Mary Chapin Carpenter confirms fall tour dates

MARY CHAPIN CARPENTER PERFORMS ON “CBS THIS MORNING“ THE THINGS THAT WE ARE MADE OF OUT NOW – ALBUM PRODUCED BY DAVE COBB – TOUR DATES CONFIRMED Mary Chapin Carpenter recently stopped by “CBS This Morning” to  perform three songs as part of their “Saturday Sessions” series. Watch Carpenter play “Something Tamed Something Wild,” “Map Of My Heart” and “The Blue Distance.” The performances celebrate her widely praised new album, The Things That We Are Made Of, which is out now on Lambent Light Records via Thirty Tigers (webstore, iTunes, Amazon). The album is also available on vinyl-Carpenter’s first since 1992’s Come On Come On. Carpenter is currently in the midst of an extensive tour in support of the album, including newly confirmed dates this fall in Florida, Oklahoma and Texas. See below for details. Released to widespread acclaim, NPR Music praises, “If The Things That We Are Made Of sees the country veteran searching for memories to inscribe and old roads to rut, it finds her most often looking t oward the unknown with grace and breaking fecund ground with top producer Dave Cobb,” and goes on to assert, “Her album plays out both sides of that classic country gesture at the unknown-darkness and latent enlightenment -and by emphasizing both, she accomplishes what sounds like a transformation.” Additionally, the Associated Press calls it, “…an evocative collection of songs,” while The Huffington Post declares, “…Carpenter is now at the height of her musical career, painting a compelling, relevant piece of art tinged with mixed feelings of grief and joy, all without preaching or darkening our minds with sadness.” Produced by Grammy Award-winning producer Dave Cobb (Jason Isbell, Chris Stapleton), the album features eleven new songs written by Carpenter. Of the album’s lead track, “Something Tamed Something Wild,” Rolling Stone asserts, “…beautifully sums up where she’s been and sets the stage for what’s yet to come… ‘Something Tamed Something Wild’ and indeed the entire new album finds the songwriter at her most thoughtful and also at times sweetly whimsical, perfectly capturing the buoyant spirit of her early successes and also serving as a reminder that she remains one of the most grounded, sentient songwriters of her generation,” while, of “Map Of My Heart” Music Row‘s Robert Oermann states, “I love the brisk, crisp texture of this lightly rocking performance. Carpenter sounds like ‘the Everly Sisters’ as the rhythm section throbs relentlessly and the electric guitar gooses the track with some deep twang. And it goes without saying that her lyrics are totally evocative.” The Things That We Are Made Of was recorded at Nashville’s Sound Emporium and Low Country Sound studios during the spring and summer of 2015. In addition to Carpenter (vocals, electric/acoustic guitar), the album features Cobb (electric/acoustic/gut string guitar, percussion, Moog, Mellotron), Annie Clements (bass), Brian Allen (bass), Chris Powell (drums, percussion), Mike Webb (piano, B3 organ, reed organ, Mellotron, Fender Rhod es) and Jimmy Wallace (piano, B3 organ). Of the album, Carpenter comments, “Working with Dave felt great Continue reading Mary Chapin Carpenter confirms fall tour dates

NEEDTOBREATHE top US iTunes Chart with new album ‘H A R D L O V E’

NEEDTOBREATHE H A R D L O V E NEW ALBUM TOPS US ITUNES CHART –  NO.1 IN BILLBOARD – ‘TOP CURRENT ALBUM CHART’  –  NO.2 IN BILLBOARD HOT 200 NEEDTOBREATHE are celebrating their highest charting album ever with the release of their sixth studio record H A R D L O V E, out now through Atlantic Records. The album has topped the iTunes Album Chart and has entered the Soundscan/Billboard ‘Top Current Albums’ chart at No.1, with sales exceeding 46,000 units. The Grammy-nominated rock band’s highly anticipated album also topped Billboard’s ‘Top Albums’, ‘Top Current Rock Albums’, ‘Current Alternative Albums’, ‘Current Digital Albums’, and ‘Overall Digital Albums’ charts, and entered the Billboard 200 at No.2. H A R D L O V E has surpassed the success of the South-Carolina quartet’s Rivers In The Wasteland of 2014, which charted at No.3 in the Billboard Hot 200 and spawned the Grammy-nominated single ‘Multiplied’ LISTEN TO H A R D L O V E IN FULL HERE Signed copies of H A R D L O V E will be available exclusively for UK fans from Banquet Records, Kingston and through their website banquetrecords.com

