APA Nashville artist and global phenomenon Jake Shimabukuro will make his national broadcast debut with the PBS premiere of JAKE SHIMABUKURO: LIFE ON FOUR STRINGS tonight at 9 p.m. ET/PT (check local listings).  A production of The Center for Asian American Media and Pacific Islanders in Communications, this compelling documentary directed by Tadashi Nakamura, rich with performance footage, profiles Jake's evolution and resonates with his native Hawaiian Aloha spirit.Already popular in his native Hawaii and Japan where he'd spent a decade touring, Jake was virtually unknown on the American mainland, making it difficult to convince the music industry that true magic could be brought forth by a solo ukulele player.  Today, known as the "rock star of the ukulele," Jake has redefined the world's perception of the instrument, garnering accolades from the likes of Eddie Vedder, Perez Hilton and Dr. Sanjay Gupta.  He has been declared a musical "hero" by Rolling Stone, while amazing audiences from Kimmel to Conan and even the Queen of England.  His solo concerts fill symphony halls and his fans range from pre-schoolers to octogenarians, crossing boundaries between cutting edge hipsters and high-brow arts patrons alike.  Tastemakers have even compared his fearless performances and unflagging energy to rock legend Jimi Hendrix and Jazz trumpeter Miles Davis.An impromptu performance at Central Park captured on video has received more than 11 million views on YouTube.   The eclectic mix of his music ranges from classical to pop to traditional Hawaiian and Jazz.  For more information, touring schedule and more, go to http://jakeshimabukuro.com/ and follow Jake on Facebook and Twitter.

APA Nashville has signed Bluegrass superstar duo Dailey & Vincent to their roster, it was announced today by APA's Cass Scripps.  The duo, celebrating its five-year anniversary, has earned two Grammy nominations, three consecutive IBMA (International Bluegrass Music Association) Awards for "Entertainer of the Year" and three awards for "Vocal Group of the Year," respectively, and over 40 other awards and honors.  They have multiple #1's and currently have two albums in the Top 10 on the Billboard charts."I am thrilled to have the opportunity to represent the award-winning and multi-talented Dailey & Vincent.  Adding them to our roster will open many exciting doors of opportunity in the future," comments Scripps.Dailey & Vincent's current single, "Steel Drivin' Man," was the #1 most-played song on Bluegrass Today's monthly chart in April and marked Jamie Dailey's first #1 as a songwriter. The video premiered on CMT Pure and remains an ongoing top-trending clip.  Their new CD, BROTHERS OF THE HIGHWAY, is currently #2 on the Billboard Bluegrass Albums Chart.  In addition, THE GOSPEL SIDE OF DAILEY & VINCENT is currently sitting at #7 in its 69th week of activity on the Billboard Gospel Albums Chart.

"The Pickup" sails into February with another star-studded episode that features artist insights from the 2016 Country Music Cruise, an exclusive interview with Lorrie Morgan, a tribute to The Eagles' Glenn Frey, performance footage of Whoopi Goldberg with Hank Williams Jr., plus major news on other Country headliners.

Released to participating broadcast outlets today, the news and entertainment program goes in-depth with Morgan as she discusses her upcoming CD, LETTING GO ... SLOW.  Her first solo release in five years promises personal reflection, emotion and never-before-heard songs. "The Pickup" was on hand as The Gatlin Brothers were inducted into the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame; the siblings thanked the "real" cowboys with hats in hand.  Whoopi Goldberg and Hank Jr. set aside political differences to join together on "Wrapped Up, Tangled Up In Jesus" from Williams' highest-charting studio release to date, IT'S ABOUT TIME.  Keifer and Shawna Thompson of Thompson Square welcomed baby boy Rigney Cooper Thompson to the world last week, while Big & Rich celebrated 12 years of hits and back-to-back Top 10s from their current CD, GRAVITY, with a party at Rich's "Mount Richmore." In addition, Leroy Van Dyke was honored for his 60-plus year career by Missouri state senator Mike Parson, and gave auctioneering tips to viewers.  Kenny Rogers, The Oak Ridge Boys, Randy Owens and The Bellamy Brothers shared a quick preview from the 2016 Country Music Cruise.  Full celebrity interviews and more coverage from the Cruise will appear on upcoming episodes.

