Lee Brice Talks ACM Nomination, Touring, Writing and More

Lee Brice Fills HaleighT In On His ACM Award Nomination, Being On Tour, Writing Music and More! The CMNB Team was lucky enough to check in with the talented Lee Brice recently, and he had a lot of interesting stuff to tell us! He discussed his current ACM Award Nomination (vote here through Feb. 4th!), his current single, “I Drive Your Truck” that he is doing great on the charts, working on new music, and hitting the road with the awesome Dierks Bentley and Miranda Lambert on their upcoming Locked and Reloaded Tour! I have to say that Lee was a super nice guy, and he put on one heck of a show! If you haven’t checked him out yet, be sure to do so soon! You can find his music on iTunes and upcoming tour dates below! Watch: HaleighT Interviews Lee Brice In Ft. Smith, Arkansas. Current Lee Brice Tour Dates and Tickets!

Josh Turner Find Me A Baby Video

Josh Turner Releases Adorable Video for Find Me A Baby! Josh Turner just released his new video for single “Find Me A Baby” just a couple of days ago, and it is absolutely adorable. Featuring “candid” shots of what appears to be real families posing for the camera, happy as can be, the video just makes you smile. At the end (spoiler alert), we even get what looks like a couple photos of Josh and his babies! This is such an optimistic, cheery song, and I’m really glad I started my day with it! Watch for yourself below! Watch Josh Turner’s Find Me A Baby Video.

Jana Kramer Whiskey Video Review

Jana Kramer Releases Official Video for Whiskey: Worth the Wait? Jana Kramer’s second official single from her self-titled debut album, “Whiskey” has been heard over the airwaves for quite some time without any real video. There was a video posted a couple of months ago to her channel, called ‘Kickin’ It With @Kramergirl’, and many websites and blogs assumed THAT was the video for ‘Whiskey’. And, while it’s a nice video, it is rather simple (in fact it’s just one camera shot with nothing much going on in the scene), so I’m glad Jana has released this video too, to let us get to know the song on a deeper level. And that has happened, I think. I was a little surprised by the nature of the video – I just expected it to be about your slightly runaway small-town heart breaker, but instead the video shows scenes of something entirely different. From Jana meeting the guy in a bar, their eyes doing that “I want to sleep with you” thing, and then the guy being ‘called’ (ha, clever play on the lyrics) by another man, only to start punching this other man and getting into a brawl, the rowdy and passionate nature of the relationship is clear. Jana obviously looks shocked at first, but as soon as her love interest returns to her after his brawl, back comes the flirty smile and they go off together. Err, huh? Just an interjection, but I don’t care how cute a guy is, if he starts fights I’m not going to go home with him. Seems like sound advice, as the video ends with said lover being arrested in the middle of the night from the trailer where he and Jana are sleeping. Jana looks betrayed and slams the trailer door as her lover gets put into the police car. Finally, she gets it. Between this start and end scenes we get a lot of Jana looking gorgeous, yet sad and dramatic in various scenes, lying down in her trailer, sitting in the woods with a shawl wrapped round her, it’s standard music video stuff, and I wouldn’t have expected anything less from someone who is also partly selling her sex appeal alongside her music (we have to admit it’s a marketing tactic for many). There are some very obvious interpretations of the lyrics, such as the lover drinking copious amounts of Jack Daniels straight from the bottle, in front of a campfire, symbolizing the fire of the relationship. Something interesting to note about this video is the amount of time it focuses on the passionate kiss between Jana and her on-screen lover. Country music is still a rather traditional medium, so to have this and a brief showing of them taking each others’ clothes off, is quite risqué, especially considering the criticism Shania Twain received in the nineties for showing her midriff. You could say country music has moved on, but there’s still a lack of openly sexual visuals in country Continue reading Jana Kramer Whiskey Video Review

Backroad Anthem Live at Georges Majestic Lounge

Backroad Anthem Explodes Onto The Country Scene with Performance at Georges Majestic Lounge, Headed Somewhere Fast! I have a feeling that sometime soon, I’ll be telling everyone how I met the boys from Backroad Anthem before they made it big. I first stumbled across this group of local talent when they opened for Dustin Lynch at Georges Majestic Lounge in Fayetteville, AR at the beginning of January. I didn’t even know they were on the night’s bill until I got to the show, and I was immediately blown away by the energy in their performance, their original sound, and how they had the fans on their feet and grooving in a matter of seconds. I thought maybe Dustin’s fans were just particularly exuberant, but I caught Backroad again just a little over a week ago when they headlined at George‘s and sold out the venue. For the second time, I was taken aback by these guys, especially considering that, as I later learned, they’ve only been together a short time (less than six months!). No matter the short time frame, these talented young men have hit just the right note, and they’re headed in the right direction. The Energy The first thing you’ll notice about Backroad Anthem is the raw, no holds barred energy that they put into their performances. according to lead vocalist frontman  Craig Strickland this is exactly what they’re aiming for. “We want to offer people somewhat of a country power band, where everyone is incredibly talented at their instrument. When people walk out the door from a live show we want them saying ‘That band had something that other bands don’t have. Their crazy energy on stage is addictive.’” – Craig Strickland For his part, Strickland never stays in one spot for long as he’s constantly jumping, running around on stage, dancing on an amp or interacting with the crowd. At the same time the extraordinarily talented fiddle player, Eric Dysart, isn’t taking any breaks either and keeps things upbeat and sizzling with his superb skills. Meanwhile, Isaac Senty kills it on the drums, Toby Freeman‘s smooth vocals balance out Craig’s more rocker vibe while adding to the overall sound with his rhythm electric, and Josh Bryant keeps a cool demeanor without holding back as he fires away as lead guitarist.  Every single one of them is constantly giving it their all, and the result is a loud, well-performed, high energy show that has the audience on their feet, dancing, singing along, and cheering for more the entire time. Bottom line, one thing is for sure, the crowd won’t leave without having a great time. The Sound Besides the high energy of their shows, Backroad Anthem has an interesting and original sound, and is sure to draw folks back for more. Granted, at this early stage, they are still filling their set with a lot of covers of popular country hits, but even still, they demonstrate a pretty wide range in the process. They cover classics Continue reading Backroad Anthem Live at Georges Majestic Lounge

