

For information about the George Strait Fan Club, check out the Black Book Guide to Country Music Fan Clubs: The Top 100 at www.blackbookpress.com

George Strait on XM Radio

Tomorrow is the launch date for the new George Strait Channel 17 on XM radio.

The "All George All The Time" channel will run during April and May.

Strait Country - XM 17 celebrates Strait's new album, Troubadour.

The channel will showcase all the music from his 30 year career, plus even more features just for Strait fans, including:

• Exclusive interviews with George Strait
• Tracks from George's new album, Troubadour, every hour
• Today's country stars talking about the influence George Strait has had on them and country music
• Frequently asked questions about George's life, music, and career
• Interviews from the biggest songwriters who George has showcased over the past 30 years
• Exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the people and stories from the road over the past 30 years, including his long-time managers, producers, and more

"It's always a thrill to hear one of your songs played on the radio, but to have XM Radio dedicate an entire channel to my music is just amazing. I'm hoping fans and the millions of XM subscribers will enjoy hearing the new music from Troubadour, as well as revisiting their favorites from years past," said George Strait.

"King of Country" George Strait is one of the most successful and prolific country music artists of all time. With a career that spans more than 25 years, Strait has 55 number one songs on the country charts, more than any other artist, regardless of genre, 74 Top 10 and 78 Top 20 hits. He has sold more than 67 million records and counting, garnering him 32 different platinum or multi-platinum albums, the second most certifications of any artist in any genre, following only Elvis Presley.

Strait has received more than 50 major entertainment industry awards and countless nominations. The winner of 18 Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, Strait has received a record-breaking 73 CMA Award nominations.

In 2006, Strait was elected into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Trace Adkins a Celebrity but not The Apprentice

Trace Adkins made it to the finals of this season's Celebrity Apprentice, only to be edged out by Piers Morgan.

Trace was playing for his favority charity: FAAN (Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network). PERSONAL CONNECTION: Trace's 6-year old daughter had a severe, life-threatening reaction to peanut butter when she was just 18 months old, an experience Trace called "terrifying." His daughter also suffers from allergies to eggs and milk. Trace feels that research could lead to greater understanding of food allergies, and perhaps someday a cure.

Ten years into his recording career as a country chartbuster, with dozens of hits under his belt and eight top-selling albums, Trace Adkins has entered elite territory. The man long known for his imposing physical stature, world-class baritone and bedrock authenticity has clearly earned his place among the most identifiable and important artists of his generation. Adkins has built a solid career and a strong fan base by recording songs that possess insightful lyrics and cover a wide range of interests --many from his own life experiences.

A one-time pipe fitter on an offshore oil rig, Adkins worked his way up in the music business. In his younger days, he sang in a gospel group and then went on to perform in small honky-tonks and clubs throughout Louisiana and Texas. He made his move to Nashville in 1992 and never looked back.

Over the past decade, Adkins has racked up a long string of hits including "Every Light In The House Is on," "(This Ain't) No Thinkin' Thing," "I Left Something Turned On At Home," "Hot Mama," "I'm Tryin,'" "Rough & Ready," "Arlington," "Songs About Me," "Honky Tonk Badonkadonk," "Ladies Love Country Boys," "I Wanna Feel Something" and "I Got My Game On." He has sold millions of records, won dozens of industry awards and become a member of the prestigious Grand Ole Opry.

He has made countless appearances on national television including "The Tonight Show," "The Late Show with David Letterman," "The Conan O'Brien Show," "Last Call with Carson Daly," "The Late, Late Show With Craig Ferguson" and has been featured in numerous mainstream articles such as People, USA TODAY and Entertainment Weekly. Adkins has even tested the waters at voice-over work and acting, making special guest appearances on sitcoms like "Yes, Dear" and "My Name is Earl."

The double-platinum SONGS ABOUT ME release in 2005 featured the monster hit, "Honky Tonk Badonkadonk." The song ruled the country charts, with digital downloads surpassing 800,000 and more than 500,000 ringtone purchases--an impressive feat in a market primarily dominated by R&B & hip hop. His 2006 release of "Dangerous Man" scored the biggest first-week sales in his career and became his third CD to make its entry at the top of the charts. The album quickly received a Gold-certification from the RIAA and produced three more hit singles.
A seasoned performer, Adkins consistently performs to sell-out venues all across the country with his hard-driving stage show that's chalked full of hits. He has truly become of country music's top headlining and in-demand artists today.

Last fall Trace released his first book, "A PERSONAL STAND: Observations and Opinions from a Freethinking Roughneck" (Villard Books).

His ninth album for Capitol Records, AMERICAN MAN, GREATEST HITS VOLUME II was released in December.

George Strait on XM Radio

Country music superstar George Strait is getting his own XM satellite radio channel.

Strait Country is set to launch on April 1 on XM Channel 17. It's the same date his new album Troubadour drops.

The channel will air from April 1 through May 31. It will play all George Strait music, plus interviews and programs about the star, all of the time.