Click HERE to watch "The Pickup"

"The Pickup" is steadily winning new viewers by taking them behind-the-scenes at television tapings, concerts, festivals and special events, reporting news and creating fun features involving the stars of country music.  New episodes can be enjoyed on the 1st and 15th of every month on major broadcasters' websites, various media sites and SKY TV's CM&T program and Sandy Zimmerman's Las Vegas Television Network.

Previous episodes of "The Pickup" include a one-on-one conversation with Dolly Parton, tour bus visits with Kelsea Ballerini and Joe Nichols, the George Jones Museum opening, a visit to "Larry's Country Diner" and much more.

Kentucky Bluegrassers NewTown bring hard-traveled backroad tales to life on their new CD, HARLAN ROAD (Mountain Home Music Company).  Produced by multi-Grammy Award winner Barry Bales, the 11-track outing, due in stores on July 8, combines fresh, down-to-earth songs, complex instrumentation and mesmerizing vocals that offer listeners a feast for the senses.  

Fans can pre-order the CD now on iTunes.

The Lexington-based band is fronted by award-winning fiddler Kati Penn and her husband, Jr. Williams, a respected banjo player.  The two split lead vocal duties and present powerful performances on this moving musical journey.  Highlights abound and include Hayes Griffin's trailblazing instrumental "Feast Of The Gryphon" - an explosion of exquisite pickin' that jumps the groove in its intensity.  Kati slides to the sultry with her "old school" Rock-inflected take of Lucinda Williams' hit, "Can't Let Go" (written by Randy Weeks), brims with confidence on the Americana vibe of Sarah Siskind's "Wildfire," and haunts the hills and valleys with a stunning performance of Tyler Childers' magnificent, "The Crows And The Jakes."   The disc's title track, a minor-key miracle of loneliness and longing written again by Childers, is brought to life by Jr.'s gritty desperation, while the Bluegrass/Funk of his transcendent take on C.J. Cain's "Drifter Blues" proves his versatility.  On another Childers' composition, the banjo-laden "Hard Times," Williams brings the heartache of coal country to stark reality.

TRACK LISTING:

1.     All That I Can Take

2.     Can't Let Go

3.     Harlan Road

4.     The Heart You've Been Tending

5.     Hard Times

6.     The Feast Of The Gryphon

7.     The Crows And The Jakes

8.     Drifter Blues

9.     Wildfire

10. Castaway

11. Come Back To Me

Rounding out the band are Travis Anderson (bass), Mitchell Cannon (mandolin) and Hayes Griffin (guitar). Between them, they bring Jazz, Bluegrass and Contemporary disciplines to the music, completing the diverse and textured sound that is NewTown.  This highly-anticipated album will not disappoint.

Mountain Home Music Company announces new music from acclaimed husband/wife Bluegrass duo Darin and Brooke Aldridge.  FASTER AND FARTHER, their sixth CD for the label, is due in stores on February 10.  The first single is now available on iTunes with your pre-order purchase.  Fans can enjoy a "sneak peek" studio video below.

Darin and Brooke continue their musical journey as they drive forward with this ground-breaking new collection.  "Kingdom Come," the lead-off track, sets an edgier tone for the album and declares the band's musical mission.  This gas-up-and-go song is powered by Brooke's turbo-charged vocal and launched by the guitar work of the song's writer and one of the album's iconic special guests, Pat Flynn.

While not a thematic album, FASTER AND FARTHER, uses natural landmarks as metaphors for the heart and presents an inspiring project from masters of the genre. "Mountains Of Mississippi" spotlights the undeniable power of Brooke's vocal command complimented by guest vocalist and Country Music Hall of Famer, Vince Gill.  "This River" is an impressionistic spiritual ballad with Darin on lead vocal.  "Cumberland Plateau," written by John Cowan and Darrell Scott, syncs three-part harmony into a longing for heart and home.  Cowan brings his bass groove and trademark vocal to several cuts, including "Lila" from his days with New Grass Revival.  "Fit For A King" is one of several Gospel music inclusions that are an important part of the band's heart.  