Florida Georgia Line — We Love Cops, But We Have Our Own Security – TMZ Update

Florida Georgia Line responds to anti-police rumors previously published by TMZ and other sites. Florida Georgia Line — We Love Cops, But We Have Our Own Security The guys from Florida Georgia Line want to make it clear they have total respect for men and women in blue — but, respectfully, there’s a good reason they didn’t need their help backstage. Sources close to FGL’s Brian Kelley and Tyler Hubbard tell us security for all their concerts is handled through promoters at the venues. It’s just part of their contracts for each gig. We’re told local cops regularly ask if they can help out backstage, and are usually told it’s not necessary. FGL’s team believes this frees up law enforcement for other security needs around the venue. TMZ broke the story … an Iowa sheriff was fuming after getting turned away backstage. Our FGL sources said that incident and one in Wisconsin are rarities, because most law enforcement welcome the fact the band is self-sufficient. Bottom line, according to our sources — Florida Georgia Line is extremely “pro-police.” This all stems from a previous TMZ report that cited FGL turned away uniformed officers at the venue, only to have their management scramble to bring them back after the show to provide a protected escort out. “Florida Georgia Line dissed law enforcement working security at their concert … according to an Iowa Sheriff who says the band banned officers, and then came crawling back for protection. Jones County Sheriff Greg Graver tells TMZ he was headed backstage Saturday night at the Great Jones County Fair to discuss security protocol with the band when he was stopped by a crew member and told no uniformed officers were allowed backstage, per the band. Sheriff Graver says he was told the country duo even threatened to pull the plug on the concert if they saw any cops. Graver says midway through the performance, he was told the band wanted a police escort out of town after the show — but he told them he wouldn’t spend “one tax dollar assisting them” … after being disrespected. He says the band’s management scrambled for other law enforcement agencies to provide the escort … but they also told FGL to kick rocks. They ended up leaving on their own. A similar incident went down with Wisconsin cops last week. We’ve reached out to the band … no word back. They did tweet, saying they have “nothing but love and respect for the police.“”

