Category Archives: Artists

Watch Now: Blackberry Smoke – Best Seat In The House

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Blackberry Smoke News

An acoustic video for Blackberry Smoke’s “Best Seat In The House” is premiering today. Watch/share HERE. The video was filmed at Southern Ground Studios in Nashville, TN and features band members Charlie Starr (vocals, guitar), Richard Turner (bass, vocals), Brit Turner (drums), Paul Jackson (guitar, vocals), and Brandon Still (keyboards). The song is from the band’s acclaimed new album, Find A Light, which debuted as the best-selling Country and Americana/Folk album in the country and entered at #3 on the BillboardTop Country Albums chart and #2 on the Billboard Americana/Folk Albums chart. Recent critical praise for Find A Light… “Blackberry Smoke is part of a lineage that shares a love of Petty, the Allman Brothers Band, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Hank Williams Jr., able to ride an Americana vibe or peel off a stomping riff and tie it all together without a hint of pretense.” “Blackberry Smoke shines through the darkness on the album’s 13 cuts” “…a self-produced set that runs a wide stylistic range from heavy rock to gentle balladry and twangy country…” “Blackberry Smoke have long been heirs to the road-warrior mantle established by their classic-rock and country heroes. And, with their sixth full-length album, Find A Light, the quintet has now firmly established an authentic legacy of their own.” “Blackberry Smoke’s electrifying amalgam of country, blues, roots, soul and classic rock is garnering big audiences across a wide spectrum of genres. And what’s more, they’re doing it with a sound that boasts some of the most hot-shit, high-wire guitar shredding around.” “There’s never a dull moment on Find A Light, and Blackberry Smoke has delivered another album that wends its way deep into our flesh and bone, blistering our souls and soothing our hearts.” “…Blackberry Smoke are traditionalists through and through, carrying the flame for good old-fashioned American rock & roll…The result is a splendid little record that simultaneously feels brand new and like a lost gem.” “They’re as constant as the North Star and as reliable as the Lone Ranger. Calmly, they survey the turmoil that surrounds us, stroke their beards for a moment, pick up their guitars and make another solid and reliable Blackberry Smoke album.” “…reveals a band that sounds ever more like itself: proud torchbearers of a Southern rock tradition, certainly, but a folk/rock/gospel/blues/country-driven original fivesome that can write both tender and party-ready, with at-times-unpredictable flavors.” “Flourishes of fiddle, organ and piano add depth to the band’s time- perfected rock ‘n’ roll sound, creating an album that is layered, diverse and fresh, yet still unmistakably Blackberry Smoke.” In celebration of the release, Blackberry Smoke will tour extensively throughout 2018 including a series of co-headlining dates with JJ Grey & Mofro as well as several shows with Lynyrd Skynyrd. See below for complete details. Self-produced by the acclaimed 5-piece band, Find A Light is Blackberry Smoke’s sixth full-length album and features 13 new songs written/co-written by lead-singer and guitarist Charlie Starr. In addition to the band members, the album also features special guests Robert Randolph (“I’ll Keep Ramblin’”), Amanda Shires (“Let Me Down Easy”) and Continue reading Watch Now: Blackberry Smoke – Best Seat In The House→

Little Big Town is Giving Us Summer Fever!

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Little Big Town Summer Fever

LITTLE BIG TOWN TO RELEASE NEW SONG “SUMMER FEVER” JUNE 6 THE FOURSOME WILL OPEN THE 2018 CMT MUSIC AWARDS WITH PERFORMANCE OF SONG THAT DAY Little Big Town is set to release the song of the summer, “Summer Fever,” Wednesday, June 6th to Country radio and all digital service providers.  LBT’s Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Phillip Sweet, and Jimi Westbrook will open the 2018 CMT Music Awards that same day with a performance of “Summer Fever” and continue as the night’s hosts for the duration of the show. The track, co-written by Fairchild, Jesse Frasure, Cary Barlowe, and Sam Romans features Fairchild on lead vocals and encapsulates the spirit of summertime with an infectious melody and nostalgic guitar tones set against the group’s famous four-part harmonies. “Summer Fever” was co-produced by Frasure and Shane McAnally and mixed by Spike Stent in Los Angeles.  “It’s always amazing when a song seems to just wait for its own perfect timing,” said Frasure. “Getting the chance to bring this song to life in the writing room with my co-writers, and through the opportunity to co-produce with my friend Shane McAnally has been a dream come true.  I can’t wait to hear this song coming out of a rolled down window this Summer.” “I dare you to sit still when this song comes on…it’s impossible,” said McAnally. “I don’t even dance, but something comes over me when this thing kicks in. I can’t wait for the world to catch Summer Fever.” Photo Credit: Williams + Hirakawa Summer Fever Creative: Milkglass

