Riders In The Sky member Woody Paul Being Honored by National Fiddler Hall of Fame

Woody Paul is known as “King of the Cowboy Fiddlers.” He is lead singer/musician for Riders in the Sky, and has been selected as one of the 2012 inductees into the National Fiddler Hall of Fame. Paul says being inducted is an honor that is truly one of a kind. The induction gala will be held on Saturday, April 14th, at the historic Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Riders In The Sky will be taking center stage as headlining performers during the celebration.

Riders In The Sky are probably best known for their recording of “Woody’s Round Up” from “Toy Story 2.” Riders in the Sky are seven-time Western Music Association Entertainers of the Year and 2-time Grammy winners. Their latest CD, "Land Beyond The Sun", offers a collection of songs recorded in the Western tradition that Riders In The Sky fans have come to expect along with classic humor which has been their trademark for more than 30 years.

The National Fiddler Hall of Fame is a non-profit organization that is committed to offering workshops, mentoring programs and educational community outreach. Its advisory board consists of notable fiddlers, celebrities, and entertainment industry executives.

Previous National Fiddler Hall of Fame inductees include: Roy Acuff, Bob Wills, Dick Barrett, Johnny Gimble, Claude "Fiddler" Williams, Johnnie Lee Wills, Buddy Spicher, Rufus Thibodeaux, and Chubby Wise.

For more information, please visit the Riders In The Sky website at
RidersInTheSky.com

or the National Fiddler Hall of Fame website at
NationalFiddlerHallOfFame.org

Martha Berner's "Fool's Fantasy" released Dec 13th

Martha Berner will release her first album since her debut "...this side of yesterday" in 2005.


"Fool's Fantasy" will be released on Tuesday, December 13th. The album was recorded at Chicago's premiere digital recording studio, Stranded On A Planet, with producer Scott Fritz.


Martha Berner & The Significant Others (including Scott Fritz, Tyson Ellert, and Will Sprawls)

Take a listen to the first single, "Cry"

Americana Music Association announces Lifetime Achievement Honorees

Lucinda Williams, Gregg Allman, Jerry Douglas, Rick Hall, and Bob Harris will be honored by the Americana Music Association with Lifetime Achievement Awards at the AMA’s Honors & Awards show Thursday, October 13th, at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium.

Singer-Songwriter Lucinda Williams receives the Lifetime Achievement for Songwriter honor. She continues to influence countless others with her roots-grounded sound.

Gregg Allman receives the Achievement for Performer. He has captivated audiences since his early days with The Allman Brothers Band, and continues to lead the charge of genre-melding Southern-bred rockers.

Master of the dobro, Jerry Douglas receives the Lifetime Achievement for Instrumentalist. Douglas is equally revered for his solo work, session playing, and as a longtime member of Alison Krauss and Union Station.

Rick Hall will receive the Lifetime Achievement for Executive award. Hall earns the honor with his groundbreaking production work at FAME Studios, recording Wilson Pickett, Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Etta James, The Osmonds, and Bobbie Gentry.

Bob Harris is a celebrated radio host and journalist. He will receive the Trailblazer Award.

The Honors & Awards is the main event of the Americana Music Association’s Festival and Conference, running October 12-15 in Nashville. Jim Lauderdale will again serve as master of ceremonies for the Honors & Awards, while Buddy Miller will lead an all-star house band. Among the other artists attending are Robert Plant and the Band of Joy, Hayes Carll, The Civil Wars, Elizabeth Cook, Justin Townes Earle, Jessica Lea Mayfield, The Secret Sisters, and more to be announced.

A limited number of awards show tickets, $35 and $65, are available through the Ryman Box Office or ryman.com.

ASCAP to honor Don Williams

Country music star Don Williams will be honored with the prestigious ASCAP Golden Note Award during its 49th Annual Country Music Awards on Sunday, Nov. 6th, at Nashville’s Gaylord Opryland. The event will also honor the songwriters and publishers of ASCAP’s most performed country songs from April 1, 2010 through March 31, 2011, and present awards for Songwriter of the Year, Songwriter/Artist of the Year, Song of the Year and Publisher of the Year.

The Golden Note Award is bestowed upon songwriters, composers and artists who have achieved extraordinary career milestones.

Don Williams is a recording artist & songwriter who has enjoyed 45 Top Ten hits and 17 No. 1 singles. Williams’ began his career as a member of the mid-1960’s folk-pop trio, the Pozo-Seco Singers. His self-penned hits include The Shelter of Your Eyes, Lay Down Beside Me, Love Me Over Again, and his collaboration with Wayland Holyfield, Till the Rivers All Run Dry. Despite a well-known aversion to the spotlight, Williams has risen to international fame. Williams was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2010.

Martina McBride debuts 11th album on October 11

Martina McBride will be releasing her 11th studio album, aptly titled, ELEVEN, on October 11th.

The album will feature some of Martina's most personal songs to date, with Martina penning 6 of the 11 tracks.

