Big Country Notes for APR 13

RASCAL FLATTS TO PERFORM ON “AMERICAN IDOL”

Rascal Flatts will perform their mega hit “My Wish” on “American Idol’s” “Idol Gives Back” two-hour special April 25th. Among others performing are first season winner Kelly Clarkson, actor Hugh Grant, pop star Gwen Stefani and adult contemporary singer Josh Groban. “Idol Gives Back” is a fundraiser and awareness effort for organizations that provide relief programs to help children in extreme poverty in America and Africa. Viewers can make donations via toll-free pledge lines and the Internet. Corporate sponsors News Corporation, Ford, Coca-Cola and AT&T will donate money for every vote cast on that particular night. Ford will also contribute a special music video that will be available for download after the show. One hundred percent of the money generated will be contributed to "Idol Gives Back."

Rascal Flatts is taking a break from recording their upcoming album to go to Los Angeles to make an appearance. The last time the group performed on the show was May 25th, 2005. That night Carrie Underwood was crowned the new “American Idol” winner.

KENNY CHESNEY TOUR GETS UNDERWAY IN OMAHA

Kenny Chesney says he had a good reason to start his “Flip Flop Summer” tour in Omaha, Nebraska last night. He explains, quote, “The fans there set the bar pretty high, so it's a great way to kick off the tour." Chesney is rolling out a whole new setup for this year’s venture, including 12 tons of speaker cabinets for the in-door shows and 18 tons for the stadium shows. The new high-tech screen behind the stage weighs in at five tons so it’s going to take a lot of power to set up and tear down every night. Kenny says, quote, “These are big shows. It takes an awful lot of stuff for people to really hear this music … to feel it the way those shows that really rock you do.” Chesney says he can’t wait to show fans what he’s been working on for the past six months, adding, quote, “I'm pretty blown away by all of it - and I see it every day! For folks who're seeing it for this first time, I can't even imagine what kind of rush it's going to be.”

TOBY KEITH ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR GOLF TOURNAMENT

Toby Keith will be swinging for a good cause April 28th when he plays golf to help children with cancer in Oklahoma. The singer’s annual Toby Keith & Friends Golf Classic will be held at Belmar Golf Course in Norman, Oklahoma. The tournament starts on Friday night with a party and auction where Restless Heart will perform for golfers and their guests. A live and silent auction will take place with items as diverse as Walt Disney vacations, autographs from golfer Tiger Woods and baseball icon Mickey Mantle, along with items from musical celebrities Garth Brooks and rockers Sammy Hagar and Bob Seger up for bids. Keith says, quote, “We throw a great party wit this event every year to support these kids in their battle with cancer.” The tournament benefits Ally's House, an organization that Keith helped establish. The association serves as a major source of support to Oklahoma's young cancer patients.
Ally's House is named after Allison Webb, daughter of Keith's friend and original bandmate Scott Webb. Ally died in August of 2003, one month short of her third birthday, from a form of kidney cancer called Wilm's tumors.

BIG & RICH HOST ACM CHARITY POKER TOURNAMENT

Kenny Alphin and John Rich of Big & Rich are going to need to seek out some advice from “The Gambler,” Kenny Rogers. The duo, along with Two-Foot Fred, are hosting the first annual Charity Poker Tournament on May 14th in Las Vegas. Big Kenny says, quote, “We are thrilled – we hope to see some big winnings come out of this throw down.” John says, quote, “Hosting the inaugural tournament is both an honor and privilege to rack up some chips for charity.” The tournament will be held at the MGM Grand, where the 42nd annual ACM awards will take place on May 15th. First place winner could win up to ten thousand dollars. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top ten players. The tournament tops out with 100 people participating. All proceeds from the event will go to the Academy of Country Music Charitable Fund. To register to play in the tournament go to www.acmcountry.com. The 42nd annual ACM Awards will air live from Las Vegas on CBS May 15 at 8 p.m. Eastern.

Big & Rich, Gretchen Wilson, Cowboy Troy and John Anderson will be on the cover of today’s “Billboard” magazine. Inside is a seven-page spread on the MuzikMafia. The story heralds the upcoming releases from Wilson and Anderson on May 15th, and from Big & Rich and Cowboy Troy on June 5th.

SARA EVANS HUSBAND FILES LAWSUIT AGAINST WIFE’S ATTORNEY

Craig Schelske, estranged husband of Sara Evans, has filed a 20-million dollar lawsuit. Unlike the lawsuit filed by Evans’ former nanny, Allison Clinton Lee, this suit is against one of his wife’s divorce lawyers and the Nashville law firm that employs him. Lee filed a suit earlier this week suing Evans and her lawyers for defamation, claiming the singer made slanderous and libelous statements about her when she filed for divorce last year. Schelske’s suit accused lawyer John Hollins Sr. of slandering him and causing him emotional harm because he relayed untruths to the media. Schelske is asking for ten million dollars in compensatory and punitive damages from the attorney and the same amount from his law firm of Hollins, Wagster, Yarbrough, Weatherly & Raybin. Lee is seeking three million dollars in punitive and compensatory damages in her suit.