10 Random Questions with Phoenix Stone

Guest Writer Brittany Vance Asks Phoenix Stone 10 Random Questions! Is it just me or is Phoenix Stone such a kick ass name? His name really does match his music, unique. Stone is a true southern boy from Tampa, FL who discovered the spotlight as a teen. He was signed to Warner/Chappell record label, and worked with folks like The Backstreet Boys. However, I believe his pop days are probably long gone. His current single “100 Proof Moonshine,” which he wrote and produced on his own, has been getting a lot of attention, and he was also named one of the “25 Most Beautiful People Of Nashville 2012.” All I have to say is, any friend of moonshine is a friend of mine! Plus, he was brave enough to take on my 10 random questions… so, consider me a fan. 1. How does it feel to be one of the “25 Most Beautiful People Of Nashville 2012?” I was honored and flattered but I’ve never really considered myself beautiful haha 2. What artists do you currently listen to? Eric Church – any classic rock like guns N roses and Fleetwood Mac recently 3. If you could duet with any female artist who would you team up with? Kelly Clarkson or Sheryl Crow 4. How many tattoos do you have? 5 5. Beer or Wine? whiskey or moonshine for me 6. Do you have a favorite sport? White water rafting, UFC or baseball 7. Favorite Restaurant? Roosters BBQ in Nashville 8. Do you have any bad habits? Probably 🙂 9. What can we expect from you in 2013? Full length album and continuing to tour. 10. Is there anything you want the world to know about Phoenix Stone? That it takes a long time and it’s a long road to being an “overnight sensation” work hard and let your passion for music lead you…all the rest will fall into place. You can follow Phoenix on Twitter @phoenixstone1! Watch: Phoenix Stone “100 Proof Moonshine” Official Video. Brittany is a guest contributor! You can find more from her via Twitter.

Getting To Know Ben Wells

Let Me Take A Minute To Introduce You To An Artist Who Is Always Ready To “Get Down.” I got the chance to talk with Ben Wells for a few minutes the other day. For those of you who don’t know, Wells is a small town guy with big time dreams! Releasing his self-titled album this past fall and it reaching #26 on the National Country Chart sure is making those dreams a little more realistic each day. His current single from that album is “Get Down.” It’s about…well, getting down! This tune is sure to put you in the partying mood and quick! The song has done very well for him and we hope that his next single does just as good, if not better, at radio! I can’t say for certain, but I have a feeling the next single has something to do with dads…hint, hint! Like I said, Wells is making his dreams come true day-by-day, show-by-show. His favorite part of performing is the audience! Obviously the bigger the crowd the better, but Wells loves a smaller group too. He says a crowd of 200-300 is great because it’s a big party, but he can still connect to a group of that size. “A crowd too small can be awkward,” Wells said. Just for kicks, I asked Wells some pretty random questions. But hey, the piece IS called Getting To Know Ben Wells… Who did you listen to growing up? “My aunt use to take me to school when I was little and she listened to things like Tim McGraw and Shania Twain. So I listened to Tim McGraw and Shania Twain. When I got a little older I listened to a lot of Eminem, but then I went back to country.” What is your favorite drink? “At a bar that would be whiskey and sprite. When I’m trying to be healthy I go with a screwdriver, because I feel like the juice is better for me. But I love purple Gatorade!” What about breakfast? “Honey Bunches of Oats with Almonds.” (That was the quickest answer of the entire interview. He REALLY loves the Honey Bunches!) What is your go to t-shirt? “About every 3 shows I wear this Rolling Rock Pale Ale shirt. But I wash it, it’s clean!” The year 2012 was a crazy roller coaster for Wells. Like the rest of us, he is ready for the things 2013 has to offer and he is looking at it with tons of positive energy and enthusiasm! Jump on over to BenWellsOnline.com for any other information you might need, including his show schedule! His current album which includes “Get Down,” “Valdosta Rain,” “Daddy In Me,” and “Might Be Worth It” is available on iTunes now!

