On February 4th, with great anticipation from fans, Sam Hunt officially announced a full track list for Southside, his second album set to be released April 3rd. This will be Hunt’s second piece of work since his debut album, Montevallo, in 2014.
*This is an opinion piece from our editor-in-chief, Shauna “WhiskeyChick” Castorena. The opinions reflected here do not necessarily reflect those of CMNB as a whole. I will never understand why it is now socially acceptable for bands to crowd fund the recording of an album. I dream one day of being a Hemmingway-esque narrator of life’s great introspect, but if I were to start a crowd fund for my paper, typewriter ribbon and whiskey, that request would fall dead flat in the abyss of the internet. Let’s take this back one step, and define “crowd funding“. Thanks to the power of the internet, panhandling has now gone high tech. Sites like Indiegogo, Kickstarter, and GoFundMe make it simple to put a dream out there and solicit friends, family, and strangers to donate money to make that dream become a reality. It has its place in the innovative world of product development and charitable causes, but no matter how many reward levels you set up in a campaign, making music is the one place where this kind of fundraising is an insult to the fans that support that art. Make your art. Present your art. Let the people decide if your art is worth their hard-earned dollars. In my opinion, crowd funding has helped to over-saturate the musical market with bands that didn’t have to work as hard as their predecessors to earn and pay for studio time, production and distribution. There’s a reason “robust self-indulgent artists” doesn’t ever show up on a success story, and “struggling starving artists” do. Hunger makes you mean. It makes you dig. It makes you fight. I guess I just expect more work upfront and a little more realistic view of band economics. Write music. Practice music. Play music live. Pool your money. Pay for practice space. Practice more. Play better. Play bigger shows. Get paid for shows. Buy merch. Practice more. Write more songs. Play more shows. Sell merch. Get paid for shows. Practice more. Book bigger shows. Promote shows well. Play shows. Sell merch. Buy better merch. Practice more. Book shows. Play shows. Sell merch. Book a tour. Practice more. Promote the tour. Play the tour. Sell merch. Book studio time. Practice more. Play more. Sell more merch. Buy more merch. Play more. Practice more. Record. Play more. Sell more merch. Pay for production and distribution. Play more. Sell more. Play more. Sell more. Play more. Sell more. Go back to go. Do not collect $200 cause your damned van needs new tires. For those that DO go the crowd funded route, at least know what you’re getting yourself into. Besides most likely making your fans pay twice for the same output (fund my album production, then come buy the album at our shows), you’re also committing to giving away your time, your gear, your future ticket/door sales, digital download sales at full price, AND laying the groundwork for an ugly audit from the IRS. *I apologize if this offends the individual musicians Continue reading Dear Musicians, Stop Crowd-Funding Your Careers!
(Nashville, Tenn. – Nov. 16, 2015) – In spirit of the holiday, The Cains have released a new seasonal song, titled “Merry Christmas To You.” The original, thoughtful ballad, which was written by Billy Lawson and Ed Hill, as well as produced by Billy Lawson, is about missing a loved one during the holiday season. Madison Cain commented, “When you think of Christmas songs, you think of joy, family and everything merry and bright. But for so many people, Christmas isn’t perfect. Relationships have been severed and the most wonderful time of the year often brings its own sting. We hope this song encourages people to reach out, make the call they’ve been putting off, or write a letter—it’s never too late to say ‘I love you.’” The song is already available at digital outlets such as iTunes and Amazon, and will be distributed to Country radio. The talented siblings have had a busy year with the release of their self-titled EP, which includes the lead single “Journeys End;” a sentimental ballad about love, family and hope that is currently airing on Country radio and spent over four months on Sirius XM’s The Highway playlist. The EP was written by The Cains – Madison, Logan and Taylor Cain – and also features other writer credits including Jaida Dreyer, Stephony Smith, Billy Lawson, Ed Hill, Becki Devries and Dave Thompson. The Cains was produced/mixed by Daniel Agee and is now available on iTunes, Amazon and other major digital retailers. In addition to the EP, The Cains have been touring the U.S. and the U.K. In March 2015, The Cains broke onto the U.K. Country music scene with their first international appearance at London’s Country to Country (C2C) festival, Europe’s largest and most well-attended Country music event of the year, and have since returned as the opening act for Sasha McVeigh’s I Stand Alone U.K. tour, opening on select dates that took them to London, Glasgow, Oxford, Manchester and more. For more information about The Cains, visit their website at www.TheCainsOfficial.com and check them out on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For press inquires and interviews, contact Simone Diamond at simone@aristomedia.com or 615-269-7071. The Cains“Merry Christmas To You” Single ArtHi-Res Read more at AristoPR!
