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Dave Schmidt's Top 10 Super Country Hits http://www.bright.net/~wkki/country.htm http://www.bright.net/~daveschmidt/country.htm ALABAMA MAKES FINAL STOP AT CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE® "The Last Stand" features previously unreleased live recordings from band's final tour LEBANON, TENN. (November 12, 2007) - Alabama, the most successful group in the history of country music with 42 number one singles, has selected Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. ("Cracker Barrel") as the exclusive home of its final concert tour recordings. On November 13, Cracker Barrel will release Alabama: The Last Stand, a collection of previously unreleased recordings made during Alabama's 2003 farewell tour. Available at all Cracker Barrel locations and online at crackerbarrel.com, this twelve-song, exclusive CD features several of Alabama's biggest hits, including The Closer You Get, Old Flame, Forty Hour Week, Feels So Right and The Fans. "There are magical moments on this CD because these songs come straight from my heart," said lead singer Randy Owen. "I remember seeing the lights on the crowd when we did Feels So Right. We started the song with a piano and the crowd went wild when we got to the melody. I feel like we owe it to our fans to share this music with them." Through three decades of recording and touring, Alabama sold more than 73 million records. Shortly after signing their first record deal, Alabama charted its first number one single, beginning a string of 21 consecutive number one hits. The band received more than 150 country music industry honors including an unprecedented five consecutive "Entertainer Of The Year" awards from the Academy of Country Music. In 2005, Alabama was inducted into the Country Music Hall Of Fame. "Having this CD at Cracker Barrel is a natural for us," said bassist Teddy Gentry. "I remember eating breakfast at Cracker Barrel when Randy told us we were being inducted into the Country Music Hall Of Fame. I am in Cracker Barrel just about every day, and we're proud to have our CD at Cracker Barrel." The Last Stand is the fourth exclusive CD released by Cracker Barrel in 2007, following Josh Turner's Live At The Ryman, Merle Haggard's Working Man's Journey, and Lonestar's My Christmas List. Previous Cracker Barrel releases include Alison Krauss & Union Station, Sara Evans, Charlie Daniels, Amy Grant and Songs Of The Year. The Alabama release further builds Cracker Barrel's growing reputation as the home of authentic country music. Since creating its own music label in 2003, Cracker Barrel has sold more than three million CDs. "Cracker Barrel has great food and I've noticed how people are always checking out the music in the store," said guitar & fiddle player Jeff Cook. "This is the first new record from Alabama in three years and I think it will do very well." "This Alabama CD continues our tradition of offering unique country music to our guests," said Simon Turner, Cracker Barrel's Chief Marketing Officer. "Millions of people attended Alabama concerts during the band's three decades of touring. These songs will bring back the memories of a night filled with great music and entertainment."