Jesse Keith Whitley Offers Free Download

Jesse Keith Whitley, son of Lorrie Morgan and the late Keith Whitley, is offering a very special gift to his fans. This month marks the 23rd anniversary of "Don’t Close Your Eyes" going #1 for Jesse's dad. In tribute, Jesse added his own version of the song on his recently-released EP, Kentucky Thunder. Jesse is making that song available to fans as a free download from his website, www.jessekeithwhitley.com.

New single from Vince Gill

The first radio single in four years from Vince Gill will be released to radio stations on Aug. 29. The new single, "Threaten Me With Heaven", is the lead track from his latest album, Guitar Slinger, which is due to be released Oct. 25th on MCA Nashville.

Vince co-wrote the single with wife Amy Grant, Dillon O’Brian and Will Owsley. Since the recording of the song, Owsley took his own life, giving the song a deeper impact for the singer.

Other tracks from the upcoming album include "True Love", which features Amy Grant and her daughter, Sarah Chapman, on vocals. Daughters Jenny Gill and Corinna Gill, also will make guest appearances on the album.

Among the songwriters with credits on the upcoming project are Leslie Satcher, who penned “Bread and Water” with Gill.

Oak Ridge Boys - It's only natural

The Oak Ridge Boys will release their new album, It’s Only Natural through the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® exclusive music program on September 19, 2011. The album will celebrate the 30th year of one of their biggest hits, "Elvira" with a rerecording of the song along with six other Oak Ridge Boys hits, plus five new songs.


Tracks for It’s Only Natural:

1. What’cha Gonna Do?
2. True Heart
3. Before I Die
4. Gonna Take a Lot of River
5. No Matter How High
6. The Shade
7. Elvira
8. Louisiana Red Dirt Highway
9. Beyond Those Years
10. Wish You Could Have Been There
11. Lucky Moon
12. Sacrifice… For Me


For more information: http://oakridgeboys.com/natural

Steve Richard Debuts New Animated Music Video "Love's Gotta Go Somewhere"

Force MP Entertainment recording artist Steve Richard releases the video for his new single, "Love's Gotta Go Somewhere," which is already in the #6 spot on the Power Source Christian Country Chart. The song tells the story of love lost to the grave but the one left behind rejoices in the memory of the love of a lifetime.

The new animated video was filmed at the historic St Louis landmark, Dunaway Books, which was established in the late 1800's and is still in business today and has one of the most diverse and largest selections of books in the state of Missouri, carrying fine used and out-of-print, rare volumes.

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band new release

The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band have released a new live EP called Under the Big Top Vol. 1. The EP features six fan favorites performed live at the band’s 2010 performance at Big Top Chautauqua in Wisconsin. Some of the songs include: Mr. Bojangles, Bless the Broken Road and Fishin’ in the Dark.

The album is available now and featured for digital download at iTunes and in the band’s online store at nittygritty.com.

Jason Michael Carroll - Numbers

Jason Michael Carroll's new album, Numbers, is the latest in Cracker Barrel’s exclusive music program. Numbers is a compilation of songs about everyday life experiences, including his big hit "Alyssa Lies," and the title song "Numbers," which was written by Patrick Davis and Rodney Clawson.

The album debuts today exclusively at all Cracker Barrel Old Country Store locations and online at crackerbarrel.com.

Track listing for Numbers:

1. This Is For The Lonely
2. Numbers
3. Ray Of Hope
4. Meet Me In The Barn
5. Hell Or Hallelujah
6. Can I Get An Amen
7. My Favorite
8. Don't Know Why
9. Let Me
10.Stray
11.Last Word
12.Alyssa Lies

Dirt Drifters - this is my blood

Warner Bros. Records is releasing the debut album from The Dirt Drifters today. The album is titled, This Is My Blood, and is available at all digital retailers.

The Dirt Drifters, comprised of lead singer/guitarist Matt Fleener, vocalist/guitarist Ryan Fleener, vocalist/guitarist Jeff Middleton, bassist Jeremy Little and drummer Nick Diamond, wrote or co-wrote 10 of the project’s 11 tracks, and played on every song of the album. They also have legend Willie Nelson for guest vocals on "I’ll Shut Up Now."

The full track listing includes:
1. Something Better
2. Always A Reason
3. There She Goes
4. It Takes A Man
5. Hurt Somebody
6. Married Men And Motel Rooms
7. I’ll Shut Up Now (ft. Willie Nelson)
8. Name On My Shirt
9. Sun Goes Down
10. Just Got Tonight
11. This Is My Blood

Take a listen to "I'll shut up now"

Ricky Skaggs new album

Ricky Skaggs' newest CD, Country Hits Bluegrass Style, will be released next Tuesday, July 19th. The 14-song album is a mix between Skaggs’ country and bluegrass roots.

Ricky's band, Kentucky Thunder, along with some of Ricky's original award-winning country band alumni, and special friends are part of this album as well.

