Big Country Notes for Jan 12

KENNY CHESNEY ANNOUNCED SIX STADIUM DATES FOR 2007

Kenny Chesney is ready for some football – football stadiums, that is! Chesney kicks off his “Flip Flop Summer 2007” stadium dates in Pittsburgh, PA on June 9th in Heinz Field, home of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Joining Chesney this year will be Brooks & Dunn, Sugarland, Sara Evans and Pat Green. When asked about playing stadiums, Chesney says, quote, “There is a whole other kind of energy, other kind of dynamic. It's a pretty intense line-up, in what we've found to be a very exciting place to do concerts!” The other stadium dates are Philadelphia's Lincoln Financial Field, home to the Eagles on June 23rd; Seattle's Qwest Field, home of the Seahawks on July 7th; Cleveland, Ohio's Browns Stadium on July 14th; Foxboro's Gillette Stadium, home to the Patriots, on July 28; and Detroit's Ford Field, home of the Lions, on August 18th. Kenny says, quote, “You know, getting all those people together for a little party… they start tail-gating, cooking out early, and then we rock straight through the night. Anyone who's ever been knows it's a helluva good time.”
Tickets go on sale February 10th for Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Cleveland and Foxboro. Ducats for Philadelphia and Seattle go on sale March 10th.

ARRANGEMENTS FOR A KEITH URBAN WORLD TOUR ARE UNDERWAY

While Keith Urban was in Australia with his wife, Nicole Kidman, during the Christmas holidays, he was busy planning upcoming concert dates. A spokesperson confirmed to WKRN-TV in Nashville that Urban, who has been in rehab for alcohol addiction, will do a worldwide tour which will include dates in his native country. Urban says preparing for a tour is an evolving process. The singer says, quote, “It’s really fun structuring each show and you think you have the best … and invariably over the course of the first couple weeks or even months you make a few changes here and there.” Urban returned to the Betty Ford Clinic in Los Angeles for the final phase of his rehab after the holidays. In the meantime, Nicole was in Hollywood, FL, Monday night. She attended the premiere of a documentary, “God Grew Tired of Us.” Kidman narrates the movie about three African men, which opens in theatres today.

DIERKS BENTLEY SHOW CANCELLED; RESCHEDULED FOR MONDAY

Dierks Bentley has jokingly called his Canadian jaunt the “Snowplow” tour, but Wednesday night even a snowplow wouldn’t have made a difference during Canada’s worst snowstorm in 100 years. When Dierks heard that one of his production trucks and opening act Doc Walker’s bus couldn’t make it from Vancouver to Red Deer, he immediately postponed the show. The concert is rescheduled for Monday at Red Deer’s Enmax Centrium. Fans holding tickets for Wednesday night’s event will be able to use them for the re-scheduled show. It's the first time that Bentley has ever had to cancel or postpone a concert. Two years ago he was touring with George Strait in Canada, performing in some of the same venues that he's playing on this tour.

NASHVILLE WELCOMES NASCAR AND COUNTRY MUSIC THIS WEEKEND

Martina McBride and Lonestar kick off Sprint Sound & Speed tonight at the WIldhorse Saloon. The event, which brings together NASCAR drivers and country music, will be held at the Gaylord Entertainment Center (GEC) today and tomorrow. It culminates in a country music concert at the GEC tomorrow night featuring Jo Dee Messina, Josh Turner, Rodney Atkins and John Anderson. Tonight’s activities include dinner, an auction and the concert with McBride and Lonestar. Richie McDonald, lead singer for the group, says, quote, “We are huge NASCAR fans so we are really excited to be a part of the event this year. I have no doubt it will be a great time. How could it not be when you combine the great traditions of country music and NASCAR?” Messina is equally excited about her part in the concert tomorrow night. She says, quote, “I am really excited to take part in Sound & Speed again this year. Last year’s event was truly amazing and I have faith that this year will be even better because nothing beats country music and NASCAR, whose fans are usually one in the same.”
Other activities throughout the weekend include race car displays, question and answer sessions with Ray Stevens, Brenda Lee, Mel Tillis, Bill Anderson and several race car drivers at the Ryman, plus opportunities for autographs and photographs. All proceeds from Sprint Sound & Speed benefit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum charities and the Victory Junction Gang Camp for children with serious illnesses.