Watch Now: Kenny Chesney – Get Along

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Kenny Chesney Tour News | Photo Credit: Allister Ann

Kenny Chesney knew why he wanted “Get Along” as the first single from his deeply personalSongs for the Saints, coming July 27. Beyond the feel-good lope to its groove, the message of inclusion instead of rancor resonated in the wake of too much news overload, screaming talking heads and a world seemingly intent on the differences instead of coming together. He knew, too, there was no better way to show that notion of inclusion in action than through his own No Shoes Nation, a country without borders filled with all kinds of people determined to enjoy the moment. So beyond kicking off his Trip Around The Sun Tour at Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium, Chesney wanted to capture the fun, friendship, laughter and good times that have been bringing his fans together for years. “The whole point of the song is to look for your common ground instead of worrying about your differences,” Chesney explains. “And when I look out into the crowd, that’s what I see: people who are having a great time, getting along and making the most of every single minute.” Mostly documentary from the parking lots, the stands, the sand bar and the stage, the Shaun Silva directed clip has the same euphoria and spirit that marks the song. Beyond Chesney’s signature high energy performance, there’s a solo turn on an Engel cooler, a low impact group jam from rehearsal, a heroic take on “Get Along” from the Buccaneers pirate ship and an impromptu run through the song on a pontoon boat in the middle of one of the lots. “It takes a lot to try to keep up with the No Shoes Nation,” Chesney admits. “With their rolling Tiki Bars, tons of sand, Blue Chair Bay cocktails and wading pools. They have as much fun waiting to get into the show as they do at the concerts, and I love that! I wanted this video to be a mix of how their world works and the way their passion inspires all of us up onstage. “It made for a couple long days, doing a video the same time we were starting a tour…But I wouldn’t have changed anything for the world!” With Chesney playing to record crowds at most of his stadium shows, “Get Along” is already Top 10 and climbing onBillboard and MediaBase charts. Described by the 8-time Entertainer of the Year as “a song for times like these from an album about the places that save you,” this song sets the tone for an album about hope in the hard places, acceptance of what is and the resilience to rise up and make your way no matter what’s in front of you.

William Shatner and Neal McCoy Team Up For Charity

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Neal McCoy News

William Shatner’s Priceline.com Hollywood Charity Horse Show Sponsored by Wells Fargo Returns June 2 to Los Angeles Equestrian Center with Neal McCoy On Saturday, June 2nd, William Shatner’s Priceline.com Hollywood Charity Horse Show, Sponsored by Wells Fargo, which has become one of Los Angeles’ most highly anticipated celebrity-driven charity events, will return for another year, helping raise critical funding for Los Angeles-area organizations.   Each year for nearly three decades, the celebrated actor and cultural icon’s philanthropic horse show and dinner, supports some of the city’s most crucial charitable organizations, primarily those focusing on benefiting children with special needs and U.S. military veterans through a variety of outreach and therapeutic programming.   Says Shatner, “For years I have witnessed the indelible mark that horses can leave on people. I have seen children who are unable to walk ride atop horses, and completely break out of their shells, and I have seen the lasting connection humans can have with this incredible animal.”   He continues, “It’s a beautiful thing, and that is why I am bringing back the Priceline.com Hollywood Charity Horse Show, Sponsored by Wells Fargo, for yet another year, because it is just that important and the services these organizations provide to the community are nothing short of remarkable and essential.”    This year, one of the country music world’s most beloved acts, Neal McCoy, will return for his second year. He previously performed at the 26th Annual Hollywood Charity Horse Show dinner in 2016, and was so profoundly moved by the experience that he decided to return, this time with his full band. Says McCoy, “To be involved with William Shatner and his team in any way is exciting. After being part of his Hollywood Charity Horse Show a couple years ago, we were excited about being part of it again this year. Not only is it a wonderful time for families, but to be able to contribute to some wonderful causes the Shatner team supports. We are really happy to be coming back!”    In past years, other musical acts have included Sheryl Crow, Sarah McLachlan, Roadcase Royale, Joe Walsh, Vince Gill, Randy Travis, Brad Paisley, Ben Folds, Willie Nelson and Wynonna Judd.    The Priceline.com Hollywood Charity Horse Show, Sponsored by Wells Fargo, will return once more to the Los Angeles Equestrian Center (480 Riverside Drive, Burbank), Southern California’s premier equestrian facility, with a free hour-long Arena Show, which will begin at 5:30 p.m. The show will bring together a collection of world-class reining horses and their riders competing for top honors in the 3,000-plus-seat Equidome.     The must-see Arena Show will treat spectators to impressive performances. There will be a freestyle reining competition, a riding demonstration by AHEAD with Horses, and a not-to-be-missed  performance of the National Anthem and ‘God Bless America’ by retired Naval petty officer Generald Wilson, who most recently blew away American television audiences when he performed at the NFC Championship game in Philadelphia earlier this year.    There will also be a featured performance by DIAVOLO, Continue reading William Shatner and Neal McCoy Team Up For Charity→

CMA Fest: Go For The Music, Leave With A Puppy!

