Thu, 09/22/2016 - 11:50 am

Central North Carolina’s Swift Creek has released a music video for “Bluegrass Hurricane” from the album Magnolia, a collection of original Bluegrass and Americana music. The album consists of truly original tunes penned primarily by band member, Kevin Brown. The album was produced and recorded at the Rubber Room in Chapel Hill, NC by acclaimed producer and musician, Jerry Brown.

"Bluegrass Hurricane" is an uptempo walk through the history of bluegrass, touching on founding fathers Bill Monroe and Earl Scruggs, and seminal events in bluegrass history (The Bristol Sessions, the 1970's "Will The Circle Be Unbroken" project, "Oh Brother, Where Art Thou"). Brown was inspired by the real hurricane that threatened last year's IBMA World of Bluegrass Conference and Music Festival. An instrumental highlight is stunning triple fiddles by Swift Creek's Stephen Fraleigh. The 2016 IBMA World of Bluegrass fest is set for Sept. 27-Oct. 1 in Raleigh, NC.

“Last year, World of Bluegrass began with the threat of Hurricane Joaquin off the coast, and lots of consternation about whether it would make landfall and wash out the entire WOB weekend,” Kevin Brown says. “That potential outcome inspired a plethora of #bluegrasshurricane tweets.  Fortunately, Joaquin stayed well offshore, but an unrelated weather pattern brought torrential rains to the Carolinas which forced all of the scheduled events into the Raleigh Convention Center.  Despite the obstacles, World of Bluegrass 2015 was a rousing success, and I came away with the inspiration for a song.”

Magnolia includes some very impressive covers, and even a parody. The album wraps with “Ashes of Love” and a delightful old-time radio feel.

Swift Creek is Kevin Brown (guitar, vocals), Casey Elder (mandolin, dobro, vocals), Stephen Fraleigh (fiddle, banjo, vocals), Dennis Hoyle (bass), and Ann Searcy (vocals). Brown is the prolific songwriter behind much of Swift Creek’s music.

TRACK LIST ~ MAGNOLIA
1.    Wake Me Up To Drive (K.Brown) 3:49
2.    Rattle Them Bones (K.Brown) 4:29
3.    Bluegrass Hurricane (K.Brown) 3:07
4.    Broken Bird (K.Brown) 4:28
5.    Life In The Slow Lane (Parody, K.Brown) 4:03
6.    Afterglow (K.Brown) 4:40
7.    Sail Away Ladies 2:05
8.    The Levee (K.Brown) 5:22
9.    Harlem River Blues (J. Earle) 2:59
10.  Irene (A. Platt of The Honeycutters) 4:32
11.  The Way (T. Scalzo) 4:04
12.  Ashes of Love (J. Wright, J. Anglin) 3:01

Tue, 11/29/2016 - 6:52 am

She's worked with some of the finest, including Dolly Parton, and now Holly Norman is back with her second bluegrass album.

TAKING CARE OF BLUEGRASS – A TRIBUTE TO ELVIS is available now, (Release date October 14, 2016). The first single released to radio is "Moody Blue," a tasteful bluegrass spin on the Elvis classic.

Holly Norman's sophomore album is a 'grassed up collection of 12 Elvis songs and 1 original written by Holly. It is a must-have for Elvis and Bluegrass fans alike.  Holly is joined by some of Nashville's finest musicians for a memorable ride through Elvis' musical career.

The CD features special guests James Burton, Elvis's legendary guitarist, and Elvis backing quartet, Terry Blackwood & The Imperials. Top notch players on this tribute to The King include ​Rob Ickes, Stuart Duncan, Aubrey Haynie, Glen Duncan, Scott Vestal, Kevin Grantt, Alan Bartram, and Justin Moses.

Holly’s prior bluegrass CD, Appalachian Angel, was released in 2014.

The new album is available to radio through the AirPlay Direct digital download service.

Order Taking Care of Bluegrass - A Tribute to Elvis now and learn more about this vivacious artist at www.hollynorman.com

TRACK LIST
CC Rider
In The Ghetto
Always On My Mind
Moody Blue
Love Me Tender/Are You Lonesome Tonight
Kentucky Rain
Little Cabin Home On The Hill
Separate Ways
Suspicious Minds
Viva Las Vegas
I'll Remember You
Long Live The King
Sweet, Sweet Spirit

Tue, 11/29/2016 - 6:59 am

Annie Savage (M.M.Ed) has released a new Savage Fiddler Method book. Join The Jam! A Method of Jamming for Traditional String Players” is the second installment in Annie’s educational book series. Her previous book, “The Savage Fiddler Method,” has become a popular resource and is a cornerstone of Annie’s educational method and programs.

Annie guides players to “think like a real musician.” She teaches that jamming is the fine art of playing well with others; a skill that is used in bluegrass, blues, rock, and nearly all forms of music. Jamming is the combined skill of improvisation and knowing when to play and when to not play. It is seldom taught in conventional music classrooms, and yet, is an essential component to the enjoyment of playing music.

Attendees at the 2016 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Business Conference in Raleigh, NC experienced the Savage Fiddler Method when Annie hosted a workshop during the annual event. The IBMA Education Committee tapped Annie to present her method at the conference, and her book was also available.

“Join The Jam!” expands on Annie’s first method book with a goal of giving string players a thorough understanding of thinking in terms of chords, back up and harmony parts; all in addition to teaching the licks and skills needed to play like a fiddler with authentic style and accurate technique. The book presents a variety of exercises and technique checks to guide the player in an easy, fun and interesting way. This second installment of the Savage Fiddler Method, “Join The Jam!” does for JAMMING what the Savage Fiddler Method did for PLAYING TUNES. 

“Jamming is the fine art of playing well with others on your instrument,” Annie says in the book’s introduction. “It is a critical thinking skill that is a cornerstone skill for the 21st century string player to know about in order to become a well-rounded player and mentor.”

The first part of the “Join The Jam!” book focuses on creating breaks out of the melodies of several jam friendly songs, understanding licks and plugging those licks into songs. Students are encouraged to begin to craft their own style of break (or solo). The second part of the book involves several ways of getting traditional string players to think in terms of chords, using arpeggios, twin parts and ensemble work.

“An essential part of jamming is knowing how to play back up by ear so I encourage players to use the notation if necessary and then quickly learn to chord without seeing the changes,” Annie says.

Annie brings a vivacious and versatile program to the classroom and the stage. It is a popular method that she has developed over thirty years of performing professionally with a versatile range that runs from down-home bluegrass fiddler to conservatory musician. Annie began Suzuki violin before she turned 3 and she is an enthusiastic performer and teacher of a primarily Bluegrass, Celtic and Classical repertoire, believing that all of these genres have their unique place on the American stage. She is a certified Wernick Method instructor.

Annie has performed with artists including Ricky Skaggs, Aretha Franklin and Asleep at the Wheel and has produced 13 CDs. A founding member of the band Jeff Scroggins and Colorado, Annie can currently be found touring and teaching with her new project, The Savage Hearts (www.thesavagehearts.com). The group released a very special new album on October 21, 2016, called Playing It Forward.

Along with string pedagogue Annie Savage, The Savage Hearts includes Kevin Slick, Kit Simon, and Bianca Bentz. The group specializes in high energy performances and providing educational outreach. Playing It Forward, includes feature spots for the band member’s own children and students of the Savage Fiddler Method right along with well-known guest fiddlers like the award-winning Becky Buller, Greg Blake, Jeff Scroggins, Ellie Hakanson and more. Playing It Forward includes songs from the Join The Jam! book which allows readers to hear professional performances of those tracks.

Annie’s desire is to bridge the gap between notation and by-ear learning and to help foster a deep understanding of musicianship in her students and through the workshops she offers. Through a conservatory background that includes graduating from the Interlochen Arts Academy, the Boston Conservatory and studies at the Berklee School of Music and the Oberlin Conservatory as well as 12 years of teaching orchestra in public schools and universities, Annie has grown to believe that the ultimate joy of making music lies in a student’s ability to play and perform with others. Her teaching method and website, are designed to teach the art of jamming and improvisation with a careful eye on the development of technique.

Annie lives in Colorado with her husband and children. She claims one overriding professional goal: “Total world domination through vibrating wooden boxes!”

Tue, 11/29/2016 - 7:07 am

Husband and wife duo, Michael and Jennifer McLain, have been playing music together since their first date. Both fluent banjo players, the pair grew up in musical families, touring and performing throughout North America. The power couple have announced the release of their new album, Hit the Road and Go, (November 4, 2016).

When not making appearances on outlets including the Grand Ole Opry, NPR, and PBS’ own Song of the Mountains, the McLain’s are regulars at Kix Brook’s (of Brooks and Dunn) Arrington Vineyards, located just a short drive outside of Nashville, TN. A CD release event was held recently at Arrington Vineyards.

Described as having a “sweet and pure, even angelic," Jennifer has recorded vocals for major and indie labels, as well as shared the stage with Vince Gill and Lionel Cartwright. Michael’s career began at a young age, traveling internationally to Japan, Mexico, and even Brazil for performances with the McLain Family Band. He also recorded with the Claire Lynch Band and has taught guitar, banjo, mandolin, and bluegrass ensemble at Belmont University in Nashville, TN for 13 years.

The McLain’s are joined by Grand Masters Championship fiddler, Dan Kelly, who has played and toured with the likes of Roy Acuff, Alan Jackson, Faith Hill, the Tennessee Mafia Jug Band and many more. On upright bass and harmony vocals is the lovely Kori Caswell.

Hit the Road and Go is a refreshing bluegrass blend of energized tunes and ambient acoustic instrumentation.
 
Track List
1. THIS OLD HEART (IS GONNA RISE AGAIN) (2:58)
2. DO I EVER CROSS YOUR MIND (4:17)
3. RESTLESS (3:17)
4. JESUS, HOLD MY HAND (4:36)
5. SOUTHBOUND (2:51)
6. UP THIS HILL AND DOWN (3:48)
7. MCINTOSH (3:00)
8. HIT THE ROAD AND GO (3:05)
9. BUSY BEE CAFE (3:28)
10. BOOM TOWN (2:49)
11. LADY OF SPAIN (3:44)
12. I’M READY TO GO HOME (3:49)

Wed, 12/14/2016 - 6:40 am

Dates have been announced and registration is now open for the 2017 Kruger Brothers Music Academy, an intensive and inspiring educational weekend for acoustic music players of all levels, beginner to advanced.

Now in its 6th year, this very exclusive event offers masterclass instruction in banjo, guitar and bass by the internationally renowned Kruger Brothers. This year, the trio will be joined by The Kontras Quartet, bringing excellence in violin/fiddle, viola and cello to the academy offerings.

The Kruger Brothers Music Academy will be held from the evening of Thursday, May 4 and continuing through midday Sunday, May 7, 2017. The annual event is a truly unique opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in musical discussion, instruction, and collaboration in a fun workshop environment. The program is conveniently held at the Wilkesboro Holiday Inn Express in North Carolina, allowing participants to enjoy meals, lodging, instructional and jam sessions plus interaction among participants and artist presenters, all under one roof.

The Kruger Brothers entertain and uplift audiences throughout the world, but agree that sharing the academy experience with acoustic musicians is a highlight of their musical year.

"We love to welcome friends old and new to our hoetown for this annual event," says Jens Kruger. "It is a very special experience."

The Kruger Brothers Music Academy highlights the music of the Kruger Brothers and their extraordinary abilities as caring teachers and mentors. The camp offers classes focused on technique and theory, plus a variety of fun activities, including late-night jam sessions. The program is designed primarily for adult participants. Attendance is limited.

ATTENDING THE 2017 MUSIC ACADEMY OFFERS:

An opportunity for classical and folk musicians to meet in Wilkesboro, the heart of American Folk Music, and to participate in the merging of the musical world of both genres.

A unique, one-of-a-kind musical workshop: three full days and four nights of classes, jamming and sharing with like-minded music lovers.

Individual instrument classes in guitar, banjo, bass (upright and bass guitar), viola, celllo and violin.

A discovery of the unity of the musical world through illuminating workshops, group discussions, jam sessions, targeted lectures and concerts.

An understanding of, and appreciation for, music on a deeper level.

A shared insight into the inner workings of the "emotional language" of music.

An opportunity for participants to perform at the Academy "Night of Stars" on Saturday evening.

The opportunity to meet old friends and make new ones.

THE KRUGER BROTHERS ACADEMY
Thursday, May 4 through Sunday, May 7, 2017
Holiday Inn Express Wilkesboro
1700 Winkler Street, Wilkesboro, NC 28697

RATES & REGISTRATION:
Full Academy attendance including meals and three nights at the Holiday Inn Express – $985
Full Academy attendance (without hotel) – $785
Spouse and Observers – access to jam sessions, concerts, and meals but no classes – $485
Space is limited. Please register online. A deposit is required at the time of registration.
Remember, the academy is for players at all skill levels.
REGISTRATION & INFORMATION
www.krugerbrothers.com

Wed, 01/25/2017 - 6:14 am

Known for inventive compositions and virtuosic performances, The Kruger Brothers have announced tour dates for 2017, with more dates to be added.

