Big Country Notes for JUNE 29

BRAD PAISLEY VIDEO “ONLINE” TOPS ITUNES SALES CHART

Brad Paisley’s video “Online” has become the first country video to top the iTunes Sales Chart. Paisley got the news yesterday while he was on tour with his “Bonfires & Amplifiers” tour. The video reunites Brad with friends and guest stars William Shatner and Jason Alexander. The two were in his 2003 video for “Celebrity.” Alexander stars in and directs “Online.” The video is a mixture of concert footage and the story of a 40-something man who is trying to win the girl of his dreams (Maureen McCormick of the “Brady Bunch”) by inventing a whole new persona for his on-line escapades. Paisley’s tourmates Kellie Pickler and Taylor Swift are also in the video.

JOE NICHOLS SAYS HE’D LOVE TO BE A MEMBER OF GRAND OLE OPRY

Joe Nichols is playing the Grand Ole Opry tonight. It’s one of many times he has played the world-famous radio show and each night is very special for him. One of Joe’s career goals is to become a member of the Opry. He says, quote, “That is in the back of my mind every single time I play there. If things work out then one day I might get a chance to be a member here and I’ll be able to tell my grandkids that this was a very special time.” Nichols hasn’t really thought about who he would like to induct him into the Opry circle. He says, quote, “It’s hard to single out just one person … I would be amazingly honored if Charley Pride would do it. Vince Gill would be excellent.” He goes on to say, quote, “Little Jimmy Dickens is a great friend and a great guy. Bill Anderson wrote one of my biggest songs and he introduced me the first time I played there. It would just be a tremendous honor.”

PHILLIP SWEET OF LITTLE BIG TOWN SAYS HE AND WIFE ARE SO EXCITED ABOUT BABY

Phillip Sweet of Little Big Town says he and his wife Rebecca don’t know what to do with themselves since they found out they are going to be parents. Sweet says, quote, “We are freakin’ crazy excited. We think it’s something in the water on that Little Big Town bus!” He goes on to say, quote, “We’re gonna add to the big bohemian Little Big Town family and have another baby so Kimberly’s (Kimberly Roads of the group) little baby can have a play friend.” Sweet and Rebecca say they know the ability to have a baby is just a miracle so, quote, “We are very grateful for that.” The baby is due in January. In the meantime the group continues their tour with Martina McBride. Tonight they’re in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania and tomorrow they are in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

TAYLOR SWIFT TO PERFORM WITH NASHVILLE SYMPHONY ON JULY 4TH

When Taylor Swift performs with the Nashville Symphony on Wednesday it will be the first time the 17-year old has ever played with orchestral accompaniment. Taylor will join the symphony as a special guest at the “Music City July 4th: Let Freedom Sing!” concert at Nashville’s Riverfront Park. Taylor will perform her current hit single “Teardrops on My Guitar” and other selections from her debut album. Also on the bill are Rodney Atkins and Van Zant. The annual event attracts more than 100-thousand to the riverfront for music and fireworks.
Immediately after the show Taylor will board her bus and hit the road for more summer concert dates. She will be a guest on both the Tim McGraw/Faith Hill “Soul2Soul 2007 Tour” and Brad Paisley’s “Bonfires & Amplifiers” tour.

JOSH TURNER SAYS DOING LIVE ALBUM AT RYMAN WAS INCREDIBLE FEELING

Josh Turner made his debut on the Grand Ole Opry in 2001 at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. Six years later he returned to that stage to record a live album for Cracker Barrel Old Country Store. Turner says the experience was totally different from the night he played the Opry. He says, quote, “Just knowing the tradition, the heritage and the history that have taken place on that stage, it’s inspiring. So for me to go out there and record a live album from the Ryman stage… It was an incredible feeling.” Turner’s live album includes his hit “Long Black Train” as well as some of his favorite songs – Merle Haggard’s “Silver Wings,” Don Williams’ “Lord Have Mercy on a Country Boy” and Hank Williams’ “I’ll Never Get Out of this World Alive.” It was the first time Turner had performed Hank’s song in concert. “Josh Turner: Live at the Ryman” will be available in Cracker Barrel stores Tuesday.
As the presenting sponsor of Turner’s concert tour, Cracker Barrel is providing fans with the chance to meet Josh Turner. Fans can log onto www.crackerbarrel.com to register to win an all-expense paid trip for two to meet Josh and be his special guest at an upcoming show.