The Oak Ridge Boys Announce the Christmas Celebration Tour 2016

The Oak Ridge Boys Announce the Christmas Celebration Tour 2016   Grammy Award-winning Country Music Hall of Famers celebrate Christmas with timeless hits and holiday favorites   NASHVILLE, Tenn. (July 25, 2016) – Every year, a man with a white beard goes city to city giving the gift of Christmas joy, and his name is… William Lee Golden (were you expecting someone else?). For 27 years now, Country Music Hall of Fame members The Oak Ridge Boys have been a part of their fans’ holiday seasons with their annual Christmas tour. This year, the award-winning group will play to packed houses across America during the 2016 Christmas Celebration tour, which will take the group to two-dozen cities in 16 states, from the East to West Coast, November 1 through December 22 (see schedule below). A mixture of traditional and contemporary songs—including religious, romantic and fun holiday tunes—makes up the set list, which includes songs from the Oaks’ six bestselling Christmas CDs. A highlight of the evening is the much-loved ‘rocking chair’ segment where each BOY rocks by the fireplace and shares personal thoughts about Christmas. Oaks’ lead singer, Duane Allen, says, “Christmas is my favorite time of year. I love the positive things about the season…. the joy, happiness, giving, sharing, time with family, and gifts. The beautiful lights and decorations. Christmas music. Special food. And most of all the true meaning, which, of course, is celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. “Every year I look forward to taking our Christmas tour all over the USA. I hope everyone will come out this year and celebrate Christmas with The Oak Ridge Boys.” Known for their iconic and multi-platinum selling hit “Elvira,” along with other chart-toppers like “Bobbie Sue,” “Thank God For Kids,” and “Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight,” The Oak Ridge Boys have achieved a decorated career, winning five GRAMMY® Awards, and multiple CMA, ACM and Dove Awards for their cross-over brand of pop, country and gospel music that spans multiple generations. Made up of members Duane Allen, Joe Bonsall, William Lee Golden and Richard Sterban, whose unmistakable bass on the lyric “oom poppa, mow mow,” has become one of music’s most recognized sing-alongs on an international scale, The Oak Ridge Boys are members of the Grand Ole Opry and achieved arguably country music’s highest honor in October 2015 when they were inducted into the Country Music Hall Of Fame. Christmas Celebration Tour 2016 Dates Nov 15, 2016 Branson, MO The Mansion Theatre Nov 16, 2016 Branson, MO The Mansion Theatre Nov 17, 2016 Branson, MO The Mansion Theatre Nov 18, 2016 Biloxi, LA Golden Nugget Biloxi Nov 19, 2016 Lake Charles, LA Golden Nugget Nov 20, 2016 Paris, TX Love Civic Center Nov 25, 2016 Joplin, MO Joplin Memorial Hall Nov 26, 2016 Sioux Falls, SD Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science Nov 27, 2016 Grand Forks, ND Chester Fritz Auditorium Nov 28, 2016 Minneapolis, MN State Theatre Nov 30, 2016 Milwaukee, WI Milwaukee Continue reading The Oak Ridge Boys Announce the Christmas Celebration Tour 2016

Thomas Rhett Announced as Headliner for Night in the Country 2017

THOMAS RHETT ANNOUNCED AS 2017 NIGHT IN THE COUNTRY HEADLINER Night in the Country has announced country star Thomas Rhett as the headliner for the 2017 festival July 27-29. Those who attend the 2016 festival have access to early renewal prices for 2017 on Saturday, July 23. Festivalgoers who stop by the Will Call/Advance Ticket Sales Booth between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. can purchase two-day General Admission renewals for $75, Reserved Seating renewals for $95, Superfan renewals at $140, VIP renewals for $325, Club 149 renewals for $500 and campsite renewals for as low as $100. Renewal prices increase Monday, Aug. 1. Night in the Country will return to the Lyon County Fairgrounds for its 16th year July 27-29, 2017.  For more information, visit NightintheCountry.com. About Night in the Country Music Festival Night in the country Music Festival, LLC is a non-profit organization in Yerington, Nevada. For 15 years Night in the Country has put on an annual music festival, as well as other local concerts, to raise funds for local and regional non-profit organizations. Proceeds generated by Night in the Country have enriched the lives of thousands of young people in the community. For more information about Night in the Country, visit www.nightinthecountry.org.

"Ray Stevens’ Nashville" Ranks as #1 Highest-Rated Show on RFD-TV

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RAY STEVENS’ NASHVILLERANKS AS #1 HIGHEST-RATED TELEVISION SHOW ON RFD-TV Multi-platinum selling country and comedy music legend Ray Stevens just received the news that his national television show is the #1 rated program on RFD-TV.  The iconic singer’s show, Ray Stevens’ Nashville, currently ranks as the network’s highest-rated Prime Time television show. “I just heard the news that Ray Stevens’ Nashville is the most watched show on RFD-TV,” says Stevens.”  Wow, I’m flattered!  Thank you, viewers, for tuning in and making us Number 1!” Ray Stevens’ Nashville is a 30-minute entertainment and music national television show airing weekly on RFD-TV.  The show, hosted by GRAMMY® Award-winning singer and musician, Ray Stevens, features performances by the legend as well as weekly guest appearances.  For more information, visit www.rfdtv.com. About Ray Stevens Twelve-time nominated and two-time GRAMMY® Award winner Ray Stevens has spanned the generations with 60 years of comedic musical talent, including songs such as his multi-million selling hit “The Streak” and his classic pop standard “Everything Is Beautiful.” Throughout his career, Stevens has sold more than 40 million albums and continues daily office operations at his home base, Ray Stevens Music, located on Nashville’s historic Music Row.  Last fall, he began hosting Ray Stevens’ Nashville, a 30-minute weekly music/talk show on RFD-TV.  In addition, Stevens recently broke ground on the CabaRay, a 27,000 square foot music venue set to make its Nashville debut in 2017.   For more information on Ray Stevens, visit www.raystevens.com or his official Facebook Page.