Since their formal introduction to American audiences in 1997, The Kruger Brothers’ remarkable discipline, creativity and their ability to infuse classical music into folk music has resulted in a unique sound that has made them a highly respected fixture within the world of acoustic music. The honesty of their writing has since become a hallmark of the trio’s work.

Highlights for 2017 include the release of The Roan Mountain Suite during MerleFest in April. The commissioned original composition honors the region and history of Tennessee’s majestic Roan Mountain, and features the Kontras Quartet. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Kruger Brother’s first appearance at MerleFest, considered one of the premier music festivals in the country. Held on the campus of Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, MerleFest was founded in 1988 in memory of the late Eddy Merle Watson, son of American music legend Doc Watson.

In May, the trio hosts its 6th annual music academy in Wilkesboro, NC., an opportunity for musicians of all skill levels to study and jam with the artists, and will one another.

Born and raised in Europe, brothers Jens and Uwe Kruger began singing and playing instruments at a very young age, and began their professional career in 1979. With the more recent addition of New York City native, Joel Landsberg, (who comes with his own noteworthy musical pedigree, having studied with jazz great Milt Hinton), the trio has been performing together since 1995, and is now based in Wilkesboro, NC.

Jens Kruger is known for innovative banjo composition and performance, integrating Folk music with European Classical music. He was nominated for Banjo Player of the Year in 2016 by the International Bluegrass Music Association. Jens was awarded the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass Music in 2013, the fourth recipient of this prestigious honor.

Uwe Kruger shines as a singer who is both direct and emotive, and for his impeccable guitar playing. He is also the lyricist for the group’s original songs. 

The Kruger Brothers’ music is magically thoughtful, lyrical, simple and complex. Experiencing a Kruger Brothers performance is a profound musical experience. In their ever-expanding body of work, The Kruger Brothers – Jens Kruger (banjo and vocals), Uwe Kruger (guitar and lead vocals), and Joel Landsberg (bass and vocals) – personify the spirit of exploration and innovation that forms the core of the American musical tradition. Their unique brand of acoustic music is crafted around their discerning taste, and the result is unpretentious, cultivated, and delightfully fresh.

In addition to their regular concert schedule, The Kruger Brothers perform classical pieces regularly with select symphony orchestras and string quartets throughout the world.

For more information and additional dates as they are added, visit www.krugerbrothers.com

2017 TOUR DATES – THE KRUGER BROTHERS

January 26        Ashe Civic Center: West Jefferson, NC

February 9        Meymandi Concert Hall: Raleigh, NC

February 11      Berger Performing Arts Center: Tucson, AZ

February 13      Highlands Church: Scottsdale, AZ

February 17      Stoughton Opera House: Stoughton, WI

February 23-24 Wintergrass Music Festival: Bellevue, WA

March 1            Country Music Festival: Zurich, Switzerland

March 16          World Café Live: Philadelphia, PA

March 18          WMC Alumni Hall: Westminster, MD

March 19           National Gallery of Art – West: Washington DC

March 21           Joe’s Pub: New York, NY

March 25           Davis Theater: Concord, NC

April 27-30        Merlefest: Wilkesboro, NC

May 4-7             Kruger Brothers Music Academy: Wilkesboro, NC

May 11-12         Silver Dollar City: Branson, MO

May 13              Woodlands Auditorium: Hot Springs, AR

May 14              St. Paul’s Episcopal Church: Fayetteville, AR

June 24            Willingham Theater: Yadkinville, NA

July 27-28         RockyGrass Festival: Lyons, CO

Thu, 02/09/2017 - 8:08 am

The World --- The troubadour. The minstrel. The wandering musician peddling tunes from town to town, sharing tales old and new.

It is the age-old story of the touring musician, and it is very much the story of Chris Jones and the Night Drivers. The group is set to release the aptly named Made To Move, (Mountain Home Music Company) on February 10, 2017; a distinctive offering from a truly global band of troubadours.

“I claim three or four home states and one home Canadian province,” Jones notes. “Our band has members scattered all over the continent, and we travel the world playing music together.”

In addition to the itinerant Jones, the Night Drivers include Jon Weisberger, who made his way to Tennessee from Ohio and has traversed the globe as a touring musician; Virginia native Gina Clowes; and Mark Stoffel, who makes his home in Southern Illinois by way of his native Germany. Stoffel recently took the oath of US citizenship.
 
Like the complex individuals who comprise this talented group, the songs on Made To Move are multi-faceted: an intelligent and introspective blend of the traditional, contemporary, meaningful, and provocative. There are songs of hardship and hope, songs that inspire and captivate, and yes, even a Bluegrass love song that weaves a tale without ending in someone’s untimely end.
 
Staying true to the strengths that make The Night Drivers both original and tenacious, ten of the twelve tracks are written by the band. 
 
“Gone like a long freight train rumbling through the night. Gone like a big jet plane trailing out of sight. Gone just like yesterday’s news.” These are the opening lines to the album’s lead off song “All the Ways I’m Gone” (Jones/Weisberger). Then comes “The Wanderer,” which takes the path of the journeyman; a path that is part contemplation, part pilgrimage. “On my way to God’s great kingdom. Grateful for the road ahead, grateful for the miles that I have come.” This is the wanderer.
 
The group offers a new take on the very traditional “Dark Hollow” with a skillful, mid-track modulation. “Raindrops Fell” and “Living Without” are from the pen of bandleader, singer, and guitarist Chris Jones. They both speak of love lost but not forgotten with musical moods varying from the melancholy to the upbeat. There are four new songs from Jones and bass player Jon Weisberger, showcasing the diverse lyrical and melodic range of the dynamic writing duo that has contributed to every CJND release.
 
From the drive of “Range Road 53” to the Gospel number “Sleeping Through the Storm,” and on to the broody but vocally powerful “Silent Goodbye,” each number contributes to a significant and well-rounded album. The inclusion of “What the Heck?!” by Mark Stoffel (mando/vocals) and “Last Frost” by vocalist and banjo powerhouse Gina Clowes demonstrates excellence and creativity in the musicianship of CJND. 
 
Even among touring musicians, there is something unique about the continual journey of Chris Jones and the Night Drivers. Four distinct personalities who bring a variety of experiences and influences to a common place. Movement, change, coming together and saying farewell, making the most of time together with meaningful ideas … this is the soul of the band and the spirit in which four minstrels offer Made To Move

Tue, 02/14/2017 - 11:53 am

Blue Night Records has announced the forthcoming release of a very special project. Some of acoustic music’s most respected and gifted artists have come together for the creation of Rescue Me! which is truly a “cause for paws.”

From its inception, the project has had one driving purpose: to support the furry creatures who so enhance our lives with love and loyalty. Now, at last, that purpose has materialized with energy and joy as a 12-track compilation album of tender tunes that honor our four-legged friends. Rescue Me! is a heartfelt collection of Americana music featuring songs that are thought-provoking, uplifting, engaging, and downright funny.

“We invite others to join us in raising awareness of and providing financial support to animal rescue organizations,” says Blue Night Records President, Steven Briggs, who co-produced the album with singer/songwriter Amy White.

All of the tracks on Rescue Me! were donated to the project by the songwriters and performers: Mary Ann Kennedy, Kathy Chiavola, Cindy Mangsen, Robin Flower, Libby McLaren, Annie Lalley, Heidi Muller, Mark Weems, Ashley Jo Farmer, Friction Farm (Aidan Quinn & Christine Stay), Effron White, Jamie Anderson, Amy White, and Joel Mabus. And with great joy, Blue Night Records has pledged to donate all of its profits from Rescue Me! sales and full CD downloads to animal welfare organizations.

Pre-orders for Rescue Me! will be available starting on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2017. The formal release date is National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day, April 30, 2017.

For more information, please visit www.bluenightrecords.com

Tue, 02/14/2017 - 12:59 pm

Pinecastle Records has released Hanging Tree, the latest project from Blue Mafia, the spirited group that has been called "unabashedly bluegrass."

Hanging Tree is the band's second release on the North Carolina record label. Pray For Rain was released to wide acclaim in 2015. Blue Mafia's independently released debut album, My Cold Heart, was released in 2013 and quickly shone a light on the Indiana band, leading to their signing to Pinecastle.

Blue Mafia was founded in 2011, the brainchild of husband and wife team, Dara Wray (mando, vocals and rock solid songwriting) and Tony Wray (guitar, vocals). The skilled ensemble is rounded out by Mike Gregory on bass, Kent Todd on fiddle and vocals, with the recent addition of Curtis Bumgarner on banjo.

The band enjoyed a busy schedule during the recent SPBGMA convention in Nashville, with a mainstage performance, several showcases, and participation in a songwriting workshop which was hosted by Larry Cordle.

Blue Mafia is characterized by Tony's dynamic guitar playing; three strong vocalists in Dara, Tony and Kent; plus skillful harmonies with consistently tight picking. Dara has proven to be an exciting new songwriting voice in the genre and she contributes three originals to this new album: "The Man You Know," "You Belong To Me," and "Life." Ironically, Dara is reluctant to label herself as a "songwriter," yet she has demonstrated a brilliant gift for crafting illustrative lyrics and melodies with a familiar feel.

Additional songs were culled from various sources, like "With Body And Soul," which Dara's father and uncles used to perform. Blue Mafia gives it their touch in homage to those elders. The group chooses songs that truly move them personally, like "Who You Are," which was written by Kevin Hayes, a fan and friend of the band. The title cut caught the attention of Tony and Dara as they watched the popular movie, 'The Hunger Games,' for which the tune was originally composed.

Hanging Tree is available to radio through the AirPlay Direct digital download service. Fans may pre-order immediately through this LINK.

TRACK LIST
Like A Mining Man
Hanging Tree
Sweet Mary Of The Mountains
The Man You Know
With Body And Soul
Baby You're Gone
Midnight Rain
Loneliness And Desperation
Say Won't You Be Mine
You Belong With Me
Life
Who You Are

Mon, 04/24/2017 - 4:42 pm

Pre-orders are currently active through Elderly Instruments for Blue Night Records’ forthcoming release, Rescue Me! A Cause for Paws. This very special project features some of acoustic music’s most respected and gifted artists who’ve come together on a compilation that supports animal rescue and awareness efforts.

From its inception, the project has had one driving purpose: to support the furry creatures who so enhance our lives with love and loyalty. That purpose materialized with energy and joy as a 12-track compilation album of tender tunes that honor our four-legged friends. Rescue Me! is a heartfelt collection of Americana music featuring songs that are thought-provoking, uplifting, engaging, and downright funny.

“We invite others to join us in raising awareness of and providing financial support to animal rescue organizations,” says Blue Night Records President, Steven Briggs, who co-produced the album with singer/songwriter Amy White.

All of the tracks on Rescue Me! were donated to the project by the songwriters and performers: Mary Ann Kennedy, Kathy Chiavola, Cindy Mangsen, Robin Flower, Libby McLaren, Annie Lalley, Heidi Muller, Mark Weems, Ashley Jo Farmer, Friction Farm (Aidan Quinn & Christine Stay), Effron White, Jamie Anderson, Amy White, and Joel Mabus.

With great joy, Blue Night Records has pledged to donate all of its profits from Rescue Me! sales and full CD downloads to animal welfare organizations.

Pre-orders for Rescue Me! are available now through Elderly Instruments.

The formal release date is National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day, April 30, 2017.

TRACK LIST

BARN CAT – Mary Ann Kennedy
POSSUM AND PEARL – Kathy Chiavola
OUR CATS – Cindy Mangsen
GET A DOG – Annie Lalley
MY OLD CAT – Heidi Muller
MY BEST FRIEND – Mark Weems
KITTY KITTY – Ashley Jo Farmer
WHY, WHY, WHY – Friction Farm
CATTITUDE – Effron White
I MISS THE DOG – Jamie Anderson
THE BEST DOG – Amy White

THE KITTY DITTY – Joel Mabus

 

Tue, 04/25/2017 - 6:17 am

The Kruger Brothers will release a remarkable new project during MerleFest 2017 and will share the Roan Mountain Suite through a live stream, hosted on Facebook.

The Roan Mountain Suite is the 5th commission granted to composer Jens Kruger and the Kruger Brothers trio. The project coincides with the 50th anniversary of the inaugural meeting to conserve the Roan, an effort initiated by the late Stanley A. Murray, husband of patron, Judy Murray, of Kingsport, TN.

The trio has become world renowned for their unique classically-infused folk/acoustic music. Characteristically, this latest original work combines elements of classical, chamber music, folk, jazz and bluegrass. It was commissioned to honor the region, history and legacy of Tennessee’s Roan Mountain. The Kruger Brothers are joined on the album by The Kontras Quartet

Thu, 08/17/2017 - 6:56 am

One song at a time. That’s how Colorado’s Barbara Jo Kammer approaches her passion as a music therapist, her life as a performer, and it’s how she navigated the challenging journey to recovery from decades of alcohol addiction. One Song at a Time also happens to be the fitting title of Kammer’s debut solo album.

A pleasing collection of American Roots music, One Song at a Time was produced by KC Groves, award winner and founder of the group Uncle Earl. Groves brought together a stellar group of players to support Kammer on her debut project.