ARTISTS JOIN TOGETHER FOR CHARITY

Country music celebrities are always willing to step up for their favorite charity. Now a group of artists have joined forces with the non-profit organization Musicians on Call for an online auction. Carrie Underwood, Dierks Bentley and others hope to raise awareness and money for the program at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville. Among the items on the auction block – a chance to meet Carrie during her tour this summer, luxury suite tickets to see Tim McGraw and Faith Hill and Keith Urban; Johnny Cash’s harmonica; an autographed Montgomery Gentry guitar and dream vacation in Nashville, including tickets to the CMA Music Festival. Fans can log on to www.charitybuzz.com through Tuesday to place their bid.
Musicians On Call brings live and recorded music to the bedsides of people in healthcare facilities. To date, MOC has served over 76-thousand individuals through Bedside Performances utilizing local musicians and national celebrities.

BARRY GIBB THANKS FANS FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF HIS FAMILY AFTER FIRE

The man who sang about “Stayin’ Alive” with his siblings in the Bee Gees is having one of those “good news, bad news” times in his life. Barry Gibb’s recently purchased Johnny and June Carter Cash’s home north of Nashville went up in flames Tuesday. Barry posted a notice on his website saying, quote, “The family is devastated and we thank you all for your support. No further comment at this time.” Gibb purchased the home in January 2006 and was in the process of renovating it. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. When he bought it, Gibb said he and his wife were determined to preserve it to honor the memory of the Cash family. In other news for the Bee Gees, they will be honored as BMI Icons at Broadcast Music Inc.’s annual Pop Awards in Los Angeles May 15th.

BUCKY COVINGTON HAS WEEK’S WORTH OF ACTIVITIES TO PROMOTE NEW ALBUM

Bucky Covington’s self-titled debut album releases Tuesday and the singer is gearing up for a week-long promotional blitz. Sunday the former “American Idol” contestant will guest-host two special episodes of “CMT Outsider” offering fans a man-on-the-street perspective of the CMT Music Awards Monday night. He will walk the red carpet for the awards show Monday, then jet to New York City.
Tuesday morning he will be on Fox’s “The Morning Show” for an interview and performance. That night he goes to Los Angeles to tape an interview for Americanidol.com and guest on the TV Guide Channel’s “Idol Tonight.” Bucky returns to “Idol” as an audience member Tuesday night and will then tape “American Idol Extra,” which airs April 19th.
Thursday finds Covington visiting with Ryan Seacrest on his KIIS-FM show and then performing on ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live.”
Friday finds Covington returning to his home state of North Carolina for a concert date and CD signing. After a show in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on Saturday, he goes back to New York City for an appearance on Sunday’s “Fox & Friends” morning show. Bucky Covington will be released on Lyric Street Records on April 17th, 2007.
The album is produced by Mark Miller and Dale Oliver. It features eleven songs including the current hit single, “A Different World,” and Covington’s first co-write, “Carolina Blue.” Autographed copies of Bucky Covington can be pre-ordered from cmt.com, gactv.com and buckycovington.com while supplies last.

MAN WHO ABDUCTED SANDY BROOKS NOW FREE ON PROBATION

Quintine Cornelius Harper agreed to a plea agreement and has plead no contest to an amended charge of kidnapping in connection with the April 2006 abduction of Sandy Brooks, former wife of Garth Brooks, from her Oklahoma home. The “Tulsa World” reports that Harper was released from jail Tuesday after satisfying the conditions of his sentencing. According to the newspaper Harper also entered the same pleas on two misdemeanor counts of pointing a firearm. Harper was found guilty and sentenced to seven years on the kidnapping count. After finding Harper guilty, Rogers County District Judge Dwayne Steidley suspended six years of the term and gave him credit for time already served. He also received a six-month sentence on the firearms charge and was ordered to pay 300 dollars in fines, 150 in victims’ compensation fees and court costs. Terms of his probation require that Harper not contact Brooks or any member of her immediate family in any way.

QUICK BITES

Keith Urban has been rehearsing his upcoming “Love, pain and the whole crazy World” tour at the Curb Event Center in Nashville. Word from those with offices near the auditorium is that if rehearsals are any indication, Keith’s show is going to be loud and rocking this year. The first U.S. date for the trek is June 8th in Phoenix, Arizona.

Billy Currington has a new friend out on the road with him. Paco is a nine-week old chocolate Labrador retriever. Billy is already working with Paco on his basic obedience commands.

Little Texas returns home this weekend to perform at the Chevy Thunder at Sundance Square show tomorrow in Fort Worth, TX along with the Charlie Daniels Band. Sunday they will sing National Anthem and “God Blessed Texas” before 250-thousand fans at the Samsung 500 race at the Texas Motor Speedway. In honor of their coming home, Little Texas’ bassist Duane Propes has had a special bass with a design depicting the Texas Flag commissioned by the First Act Luthier Shop in Boston. It will be unveiled during their race performance. Little Texas will release a new album, “Missing Years,” on June 12th.

Trick Pony and Aaron Tippin will be among the performers at the 40th Anniversary IFCO "Fun Fest Show" on June 4th at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium.

Blake Shelton will perform on ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live” on May 8th to promote his upcoming album “Pure BS” which hits stores May 1st. Blake keeps everyone up to date with pure BS on his ongoing webisodes at youtube.com/blakeshelton.