Trace Adkins, Celebrity Apprentice

Who doesn't love Trace Adkins on Celebrity Apprentice?
This favorite country music superstar holds his own on the the NBC show.
Here is Trace's show bio...
Ten years into his recording career as a country chartbuster, with dozens of hits under his belt and eight top-selling albums, Trace Adkins has entered elite territory. The man long known for his imposing physical stature, world-class baritone and bedrock authenticity has clearly earned his place among the most identifiable and important artists of his generation. Adkins has built a solid career and a strong fan base by recording songs that possess insightful lyrics and cover a wide range of interests --many from his own life experiences.
A one-time pipe fitter on an offshore oil rig, Adkins worked his way up in the music business. In his younger days, he sang in a gospel group and then went on to perform in small honky-tonks and clubs throughout Louisiana and Texas. He made his move to Nashville in 1992 and never looked back.
Over the past decade, Adkins has racked up a long string of hits including "Every Light In The House Is on," "(This Ain't) No Thinkin' Thing," "I Left Something Turned On At Home," "Hot Mama," "I'm Tryin,'" "Rough & Ready," "Arlington," "Songs About Me," "Honky Tonk Badonkadonk," "Ladies Love Country Boys," "I Wanna Feel Something" and "I Got My Game On." He has sold millions of records, won dozens of industry awards and become a member of the prestigious Grand Ole Opry.
He has made countless appearances on national television including "The Tonight Show," "The Late Show with David Letterman," "The Conan O'Brien Show," "Last Call with Carson Daly," "The Late, Late Show With Craig Ferguson" and has been featured in numerous mainstream articles such as People, USA TODAY and Entertainment Weekly. Adkins has even tested the waters at voice-over work and acting, making special guest appearances on sitcoms like "Yes, Dear" and "My Name is Earl."
The double-platinum SONGS ABOUT ME release in 2005 featured the monster hit, "Honky Tonk Badonkadonk." The song ruled the country charts, with digital downloads surpassing 800,000 and more than 500,000 ringtone purchases--an impressive feat in a market primarily dominated by R&B & hip hop. His 2006 release of "Dangerous Man" scored the biggest first-week sales in his career and became his third CD to make its entry at the top of the charts. The album quickly received a Gold-certification from the RIAA and produced three more hit singles.
A seasoned performer, Adkins consistently performs to sell-out venues all across the country with his hard-driving stage show that's chalked full of hits. He has truly become of country music's top headlining and in-demand artists today.
On Tuesday, November 13, Adkins will release his first book, "A PERSONAL STAND: Observations and Opinions from a Freethinking Roughneck" (Villard Books).
His ninth album for Capitol Records, AMERICAN MAN, GREATEST HITS VOLUME II was released in December.
Click here for the Celebrity Apprentice website.

Dolly Parton Returns with New Album & Tour

Welcome Back, Dolly

Dolly Parton's New Album & Tour

The release date of Dolly Parton's Backwoods Barbie will now be in late February or early March to coincide with the launch of a world tour that begins Feb. 28 in Minneapolis.

Backwoods Barbie, her first mainstream country album in 17 years, was previously set for release on Feb. 5.

Parton is currently scheduled to perform a dozen shows in the U.S. and make a March 14 appearance at the South by Southwest music conference in Austin, Texas.

She'll spend June and July on a tour of Sweden, Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.

CLICK HERE TO SEE THE BETTER GET TO LIVIN' VIDEO

Garth Brooks Webcast News

GarthBrooks.com to Air Exclusive Pre-Show Webcast from STAPLES Center, Friday, January 25

Program will be hosted by music industry veteran Rick Barker and will air live from just inside of the Figueroa Street Entry starting at 4:30 PM Pacific

You could win Garth merchandise

Los Angeles, CA – GarthBrooks.com will air a one hour webcast on Friday, January 25 starting at 4:30 PM Pacific. The show will originate from the main concourse of STAPLES just inside of the Figueroa Street Entry.

Hosted by music industry veteran Rick Barker, the show will feature fan interviews, giveaways and the opportunity to contribute to the “Southern California 2008 Fire Intervention Relief Effort (F.I.R.E.)." Donations can be made by calling 1-800-713-2065 or going to http://www.mccormicktribune.org/2008firerelief.

Immediately following the webcast, Brooks will play a series of 5 sold-out concerts over the next two days. The first concert will air on CBS starting at 9:00 PM (live ET/delayed PT).

All proceeds from the five concerts, organized by Brooks and AEG (owners of STAPLES Center), and sponsored by American Express, Ticketmaster and official media sponsor the Los Angeles Times, will be donated to F.I.R.E. a campaign of the McCormick Tribune Foundation. The funds will be granted to agencies providing aid to victims and the first responders of the Los Angeles and San Diego wildfires in addition to providing financial assistance to California firefighting departments and organizations in need of additional or replacement firefighting equipment to better perform their heroic duties. The Foundation will also be responsible for granting administration and recordkeeping.

The webcast is free and does not require registration. During the show, several fans will be chosen at random to receive free LA concert merchandise. To be eligible, fans can go to www.garthbrooks.com/LA and enter their name and email address starting at noon Pacific on Tuesday, January 22.

About Garth Brooks
Certified by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) as the Number One selling solo artist in U.S. history, Garth Brooks has sold in excess of 123 million albums. He is the only solo artist in RIAA history to have six albums top the 10 million mark. This year Brooks became the first artist to put out a simultaneous edition of his latest collection for a charitable cause. Nov. 6, 2007 saw the launch of the pink edition of The Ultimate hits available only at the Susan G. Komen website. His body of work — including the groundbreaking No Fences, Ropin’ The Wind, The Hits and Double Live — propelled country music as a genre to the front pages of newspapers worldwide and the covers of magazines, to the point where Forbes declared on its cover, "Country Conquers Rock" and featured Brooks in a major music piece.

According to the RIAA, Garth Brooks is the top-selling solo artist of the 20th century. Brooks has received every accolade the recording industry can bestow on an artist, including: two Grammys, 17 American Music Awards, 11 Country Music Association Awards, 18 Academy of Country Music Awards, five World Music Awards, 12 People’s Choice Awards and 36 Billboard Music Awards. He was named Artist of the ‘90s at the 1997 Blockbuster Entertainment Awards, received the Artist Achievement Award at the 1997 Billboard Music Awards, and was named Artist of the Decade at the American Music Awards in 2000 and the Academy of Country Music Awards in 1999.