With the help of a crowd-funding campaign through the Indiegogo website, Barbara Jo set her sights on the lifelong goal of recording an album. Kammer is something of a poster child for the mantra, "it’s never too late." She proudly shares that her dream has come to fruition at age 62, a blessing that she credits to being in recovery since July 1, 2007.

"I hope to inspire and bring joy to those who suffer from addiction," she says.

In addition to her role as performer and band leader, Kammer is an active music therapist working with elders in retirement communities. She also works with other women struggling with addiction/alcoholism. Kammer has pledged a portion of CD sales to Harmony Foundation, the Colorado addiction treatment center that the artist herself attended.

The new album includes a pleasing selection of covers and two original songs that deftly weave Kammer’s own personal story. Her version of the George Jones hit, "Choices" is nothing short of inspired, and the inclusion of the classic "I Can See Clearly Now" is a brilliant addition. Traditional favorites and popular classics show Kammer’s versatility with a powerful voice that is reminiscent of greats like Linda Ronstadt, Joan Baez, or Mary Chapin Carpenter.

The album includes a poignant original tune written by Barbara Jo. "The Winning Side" is an honest and personal glimpse at the artist’s journey through addiction.

I used to create lots of chaos for me, my family and friends;
had to give up the fight, admit I wasn’t right.
There’s healing in living amends
~ from "The Winning Side" by Barbara Jo Kammer

The singer/songwriter began harmonizing to commercial jingles at the tender age of 2, according to her mother. Dad was a Barbershop singer who harmonized with his young daughter, and introduced Barbara Jo to her first Bluegrass Music with the song, "Mountain Dew."

With a seasoned band of musicians called the Hippie Buckaroos (Doug Lindsay, Bob Backlund, Norm Strassner, Jeff Becker, and Darryl Thompson) Barbara Jo has become a popular fixture on the acoustic music scene in and around Colorado. The group was named among the Best 10 Cover Bands in Colorado by Westword Magazine in 2016.

"Singing has carried me through my entire life - all through grade school, high school, college, with country, blues, rock, jazz bands, and classical training," Kammer says. "Now, I work with elders in retirement homes and as band leader for Barbara Jo and The Hippie Buckaroos. I am one grateful singer for sure."

Sat, 09/30/2017 - 12:44 pm

Named the Vocal Group of the Year at this week’s International Bluegrass Music Association Awards in Raleigh, NC, Flatt Lonesome releases Silence In These Walls, the 4th CD from this powerhouse vocal and instrumental group. The album is available today, Friday, September 29.

Fiddler and vocalist, Charli Robertson, comments on this latest project: “Looking back on six years of traveling and making music together, it's so cool to see how each of us have matured musically -- especially when reflecting on our debut album, Flatt Lonesome, to this fourth album, Silence in These Walls. This album really shows who we are -- not only as a band, but also individually. It has nine original songs and seven were written or cowritten by Kelsi and Paul. They are both awesome writers, and I'm glad they've gotten to show that talent off with this album.”

Silence In These Walls (Mountain Home Music Company) is replete with expressive vocal and instrumental performances, increasingly sophisticated songwriting, and inventive arrangements that have become the hallmark of the group.

With an ever-increasing emphasis on original material, the group honors Country and Bluegrass recording styles with a powerful sense of musical exploration. Melancholy themes of heartbreak, the harshness of life’s lessons, glowing moments of faith and love requited; all spring vividly from this innovative collection.

Much of the album is contemplative, almost brooding. In tone and theme, it is startlingly evocative and sophisticated. Topics like anxiety, questioning seasons in life, and making bittersweet choices of the heart are explored.

In a nod to the musical traditions they hold dear, and almost in summary of the varied emotional themes, the band includes “Where Do You Go,” a thoughtful song that first appeared on Country icon Glen Campbell’s 1970 album, Try A Little Kindness. Charli takes the vocal lead, and those distinctive familial harmonies bring it poignantly home.

“Personally, the playing and singing on this record came so easy for me,” Charli says. “It felt so natural because it's the music that I love so much. Over time, you learn what works and feels good for you and your band, and I think this album reflects that. I hope people enjoy listening to it as much as we enjoyed making it!”

These six young artists keep raising the bar on their own creative game. Flatt Lonesome owns this material through the commanding individual and collective performances of Charli Robertson, Buddy Robertson, Kelsi and Paul Harrigill, Dominic Illingworth and Michael Stockton.

Purchase Link: SILENCE_IN_THESE_WALLS

Thu, 11/09/2017 - 4:10 pm

Recording artist, Mara Levine received two CDs from songwriter, Sue Shann at the 2016 SERFA (Southeastern regional chapter of Folk Alliance International) conference. One song of Shann’s resonated with Mara the moment she heard it. With a message that is both timeless and timely, “You Reap What You Sow” grabbed Mara immediately.

“I loved the melody, especially on the bridge,” Mara says. “I love to invite audience participation and the chorus was catchy, singable and the entire song resonated with me as a positive message about doing your best at whatever you do and reaping the rewards or fruits of your labors. One could also interpret the song to mean caring for others and nurturing relationships, in particular, keeping your word and your commitments and that this will be returned to you in kind.”

With plans to begin work on a new album, Mara knew she wanted to include “You Reap What You Sow” on the project. She imagined the song with a bluegrass feel and quickly set to the task of seeking out the best of bluegrass talent for the recording.

With Mara on lead vocals, the result is an exquisite bluegrass offering featuring the talents of Greg Blake and Mollie O’Brien (Harmony Vocals), Bob Harris (Guitar), Rob Ickes (Dobro), Andy Leftwich (Mandolin), Mark Schatz (Bass), and Scott Vestal (Banjo).

The song fits beautifully with the overall theme of Mara’s forthcoming CD, Facets of Folk, which includes several socially conscious songs, some songs about being a better person and considering how we treat others, as well as some favorites and new discoveries written by contemporary songwriters. The new album is set for release in early 2018.

“You Reap What You Sow” is available now.

ABOUT MARA
Singer and jewelry designer Mara Levine is known as an exceptional song-finder, selecting and then creating beautiful interpretations of fine traditional and contemporary songs. Her second CD, Jewels and Harmony, received stellar reviews, and was the #1 album, with the #1 song and #1 artist positions on the International Folk DJ Chart for January 2013, placed #3 overall  for 2013, and was named #4 Cover Album of 2013 by Cover Lay Down. Levine was selected for a Juried showcase at the 2014 NERFA conference and she tours nationally, often sharing shows with the trio Gathering Time. They will tour Germany together in April 2018. Mara also performs in duos with Caroline Cutroneo and Terry Kitchen. She has appeared on numerous radio programs and performed at various venues and festivals throughout the country.

Wed, 11/29/2017 - 10:48 am

Legendary country music singer, songwriter and animal advocate, David Frizzell, is supporting animal rescue with his new 10-song CD and storybook, Barnyard Christmas. This original project presents the story of the birth of Christ as told by animal characters that were present at the manger.

Pre-orders for the CD and storybook are available now. Visit the artist’s website at www.davidfrizzell.com for more information.

During the month of December, those who adopt an animal through Music City Animal Rescue, or make a minimum donation of $20, will receive an autographed copy of David's CD/storybook (while supplies last). There are other perks for those purchasing the CD with information available on the organization’s website.

Music City Animal Rescue is a non-profit, foster home based rescue that provides food, shelter, and medical care to abandoned, abused and neglected animals. The rescue takes in many types of animals including cats, dogs, rabbits, chickens, horses and goats.

“I believe that ALL of God’s creations were witness to the birth of Jesus,” says MCAR Director Vickie Harris. “Humans and animals alike, bowed in His presence. What a blessing that David has chosen to share his CD with our organization to help us continue to fulfill our rescue mission.”

For Nashville area fans, Music City Animal Rescue will join David Frizzell for his performance at the Midnight Jamboree on Saturday, December 9th for a special adoption and animal rescue awareness night. MCAR supporters are invited to an autograph and photo session with Frizzell. The free show begins at 10pm at the Texas Troubadour Theatre, 2416 Music Valley Drive in Nashville. The Midnight Jamboree is the second longest-running radio show in history.

With Barnyard Christmas, Frizzell gives a unique perspective on the meaning of Christmas, through the eyes of animals that were present at the birth of Jesus. Rather than one of the three wise men, we hear from a camel named Ali Baba who carried one of those wise med to Bethlehem. There’s a lazy "mule headed mule," the horse, Ol' Stray, and a pair of identical sheep named Pete and Repete, voiced by David and his brother Allen, who argue playfully over who first saw the precious baby. The other barnyard characters are clever and sweet, including the Lil' Burro who made sure that Joseph and Mary reached Bethlehem in time for the sacred birth. The 10-song album (and accompanying storybook) presents a tender and whimsical musical tale, woven brilliantly by Frizzell with guests Allen Frizzell and the Martin Family Circus, and an impressive list of talented musicians.

“The greatest story ever told…the birth of Christ as told by the animals that were there. What a blessing for me to create these amazing animated characters as they tell of their participation in the birth of Christ and the wonderfully talented artist, graphic designers, musicians, singers, studio engineers and co-producer who help bring the whole project to life. From my heart to yours!” ~David Frizzell

BARNYARD CHRISTMAS
Producers: Harrison Tyner & David Frizzell
Engineers: Tom Pick & Steve Chandler
Arranger: Harold Bradley
Recorded at Hilltop Recording Studios in Madison, TN
Vocals, mixing and mastering at Frizzell Studio 

Musicians: Eric DiNenna (drums), Darran Smith (guitar), John Marcus (bass) Perley Curtis (steel/dobro), Hargus "Pig" Robbins (piano), David Hoffner (electric piano), Jimmy Capps (guitar), Harold Bradley (guitar)

Wed, 12/20/2017 - 6:50 am

The numbers are in! New Jersey based recording artist, Mara Levine landed soundly in the #1 spot for the month of November on the Folk DJ chart with “You Reap What You Sow,” a bluegrass song with a powerful message that is clearly resonating with radio folks and fans alike this holiday season. 

Co-produced by Bob Harris (Vassar Clements), “You Reap What You Sow” showcases Mara’s warm, crystal clear lead vocals on an exquisite bluegrass offering that features the musical talents of some very familiar names in bluegrass and acoustic music. Greg Blake and Mollie O’Brien provide harmony vocals; plus there’s Bob Harris (Guitar), Rob Ickes (Dobro), Andy Leftwich (Mandolin), Mark Schatz (Bass), and Scott Vestal (Banjo). 

Upon first hearing the song, penned by Susan Shann, Levine was moved. "The entire song resonated with me as a positive message about doing your best at whatever you do and reaping the rewards or fruits of your labors,” Levine says. “One could also interpret the song to mean caring for others and nurturing relationships, in particular keeping your word and your commitments and that this will be returned to you in kind." 

The song fits beautifully with the overall theme of Mara’s forthcoming CD, Facets of Folk, which includes several socially conscious songs, some songs about being a better person and considering how we treat others, as well as some favorites and new discoveries written by contemporary songwriters. The new album is set for release in early 2018. “You Reap What You Sow” is a special offering for bluegrass audiences from the forthcoming folk collection.

Wed, 01/31/2018 - 4:12 pm

In 2017, she received an IBMA Distinguished Achievement Award. This year, she will be inducted into the Alabama Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame.

With such accolades, it would be understandable if Louisa Branscomb chose to rest on her laurels at the comfort of her Alabama farm. Instead, the multi-award-winning artist and songwriter has been busy in the studio for months, working on a new recording of songs she has written or co-written.

An impressive list of top singers and players join Branscomb on the album, set for release on Compass Records this Spring. The impressive creative undertaking includes nearly 30 special guest artists, in addition to Louisa. Lending their unique vocals, harmonies and picking are Sierra Hull, Rob Ickes, Molly Tuttle, Dale Ann Bradley, Tina Adair, Becky Buller, Jim Hurst, Mike Compton, Shad Cobb, Stuart Duncan, Claire Lynch, Russell Moore, Kristin Scott Benson, and others. With recording not yet complete, the list may continue to grow.

“I’m so touched and grateful to the talented friends, old and new, who join me on this CD,” Branscomb says.

Mel Tillis, Alison Krauss, John Denver, Claire Lynch … all are among the many, many renowned artists who’ve recorded or performed Louisa Branscomb’s songs over the years. She has had more than 175 cuts by artists in Americana, Bluegrass and Country music. She has also recorded 11 albums of her own, is an author and is very active as a teacher and mentor for other songwriters. Her Woodsong Farm, located in Alabama, is home to retreats and workshops attended by new and seasoned songwriters from around the world.

Learn more about Louisa Branscomb at www.louisabranscomb.com

Wed, 02/07/2018 - 10:51 am

Mountain Home Music Company recording artists topped the list of winners in the 2018 SPBGMA Awards. The fan-voted awards were presented Sunday, Feb. 4 during the annual convention held in Nashville by the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America, (SPBGMA).

Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver took the stage to receive both the Bluegrass Vocal Group of the Year and the Bluegrass Entertainer(s) of the Year honors. In characteristic humility, Bluegrass Hall of Famer, Lawson, was quick to thank fans and friends on social media and acknowledge other artists, posting: “Thanks to all who chose to make DL&Q their favorite Vocal Group and Entertainers Of The Year at the SPBGMA this year . I am grateful beyond words. And Blessed beyond belief!” Lawson added his congratulations to all of the award recipients as well.

Donna Ulisse was thrilled to receive the Songwriter of the Year award. The prolific writer shared these comments on Monday: “I am still all dreamy and over the moon about last night’s award. I meant it when I said that being recognized for something I work so hard on, and have for as long as I can remember, by the bluegrass community leaves me completely humbled.” Ulisse further promised to work at “paying all these blessings forward,” something she does regularly as a songwriting instructor and mentor.

Kristin Scott Benson of The Grascals received the award for Banjo Performer of the Year, and posted this message for fans and her bandmates on social media: “Thanks to everyone at SPBGMA and especially each of the Grascals for the banjo award last night. I appreciate you all!”

As a touring recording artist, wife of a musician, and devoted mother, Kristin works hard to maintain balance in her life. Just prior to sharing gratitude for the SPBGMA award, Kristin shared praise on Facebook for son, Hogan, and his own recent honor. Hogan took the top prize at a school science fair for his invention, The Speedy Unspooler. Congratulations, Hogan Benson!

Mountain Home Music Company is a premiere Bluegrass label with global distribution, representing such elite artists as Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, The Boxcars, Lonesome River Band, Balsam Range, The Grascals, The Snyder Family Band, Darin & Brooke Aldridge, Danny Roberts, Crowe Lawson Williams, Newtown and Flatt Lonesome.

Mountain Home is a division of Crossroads Entertainment & Marketing, Inc.

Here’s a glance at select upcoming tour dates for Doyle, Donna and Kristin. Check artist websites for full schedules.

DOYLE LAWSON & QUICKSILVER

02/16/18 – Winter Gospel Music Convention – Palmetto, FL

02/10/18 – Fairview Ruritan – Galax, VA

02/11/18 – Appomattox County High School – Appomattox, VA

02/16/18 – Bluegrass First Class – Asheville, NC

02/17/18 – Meadowgreen Park Bluegrass Music Hall – Clay City, KY

02/23/18 – Marysville First United Methodist Church – Marysville, OH

02/24/18 – Niswonger Performing Arts Center – Greeneville, TN

03/02/18 – The Franklin Theater – Franklin, TN

03/03/18 – Davis Events Center – Fulton, MS

03/09/18 – Hebron Baptist Church – Statesville, NC

03/10/18 – Mountain View Bluegrass Festival – Mountain View, AR

03/16/18 – Little River Bluegrass Barn & Event Center – Radford, VA

03/17/18 – Mountaineer Opry House – Milton, WV

03/18/18 – Owen County High School Auditorium – Owenton, KY

03/23/18 – Sertoma Spring Bluegrass Festival – Brooksville, FL

03/24/18 – Blue, Brew & Que Festival – Kenansville, NC

04/06/18 – First Brethren Church – Buena Vista, VA

04/07/18 – Reidsville High School – Reidsville, NC

04/13/18 – Cornerstone Missionary Baptist Church – Street, MD

04/14/18 – Parrish Auditorium at Miami University – Hamilton, OH

04/29/18 – National Cornbread Festival – South Pittsburg, TN

05/05/18 – Song of the Mountains at Lincoln Theater – Marion, VA

05/06/18 – Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival – Winchester, VA

05/10/18 – DL&Q’s Bluegrass Scramble at Asheboro Country Club - Asheboro, NC

05/10-13/18 – DL&Q’s Bluegrass Festival at Denton Farm Park – Denton, NC

DONNA ULISSE

02/26/18 – Collins Theater – Paragould, AR

03/25/18 – American Legion Post 238 Bluegrass Concert Series – Hughesville, MD

04/06/18 – Pennyroyal Opera House – Fairview, OH

05/12/18 – DL&Q’s Bluegrass Festival at Denton Farm Park – Denton, NC

08/18/18 – Gandy Dancer Festival – Mazomanie, WI

09/13/18 – Dumplin Valley Bluegrass Festival – Kodak, TN

KRISTIN SCOTT BENSON with THE GRASCALS

02/23/18 – Majestic Theater – Chillicothe, OH

03/03/18 – MBOTMA Winter Bluegrass Wknd – Plymouth, MN

04/15/18 – Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival – Fernandina Beach, FL

04/16/18 – Boys & Girls Club of Amelia Island – Fernandina Beach, FL

04/17/18 – Amelia Island Chamber Music Festival – Fernandina Beach, FL

05/04/18 – Madison Chamber Music Festival – Madison, GA

05/08-09/18 – Bluegrass & BBQ Festival – Branson, MO

05/19/18 – BBQ, Blues & Bluegrass – St. Joseph, MI

05/28/18 – BBQ & Bluegrass Festival – Pigeon Forge, TN

Wed, 03/14/2018 - 7:30 am

Tom Eure has released The Coin, The Prayer & The Crow, his 6th original album. The singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist creates music that is at once robust, and the next moment lilting. It is a heartfelt fusion of Folk, Celtic, and Appalachian influences.

Tom grew up in Roanoke Rapids, attended Appalachian State University, and resides near Charlotte. With its rich musical history and traditions, Eure's home state of North Carolina provides endless inspiration.

As a sought-after studio musician, Eure has appeared on over 45 albums, smoothly transitioning between genres. He’s the fiddler for 2015 CMA award winners Flatland Tourist, spent seven years with the Cajun band Carolina Gator Gumbo, and is part of the Celtic music group Thistledown Tinkers. Experiences with such varied acts have served to enhance Tom’s “folk process” of absorbing musical traditions and allowing them to shape his own unique sound.

“Because I play several instruments, I’ve been lucky enough to work with bands from all types of genres,” Eure says. “I've worked with acts in Celtic, Cajun, Americana, Rock and more, and every one of those experiences influences my playing and my writing.”  

The Coin, The Prayer & The Crow finds Tom Eure joined by a new musical partner, Amelia Osborne, who is equally skilled at fiddle, banjo, bodhrán, mandolin, and as a vocalist. The two multi-instrumentalists swirl together fiddles, banjos, drums, mandolins, guitars, and rousing vocal harmonies, painting a musical picture that is fresh and uplifting.

The new album features Eure on vocals, banjo, guitar, fiddle, mandolin and bass. His various influences weave tastefully, and in almost imperceptible ways, like sweet memories.  

“I feel like my music career has not been unlike a world traveler,” Eure notes. “I’ve been visiting all these wonderful places and am able to bring my favorite parts back with me. Picking up on something and passing it along, sharing it, that’s what folk music is all about. The new album is a celebration of life, love and music that is the next logical step in what I call my ‘folk process’."

Eure has performed at top venues including The Blue Bird Cafe in Nashville and the iconic CBGB’s Gallery in New York City, as well as theaters, festivals and Highland Games throughout the states. Tom has opened for some of the best in the business, including James McMurtry, Chris Smither, and the late Warren Zevon. In concert with Osborne, the duo moves seamlessly from one instrument to another, keeping the performance fun, fresh, and engaging. They draw on their many musical influences to create a sound that is new yet familiar, risky yet comfortable, and always with a focus on the integrity of the song.

The Coin, The Prayer & The Crow is available now. The collection of 13 songs is a joyful retrospective of Tom’s Celtic and Appalachian influences with an eye set on the future.

Wed, 03/14/2018 - 7:51 am

With her song, "You Reap What You Sow" continuing to enjoy outstanding chart results for airplay across multiple genres, New Jersey based singer, Mara Levine, has announced an upcoming April tour in Europe.

Levine released a preview track from her forthcoming Folk/American album Facets of Folk in the 2nd half of 2017. She invited bluegrass luminaries to join her on "You Reap What You Sow," a song with timely and inspiring lyrics that resonate with listeners. The decidedly bluegrass treatment features Greg Blake (vocals), Bob Harris (guitar), Rob Ickes (dobro), Andy Leftwich (mandolin), Mollie O'Brien (vocals), Mark Schatz (bass) and Scott Vestal (banjo). The song was co-produced by Bob Harris.

Mara Levine's version of "You Reap What You Sow," penned by Susan Shann, was the #1 song on the International Folk DJ Chart for November 2017, and reached  #16 for the year. It has been on Bluegrass Today’s “Grassicana” Chart for 9 consecutive weeks in 2018, peaking twice at #9.

"It means so much to me that there is now an airplay chart, “Grassicana,” that represents the combination of Bluegrass and Americana music reflected in my unique crossover project," Mara says, "and I am very grateful to all the DJs who have shared this important and timely song with their listeners."

Mara will perform with Folk/Americana partners Gathering Time in Ireland and Germany, and with the award winning Dutch Country duo John and Nienke (Zingga) in the Netherlands.

Gathering Time was voted best band runner-up (and top folk band) in the 2011 Long Island Press readers' poll. The trio is like a high-energy Peter, Paul & Mary or a co-ed Crosby, Stills & Nash; a folk-rock harmony trio especially active on the northeast regional folk scene. Gathering Time's most recent release, Keepsake, is the trio’s 4th album. The recording debuted at #1 on the Folk DJ Charts for March 2016, and produced several top-charting songs.

John & Nienke Geuzinge-Havinga are an award-winning duo with a passion for fine stringed instruments and known for compelling vocal harmony.

Mara Levine has been called “one of the best singers of her generation" by Christine Lavin. Praised for creating beautiful interpretations of songs, ranging from traditional to contemporary, her repertoire has been described as extraordinary and unique. Her latest CD Jewels and Harmony was the #1 Album on the Folk Chart for January 2013 and #3 for 2013.  Her recording of "By My Silence"(Ellen Bukstel/Nick Annis) with Gathering Time, was #1 on the Folk Chart for September 2017 and #19 for the year.

Mara Levine - European Dates: April 2018

Saturday April 7
Muintir na Tire Hall, 8:30 p.m.
Buttevant, County Cork, Ireland 
Shared bill with Gathering Time

Sunday April 8
Old Schoolhouse, 8:00 p.m.
Clashmore, County Waterford, Ireland
Shared bill with Gathering Time

Monday April 9
Village Arts Centre, The Square, 8:15 p.m.
Killworth, County Cork, Ireland
Shared bill with Gathering Time

Tuesday April  10
O Gliasains Pub. Concert Room, 8:30 p.m. 
Sixmilebridge, County Clare, Ireland
Shared bill with Gathering Time

Thursday, April 12
Altes Sportheim Illerberg, 8:00 p.m.         
Ulm, Germany
Shared bill with Gathering Time

Saturday, April 14
Ehingen St. Patrick's Day Festival, 7:00 p.m.    
Lindenhalle, Lindenstraße 51  
Ehingen (Donau), Baden-Württemberg Germany
Shared bill with Gathering Time and Arthur Martinez & seine Band Tejas aus Texas

Friday, April 27
Podium Cafe Peter en Leni, 8:30 p.m.
Steendam, Netherlands  
Shared bill with John & Nienke     

Saturday, April 28
Brouwcafé De Hofnar, 8:30 p.m.
Scheveningen, The Hague Netherlands
Shared bill with John & Nienke

Thu, 03/22/2018 - 9:26 am

She plays guitar and is most comfortable in a t-shirt and jeans. She loves the music of Loretta Lynn and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Sarah Patrick doesn’t just act country … she is country. And now, recording artist Sarah Patrick releases her first single this week on Nashville America Records.

“The Woman I Am,” written by country music living legend, David Frizzell, hits radio airwaves this week. The song is the title cut from Patrick’s forthcoming debut album, produced by Frizzell.

For decades, Nashville America Records has been the label home for Frizzell’s individual projects as well as the renowned Frizzell & Friends collaborations produced by the country music icon. Frizzell & Friends collaborations have included Merle Haggard, Crystal Gayle, Johnny Lee, Gene Watson, T. Graham Brown, Lacy J. Dalton, Jimmy Fortune (Statler Brothers), John Cowan (New Grass Revival), and many more top names. 

After being invited by a friend to hear Sarah Patrick perform, Frizzell soon signed the young singer/songwriter to the label. Reminiscent of a young Loretta Lynn, Sarah writes songs about life’s joys and challenges: love, motherhood, romance, heartbreak and disappointment.

“Sarah reminded me of Loretta from the start,” Frizzell says. “She has that same honesty and determination mixed with vulnerability.”

With some of Nashville’s top session players, and Frizzell in the producer’s chair, Sarah began working on her debut NAR album in late 2017. The project includes timeless covers; three of Sarah’s own original songs; and the title cut, penned by her producer.

“I just feel so grateful and blessed,” Sarah says. “This has been the most amazing experience and I’m just so eager to share this music and see where the journey takes me.”

Raised in a tightknit family with loving parents and one older brother, Sarah discovered the music of artists like Loretta Lynn, Miranda Lambert, Ashton Shepherd, Patty Loveless, Reba McEntire, Trisha Yearwood, and Tammy Wynette as a young girl. These women’s songs became the soundtrack of her life; the place to which Sarah would turn in times of joy, celebration, through new love and breakups, finding jobs and leaving jobs, becoming a mother and more. Eventually, she began to write songs of her own, and ultimately began performing at local venues, sharing both covers and original songs.