Track List

1.  Kingdom Come (P. Flynn)                                  
2. Fit For A King (C. Jackson, J. Rushing)             
3. Highway Of Heartache (C. Jackson, J. Rushing)
4. This River (J. Cowan, D. Lowery)                      
5.  Someday Soon (I. Tyson)
6. Mountains In Mississippi (L. Shaffer, D. Duff, J. Fleenor)       
7. Eugene And Diane (C. Jackson)                          
8.  Lila (P. Flynn)                                                     
9. Still Falling (L. Shaffer, D. Duff)                       
10.  Sacred Lamb (Traditional)                                
11.  Cumberland Plateau (J. Cowan, J.D. Scott)      
12. Heaven Just Got Sweeter For You (J. Salley, D. Wilkinson)

Southern Halo, the young Country sibling trio from Mississippi that soared to national acclaim in 2016, has released a new single, "Living Like That."  As their radio team goes for adds today, the band announces their first tour of the U.K. with March dates in London, Nottingham, Manchester, Glasgow and Newcastle.  The tour enjoys the support of Gibson Guitars, Hilton Manchester Deansgate and Canary Riverside Plaza Hotel, and tickets are available now on the Southern Halo website.

18 March - LONDON, The Garage

19 March - NOTTINGHAM, Bodega

20 March - MANCHESTER, Gullivers

21 March - GLASGOW, Hug & Pint

22 March - NEWCASTLE, Jumpin' Jacks

"This is our first trip overseas," notes Natalia of Southern Halo.  "We are beyond excited and are thrilled to be able to bring our music to our fans in England and Scotland.  Life really is all about how you live it and we definitely plan to make the most of this experience."

The trio's infectious new single, "Living Like That," is a positive, upbeat reminder to live life to the fullest - and it's been adopted as the Southern Halo theme song for 2017.  Explains Natalia, "It's about being yourself, taking chances and not giving up on your dreams.  We are 'living' it this year and we hope that our fans absorb the energy from the song, and that it inspires them to remember to have a little fun, too."  Early believers include Jay Karl Jensen (Your Country Radio Syndications) who calls the track "Red Bull® infused" and KLAW-FM's Seth Coburn who notes the record is their station's "Catch of the Day."

The single, one of Play MPE's Top 20 "Most Streamed" tracks for two consecutive weeks, is available to radio via Play MPE.  "Living Like That" has already landed in the Top 10 on the International Hotdisc Chart and looks poised to follow the phenomenal success of the trio's debut single, "Little White Dress," which caught the attention of U.S. radio and enjoyed eight consecutive weeks at #1 on the Hotdisc Chart.  Their sophomore single, "Rewind," was a U.S. Top 40 MusicRow CountryBreakout™ Chart hit that also held the #1 spot on the Hotdisc Chart for two weeks.  The releases are from the group's SOUTHERN HALO CD, available for purchase on iTunes, Amazon.  "Living Like That" is available on Spotify.

Fans can look for a new music video soon, and radio can catch Southern Halo at next month's Country Radio Seminar.

ABOUT SOUTHERN HALO

Southern Halo is comprised of Natalia (principal songwriter, guitarist, lead vocalist), Christina (drums) and Hannah (bass).  The Morris sisters hail from Cleveland, Mississippi in the heart of the musically-diverse Delta region.  Since landing in the National finals of the 2014 Texaco Country Showdown, Southern Halo has risen from regional to national acclaim and opened for Maren Morris, Love and Theft, Brantley Gilbert, Eric Paslay, Tyler Farr, Parmalee, Old Dominion, American Young and B.B. King.  Their CD, SOUTHERN HALO, was produced by SESAC's 2012 Writer of the Year Catt Gravitt (Kelly Clarkson, Jake Owen) and Gerald O'Brien (writer of hits for Martina McBride, Trace Adkins).  Last year, they made their CMA Music Festival debut with appearances on two separate stages, were named Nashville Universe's Vocal Group of the Year 2016, performed at an elite pre-GRAMMY Awards show on the rooftop terrace of the GRAMMY Museum ® at LA Live in Los Angeles, launched Townsquare Media's "Say It With Pepsi" Concert Series, and performed during the syndicated 63rd Annual Piedmont Natural Gas Nashville Christmas Parade television show.  The band has forged partnerships with Gibson Guitar, Claire's, Vietti Chili and Radio Disney Country, and now hosts a weekly radio show, "Hangin' With Halo," stateside (Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi) on powerhouse WDMS-FM and globally on CMR Nashville.