COUNTRY STARS PUT ON THINKING CAPS FOR “WHEEL OF FORTUNE” TAPING

Country singers will be spinning wheels, not records, tomorrow when they tape a week’s worth of episodes for “The Wheel of Fortune’s country music week. Eddie Montgomery and Troy Gentry of Montgomery Gentry, Richie McDonald, Keech Rainwater and Dean Sams of Lonestar, Lorrie Morgan, Wynonna and Trisha Yearwood are among those who will take part in the tapings. Gentry says, quote, "Eddie and I are both excited about spinning the wheel for our charities. I will be playing for 'Keep the Music Playing,' CMA's music and schools program, and I can't think of a more deserving charity. I hope I can make the kids proud!"
Others participating in the taping for “Wheel of Fortune” include Steve Azar, Terri Clark, Josh Gracin, Michael Britt, Julie Roberts, Trent Tomlinson and Mark Wills. Each artist will be matched with a fan and will play for their favorite charity. When Gracin spins the wheel he'll be playing for the National Guard Youth Challenge. He became a National Guard Youth Challenge Program national spokesperson two years ago and has been an active participant through visiting programs, filming public service announcements and appearing at Foundation events. Tomlinson will play for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Troy says, quote, “I made my first visit to St. Jude in 2006 and I was totally blown away by how strong these kids are. It’s just overwhelming.”

GRAMMY HALL OF FAME INDUCTS 11 COUNTRY RECORDINGS

Eleven of the 44 recordings going into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame are country. Among those being inducted are Dolly Parton’s single “I Will Always Love You” and George Jones’ single “He Stopped Loving Her Today.” The only country album on the list is “Wanted: The Outlaws” featuring Waylon Jennings, Tompall Glaser, Willie Nelson and Jessi Colter. Other singles include Patsy Montana’s “I Want to be a Cowboy’s Sweetheart” and The Delmore Brothers’ “Blues Stay away from Me.” Jimmie Rodgers has two songs going into the Hall of Fame – “Blue Yodel #9 (Standing on the Corner)” and “In the Jailhouse Now.” Uncle Dave Macon’s “Keep My Skillet Good and Greasy,” Emmett Miller & His Georgia Crackers’ “Lovesick Blues” and DeFord Bailey’s “Pan American Blues” round out the country selections. The Grammy Hall of Fame honors recordings of lasting quality or historical significance that are at least 25 years old. The 49th annual GRAMMY Awards air Sunday, February 11th on CBS at 8 p.m. ET.

QUICK BITES

LeAnn Rimes will be featured in the February issue of “In-Style” magazine.

John Rich of Big & Rich plans to build a house in Nashville but his neighbors don’t like it. Seems folks in surrounding homes think Villa Rich, which is going to stand more than 73-feet tall and occupy 11-hundred square feet, will take away from the traditional feel of the neighborhood. John says he wants to be a good neighbor, so he's taking another look at the design of his new home.

A new Johnny Cash gospel album is in the works. According to countrynation.com, the disc will be titled “Here Was A Man: The Ultimate Gospel Collection.” It will include “I See men As Trees Waling,” “My Ship Will Sail” and “Daddy Sang Bass.”

Kathie Baillie, formerly of Baillie and the Boys, is releasing her first solo project, “Love’s Funny That Way.” It's being produced by her husband who was also in the group.

Ricky Skaggs and Bruce Hornsby will tape a show for “CMT Crossroads.”

On the Grand Ole Opry this weekend: Marty Stuart, Mel Tillis, Diamond Rio, Buddy Jewell and more.

Big Country Notes for Jan 11

GEORGE STRAIT OPENS 2007 TOUR TONIGHT IN LOUISIANA

George Strait heads for Cajun country tonight to kick off his 2007 tour. Strait and special guests Ronnie Milsap and Taylor Swift perform in Lafayette, LA, then head for Shreveport, LA tomorrow night. It’s a great lineup for fans. George, who was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame last November, has sold more than 62 million records and has 53 number one hits. Milsap has had 40 number one hits, sold over 25 million records and has won numerous awards. Swift, a 16-year old who hit the country charts with her single “Tim McGraw,” is a self-declared George Strait fan and says it’s a dream come true for her to be on the tour.

NEW SEASON OF “NASHVILLE STAR” PREMIERS TONIGHT

Ten finalists come together tonight on the first episode of the fifth season of USA’s “Nashville Star.” Each singer hopes they will follow in the footsteps of previous winners including last year’s Chris Young, Buddy Jewell from season one or Erika Jo from season three. Even those who don’t win the competition can do well. Miranda Lambert, a runner-up in season one, landed a recording deal and has found success following the major exposure she got through the television show. This year’s hosts are pop singer Jewel and Cowboy Troy. Guest judge for the first episode is Randy Owen of Alabama. Blake Shelton and Anastasia Brown are the season’s judges.