Sarah began sharing videos online, and was soon invited to perform at a club near her home. Although she’d never been onstage, Sarah felt right at home. Over time, she began to add her original songs to the list of classic covers in her sets.

“I love the feeling I have when on stage,” she says, “especially when people are dancing, smiling, or singing along.”

When she’s not writing, performing, or searching for a quiet corner of the house to record a song to share on social media, Sarah loves to fish, play basketball, read (autobiographies are her favorite), and more than anything, simply hang out and play with her two beautiful daughters.

“The Woman I Am” is available to country radio this week.

Wed, 05/09/2018 - 7:12 am

The reported demise of traditional country music may well have been premature. Artists like Sturgill Simpson, Kacey Musgraves, and Chris Stapleton have proven that the music is not only alive and well, but fans are eagerly embracing the sound.

Now, comes Kentucky singer/songwriter, Sarah Patrick. She plays guitar and is most comfortable in a t-shirt and jeans. She loves the music of Loretta Lynn and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Sarah Patrick doesn't just act country ... she is country. And now, she is poised to release her debut album on Nashville America Records (NAR).The title cut, "The Woman I Am," written by country music legend, David Frizzell, has already been released to radio, and the album will be available on Friday, June 15, 2018. A 2nd single is planned for release that day.

For decades, Nashville America Records has been the label home for David Frizzell's individual projects as well as the renowned Frizzell & Friends collaborations produced by the country music icon. Those collaborations have included projects with Merle Haggard, Crystal Gayle, Johnny Lee, Gene Watson, T. Graham Brown, Lacy J. Dalton, Jimmy Fortune (Statler Brothers), John Cowan (New Grass Revival), and many more top names. After being invited by a friend to hear Sarah Patrick perform, Frizzell soon signed the young singer/songwriter to his label. Reminiscent of a young Loretta Lynn, Sarah writes songs about life's joys and challenges: love, motherhood, romance, heartbreak and disappointment.

"Sarah reminded me of Loretta from the start," Frizzell says. "She has that same honesty and determination mixed with vulnerability."

With some of Nashville's top session players, and Frizzell in the producer's chair, Sarah began working on her debut NAR album in late 2017. The project includes timeless covers and three of Sarah's own original songs.

"I just feel so grateful and blessed," Sarah says. "This has been the most amazing experience and I'm just so eager to share this music and see where the journey takes me. I love traditional country music and I hope everyone enjoys this album, but I have to say, there’s a lot here for the girls!" Indeed, The Woman I Am is replete with songs full of love and heartbreak, attitude and empowerment.

Raised in a tightknit family with loving parents and one older brother, Sarah discovered the music of artists like Loretta Lynn, Miranda Lambert, Ashton Shepherd, Patty Loveless, Reba McEntire, Trisha Yearwood, and Tammy Wynette as a young girl. These women's songs became the soundtrack of her life; the place to which Sarah would turn in times of joy, celebration, through new love and breakups, finding jobs and leaving jobs, becoming a mother and more. Eventually, she began to write songs of her own, and ultimately began performing at local venues, sharing both covers and original songs.

Sarah began sharing videos online, and was soon invited to perform at a club near her home. Although she'd never been onstage, Sarah felt right at home. Over time, she began to add her original songs to the list of classic covers in her sets. When she's not writing, performing, or searching for a quiet corner of the house to record a song to share on social media, Sarah loves to fish, play basketball, read (autobiographies are her favorite), and more than anything, simply hang out and play with her two young daughters.

Sarah has been performing regularly in her home state of Kentucky, and touring with Frizzell. She will appear at the inaugural LeftyFest Music Festival in Corsicana, Texas on June 16, sharing the bill with Frizzell, Lacy J Dalton, Paulette Carlson (of the band Highway 101), Marty Haggard, Allen Frizzell and Aaron Copeland. The festival honors the enduring musical legacy of Lefty Frizzell.

Sarah Patrick
THE WOMAN I AM - 6.15.18
(Nashville America Records)

TRACK LIST

The Woman I Am

That’s The Way Love Goes

I’m Right Here

To Stay

In A Woman’s Way

Before You

I Ain’t No Angel

He Loved Me He Loves Me Not

I Won’t Be Your Trophy

You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)

I Wish That I Could Hurt That Way Again

Give A Little More Love

Wed, 05/23/2018 - 6:45 am

Country music star, David Frizzell, has announced the inaugural LeftyFest Music Festival to be held in Corsicana, Texas on Saturday, June 16, 2018.

The festival is established, in cooperation with the city of Corsicana, to honor the enduring musical legacy of Lefty Frizzell, one of American music’s most iconic and influential singer/stylists of any genre. Lefty, who would’ve turned 90 this year, was a member of the Grand Ole Opry, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1982. A star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame honors his contributions to entertainment.

David Frizzell is the younger brother of Lefty. He toured with Lefty in his youth, before being signed to a record deal of his own, and going on to a multi-award-winning career that remains dynamic today. David is a singer, songwriter, touring performer, producer and author.

A chance meeting with Corsicana Chief of Police, Robert Johnson, set the wheels in motion for David Frizzell’s longtime dream of a festival to honor his world-famous brother. Johnson, arguably the only SAG-AFTRA actor in the world who also happens to be a police chief, is an avid fan of Lefty Frizzell, and was instrumental in the early planning for LeftyFest.

“I am so grateful to the city of Corsicana, Chief Johnson, and the good folks at The Moontower at the Oaks,” David says. “Without their support and enthusiasm, we wouldn’t be able to host this festival. It has been a dream and a goal of mine for many years, and I am so excited to honor my brother, and give the gift of a free festival to country music fans in Texas and from around the world.”

Inaugural LeftyFest 6/16/18 in Corsicana

The free festival will be held in Corsicana’s Jester Park, home to the Lefty Frizzell Museum and statue. LeftyFest performers include David Frizzell, Lacy J. Dalton, Paulette Carlson, Marty Haggard, Allen Frizzell, Sarah Patrick, and Aaron Copeland. Fans should bring lawn chairs or picnic blankets. Coolers are ok. There will also be vendors onsite, including beer gardens. There is a VIP seating area for Active Military, Veterans and family members on a first come, first serve basis as space allows.

Lefty Frizzell has been called “the honky-tonk archetype.” His voice was golden; he wore fringe and Nudie suits and those trademark bandanas; and he had a fondness for women and whiskey. Before this became a Hollywood stereotype, it was the real Lefty. Born William Orville Frizzell, this year marks 90 years since the birth of this legendary singer, just outside of Corsicana, Texas in 1928.

Frizzell burst onto the music scene in 1951 and had had eight top 10 hits in that year alone. At one point, Frizzell had four songs in the Billboard Top 10 at the same time, something that had never happened before: “I Want To Be With You Always,” “Always Late (With Your Kisses),” “Mom And Dad’s Waltz,” and “Travelin’ Blues.”

As a singer, Lefty was the ultimate stylist. His voice was an instrument that he played brilliantly: stretching out or breaking up vowels. He slurred his words and played with phrasing. His pioneering vocals have inspired decades of artists, and his songs have become classics and beloved standards. Merle Haggard revered Lefty Frizzell, and was often quoted praising the singer. Willie Nelson loved Frizzell’s songwriting so much that he released an album of Lefty cover songs.

On July 19, 1975, Lefty suffered a massive stroke, slipped into a coma, and passed away at just 47 years old. In his all-too-short life, however, Lefty Frizzell revolutionized country music with a style that remains influential today. Artists like Blake Shelton, Randy Travis, Keith Whitley, Tim McGraw, and even George Jones, have tipped their hats to Lefty for his inspiration.

LeftyFest is set to begin at 2pm on June 16th with live music from 4-10pm. Visitors may see the Lefty Frizzell statue, enjoy the historic Pioneer Village, activities for kids, a classic car show, a variety of vendors, beer gardens, and of course, great live music. The free event is made possible by presenting sponsor, The Moontower at the Oaks of Corsicana, and through a grant from the Corsicana Visitor’s Bureau. A variety of lodging options are available in and around Corsicana, including brand name hotels and RV parks. LeftyFest supports COMPASSION CORSICANA and we ask for donations of canned foods and dry goods for the food pantry at the event.

LeftyFest Music Festival
Saturday, June 16, 2018
FREE 2–10pm
Jester Park | Corsicana, Texas
FEATURING: David Frizzell, Lacy J. Dalton, Paulette Carlson,
Marty Haggard, Allen Frizzell, Sarah Patrick, Aaron Copeland

Fri, 08/03/2018 - 5:02 pm

Becky Buller and the good folks at Dark Shadow Recording have announced the release of a music video featuring special guest artist, Sam Bush. “The Rebel And The Rose,” co-written by Buller, appears on her latest album, Crepe Paper Heart, which was produced by Stephen Mougin.
 
Fiery-haired fiddler, Buller takes a turn on clawhammer banjo for "The Rebel And The Rose," which has been nominated for IBMA Recorded Event Of The Year. This is just one of the eight nominations Becky has received, giving her the most nominations in the 2018 awards, which will be announced in September during the annual World of Bluegrass event in Raleigh, NC. 
 
With its reference to a soldier and his beloved navigating love and loss amid the turmoil of civil war, “The Rebel And The Rose” is a period piece. It is equally poignant, however, as a contemporary story about choices, desperation, consequences … and the redemptive power of love. The tender message within is quite fitting for contemporary life; a commentary on things that tear us apart and things that bring us together … and how quite often, the tearing apart or joining together is a choice of the heart, separate from any issue.
 
“This song is special to me on so many levels, from writing it with my dear friend, Tony Rackley, to recording it with my hero, Sam Bush,” Becky says. “The message of hope in this song is timeless; not one of us is so broken that love can’t mend us.”
 
Crêpe Paper Heart features past and present members of the Becky Buller Band: Ned Luberecki (banjo); Professor Dan Boner (mandolin/guitar/vocals); Brandon Bostic (guitar); Daniel “Hulk” Hardin (bass/vocals); and Nate Lee (fiddle). In addition to Sam Bush, special guests include The Fairfield FourRob IckesClaire Lynch; Stephen and Jana Mougin; Frank SolivanRhonda Vincent; and Erin Youngberg (FY5).
 
Crêpe Paper Heart has consistently appeared in the Top 10 for radio airplay on the Bluegrass Today Airplay Charts and was the Number One on Roots Music Report for June. The album is the #1 album on The Bluegrass Unlimited National Bluegrass Survey for the month of August. It has also received overwhelmingly positive reviews for its powerful, original music.

Crêpe Paper Heart boasts a blend of secular and sacred songs written by Buller and co-writers Lynda Dawson (“John D. Champion”); Jeff Hyde of the Eric Church band (“Speakin’ To That Mountain”); Sarah Majors (“Heart Of The House”); Tony Rackley (“The Rebel And The Rose”); Blue Highway’s Tim Stafford (“Calamity Jane”); and Bobby Starnes (“Maybe”).  One cover song, “Phoenix Arise,” was written by Lisa Aschmann and Mark Simos.

Mon, 08/13/2018 - 12:15 pm

Organizers of Hoedown On The Harpeth have announced the lineup of entertainers for the 2018 installment of one of Middle Tennessee’s fastest growing events.

The 3rd annual Hoedown On The Harpeth will be held October 12-13, 2018 in Kingston Springs, Tennessee with headline artists: Grammy award winning singer-songwriter Peter Rowan and multi-talented and versatile group, The Travelin’ McCourys.

Showcasing bluegrass, old time, western swing, classic country and honky-tonk acoustic music from Nashville’s many local artists as well as guest artists, Howdown On The Harpeth is as much an experience as a concert event. In addition to Rowan and the McCourys, entertainment will include Robbie Fulks, The Flea Market Hustlers, Inaugural Hoedown on the Harpeth All-Star Band (featuring David Grier, Shad Cobb, Mike Bub, Casey Campbell & Cory Walker), 50 Shades of Hay, Adam Olmstead, Shad Cobb & Jenny Obert + Friends, The Farmer and Adele, The Cowpokes and Ray Welch & The Grass Kickers … and of course, plenty of informal shade tree pickers.

Food trucks and beverage tents will be stationed along the main drives for the convenience of guests. Vendors of arts and crafts will be selected for their authentic country wares, relevance to the history of Nashville and the roots music of the region. A family-friendly area will host arts and crafts for children, games and music workshops for young musicians.

Several “pickin’ areas” throughout the site offer spaces for acoustic musicians to gather and play throughout the night in impromptu jam sessions. Their presence adds to the timeless atmosphere of the country music festival experience.

Camping is available with a variety of accommodations for RV campers with generators, tent campers, late night pickers, and quiet family areas.