Joins Ronnie McDowell, Deborah Allen, Jeff Bates and More (Nashville, Tenn. – Oct. 21, 2015) – Country artist Amber Hayes has been added to the 16-city Nothing But The Hits holiday tour. Performing alongside big names like Ronnie McDowell, Deborah Allen, Jeff Bates, Ken Mellons and others, Hayes is in her element. Coming off of her fourth Top 40 Country music single, “Running Out of Memories” and her newest release “Hero’s Heart,” there’s no doubt Hayes fits right in with the tour’s lineup. A 15-piece band will be accompanying the artists as they perform their hits and Christmas favorites. The show will also be in the traditional Country camp, satisfying listeners yearning for what promoter Danny Rasberry calls “real” Country music. “There is a void and a need for ‘real’ Country music,” said Rasberry. “With this tour, we put together some of the most sensational voices in music. I know the fans will love what will be coming their way!” Hayes and a hearty dose of Christmas spirit will be coming your way as the tour kicks off Nov. 28 in Stillwater, Okla. The tour will make its last stop in Newberry, S.C. on Dec. 19, hitting towns throughout Arkansas, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma and South Carolina on the way. To purchase tickets, call 601-649-2822 or visit www.NothingButTheHits.com. Nothing But The Hits Christmas Tour Dates: Nov. 28 – Oklahoma vs. Oklahoma State tailgate party – Stillwater, Okla. Nov. 30 – Brown Grand Theatre – Concordia, Kan. Dec. 1 – Knuckleheads – Kansas City, Mo. Dec. 2 – Gillioz Theatre – Springfield, Mo. Dec. 4 – Crystal Theatre – Okemah, Okla. Dec. 5 – Poncan Theatre – Ponca City, Okla. Dec. 7 – King’s Opera House – Van Buren, Ark. Dec. 9 – Saenger Theatre – Hattiesburg, Miss. Dec. 10 – Private Event – Biloxi, Miss. Dec. 11 – Natchez Center of Performing Arts – Natchez, Miss. Dec. 12 – Grand Opera House of the South – Crowley, La. Dec. 15 – Kentucky Opry – Benton, Ky. Dec. 16 – Cox Capital Theatre – Macon, Ga. Dec. 17 – Gem Theatre – Calhoun, Ga. Dec. 18 – Morton Theatre – Athens, Ga. Dec. 19 – Newberry Opry House – Newberry, S.C. About Amber Hayes: Over the past few years, the Oklahoma native has been touring and performing at fairs, festivals and performance venues across the country. She has performed as the opening act for one of her biggest musical influences, Reba McEntire, and she has entertained fans overseas at military bases and International festivals, including the Country Gold Festival in Japan and the Scandinavian Country Music Festival in Sweden. She has made multiple appearances performing the national anthem at NFL and NBA games. Her first break at Country radio was with her debut EP C’mon in 2010, which landed her two Top 40 singles (“C’mon,” “Wait”) on the national MusicRow Country Breakout chart. In 2012, she released her sophomore album, titled Any Day Is A Good Day. Her Continue reading Amber Hayes Added To 16-City Nothing But The Hits Holiday Tour
Kim Russo Visits Tritt’s Blue Ridge Mountains Cabin And Uncovers Dark History (Nashville, Tenn. – Oct. 19, 2015) Travis Tritt is scheduled to appear on “The Haunting Of…” on Oct. 29 at 9 p.m. EST / 9 p.m. CST. The one-hour episode, airing on Lifetime Movie Network (LMN), will feature the award-winning music star discussing strange occurrences he’s encountered at his lakeside cabin in The Blue Ridge Mountains. In this episode, world-renowned psychic-medium Kim Russo visits the house and uncovers the dark history of the secluded residence. “The Haunting Of…” is an original series featuring Kim Russo as she gives an exclusive look at celebrities who have had their lives changed by paranormal events. To view a trailer featuring snippets of this season’s “The Haunting Of…” visit here. For more information on Travis Tritt, visit his website TravisTritt.com and follow him on Twitter and FaceBook.
The Cains perform at Culpepper Club in Basildon on Sept. 11, 2015. Photo credit: Get Flex’d (Nashville, Tenn. – Sept. 30, 2015) – Country music trio, The Cains, return to the U.S. after spending two exciting weeks on the I Stand Alone U.K. Tour. The group opened for U.K. artist, Sasha McVeigh, on select dates in various clubs that took them to London, Glasgow, Oxford, Manchester and more. Sibling member, Logan Cain commented about the tour, “From start to finish, the U.K. has done for us what we want to do for others¾ feel loved. Each and every person we encountered went out of his or her way to make us feel welcome. We have an extremely busy 2016 planned and to have this opportunity as one of our first touring experiences will impact the course of our career forever.” In March of 2015, hot off the heels of a successful radio debut and packed performances at Country Radio Seminar 2015, The Cains broke onto the U.K. Country music scene with their first international appearance at London’s Country-to-Country (C2C) festival, Europe’s largest and most well attended Country music event of the year. After their wildly successful C2C performances, the group landed a cover feature and four-page spread on the U.K.’s leading Country music magazine, Up! Country Magazine. The group has also recently inked a booking agreement with Nashville’s The Kinkead Entertainment Agency. The Cains perform at The Ruby Lounge in Manchester on Sept. 18, 2015. Photo credit: Get Flex’d For more information on The Cains, visit www.TheCainsOfficial.com and follow them on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Read more at AristoPR!
