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Hi All, In case you wonder where I've been lately.. I've been shoveling snow. It's not nearly as bad here in the valley as what others are getting, but it's been enough to wear me out. I got lucky today.. it's too cold to snow! LOL.. there's critters' paw-prints all over the yard where the dear, rabbits, muskrats and God only knows what else have come here looking for food. Ma put some bread out for them so we'll see tomorrow if any of them like it.. it's whole grain so unless the scent of her hands scares them off, they'll have something to nibble on. The deer are funny.. they come down and eat the ivy that grows around our house. I love it cuz by spring, the ivy is cut all the way back which saves me the hassle of having to cut it back. :) I hope where ever you live, you're not getting pounded by snow and ice like some folks are getting. I feel awful for those in New York state areas where the snow is higher than most of the houses! Ugh!!!!
OK.. on with the news! There's 2 pages (again) so don't forget to click on the link at the bottom of the page to see page 2.
ONE MORE DAY TO WIN!!!
Enter the "Wheel of Fortune Country Music Stars Sweepstakes" on MKOC!
One (1) First Prize winner from MKOC.com will get:
* Silver iPod Nano
* $25 iTunes gift cardThere have been only 6 sites chosen on the entire web to carry this contest and MKOC is one of them.
One grand prize wiiner will be chosen from entries of all 6 of the sites to win an autographed guitar!Enter Here!
Hint #1: follow the link on the contest form that says. "Find the Answers at wheeloffortune.com!"
Hint #2: Look below for news about the guests on Wheel of Fortune!Name That Tune
MKOC's Name That Tune has a new song posted. Name the song and the artist singing it and you'll win the CD!MKOC Store
Find Books, Music, Videos, Software, Electronics, Website Hosts/Servers .... Don't pay the high prices you find in the stores. I've researched the links posted to give everyone an opportunity to buy great things at the best prices.Artist Info
Artists, be sure to check out the "Info" section as it's been updated with even more info.. web links, sheet music, instruments and more.
MKOC Official Artists
Song Clips Added.. Just Click a Song Title to hear music in Real Audio - Songs are rotated with each newsletter.
Debbie Miles
You Ain't Been Worth A Dime
Harold Hill
San Antonio Sweetheart
Hoyt Hughes
WWW.Gone
Joe Tinoco
Five Cards on the Mantle
Narvel Felts
Until The End of Time
Red Johnson
Veteran's Day
Tecia McKenna
Goodbye's What You Got
Tony Oliphant
Can't Change Your Mind
The song collection above are some of my favorites of the MKOC Official Artists. Please take time to visit their web sites to hear all the music and choose your favorites. Write me, and maybe your favorite will be the next song showcased. Narvel Felts
New show dates have been added to Narvel's site and the time for his Las Vegas show has been changed. Check the schedule so you won't miss the next show nearest you!
More Country News
LONESTAR’s RICHIE McDONALD & MICHAEL BRITT SPINNING THE ‘WHEEL OF FORTUNE’ FOR THEIR CHARITY TONIGHT & TOMORROW
Nashville, TN – Pat Sajak and Vanna White welcome Lonestar’s Richie McDonald, Wynonna, Josh Gracin and to spin the “wheel” and raise money for their favorite charity tonight (2/14). While tomorrow night (2/15) catch Lorrie Morgan, Lonestar’s Michael Britt, and Mark Wills spin the wheel for more charity money. The episodes, which were taped last month in Charleston, S.C., at the Charleston Area Convention Center, raised more than $400,000 for charity.
Three country music star/fan teams will compete each night. The fans will be playing for cash and one-of-a-kind country music-themed prizes, while the country music stars will be playing for their favorite charities. A minimum of $10,000 will benefit the charity of their choice.
Wheel of Fortune has worked in conjunction with the Country Music Association (CMA) to feature top name country artists for this exciting week of shows. Additionally, the CMA has provided exciting prizes for this week of shows including a trip to the 41st Annual CMA Awards in Nashville and a trip to the CMA Music Festival Fan Fair in Nashville.
Wheel of Fortune, which has ranked as television’s #1 syndicated series for 89 consecutive sweeps ratings periods, marked the beginning of its 24th season on September 11, 2006. With over 46 million viewers a week*, syndication’s longest-running, most successful series continues to attract a larger audience than most primetime TV shows.
Media Contacts:
Webster & Associates Public Relations – 615-777-6995
Kirt Webster – kirt@websterpr.com
BNA Records ~ SonyBMG – 615-301-4373
Wes Vause – wes.vause@sonybmg.com
Enter the Contest Here!
Willie Nelson
TEXAS LEGENDS RALLY TOGETHER TO HELP EDUCATE AREA KIDS
OFFERING RARE PERSONAL ITEMS FOR AUCTION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – DALLAS / FORT WORTH : Some of Texas biggest stars fall in place to help area art students find their true calling in life.
Willie Nelson, Jessica Simpson, Kinky Friedman, Larry Hagman and world renowned painter Peter Max will lend their name and signed memorabilia to The Aetheria Foundation to help raise money for The AetheriA Fund at Communities Foundation of Texas, a scholarship fund created to assist students pursuing their artistic capacities for the February 10th Variety event.
On a single Saturday in February, The Nokia Theater will host: AetheriA –
An artclectic evening, featuring the Fort Worth Symphony, The Dallas Black Dance Theatre, and Willie Nelson & Family with special guest Jessica
Simpson. Also in a very special appearance, patrons will enjoy “Taste of Cirque ”. The event also hopes to raise awareness of the combined Arts of the Metroplex.
The Auction inventory continues it’s momentum as well. Exclusive items include Original Art from Cirque du Soleil; Larry Hagman’s (JR) signature hat; a pair of Boot’s signed by Jessica Simpson, a Video/DVD Collection signed by Comedian/Actor Johnny Knoxville, as well as a signature guitar from country legend Willie Nelson. Peter Max will also contribute an original piece designed exclusively for the Aetheria Event. The original is among good company. Max has always been ready to apply his creative talent to important global events and charities and Peter has produced posters and other artwork for many such events, including Summit of the Americas, Gorbachev's State of the World Forum, and the United Nations
Earth Summit, for which he had designed a series of twelve stamps that became the best-selling stamps in U.N. history.
Read More on Willie's Site
Joe Nichols
NEW VIDEO FOR " I'LL WAIT FOR YOU"
Joe Nichols is touching lots of folks with this song about being separated from loved ones. Now he's giving fans a fresh take on the song. He'll release a more acoustic version with a new video, which was shot Wednesday. Joe says he's got a lot of fan reaction to the song of separation. more
Loretta Lynn
Honorary doctorate for Loretta Lynn
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Soon you can call her the coal miner's doctor.
Loretta Lynn is slated to receive an honorary doctorate of music from Berklee College of Music during her March 17 performance at the Grand Ole Opry.
The honor from the Boston college puts the 71-year-old Lynn into a select group of recording artists that includes Duke Ellington, Tony Bennett, Aretha Franklin, Quincy Jones, B.B. King, Bonnie Raitt, Earl Scruggs, Sting and Sarah Vaughan.
"Loretta Lynn's songs have squarely addressed real-life situations faced by many women, and she's used her artistry to deal openly with themes like loyalty, divorce, desire and women's role in society before others in country music," Berklee President Roger Brown said in a release Wednesday.
Lynn's many hits include "Coal Miner's Daughter," "You Ain't Woman Enough" and "The Pill."
Since beginning her career in 1960, the Butcher Hollow, Ky., native has written more than 160 songs and released 70 albums, 17 of which have gone to No. 1.
In 1972, she was the first woman ever named Entertainer of the Year by the Country Music Association. She's won three Grammy Awards, was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1988 and received the Kennedy Center Honors in 2003.
Her most recent record is 2004's "Van Lear Rose," which she recorded with the White Stripes' Jack White.
On the Net:
http://www.lorettalynn.com/
http://www.berklee.edu
Buy Loretta Lynn's CDs Here
Hear 5000 Online Stations on Live365: Listen to thousands of stations programmed by people like you!
Listen or broadcast internet radio at Live365
Grand Ole Opry says singer's age discrimination suit groundless
By JOHN GEROME
Associated Press Writer
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- Grand Ole Opry singer Stonewall Jackson's claims that the long-running radio show discriminated against him because of his age are false, and his lawsuit against the show and its manager should be dismissed, the Opry's owner said in court documents.
"There is no age discrimination in Opry scheduling relating to Stonewall Jackson or anyone else," Gaylord Entertainment Co. said in papers filed Thursday. "Every action taken by Gaylord or Fisher with regard to Jackson was for a legitimate business purpose, not for any improper purpose, and was based on reasonable factors other than age."
Jackson, 74, filed the federal lawsuit last month against Gaylord Entertainment and Opry General Manager Pete Fisher, claiming age discrimination, breach of contract and retaliation. He's seeking $10 million in compensatory damages and $10 million in punitive damages.
Jackson, who has been a member of the show since 1956, had a string of hits in the 1950s and '60s, including the No. 1's "Waterloo" and "B.J. the D.J."
He claims his Opry appearances declined after Fisher was hired in 1998.
Jackson said he approached Fisher on several occasions and was told things like, "I don't want any gray hairs on that stage or in the audience, and before I'm done there won't be any" and "You're too old and too country."
Gaylord said Fisher never made the statements and never tried to eliminate older stars, many of whom remain Opry regulars.
Jackson further alleged in his lawsuit that the reduction in appearances violated the Opry's union contract with The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. He also said it breached a long-standing agreement between the Opry and its stars that in exchange for performing at least 26 times a year - even during the height of their careers when they could make much more money playing tour dates - they could always remain an Opry member.
But Gaylord Entertainment said that while Jackson is a member of the Opry, he has never been an employee of Gaylord.
"Jackson, like other Opry members, is an independent performer, free to accept or decline offers from the Opry to perform on its stage, free to appear elsewhere at any time, and free to earn whatever compensation he can from whatever source," Gaylord stated.
Furthermore, the company said Opry members no longer have to perform 26 times a year to maintain their membership, and haven't for a long time.
Like Jackson, Gaylord Entertainment is free to determine the best mix of performers for any given show and is "not required to invite Jackson or anyone else to perform at any certain show or for any number of performances," the company said.
Jackson has said he depended on his Opry pay and exposure for his livelihood. He estimated a loss in income of at least $1,800 a month.
He also has said he lost his health insurance coverage through the Opry, which was tied to the number of monthly appearances, and suffered humiliation and embarrassment. He claims the hardships led to heart problems.
Jackson's attorney, Kirk Clements, declined to comment in detail on Gaylord's response, but he said there was "nothing surprising" in it.
"It's everything we expected it to be," Clements said Friday. "That's why there is a lawsuit - we don't agree."
Jackson has been a member of the Opry since Nov. 6, 1956, except for a period from 1965 through 1969 when he failed to make the necessary number of appearances, according to Gaylord.
The company said it recently invited Jackson to perform and celebrate on air his 50th anniversary as a member, but he declined.
"Simply stated, Jackson is not an employee of the Opry nor does he behave as if the Opry were his employer. He is only now claiming to be an employee of the Opry (Gaylord) because it is to his perceived immediate benefit to do so. All claims that depend upon Jackson being an employee of the Opry therefore must be dismissed," Gaylord said.
The Opry has been performed since 1925 and has featured an array of country stars through the years, including Hank Williams, Roy Acuff, Minnie Pearl, Marty Robbins, Loretta Lynn and Vince Gill.
JACKSON SUN
PERSONALITIES Monthly Entertainment
Read the PDF file for Press Release
Kenny Loggins
Kenny's new CD, How About Now, Set For February 25th Release
Hollywood, CA February 06, 2007 - Kenny's new CD, How About Now, is set for a February 25th release date!
This newest album, How About Now, finds Kenny in peak vocal form and firmly rooted in the soulful singer-songwriter tradition that's underscored every phase of his extraordinary career. The new disc features 12 original songs infused with Loggins' signature roots rock/country sound with standouts including the moving new hit "How About Now" and a new version of the Loggins & Messina favorite "A Love Song."
"I'm excited to be releasing my new solo album exclusively with Target & 180 Music as it's a chance to reach millions of music lovers and be a part of such a trusted brand," commented Loggins.
Target has long been known as an innovative company whose primary goal is to meet the ongoing needs of their valued "guests." To that end, Target has formed a strategic alliance with 180 Music to create an exclusive line of adult contemporary music called The Spotlight Music Series. How About Now, a Feature Series release, will be hitting store shelves in all 1,449 Target stores nationwide. You'll find it in "Spotlight End-caps," for $9.99.
Stay tuned to www.kennyloggins.com for more details in the days ahead, and of course, exclusive previews for our KL Connection Members!
Upcoming tour dates:
Date Venue Location Sat, Feb 17th 2007 Harrah's Lake Tahoe Stateline, NV Sun, Feb 18th 2007 Harrah's Lake Tahoe Stateline, NV Sat, Mar 3rd 2007 One World Theatre Austin, Texas Sun, Mar 11th 2007 Blaisdell Arena Honolulu, HI Thu, Mar 22nd 2007 North Folk Theatre @ Westbury Westbury, NY Wed, Apr 11th 2007 Hard Rock Orlando, FL Thu, Apr 12th 2007 Kravis Center for the Performing Arts West Palm Beach, FL Fri, Apr 13th 2007 Ruth Eckerd Hall Clearwater, FL Sun, Apr 15th 2007 Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall Sarasota, FL Tue, Apr 24th 2007 Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center Dallas, TX Find Other Kenny Loggins' CDs Here!
Contact:
Loggins, Loggins & Associates
Media - Publicity - Promotion - Marketing
staff@logginspromotion.com
www.logginspromotion.com
Work: 310.325.2800
Fax: 310.427.7333
OpenSeats - Buy Events Tickets Online
Concerts, sports & more!
Roxio Extends Market LeadershipSonic Extends Roxio Market Leadership in 2006 Strong Retail Sales Performance for Flagship Digital Media Applications Easy Media Creator and Toast Novato, California (February 6, 2007) — Sonic Solutions® (NASDAQ: SNIC), the leader in digital media software, today announced its Roxio-branded applications were number one in U.S. retail in 2006. According to NPD Group figures, which track retail sell-through in North America, Roxio applications led the category in terms of both units and revenue with 28% and 42% market share respectively. Sonic’s retail leadership was driven in 2006 through number one category rankings for Roxio-branded applications on both the Macintosh and Windows platforms. Roxio Toast led the way as the premier CD and DVD creation suite on the Mac, while Roxio Easy Media Creator was the clear digital media software choice for Windows users.* “We are extremely pleased with our retail leadership that now spans almost a decade,” said Chris Loeper, vice president of Worldwide Retail Sales, Roxio division of Sonic Solutions. “Particularly gratifying is our remarkable revenue market share, a full 19% more than our closest competitor, proving that our applications continue to command a premium price point. With Roxio applications featuring prominently in Microsoft’s Vista launch activities and robust channel-wide marketing programs, we fully expect to extend our market leadership position through 2007.” Sonic’s distribution network now spans over 12,000 store fronts throughout North America and includes key placement in leading retail and e-tail outlets including CompUSA, Best Buy, Costco and Apple retail stores. The company also has retail and online distribution throughout Europe and Asia-Pacific countries. “We’re pleased to offer Roxio’s products at our CompUSA stores,” said Virginia Hodges, vice president, merchandising for CompUSA. "Roxio has a long history of delivering products with compelling features and that's a key reason why we continue to provide our customers with their high value software." About Sonic Solutions Sonic Solutions (NASDAQ: SNIC; http://www.sonic.com) is the leader in digital media software, providing a broad range of interoperable, platform-independent software tools and applications for creative professionals, business and home users, and technology partners. Sonic's products range from advanced DVD authoring systems and interactive content delivery technologies used to produce the majority of Hollywood DVD film releases, to the award-winning Roxio®-branded CD and DVD creation, playback and backup solutions that have become the premier choice for consumers, prosumers and business users worldwide. Sonic products are globally available from major retailers, online at Sonic.com and Roxio.com, and are bundled with PCs, after-market drives and consumer electronic devices. Sonic's digital media creation engine is the de facto standard and has been licensed by major software and hardware manufacturers, including Adobe, Microsoft, Scientific-Atlanta, Sony, and many others. Sonic Solutions is headquartered in Marin County, California. Sonic, the Sonic logo, Sonic Solutions, Roxio, Toast, and Roxio Easy Media Creator are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sonic Solutions or its subsidiaries in the United States and/or other countries. All other company or product names are trademarks of their respective owners and, in some cases, are used by Sonic Solutions under license. *Market share numbers based on NPD Group 2006 point of sales revenue and unit data for the CD/DVD Utilities category. Forward Looking Statements The above paragraphs of this press release may contain forward looking statements that are based upon current expectations, including views regarding future retail market opportunities and the potential for Roxio applications. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward looking statements as a result of various risks and uncertainties, including those discussed in the Company's annual and quarterly reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This press release should be read in conjunction with the Company's most recent annual report on Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and other reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which contain a more detailed discussion of the Company's business including risks and uncertainties that may affect future results. The Company does not undertake to update any forward looking statements.
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Jack Blanchard & Misty Morgan
A SONG WITH A SEQUEL.
This is the only instance in which I wrote a song
and later continued the story with another song...
a sequel
The first one concerning this couple was
"There Must be More to Life (than Growin' Old)".
They were caught in a familiar life trap.
Part 1.
THERE MUST BE MORE TO LIFE
(Than Growin' Old)
Sky full of factory smokestacks...
Hot cinders paint the snow black.
Turn up my collar to the cold.
My old boots are wet and dirty.
Missed my bus at seven-thirty.
There Must Be More To Life Than Growin' Old.
Each day seems like the last one;
Each year, just like the past one;
As if they stamped them from a mold.
Somehow it seems to be
The only change is you and me.
There Must Be More To Life Than Growin' Old.
There Must Be More To Life Than Growin' Old.
What happened to the dreams we used to hold?
We never asked for cities paved with gold.
There must be more to life than growing old.
There Must Be More To Life Than Growin' Old.
* * *
In the second song they are "breaking out"
as painful as the process is.
They aren't angry at each other...
just tired and disappointed.
I think sad songs can help troubled people
by showing them they aren't alone.
We hope the man and woman in these songs
find their way to better times.
Here's Part 2.
SECOND TUESDAY IN DECEMBER.
Second Tuesday in December,
icy rain is fallin' down.
I took the bus out to the city line,
and then I watched it turn around.
Now as I walk down past the junkyard
by the closed-up drive-in show
I realize that really leavin'
is the only way I'll ever go.
It was the seventh of September,
nineteen hundred sixty nine...
95 degrees and risin',
we crossed the Pennsylvania line.
We paid a judge our last ten dollars
to bless us with his legal seal.
I guess that puttin' love on paper
doesn't always make it real.
Second Tuesday in December,
icy rain is comin' down.
All the snow that's left from Monday
lies gray and frozen on the ground
It's hard to understand this feeling
that a part of me is gone.
Second Tuesday in December...
looks like winter's comin' on.
* * *
Click here to hear the second song:
http://www.kokosuniverse.com/avi/jm/wma/second_tuesday.htm
Jack Blanchard
© 2007.
--
THE JACK BLANCHARD & MISTY MORGAN HOME PAGE:
http://jackandmisty.com
OUR ONLINE CD CATALOG:
http://www.elvinsystems.com/jm/catalog.htm
Ken OvercastHowdy ,
I'm sorry for the impersonal note, but I need to ask a little favor. I recorded a tune called "Montana Lullaby" a few years ago, and have just received the good news that legislation has been introduced in the Montana House of Representatives by Representative Wayne Stahl to designate it as the "Official Montana State Lullaby." If you're one of my Montana friends, I'd sure appreciate it if you'd call your senator and representative and ask them to vote in favor of it.
Its official legislative number is HB 594. The idea to honor our song was originally hatched by Lonnie Bell of radio station KGHL in Billings and Maurice Deverill, a director of the Yellowstone County Museum. They're the ones responsible for getting the ball rolling. Here was Sunday's article about it in the Billings Gazette: Read
What an honor it is to even have this under consideration. Here's a little history:
The tune originated as yodel recorded by Wylie Gustafson in the late 1990's. Wylie's version didn't have any lyrics at all.... just a beautiful yodel. I worked over the tune a little and added lyrics and then recorded it on my Montana Cowboy CD in 2000. Here's where you can listen to a little clip of the original cut in case your memory is a little fuzzy: Listen
It was a real favorite with the listeners to Lonnie Bell's Classic Country radio program, and he was constantly getting requests for air play. When the decision was made to proceed with pursuing the official Montana designation, Lonnie and Maurice thought the song needed another verse, so I recorded a new verse and chorus in Nashville just before Christmas. I'll be performing "Montana Lullaby" during the regular Montana Legislative Session at 1:00 PM this Wednesday, February 14th so that the legislators can make a decision.
If you're not one of my Montana friends, thanks for your friendship through the years (this is just in the way of news for you), but IF you are from our fair state, I'd like to ask your help in encouraging our legislators to vote for HB 594, designating, "Montana Lullaby" by Ken Overcast and Wylie Gustafson as the official lullaby of the State of Montana.
You may also go to the legislative website at www.leg.mt.gov or call 1-406-444-4800 and leave a message for Wayne Stahl.
Thanks.
Keep Smilin',
....and don't forget to check yer cinch.
Ken
Bear Valley Records
PO Box 1542
Chinook, MT
59523
US
Buy "Montana Cowboy"
and more of Ken's CDs Here
D'RamirezIt became official when we received the phone call from the Lt. Governor of Tennessee’s office in Nashville today. Dee has been invited to perform “The Lord’s Prayer” in song for the opening of the March 1st session of the Tennessee State Senate. She will be introduced to the Senate by Senator Raymond Finney.
Jim
caloopie@charter.net
Shawn Michael Perry & Multi-Cultural Band - SET for SEDONA
Los Angeles, CA February 05, 2007 - Shawn Michael Perry & Only The Brave is set to perform at the Sedona Jam Emerging Artists Music Festival, celebrating the birth of music.
“Sedona . . . has always been a little bit renegade. What a perfect fit, what a perfect backdrop for a music festival heralding the new trends in listening - an emerging artists music festival. Attend the first year of what will become another arts and culture legend in Sedona.” - Sedona Jam www.sedonajam.com
“. . . Innovative emerging music, performed as it was meant to be; from the very soul of the artist.” - Irving Mills Music Publishing Co.
Shawn Michael Perry’s one-of-a-kind, mesmerizing performance at the Sedona Jam will be on Saturday, Feb 10, 2007. Playing with Shawn will be a multi-cultural group of award-winning musicians.
Hunter RedDay, a Dakota / Navajo, who even in youth spoke the wisdom of a Native Revolutionary will be on Percussion.
Dig Lewis will play Bass. Dig, the remarkable musician, composer, and conductor, etc. has toured extensively with major performing artists such as Stevie Wonder, George Benson, and John Mellencamp. Dig’s company, Syncmasters worked on the scores for “March of the Penguins” and “Apocalypto.” Dig is originally from Puerto Rico and now lives part time in the South of France. Shawn Michael Perry’s company “All That Culture: Music Of The Americas” is honored to work with Dig, a natural teacher, because of his work with students about musical scoring on television and films.
Brook Emelio - a young sensation from Samoa, the former defensive lineman for the Louisville Cardinals, will be on the Drums.
Mike Tovar, whose ancestry includes Spanish, the Tohono O‘odham Tribe of Native Americans (Desert People), and Safardic, will play Lead Guitar. His credits include “Food For Feet” and “Star Nayea.”
Shawn Michael Perry is working on his new record “Hungry-4-Heroes“. His ballad "Forever" is racing up the radio charts. His new country version of “Forever” will be ready for the Country Radio Seminar February 28, 2007 in Nashville, Tennessee.
For more information visit Shawn Michael Perry's website at www.shawnmichaelperry.com or www.shawn-m-perry.freeservers.com
For radio interviews and servicing contact: Loggins Promotion at 888-325-2901 or email staff@logginspromotion.comContact info:
Backstage Entertainment
Media - Publicity - Promotion
staff@backstageentertainment.net
MIDLANDS MUSIC FESTIVAL RETURNS
WITH MORE MUSIC MIX AND NEW LOCATION
‘The MIDLANDS Music Festival – returns this year, with a brand new location and an even more diverse musical mix on Saturday July 28th/ Sunday 29th July 2007. Tickets and camping for the festival went on sale Saturday 9th December, at 9.00am.
Considered one of the best contemporary music festivals last summer, Midlands was the first of its kind in Europe with a stellar line up of some of the worlds’ country greats including Emmylou Harris, Glen Campbell, Dwight Yoakam and Kenny Rogers . This year's festival promises to be even better with an even more diverse mix of music and a brand new location, equally as stunning but even more central than last year.
Only 50 minutes from Dublin, Belvedere House is set on a 160 acre estate, of magnificent parkland, lakeshore walks and woodlands, located on the outskirts of Mullingar town, Co.Westmeath, is a perfect setting for this year’s Midlands festival. And with its instant accessibility, numerous hotels and B&Bs on its doorstep, and a layout that will enable organisers to locate the camping site even closer to the stages, this new venue is sure to be a hit for all who attend.
And even more good news, promoters have promised an even more diverse line up than last year. The festival will cater for all tastes, and all ages, keeping the country element for which its famous, but also extending the musical reach. There will be the usual international country greats both mainstream and more diverse; in addition the promoters will introduce what’s best in traditional , contemporary and World Music.
"We will deliver the best possible line up and setting for Midlands. We have listened to all your comments from the Midlands this summer and taken heed. Challenged and eager to deliver on last year's success , we have decided to augment the country music lineup to include other musical genres such as World music, ensuring an even greater music mix at Midlands, with the same audience appeal. Last summer's location in Ballinlough proved a stunning backdrop for the festival, however Belvedere House is magnificent and even more accessible from all parts of the country. Camping was a huge part of last years festival and this year there will be even more facilities and it will be much closer to the stages." John Reynolds - Pod Concerts , Darryl Downey- Raglane.
Midlands- where under 12’s go free, will appeal to all ages, with its greater music mix and very special blend of what's best in contemporary music.
Tickets for Midlands, subject to licence will available at usual outlets www.ticketmaster.ie / credit card hotline Ph. 0818719300
or for UK /N.Irl: 08702434455.
Tickets went on sale on Saturday 9th December at 9.00am
Roger Ryan
rogerryan@eircom.net
Roots Music Report Announces New Regional and International Airplay Charts
2/9/07
For more information contact Robert Bartosh at rmr@rootsmusicreport.com
The Roots Music Report, which has long established itself as a leader in reporting and tracking the airplay data of roots based music from around the globe, is pleased to announce the launch of a series of regional and international charts based on globally reported statistics. The data for the charts will be compiled weekly from their database of over 300 individual broadcasters, reporting airplay statistics for roots based music played on individual and syndicated programs worldwide.
Roots Music Report’s general manager, Robert Bartosh, has announced that the RMR has officially launched charts for Texas, California, Illinois, New York and Tennessee. The rest of the charts, covering all 50 states, will be launched in the coming days. (Chart length will depend on the number of artists/projects reported from each region.)
Although there are Texas and Oklahoma based charts in existence, Bartosh explains that the newly introduced charts will bring a new perspective to the impact and potential that regional roots based artists have throughout the world. “Our individual state charts will reflect the airplay artists receive from around the globe, not just the airplay they receive in their home state. For example, the California chart will feature California based artists and bands receiving airplay from our collective reporting stations around the world.”
The RMR will also be publishing international airplay charts for Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom in the near future. The Roots Music Report also compiles the weekly, cross-genre Top 100 Chart for the Roots Music Association.
Regional and national publications, both traditional print and internet based, are encouraged to share the chart statistics with their readers given that the Roots Music Report is cited as the source.
To view the charts or find out more information on Roots Music Report visit them online at www.rootsmusicreport.com
CRS-38 TO OFFER A RECORD NUMBER OF TALENT SHOWCASES THIS YEAR
Jeff Walker - AristoMedia - 615.269.7071 ext. 123 - jwalker@aristomedia.com
Ed Salamon - CRB - 615.327.4487 - Ed_Salamon@crb.org
CRS-38 TO OFFER A RECORD NUMBER OF TALENT SHOWCASES THIS YEAR
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (February 12, 2007) - The talent line-up for this year's Country Radio Seminar ® (CRS-38) continues to grow. Sony BMG recording artist, Gretchen Wilson has been added to the ASCAP sponsored KCRS Live! which is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 28th. She will join John Anderson, John Rich, Rivers Rutherford and Craig Wiseman in what promises to be a crowd pleasing event.
Wednesday's schedule at CRS-38 is rich with musical entertainment for attendees. There will be a morning showcase featuring the multi-platinum band Little Texas (Montage Music). The Wednesday Curb/Curb Asylum Luncheon will feature newcomer Lee Brice and a special surprise guest. Later there will be an afternoon performance by Baccerstick Records artist Jason Meadows.
Wednesday evening, Toby Keith will headline and host the 3rd Annual Music City Jam ™ which is sponsored by the Academy of Country Music and United Stations Radio Network. Officials from the Toby camp say to expect "several surprise guests". Late-night on Wednesday, 903 Music will present Neal McCoy, Darryl Worley and the Drew Davis Band.
Thursday morning, March 1, Equity Records' Carolina Rain will sing the National Anthem as part of the CRS-38 opening ceremony and keynote address. Thursday’s luncheon, sponsored by Sony/BMG will feature Terri Clark (BNA Records) and Nashville Star Chris Young (RCA Records).
On Thursday afternoon, BMI and Country Aircheck co-sponsor the WCRS Live! songwriter’s showcase with in-the-round performances by Sarah Buxton, Pat Green, the legendary Mac Davis and host Jeffrey Steele.
Thursday evening from 7:00-11:30p.m., CRS-38 will host an evening of nine artist showcasing at the Wildhorse Saloon sponsored by The Marketing Groups/Impact Radio Networks. This is a new event that will allow registrants access to the second floor of the Wildhorse for VIP seating. Attendees will hear new music from American Idol contender Bucky Covington (Lyric Street Records), Emerson Drive (Midas Records), and two hot newcomers from Category 5 records, Donovan Chapman and Jerrod Neiman. Also performing will be Luna Chica Records artists Burrito Deluxe, and BGM records group Lantana. Rounding out this outstanding bill are Rhonda Townes (Dawn Records), Jamie Lee Thurston (Permian Records) and Chelsea Field.
Also Thursday night, Big Machine Records and Mediabase will host the Big Night Out in the West Ballroom of the Renaissance Hotel. The Big Night Out will feature performances by Big Machine Records artists Dusty Drake, Jimmy Wayne, Danielle Peck, Sunny Sweeney, Britton Jack and the recently gold-certified Taylor Swift. Mega-hit songwriter Jeffrey Steele will also make a special guest appearance.
Friday's luncheon, sponsored by Capitol Records, will offer performances by Trace Adkins and Luke Bryan. Friday evening, the New Faces Of Country Music ® show will spotlight artists who have achieved national prominence in the past year as chosen by CRS attendees. Filling the highly coveted performance spots for the evening are Rodney Atkins (Curb), Eric Church (Capitol), Jack Ingram (Big Machine), Miranda Lambert (Columbia) and Trent Tomlinson (Lyric Street). ABC Radio Networks' host of American Country Countdown, Kix Brooks, will act as Master of Ceremonies for CRS-38's crowning event.
Other late night showcases will provide a diverse array of talent including Craig Morgan and Crossin' Dixon (Broken Bow Records), Emerson Drive and Lindsey Grant (Midas Records), The Road Hammers (Montage Music), Marty Raybon (Dakota Sky Records ) and Memarie, Kevin Sharp and Brad & Shelly (Cupit Records).
CRS-38 will be held February 28 through March 2, 2007 at the Nashville Convention Center. Complete seminar information may be obtained by contacting CRB, Inc. at 615.327.4487 or by visiting www.crb.org. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.
SizzleFizzle & MakeAStar Join Forces
GET PAID for promoting your music!
That's right! For a limited period, you will be paid for simply uploading your songs, photos and music videos to SizzleFizzle. When you enter a FREE contest, not only there is no cost for entering the contest, but you will also get paid 50 cents for each song you upload! Or upload your music video and get paid $1! SizzleFizzle is the only site that pays you to promote your music! You and your family members can also enter any photo contest on the site and earn 5 cents per upload! How cool is that?Win $1000 cash in 4 days!
Submit your song to the “Best Songwriter” contest and walk away with $1000 cash in just 4 days! The contest will be judged by our panel of expert judges in 3 criteria of Music, Lyrics and Marketability.
Your Fan votes will also have a say in the outcome (fan votes counts for 5% of the total vote.)
You will also be able to view the demographic data of your voting fans.Fans! Be a part of making your favorite singing artist a star with your vote!
Rustie Blue
Chance To WIN IFCO Memberships and more!
Two winners will each receive a 1 year Membership to the IFCO, a Chip Chip CD, a Rustie Blue quartz clock and poster, and, an advanced copy of Born Again Country, once completed and before it's release date! (all items signed). To enter, go to Rustie's website at http://www.rustieblue.com and sign the guestbook, mentioning "IFCO" (the International Fan Club Organization http://www.ifco.org) in your commnents. You will automatically be entered in the Give-a-way drawing; WINNERS to be announced on March 15th via Rustie's website.
Rustie Blue has released “Don’t Come Cryin’,” from the Chip Chip album. “Don’t Come Cryin’” can also be found on Mark Trail’s comp disc #21. The new single is also going for ADDS at New Music Weekly and radio can download it at http://www.airplayonly.com “Don’t Come Cryin,’” written by Bobby Atkins, is sassy country/rock song with lots of attitude. “When I first heard the demo, I immediately loved it!” says Rustie. “I did change the song quite a bit from the demo to make it more my own.”
You won’t see Rustie come cryin’, even though she is accident prone! At a recent show, Rustie was on stage helping sweep off some music speakers and got her hair caught in a hand held Dirt Devil sweeper. It completely rolled up on top her head! Rustie doesn't need to add any comedy to her show because it comes natural!
Born Again Country is scheduled to be released this spring.
MP3s of "Don’t Come Cryin’", a copy of the Chip Chip album, interviews, and print quality photos available to media by request. Rustie Blue's music is also available on our media only download page.
Buy the CD, Chip, Chip
Don’t Come Cryin" Song Clip
More Rustie Blue CDs Here
www.rustieblue.com
Electronic Press Kit
Thanks so much!
Center Stage Productions
Robert D. Keister
512 West Sixth Ave.
Lancaster, OH 43130
740.653.1916
http://www.rustieblue.com
Skyla Spencer's AFE Tour boa to be auctioned
BOA, CD, and Autographed Photo in up-coming Auction
Skyla Spencer is auctioning off her boa worn in the 2006 Armed Force Entertainment Tour. Skyla traveled in the pacific to Guam, Japan, Singapore, and Diego Garcia singing and entertaining the troops. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the Loretta Johnson Medical Fund. The auction is being held at www.ifco.org.
Performing a total of 13 two hour shows during the tour, Skyla lit up the stage with her high energy shows. She performed at Navy, Army, Marine, and Air Force bases. Many soldiers, when off duty, came and watched the shows and were very excited about having a country artist from home.
Skyla's current single is an original titled “One More Chance," which is on her debut full-length album, You Said You’d Call Me. Skyla says “this song talks about losing someone dear to you and wanting a second chance. I think we all, at one time or another in our lives, wish we had another chance to make things right with someone. Sometimes it is too late, but we cling to the hope that it's not, and that we will will be given “one more chance.”
For more information, MP3s, the You Said You’d Call Me album, print quality photos, her EPK, or to schedule an interview, contact Laura Claffey with Wildfire Publicity at Laura@wildfirepublicity.net or 615-825-0019. MP3s are also available to radio on our download page or through Airplay Direct.
Buy "You Said You'd Call Me" Here!
www.SkylaSpencer.com
www.numberonemusic.com/skylaspencer.comWildfire Publicity
WildfirePublicity@comcast.net
PO Box 558, Smyrna, TN 37167
Phone: 615-825-0019; Fax: 760-437-4633
http://www.wildfirepublicity.net
Robert Mizzell.
When speaking to Robert Mizzell you can really sense the enthusiasm and passion that he has for country music. Louisiana born and now based in Ireland, Robert has become one of the leading lights on the Irish music circuit.
Robert was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, once home to the famous Louisiana Hayride, which rivalled the Grand Ole Opry in popularity and also provided a start for many future country music luminaries such as Hank Williams and Johnny Cash, and even Elvis performed one of his earliest shows there. All this, plus the fact that both his Father and Mother were gospel singers, proved to be the main influences in Robert’s early years growing up in Shreveport.
But it wasn’t until he moved to Ireland that he really decided to make a fulltime career in the music business.
"George Jones is, and always has been my favourite country artist, closely followed by the great Merle Haggard, but I must admit that I was completely blown away by the stage performance of Garth Brooks when he came to Ireland. He brought a whole new dimension to the country music scene and was one of the most exciting performers I have ever seen" said Robert.
Being from the state of Louisiana, home of Cajun music, it seemed rather appropriate that he would choose a cajun flavoured song "Say You Love Me" as his first release in Ireland. The song proved to be a massive hit with Irish fans and was instrumental in establishing Robert as one of the leading attractions on the Irish scene.
"But the fact that the song had a cajun flavour wasn’t the reason I chose it" he told me. "No, the first time I heard the song, I thought it had a great beat to it and would prove an ideal tune for dancing, as indeed it turned out to be".
"When I first started out on the Irish scene, the music business was at a low ebb and I had to endure some lean times before the breaks started to come my way. Thankfully the scene did improve greatly, and is now back to where country music is one of the most popular forms of entertainment in Ireland".
There can be no doubting the fact that emergence of Robert as well as other young artists on the Irish scene have helped tremendously in the revival of country music here. "The only problem we have now, said Robert, is the lack of venues to perform in. We have loads of new and exciting performers here, but very few venues to display our talents."
Robert also feels that the Record Companies and our National Radio & TV could be a lot more supportive of Irish artists. He agrees that TG4 is doing its fair share, but he thinks the rest leave a lot to be desired.
"If they all got behind the music and promoted it, I feel it would help tremendously to attract some of the younger generation to come out to our gigs. I fear for the long-term future of the industry if we don’t do something now to attract some of the younger people and thus ensure continuity of the industry for future artists. The news that the Personalities is about to be relaunched on the Irish market should prove a major boost for the Irish country music industry and is welcome news indeed, and it’s important that we in the business should support the it."
When I asked what he thought of the present Irish scene he had this to say. "The scene here at the moment is livelier and better than it’s ever been. We now have a lot of new bands and singers coming on the scene and each of them is contributing to the overall success and expansion of the business. Hopefully this trend will continue for many years to come".
Robert admits that dancing is a very important part of the Irish scene, but he would like to think that in the future he will perform in more concert and cabaret venues. One of the things he would to do is to perform some mid-week concerts throughout Ireland. Robert has also diversified into the country music tour market and has already taken people to Nashville, Portugal, and his home state Louisiana.
"Country music is as popular here in Ireland as it is in Nashville, and I would like to see a major concert of Irish artists being staged at the Point in Dublin. I also think it’s time we had an Annual Awards Show similar to the CMA Awards Show in Nashville. It’s time we gave Irish artists the recognition they deserve.".
Hopefully some, if not all, of Robert’s aspirations for the Irish country music industry will be realised before this year ends.
Tribute to Robert.
Songwriter George Langan of Artane in Dublin has written and recorded a tribute to Robert which he calls Robert Mizzell The Country King.
This gave me the idea to pen the following little ditty, although I doubt if I’ll get any offers to record it.
Robert Mizzell.
He came from Louisianna,
With no Banjo on his knee.
Instead he brought a Guitar,
Which he plays for you and me.
He dresses up in cowboy boots,
And he wears a cowboy hat.
And when he finishes every gig,
He’s ready for a chat.
He hails from Cajun country,
And he has a country band.
He’s recorded some hit records,
And he’s known throughout the land.
Robert, Robert, his fans all cry,
We want to hear you sing,
That song called "Say You Love Me",
And joy to our heart’s you’ll bring.Roger Ryan
rogerryan@eircom.net