The brainchild of Robert Dunn, his wife Jessica and a few friends, the festival grew from a shared passion for the community atmosphere of old time, small town festivals and acoustic jams. Robert, born in rural Hohenwald, TN, grew up heavily influenced by the regional music scene and the rich cultural heritage that is still prevalent throughout Middle Tennessee. A devotee of the culture of live music festivals of days-gone-by, Robert wanted to share the kinds of experiences he treasured over the years at places like The Station Inn, MerleFest and other venues; not only the main acts, but the intimate jams that inevitably crop up surrounding acoustic music events. In the late 90’s, Robert began to host his own private events, known as The Holler Pickin’ Parties. Word of these premier acoustic jam sessions quickly spread and within a few short years the annual party had grown exponentially from intimate informal gatherings to jams with hundreds of musicians. Eventually, Robert was motivated to establish a full-blown festival and Hoedown On The Harpeth was born.

“Our goal is a lifestyle kind of experience,” Dunn says. “It’s akin to the traditional country themed music festivals, where people gathered and enjoyed music both on and off the stage, in spots by the river and in the shade of the trees.”

The festival site is located on the Hayshed Farms in Kingston Springs, conveniently located 20 miles west of downtown Nashville. The picturesque farm sits at the confluence of the Turnbull and Harpeth rivers. One main stage, backing up to the Turnbull River, and the Hayshed Barn stage comprise the heart of the festival with musical artists, workshops, and barn dances.

Hoedown on the Harpeth aims to keep the roots and history of traditional music alive in an authentic outdoor music festival environment.

“As the sons and daughters of Nashville, we are the guardians and stewards of a sacred musical legacy,” Dunn says.

Single-day and 2-day tickets are now on sale. Prices increase as the festival gets closer. Ticket_link.

Thu, 11/08/2018 - 6:13 pm

Bluegrass stalwarts, Barry Abernathy and Darrell Webb, have teamed up on a new musical venture, Appalachian Road Show. The debut album is available on BILLY BLUE RECORDS (10-26-18). The new label is headed up by multi-award winning songwriter, Jerry Salley.

Barry Abernathy was a founding member of the vocal and instrumental powerhouse band, Mountain Heart. The group or its members have won or been nominated for multiple Grammys, ACM, CMA, and IBMA Awards. Abernathy is also known for his contributions to both Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver and IIIrd Tyme Out. The most unlikely thing about Barry’s story is his having been born with just a thumb and part of an index finger on his left hand. Still, in addition to his truly great voice, Abernathy plays a blistering banjo. Because of his hand, he approaches the fingerboard from the top and does the fretting with his thumb and the end of his single-knuckled index finger. The Georgia-born Abernathy was named Banjo Player of the Year in 1997 by the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America (SPBGMA). 

Darrell Webb is a Grammy nominated session musician as well as an International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) and SPBGMA award winner. The mandolin master with the soaring tenor previously headed up his own eponymous band and prior to that, worked with some of the top acts in acoustic music, including Lonesome River Band, J.D. Crowe & The New South, Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, Wildfire, and Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper.

Creative and A&R Director of Billy Blue Records, Jerry Salley was called “one of Music Row’s greatest veteran tunesmiths” by Billboard magazine. The 2003 SESAC Country Music Songwriter of the year and 2018 IBMA Songwriter of the Year has had more than 500 songs recorded with sales in excess of 17 million records. With multiple top-charting hits in Country, Bluegrass and Gospel, Salley may be the most successful songwriter to have earned equal recognition in all three genres. He co-founded Billy Blue Records, and a companion Americana label (Billy Jam Records) earlier this year as imprints of Daywind Records.

With Appalachian Road Show, Abernathy, Webb and their talented compadres (including Grammy winning producer, artist and general fiddle beast, Jim VanCleve) seek to honor the music, traditions and history of the great Appalachian people and region. Additionally, the group takes influences from other sources and applies that Appalachian style, as they’ve done with their first radio single, a grassy version of the Steve Miller Band’s “Dance, Dance, Dance,” for which they have also released a companion music video.

Sun, 01/27/2019 - 5:48 pm

Billy Blue Records is pleased to announce the February 1st release of “The Guitar Song,” the first radio single from For The Record, the forthcoming, 12-song album from Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers. 

A duet between band leader Joe Mullins and legendary Grand Ole Opry member, Del McCoury, “The Guitar Song” was co-written by another legend, Country Music Hall of Fame member, Bill Anderson, with award-winning songwriters, Jamey Johnson and Vickie McGehee. Joe Mullins’ cleverly arranged version of the song is a conversation between two pawn shop instruments, a guitar and a banjo, hanging side-by-side on a store wall. The guitar (Del McCoury) and banjo (Joe Mullins) discuss their respective Bluegrass histories in the hands of some of the genre’s greatest pickers and singers.

The single release marks a truly historic recording featuring two of the most popular veterans in Bluegrass music in their first ever collaboration. It also marks a celebration of Del McCoury’s 80th birthday on February 1st.

Having gained the reputation as a band who always chooses great material for their projects, the recognizable sound of Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers, with their rich vocals, have exceeded that reputation delivering another collection of wonderfully well-written songs arranged and recorded in their own inimitable style. “The Guitar Song” is a brilliant glimpse into the quality of the full album to come.

Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers recently signed to Billy Blue Records, bringing the group’s signature brand of Bluegrass to the label which was established in 2018. Lead by banjo playing Joe Mullins, the band includes a cadre of instrumental and vocal talent with Mike Terry on mandolin and vocals; Duane Sparks on guitar and vocals; Randy Barnes on upright bass and vocals; and Jason Barie on fiddle. The group has garnered multiple IBMA (6) and SPBGMA (4) Awards, including the 2018 IBMA Award for “Song Of The Year” (“If I’d Have Wrote That Song”).

For The Record is set for release on Friday, March 29, 2019.

Fri, 04/05/2019 - 12:03 pm

Just released! Sizzling Nashville-based duo, Striking Matches, has released a new music video for "Don't Hold Back" from the forthcoming EP, Morning. The video was directed by Casey Pierce.

The Nashville-based duo is comprised of Sarah Zimmermann and Justin Davis; singers, guitarists and songwriters who met while both were students in a guitar class at Belmont University. The duo's music is a fresh combination of blues, rock, and pop, with an approach that respects roots music traditions while making room for new musical thinking. 

“We had so much fun making this video with Casey Pierce. When he told us he wanted to have Sarah spinning on top of a house of cards, we knew that really anything was possible and to let all three of our imaginations run a little wild was exactly the video this song needed.   We wanted to evoke the feeling of not holding anything back, and it is definitely our most colorful and adventurous video yet, in every sense of the phrase.” ~Striking Matches

The two made their performing debut at Nashville's prestigious Bluebird Café and made their recording debut with a self-released five-song EP that showcased their gifts as songwriters, vocalists, and instrumentalists. That same year, noted songwriter and producer T-Bone Burnett was hired to help coordinate the music for an upcoming television series set in Music City, appropriately titled 'Nashville.' Burnett and his team were impressed with Striking Matches, enough so that nine of their songs were used on the hit ABC show. Their first full-length album, Nothing But the Silence, produced by T-Bone Burnett, was released in March 2015.
 
As the band’s career has progressed since, they have had continued success with high profile sync placements. In 2018, the track “Nah” was featured on the season 15 premiere episode of ABC’s Greys Anatomy as well as a worldwide General Electric campaign; "Bad" was featured on the CW's "iZombie"; "Ghost" was featured on Fox's "Lucifer" and Netflix’s “Father of the Year; and the song  "Desire" was featured on ABC’s "American Idol."    
 
Fast forward to today, the duo have settled in a style all their own that they’ve coined as “blues-pop” - an amalgamation of their blues and roots based guitar riffs, combined with pop melodies. Striking Matches have toured extensively both domestically and abroad and will be announcing 2019 US and European tour dates soon. The duo is gearing up to release three EPs in 2019, each with a distinct vibe and entitled, Morning (May), Noon (August) and Night (November). "Don't Hold Back" appears on Morning.

“Don’t Hold Back” is indicative of the music we’re getting set to release. 
We’re going to a lot of fun new places, and tracing our steps back
to some old musical haunts, in a way as well.
We can’t wait for you to hear it all."
~Striking Matches

Tue, 05/28/2019 - 7:31 pm

LaTresa & The Signal have announced the June 7, 2019 release of The Blood and the River, a collection of original Bluegrass Gospel songs on BoonDog Records.

The Blood and The River is the 3rd album from LaTresa Smith and her band.

The group, fronted by singer/songwriter, LaTresa Smith, has been playing together since 2004 and boasts musicians with diverse musical backgrounds.
 
LaTresa Smith (guitar, singer, songwriter) was born in Florence, AL and grew up throughout the South singing with a family band, The Hester Brothers, featuring her father and his brothers, all ministers. The group performed traditional country and Southern Gospel music. LaTresa remembers listening to bluegrass music on Saturday nights in an old store in Mississippi and dreaming of one day having a bluegrass band of her own. She moved out west as a young adult, but returned to the South, first to Kentucky, and eventually settling in Nashville.

In 2003, LaTresa released her first bluegrass CD, Free Spirit, with 12 original progressive bluegrass tunes. She formed her band shortly thereafter and later released a second more traditional CD, Love, Babies, Jesus and Sweet Potato Pie.

The Signal is rounded out by the talents of 3 skilled musicians. Randy Smith (upright bass) is a University of Memphis music graduate. After gaining extensive experience playing jazz and blues on Beale Street, he moved to Nashville in 1999 and became an original member of The Signal in 2004, also serving as musical director for the band.
 
Kyle Wood (mandolin) is a native of Nashville, a former founding member of Crucial Smith, a rock enthusiast, and an artist/songwriter in his own right.
 
Markus Stadler (banjo, dobro) is originally from Munich, Germany. An original member of The Signal since 2004, he is not only an excellent instrumentalist but also a songwriter and accomplished sound engineer.
 
The latest CD was recorded at Stadler's Bumpin' Heads studio. The Blood and The River includes some fine guest artists, including Ronnie McCoury, Roland White, Tim O’Brien, Billy Droze and Dale Ann Bradley. All 12 tracks were written or co-written by LaTresa.

Two preview tracks are available now. “Bright Star” featuring Billy Droze with Pat Flynn on guitar; and  the title track with Ronnie McCoury on mandolin and Rob Ickes on dobro.
 
LaTresa & The Signal create a fresh and unique sound derived from individual life experiences and musical heritages, and bound together by a love for bluegrass music.

AVAILABLE ON AIRPLAY DIRECT
https://airplaydirect.com/music/LaTresaTheBloodandTheRiver/

Sat, 08/31/2019 - 2:40 pm

It’s a brand new album this week from Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, the group's first on Nashville’s Billy Blue Records.

Live in Prague, Czech Republic was recorded live at the beautiful Dlabacov Hall - Pyramida theatre in downtown Prague on January 26, 2019. An enthusiastic, sold-out crowd can be heard enjoying the high energy show that was captured for this new album. Packed with fourteen (14) songs, Doyle and the band perform some of their previously recorded work, such as the hit “Little Girl,” the often requested Gospel classic “On The Sea of Life” and the ever-popular “I’ll Be True While Your Gone,” along with new arrangements of never-before recorded songs by the group, including “Living Like There’s No Tomorrow,” “Leaving On Her Mind,” and “Shenandoah Breakdown” among others.

The first radio single, “Living Like There’s No Tomorrow,” was co-written by Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame members Jim McBride and Roger Murrah, and features the incredible lead vocal of Kentucky native Jake Vanover, the newest Quicksilver member.

Rich blend of harmonies and first-class musicianship have become a trademark of Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, and those elements shine bright and clear in this exciting new live project. Inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame in 2012, Lawson is also a 2006 recipient of a National Heritage Fellowship awarded by the National Endowment for the Arts, which is the United States’ highest honor in the folk and traditional arts. Featuring the best musicianship and vocals in the business - with the Legendary Lawson at the helm -the band currently includes members Josh Swift (2017 IBMA Resonator Guitar Player of the Year), Joe Dean (banjo), Stephen Burwell (fiddle), Jake Vanover (Guitar and vocals), Jerry Cole (bass and vocals).

Nominated for GRAMMYS® in 2016 and 2017, the group has countless major awards to their credit, including eight (8) International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) wins for Vocal Group of The Year, an honor for which the group is again nominated in the 2019 IBMA awards.

LIVE IN PRAGUE is available now on Billy Blue Records (Friday, August 30, 2019).

Mon, 09/23/2019 - 11:21 am

It’s a brand new album this week from Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, the group's first on Nashville’s Billy Blue Records.

Live in Prague, Czech Republic was recorded live at the beautiful Dlabacov Hall - Pyramida theatre in downtown Prague on January 26, 2019. An enthusiastic, sold-out crowd can be heard enjoying the high energy show that was captured for this new album. Packed with fourteen (14) songs, Doyle and the band perform some of their previously recorded work, such as the hit “Little Girl,” the often requested Gospel classic “On The Sea of Life” and the ever-popular “I’ll Be True While Your Gone,” along with new arrangements of never-before recorded songs by the group, including “Living Like There’s No Tomorrow,” “Leaving On Her Mind,” and “Shenandoah Breakdown” among others.

The first radio single, “Living Like There’s No Tomorrow,” was co-written by Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame members Jim McBride and Roger Murrah, and features the incredible lead vocal of Kentucky native Jake Vanover, the newest Quicksilver member.