Wicked Love Starts Production in Oklahoma

“WICKED LOVE” STARTS PRODUCTION IN OKLAHOMA The Oklahoma Film + Music Office (OF+MO), with producers Kristofer McNeeley of Marvista Entertainment and Stacia Crawford of SaigeBelle Films, is pleased to announce the start of production of the feature film “Wicked Love” in Oklahoma City and Guthrie, Oklahoma. The film is utilizing the Oklahoma Film Enhancement Rebate Program, administered by OF+MO, and will commence principal photography on July 25, 2016. Executive Producer Kristofer McNeeley is returning to his home state of Oklahoma after producing the film Great Plains, which utilized the Oklahoma Film Enhancement Rebate Program in the fall of 2015. “I’m thrilled to return with our next film and to be embraced by the strong community of filmmakers once again,” said McNeeley. “As long as the state continues to offer the film incentive program and the creative talent supports us bringing work back, we will be there to support and do our part to grow the film and television industry in Oklahoma. It’s simply a spectacular place to work.” “Wicked Love”, a dark and quirky contemporary reimagining of the Shakespearean classic the saga of “MACBETH”, is told from the point of view of Missy, the oft-misunderstood Lady MacBeth, and shows how love, passion and ambition should never be underestimated. The film is directed by Conor Allyn and marks his third feature with MarVista Entertainment.  “We are excited to bring ‘Wicked Love’ to Oklahoma, a perfect fit for the high school football setting of our film. The community has been instrumental in helping to bring our story from page to screen; between the authentic locations, the crew, and overall support, we felt that there was no better place for us to film in than Oklahoma,” says producer, Stacia Crawford. That sentiment is echoed by Allyn, who is originally from Dallas and is thrilled to be filming so close to his home state.   “Wicked Love” was written by Conor and Jake Allyn, is being lensed by Adrian Correia, and stars Morgan Taylor Campbell, Michael Grant, Donny Boaz, Damon Carney and Larry Jack Dotson. The production is being managed by Sean Patrick Eaton, and the crew is comprised mostly of Oklahoma residents.   “The production of ‘Wicked Love’ marks Kristofer McNeeley’s second feature film to be produced in Oklahoma in less than a year,” said OF+MO Director Tava Maloy Sofsky. “The longevity of the Oklahoma Film Enhancement Rebate Program is necessary to attract producers such as McNeeley who have a number of potential productions which ultimately provide Oklahoma’s crew and film services on-going job and business opportunities.”  

ERIC PASLAY’s New Single ‘Angels In This Town’ Inspires ‘Angel Visits’ While On Tour