Actor and comedian Larry the Cable Guy will perform as part of a USO tour at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland on May 1st. The tour will feature a special screening of Lionsgate's "Delta Farce," which stars Larry the Cable Guy, Bill Engvall, DJ Qualls and Marisol Nichols. The film will be released in theaters nationwide on May 11th.

On the Grand Ole Opry this weekend: The Wreckers, Steve Wariner, the Oak Ridge Boys, Marty Stuart and other Opry greats.

Big Country Notes for APR 12

CARRIE UNDERWOOD SCORES FOURTH NUMBER-ONE SINGLE

Carrie Underwood hasn’t wasted any time landing her fourth single at the top of the charts. The success she’s had with the single “Wasted” marks the first time a female country artists has achieved four number-one singles from a debut album. The other recent artists to climb to the same heights are labelmates Alan Jackson and Brooks & Dunn. Underwood’s first single, “Jesus, Take the Wheel” went to number one and brought numerous accolades for the singer. Her second and third singles, “Don’t Forget to Remember Me” and “Before He Cheats,” followed her first success at the top of the charts. All are from her debut album “Some Hearts” which has been certified quadruple Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. Fans can also be looking for a cover feature on Carrie in the May issue of “Cosmopolitan,” on sale now.
Carrie is up for Female Video and Video of the Year at Monday’s CMT Music Awards. The show airs live from Nashville over CMT at 8 p.m. Eastern.

GARY ALLAN OPENS UP TO “PEOPLE” MAGAZINE ABOUT HIS WIFE’S SUICIDE

Gary Allan says he’s not yet over the October 24, 2004 tragedy of losing his wife, Angela Herzberg. In a first-person account in the new issue of “People,” on newsstands Friday, Gary talks about his loss for the first time. He talks about what an ideal life he thought they had in their home outside Nashville, where they lived with their extended family of six kids. He recalls the night when Angela took her life, on a day when he had just come home after being out for a series of concerts. The singer says that she was not feeling well that evening and he was concerned about her. He says she went into their bedroom and he followed her in case she needed something. She asked him to get her a soft drink and while he was in the kitchen, quote, “I heard a loud pop. It sounded like she had thrown something.” He quickly returned to the bedroom, where he found her dead from a gunshot wound. Even though he later learned she had been told to get help for her depression, Allen continued to blame himself for the suicide for a long time. He says, quote, “After she died, I couldn’t write, I couldn’t do anything. I was a mess.” He says after two years he is beginning to feel better and continues to pull his life back together.
Gary’s video “Life Ain’t Always Beautiful” has landed a CMT Music Awards Director of the Year nomination for Paul Boyd. The show will air Monday at 8 p.m. Eastern over CMT.

TIM McGRAW MAINTAINS THE TOP SPOT ON “BILLBOARD’S” COUNTRY ALBUM CHART

Tim McGraw holds down the top spot on “Billboard’s” Country album charts for the second week in a row with “Let It Go.” Martina McBride’s “Waking Up Laughing” is at the number two spot. McGraw’s disc remains at number two on the all-genre Top 200 album chart. McBride’s album is at number three, a tie for her best position on the all-genre chart to date. Bluegrass diva Alison Krauss enters the Top 200 with her "A Hundred Miles or More: A Collection" at number ten with the triple threat trio of Alan Jackson, George Strait and Jimmy Buffett settling in at number eleven with their “Live at Texas Stadium” disc.
McGraw is up for Male Video of the Year for “My Little Girl” on the CMT Music Awards Monday night. The show broadcasts live from Nashville over CMT at 8 p.m. Eastern.

GEORGE STRAIT SIGNS UP TO RIDE FOR THE WRANGLER BRAND AGAIN

George Strait is once again endorsing Wranger Jeans. The company’s 2007 promotion with the singer will encompass 22 cities and 90 retailers. The campaign includes poster giveaways in select outlets and ticket giveaways to one of Strait’s concerts with a purchase of 30 dollars or more in Wrangler gear. The giveaways are limited and available in select retailers nationwide. Wrangler’s George Strait Collection includes a line of cowboy cut jeans and long and short-sleeved button-up shirts that mimic the Texan’s cowboy style. The clothing line was launched by Wrangler in 2003 and has developed into one of its most popular buys. Strait has had a relationship with the manufacturer since the late 1980’s.

TAYLOR SWIFT FOLLOWS “ROAD TO THE ACM’S”

Taylor Swift will be featured in video clips titled “Taylor Swift’s Road to the ACMs.” The segments will be created diary style and will document a behind-the-scenes view of Taylor’s life leading up to the 42nd annual ACM awards on May 15th. Swift is nominated for Top New Female Vocalist. Swift says, quote, “I have always dreamed of being nominated for this award and, like most people, I am never without my cell phone.” She adds, quote, “To be able to use this technology to give people a glimpse into such an important event is so exciting to me.” A new diary segment will be available each week on CBS’s mobile platforms. Fans can also go to www.cbsmobile.com to download ringtones and wallpapers of Taylor-related product for their mobile phones. The ACM Awards will be broadcast live from Las Vegas, Nevada on May 15th on CBS.
Taylor is also nominated for an award on another awards show. Her video for “Tim McGraw” is up for Breakthrough Video of the Year at the CMT Music Awards Monday. The show airs over CMT beginning at 8 p.m. Eastern.