MARTINA’S RECORDING WITH DEAN MARTIN ON NEW TRIBUTE ALBUM

Martina McBride and a number of other artists have come together to honor Dean Martin's broad appeal on a new album titled “Dean Martin: Forever Cool.” Martina sings “Baby, It’s Cold Outside,” the track that was previously released on a Christmas compilation. Martina says, quote, "When he sings, you believe it. He had a great personality that just came across and made you feel like you knew him. I feel humbled and honored and proud to be a part of this project." Shelby Lynne, who sings “You’re Nobody ‘til Somebody Loves You” with Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, says, quote, "Some people are just naturally cool, and he was definitely naturally cool. It's quite an honor to be a part of this." Actor Kevin Spacey covers the Roger Miller penned classic “King of the Road,” which Martin cut. The 14-tracks pair Martin’s original vocals with new arrangements and guest vocalists. It also includes an unreleased a cappella version of "Lullaby" sung by Martin. The album will be out August 14th.

CHARLIE DANIELS RECOGNIZED WITH SECRETARY OF DEFENSE MEDAL

Charlie Daniels is a huge supporter of the U.S. military and he has the Secretary of Defense Medal to prove it. Daniels was awarded the medal during a recent visit to the Pentagon for his exceptional public support of the armed forces. Charlie has performed at 20 military installations around the globe for America military personnel. The Charlie Daniels Band has just released their 20th album “Live From Iraq.” The album includes 13 songs performed live during four performances for U.S./Multinational Troops as part of the Stars for Stripes tour in Iraq.

TIME LIFE RELEASES NEW COUNTRY PRAISE AND WORSHIP SET

Teddy Gentry of Alabama and songwriter Michael Curtis have produced a new project called “Songs 4 Worship: Country” that will be released by Time Life on October 2nd. Gentry says, quote, “I’m a lifelong Christian and was raised in a Pentecostal church where at five years old I first sang and played the guitar. I was thrilled to become part of such a special recording project where my faith could play a part.” He adds, quote, “Most country artists have a gospel music background so the response from the guest artists was also very positive.” The CD is a recent studio recording with mostly first-time performances of 13 Praise and Worship songs by artists including Rascal Flatts, Charlie Daniels, Oak Ridge Boys, Emerson Drive, and Diamond Rio. There are also four new original songs on the disc.

STEVE AZAR HEADS OUT ON TOUR WITH HOOTIE & THE BLOWFISH TONIGHT

Steve Azar will be in Hampton Beach, New Hampshire tonight to kick off six dates with pop rock band Hootie & the Blowfish. The singer/songwriter has been tapped to open several shows with the band throughout June and July. It’s not the first time Azar has opened for rock acts. Earlier this year he toured with Bob Seger & the Silver Bullet Band on their “Face the Promise” tour. Saturday finds Azar in Cohassett, Massachusetts with Hootie. His other dates with the band are Sunday, Hyannis, Massachusetts; July 10th, Westbury, New York; July 11th, Glen Allen, Virginia and July 13th, Norfolk, Virginia.

QUICK BITES

With “Josh Turner: Live at the Ryman” ready to release Tuesday, the folks at Cracker Barrel are already working on their next country music project. It will be a live album with the group Alabama.

Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town and Taylor Swift have been added to the talent on “CMA Music Festival: Country’s Night to Rock” special on ABC. They will join previously announced entertainers Jason Aldean, Dierks Bentley, Big & Rich, Brooks & Dunn, Sara Evans, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley, Kellie Pickler, Rascal Flatts, LeAnn Rimes, Sugarland, Josh Turner, Carrie Underwood, and Reba McEntire in a duet with "American Idol" Kelly Clarkson for the ABC special. The show airs at 9 p.m. Eastern on July 23rd.

Last Tuesday Blake Shelton taped an episode of “Paula’s Party,” Paula Deen’s Food Network show. Shelton was the first musical guest ever on the show. He and Deen are both quick witted but Blake says, quote, “It’s really hard to embarrass me, but Paula did it!” After the taping Shelton enjoyed a late lunch at Deen’s restaurant – The Lady and Sons. The show will air on the Food Network in the fall.