ERIC PASLAY’S NEW SINGLE “ANGELS IN THIS TOWN” inspires “ANGEL VISITS” WHILE ON tour Story-Behind-the-Song Video of “Angels in This Town” Available Now EMI Records Nashville recording artist Eric Paslay‘s new single, ”Angels In This Town,” hit radio this week and was met with an amazing response from early believers. Earlier this year, when Eric first started playing the song at shows he was inspired to deliver the message of the song in a tangible way by making visits to local “angels” in the towns he was playing.  So far he has made visits to the Norfolk, NE fire department, Boys and Girls Club of Austin, TX and Toronto, Habitat for Humanity build in Virginia Beach, VA and the Ronald McDonald House at WakeMed in Raleigh, NC.  Upcoming visits are planned throughout the rest of 2016, but will not be announced ahead of time. “As we tour around the country, I’m so thrilled to be doing what we’ve decided to call “Angel Visits.” We’re stopping by different organizations where the employees and volunteers are truly creating miracles and impacting other people’s lives in the best way. The least I can do is go and thank them personally.” said Eric. “Good vibes are contagious, and I hope by visiting places like local Fire Departments, Habitat for Humanity Builds, Children’s Hospitals and so many others, we inspire positivity in each community and beyond. It’s a real honor for me to be around folks who are doing such good in the world.” As a special treat for fans, Eric has begun to put together digital pieces that give a unique and behind-the-scenes look at the making of various songs on the forthcoming album. Fans will get to hear not only from Eric but also the other writers and learn about the process of putting pen-to-paper all the way through finishing a song. A story-behind-the-song video for “Angels in This Town” may be viewed below. “Angels in This Town” is available for download at all digital retail outlets. To stream the song, visit the “Angels In This Town” playlist HERE. “Angels In This Town,” is written by Paslay, Corey Crowder and Erik Dylan, from his forthcoming sophomore album, DRESSED IN BLACK. About Eric Paslay EMI Records Nashville breakout country artist, Eric Paslay, delivers a powerful punch as a renowned, Platinum-selling, hit songwriter and dynamic performer. Paslay has celebrated five No. 1 hits including “Even If It Breaks Your Heart” (Eli Young Band), “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” (Jake Owen), “Angel Eyes” (Love & Theft), “Rewind” (Rascal Flatts) and “Friday Night,” the smash lead single from his critically acclaimed self-titled debut album. The Temple, Texas native earned nominations for GRAMMY Best Country Song, ACM Song of the Year and CMA Song of The Year for “Even If It Breaks Your Heart” in 2013 and earned his first GRAMMY nomination as an artist in 2016 for Best Country Duo/Group Performance for “The Driver”- a collaboration with friends Charles Kelley and Dierks Bentley. Most recently he was honored with an ACM Song of Continue reading ERIC PASLAY’s New Single ‘Angels In This Town’ Inspires ‘Angel Visits’ While On Tour

Kenny Chesney Sets Radio on Fire: P!NK Duet Arrives 7/28

Kenny Chesney on Country Music News

KENNY CHESNEY SETS COUNTRY RADIO ON FIRE JULY 28  “Setting The World On Fire” with P!NK to be Cosmic Hallelujah’s Second Single. Having just dropped a new title – Cosmic Hallelujah – for his upcoming album, Kenny Chesney continues ratcheting up the excitement by releasing “Setting The World On Fire” to country radio on July 28 at 5 p.m. ET. The duet, with triple Grammy-winning P!NK, captures the combustive euphoria of being on the brink of love – and was recorded in part at Rick Rubin’s Malibu studio. With a tumbling guitar part, clean percussion and pillowy synth pads, the mid-tempo song builds and recedes, featuring a stand-out electric guitar solo from Kenny Greenberg. Invoking the dazzle of being lost in the heart of Saturday night: lipstick on mirrors, philosophical conversations strewn across hours, bands on the speakers matching the name on your t-shirt, “Setting The World On Fire” is the wonder of how sweet and enervating falling into love can be. “You can’t conjure a song that captures that feeling of being on the brink like this does,” Chesney sa ys. “The lyrics are a perfect way of saying it, but when you feel that melody rise, the arrangement picking up momentum – it’s bigger than you are, and all you want to do is throw yourself against the night. Then when P!NK comes in, well, that just brings this (song) to life.” Having made the decision to delay the follow-up to The Big Revival – with its four straight No. 1s, including the Grammy-nominated “American Kids,” “Wild Child” with Grace Potter and the life-affirming, three-week chart-topper “Save It For A Rainy Day,” Chesney’s hope s of having “Setting The World On Fire” as his next single were realized. For the 8-time Entertainer of the Year, it’s a song that embodies the very best part of what summer holds. “With the Spread the Love Tour in full force,” the man The Wall Street Journal calls “The King of the Road” says, “I wanted a song that packs all that joy, all that fun, all the energy that love is made of. When I heard ‘Setting The World On Fire,’ I knew it was exactly the song I’d been looking for. Like ‘Somewhere With You,’ there’s a n urgency, but this one is ‘in’ the moment – and what a moment it is!” Given Chesney’s history of unlikely – and often chart-topping – duets with Dave Matthews (“I’m Alive”), the Wailers (“Spread The Love”), Mac McAnally (“Down The Road”), Grace Potter (“You & Tequila,” “Wild Child”) and six weeks at No. 1 with Uncle Kracker (“When The Sun Goes Down”),  teaming with P!NK continues his longstanding tradition of seeking the best collaborators in modern music. “To me, great songs are great songs regardless of genre – and the core of being alive is the same no matter where you are,” Chesney says. “That rush of realizing there’s something going on here… You’re really clicking with someone… Or even just one Continue reading Kenny Chesney Sets Radio on Fire: P!NK Duet Arrives 7/28

