summer Special Issue
Volume 26 | 27, Issue Volume Issue191 193
PUBLICIZING SINGERS, WRITERS AND MUSICIANS TO MUSIC ROW & BEYOND SINCE 1995
Glen Templeton and Ashton Shepherd Bring New Music and Appearances to CMA Fest
Lucky 13: The Pentatonix
Southern Halo
Murder on Music Row
ALSO INSIDE: Inside Track with Preshias Harris,100 Things to Do in Nashville Before You Die, Music Biz Conference 2019, Summer NAMM, CMA Fest Week Events, Bonnaroo, Reivews, & More
PRESENTS 5TH ANNUAL BENEFIT FOR ST. JUDE CHILDREN'S RESEARCH HOSPITAL
Riders In The Sky
Connie Smith
David Ball
Barbara Fairchild
SATURDAY, JUNE 8, 2019 5:30PM -9PM NASHVILLE NIGHTLIFE THEATRE 2416 MUSIC VALLEY DRIVE
Hosted By: Bobby Marquez
T. Graham Brown
Carlton Anderson
Gary Chapman
Sara Simmons
Chuck Mead Wade Landry Zach Janson
Ava Barber NashvilleMusicGuide.com 2
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW: WWW.EVENTBRITE.COM/ COUNTRYWITHHEART
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Editor’s Notes Welcome to Middle Tennessee Festival Goers! It’s summertime again and festival season is upon us. As always we are excited to share the wealth of music and culture in our area with you all. Nashville has been no stranger to visitors this year already. With the SEC Championship games, NFL Draft and numerous other events, the city has already seen it’s share of new faces and we have been happy to share our southern hospitality with them all. Now it’s back to the music! CMA Fest has the cowboy boots and daisy dukes in full force in downtown Nashville as Country fans take over. And this year, the city is getting the chance to have two weekends back-to-back of muisc lovers. Rather than cramming two festivals into one weekend, coordinators decided that Bonnaroo and CMA Fest would be on seperate weekends. Bonnaroo is a present day Woodstock and in our opinions one of the best musically diverse festivals around. In this issue you will find a major focus on upcoming events. Summer is a time to get out, spend time with family and friends and enjoy vacations so we tried to pick out some of the best upcoming events to highlight for you all to check out. And as always we have also included some artist spotlights, reviews, music news and more. We even did some highlights on those families that have their furry friends with them and are looking for some activities.
Publisher & CEO Randy Rich Editor@NashvilleMusicGuide.com 615-973-2188 Managing Editor Amanda Andrews akandrews@NashvilleMusicGuide.com 615-481-5837 Contributors Preshias Harris, Jessica Northey, Rick Amburgey, Sherryl Craig, Steve Kilgore, Jessica Andrews, Captain Joe Kent, Cilene Bosch, Krys Midgett, Jan Braun Photography Bob Coan, Jerry Overcast, Randi Radcliff, Mara Birdwell, Cilene Bosch, Alexandra Arielle, Catrina Engelby Founder Dan Wunsch HOW TO REACH NMG Press releases, CD Reviews info@NashvilleMusicGuide.com To check out the digital version of this issue as well as back issues of Nashville Music Guide scan the QR Code
Be sure to check out our Inside Track column by Preshias Harris for all the latest Nashville Music News and also her story on Sammy Sadler and the Murder on Music Row. Another big event coming to Nashville in July that musicians would love to attend is Summer NAMM. Their Make Music Experience Day is open to the public and totally worth coming out. The knowledge and innovativation that occurs during this conference is above and beyond. As always we want to thank all of our contributors, advertisers, readers, and supporters for continuing to come to us for music news. We have been able to be in circulation for 24 years now and will be around for as long as you will have us. Be sure to be on the lookout for NMG around town throughout the summer for a chance to be scene. We want to get more of our readers involved in sharing their Nashville moments with us. So be sure to tag us in your pics this summer @NashMusicGuide. Help us help publivize you! -Randy RIch & Amanda Andrews NashvilleMusicGuide.com 4
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Contents Features 3
Keith Whitley Tribute
6 Darius & Friends Opry CMA Fest Kickoff 7
Love & Acceptance Kiefer Sutherland
9
Jake Bowers Modern Day Outlaw
24 Corbin Pickard 25
Glen Templeton Run With Me
28
Summer NAMM
38 Bonnaroo 39 Lewispalooza 40
Electric Forest
10 Marty Stuart Artist in Residence
4
11
Musicians on Call 20th Anniversary
20
Sounding Board
12
Miranda & Mutts Music Pawty
26
Artist on the Rise
14
Sammy Sadler
27
NMG CAM
15
CMT Awards Blue Dizzy
Inside Track (29-34)
17
Ashton Shepherd This Heart Won’t Break
18 100 Things to Do in Nashville Before You Die 20 Lucky 13 with the Pentatonix’s Mitch Grassi 23
Jeremy Parsons
23
18
Departments 13
29
Editor’s Letter
Business Spotlight
Vince Gill Peter Frampton James Wesley Chris Young CMT Awards
30 Brett Young Bonnaroo Rockstars at Home I Know Country! Bluebird Cafe Steven Curtis Chapman 31
Jekalyn Carr Thomas Rhett CMA Fest
25
Maddie & Tae
32
Tom Petty Garth Brooks King Calaway Festival News GMA Honors John Paul White
33 Zach Stone Eric Paslay Old Dominion ALABAMA T. Graham Brown Billy Ray Cyrus 34 Summer NAMM NSAI Awards Jason Aldean Aaron Watson CDX 35
Colt Ford Julie Roberts Luke Bryan Bellamy Brothers HGTV at CMAFest
36 Tenille Arts Who’s Looking/ Who’s Cutting 37
Restaurant Spotlight
43
Music Venues NashvilleMusicGuide.com
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Tenth Annual “Darius And Friends” Benefit Returns to Ryman Auditorium June 3 Multi-Platinum superstar Darius Rucker will return to the historic Ryman Auditorium on Monday, June 3 for his 10th Annual Darius and Friends concert benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The event, which unofficially kicks off CMA Music Fest in downtown Nashville and has raised $1.6 million to date, will celebrate hitting the decade mark with an all-star roster of friends to be announced in the coming weeks. Rucker, who has always prioritized philanthropic work, was honored with the ACM Gary Haber Lifting Lives Award last year for his efforts and will receive the Harry Chapin Memorial Humanitarian Award at the upcoming 2019 Music Biz Awards. He made a commitment to support St. Jude
Children’s Research Hospital specifically in 2008 after touring the facility known around the globe for treating childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. “This event is always special because I love seeing my friends come together to support St. Jude and the amazing work they’re doing for families,” shares Rucker. “When we were planning the upcoming Hootie & the Blowfish tour, it was important to me that we kept this show on the schedule. Of all the exciting things to come this year, this night will still be a highlight.” Friends performing with Rucker in past years have included Lauren Alaina, Brooks & Dunn, Luke Bryan, Luke Combs, Randy Houser, Charles Kelley of Lady Antebellum, Ashley McBryde, A.J. McLean of the Backstreet Boys, Brad Paisley and Kenny Rogers, among others. The lineup for this year’s event will be announced soon. Tickets to the 10th Annual Darius and Friends benefit concert start at $50 with VIP options up to $150, available at www.ticketmaster.com. The event is made possible with support from generous sponsors PGA TOUR, CDW, Hendrix Enterprises, UMG, CAA, A. O. Smith, AMD, Arrow and Intel. For more information, please visit www.DariusRucker. comand follow on social media @DariusRucker.
Grand Ole Opry To Kick Off CMA FEST Week with Star-Studded Tuesday Night Show JUNE 4
Grand Ole Opry members Carrie Underwood, Chris Janson and Travis Tritt are helping the Grand Ole Opry kick off its CMA Fest week with two shows on Tuesday, June 4 at 7 and 9:30 p.m. As has become a popular Opry tradition, a free Opry Plaza Party will begin earlier in the afternoon with music and activities.
Among others scheduled for the Opry before CMA Fest Week include Trace Adkins, Kelsea Ballerini, Charlie Daniels Band, Terri Clark, Del McCoury Band, Lindsay Ell, Vince Gill, Martina McBride, Ashley McBryde, Craig Morgan, Old Crow Medicine Show, Maggie Rose, Mark Wills, Wynonna, Chris Young, and more.
Other Opry performances scheduled for CMA Fest Week include shows on Thurs., June 6, Fri., June 7, and Sat., June 8, as well as a Saturday matinee performance of Opry Country Classics featuring Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers, Charley Pride, and more at the Ryman Auditorium.
Tickets are available at 800-SEE-OPRY and opry.com.
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Photos courtesy Grand Ole Opry LLC. Chris Hollo, photographer
GLAAD & Ty Herndon’s Concert for Love & acceptance Set for June 6th The 5th annual Concert For Love and Acceptance will take place during the legendary CMA Fest and will be hosted by Grammynominated and Dove Award-winning artist Ty Herndon and CMT’s Cody Alan. Herndon, who co-founded the concert alongside GLAAD in 2015, will also perform. Other confirmed performers include include Chely Wright, Daughtry, Billy Gilman, Rita Wilson, Harper Grae, Tayla Lynn, Brody Ray, Brandon Stansell, Antigone Rising, Lee Brice, Tyler Rich, and Mickey Guyton. The event is also slated to have special guest appearances by WWE Superstars Sonya Deville, Paige, and Mandy Rose. “Each year, the Concert for Love & Acceptance continues to promote inclusivity and acceptance in the country music world. It’s so important, now more than ever, for us to come together to show our support for the LGBTQ community and this slate of top-tier performers are leading the way” said Zeke Stokes, Chief Programs Officer at GLAAD and Executive Producer of the 2019 Concert for Love & Acceptance.
The inaugural Concert for Love and Acceptance was held in 2015 to kick off GLAAD’s Southern Stories Tour. The event has been supported by artists including Reba McEntire, Vince Gill, Tanya Tucker, Michael Ray, Billy Dean, Cale Dodds, Chris Carmack, Crystal Gayle, Billy Gilman, Cassadee Pope, Calum Scott, Dana Goldberg, Kree Harrison, Mickey Guyton, Levi Hummon, Runaway June, Ryan Kinder, Meghan Lindsey, Street Corner Symphony, Thompson Square, and Trent Harmon. The 2019 Concert for Love and Acceptance partners include presenting partners CMT, Ketel One Family-Made Vodka, and Southwest, community partner The Weissmann Group, and media partner Billboard. The event will take place at the Wildhorse Saloon in Nashville, Tennessee on Thursday, June 6 at 7:00pm.
During last year’s Concert for Love & Acceptance, GLAAD also announced the Ty Herndon Rising Stars Grant, bestowed upon young people for their commitment to enhancing LGBTQ inclusion and representation in music. The grant is eligible to LGBTQ young people who are working to accelerate acceptance in the music industry. Applications for the grant are now available at glaad.org/risingstars.
Kiefer sutherland to perform at grand ole opry and cma fest Kiefer Sutherland will return to country’s most famous stage, the Grand Ole Opry, on Friday, June 7. “It is such an honor to be welcomed back to the Grand Ole Opry,” says Sutherland. “The country music community has been incredibly kind and inviting since I released my debut Down in a Hole album and now again with Reckless & Me. I’m excited to come back to the Opry and perform a couple of these new songs on such a renowned stage.” While in Nashville, Sutherland and his band will also make an appearance at CMA Fest with a performance set for Saturday, June 8 on the Budweiser Forever Country Stage at 4:15pm CT. Reckless & Me, the sophomore full-length album from Sutherland, will be released worldwide on
Friday, April 26 via BMG. The 10-track album is highlighted by the singles “Open Road,” “This Is How It’s Done” and the recently-released “Something You Love.” Throughout Reckless & Me, Sutherland offers his Americana and country rock-infused songwriting style and features his gift of soulful storytelling – all delivered with his distinctive, whiskey-soaked and gravel-laced voice. Pre-order for the album is available now, here. Sutherland’s three-decade, award-winning acting career has made him a familiar face around the globe, but his other passion is music. “I asked myself, says Sutherland, “‘what is the thing that I love about acting, and music?’ ‘What is the common denominator?’ For me it's storytelling and music is a very different way of doing it.” Produced by Jude Cole, Reckless & Me marks the follow up to Sutherland’s critically acclaimed debut album, Down In A Hole (2016). Now returning with Reckless & Me, Sutherland wants to keep touring and sharing these songs with his fans. Though he loves writing and recording, the stage holds a special place in his heart, and for the last three years, he’s toured extensively earning a reputation as a relentless road warrior. "I couldn't have imagined the depth with which I have fallen in love with touring,” says Sutherland. “To have the opportunity to convey intimate, personal stories to an audience has proven to be priceless.” U.S. tour dates are expected to be announced soon.
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MARTY STUART IS 2019 ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE
In addition to Flatt, Cash and Tritt, Stuart has worked onstage or in the studio with Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, Charley Pride, Mavis Staples, Porter Wagoner and hundreds of others. In the early 2000s, Stuart formed the aptly named Fabulous Superlatives, a band whose musical skills and sensibilities outshine the vibrancy of their Western suits. The Fabulous Superlatives issued their latest album, the critically acclaimed Way Out West, in 2017. The band includes guitar great Kenny Vaughan, famed drummer Harry Stinson and preternaturally talented multi-instrumentalist Chris Scruggs.
In recognition, celebration and admiration for his standing as one of country music’s greatest torchbearers and most enduring talents, the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum has invited Marty Stuart to be its 16th artist-in-residence. The artist-in-residence series is both an honor and a challenge. The museum offers its theaters as a blank canvas to artists of grand consequence with the understanding that the artist will curate shows unlike any others. Stuart will produce and perform three shows, on September 11, 18 and 25, 2019, bringing with him his Fabulous Superlatives band and friends from his nearly halfcentury of music making. Stuart joins a prestigious group of past honorees that includes nine members of the Country Music Hall of Fame. Cowboy Jack Clement opened the series in 2003, and other past honorees include Earl Scruggs, Tom T. Hall, Guy Clark, Kris Kristofferson, Jerry Douglas, Vince Gill, Buddy Miller, Connie Smith, Kenny Rogers, Ricky Skaggs, Alan Jackson, Rosanne Cash, Jason Isbell and 2018 artist-in-residence Miranda Lambert. “Marty Stuart has made country music his life’s work, and I cannot imagine the music without him,” said Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. “He has preserved its history, photographed its legends and performed its music with integrity. Marty’s music reaches beyond traditional country, drawing influence from genres including Americana, southern gospel and hillbilly rock. Marty’s residency will no doubt deliver truly unique and memorable experiences.” A five-time Grammy winner, platinum artist and recipient of numerous industry accolades including the Country Music Association’s prestigious Joe Talbot Award, Stuart began his musical career at age 12, when he joined the Sullivan Family Gospel Singers. After stints with bluegrass great Lester Flatt’s Nashville Grass and Johnny Cash’s backing band, he embarked on a solo career that resulted in hits including “Hillbilly Rock” and “Tempted.” Stuart has also enjoyed a successful collaboration with Travis Tritt as “No Hats” touring partners and hit-makers (“The Whiskey Ain’t Workin”). NashvilleMusicGuide.com 8
According to Stuart, “The ultimate destination in the world of country music is the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. The Hall of Fame is our greatest treasure chest and a place that represents the heart and soul of our culture. Some of my most cherished memories are of events I've either witnessed or performed in at the Hall of Fame. It's an honor to be the artistin-residence this September. Hopefully, at the end of the run, the past, present and the future of country music will have been touched upon, leaving in its wake three nights of magic to be remembered at the Hall of Fame.” Details of the shows planned exclusively by Stuart include: September 11: The Pilgrim Stuart will celebrate the rerelease of his landmark 10th studio album The Pilgrim during the September 11 show. The Pilgrim, which showcases Stuart’s songwriting and instrumental talents, tells the story of a man from Stuart's hometown of Philadelphia, Mississippi. He will celebrate this 20-year milestone with a host of musical guests. September 18: Psychedelic Jam-Bo-Ree The 1960s introduced us to undeniable superstars and gave us unforgettable songs. Join Stuart for an evening celebrating country music of the 1960s, featuring a line-up of influential artists and musicians from one of the most important periods of country music history. September 25: Songs That Tell a Story Harlan Howard famously referred to country music as “three chords and the truth.” On September 25, Stuart will pay homage to country music’s musical stories with an acoustic show. This line-up will feature a number of Nashville’s most influential and revered storytellers. Tickets for all three shows can be purchased through CMATheater.com. Tickets for each show range from $39.50 to $85.50 (plus ticketing fees). Sales are limited to four tickets per transaction on a first-come, first-served basis, and are non-refundable. Shows begin at 8:00PM. The museum’s artist-in-residence program is presented by Carter Vintage Guitars. To learn more about the museum’s artist-in-residence program, visit CountryMusicHallofFame.org.
Jake Bowers Let People Talk ... A modern day outlaw or a jack of all trades? Rising country artist Jake Bowers may be a little bit of both. If the Oklahoma native wasn’t leading his high school football team to the State Championship as an All Star Quarterback, he was topping off his Senior year as Northwest Oklahoma Baseball Player of the Year. And then there was a different kind of field, one full of riding horses and roping. But before sports and livestock made him a recognized name in his hometown of Helena, there were other ropes he had to learn: the ropes of the music business.
and Jake Bowers. Bowers can be found on socials @ JakeBowersMusic. Management/Booking, TCM Records Nashville, Randy Rich 615-973-2188
“Livin’ my life thru the bottom of the bottle Speedin’ my youth away, runnin’ full throttle I’m a new age country rebel, playing rockabilly metal So everybody sing along to this modern day outlaw, singing them Outlaw songs” -----“Outlaw Songs”, Jake Bowers
His parent’s band, Whiskey Moon, toured all over the US in the 90s, with his daddy as the front man singer and his mama as the vocal/instrumental/writer extraordinaire. And seeing that his mama was pregnant with him on the road, the phrase, “being born into it” takes on a whole new meaning. At 13, he joined his family on tour and cut his teeth at honky tonks every weekend. At 16, his mama took him to Nashville for the first time, where he fell in love. By 17, he had recorded his first album and written all the songs, which eventually led to sharing the stage with artists like Granger Smith and Colt Ford. And now at 27, he has found himself writing with Nashville songwriters Ashton Shepherd, Tony Stampley, and Arlos Smith, just to name a few. Currently in Dog Ear Studios working with James Laritz and Randy Rich Media, he is gearing up to release his third EP. Influenced by the greats like Merle Haggard, Steve Earle, and Radney Foster, the now Nashville resident has written four out of the six songs. And if you ask him, he’ll tell you it’s his best yet. “I feel like I have finally found myself as a singer/ songwriter and I’m ready to showcase my style with the world,” Bowers says. “I just want to make a living doing something I love and be able to share my life experiences with others thru my music.” The new year will also bring single releases to the Texas Billboard Regional Charts and a radio tour, which Bowers is extremely excited about. And fans of outlaw country can expect nothing short of authentic vocals, a down to earth personality, and high energy showmanship. Jake was recently signed to TCM Records Nashville and is set to release the first single, “To My Head” featuring Ashton Shepherd from his new album, Let People Talk in May.. The single was produced by Randy Rich
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Bring on the “Sunshine” with Southern Halo Natalia (principal songwriter, guitarist, lead vocalist), Christina (drums) and Hannah (bass) are Southern Halo. Since their hypnotically-upbeat Country radio debut, “Little White Dress,” caught the attention of radio and press, this sibling trio has broken down doors and shattered glass ceilings. These girls aren’t just talented musicians, but they also are in tune with the marketing of their music in the most creative ways possible to their fans. And in true Southern Halo fashion their latest release “Sunshine” is the perfect summer anthem; a groove-oriented, electrified wave of sound that lifts the listener out of the winter doldrums with high-energy musicianship and dynamic sibling harmonies. Written by Love and Theft’s Stephen B. Liles and Eric Gunderson, along with Southern Halo’s lead singer/songwriter Natalia Morris, the track was produced by Catt Gravitt. The writers met up in the chill of January, and all three were longing for warmer weather. “The first verse almost wrote itself,” recalls Natalia. “Stephen and Eric immediately created a great, upbeat groove that was perfectly jamming to the theme, so running with it and telling a story of that vacation to escape felt natural. We love it and hope we’ll get to meet up with Love and Theft on the road again soon so we can sing it together live.” Performing at the Bluebird is a common dream for Country’s rising stars, and Southern Halo is no different and on May 29 this dream became a reality for the girls. “It’s definitely been at the top of our Bucket List for a very long time,” admits Natalia. “We were thrilled to be sharing the stage with noted songwriters Melissa Bollea Rowe and Jimmy Charles.” They have opened for Maren Morris, Phil Vassar, Deana Carter, Love and Theft, Brantley Gilbert, Eric Paslay, Tyler Farr, Parmalee, Old Dominion, American Young, Blues immortal B.B. King, legendary chanteuse Dionne Warwick, and many others. The Cleveland, Mississippi natives have performed at a pre-show on the rooftop terrace of the Grammy Museum in LA, kicked off the Backstage Pass Series at the Grammy Museum Mississippi, launched Townsquare Media’s Say It With Pepsi Concert Series, and toured on the Spring/ Fall 2018 High School Nation Tour. They entertained fans at CMA Music Fest 2018 and 2016, and have twice toured the U.K. Their 2018 album, Just Like in the Movies, garnered two Top 25 MusicRow CountryBreakOut™ chart and Top 45 Billboard Indicator chart hits. When they are not on the road, the Morris sisters now call Nashville home. And when not on the road the girls enjoy spending time with the furry family. Christina has her cat Salem, Hannah has her pup Uga and Natalia has her cat Prissy. “My relationship with Salem began three summers ago, during my days of volunteering at our local animal shelter,” shared Christina. “He was always the center of my attention every time I made a trip up there. The bond between us grew so strong to a point that I just knew I had to bring him home and into our family. Of course my first reaction was uncertainty of my parents opinion on bringing home another male cat, so I did as all rebel middle-children do and snuck him into my room without anyone’s consent. A few days passed until his presence became known, and (not to my surprise) the whole family fell in love with him and decided he should stay.” “I was given Uga as my 10th birthday present from my family,” said Hannah. “He has been the best blessing to me and my absolute best friend ever since. He is my first dog I personally ever owned and is by far the greatest most loyal one ever! I loveeee my Uga bear! Despite the drool and farting, he is the best man in my life and goes everywhere with me! You may see him walking in the streets with me in Nashville.” “I rescued my cat Prissy from our local animal shelter,” said Natalia. “We love taking blankets and food up there every once and a while. One day, I saw this little cat with crooked feet that I believed were broken. After adopting her and taking her to the vet, I soon discovered that she was born with contracted tendons and has no idea that she is any different from the rest of the animals! I’ve never been a cat person, but as soon as I saw Prissy I immediately knew that I wanted to be her Mama!” https://www.southernhalo.net NashvilleMusicGuide.com 10
Musician’s on Call 20th Anniversary Celebration event for his decade-long support of MOC as an Advisory Board Member. Shane was recognized for his commitment to health and music causes throughout Nashville including his volunteer service with Musicians On Call at Alive Hospice and Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt. Also during the program, Charlie Cook, VP/Country Formats, Cumulus Media, Operations Manager/Cumulus Media-Nashville, and Program Director/WSM-FM, received the Leadership in Music Golden Ukulele in gratitude for the support Cumulus and Nash FM has given to MOC. Universal Music Group Nashville recording artist Lauren Alaina received the Music Heals Award thanks to her commitment to volunteering at Musicians On Call's Bedside Performance Program. The celebration began with an exclusive VIP reception at the CMA Theater, followed by performances by Dodds and a fullband set from Shelton. "Over the past 20 years we've brought the healing power of music to over 700,000 people in hospitals nationwide. A single song has the ability to lift a patient's spirit unlike anything else and science has proven that music does actually help patients heal," said Musicians On Call President & CEO Pete Griffin. "It's been an honor to bring this experience to facilities nationwide and we could not have done it without the support of our community, volunteers and artists who generously give their time and talents to brighten someone's day, especially champions like Shane Tarleton, Charlie Cook and Lauren Alaina. What better way to celebrate this milestone than with music icon, Blake Shelton!" Musicians On Call 20th Anniversary Kickoff Celebration was sponsored by City National Bank, Outback Presents, Warner Music Nashville, OnSite, HCA, RIAA, UMG Nashville, YouTube, Cumulus Media and John and Stephanie Roberts. Musicians On Call will also host special celebratory events coast to coast, starting with this kick-off concert in Nashville. This fall MOC will honor its founders and many supporters throughout its 20 years at a gala celebration in New York City. Leading up to the gala celebration, MOC will host celebrity hospital visits, a 20th anniversary auction, social challenge and its first-ever 20-day fundraising challenge. Throughout the year, MOC will be posting its favorite MOC Moments using #MOC20 and encourages supporters to post their favorites as well.
Musicians On Call (MOC), a nonprofit that brings live and recorded music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities, hosted its 20th Anniversary Kick-Off Celebration in Nashville on Friday, May 31 at the CMA Theater. The event celebrated the organization's 20th anniversary of delivering the healing power of music nationwide and featured a headlining performance by Warner Music Nashville superstar Blake Shelton and an opening set from label mate Cale Dodds. Shane Tarleton, longtime MOC supporter and SVP of Artist Development for Warner Music Nashville was recognized as the organization's first Lifetime Achievement Award recipient at the
MOC began with its first Bedside Performance Program in New York in 1999, co-founded by music industry entrepreneurs Michael Solomon and Vivek Tiwary, and has since expanded across the country with programs in 20 major markets. The program first came to Nashville in 2007 and has since performed for more than 155,000 individuals in local hospitals. The organization's Volunteer musicians have performed for more than 700,000 individuals nationwide. Artists like Bruce Springsteen, Kelly Clarkson, Luke Bryan, Keith Urban, Lady Antebellum, Justin Timberlake, Ed Sheeran, Reba McEntire, Gavin DeGraw, Darius Rucker, Pharrell, Amos Lee, Nick Jonas, Rachel Platten and many more have all supported Musicians On Call.
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MIRANDA LAMBERT MARCHES WITH THE MUTTS AT CMA FEST Miranda Lambert, Country Music’s animal-loving superstar, will kickoff CMA Fest with a “bark.” As part of MuttNation’s 10th Anniversary celebration, she’ll lead the foundation’s Mutt March, presented by Tractor Supply Company, on Thursday, June 6 from 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. Starting at Nissan Stadium, the parade of pups will wind its way across the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge and into Music City’s Walk of Fame Park, where Storme Warren will interview Miranda in a live broadcast on Sirius XM’s The Highway. There will also be activities and refreshments available for both dogs and their owners. “We’re hoping that 1,000 or more people, some with their furry friends, will join us walking in support of shelter pet adoption,” said Lambert, the proud owner of eight rescues herself. Register for the MuttMarch at https://www.MuttNationFoundation.com. This also marks the third consecutive year that MuttNation will entertain CMA Fest attendees with adoptable dogs on the floor of Xfinity Fan Fair X at Music City Center. “Country music lovers and dog lovers, they go hand-in-hand,” said Miranda, "and CMA Fest provides the perfect setting to make that special connection.” Partnering again with Nashville Humane Association for the adoption event, which is also sponsored by Tractor Supply, the MuttNation booth will host dozens of the cutest canines from Thursday thru Sunday, 12 - 3 p.m. Bev Lambert, Miranda’s mom and co-founder of MuttNation Foundation, will be on-site to have photos taken with each of the new forever families. In 2018, 55 shelter dogs were adopted during CMA Fest. Be sure to keep an eye on MuttNation social media pages to see advance photos of some of the adoptable dogs photographed with Bev and Miranda: https://www.MuttNationFoundation.com.
PEDIGREE Foundation “Music Pawty” to Help Dogs in Need Find Loving Homes
PEDIGREE Foundation and country artist Jamie O’Neal will host a special songwriters round at The Listening Room Café on Sunday, June 9th to benefit PEDIGREE Foundation’s grants program that supports organizations that help dogs in need find loving homes. The event dubbed PEDIGREE Foundation’s “Music Pawty” will feature exciting newcomers like Jillian Cardarelli, Levi Hummon, Erin Kinsey and QUEEVA. Doors open at 11:30am with lunch available for purchase; show starts at 12:30pm to 2:00pm. “I am honored to support PEDIGREE Foundation and the incredible work they do across the country to help end dog homelessness,” said Jamie O’Neal. “I’m grateful for my fellow dog-lovers and singer-songwriter friends that are joining me in support of this important cause and we’re asking festival fans, and locals alike, to come out to ‘pawty’ with us and help raise much needed funds for dogs in need.” PEDIGREE Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private foundation, founded in 2008, that supports shelters and rescue organizations, as well as encouraging people to ADOPT, VOLUNTEER, and DONATE. At the close of 2018, the foundation contributed more than $7.3 million through 5,300 grants to shelters and rescues across the country. The PEDIGREE Foundation grants are funded by the PEDIGREE® Brand, contributions from partners and dog lovers like you. The funds raised by the foundation are used to support organizations that help dogs in need find their loving homes -- helping to end pet homelessness. Tickets to Jamie O’Neal & Friends, PEDIGREE Foundation’s “Music Pawty” are $25 (plus $15 food and beverage minimum day of show). Tickets are on sale now at The Listening Room Café at https://listeningroomcafe.com/tc-events/jamie-onealfriends-benefiting-pedigree-foundation/ For more information about sponsorship opportunities, updates and how to donate to the cause, please visit the PEDIGREE Foundation at www.PEDIGREEfoundation.org. NashvilleMusicGuide.com 12
BUSI ESS SPOTLIGHT Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to Learn More About What These Businesses Have To Offer.