Big Country Notes for APR 11

LITTLE BIG TOWN GETTING READY TO TOUR WITH MARTINA McBRIDE

Kimberly Roads of Little Big Town is thrilled to be going on tour with Martina McBride beginning this Thursday. The singer says while it will be exciting to open shows for McBride, she’s just as anxious to talk to Martina about how she handles her career and being a mother. Rhodes is pregnant with her first child and says she’ll be asking for some advice from Martina about being a mom on the go. Rhodes' bandmate Karen Fairchild says, quote, “I heard she [Martina] had done an interview and talked about giving Kimberly advice which I think is so cool.” McBride’s tour kicks off Thursday in Kansas City, Missouri, then continues on to Rosemont, Illinois on Friday and Sunday.

JOHNNY CASH HOME BURNS TO GROUND

The Hendersonville, Tennessee home formerly owned by Johnny and June Carter Cash has burned to the ground. “The Tennessean” reports it is believed that sealant being used during the renovation of the home caught on fire yesterday afternoon. According to WSMV-TV, all but one of the Hendersonville Fire Department’s engines responded to the blaze but it was too late to save the home. No one was injured in the fire. The home is now owned by pop star Barry Gibb of the Bee Gees, who bought the property in 2006. WKRN-TV reports that the singer planned to move into the renovated mansion in July. The Cash family lived in the home for 35 years. Johnny Cash's brother, Tommy, was among the bystanders who watched the blaze, along with the Oak Ridge Boys' William Lee Golden. Golden calls the fire "devastating," noting he'd been in the house many times as a guest of the Cashes.

DIERKS BENTLEY WILL TAPE “AUSTIN CITY LIMITS” ON APRIL 25TH

It may be a long trip from Nashville to Austin, but Dierks Bentley definitely won’t be alone when he heads to Texas’s state capitol to tape “Austin City Limits” on April 25th. Dierks is thrilled to be asked to do the show. He says, quote, "It is amazing to look at the list of singer/songwriters who have been asked to play “Austin City Limits”; people like Rodney Crowell, John Prine and Emmylou Harris It is definitely an honor to be invited to Austin for this." The Austin City Limits' show will air as part of the series 33rd season this Fall. Other upcoming appearances for Bentley include a performance of his Top 10 single "Long Trip Alone" on the CMT Music Awards Monday and tour stops in Knoxville, TN, Norfolk, VA, and Richmond, VA, this week.

RASCAL FLATTS STILL WRITING SONGS FOR UPCOMING ALBUM

Rascal Flatts plans to release a new album this fall. Group members Gary LeVox, Joe Don Rooney and Jay DeMarcus say they are still writing songs for the upcoming project. LeVox says, quote, “Every chance we get we’ve been writing. It’s an ongoing labor of love for the three of us.” In fact, the three were just in Los Angeles co-writing with pop singer/songwriter Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds. Apparently Edmonds is a fan of the group. He was in Nashville to salute the group, who were one of the Honors 2007 recipients feted Monday night by the Nashville chapter of The Recording Academy. <>
Rascal Flatts is up for two CMT Music Awards next Monday night. Their songs “What Hurts the Most” and “Life is a Highway” are both nominated for Group Video of the Year. “What Hurts the Most” is also in the running for Video of the Year. The group is slated for the opening performance on the awards show, which air on CMT at 8 p.m. Eastern.

JOSH GRACIN TO PERFORM FOR LAURA BUSH IN NASHVILLE

Josh Gracin will perform for First Lady Laura Bush at the Third Annual Helping America’s Youth (HAY) Regional Conference tomorrow in Nashville. HAY was established to raise awareness about the challenges facing youth and to motivate caring adults to connect with youth in three key areas: family, school and community. Attendees from eleven states are set to participate in the two-day conference. Gracin has three children and says he is committed to supporting the principals of HAY and other similar activities. He is a spokesperson for the National Guard Youth Challenge Program. He stays involved with that association through visiting programs, filming public service announcements and appearing at events.

TRACE ADKINS SAYS MESSAGE OF NEW SINGLE IS TIMELY

Trace Adkins says he doesn’t set out to change the world with his music, but he does hope his new single “I Wanna Feel Something” will make people stop and think. Trace says, quote, “I recorded this song because I think the message is timely. We’re just so overwhelmed and bombarded with information that it’s hard to get a rise out of us anymore -- about anything.” He adds, quote, “It seems like it has to be something really shocking for us to stop and go, wow!" This is Trace’s third release from his “Dangerous Man” album. It also marks his debut as a producer. Adkins co-produced the single with songwriters Casey Beathard and Kenny Beard. Adkins continues his “Dangerous Man” tour to Florence, Arizona on Thursday, Mesquite, Nevada this Friday and Wendover, Nevada on Saturday.