John McBride, husband of Martina McBride, owns Blackbird Studio in Berry Hill, Tennessee, just to the south of Nashville. He’s ecstatic as the top three albums on this week's “Billboard” Top 200 album chart were recorded at Blackbird. Bon Jovi, The White Stripes and Brad Paisley all chose the Berry Hill studio to record their albums that were released last week. Others who have recorded there recently – Big & Rich, Kid Rock, Kenny Chesney, Trace Adkins and The Raconteurs.

Lee Greenwood will perform “God Bless the U.S.A. at the "Living the American Dream” U.S. citizenship ceremony on Wednesday. The Department of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will host the giant U.S. Citizenship Ceremony at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. Over one thousand immigrants from over 50 countries will be sworn in as American Citizens on Main Street USA. Greenwood says, quote, "I feel honored and privileged to be part of this event because these immigrants obeyed our laws and played by the rules to meet the requirements for citizenship."

Saxophonist Boots Randolph is in critical condition at a Nashville hospital. He and pianist Floyd Cramer were some of the foremost instrumentalist recording artists in Nashville throughout the 1970’s and 1980s.

Joe Nichols, Josh Turner, Montgomery Gentry, John Conlee, Bill Anderson and other great performers will be at the Grand Ole Opry this weekend.

Big Country Notes for JUNE 27

KEITH URBAN WILL PERFORM AT "LIVE EARTH" IN NEW YORK CITY

Keith Urban is taking time from his "Love, Pain & the whole crazy World Tour" to help the environment. Urban will perform at the "Live Earth New York" concert July 7th at Giant Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. Urban says, quote, "Global warming is something that will ultimately affect all of us on this planet. If there is one thing that music can do, it is to bring people together despite their politics or differences." In addition to the New York more than 150 artists will take part in the 24-hour, seven-continent concert series in London, Sydney, Tokyo, Shanghai, Rio de Janeiro, Johannesburg and Hamburg that is expected to reach over two billion people. The purpose of "Live Earth" is to encourage people to take action against the climate crisis. Live Earth Founder and Producer Kevin Wall says acts like Urban will help the organization reach millions of people across the globe with the Live Earth message. Others on the New York show include hip-hop/rapper Kanye West, pop singer Kelly Clarkson, Bon Jovi, R&B singer Alicia Keys and alternative rockers the Dave Matthews Band.

KENNY CHESNEY WILL RELEASE NEW ALBUM ON SEPTEMBER 11TH

Kenny Chesney will release his first new studio album in two years on September 11th. "Just Who I Am: Poets & Pirates" includes his new hit single "Never Wanted Nothing More." The song landed in the top 20 on the country charts after just a week of airplay. Kenny says, quote, "I don't think any of us expected this kind of response to the song. During our meet and greets people are asking me when they can get the new song… when the new record's coming." Chesney adds, quote, "You know, you make enough records and you start worrying about when people are gonna get tired of 'em. Then you get in a position like this… and you realize that songs still really do connect with people." Kenny says the new album will capture real life moments in songs written by songwriters like Grand Ole Opry star Bill Anderson, Brett James, singer/songwriter David Lee Murphy, Don Schlitz and bluegrass great Ronnie Bowman, who co-wrote "Never Wanted Nothing More" with Chris Stapleton. Also a contributor is Rascal Flatts’ band member Joe Don Rooney. The singer says, quote, "I've been working on this record in one way or another almost since 'The Road & the Radio' came out. I'm incredibly ready to share this music with people."

MONTGOMERY GENTRY’S "LUCKY MAN" HITS THE TOP OF THE COUNTRY CHARTS

Eddie Montgomery and Troy Gentry of Montgomery Gentry are lucky men. Their single "Lucky Man" has topped both the "Billboard" and "Country Aircheck" country single charts. This news comes less than a week after the duo racked up the biggest gain for a studio album on the Nielsen SoundScan Country and Top 200 Charts with a 73 percent increase in sales. Eddie says, quote, "Man, this is just too much. We just have an awesome team of people around us, and we definitely have to thank the Columbia promotion staff for sticking with this song and taking it all the way to the top." Troy adds, quote, "Yeah, and we also have to thank the fans for requesting this song and especially country radio for being so good to us over the years." In reflecting the song’s message of appreciating what you have in life, Eddie says, quote, "I’ve been very blessed, and I might be singing this song for me more than anybody. I love what it says, I love the way it flows. To me, it doesn’t get any more country than this." This is Montgomery Gentry’s tenth top five single and their third to go number one. "Lucky Man" is the second hit single from the duo’s "Some People Change" project.