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Songwriting University New Company Pairs Established and Aspiring Songwriters. Aside from one on one writing sessions that will also host monthly group writers in the round sessions.
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Frizzell & Friends is a title that always means the best in real country music, from singer/songwriter/producer David Frizzell and his label, Nashville America Records
SongCast
Music distribution is the link between an artists’ finished music and their future fans and it is a crucial part of music promotion.
FADD’S
Come play with us! Party buses and trolleys to serve all your entertainment and transportation needs this holiday season.
Lucchese Records Shop The Lucchese Record Shop, a limited time pop up at the corner of 8th Ave and Clark Place, will feature records & merchandise from UMG Nashville artists, Lucchese boots as well as live music every Thurs. -Sun through the end of the year.
Nashville Music Guide
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SAmmy Sadler Reboots Career with new projects Sole Survivor of murder on Music Row Sammy Sadler was an emerging artist in the late 1980s on the brink of a successful career with a record deal at Evergreen Records. He was full of optimism and high hopes when he and his friend Kevin Hughes were walking along Music Row in Nashville on March 9, 1989. Hughes was a chart researcher at Cash Box magazine. While still a student at Belmont University, he had worked as an unpaid intern before being put on the magazine’s payroll by Richard “Tony” D’Antonio, Cash Box’s director of Nashville operations. Hughes had become suspicious that money was changing hands in order to push certain records up the charts. He had voiced his concerns to friends and family and was considering leaving Music City and returning home to Illinois. As Hughes and Sadler walked along Music Row at around 10:20 pm, a masked gunman stepped out of the shadows and shot both men. Hughes was killed in the attack; Sadler was seriously wounded but survived. The assailant escaped and the crime went unsolved for many years. Eventually, in 2003, D’Antonio was tried and convicted of Hughes’ murder and the attempted murder of Sadler.
"Sammy is an amazingly gifted country singer whose career was literally stolen at gunpoint. Despite his horrendous ordeal, he has NEVER given up on himself, Nashville, the industry, or his dream. Most people would have walked away. That says a great deal about his character. This business requires not only talent, but resilience...he has both." – Cathy Nakos, CN Productions. Nakos made it one of her first orders of business to secure a booking agency for Sadler. She tapped WBA Entertainment (Larry Carlton, Paul Brown, Remembering Hee Haw, The Highwaymen Live Brothers Brown, Mark Newman, etc.) to represent him. "Sammy brings a lot to the table," stated his agent, Whitney Crabtree. "Not only were we extremely impressed by his talent and his story, but his sheer determination. Not everyone can put together a tour like he did, enlist the talent that he did, and manage all the pieces and parts that go into it," she explains. "With all he did on his own, it's exciting to think what he could do with a great agency behind him. He certainly deserves that chance." Sadler's ongoing tenacity has allowed him to continue his career in the music industry despite his tragic past. He is currently putting the finishing touches on projects that he hopes will capture the country world's attention once again. Sadler says he is excited about these projects, some of which he has been working on for more than a decade. "The business has changed a great deal since the late 80s and it's taken me some time to wrap my head around it,” he admitted. “But, there's a lot of opportunity for guys like me to reach my audience more than ever before. It will be interesting to see how the country community reacts."
The attack and resulting injuries put a halt to Sadler’s promising career, in addition to depriving him of his friend. It has been a hard road back for Sadler, putting the pieces of his life and his career together as he deals with PTSD related to the attack. But two aspects of Sadler’s life have remained unchanged: his innate talent and his remarkable determination. Despite the odds, between 2012 and 2016, on his own, he put together two successful tours, both aptly titled “Taking the Country Back.” Handling the project himself, the tours played more than 200 dates with co-headliners such as Jeff Carson, Ken Mellons and Buddy Jewell. Now, thirty years after that murderous attack, Sadler’s career is entering a new phase. He has been working quietly to assemble a team to work with him on several projects that are already taking shape. Sadler secured CN Productions for exclusive management by industry veteran Cathy Nakos, whose clients have included Andy Griggs, Dave Gibson, Hal Bynum, Elizabeth Eckert, Buddy Jewell, Beatlemania 64 Live, and The Ultimate Garth Brooks Tribute, just to name a few. NashvilleMusicGuide.com 14
more at Sammy Sadler’s website, https://sammysadler.com/ By Preshias Harris
On November 10 of last year, Sammy Sadler provided a free copy of his single, “In America” on his website to honor American veterans. Sammy is reportedly continuing to work on his biography and is back in the studio working on a project. Details of this upcoming project will be announced soon. Music, videos and
Breaking Records at the “2019 CMT Music Awards” Show airs live from nashville on june 5
CMT will make history this year as it packs the “2019 CMT Music Awards,” with more performances than ever before, featuring superstars Carrie Underwood, Dan + Shay, Kane Brown, Kelsea Ballerini, Luke Bryan, Maren Morris, Thomas Rhett, and more to be announced. Hosted by awardwinning musical talent Little Big Town, the show will air LIVE from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday, June 5 at 8 pm ET / 7 pm CT. Continuing the “CMT Music Awards” tradition of embracing blended-genre collaborations among all musical formats, this year’s nominations feature a wide range of talent, from rising stars to music legends, spanning the worlds of pop, soul and R&B. Superstars Brothers Osborne, Jason Aldean, Maren Morris, Miranda Lambert and Zac Brown Band will compete for the most accolades of the evening, each with 3 nominations. Other artists with more than one nomination include Brandi Carlile, Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, Cole Swindell, Dan + Shay, Dierks Bentley, Eric Church, Florida Georgia Line, Julia Michaels, Kacey Musgraves, Kane Brown, Keith Urban, Kelsea Ballerini, Little Big Town, Luke Bryan, Sugarland, and Taylor Swift. With first-time nominations, R&B legends Boyz II Men and soul singer Leon Bridges will compete for Performance of the Year. Other artists with first-time nominations this year include “Empress of Soul” Gladys Knight and pop sensation Shawn Mendes, along with Ashley McBryde, Brandi Carlile, Jimmie Allen, Jordan Davis, Julia Michaels, Mitchell Tenpenny, Morgan Wallen, Runaway June and Tenille Townes.
This year, 14 acts are in the running for the highly coveted “Video of the Year” award, including Carrie Underwood, who reigns as the most awarded artist in CMT Music Awards history with 18 wins. The top five “Video of the Year” nominees will be announced the morning of the show, and fans will be able to vote all day and throughout the show on Twitter to determine the winner. Of the performers announced thus far, singer/songwriter Maren Morris leads the pack with three nominations, including “Video of the Year” and “Female Video of the Year” for “GIRL,” in addition to a nomination for “CMT Performance of the Year” for her collaboration with Brandi Carlile for “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” from the 2018 CMT Artists of the Year special. Additionally, Carrie Underwood, the most awarded artist in CMT Music Awards history, will make an exciting return to the CMT stage to perform. Underwood is nominated for two awards this year, including “Video of the Year” for “Cry Pretty” and “Female Video of the Year” for “Love Wins.” Fans can vote now for their favorite artists via vote.cmt.com, up until 11:59 pm ET on Tuesday, June 4 for all categories, including “Video of the Year,” “Male Video of the Year,” “Female Video of the Year,” “Duo Video of the Year,” “Group Video of the Year,” “Breakthrough Video of the Year,” “Collaborative Video of the Year” and “CMT Performance of the Year.” Tickets to the “2019 CMT Music Awards” are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com. For more info, follow @CMT on Twitter and Instagram, hashtag #CMTawards and like the CMT Music Awards on Facebook.
Wildhorse Saloon, Celebrates 25th Anniversary Year with New Monthly Series, Blue Dizzy Twenty-five years after opening its doors, the World Famous Wildhorse Saloon continues to be one of Nashville’s favorite go-to venues for music and dining, and with the launch of a new monthly series called Blue Dizzy, venue goers can now experience an even more unique entertainment experience that is reminiscent of a late-night talk show meets live artist performances infused with sketch comedy segments. “The Wildhorse is an iconic venue steeped in Nashville’s rich music history,” said Brian Schafer, general manager of Wildhorse Saloon. “As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we are committed to invigorating our fan base with this fresh take on entertainment while cultivating and welcoming a new generation of fans.” To commemorate the 25th anniversary, Wildhorse representatives traveled to Lynchburg, Tennessee to select an exclusive barrel of Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey. Only available in 2019, each menu creation has been thoughtfully and skillfully created to evoke the spirit of the Wildhorse and includes the exclusive barrel of Jack. Entrees infused with the exclusive barrel include some of chef’s great culinary delights like the Heritage Breed Tennessee Pork Chop, Shrimp & Grits, Bacon-Wrapped Filet, Hickory-Smoked Ribs and our Roasted Quarter Chicken; all available for order during Blue Dizzy events. Scheduled for once a month through November, each show features special guest appearances that include announced as well as sometimes unannounced performers, paired with comedy, story-telling, and line dancing. Blue Dizzy shows are scheduled for May 23, June 27, July 25, Aug 15, Sept. 19, Oct. 10, and Nov. 14 and kick-off at 6:30 p.m.
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Ashton Shepherd This Heart Won’t Break
Ashton Shepherd hails from the small town of Coffeeville, AL. If you know her already, you may already know she has been singing, writing, playing and performing music since she was in Kindergarten. With a dream of becoming a Country music star, her parents placed Ashton in her first singing competition at just eight years old. Ashton made a name for herself in the Country music world landing a record deal with MCA Records. She released three consecutive hit singles that reached Top 20 on the Billboard Country charts. Ashton’s first two singles were written solely by her, “Sounds So Good” and “Takin’ Off This Pain.” She smiled telling us how fans made their own names for those tunes she self-pinned. Fans call one “The Cooler Slushin’ Song” and the other “Cold Beer in My Right Hand.” Her follow up single, “Look It Up,” was met with great praise in the Country industry. “Look It Up” was delivered with Country sass, which Ashton definitely has no trouble providing. This is just a smidgen of what makes her Ashton. Ashton excitedly found herself suddenly living her dream by creating and singing music that undoubtedly grabbed the attention of a global audience. Her albums Sound So Good and Where Country Grows found themselves praised music tastemakers across the country. As a mother of two, having her second child not long after her second album release, she chose working independently on her later single releases, “This is America” and “Out of My Pocket.” These singles were proudly received and supported by Ashton’s fans and were also critically acclaimed . Ashton’s determination and ability to persevere speaks for itself in her latest single, “This Heart Won’t Break.”
“I’ve never felt this in-tune with myself and in the process of creating my music,” said Ashton. “Although I’ve always known who I am, I’ve discovered the depths of my weaknesses and more importantly, my strengths. I cannot wait to share this with my loyal and amazing fans and those yet to discover my music. I feel like this is the most real and relatable my music has ever been because I now have experience in business and my personal life that only God given time allows. This entire release is truly special.” To find out #AllThingsAshton from music releases to touring, sign up for her newsletter at www.AshtonShepherd.com. #AshtonShepherdCountry ASHTON SHEPHERD CMA FEST SCHEDULE: WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5 ~ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Acoustic PERFORMANCE at Dawg House Saloon on Demonbruen THURSDAY, JUNE 6 ~ 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm MEET & GREET at Jesus Calling Booth in Fan Fair X FRIDAY, JUNE 7 ~ 6:00 pm - 6:45 pm Full Band PERFORMANCE followed by a MEET & GREET at The Valentine SATURDAY, JUNE 8 ~ 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm SIGNING at Nashville Universe Booth in Fan Fair X 4:45 pm - 5:15 pm Full Band PERFORMANCE at Nashville Underground (Nashville Universe Stage) SUNDAY, JUNE 9 ~ 1:15 pm PERFORMANCE at Sunday Mornin’ Country at The Grand Ole Opry
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Nashville Music Guide Presents 100 Things to Do in Nashville Before You Die, 2nd Edition by Author Tom Adkinson It was extremely hard to pick which of the 100 things to feature for you here so be sure you pick up your copy to find out about the complete list. Our first pick is the first mentioned in the book. The Capitol Grille, entertaining guests since 1910. You’ll love this dining experience with fresh foods straight from the garden to a hot grill. Located at the five-star Hermitage Hotel. Adkinson: “A fluke when I was fresh out of journalism school at UT got me into travel writing. I’m forever grateful to that fluke-delivering editor because travel writing has taken me around the world. My writing experience -- and years in travel industry PR work -- put me in great shape to write this book.” For those of us who live in or near Nashville TN or for those of us who visit frequently for work or fun, we know that Nashville is the hottest place to be. Tom Adkinson, author, and writer of “100 Things to Do in Nashville Before You Die, 2nd Edition” also agrees. Nashville TN is one of the most visited cities in the US and rightly so because it has such an abundance of opportunities to offer. Not only can see your favorite country music superstars, up and coming new artist, and bask in the security of some of the top jobs in the country, you’ll see that the music city offers so much more for its millions of visitors each year. There’s food, fun, and excitement 24 hours a day and travel writer, Tom Adkinson has featured 100 of the top amazing things to do. In his amazing book “100 Things To Do In Nashville Before You Die, 2nd Edition” you’ll find a virtual road map to some of the most exciting places to quench your thirst, delight your appetite and amaze you with a stories of the history of Nashville and historic wonders. NashvilleMusicGuide.com 18
Our second selection is an all time favorite of mine, my German heritage exudes here. Built in 1898 Monells’s in the Germantown neighborhood presents with beautiful hardwood floors, shared seating, and features fried chicken, green beans, turnip greens, and salads. From strangers to friends this is the place to meet. Adkinson: “My publisher and I both are in the Society of American Travel Writers, and I was tickled when he asked me to write the book. The assignment made me think deep and hard about various aspects of Nashville. My goal was to encourage people to get out and do things, to actively enjoy Nashville and perhaps be surprised on occasion. With only two exceptions, everything in the book is in Davidson County.” The third pick but by no means, a late bloomer is The Oak Bar. It’s long history as the headquarters for both prosand anti-suffrage camps is a great conversation piece as well as enjoying some of the finest tasting bourbons in the state. Known to all who reside in Nashville is Five Points, a crazy little intersec-
tion of streets that would confuse most visitors but surely offers great appeal. You’ll find Margot Cafe & Bar, enjoy Game Point Cafe for hundreds of board game fun, visit the Art & Invention Gallery, and grab a bushwhacker at 3 Crow Bar. Our fifth and last selection to tease your senses and excite your curiosity is an all-time favorite for everyone The Nashville Farmers’ Market. This downtown jewel is within sight of the Capitol and offers so many fresh foods like strawberries, tomatoes in the summertime, and in the fall sweet potatoes. The fresh produce comes from over 150 farmers who fill the Farm Sheds. Adkinson: “The book is a compilation of my decades of living in Nashville, along with considerable consultation with friends over a beer or two -- or maybe more.” This is a great book to add to your collection and not only that but to share with friends and family who plan a memorable vacation to the music city of the south. Adkinson grew up in Nashville so his in-depth knowledge of the history, the fun, and the overall hospitality of Nashville TN is ingrained in his roots. Adkinson was assistant travel editor at Southern Living Magazine early in his career and covered the entertainment industry as well. He is a master storyteller and this book will not only give you wonderful ideas on the exciting places to see but it gives you information on the history of Nashville too. Adkinson: Where to buy the book: Numerous retailers such as the Ernest Tubb Record Shop, the Omni Nashville Hotel, Two Old Hippies, Carter Vintage Guitars, the Peanut Shop in the Arcade and Batch at the Farmers’ Market. Also from my website, CornersOfTheCountry.com (whose name was inspired by the lyrics to “16th Avenue”). Story by Sherryl Craig
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Lucky 13 with Mitch Grassi from The Pentatonix
Three-time Grammy® Award-winning and multi-platinum-selling artist Pentatonix has sold nearly 10 million albums in worldwide consumption and performed for hundreds of thousands of fans at their sold out shows across the globe. Their YouTube channel boasts more than 15.5 million subscribers, yielding over 3.4 billion video views. Their 2015 self-titled album is certified gold after debuting #1 on Billboard’s 200. The Pentatonix are currently on a world tour that includes a stop in Nashville at Bridgestone Arena on June 20th. In advance of the show, we had an opportunity to interview Mitch Grassi. Mitch is the youngest member of Pentatonix and a recent high school graduate (he was a high school senior when taping of The Sing-Off commenced). In addition to immersing himself in music theater in Arlington, TX, Mitch’s music tastes skew heavily toward underground club and electronic music. A veteran of many vocal and talent competitions, Mitch took first place at the Teen Talent Follies for his rendition of Scott Alan’s “Kiss the Air.” Mitch is honing his skills in production and DJ-ing while excelling as a lead vocalist for Pentatonix.
What was the first song you ever performed? Something by N*SYNC, I’m sure. I used to put on a Christmas show with my sister in our living room for our parents. Good memories!
What are your musical influences? I get really hyped on musicians that experiment with sound and push sonic boundaries. I love pop sensibilities with an aggressive edge.
How do you balance your music career with your other obligations in life?
It’s not too terribly difficult. I allow myself adequate resting periods, but I really do enjoy working so much. And, of course, I enjoy making music more than anything.
What personal advice would you give to someone wanting to pursue this career? Find your unique strength. Hone your skills! Approach everything with a positive perspective. Music is simply fun, and the possibilities should excite you.
If you had to do it all over again, would you still choose this career? Would you do anything differently? I would choose this one hundred times over. I don’t believe
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would like to share with us?
in regrets, but if I had to do anything differently, I think I would push myself to speak up a bit more. Every idea is valid.
Fashion is another strong interest of mine. Manipulating my appearance is really thrilling for me. I also collect archival garments. My closet is ever-growing and ever-changing!
What would be your advice to artists that are new to the touring circuit?
How do you like to enjoy your relaxation time away from the music?
Enjoy it. It really is so much fun, and so very rewarding. Make sure you rest as much as you can, because touring takes a bit of a toll on you, physically. Be respectful to your bandmates, and especially to your crew. They work SO hard for you every day, and there are a lot of things that happen behind the scenes to ultimately make your job as easy as possible.
I love to surround myself with love! Friends and family really bring me back down to earth. I love to travel for leisure, as well. I think seeing the world is really important.
How would you describe your music to someone that has never heard you before? We make pop music.
As a child growing up, music surrounds us; What type of music did you hear the most back then? How does it differ from what you listen to now?
Without music, I would be a shaky neurotic mess! Music is a universal healer. My music makes me feel happy and accomplished. I write the songs because my subconscious needs to purge. Support music because it soothes souls! ~Mitch Grassi, The Pentatonix
I grew up listening to lots of soundtracks, specifically broadway musicals. I was heavily involved in theatre, and I think that really helped me link the emotional center of myself to the music I make. Now, I listen to a lot of electronic music, and I’m always on the lookout for artists that make music that is different than anything I’ve heard before.
What made you first realize you wanted to pursue a career in music? As a young teen, I was extremely introverted, and music was really the only thing that gave me energy and hope. I think because it had such a positive influence on me, I wanted to do the same thing for others.
Do you have other interests or talents you
Someone once said write what you would want to perform over and over. With that in mind, what song do you love to perform the most? In terms of original music, I would say songs like “Run To You” have a special place in my heart. That one is really emotional for all of us in the band. I’ll never get tired of singing that one!
If you could perform with anyone in the world either dead, alive, or broke up - who would it be? Why? My current dream collaboration is Holly Herndon. Her ear is so unique, and she has such a talent for creating these really alien soundscapes. I love the way she manipulates vocals, too. It would be my dream to have her play with my vocal stems. For more information: Official Website: http://ptxofficial.com/ YouTube Page: http://youtube.com/Ptxofficial Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Pentatonix Twitter: https://twitter.com/PTXofficial Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptxofficial/
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Texas Spotlight: Jeremy Parsons Jeremy Parsons has been working in the Nashville Music scene for several years honing his artistry and building his following. His hard work and go-getter attitude has paid off and it shows with the completeion of his fully “Kickstarter” funded project, Things I Need To Say. Jeremy draws from his personal experiences to create songs that are keenly perceptive and meaningful. The first single from his latest album, Things I Need To Say was the Top 40 Roots Music Report and IndieWorld Report track, “Burn This House Down.” The song paints a poignant picture of heartbreak and acceptance that still remains relatable. It will stick with you long after your first listen. That single was followed up by the equally well-received, “Why is the Bluebird Blue,” also s a Top 40 Roots Report americana single. “Bluebird” also reached #2 on the Hits You Love pop charts. The videos for both songs were nominated and selected for numerous Film Festivals, including the Jersey Shore Film Festival, Indie’s Best Films Festival, and the Monkey Bread Tree Film Festival, an IMDB-sanctioned film festival.
Like most artists, Jeremy’s success was not over night and it has been a long road that started as a new artist learning the ropes to where he is today. Jeremy shared some words on a few things that he wished he would have known when he was starting his musical journey. “The first thing I wish someone would have told me is to start getting good at saving your money. You aren’t always going to have investors or wealthy family members so it’s smart to save as much as you can so when you’re ready to put out some new music or go back into the studio you have plenty of money for production and promotion. The second thing I would say is make sure you know someone in your industry. Nobody knows everything but it helps at the start to have someone to show you all the ropes. For the third I would say to remember it’s not about the number of songs you write or plan to write. It’s about the number of great songs you write. Take it slow and don’t force the magic. The fourth thing I would say is get good at practicing patience. Things don’t just happen overnight. It takes years of hard work and an everlasting focus and drive on and toward your passion. The fifth and final thing, also the most important to me, is know who you are as an artist. There’s a lot of people out there trying to do the same thing you are but there is only one you and they can never take that away from you.” For more information on Jeremy’s music and upcoming performances visit www.JeremyParsonsMusic.com
Born in San Antonio, Texas, Jeremy Parsons grew up soaking in the sounds of Texas music in the dancehalls of the Lone Star State. Jeremy was always a fan of music, but it wasn’t until his later high school years that he discovered his knack for it. Driven by his passion, he taught himself to play the guitar and began to write and perform music. Over the past decade, Jeremy has played all over the U.S. and in Europe, including numerous venues in Texas. Pulling from the example of Texas performance artists, Jeremy loves to interact with his audience. He captivates the crowd with his genuine personality, unique humor, and heart-felt love of his occupation.
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Corbin Pickard Tennessee’s Corbin Pickard musical talents were a natural occurence for a boy who was brought up around some of Country music’s greatest artists. Corbin Pickard was born in Jackson, Tennessee and moved to Nashville at the age of 4. He fell in love with music, and started singing by the time he was 8 years old. His family is friends with Tracy Lawrence, and when fire damaged Tracy’s home, the Pickard family invited the Lawrence’s to stay with them while their house was being repaired. From then on, there was music around the house, and Corbin was hooked. Another connection was deeply rooted into his lineage. Corbin’s great grandmother was Delta West, who sang with Eddie Arnold on The Eddie Arnold Radio Show on WTJS-AM in Jackson Tennessee in the 1930’s. Corbin sang in a school play at age 9 with next door neighbor Lorrie Morgan, and at age twelve he wrote his first song “Breakin’ Thru”, about ADD. At age thirteen, music producer Chuck Howard Jr. from Curb Records heard “Breakin’ Thru” and wanted Corbin to rerecord the song as for an ADD platform, but his voice was changing and the project was put on hold. By age seventeen, Corbin’s voice had finished changing and he cut “TGIF” (Thank God I’m Forgiven) produced by Mark Oliverius of OMG Nashville. Since then, he has been in the studio with Michael Rogers and has cut four more songs for his upcoming EP. Corbin has currently been paying his dues by performing live and opening shows for Mark Wills, Chuck Wicks, Matt Kennon, Kevin Post, and currently Jesse Keith Whitley. For more information visit www.facebook.com/CorbinPickMusic
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Krislyn Arthurs Oklahoma—where the wind comes sweepin’ down the plain, spreading country artists into Tennessee like dandelion seeds. Reba. Vince. Garth. Blake-- just a few of the iconic stars born and bred in the Sooner State. And now, Medford resident Krislyn Arthurs is hoping to follow in her role models’ footsteps. Dental assistant by day; self-taught musician by night. And mom to a seven year old all the time. And if it wasn’t for the encouragement from her daughter and fiancée, the spunky spitfire may not have considered pursuing her musical dreams at all. For the music business is tough and it can be even trickier when you don’t live in Nashville full time. But Arthurs has recently started to travel to the “Crazytown” on average once a month where she is immersing herself into the local writers’ scene. As a newly registered BMI member, she’s already collaborated with Kentucky riser Dustin Collins, three time #1 SESAC writer Arlos Smith (“Mayberry”, Rascal Flatts) and award winning writer and producer Tony Stampley. She’s played the popular weekly Freak Show in Nash with some of today’s fastest moving writers and she’s befriended country power vocalist, Ashton Sheppard, whom she considers a mentor. Back home, she’s organically building her confidence and fan base by playing local bars, including some with good friend Jake Bowers. Whether she’s covering “Gunpowder and Lead”, “Fancy” or the Ashley McBryde version of Cash’s “I’ve Been Everywhere”, Arthurs says her favorite part is “seeing people’s face light up when they hear a song that they really like and watching them all sing along.” And she’s hoping they’ll soon be singing along to her originals like “Oklahoma Weather” about a man from a woman’s point of unpredictability or “Thank You”, written for her beloved stepdad. Because where Arthurs comes from, family is everything. And if it wasn’t for the car radio and her mother’s own love of singing, the self-proclaimed half hippie/half gypsy may never have heard Shania Twain’s “Any Man of Mine” (which is still her favorite by the way!) And even though Arthurs grew up heavily involved in sports as a child, music was always in her soul. But so was getting a good education and a steady job---for the sake of her daughter. And now, she’s ready to show her little girl that dreams are worth pursuing, even if it takes a little time and a whole lotta miles. Down the road, she’s hoping to do what any successful artist aspires to do--quit the day job and share her music with the world full time. Her #1 bucket list venue? The Opry, of course! Arthur’s enthusiasm is infectious as she navigates her way down Music Row to focus on her songwriting and publishing. The goal is to land opportunities to work with powerhouse women like Nicolle Galyon, Emily Weisband, and Kacey Musgraves. She’s excited about the possibility of her songs coming to life in the studio, as she will eventually head there to record her first EP. In the meantime, you can check her out on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. (@KrislynArthurMusic) And if you find yourself passing thru Oklahoma and even Texas, throw on your boots, crack open a beer, and hang out with the budding songstress before Nashville snatches her up for good!
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Glen Templeton
Releases “Run With Me,” First Single of the Summer “Some people don’t like the way country music is sounding right now,” notes Glen Templeton, “but I love it because every root that’s being overlooked by the new-wave stuff creates a demand for what I do and the music that I make; it’s always going to be hard work, but it’ll never be a job, and I’m grateful for every second of it.” A performer in a league entirely of his own, Glen Templeton sings the same way he lives unchained, uninhibited, and without regret. Never one to stay inside the lines, Templeton’s “Conway-reincarnated” vocals soar to new heights in this hell-raising, road-dog anthem, taking fans to the edge and letting them fly with him. The former Black River recording artist has built his reputation on delivering second-tonone, authentic material and “Run With Me” is no exception.
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On top life on the road and performing on stages in every corner of the nation, the beloved country music veteran and bona fide master of the honkytonk anthem currently entertains hundreds of thousands of die-hard fans on Youtube and social media. He has accumulated #1 slots on Sirius XM, millions of streams, digital downloads and physical album sales, and “Run With Me” is only the beginning of what stands to be Glen Templeton’s strongest musical era yet!
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Get ready for a heat wave because GT is bringing the fire in 2019, treading shamelessly on a playing field beloved by traditionalists and contemporary country addicts alike. For more, visit www.GlenTempleton.com— join the mailing list, and connect with GT on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube, Spotify and Apple Music.
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GLEN TEMPLETON CMA FEST SCHEDULE: THURSDAY, JUNE 6 ~ 1:30pm – 2:20pm Glen Templeton Writers’ Round at Tin Roof Broadway 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm MEET & GREET at Jesus Calling Booth in Fan Fair X FRIDAY, JUNE 7 ~ 12:00 pm - 12:45 pm Full Band PERFORMANCE at The Valentine 1:00 pm - 1:45 pm SIGNING at Roper Booth in Fan Fair X 3:00 pm -7:00 pm PERFORMANCE at Redneck Riviera SUNDAY, JUNE 9 ~10:00 am - 11:00 am SIGNING at Nashville Universe Booth in Fan Fair X
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ARTISTS O
THE RISE
Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to Learn More About What These Rising Artists Have To Offer.
Steven John Simon
The Louisiana native and Marine is on the rise and has released his 1st single “Tongue Tied” which debuted on iTunes charts at #67. With his fan base on fire, he is set to release his EP Spring 2019.
Jeff Clayborn
It’s a hit! Country artist Jeff Clayborn’s latest single, “Last Ones to Leave,” was named as one of New Music Weekly’s Top Ten New Releases. Listen now.
Justin Kemp Band
The up-and-coming, Classic Country band recently celebrated 10 weeks on Apple’s Hot Tracks with “Better Man” recorded at Omni Sound Studios. Justin’s currently touring and recording music for new EP releasing Spring 2019.
Jeremy Parsons
Parsons’ songwriting frames essential truths and the direct, often biting way he expresses familiar imagery and truths. Scan the code to listen to Jeremy’s latest music.
Heather Whitney
She’s been called one of the most under-rated female country recording artists of our time. Scan the code to listen to Heather’s latest!
Richard Lynch The rawness and authenticity of Lynch’s music is what’s missing from the contemporary radio airwaves these days. Scan the code to listen to Richard’s latest.
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Matt Westin
Westin delivers what could easily be in contention for the best set of country songs released in the last year. Scan code to listen to Matt’s latest music.
James Lee Baker
A heavenly voice and talent for writing deeply inspiring and intimately connective songs... startlingly eloquent. Scan code to listen latest music.
Sarah Patrick Kentucky singer/songwriter Sarah Patrick is a compelling new voice in country, produced by living legend, David Frizzell.
Jimmy Clay Frizzell
It’s a family tradition for Texas-born Jimmy Clay Frizzell, with original music and a voice that is all American and pure Country.
AJ Jansen AJ Jansen Singer/songwriter and Entertainer is leaving here mark in the Modern Country Scene on her own terms. Experience the music. Visit her site.
Dani-elle Kleha
Dani-elle Kleha’s music is 90’s country mixed with modern flair captivating an audience from the moment she steps on stage to the moment the crowd files out the doors.
Zane Lowe & Hayley Williams during “Turning the Tides” (Apple Music Beats 1)
Derrick Aroh and Rosa Asciolla (#NextGen_Now Doc McGhee (Music Buisness and Addiction: How Music (L-R) Paul Rosenberg and Joe Levy (Double Duty: Paul Rosenberg, Def Jam Recordings) 2.0: Young Voices, High Industry Impact) Hurts The Artist and How It Heals)
Photos by Catrina Engelby & Alexandra Arielle Photography
Check out our coverage from this year’s Music Business Conference and keep up with who/what/where we will be covering follow us on Instagram! @NashMusicGuide | #NMGCAM
Carly Pearce at Women Who Rock (Presented by Women in Music/Amazon)
Jacqueline Saturn (Inside The Lives of Power Duo Ethiopia Habtemariam Cassadee Pope (#NextGen_Now 2.0: Young Voices, High Industry Impact) and Jacqueline Saturn)
Danielle Bradbery performing at the CMA Opening Breakfast at the 2019 Music Biz Conference.
Kassi Ashton performing at the CMA Opening Breakfast at the 2019 Music Biz Conference.
Catrina Engelby interviewing Kane Brown for Nashville Music Guide
NashvilleMusicGuide.com 27 (L-R) Trisha McClanahan and Lauren Alaina (How to Make a Win-Win for Slick Rick (“From “La-di-da-di” To “La-di-dollars”: A Convo w/ Slick Rick) Artists and Brands)
Summer NAMM
What not to miss ... On Saturday, July 20, Summer NAMM will host the second annual Make Music Experience (MME), an all-day, all-access pass to the show for the prosumer audience to demo the latest music and pro audio gear, meet with top manufacturers, and delve into career-enhancing education and networking opportunities with other music industry insiders. The Make Music Experience invites musicians, songwriters, music educators and students, and sound and studio professionals to experience the members-only Summer NAMM show, the annual mid-year gathering of the music products and pro audio industry, July 18-20 at Music City Center in Nashville, TN. MME will open the doors to the trade-only event to learn and connect at professional workshops, see and demo the latest in new gear from leading brands and enjoy a multitude of performances and events in this experience, which connects music makers of all skill levels. Emerging and established music pros seeking a jump-start to their career can participate in a robust lineup of NAMM U Idea Center educational sessions and panels carefully curated to enhance the careers of artists, musicians, and songwriters. Industry experts, thought leaders and top Nashville names will cover a variety of career impacting topics. Sessions include “Songwriting Masterclass with John Oates,” one half of the best-selling duo of all-time, Hall & Oates; “Pensado’s Place Live at Summer NAMM,” featuring Dave Pensado, Herb Trawick and recording legends as they delve into the hottest topics in production today; and Grammy- and Dove-nominated Songwriter and author, Thornton Cline will explore tips and strategies to “Unleashing and Maximizing the Hit Songwriter in You” with a panel of professional songwriters. Exclusive to the Make Music Experience, A3E (Advanced Audio + Applications Exchange) will present the game-changing technologies and ideas that are driving the evolution of music products pro audio and music making. Highlights from the program range from “The Future of Production: Gamifying a Supergroup with The Fell” to issues of rights and licensing with “Why Is Music Free and How Can We Get Back on Track” and “Data Collection Is Key to Maximizing Earnings,” as well as others. Attendees will also have the chance to connect with top name brands and demo new products from leading manufactures in pro audio and music products: https://snamm19.mapyourshow.com/8_0/floorplan/ On the exterior of Music City Center, the NAMM Terrace Stage will provide live music all day from the region’s hottest talent across multiple genres. Expanded lounges and food areas make it easy to grab a drink and connect with old friends or new business contacts. Tickets to the Make Music Experience are now available for $10 online at https://themakemusicexperience.com/and will be available at the door for $20 on Saturday, July 20. For additional information, please visit https://themakemusicexperience.com/ NashvilleMusicGuide.com 28
available now to fans who pre-order the digital album. The album was recorded at Frampton’s Studio Phenix in Nashville. A vinyl version of the album will be available as a double LP, with a special edition available in translucent blue vinyl. Details at Frampton.com
Send me stuff, I love to get it! PreshiasWriter@hotmail.com TN/USA Google “Preshias” Preshias Harris is a music journalist and music career development consultant with the emphasis on new and aspiring artists and songwriters. Her book, ‘The College of Songology: The Singer/Songwriter’s Need to Know Reference Handbook’ is available at www. collegeofsongology.com Follow her blog at nashvillemusicline.com.
“Shout joyfully to the LORD, all the earth; Break forth and sing for joy and sing praises.” - Psalm 98:4
ALBUM NEWS: Vince Gill is set to release his new album, ‘Okie,’ on Aug. 23. The word ‘Okie’ was once a derogatory term to refer to inhabitants of Oklahoma who migrated to the west coast as a result of the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression. Gill is an Oklahoma native and has proudly appropriated the term for the upcoming album that embraces his Oklahoma roots. Gill wrote or co-wrote all 12 tracks on the album. “I thought this was going to be a songwriter record, not a concept album,” Gill says. “It wound up being more information than I’d envisioned.” ‘Okie’ will follow Gill’s albums ‘Down To My Last Bad Habit’ (2016) and ‘Guitar Slinger’ (2011). Pre-order the album now at vincegill.com. Nashville’s semi-resident Peter Frampton will release his latest album, ‘All Blues, on June 07 via Ume. The album consists of covers of Frampton’s favorite classic blues songs. The first single release is his version of “I Just Want To Make Love To You,” a song written by Willie Dixon and originally recorded by blues legend Muddy Waters. Frampton’s versions also features guest Kim Wilson. It is
Traditional Country music performer and songwriter, James Wesley, has released his new self-titled EP, “James Wesley,” with the lead single “Running.” The five-song project is a collection of original music, four songs co-penned by Wesley and one he recorded previously and never released, but has always loved and wanted it to be a part of this EP. The new music can be streamed or downloaded on all online music platforms. “This project was truly put together from love, sweat, tears along with hard work and a labor of love from my band and myself,” said Wesley. “Today I get to share my music with all of you that have been waiting so patiently. I appreciate all my friends, fans and family for all the support and love over the years. Sit back turn the music up and enjoy!” Wesley will play several dates in Nashville during CMA Fest. For tour info and the EP, visit jameswesleymusic.com. Chris’ new album “Raised On Country” has also the name of his current World Tour 2019,” Chris Young’s highly anticipated follow-up to his massive 2018 “Losing Sleep Tour,” Chris had a sold-out show in Manchester, England. The multi-platinum entertainer’s first-ever headlining play in Manchester marks the RCA Records Nashville artist’s fourth UK tour in six years. The North American leg of his “Raised On Country World Tour 2019” in Atlanta, GA (May 16), Charlotte, NC (May 17) and Washington, D.C. (May 18).“Raised On Country,” the tour’s namesake and lead single, ascends to #18 Mediabase / #19 Billboard and climbing this week ahead of the U.S. tour launch next week. For a complete list of tour dates, including additional Chris Young concert stops for 2019, VIP package details and to purchase tickets, please visit chrisyoungcountry.com.
CMT AWARDS:
It’s Award Show time… again! This time, it’s the 2019 CMT Music Awards, scheduled to air (on CMT, of course) on June 5, 8/7C. At press time, voting was still open. Categories include: Male Video of the Year, Female Video of the Year, Duo Video of the Year, Group Video of the Year (you getting the idea?) plus several more, culminating in the overall 2019 Video of the Year. To check out all the nominees and to vote for your faves, go to cmt.com/cmtmusic-awards.
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ARTIST NEWS: Brett Young has launched “Acoustic Sessions,” a video series delivering strippeddown performances of hits and album cuts from his chart-topping sophomore album TICKET TO L.A. (BMLG Records). Available now, the debut installment “Here Tonight” features co-writer Lady Antebellum’s Charles Kelley, collaborating for an acoustic spin on the multi-week chart-topper, surpassing 100 million streams. Additional “Acoustic Sessions” videos will be unveiled in the coming months. Additionally, Young has been celebrating a CMT Music Awards nomination for Performance of the Year following his “Motownphilly” collaboration with Boyz II Men from CMT Crossroads. Young’s sophomore release, TICKET TO L.A., debuted atop the Billboard Country Albums chart and follows his PLATINUM self-titled debut, which dominated the Top 20 on the Country Albums chart for 37 weeks. More info at BrettYoungMusic.com
BONNAROO NEWS: An unqualified highlight of last year’s event, the Grand Ole Opry will be back with another star-studded lineup, once again celebrating Bonnaroo’s very special connection with its home state of Tennessee. The 18th annual four-day multistage camping festival will take place June 13 - 16, held as always at Great Stage Park, the spectacular 700-acre farm and event space located just 60 miles southeast of Nashville in Manchester, TN. Set to headline the festival’s opening night, Thursday, June 13, GRAND OLE OPRY AT Bonnaroo will see performances from show hosts - and Opry members since 2013 - Old Crow Medicine Show, along with fellow Opry members Ricky Skaggs and Riders In The Sky, special guests Steve Earle, Morgan Evans, Ashley Monroe, Molly Tuttle, and Wendy Moten, the Opry Square Dancers, and famed Opry announcer Bill Cody. GRAND OLE OPRY AT BONNAROO will be broadcast live via opry.com and wsmonline.com.
BOOK RELEASES: The book Rock Stars at Home comes after the wildly successful biopic Bohemian Rhapsody has been slammed by critics for factual inaccuracies and its controversial portrayal of Rock star Freddie Mercury. But how can we really know about the Queen front man unless we know how he lived? NashvilleMusicGuide.com 30
In Rock Stars at Home [Apollo Publishers, January 15, 2019], we get an exclusive look inside Mercury’s London home, Garden Lodge. Readers are taken behind his impressive towering wall and beyond the “rotating anticlimb blades” to learn about his very private life during his final years. Filled with stunning images and exclusive information from top Rock Music journalists, including, A grand tour Freddie Mercury’s home, and the homes of other rock legends—including David Bowie, Elvis Presley, the Beatles, the Jacksons, and Prince; Inside accounts and eyeopening stories of wild behavior—and even wilder interior décor; The scene of the famous 1967 drug busts that led to the arrests of Keith Richards and Mick Jagger; as well as How Rock Star homes have evolved—from the Beatles’ psychedelic interiors to the modern, extravagant lifestyles of the MTV Cribs generation SHAMELESS SELF-PROMO NEWS ... My e-book “I Know Country!” has launched and I am so excited! It features 366 daily country music Q&As plus lots of nuggets of knowledge about the songs, the artists and the songwriters. It’s available for instant download. Check out www.iknowcountry.com.
BLUEBIRD CAFE NEWS: The first ever “Morris Higham Presents at The Bluebird Cafe” took place Tuesday, May 7. The event featured Warner Bros. recording artists Michael Ray, Ryan Griffin and Walker County as well as Arista recording artist Carlton Anderson. The sold-out show raised more than $2,000 with proceeds benefiting The CMA Foundation. Coming up: more “Morris Hiham Presents” shows. The August 6 show will benefit MusiCares Foundation and the November 19 show benefits ACM Lifting Lives. The shows will feature clients of Morris Higham Management performing in the round at the Bluebird Cafe. Lineup details will be released later. Tickets and info at bluebirdcafe.com. NOTE: The “Higham” as in Clint Higham, was my co-worker when we were interns for Atlantic Records (Tracy Lawrence/Neal McCoy/John Michael Montgomery’s label) in the early 90s. Clint also is Kenny Chesney’s super manager.
BLUEGRASS MUSIC NEWS: Steven Curtis Chapman celebrates his life story with his new CD and DVD offering, ‘A Great Adventure LIVE Solo Performances of Timeless Hits,’ now available worldwide in Christian and general market retail and digital outlets. The Gaither Music Group project
was recorded at Gaither Studios in Indiana and hosted by Gospel Music Hall of Fame member Bill Gaither. The project is available at online retailers including iTunes, Apple Music, Amazon, Amazon Music and www.gaither. com. “It was such an honor to sit and visit with not only one of my musical and songwriting heroes, but also the man who really helped give me my start in my career as a singer-songwriter and celebrate together an amazing journey that he had such a part of helping make happen,” expressed Chapman.
CHRISTIAN MUSIC NEWS: Jekalyn Carr’s new inspirational message, “I See Miracles,” is available now at all digital platforms. The award-winning artist, author, actress, speaker and entrepreneur released the new track on her 22nd birthday to radio, April 22, 2019. Now, the chartclimbing song is available for purchase, download and streaming. The inspiration behind the song came from the interactions Jekalyn has shared with people from around the globe as she ministered. “If you believe in something long and hard, if you believe in something with all your heart, it shall come to pass... I see miracles happening for you,” said Jekalyn. The track was produced and written with Jekalyn’s father, Allen Carr. As a team, they have garnered three #1 Billboard Gospel singles at radio within the last three years. Jekalyn will host the You Will Win Conference June 21-22, 2019 in Orlando, FL. Music and conference info at iamjekalyncarr.com
CMA FEST SPECIAL SHOWS: Thomas Rhett will be hosting an album release event for his latest project Center Point Road at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena during CMA Fest on Saturday, June 8. Fans are invited to an up-close-and-personal, in the round set from the singer/ songwriter revealing stories behind brand new songs, while also delivering the smash hits and fan favorites that shaped him into the artist he is today in a rare, strippeddown setting. Longtime fans will recognize the favorite B-stage layout, inspired by Thomas Rhett’s live show. Tickets are $25 and include a copy of the upcoming album with proceeds benefiting music education through the CMA Foundation. Get tickets at arenanashville.com (but they will sell out fast). Go to ThomasRhett.com.