Rich blend of harmonies and first-class musicianship have become a trademark of Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, and those elements shine bright and clear in this exciting new live project. Inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame in 2012, Lawson is also a 2006 recipient of a National Heritage Fellowship awarded by the National Endowment for the Arts, which is the United States’ highest honor in the folk and traditional arts. Featuring the best musicianship and vocals in the business - with the Legendary Lawson at the helm -the band currently includes members Josh Swift (2017 IBMA Resonator Guitar Player of the Year), Joe Dean (banjo), Stephen Burwell (fiddle), Jake Vanover (Guitar and vocals), Jerry Cole (bass and vocals).

Nominated for GRAMMYS® in 2016 and 2017, the group has countless major awards to their credit, including eight (8) International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) wins for Vocal Group of The Year, an honor for which the group is again nominated in the 2019 IBMA awards.

LIVE IN PRAGUE is available now on Billy Blue Records (Friday, August 30, 2019).

TRACKS
Driving It Home
Back In My Baby’s Arms Again
Jealous
Living Like There’s No Tomorrow
I’ll Be True While You’re Gone
Shenandoah Breakdown
I’m Going To Heaven
On The Sea Of Life
Little Girl
Leaving On Her Mind
Out In The Cold World
She’s Walking Through My Memory
Clinch Mountain Backstep
Julianne

Thu, 02/13/2020 - 2:27 pm

On the heels of Alan Bibey’s 6th win as Mandolin Performer of the Year (SPBGMA, 2020), Alan Bibey & Grasstowne have joined the burgeoning Billy Blue Records label.

“Bluegrass veteran, Alan Bibey, is easily one of the very best mandolin players in our genre of all time,” says Jerry Salley, A&R/Creative Director for BBR. “It is an honor to have the opportunity to work with such a talent and with his incredible band, Grasstowne, one of the top groups in our industry.” 

Alan has a well-earned reputation as one of the most technically gifted mandolinists in bluegrass and acoustic music. He was an original member of ground-breaking bands, The New Quicksilver, IIIrd Tyme Out, and BlueRidge. For the last 12 years, he has fronted his own Alan Bibey & Grasstowne. He has been voted SPBGMA* Mandolin Performer Of The Year six times, including 2018, 2019 and the recent 2020 title. In 2019, Bibey was voted IBMA** Mandolin Player Of The Year. Previous honors include IBMA Instrumental Album Of The Year, Album Of The Year and Recorded Event Of The Year.

Alan Bibey

Alan was included in the Mel Bay book, “Greatest Mandolin Players Of The Twentieth Century”, and in 2004, the Gibson Company put into production the Alan Bibey Signature line of mandolins, reaffirming his status as one of the most influential players in music history.

The current Grasstowne lineup includes Zak McLamb (bass), Tony Watt (guitar), Justin Jenkins (banjo), and Bibey (mandolin, vocals).

“We are very excited about our musical journey together and are making plans for new music to be released very soon,” Salley says.

Launched in June 2018, the bluegrass-focused Billy Blue Records is the brainchild of award-winning songwriter and producer Salley. Along with Americana imprint, Billy Jam Records, Billy Blue was founded in partnership with Nashville’s Daywind Music Group.

Alan Bibey & Grasstowne join a roster that already boasts Bluegrass Hall of Famer Doyle Lawson and his band, Quicksilver; Appalachian Road Show (headed up by bluegrass veterans Barry Abernathy and Darrell Webb, with Jim VanCleve); Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers, one of America’s premier Bluegrass bands; International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Songwriter of the Year winner, Donna Ulisse; 2020 SPBGMA Entertainers of the Year, Carolina Blue; and Jason Barie, fiddler for Joe Mullins & The Radio Ramblers. The young label is living up to its own motto, “We’re here to play.” After just one year in business, Billy Blue Records’ projects received two nominations in the 62nd Grammy Awards: Bluegrass Album (Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver: Live In Prague) and Roots Gospel Album (Jerry Salley, producer: Gonna Sing, Gonna Shout).

Tue, 07/07/2020 - 11:09 am

Billy Blue Records proudly announces the forthcoming release of Take Me Back, the label debut from Carolina Blue, winners of the 2020 SPBGMA (Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America) Entertainers of The Year award.

With this follow-up to their highly successful 2018 project, I Hear Bluegrass Calling Me, the North Carolina based band is already having huge success with the first single from the new album. “Grown Cold” debuted at #3 on the Bluegrass Today singles chart, and includes an entertaining lyric video.
 
From the infectious up-tempo “Grown Cold” to the beautifully plaintive ballad “Blue Grass,” Take Me Back is packed with twelve new songs – eight of which were contributed by co-founders Timmy Jones and Bobby Powell.

“This album was so much fun to create,” Powell says. “We are proud that it is full of our original songs, which has become sort of our trademark, and the material we chose from outside writers is top notch. I think the rest of the guys (and gal!) did some of the best playing and singing that they’ve ever done on this project. Special thanks to Jerry Salley and the great team at Billy Blue Records for their outstanding effort as well. I hope the listeners will enjoy this record for a long, long time!”

Jones and Powell started Carolina Blue in 2007, and since then, the band has grown into one of the most popular bands in the bluegrass genre -  as evidenced by their FOUR (4) 2020 SPBGMA wins (Entertainers of the Year - Bluegrass Band of the Year (Overall) - Vocal Group of the Year - Album of the Year - I Hear Bluegrass Calling Me), and THREE (3) 2019 IBMA (International Bluegrass Music Association) nominations (Album of the Year - I Hear Bluegrass Calling Me - New Artist of the Year - Instrumental Recording - “Fried Taters and Onions”).

In addition to Timmy Jones (Mandolin and Vocals) and Bobby Powell (Guitar and Vocals), the band consists of Aynsley Porchak (Fiddle - a former Canadian AND American Grand Masters Fiddle Champion  and winner of IBMA’s 2018 Momentum Award), James McDowell (Banjo), and Reese Combs (Bass and Vocals).
 

Take Me Back will be available August 7, 2020 on Billy Blue Records.

Fri, 08/21/2020 - 3:35 pm

Over nearly three decades, bandleader James Reams has earned his nickname, the Ambassador of Bluegrass, for his stalwart dedication to the genre.

Now, a documentary on James' life and career has been selected by an International Film Festival based in the UK. An online world premiere took place recently, including a Q&A with James and filmmakers. Now, the documentary has been chosen for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

According to its website, the Doc'n Roll Festival began in 2013 as the UK's Music Documentary Film Festival. The fest, available online in 2020, celebrates music subcultures by providing a unique platform to support the wealth of creative, compelling and unforgettable documentaries that celebrate the performers, labels, scenes and stories.
 
Like A Flowing River: A Bluegrass Passage,' tells the story of James Reams who burst onto the bluegrass music scene in 1993. Coming from the hills of Kentucky and ending up in New York City, he touches on the themes of loneliness, homelessness, a life-threatening illness that could possibly end his career, and the loss of the love of his life and musical partner, Tina. One near-death experience, a brief but powerful time being homeless, and a career-threatening surgery combined to make James what he is today…an example of what courage, determination, and optimism – mixed with a whole lot of faith – can accomplish.

Reams’ many contributions to bluegrass and old-time music include a prolific string of well-received recordings with James’ own original songs, many co-written with Aridas. Two albums highlighted the playing of legendary banjo player Walter Hensley, a couple of other albums included old-time musician Tom Paley, and other recordings feature James’ own band, The Barnstormers, playing old-time country and traditional bluegrass fusion.

Like A Flowing River: A Bluegrass Passage is as much a story of hope as it is a musician’s tale. It is a film is for all who are carried along on the sometimes peaceful and other times, raging river that is bluegrass.

Sat, 08/22/2020 - 10:10 am

A new song is available today from Alan Bibey & Grasstowne. “Hitchhiking to California” is the group’s first release on Billy Blue Records and will appear on the forthcoming AB&G album.

GET IT HERE: Airplay Direct Link

Since first hitting the scene in the early 1980s, Alan Bibey has made a name for himself as one of the most technically gifted mandolinists in bluegrass and acoustic music. An original member of such ground-breaking bands as The New Quicksilver, IIIrd Time Out, and BlueRidge, he has spent the past 12 years as Alan Bibey & Grasstowne.

Alan shares some history behind the new single. One of Bibey’s favorite bluegrass bands has always been Boone Creek. Wes Golding played guitar in that band, and when the group broke up, Golding moved back to North Carolina, to the area where Bibey was raised. Golding was something of a hero to young Bibey, who was thrilled to be invited to play in a regional band that included Golding. At that time, Alan was just 16 years old. The seeds of a lifelong friendship had been sown.

“A few years later, I began playing professionally with the New Quicksilver,” Bibey says. “We recorded ‘I’m Country’ and ‘Hitchhiking to California,” both Wes Golding originals. That was back in 1985. So when we started this new project, I had the idea to redo the song, and Jerry [Salley] and I both agreed we’d love a third verse.”

With Wes Golding’s blessing, Bibey and Salley wrote a new verse and reworked a few other things in the song for its new release.

“Writing with Wes a little in the last few years has been awesome,” Bibey says. “He told me it’s the first time he’s co-written with anyone since he and Ricky Skaggs wrote ‘One Way Track.’ Now, that is very cool, indeed. Wes is a dear friend, and I’m happy to include this song on our new album.”

Newly signed to Billy Blue records, Alan Bibey is currently finalizing the rest of the forthcoming album, which is slated for an early 2021 release.

Bibey’s highly-awarded history includes being named 2019 IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year as well as previously for Instrumental Album of the Year, Album of the Year and Recorded Event of the Year. Additionally, Bibey was voted Mandolin Performer of the Year by SPBGMA six times, including 2018, 2019 and 2020. He was also included in the Mel Bay book, “Greatest Mandolin Players of the Twentieth Century,” and in 2004, the Gibson Company put into production the Alan Bibey Signature line of mandolins, reaffirming his status as one of the most influential mandolin players in Bluegrass and acoustic music history.

Thu, 10/22/2020 - 9:20 am

The latest radio release from High Fidelity features the oldest living patriarch of bluegrass music and oldest active member of the Grand Ole Opry. The one and only Jesse McReynolds guests on mandolin and vocals on “Tears of Regret,” a Jim & Jesse song originally recorded in 1955. The updated version appears on the latest release from High Fidelity, and features a newly released companion music video in which McReynolds also appears.

“Tears of Regret” was written by Lucille Hutton, a country music fan and amateur songwriter from the Bristol VA/TN area in the 1940s and 50s.

“According to Jesse, Ms. Hutton would send lyrics of songs she had written to many of the artists who played on radio in that region of the country,” Jeremy Stephens of High Fidelity says. “It’s likely that many of her songs have been recorded, but not all of the artists gave her credit, so it’s impossible to know for sure.”

“Tears of Regret” appears on Banjo Player’s Blues, High Fidelity’s second recording for the historic Rebel Records label (June 2020). Banjo Player's Blues is a showcase of the band’s love for tradition, brother duets, virtuosic instrumental innovators, well-crafted harmony, gospel music, and of course, banjos.

High Fidelity has been influenced by many of the bluegrass greats, including Jim & Jesse, who put Lucille Hutton’s lyrics to music and recorded “Tears of Regret” on January 24, 1955. Now, Jesse has collaborated on the song with High Fidelity 65 years after its original recording.

“Because Jesse has made so many amazing technical advancements to mandolin playing, Jeremy and I have always felt his ‘straight picking’ never got the attention it deserved, Corrina Rose Logston says. “We told him we’d love to hear him do some of that on this recording, and he did an incredible job. Jesse’s singing on the third verse and final chorus is so excellent, it’s hard to fathom that he is performing on this recording at 90 years old! Jesse McReynolds is nothing short of a treasure, and collaborating with him was indescribably special!”

Where many bands offer a pale imitation of the past, High Fidelity presents a meaningful interpretation that captures the true essence of the music these artists learned from the genre’s early masters. Every note on Banjo Player’s Blues is delivered with meaning, reverence, and undeniable talent, and “Tears of Regret” is a shining example of that fact.

Fri, 11/20/2020 - 3:48 pm

Lacy J. Dalton is remembered for hits in the 80’s and 90’s including “Crazy Blue Eyes,” “16th Avenue” and “Black Coffee.”  She is a 6-time recipient of BMI Million Airplay awards for her songwriting, and is a multi-Grammy nominee. She was awarded the Academy of Country Music’s Best New Female Vocalist in 1979 and has recorded duets with Willie Nelson, George Jones, Bobby Bare, Glen Campbell, David Frizzell and many others.  She has received 2 gold records – one for her performance as the only woman on Willie Nelson’s “Half-Nelson” platinum duet project and one from Hank Williams Jr.’s “5.0 Tour.”  She is a member of the North American Country Music Association International (NACMAI) Hall of fame and has been nominated for a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Now, Lacy is back on the airwaves with a new, original song, “I Can’t Breathe.”