Best Of The West Benefit Concert Set For February

The Second Annual “Best Of The West” Benefit Has Been Set For February 25 In Nashville. The 2nd Annual “Best of the West” benefit concert is returning! It will be held Monday, February 25, 2013 at Nashville’s Exit/In. Stoney LaRue, Trent Willmon, Kristen Kelly, Ryan Beaver, Bleu Edmonson, The Cadillac Black, Rob Baird, Brian Keane, Kimberly Kelly and other surprise guests will be there to help raise money for Musicians On Call. Doors open at 6:30PM with music starting at 7PM, for what is sure to be an amazing night with some of the best artists from west of Tennessee for one of the best music industry causes. Fans 18 and up can purchase general admission tickets for $15 along with a limited number of $40 VIP packages in advance starting Friday January 25th at 10am. To get your tickets or make a donation visit BestOfTheWest.preferredfan.com. Those in attendance will also be able to participate in the live auction of autographed memorabilia from some of your favorite artists. All proceeds from the event will benefit Musicians On Call. For the most up to date information on the event, check out their Facebook page.

Kix Brooks Moonshine Road-Video

The Official Music Video For Kix Brooks’ “Moonshine Road.” Below is the official music video for Kix Brooks‘ current single, “Moonshine Road.” In my opinion the song is a gem! It has a grit to it that I fell in love with the first time I heard it! The song comes from Brooks’ debut, solo album, New To This Town. Check out the video and tell us what you think!

Carrie Underwood Two Black Cadillacs Video

Watch: Carrie Underwood Releases Official Two Black Cadillacs Video! Carrie Underwood finally premiered her official music video for Two Black Cadillacs via Vevo and Entertainment Tonight today! The video is all greys, shadows, stark lighting, and slow motion which perfectly suits the drama in the song. I’ve heard a lot of folks saying that they wish Underwood would do more uplifting tunes and less the man cheated and now he’s getting his kind of songs. I, though, think that Carrie with her strong voice is at her best with this sort of single. And then there’s those sky high stilletos! Check it out for yourself below, and let us know what you think! Watch: Carrie Underwood “Two Black Cadillacs” Video.

Country Music Blog Rodeo Twitter Chat January 24

Mark Your Calendar: The Country Music Blog Rodeo Twitter Chat Happens Tomorrow January 24th! The first ever Country Music Blog Rodeo kicked off yesterday with some of the top independent country music blogs chiming in with their thoughts on the biggest and best trends for country music in 2013! Topics ranged from the impact of social media to artists on the rise to new festivals and tours to the influence of roots and Americana on mainstream country to the power of local communities on the wider industry and so much more! The participating had some really great insight, and it was really exciting to read through all the posts! Well, the blog rodeo continues tomorrow, and now, its YOUR chance to share YOUR thoughts on what the most exciting thing for country music will be in 2013! CMNB will be hosting a special twitter chat Thursday, January 24th from 12pm – 1pm CST, and you’re invited to join in! We’ll doing a follow-up Q&A on all the topics raised by each blog, offering an open discussion for readers (that’s you!) to throw in their two cents, and also giving away some pretty awesome prizes! There will even be a few country music artists stopping by to join the fun! Find the complete details below, and we hope to see you there! Blog Rodeo Twitter Chat: Date – Thursday, January 24th Time – 12pm – 1pm central (US) Join – #BlogRodeo #CountryMusic Host – @CMNBlog Blogs – @FocusOnThe615, @CMTT, @CMchatLive, @OfficialUKCM, @FTCountryRecord, @CountryMusicPri, @UrbanCountryNws, @KeepinItBlog, @TwangNation, @cmilove Prizes Include: Two (2) tickets to see Little Big Town April 19th at The Amp in Fayetteville, AR, a signed copy of Love and Theft‘s current album, a copy of Connor Christian & Southern Gothic‘s upcoming New Hometown, a signed 8×10 photo from up and comer Rose Falcon, passes to an upcoming Backroad Anthem show in Fayetteville, AR, a Backroad Anthem t-shirt and more to be announced! Don’t have Twitter? Sign up here. Country Music Blog Rodeo Participants: CountryMusicTattleTale.com: 2013 Will Bring A New Sound to Country Music! CMchatLive.com: 2013 – Insights From Country Music Industry Experts! FocusOnThe615.com: Artist to Watch in 2013! TwangNation.com: Americana’s Influence On Country Music! UrbanCountryNews.com: Roots On The Rise – The Most Exciting Music Trend of 2013! UkCOUNTRYmusic.net: Country2Country Festival-A Potential Turning Point for US Country Music In The Uk! KeepinItCountryBlog.com: 2013 The Year of Country Crossover! CountryMusicPride.com: Country Music In 2013! ForTheCountryRecord.com: Country Music & Twitter! CountryMusicNewsBlog.com (HaleighT): Word of Mouth in 2013! CountryMusicNewsBlog.com (WhiskeyChick): 2013 – The Year of Social Media In Country Music! CountryMusicNewsBlog.com (MissMolly): 2013 North of Nashville – The Ozarks Go Country! CountryMusicIsLove.com: Country Artists Passing The Torch In 2013!