PJ STEELMAN This Point In Time 2010 Blue Cypress Records
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WILLIE NELSON'S REMEMBER ME, VOL. 1 BOWS NOVEMBER 21, 2011 R&J Records Release Features 14 Songs, A-List Players (NASHVILLE, Tenn.) Elegant and enduring endeavors are often the simplest, and so it is with Remember Me, Vol. 1 as one of America's most revered country music icons sings a collection of the genre's most definitive songs. Willie Nelson hand-picked the collection's 14 songs from among the top Billboard hits of the last 70 years. Artists and songwriters reflected in Nelson's versions of their songs include Ernest Tubb, Johnny Cash, George Jones, Merle Haggard, Kris Kristofferson, Rosemary Clooney, Porter Wagoner and Ray Price. The first volume, out Nov. 21, 2011, is drawn from Nelson's sessions with longtime friend and producer James Stroud, which yielded more than 30 songs. Remember Me, Vol. 2 is scheduled to be released next year. In addition to Nelson's incomparable vocal stylings, each track benefits from the work of Nashville's top musicians in a band that features Eddie Bayers (drums), David Hungate (bass), Brent Mason (electric guitar), Biff Watson (acoustic guitar), Mickey Raphael (harmonica), Sonny Garrish (steel guitar), John Hobbs (piano/keyboards), Aubrey Haynie (fiddle/mandolin) and Wes Hightower and Cindy Walker (background vocals). Jerry Puckett and Chris Collins also guest on the sessions. Remember Me, Vol. 1 track list, with each song's hit-making artist, year and peak Billboard position in parentheses: 1. Remember Me (Ernest Tubb, 1950, No. 5 Country); 2. Sixteen Tons (Tennessee Ernie Ford, 1955, No. 1 Country & Pop); 3. Why Baby Why (George Jones, 1955, No. 4 Country); 4. Today I Started Loving You Again (Merle Haggard, 1970); 5. I'm Movin' On (Hank Snow, 1950, No. 1 Country); 6. That Just About Does It (Vern Gosdin, 1989, No. 4 Country); 7. This Old House (Rosemary Clooney, 1954, No. 1 Pop); 8. Sunday Morning Coming Down (Johnny Cash, 1970, No. 1 Country); 9. Smoke That Cigarette (Tex Williams, 1947, No. 1 Country); 10. Slowly (Webb Pierce, 1954, No. 1 Country); 11. A Satisfied Mind (Porter Wagoner, 1955, No. 1 Country); 12. Roly Poly (Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys, 1946, No. 3 Country) 13. Release Me (Ray Price, 1954, No. 6 Country); 14. Ramblin' Fever (Merle Haggard, 1977, No. 2 Country); *15. More And More (Webb Pierce, 1954, No. 1 Country) *iTunes exclusive
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Willie Nelson Helps Best Friends Animal Society Speak Out in Favor of Ending Canine Profiling in Ohio ................................... 6 2012 To Mark Return Of Traditional Country Music ............... 8 FEATURE— The History Behind WSM 650 AM Radio Station .. 9 SPOTLIGHT—Ross Key: Making Noise On Music Row ............. 10 Singers/Songwriters: What To Expect On Your First Trip To Nashville ..................................................................................... 12 SONGWRITER CORNER—Roy August: “Sittin’ Fancy Free” Multi-Platinum, CMA Hall of Fame Songwriter ...................... 13
Editor and Publisher Canice Brown-Porter
Production, Design, and Cover Buttonwood Publications & midSTATE Graphix
Inside Today’s Traditional Country Music eZine assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions appearing more than once. We do not investigate, endorse, or assume any responsibility for any advertisement placed in our publication. Please send requests or inquiries to be featured in our magazine, and any press releases, news, biographies, photos, etc. should be emailed to Buttonwood.Productions@gmail.com All articles, artists, songwriters, venues that appear in TCM are connected in some way with traditional country, traditional gospel, and/or americana music. Photos are provided by the artist, songwriter, venue, or business entity. Or, those taken by the staff of midSTATE Graphix, Buttonwood Publications, and Buttonwood Production. Digital distribution is bi-monthly online. Download is available. All rights reserved. To view online, please visit: http://buttonwoodproductions.fourfour.com/page:tcm_ezine Reproduction in part or whole is prohibited without prior written consent of Buttonwood Publications and its designated representative. This ezine is published by Buttonwood Publications, a subsidiary of Buttonwood Productions. Advertising rates available upon request. Email requests to Buttonwood.Productions@gmail.com Copyright © 2011-2012 Buttonwood Productions. All rights reserved.
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Get the word out today about your music, lyrics, recording studio, venue, etc. by submitting press releases, articles, photos, or other pertinent information involving Traditional Country and Traditional Gospel Music!
Contact Us Today!
Events—Jan/Feb 2012 ................................................................................................... 16 Songwriter Nights—Jan/Feb 2012.............................................................................. 17 Information About Independent Artists and Music Licensing Companies .. 18 Trace Atkins: Hardworking Remedy For The Generations ............................. 19 Peggy Mercer: Songwriter, Author And Publisher — Talent Unleashed ...... 20 Hot Off The Press .......................................................................................................... 22 In Memory Of ................................................................................................................. 22 Merle Haggard Releases New Album “Working In Tennessee” On Vanguard Records .................................................................................................................... 24 CMA Theatre To Be State-Of-The-Art ....................................................................... 25 If you or your business would like to be featured in ―Inside Today‘s Traditional Country Music‖, please contact Buttonwood.Productions@gmail.com. Please be aware that we do not under any circumstances promote any other genre of music. Paid advertising is the only exception we make. JAN-FEB 2012
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Willie Nelson Helps Best Friends Animal Society Speak Out in Favor of Ending Canine Profiling in Ohio Legendary singer/songwriter Willie Nelson, actress Maggie Q and actor Ian Somerhalder help Best Friends Animal Society (http:// www.bestfriends.org) speak out in support of Ohio's House Bill 14, which would end the state's dubious distinction as the only state in the country where pit bull terriertype dogs are deemed "vicious" based only on breed and appearance, not behavior.
that would remove canine profiling from Ohio‘s books. The bill already has passed the Ohio House of Representatives and is up for consideration by the Senate.