Blake Shelton - Red River Blue

Blake Shelton one of the rare singers who can seamlessly go from country "party boy" to heartfelt, sweet, charming "aw shucks" guy in a heartbeat. That's quite noticeable on his latest album, "Red River Blue", as well. Blake offers up some 'charmers', like "Honey Bee", "God gave me you", "I'm sorry", and "over", in contrast with the 'having a good timers' like "ready to roll", "get some", "good ole boys", and "hey". The greatest 'charmer' on this album is the title track, a duet with wife, Miranda Lambert.

Take a listen to a few songs:
Get some:


Good Ole Boys:


Sunny in Seattle:


Red River Blue:

Dolly Parton - Better Day

In the 44 years since her first album, Hello, I'm Dolly, was released, Dolly Parton has continued to reinvent herself to the latest generation without changing either her music or herself. With her 41st studio release, Better Day, Dolly brings more of the same countrified brightness as only she can. All of the songs are penned by Dolly, who seems to still be underrated for her songwriting skills. The greatest thing is that she's still able to incorporate the old country/bluegrass sound while making it sound mainstream enough to catch the non-country listener's ear.

While the songs are all written by Dolly, they're not all new. The first single, "Together You and I", is actually a remake of a song she had recorded with her former mentor and duet partner Porter Wagoner for their 1974 LP, Porter 'n' Dolly. This version, however, has a new tempo and has been updated to suit today's country music sound. Other tracks include "Holding Everything", which was recorded by Alabama lead singer Randy Owen; "Missing You" was originally recorded by Dolly for the film "First Dog"; and "I Just Might", "Shine Like The Sun", "Get Out", and "Let Love Grow" were all songs Dolly had written for her Tony-nominated score of "9 to 5-The Musical.

Take a listen to a few songs:
Together You & I:


Country Is As Country Does:


Get Out & Stay Out:

Brad Paisley - This is Country Music

Brad Paisley will release This is Country Music on Monday, May 23rd.



This is Country Music is Brad's 9th studio album. It's a 15-track collection, with 12 of those songs co-written by Brad. There are a number of great guest performances on the album, including Don Henley on "love her like she's leavin'", Blake Shelton on "Don't drink the water", Marty Stuart, Sheryl Crow & Carl Jackson on "life's railway to Heaven", Clint Eastwood on the instrumental "Eastwood", and a duet with Carrie Underwood on "remind me".

Take a listen to "Life's Railway To Heaven"

New Eric Church album coming in late July.

Eric Church's third studio album, Chief, will be released on July 26 on EMI Records. The album is produced by Jay Joyce, who also produced Church's previous two releases.

The first single release from the new album is,Homeboy.

Here is the track listing for the new album - all but track 4 are co-written by Church:
1. Creepin’
2. Drink In My Hand
3. Keep On
4. Like Jesus Does
5. Hungover & Hard Up
6. Homeboy
7. Country Music Jesus
8. Jack Daniels
9. Springsteen
10. I’m Gettin’ Stoned
11. Over When It’s Over

Hazel Dickens dies

I was saddened to hear of the passing of Hazel Dickens on Friday, April 22nd from complications of pneumonia.



Hazel was noted for her strongly feminist song lyrics. She was part of various bluegrass and folk-music groups such as The Strange Creek Singers and Hazel & Alice.

Hazel's songs were featured in the Oscar-winning 1976 documentary Harlan County U.S.A., and she appeared in the 1987 coal-mining movie Matewan.

In 1994, she became the first woman to receive the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Award of Merit. In 2008, she was inducted into the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame. Her autobiography, Working Girl Blues, was published by the University of Illinois Press later that same year.

The Charlie Daniels Band Releases "Let 'Em Win or Bring 'Em Home"

(Nashville, Tenn. - April 21, 2011) Legendary artist and proud American Charlie Daniels has released a special patriotic track through Hopesong Digital/GMV Nashville called "Let 'Em Win or Bring 'Em Home."



A new orginal cut written by Daniels and recorded by The Charlie Daniels Band, "Let 'Em Win or Bring 'Em Home" is available this week at www.GMVNashville.com and all major online digital outlets, including iTunes, Amazon.com and Rhapsody.com. The song was first released exclusively at www.CharlieDaniels.com on Friday, April 15, 2011

New album for The Judds released today

The mother/daughter country music duo, The Judds, have released a new album, "I Will Stand By You: The Essential Collection". The new compilation features twelve classics as well as two brand new songs: "I Will Stand By You" and "Back Home", which features Alison Krauss. The two new songs mark the first time the duo have recorded together since 2004 when Naomi joined Wynonna for the single, "Flies On The Butter", which is also featured on this album.

Along with the two new tracks, this collection features fan favorites such as "Mama He’s Crazy", "Grandpa (Tell Me 'Bout The Good Old Days)", "Turn It Loose" and the song that has become the duo's anthem, "Love Can Build A Bridge."