KELLY CLARKSON TO GUEST ON SITCOM “REBA” SUNDAY

Kelly Clarkson is getting to work with one of her idols. The former “American Idol” winner guest stars on the Reba McEntire’s CW sitcom “Reba” Sunday night, portraying an intern at the local television station. On the episode, it is Reba’s job to find out if Clarkson’s character, Kelly, is after Barbara Jean’s (Melissa Peterson) job as the local weather girl. Barbara Jean is, of course, married to Reba’s ex, Brock (Christopher Rich). This isn’t the first time Kelly has met Reba. The two sang a duet on “American Idol” when Clarkson was a contestant in 2002. More recently, Kelly performed on “CMT Giants: Reba McEntire.” She says, quote, “I just love her. She is such a great person.”

CARRIE UNDERWOOD, RASCAL FLATTS TAKE TWO PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS EACH

Carrie Underwood adds more trophies to her mantel with Tuesday night’s People’s Choice wins -- Favorite Female Singer and Favorite Country Song for “Before He Cheats.” Underwood, who was not at the awards, says, quote, “I could not have dreamed of a more special year in my life; that it could be so full of wonderful memories and adventures. I am truly blessed to have the best fans in the world. Thanks for allowing me to share my music with you and for voting for me.” Rascal Flatts picked up awards for Favorite Song from a Movie and Favorite Song Remake both for “Life Is A Highway.” Jay DeMarcus of Rascal Flatts says, quote, “The fans ultimately have the loudest voices and tonight we heard them loud and clear. We love them and thank them so much for supporting us!” Kenny Chesney took home Favorite Male Singer. He performed his hit single “Young” before accepting the award from “CSI: Miami’s” Emily Proctor, who presented him with his 2004 CMA Album of the Year. Chesney says, quote, “She’s kinda lucky for me. I think this makes us two for two.” Pal Sammy Hagar had a case of his Cabo Wabo Tequila delivered to Chesney backstage to celebrate the win.
The day after her People’s Choice win, Carrie had other good news. Her debut album, “Some Hearts,” was just certified quintuple-Platinum for sales of five million units. This gives Carrie the fastest five-times-Platinum certification of any female country debut in history. “Some Hearts” has now become the best-selling, single-disc country album by a solo female in the new millennium.

STAGECOACH FESTIVAL LINEUP FEATURES COUNTRY SUPERSTARS

George Strait, Kenny Chesney, Brooks & Dunn, Alan Jackson, Sugarland, Sara Evans and Willie Nelson are just a few of the country superstars who will be a part of the inaugural Stagecoach festival, scheduled for May 5th and 6th at Empire Polo Field in Indio, CA. The new event will feature four performance stages -- the main stage, an alt-country stage, a bluegrass stage and a storytelling area. In addition to music, fans can also view country memorabilia, vintage cowboy gear, folk art and western heritage installations. Saddle making lessons, lasso and trail boss seminars and blacksmith demonstrations will also be part of the weekend. Other artists in the lineup include Gary Allan, Pat Green, Emmylou Harris, Kris Kristofferson, Ricky Skaggs and Riders in the Sky. The storytelling stage will feature appearances by "Prairie Home Companion" creator Garrison Keillor, Texas poet laureate Red Steagall and cowboy poet Waddie Mitchell. Tickets go on sale Jan. 20.

COLLIN RAYE TO TOUR WITH JIM BRICKMAN FOR VALENTINE PERFORMANCES

Collin Raye will appear with pianist Jim Brickman for two performances as the guest vocalist beginning February 10th. Brickman says, quote, “Collin sings two of my biggest songs, ‘The Gift’ and ‘Peace.’ I truly believe he has the best voice in country music and hearing his vocals sing my songs will be breathtaking.” The other performance is in Cleveland, OH on Valentine’s Day. Brickman’s new album, “Escape,” also has a country connection. It includes his current single, “Never Alone,” featuring vocals by Hillary Scott of Nashville. Hillary is the daughter of Linda Davis, who performed the duet “Does He Love You?” with Reba McEntire. It also includes “Never Alone” with Sara Evans on vocals.

QUICK BITES

Gretchen Wilson and Richie Sambora of Bon Jovi were seen frequenting honky tonks on Nashville’s Lower Broadway recently. Sambora showed up to see his friend Billy Falcon at the club Fuel while Wilson stopped by Legends Corner to see Ryan Hanlin and the Cornfield County Deputies. The latter band had the better deal – Gretchen actually took the tip jar and went around the room gathering money for them!

Dierks Bentley has cut off his curly locks. Seems the singer decided to sport a new look in the video he just filmed for “Long Trip Alone.”

Steve Holy’s hit single “Brand New Girlfriend” was the most played and most requested dance title from the past 12 months. Trace Adkins pulled into second with “Swing.” Rodney Atkins’ “If You’re Going Through Hell” came in third and Rascal Flatts’ “Me and My Gang” was fourth. Brad Paisley’s “The World” placed fifth.