Darin and Brooke Aldridge gear up for the February 10 release of their newest CD, FASTER AND FARTHER, introducing two fresh tracks to Bluegrass and Country fans via three online outlets.  The Boot premieres "Someday Soon," while Bluegrass Today spotlights the song.  A second tune, "Mountains In Mississippi," debuts on Roughstock.   The CD is from Mountain Home Music Company and fans can pre-order HERE now.  Radio can download the new disc via AirPlay Direct. 

Today's highlighted songs show the duo's talent is based upon diversity, insight and unequalled delivery.  Brooke is a longtime fan of Ian Tyson's classic "Someday Soon" (both Judy Collins' and Suzy Bogguss' versions).  She notes, "We've always played it around the house, but we'd never heard it done in a Bluegrass framework.  It seemed like a song folks would like to hear coming back around."  As for "Mountains In Mississippi," Jenee Fleenor (one of the song's writers) was so moved when she heard the finished recording that she had to sit down.  Fleenor recalls, "I was just blown away when I heard Darin and Brooke's version of the song.  Then to hear Vince Gill's incredible harmony added to the mix? So amazing!"

"Amazing" is exactly how Brooke has described the last few months.  "We had such an incredible time making this record," she recalls.  "So many remarkable writers and fellow artists lent us their talents and joy.  It's been a phenomenal experience."  Taking that experience - and the music forward -  is their goal for 2017, and Darin and Brooke are well on their way.  The couple returns tomorrow from The Country Music Cruise (Holland America Line m/s Oosterdam), and they'll be back on the road stateside with February shows in North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina and Georgia.

ABOUT Darin and Brooke

Husband and wife duo Darin and Brooke Aldridge hail from North Carolina and bring a touch of the hills to their rich harmonies and impeccable musicianship.  Their distinctive sound has made them one of the hottest acts in acoustic music today.  They have graced the top of the Americana/Roots, SiriusXM, Bluegrass and Gospel charts, received multiple nominations from the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA),the Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music of America (SPBGMA) and Inspirational Country Music (ICM).  The two have appeared on PBS, Great American Gospel, The Bluegrass Road, Presley's Country Jubilee, RFD-TV, Rural-TV, Daystar Network, Blue Highways TV, Song of the Mountains and Music City Roots to fan and critical acclaim.  Their previous CD, the still-popular SNAPSHOTS, debuted at the #8 spot on the Billboard Bluegrass Albums Chart and generated the engaging "Tennessee Flat Top Box" video that was featured on CMT, CMT Edge, GAC, Bluegrass Ridge TV and The Bluegrass Situation

Mike Aiken's new video, "Virginia," features a unique and personal view of the Commonwealth this singer/songwriter calls home.  "Virginia" is the latest single from Aiken's critically-acclaimed sixth studio album, CAPTAINS & COWBOYS, released on Northwind Records.

This should be our state song" -Paul Shugrue, NPR - WHRV, Norfolk, VA

With the warmth of Lightfoot, the earthiness of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and the unerring timing of Billy Joe Shaver, Aiken's vocals are uninhibited on the self-penned, sweetly vibrant "Virginia."  "It's a love affair," Aiken admits.  "This is my home and a special place to me.  She's beautiful, but just beneath the surface lies the story of a troubled past.  Look a little deeper and you can see and feel the pain of the Civil War's blue and gray; black and white.  It's part of what makes Virginia what she is.  It always sets my soul free to get back home," Mike adds.

The video was shot in a variety of locations, from graveyards to mountaintops to coastal beaches, but the Civil War cemeteries left a lasting impression on Mike and the crew.  "It was the first time I'd ever filmed in that type of location," Aiken reflects.  "When I looked at the tombstones, saw the names and where the soldiers were from, I felt their souls reaching out to me.  It gave me chills and inspired a sense of awe that I'd never felt before."

A well-traveled troubadour, Mike has always felt the pull of the past - and he admits that he sometimes feels as if he were born in the wrong century.  An inner sense of chivalry oozes from every track on CAPTAINS & COWBOYS.  A writer of enormous depth, Aiken knows whereof he speaks: he has lived on a sailboat for the past 20 years, sailed across oceans as a USCG-licensed captain, raised horses and made his living as a farrier.

Mike's upcoming CD, WAYWARD TROUBADOR, will be released this summer.  In the meantime, fans can follow his musical journey at MikeAikenMusic.com.

Singer/songwriter Rick Monroe breaks new ground with his May 12 release, GYPSY SOUL.  The six-track project shows Monroe's continued growth as a vocalist and the rich diversity of both his writing and performing.  Sean Giovanni (John Rich, Clint Black, Big & Rich) produced five of the tracks, while renowned engineer/producer JD Shuff (Collin Raye, CeCe Wynans) helmed one.  Fans can pre-order a personally-signed copy of the GYPSY SOUL EP now HERE.

Opening the disc is the groove-based first single, "This Side Of You."  Already resonating with radio and listeners alike, it debuted at #74 on the MusicRow CountryBreakout™ Chart last week.  Fans can preview the track now on Spotify.   A laid back, porch-swing attitude imbues the mid-tempo "Ease On Down" with a rare sweetness while paying homage to the simple pleasures of life and love.  "Better" offers dynamic instrumentation, a convincing vocal and soaring chorus to celebrate finding that special someone.  "Gypsy Soul" reflects Rick's own life journey and acknowledges the freedom found in living life like a rolling stone.  Monroe gets edgier on "Moment Like This," which features shredding guitars, a clear-as-a-bell mix and special intro vocal effects while asking "should I stay or should I go?"  The EP closes with "Rage On," a dynamic mix of 80s Outlaw and eternal Southern Gospel that highlights outstanding Hammond B-3 work, gritty "Muscle Shoals-esque" horns and Rick's memorable Blues-infused vocal.

Monroe is promoting the new EP with shows and radio station visits across the country - and loving every minute of it.   "I know everyone says this," observes the handsome vocalist.  "But I really do believe that this is the best music I've put out to date.  It's not a party album ... although there's nothing wrong with a good party," he adds with a laugh.  "Folks are really responding to the music - and that's what I live for."

Track Listing

  "This Side Of You" (Rick Monroe, Jason Duke, Ryan Griffin)

 "Better" (Rick Monroe, Eric Torres, Mike Freeman)

 "Ease On Down (Rick Monroe, Adam Craig, Michael Howard)

  "Gypsy Soul" (Rick Monroe)

  "Moment Like This" (Rick Monroe, Jay Brunswick, Gary Ray)

  "Rage On" (Rick Monroe, JD Shuff)

Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver bring unparalleled storytelling to fans on August 25 with the 12-track wonder LIFE IS A STORY.  Described by Lawson as a mix of Bluegrass styles "from the middle of the road to the very traditional," the album never strays from the heart of the genre.  "So much of what makes good Bluegrass and Country music compelling comes down to great songwriters - and the stories told in their songs," Lawson observes.  "Life itself is really a continuous story that embraces the beginning, the middle and inevitable ending."  LIFE IS A STORY, and here it is sweetly sung.  Fans can pre-order the digital release HERE.

Produced by Lawson and recorded in Sparta, Tennessee for Mountain Home Music Company, the new album features patriarch Doyle's signature Lead and Baritone vocals, Mandolin and Mandola, and includes members:  Josh Swift (Resophonic Guitar, Acoustic Lead Guitar and Percussion); Joe Dean (Banjo and Guitar); Dustin Pyrtle (Lead and Tenor vocals, Guitar); Eli Johnston (Lead and Baritone vocals, Bass) and Stephen Burwell (Fiddles).  It is a massive array of talent that forms a powerful - and immediately identifiable musical force.

TRACK LISTING

Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver bring a little more "Life To My Days" with the first radio release from their upcoming Mountain Home Music Company project, LIFE IS A STORY, due out August 25. Popular online destination The Boot will premiere the song today; fans can pre-order the digital album release HERE and receive "Life To My Days" as an instant "grat-track." Radio can access the single now via AirPlay Direct.

The uplifting message and rolling melody combine to showcase the timeless style of Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver. The band's nuanced ability and versatility is legendary, and Eli Johnston takes the lead vocal on "Life"- and owns it. Three top tunesmiths wrote the compelling song: Jerry Salley (2003 SESAC Songwriter of the Year and writer behind hits for Reba, Brad Paisley, Rhonda Vincent and more), Lee Black (prominent Southern Gospel writer and multiple Dove Award nominee) and Devin McGlamery (Dove Award Winner, successful singer/songwriter and lead vocalist for Ernie Haase & Signature Sound).