Kiefer Sutherland Releases Debut Album ‘Down In A Hole’ August 19, Premieres "Can’t Stay Away" On CMT

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KIEFER SUTHERLAND RELEASES DEBUT ALBUM ‘DOWN IN A HOLE’ AUGUST 19, PREMIERES “CAN’T STAY AWAY” ON CMT Available for Pre-order August 5 Kiefer Sutherland‘s soulful baritone vocals and guitar licks continue to captivate audiences with his second music video, “Can’t Stay Away,” premiering exclusively this weekend during CMT’s Hot 20 Countdown. The track is the latest release from Sutherland’s debut album Down In A Hole, which will be released August 19 by Warner Music Nashville/Ironworks Music. Down In A Hole will be available for pre-order August 5. Click here to download “Can’t Stay Away.” Sutherland, who co-wrote every song on the upcoming 11-track album with producer Jude Cole, including “Can’t Stay Away,” just wrapped up a North American tour that included sold-out dates across the U.S. and Canada. “We wanted the biggest look for the premiere of Kiefer Sutherland’s new song and video “Can’t Stay Away!” “We wanted the biggest look for the premiere of Kiefer Sutherland’s new song and video!” said Leslie Fram, CMT Senior VP of Music Strategy. “CMT’s Hot 20 Countdown has a weekly large, loyal base of country music fans who want to see what’s hot and new. “Can’t Stay Away” captures the live, intimate, real and raw essence of what Kiefer has been doing on the road, playing small towns and small clubs. Undeniable!’ Fram added. CMT’s Hot 20 Countdown airs Saturdays and Sundays at 9a/8c. Earlier this year Sutherland gave fans a taste of his songwriting notebook when he released the pedal-steeled “Not Enough Whiskey.” “This record is the closest thing I’ve ever had to a journal or diary. All of these songs are pulled from my own personal experiences. There is something very satisfying about being able to look back on my own life, good times and bad, and express those sentiments in music. As much as I have enjoyed the writing and recording process, I am experiencing great joy now being able to play these songs to a live audience, which was something I hadn’t counted on,” Sutherland said of Down In A Hole. Sutherland, an Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning actor, is known for his starring role on the Fox series “24,” starring roles in movies like ‘Stand By Me,’ ‘The Lost Boys,’ ‘Young Guns,’ Flatliners,’ and many more. Sutherland’s upcoming ABC series “Designated Survivor” premieres this fall on ABC. Keep up with Sutherland on the road by visiting kiefersutherlandmusic.com or connect with Sutherland by following him on Twitter and Facebook. DOWN IN A HOLE TRACK LISTING: Can’t Stay Away Truth In Your Eyes I’ll Do Anything Not Enough Whiskey Going Home Calling Out Your Name My Best Friend Shirley Jean All She Wrote Down In A Hole Gonna Die