PUBLICITY NEWS: Julie (Jules) Wortman, president and CEO of Wortman Works Media & Marketing in Nashville, was named an Award of Honor recipient by the East Tennessee State University National Alumni Association in May. The 1989 graduate of ETSU is a veteran public relations and marketing strategist who has developed a number of national and international campaigns for record labels, brands, commercial developments, authors, music, sports entertainment, special events and more. Her clients through the years have included Salt Life, Chevrolet (GM), Country Music Television, Sony Music, the GMA Dove Awards, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Blake Shelton, Kid Rock, The Charlie Daniels Band and more. She currently manages The SteelDrivers. Details at WortmanWorks.com.
CMA FEST UPDATES: The CMA Fest tickets are on sale now! Set for June 6-9 in Nashville, The CMA has announced the lineups for the shows at Firestone Country Roads Stage at Ascend Amphitheater. Thursday night. Headliner Chase Rice will be joined by Jimmie Allen, Blanco Brown, Adam Craig, Lindsay Ell, Tyler Farr, King Calaway, LOCASH and Runaway June. Brett Young will headline the Amphitheater on Friday night. Joining Young will be Bailey Bryan, Jordan Davis, Adam Hambrick, Caylee Hammack, Jillian Jacqueline and Mitchell Tenpenny. Saturday at Ascend Amphitheater, Hunter Hayes and Cody Johnson will co-headline the evening, joined by Ingrid Andress, Tucker Beathard and Ashley McBryde. Tickets are required for entry, with threeday reserved tickets selling for $66, single-day reserved for $25 each night and single-day lawn selling for $10 per night, plus taxes and fees. THIS IS GOING TO BE A BIGGER and BETTER Music fest. Go to CMAFest.com for more info, lineups and fan news.
DUO NEWS: Maddie & Tae continued a triumphant run when their new single “Die From A Broken Heart” became the No. 1 ‘mostadded’ song at country radio in May. The song has already scored over 36 million streams and counting. “Die From A Broken Heart” is a featured track on Maddie & Tae’s new EP One Heart To Another, that was released
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April 26. The duo are currently part of Carrie Underwood’s The Cry Pretty Tour 360. Maddie & Tae first broke out in 2013 with their take-down of bro-country, “Girl In A Country Song,” which went to the top of the charts and quickly went PLATINUM. Tour dates at maddieandtae.com.
numbered edition of Legacy. What separates these numbered editions from any others? Pre-ordering allowed fans the chance to pick their own special six-digit number. Forbes magazine noted, “to put this in context, The Beatles were the number-one vinyl artist in 2018 with 321,000 sales in over 12 months.” More at garthbrooks.com
ENTERTAINMENT NEWS:
As Garth breaks records for his vinyl selling to over 1,000,000 copies, he had emerging Nashville-based band King Calaway making their stadium debut in May as they performed as the opening act for Garth at his U.S. Bank Stadium show in Minneapolis, MN. The momentous occasion became even more memorable as Garth himself introduced the band as the opening act, marking the first time the icon has done that in his extensive career. The six-piece band’s status is an act on the rise, building on the success of their debut single “World For Two” from their self-titled EP released in January, via BMG/BBR Music Group. “World For Two” was the most added song at country radio in its first week and continues to grow rapidly across streaming platforms. Tour info at kingcalaway.com.
The video for “For Real,” the latest previously unreleased single to debut from Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers, premiered in May. The loving video was directed by Tom’s daughter, Adria Petty, and features archival footage and photos as well as intimate, behind-the-scenes moments of Tom and the band. Throughout his storied career, Petty did everything with authenticity—putting the music and his fans first. It is this sentiment that he sings about in the poignant and autobiographical song “For Real.” The single is off The Best Of Everything, out now via Geffen Records/UMe, the first career-spanning collection of Tom Petty’s hits—including songs from his solo projects, songs with The Heartbreakers and essentials from the reformed Mudcrutch. More at tompetty.com.
FESTIVAL NEWS: Forecastle Music Festival comes nack to Louisville, Ky July 12-14 with a lineup boasting healiners including The Killers, Tyler Childers, The Avett Brothers, Anderson Paak, and many more as well as late night performances by Moon Taxi and Chromeo. The festival is also boasting an extensive lineup of spirits. The bourbon lounge will include tastings of rarities that will only be available to festival-goers. If Louisville is a little too far, Just south of Nashville in Franklin, TN you will find people making the Pilgrimage back this Fall to hear The Killers again along with a line up that includes Keith Urban, Leon Bridges, The Foo Fighters and many more. Pilgrimage Festival is held Sept 21-22 and will be bringing back their love of the surrounding southern culture with their local brewers “Maker’s Village,” the Farm to Table food truck experience as well as the Americana Music Triangle experience that exhibits that celbrates the musical heritage of the Deep South.
GARTH NEWS:
Garth Brooks has passed the 1 million vinyl mark with his vinyl release, Legacy - The Vinyl Collection. Garth went live directly to the fans and offered them an opportunity to secure a
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GMA NEWS: The 6th annual Gospel Music Association Honors and Hall of Fame Ceremony was held at Lipscomb University’s Allen Arena, May 8. This year’s GMA HoF inductees include legendary CCM artist Don Moen, President and CEO of New Day Christian Distributors Dottie Leonard Miller, southern gospel artist Janet Paschal and GRAMMY® award-winning gospel singer Tramaine Hawkins. The event also honors individuals and organizations that are impacting our culture both past and present. This year’s honorees include Don Finto for Caleb Company, LaDonna Boyd for R. H. Boyd Family Endowment Fund, Roy Morgan and Gary Gentry for Premier Foundation and country group Rascal Flatts. Full details at gospelmusic.org.
GRAMMY NEWS: Grammy Award winner John Paul White is set to continue his North American tour in support of his new solo album The Hurting Kind (out now on Single Lock Records) with a run of newly-confirmed Midwest performances kicking off July 12 at the Woody Guthrie Folk Festival. Leading up to the sessions for The Hurting Kind, White was inspired by artists like Jim Reeves, Patsy Cline, Roy Orbison, Chet Atkins and Bill Porter. Drawing on these timeless influences, White sought out classic writers like Whisperin’ Bill Anderson and Bobby Braddock to
collaborate with. “Coming out of each and every one of these situations, I got a resounding thumbs-up that I was on that right track,” says White of the collaborations. “I didn’t need anybody else’s approval after that.” Music and tour dates at johnpaulwhite.com.
INDIE NEWS:
Country recording artist Zach Stone (Whetstone Music Ventures) kicks off the summer season with the release of a sultry new tune titled “Hands On.” Already impacting country radio, the track follows the success and momentum of Stone’s debut single, “Sorry & Lonely,” which ranked in the Top 50 on the MusicRow Charts. Produced by Matt Billingslea (Taylor Swift), the subtly, flirtatious track is revved by heart-pounding drum beats, electrified by rockin’ guitar solos and enlivened by a “put-your-hands-together,” sing-along chorus. Delivered with confident vocals, the sweet-talkin’ track, co-written alongside Will Stone (no relation) and Casey Cattie, recalls a timeless sentiment similar to the 1964 Beatles tune “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” as a “weak-in-the-knees” lesson in love. The single will be available via major digital retail outlets and streaming platforms on Friday, June 21, 2019. More at zachstonecountry.com.
INT’L MUSIC NEWS: Eric Paslay will be spending a lot of time in Europe this summer. Hot on the heels of inking an exclusive publishing deal with Big Machine Music, singersongwriter Paslay has a string of dates set for August and September that will take him across Germany, The Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, England, Ireland and Scotland. It will be his fourth tour of Europe. For the Scottish stop, Paslay returns to Glasgow where he recorded a live album last year. That album is set to release ahead of the European tour. Album and tour info at ericpaslay.coM.
LABEL NEWS:
the schedule. Joining Old Dominion on select dates will be special guests Michael Ray, Scotty McCreery, Jordan Davis, Morgan Evans, Ryan Griffin and Ryan Hurd. Old Dominion has just released their new song, “Some People Do,” that follows their No. 1 hit “Make It Sweet.” Check out tour schedule updates at weareolddominion.com.
LEGENDS NEWS: Legendary and seven-time multi-platinum selling country group ALABAMA has added almost 30 new concert dates to their historic “50th Anniversary Tour.” The band revealed 28 additional arena and amphitheater shows as they continue their crosscountry trek celebrating five decades of music. Newlyannounced tour stops include Grand Rapids, MI, WilkesBarre, PA, Bangor, ME, Charlotte, NC, Tallahassee, FL, Baltimore, MD, Madison, WI, Birmingham, AL, Columbia, SC, and more. The band will also travel north to Canada for concerts in Ottawa, Ontario and Oro-Medonte, Ontario. ALABAMA has recruited The Charlie Daniels Band, The Marshall Tucker Band, The Beach Boys, John Anderson, Restless Heart, Exile, John Michael Montgomery, Scotty McCreery and Canadian artist Charlie Major to join them on select dates. Tour info and tickets at thealabamaband.com. This year’s RC Cola and MoonPie Festival will be held on Saturday, June 15th. T. Graham Brown and his wife, Sheila, will be a highlight of the parade as they serve as this year’s RC Cola and MoonPie King and Queen! Parade starts at approximately 11:30. There will be a Coronation of the royal couple following the parade at the Captain Rodney stage on the festival grounds along with entertainment leading up to the Coronation.
MEDIA NEWS:
[SONY/RCA RECORDS] RCA Records, Group of the Year winner at the 2019 ACM Awards, Old Dominion has added even more dates to their already extensive 20192020 ‘Make It Sweet’ Tour. Charlotte, NC, Honolulu, HI, Las Vegas, NE, Tampa, FL, and Tulsa, OK, are now on
Billy Ray Cyrus recruited Potsy Ponciroli of Hideout Pictures and Mikey Peterson of Nug Nation for a stopmotion animated video for “Angel in my Pocket,” included on Cyrus’ new studio album, The SnakeDoctor Circus, now available from BMG. Cyrus co-wrote the track with Don Von Tress, who also penned Cyrus’ smash “Achy Breaky NashvilleMusicGuide.com
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Heart.” In the animation, Cyrus portrays a sleepy-eyed mini-mart worker who gets heat from his boss. Looking like a cross between Mr. Potato Head and the California Raisins, Cyrus’ character tosses in some Hee-Haw-like ‘jokes’ along the way. The SnakeDoctor Circus, is available for pre-order now from BMG. Fans will receive three tracks upon preordering, including “Guns, Gold & Guitars,” “Goddess of Democracy” and “Angel in my Pocket.” See the video on YouTube. Music and more at billyraycyrus.com
SUMMER NAMM NEWS: NAMM will be back at Nashville’s Music City Center, July 18 – 20. The annual show, hosted by the National Association of Music Merchants, offers the opportunity to see and try innovative musical instruments and attend hundreds of professional education sessions focusing music industry secrets. NAMM will be showcasing a complete product landscape while celebrating the local community music store and honoring the industry’s Top 100 Dealers. Attendance at NAMM trade shows is restricted to owners, suppliers, employees, endorsed artists and guests of NAMM member companies. However, on the final day, Saturday, July 20, NAMM invites musicians, songwriters, sound and recording professionals, music educators and students to experience Music Industry Day. There’ll also be a chance to attend workshops, education sessions, check out the new gear and enjoy artist performances. Music Industry Day tickets are $20.00 at the door or $10.00 purchased in advance at http://www.NAMM.org/musicindustryday. Full details at themakemusicexperience.com.
NSAI NEWS: Some advance notice to mark your calendar now: The Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) has announced that its Nashville Songwriter Awards presented by City National Bank will return to the Ryman Auditorium in 2019. The star-studded evening is set for September 17, 2019, and the event will be one not to miss. “We are very proud to present this important and exciting event recognizing Nashville’s finest songwriters and their songs again at the hallowed Ryman Auditorium,” said NSAI President, award-winning songwriter Steve Bogard. “It promises to be an amazing night full of memorable performances honoring the best in our business.” Updates will follow. More about NSAI at nashvillesongwriters.com
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NUMBER ONE NEWS: Jason Aldean celebrated his 22nd career number one with “Girl Like You.” Jason’s label and all the publishers and songwriters came together at Diskin Cider to celebrate this career milestone. Songwriters, Michael Tyler, Josh Mirenda and Jaron Boyer we all smiles. Earlier this spring, Jason won monumental Artist Of The Decade Honor At the 2019 ACM Awards. Jason Aldean received the award at the 54th ACM Awards making him the sixth entertainer to be honored with the big-time accolade for his achievements in touring and record sale.
OPRY NEWS:
Aaron Watson will be playing the Grand Ole Opry on June 8 and 25, as part of his Red Bandana Tour, in addition to stops in South Padre Island, Texas; Little Rock, Arkansas; Albuquerque, New Mexico; and New Orleans and more. Watson’s new album, Red Bandana, is available for preorder now. Fans who order the new project will receive three instant grat tracks, “Kiss That Girl Goodbye,” “To Be The Moon,” and “Trying Like The Devil.” The debut single from the new 20-song album, “Kiss That Girl Goodbye,” is already a Top 10 in Texas and has passed 3.4 million on demand streams. It is also breaking out at radio nationwide. Tickets for the coast-tocoast tour, set for June through October, are available at aaronwatson.com/tour..
RADIO NEWS: CDX proprietor and industry veteran, Joe Kelly, announced the FREE offering of CDX Country News featuring Shannon McCombs (My BFF from High School) to all country radio stations. Each Wednesday, a quick, 90 second, music news segment will be offered, complete with sound bites. It is written with the option to intro Shannon to sound live and part of radio staff, or it can stand alone in a commercial break or between songs to give each station flexible programming. No additional commercials are required of the stations. “We are pleased that Shannon McCombs has joined our team in providing news to country radio stations,” says Joe Kelly. “Stations are loving it so we decided to offer it up to all stations as a bonus for all their support over the years.” Radio execs can find details at cdxcd.com
SINGLE NEWS:
TV NEWS:
Colt Ford’s new single, “We The People,” is now available. The song delivers a sentiment of unification regardless of race, religion or political affiliation. “’We the People’ is not a political song – it’s a song about enjoying one another, finding a way to get along, finding a way to have fun, finding a way to continue to build this country and this world into a better place,” said Ford. The countryrap pioneer believes that the song’s message basically boils down to this: “Times are tough. Come blow off some steam.” The track marks the first taste of an upcoming album – Ford’s first LP in two years. It was written by Corey Crowder, James McNair and Brandon Kinney with a hell raising country-rock sound and a loud-and-proud theme that lands squarely in Ford’s wheelhouse.