Legendary singer/songwriter Willie Nelson knows a thing or two about outlaws, but he‘s quick to fight for the rights of those who undeservingly end up on the wrong side of the law. Nelson is using his famous voice to speak out in support of the ―favorable and quick‖ passage of Ohio House Bill 14, legislation
Ohio is the only state in the country that automatically declares a dog vicious based solely on appearance, without considering behavior. Any pit bull terrier-type dog or any dog resembling a pit bull falls under this discriminatory law. HB 14 would remove this breeddiscriminatory designation and strengthen the state‘s dangerous dog laws so that they more correctly target reckless owners and dangerous dogs instead of innocent pets. Twelve other states protect canines with laws that prohibit local gov-
ernments from declaring dogs dangerous based solely on breed or appearance. Nelson, who speaks out on animal welfare issues for Best Friends Animal Society, has written a letter encouraging Ohio residents to contact their senators and the committee members and urge them to support HB 14. More information and simple ways to take action are available here: http://www.capwiz.com/ bestfriends/issues/alert/? alertid=51163691 Those wanting to support HB-14 can do so by signing a petition at Change.org (http:// www.change.org/petitions/ohiolegislators-pass-hb-14-to-endbreed-discrimination). To date more than 11,000 have supported (Continued on page 21)
Do You Know The Definition Of Traditional Country Music? We know it when we hear it. We know who the legends are and those who have the sound today. But, is there a definition?
We want to know! Email your response to us no later than January 30, 2012! 6
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Inside Today’s Traditional Country Music eZine
JAN-FEB 2012
A Message From the Editor Hello everyone! Happy New Year and welcome to the first issue of Inside Today’s Traditional Country Music. We hope you enjoy it and will provide us with feedback on each issue. The magazine is the result of our desire to Canice Brown-Porter bring traditional country music back into the mainstream and hopefully, back to the airwaves where it belongs. Our love for the sounds of steel guitars, banjos, and fiddles in country music is one of many catalysts for TCM. There are many musicians, artists, and singer/songwriters of traditional country and gospel that are not being heard because those who ―direct‖ the music on the airwaves are promoting everything but real country music. You know what I mean. While those entertainers are talented in their own right, the fans of true country — not the many hyphenated and sub-genres of country — have begun to exercise their voices and desires to read about and listen to the legends and up-and-coming performers of traditional country. Inside Today’s Traditional Country Music magazine hopes to make an impact on the decisions that are made by those who control what we hear on the airwaves. We hope to bring traditional country music back from the depths of the abyss it was so carelessly tossed. With the support of fans, artists, songwriters, venues, labels, management and whoever else may be on this ride with us, we can make an impact in 2012. TCM is a bi-monthly, interactive, digital magazine. Our goal is to make it one of the most sought after and revered magazines for the voice of traditional country, traditional gospel, and americana. We look forward to bringing you the stories, news, photos, and artists that are out there just waiting to find the vehicle necessary to put themselves back in the forefront. Enjoy the articles and photos. We hope to hear from you. Keeping it ―REAL‖ country,
Hank Williams’ Daughter To Host Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree on January 1, 2012 DECEMBER 29, 2011 — Jett Williams, the daughter of the late, great Hank Williams, will host the Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree radio show on January 1, 2012. The date is significant as it is the anniversary of her William‘s 1953 death. Jett was born five days after her William‘s death. She was left an orphan and became a ward of the state of Alabama. She went by the name of Catherine Yvonne until she began researching her identity in the early 1980s. (Continued on page 19)
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2012 To Mark Return Of EVERY MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY with host
Traditional Country Music The heat is on! With the new year here, the push to have traditional country back on mainstream airwaves and concert stages has taken on a new and veracious voice throughout the world. Fans — young and old — are no longer sitting quietly and waiting for history to repeat itself. They want their music back. Fans of every age are speaking out and sooner or later, the moguls who dictate what we want to hear will have to listen to the call. In the past decade, traditional country music has taken a beating and been tossed aside to be ignored. With the creation of pop, rap, and alternative subgenres of country leading in the charts simply because of someone else‘s taste in music, these new sounds are all we hear on country radio stations. Unless, of course, the stations are independently owned. While fans, artists, songwriters and musicians all agree that there is room for all music, it doesn‘t mean that one segment of a genre be disregarded. Especially when it is that particular sound that created the genre to begin with.
ditional country created its niche‘ in the world of music. Beginning with Mother Maybelle and the Carter family from the mountains of southwest Virginia. While the sound has evolved, it hasn‘t forgotten what makes real country music country. Today, there are songwriters and artists who are stalwarts in their dedication to keeping the music alive. Not only because of their love for the ―drinking and cheating‖ songs, but because they hear the cries of their fans. Many have fans in their teens and early 20s who are growing substantially in numbers. The sound is ―new‖ to them and they scavenge the internet and radio stations just to find and listen to the music about love, lost love, drinking, cheating, and everyday life. With fiddles, dobros, and steel guitars wafting through the melodies. This year, many will see the tides
Traditional country music is the foundation of the country music industry. It‘s the root of the genre. With steel guitars and fiddles, tra8
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Send your comments to us! buttonwood.productions@gmail.com
JAN-FEB 2012
The History Behind
WSM 650 AM Radio Station WSM radio kicks off its 87th year on the airwaves in 2012. The first broadcast was heard on October 5, 1925 and founded by Edwin W. Craig. Craig was the son of one of the founders of the National Life and Accident Insurance Company, who convinced the Board of Directors to invest in the creation of a radio station that would increase awareness and promotion capabilities of the insurance company. The call letters ―WSM‖ were chosen as an acronym for the company‘s slogan, ―We Shield Millions‖. The station broadcast from the fifth floor of the National Life building in its infancy which was located at 7th Avenue and Union. WSM was known mostly for its classical and dinner music. Dinah Shore was one such featured guest
A view of the kitchen where many of the legends hung out at WSM’s location.
on the show. Until George D. Hay — also known as The Solemn Old Judge — was hired as the first proJAN-FEB 2012
gram director. Hay was a former reporter for the Commercial Appeal, a Memphis-based newspaper which is still in production today. He was also the announcer for the Chicago-based radio station, WLS, for its segment National Barn Dance. With Hay‘s on board, he immediately created the WSM Barn Dance segment. This later transformed into what we now know as the Grand Ole Opry. While Hay‘s created many programs for WSM, it wasn‘t until the night of November 28, 1925 — just over a month later — that Hay introduced the audience to an almost 80-year-old fiddler by the name of Uncle Jimmy Thompson. The course for WSM 650 AM radio changed dramatically. With Thompson‘s debut on the airwaves, WSM experienced the influx of others who wanted the opportunity to perform live on the radio as well as many wanting to watch the live performances. The response from performers and listeners of the station became so extensive, the insurance company had to build a new auditorium to accommodate crowds of approximately 500. In 1934, the show moved to the Hillsboro Theatre, known today as The Belcourt Theatre located in the Vanderbilt University area at
Today, the WSM broadcasting station with part of the famous 878-foot tall transmitting tower shown in the background.
the corner of Belcourt and 21st Avenues in Nashville. Less than two years later, the show moved to the Dixie Tabernacle located on Fatherland Street in east Nashville. In June 1943, WSM moved its Grand Ole Opry show to the most famous of its locations, the Ryman Auditorium, located just around the corner from Tootsie‘s Orchid Lounge on downtown Broadway WSM 650 AM radio still broadcasts from its location in the Franklin/ Brentwood area with offices located on the Gaylord Opryland Complex located on McGavock Pike in Nashville. WSM is still broadcasting the live shows of the Opry on its airwaves every Saturday evening. If you live outside the transmitting range of the station, you can listen in online at www.wsmonline.com.
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Ross Key Making Noise On Music Row NASHVILLE, TN — Ross Key, also known as Ross Key Country, has quite the background in traditional country music. He was exposed to the country music industry when he was a small child. His uncle, Tommy Dunaway, was Mel Tillis‘ bass player. He recalls meeting Mel and Mel‘s daughter, Pam Tillis, during that time. It wasn‘t until his older brother, Edward, gave him a guitar at the age of 13 that Key sat down and taught himself to play. Listening to Chet Atkins, Roy Acuff, and Willie Nelson, Key says he practiced every day. His brother told him if he couldn‘t play Under The Double Eagle, he couldn‘t play guitar. The song is now his signature song at every performance. It is the first song he throws out to the crowd, and if you aren‘t paying any attention to him before he strikes the first chord, heads rivet quickly towards the unique picking style he developed. Key will tell you he has paid his dues early in his music career. But, with a 15-year lapse on the professional circuit — taking a hiatus to raise a family in Campbell County, Virginia — Key is quick to point out he is having to pay those dues all over again.
THE EARLY YEARS Ross was born in Lynchburg, Virginia. The youngest of three boys, he lived in his native hometown up until July 2011, when he moved to 10
Nashville. Key was approached by Roy Campbell, of Roy Campbell and the Nashville Sound, a local country music band that regularly performed in Roanoke at the now defunct Lakeside Amusement Park.
Willie and allowed to sit in throughout the whole show. It was one of the biggest highlights of my music career. Willie was, and still is, my favorite performer of all time. Shortly after that, Willie cut a new CD and he had recorded Under The Double Eagle on it.‖ Key left the country music circuit and moved into bluegrass, playing with Lower 40 Grass. He won the Virginia State Dobro Championship and an inner circle bluegrass competition which involved composing a bluegrass melody on the spot. When Key left bluegrass, he moved into the gospel circuit. In his mid20s, Key traveled with the Vessels of God for approximately 15 years.
Pictured above, an early photo of Ross Key at 15 years old with his first guitar which he had already mastered.
The band opened for many of the legends including Alabama, Willie Nelson, Emmylou Harris, Hank Williams Jr., Waylon Jennings, Ronnie Milsap, Freddy Fender, Joe Stampley, Jimmy Buffet, and a long list of other legendary entertainers. Roy always gave Ross the spotlight to perform up front for the audience. ―I remember sitting on Willie‘s bus with Paul English. I had picked up Willie‘s guitar and was playing Under The Double Eagle when Willie walked up on the bus. I stopped, but Willie encouraged me to finish the song. I did. I was then brought onto the stage with Inside Today’s Traditional Country Music eZine
His stint with the gospel circuit came to an end with the Jim and Tammy Faye Baker — PTL Club fame — and Jimmy Swaggart‘s fall from grace. Disillusioned, Key left the professional music circuit and returned to his home in Campbell County.
THE LAST THREE YEARS In February 2009, he met his current manager at a mutual friends‘ home. ―I had been alone with my dog, Stretch, off and on for about three years. When she heard me performing that evening, she later asked why I wasn‘t in Nashville. She asked if I wanted to seriously pursue a career in music. We talked and she agreed to take me on as a client.‖ JAN-FEB 2012
...Ross Key Ross states the business relationship ing to Nashville at some point. immediately got underway, with But, when the tour became a six marketing, bookings, and an interweek stay, and then I had to be net presence. He performed at local back for another two weeks, two Moose Lodges, weeks later, it “...an awesome entertainer. became apparent bars, festivals, coffeehouses, A star ready to happen”. that if I was goand restaurants. ...Roy August, ing to do anyGraphics for CMA Hall of Fame Songwriter thing with my posters, banmusic, I had to ners, and electronic advertising be here.‖ were created. During that month long tour in Key‘s first big exposure came in April, Ross had gone to a small bar October 2009 when he headlined called Dingbats located in Lebathe Mountain Day festival in the non, Tennessee. It‘s about 25 miles small city of Buena Vista, Virginia. east of Nashville on I-40, and they In 2010, he performed again during held a weekly jam session. the festival for a crowd of almost 6,000. ―Looking back, that was one of the most important nights of my caRoss did a mini-tour through three reer. I got on stage to perform, not states in 2009, and later his knowing anyone. I had Roy Au―Resurrecting Music Row‖ tour in gust on bass to back me. I had no 2010. In 2011, he was booked to idea who he was. I was stunned appear for five weeks during April when I found out he was the author in Nashville. of Sittin’ Fancy Free which was recorded by the Oak Ridge Boys.‖ ―It was an exposure tour. Me to Nashville and Nashville to me. August invited Ross to attend the We‘d talked about eventually movtaping of Music City Late Night hosted by Ronnie McDowell. That evening, Roy discreetly handed Ross an envelope which contained the lyrics of a song he had specifically written for Key.
Ross is currently co-writing with Roy, who has become not only a mentor, but a valued friend.
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Ross performed at Pick‘s Nashville, hosted by Tony Stampley. Having opened for Tony‘s father, Joe Stampley years before, the two became friends. Tony invited Ross to Belle Cove in Hendersonville to perform at a benefit. It turned out to be another memorable moment in his career. Ross sang with the
Opry house band backing him. He stood between two steel players, Buddy Emmons — former steel player for Ernest Tubb — and Smiley Roberts.
TODAY IN NASHVILLE ―I‘ve met so many accomplished musicians and singer/songwriters since coming here. I‘m honored to be co-writing with Roy August,‖ Key stated. Ross Key says his song, Saturday Night, is what got him here. Once here, he finished a song that‘s been over a year in the making. Resurrect Music Row is making noise on Music Row. The storyline behind the song promotes traditional country music. It‘s what he knows...It‘s what he does. ―I wrote Saturday Night on one of the worst days of my life, and people tell me all the time how they can relate to it in their own lives. I think that‘s one of the greatest compliments a songwriter can receive.‖ ―I haven‘t reached my dream yet,‖ he says quietly. ―I want to perform on that sacred circle on the Opry stage. It may be awhile yet before I do, but I will get there.‖ When asked about what‘s coming up for him in 2012, Ross stated, ―A few things are shaping up. But, in a nutshell, 2012 appears to be starting out on a positive note.‖ For more information, music, and to join his international fanbase, log onto his website at http:// www.reverbnation.com/rosskey.
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Singers/Songwriters What to expect on your first trip to Nashville So, you‘ve decided to make your first trip to Nashville. It‘s going to be an exhilarating experience, if you‘ve planned well for your debut. You just never know who you may bump into during your stay. There are many outlets in and around Nashville for singer/ songwriters who want to get their music and lyrics in front of industry professionals. This is a brief outline of what you should do before showing up without a plan. 1. Approximately two or three months in advance, schedule performances at writers nights and open mics in and around Nashville. (There is a listing in this magazine of some of the many available on page 17.) 2. Book your lodging early, preferably around the same time you are booking your appearances, and once you know when you are going to be here. 3. Try to book during the Tin Pan South festival hosted by the NSAI. This event normally takes place during the last
week or so of March each year. There is also a Songwriters Festival held in early June, which is a good place to begin your quest. However, don‘t just focus on the festivals. Book outside the festival activities in places like The Listening Room and the Nashville Palace. The Bluebird is only available on Monday evenings and can not be booked. You have to show up and wait in line to get in before 5:45pm. This line is long, so get there early and be wary of where you park. Names are drawn and if you are one of the first 12 to 15, you‘ll get to perform, most likely. 4. Arrive at each of your performances at least 30 minutes early and check in with the host of the show.
RoyAugu
“Sittin’ Fancy Fr Multi-Platinum C Songwriter
Roy August is perhaps one of the most rec anyone mentions songwriters. Roy grew u accordion player, was in music and had a in his teens. Christian was attempting to b Ace Wallace, a blind African-American g Wallace, who taught August to play guitar to be a songwriter at six years old.
In his teens, August wrote songs for a ban and they landed a deal with Mercy Record ―Topo Gigio‖, a mouse which was made f
August was asked to come to Nashville by traveled back and forth to Nashville from fore finally moving here permanently in 1 and the Glaser Brothers, who taught him h friended by the Wilburn Brothers — Tedd wouldn‘t allow him to give up, giving him providing him a key to their office. He wr
Remember, it‘s about the song and have fun meeting and working with those you meet. Exchange information and build a list of contacts, both professionals and fellow songwriters.
Roy is pictured above holding his latest award, the United Kingdom’s European Charts. His go pel song, “I Sang For The King” performed by Graham Brown. August is pictured above with friends and co-writers, T. Jae Christian (left) an Ross Key (right). 12
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ust Boys‘ office where Hinson was manager. He gave the four verses and chorus to Hinson, and was told they could co-write it together. Hinson offered August an equal split on the writing and the Oak Ridge Boys would get the publishing shares. The song sat in a file for eight years before it was recorded. It turned out to be a Number One hit for all of them.
ree” CMA Hall of Fame
cognizable names in Nashville whenever up in Grand City, Illinois. His father, an band. He met his friend, Chris Christian, break into the music industry and knew guitar player. John introduced August to r. August states that he knew he wanted
Currently, Roy has his own release charting on the European charts titled ―Love And Broken Hearts‖. He recently accepted an award from the United Kingdom‘s European Charts for Gospel music with ―I Sang For The King‖.
nd he was in called The New Galaxies ds. They opened for a movie called famous on the ―Ed Sullivan Show‖.
y his friend, Jimmy Helms. Roy states he his Illinois home for about two years be1969. Roy met Chuck Glaser of Tom Paul how to construct his songs. He was later dy, Doyle, Leslie and Lester — who m a place to stay when he needed it by rote songs for their company.
Roy will tell you that hit songs are those which everybody can relate to. Sammy Kahn taught him how to speed write and pattern a song. He also says co-writing with others is a major plus. Take the opportunity to do so at every chance. Roy states that Owen Bradley taught him the value of getting the craft of songwriting correct. It‘s important that the singer doesn‘t stumble over the words. If you can‘t feel the emotions in a song, then neither will the lisfor tener. August states he writes at least os- five to seven songs a day.
August performs at the June 2011 Songwriters Festival held each year near Music Row Circle, produced by Cornelius “Popcorn” Robertson.
others reach their goals and dreams. Hinson and August recorded three songs with Sure Fire Music. When Hinson and August sat down and wrote ―Sitting Fancy Free‖, Roy says it was a miracle for him. He was struggling to make it and was ready to walk away from the industry and Nashville. He had a lyric for the song and took it took the Oak Ridge
―Sitting Fancy Free‖ earned him an award for having two million airplays and as the most requested song on radio stations. It also earned him and the Oak Ridge Boys their induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2011. Roy August is still writing and cowriting with many talented and upcoming artists. He is also working with his friend, Michael Elley, on a film project called ―How I Survived The Sixties‖.
T.
nd
He credits Jimbeau Hinson with teaching him the rewards of helping JAN-FEB 2012
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FULL COLOR, 4X3 GLOSSY CARDS
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WWW.SONGRAMP.COM
GLEN CAMPBELL: THE GOODBYE TOUR — January 3 — Ryman Auditorium — 7:30pm — A 2nd 650 AM WSM 86th Birthday Listener Appreciation Concert. This show is rescheduled from the cancelled December 5th concert. Tickets will be honored or refunds available if unable to attend. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SAL RINELLA BASH — January 4 — Celebrity Centre, 1180 8th Avenue South, Nashville, TN. Doors open 7:00pm. Open to the public. Live music. No presents or admission charge required. NASHVILLE’S NEXT STAR CONTEST — January 7 thru April 21 — No entry fee • No age limit • Songwriters & Artists,
please bring charts. House band will be backing you. No bands allowed. Hosted by James Breedwell. Email nashvillemusicgroup@yahoo.com RESTOCK MUSIC FESTIVAL — January 21 — National Guard Armory, 1177 W. Main, Howenwald, TN. 6pm—10pm. Restock is a live concert to benefit the Second Harvest Food Bank of Nashville. Food donations required for entry. Most needed items include: peanut butter, canned meat, canned fruit, rice, mac-n-cheese, and cereal. No dented can items, please. Hosted by Manda Rose Music. www.facebook.com/ RestockMusicFestival TRADITIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC HOUR — January 21 —
Roosters Texas Style BBQ, 123 12th Ave, North, Nashville, TN — 8:00pm — Hosted by Ross Key. Invited guests include songwriters and artists ; legends and rising stars of traditional country. Inquiries to rosskeycountry@gmail.com UNITED STATES OF MUSIC FESTIVAL — February 3, 4 & 5 — Music Row Best Western, 1407 Division Street, Nashville, TN. Singer/songwriters, musician, fans, encouraged to attend. Register at www.unitedstatesofmusic.org/ why.html. TRADITIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC HOUR— February 15 — Roosters Texas Style BBQ, 123 12th Ave, North, Nashville, TN — 8:00pm — Hosted by Ross Key. Invited guests include songwriters (Continued on page 23)
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MONDAY BELCOURT TAPS & TAPAS at 2117 Belcourt Ave, Nashville — 6:00pm — Hosted by Sam Cooper BLUEBIRD CAFÉ at 4104 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville — 5:00pm sign up; 6:00pm show begins — Hosted by Barbara Cloyd; 615-3831461 FRENCH QUARTER at 823 Woodland St, Nashville — 6:00pm — Hosted by Jack Scott; 615-226-0054 HOTEL INDIGO DOWNTOWN at 301 Union St, Nashville — 7:00pm — Hosted by Ty Brando; 615-891-6000 NASHVILLE PALACE at 2611 McGavock Pike, Nashville — Hosted by Josh Helms and Billie Lee ROOSTER’S TEXAS STYLE BBQ at 123 12th Ave North, Nashville — 7:00pm — Hosted by Tony Stampley and James Breedwell
TUESDAY CAFÉ COCO at 210 Louise Ave, Nashville — 7:00pm — (this is an open mic); 615-321-2626 COMMODORE GRILLE at 2613 West End Ave., Nashville (inside the Holiday Inn Select) — 6:00pm — Hosted by Debi Champion; 615327-4707 DAN McGUINNESS IRISH PUB at 9200 Carothers Pkwy, Cool Springs (Franklin), TN — 7:00pm — Hosted by Doc‘s Music DACONTO’S at 114 Front Street, Smyrna, TN — 5:30pm — Hosted by Phil Da‘Void, Acoustic Open Mic
LIMELIGHT at 201 Woodland St, Nashville — 6:00pm — Hosted by Music City Nights
lect) — Hosted by Debi Champion; 615-3274707
THE RUSTY NAIL at 4054 Andrew Jackson Way, Nashville — 7:00pm — Hosted by Terri Jo Box; Email tjbox@hotmail.com
HOTEL INDIGO DOWNTOWN at 301 Union St, Nashville — 7:00pm — Hosted by Ty Brando; 615-891-6000
WEDNESDAY
INCREDIBLE DAVE’S at 1000 Rivergate Pkwy, Goodlettsville — 7:00pm — no preregistration, walk in
BLUE BAR at 1911 Broadway, Nashville — 8:00pm — Hosted by Stage Write BUNGANUT PIG at 1143 Columbia Ave, Franklin, TN — 7:00pm — Hosted by Doc‘s Music; 615-794-4777 COMMODORE GRILLE at 2613 West End Ave., Nashville (inside the Holiday Inn Select) — Hosted by Debi Champion; 615-3274707 HOTEL INDIGO at 1719 West End Ave, Nashville — 7:00pm — Hosted by Lee Rascone; 615-329-4200
SCOREBOARD RESTAURANT & SPORTS BAR at 2408 Music Valley Drive, Nashville — 8:00pm — Open Mic Night
FRIDAY BELCOURT TAPS & TAPAS at 2117 Belcourt Ave, Nashville — 6:00pm — Prescheduled, call to book a 1½ hour show.
RED ROOSTER MUSIC HALL at 1530 Demonbreun, Nashville — 7:00pm — Hosted by Lorna Flowers
COMMODORE LOUNGE at 2613 West End Ave, Nashville — 7:00pm — Hosted by the Stewarts (pre-scheduled—call to book)
RI’CHARD’S LOUISIANA CAFÉ at 4420 Whites Creek Pike, White‘s Creek, TN — 5:30pm — booking@richardscafe.com
HOTEL INDIGO at 1719 West End Ave, Nashville — 7:00pm — Hosted by Lee Rascone
ROOSTER’S TEXAS STYLE BBQ at 123 12th Ave North, Nashville — 7:00pm — Preregistration required; nashvillemusicgroup@yahoo.com — Hosted by James Breedwell
RI’CHARD’S LOUISIANA CAFÉ at 4420 Whites Creek Pike, White‘s Creek, TN — 5:30pm — booking@richardscafe.com
THURSDAY BELCOURT TAPS & TAPAS at 2117 Belcourt Ave, Nashville — 11:30am to 5:30pm — Hosted by Sam Cooper
DOUGLAS CORNER CAFÉ at 2106-A 8th Ave South, Nashville — 8:00pm — Hosted by Donnie Winters; 615-298-1688 (call between 1pm—6pm on the Tuesday you want to perform to schedule)
BELCOURT TAPS & TAPAS at 2117 Belcourt Ave, Nashville — 6:00pm — Prescheduled, call to book a 1½ hour show.
HOTEL INDIGO DOWNTOWN at 301 Union St, Nashville — 7:00pm — Hosted by Ty Brando; 615-891-6000
RI’CHARD’S LOUISIANA CAFÉ at 4420 Whites Creek Pike, White‘s Creek, TN — 5:30pm — booking@richardscafe.com
MATTY’S ALLEY at 2410 Gallatin Ave, Nashville — 8:00pm — Hosted by Scott Barrier
DOUGIE RAY’S at 903 Rivergate Pkwy, Goodlettsville — 6:30pm — Hosted by Jack Scott
HOTEL INDIGO at 1719 West End Ave, Nashville — 7:00pm — Hosted by Virginia Cannon
NASHVILLE PALACE at 2611 McGavock Pike, Nashville — Hosted by Josh Helms and Billie Lee
BOBBY’S IDLE HOUR at 1028 16th Ave, Nashville — 7:00pm — no pre-registration, walk in CAFÉ COCO at 210 Louise Ave, Nashville — 7:00pm — (this is an open mic) COMMODORE GRILLE at 2613 West End Ave., Nashville (inside the Holiday Inn Se-
SATURDAY BELCOURT TAPS & TAPAS at 2117 Belcourt Ave, Nashville — 6:00pm — Prescheduled, call to book a 1½ hour show. COMMODORE LOUNGE at 2613 West End Ave, Nashville — 7:00pm — Hosted by the Stewarts (pre-scheduled—call to book) RIC’HARD’S LOUISIANA CAFÉ at 4420 Whites Creek Pike, White‘s Creek, TN — 4:30pm — Open mic hosted by Gary Cavanaugh TWO OLD HIPPIES at 401 12th Ave, Nashville — 6:00pm — Hosted by James House
SUNDAY 3RD SUNDAY @ 3:00 at 701 Brook Hollow Road (West Meade), Nashville — 3:00pm to 8:00pm — Eat, Network, & Play—Bring food & beverages to share; Chicken from Bojangles (3rd Sunday each month only) LISTENING ROOM CAFÉ at 209 10th Ave South, Ste. 200, Nashville — 6:00pm — 615259-3600 (writer rounds are pre-scheduled, so contact before going out )
JAN-FEB 2012
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Information About Independent Artists and Music Licensing Author: Criss Evans Independent Artists require promoting their project; let us find out how they can promote their music and also know about Music Licensing Companies. It is very important for every musician to create awareness about their music compositions among the peo-
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turn. Whether they are willing to recognize and embrace the return of traditional country music to the airwaves and concert stages remains to be seen. However, the acceptance is inevitable. Not everyone likes what is being promoted as the ―new‖ country. There are many who still love the ―old‖ country, if you will. The overall consensus of traditional country music artists, songwriters and fans is that if they wanted to listen to pop, rap, or rock, there are radio stations available without bringing that music to their beloved country music airwaves. Twenty-twelve promises to be an exciting year for traditional country music as it reclaims its rightful place at center stages across the country and around the world. More and more artists, songwriters and fans are responding to the call of fiddles and steel guitars from the distance. 18
ple. In order to publicize their music compositions among audiences they require help of promotion and marketing. However, it is really difficult for Independent Artists to promote their compositions with very little funds because it may be possible that an independent artist does not have huge amounts of money to invest in promotion and marketing of their music composi-
tions. Therefore, there is a need for some financial-friendly ways of promotion in order to help the Independent Artists. Online music marketing can be an easy and cost effective method of promotion for Independent Artists. Online music marketing can automatically creates offline publicity as well and this is possible only by using correct techniques and tools of the internet. This can be really beneficial for the Independent Artists and may work in favor of their promotion. The ways by which the Independent Artists can promote their projects online are by using social networking sites, internet radio stations, online music magazines, audio blogs, etc. Thus, online music marketing can really help such artists to get publicity both online and offline by providing economical promotion and marketing using the methods mentioned above. As we all know that music licensing is very important for a music artist to get the required exposure in front of the audience as well as for the protection of their compositions from getting misused. Thus, there are many Music Licensing Companies which provides the facility of music licensing and this facility can be really beneficial for the struggling artists. This is so because the services provided by the Music Licensing Companies can help the budding artists to get the opportunity to publicize their compositions in the market. However, it is essential to find Mu(Continued on page 26)
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JETT WILLIAMS
In 1989, Jett began touring the world, playing with her father‘s band, The Drifting Cowboys. Midnite Jamboree will broadcast from the Texas Troubadour Theatre in Nashville located on Music Row Drive across from Opryland at midnight on New Year‘s Eve. Exhibits and memorabilia, including Ernest Tubb’s 1964 tour bus, are available for viewing in the adjoining museum along with other great country music stars‘ memorabilia. For more information on the Ernest Tubb Midnite Jamboree, visit etrecordshop.com
Hardworking Remedy For the Generations (NewsUSA) - Country music superstar Trace Adkins, known for his baritone voice, rugged good looks and chart-topping songs, will now be known for something else. Trace has become the new face and voice of BC Powder. "I'm very particular about attaching my name to products or causes, unless it's something I use or believe in," said Adkins. "My relationship with BC Headache Powder is personal and runs deep. I still remember when my grandfather gave me my first BC. I even remember the product advertising jingle from the '70's. I am proud to be representing BC, especially on tour in front of thousands of fans." BC Powder (www.bcpowder.com), which was first introduced in 1906 by Bernard and Commodore Council, offers temporary relief for discomfort associated with headaches, minor body aches and fever. Because BC is a powder, it gets into your bloodstream fast to provide fast, effective relief. As a spokesperson for the next two years, Adkins will record radio ads, be included on BC's Web site, perform songs at exclusive events, and conduct a BC Headache Powder sponsored concert tour in 2010 that will include more than 80 national concert stops. Currently, Trace is sponsored by BC Headache Powder for 38 tour stops on the "Shine All Night" Tour with Martina McBride.
JAN-FEB 2012
Country music star Trace Adkins still stops aches and pains the way his hardworking grandfather taught him.
"Regular, hardworking people will now share the spotlight with Trace Adkins to tell the story of how good and fast BC works on headaches and tough body pain," said Darren Singer, VP Marketing BC Powders. "Once we heard Trace's personal history with BC, which has spanned three generations, we had to make him another member of our storytelling team. He is a tremendous asset to us and a huge draw for people who work hard for what they have." To learn more about how regular, hardworking people treat workrelated aches and pains, visit www.bcpowder.com.
Inside Today’s Traditional Country Music eZine
Reprint permission obtained.
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Peggy Mercer: Songwriter, Author and Publisher...Talent Unleashed
Open To The Public!
Peggy Mercer is a dynamic songing young singer/songwriters get writer with at least five songs curtheir feet wet in Nashville music rently on the USA and European circles. Peggy is directly responsicharts. Her songs have been reble for taking at least 20 young corded by hit singers and songwrit- singers onto the Nashville big ers in and out of Nashville, Tenstage. nessee. She has co-written with Tony Stampley, She is a frequent John Richards, “A great song will volunteer at the Ross Key, PJ prestigious Nashfind a way.” Steelman, Roy ville Songwriter‘s ...Peggy Mercer August, Jimmy festivals and a visiBurch, Jeremy tor to the clubs and Carver and others. She has remusic venues famous for their corded at KMA Records in Nashheritage ville and with Ed Gowens in Caland dedihoun, Georgia. cation to fostering She is a songwriting teacher and great muencourages young singers and sic and songwriters to pursue their dreams. giving She is a member of the prestigious aspiring (invitation only) Nashville Musisinger/ cians Club, the Traditional Counsongwrittry Music Foundation, Inc., Ameriers a can Veterans Radio and other chance at groups. their dream. Her goal as a professional songwriter is to see her own songs cut Peggy by substantial artists who will take owns Peggy Mercer the beautiful lilting lyrics and proMercer found thought provoking, someMusic times fun, sometimes sad, mesPublishing, a song publishing comsages to the world. She also depany and plans to launch her Indie votes a great deal of time to help(Continued on page 26)
Enjoy an evening of music, food, and fun! Make new friends! CELEBRITY CENTRE 1180 8th Ave, South Nashville, TN 20
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WILLIE NELSON HELPS...
the bill. Nelson‘s letter, sent ―on behalf of dog lovers everywhere,‖ asks senators vote to overturn the statewide discrimination ―against dogs who share a cluster of physical characteristics by classifying this group as ‗vicious‘ without any regard to individual dog behavior. Because of current law, these dogs are considered ‗vicious‘ at birth, even though there are countless dogs deemed ‗pit bulls‘ but actually are of unknown heritage who make wonderful family pets.‖ His letter goes on to say: ―Dogs, like people, are individuals and should each be judged on his/her own merits. The simple truth is that breed is not a factor in bites, and HB 14 is an important public safety measure that will protect individuals from any dangerous dog, no matter what the dog‘s appearance or heritage.‖ In addition to the high-profile support of Nelson, actress and activist Maggie Q also urges passage of HB 14 through a YouTube video. http://www.youtube.com/watch? v=P9HrXmE_jtc And actor Ian Somerhalder uses Twitter to garner his fans‘ support for the bill and recommends they send letters and sign the petition. Breed-discriminatory laws are expensive and have been proven ineffective in protecting the public. According to economic research firm John Dunham and Associates, it costs Ohioans more than $17 million a year to enforce the existing law. In these tough economic times, laws that waste precious taxpayer dollars while failing to JAN-FEB 2012
reduce dog bites are tragically misguided. Animal control officers and dog wardens focus their efforts on dangerous dogs running at large, not targeting people‘s pets who are doing nothing more than being dogs with a certain appearance. States are encouraged to adopt breed-neutral dangerous dog laws that focus on the causes of dog aggression—irresponsible owners whose dogs are not trained or socialized, or whose dogs are abused, neglected or forced to live on chains. According to the Centers for Disease Control, dogs not spayed or neutered are nearly three times more likely to bite than sterilized dogs. Chained dogs bite nearly three times more often than unchained dogs. The American Veterinary Medical Association reports that intact males are responsible for 70-76 percent of reported bites.
there are No More Homeless Pets®. About Best Friends Animal Society® Best Friends Animal Society is a nonprofit organization building no-kill programs and partnerships that will bring about a day when there are No More Homeless Pets®. The society's leading initiatives in animal care and community programs are coordinated from its Kanab, Utah, headquarters, the country's largest no-kill sanctuary. This work is made possible by the personal and financial support of a grassroots network of supporters and community partners across the nation. To become a fan of Best Friends Animal Society on Facebook go to: http://www.facebook.com/ bestfriendsanimalsociety Follow Best Friends on Twitter: http://twitter.com/BFAS
Many states have passed laws that allow all dogs to be evaluated and treated as individuals and permit local jurisdictions the authority to hold reckless owners accountable for the behavior of their dogs. Best Friends Animal Society works to help pit bulls through its national pit bull initiatives, which battle everything from these dogs‘ sensationalized reputation to legislation designed to bring about their extinction. The initiatives‘ goal is to end discrimination against all dogs -– because they are individuals and should be treated as such. As part of its ongoing national outreach, Best Friends works with humane groups all across the country to bring about a time when Inside Today’s Traditional Country Music eZine
Inside Today’s
DEADLINE FEBRUARY 15, 2012 21
IN MEMORY OF those country music greats our industry lost in 2011. JANUARY
WYNONNA SAYS “YES”
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DECEMBER 29, 2011 – Country music singer, Wynonna Judd, and musician boyfriend Cactus Moser, of country group Highway 101, got engaged on December 24, Christmas Eve.
LOUVIN, Charlie CAPPELLINA, Samuel S. ―Cappy Paxton‖
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Wynonna and her mother, Naomi Judd, were one of the most successful female duos in country mu- Wynonna and Cactus are presently sic history. Wynonna is a Grammy touring together as Wynonna and The Big Noise. award winning artist. Moser is a founding member of the group, Highway 101. The group has had five number one hits on Billboard and have also won Vocal Group of the Year four times.
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DECEMBER 27, 2011 – Lee Greenwood participated in a tribute to 60 of San Antonio's fallen military heroes. He performed the National Anthem and God Bless the USA at the Valero Alamo Bowl in San Antonio on December 29. The Valero Alamo Bowl featured the Washington Huskies and the Baylor Bears.
GRANT, Marshall GRAMMER, Billy
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MAINER, Wade WRIGHT, Johnny
OCTOBER 12
GREENWOOD SINGS AT ALAMO BOWL
HUSKY, Ferlin
DiGREGORIO, Joel ―Taz‖
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ORBISON, Barbara SPEARS, Dan ―Bee‖ SPEARS, Billie Jo HELLMAN, Warren
A long-time supporter of our troops and their families, Greenwood's pregame performance honored those military heroes from the San Antonio area who died during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan over the past 10 years.
JONES AND CAMPBELL TO RECEIVE LIFETIME ACHEIVEMENT AWARDS DECEMBER 21, 2011 – George Jones and Glen Campbell will receive special Lifetime Achievement Awards from the Grammy organization in February. The Recording Academy, the formal name of the Grammys, will hold the special invitation-only ceremony during Grammy Week on Saturday, February 11, 2012, with the formal acknowledgment being made on Sunday, February 12, 2012 during the 54th Annual Grammys in Los Angeles, California. (Continued on page 23)
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HOT OFF THE PRESS
The Lifetime Achievement Award honors performers who have made contributions of outstanding artistic significance to the field of recording. The award was determined by vote of The Recording Academy's National Board of Trustees.
EMMYLOU HARRIS TO CELEBRATE 20 YEARS AS OPRY MEMBER DECEMBER 20, 2011 – Emmylou Harris will celebrate the 20th anniversary of her membership in the Grand Ole Opry with a special show on Jan. 21, 2012. Harris' 20-year milestone will be celebrated with performances by the honoree, fellow 20-year Opry veteran Vince Gill; Rodney Crowell, with whom Harris is currently working on a duets album; and Shawn Colvin, making her Opry debut that evening. "Emmylou is treasured not just by all of us at the Grand Ole Opry, but also by fans around the world," said Pete Fisher, Opry vice president and general manager. "She's shared so many great musical moments with us over the past 20 years, singing with and introducing us to some of her favorite musical collaborators. We're excited to celebrate her Opry anniversary at the Ryman, a stage on which she's displayed such incredible artistry through the years." (Continued from page 16)
EVENTS...JAN/FEB 2012
and artists ; legends and rising stars of traditional country. Inquiries to rosskeycountry@gmail.com JAN-FEB 2012
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Merle Haggard Releases New Album “Working In Tennessee” On Vanguard Records work. It‘s a loaded mixture that reflects the consistently selfpossessed artistry which long ago earned him the moniker ―poet of the common man‖ and displays his masterly phrasing with alternately smooth tones and rough-hued vocals that deliver all the resonant interpretive impact he‘s known for.
Iconic country music legend, Country Hall of Famer and most recently a Kennedy Center Honoree, Merle Haggard, released a new album, Working In Tennessee, on October 4, 2011. This marked his second disc for Vanguard Records and is a collection of self-penned Haggard riches, plus a couple of classics made famous by Johnny Cash, as well as a new version of Merle‘s stalwart ―Working Man Blues‖ featuring Willie Nelson and his son, Ben Haggard. Working in Tennessee is another in a long line of stellar discs filled with Haggard‘s honest and candid observations of the world in which we all live, as well as life on the road and at home with backing by his longtime band The Strangers, plus number of veteran studio cohorts. Produced by Haggard and Lou Bradley at the Hag‘s northern California Tally studio, the album is another worthy addition to his tremendous body of decades of radiant 24
Working in Tennessee opens with the title track, an ideal Western swing workout, that underscores Haggard‘s oft-confrontational relationship with Music City, to the stark vulnerability of ―Sometimes I Dream,‖ co-written with his daughter Jenessa, to the autobiographical tale of ―Down on the Houseboat,‖ co-written with his wife Theresa. Willie Nelson and his son, Ben, are featured on the kicking re-make of his anthemic ―Working Man Blues‖ and Theresa joins Hag on a duet of the Johnny Cash-June Carter standard ―Jackson‖.
and had part of his lung removed. With no signs of the disease returning, Haggard continues to produce songs and perform live at the age of 74 with more energy and enthusiasm than many a younger man or woman. Click here for free download of ―Working In Tennessee‖. Track listing: 1. Working in Tennessee (Merle Haggard) 2. Down on the Houseboat (Merle Haggard, Thereasa Haggard, Doug Colosio) 3. Cocaine Blues (TJ Arnall) 4. What I Hate (Merle Haggard) 5. Sometimes I Dream (Merle Haggard, Jenessa Haggard) 6. Under the Bridge (Merle Haggard, Theresa Haggard) 7. Too Much Boogie Woogie (Merle Haggard) 8. Truck Driver‘s Blues (Merle Haggard) 9. Laugh It Off (Merle Haggard, Theresa Haggard, Doug Colosio) 10. Working Man Blues (Merle Haggard) 11. Jackson (Billy Edd Wheeler, Gaby Rodgers) For more information on Merle Haggard, visit www.merlehaggard.com.