(Nashville, Tenn. – Sept. 29, 2015) – The 2015 Americana Music Festival and Conference brought an incredible range of talent during its weeklong festivities in Nashville, Tenn. This was the seventh year of involvement for SOUNDS AUSTRALIA and Tamworth Music Festival, bringing us events such as Australiana Americana, THE AUSSIE BBQ and The Sister City Jam. One of the most raved about events was Tamworth’s “Australiana Americana” – an annual showcase of Australian talent held at the legendary Bluebird Café, featuring artists: Allan Caswell, Amber Lawrence, Bill Jackson & Pete Fidler, Dan Parsons, Daniel Champagne, Geoff Achison, Imogen Clark, Kirsty Akers, Kristy Cox, Liz Stringer, Loren Kate, Matt Ellis, One Up Two Down, Teischa Jones and Tracy McNeil. The event was hosted by Dobe Newton, who introduced us to some top-notch musicians, some of which were Nashville veterans, as well as a few fresh faces. One of SOUNDS AUSTRALIA’s biggest events this year – as well as every other year – was THE AUSSIE BBQ held on Saturday, Sept. 19 at The 5 Spot. This event has become internationally famous for introducing the world to hundreds of new Australian artists, as well as being a great networking event for industry professionals and fans alike. This year, THE AUSSIE BBQ featured 10 of Australia’s most exciting acts within the Americana and singer-songwriter scenes: Henry Wagons, Halfway, Josh Rennie-Hynes, Liam Gerner, Liz Stringer, Oh Pep!, Raised By Eagles, Roller One, Ruby Boots and Steve Grady. These eclectic artists packed The 5 Spot on the fifth day of the festival, bringing some Aussie flair to the Nashville Americana scene. Since its start in 2003, THE AUSSIE BBQ has grown exponentially into a circuit of shows that includes Toronto, New York, Los Angeles, Brighton, Liverpool, London, Singapore, Mumbai, Pune, Nashville and Austin. Tamworth’s “Australiana Americana” Front: Allan Caswell, Teischa Jones, Amber Lawrence, Dobe Newton, Bill Jackson, Kirsty Lee Ackers, Tracy McNeil, One Up Two Down. Back: Loren Kate, Pete Fiddler, Matt Ellis. SOUNDS AUSTRALIA’s “A Taste of Australia” Henry Wagons with fans at “A Taste Of Australia” lunch at Soulshine Pizza. SOUNDS AUSTRALIA’s “THE AUSSIE BBQ” Dobe Newton, Jed Hilly (AMA Executive Director), Glenn Dickie (SOUNDS AUSTRALIA). Part of the Australian contingent at Americana Fest gather outside The 5 Spot for “THE AUSSIE BBQ.” About SOUNDS AUSTRALIA: SOUNDS AUSTRALIA is Australia’s export music market development initiative, established to provide a cohesive and strategic platform to assist the Australian music industry access international business opportunities. SOUNDS AUSTRALIA is a joint initiative of the Australia Council and APRA|AMCOS, supported by the Federal Government together with State Government Agencies and Peak Industry Associations. As a globally recognized brand, SOUNDS AUSTRALIA has now become synonymous with producing stellar showcasing events around the globe, featuring all Australian line ups, with some of world’s most influential bookers, buyers, agents and promoters in attendance alongside the tastemakers of tomorrow. SOUNDS AUSTRALIA’s aim is to provide the best possible environment for Australian artists at international events, offering additional exposure to industry and fans. Continue reading SOUNDS AUSTRALIA and Tamworth Wrap Up Another Amazing Year at Americana Music Festival
See the Exclusive Premiere on Taste Of Country (Nashville, Tenn. – Sept. 24, 2015) – Singer, songwriter and guitarist Dianna Corcoran has released a music video exclusive for her latest single, “God Did Good,” through Taste of Country. Produced by GearSeven Productions Nashville and directed by Connor Carroll, the video is now available for viewing on Taste of Country‘s website, here, and the song is available for download on iTunes, Amazon and other major digital retailers. The self-produced track was written by Corcoran, Jeff Cohen and Kristian Bush, and is a country-rock love song about how ‘God did good’ creating the protagonist’s love interest. Of the music video, Corcoran commented, “I love the story of ‘God Did Good.’ I had fun shooting the video and wanted something simple that would translate the story to the audience, along with genuine happiness.” As a young adult, Dianna’s first interest in Country music came through yodeling. She is now a multi-format recording artist with over 400 music awards, including two multi-award winning albums and two Australian Country Music Golden Guitar Awards. Corcoran also has a passion for philanthropy and has worked with The Australian Defense Force, deploying three times to perform for troops serving in Afghanistan and Egypt. No stranger to hard work both in and out of the studio, Corcoran is noted for working three jobs in order to fund her first record. One of which was a gig in a car parts plant that trained the blonde-haired, blue-eyed Country cutie to become a vehicle mechanic who can not only change the oil, tires and batteries in a motor vehicle, but also fully rebuild car engines. For more information on Dianna Corcoran, visit her official website at www.diannacorcoran.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. About Dianna Corcoran: Already a two-time Golden Guitar winner, (Australian Country Music Awards) including Female Artist of The Year, Dianna Corcoran is one of Australia’s finest country vocalists. Relocating to Nashville, Tenn. in 2011 after signing a publishing and recording deal in the U.S. with Krian Music Group / Universal Music Group, Dianna has worked extensively in the songwriting community throughout Stockholm, London, Germany, Australia and the U.S. With numerous No. 1 hits and cuts to her name, including an upcoming Hollywood movie opening theme, this sublime singer, songwriter, producer and young musical entrepreneur took her career to a whole new level by self-producing her first ever American release, aptly titled In America, which is set to release January 29, 2016. Most recently, Dianna released the first single off her new album titled “God Did Good” with songwriting credits including herself, Kristian Bush and Jeff Cohen. For more information about Dianna, visit www.DiannaCorcoran.com and follow her on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
(Nashville, Tenn. – September 23, 2015) – Country music icon, John Anderson, has released a praiseworthy new single, titled “Don’t Forget To Thank The Lord,” to Country radio. The track, which is the second release from his most recent album, Goldmine, was co-written by Anderson and John Rich. “Don’t Forget To Thank The Lord” was shipped to radio on Sept. 14. Radio listeners will love the positivity of the song, which calls for us to be thankful for all the many blessings the Lord has given us. For Anderson, the single was born out of a sincere thankfulness for all the opportunities he’s been given to pursue his music. “I’ve always loved the Lord and been very thankful He’s allowed me to do what I do. That’s a pretty good message for anybody, no matter whether they like the song or not,” said Anderson. To hear “Don’t Forget To Thank The Lord,” click here. “Don’t Forget to Thank The Lord” is even more powerful when performed live. To see Anderson on tour across the United States, visit JohnAnderson.com for a complete list of upcoming tour dates. Anderson released his new album, Goldmine, on May 26, which also marked his first album release in nine years. Released on his own record label, Bayou Boys Music, the 13-track collection of original material features authentic lyrics and Anderson’s signature sound. The award-winning and Hall of Fame songwriter wrote or co-wrote 12 of the album’s 13 tracks. The album is currently available on iTunes, Amazon, and other major digital retailers. Raised in Apopka, Fla., John Anderson grew up listening to both rock and traditional country, with plenty of country gospel mixed in for good measure. In the end, Anderson chose to pursue his country music dreams, a decision for which all his fans are very grateful. Anderson is recognized as one of the greatest country singers to ever step up to the microphone, possessing one of the most instantly identifiable vocal instruments in the history of the genre. Anderson got his start in 1977 when he signed with Warner Brothers Records. He went on to have his first major hit in 1980 with Billy Joe Shaver’s, “I’m Just an Old Chunk of Coal (But I’m Gonna Be a Diamond Someday).” Other hits include the classic “Wild and Blue,” released in 1982, and “Swingin,” the No. 1 Billboard Country single co-written with Lionel Delmore that would lead Anderson to garner the CMA Horizon Award. Throughout his career, Anderson has produced 23 albums and released more than 60 singles (26 of which charted in the Top 10). He was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame on October 5, 2014, and holds a wealth of industry awards including Academy of Country Music Career Achievement Award. For more information on John Anderson, visit his official website at JohnAnderson.com. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
(Nashville, Tenn. – Sept. 3, 2015) – The Cains performed the National Anthem for a crowd of New York Mets fans at Citi Field on September 1, 2015. This was the group’s first time performing the National Anthem for a sports event in a major national league. A video of The Cains’ full National Anthem performance can be viewed here. The Cains are currently gearing up to be the opening act for Sasha McVeigh’s I Stand Alone U.K. Tour. The group will open for McVeigh on select dates in various clubs all over the U.K. Tickets can be purchased through www.SeeTickets.com. Click HERE to watch The Cains perform our National Anthem at Citi Field Read more at AristoPR!
