Country and bluegrass trio of brothers, Flat River Band, have created a magical and moving video to promote, “Helplessly Hoping” previously recorded by Crosby, Stills, & Nash. The tune is included on the band's recently released five-song EP, Sights and Sounds, by brothers Chad, Dennijo and Andy Sitze (collectively known as Flat River Band). Premieres throughout the day aired on Audidio, Aim Country Music Television, Center Stage Magazine and Nashville Country TV and are being featured on popular streaming and online platforms in upcoming weeks. The video was recorded, produced and edited by videographer, Mark Nicolosi, in a cave in Wrigley, Tennessee. Watch the video on their official artist YouTube Channel.

“The brothers and I have always been fans of Crosby, Stills, & Nash, said Chad Sitze. “We just love those harmonies. We picked the tempo up a little, put some mean steel guitar on it and changed the phrasing a little. It was very important to us while working this song up to record that we did not want to change or take away from the integrity of the song itself.”

“A few years ago a friend of mine showed me this cave in Wrigley, Tennessee while we were riding our UTV’s on the back country roads of Hickman county and I have always thought it would be a real unique place to capture a music video,” added Dennijo.

"We bought a little more than 200 candles, although we did not use them all, but we just wanted to be prepared. The candles were placed at the direction of the videographer, Mark Nicolosi. A friend of ours made the candle stands, we borrowed a generator, and we brought a cooler full of Red Bulls along with a coffee maker. Mark wanted the brothers and I to commit to him until Sunrise, we went in the cave at 3:30pm on a Saturday afternoon and walked out at 3:30am Sunday morning. We were all exhausted, but we all felt like we captured some magic there in Wrigley, Tennessee,” shared Andy.

"This is the third music video I have directed and shot with Flat River Band. I am a friend and a fan, and I am always humbled when someone asks me to do this. When they talked about shooting in this cave that they knew about, I thought it could be interesting. I knew it would be a performance piece wherever we shot it. When the idea of lighting it with candles came up, I was intrigued. I knew it would be a challenge because the only way to do that properly was to get rid of the sunlight so, we had to shoot deep into the night. You will notice that the camera moves pretty much all the time. That’s because the song does. One of the things I love about working with these guys is that their performance is always solid and just what the song needs,” stated videographer-Mark Nicolosi.

Sights and Sounds is available on their website as well as all digital music platforms at http://smarturl.it/sightsandsounds

Sights and Sounds Track Listing:
1. Ain’t a Woman Like a River - Chad Sitze / John Colgin
2. I Just Wish You Were Someone I Love - Larry Wayne Gatlin
3. The River Song - Chad Sitze / Dennijo Sitze / Andy Sitze
4. Shining Through My Window - Chad Sitze
5. Helplessly Hoping - Stephen Stills

GRAMMY® winning singer/songwriter, John Berry, has released a video and the single “All Come Together” co-written by award-winning songwriter, Chuck Jones. The project is being released to radio in an effort to support the recent Eastern KY flooding. John Berry called on his friends Keb' Mo', Collin Raye, John Oates, Casey James, Bryan White, John Cowan, Darin and Brooke Aldridge, Heidi Newfield (Trick Pony), Dave Innis and Paul Gregg (Restless Heart) and Mike Farris to join him in the studio to record the uplifting song. CDX Nashville is distributing the song to radio along with the supporting video created by Jeff Moseley of CMJ Productions. An awareness campaign promotion utilizing the power of social media has been launched referencing #allcometogether-kystrong.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has established the Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund to assist those impacted by the floods and the severe weather system that impacted KY residents and businesses on July 26, 2022. All donations to the Team Eastern Kentucky Flood Relief Fund are tax-deductible and donors will receive a receipt for tax purposes after donating. If you wish to donate to the Flood Relief Fund, please click here https://secure.kentucky.gov/FormServices/Finance/EKYFloodRelief

“Robin and I wanted to do something to help the victims of Eastern KY and the state with clean-up efforts and much-needed essentials,” reflected John Berry. “ I wrote this song with my buddy Chuck Jones in September of 2017 after the hurricanes hit in Texas and I hope it encourages you to donate your time volunteering or give money to help."

Co-writer Chuck Jones added, “John Berry, and I got together to write a song one late summer day in 2017, we’d been watching footage of Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Louisiana that weekend before. We felt compelled to write about that devastation. When we played the song for John’s wife, Robin, she had the great idea to use the song to help raise funds for the victims of that flood, as well as the victims of Hurricanes Irma and Maria. The resulting recording and video of “All Come Together” brought together over a dozen country, pop and gospel artists, videographers, studios, and engineers, all donating their time and talents to that cause. The recent tragic flooding in eastern Kentucky has, for so many, meant the loss of everything they had. So it seemed like the right thing to resurrect our song and video as a fundraiser for those unfortunate folks. I feel privileged to be a part of any healing it might bring!”