The Dixie Chicks will perform at the the 49th annual GRAMMY Awards on Sunday, February 11th on CBS at 8 p.m. ET. Other performers include Gnarls Barkley, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Beyonce and Justin Timberlake.
DukesFest, CMT’s annual gathering of "Dukes of Hazzard" fans, returns to Nashville the first weekend in June.

The Wreckers are scheduled to perform on the fourth episode of "Nashville Star," which airs February 1st.

“MUNSTERS” ACTRESS YVONNE DECARLO DIES AT 84

Actress Yvonne DeCarlo, best known for her role as "Munsters" matriarch Lily Munster on the 1960s CBS series "The Munsters," has died. Born Peggy Yvonne Middelton, on September 1st, 1922, the Canadian-born actress moved from Vancouver, British Columbia to Hollywood with her mother at the age of 15, in search of film and fame. DeCarlo got her big break in 1945, playing the title role in the film "Salome, Where She Danced." "Criss Cross," and "Band of Angels" were also among her early works. The film community began to take notice of DeCarlo after she was cast as Moses' wife in the hugely successful 1956 production of "The Ten Commandments." But it's for her role as Lily Munster for which she is best remembered. "The Munsters," gave DeCarlo an outlet to demonstrate her comedic talents, playing opposite Fred Gwynne who played her Frankenstein monster-like husband Herman Munster on the series. DeCarlo was also an accomplished singer. She released an album of standards in 1957 called "Yvonne DeCarlo Sings" and performed on Broadway. DeCarlo also gained recognition for her work in a number of low budget horror movies including "The Power," "Sorority House Murders," "Mirror, Mirror" and "American Gothic." (Metro Source)

SOPHIA LOREN’S FILM PRODUCER HUSBAND CARLO PONTI DEAD AT 94

Italian film producer and husband of actress Sophia Loren, Carlo Ponti, has died. Loren's niece, Alessandra Mussolini, tells "BBC News" that Ponti "died overnight," adding, "It was a peaceful death, there was not a particular problem." The niece also said that Loren and their children were with the 94-year-old when he passed. Ponti discovered Loren when she was a 15-year-old beauty pageant contestant and he was a 37-year-old judge. He then groomed her for stardom, even arranging for her to take English lessons. Ponti and Loren first married in 1957, but that union was annulled, because he was still married to his first wife, due to the Catholic church's refusal to let them divorce. Ponti and Loren eventually moved to France, where he was allowed to divorce his first wife. He and Loren then married again in 1966. Ponti's film credits include "Doctor Zhivago," "The Cassandra Crossing" and "The Verdict." (Metro Source)

My Grandson!

As I promised in an earlier post, he is a picture of my grandson Jakob Mathew Potter a.k.a. "The Snake"

Big Country Notes for Jan 10

DIERKS BENTLEY WILL RELEASE LIVE DVD IN MARCH

Fans can go behind-the-scenes with Dierks Bentley when he releases his first live concert DVD March 20th. According to Bentley, “Live and Loud at the Fillmore” is a dream come true. Dierks says, quote, “When you go on the road you have to learn this whole new animal called the stage. We’ve worked hard these last three years … and I really wanted to capture what we are doing in our live show [on the DVD].” Bentley filmed his concert at Denver’s Fillmore Auditorium before a standing-room only crowd for the project. He and his band perform some of his biggest hits plus new tracks from his most recent album “Long Trip Alone.” Fans also get to see behind-the-scenes footage of life on the road from Bentley’s perspective. The DVD has a contemporary feel and director Russell Thomas says, quote, “I tried to imagine what a good rock and roll band should look like and then tried to transfer some of that imagery onto country music and Dierks...gritty, grainy, gutsy." Dierks’ love for touring continues – he is currently performing a series of dates in Canada with Eric Church and Canadian artist Doc Walker. The trek ends in Ottawa on January 24th.

KENNY CHESNEY HINTS AT TOUR ANNOUNCEMENT IN NEAR FUTURE

It’s beginning to feel a lot like time to announce plans for the 2007 tour in Kenny Chesney’s camp. The singer says, quote, “It’s getting to be that time of year when we get ready to make some announcements.” He adds, quote, “I just hope people are ready ‘cause we’ve definitely got some stuff in store.” More than a million fans came out to see Chesney on his “The Road and the Radio” tour last year, and they all know they can trust Kenny to have a high energy show and as low a ticket price as possible. Chesney says, quote, “We have a pretty cool stage, a lot of lights… but in the end, it still comes to down the songs, my band, and the way we play.” Out of respect to his fans, Kenny tries to keep ticket prices low. He says, quote, “I know what it's like to want to bring a date to a show and not know if I can afford to do it… and I don't want someone to not be able to come because it was too much money.”