“This song shot out of me like the tears that shot out of my eyes watching what I saw on the TV over and over again,” Dalton says. “There are, tragically, over 70 documented cases of people of color saying “I can’t breathe” while dying at the hands of law enforcement.  Because of the sensitivity around the issue, we did not want people to think that we were high-jacking the cause for any personal gain.  From the beginning, my manager Leslie Adams, my co-author and producer Jimmy Jackson and I agreed that we wanted the proceeds to go to the Equal Justice Initiative which supports the spirit of the Black Lives Matter movement.”

The Equal Justice Initiative has a 100% positive rating on Charity Navigator with over 90% of monies raised going directly to fund programs, and only 6.2% spent on administrative overhead (compared to an average of 40% by other charitable organizations).

Lacy was deeply influenced by her experience teaching songwriting in the California Prison System for nearly 4 years through the William James Association and the Califorinia Arts in Corrections program, along with her music partner Dale Poune. Lacy and Dale’s work focused on teaching song writing skills and techniques, music theory and guitar playing to level 4 maximum security inmates.  Through these classes, a select group of students got the opportunity to learn the basic principles of guitar playing and songwriting, which they then used to develop songs and lyrics both individually and as a group.  The class culminated with inmates recording their musical compositions and performing a full-length musical to an audience of prison and non-prison personnel.  In the honored tradition of “Each one Teach One,” some of those inmates are now teaching others.

“I Can’t Breathe” features an accompanying music video.

Sat, 01/09/2021 - 1:59 pm

Alan Bibey & Grasstowne is set to deliver Hitchhiking to California this month; the group’s debut project on Billy Blue Records.

Pre-orders for the highly-anticipated album are live today, January 8, 2021. The album will be released on January 29th.

Hitchhiking to California is the group’s 6th recorded project; its first on Nashville’s booming, young bluegrass label, Billy Blue Records. The project features 11 tracks, including the chart-topping title cut, which was released to radio in the Fall of 2020. The song reached #1 on the Bluegrass Today Weekly Airplay Chart.

Of the title cut and its successful reception, Bibey says, “That song was strong 35 years ago and it holds up today. I’m really happy with how it came out. This lineup is just the right group of killer players and singers for the new version, and I was ecstatic to see it top the Bluegrass Today chart.”

A second radio release, “Blue Collar Blues,” will hit radio airwaves on Friday, January 15th.

Leader of the band, Alan Bibey, is a multi-award winning and Grammy nominated artist known for his exceptional mandolin mastery. He is joined by Justin Jenkins on banjo, Zak McLamb on bass and vocals, Tony Watt on guitar, Kati Penn on fiddle and vocals, Ron Stewart on guitar and fiddle, and Patrick M’Gonigle on vocals. The multi-award winning duo of Darin & Brooke Aldridge guests on the track, “Daddy and Me.”

Although the group is generally considered a contemporary band, Bibey grew up on traditional music, and his dedication to the genre shines through, whether on an inspirational song, or a driving, upbeat track.

“I’ve thought about a concept or theme album, but our goal here was just to make a great bluegrass album and we chose songs with that in mind,” Bibey says.

First hitting the scene in the early 1980’s, Alan has earned a reputation as one of the most creative and technically gifted mandolinists in bluegrass and acoustic music. He was an original member of the groundbreaking bands The New Quicksilver, IIIrd Tyme Out, and BlueRidge. For nearly a decade now, he’s fronted Alan Bibey & Grasstowne. Alan won the SPBGMA “Mandolin Performer of The Year” award for 2007, 2009 and 2010. He won the IBMA “Instrumental Album of the Year” in 2001, “Album of the Year” in 2006, “Recorded Event” in 2012 and SPBGMA “Album of the Year” in 2008. Alan took home back to back 2019 and 2020 IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year honors and the 2020 SPBGMA Mandolin Performer of the Year. His band Alan Bibey & Grasstowne took home the 2020 IBMA Gospel Recording of the Year.

Hitchhiking to California

Bibey signed with Billy Blue Records in early 2020. “It’s been such a good experience,” Alan says. “Everyone is so interested and involved. It’s a great team, and working together has been a total pleasure.”

Among his many accolades, Alan was included in the Mel Bay book, “Greatest Mandolin Players Of The Twentieth Century,”and in 2004, the Gibson Company put into production the Alan Bibey Signature line of mandolins. Quite simply, Alan Bibey is one of the most influential mandolin players in bluegrass and acoustic music history, with an ever-growing string of hit singles and albums. Hitchhiking to California continues the tradition.

Hitchhiking to California is available for pre-order through the artist website and online everywhere great music is sold, including Amazon

Sun, 02/07/2021 - 9:25 am

Cory Keefe is among that new wave of country traditionalists making a big noise with a new generation of music fans. Coming from the Gulf Coast of Florida, which may well be known as Music Row South, Keefe is country newcomer, but an experienced balladeer. Today, he releases his debut single, “Where There’s A Beer There’s A Way,” a preview track from his forthcoming independent album.

A guitar picker and gifted singer, Cory Keefe is unabashedly country in his style and delivery. The self-taught musician was influenced by parents who are also talented singers. Along with his twin brother, Cory often participated in talent shows and other live music events, with a rising passion for music that continues to drive Cory’s ambition.

Cory cites influences including Daryle Singletary, Kevin Denney, and the late Keith Whitley among those he admires and emulates. His own style is rooted in tradition, with a modern twist. His eclectic taste runs from Merle Haggard to rock music and even pop artists like Ed Sheeran, but as a singer, Keefe has a heart for pure country.

He began performing professionally after high school, along the Gulf Coast, and has performed several appearances in Nashville. When he takes the stage, it is clear that Cory is right at home, sharing songs that range from ballads to party songs; always entertaining and always connecting in a meaningful way with his audience.

Cory was among the artists who performed at Nashville’s CMA Theatre at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum for the 2019 Keith Whitley Memorial Show. Cory found himself on a stellar roster that included Garth Brooks, Joe Diffie, Joe Nichols, Ricky Skaggs, Tracy Lawrence, Mark Wills and more. Lorrie Morgan and Jesse Keith Whitley co-hosted the event, and Cory’s performance brought the audience to its feet, prompting emcee and legendary broadcaster, Bill Cody, to keep Cory onstage to chat and give the crowd a chance to get to know the young singer even better.

His life is as authentic as the music he makes. Cory is grounded and solid; happy to simply sing, play and inspire audiences as honky tonkers and country troubadours have inspired him. Like everyone in the industry, Cory Keefe is eager for the touring world to open back up for live music and touring once again. Until then, Cory has put the finishing touches on a debut album, set for release in 2021.

“Where There’s A Beer There’s A Way” is available now wherever great music is sold or streamed.

Sat, 05/08/2021 - 1:46 pm

The Rockabilly Artists Alliance has announced the launch of The Rockabilly Rumble Original Song Contest, a global song competition open to unsigned artists and songwriters worldwide. The winning song will be awarded a studio session with Rockabilly icon and Stray Cats drummer, Slim Jim Phantom, [pictured] and more.

The Rockabilly Artists Alliance has teamed up with top producers, digital event specialists, and legendary music icons to present the biggest online Rockabilly original song competition ever. The Rockabilly Rumble is now accepting original song submissions through its online portal. Submissions will be accepted through June 21, 2021, and a selection committee will then choose 16 finalists for a single-elimination bracket tournament. The competition will then be open to public fan voting to determine the winners of the head-to-head battles.

“The newly formed Rockabilly Artists Alliance honors the roots and history of Rockabilly and the Rockabilly Rumble is great way to highlight artists and songwriters who continue to preserve the Rockabilly style,” says Jeff Cole, Executive Director of the RAA.

Billed as “an epic search for the world’s best new rockabilly song,” the online contest will pit songs entered against one another in a multi-week contest. In cooperation with Blow Your Mind Productions, The contest is open to unsigned artists and songwriters worldwide and requires the entry of one original song. There is no cost to enter. A panel of celebrities will critique the Top 16 finalists, but ultimately it is fans who will choose the winners by a public, online vote. To date, the panel is expected to include Slim Jim Phantom of Stray Cats (who also serves on the RAA Advisory Board); living legend and guitar master, James Burton; versatile, multi-award-winning singer/songwriter Lorrie Morgan; and a popular singer from Broadway to Vegas and beyond, Bucky Heard of the new Righteous Brothers.

The grand prize includes a recording session, produced by Slim Jim Phantom, to record and master the winning song. Full competition rules and regulations are available on The Rockabilly Rumble Original Song Contest website.

The Rockabilly Artists Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring and preserving the legacy and lasting cultural influence of Rockabilly music; one of American music’s most unique styles. The organization has plans for a Hall of Fame Museum to recognize the music makers and the personalities; those who pioneered the music and those who perpetuate the sound and culture today.'

“Rockabilly has never lost its edge,” Cole says. “We want to shine a well-deserved light on this great music and culture. It’s fun and vibrant and just plain cool.”

Fri, 08/13/2021 - 2:42 pm

The Rockabilly Artists Alliance has announced the finalists in The Rockabilly Rumble Original Song Contest, a global song competition open to unsigned artists and songwriters worldwide (where not prohibited). Entries came from more than 20 countries for the online competition. The winning song will be awarded a studio session with Rockabilly icon and Stray Cats drummer, Slim Jim Phantom, [pictured] and more. In a bracketed, head-to-head … or song-to-song … competition, the field has narrowed to the 2 final songs.
 
Finalist songs are “Billy Rockabilly” (Songwriters: Jared Petteys and Daniel L. Johnson) and “Wreckin' Ball” (Songwriters: Ray Noel, Chrystine Polzin and Greg Polzin). Worldwide, public voting opens at 3pm Eastern Time on Monday, August 16th (where not prohibited), and closes at 3pm Eastern Time on Thursday, August 19th. The grand prize winner will be announced August 20th.
 
 The Rockabilly Artists Alliance teamed up with top producers, digital event specialists, and legendary music icons to present the biggest online Rockabilly original song competition ever. The Rockabilly Rumble began accepting submissions in April through its online portal, and a selection committee of industry executives chose the 16 finalists for a single-elimination bracket tournament. The competition opened to public fan voting in mid-July.
 
Billed as “an epic search for the world’s best new rockabilly song,” the online contest pits songs entered against one another in a multi-week contest. In cooperation with Blow Your Mind Productions, the contest was open to unsigned artists and songwriters worldwide and required the entry of one original song.
 
A panel of celebrities critiqued the Top 16 finalists, but ultimately it is fans who will choose the winners by a public, online vote. The panel included Slim Jim Phantom of Stray Cats (who will produce the winning song); living legend and guitar master, James Burton; Bucky Heard of the new Righteous Brothers; and versatile, multi-award-winning singer/songwriter and Grand Ole Opry member, Lorrie Morgan.
 
“The newly formed Rockabilly Artists Alliance honors the roots and history of Rockabilly and the Rockabilly Rumble is a great way to highlight artists and songwriters who continue to preserve the Rockabilly style,” says Jeff Cole, Executive Director of the RAA.
 
The Rockabilly Artists Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring and preserving the legacy and lasting cultural influence of Rockabilly music; one of American music’s most unique styles. The organization has plans for a Hall of Fame Museum to recognize the music makers and the personalities; those who pioneered the music and those who perpetuate the sound and culture today.
 
“Rockabilly has never lost its edge,” Cole says. “We want to shine a well-deserved light on this great music and culture. It’s fun and vibrant and just plain cool.”
 
Here are the TWO (2) FINALISTS in the ROCKABILLY RUMBLE ORIGINAL SONG CONTEST. The contest garnered entries from more than 20 countries.

Check out the songs and the competition! www.therockabillyrumble.com

Wed, 07/20/2022 - 6:10 am

A group of fervent fans and industry friends of the late Keith Whitley have launched a crowd-sourcing campaign to erect a monument in his honor.

The truly remarkable singer is being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame this year. Thirty-two years after his passing, Whitley’s music remains as popular and influential as ever, with some of today’s top artists continuing to point to Whitley as the source of their inspiration and style.

“My family and I are so happy at the prospect of seeing this monument in Keith’s honor,” Lorrie Morgan says. “I would be so moved to see it installed the same year that he is finally made a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, and I’m deeply touched by those who care so deeply about Keith’s memory and legacy.”

The weeping angel design is befitting the memory of one of the greatest singers of all time, according to the fund organizers. Several of those backing the plan were also instrumental in the 2019 concert event in Nashville that marked the 30th anniversary of Whitley’s passing.

With the approval and cooperation of Lorrie Morgan, Jesse Keith Whitley, Morgan Whitley and Conway Entertainment Group, organizers have established a dedicated bank account, overseen by Lorrie Morgan Entertainment, for the effort. All funds raised will go directly toward the cost to create and install this beautiful monument honoring the life and legacy of Keith Whitley.

An IndieGoGo campaign has been launched for the monument in Keith’s honor at his final resting place at Springhill Cemetery in Madison, Tennessee. A variety of benefits are offered for donors who participate at various levels, including collectibles, memorabilia, hats, t-shirts, recorded music, and even live, private concert events. A limited number of donors may receive admission to the official medallion ceremony in Nashville when Keith Whitley (along with Jerry Lee Lewis and Joe Galante) is inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame