MerleFest line-up announced -- Country Hound, 11/1

Any Country music festival is bound to promise good music and good times.  MerleFest, which was founded in 1988 in memory of Eddy Merle Watson, is no exception.  The festival is scheduled to run from April 28 – May 1 with a line-up bound to leave audience members dancing in their boots.

The artist list includes Doc Watson, Rory Block, Cadillac Sky, The Doobie Brothers, Lyle Lovett, The Neighbors, Shana Banana, Wilkes Acoustic Folk Society, Tony Williamson and much more!  The seemingly never ending list of artists will join host Doc Watson at the Wilkes Community College for a celebration of “traditional-plus” music, a term coined by Watson to describe the traditional meets bluegrass meets old-time music that is unique to the festival.  This sound also expands to include Americana, country, “plus whatever other styles we were in the mood to play.”

With over 90 acts performing on 14 stages during the festival, “The MerleFest 2011 lineup offers an incredibly exciting, diverse and talented group of musicians, which is always our mission as a festival,” Festival Director Ted Hagaman said. “Another goal this year is to give our festival attendees up-to-the-minute information about lineup additions and other aspects of MerleFest. As new artists are added, we will share that information immediately through our social media venues.  So, staying in touch with us via our website (www.merlefest.org), Facebook and Twitter is crucial!”

The entire set list, as of now, includes the following:

Doc Watson

Richard Watson

Susana and Timmy Abell

Alberti Flea Circus

Balsam Range

The Banknotes  

Rory Block                                               

Roy Book Binder

Alison Brown Quartet

Buffalo Barfield

Sam Bush Band

Cadillac Sky

Michael Cleveland and Flamekeeper

T. Michael Coleman

Crooked Still

Ken Crouse

Donna The Buffalo

The Doobie Brothers (with newest member John Cowan)

Casey Driessen

Eleanor Ellis

Emmitt-Nershi Band

Paul Geremia

Mitch Greenhill

George Hamilton IV

Harper

Corey Harris and Phil Wiggins

John Hartford String Band

Bob Hill

David Holt

The InterACTive Theater of Jef

Veronika Jackson

Jeff and Vida

Johnson’s Crossroad

Catfish Keith

The Kruger Brothers

Sonny Landreth

Jim Lauderdale

Jack Lawrence

Jeff Little

The Local Boys           

Lyle Lovett                       

Lost Bayou Ramblers

Corb Lund

Bill Mathis

Andy May

Del McCoury Band

Nashville Bluegrass Band

The Neighbors

Tim O’Brien

Pauls Creek Band

Red Molly

Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band

Scythian

Shana Banana

The Sigmon Stringers

Sinai Mountain Ramblers

Slate Mountain Ramblers

Steve and Ruth Smith

Joe Smothers

Synder Family Band

Tut Taylor

Town Mountain

Happy Traum

The Wailin’ Jennys

The Waybacks

Charles Welch

Pete and Joan Wernick

Wilkes Acoustic Folk Society

Josh Williams Band

Tony Williamson

Zephyr Lightning Bolts

A radio special dedicated to the artists of MerleFest 2011 will air Nov. 4 at 8 PM ET on the public radio station WNCW, which serves the North Carolina communities of Boone, Charlotte, Wilkesboro and Greenville.  Fans from outside the listening area can listen live at wncw.org.

 The festival is a fundraiser for Wilkes Community College Endowment Corporation.  Tickets will be on sale Tues, Nov. 9 at 9 PM ET.  Tickets can be purchased at the MerleFest box office at merlefest.org or by calling 1-800-343-7857.  It is also important to keep note an early bird ticket discount is available through March 13, 2011.

 

Taylor Swift takes on college football -- Country Hound, 11/1

It seems to be difficult to find something Taylor Swift is not becoming involved in lately.  With the release of her third album, ‘Speak Now,’ only days behind her and non-stop promotions and appearances to suit.  This weekend, she tacked something a little bit different than she’s use to – college football.

Swift co-hosted the Motor Racing Network’s “College Football Country” Saturday.  The show, which aired Saturday at 8AM ET, highlights every football ritual – tailgating, school traditions’, parties pre- and post-game, and something not every college football team includes: Nashville’s country superstars.

Earlier in the year, University of Southern California quarterback Matt Barkley took to his twitter. "I wonder what it would take to get @taylorswift13 to come to a game at the Coliseum," Barley tweeted. "I kind of want to meet her," he confirmed later. "I've met Will Ferrell. That was sweet. But Taylor Swift would be sweeter."

Swift does not seem to be losing steam any time soon.  She has had recent appearances from the “Today” show to the “Late Show With David Letterman” and everything between.  However, the Grammy winner says that it’s all worth it when she is able to share the message behind her lyrics and music.

"These songs are confessions," Taylor said to The Boot in a recent interview, "and every single confession on this album is sort of like that moment when you stand up at a wedding and say, 'Wait!' And whether it's saying, 'Wait, I'm sorry,' or 'Wait, what you said really hurt me,' ... or 'Wait, I secretly love you,' you're making confessions and you're speaking now. The moment will slip by if you don't say anything."

As for the other episodes of “College Football Country” on Motor Racing Network, other artists scheduled to appear include Keith Urban, Rascal Flatts, Sara Evans and Reba McEntire.

Source: http://www.theboot.com/2010/10/29/taylor-swift-college-football-country/

Belmont Growth, Basic News Writing assignemnt

For my Basic News Writing class we were assigned to conduct interviews and write an article about Belmont's growth.  The opinions in these articles are no way associated with Belmont University, and any quotations were given on their own time, outside of the class room, outside of the university setting.

For the further protection of the professor quoted, I am only going to include the first initial of the last name.



 

As Belmont’s growth and prominence has continued to grow over the past ten years, the enrollment and tuition has also been setting record highs.   With Belmont’s enrollment hitting a 99 percent increase since 2000 at 5,936 students, many members of the Belmont faculty, community, student body, friends and family have started to question how true Belmont’s mission statement is, and if so, how long it will remain.

The mission statement for Belmont University is clearly stated on Belmont’s website.  The mission statement is that “Belmont University is a student-centered Christian community providing an academically challenging education that empowers men and women of diverse backgrounds to engage and transform the world with disciplined intelligence, compassion, courage and faith.”  The biggest section of the mission that is being questioned most often is whether or not Belmont is remaining a “student-centered” university – a statement that the university has been known to shine a proud light on for many years.

“It seems quantity has trumped quality in terms of how things operate here,” Belmont faculty member Dr. A said. “If only there were half the resources devoted to supporting the undergraduate liberal arts core as there were to hiring endless new executive-level employees for marketing and fundraising.”

The heightened tuition comes to no surprise, however, when taking a look at the new additions to campus. This year alone, new employees have been hired, a new 90,000 square foot building and two residence halls were opened, the planned renovation of Belmont Heights Baptist Church was announced, and the construction of a new College of Law is set to begin in October. However, there is a fog between placing the care of students first and care of university growth that parents of students cannot look past.

“The growth has become a priority over the students,” Cyndi Huff, mother of sophomore Ben Tripp, said.  “It seems like the growth of the college is now more important than the students.  The fact that the college is growing means there will be the need for more housing, which will fall upon the students and their families to pay higher tuition rates.  In our case this means my child will be deeper in debt because he has to rely on student loans to pay around 85 to 90% of college cost.”

Another parent, Ettice Wilson, who is mother of sophomore Rachel Wilson, feels tuition increases should be a last resort, especially when not all students are affected by the new additions.  “There have been new dorms and a health department added.  Since my child is not enrolled in the healthcare program she neither benefits from the new classroom space, nor does she receive any additional student medical services that were not offered prior to its construction,” Wilson said. “The new dorms have been utilized by students other than my own.  The impact of the increase in tuition will be realized when her student loans become due.”

The concern of tuition increases and debt is one that Belmont administration should consider carefully before raising tuition much more than its present state.  “If tuition continues to rise I don’t know if my child will continue to get student loans for the remaining two and a half years of college.  My child is already in debt for three semesters,” Huff said, “If the average college cost per semester is $17,000.00 and my child attends Belmont for four years the cost will be $136,000.  To me that is a lot of money to be in debt for eight semesters of college.”

“Keeping up with the increases in tuition is not always possible.  Borrowing more money seems like the easy out, but again, the idea of a huge debt looming as you start a career is frightening,” said John Goforth, father of sophomore Beth Goforth.  “As is the case with most colleges, Belmont's rate of tuition increases seems to exceed the ability of people to meet the increases.  There has to be more done to control the costs to slow these increases.”

            Parents and faculty are not the only one concerned about growth and tuition spikes either.  Students have a fair share to say as well and are looking for an outlet to voice their concerns.  Senior Susannah Thompson is concerned with how quickly Belmont seems to be growing.  She feels that to remain a small, intimate, and personable school, as well as maintain a high quality of education, the growth must be limited. 

Cassidy Hodges, who is a senior graduating in December as well as managing editor of the Belmont Vision, said that Belmont is growing, “…so fast it is hard to sustain who is here now,” and that the university is looking so far in the future it is forgetting the present.  She followed up by saying students feel as though their needs are not being served by administration.  Hodges noted that administration has yet to acknowledge the formation of a Facebook group that began last school year.  The group of 1,052 members is entitled, “BELMONT! We love you, but please take care of students that are here NOW!”

There is currently no prediction for when Belmont will consider its growth to be enough, or when the cap will be placed on the tuition increases.  In the mean time, faculty, staff, students, and parents of Belmont will continue to search for a way to be heard.

5 page feature story, Bridge Buidlers - PR Writing assignment

The purpose of this assignment was to write a 5 page feature about an organization on campus.  I chose Bridge Builders, a LGBT support group that has been trying to gain momentum for about a year.  I conducted all the interviews and gathered all the information myself. 

In the "real world" this would be sent to different medias -- i.e. newspapers, news stations, magazines, etc.

I'll let the article speak for itself. 

For more information contact:

         Valerie Wire

         vannwire@gmail.com

         812-598-7521

Burning Bridges

Oct. 21 – Belmont University has prided itself upon its Christian values, diversity, and acceptance of all individuals for many years.  The mission statement for the university upholds “empowerment,” “diversity” and “welcoming,” to the student body.  However, the twice denial of Bridge Builders, a Christian Lesbian-Gay-Bisexual-Transgender support group, as an official student organization on campus argues otherwise.

         Very similar to the Belmont mission statement, the Bridge Builders mission statement highlights its presence is “to empower students of diverse backgrounds through assistance and aid unto LGBT students, and those who support them… We uphold Jesus Christ as our ideal standard and model, and revere Christ’s promise: “blessed are the peacemakers.””  The Bridge Builders rationale also specifically states that the group will “operate in the hope that we may promote healthy, respectful exchange between the Christian and LGBT communities present on-campus,” as well as “will not use its resources to engage its members in political activism of any kind… We are committed to upholding the Belmont Mission Statement in all of our proceedings.”

         Although the mission statements are so similar, and the outcry for the recognition and support seems endless, Bridge Builders has been denied official status at Belmont University twice (Spring 2009, Fall 2010).  This denial leaves many of those supporting – needing – the group feeling exiled by their school’s community.

 As for Bridge Builder president and Belmont senior, Robbie Maris felt, “extremely offended and hurt,” Maris said.  “Bridge Builders could save lives and change lives.  Bridge Builders could open the world to truth and understanding instead of close-mindedness, duality, and simplicity… LGBT students [at Belmont] are second-class because of the way they are treated here.”

         Administration may not take into account the personal affects when over viewing paperwork for student organizations.  The twice denial of Bridge Builders was “sort of a slap to the face,” said sophomore, and Bridge Builder member, Kristen Nault.  “It’s discriminating and by not [allowing] this group is basically saying we don’t accept your kind and it leads you to feel a bit ashamed.  People need a place where they feel comfortable, safe and they can be themselves.  This group allows it… it’s a tough world, but this group helps us live through it.”

         In the wake of the recent news of gay-teen suicides, it would seem places of authority – such as universities – would want to lead by example.  “This is an extremely crucial time for this at Belmont.  What happened to Tyler Clementi could have very well happened here,” Maris said.  “We are treated differently, and there are damaging implications because of that.  This is extremely harmful to Belmont students; I am very concerned about the welfare of other students at this university.”  By the constant refusal of campus recognition the LGBT community and supporters will continue to feel oppressed

         “I think it’s outrageous that Belmont has denied this organization,” sophomore Jessica Spradlin, who is a supporter but not a member of Bridge Builders, said.  “It’s not just about the prejudice this group faces but it’s about support – supporting others in the school community in which we find ourselves.  I think it’s a great example of what we should all be doing: coming together for the benefit of everyone.”

         It is understandable to see why Belmont would deny an LGBT group due to its Christian foundation, even if the group upholds the same values.  However, this should be more of a reason to lead to acceptance.  “It’s the whole ‘love thy neighbor’ concept,” said sophomore and non-Bridge Builder member, Beth Goforth.  “Jesus said to love everybody and not to judge others for their sins when we sin ourselves.”  The Bible states being gay is a sin, but that “doesn’t mean you should hate and torture a gay person… Bridge Builders brings Christian values to the table, while still accepting LGBTs for who they are,” Goforth said.

         For a university who so strongly upholds the values of acceptance and diversity, “by not allowing Bridge Builders, the administration is subtly accepting prejudice and hatred toward gay people,” Goforth said.  “It suggests that they don’t care or accept everyone on campus, and that’s a pretty negative connotation to have…  Bridge Builders is about accepting people for who they are and showing that we care about others.  So while so many people hate that people are gay, Bridge Builders tells them that it’s okay, you are who you are, and we’ll support you anyways.”

         Bridge Builders, then, is all about the support and community.  “Bridge Builders is a way… to advance human rights in this country… a way for emergence and change,” Maris said.  This student group is intended to fulfill the “need for justice and community” by combating “the lack of resources that Belmont offers LGBT students.”

         Bridge Builders was, in Spring 2009, granted the privileges to gather as a discussion group on campus.  The difference is, though, that “without being official, we cannot advertise or do anything publically on campus.  In this, the administration is telling us to be ashamed of who are as the LGBT community,” Maris said. 

         While the administration does not seem too fond of the idea of Bridge Builders, the support from the rest of the Belmont community is quite the opposite.  “I personally have not received any negative response from students,” Maris said.  “Our student and faculty support has been overwhelming in all the forms that it comes in (whether physical or verbal.).”

         On the other hand, “the specifically Christian departments and offices of this university have either done no visible contributes to the Bridge Builders initiative or caused extreme hindrance and obstacles for us,” Maris said.  “This is something that is inexcusable to me.”

However, the setbacks and denial will not deter Maris or the members of Bridge.  “Bridge Builders is my life calling,” Maris said.  “I am called to stand in the divide of the Christian community and the gay community.  I am called to talk about LGBT issues and Christianity because they are not simple issues or things to talk about, they are complicated and complex.” As far as administration, “they are indefinitely denying us recognition.  We will ask for recognition indefinitely,” Maris said.

As far as getting involved, Bridge Builders has a large Facebook following with an impressive 273 members, and over 60 official Bridge Builders members from students, faculty, and alumni alike.   Anyone interested is welcome to attend meetings and keep up-to-date with the group.  Another great way to become involved in the action and progress of Bridge Builders and recognition of a LGBT group on Belmont’s campus is by setting up meetings with the Dean of Students, Dr. Andrew Johnston and President of Belmont, Dr. Bob Fisher to discuss these ever pressing and dominate issues.

# # #

        

News Release assignemnt, PR Writing

This is a sample news release.  I found all the information online for the most part.  None of the interviews were conducted by myself.

News From

Country Music Association

One Music Circle South
                                                For more information contact:

Nashville, Tennessee 37203                                                             Valerie Wire

615-244-2840                                                                                             812-598-7521

www.cmaworld.com                                                                                vannwire@gmail.com

For Immediate Release

September 30, 2010

44^th Annual CMA Awards to be held Nov. 10

The 44^th Annual CMA Awards will be held Nov. 10 in Nashville.  The event will be held in Nashville’s newly named Bridgestone Arena and broadcasted live at 8/7c p.m. on ABC-TV.  The hosts for this show for the second year in a row will be country megastars Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood.

         “The 2010 CMA Awards promises spectacle, accolades and countless special moments,” said Steve Moore, CEO of CMA, “It truly is country music’s biggest night.  It would be a mistake to miss such an event.”  The nominees for the biggest award of the night, Entertainer of the Year, are Zac Brown Band, Keith Urban, Brad Paisley, Miranda Lambert, and Lady Antebellum. Several performers for the evening include Dierks Bentley, Kenny Chesney, Blake Shelton, and a special appearance by Alan Jackson.

         “I was so incredibly thrilled and humbled when I realized I was nominated for nine [CMA] Awards,” Lambert said. “I feel so blessed to have come so very far.”  Miranda, who is recently engaged to fellow country star Blake Shelton, now holds the record for the most CMA nominations for a female country artist.  Other nominees for this year include Brooks & Dunn, Carrie Underwood, Reba McEntire, Taylor Swift, George Strait, Sugarland, Luke Bryan, Rascal Flatts and many others. Ticket prices for the event range from $128-$610 and are available at ticketmaster.com.  For more information on the event, visit www.cmaawards.com.

         One special aspect of the CMA Awards is their collaboration with a sponsor of the event, Chevrolet, to honor men and women in uniform.  “Chevrolet Salute’s America’s Heroes” was launched Sept. 13 and will run until Nov. 1.  People are invited to nominate friends or family members who went above and beyond demonstrating the spirit of the military while in uniform.  The winner will receive a trip for two to the 44^th Annual CMA Awards as well as a 2011 Chevrolet Cruze.  For more information or to submit nomination letters visit www.youreverydayhero.com.

         "Our service men and women give so much," said Phil Caruso, Chevrolet National Promotions Manager. As soldiers have the important task of protecting freedom and selfless giving to their communities, “We at Chevrolet feel that it is vitally important to recognize those contributions. Chevrolet is proud to combine its support of both NASCAR and Country Music through its partnerships with Jeff Gordon, Brad Paisley, Hendrick Motorsports, and CMA to help tell the stories of these American Heroes."

         To see the outcome of the nominations, the performances, as well as whatever else may unfold throughout “Country Music’s Biggest Night” be sure to tune in to the live broadcast at 8/7c p.m. on ABC-TV.

         The Country Music Association is intended to heighten the awareness and support of country music as well as provide a forum for industry leadership dialogue toward this goal.  The CMA Awards are held every year to honor country music artists, musicians, producers, publishers, songwriters, video directors and industry executives.  These individuals are honored for their achievements over the past year in America’s most popular music genre.  The CMA Awards display a wide variety of talent throughout the night for entertainment.  For more information on the event or CMA contact Valerie at vannwire@gmail.com.

# # #

First round of CMA announcers announced! -- Country Hound, 10/27

As if there were not reason enough already to stay glued to the 44^th Annual CMA Award’s, the first group of presenters were recently released.  The string of high profile celebrities and country super stars are sure to make “Country Music’s Biggest Night” only bigger.

The Band Perry, Luke Bryan, Easton Corbin, Little Big Town, Tim McGraw, Jerrod Niemann, Darius Rucker, LeAnn Rimes, Chris Young, Kellie Pickler and NASCAR champion Jeff Gordon are all confirmed announcers.

The Band Perry, who is composed of siblings Kimberly, Reid and Neil Perry recently released their self-titled, debut album and are nominated for their first CMA Award, Vocal Group of the Year.

Bryan also received his first CMA nomination this year for his current album, “Doin’ My Thing.”   His nomination is for New Artist of the Year.

Corbin released his self-titled debut album earlier this year and is nominated for New Artist and Single of the Year for his song, “A Little More Country Than That.”  These are his first two CMA nominations.

Little Big Town is nominated for Vocal Group of the Year.  So far, the members Karen Fairchild, Kimberly Schlapman, Kimi Westbrook and Phillip Sweet have received eight CMA Award nominations. 

McGraw, who will release his “Number One Hits” album on Nov. 30, as won a total of 11 CMA Awards.  These awards include Entertainer (‘01), Male Vocalist (91,’’ 00) and Album (’98, ’99).

Niemann received his first CMA Awards nomination for New Artist of the Year.

Currently, Rucker is the reigning CMA New Artist of the Year.  His new alubm entitled “Charleston, SC, 1966,” was recently released.

Rimes is set to release a new album in early 2011.  She also won the Horizon Award in’97.

Young received his first CMA nomination in the New Artist of the Year category this year.  His current album is entitled, “The Man I Want to Be.”

Pickler’s current album is self-titled.  She has won two CMA Award nominations in her career.

Gordon won the NASCAR Cup Series championship four times, the Brickyard 400 four times and the Daytona 500 three times.

Kevin Costner to host CMT'S "Artist of the Year" -- Country Hound, 10/27

Kevin Costner is often associated with being a film icon.  He is an Academy Award winner, an actor and a musician, and for one night he will be the host of “CMT Artists of the Year,” which is to premiere Dec. 3 from 8 p.m. – 9:30 p.m ET.

Costner’s role as host for the first ever “CMT Artists of the Year” is appropriate considering his love of country music.  However, many do not know that for the last three years, Costner has been a part of a band, Modern West, who made the Billboard Country charts in 2009 with their debut album, “Untold Truths.” Last year, their sophomore album, “Turn it On,’ was released in Europe.

“From the moment this show was envisioned, Kevin Costner was at the top of our wish list to host,” senior vice president, music events and talent for CMT, Josh Hamlin said.  “His reverence for country music is profound and he understands exactly the kind of passion and commitment it takes to be at the top of one’s game, as these artists are.  He is the perfect complement to our five honorees.”

The inaugural event will be celebrating the year’s most successful country music artists.  The 90-minute special is set to celebrate Carrie Underwood, Jason Aldean, Zac Brown Band, Taylor Swift and Lady Antebellum by bringing them together for an evening of performances.

CMA Awards Book -- Country Hound, 10/25

With the 44^th Annual CMA Awards right around the corner, author Deborah Evans Price is making headlines with her first book, “The CMA Awards Vault: Country Music’s Biggest Night!”  The book, which is the first to comprehensively cover The CMA Awards from its birth in 1967 to today, is now available nationwide.

The unique ‘scrapbook’ is a 144-page spectacle that tells the extensive story of the CMA Awards.  “The CMA Awards Vault” is intended to give the reader the feeling of being front row center at each show.  It goes about this endeavor by containing never-before-published memorabilia, photographs, and artwork as well as replicas of items tucked into pockets throughout the book.  Examples of these replicas include a program from the first CMA Awards in 1967, a note to the CMA from the Charlie Daniels Band in 1980, a ticket to “The 40^th CMA Anniversary” show, as well as the set-design blueprint from the 2009 CMA Awards.

While Price is scheduled to appear on numerous talk shows over the next few weeks, fans arriving in Nashville for the “44^th Annual CMA Awards” have the chance to see Price at special events.  One event is the chance to have first-of-its-kind book personally autographed by Price.  This opportunity will be Thursday, Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. at Davis Kidd Booksellers, 2121 Green Hills Village Drive.  Then, on Nov. 5, Price will appear at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, 222 Fifth Ave. S., with video director and CMA Awards Executive Producer Robert Deaton.

At the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum event, Price and Deaton will discuss the historic background of the 43-year-old CMA Awards.  This is to include exclusive behind-the-scene stories about what it takes to bring the industry together for a network variety, as well as performances, fashion trends, and other topics.  This event is open and invited to the general public and is scheduled to take place from noon-1:30 p.m. in the museum’s Ford Theater.

The foreword of the book was written by four-time CMA Entertainer of the Year, Kenny Chesney.  The afterword was written by Country Music Hall of Fame inductee Barbara Mandrell.  The hardcover 12 by 10-inch book with slipcase is available for $49.94 in bookstores or online.  The book, which is published by Whitman Publishing, LCC, of Atlanta can also be ordered at CMAawards.com and WhitmanVaultBooks.com.  CMA members are able to purchase the book for a discounted $35 plus shipping/handling with the use of the coupon code GBR10 at the online checkout at CMAawards.com.

“The 44^th Annual CMA Awards” are to be hosted by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood.  They will be broadcast live Wed., Nov. 10 from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on ABC from 8-10 p.m. ET.

Tickets for the award show are on sale now.  They can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, 800-745-3000, or in person at the Bridgestone Arena box office.  Ticket prices begin at $110 for Upper Level seating.  All prices include tax, but exclude applicable service/handling fees.

Jimmy Dean & Don Williams newest Hall of Famers -- Country Hound, 10/25

Jimmy Dean is now a name to not only be associated with breakfast sausage, but the Country Music Hall of Fame.  Dean and fellow vocalist Don Williams were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in the presence of friends, family and peers on Sunday night.

Dean built his career as a multi-faceted entertainer through the media of singer, comic and television pioneer.  Williams made his name known in a workman style manner by ditching the party scene and devoting his time and energy to the discovery and delivery of well-constructed songs.

Unfortunately, neither musician was able to claim the honor in person.  Dean passed in June, only a few months after receiving the phone call informing he would forever be remembered in the Hall of Fame’s Rotunda amongst the likeness of Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, and Dean’s childhood idol, Gene Autry.

Hall of Famer Bill Anderson said during his induction speech that Dean called him shortly after receiving the news, in shock. “He said, ‘Bill-o, I never thought I’d make it… I figured I’d pissed off too many people down there!’”

Williams, on the other hand, had been planning to attend the night’s induction ceremony, but had to cancel last minute due to a mild case of bronchitis.  He had even scheduled a small tour and played in Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium twice in the week before the induction, which he was able to “battle through,” William’s manager Robert Pratt said at the induction. “He’ll be very proud and very honored when I give him this [medallion] tomorrow in Texarkana,” Pratt said.

William’s is receiving a bit more acknowledgment than in the past thanks to Keith Urban naming his stomping arrangements as a large influence to his current recordings.  He is also being noted through a remake of William’s 1980 ballad, “I Wouldn’t Be a Man,” which is Josh Turner’s most recent single.

Dean was honored by Trace Adkins and the Jordanaires teaming up to perform the million-selling “Big Bad John.”  During which, Biff Watson – the house band’s musical director who played guitar on numerous of Dean’s singles – recreated the trademark pick-axe sound through hitting a hammer on a percussion block, which was suspended from a hanger.  This was the exact way the sound was generated in the original recording by Hall of Famer Floyd Cramer.

Though the night was full of cheer and jest – from Daily & Vincent’s version of Dean’s “Harvest of Sunshine” to a botched “Little Black Book” by Roy Clark, as warned – it was still heart-felting and emotionally driven.  Bill Anderson found himself becoming coked up several times as he honored Dean with a moving, expressive and articulate speech.  Dean may have been known as a firm and insisting person, but Anderson recalled several acts of kindness the late singer extended without display.  Anderson specifically noted the lyrics in “Big Bad John,” a song where a heroic miner is honored as “a big, big man.”

“He didn’t have a thing,” Anderson whispered, “on Jimmy Dean.”

Source: http://blog.gactv.com/blog/2010/10/25/jimmy-dean-don-williams-join-hall-of-fame/

James Otto recieves Purple Heart -- Country Hound, 10/25

Being a recipient of a Purple Heart often means the person was awarded this in the name of the President due to an injury or death that resulted from service.  However, this was not at all the case of country singer and U.S. Navy veteran James Otto, who was recently given the honorable medal by a U.S. Marine.

Otto saw the Marine at his Oct. 15 show in Dallas, whom he had previously spoken with before that event.  The last time the two met, Otto invited the Marine on his tour bus to chat.

"He was really moved by the song 'In Color' and he had given me his POW hat with his Iraq campaign medal and his Afghanistan campaign medal," Otto said in a recent interview with The Boot.  The service man wishes to remain anonymous.  "He had been wounded and a prisoner-of-war for 18 months. People don't really realize how many guys out there have been wounded or taken hostage and been through those nightmares."

The reason Otto performs ‘In Color,’ which was made famous by Jamey Johnson, is due to the history he shares with such veterans, and how he is able to relate with the emotional affects taken on those who serve and their families.  This is also the reason Otto co-wrote a song about the only two people who have laid down their lives for others – ‘Soldiers and Jesus.’

"When I sang 'Soldiers and Jesus' [at the Dallas show], he ended up saluting me through the whole song," Otto said of the Marine. "It really touched me that it meant something to him."

The two met up later, and as they were talking, the Marine placed a Purple Heart in Otto’s hands and asked him to keep it.

"I said, 'I can't take this. Why are you giving this to me? I don't deserve this. This is yours,'" Otto said. "He said he had several and wanted me to have it...I'm really honored and I'll be proud to keep it for the rest of my life."

In the past, Otto has received other servicemen’s dog tags when they were thrown on stage, but never anything as impacting as a Purple Heart.

"I am a Christian man who served in the military myself. When things like this happen, I know the song is reaching the guys it should reach,” Otto said.  "When I wrote 'Soldiers and Jesus," I loved the song but I debated whether I was the right guy to deliver it. My wife and others pushed me to cut the song because they said, 'You know how closely you're related to the military,'" Otto said. "The truth and heart of the message rings true to me especially the line 'one fights for my life and one fights for my soul.'

Source: http://www.theboot.com/2010/10/22/james-otto-purple-heart/

The Judds Last Encore -- Country Hound, 10/25

It has been said that all good things must come to an end, and country music is no exception to the rule.  Naomi Judd and daughter Wynonna Judd who made a named for themselves almost two decades ago as The Judds have announced that their career as a duo has come to an end, and to celebrate this they are releasing a final album and kicking off their Last Encore tour.

“We're doing business differently than we've ever done," Wynonna said on ABC's 'Good Morning America.' "New music, new attitude, new boundaries, new relationship, new way of doing business with our family. We're sort of a work-in-progress. We're the poster family for healing through music. The fans have given us this chance to celebrate 18-20 shows in front of a live audience, which is a little scary."

The two have been placed in the spotlight for many years, and have been open to the public with their personal struggles on and off stage, but they are now happy to say they are both in a better, healthier place. "We're new and improved, thanks to our therapist, who said that we can do this tour because we're OK to go out in public unsupervised now," Naomi said. "We always have been transparent."

The Judds are determined now, more than ever, to use their name – which has gotten them many places through the years – to bring betterment to others, as well. “We're working with St. Jude. It's a win-win," Wynonna said. "After 25 years, you've got to have a purpose past having a famous name, which is a great way to get a seat in a good restaurant in New York. After that, what do you do? So 25 years later, we want to celebrate with the fans."

As for their Last Encore tour, they will be playing shows from the past and present – including songs that have yet to be heard. The truth of the matter is, we've got new material, but we'll be doing the classics," Wynonna said. "The stuff you got married to -- or divorced to -- but we'll also have new stuff."

The tour is set to begin the day after Thanksgiving, Nov. 26, as a way to celebrate with the Judds and dance off the turkey drowsiness. "If you're tired of your family, come see us," Naomi said. "We'll make your family seem like royalty."

Earlier this year, Wynonna released ‘Love Heals,’ her solo CD sold exclusively at Cracker Barrel stores. "I like to team up with champions," she says. "The people at the Cracker Barrel corporation love me and I love them. It's a general store. It's southern. You have the food you grew up on. I think it's important to have music with your gravy."

The first single from their upcoming album was recently released, ‘I Will Stand By You.’  The album is set to hit stores in the spring.   The tour will be running through Dec. 19.  For tour dates visit thejuddstour2010.com.

Source: http://www.theboot.com/2010/10/22/the-judds-good-morning-america/

Jason Aldean nominated, donates -- Country Hound, 10/20

Last week, CMT named Jason Aldean as one of its “Artist of the Year” and will be honored alongside other country music stars such as Carrie Underwood, Zac Brown Band, Lady Antebellum and Taylor Swift during a television special later this Fall.  His rocketing success has been notably marked by the sales of 3.5 million copies of his first three albums and nine hits, and now he has most recently received several other nominations.

The nominations fall under the categories of “Favorite Country Male Artist” and “Favorite Country Album” with the American Music Awards, on top of a nomination for “Male Artist of the Year” by the American Country Awards.  The multi-platinum country boy spent more weeks at number one on the radio and sales charts more than any other male artist in the past 18 months within a nine-week period.

The nominations undoubtedly hold a special place in Aldean’s heart.  “...it’s people saying, ‘hey, we’ve been watching what you’re doing, and we dig it,” Aldean said.  “The AMA nominations are especially cool because I’ve never been up in the album category before, so I’m really proud of that because I do feel like it was a special project that really connected with the fans, and it really helped take my career and my live show to a new level.”  

However, admist all of his success, Aldean does not lose sight of giving back.  As part of his 5^th annual “Concert For The Cure,” he recently donated the proceeds from his Oct. 15 concert in Evansville, Ind. to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

The Evansville arena, Roberts Stadium, was covered in pink to support the cause, leading the most money in the event’s history to be raised – an astonishing $132,000.

“We started this in memory of a close friend, and I know she would be proud of how much we were able to donate from the show in Evansville,” Aldean said.  “I saw a lot of fans in the crowd wearing pink too, and thanks to them and everyone else that came out, we were able to raise more money than ever before.” 

For more information on Jason Aldean visit jasonaldean.com.

Brad Paisley renames tour -- Country Hound, 10/20

Brad Paisley has always been known for not only his guitar playing abilities, but his sense of humor as well.  Paisley has been touring since the end of May on his successful H2O World Tour, which he announced will officially be continuing through the first of 2011 and is renamed the H2O Frozen Over Tour.

Along with superstar Paisley on his tour, he will continue to be joined by Darius Rucker, while welcoming Jerrod Niemann as a special guest.  Rucker won the 2009 CMA Award for Top Male Vocalist of the Year, while Niemann was nominated for the 2010 CMA Awards for New Artist of the Year.

The H2O Tour has already played to over 750,000 fans over the course of a mere five months.  Paisley’s Frozen Over leg will be launched in Green Bay, WI on Jan. 20, and it is scheduled to run until its end in Nashville on Feb. 26.

However, before Paisley can kick off the rest of his tour, he is set to release his next album on Nov. 2.  The album, Hits Alive, will include live performances from his H2O concerts as well as original studio tracks.  Paisley will also be co-hosting the CMA Awards on Nov. 10 for the third-consecutive year, and he is also nominated for three CMA Awards (Entertainer, Male and Video (“Water”).

For more information on Brad Paisley, on-sale information, and tour dates for the H2O Frozen Over Tour, visit bradpaisley.com.

Darryl Worley cancer center -- Country Hound, 10/20

Soon, cancer patients in Savannah, Tenn. and surrounding cities will no longer need to travel long distances to receive radiation and chemotherapy, all with a great thanks to country star Darryl Worley.  Worley had a dream and plan of opening a cancer treatment center, and on Nov, 3 that dream will become a reality upon the grand opening of the new Darryl Worley Cancer Treatment Center. The ceremony will take place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. CT and include comments from Worley and other key speakers.

"We will be so pleased to show the new center to our community on November 3," Charlotte Burns, CEO Hardin Medical Cente, said. "The center is a tribute to the generosity and commitment of Darryl, the Hardin Medical Center Board, the foundations, and our neighbors and friends. It will stand as a reminder of our determination to care for one another and share hope with those we serve.

The center, located on the campus of the Hardin Medical Center in Savannah, Tenn, was originally scheduled to open in early 2011, but the early opening means help for those in need much sooner.  The Darryl Worley Foundation and representatives of Hardin Medical Center, as well as the Hardin County Community and Healthcare Foundation, have been working since 2004 to raise enough money to meet their $2 million goal for the project.  So far, they have managed to pull together and raise $1.7 million and hope to reach their goal by completion.

"The generosity of all the donors from around the country and the Savannah area has been amazing," Worley said. "I think it’s very surreal that this has happened so fast and just confirms that we are doing God's work. This is a defining moment in my lifetime and career."

Taylor Swift Speaks Now -- Country Hound, 10/19

With Taylor Swift’s new album, “Speak Now,” days away from being released on Oct. 25, Swift is taking the album title to heart and speaking out for herself.  For the first time, she is answering questions that were once off-limits for the country megastar.  She has recently opened up about her unspoken fears, the feeling she has when people describe her as ‘pitchy,’ as well as her song selection for the MTV Video Music Awards.

Swift, just over a year ago, was caught in the unwanted controversy Kanye West brought to stage when he interrupted her acceptant speech at the 2009 VMA Awards for Best Female Video.  Swift refused to tackle the topic until the 2010 VMA’s with performance of her song ‘Innocent.’  The lyrics spoke more than Swift ever had revealed as she sang, “"Who you are is not where you've been" and "Time turns flames to embers / You'll have new Septembers / Everyone of us has messed up, too.”

However, the song was not intended to be an insult directed toward West.  If anything, it was Swift’s way of extending her forgiveness and placing the past in the past. "That was a huge, intense thing in my life that resonated for a long time,” Swift said.  “It was brought up to me …everywhere I went, and in a lot of times in my life, when I don't know how I feel about something, I say nothing. And that's what I did until I could come to the conclusion that I came to in order to write 'Innocent,'” Swift said.  “Even then, I didn't talk about it, and I still don't really talk about it. I just thought it was very important for me to sing about it."

Swift has become no stranger to criticism, however, especially after her 2009 performance with Stevie Nicks at the Grammy’s.  Swift will be the first to admit, though, that she was not up to par with her performance that given night. "That's one of the areas that I have definitely put a lot of work into," Swift said. "I care about what everyone thinks of me, and I'm not afraid to say that. There have been times when it's absolutely leveled me and ruined my day. Then there are times when I can hear it and I'm kind of like, 'Oh, I've heard that before,' and I just continue on with my day."

With the release of her new album, and the anticipation of a new tour, anxiety and fear is something Swift has learned to embrace. "I have a lot of anxiety about things on certain days, but I have anxiety because I care," Swift said to Billboard magazine. "It's not anxiety that's crippling. It's a five-minute conversation with myself about if a [sales] number really defines this piece of art that I've created and what that means, and what the number's going to be. I try to predict what it's going to be, and then I realize that I can't predict what it's going to be, and then I sit there and say something to myself like, 'Well, you're happy today. Enjoy this and be proud of the music that you've made.'"

As for her upcoming tour that is expected to follow the “Speak Now” CD release, no official locations are set.   As for Swift, she could not be more anxious to get back out on the road. "I already have drawings in my journal of what the stage should look like. I know a few of the set list orders, [and] I want there to be an entire wedding scene on the stage."

Though her life is constant organized chaos, Swift doesn’t wish it to be any different. "When you spend so much time daydreaming about things like that, when that actually happens, you don't ever complain," Swift said to The Boot. "When I go to a restaurant, do I know a line will form at the table? But didn't I always wish for that? Yeah, I did. So I never want to be the girl who wanted something so bad her whole life and then when she gets it, she complains about it. I'm not gonna be that girl."

To commemorate the release of “Speak Now,” Swift will be in New York on the stops of the United Nations building.  She will also be appearing on numerous television shows, such as “Today,” “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” “Live! With Regis and Kelly,” “The Late Show With David Letterman,” and “Dancing With the Stars.”  For more information on Taylor Swift and her CD visit taylorswift.com.

Source: http://www.theboot.com/2010/10/18/taylor-swift-billboard-interview/

Robin Roberts reveals private lives of country music stars -- Country Hound, 10/19

The stars of Nashville will once again be placed in the spotlight with “Good Morning America” co-host Robin Roberts.  Roberts will be examining the up-close-and-person private lives of stars such as Miranda Lambert, LeAnn Rimes, Carrie Underwood, Kellie Pickler and Brad Paisley.  The segment, “In the Spotlight with Robin Roberts: All Access Nashville” will allow viewers to step inside the secluded homes of several of Country music’s favorites.

The one-hour special will feature a personal interview with LeAnn Rimes at her California home, where she will open up about her recent affair with actor Eddie Cibrian and the breakup of her marriage; an exclusive tour of the new million-dollar Nashville home purchased by Kellie Pickler; a backstage discussion with Carrie Underwood who discloses information about her recent wedding to hockey player Mike Fischer; a backstage look at Brad Paisley’s H2O World tour which includes a visit with the country star and his wife, actress Kimberly Williams-Paisley at their estate outside of Nashville; as well as a sit-down interview with Miranda Lambert who shares memories of her early years and recent news that her family spent some of her childhood bankrupt and homeless.

The one-hour special will air on ABC the night before the CMA Awards on Tuesday, Nov. 9 at 9 (10 p.m. ET).

Source: http://www.theboot.com/2010/10/18/robin-roberts-all-access-nashville/

Brad Paisley to release first book -- Country Hound, 10/18

It seems that anything Brad Paisley touches easily turns to gold – such as his seventeen number one hits, with the last thirteen being consecutively.  On the heels of his latest album, American Saturday Night – which was acclaimed “The Top Album of 2009” across the genres by Time Magazine – and his top rated H2O Would Tour, Paisley is set to release his first book.

The Diary of a Player is to be co-written by Paisley and David Wild, who is a contributing editor to Rolling Stone and Emmy nominated television writer and producer.  The story holds a dear place in Paisley’s heart, which is how he became who he is today.  He sums it up in the liner notes for the instrumental album he wrote, Play:

“When I was eight I got a gift from my grandpa.  No coincidence that around that time I also got an identity.  See, no matter how I have changed, learned and evolved as a person, the guitar has been a major part of it, and really the only constant.  A crutch, a shrink, a friend, love interest, parachute, flying machine, soapbox, canvas, liability, investment, jackpot, tease, a sage, a gateway, an addiction, a recovery, backstage pass, pickup line, weapon of revenge, a makeover, compass, target, icebreaker, a temptress, a church, a voice, veil, armor, and lifeline.  My grandpa knew it could be many of these things for me, but mostly he just wanted me to never be alone.  He said if I learned to play, anything would be manageable, and life would be richer.  You can get through some real tough moments with that guitar on your knee.  When life gets intense, there are people who drink, who seek counseling, eat, watch TV, pray, cry, sleep, and so on.  I play.”

The book is intended to be Paisley’s salute to the guitarists who shaped his life through their musical talents across country, blues and rock & roll.  It is set to be published with Howard Books, an imprint of Simon and Schuster and released in May 2011.

In the meantime, if you can’t get enough of Brad Paisley and his guitar, be on the lookout for his H2O World Tour in a city near you, his next album Hits Alive that is to hit stores Nov. 2.  Also, be sure to watch the CMA awards on Nov. 10, which will be co-hosted by Paisley and Carrie Underwood, while Paisley is also nominated for Entertainer of the Year as well as Male Vocalist and Video (“Water”).

Inspirational Country Music Award Round-Up, The Roys, Point of Grace -- Country Hound, 10/18

The Inspirational Country Music Awards were held Oct. 14 in Hendersonville and Nashville, TN.  This award ceremony is intended to honor and showcase the biggest names as well as surfacing talent among performing Christian and Inspirational Country music artists.

The two biggest awards of the night were handed out to Duo of the Year to The Roys at the Hendersonville location, and Entertainer of the Year to Point of Grace at the Nashville location.

The Roys, who are composted of brother and sister Lee and Elaine Roy, draw their inspiration from a wide range of experience they reflects bluegrass and country music that flooded their younger years.  They are most known for their unique harmonies and songwriting abilities, which were showcased when they performed “I Wonder What God’s Thinking,” which will be included on their upcoming CD.

This is the second year in a row that The Roys have won the honor of Duo of the Year. "We are so blessed and excited to win this award again this year,” Elaine said.  “We have so many people to thank, especially our Lord and Savior."

As for Point of Grace, who took home the top honor of the night, as well as a nomination for the second time for Vocal Group of the Year – a category which they won in 2009 for their first ICM Award.

Point of Grace began their run nineteen years ago and have had two GRAMMY nominations, 24 consecutive No. 1 singles, sold more than 6 million albums, and has won 10 Dove Awards.  The ICM Entertainer of the Year win comes directly behind the release of their new album, Home for the Holidays.

“We are completely shocked and honored,” says Leigh Cappillino of the win. “It is so wonderful to know that all of the days spent away from home and family really paid off and we feel completely blessed that both our fans and peers have seen what we do.”

For more information on the ICM Awards or full highlights of the evening, visit icm-awards.com.

Anything Goes -- Vision, 10/13

            Belmont is known across the nation for its music ability and talent that it fosters.  With such great music training and students interested in the arts, the quality and standard set for Belmont’s musical theater comes to no surprise.  The upcoming show, Anything Goes, which will run from Nov. 18 to Nov. 21 in MPAC will not be any exception.

Anything Goes is being directed by Belmont faculty member David Shamburger, who has been directing at Belmont since 2008.  Of course, before he could begin directing Anything Goes, he had to decide which show to perform.  “We chose our seasons based on several factors,” Schamburger said.  “One of course is the audience response and what we think the audience will respond to best.  We want to give them something that they will like, that is entertaining.”

            Another very large factor that goes into the decision-making process for what show to decide upon is the musical theater students.  Rather than exposing students to only one genre or group of shows, the directors attempt to “give out students the experience of as many different eras we can possibly do,” Schamburger said.  “We realized we hadn’t done anything that puts us into the early 20^th century, early Cole Porter, so we thought this would be a good way to introduce them to different styles.”

            It has been rumored that Cole Porter, the composer for Anything Goes, has somewhat difficult songs to learn.  “The hardest part has been the lyrics,” junior Casey Hebbel said, who is playing Chastity, one of Reno’s angel’s.  “The lyrics are very quick and clever.  We are fortunate enough to have great music training, but memorizing all of the lyrics can be challenging.”

On the other hand, all songs, regardless of composer, “have the same goal: to tell the story, to convey some kind of perspective, character perspective,” Schamburger said.  “I think maybe that’s where that comes from, is because it is of a style that we don’t see much of anymore.  It’s very stylized.”

            One aspect that sets this show apart from other shows Belmont has put on in the past is the dance.  “It’s the biggest dance show since I’ve been here, and the biggest I’ve been involved with,” Hebbel said.  “[At Belmont] we are so focused on music most of the time, so it’s pushing us to focus on our dance and showcase those talents.”

Junior Caleigh Alessi is playing the role of Reno Sweeney, who is a “part-time evangelist and sort of pulls everything together.”  This show is different for Belmont and different from other shows in general because it evokes a “different feeling and flow,” Alessi said.  “Compared to most other shows where first comes the story and then the music, with this show the story was written around the music.”

“I love the music, I love the tap, I love the production, I love it all,” Schamburger said.  But what makes it unique is that, “many of these [songs] were written as popular songs themselves… They weren’t written for the show, but utilized.”

Anything Goes is also very Belmont appropriate, in that it holds much of the same standards Belmont lives by.  “Everyone wants everyone to be happy.  They will go out of their way to help each other, and that reflects Belmont,” Alessi said. “I fall in love the more we do it.  I find something else I find to love… something I ever saw before.”

            As for the show in general, it is not only a unique show with fun music.  It is also “zany, light-hearted, with a fast story that’s very nostalgic,” Schamburger said.  “It is a light-hearted romp through Cole Porter’s repertoire.”

The show is just “a good time,” Hebbel said.  “It’s so much fun, I hope people come and fun with us.”

Tickets are available at the Curb Box Office for advance and will be available at the door.  They are $10 for adults, $5 for senior citizens (65 and over), faculty, staff, and non-Belmont students, and free for Belmont students.  For more details visit BIC or Belmont’s website.