Lori McKenna - Lorraine

While Lori's previous album, Unglamorous, was pretty decent, I find this new release to be a nice step up in listening pleasure.

What makes a great song is the mixture of voice, instrumentation and songwriting. Lori has done that remarkably well in all 13 of them on this album. Sometimes I'm not sure which of those parts is the highlight. At one point, I'd think it was the lyrics that intrigued me. On another listen, I'd swear it was her voice that grabbed my attention, or was it the simple instrumentation? In reality, it was all of the above. A great mixture.

What makes a great album is a compilation of well-crafted songs that the listener can identify with in his/her own life. With "Lorraine", Lori seamlessly goes from heartache and loss to reflection and hope and back again. It's sadness and sweetness all rolled together into one wonderful collection.

Take a listen to a few of the cuts:
The Luxury of Knowing:

"Damn it must be easy being in love with someone so blind. Cuz - I’ll tell you right now the only thing I really know is that you might change your mind. Any day you could change your mind."


Buy this town:

"If I could buy your pain, first I’d buy the great big sea. I’d put that pain inside a box, and bury it so deep..."


All I ever do:

"All I ever do is work. All I ever do is pray. But I do know that I have for you a love that never fades and it's okay if it's all I ever do."


Sweet Disposition:

"I believe everyone is good but I’ve been wrong a time or two. When a friend kicks you in the gut there’s not much that you can do. Oh but that friend she was never my friend. The only thing she feels is ambition. Still I’m left searching for my sweet disposition."

Miss Willie Brown

The duo known as Miss Willie Brown - comprised of Amanda Watkins & Kasey Buckley - is releasing their major label debut EP today. The duo is the first country act signed to New York based A&M/Octone Records.

The EP is a four-song project, produced by Keith Stegall. Watkins and Buckley share lead vocals on the tracks, which they also co-wrote.

A new album coming soon from Emmylou Harris

Country/Folk legend Emmylou Harris will release her new album on Nonesuch Records, Hard Bargain, on April 26th. Emmylou wrote 11 of the 13 tracks including song tributes to Gram Parsons ("The Road") and the late folk singer Kate McGarrigle ("Dear Kate").

The project included just three musicians - Emmylou, producer Jay Joyce, and Giles Reeves - however, it's not a stripped-down album. To promote the album's release, Emmylou will appear on The Late Show with David Letterman on April 27th.

The Judds & Loretta Lynn added to ACM's Girls' Night Out

The Judds and Loretta Lynn have been added to the lineup of the ACM’s Girls’ Night Out: Superstar Women of Country tribute concert.

Performers previously announced include Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride, Jennifer Nettles, Reba and Carrie Underwood. These female artists will be honored at the taping, which will be held on Monday, April 4th at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. There will also be special guest duets, including Ronnie Dunn with Jennifer Nettles, Rascal Flatts with Reba, Vince Gill singing with Carrie Underwood, as well as performances by Jason Aldean, Blake Shelton and still more to be announced.

The show will air Friday, April 22nd on CBS TV. Ticket sales from the special will benefit ACM Lifting Lives, the charitable arm of the Academy.

ACM Nominees to perform

The 46th Academy of County Music Awards will be handed out on Sunday, April 3rd, live on CBS TV from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

All of the ACM Entertainer of the Year nominees - Jason Aldean, Toby Keith, Miranda Lambert, Brad Paisley, Taylor Swift and Keith Urban - will be performing during the event.

For the third consecutive year, the winner will be fan voted. Voting begins March 11 at www.voteACM.com and will conclude during the third hour of the live broadcast.

Shania Twain to release autobiography

Shania Twain's autobiography, "From This Moment On", is set for release on May 3.


Shania has multiple ventures in the works this summer. Along with the release of her autobiography, which is her first book, she has a new docu-series for OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network) debuting in May as well.

The 2011 Country Music Hall of Fame Class

The Country Music Association revealed the 2011 inductees for the Country Music Hall of Fame today.



Bobby Braddock, Jean Shepard and Reba McEntire will be the latest inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame

Bobby Braddock is inducted in the Songwriter category. He has been writing hit songs in Nashville for half a century. Some of his classics include "D-I-V-O-R-C-E" and "He Stopped Loving Her Today," and some of his more modern hits are "I Wanna Talk About Me" and the recent "People Are Crazy."

After moving to Nashville in 1964, Braddock became the piano player for Marty Robbins. He released three major label albums and also performed in Country Music-themed movies. He also added his talent as a producer, working on Blake Shelton’s first five albums.

* * * *

Jean Shepard is inducted in the Veterans Era.

She is often called The Grand Lady of the Grand Ole Opry, as she has been a member of the Opry for over 50 years. Jean had 44 charted hits between 1953 and 1978, including her first hit, "A Dear John Letter", which was a duet with Ferlin Husky.