Top 10 Super Country Hits - September 23rd, 2007 - 38th Survey - Fifth Year songs rated based on points system from radio and tv play Artist/Song * 1 - Toby Keith - Love Me If You Can * 2 - Brad Paisely - Online * 3 - Reba McEntire with Kelly Clarkson - Because of You * 4 - Rascal Flatts - Take Me There * 5 - Luke Bryan - All My Friends Say * 6 - Dierks Bentley - Free & Easy * 7 - Kenny Chesney - Don't Blink * 8 - LeAnn Rimes - Nothin Better To Do * 9 - Sara Evans - As If * 10 - Garth Brooks - More Than A Memory Hot Rising Single Faith Hill - Red Umbrella Keep An Eye On Single Dolly Parton - Better Get To Livin Mike Curb Family Foundation, Belmont University and the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Foundation Partner to Celebrate the Songwriter Partnership Plans for 34 Music Square East to Honor Past, Present and Future of Songwriting in Nashville NASHVILLE, TENN. (September 20, 2007)-- The Mike Curb Family Foundation, Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business at Belmont University and the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Foundation announced a major new partnership designed to create visibility and understanding for the foundation of the music industry – songwriting. Through the generosity of the Curb Family Foundation and its commitment to preserve the history of the music industry in Nashville, a new songwriting major in the Curb College and the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame both have a permanent home on Music Row. Located in the historic building at 34 Music Square East, former home of the Quonset Hut, Columbia Studio A, Columbia and Epic Records and Sony Music Nashville, songwriting students at Belmont will have front row seats to the thriving music industry of today, as well as its history. The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame will become the first organization honoring songwriters to emerge from a virtual entity to one with a physical location, also making its home at 34 Music Square East. “We are excited that this site offers a further extension of the Curb College throughout Music Row, starting with Ocean Way, which provides students access to the finest recording studio in the country, extending to RCA Studio B, the historic home of great hit records by Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Jim Reeves, the Everly Brothers, Roy Orbison and Waylon Jennings,” Mike Curb said. “Belmont students can now further enrich their education of this industry’s history in Nashville in the historic Columbia Records Building and the historic Quonset Hut Recording Studio, the first recording studio on Music Row where great artists such as Marty Robbins, Sonny James, Patsy Cline and Brenda Lee recorded numerous hit records. This new Music Row extension of the Curb College will provide students with an incredible opportunity to learn about the history of music through the new history professorship, songwriting through the new songwriting major and many other aspects of the music business.” Dolly Parton, who counts membership in the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame among her highest accolades, was present for the announcement. “I’m just a poor wayfaring songwriter proud to finally have a home,” Parton said. “I’m very excited about the new Hall of Fame.” Belmont University is one of the first accredited universities in the nation to offer a major in songwriting. Made possible in part by collaboration between Belmont and the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Foundation, the major’s first semester introductory courses in August 2007 were filled to capacity with 50 student songwriters registering. Award-winning Nashville songwriting veterans Tom Schuyler and Bob Regan teach the classes, joining an impressive roster of faculty members in the Curb College, including Mark Volman, founding member of the Turtles, and Dove Award-winning songwriter James I. Elliott, coordinator of the songwriting major at Belmont. The mission of the songwriting major in the Curb College is to help students develop artistic crafts while gaining a practical understanding of the business aspects of a songwriting career. Students in the songwriting program take courses in songwriting, music theory and ear training, music publishing and studio production. Student songwriters will also be required to complete mentorships with professional songwriters. “Belmont has a distinguished reputation for educating students working in Nashville’s music industry,” Belmont President Bob Fisher said. “We are honored to be a member of this partnership with the Curb Family Foundation and Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Foundation to advance the cause of songwriting and contribute to the continued success of the art by educating the next generation of songwriters in our esteemed Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business.” Students majoring in songwriting at Belmont will not need to look far for mentors and inspiration. With the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame also housed in the 34 Music Square East building, students will have close proximity to the hall and its resources, as well as invaluable opportunities to learn from its members. Induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, established in 1970, is considered the highest honor that can be bestowed on a songwriter with connections to the Nashville music community. “The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Foundation is honored and excited about this partnership and the synergies it presents,” said Roger Murrah, the foundation’s chairman and a 2005 inductee of the Hall of Fame. “We helped design the curriculum for the songwriting major, and our members are willing and available to share our experiences with aspiring writers. We hope we’re also a source of inspiration for them. This partnership gives us a chance to give back.” The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame currently boasts 162 members, including songwriting luminaries such as Bill Anderson, Gary Burr, Johnny Cash, Rodney Crowell, Sonny Curtis, Bob Dylan, Don & Phil Everly, Vince Gill, Harlan Howard, Bob McDill, Roger Miller, Bill Monroe, Roy Orbison, Dolly Parton, Carl Perkins, Jimmie Rodgers, Cindy Walker, Jimmy Webb and Hank Williams, Sr. The Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit foundation that owns and operates the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. The NaSHOF’s principal purposes are to educate, archive, celebrate and honor the legacy of songwriting that is uniquely associated with the Nashville music community. The Mike Curb Family Foundation is dedicated to music education and preservation of historic music sites such as RCA Studio B, The Quonset Hut, Elvis Presley’s first home, The Johnny Cash Museum and the Talley House at Fisk University. For Belmont University: Pamela Johnson Director, University Marketing & Special Initiatives Belmont University (615) 460-6178 johnsonp@mail.belmont.edu For Mike Curb Family Foundation: Liz Cavanaugh VP Publicity/Media Relations Curb Records 615.321-5080 ext.316 lcavanaugh@curb.com For Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Foundation: Karen Byrd Karen Byrd Public Relations (615) 595-1500 karen.byrd@gmail.com Jokers Wild Band www.Jokers-Wild-Band.com The Jokers Wild Band has broken in to the top 100 on the Music Row Country Breakout Chart! "Please Catch Me" is at Number 98. "Please Catch Me," Jokers Wild's second single from their upcoming From Texas With Love cd, is an up-tempo country tune and was written by co-producer and keyboardist Buck Aaron Thomas and lead guitarist Gary Wayne Zaiontz. "If you are so totally in love with that special somebody that they take your breath away every time they enter the room, then this is your song!" says Buck. The Jokers Wild Band, a 6-piece country / rock band, based in San Antonio, Texas, was formed in the first quarter of 2002 and has since entertained crowds from South Texas to Northern Montana. In 2006, Jokers Wild was honored to perform for former President George Bush, Sr. The Jokers Wild Band is scheduled to headline the Admiral Zachary Fisher Birthday Celebration Show at Brook Army Medical Center, Fisher House in Fort Sam Houston, Texas, this Friday, Sept. 21, from 11:00 AM until 4:00 PM. For Additional Information: To request a copy of "Please Catch Me" as an MP3 or cd single, photos, or to schedule an interview, please contact Laura Claffey with Wildfire Publicity at wildfirepublicity@comcast.net . "Please Catch Me" is also available on the Media page by going to the Wildire Publicity website. Radio is encouraged to also contact Jerry Duncan Promotions. The Story Behind Laura Bryna’s “Make A Wish” Recording Artist Inspired By Making Wishes Come True Nashville, TN September 20, 2007 – Equity Music Group’s Laura Bryna is living a wish of her own right now. She just embarked on a 34 city nationwide tour as the show opener for label mate and country music superstar Clint Black and her new single, “Make A Wish,” was released to country radio this week. As the title implies, the story behind this track is truly a magical one. Written by Bryna, Jeff Batson, Steve Williams and Roger Sarchet, the song was inspired by one special wish child that Bryna met while volunteering for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a non-profit organization that grants the wishes of children with life threatening medical conditions. This young girl made such a profound impression on Bryna because her wish was for all of her friends’ wishes to come true. Bryna always remembered this selfless act of love and hope. So much so, that she wanted to put this sentiment in a song to share the message with everyone and hopefully educate people about the mission of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. However, life was not always so rosy for the young woman with the petite frame and powerhouse voice. When Bryna was a young child her father passed away suddenly. The trauma of his unexpected death is thought to have caused her older brother to suffer a brain aneurism and he was hospitalized and in a coma for months. Although Bryna was quite young, she remembers driving to the hospital and hearing country music on the radio. She also remembers seeing famous people visiting the sick children where her brother lay sleeping in a coma. She saw celebrities visiting those patients. When she was older she finally understood why they were there. “I would see all these kids in the hospital with life threatening illnesses and celebrities like Barbara Mandrell and Kenny Rogers would come by and visit them. Seeing the celebrities made the kids so happy and helped them forget about their illness for a while,” says Bryna. From then on, she wanted to become a part of the Make-A-Wish magic and started volunteering for the foundation at 15 years old. No task was too small, she did it all from stuffing envelopes right up to going to the homes of wish children to find out what they wished for and then helped in making those wishes come true. As the opener for Clint Black’s “Up Close and Personal Tour,” Bryna is getting up close and personal with some of her fans after her live performance of “Make A Wish.” One woman, who stood in line after the show in Aurora, IL for an hour to speak with Bryna, thanked her for writing and recording the song, citing that the message wasn’t only for children, but for adults too. The woman had tears in her eyes expressed her appreciation to Bryna and told her that the song really spoke to her, as she was battling cancer herself. Bryna’s single, “Make A Wish,” is from her debut album, Trying To Be Me, due out in January 2008. For more information on Laura Bryna, visit her web site at < http://www.laurabryna.com/ > www.laurabryna.com . CONTACTS: Vanessa Parker-Davis/Splash! PR - news@splashpublicity.com or Jensen Sussman/Equity Music Group - jsussman@equitymusicgroup.com MURRAH MUSIC DEBUTS ON BILLBOARD’S TOP 10 PUBLISHER AIRPLAY CHART Shares Distinction of Being First Nashville-Based Publisher on Chart NASHVILLE, TENN. (September 19, 2007)—Murrah Music Corporation is proud to make its debut at #8 on Billboard’s second-quarter Top 10 Publisher Airplay chart. The chart, topped by conglomerates Universal Music Publishing Group, EMI Music Publishing and Warner/Chappell Music, lists each music publisher’s market share based on radio airplay of songs in its catalog. Independent Murrah Music shares the distinction of being the first Nashville-based publisher on the chart with its neighbor, Big Loud Songs. Murrah Music’s owner, chairman and CEO, Roger Murrah, said, “I couldn’t be prouder of my writers and my staff. It’s because of their efforts that Murrah Music earned this distinction.” Murrah, a Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame honoree, BMI Songwriter of the Year and Songwriter of the Decade (‘90s), formed Murrah Music Corporation in 1990. Within two years, the company was named Billboard Magazine’s Independent Publisher of the Year. With a staff of 18 songwriters, as well as the prolific songwriting contributions of Murrah himself (“We’re in This Love Together,” “Goodbye Time,” “Where Corn Don’t Grow,” “High Cotton,” “Ozark Mountain Jubilee,” “Stranger Things Have Happened,” “Don’t Rock the Jukebox”), the company has continued to flourish. Murrah Music’s catalog includes Academy of Country Music Songs of the Year “I’m Movin’ On,” recorded by Rascal Flatts, and “Keeper of the Stars,” recorded by Tracy Byrd, as well as Billy Currington’s recent #1 hit, “Good Directions,” and Luke Bryan’s current top-5 hit, “All My Friends Say.” Contact: Karen Byrd/Karen Byrd Public Relations Karen.byrd@gmail.com LeAnn Rimes www.Radio4Humans.de On August 28th, 2007, LeAnn Rimes just turned 25, which is quite young for a singer who has already been working in the rock, pop and country music fields. But if you take a look at her success and the awards she has received, it is obvious that she has already set quite a few standards in the music industry. Radio4Humans.de is proud to present an exclusive Interview with LeAnn Rimes on September the 29th, 2007 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm Central Time (North America). The interview will be conducted in English and in German, so the German listeners as well as the international audience can listen to the interview in the language they prefer. At the same time the interview will be broadcast on our partner-stations iWebRadio.com and Radio Music Train. For people who missed the Interview on Saturday, September 29th, there will be a second chance on Sunday, September 30th, from 3:00 am to 7:00 am Central Time (North America) on Radio4humans.de. At that time, the broadcasting-stations of Megaradio2, Countrymusic24, Radio Downtown and iWebRadio.com will be tuned in. MONTGOMERY GENTRY HITS THE STRIP IN THE LAS VEGAS PREMIERE! (Nashville, TN)- Country music super duo MONTGOMERY GENTRY will appear on NBC's smash hit television series "Las Vegas." The two hour season premiere will air September 28th at 9PM EST on NBC starring Josh Duhamel, Molly Sims, James Lesure, Vanessa Marcil and Tom Selleck. Now entering its fifth season, this fast-paced, sexy drama follows the elite Las Vegas surveillance team charged with maintaining the security of one of Sin City's largest resorts and casinos. You can check out Eddie and Troy performing their Top 5 mega hit, "Hell Yeah" for the episode. For more information about the show, visit www.nbc.com/las_vegas . Fresh off their latest CMA nomination for Duo of the Year, Montgomery Gentry is currently touring throughout the country and promoting their latest album, Some People Change. Their new single, "What Do Ya Think About That" is currently climbing the country music charts. For more information on Montgomery Gentry, please visit www.montgomerygentry.com. Lisa Hartman Black Makes Another Guest Appearance On Clint Black’s Tour Actress/Singer To Perform With Her Husband Nashville, TN September 17, 2007 – Lisa Hartman Black will take the stage with her husband Clint Black in a special performance at his upcoming Milwaukee, WI, concert (October 4th). Black kicked off his Up Close and Personal Tour August 23rd, and will continue on the road through mid-November. Hartman Black will join her country music superstar husband on two songs: the award winning “When I Said I Do,” and a brand new duet titled “You Still Get To Me.” This song, as well as Black’s current single, “The Strong One,” will be featured on Black’s next CD release, due in February 2008 from his label, Equity Music Group. “I'm so happy Lisa's coming to the show in Milwaukee,” Black said. “When she walks on stage, the show quality goes way up. I'm trying to get her out to more shows but it really depends on our daughter's activities. Maybe if I had a school bus on the tour... then they could both come out the whole time!” Fans at the Riverside Theatre in Milwaukee, WI, are in for an extraordinary treat. For additional tour and ticket information, please visit www.clintblack.co CONTACTS: Jennifer Bohler/Alliance jballiance@comcast.net Jensen Sussman/Equity Music Group jsussman@equitymusicgroup.com Dave Schmidt's Top 10 Super Country Hits Podcast http://supertop10.podomatic.com/ (do not need an iPod to listen to this podcast) InProcess - Borderlands Podcast - (do not need an iPod to listen to this podcast) www.theborderlands.podomatic.com
Top 10 Super Country Hits - September 23rd, 2007 - 38th Survey - Fifth Year songs rated based on points system from radio and tv play Artist/Song * 1 - Toby Keith - Love Me If You Can * 2 - Reba McEntire with Kelly Clarkson - Because of You * 3 - Brad Paisely - Online * 4 - Rascal Flatts - Take Me There * 5 - Dierks Bentley - Free & Easy * 6 - Brooks and Dunn - Proud of the House We Built * 7 - Trace Adkins - I Wanna Feel Something * 8 - Luke Bryan - All My Friends Say * 9 - Keith Urban - I Told You So * 10 - Rodney Atkins - These Are My People Hot Rising Single Craig Morgan - International Harvester Keep An Eye On Single Sugarland - Stay Watch Peter & The Rowers perform "The Devil Went Down To Georgia" at one of the biggest country festivals in Europe VISAGINO COUNTRY in Lithuania. video: Peter & The Rowers - The Devil Went Down To Georgia or click the link : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SF8KN4m91Ss LONESTAR RETURNS TO COUNTRY MUSIC SCENE WITH STOP AT CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE Exclusive holiday CD features new lead singer & eleven new songs; Cracker Barrel to sponsor tour LEBANON, TENN. (September 12, 2007) – After years of touring and releasing platinum selling records, Lonestar has built a strong and loyal following of music fans across the country. The band is about to hit the road again, this time with a new lead singer and a new Christmas CD that's only available at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® locations and online at crackerbarrel.com . "It's an honor to be involved with Cracker Barrel on this project. I can't think of a better combination than Lonestar, Christmas and Cracker Barrel," said Lonestar's Keech Rainwater. "These recordings are a perfect reflection of what Lonestar has evolved into as a group of musicians." Available in early November, this Lonestar CD, titled My Christmas List, will feature a new sound as Cody Collins joins the band as its new lead singer. From the first moment they heard Collins sing, Dean Sams, Michael Britt and Keech Rainwater believed Collins would be an outstanding addition to the band. "Cody is such a strong singer and he brings a lot to the table with his vocal ability," said Michael Britt. "His voice has a believable quality to it that draws you in. We wanted to make sure his talent was highlighted in the best way possible and what ended up coming out still sounded like Lonestar music. It's a perfect fit." In addition to being the exclusive home of the My Christmas List CD, Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. ("Cracker Barrel") will be the presenting sponsor of Lonestar's holiday concert tour. The Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Presents Lonestar's My Christmas List tour begins in November. "Lonestar's new CD is definitely on Cracker Barrel's Christmas list," said Simon Turner, Cracker Barrel's Chief Marketing Officer. "Lonestar has created a unique product that connects Christmas, country music and our heritage. With eleven new recordings on this CD, our guests will enjoy the holidays even more as they discover and experience Lonestar's new sound with lead singer Cody Collins." "Putting this Christmas album together was truly one of the best experiences I have had doing a record in our eleven years recording together," said Dean Sams. "We locked ourselves in my studio for a week and came up with eleven unique, moving arrangements that are guaranteed to put you in the Christmas spirit!" Since forming in 1992, Lonestar has scored 17 hit singles on the Billboard chart, including ten #1 hits and has sold more than ten million records. Three of their CDs went platinum, including 1999's Lonely Grill which went triple-platinum. More success followed in 2003 when "My Front Porch Looking In" was named Billboard's "Most Played Country Song of the Year." With the upcoming release of My Christmas List, Cracker Barrel continues to establish itself as a unique shopping destination for exclusive music. The Lonestar CD joins Cracker Barrel's list of exclusive CDs featuring Josh Turner, Merle Haggard, Alison Krauss & Union Station, Sara Evans, Amy Grant, Charlie Daniels, Songs Of The Year and the Grand Ole Opry® Live Classics series Jordan Leigh to play Grand Ole Opry and YOU are invited. Jordan Leigh Young, who uses the stage name of Jordan Leigh, 15 year old singer and banjo picker from Salvisa, Kentucky, will play the Grand Ole Opry, on September 18, 2007 at 5:30 p.m. You can obtain special tickets by calling the Grand Ole Opry at: 615-871-6937 and saying you are in the Jordan Leigh party. These tickets will also get you into the 7pm Grand Ole Opry show. Jordan was selected by CBS’ the Early Show to live out a “Magic Moment” after her mother submitted a letter telling of Jordan’s love and admiration of Dolly Parton and life long desire of performing the Opry. Jordan has been singing/performing country music since the age of 6, loves bluegrass and country music and picks the 5-string banjo. Setting goals in the beginning, Jordan learned to set new and bigger ones as old ones were accomplished. While obtaining goals and striving for more, her dreams have been to meet Dolly Parton and play the Grand Ole Opry. You can find out more about Jordan by visiting her web-site at www.jordanleighmusic.com Jordan’s performance credits include: Renfro Valley, the Lincoln Jamboree, the Kentucky Horse Park - Kentucky State Fair, Calvin Ray’s Live, the J.D. Crowe Festival and many others plus was awarded the Kentucky Country Music Association’s 2005 & 2006 Female Vocalist and Entertainer of the Year for traditional country music plus the 2006 Duo of the Year and the 2005 & 2006 Bob Owen’s award for community service. Jordan’s love of country music landed her a performance spot at the 2006 Kentucky Music Hall of Fame Inductions ceremony where she shared the stage with many well-known performers such as The Judds, John Connelly, Lilly Tomlin, Dottie Rambo, Bobby Osborne, Dean Osborne, J.D. Crowe, Sam Bush, and others. Enjoy this dynamite young female country singer on Sept. 18th at the Opry as she continues her goal to become part of Nashville’s professional country music scene. Grand Ole Opry - September 18, 2007 at 5:30pm Tickets: Jordan Leigh party – 615-871-6937 (tickets also good for the 7pm Opry Show) To set up an appointment to personally meet Jordan while she is in Nashville please call: 859-366-4362 (2 to 11pm) or mobile: 859-613-6500 or email her at: cyoung@kycom.net 25th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC CONFERENCE www.internationalcountrymusic.org 22-24 May 2008 THE GORDON E. INMAN CENTER. BELMONT UNIVERSITY NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE CALL FOR PROPOSALS The 25th annual International Country Music Conference (ICMC) will be held Thursday afternoon through Saturday, 22-24 May 2008 in The Frist Lecture Hall of the Gordon E. Inman Center at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. Belmont University is located at the south end of Music Row. ICMC solicits proposals in all disciplines related to all aspects of the history and contemporary status of Country Music. ICMC broadly defines Country Music to include variants from Old Time Country, Cajun, Cowboy, Western Swing, and the Nashville Sound to Bluegrass, Honky Tonk, Country Rock, New Traditionalist, Hot New Country, Alternative Country, and the country music tradition in countries outside the United States. Proposals on the educational applications of Country Music from Kindergarten through the collegiate curriculum are also welcome. ICMC is truly international with papers having been presented by scholars from Australia, Canada the Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Japan, and the United Kingdom. All presenters will be expected to pay the $100.00 (U.S.) registration fee which includes excellent luncheons and breakfasts. No form of financial support is available for presenters. Proposals should include: 1. Title of paper. 2. A 75-100 word abstract. 3 Name of presenter(s). 4. Institutional affiliation(s). 5. Complete address(es). 6. Phone and fax numbers. 7. E-Mail address(es). Proposals may be submitted by E-Mail to JAkenson@tntech.edu or sent by conventional mail to James E. Akenson. Box 5042. Tennessee Technological University. Cookeville, TN 38505. U.S.A. Deadline for receipt of proposals is Friday, 26 October 2007. Please note that ICMC coincides with MEMORIAL DAY weekend! Thursday evening, 22 May 2008 will provide an opportunity for attendees to socialize informally, jam together if they are pickers, and to hear a keynote address by a nationally by Ryan Brasseaux and Kevin Fontenot dealing with the 80th anniversary of the first Cajun recording. Friday and Saturday, 22-24 May 2008 will provide a wide variety of presentations dealing with the history and contemporary status of country music. ICMC will also feature the Charles K. Wolfe Memorial panel discussion moderated by Ronnie Pugh. The 2008 Wolfe panel will focus on a 40th anniversary retrospective of the publication of Bill Malone’s “Country Music. U.S.A.” Bill Malone will be a panelist. The Friday, 23 May 2008 luncheon will feature the Belmont University Curb Music Industry Program Country Music Book Of-The-Year Award and the Life Time Achievement Award plus the Charlie Lamb Excellence in Country Music Journalism Awards. Saturday 24 May will feature a special panel on the 75th Anniversary of the death of Jimmie Rodgers featuring Nolan Porterfield and others. Nashville is served by major airlines. Interstates 24, 40, and 65 pass through Nashville. The Holiday Inn Vanderbilt (1-800-HOLIDAY) on West End Avenue and two Hampton Inns (1-800-HAMPTON) on West End Avenue are conveniently located to Belmont University. A complete range of motels serves Nashville. Each may be contacted through their respective 1-800 reservation numbers and web sites. THE GRASCALS TOP BILLBOARD BLUEGRASS ALBUMS CHART WITH LONG LIST OF HEARTACHES IBMA Entertainers of the Year Prepare to Shoot “Mayberry’s Finest” Commercial, Perform on IBMA Awards Show, Fan Fest and More NASHVILLE, TENN. (September 14, 2007)—Rounder recording group The Grascals have taken over the #1 spot on Billboard’s Top Bluegrass Albums chart with Long List of Heartaches (issue date September 22). The album, released in August 2006, debuted at #2 on the chart a year ago, and it earned the group a Grammy® nomination for Best Bluegrass Album. The critically acclaimed release also includes “Did You Forget God Today,” written by Aubrey Holt and featuring harmony vocals by the Jordanaires. The song earned a GMA Dove Award nomination for Bluegrass Recorded Song of the Year, and it is nominated for Gospel Recorded Performance of the Year at the 18th Annual International Bluegrass Music Awards show, to be held on October 4 at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville. The Grascals will perform on the show, where they are also nominated for Entertainer of the Year, an award they first took home last year. In addition to their awards show performance, The Grascals will perform at the annual IBMA Fan Fest and the Grand Master Fiddler Championship on Friday, October 5. They will also perform at the Opry’s Bill Monroe Bluegrass Celebration, to be held at the Ryman Auditorium on October 2, and at the Bluegrass Spectacular at the Nashville Palace on October 3. The Grascals recently partnered with Mayberry’s Finest, a new line of food products featuring 36 Southern-seasoned food items inspired by The Andy Griffith Show. The group wrote and recorded the Mayberry’s Finest jingle, and in the coming weeks will film a television commercial for the product line. They will also perform a free show at the Blackmon Amphitheatre in Mt. Airy, North Carolina, on September 27 as part of the Mayberry Days celebration. For additional information on The Grascals, visit http://www.grascals.com/ . For more information on Mayberry’s Finest, visit www.mayberrysfinest.com . Contact: Karen Byrd/Karen Byrd Public Relations 615-595-1500 Karen.byrd@gmail.com Jennifer Sacca/Rounder Records 617-218-4503 jsacca@rounder.com To Make Impact - Launches Label With Country Artist Ansel Brown Former NFL Pro Bowler Sean Gilbert Heads Up Label Charlotte, NC (September 12, 2007) --"IPAK plans to make an impact in the music business in all genres," says IPAK Records' President, Sean Gilbert. "We are launching the label with the signing of an artist who I believe is an 'All American' country star - Ansel Brown." Gilbert, a former NFL Pro Bowler and legendary defensive lineman (Panthers, Redskins, Rams, Raiders), has become a successful entrepreneur since leaving the NFL. He and Ansel crossed paths on an advertising project and a friendship began as soon as they realized they both shared a deep passion for music. "Over the past three years, I have watched how devoted Ansel is to his musical career," says Gilbert. "It reminded me of my commitment and work ethic when I played in the NFL." Ansel's first single will be released on September 17, and he's been preparing for this debut for several months. Since creating his MYSPACE page just over a year ago, Brown has made amazing inroads, including the creation of "street teams" in nearly 30 states, and surpassing a milestone of over 730,000 plays. Gilbert will begin signing additional artists (gospel, pop & R&B) to the imprint before the end of year. The label, currently operating out of Charlotte, plans to open offices in Nashville in the next 90 days. For more information on IPAK, email Ipakrecords@mac.com or call (704)968-1279. PHOTO CUTLINE: Ansel Brown and Sean Gilbert finalize the deal. (Credit: Ron Deshaies) Additional poses available upon request. To set up interviews, contact: Martha E. Moore so much MOORE media 615.746.3994 somuchmoore@charter.net www.somuchmoore.com From Australia - NICKI GILLIS IN GOLDEN SPOTLIGHT www.nickigillis.com www.myspace.com/nickigillis The incredible talents of NICKI GILLIS have been honoured over the weekend, with the announcement of her being named the 2007 COOPERS GOLDEN SADDLE AWARD winner. Nicki was up against two strong contenders – Aussie troubadour Lee Forster and new talent Markus Meier (Shock Records). The Coopers Golden Saddle Award has put the spotlight on Nicki and her latest single REMEMBER ME, as it rockets up the Top 30 Country Tracks airplay chart, currently sitting in the Top 20. Nicki’s career has gone from strength to strength – having entertained the troops in Iraq, named 2006 Blue Mountains Music Awards Outstanding Contribution to Blues/Jazz Music Award, releasing her acclaimed album LUCY’S DAUGHTER late 2006 under the guidance of producer Roger Corbett, and this year named Open Album and Independent Female Vocalist of the Year at the Horsham Country Music Awards. Her current album has been acknowledged with two hits taken from the album – LEAVIN’ YOU FOR MYSELF (co-written with Kevin Bennett) and the current single REMEMBER ME (co-written with Roger Corbett). Nicki’s golden voice goes hand in hand with her new title, having recently supported James Blundell at Eastside Café, Nicki will be performing at upcoming music festivals in Mildura and Broken Hill. Her new clip for REMEMBER ME will be hitting CMC in coming weeks. From Canada Colleen Rae colleen@colleen-rae.com www.colleen-rae.com Wow is 2007 ever my year for nominations .... Announced on Sept 12, I am nominated for OUTSTANDING COUNTRY RECORDING OF THE YEAR for my debut CD "What You Need Is Me" by the WCMA's (Western Canadian Music Awards). The conference is October 18 - 21, hosted in the heart of downtown Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. The 5th WCMA's will be held on Sunday October 21, 2007. HISTORY ABOUT THE WESTERN CANADIAN MUSIC ALLIANCE The Western Canadian Music Alliance Inc. (January 2003) was formed in late 2002 when the Prairie Music Alliance expanded, inviting the Music Industry Associations of BC and the Yukon to join forces in creating a new entity. While the Western Canada Music Awards, Conference and Festival is a new event, there is a strong sense of history, a legacy of the successes of both Prairie Music Week and the West Coast Music Awards. The vision of developing the infrastructure of a regional music industry is intact and now shared across western Canada. The five participating members of the Western Canadian Music Alliance are the Manitoba Audio Recording Industry Association (MARIA), Saskatchewan Recording Industry Association (SaskMusic), Alberta Recording Industry Association (ARIA), Music BC – The Pacific Music Industry Association, and Music Yukon. For more information visit online at www.westerncanadianmusicawards.ca Dave Schmidt's Top 10 Super Country Hits Podcast http://supertop10.podomatic.com/ (do not need an iPod to listen to this podcast) InProcess - Borderlands Podcast - (do not need an iPod to listen to this podcast) www.theborderlands.podomatic.com
Top 10 Super Country Hits - September 9th, 2007 - 36th Survey - Fifth Year songs rated based on points system from radio and tv play
Artist/Song * 1 - Reba McEntire with Kelly Clarkson - Because of You * 2 - Toby Keith - Love Me If You Can * 3 - Brad Paisely - Online * 4 - Rascal Flatts - Take Me There * 5 - Rodney Atkins - These Are My People * 6 - Brooks and Dunn - Proud of the House We Built * 7 - Dierks Bentley - Free & Easy * 8 - Sugarland - Everyday America * 9 - Garth Brooks - More Than A Memory * 10 - Trace Adkins - I Wanna Feel Something Hot Rising Single Eric Church - Sinners Like Me
Keep An Eye On Single Bucky Covington - It's Good To Be Us
Watch Peter & The Rowers perform "The Devil Went Down To Georgia" at one of the biggest country festivals in Europe VISAGINO COUNTRY in Lithuania.