MONTGOMERY GENTRY TAKING HIT SINGLE TO HEART

Eddie Montgomery and Troy Gentry of Montgomery Gentry don’t just sing the words to “Some People Change” – they are trying to make some changes of their own. With the arrival of a new year, the duo says they’d like to spend more time with their families and they would like to lose a little bit of weight. The duo always comes back to the music, however, so they also are making a commitment to their fans for more great music on the road in 2007. Fans can hold them to that promise when they kick off their 2007 tour in Salt Lake City next Friday where they perform with comedian Jeff Foxworthy.
Prior to their tour, Montgomery Gentry will visit MSNBC’s “Imus in the Morning” on Tuesday and CBS’s “Late Late Show With Craig Ferguson” next Friday.

BLAKE SHELTON SAYS GIRLFRIEND MIRANDA LAMBERT DOESN’T LIKE HIS MUSIC

It’s pretty rough when your girlfriend doesn’t like your music. It’s even harder when both of you are up-and-coming country artists, like Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert. Blake told WKRN-TV’s “Bradon2”, quote, "She and I rarely agree on music. I mean, she hates the music I listen to…and she’s not a fan of my music either.” Shelton adds, quote, "She'll tell you, or me, to my face, that there's very few of my songs I've recorded that she likes." Miranda’s least favorite Blake song is “Some Beach.” At least the feeling is mutual. The singer says, quote, “The music she listens to stinks. But don’t ask me who it is…”

GRAMMY AUCTION OFFERS VIP PACKAGES TO AWARDS SHOW

Rubbing shoulders with the stars just got easier. The GRAMMY Foundation is holding an online auction for three exclusive VIP 49th annual GRAMMY awards ticket packages. Each package includes Two Platinum-level tickets to attend the GRAMMY awards telecast, including some of the best seats in the house, plus two after-party passes. The Recording Academy's GRAMMY Celebration party has the reputation of having the city's finest cuisine and entertainment as well as offering the opportunity to mingle with some of the music and entertainment industry's best-known VIPs. The auction runs through next Thursday and can be accessed through www.ebay.com/grammy. All proceeds will benefit the GRAMMY Foundation. The 49th annual GRAMMY Awards air Sunday, February 11th on CBS at 8 p.m. ET.

QUICK BITES

Jack Ingram’s video for “Lips Of An Angel” premiers in Hot Shot rotation tomorrow on CMT’s “Top 20 Countdown.” On Friday CMT’s Pure Country channel will debut the video. Jack says, quote, “We filmed this video at a mansion around Nashville. I think the video storyline puts a new twist on the song and certainly makes you think about what is happening in the song. I can’t wait for the fans to get to see it.”

Texas honky-tonker Sunny Sweeney will release her debut disc, Heartbreaker’s Hall Of Fame, on Big Machine March 6th.

Mark Miller of Sawyer Brown and Charlie Daniels are two of the artists who participated in “Roar into Action,” a children’s video and CD soundtrack/sing-a-long. Miller performs “Covered In Love” Daniels sings “Little Folks." A portion of the proceeds will be donated to charity and college scholarship funds.

Ty Herndon released a new album yesterday, his first in five years. “Right About Now follows a “Greatest Hits” package in 2002 which included Herndon's number one hits "What Mattered Most," "Living in a Moment" and "It Must Be Love."

The museum at Elvis Presley's birthplace in Tupelo, MS., reopened to the public Monday. The museum just underwent a 250-thousand dollar renovation. The collection features memorabilia given by Elvis to his personal friend, Janelle McComb.

Big Country Notes for Jan 9

PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS TONIGHT FEATURES KENNY CHESNEY

Kenny Chesney will perform his hit single “Young” on the 33rd annual People’s Choice Awards tonight on CBS. Chesney is up for Male Singer along with Trace Adkins and Toby Keith. Faith Hill, Chakira and Carrie Underwood are nominated for Female Singer. Underwood’s "Before He Cheats," Rascal Flatts’ "What Hurts The Most" and McGraw’s "When the Stars Go Blue" are up for Country Song. Rascal Flatts’ song “Life is a Highway” received nods for Remake and Song from the Movie for “Cars.” Queen Latifah will host awards from the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.