CMT MUSIC AWARDS OFFER ALL-STAR TRIBUTE TO KRIS KRISTOFFERSON

Kris Kristofferson will celebrate the good times Monday night when he is honored at the CMT Music Awards. An on-air tribute featuring Gretchen Wilson, Keith Urban, Willie Nelson and actor Russell Crowe will honor the recipient of the Johnny Cash Visionary Award. Rosanne Cash will present the award to Kris. Kristofferson has a career that spans several decades and multiple talents, among them songwriter, singer, actor and humanitarian. He recorded as a solo artist and as part of The Highwaymen with Willie, Waylon Jennings and Cash. He has starred in movies including “A Star is Born” with Barbra Streisand and the three “Blade” movies. Among his hit songs are “Why Me, Lord,” “Help Me Make It Through The Night,” “Me and Bobbie McGee” and “Sunday Morning Comin’ Down.” The show will air live from Nashville on CMT Monday at 8 p.m. Eastern.

SARA EVANS NANNY SUES SINGER FOR DEFAMATION

Sara Evans’ former nanny, Allison Clinton Lee, is suing the singer and her attorneys for defamation. In her divorce filing, Evans claimed Lee was the person Evans’ husband, Craig Schelske had an affair with. “The Tennessean” reports that Lee is claiming that her name was smeared because of the allegations. Both Lee and Schelske denied the affair happened. The former nanny asked for a public retraction of the accusation. She also claims that Evans made, quote “slanderous and libelous statements” about her in the divorce filing and through her attorney to the media. Lee and her husband are seeking three million dollars in punitive and compensatory damages.

SINGER WILLIE NELSON TO DEVELOP COUNTRY-THEMED CASINO CHAIN

Music legend Willie Nelson has a casino chain in the works. According to the "New York Daily News," the singer has teamed with New York racetrack entrepreneur Richard Fields to develop a number of country-themed casinos. Nelson's manager, Mark Rothbaum, says of the plan that "it's just one to start, but who knows where it's going to go." In 1999, Fields teamed with "The Apprentice" star and real-estate mogul Donald Trump, with hopes of landing a casino deal with the Seminole Indians of Florida. He then dropped Trump to work with another developer. Trump then sued Fields, although Fields claimed that what he did was legal. (Metro Source)

CMT MUSIC AWARDS ADDS PRESENTERS

Big & Rich, Blake Shelton and Randy Owen of Alabama have been added as presenters on the CMT Music Awards Monday night. They join Barbara Mandrell, Jason Aldean, Josh Turner, Kellie Pickler, LeAnn Rimes, actress Melissa Peterman (“Reba”,“CMT Comedy Stage”), Miranda Lambert, celebrity chef Paula Deen, comedians Rodney Carrington and Ron White, wrestler Stone Cold Steve Austin and Taylor Swift. Performers include Carrie Underwood, Dierks Bentley, Hank Williams Jr., a special performance by Keith Urban from Australia, Kenny Chesney, Martina McBride, Rascal Flatts, Sugarland, Toby Keith and Bon Jovi. Among those honoring the Johnny Cash Visionary Award winner Kris Kristofferson in an on-air tribute are Gretchen Wilson, Rosanne Cash, filmmaker Martin Scorsese, actor Russell Crowe, Willie Nelson and producer Don Was. The awards are fan-voted and honor music videos from the past year. Friday is the last day for fans to vote for their favorite videos. The show will air live from Nashville on CMT Monday at 8 p.m. Eastern.

The final nominees for Video of the Year will be announced at the beginning of the show, and fans can vote at CMT.com, as well as via mobile phone, throughout the live broadcast to determine the night's big winner.

QUICK BITES

Hank Williams, Jr. and Lynyrd Skynyrd kick off their 20-date "Rowdy Frynds” tour tonight in Huntsville, Alabama. The tour rolls through June 16th, ending in St. Charles, Missouri.

Marty Stuart and Jerry Lee Lewis will be among the performers at "A 50 Year Grammy Legacy" celebration on April 26th in Jackson, Mississippi. The event is part of the State of Mississippi's ongoing "Birthplace of America's Music" campaign. Grammy Award winners and nominees from the state will be honored, including Elvis Presley, B.B. King, Muddy Waters, Faith Hill, John Lee Hooker, Tammy Wynette, Charlie Pride and Conway Twitty. Proceeds will benefit the Mississippi Blues Foundation's "Blues Trail project."

Jack Ingram is scheduled to make an appearance on Saturday’s "CBS Saturday Early Show."

Big Country Notes for APR 10

THE RECORDING ACADEMY HONORS ARTISTS IN NASHVILLE

Both legends and new artists were honored last night by the Nashville Chapter of the Recording Academy. Loretta Lynn and Rascal Flatts were two of the Honors 2007 recipients. Tanya Tucker and Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds were also on hand to perform music made famous by these entertainers. Joe Don Rooney of Rascal Flatts says, quote, “When they asked us who we wanted to come and sing and honor our music, Kenny was the first person we thought of.” He went on to say that after Edmonds expressed an admiration for their music, quote, “We were just blown away that he dug our sound and loved Gary’s voice.” Gary LeVox says the group has been writing songs with Edmonds for their new album, due out this fall. Marty Stuart also participated in the presentations, along with Flatts producer Dan Huff and Curb Records president Mike Curb. Also honored were The Fisk Jubilee Singers and gospel group Jars Of Clay. The Honors 2007 presentation was hosted by actress Andie MacDowell, a self-proclaimed country fan. Proceeds from last night’s event benefit The Recording Academy's professional education programs and its philanthropic efforts in the Nashville area.