The season two finale of The Bellamy Brothers’ TV show, “Honky Tonk Ranch,” featured John Schneider unexpectedly reliving his “Dukes of Hazzard” days. The Bellamy Brothers’ friends and family put “Operation Bo Duke” to work on the show that airs on the The Cowboy Channel. As John Schneider headed to their Florida studio to record a new track, he found himself forced to rent the only car left on the lot: an orange Dodge Charger with a broken door. After Schneider entered the car with his signature Bo Duke slide, he faced a General Lee chase by the Dade City deputy/sheriff. The finale rounded out with the Bellamy Brothers and Schneider recording the famous “Dukes of Hazzard” theme song “Good Ol’ Boys.” The Bellamys also found time to record fourteen all-new tracks for their album, Over The Moon. The album was produced by David and Howard Bellamy along with Randy Hiebert, and recorded at Bellamy Brothers Studio in Darby, Florida. See BellamyBrothers.com.
SONG NEWS: On the heels of her revealing autobiography, ‘Beauty in the Breakdown’, Julie Roberts is back with new music. Singing about love, loss, roots, and dogged determination, Roberts’ new single, “I Couldn’t Make You Love Me,” produced by the legendary Rudy Perez, is available now on all digital and streaming platforms. “It’s a song of strength, but also vulnerability,” explains Roberts. “Like so many of us, I’ve taken life in my two hands and created my own story. But no matter what mountains we climb in life, we can’t make someone love us. Rudy Perez, Mark Portmann, and the great John Bettis captured all of that in this song and I’m forever grateful to them.” Follow Julie at facebook.com/JulieRoberts/
TOUR NEWS: Luke Bryan is about to set out on his “Sunset Repeat Tour,” kicking off at the BB&T Pavilion in Philadelphia. He will wrap the tour on October 25 for the fourth consecutive year at Ford Field, the home of the Detroit Lions. The tour boasts three previous soldout concerts at the stadium and this year’s show will include Cole Swindell, Jon Langston and DJ Rock. Ticket info and complete tour schedule at LukeBryan.com
A Very Brady Renovation, HGTV’s highly anticipated series that features the full-scale overhaul of the world-famous Brady Bunch house in Los Angeles, has inspired the network to transform its popular CMA Fest venue into the HGTV ‘A Very Brady’ Lodge. From Thursday, June 6, to Sunday, June 9, the HGTV ‘A Very Brady’ Lodge will offer fans the Ultimate Country Music Fan Experience™ with live musical performances by top artists including Chris Young, Dierks Bentley and Old Dominion as well as by This Is Us star and singer Chrissy Metz and singer-songwriter, actress and producer Rita Wilson, who guest starred on The Brady Bunch in one of her first television roles. Stars of A Very Brady Renovation—including the legendary sitcom’s siblings Barry Williams (Greg), Maureen McCormick (Marcia), Christopher Knight (Peter), Eve Plumb (Jan) and Susan Olsen (Cindy), as well as network stars Jasmine Roth (Hidden Potential) and Steve Ford (Restored by the Fords)—will make special appearances throughout the festival. Fans of The Brady Bunch will have the opportunity to chat with the famous TV family during a special Q&A session at the Lodge. In a nod to the groovy ‘70s style of The Brady Bunch, the network’s signature 3,500-squarefoot venue will be decked out with sparkling disco balls, far-out beaded curtains and colorful retro furniture. Slated to premiere in September, A Very Brady Renovation will spotlight the show-stopping transformation of the Brady Bunch house.
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VIDEO NEWS:
Tenille Arts debuted the music video for her latest single “Call You Names” (Reviver Records) on YouTube. Shot on a Los Angeles soundstage, the clip features mothers, grandmothers and daughters interacting, as Tenille sings the beautifully touching song. Tenille’s own mother, Glenda Arts makes her music video debut in the clip. The story behind the song: it is a tribute and an apology to her mother for “those teen years,” Tenille admits. “The first few times I played the song live, my mom was in the audience and I couldn’t look at her while I was singing it,” added Tenille. “I lived at home for a couple of years after high school, saving money to make the move to Nashville, and I started to realize all that my mom meant to me and how amazing she is with what she accomplishes every day.” Find the video at tenillearts.com.
WWWEBSITES TO CHECK OUT:
www.namm.org | www.ascap.com www.sesac.com | www.globalsongwriters.com www.bmi.com | www.cmaworld.com
WHO’S LOOKING * WHO’S CUTTING: Brooke Eden | Brett Eldredge | Dustin Lynch | Ronnie Dunn Lindsey Ell | Eddie Montgomery | Little Big Town
Featuring ELI YOUNG BAND, TYLER RICH, & JESSIE RITTER NashvilleMusicGuide.com 36
Attention Singers & Songwriters:
“Honest, affordable career counseling for new and developing singer/songwriters to help you understand and benefit from every aspect of the music business. Personal, one-on-one guidance tailored to meet your unique career goals and current level of experience.” For More Information: 615-482-5823
Nashville Music guide’s Restaurant Spotlight
CMT Launches Inaugural Songbird Supper Club with Surprise Musical Performances and World-Class Culinary Creations by Sarah Gavigan and a Collection of NationallyAcclaimed Chefs
ICON ENTERTAINMENT GROUP ANNOUNCES SINATRA BAR AND LOUNGE Early 2020 Opening Slated In Downtown Nashville
CMT has announced a brand new culinary and musical event to kick off the festivities in style. The inaugural CMT Songbird Supper Club will make its debut on Sunday, June 2, 2019 from 7:30pm - 10:30pm at the Neuhoff site in Nashville. CMT is opening this invitation-only event with the release of a limited number of tickets, which will go on sale at noon on Friday, May 17 through the CMT Songbird Supper Club Eventbrite page.
In partnership with Frank Sinatra Enterprises, Nashvillebased Icon Entertainment Group is pleased to announce Sinatra Bar and Lounge. Slated to open in early 2020, Sinatra Bar and Lounge will be located in the historic Southern Turf building, a spectacular Queen Anne structure built in 1839 in Nashville’s Printer’s Alley.
Featuring an evening filled with handcrafted cocktails, cutting-edge culinary tastes and groundbreaking musical performances, the Songbird Supper Club combines the spirit of tradition with an adventurous modern twist. Locals and out-of-towners alike will be treated to an evening lead by Nashville native, author and celebrity chef, Sarah Gavigan of Bar Otaku and Otaku Ramen. Gavigan will be joined in the kitchen by a line-up of superstar chefs from across the country, including: ● Roxana Jullapat, Pastry Chef/Baker, Friends & Family, East Hollywood, California ● Joshua Walker, Chef, Xiao Bao Biscuit, Charleston, South Carolina ● Erik Bruner-Yang, Chef, Toki Underground, Maketto, Brothers and Sisters, Spoken English, Washington, D.C. ● Will Thompson, Mixologist, Jaguar Sun, Miami, Florida Additionally, Jason Tesauro of The Modern Gentleman will host the overall evening, introducing surprise musical performances from a variety of country music up-andcomers curated by CMT.
With a Manhattan meets Palm Springs ambiance, the upscale small plates menu will feature many of the Chairman of the Board’s favorite Italian recipes, complimented by a “set ‘em’ up Joe” old school, standard cocktail menu. Sinatra’s drink of choice Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey, or Old No. 7 as he referred to it, will be front and center, along with the new Jack Daniel’s Sinatra Select. “It’s a pleasure and an honor for our family to partner with the Sinatra family to bring what promises to be one of Nashville’s—and the Southeast’s—most notable establishments,” says Bill Miller, founder of Icon Entertainment. “We are thrilled that our Dad, who loved good songs, good food and good spirits, will now be part of Music City’s creative and vibrant landscape,” says Nancy and Tina Sinatra. Added Tina, “the stately Southern Turf landmark is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and once housed a speak easy and saloon; how cool is that?” The Southern Turf Building is located in the rapidly redeveloping area of downtown Nashville. The basement level of the building is home to the legendary Skull’s Rainbow Room, which just took the number five spot in TripAdvisor’s Top 40 list of the best restaurants in Nashville.
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when a ‘jam band’ was guaranteed every year -- this will be the first time in seven years that one has been on the lineup (minus Dead & Company in 2016). The festival also is bringing back old favorites, whether it’s legendary singersongwriter John Prine or mashup master Girl Talk. The fest still has never had a female headliner, but three of its four nights will be commanded by the likes of Cardi B, Kacey Musgraves, Brandi Carlile and Maren Morris. And the fest is continuing its weird and wonderful partnership with the Grand Ole Opry, which will rub shoulders with indie rock, EDM and hip-hop on opening day. Simply put, Bonnaroo is still refusing to cater to a single crowd — and in the process, cultivates an audience that’s up for anything. The Food As in numerous years, Bonnaroo has majorly stepped up the cuisine from soggy chicken and cold pizza. There is Bacon Land, Hamageddon, Food Truck Oasis, BonnROOTS Community Dinners, Dietary Options and all of these come with a variety of traditional and international options. Stay tuned post Roo for our favorites from this year. Finding Balance Bonnaroo has many fitness options that have been integrated over the years from sunrise/sunset yoga to the annual Roo Run 5K, not to mention all the walking and dancing around the camp and festival grounds. Beyond the Music Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival will be celebrating it’s 17th year this June 13-16 in Manchester, TN. Since it’s start in 2002, the festival has continually progressed to bring the best in music, food, fun and good works to the festival scene and is still known as the present-day “woodstock.” We have been covering the festival for the last 12 years and can honestly say we could not agree more. Here is our preview of this year’s festival and what we are excited to see that is coming back and new. If there was ever a festival to attend that has a little something for everyone, Bonnaroo is the one to attend. The Music First and foremost, Bonnaroo is a music festival and this year’s roster is probably one of the best lineups we have seen in awhile. 2019 has secured them with the headliners Phish, Childish Gambino, Post Malone and Cardi B. Phish in itself is a throwback to the ‘real roots’ of Bonnaroo NashvilleMusicGuide.com 38
Even if your favorite bands aren’t playing and the lineup isn’t what you expected (which we find hard to believe, because this year is amazing!), there is so much more to Bonnaroo beyond the music. Go to Bonnaroo for the art, the vendors, the community, the Greenworks and environmental differences that they annual aspire to. Go for the camping -- in the last couple years Roo has worked hard to transform the campgrounds into an experience all their own as well. There are secret stages and sets, classes, crafts, and sooo much more. This year they are even adding a Forest ... as someone who has been to Sherwood’s Forest at EF -- we are intrigued to see what Bonnaroo does. Bonnaroo is a cultural safehaven that is built for a weekend each year where friends reunite, new friends are made, experiences are had, and memories are made. We can’t wait to share our adventures with you on the Farm this year and hope that you take our advice and we see you there!
Lewis Brice and Tin Roof are teaming up again for their annual kick-off to CMA Fest, Lewispalooza 9, on June 4 outside of Tin Roof Demonbreun. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. and the show starts at 6:00 p.m. The concert, headlined by Lewis, will feature performances by Lee Brice, John Wesley Satterfield, Stevie Monce, Jerrod Niemann, Paul McDonald, Curt Chambers, John Gurney and many more special guests. The all-ages event is free with a suggested donation at the door. All proceeds benefit Hope Song, a non-profit that helps the fight against cancer through the healing power of music. Advance VIP and general admission tickets are available online at theoriginaltinroof. com. The VIP Experience includes side stage access, free food (provided by The Stillery), VIP bar acess, private restrooms, meet & greet of select artists and access to Tito's Airsteam Lounge. Last year's Lewispalooza 8, which featured performances by the Brice brothers, Lauren Alaina, Jerrod Niemann, raised more than $14,000 for Hope Song. To watch highlights of the nearly six hour concert, click HERE. For more information and the latest news on Lewis Brice, follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and go to LewisBrice.com.
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CMA Fest is full of music and most of it is free and open to the public. Here is a list of all of the sanctioned CMA Fest stages that will be in Downtown Nashville ... For the fill list of dates and times for each performer be sure to visit CMAFest.com or to download the CMA Fest App to stay up-to-date on any changes in performers, set times and surpries.
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COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME® AND MUSEUM PRESENTS SPECIAL PROGRAMMING DURING CMA MUSIC FEST 2019 The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum will offer oneof-a-kind programs including panel discussions, performances and interviews featuring Country Music Hall of Fame members, artists, musicians, industry professionals and songwriters during CMA Music Fest 2019, June 6-9. The following outlines this year’s slate of programs. I Wonder Do You Think of Me: The Life of Keith Whitley – Thursday, June 6, at 12 p.m. To mark the museum’s new exhibition, Still Rings True: The Enduring Voice of Keith Whitley, family members and colleagues of Whitley will discuss his life and career, and pay tribute to his music with special performances. The program, held in the museum’s Ford Theater, features a discussion with record producer Garth Fundis, RCA President Joe Galante, Lorrie Morgan and Country Music Hall of Fame member Ricky Skaggs. Skaggs, Morgan and her son, Jesse Keith Whitley, will also perform briefly. Admission to the program is included with museum admission and free to museum members. Seating is limited, and a program ticket is required for admittance. CMT’s Next Women of Country – Friday, June 7, at 12:30 p.m. The museum presents CMT’s Next Women of Country, a special concert and conversation with new and emerging female country artists. Hosted by CMT executive Leslie Fram, includes performances and interviews with Hannah Ellis, Mickey Guyton, Caylee Hammack, Rachel Wammack and Lainey Wilson. Afterwards, the artists will be available to sign commemorative Hatch Show Print posters. Admission to the program, which is presented by Kendra Scott, is included with museum admission and free to museum members. Seating is limited, and a program ticket is required for admittance. Tickets will be available here starting Wednesday, May 15, at 10 a.m. Songwriter Session: Eric Paslay – Friday, June 7, at 2:00 p.m. Eric Paslay, who has co-written “Angel Eyes” (Love and Theft), “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” (Jake Owen), “Even If It Breaks Your Heart” (Eli Young Band) and “Rewind” (Rascal Flatts), as well as his own #1 song “Friday Night,” will be featured in a Songwriter Session in the museum’s Ford Theater. During the program, Paslay will share stories behind his work in an intimate performance setting. Admission to the program, which is presented by SunTrust, is included with museum admission, and free to museum members. Seating is limited, and a program ticket is required for admittance.