SARA EVANS’ DAD SINGING ON SINGLE “YOU’LL ALWAYS BE MY BABY”

Sara Evans has multiple reasons to love her recording of “You’ll Always Be My Baby”: not only did she co-write the song, her dad is singing harmony with her on the single. Sara will be singing the song to her fans when she embarks on her new tour this Friday in Charlotte, NC. She performs in Baltimore, MD, on Saturday. The singer will take a break early in the tour to return to Nashville on January 21st to be a part of the “Dancing with the Stars” show at the Gaylord Entertainment Center there. Evans was a competitor on the television series last year but dropped out after she filed for divorce from her husband, Craig Schelske, in October. Evans has dates scheduled through June with additional dates expected to be added.
· Sara will perform “You’ll Always Be My Baby” on ABC’s “Good Morning America” tomorrow. Sara takes a break from her tour on Monday to headline a concert at Governor Bob Riley’s inauguration in Birmingham, AL.

GRETCHEN WILSON DOES BENEFIT FOR ST. JUDE CHILDREN’S RESEARCH HOSPITAL

Gretchen Wilson is accustomed to playing larger venues these days, so it took a special reason to get her back to the club scene. When the singer performs at Graham Central Station in Albuquerque, NM on February 6th, all proceeds from the event will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis. Tickets for the event are special, too – the 15-dollar ducats go on sale Friday.

BLAKE SHELTON SAYS HE WON’T BE TOUCH GUY ON “NASHVILLE STAR”

If you’re looking for Blake Shelton to be the tough guy on this season’s “Nashville Star,” think again. Shelton says, quote, “I think Randy [Owen of Alabama] will be the tough one. He’s already researched a lot of the contestants through their websites. He’s really into this.” Shelton notes that there is a good mix of judges this year. He says, quote, “When you look at it you’ve got an industry insider and a veteran who has accomplished more than anybody in country music.” He adds, quote, “Then you’ve got me -- somebody who is deep in the middle right now just getting started.” Shelton says there is a reason he decided to be a judge this year. He says, quote, “I think it’s an opportunity for people to finally figure out my sense of humor!” He adds, quote, “I just want to have fun with it. I’m sure I’ll probably say something before it’s over with that will offend somebody though.”

KENNY ROGERS CHANGES MIND, UPSETS NEIGHBORS

Kenny Rogers, who was planning to build a home in Sandy Springs, GA, has angered some of his neighbors. Rogers reportedly bought a property more than a year ago for two-point-three-million-dollars. He then tore it down and began the construction of another house on the seven-point-five-acre property. But he has apparently changed his mind and instead is selling the land without finishing the home. Neighbors said they had a beautiful buffer before the demolition, now they have dense woods and dirt to look at over their patios. Rogers has apologized, saying he realized the house would be too big for his family if anything ever happened to him. (The Metro Source)

QUICK BITES

· The Wreckers’ cartoon alter-egos will make their comic strip debut this week in the Guy Gilchrist strip “Nancy.” Gilchrist met the duo at a Massachusetts concert last month along with Little Big Town, who will also be featured in one of this week’s strips. Look for the Grammy-nominated duo to make an appearance in the strip on Aunt Fritzi’s T-shirt.

· Big & Rich are currently putting the finishing touches on their third studio album, to be released this spring.

· John Anderson is set to shoot the video for his next single, “A Woman Knows,” Monday in Nashville. The video will bring to life the love triangle conceived by songwriters John Rich of Big & Rich, Vicky McGehee, and Julie Roberts. Rich co-produced Anderson’s album “Easy Money,” which will be released May 15th.

· The Sportsman Channel will feature country artists in its new show, “Backstage & Backroads with Daniel Lee Martin.” The show will offer viewers a glimpse of the inner workings of the music business, a backstage pass to live concerts and behind-the-scenes happenings and then return to the great outdoors for hunting and fishing trips. Celebrity guests scheduled to appear on the show are Billy Ray Cyrus, Craig Morgan, Andy Griggs and others.

· Jason Michael Carroll’s single “Alyssa Lies” begins this year setting a sales record. Available in advance of his album’s February 6th release, “Alyssa Lies” entered the chart with nearly 14-thousand purchased downloads, scoring the highest country new artist debut sales since the inception of the SoundScan Digital Song chart.

· Marty Raybon and T. Graham Brown are among a group of artists who will perform a special benefit for Cody Hulsizer, who was injured in an auto accident during his first year of college last year. The benefit will be held at The Center in Springfield, TN on January 21st.

Big Country Notes for Jan 8

TIM McGRAW TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM IN MARCH

Tim McGraw’s new album, which hits stores March 27th, is aptly titled “Let It Go.” It’s the singer’s first studio release in almost three years. According to allaboutcountry, McGraw says, quote, “I am really excited about this new studio album. It was great to work with [producer] Byron Gallimore, Darran Smith and my band in the studio again and to build upon our work together.” There are several special moments on the new project, not the least of which is Faith Hill’s guest vocals on two cuts – “Shotgun Rider” and “I Need You,” which are duets from the husband and wife’s 2006 “Soul2Soul II” tour. McGraw co-wrote one of the 13 cuts, “Train #10.” This marks the second song he’s recorded that he also wrote, the first being “My Little Girl” from the movie soundtrack “Flicka.” McGraw went to some of the bigger names in songwriting for songs to record for the new disc. For instance, Big Kenny of Big & Rich wrote the current single “Last Dollar.”
A new album is not all McGraw has in the works. He has a part in the Jamie Foxx and Jennifer Garner movie, “The Kingdom,” which is due out in April. And he’ll play a police chief in the upcoming movie “Crash,” is now in production.

COUNTRY DOMINATES MALE SINGER CATEGORY FOR PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARDS TOMORROW

Country has the nod tomorrow night in the Male Singer category and Female singer categories at the 33rd annual People’s Choice Awards. Trace Adkins, Kenny Chesney and Toby Keith are nominated for Male Singer while Faith Hill, Chakira and Carrie Underwood are nominated for Female Singer. Chesney is scheduled to perform “Young” on the awards presentation. Country song nods go to "Before He Cheats" by Underwood, "What Hurts The Most" by Rascal Flatts and "When the Stars Go Blue" by Tim McGraw. Rascal Flatts drew two extra votes, both for their song “Life is a Highway.” It’s up for Remake and Song from a Movie for “Cars.” That film, which also featured music by Brad Paisley, Hank Williams Sr., James Taylor and Sheryl Crow, is in the running for Favorite Movie and Favorite Family Movie. Bon Jovi is up for Rock Song for “Who Says You Can’t Go Home” – the country version of that song featured Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland. The People's Choice Awards will be hosted by Queen Latifah from the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles and will air live on CBS.

TOBY KETH’S MOVIE “BROKEN BRIDGES” DVD DUE TOMORROW

The DVD for Toby Keith’s “Broken Bridges” will release tomorrow. Keith made his acting debut in the film, co-starring with Kelly Preston, Tess Harper, Willie Nelson, Lindsey Haun and Burt Reynolds. Keith plays the former boyfriend of Preston’s character, with whom he has a 16-year old daughter (Haun) he doesn’t know. In the movie, he and Haun form a relationship and Toby and Kelly’s characters review their past history. The DVD includes several features other than the move. Toby Keith’s video “Alien” is there as is a featurette about filming on a base with real soldiers. Also included is a Meet the Actors segment with Keith, Preston, Reynolds, Anna Marie Horsford, Harper and Katie Finneran. Keith’s label, Show Dog Nashville, released the soundtrack to the film. Keith wrote much of the music. Haun is also featured on the soundtrack album.

DIERKS BENTLEY STARTS CANADIAN TOUR TODAY

Dierks Bentley heads north to Canada today for a three-week tour that will include stops in Vancouver, Red Deer, Calgary, Regina, Manitoba and London, Ontario. He’ll also pick up two U.S. dates at the end of the tour. He plays Fargo, ND, on January 19th and Waterloo, IA, the next night. The tour ends January 24th in Ottawa. Dierks works more shows than just about any artist in Nashville. The singer told bullz-eye.com, “There’s a lot of stuff that comes with playing music for a living, but the part that I love is being onstage. The hour and a half is where I live. That’s why we’re out here playing so much. And that’s how we’re building up our fan base, our real core fan base, through touring.” Eric Church and Canadian band Doc Walker will open the shows.

LITTLE BIG TOWN THRILLED TO BE NOMINATED FOR GRAMMY

Group members of Little Big Town describe the phone calls regarding their GRAMMY nomination as one of the most fun times they’ve ever had. Jimi Westbrook of LBT says, quote, “2006 was a great year for Little Big Town but this has allowed us to start the new year on a high note.” Jimi explains that the group was on the bus headed for New York when the nominations were announced. He says they were trying to find the telecast for the awards nominee announcement when their phones started ringing. He says, quote, “When the call came in from our management pandemonium broke loose on the bus ... it was a blast.” The group was on their way to at a New York casino so when they arrived at their destination they popped a bottle of champagne for a toast. Westbrook says, quote, “We toasted an amazing year for the group and our GRAMMY nomination. Then we went gambling and lost money!” The 49th annual GRAMMY Awards air Sunday, February 11th on CBS.

Little Big Town will perform their new single "Good As Gone" on NBC’s "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" tonight.

JOHNNY CASH ITEMS UP FOR AUCTION

The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company, LLC is offering a number of special items formerly belonging to Johnny Cash in an auction on January 21st in Scottsdale, AZ. Among the items available are musical instruments and original lyric sheets. One of the singer’s handwritten “to-do” lists includes the notation “Kiss June.” The day’s auction will also include rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia and lifestyle items. For more information on the items up for bid go to www.johnnycashauction.com. There will also be a separate group of Johnny Cash items on display and up for private sale at the Rock on the Block retail store on site at WestWorld in Scottsdale. To view these items specifically, please visit www.barrett-jackson.com.

DIAMOND RIO WILL AGAIN SPONSOR TEAM TIO IN COUNTRY MUSIC MARATHON

Team Rio marches forward. The team started by Diamond Rio to compete in the Country Music Marathon and Half Marathon on April 28th is already in recruitment mode. The group’s Jimmy Olander and Marty Roe are the celebrity running captains and Gene Johnson is the celebrity walking captain. People who want to help Diamond Rio raise money for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Middle Tennessee don’t have to be experienced. Jimmy told the “Tennessean,” quote, “We have everything from walkers to people who are absolutely blazing fast and anything in between. I can't tell you how much fun it's been and how many great folks we have doing it with us." Team Rio recruited 60 people the first year and more than 100 the second year, raising more than 70-thousand dollars. This year the goal is 200 runners and/or walkers who will raise over 100-thousand dollars for the organizations. For more information visit the Diamond Rio website at www.diamondrio.com.

QUICK BITES

Sara Evans will headline a concert for Alabama Gov. Bob Riley during his inauguration ceremonies on Jan. 15 in Birmingham. The Huntsville Symphony Orchestra will also perform. Sara returns to ABC’s “Good Morning America” Wednesday to perform her latest hit single, “You’ll Always Be My Baby.”

Jake Owen’s debut hit, “Yee Haw,” figures into a prominent party scene in a recent episode of NBC’s “Friday Night Lights.” The Florida native’s first single proved such a favorite that it will be featured in this Wednesday’s installment.

Chris Young says he is flattered that “Country Weekly” readers voted him their “Hottest Bachelor” in the magazine’s January 15th issue. However, he says, quote, “My band spares no expense to make fun of me about that every chance they get.”

Ashley Monroe’s duet with Ronnie Dunn of Brooks & Dunn, “I Don’t Want To,” is from her upcoming album “Satisfied.”

Blaine Larsen had a great 2006, touring with Gretchen Wilson and moving to Nashville with his new wife. He started the year off with continued momentum by playing the Grand Ole Opry at the Ryman Auditorium.

Kellie Pickler performed the National Anthem at the Nashville Predators hockey game last Saturday. She and Predators player Jordan Tootoo have been seen together at local clubs but apparently the two are neighbors and just friends.




MUSEUM SECURITY GUARD BRINGS BOX OFFICE TO LIFE FOR A THIRD WEEK Ben Stiller's time at the museum is keeping him at the top of the box office charts. For the third week in a row, "Night At The Museum" topped the box office bringing in about 24-million dollars. "The Pursuit of Happyness" starring Will Smith came in second with 13-million in ticket sales. In third place was the new release, "Children of Men," which had more than ten-million dollars in sales. Rounding out the top five were "Freedom Writers" with more than nine-million dollars and "Dreamgirls" came in fifth, bringing in eight-point-eight-million dollars. (Metro Source)
Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Media By Numbers LLC (final figures will be released today):
1. "Night at the Museum," $24 million.
2. "The Pursuit of Happyness," $13 million.
3. "Children of Men," $10.3 million.
4. "Freedom Writers," $9.7 million.
5. "Dreamgirls," $8.8 million.
6. "Happily N'Ever After," $6.8 million.
7. "Charlotte's Web," $6.6 million.
8. "The Good Shepherd," $6.5 million.
9. "Rocky Balboa," $6.3 million.
10. "We Are Marshall," $5.1 million.

I'm A Grandpa!

After 9 months of anticipation, I can now shout it! I'M A GRANDPA! My daughter Jessica and her husband, Matt Potter are the proud parents of a baby boy.

He was born Saturday, January 6, 2007 at 10:53pm. They named him Jakob Mathew. He weighed 6 pounds 7 ounces and is 20 inches long.

Both Mother & Baby are fine and are anxious to get home. Aunt Shelby is excited about the prospect of a little boy in the family. Now she may stop asking me if she can have a little brother.

Jessica was a little concerned while in the delivery room. Little Jake decided he wanted to enter this world during the second half of the UK-Ol' Miss game, so while she was doing all of the work, Matt and the Doctor were keeping an eye on the game. I was in the waiting room doing the same thing so time flew by for me.

My long time friend and co-worker, Peter Girouard went to the hospital to visit and has already nicknamed the baby Jake "The Snake". I don't know how Jessica will like that.

Pictures will be posted soon!