KENNY CHESNEY ADDS “CONTROL FREAK” TO HIS UPCOMING TOUR

It’s not a new country band but something called the Control Freak is going to push Kenny Chesney’s “Flip Flop Summer” tour to places it’s never been. This masterpiece of gear will be able to individually control each of the video screens that will supply the audience with close-ups and other visuals throughout Kenny’s concert. Chesney says, quote, “I wanted to give fans something they’ve never seen before, something more intense.” He went on to describe the many things that can be done with the new set-up, from pre-programming footage for the screens to showing what’s going happening onstage to special effects and lighting. All together there will be seven screens around the venues where Chesney is playing. Kenny says, quote, “We can do things we’d never considered before, from something as simple as running the schematic of a guitar solo to having live stuff inside computer generated graphics.” These special effects have been used on tours by such artists as pop star Beyonce and rockers Bon Jovi, but this will be the first time it has been used in a country show. The “Flip Flop Summer” tour kicks off Thursday in Omaha, Nebraska.

LITTLE BIG TOWN's PHILIP SWEET AND NEW BRIDE SPIN TALE OF ROMANCE

Their love story could be made into a beautiful country song, as Philip Sweet of Little Big Town and new bride Rebecca Arthur say they were attracted to each other the first time they met. Neither one was interested in a long-term relationship so they each made sure they didn’t see too much of each other. Rebecca worked for the group’s management company so they kept running into each other anyway. Fate stepped in and love happened anyway. One night Little Big Town had to rent a piece of equipment and Arthur brought it to them in Memphis. Rebecca says, quote, “The whole trip down I was thinking of reasons why I shouldn’t like him.” After the concert, Philip volunteered to ride back to Nashville with Arthur because she was driving by herself. She says, quote, “When he got in the car he was just so sweet and I thought to myself ‘dang it, I’m done.'” Sweet says, quote, “Once we decided to spend time together we were inseparable.”

BILLY RAY CYRUS VISITS OTHER SHOWS WHILE PREPARING FOR PASO DOBLE

Billy Ray Cyrus and his dance partner Karina Smirnoff took time off from their rehearsals for ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” for a few moments. They were visitors on the set of “Extra” where they spoke with last year’s winner and Karina’s partner, Mario Lopez. Cyrus says, quote, “Mario and I had a great time swapping stories about our experiences dancing with Karina.” They also visited the “The Ellen Show.” Smirnoff didn’t give Billy Ray too much time off because they were busy preparing to dance the Paso Doble last night to one of the singer’s favorite tunes, “Black Betty.” Karina says, quote, “We practiced very hard and I’m very proud of Billy Ray.” She adds, quote, “I’ve come to learn that he is a tremendous human being … great father, wonderful husband, lots of fun.” Billy Ray says that standing and waiting on the results on Tuesday night is very nerve-wracking for him. He’ll have a little extra support tonight – Big & Rich will be performing their hit “Save A Horse (Ride a Cowboy)” and their new single “Lost in this Moment” when “Dancing with the Stars” airs on ABC.

BRENDA LEE RELEASES GOSPEL DUETS ALBUM TODAY

Brenda Lee has celebrated many firsts in her multi-faceted career, and today she celebrates another with the release of “Gospel Duets with Treasured Friends.” Among her “friends” are Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn of Brooks & Dunn, George Jones, Dolly Parton, Vince Gill and Martina McBride. Another "first within a first" is the fact the Brenda is singing two different songs with Kix and Ronnie. She says when she first called about them singing with her, their manager said he was sure they would want to do it. Brenda says, quote, “Then I said there was a twist to my request – I wanted Ronnie to do a song by himself with me and Kix to do a different one.” Both Kix and Ronnie agreed to her proposal, with Kix adding harmonies to “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” and Ronnie dueting on “Where Would I Go But To The Lord.” The only down side to their songs is that Lee was unable to be in the studio when they recorded them. She says, quote, “Kix and Ronnie recorded their songs while they were in town between concert dates. They each recorded their parts in their own studio.” She adds, quote, “They were the only two I was not physically with in the studio when they recorded.”

Track list for Brenda Lee’s “Gospel Duets With Treasured Friends”:
This Old House -- with Dolly Parton
Have A Little Talk With Jesus -- with George Jones
In The Garden -- with Allison Krauss
I Saw The Light -- with Vince Gill
Jesus Loves Me -- with Emmylou Harris
Precious Memories -- with Pam Tillis
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot --with Kix Brooks
This Little Light Of Mine -- with Charlie Daniels
Uncloudy Day -- with Martina McBride
Where Could I Go But To the Lord -- with Ronnie Dunn
Oh! Happy Day -- with Huey Lewis

CHARLIE DANIELS CELEBRATES RELEASE OF HIS BOOK “GROWING UP COUNTRY”

Charlie Daniels has been making the rounds of talk shows this month. The singer has been touting the release of his book “Growing Up Country: What Makes Country Life Country.” The book features a range of essays from folks as diverse as Sara Evans, Dolly Parton, Gary Rossington of Lynyrd Skynyrd, race car driver Darrell Waltrip and former President Jimmy Carter. Charlie says, quote, “Something that opened my eyes was you hear people sings songs they’ve written but you hardly ever see any prose they write.” He adds, quote, “Kix [Brooks] comes to mind because I thought he presented a well-written piece about going fishing with his granddad.” Another interesting thing to Charlie was to see how the diverse cross-section of people felt about growing up in the country. Other who contributed essays include rodeo champion Ty Murray, Toby Keith, songwriter Dickey Lee, Clint Black, Aaron Tippin, Carrie Underwood and Barbara Mandrell. The book is published by DoubleDay-Flying Dolphin Press.

QUICK BITES

Jimmy Wayne just bought his first home just outside of Nashville. After spending his formative years in and out of foster homes, the North Carolina-native finds this moment extra special. Jimmy says, quote, “I thanked God for allowing me to finally having a home of my own. I remember when I was a homeless kid and all these memories came to me. Now I can have people over, maybe hang up a few awards from the past and be proud that I’ve got a home to do that in.”

Austin-based singer-songwriter Sunny Sweeney says her fans in Europe are die-hard country music lovers. Sunny, who just released her Big Machine debut “Heartbreaker’s Hall Of Fame,” will embark on a European tour this summer. Sunny says, quote, “The knowledge that Europeans have about country, real old school country, amazes me. One guy knew more about Merle Haggard than I did and I thought I knew everything about Merle.”

Dusty Drake will perform the national anthem during the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series O’Reilly Auto Parts 250 race on April 28th in Kansas City. Dusty’s performance will air live on Speed-TV.

Big Country Notes for APR 9

KEITH URBAN READY TO HIT THE CONCERT STAGE IN GERMANY

Keith Urban says he’s fit and ready to begin his international tour. Urban’s “Love, Pain and the whole crazy World” tour begins April 19th in Munich, Germany. Urban says, quote, “Europe has been really good to us and Germany in particular. This will be our third or fourth trip there.” He does three dates in that country before heading for London for a two-night stand, April 24th and 25th. After a couple more dates in the United Kingdom, Keith returns to his homeland, Australia, for a six-city tour. Next on his agenda is the U.S., with an opening date June 8th in Phoenix, AZ. Keith says he feels great. He says he’s also finding that he can “Connect with an audience and then have a separate life offstage.”

CARRIE UNDERWOOD SAYS SHE’S SHY AROUND GUYS

Carrie Underwood says she’s not looking for a marriage proposal but, quote, “I'd like to have someone other than my mom to call when I have good news." The singer revealed to “Cosmopolitan” magazine that she has a hard time finding a date. She told them she feels like, quote, “I’m horrible around guys.” Now that Underwood is a superstar, she also worries about the celebrity involvement. She says, quote, “Guys who would never look at me twice before might ask me out now, so I guess I have better opportunities. But when I do meet a guy, there’s this ‘Does he just want his picture in a magazine?’ factor.” Carrie admits to “Cosmo” that she hasn’t had a serious boyfriend since she broke up with her college boyfriend Drake Clark in 2005. Despite being linked to Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo, she says there was nothing to those rumors. You can read more about Carrie in the current issue of “Cosmo” on newsstands now.

WYNONNA JUDD’S ESTRANGED HUSBAND BACK IN NASHVILLE TO FACE CHARGES

Dan R. Roach, the estranged husband of Wynonna Judd, is back in Nashville after being arrested in Abilene, TX, in March. Roach will face three counts of aggravated sexual battery against a child younger than 13. According to Fox News, he was returned to Nashville by Abilene police and is being held in Metro Jail with bail set at 150-thousand dollars. Judd filed for divorce from Roach after he was charged. She cited irreconcilable differences for the reason for wanting a divorce. Judd and Roach were married in November of 2003. She has two children from a previous marriage.

MARTINA McBRIDE SAYS SHE PRODUCED ALBUM TO RECORD ON HER OWN SCHEDULE

Martina McBride wanted to work on her new album “Waking Up Laughing” on her own time, which is one of the reasons she decided to produce it herself. She says she didn’t want to be dependent on someone else’s schedule while she was recording the project. A typical day for her revolved around her children’s schedule and family time. She says, quote, “I’d go in around 10:30, 11:00 a.m. after I would answer my e-mail and do stuff at home and feed Ava breakfast. Usually I’d wait until she went down for her nap and then go in.” Her husband, John, was her engineer and she says that was a lot of fun. Once the kids were home from school, around 4 p.m., Martina says they would do their homework and, quote, “then we would all hang out for about an hour and a half…and then we’d all go home and I’d make supper and get the kids to bed…and sometimes we’d go back [to the studio] and work.”

STARS HONORED TONIGHT AT RECORDING ACADEMY CELEBRATION

Loretta Lynn and Rascal Flatts are among those being honored tonight by The Nashville Chapter of the Recording Academy. Lynn is a three-time Grammy winner and Rascal Flatts are multiple-award winners. Others to be honored are The Fisk Jubilee Singers and gospel-rock group Jars Of Clay. The Honors 2007 presentation will be hosted by actress Andie MacDowell with performances by Tanya Tucker, pop singer Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, the Fisk Jubilee Singers and gospel singer Sara Groves. Marty Stuart will make a special presentation.