“It was such an honor for me, to have been a part of this incredible song and video with John and so many fantastic artists. A strong reminder that natural disasters continue to happen, and typically, when they do, it brings out the very best in people! That is certainly the case in this situation. It is my sincere hope and prayer, that this project will help rally people to come to the aid of their neighbor and support and bless, the flood victims of the great State of Kentucky," stated Collin Raye.

"When my manager, Brian Smith, called me to ask if I would participate in a song to benefit the 2017 Hurricane Harvey flood victims I was all in. Now that another flooding disaster just hit my beloved Kentucky. It just felt right to resurrect this powerful song and video and share it again in hopes it will compel people to pitch in to help, as volunteers or with whatever contributions they can offer," shared John Cowan.

“Our hearts break from seeing the devastation from the recent flooding in eastern Kentucky. No one can understand how scary and powerful Mother Nature can be until you have experienced her first-hand. We are sending many thoughts and prayers to all those affected during this most difficult time. In times of trouble, music can bring comfort and hope. A couple of years ago, we were fortunate to collaborate with John Berry on the recording of “All Come Together,” a song he wrote with Chuck Jones in the aftermath of flooding that devastated parts of Texas, Louisiana and Florida. As the song says, we know that the people of eastern Kentucky will likewise “All Come Together” and look to each other to find strength through the storms. We hope this song will bring some comfort and encourage people to help in the recovery in whatever way they can,” shared Darin and Brooke Aldridge.

GRAMMY® winning artist, Jeannie Seely, celebrated her 55th year anniversary of being a member of the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday, September 17th in grand style. During her 55-year membership, Jeannie Seely has never left the Opry or missed a year of performing on the coveted Opry stage. She has become known for the many firsts during her long-lasting and extensive career, including the honor of becoming the first artist from her home state of Pennsylvania to become an Opry member and one of her proudest accomplishments of being the first female to regularly host segments on the show. Along with Jack Greene, they were the first artists to record a live album at the Opry house. One of the most controversial was when she was the first to walk on stage wearing a mini-skirt which led to allowing other performers to wear what they chose to wear on the Opry stage and one of the most requested was the opportunity to introduce numerous up and coming artists for their debut performance, which she did again on Saturday with the introduction of Chapel Hart for their first Opry moment.

Another first for Seely on Saturday night was the recognition by Vice President and Executive Producer of the Grand Ole Opry, Dan Rogers and Director of Opry Talent, Gina Keltner, for holding the record of most performances on the Opry stage during the 97-year history of the show with over 5000 performances, a feat no other artist has ever achieved. This is a number that will continue to climb as she welcomes the fans as she walks onto the stage to entertain them with her wit and perform the songs audiences from around the world recognize. Watch the presentation here.

As she welcomed the crowd Saturday night, she proudly stated, “This is such a special night. I don’t even know what to say,” shared Seely. “I’m just enjoying every second of it, and I will never take it for granted when I come through the Opry doors. I was thinking maybe I should wear a gown for this special occasion and then I thought, you know, if they are not impressed with me after 55 years a gown ain’t gonna do it now! But I didn’t come here 55 years ago to impress you, I came to entertain you.”

The celebration did not end as the red velvet curtain closed, but continued at The Troubador in Music Valley where Ms. Seely hosted the return of the Ernest Tubb Midnite Jamboree for the first time since it closed in May 2021. The event was filled with family, friends, fans, artists and music industry VIPS to show support and commemorate the return of the long-running show as well as celebrate Seely’s successful career. Performers joining her on this monumental evening included Mark Wills, Sunny Sweeney, Dallas Wayne, Diane Berry and Joe Wade Smith, Moore & Moore as special guests.

Two very special honors were made to Ms. Seely during the special evening recognizing her for her many career accomplishments and community involvement. A Legislative Proclamation signed by Governor Bill Lee and presented by Bill Beck and a Resolution from the Metropolitan Council and Davidson County signed by Jeff Syracuse and Larry Hagar was presented by former Vice President and legal counsel for NES, Gene Ward.

“Thank you to the treasured Grand Ole Opry for allowing me to enter that special backstage entrance, occupy the Minnie Pearl dressing room, cover that famous stage and stand in the hallowed circle. I think you should find something you have a passion for in life and embrace it. I found the Grand Ole Opry!” exclaimed Jeannie Seely.

“Every single one of us at the Opry is indebted to Jeannie Seely (it feels strange not to refer to her simply as “Seely”), for so much, including her music, her wit and wisdom, and her genuine commitment to this show she loves. 55 years and 5,000+ performances later, she’s better than ever. Thanks, Seely,” shared Vice President and Executive Producer of the Grand Ole Opry, Dan Rogers.

“We were truly excited to have Jeannie be the host for the return of the Midnite Jamboree. All the history surrounding this show and her wanting to be a part really means a lot!  To have someone as deeply rooted in the business be as passionate about the Jamboree is a great honor for us and the country music family,” expressed Ernest Dale Tubb III.

"We were so excited to have The Ernest Tubb Midnite Jamboree back at The Troubadour!” exclaimed owner, Rodney Collins. “Jeannie Seely hosting and celebrating her 55th year as a Grand Ole Opry member for this night, truly made the Jamboree historical again. This was such an honor."

Alabama co-founder, Jeff Cook, has passed away at age 73, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2012. Along with cousins Randy Owen and Teddy Gentry, he co-founded the band Wild Country in 1972, which became Alabama in 1977. Cook contributed lead guitar, vocals, fiddle and keyboard to the group’s productions, which rose to prominence in the late 1970s and ‘80s with a string of hits. In addition to his performance work, Cook founded Cook Sound Studios, Inc. in Fort Payne and established WQRX-AM in Valley Head, AL. He was inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame in 2019, and Alabama is a 2005 inductee to the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Arrangements for Cook’s celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Jeff And Lisa Cook Foundation (P.O. Box 680067, Fort Payne, AL 35968) or via the foundation website HERE.

Friends and colleagues in the Nashville music community shared their thoughts on Jeff Cook’s passing:

“We’re absolutely heartbroken to hear of the death of our old friend Jeff Cook, after bravely dealing with a debilitating illness over the last few years. He was a great musician and singer, but most importantly, a wonderful, charitable person. Our thoughts go out to Lisa and to Randy, Teddy and all of his Alabama ‘family.’ Rest in peace.”–Exile

“Such sad news today with the passing of Jeff Cook. Many years ago, Jack Greene and I were asked to judge a talent contest, not something I’m comfortable with as I don’t feel qualified to ever judge another talent. However, we chose the group that became Alabama. We shared a lot of laughs about that and I joked I would never judge another contest as I was gonna quit a winner. Jeff was such an integral part of the group, both on and off stage. He was a talented musician and singer, but he also had the personality to connect with friends and fans alike.  My heart is heavy tonight.”–Jeannie Seely

“Some of my best times in country music were while sharing the stage with Jeff Cook. I had a wonderful opportunity to open for Jeff and the band many years ago. Whenever I would run into him he would always mention me being on the show with them back in Atlanta in the mid-80s. He was very kind to remember what was probably a very small thing to him and the band. Alabama, but it was such a huge thing for this country boy. Godspeed, Jeff.”–John Berry

“I grew up on the music of Alabama. It was my first introduction to country music. Alabama just has IT, and it was a highlight of my career to interview Jeff. What a lasting impact he has made on music and our country. Words can’t express how influential Alabama has been to so many lives - including mine. He was always friendly and kind.”–Megan Alexander

“Alabama, a four-piece band (I love four-piece bands), turned country music around with their mix of rock and country. It was like the Beatles. It had to be those four to make that unique sound. Jeff, to me, was the George Harrison of Alabama. He always had great guitar licks that gave each song its own identity. Those four guys made music and magic. Thank you, Jeff.”–Kent Blazy

"Jeff Cook was one of the most talented, well-rounded multi-instrument musicians in country music. Alabama was the first concert I ever attended as a kid and I knew that's what I wanted to do one day. He gave Alabama such a unique sound and his contributions were unparalleled. My thoughts and prayers go out to Jeff's family as well as the entire Alabama family. It's a very sad day in country music and he will be sorely missed."–Heidi Newfield
“Jeff Cook of Alabama will truly be missed. He was a true inspiration in our musical journey. He is playing guitar and singing in Heaven’s Angel Band.”–Flat River Band

“My family and I are so sorry to hear about Jeff's passing. Alabama was a staple in our house while I was growing up. They were even my momma's first concert when she was a teenager! Jeff's talents will live on through his music, but he will be truly missed.”–Dallas Remington

"Some of my fondest memories from growing up on the ball field-and the soundtrack of my life before I moved to Nashville-was set to music that wouldn't exist if not for Jeff Cook. Every time we won a big game, we would turn the dial up to eleven and blast one of their songs through the locker room speakers. When music molds with core memory, that's when you know something really special is going on. Country music lost a great one today. It is with a heavy heart that the Nashville community will continue on with the CMAs this week, but I can think of no better send-off to honor Jeff than keeping that dial turned up to eleven all week long."–Bryan Ruby

"Jeff Cook was one of the most talented, well-rounded multi-instrument musicians in country music. Alabama was the first concert I ever attended as a kid and I knew that's what I wanted to do one day. He gave Alabama such a unique sound and his contributions were unparalleled. My thoughts and prayers go out to Jeff's family as well as the entire Alabama family. It's a very sad day in country music and he will be sorely missed."–Jason Brownie

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Jeff Cook. Cook’s music played a huge part in shaping the artist that I am today. The first song I ever sang in public at three years old was ‘Angels Among Us’ by Alabama and it forever changed my life by helping me to realize that being a Country Artist was what I wanted to do with my life. Thankful for his inspiration, his songs and his passion for music. He will forever live on through it all. Prayers to all of his friends and family.”–Dani-elle Kleha

Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass emerge as a vibrant and captivating young bluegrass ensemble deeply rooted in their West Kentucky origins with Grand Ole Opry legend Jeannie Seely, a CMA and GRAMMY® award-winning artist and on-air host on Sirius XM Willie’s Roadhouse as producer on their new music project. The first single off the project, “Mamas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys” is a cover of the mega-hit with a bluegrass twist and has showcased the talent of the young aspiring artists. With a sound that pays homage to the rich heritage of bluegrass while injecting fresh and dynamic energy, Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass are poised to capture the hearts of listeners with their new music.

Stream and download the music now on all digital music platforms HERE.

Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass shared, “The idea for a bluegrass cut of “Mamas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys” came from Jeannie Seely. We laughed amongst ourselves about recording it, but after we sat down and hit those first few notes, everything clicked.’ As the country song soon became bluegrass, and our own little twist fell together, we couldn’t help but love it. What a fun song to record and play in our live shows; it has become a crowd favorite and hopefully to be a favorite of yours!”

“From the moment I met this young group, I knew there was something special about them, and that was before I heard their music! Their talent alone may take them to the top, but with their personalities, dedication, work, and dress ethic, there’s no question they will make it,” exclaimed producer and Grand Ole Opry legend Jeannie Seely.

“cowboys ain't easy to love, and they're harder to hold
they'd rather give you a song than diamonds or gold
lone star belt buckles and old faded levi's
and each night begins a new day
if you don't understand him, and he don't die young
he'll probably just ride away
 
mamas, don't let your babies grow up to be cowboys
don't let 'em pick guitars or drive them old trucks
let 'em be doctors and lawyers and such
mamas, don't let your babies grow up to be cowboys
'cause they'll never stay home, and they're always alone
even with someone they love …”

“Mamas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys” was produced by Jeannie Seely with mastering by John Nicholson at Hilltop Recording Studio in Nashville. Vocals on the songs are performed by Cutter Singleton and Cash Singleton, and studio musicians on the project included Cutter Singleton and Lily Goebel (rhythm guitar), Noah Goebel (fiddle), Brennan Cruce (bass), Cash Singleton (mandolin) and Cutter Singleton (banjo).

Stay current with Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass on their website and by following them on Facebook. Subscribe to the Official YouTube Channel to watch his latest videos. Download and stream the music on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Pandora, YouTube Music and more.

About Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass:

Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass emerge as a vibrant and captivating young bluegrass ensemble deeply rooted in their West Kentucky origins. Positioned in the heartland of bluegrass music, their passion extends far beyond state borders, earning them national acclaim through performances that span coast to coast. This dynamic duo is more than just the industry's youth; they are consummate professionals, skilled instrumentalists, and captivating vocalists who infuse every performance with infectious enthusiasm.

Dressed impeccably and always ready to put on a spectacular show, Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass are poised to satiate your craving for a top-notch musical experience. Their love for playing music resonates unmistakably, creating an atmosphere inviting audiences to an immersive and unforgettable journey through bluegrass traditions.

Jeannie Seely, a CMA and Grammy Award winner and a revered 56-year legend of the Grand Ole Opry, has produced their latest project in an exciting collaboration. This project attests to the group's commitment to excellence and eagerness to explore new heights in their musical journey.

The ensemble's newest single, "Mamas Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up to Be Cowboys," has been making waves on radio and streaming platforms. With a sound that pays homage to the rich heritage of bluegrass while injecting fresh and dynamic energy, Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass are poised to capture the hearts of listeners with their latest record.

Get ready for an authentic bluegrass experience as this young music group showcases their prowess and passion. With their music resonating on the airwaves and streaming platforms, the stage is set for an exciting chapter in the journey of this talented and dynamic group. Brace yourself because here comes the irresistible sound of Cutter & Cash and The Kentucky Grass!