Some of Jean Shepard's hits include: "Twice the Lovin’ in Half the Time", "Don’t Fall in Love With a Married Man", "The Root of All Evil (Is a Man)", and "The Other Woman". She also joined the cast of Ozark Jubilee on ABC TV.

* * *

Reba McEntire is a Modern Era inductee to the Hall of Fame

Reba started out her career a bit slow, but things began to soar for the Oklahoma redhead by 1984, when she won the CMA Female Vocalist of the Year award for the 1st of 4 consecutive years. Two years later, she joined the Grand Ole Opry and was also named CMA Entertainer of the Year. In her music career, Reba has sold more than 55 million albums worldwide, and to date has achieved 35 No. 1 singles. She has also received 6 CMA Awards, and 2 Grammy Awards.

Reba's talents broadened to acting on the big screen (Tremors), the small screen (her own sitcom, "Reba"), and even the Broadway stage (Annie Get Your Gun).

Songwriter Hall of Fame Inductees

The Songwriters Hall of Fame will induct six new members at the 42nd Annual Induction & Awards Dinner on Thursday, June 16th in New York City.




Garth Brooks, Leon Russell, John Bettis, Billy Steinberg & Tom Kelly and Allen Toussaint will become the newest members inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Garth Brooks has been certified by the RIAA as the No. 1 selling solo artist in U.S. history. He has sold more than 128 million albums and is the only solo artist in RIAA history to have six albums top the 10 million mark. His songwriter credits include hits "If Tomorrow Never Comes," "The Thunder Rolls," "Unanswered Prayers" and more.

Leon Russell's classic songwriting credits include "A Song For You", "This Masquerade", "Delta Lady", "Tight Rope", "Bluebird", "Back To The Island", and "Hummingbird". Leon will also be honored with the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s first Award for Musical Excellence in March.

Other inductees include John Bettis, whose songwriting efforts have sold more than 250 million records worldwide; musician, songwriter and record producer Allen Toussaint; and Billy Steinberg & Tom Kelly, a songwriting duo who co-wrote five No. 1 singles on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart, including "Like A Virgin", "True Colors", and "Eternal Flame".

More Upcoming Releases

Brad Paisley will be releasing his new album, This Is Country Music, May 24 with Arista Records. Brad will once again be teamed with longtime producer Frank Rogers for this new release. It's his first all-new studio album since 2009's acclaimed American Saturday Night. He did release the compilation, Hits Alive, in November last year.



The lead single - title track This Is Country Music - is already a hit at radio.

The digital single for This Is Country Music is available, and fans who pre-order the album for $9.99, will also receive an immediate download of the single. In addition, pre-orders will entitle purchasers periodic access to exclusive content.

Brad is also currently headlining his H2O Frozen Over Tour.

* * * * * * *

I'm very excited to see that Matraca Berg, a Nashville Songwriter's Hall of Fame inductee, will be releasing a new album, The Dreaming Fields, on May 17th. It will be her first new release in 14 years.



Matraca's new album will cover many sensitive issues like domestic violence, fading beauty, selling the family farm, and a son sent off to war.

* * * * * *

Kenny Rogers will have a second album released through the Cracker Barrel Old Country Store exclusive music program when The Love of God comes out on March 7. The album will be an inspirational collection of classic songs, along with new recordings of some contemporary songs. There will be some great guest appearances on the album, including The Whites, Winfield’s Locket, and Point of Grace.



* * * * * * *

Jeff Bates' new release is out today. It's titled, One Day Closer, and is his second album for the Black River label.



The album covers the circle of life that Jeff has experienced in recent years with the deaths of his parents and the birth of his daughter. Along with the six song EP, Jeff also recorded a live DVD that features all the music from the album with bonus tracks highlighting some of his previous singles.

* * * * * *

The inimitable Ralph Stanley releases A Mother’s Prayer on April 19th.



The Rebel Records release will be a collection of newly recorded hymns and spirituals. Also making contributions to the album are Sara Evans, Billy and Terry Smith, Dewey Brown (fiddler for Clinch Mountain Boys), and Ralph's grandson Nathan Stanley.

Bandit records to release new George Jones album

Bandit Records will be releasing the first new George Jones material in over 5 years as part of a compilation called "George Jones: Hits". New songs include "I ain't ever slowin' Down", written by Al Anderson and Stephen Bruton and "I should have called" written by Eddie Raven. Both new songs were produced by George's long time producer, Keith Stegal, in 2006. Also featured on the album are some of The Possum's biggest and most iconic hits such as, "The Window Up Above", "Take Me", "The Grand Tour", "White Lightin" ,and his signature song "He Stopped Lovin’ Her Today".

The 24-song compilation will be released this Tuesday, February 15th and sold exclusively at Wal-Mart Stores, the 24 song compilation will be released on Feb. 15th.

Mandrell boots return to Fontanel

Nashville, Tenn. -- February 7, 2011 -- Marc Oswald (pictured above left), co–owner of The Fontanel Mansion & Farm, and Jaime Dudney (picture above right), director of hospitality (and Mandrell’s daughter), recently accepted one-of-a-kind memorabilia from the Nashville Music Garden to remain on permanent display at The Fontanel.

The highlight of the exhibit, the inspiration for the Nashville Music Garden logo, is a beautiful bouquet of vibrant roses artfully arranged in a pair of Mandrell’s personalized boots. “One of our main intentions when we opened the Fontanel Mansion and Farm to the public last year was to give country music fans the opportunity to step inside the life of a Hall of Fame entertainer,” said Fontanel co-owner Marc Oswald. “To have a pair of Barbara Mandrell’s boots on display in the mansion, along with the photos from the beautiful Nashville Music Garden, really adds to the experience of our guests.”

Pat Bullard, Nashville Music Garden founder, also presented The Fontanel with a collage of photos and memorabilia from the September 2009 Nashville Music Garden dedication ceremony. Country greats honored by the Nashville Music Garden and featured in the new exhibit at Fontanel include Little Jimmy Dickens, Brenda Lee, Lynn Anderson and Pam Tillis.

"Only in Nashville could there be the one and only Nashville Music Garden and only at The Mansion at Fontanel have Barbara’s boots found their way back to her room for all country music fans to enjoy every time they visit," said Bullard.

For more information on Nashville Music Garden visit www.nashvillemusicgarden.com

Info from Kaleidoscope Media

David Lowery - The Palace Guards

Growing up primarily a country music fan (for the first couple decades of life), it's taken the past two decades to catch up on lots of other great music that I've missed out on. Even with the convenience of the internet, there is still much that I have yet to hear. So I'm always pleased when artists (& their PR people) send new music to check out. I've found some of the best music that way. And I'm always pleased to bring it to the attention of other music fans.

Thus is the case with David Lowery, who is releasing his full-length solo debut, The Palace Guards, this Tuesday through 429 Records.



David Lowery was the co-founder and frontman for Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven, neither of which I'd previously listened to (but definitely need to go back & check out). I was looking through some background info, and noticed that his previous music was listed as ranging between "electric twang" and "psych-country". Anything that included "twang" and "country" is going to perk up my ears.

Since I'd never heard any of David's previous work and didn't know what to expect, my first listen of the album was about finding the sound. I was pleasantly surprised at what I heard. David's voice brought thoughts of a not-quite-as-raspy/gravelly Leonard Cohen (especially on Deep Oblivion) with a mixture of Umajets, Jakob Dylan & some other Roots/Americana artists.

After a few listens of the album, my favorite is by far, Ah, you left me, followed closely by Raise 'em up on honey, Deep Oblivion (which started out sounding eerily like a cross between Sheryl Crow's Good is Good and Diamond Ring), and The Palace Guards. The beginning of Marigold reminds me of an old Johnny Lee song. There seems to be a bit of a subtle change in vibe from the first half of the album to the second half. Strangely enough, I seem to favor the first half.

David isn't totally "solo" on this one. He relies on some of his trusted musical cohorts to help with the sound of the record. A couple of David's 'Cracker' buddies Sal Maida and Johnny Hickman make guest appearances.

Other info regarding David Lowery:

David has also currently been writing new music with Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven for upcoming albums from both bands (this will mark the first new material from CVB since their lauded 2004 New Roman Times release). In addition, David also plans to continue working on his popular 300 Songs project - a blog chronicling all of the songs he's written and recorded with both Cracker & CVB. Plans are also in the works to turn these wry, humorous and informative musings on his songs, bands and, ultimately, the music business in general, into his first published book later in the year.

To check out the album & find more information on David Lowery, visit the website: DavidLoweryMusic.com

Charlie Louvin dies

Country Music Hall of Fame member Charlie Louvin has passed away at the age of 83 following a fight with pancreatic cancer.



Louvin was diagnosed with cancer in the summer of 2010 and underwent surgery, but the operation was limited in its success. It stabilized his health long enough for him continue working through the end of the year.

Charlie & his brother, Ira performed as the Louvin Brothers in the early years. The duo broke up in 1963, and Ira died in a car crash back in 1965. Charlie has been singing & performing for over six decades.

Alison Krauss & Union Station's new album

April 12th is the release date set for the latest from Alison Krauss and Union Station, titled "Paper Airplane".

This will be Alison's first new music released since her highly acclaimed 2007 collaboration with Robert Plant. It will also be her first album with longtime band Union Station since "Lonely Runs Both Ways", released in 2004.

Here is the reported track list:

1. Paper Airplane
2. Dustbowl Children
3. Lie Awake
4. Lay My Burden Down
5. My Love Follows You Where You Go
6. Dimming Of The Day
7. On The Outside Looking In
8. Miles To Go
9. Sinking Stone
10. Bonita and Bill Butler
11. Opening Farewell

Country stars join "The Boot Campaign"

Country music stars are taking off their cowboy boots and replacing them with army boots in support ofThe Boot Campaign. The campaign is a way for Americans to give back and say thank you to our armed forces. It was inspired by Marcus Luttrell, who is a retired US Navy SEAL and author of the book Lone Survivor.