JOSH TURNER SAYS HE AND BAND NEVER PASS A CRACKER BARREL SIGN

Josh Turner says he and his band never get tired of seeing a Cracker Barrel sign on the interstate. He says, quote, “I am pretty sure my band and I have all the Cracker Barrel exits memorized between here and South Carolina.” Turner adds, quote, “When you’re on the road, it’s nice to know that you can pull into any Cracker Barrel and feel like you’re in your mama’s kitchen, waiting on your favorite meal.” It’s a good thing Josh feels that way, because he’s recording a live album for Cracker Barrel’s record label April 19th at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium. Josh says, quote, “I am looking forward to my first live album that will be recorded at the historic Ryman Auditorium. This is definitely going to be one of the most memorable nights of my career. It’s gonna be fun.”

CONTRADICTING TESTIMONY REGARDING BILLY JOE SHAVER COMES TO LIGHT

There is new testimony that contradicts that of singer/songwriter Billy Joe Shaver in his recent arrest case in Texas. Shaver’s attorney says he was acting in self-defense when he shot a man outside the Lorena’s Papa Joe’s Bar. But witnesses say Shaver was the one who was aggressive in the incident. Shaver and the victim, Billy Bryant Coker, had apparently met in the bar and talked for an hour or so before the shooting. During the conversation the men determined that a cousin of Coker’s had once been married to the singer’s wife, Wanda. Although no one knows what was said between the two men, they exited the building about the same time then what was believed to be a gunshot was heard. The “Waco Tribune-Herald” says a woman who went outside to see what had happened says she heard Shaver to Coker, quote, “Tell me you’re sorry…nobody tells me to shut up.” A second witness says he saw the shooting, and claims Coker came outside first with Shaver following him with his pistol in his hand. Coker’s story is the same as the two witnesses. Coker was shot in the cheek and is in stable condition. Shaver has a concealed handgun permit but even so is prohibited from bringing a gun into a bar.
Shaver posted bond and was released the same day (April 3rd). That night he celebrated the release of his new “Greatest Hits” album at a party in Austin. He told the audience there, quote, “It’s great to be anywhere,” according to the “Waco Tribune-Herald.” He also asked fans, quote, “Don’t forget to pray for me, and tell your kids to pray for me, too.” Shaver is known for such classics as Waylon Jennings’ “Honky Tonk Heroes” and John Anderson’s “I’m Just An Old Chunk of Coal (But I’ll be a Diamond Some Day).”

QUICK BITES

LeAnn Rimes is previewing her new single “Nothing Better to Do” today for her fans on her website, http://www.leannrimesworld.com/. Fan club members can go directly to their pages to listen.

Jerry Lee Lewis, southern rockers the Allman Brothers Band and rocker George Thorogood are among the headliners at next the "Beale Street Music Festival" in Memphis, May 4th through 6th.

A new episode of “Hee Haw” will be available on DVD May 1st. It’s from 1983 and features George Strait performing "Amarillo By Morning" and "A Fire I Can't Put Out." The Statler Brothers sing "Guilty" and "Oh Baby Mine (I Get So Lonely." The late Buck Owens & the Buckaroos do "There Must Be Something About Me That She Loves."

Reba McEntire is wrapping up the final stages of her much talked about duets album. At last count, eleven country and pop artists are singing with her on the new disc. Confirmed partners include Kenny Chesney, Ronnie Dunn, Justin Timberlake, Kelly Clarkson, Vince Gill, Faith Hill, Carole King, Don Henley, Trisha Yearwood, LeeAnn Rimes and Rascal Flatts. The first single will be released next month and the album is scheduled to be out this fall.

Big & Rich and Lee Greenwood will perform at the Vietnam Veterans of America's National Convention July 18th-22nd in Springfield, Illinois.

Wynonna Judd will perform with the Grand Rapids (Michigan) Symphony August 2nd-3rd for its summer Picnic Pops Series. The outdoor concerts are held at Cannonsburg Ski Area.



"BLADES OF GLORY" LEADS BOX OFFICE AGAIN; "GRINDHOUSE" OPENS AT #4

The bloody Quentin Tarantino – Robert Rodriguez double-feature "Grindhouse" proved no match for Will Ferrell's "Blades of Glory" at the box office. The skating comedy earned an estimated 23-million-dollars over the three-day weekend to stay at the top of the movie charts. The three-D animated family romp "Meet the Robinsons" placed second with 17-million-dollars. Ice Cube's family comedy "Are We Done Yet?" made 15-million-dollars in its debut weekend to place third. The three-hour "Grindhouse" had to settle with fourth place with just over eleven-point-six-million-dollars. The Hilary Swank-headlined supernatural thriller "The Reaping" rounded out the top five with a take of just over ten-million-dollars.
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. "Blades of Glory," $23 million.
2. "Meet the Robinsons," $17 million.
3. "Are We Done Yet?", $15 million.
4. "Grindhouse," $11.6 million.
5. "The Reaping," $10.1 million.
6. "300," $8.8 million.
7. "Wild Hogs," $6.8 million.
8. "Shooter," $5.8 million.
9. "TMNT," $4.9 million.
10. "Firehouse Dog," $4 million.