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Muttnation Adoption Drive at 2018 CMAFest

For the third consecutive year, Miranda Lambert’s MuttNation Foundation will be entertaining CMA Fest fans with Music City’s cutest canines, all available for adoption to caring, qualified families. Partnering with Nashville Humane Association, MuttNation will have adorable adoptablesavailable each day from 11-3pm at the MuttNation rig located inside the Music City Center. Bev Lambert, Miranda’s mom and co-founder of MuttNation Foundation, will be on-site to have photos taken with each adopting family. With MuttNation’s support, more than 100 shelter dogs have been rescued by country music fans at CMA Fest over the past two years. “MuttNation’s mission is to promote the adoption of shelter pets, spay & neuter, and to let everyone know why these things are so important. Since country music fans are the most passionate people out there, CMA Fest is a great place to accomplish these goals,” said Lambert, who has 8 rescue dogs. “And it’s the world’s best feeling when you make the perfect match between a rescue and a new owner, knowing it’s creating such an incredible bond that will grow deeper and stronger every day. It just fills my heart with happiness to be part of something so special.” When asked how you can tell when you’ve found the right dog, Miranda told the crowd of more than 1000 MuttNation “citizens” gathered during CMA Fest last year, that “your dog will come to you.” As she was speaking, Bandit walked up to Fran & Mark Anziano and, from that moment on, has been part of their family. Keep an eye on MuttNation socials to see advance pictures of some of this year’s adoptable dogs photographed with Bev and Miranda: instagram.com/muttnation; twitter.com/muttnation;facebook.com/muttnation Another feature at the booth will be a one-of-a-kind MuttNation branded Epiphone guitar signed by Miranda, available via online rafflethroughCrowdRise at this link: www.crowdrise.com/muttnationguitar There will also be great MuttNation merchandise and the MuttNation Fueled by Miranda Lambert pet collection by Petmate, proceeds from sales of both benefit MuttNation Foundation. Petmate is also offering all CMA Fest fans a 25% discount for online purchases over $4.99. Use Code CMAFEST on Petmate.com anytime from June 6-12. About MuttNation Foundation Founded by Miranda and her mom, Bev Lambert, in 2009, MuttNation is a donation-supported 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to promote the adoption of shelter pets, advance spay & neuter and educate the public about the benefits of these actions. MuttNation also works with transport partners to assist and relocate animals under threat of euthanasia and during times of natural disaster. With a goal of finding a forever home for every shelter animal, MuttNation supports animal rescues across the country, hosts adoption events throughout the year, provides positive reinforcement for the shelter adoption experience, works to raise awareness for its causes and develops and implements initiatives to further its mission-driven goals.  www.muttnation.com About Miranda Lambert Vanner Records/RCA Records Nashville singer/songwriter Miranda Lambert is the most decorated artist in ACM history as well as the reigning ACM Female Vocalist of the Year, having been bestowed this honor for Continue reading CMA Fest: Go For The Music, Leave With A Puppy!→

Win a FREE Fender Brad Paisley Road Worn Telecaster Guitar!

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Free Fender Guitar

It’s not often that we share contests here that are not our own, but when we saw this one come across our desk we KNEW we couldn’t leave our loyal readers out of it! Our friends at The Music Zoo are giving away a FREE Fender Brad Paisley Road Worn Telecaster, signed by Brad himself! Click the image below or this link to enter, and good luck to all of you! This is the brand new Brad Paisley Road Worn Tele from Fender. A unique guitar for the Country music superstar, this Tele is unique with its body that has a pawlonia core with spruce top and back that make the guitar incredibly lightweight, with an enhanced “V” neck profile to the maple neck, a ’64 Tele bridge pickup wound to Brad’s preferences, a Twisted Tele neck pickup, and 9.5” radius with modern medium jumbo frets! A great guitar with standout looks thanks to the silver sparkle finish and matching black and silver paisley pickguard. Entry only requires email address. See complete rules here.

Luke Combs, Leon Bridges To Collaborate For ‘CMT Crossroads’

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Luke Combs Crossroads

RIVER HOUSE/COLUMBIA NASHVILLE’s LUKE COMBS will join forces with GRAMMY-nominated R&B artist LEON BRIDGES for a special edition of CMT-TV’s “CMT Crossroads” series. The performance is set to take place over Broadway in downtown NASHVILLE for an outdoor concert experience on TUESDAY, JUNE 5th. The free taping is open to fans at 5th and Broadway in NASHVILLE; gates will open at 7p (CT), and the show will begin at 8:30p (CT). The CMT-TV premiere is set to air on THURSDAY, JUNE 28th at 10p (ET/PT).