Many Country music stars have become involved including George Jones, Jan Howard, Mel Tillis, Oak Ridge Boys, Lee Greenwood and Charlie Daniels, as well as Josh Turner, Joe Nichols, Heidi Newfield, Randy Rogers Band, Randy Houser, Gretchen Wilson, Phil Vassar, Joe Diffie, Little Texas, Jamie O’Neal, Justin Moore, Chuck Wicks, Colt Ford, Eli Young Band, Derek Sholl, Joey + Rory and Jack Ingram.

It's not just Country music artists getting involved in this campaign. Many others are jumping on board, including bluegrass artists The Grascals and The Roys, as well as Texas artists like Cross Canadian Ragweed, Robert Earl Keen, Jason Boland, Aaron Watson, Mick and the Motorcars, Reckless Kelly, Wade Bowen, Kevin Fowler, Stoney LaRue, No Justice, Bleu Edmondson, and Granger Smith.

The campaign encourages Americans to purchase a pair of army combat boots to wear in support of our nation’s troops. Proceeds from the boot sales are donated to partner charities, including the Lone Survivor Foundation.

For more information about The Boot Campaign, please visit: www.bootcampaign.com

Aretha Franklin collection set for release

Columbia Legacy will honor music legend Aretha Franklin with the release of a 12-disc set "Take a Look: Aretha Franklin Complete On Columbia." on March 22nd. The box set is produced by Leo Sacks, and will comprehensively survey Aretha's 1960-65 stint at the Columbia. All of her master takes will be compiled; the collection will also have bonus tracks, mono mixes, alternate takes and studio chatter.

In addition to 11 CDs -- which will comprise of seven original albums, two discs of non-LP material and two new compilations -- the set will also include a five-song DVD featuring 1964 performances from "The Steve Allen Show." A 60-page booklet will include photos, recollections and an essay.

On the same day, Columbia Legacy will also issue a single CD set, "Aretha Franklin: The Great American Songbook," devoted to her Columbia recordings of standards.

Upcoming Releases

Here is a list of the upcoming album releases:

January 18:
Gregg Allman – Low Country Blues
Braids – Native Speaker
The Decemberists – The Kind Is Dead
Smith Westerns – Dye It Blonde
James Blunt – Some Kind Of Trouble
Blackmore’s Night – Autumn Sky

January 25:
Joe Nichols – Greatest Hits
Lori McKenna – Lorraine
Iron & Wine – Kiss Each Other Clean
Wanda Jackson – The Party Ain’t Over
Eva Cassidy – Simply Eva
Olivia Newton-John – A Celebration In Song

February 1:
The JaneDear Girls – self titled
Todd Snider – Live: The Storyteller
Bobby Long – A Winter Tale
The Civil Wars – Barton Hollow

February 8:
Thompson square – TBA
VA – The Music Inside: A Collaboration Dedicated to Waylon Jennings
Steve Wariner – Guitar Laboratory

February 15:
PJ Harvey – Let England Shake
Drive-By Truckers – Go-Go Boots
Sarah Darling – Angels & Devils
Jeff Bates – One Day Closer
Due West – Forget The Miles
Hayes Carll – KMAG YOYO (& Other American Stories)
Bright Eyes – People’s Key

February 22:
Johnny Cash – From Memphis to Hollywood
Adele – 21
Lauren Pritchard – Wasted in Jackson

March 1:
Craig Campbell – self titled
Lucinda Williams – Blessed

March 8:
Sara Evans – stronger
Carol Bui – Red Ship
Bruce Cockburn – Small Source Of Comfort
Avril Lavigne – Goodbye Lullaby
Charley Pride – Choices

March 15:
James Wesley – Real


March 22:
The Roys – Lonesome Whistle
Green Day – Awesome as F**K

April 19:
Brad Paisley – This is Country Music

Wanda Jackson & Jack White teaming up

Wanda Jackson and Jack White are set to perform at the Grand Ole Opry Sat., Jan. 15. The night will mark the first time the pair has performed together publicly. The Opry is being staged through January at the Ryman Auditorium. White produced Jackson’s The Party Ain’t Over, set for a Jan. 25 release.

Dolly Parton to be honored during Grammy Week

There will be a flurry of Grammy related events to surround the awards show. On Saturday, February 12th, the Recording Academy will honor Dolly Parton with a Lifetime Achievement Award. She joins fellow honorees Julie Andrews, Roy Haynes, Juilliard String Quartet, The Kingston Trio, Ramones, and George Beverly Shea. Also being honored at the invitation-only event in Los Angeles will be Trustees Award winners Al Bell, Wilma Cozart Fine and Bruce Lundvall; and Technical Grammy winners Roger Linn and Waves Audio.