video: Peter & The Rowers - The Devil Went Down To Georgia

or click the link : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SF8KN4m91Ss

CLAY WALKER'S BAND AGAINST MS CHARITY PARTNERS WITH NATIONAL MS SOCIETY IN NATION'S CAPITAL
Star-studded Guitar Slated for Diplomatic Ambassadors Ball Auction
(NASHVILLE, TN) – Platinum recording artist, Clay Walker recently enlisted some of country music's biggest stars to help battle against Multiple Sclerosis. Walker's non-profit charity, Band Against MS has partnered with the Washington D.C. metropolitan area Chapter of the National MS Society by offering an autographed guitar for auction at the Society's Annual Ambassadors Ball on September 19 in the nation's capital. The Taylor model 210-E guitar bedecked with the authentic signatures of Walker, Alan Jackson, Kix Brooks, Ronnie Dunn and George Strait is one of several items included in the auction. Proceeds from the sale of the instrument will be divided between the National Capital Chapter of the National MS Society and Band Against MS. For more information about Band Against MS visit www.bandagainstms.org

"Band Against MS is thrilled to continue our partnership with the National MS Society" says the charity's Director, Kyle Frederick. "We are sincerely grateful for the good work they do and for the individuals, groups and businesses that support our ongoing effort to fund research and education. We recognize that they are at the core of our endeavor to help find a cure for Multiple Sclerosis."

Traditionally under the Honorary Patronage of the President and First Lady, the Ambassadors Ball is one of the first events on Washington's full social calendar. While raising vital funds for Multiple Sclerosis, the black tie gala hosts members of the Washington Diplomatic Corps, Congressional leaders, and a variety of local and national celebrities. Now in its 29th year, the Ambassadors Ball has raised over $11 million toward a world free of MS. More information is available at www.MSandYOU.org .

Since his recording debut in 1993, Walker has scored 11 number one country hits and sold more than 10 million albums. "Fall" the new single and title track from Walker's eighth studio album is currently climbing the country charts. For additional information on Clay, visit www.claywalker.com
Media Contacts:

Webster & Associates Public Relations
615.777.6995
Kirt Webster x30
kirt@websterpr.com
Chelsey Shults
chelsey@websterpr.com

Lisa Hartman Black Will Be Clint Black’s Special Guest Actress/Singer To Perform With Her Husband
Nashville, TN September 4, 2007 – Lisa Hartman Black will take the stage with her husband Clint Black in a special performance at his upcoming Aurora, IL, concert (September 8th). Black kicked off his Up Close and Personal Tour August 23rd, and will continue on the road through mid-November. Hartman Black will join her country music superstar husband on two songs: the award winning “When I Said I Do,” and a brand new duet titled “You Still Get To Me.” This song, as well as Black’s current single, “The Strong One,” will be featured on Black’s next CD release, due in early 2008 from his label, Equity Music Group.

“Convincing Lisa to perform live was a very special challenge,” Black said. “She has one of the most beautiful voices I have ever heard, but her preference is for as few people as possible to hear it. So, it’s always baby steps for me to get her to sing… first I lure her into the studio to cut the track with promises of it just being a scratch vocal to help me shape the duet. Then I convince her no one else can sing it like she does, so I get it on the CD. You don’t want to know what I have to promise to get her to walk out on a stage with me in front of thousands of people!”

Whatever the promise, fans at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora, IL, will be in for an extraordinary treat.
CONTACTS: Jennifer Bohler/Alliance jballiance@comcast.net
Jensen Sussman/Equity Music Group jsussman@equitymusicgroup.com

CRS-39 Agenda Highlights Released by CRB, INC ®
(Early Bird Registration Accessible at www.crb.org )

(Nashville, Tennessee) September 5, 2007 - The Board and Agenda Committee of the Country Radio Broadcasters released the following details of the Agenda for the Country Radio Seminar (CRS-39), which will be held March 5-7, 2008 at the Nashville Convention Center.

Bob Richards, Program Director of WFMS Indianapolis and CRS-39 Agenda Chairman states, “This Agenda is a great example of how CRS-39 is working to meet its stated goals of providing ideas which will help the business of Country radio and Country music thrive and sustaining the country radio format as a dominant entertainment medium."

The most significant Agenda change this year is the re-structuring of the Wednesday, March 5, activities and the moving of the Keynote address and opening ceremonies from its traditional Thursday morning slot to Wednesday at 10:30 AM. This change necessitated a change in the times of the Artist Radio Tape Sessions (ARTS sponsored by SESAC) which will now be held from 9:00-10:20 AM and 2:00-3:50 PM.

Two panels are scheduled on Wednesday afternoon: The Country Format through the PPM Lens (sponsored by Arbitron) and The Great Debate: To Test or Not To Test.

Other events on Wednesday include music label showcases (4:00-4:50 PM and 9:30-10:30 PM), KCRS-Live (sponsored by ASCAP), The Welcome Reception and the 39th Radio Olympiad (6:30-7:20 PM) and the Music City Jam™ featuring Brad Paisley and guests (co-sponsored by the Academy of Country Music and United Stations Radio Networks).

Thursday’s activities are highlighted by the return on the Small Market track and the introduction of a New Technology track.

The four Technology Tracks will comprise of: Bytes and Bagles (Tech 101), Growing Online, TXT-Texting as a Revenue Generator, Boom or Bust: A Look at the Hot Tech Trends.

The Small Market Tracks include: Small Market Superstars and Flex Your Promo Pec’s.

Other panels rounding out Thursday’s lineup include several that follow up on issues raised during this past year’s CRS (CRS-38). The issues include: The Power of Business En Espanol with author Jose Cancela, This Is Not A Test – Severe Weather Coverage Part II, 60 Seconds: An Awesome Idea Every Minute and Morning Show Marvels.

Professional Development Panels are: How Do I Get To Be “That Guy,” Woman To Woman, Sonic Architecture: It Ain’t Imaging No More and Gen X/Gen Y where Tristian Coopersmith of CAA: The Intelligence Group will present an hour long trendcast on consumer culture and branding.

Thursday also features three music industry centered panels: The Charts and Beyond, I’m Just A Song: The Life of “Good Directions” and Research 101: Callout, Focus, and Music Tests.

Also returning on Thursday are the ever popular WCRS-LIVE from 4:00-5:20 PM (which is co-sponsored by BMI and Country Aircheck), The Exhibit Area Networking Hour from 5:30-6:30 PM (sponsored by BMI), and the Wildhorse Saloon Showcase from 7:00-11:00 PM.

Friday, March 7th kicks off a strong lineup with a Research Presentation and Talent coach Valerie Geller showcasing her “Creating Powerful Radio – Never Lost A Listener” demonstration.

Returning favorites on Friday include: Raising the Bar…No Holds Barred, The Sequel; The Life of a Legend Panel, Two Part Harmony: Making the Most of the Biggest Show in Town, and Extreme Networking (sponsored by Bullseye Marketing)

Other panel highlights: Radio’s New PPM World, Voicetracking: Make It Sound Live, What Women Want and Investing In Your Future: How Radio and Records Can Break An Act.

Events on Friday, March 7th include a special Managers Breakfast (8:00-8:30 AM), The New Faces of Country Music ® Cocktail Reception (5:30-6:15 PM) and at an earlier time of 6:30 PM, the New Faces of Country Music Dinner and Show (co-sponsored by Country Music Association and R&R). Luncheons over the three days will be sponsored by Curb (Wednesday), SonyBMG (Thursday), and Capitol Nashville (Friday). Exhibitor/ Trade Show areas will be open on Wednesday and Thursday.

Complete listings of these panels and confirmed panelists can be found at the Country Radio Broadcasters website http://www.crb.org . As always, the Agenda as listed is subject to modification or change as speakers and panelists are confirmed to participate.

Early bird registration is available online at http://www.crb.org or by contacting the Country Radio Broadcasters offices at 615-327-4487.

CRS-39
March 5-7, 2008
Nashville Convention Center
601 Commerce Street
Nashville, TN 37203
Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of the County Radio Broadcasters, Inc.

Andrew Dean to participate in annual CROP WALK
Andrew Dean to participate in annual CROP WALK in his hometown community. On OCTOBER 14th, 2007 we will again do our part to STAMP OUT HUNGER around the world. ¼ of the total donations will be given to the Gibsonburg Ohio local food pantry. This helps our local community as well as the world. If you would like to walk, please contact Andrew for the details.

If you are unable to walk, but would still like to help out, here's the deal:

For your $25 donation we will give you your choice of CD by Andrew Dean and the Farm Machine, recorded in Nashville Tennessee, Wide Open Dreams or The Harvest. Contact andrewdean@andrewdean.us

Thee American Dream Tour Summertime went great, we met lots of friendly happy people, and even spent a little time with Confederate Railroad backstage in Caldwell Ohio, as well as some good time with Gospel duo Jeff and Sheri Easter in Sidney Ohio. Check out the FALL SCHEDULE online at www.andrewdean.us

We hope to see you at some of the shows.

THANK YOU goes out to all the worldwide radio DJ's who are playing my music. I appreciate each and every one who makes it possible for me to remain on the European Country Music Chart and Roots Gospel Chart.
************
Promoted by 2005 ECMA Promotional company of the year RhonBob Promotions
http://www.rhonbob.com
and Black Hat Productions
info@nitesky.us
http://www.andrewdean.us
************
NITE*SKY RECORDS
"Where the Stars Shine"
http://www.nitesky.us

*All new... Starting in September, the mtm radio sampler cds each individual tracks will now be id'd (artist, title, etc), in overall mastering to help with royalty collections etc.. a service very few if anyone else does...

** M-T-M Radio Sampler Comp CD's are archived Country Music Hall of Fame....
*************
To: artists, publicity, producers & record labels
From: Mark Trail
Mark Trail Music
707 18th Ave South Suite 4
Nashville, Tn 37203
Phone: (615)874-5635
email: mtrail@marktrailmusic.com
web: www.marktrailmusic.com

**see below for some industry feedback on M-T-M Comps!
I am currently putting together Artist Promo Radio Sampler Compilation CD (M-T-M #25) to mail out In mid Sept (cut off deadline 7 Sept) first come first serve bases on paid approved tracks. I also limit the # of tracks on my comps so slots will most likely be booked before the deadline... I am only charging $275.00 (US) to have a song on this compilation, which is a great deal as many of you know and I also guarantee I will mail to the stations that I claim to mail to...

My Cd's have included quality tracks that have included artists such as Tracy Lawrence, Pam Tillis, The Wilkinson's, Deborah Allen, Pete Schlegel, Chris Young, Sylvia, John Berry, Randy Archer, Razzy Bailey, Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, John Foster, Clear Blue 22, Eddie Eastman, Billy Yates, Jerry Reed, Willie Mack, EC&R with George Jones, Jeff Carson, Daryle Singletary, John Arthur Martinez... to name a few.. I am very picky about the quality of what I will accept to send out (all tracks must be approved).. I have a very good reputation with DJ's that I know, for presenting a variety of styles of great country songs and artists.. M-T-M compilation CD is a quality professional promotional CD presented with full details of the tracks on it..

- This is what I am doing for $275.00
a) One of your tracks on the M-T-M compilation #25 which will be sent out to over 600 radio DJ’s, stations, industry professionals & music media etc, in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, parts of Europe, Canada and the US
Approx 120+- Europe, Central and South America
Approx 120- Canada (includes all CCMA source book stations)
Approx 90- Australia, New Zealand & Japan
Approx 290+- US (including all Texas Chart & all Music Row Chart and Americana Chart reporting stations, which I will give you a list with their full contact info)

I am adding new stations all the time to my mailing list that will play indie country artists...
b) your promo picture and website link will be posted on my website
c) I will mail you a 2 copy's of the CD
d) Your music listened to by the right people, possibly aired on radio and reviewed in the music press... a few of my reviewers: Larry Delany - editor of "Country Music News Magazine", Dave Schmidt- newsletter "Dave's super-top 10 hits" & Alan Cacket of Maverick magazine in England..
e) Details of your song, your contact details and other information are included on the sleeve so that media people can contact you direct.

For this low price it represents exceptional value. Not only do you get your music placed onto a quality Radio Sampler Compilation CD, but all prep and postage is done for you. I do it all - saving you time and money. It is a brilliant cost-effective promotion for your act - and at a fraction of the cost of doing it yourself! I operate a very professional and efficient service..

- WHAT DO I NEED FROM YOU?
a) A copy of your track on CD ( mastered copy)..
b) A Short paragraph biography (please email text format) and photo of your act (please email .jpeg),
c) Your contact info for the CD sleeve (e-mail, website, phone number, address),
d) The track info: writer, publisher, & record label details if applicable for the sleeve.

*** This is NOT a record contract - it is a promotional CD

Dave Schmidt's Top 10 Super Country Hits Podcast
http://supertop10.podomatic.com/
(do not need an iPod to listen to this podcast)

InProcess - Borderlands Podcast - (do not need an iPod to listen to this podcast)
www.theborderlands.podomatic.com
Top 10 Super Country Hits - September 2nd, 2007 - 35th Survey - Fifth Year
songs rated based on points system from radio and tv play
Artist/Song
* 1 - Reba McEntire with Kelly Clarkson - Because of You
* 2 - Rodney Atkins - These Are My People
* 3 - Toby Keith - Love Me If You Can
* 4 - Rascal Flatts - Take Me There
* 5 - Brooks and Dunn - Proud of the House We Built
* 6 - Sugarland - Everyday America
* 7 - Dierks Bentley - Free & Easy
* 8 - Brad Paisely - Online
* 9 - Trace Adkins - I Wanna Feel Something
* 10 - Luke Bryan - All My Friends Say
Hot Rising Single
Garth Brooks - More Than A Memory
Keep An Eye On Single
Kellie Pickler - Things That Never Cross a Man's Mind
Watch Peter & The Rowers perform "The Devil Went Down To Georgia" at one of the biggest country festivals in Europe VISAGINO COUNTRY in Lithuania.

video: Peter & The Rowers - The Devil Went Down To Georgia

or click the link : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SF8KN4m91Ss

Emerson Drive Gets CMA Nods and Appears on Hit TV Show “LA Ink”
Nashville, TN – Emerson Drive found out about their two CMA nominations this morning while rolling down the highway. “We got the wake up call of the year this morning!! We were on our bus headed to our gig in Ohio when we got a call telling us about our CMA nominations for Vocal Group of the Year and Music Video of the Year. What a great way to wake up!” says Brad Mates of Emerson Drive.

Emerson Drive has been busy lately. They just taped an episode of the new hit TV series on TLC called “LA Ink.” The band will be featured for the entire hour while they get “inked” to celebrate their very first #1 record “Moments.” The band treats Kat Von D and her team of talented tattoo artists to an acoustic version of the hit song. The episode will air on Tuesday Sept. 4th. The series debut of “LA Ink” was the highest debut rated in the history for TLC, which connects with more than 94 million homes in North America alone.

Emerson Drive will be the show opener for the CCMA Awards which will be broadcasted on Great American Country on Monday Sept. 10th. The band is nominated for four CCMA awards in the categories of Single of the Year, Album of the Year, CMT Video of the Year and Group or Duo of the Year. The band also has 5 nominations for the CCMA All Star Band.

The band’s new single “You Still Own Me” was recently released to country radio and their hot summer tour is resulting in sold out and record-breaking crowds.

For more information on Emerson Drive log onto www.emersondrive.com or www.myspace.com/emersondrive

TRACY LAWRENCE CONTINUES AN AMAZING YEAR OF ACHIEVEMENT WITH CMA AWARD NOMINATION FOR MUSICAL EVENT OF THE YEAR
“Find Out Who Your Friends Are” Still Hot On The Airwaves One Year After Its Release

NASHVILLE, TN-August 30, 2007-Country music superstar Tracy Lawrence continues to carve out an amazing year of achievement with the announcement today of his nomination in the CMA's Musical Event Of The Year category for the song “Find Out Who Your Friends Are” featuring Tim McGraw and Kenny Chesney. Lawrence has spent the past year blazing a new path and the announcement that he is one of the CMA's finalists for Musical Event Of The Year is icing on the cake to an otherwise stellar and history-making year.

“I can honestly say, I found out who my friends are this year,” says Lawrence beaming with excitement about his nomination. “I am humbled by the overwhelming support of country radio and so many of my friends and colleagues in the music industry, a business that I dearly love. I've been given the privilege of a career doing what I love to do…entertaining. There is a tremendous amount of hard work and competition, but this business is my passion. It's sort of like running for office, but the campaigning never ceases. I assembled a very strong team around me and I feel very proud of our accomplishment.”

Lawrence has experienced an incredible year making a remarkable return to the top of the national music trade charts with “Find Out Who Your Friends Are” and proving that an independent record label owned by a country music recording artist can, in fact, compete successfully. Lawrence launched his own label in July last year, released the first single in August, released his first full CD in January, 2007, and celebrated his 17th No. 1 career record, “Find Out Who Your Friends Are,” in June of this year (the first No. 1 he'd had in more than 10 years). The song is one of the most played in the "recurrents" on country radio right now.

The accompanying video, “Find Out Who Your Friends Are,” released in July, adds to the song's momentum as it climbs the current playlists at CMT, GAC, CMT Pure, and local and regional video outlets around the globe. Currently, the video is No. 11 on CMT's playlist and No. 14 on GAC's fan-voted “Top 20" respectively. The video has been added both online and for the cable on-demand service at Music Choice, a cable network reaching 23 million households nationwide. The video features cameo appearances by fellow celebrities and "friends" George Jones, Roy Oswalt of the Houston Astros, Cornelius Griffin of the Washington Redskins, and fellow country singer Daryl Worley.

Early this summer, Lawrence made history when “Find Out Who Your Friends Are” topped both the Billboard/R&R and Country Aircheck/Mediabase national charts in the coveted No. 1 spot. Lawrence became the first country artist who owns his own record label, RCR (Rocky Comfort Records), to reach the No. 1 position with the debut single release on that label. It held at No. 1 on the Country Aircheck/Mediabase chart for two consecutive weeks. “Find Out Who Your Friends Are” was Lawrence's first No. 1 since 1997 when he topped the R&R chart with “Is That A Tear.” His last Billboard No. 1 was with “Time Marches On” in 1996. “Find Out Who Your Friends Are” was released to radio August 21, 2006 on the RCR/CO5 Nashville imprint. According to Mediabase national radio callout research, the song has ranked consistently among the Top 5 since the third week of December 2006.

The full CD, titled FOR THE LOVE, was available in stores January 30, 2007. It marked Lawrence's first studio collection in nearly three years. The CD was met with an impressive response by record buyers across the United States and he entered Billboard magazine's “Top Independent Albums” chart at No. 3, the “Top Country Albums” chart at No. 6, and “The Billboard Hot 100” albums chart at No. 53. RCR/CO5 Nashville has a distribution partnership with A2M (Artist To Market Distribution). Sales of FOR THE LOVE continue to move at a consistent clip with product available in all traditional retail outlets that carry CDs.

FOR THE LOVE features several points of interest. Among them, “Til I Was A Daddy Too,” the second single from FOR THE LOVE and a heartfelt look at parenting and the depth of a father's love. The title cut is a duet with Brad Arnold, lead singer of the multi-platinum group Three Doors Down. “Speed Of Flight,” represents the first time that Lawrence has cut a song he penned alone. Finally, like bookends, the CD starts and finishes with “Find Out Who Your Friends Are.” One is a bonus track that features two of Lawrence's longtime friends Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw.

Lawrence's music is available for downloading on iTunes, WalMart.com, Napster, Rhapsody, and eMusic among other digital service providers. Cell phone users have actively downloaded ringtones. Text Tracy1 to 66555 to get “Find Out Who Your Friends Are;” text Tracy2 to 66555 to get “You Can't Hide Redneck,” text Tracy3 to 66555 to get “For The Love,” or text Tracy4 to 66555 to get “Speed Of Flight.” Tracy Lawrence website: www.tracylawrence.com

The CMA's Musical Event Of The Year is defined as a collaboration of two or more people either or all of whom are known primarily as individual artists. They must have performed together, as a unit, on a musical recording released domestically within the eligibility period with each artist prominently featured and duly authorized to receive billing on the event. The award goes to each artist on the collaboration. The 41st Annual CMA Awards will be broadcast live on the ABC television network Wednesday, November 7, 2007 at 8pm/7pm central time.

From Canada
Recently the performers for the Canadian Country Music Associations GOSPEL SHOWCASE were announced for this years Country Music Week to be held in Regina, Saskatchewan. One of the lucky ones to perform at this well-attended event will be COVENANT and SHAI AWARD WINNING COUNTRY GOSPEL artist CHERYL DUNN. This years event will take place at the KNOX METROPOLITAN CHURCH on SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 9th. On learning of this great opportunity this is what Cheryl had to say; "I am so excited about being chosen to sing at the Canadian Country Music Association's Gospel Showcase. I am looking forward to spending the weekend in Regina meeting Canada's greatest country artists. I intend to make the most of my time in Regina asking many questions and learning as much as possible! I have heard that Carolyn Dawn Johnson and George Canyon have performed at the Gospel Showcase previously - so this is very exciting for me to be invited to this event. WOW - what a great opportunity! I hope and pray that this will open many doors for my ministry and continued growth in the music industry." For the last couple of years Cheryl has been busy touring throughout Texas and Canada. Cheryl is currently working on a Christmas album to be released later this year. Cheryl receives airplay on Christian radio throughout the United States (with a very strong following in Texas). And her music can be heard on Canadian country radio along with being heard on Christian radio stations coast to coast. Cheryl currently has two albums available - ANYBODY ELSE and her latest LET GO. MORE CHERYL DUNN APPEARANCES: SEPTMEBER 2: AVENUE HURST PENTECOSTAL ASSEMBLY - 10:30 AM SEPTEMBER 2: FOUR WINDS GOSPEL FELLOWSHIP - 7:00 PM SEPTEMBER 5: FIRST NATIONS ALLIANCE CHURCH OF REGINA - 7:00 PM For further information / Cd's / interviews please contact DEBORAH WOOD PUBLICITY - 905-373-4186 codeywt@yahoo.com or deborahwoodpublicity@gmail.com For further information on CHERYL DUNN please go to www.cheryldunn.com

The Charlie Daniels Band To Release Duets CD
(NASHVILLE, TENN -- August 27th, 2007) On October 9th, Charlie Daniels will release his 17th Blue Hat Records release, Deuces. Charlie has teamed up with some of Nashville's most recognizable artists, performing duets of Country, Pop, and R&B classics, as well as some of The Charlie Daniels Band's biggest hits. The album will be distributed by KOCH Records.

Guest stars include: Brad Paisley (Jammin' For Stevie); The Del McCoury Band (Evangeline); Gretchen Wilson (Jackson); Earl, Gary and Randy Scruggs (Maggie's Farm); Bonnie Bramlett (Signed, Sealed, Delivered), Travis Tritt (What'd I Say); Dolly Parton (Daddy's Old Fiddle); Brooks & Dunn (Long Haired Country Boy); Marty Stuart (God Save Us All From Religion); Darius Rucker (Like A Rolling Stone); Brenda Lee (Let It Be Me); Vince Gill (The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down); and Montgomery Gentry (Drinkin' My Baby Goodbye).

The duets album follows The Charlie Daniels Band's recent CD/DVD release of "Live From Iraq" which was recorded when The Charlie Daniels Band performed for US/Multinational Troops as part of the Stars for Stripes Tour. He also edited "Growing Up Country," a book of essays by Southern politicians, musicians, and celebrities. The book is in stores now.

While promoting the release, Charlie will be making a series of appearances in New York and touring the country.

For more information on The Charlie Daniels Band, go to www.charliedaniels.com . For interview, album, or photo requests, please contact AristoMedia at publicity@aristomedia.com .

** Hi-Res album art available upon request / Press Release in .doc format available upon request

About Blue Hat Records:
Blue Hat Records, founded by Charlie Daniels and longtime manager David Corlew, began as one of the first artist owned independent record labels in Country music. Blue Hat Records is in its tenth year and sold nearly 700,000 records to date. Charlie Daniels' 17th album release, entitled Deuces, marks Blue Hat Records 21st album release.

About KOCH Entertainment:
KOCH Entertainment, founded in 1987 is the fastest-growing independent music company in the U.S. KOCH's operations include record and video labels as well as distribution in the U.S. and Canada. KOCH Entertainment is the market leader among independent labels and distributors in North America. KOCH Records had the largest number of Billboard charting albums among independents for six years (2001 – 2006). KOCH Entertainment is owned by Entertainment One Ltd. which is listed on the London Stock Exchange’s AIM market (ticker symbol “ETO”).

FROM AUSTRALIA
2007 Australian Independent Country Music Awards
It has been an exciting time for the following four artists over the last month or so, with all having success with their latest singles, album releases, and finalist nominations in the Australian Independent Country Music Awards.

Golden Guitar winner Felicity Urquhart has not only recently signed a publishing deal with one of Australia’s leading publishing companies Mushroom Music Publishing, she has also been named a finalist in three upcoming awards: CMAA Achiever Awards Independent Entertainer of the Year / Mo Awards Slim Dusty Country Performer of the Year / Australian Independent Country Music Awards for Single of the Year and Female Vocalist of the Year. With her new single NO MISTAKES climbing the CMC video chart and airplay charts – taken from her album MY LIFE (distributed by Shock Records), it is available at radio on the August Shock Records country sampler.

Graham Rodger’s start to 2007 was wonderful, with him being named a finalist at the CMAA Golden Guitars, taking out a number of awards at the TSA’s and continued his winning streak at the 2007 QLD Gold Medallion Awards. Having just returned from a successful Gympie Muster, Graham is on the Top 30 Country Tracks chart at #19, with his single WOMAN ON THE LAND, taken from his album THUNDERBOLT (distributed by OneStop Country). The strength of this song has helped secure Graham a nomination in the Heritage Track of the Year at the Australian Independent Country Music Awards, to be held early October. WOMAN ON THE LAND is available at radio on the NFS #114 sampler.

Alternative country artist Gemma Doyle has proven again her songs hit the mark with audiences and peers alike. After her Golden Guitar nomination this year and recent video clip showings on Channel Nine’s The Music Jungle and ABC’s Rage, Gemma is back at radio and on CMC with her latest single ALL I WANT IS TONIGHT. Having received steady requests on CMC for her new single, taken from the album NOTHING (distributed by OneStop Country), Gemma is sitting in the Top 40 and climbing. The single is at radio and available on NFS #113 sampler. Her talent has been identified by the country music fraternity with her being named a finalist in the Australian Independent Country Music Awards for Rising Star Female.

Jayne Denham may be a new name to some, but she’s been working on her craft for many years. Having just released her debut album last month, titled SUDDEN CHANGE IN THE WEATHER (distributed by Shock Records), Jayne has already had a Top 20 hit with her first single CHICK UTE. This country rock chick is definitely one to keep on the radar, and it seems others share the same opinion, with her being nominated for Rising Star Female at the Australian Independent Country Music Awards. Keep an eye out for her new single COUSIN JUDE on the August Shock Records country sampler.
www.felicityurquhart.com
www.myspace.com/felicityurquhart
www.grahamrodger.com.au
www.gemmadoyle.com
www.myspace.com/gemmadoyle
www.jaynedenham.com
www.myspace.com/jaynedenham

Media inquiries, or require copy of album for review, please contact:
RUM Entertainment ph/fax 02 4285 1461 (m) 0439 730 460 rum@rumentertainment.com

TIM MURPHY (submitted by Lynn Thomas)
WWW.TIMMURPHY.NET
Let me introduce to you the talented and exciting - ‘2006 Top Male Country Artist Of The Year’ - Tim Murphy.
Tim is best known for his self-penned hit single, ‘Bottom of The Fifth’ which was voted into the 2002, 45th Annual Grammy Awards for nominations in two categories: Best Country Song and Best Country Male Vocal Performance. Add to this; three Top-40 hits, a Top-Ten single, a video which claimed the number one spot on ICE-TV (Independent Country Express) and one that just came in at # 46 on the Top-100 videos on www.YouTube.com, and finally, in June of 2007 Tim was named; Number One Country Indie Artist in the world by The Independent Music Network. Tim graced the cover of New Music Weekly Magazine in August of 2006 and at the New Music Weekly Award Show in Hollywood, California on November 18th 2006 he took home the top honor of ‘Top Male Country Artist Of The Year’ along side the other talented newcomer, Carrie Underwood, who won for ‘Top Female Country Artist of The Year’ by The New Music Weekly Awards Association.
His current single, ‘Burn Me Down’ has captured the number one spot on New Music Weekly Chart system, has reached a # 3 position on Music Row Charts and continues to climb on all other major music charts across the country. You could say that Tim Murphy is a ‘man on a mission’ and he is at the ‘TOP’ of his game!

Tim hails from sunny California where he grew up on his daddy’s record collection consisting of all the greats like Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash and George Jones. He took these influences and mixed them with some of his older brothers’ collection of Bob Segar and The Eagles. He incorporated some of his own favorites such as Hank Jr., Waylon & Willie and George Strait, added his own little touch of spirituality and has come up with a magical musical flavor that radio personalities and people everywhere are dubbing as ‘Murph Music’! They say that when you receive your Tim Murphy CD, do not let your children or your friends borrow it, (cause, you will never get it back!!!). Yes, it’s that good!

Tim has had the pleasure and honor of sharing the stage with such greats as Tracy Byrd, Jo Dee Messina, Trick Pony, Montgomery Gentry, Lila McCann, Freddy Fender, Restless Heart and Shannon Brown. He has shared top billing with legends such as Willie Nelson and Lynyrd Skynyrd. His style, his candor and his classic cowboy charm seems to leave audiences feeling more like family than fans. His heart-felt, soulful voice resonates with the honesty and purity of the classic country stars of yester-year while he delivers the goods with the vibrant and youthful energy of today’s superstars! Recently Tim has performed on such stages as the New Music Weekly Award Show at the legendary Avalon Theatre in Hollywood, Good Morning America for the 100th Anniversary of the 1906 Earthquake and Fire in front of 30,000 people and every television network in the world. He was specially requested to perform by Lacy Peterson’s family at The Annual Lacy & Conner Peterson Memorial in Modesto, California and made National news when he organized a benefit concert for the family of Ricky Dickerson, a park employee who was beaten into a coma after attempting to rescue a female park patron being attacked by gang members. Tim helped raise an estimated $54,000 to pay hospital bills and help the family of five survive while Ricky recovers. He has volunteered his talents and music to aid in such worldly topics as The Katrina Relief Fund, The Tsunami Relief Fund, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Gilda’s Club and the American Cancer Association. Lately, he has appeared on the Morning Show with Kay Bain, Midday Mississippi, Nixa Country (Internet Radio), Good Day Sacramento and National Radio stations across the country.
“My story isn’t all that different from a lot of artists,” exclaims Tim. “It’s a long hard journey no matter which path you choose to follow in life. I don’t know if I chose music or if music chose me. But, I know one thing, this really is my story, my life is in these songs. The greatest gift of all is that I get to share them with the world. I feel truly blessed.” He adds, “We did a show in Sacramento one time. I sang, ‘Good Hands’ which I wrote about the loss of my baby sister who was killed during a violent crime. A lady came up and told me about the recent loss of her brother and how she couldn’t seem to cry. She couldn’t accept the fact that he was really gone until she heard this song. She said, ‘Thank you for helping me to let go!’ We held each other and just cried right there in front of everyone. She emails me now every other week and we help each other get thru things. Sometimes, making music goes way beyond just making music. I have realized the healing affect that some of these songs have and have opened up to the possibility that being a big star just might not be what it’s all about. I am listening to that Big Voice in the sky a whole lot more these days! He has blessed me with new direction and some of the best stuff I (We) have ever written. I can’t wait for the world to hear songs like, ‘Jesus and You’, ‘Livin’, Lovin’ & Learnin’, ‘Angel’ and ‘I’ve Got A Friend Named Jesus’.” “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16 Dave Schmidt's Top 10 Super Country Hits Podcast http://supertop10.podomatic.com/ (do not need an iPod to listen to this podcast) InProcess - Borderlands Podcast - (do not need an iPod to listen to this podcast) www.theborderlands.podomatic.com