PHILLIP SWEET AND WIFE REBECCA READY TO WELCOME NEW FAMILY MEMBER

Little Big Town is going to need another bus. Philip Sweet and his wife Rebecca are having a baby. Kimberly Roads and her husband Stephen Schlapman are expecting their first child later this year. The group will add another bus for Kimberly and family in July before the baby is born. No word on when Phillip and Rebecca will retire to their own home on wheels.

TRISHA YEARWOOD TOOK TIME OFF BEFORE EMBARKING ON NEXT PHASE OF CAREER

When Trisha Yearwood found herself a singer without a record company she decided not to panic. In fact, she decided to take a little time off to evaluate where she was in her career and personal life. She says, quote, "For the first time in my career I was a free agent … I had a clean slate. So I sat back and started to reflect on the things that really matter." Trisha says it wasn’t about reinventing herself – it was about being around people you really want to be around and having fun and enjoying every aspect of her life. She says, quote, "I had that going in my personal life and now I have a great opportunity in my professional life. I couldn’t be happier." Trisha is in the studio working on her first studio album for her new label, Big Machine Records. She will also have a duet with Reba McEntire for Reba’s upcoming "Reba Duets" project, set for release September 18th. Trisha joins Reba on the song "She Can’t Save Him."

STATE OF TEXAS HONORS MIRANDA LAMBERT

Miranda Lambert is now famous outside of her small town of Lindale, Texas! The singer was honored by the Texas House of Representatives for the success she’s had in her music career. Texas House Representative Tommy Merritt stopped by on June 20th for a visit at Miranda’s Fan Club Headquarters in Lindale to present her with the framed resolution, which specifically mentioned her recent Top New Female Vocalist honor from the Academy of Country Music. Miranda performed her hit single "Famous in a Small Town" during the awards show in May. The song is a testimony to being raised in a small town. Lambert says, quote, "This song definitely depicts me and my life -- famous in a small town is what I am I guess." She adds, quote, "I would like to think I’m famous outside of my small town too." Merritt says, quote, "Miranda is a young woman with immense talent who is determined to make meaningful music on her own terms." He adds, quote, "she has proven herself yet another of the inspired musicians to hail from the Lone Star State." Miranda says, quote, "This is an honor. Growing up in East Texas was really good for me. This is the only state where I own a house, and I am proud to be from Texas."

KENNY CHESNEY DRAWS 51-THOUSAND FANS TO PHILADELPHIA STADIUM SHOW

More than 51-thousand fans turned out for Kenny Chesney’s second stadium show Saturday night, this one at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. Kenny found out some of his fans were die-hard party animals when tents and trucks showed up in the venues parking lot at 5 a.m. Chesney says you never know what fans are going to bring with them to set up their little area on the tarmac. He says, quote, "I thought me and my buddies were crazy … but some of my fans come up with stuff we've never thought of. You see pirate flags, barbeque pits, neon, palm trees, margarita machines, not to mention a lot of bikinis." The singer adds, quote, "It puts pressure on me to deliver onstage, knowing there's a party like that going on in the parking lot!" Regular tour mates Sugarland and Pat Green were joined by Brooks & Dunn and Sara Evans to play for the capacity crowd. Uncle Kracker even stopped by to sing a couple numbers with Chesney. The Mayor's office declared Saturday Kenny Chesney Day and gave him the key to the city. Chesney’s next stadium show is at Qwest Field in Seattle on July 7th. The singer set attendance records when he performed there last year for both the stadium and the city. In the meantime you can catch him Thursday in Salt Lake City, Utah and Saturday in Denver, Colorado.

JASON ALDEAN FINDS FOUR TO BE HIS LUCKY NUMBER

Jason Aldean is beginning to think four is his lucky number. Just four weeks after the singer came in at number one on "Billboard’s" country album chart with "Relentless," his single "Johnny Cash" became his fourth consecutive Top 10 single. The song’s video is now his fourth consecutive number one video on CMT. Aldean says, quote, "If I were in Vegas right now, I wouldn't have to think too hard about what number to bet on." He adds, quote, "In all seriousness though, I am just really thankful to have had some success over the last few years and really appreciative of all my supporters at radio and all my fans who have helped me do it." Aldean continues to promote "Johnny Cash" with a performance tomorrow night on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno." In July he rejoins Rascal Flatts when they kick off their "Still Feels Good" tour in Uncasville, California on July 13th. He will continue to tour with them through the end of the year.