Songwriter Session: Teddy Robb & JT Harding – Sat, June 8, at 11:30am Recording artist and songwriter Teddy Robb and songwriter J.T. Harding will perform and share the stories behind the songs they have written in a Songwriter Session held in the museum’s Ford Theater. Robb has co-written and released three singles: “Lead Me On,” “Really Shouldn’t Drink Around You” and “Tell Me How.” Harding’s credits include “Alone with You” (Jake Owen), “Different for Girls” (Dierks Bentley featuring Elle King), “Sangria” (Blake Shelton), “Smile” (Uncle Kracker), “Somewhere in My Car” (Keith Urban) and “Somewhere with You” (Kenny Chesney). Admission to the program, which is presented by SunTrust, is included with museum admission, and free to museum members. Seating is limited, and a program ticket is required for admittance. Musician Spotlight: Kristin Weber – Sunday, June 9, at 1:00 p.m. Fiddler and singer Kristin Weber will be the subject of a Musician Spotlight held in the museum’s Ford Theater. Weber has either performed or recorded with artists inlcuding Eric Church, Eminem, Joshua Hedley, Lauryn Hill, Lorde, Midland, Kacey Musgraves, Country Music Hall of Fame member Dolly Parton, Margo Price, Travis Tritt and Lee Ann Womack, and has appeared on the CMA Awards, CMT Awards, the Grand Ole Opry, Late Night with Seth Myers and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. During the program, she will perform, share stories and talk about training, style and technique. Admission to this Musician Spotlight is included with museum admission, and free to museum members. Voices in the Hall with Jimmie Allen – Sunday, June 9, at 2 p.m. A live recording of the museum’s podcast Voices in the Hall rounds out the museum’s CMA Fest 2019 programming, with Jimmie Allen, one of country music’s most intriguing and successful new voices, joining podcast host Peter Cooper on the stage of the museum’s CMA Theater. The interview will explore Allen’s influences and small-town upbringing as well as his propulsive present as the first black artist to launch a career with a #1 hit on country radio. Admission to the program is included with museum admission and free to museum members. Seating is limited, and a program ticket is required for admittance. Several programs will be streamed live at CountryMusicHalloffame.org/Streaming. For additional programming information for this slate of events, visit www. CountryMusichHallOfFame.org.
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Festival Spotlight: Electric Forest
Each summer, just as anticipation for the sold-out Electric Forest reaches fever pitch, tens of thousands of fans - traveling from all parts of the country, and the world, gather at the Double JJ Ranch in Rothbury, Michigan for the music & camping adventure of a lifetime. Entering its ninth year, Electric Forest is known for bringing together a passionate group of fans whose shared community spirit makes the festival a truly unique experience. The festival incorporates the natural beauty of the venue into carefully crafted art pieces and creatively themed environments, while colorful interactive characters and storylines blend with eclectic performing artists and musicians. With its astonishing and unparalleled integration of music, art and community, Electric Forest delivers “The ultimate festival experience.” From the carefully curated musical lineup, to the jaw-dropping Sherwood Forest, to the festival’s unprecedented participatory spirit, to the site’s incomparable features and amenities - Electric Forest creates a vibe so thick with “camaraderie and freedom…it must be experienced to be appreciated.” Electric Forest’s GOOD LIFE VIP experience offers unrivaled amenities and perks - from camping and RV spots, to log cabins and homes, to resort hotel-style suites – all located directly on the festival grounds. In addition, patrons can take advantage of the property’s many amenities including a 60,000 square foot indoor water park, an 18-hole championship golf course, swimming pools, horseback riding, and more. At the heart of Electric Forest is the beloved Sherwood Forest. By day, fans collect among hundreds of hammocks that drape between the clustered trees. Intricate and earthy artful touches pop from the Forest’s myriad of installations and gathering spaces. At night, Sherwood Forest turns electric, showered with state-of-the-art, jaw-dropping light displays, impromptu “secret” parties, other-worldly characters, and surprises around every turn. “With no exaggeration at all, [Sherwood Forest is] the most well produced and artistically inspired area…ever seen at a music festival.” Known for fully embracing the possibilities of an engaged festival community, Electric Forest’s Plug In Program deliberately blurs the line between event organizers and attendees. With this truly unique “open source” fan engagement platform, Electric Forest harnesses the creativity and passion of its community members, offering real and tangible ways for fans to participate in and ultimately help shape the Electric Forest experience. This is a big deal, since for Electric Forest – experience trumps all. Hailed as “an amazing example of how music and festivals can change one’s outlook on life,” it’s widely understood that “one of the most important lessons [to be] learned in the Forest is that we are all together,” and this sense of community is truly “cherished [within the community] like the incredibly rare find it is.” To stay up to date on all Electric Forest news, please visit www.electricforestfestival.com and the official Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube pages. NashvilleMusicGuide.com 42
Nashville’s
Music venues
downtown HonkyTonk Central 329 Broadway 615-394-3457 honkytonkcentral.com
BB King Blues Bar
east nashville
The East Room
Basement East
917 Woodland 615-645-9174 thebasementnashville.com
2412 Gallatin Ave 347-559-6031 facebook.com/theeastroom
3 Crow Bar
5 Spot
1006 Forrest Ave 616-259-9891 the5spotlive.com
1024 Woodland St. 615-262-3345 3crowbar.com
Lipstick Lounge
LimeLight
1400 Woodland 615-226-6343 thelipsticklounge.com
201 Woodland 615-248-6334 limelightnashville.com
SoundCheck Nashville
The Cobra
750 Cowan St 615-726-1165 soundchecknashville.com
2511 Gallatin Ave 629-800-2515 facebook.com/the-cobra-nashville
The Family Wash
Queen Ave
626A Main St. 615-645-9930
178 Queen Ave
elliston place Cafe Coco
210 Louise Ave 615-321-2626 cafecoco.com
The End
2219 Elliston Place 615-321-4457 endnashville.com
the gulch
Exit/In
2208 Elliston Place 615-321-3340 exitin.com
Station Inn 12th & Porter Rudy’s Jazz Room 402 12th Ave S 615-255-3307 stationinn.com
114 12th Ave N 615-678-7722 12andporter.com
809 Gleaves 615-988-2458 rudysjazzroom.com
midtown Rebar
1919 Division St 615-345-6298 rebarnashville.com
Winner’s
Loser’s
1913 Division St 615-340-0004 losersbar.com
Hopsmith Tavern
1903 Division St. 615-327-8001 facebook.com/blue.bar.921
1911 Division St 615-327-3115 losersbar.com
The Row
110 Lyle Ave 615-321-1224 therownashville.com
sobro
Third Man Records 623 7th Ave S 615-891-4393 thirdmanrecords.com
True Music
118 8th Ave S (The Cambria) cambrianashville.com
Decker & Dryer/L27
FGL House
Barlines
The Listening Room
807 Clark Place (The Westin) 615-248-2800 250 5th Ave S 615-782-5300 barlinesnashville.com
120 3rd Ave fglhouse.com
618 4th Ave S 615-259-3600 listeningroomcafe.com
Cannery-Mercy-HighWatt
3rd & Lindsley
1 Cannery Row 615-251-3020 mercyloung.com
816 3rd Ave N. 615-259-9891 3andlindsley.com
City Winery
609 Lafayette 615-324-1010 citywinery.com/nashville
Schermerhorn
1 Symphony Place 615-687-6500 nashvillesymphony.com
Swinging Doors
111 4th Ace S. 615-736-5050 swingingdoorssaloon.com
Rockettown 601 4th Ave S 615-843-4001 rocketown.com
Country Music Hall of Fame 222 5th Ave S 615-416-2001 countrymusichalloffame.com
Flying Saucer
111 10th Ave S 615-259-3039 beernurd.com
west end 110 28th Ave N 615-320-4339 localnash.com
2613 West End Ave 615-327-4707 debichampion.com
green hills Blue Bird Cafe 4104 Hillsboro Rd 615-383-1416 bluebirdcafe.com
Kid Rock’s
221 Broadway 615-248-2706 facebook.com/bigasshonkytonk
Acme Feed & Seed
101 Broadway 615-915-0888 theacmenashville.com
The Old Line
1524 Demonbreun 615-915-4421 facebook.com/theoldlinenash
Dawghouse Saloon 1538 Demonbreun 615-864-7393 dawghousesaloon.com
Tin Roof
1516 Demonbreun 615-313-7103 tinroofbars.com
South
1524 Demonbreun 615-724-1770 south-nashville.com
Jason Aldean’s
Bridgestone Arena
Tequila Cowboys
Nudie’s Honky Tonk
Belcourt Theatre
Whiskey Bent
Crossroads
greater nashville
Back Alley Diner
Marathon Music Works Maxwell House Nashville Underground 1402 Clinton 2025 Rosa L Parks Blvd
311 Broadway jasonaldeansnashville,com
305 Broadway 615-747-9078 cadillacranchnashville.com 120 2nd Ave N 615-401-2580 whiskeybentsaloon.com
501 Broadway 615-770-2000 bridgestonearena.com
409 Broadway facebook.com/nudieshonkytonk nudieshonkytonk.com 419 Broadway 615-650-9333 crossroadsbar.com
hillsboro village
2101 Belcourt Ave 615-383-9140 belcourt.com
217 Arcade Alley 615-251-3003 backalleydiner.com
105 Broadway 615-964-3000 nashunderground.com
615-891-1781 marathonmusicworks.com
The Frist
Bootleggers Inn
44 Hurricane Mills Rd 931-296-2800 lorettalynn.com
Fiddle & Steel
Benchmark
Hard Rock Cafe
Puckett’s
919 Broadway 615-244-3340 fristcenter.com
210 Printers Alley 615-251-9002 fiddleandsteel.com
100 Broadway 615-871-6779 hardrockcafe.com
Tin Roof Broadway
207 Broadway 615-457-3983 bootleggersnashville.com
117 2nd Ave N 615-742-8887 benchmarknashville.com
500 Church St. 615-770-2772 pucketttsgrocery.com/nashville
Lonnie’s Western Room
316 Broadway 615-242-4446 tinroofbroadway.com
208 Printers Alley 615-215-1122 lonnieswesternroom.com
Legends Corner
Ms Kelli’s
428 Broadway 615-248-6334 lengendscorner.com
207 Printers Alley 615-255-4423 mskellis.com
Burbon Street Blues Bar Skull’s Ranbow Room 220 Printers Alley 615-242-5837 bourbonstreetbluesandboogiebar.com
Luke’s 32 Bridge
222 Printers Alley 615-810-9631 skullsrainbowroom.com
Robert’s Western World
Ri’chard’s Cafe
CabaRay
5724 River Rd. 615-327-4630 raystevenscabray.com
The Sutler
Santa’s Pub
south nashville 2600 Franklin Pk 615-840-6124 thesutler.com
The Basement
2025 8th Ave S 615-269-0221 zanienash.com
1604 8th Ave S 615-254-4801 grimeys.com
Zanie’s Comedy Club Grimey’s
Adventure Science Center 800 Fort Negley 615-862-5160 adventuresci.org
Miss Jeanne’s Dinner Theater
Second Fiddle
Rippy’s
The Stage
Scoreboard
Crazytown
TPAC
Music City Bar & Grill
429 Broadway 615-244-7477 rippysbarandgrill.com 308 Broadway 615-254-5460 facebook.com/crazytownnashville
TN Repertory Theatre 161 Rains Ave 615-244-4878 tennesseerep.com
Tootsie’s
422 Broadway 615-726-0463 tootsies.com
Wild Horse Saloon
120 2nd Ave N 615-251-1000 wildhorsesaloon.com
The George Jones
128 2nd Ave N 615-818-0128 georgejones.com
421 Broadway 615-678-4808 ajsgoodtimebar.com
Margaritaville
322 Broadway 615-208-9080 margaritavillenashville.com
Ole Red
300 Broadway 629-203-7822 olered.com
412 Broadway 615-726-0504 thestageonbroadway.com 505 Dedick St 615-255-2787 tpac.com
The Valentine
312 Broadway 615-202-6979 thevalentinenashville.com
Douglas Corner
2106 8th Ave S 615-298-1688 douglascorner.com
Layla’s Bluegrass Inn
420 Broadway 615-248-4818 thefiddle.com
2225 Brandsford Ave 615-593-1872 santaspub.com
1604 8th Ave S 615-254-8006 thebasementnashville.com
Ryman Auditorium
418 Broadway 615-726-2799 facebook.com/laylasbluegrassinn
8400 Hwy 100 615-646-9700 lovelesscafe.com
4420 Whites Creek Pike 615-299-9590
Municipal Auditorium
116 5th Ave N 615-889-3060 ryman.com
615-259-4343 milleniumhotels.com
Loveless Cafe
416 Broadway 615-244-9552 robertswesternworld.com
417 4th Ave N 615-862-6390 nashvilleauditorium.com
Belcourt Taps
2117 Belcourt Ave 615-915-3622 belcourttaps.com
Loretta Lynn Ranch
301 Broadway lukes32bridge.com
AJ’s Good Time Bar
Springwater The Local Commodore 115 27th Ave N 615-862-8431 thespringwater.com
152 2nd Ave S 615-256-2727 bbkingbluesclub.com
demonbruen
600 9th Ave S 615-902-9566 missjeannes.com
opryland Gaylord Opryland
2800 Opryland Dr 615-889-1000 gaylordhotels.com
2408 Music Valley Dr. 615-883-3866 scoreboardbar.net
2416 Music Valley Dr 615-883-2367 musiccitybar.com
Grand Ole Opry
2804 Opryland Dr 615-871-6779 opry.com
John A’s
2421 Music Valley Dr 615-885-1540 johnasresturant.com
Nashville Palace
2611 McGavock Pk 615-884-3004 nashvillepalace.net
Nashville Nightlife
2620 Music Valley Dr 615-885-5201 nashvillenightlife.com
Musician’s Hall of Fame
sylvan park
Famous Saloon
4425 Murphy Rd. 615-942-5052 neighborssylvanpark.com
301 6th Ave S 615-244-3263 musicianhalloffame.com 110 2nd Ave N 615-933-5000 famoussaloon.com
Neighbors
Blue Moon
525 Basswood Ave 615-356-6666 bluemoongrille.com
Big Shotz
115 2nd Ave N 615-244-9011 bigshotznashville.com
Redneck Riviera
208 Broadway 615-436-4070 redneckrivieranashville.com
Whiskey Row
400 Broadway 629-203-7822 dierkswhiskeyrow.com
Mellow Mushroom
423 Broadway 615-454-4990 mellowmushroom.com
If you would like to list your venue, please submit your information to editor@nashvillemusicguide.com | ATTN: Music Venue Submission
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