Top 10 Super Country Hits - August 27th, 2007 - 34th Survey - Fifth Year songs rated based on points system from radio and tv play Artist/Song * 1 - Rodney Atkins - These Are My People * 2 - Kenny Chesney - Never Wanted Nothing More * 3 - Reba McEntire with Kelly Clarkson - Because of You * 4 - Brooks and Dunn - Proud of the House We Built * 5 - Tim McGraw with Faith Hill - I Need You * 6 - Rascal Flatts - Take Me There * 7 - Dierks Bentley - Free & Easy * 8 - Sugarland - Everyday America * 9 - Toby Keith - Love Me If You Can * 10 - Trace Adkins - I Wanna Feel Something Hot Rising Single Tammy Cochran - Where I Am Keep An Eye On Single Little Big Town - I'm With The Band Watch Peter & The Rowers perform "The Devil Went Down To Georgia" at one of the biggest country festivals in Europe VISAGINO COUNTRY in Lithuania. video: Peter & The Rowers - The Devil Went Down To Georgia or click the link : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SF8KN4m91Ss BRAD PAISLEY ANNOUNCED AS HOST OF 4TH ANNUAL MUSIC CITY JAM NASHVILLE, TENN (August 20th, 2007) – The Academy of Country Music and Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. (CRB) have announced that Brad Paisley will host and headline this year’s Music City Jam. The concert which will take place on Wednesday, March 5th at the Nashville Convention Center, is sponsored by the Academy of Country Music and United Stations Radio Networks. Brad was set to perform last year, but was forced to cancel his appearance due to the birth of his first child. “The Academy of Country Music is so excited that Brad is hosting the Music City Jam,” said Bob Romeo, Executive Director of the Academy of Country Music. “As the Academy’s reining Top Male Vocalist, he is sure to make it a great show and a good time for all CRB registrants.” “Brad Paisley is a longtime friend of The Country Radio Broadcasters. He was one of the CRS New Faces of 2000 and has participated in many of our events over the years,” said Ed Salamon, Executive Director of The Country Radio Broadcasters. “I have great memories of Brad playing in tribute to Eddy Arnold when CRB honored Eddy with a Career Achievement Award in 1999, and I am really looking forward to this one-of-a-kind event where Brad will interact with other stars.” Brad Paisley's fifth Arista Nashville album, 5th Gear, was released on June 19th, 2007 and has already sold nearly a half a million units. Paisley’s previous four Arista Nashville albums have all been certified Platinum or Double Platinum, with total sales well in excess of seven million copies. Paisley's BONFIRES AND AMPLIFIERS will continue through the fall. Brad’s current single “Online” is rocketing up the country charts. CRB registration information is available at www.crb.org . About The Country Radio Broadcasters: The Country Radio Broadcasters is a 501(c)3 non-profit educational organization founded in 1969 and the principal entity that brings Country radio together with the Country music industry for learning opportunities that promote growth. The CRB is headquartered in Nashville Tennessee. For more information on The Country Radio Seminar, The Country Music Radio and DJ Hall of Fame, or any of the other Country Radio Broadcasters’ initiatives, please visit www.crb.org. About the Academy of Country Music: The ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC, an artist and industry-driven organization, exists to produce a world-class network television awards show, and its associated events, to provide the financial resources to ensure the on-going philanthropic work of its Charitable Fund. The Academy of Country Music Charitable Fund promotes and supports music education and humanitarian programs that transform the human spirit. Through its charitable donations, the ACMCF works towards two main goals: encouraging Learning Through Music and Healing Through Music. The Academy, which is comprised of more than 4,500 professional members and more than 40,000 associate members, was established in 1964 and is headquartered in Encino, Calif. For more information on the ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS and the ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC, please visit www.acmcountry.com . For more information on the ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC CHARITABLE FUND, please visit www.acmcf.org . AARON TIPPIN HELPS BRING LEGENDARY WORLD WAR II PLANE TO NEW ORLEANS (Nashville, TN) – Last week, country music star Aaron Tippin brought along a special guest for his performance at the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) benefit in New Orleans, Louisiana. A restored World War II B-25 Mitchell bomber, also known as "Panchito," traveled in the air and water to reach her destination…and it was Aaron Tippin who helped get her there. The B-25 bombers are famed for being a major force in bringing hope back to the country during WWII. It was the B-25 that Lieutenant Colonel James Doolittle chose to use in a raid against the Japanese after their attack on Pearl Harbor. "Doolittle's Raid" was deemed a success thanks to the sixteen B-25 bombers used in the attack. Aaron Tippin, also a licensed pilot, helped fly one of the restored B-25s from Oshkosh, Wisconsin to New Orleans. Once there Aaron, equipped with his very own "Working Man's PhD," helped load the plane onto a barge on Lake Pontchartrain. After being loaded, the legendary aircraft was taken to Spanish Plaza and put on display for the DAV benefit show. "It was a great pleasure to be part of the team that brought 'Panchito' as a gift from the DAV to the city of New Orleans" says Aaron. "Man…it was hot!" After the aircraft's trip was over, Aaron performed several of his hit songs for the DAV benefit. "Where the Stars and Stripes and The Eagle Flies" was included in the performance, an appropriate song for "Panchito" and her history. The DAV organization was honored to have Aaron on hand for the voyage. "Aaron is a long time advocate of our service members and veterans and his participation in getting 'Panchito' here is greatly appreciated" said Arthur H. Wilson, National Adjutant/CEO of DAV. "His music has long evoked patriotism and promoted the American way." The entire trek was filmed by Sleeping Dog Productions for the DAV. A televised documentary is being planned for later in the year. Aaron Tippin entered the music scene sixteen years ago with "You've Got To Stand For Something," a solid workingman's anthem that quickly established him as a true spokesman for the American people. Between 1990 and 1997, he had seven hit records and created such memorable singles as "There Ain't Nothin' Wrong With The Radio," "That's As Close As I'll Get To Loving You," and "I Got It Honest." With his success and ability to relate to the people, he traveled to Saudi Arabia with Bob Hope in the early 90s to become the first singer to entertain the troops during the Gulf War. Media Contacts: Webster & Associates Public Relations (615) 777-6995 Don Grubbs Extension 22 don@websterpr.com Laura Bryna Joins Equity Music Group Label Mate Clint Black on Nationwide Tour Nashville, TN – Equity Music Group newcomer Laura Bryna will be the special guest of Clint Black on his “Up Close and Personal Tour.” Bryna joins the tour in Peoria, IL on September 6th. As part of her first major national tour, Bryna will perform in Milwaukee, Galveston, Cincinnati, Des Moines, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Schenectady, Niagara Falls, Monterey, as part of her 34 city tour across America, as she debuts music from her forthcoming Equity album titled, TRYING TO BE ME. “Opening for a superstar like Clint Black on my first tour and what I will be able to learn from him is indescribable. I am so excited!” exclaimed Bryna. Bryna’s single, “Make A Wish,” will be a highlight of her shows each night. The song was co-written by Bryna, whose longtime work with the Make-A-Wish Foundation inspired the song. She first became aware of the Make-A-Wish Foundation while visiting her brother, who was critically ill at the time and in the hospital. "I would see all these kids in the hospital with life threatening illnesses and celebrities like Barbara Mandrell and Kenny Rogers would come by and visit them. Seeing the celebrities made the kids so happy and helped them forget about their illness for a while. When I was old enough I started doing volunteer work for the organization and have been involved ever since,” says Bryna. Bryna’s single on Equity Music Group, “Make A Wish,” will be released to radio on September 17th and a video has been completed. For more information on Laura Bryna visit her web site at www.laurabryna.com TOUR DATES 9/7 Gallagher Bluedorn PAC – Cedar Falls, IA 9/8 Paramount Arts Center – Aurora, IL 9/16 Firelake Grand Casino – Shawnee, OK 9/20 CrossRoads Community Center – Cincinnati, OH 9/21 Honeywell Center – Wabash, IN 9/22 Civic Center – Des Moines, IA 9/23 Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science – Sioux Falls, SD 9/25 Orpheum Theater – Wichita, KS 9/27 Lutcher Theater – Orange, TX 9/28-29 The Grand 1894 Opera House – Galveston, TX 9/30-10/1 Temple Theater (Angelina College) – Lufkin, TX 10/4 Riverside Theater – Milwaukee, WI 10/5 Kirkland Fine Arts Center – Decatur, IL 10/6 Jackson Community College – Jackson, MI 10/7 Little River Casino Resort – Manistee, MI 10/11 Peace Center for the Performing Arts – Greenville, SC 10/12 Bill Heard Theatre – Columbus, GA 10/13 Florida Theater – Jacksonville, FL 10/14 King Center – Melbourne, FL 10/17 Kravis Center for the Performing Arts – West Palm Beach, FL 10/24 Merrill Auditorium – Portland, ME 10/25 Proctor’s Theatre – Schnectady, NY 10/26 State Theater – Easton, PA 10/28 Strand Capitol Performing Arts Center – York, PA 11/1 Niagara Fallsview Casino Ballroom – Niagara Falls, ON 11/8 Louisburg College Auditorium – Louisburg, NC 11/9 Ferguson Center for the Arts – Newport News, VA 11/10 The Paramount Theater – Charlottesville, VA 11/15 Hanford Fox Theater – Hanford, CA 11/16 Turlock Community Theater – Turlock, CA 11/17 California Center for the Arts – Escondido, CA 11/18 Lancaster Performing Arts Center – Lancaster, CA 11/20 Golden State Theater – Monterey, CA KEVIN FOWLER ON THE ROAD BEHIND UPCOMING RELEASE, 'BRING IT ON,' & 1ST CHART-CLIMBING SINGLE Tour to Take Country Artist around Lone Star State and into Oklahoma Austin, TX -- Rousing country artist Kevin Fowler, whose upcoming release, BRING IT ON (September 25; Equity Music Group), is already generating a big cyber-buzz, has begun a CD release tour to bring his pure, working-class country sound to venue-packing fans across Texas and in Oklahoma. Starting this week, Fowler and his band play big venues around Texas and in Oklahoma -- from county fairgrounds and festivals to parks and raceways -- with songs from the upcoming album. Cuts like the funny family-of-origin lament "Long Line of Losers," which hit #19 in its first week on The Texas Music Chart and has been played more than 55,000 times at Fowler's MySpace page. Other songs, including the title track, "Best Mistake I Ever Made" and "Me and the Boys," his duet with superstar George Jones, are revving up Fowler fans into a frenzy. BRING IT ON, produced by Blake Chancey, doesn't follow Fowler's typical album MO. This time, he's added screaming guitar and a heavy drum beat to his traditional country fare, a new sensibility to keep himself and his fans on their toes. It's not surprising to learn that Fowler has sold more than 250,000 records independently and that Jones, Mark Chesnutt and Sammy Kershaw have recorded his songs. Kevin Fowler Upcoming Shows include: August 23, Graham's Central Station, Longview, August 24, Tumbleweed Dance Hall, Stillwater, Okla. August 25, 12th Margarita & Salsa Festival, Waco August 31, Concrete Street Amphitheatre, Corpus Christi September 1, 2nd Annual Labor Fest, Taylor County Expo Pavilion, Abilene September 2, Whitewater Amphitheatre, New Braunfels September 6, Graham Central Station, San Angelo September 7, Midnight Rodeo, Amarillo September 8, Wild West, Lubbock September 13, City Limits, Stephenville September 15, Medina County Fairgrounds, Hondo September 21, Wormy Dog Saloon, Oklahoma City, Okla. September 22, Wolfdance 2007, Sundance Square, Fort Worth September 27, Shooters Sports Bar, Texarkana, Ark. September 28, Lucy Park, Wichita Falls October 3, Texas Rice Festival, Winnie/Stowell Park, Winnie October 6, Heart O' Texas Complex, Waco October 13, Brazoria County Fair, Angleton, October 14, Big State Festival, Texas World Speedway, Bryan-College Station October 20, Bee County Fair & Expo, Beeville November 24, Sam Houston Race Park, Houston December 31, Billy Bob's Texas, Fort Worth For more information, visit www.mcguckinpr.com , www.kevinfowler.com , www.myspace.com/kevinfowler . Media Contacts: Jill McGuckin, McGuckin Entertainment PR, 512.217.9404; jill@mcguckinpr.com Heidi Labensart, McGuckin Entertainment PR, 512.478.0578; heidi@mcguckinpr.com Jensen Sussman, Equity Music Group, 615.695.2350 x228; jsussman@equitymusicgroup.com New Light Entertainment/Universal Issues New Lisa O'Kane CD, IT DON'T HURT, To North America On October 23 Featuring Albert Lee, Kenny Edwards, Skip Edwards, Taras Prodaniuk & Ernest Troost PLANO, TX (August 22, 2007) - Americana/Roots artist Lisa O'Kane explores the "dark end of the street" on her most intimate album to date, IT DON'T HURT, for New Light Entertainment/Universal. Recorded in Los Angeles over the past two years, the 11-song collection highlights the contrasts in the personal life of the California native. Her upbeat personality allows her to tackle the hard stuff, and still come out on top. The disc hits store shelves across North America on October 23. While the title track explores the sobering subject of physical abuse - O'Kane manages to navigate the listener down that rocky road, and back into the light, with perfect emotional tuning. The path to independence is explored in the stunning practicality of "Got The Car Running," the story of a woman who is waiting only on the inevitable. A Telecaster-wielding Albert Lee joins Kenny Edwards (Stone Poneys/Bryndle); legendary keyboardist Skip Edwards (Dwight Yoakam/Lucinda Williams/Jim Lauderdale), bassist extraordinaire, Taras Prodaniuk (Yoakam/Lucinda Williams) and Emmy Award-winning composer Ernest Troost to bring the music to life - and lay bare the heart and soul of O'Kane. "There's something very challenging about surrounding yourself with players of this quality," says Lisa. "They really made me dig deep." Lisa's growth as a writer is evident in the three, very different songs she contributes to the project. The salt and sass of the album's rollickin' opener, "Ain't Done Nothin'" is a far cry from the drivimg, "I'm Done," while the hypnotic "Pay For My Sins" has already become an international favorite. With a voice that has drawn comparisons to Linda Ronstadt, Joni Mitchell and Emmylou Harris, O'Kane proves she can work her magic on other writers' tunes as well, creating an acoustic wonder with her chilling vocal on the John Prine classic, "Speed Of The Sound Of Loneliness," and delivering a stunning performance on the heartbreaking Debra Davis composition, "Uninvited Guests." She moves deftly from the album's Roots rockers to the full-on, soaring balladry of songs like "Give Me This Night" and "Remember This" - and makes each one intimately and immediately believable. IT DON'T HURT is Lisa's first direct foray into the North American marketplace. Already a high-powered player in the international scene, O'Kane hopes that this album will help her find her place "at home." New Light Entertainment Based in Plano, Texas, New Light Entertainment has secured a multi-year, multi-record distribution agreement with Universal Music & Video Distribution (UMVD) for distribution by Fontana. For more information log on to Lisa's MySpace Page or www.newlightent.com . For high resolution jpeg, review copy or additional information contact: Martha E. Moore so much MOORE media 615.746.3994 somuchmoore@charter.net www.somuchmoore.com Bomshel Releases "Power of One" To Country Radio (Nashville, TENN -- August 20th, 2007) Curb duo Bomshel is set to release “The Power Of One,” an inspirational song about the power that one person can have in making a positive difference in the world. The single has been serviced to all monitored and reporting radio stations, and is available digitally on Play MPE. Bomshel fiddler Kristy O. found the song, written by Liz Hengber, in a bag of demos. "I could not believe what I was hearing when I listened to it for the first time," she said. "If there was ever a song that said exactly what I wanted to say, this was it. Then when I heard Buffy sing it, that just nailed it for me." Bomshel is produced by Chuck Howard who is well known for his work with LeAnn Rimes, Trick Pony, and Hank Williams Jr. "When I first heard the girls perform 'The Power of One' I got that same feeling I got when I first heard LeAnn Rimes belt out 'Blue,'" Chuck said. "This single is just so powerful and real. Kristy and Buffy can't wait for everybody to hear it." "The Power of One" was included on the recently released Evan Almighty soundtrack and is available for digital download on I-Tunes. Bomshel recently completed a brief tour of Sweden and Denmark. Riding on the major European success of their last single "Bomshel Stomp", their high energy show filled venues with enthusiastic young fans. Bomshel is back in the states traveling the country on the Wicked Women of Tequila Rose tour sponsored by McCormick Distilling’s Tequila Rose Brand. For more information about Bomshel, please visit www.bomshel.com . For photo or interview requests, please contact AristoMedia at aristomedia@mac.com or 615-269-7071. Dave Schmidt's Top 10 Super Country Hits Podcast http://supertop10.podomatic.com/ (do not need an iPod to listen to this podcast) InProcess - Borderlands Podcast - (do not need an iPod to listen to this podcast) www.theborderlands.podomatic.com
Top 10 Super Country Hits - August 6th, 2007 - 31st Survey - Fifth Year songs rated based on points system from radio and tv play Artist/Song 1 - Big & Rich - Lost In This Moment 2 - Keith Urban - I Told You So 3 - Kenny Chesney - Never Wanted Nothing More 4 - Kellie Pickler - I Wonder 5 - Taylor Swift -Teardrops On My Guitar 6 - Rodney Atkins - These Are My People 7 - Miranda Lambert - Famous In A Small Town 8 - Trace Adkins - I Wanna Feel Something 9 - Toby Keith - Love Me If You Can 10 - Tim McGraw with Faith Hill - I Need You
Hot Rising Single BILLY RAY CYRUS - READY, SET, DON'T GO Keep An Eye On Single John Berry - A Woman Like You CRACKER BARREL'S JOSH TURNER RELEASE GARNERING RAVE REVIEWS Nashville, TN – Since releasing "Live at the Ryman" exclusively through Cracker Barrel Old Country Store on July 3, 2007, Josh Turner has received rave reviews for the live album. About.com says of the album and Josh, "the way he wraps that deep voice around the notes sends shivers right down your spine." And Music News Nashville says, "…hear real honest country music brought forth to you in creative ways that makes anyone who loves country music beg for more." The Albany Herald says, "You pop in the CD and as soon as you hear the first baritone note ooze from the speakers to your ears, you have to do a double take." The Ryman, with all of its history and glory, might make some artists tremble when thinking about where they're performing, but Josh's voice shows no sign of edge. The Tennessean writes, "While it's been said that spirits of past Opry performers haunt country music's mother church, Josh didn't sense any of them while singing." Paul Davis with New Christian Music writes, "Great musicianship combined with Josh's quality voice makes for an album where the personality is forefront resplendent with rough edges." The album, which contains thirteen songs including legendary hits such as George Jones' "He Stopped Loving Her Today" and Hank Williams' "I'll Never Get Out of This World Alive," will soon be featured in the July 30 edition of Country Weekly. On the album, Josh performs one of Merle Haggard's most recognizable songs, "Silver Wings." "Every time we start that song off, everybody knows what we're about to play," says Josh. "It's very recognizable and it's one of those classic Merle Haggard songs." The album also contains some of Josh's own songs including, "Backwoods Boy," a song Josh wrote in his apartment after graduating from college. "I basically just sat down and was trying to write a song about my growing up, spending a lot of time outdoors, hunting and fishing and just being outdoors," says Josh. "I wrote quite a few songs there and that was one of them." Josh's 2003 debut, "Long Black Train," is certified platinum. His success continued when his sophomore release, "Your Man," debuted at No. 1 on Billboard magazine's Top Country Albums chart and has since been certified double platinum. Josh Turner: Live At the Ryman is Turner's third CD and is available only in Cracker Barrel stores or online at www.crackerbarrel.com MEDIA CONTACTS: For Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. Jim Taylor Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. (615) 235-4082 jtaylor@crackerbarrel.com Kirt Webster or Don Grubbs Webster & Associates Public Relations (615) 777-6995 kirt@websterpr.com don@websterpr.com For Josh Turner Renee Behrman-Greiman Modern Management (615) 742-0099 rbehrman@modmgmt.com Amber Williams Universal Music Group (615) 524-7516 Amber.williams@umusic.com George Canyon Nominated for Five Canadian Country Music Awards www.georgecanyon.com Today in Toronto the Canadian Country Music Association announced the nominations for the Canadian Country Music Awards, which will be held in Regina, SK on September 10th. George Canyon was nominated in five major categories, including Cheez Whiz Fan’s Choice, Album of the Year (for Somebody Wrote Love [Universal Music Canada]), Single of the Year (for “I Want You to Live”), Male Artist of the Year and Video of the Year (for “I Want You to Live”). Canyon’s team also received nods for Website of the Year (Wendy Gilmour for www.georgecanyon.com ), Video Director of the Year (Warren Sonoda for “I Want You to Live”), Record Producer of the Year (George Canyon and Scot Sherrod, for Somebody Wrote Love), All Star Band Keyboards (Mike Little) and All Star Band Fiddle (Shane Guse). “It is always such an honour to be nominated at the CCMAs,” said Canyon, who is currently in the studio recording his new album. “I can’t believe this is happening again and I can’t thank the fans and our industry enough for all of their support. I am so proud of my amazing team whose work has been recognized.” On September 19th Canyon kicks off his 43-date cross-Canada ‘In A Quiet Room’ Tour in Courtenay, BC. The tour travels across Canada before ending on November 20th in Canyon’s hometown of Pictou, NS. Currently receiving airplay across Canada with his hit single, “I Want You to Live,” Canyon is a well-known voice in country music. His video for the song hit number one on the CMT Canada Chevy Top 20 in May and remained on top for two weeks in a row. He is a two-time Juno Award winner for Country Recording of the Year and a multiple Canadian Country Music Award winner, he is recording an album slated for release in the fall. The 2007 CCMA Awards broadcast will air across Canada on September 10th at 8pm (9pm AST & 9:30pm NF) on CBC TV, with encore airings on CMT Canada, in the U.S. on television network Great American Country (GAC), and in Australia on Country Music Channel (CMC). For more information or to book an interview: Krista Lamb Anya Wilson Promotion & Publicity 416-977-7704 radiovp@netsurf.net
"Heart Shaped Like Texas" Brings Sammy Sadler Back To The Country Airwaves Single Scheduled for August 6 Release Nashville, TN (August 1, 2007) Sammy Sadler makes his return to the country airwaves with a hooky, honky-tonkin' dance tune, "Heart Shaped Like Texas,"released August 6 on the Texas-based "S" RECORDS label. Twin fiddles and a thumping bass line kick off the number, which tells the story of a cowgirl who stays true to her Texas roots. "SHE'S GOT A RODEO STICKER ON HER BACK BUMPER SHE'S A COWGIRL AT HEART SHE DRIVES A SHINY BLUE DUALLY PULLS A GOOSENECK TRAILER SHE'S NEVER OWNED A CAR A LONESTAR FLAG'S AWAVIN' IN THE WIND ON HER FRONT PORCH "AMARILLO BY MORNIN'S" HER FAVORITE SONG YEAH SHE'S PROUD OF WHERE SHE WAS BORN"- Hewitt/Kilgore Sidelined for the last year with a painful back condition, Sammy is on the road to recovery - and the charts. "Heart Shaped Like Texas" is just the beginning of the great things to come from Sadler, whose fans can expect more strong songs from his upcoming CD, his upcoming CD, due for release in early 2008. His past hits ("That Ole Gravel Road," "I Know A Place," "Hard On A Heart") have given him an established fan base, and with new management in place (Joe Bob Barnhill and Doug Deforest), it's a sure bet Sadler is headed down the right road. Media contact: Martha E. Moore so much MOORE media 615.746.3994 somuchmoore@charter.net www.somuchmoore.com Jace Everett Embarks On United Kingdom Tour (Nashville, Tennessee) Singer/Songwriter Jace Everett is set to embark on a three week tour of the United Kingdom. The 31 day, 15 city tour takes him the length and breadth of the country and includes dates in London, Wales, and Scotland. On seven of the dates, he will open for the legendary Guy Clark. Paul Fenn of London based Asgaard Promotions Ltd. is scheduling the appearances. He notes that, "We've seen Jace in front of UK audiences twice now with the Country Music Association's (CMA) New From Nashville initiative and it is obvious that this is someone who can appeal to the international market. He has the desire to work hard and start from the bottom up so we are going to do everything possible to establish him as a successful country artist here." Everett is looking forward to the opportunity to perform in several new U.K. venues. He stated, "After two CMA sponsored tours (New From Nashville) spanning the UK in 2006 and 2007 to perform in London, Glasgow, and Dublin, I really wanted to get back over there on my own and get to know the audiences in other areas. The UK and Europe are phenomenal markets for Nashville to explore. With the growth of new media opportunities, music is becoming more international than ever." Jace just released a new album "Old New Borrowed Blues." It is a set of live acoustic recordings and is available to purchase at www.jaceeverett.com .