JO DEE MESSINA WEDDING AND NEW ALBUM BOTH SET FOR THIS FALL

Jo Dee Messina and Chris Deffenbaugh have announced a fall wedding – but the singer will be planning it in the midst of completing a new album also due in the fall. In fact, one wonders how Messina has had time to get engaged. She has two songs on the "Evan Almighty" soundtrack and she just performed in Washington, D.C. for the President’s Dinner, a major event in political circles. Jo Dee also has a new single coming out July 9th – "Biker Chick," in which she sings, quote, "… I like a man with a tan … a tattoo or two or even more if they’re cool on the big ole arm of a long haired dude …" No word if Chris, who owns and operates Deffenblaster Enterprises, which builds custom road cases and audio equipment, owns a motorcycle. Jo Dee and Chris issued a joint statement saying, quote, "This is such a happy time for us. We are so appreciative for each other and for our families, friends and fans that have sent us cards and emails."

JACK INGRAM WORKING ON FILM DURING HIS DAYS OFF

Jack Ingram has been trading in one set of spotlights for another lately. The singer took time during his two days off the concert trail to step in front of the cameras in Austin, Texas. Jack and actor Gary Busey were filming a teaser for the movie "The Last Rites of Ransom Pride." Ingram will portray the outlaw Ransom Pride while Busey has signed on as the bounty hunter disguised as a priest who is after him. Jack says, quote, "I’m out here on the set that was used for the Billy Bob Thornton movie "The Alamo", and I’m playing the role of an outlaw." He adds, quote, "You know, I kind of look like a country singer, only with guns!" Jack says they are just in the early stages of filming the movie but, quote, "… it has been a great experience so far." Busey told "FilmStew.com," quote, "This film is so unique and so powerfully authentic -- It's the conquest of good versus evil." The movie, about a band of Texas outlaws, follows a western theme set in the early 1900s.
The script was written by fellow Texan and singer/songwriter Ray Wylie Hubbard, who is still best known for writing the rousing anthem "Up Against the Wall Red-Neck Mothers." Hubbard is already choosing folks to help out with the soundtrack, among them Ingram and Billy Joe Shaver.

CRYSTAL GAYLE AND DWIGHT YOAKAM TO BE INDUCTED INTO KENTUCKY MUSIC HALL OF FAME

Crystal Gayle and Dwight Yoakam have been tapped to be inducted into the Kentucky Music Hal of Fame in 2008. Crystal was born in Paintsville, Kentucky. The sister of Loretta Lynn, the singer chose a country pop style that brought hits with "Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue" and "Talking in your Sleep." Yoakam, from Pikeville, Kentucky, made his mark in country music from California with a distinctive Bakersfield sound. His hits include "Ain’t That Lonely Yet" and "Streets of Bakersfield" with the late Buck Owens. Producer Norro Wilson from Scottsville, Kentucky will also be inducted. He worked with country stars including Tammy Wynette, Charlie Rich, Reba McEntire, Shania Twain and Kenny Chesney. Others who will be honored in February 2008 are actress Florence Henderson and jazz great Les McCann. Previous inductees include bluegrass great Bill Monroe, Loretta Lynn, the Everly Brothers, Ricky Skaggs, and Naomi and Wynonna Judd. The Hall of Fame is located in Renfro Valley, Kentucky.

WILLIE NELSON WILL HELP OREGON BIODIESEL PLANT CELEBRATE SECOND ANNIVERSARY

Willie Nelson has big plans for Oregon's first commercial biodiesel plant when it celebrates its two-year anniversary in July. Nelson will headline a press conference and ground breaking of the expansion of the Sequential Pacific Biodiesel plant in Salem on July 6th. Willie says, quote, "Oregon has always been progressive in its thinking, and has been out front in everyway about most major issues. This is just another example of Oregon setting a good example for the rest of the country." The singer is also scheduled for concert dates in the area that week, including that night in Eugene, Oregon and the next night in Bend, Oregon. Nelson will arrive in his biodiesel powered tour bus for the July 6th event.

LANCE MILLER WILL JOIN "SOUL2SOUL TOUR 2007"

When Tim McGraw called, Lance Miller said yes! McGraw asked Miller to be one of the acts on the outdoor stage of his and Faith Hill’s "Soul2Soul Tour 2007." McGraw says, quote, "It’s a lot of fun having Lance on tour with us this summer. He’s been doing some of the pre-show parties with Faith and me and of course he’s on the MyGIG stage every night." McGraw adds, quote, "Lance is a great singer and The Warren Brothers made a great record on him. We’re proud to have him out here." Miller responds, quote, "To go out on tour with Tim McGraw and Faith Hill as an up-and-coming artist is something I don’t take lightly. I know how lucky I am to have an honor like this bestowed on me." Miller will be on the tour through the final two shows in Anaheim, California on August 10th and 11th. Miller's debut album "Back in the New School" will be released later this year.

CHARLIE DANIELS BAND RELEASES LIVE ALBUM TODAY

Charlie Daniels has pulled off a first. The Charlie Daniels Band is the first band in country music history to release an album recorded live in Iraq. The disc, "Live from Iraq," includes 13 songs recorded from four performances in 2006. The shows were for the US/Multinational Troops as part of the Stars for Stripes Tour. A bonus DVD contains never-before-seen documentary footage from the years 2005 and 2006. Daniels says, quote, "It is with great love, admiration, respect and gratitude that I dedicate this project to the men and women who wear the military uniform of The United States of America, past, present and future."

Tracks on "Live from Iraq" are:

In America
The South's Gonna Do It (Again)
The Legend of Wooley Swamp
Saddle Tramp
Simple Man
Iraq Blues
Floreeda Road
Long Haired Country Boy
Uneasy Rider
How Great Thou Art
Drinkin' My Baby Goodbye
Rocky Top
The Devil Went Down To Georgia

STUDENTS LOOK TO BON JOVI HIT AS STATE SONG

The students at New Jersey's Pinelands Regional Junior High School are lobbying for a recent Bon Jovi hit to be the state's official anthem. With the help of their civics teachers, the students have been on a letter-writing campaign to have Bon Jovi's "Who Says You Can't Go Home" represent New Jersey in song. One of the petitions went to Assemblyman Brian Rumpf, who has visited the school and discussed the process for the students to turn their idea into legislation and finally into law. The students were told the more signatures they get, the better their chances. Currently there is no official New Jersey song. Bon Jovi's lead singer, Jon Bon Jovi, claims Sayreville as his hometown. As for New Jersey's "Boss," Bruce Springsteen, his song, "Born To Run," failed to garner support in 1980. Some felt it was a story about fleeing the state. (Metro Source)

COUNTRY ARTISTS HEAD OVERSEAS TO PERFORM FOR TROOPS

Chris Cagle and Josh Gracin will perform for U.S. military abroad on two separate tours. Cagle is currently on tour of U.S. armed forces military bases in Korea. Gracin will tour the Persian Gulf this summer in a tour sponsored by MWR and Stars For Stripes. Cagle’s tour will include stops in Seoul on Friday, then on to Daegu, Dongducheon and Ppyeongtaek. Chris says, quote, "It’s my understanding that their station in Korea is the revolving door to Iraq. Their sacrifice is the most unselfish act of human kind and I’m really looking forward to meeting with them to thank them personally." The singer will host a meet and greet after each and every show to visit with and shake the hands of each and every service member. Gracin, a former Marine, will perform and spend time with the troops. He says, quote, "It means a lot to me to do this. As a former Marine it’s important for me to give back to our men and women in uniform." He adds, quote, "I hope these shows can help them to escape for just a moment and bring a little piece of home to our folks serving overseas."

KRIS KRISTOFFERSON SCHEDULED FOR TWO PERFORMANCES AT HALL OF FAME

Kris Kristofferson will help a couple people make it through two nights in August. The singer/songwriter is the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum’s 2007 artist in resident. He will perform at Ford Theatre at the museum on August 14th and 15th. No doubt he will perform hits including Sammi Smith’s "Help Me Make It Through The Night" and Johnny Cash’s "Sunday Morning Coming Down." He'll also perform some of his newly recorded songs.

QUICK BITES

Jason Aldean, Dierks Bentley, Big & Rich, Sara Evans, LeAnn Rimes and Josh Turner have been added as performers to ABC’s "CMA Music Festival" Country’s Night to Rock," which airs July 23rd at 9 p.m. Eastern. Performers already announced include Brooks & Dunn, Martina McBride, Brad Paisley, Kellie Pickler, Sugarland, Rascal Flatts, Carrie Underwood, and Reba McEntire in a duet with Kelly Clarkson.

Clint Black added the icing to the cake at B-93’s 15th Annual Birthday Bash in Grand Rapids, Michigan Sunday night. Black was the surprise guest for day two of the birthday celebration. Black took to the stage in his trademark black hat and played a five-song set, including his brand new single, "The Strong One."

Taylor Swift says her voice may be unmistakable but fans tend to notice her long, blonde curls. The 17-year-old singer-songwriter admits she used to try to straighten those curls out but, quote, "One day, I just woke up and thought to myself, ‘I'm not going to fight this anymore’. And I've worn my hair curly ever since." She adds, quote, "I might go back to straight hair someday, but right now I'm cool with my big hair."

Jason Michael Carroll sang an impromptu version of "Happy Birthday" while on a recent flight. It was a special moment for the 102-year-old birthday girl named Eula. The performance drew a rousing round of applause from the passengers and a very sweet thank you from Eula. Carroll continues his concert performances and is anticipating his opening dates with the Alan Jackson/Brooks & Dunn tour in September and October.

CMA Music Festival attendees helped raise 15-tousand dollars for Musicians on Call, The non-profit organization brings live and recorded music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities.

Big Country Notes for JUNE 25

BRAD PAISLEY PASSIONATE ABOUT NEW ALBUM

Brad Paisley says the songs on his new album “5th Gear” are all reflections of him. Paisley says he’s very passionate about the project and whether he’s singing “All I Wanted Was a Car” or “Ticks,” the songs reflect different parts of his life. Paisley says, quote, “We were filming a special out in the woods on my farm a few weeks ago and in the middle of talking about ‘Ticks’ I looked down and guess what was crawling up my arm?” He says when you listen to the album as a whole piece of work it seems as though they had a vision for what it was going to be. He says, quote, “By the time you listen from beginning to end, there are a lot of songs about cars … the past … so I was totally tickled with it by the time I finished saying what I wanted to say.”

BLAKE SHELTON RECALLS HIS FAVORITE COUNTRY SONG OF ALL TIME

Blake Shelton admits he’s a fan of 1980’s country music, so it should come as no surprise that his favorite country song comes from that era – Earl Thomas Conley’s “What I’d Say.” Blake says, quote, “I just think it’s an amazing song. I remember the first time I heard it, it just blew me away.” He adds, quote, “The older I get the more I respect writing like that and even more its performance.” Remember that Conley was dubbed “The Thinking Man’s Country Singer,” Shelton says, quote, “Even after you write those lyrics, as a performer you still have to be able to make it come to life. Earl certainly did that with that song.”

MONTGOMERY GENTRY SEE INCREASE IN ALBUM SALES WITH TOP FIVE SINGLE

Montgomery Gentry are proof there is a direct correlation between a top five single and album sales. When “Lucky Man” went into the top five on the “Billboard” country chart, the duo’s album “Some People Change” had a sales increase of 73-percent. That made the disc the greatest gaining studio music album on the Top Current Albums Chart. Troy Gentry of Montgomery Gentry says, quote, “We couldn’t do this without such a great team” and his duet partner, Eddie Montgomery, agrees. Eddie says, quote, “Yeah, it’s awesome to know we got folks covering our backs when we’re out on the road playin’ for our friends night after night.” The duo will be playing for their friends at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville Saturday night.

BILLY CURRINGTON SAYS IT WAS EASY TO GET THROUGH TOUGH TIMES WITH HIS MUSIC

Billy Currington says he’s been through some tough times. He recalls working in a pawn shop when he first moved to Nashville as the worst job he’s ever had. Then he poured concrete for six years before he got a record deal. Currington says, quote, “I moved to Nashville when I was 18 and I was here ten years before I got a deal. So when I was going through some hard times with a record or something like that, I just remembered when I was at that pawn shop or pouring that concrete. Then times didn’t seem so tough.” There is one thing Billy would like to do that harkens back to his days of working with concrete. He explains, quote, “I look at the arena and I think how I’d love to play there. I poured the concrete while it was being built. It would be cool to walk up on that stage and look around and think about all those long hours and late nights working until two in the morning.” Billy doesn’t regret those days, though. He says, quote, “I look at it as anything that happens now that’s tough I’m reminded of those tougher days. I wouldn’t trade them for the world.”

GARY ALLAN PERFORMS BY REQUEST FOR RED SOX PITCHER JON LESTER

Gary Allan is an inspiration to Boston Red Sox pitcher Jon Lester, who’s in rehab for an injury he sustained earlier in the season. The pitcher is playing with the Red Sox affiliate Pawtucket PawSox, and he asked Gary to come and sing “Right Where I Need To Be” when he took the mound against the Columbus Clippers. Jon says the song inspires him in his quest to return to the Red Sox rotation. There must be some magic in the tune as Lester pitched five scoreless innings and allowed just four hits with two walks and six strikeouts. Gary hopes to record more inspirational songs on his next project, which he has been in the studio working on. The first single from the new disc should ship to radio in the next couple months.

BON JOVI ALBUM CUT INSPIRED BY VISITS TO NASHVILLE

Jon Bon Jovi says one of the cuts on the Bon Jovi’s just released “Lost Highway” album was inspired by Nashville. “I Love This Town” was written by Jon, Richie Sambora and Billy Falcon. As the story goes, the three were on Nashville’s Lower Broadway watching a football game while indulging in wings and a cold beer. Jon says, quote, “We were thinking ‘what could be better? You’re doing what it is you love to do, you’re doing it with friends and you’re doing it in a great environment.’” Realizing that was a great basis for a song, the three left the sports bar, went back to their hotel and knocked out the song in a short period of time. Jon says, quote, “We didn’t even wait for the beer to get warm! The song was done in moments.” He adds, quote, “The great thing about it is even though we wrote it about Nashville, no matter where we go people are going to make it about their town.”
Bon Jovi will be the inaugural performers at The Rock, the new arena at Newark. New Jersey’s Prudential Center. They will perform a multiple number of nights between October 25th and November 1st. This will be the band’s only tour dates this year. The group has partnered with Ticket­master for the first-ever advance concert ticket plus digital album package presale for this event.

QUICK BITES

When Big & Rich were on NBC’s “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” they had the opportunity to met comedian Robin Williams, who was also a guest on the program that evening. The three met backstage and chatted about the Ultimate Fighting Club.

Marty Stuart will perform at B.B. King’s in New York City on Wednesday. While in New York he will drop by CBS’ “The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson” on Friday and “Fox & Friends” on Saturday. He plans a return trip to the Big Apple in July when he will perform on CBS’ “The Late Show with David Letterman” with Porter Wagoner.

The Charlie Daniels Band releases “Live From Iraq” tomorrow. The release features a bonus DVD of never-before-seen documentary footage. Charlie says, quote, “I’ll never forget my trips to Iraq, having the honor of visiting with the heroes so far away from home who stand in harms way daily.” Daniels has appearances scheduled for “Hannity & Colmes” today and the “Bill Bennett Show” tomorrow. He is also interviewing with Voice of America’s live music show, “Border Crossing.”

Sunny Sweeney and her band will kick off her first European tour July 7th at London's Luminaire club. The tour will take her throughout the UK and Europe including performances at festivals in England, Norway, Ireland, Sweden and France later this summer. Sweeney has been nominated for “New and Emerging Artist” by The Americana Music Association for its Sixth Annual Americana Music Honors and Awards. The awards show will be held November 1st at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.


HEADLINES FROM HOLLYWOOD

"EVEN ALMIGHTY" WINS WEEKEND WITH LOWER-THAN-EXPECTED EARNINGS

Evan may have reigned at the box office, but the new film didn't bring in as much money as expected. The film, "Evan Almighty," is the most expensive comedy ever made with a price tag of nearly 175-million-dollars. However, the film starring Steve Carell only brought in 31-point-one-million dollars. Studio officials hoped the film would have earnings in the mid-30's, possibly even break the 40-million mark. Coming in second place was the new John Cusak horror film, "1408," which had about 20-million in ticket sales. In third place was "Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer." The sequel also garnered about 20-million-dollars in sales. Rounding out the top five were "Oceans Thirteen" in fourth with a little more than eleven-million-dollars and "Knocked Up" grabbing the fifth spot with ten-point-six million-dollars in ticket sales. (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. "Evan Almighty," $32.1 million.
2. "1408," $20.175 million.
3. "Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer," $20.15 million.
4. "Ocean's Thirteen," $11.3 million.
5. "Knocked Up," $10.6 million.
6. "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End," $7.2 million.
7. "Surf's Up," $6.7 million. 8. "Shrek the Third," $5.8 million.
9. "Nancy Drew," $4.5 million.
10. "A Mighty Heart," $4 million.