Introducing: Logan Robinson – Boat Docks

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Logan Robinson on Country Music News Blog

Just in time for summer, we got this fun little submission from North Carolina native Logan Robinson.  Give “Boat Docks” a listen and let us know if you’ll be adding it to your summer playlist! You can learn more about Logan Robinson on his website and Facebook pages below. You can also find his music on Spotify, ITunes, and Apple Tunes. https://www.loganrobinsonmusic.com/ https://www.facebook.com/LoganRobinsonOfficial/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrrqTpfphkY  

Out Tomorrow: Lindsay Ell – The Continuum Project

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Lindsay Ell on Country Music News Blog

Country star Lindsay Ell took to social media to announce news long-awaited by legions of fans: Ell will release her version of John Mayer’s Continuum album on Friday, May 25. Lindsay Ell’s The Continuum Project, co-produced and co-engineered by Ell, will be available at all digital retailers and streaming services. Beginning as a homework assignment from producer Kristian Bush (Sugarland) in preparation to record her debut album, Ell was given two weeks to reimagine her all-time favorite desert island record, recording every single instrument and singing every part alone in her studio. The process led her to emerge with a renewed creative discovery and vision for how she plays, writes and records her own music. The end-result of Bush’s unique assignment became her critically-lauded No. 1 debut album, The Project. Ell explains, “Recording Continuum was the thing that started it all. Kristian taught me some of the most valuable lessons as my producer from this ‘homework’ assignment. He gave me three rules: I needed to play all the instruments myself, I needed to record it alone in my studio, and I had two weeks. Through it all, I remembered all the things I first loved about making music. I can’t wait for my fans to hear the music that helped shaped ‘Criminal’ and The Project!” The whirlwind doesn’t stop for Ell who just wrapped a year-long run on Brad Paisley’s Weekend Warrior World Tour. Meanwhile, the multi-instrumentalist is set to join Sugarland’s Still the Same Tour in July ahead of supporting select dates of Keith Urban’s Graffiti U World Tour this fall. Adding to the excitement, Ell collaborated with Urban on a brand new track “Horses,” featured on his just-released album Graffiti U, available everywhere now. Her current single “Criminal” is Top 20 at U.S. Country radio and recently landed atop Canadian Country Radio Charts. Watch the music video here For more information, visit www.lindsayell.com ABOUT LINDSAY ELL: Named one of The Huffington Post’s “Top Country Artists to Watch,” Lindsay Ell is a triple threat: accomplished musician, unique vocalist and songwriter. The Calgary native learned to play guitar while traveling with her father to country-bluegrass camps as a young girl. Ell honed her craft as a musical stylist and songwriter after being discovered by BTO and The Guess Who’s Randy Bachman (“American Woman” / “Taking Care of Business”) who discovered her at the age of 13. The multi-instrumentalist was soon touring alongside the likes of Luke Bryan, Buddy Guy, The Band Perry and Keith Urban, as well as wowing audiences as Carrie Underwood’s guitar player live on the “50th Annual CMA Awards” and holding her own alongside icon Melissa Etheridge on Skyville Live. A 2016 CMT Music Award and multiple Canadian Country Music Award nominee, Ell exhilarated audiences from coast-to-coast as part of the 2016 CMT Next Women of Country Tour and Brad Paisley’s 2017 and 2018 WEEKEND WARRIOR WORLD TOUR. She will soon join Sugarland’s Still The Same Tour for Summer 2018 and select dates of Keith Urban’s Graffiti Continue reading Out Tomorrow: Lindsay Ell – The Continuum Project→

Dan + Shay Set To Release Self-Titled Album June 22nd

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Dan + Shay on Country Music News Blog!

WARNER BROS./WAR’s DAN + SHAY will release their new, self-titled “DAN + SHAY” album on FRIDAY, JUNE 22nd. The 11-track project will include their current single, “Tequila,” as well as the just-released “Speechless,” for which the duo dropped a romantic video today (5/18) featuring each of their real-life weddings. Also included on the album will be “Alone Together,” “All To Myself,” and “Keeping Score,” which features KELLY CLARKSON. The duo’s DAN SMYERS and SHAY MOONEY each either had a hand in writing or co-writing ten of the eleven tracks; SMYERS also co-produced the album alongside longtime collaborator, WMN EVP/A&R SCOTT HENDRICKS. “Our first two albums helped us build an incredible and super-loyal fan base, so we knew it was our responsibility to them to put out the best music we could on this record,” said DAN + SHAY. “Most importantly, we wanted to deliver a project that would satisfy the people who got us where we are in the first place. Where we are musically and in our personal lives is different than where we were when this all started, which makes this album unique while still being true to who we are.”