A day prior to that, Friday, February 11th, Barbra Streisand will be honored as the 2011 MusiCares Person of the Year at a special event celebrating her exceptional artistic achievements as well as her philanthropic work. LeAnn Rimes will be among the performers, which also includes Bebe Winans, Tony Bennett, Seal, Donna Summer, Stevie Wonder, Jeff Beck, Herbie Hancock, Diana Krall, Barry Manilow and Kristin Chenoweth. Proceeds from the event at the Los Angeles Convention Center will support MusiCares, which ensures that music people have a place to turn in times of need.

New music from Blues legend, T-Model Ford

90-Year old Blues legend T-Model Ford has a new album in stores today.



"Taledragger" is a studio album that was recorded during a 14-show US tour in 2010. T-Model Ford is backed by his regular touring band, GravelRoad, with guest appearances by Brian Olive & Matthew Smith.

Take a listen to "Same Old Train"


After listening to the music, it's hard to believe this music man is 90 years old.

To get more information on this album, Click Here

And check out T-Model Ford's Tour blog: Click Here

A special US full length release of Ellie Goulding's debut cd

Already a success in her native England, 24-year-old UK singer and songwriter Ellie Goulding will release a special US full length of Lights on March 8th. The US version will include three songs (Lights, Animal, and Your Song) that were not available on the original UK version.



Ellie's music is described as "electro-folk-acoustic-pop", mixing heartfelt emotion with other-worldly atmospherics and spinning electronica.

JaneDear's debut album to be released next month

Warner Bros. Records has set a Feb. 1st release date for the debut album from the JaneDear girls.



The self-titled project includes 11 songs all written by Susie Brown and Danelle Leverett, the duo that makes up JaneDear. They play at least seven instruments between the two of them, including accordion, guitar, bass, fiddle, ganjo, harp and mandolin.

The lead single from the album is Wildflower, and is already a Top 20 hit.

At the end of January, JaneDear will head out on their first major tour, with Jason Aldean on his My Kinda Party tour, which opens Jan. 21 in Little Rock, AR.

Here's the track listing for JaneDear's debut album:
1. Wildflower
2. Shotgun Girl
3. Merry Go Round
4. Sugar
5. Saturdays in September
6. Sing Along
7. Lucky You
8. Pretender
9. Never Gonna Let You Go
10. Free Ride
11. Everyday’s A Holiday

The Roys to release new album in March

The Roys are launching the release of their new album, Lonesome Whistle, on March 22nd, on Rural Rhythm Records. The CD was produced by the brother/sister duo, Lee & Elaine, as well as Andy Leftwich.

The lead single, Coal Minin’ Man, was written by Lee Roy and his friend Matt Rogers. It is available for digital purchase.

Steve Martin to release new bluegrass album

Steve Martin will release his second full length bluegrass album, Rare Bird Alert on March 15th. On this new album, Steve will be joined by the Steep Canyon Rangers, who toured extensively with him over the last year.

The new album includes 13 new tracks written by Steve. Sir Paul McCartney and The Dixie Chicks are included as guest vocalists on the project. This is the follow-up to his Grammy Award winning album, The Crow: New Songs for the Five-String Banjo.

Producer T-Bone Burnett to be honored

Producer T Bone Burnett will receive a salute from the Producers & Engineers Wing of The Recording Academy during Grammy Week. The special event is titled "Shaken Rattled & Rolled", and is part of the 10th Anniversary celebration of the P&E Wing. Grammy winners Elton John and Leon Russell will serve as honorary co-chairs of the gala, which will be held Wednesday, February 9 at The Village Recording Studios in Los Angeles. Elton & Leon's duet album, "The Union" was produced by Burnett.

A Paramore shakeup

Paramore members Josh Farro and Zac Farro have left the band. Remaining on board are lead vocalist Hayley Williams, bassist Jeremy Davis, and guitarist Taylor York.

UMPG Nashville songwriter Lori McKenna is planning the Jan. 25 release of her new album Lorraine. Lori is a hit songwriter who has had recent songs cut by Keith Urban, Alison Krauss, Faith Hill, LeAnne Rimes, Tim McGraw and Carrie Underwood.

Kellie Pickler weds

Kellie Pickler and songwriter Kyle Jacobs were married in an intimate ceremony on Saturday, January 1, 2011 on a private island in the Caribbean.

Johnny Cash live, unreleased & demos

Columbia/Legacy is planning the Feb. 22 release of Johnny Cash’s From Memphis To Hollywood, a double album featuring previously unreleased demos, live radio recordings, non-album singles and B-sides. The tracks are from Cash’s early career in the 1950s and ‘60s, including time at Sun Records and Columbia Records.

Shania Twain weds

Shania Twain married Frédéric Thiébaud in Puerto Rico on New Year’s Day. Forty friends and family members gathered for the intimate sunset ceremony in Rincon, Puerto Rico.



Twain was escorted down the aisle by her nine-year-old son, Eja.

Twain and Thiebaud have been dating since 2009.