The album is a strikingly artistic example of the artist‘s unflagging creativity which shows no signs of slowing down. According to Haggard, ―I‘m swinging back in full throttle right now. Music keeps me alive. It makes me breathe better. It‘s funny, but I feel better when I come off a tour than when I start out.‖ What an amazing accomplishment for a man who was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2008 Inside Today’s Traditional Country Music eZine
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CMA Theater To Be State Of The Art NASHVILLE, TN — The Country Music Association has pledged $10 million to Working on a Building: Country Music Lives Here, the capital campaign that will finance the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum's expansion from 140,000 square feet to more than 350,000 square feet. The donation is the largest philanthropic gift in the not-for-profit educational organization's history. In 1961, the CMA Board of Directors approved the establishment of the Country Music Hall of Fame honor to recognize noteworthy individuals for their outstanding contributions to the format. In 1964, the CMA organized the not-forprofit Country Music Foundation (CMF) for the purpose of "establishing a museum and archives for the preservation and exhibition of historical and cultural materials and exhibits within the field of country music and to make the same available to students, researchers and the general public." The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum opened in 1967. Since then, CMA has contributed nearly $5 million to the Museum, including a $1 million endowment to their flagship school program Words & Music, and underwriting for the Museum's annual Medallion Ceremony, which has served as the official rite of induction for CMA's new Hall of Fame members since 2007. CMA is proud to be one of the Museum's most generous and consistent benefactors.
of Fame and Museum are connected by history and our shared interest in preserving the legacy, rewarding excellence, and advancing the future of the format," said Steve Moore, CMA Chief Executive Officer. "This donation is the latest example of CMA's longstanding commitment to the Hall of Fame. We are proud to support the growth of the Hall and we look forward to using the CMA Theater in a variety of ways that will shine a spotlight on the Country Music industry and format." The Museum's expansion will include the 800-seat state-of-the-art CMA Theater, which is designed to be flexible and adaptable for a broad range of activities from concerts and films to lectures and corporate meetings. "We are indebted to the CMA for a gift that serves our educational mission, benefits Music City, and serves a worldwide audience," said Museum Director Kyle Young. The television-ready CMA Theater will feature a 500-seat main floor and two balconies of 150 seats each, ensuring that sight lines are unimpeded for audiences of 500, 650 or 800-seat events. The theater's back-of-house will include a green room, band room and four dressing rooms. More information about the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is available at www.countrymusichalloffame.org or by calling (615) 416-2001.
"CMA and the Country Music Hall JAN-FEB 2012
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...TALENT UNLEASHED
record label the first of the year. She is currently guiding Jeremy Carver through the maze of first album production. She is open to new singers and looking for artists for her label; she will help each launch their dreams in a professional and honest manner. Peggy is famous for her statement,
the Okefenokee Swamp — and translated into five foreign languages, advertised in Cosmopolitan Magazine and wildly popular as part of an Avon Series called Velvet Glove. Her first book for children was published in 2006, Ten Cows To Texas, by the New York publisher, Handprint Books. In 2008, Handprint/ Chronicle released the author‘s second, critically acclaimed book, There Come A Soldier, a nonfiction, historical story based on her father‘s experience with the 101st Airborne, as a paratrooper in the Battle of the Bulge, World War II. It is felt this book is extremely significant in that it is one of the few on WWII published for elementary school age children, at a time when history becomes more and more important. Peggy‘s mission is to inspire and motivate children to read books and all ages to develop a love of reading and a love of learning.
Pictured above, Peggy Mercer has a family rich in the history of country music. Johnny Mercer was her uncle.
―A great song will find a way.‖ ―I want songwriters to learn their craft so they can get into the most exciting game in the world… entertainment. Learn. Listen. Make connections. You deserve to get to live your dreams,‖ she says. Peggy is also a popular Georgia author and songwriter, speaker and hostess for all ages, events and festivals. Her first book was published in the 80‘s — a romance mystery set in 26
In 2010 Marimba Books, New York released Peach When The Well Run Dry, a critically acclaimed (rave reviews) upper reader for children, ages 8-9 and up. The book was nominated for both the prestigious Newberry Medal as well as the Christopher and was chosen by the Children‘s Defense Fund out of Washington, DC to be used in their Freedom in the Schools program for the summer of 2011, and 500 underserved children received free copies of this book. For Peach When The Well Run Dry, Peggy was named Georgia Author of the Year in 2011. Mercer divides her time between homes in Georgia and Old Hickory,
Tennessee near Nashville and presents music showcases. She also assists others with their events. Peggy can be reached at www.peggymercerworldwide.com or at pemercer@windstream.net, or at (912) 383-7715.
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...MUSIC LICENSING
sic Licensing Companies according to your needs and requirements. Thus, the best way to find these Music Licensing Companies is to search on the internet. There are many websites on the internet in which there are details of many such Music Licensing Companies. You can contact them and know about the services provided by them and what fee will be charged by them. Make sure you choose the company which provides you the best deal and your help in making your dreams come true. Thus, in this way the Independent Artists can use internet to get publicity and services of Music Licensing Companies also help the struggling artists to achieve success. Criss Evan, Software Developer by profession is also a passionate music lover. So he has good knowledge on Music Licensing Companies. For more information on Independent Artists, he recommends to visit http:// www.musicdealers.com/ Copyright (c) 2011 Free Online Library
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The United States of Music is a group of worldwide representatives. It‘s citizens, comprising various states located all around the world. The music country also possesses several territories who have applied for or in the process of attaining statehood. Citizens declare their Independent Music Citizenship to become its people. The goal of the United States of Music is to form a population of diverse and unique talent for the pursuit of happiness and freedom from established industry tyranny. We seek to establish communication between the populous that they may express grievances and coordinate responses in an act of solidarity that is powerful enough to overcome the established tyrants powers that threaten free music speech. The United States of Music is one of the world‘s most ethnically diverse and multicultural music nations mostly by the result of willful immigration by those seeking self determination and freedom to conduct music business in a fair and equal manner. The Declaration of Music Independence proclaims our rights to self-determination and the establishment of a cooperative union which makes the states part of a single republic that guarantees many fundamental music civil rights, music freedoms and the protectorate thereof.
MUSIC ROW BEST WESTERN 1407 Division Street Nashville, TN