The song resonates with positivity as the protagonist vows to dedicate himself to giving more to each day instead of focusing on the limitations of life:

The tune's message immediately grabbed Doyle's attention. "I reached out to Jerry as soon as we started looking for songs for this project," Lawson notes. "He's been a favorite writer of mine for years, and a good friend. When I heard this, it really hit home for me. It's certainly good advice for us all."

For writer Salley, having DLQ record the song meant a lot. "As soon as we finished this song, my first thought was about how my friend, Doyle, is always moving ahead, never slowing down, adding 'life' to every single day," he recalls. "He was the first artist to hear the song, and he loved it. As writers, we couldn't have asked for a better interpretation of the song," Jerry adds. "It almost sounds like it was written for Eli's voice ... he sings it perfectly."

DOYLE LAWSON & QUICKSILVER Features patriarch Doyle's signature Lead and Baritone vocals, Mandolin and Mandola, DLQ includes Josh Swift (Resophonic Guitar, Acoustic Lead Guitar and Percussion); Joe Dean (Banjo and Guitar); Dustin Pyrtle (Lead and Tenor vocals, Guitar); Eli Johnston (Lead and Baritone vocals, Bass) and Stephen Burwell (Fiddles). With nearly 40 albums to their credit, the group has won numerous major awards, including seven International Bluegrass Music Association Vocal Group of the Year honors. For his contributions to cultural heritage as a musical trailblazer, Doyle received the National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Fellowship award in 2006, and was inducted into the Bluegrass Hall of Fame in 2012. DLQ is an influential force in today's Bluegrass world, and their last two releases (IN SESSION, BURDEN BEARER) received back-to-back Grammy nominations in 2016 and 2017, respectively.

Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver find their newest album, LIFE IS A STORY, greeted with early chart action, exclusive features, television appearances and laudatory reviews. The disc entered The Roots Music Report's Top 50 Bluegrass Album Chart at #31 last week, and the album's first single, "Life To My Days," debuts today on the Bluegrass Today Weekly Airplay Chart at #23. Fans can purchase the new music HERE now, and radio can access the band's current single, "Life To My Days," via AirPlay Direct.

Available today, The Grascals' newest album, BEFORE BREAKFAST, is heating up the charts and lighting a media fire. Fans can purchase the Mountain Home Music Company offering HERE; radio can access the new music via AirPlay Direct.

The Roots Music Report's Top 50 Bluegrass Album Chart shows BEFORE BREAKFAST holding the #6 slot, while their hot-as-fire new single, "Sleepin' With The Reaper," jumps to #10 on the Bluegrass Today Weekly Chart. 

Superstar songwriters Rafe Van Hoy, Marla Cannon-Goodman, Dale Dodson, Waylon Payne, Don Sampson and Ronnie Bowman will pay tribute to Hank Cochran and Red Lane at 3rd & Lindsley (816 3rd Ave. South) on Wednesday, January 17 to benefit The Hank Cochran Pen Fund.  Tickets are $10; doors open at 6 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30.  The 501(c)(3) charity focuses its efforts on financially assisting songwriters with cancer.

Rafe Van Hoy has been writing hits for over four decades.  A respected producer and much-lauded tunesmith, his credits embrace all genres of music and his honors and awards include a Grammy nomination, 11 BMI One Million Airplay Awards, three BMI Two Million Airplay Awards, and compositions on over 50 million records sold.  He's written hits for George Jones and Tammy Wynette ("Golden Ring"), Michael Martin Murphy ("What's Forever For"), Deborah Allen ("Baby I Lied"), Brooks and Dunn, Reba McEntire, Leann Rimes, Fleetwood Mac, Diana Ross, Isaac Hayes and many others.  Rafe met Hank and Red in the '70s, and formed enduring friendships with both of the NSAI Hall of Fame members.  "I was extremely lucky to be able to know them, especially at an early formative time in my career," Rafe notes.  "They were both very funny, clever souls who always had family and friends around them, and I'm so glad I got to be a part of many of those wonderful times."

Marla Cannon-Goodman has known Hank all her life.  As the daughter of legendary producer and talented songwriter (and longtime Cochran pal) Buddy Cannon, Marla would often tag along to Casa Cochran or to a session where Buddy or Hank would ply their trade.  "Dad always said that Hank would show up at the studio with a suitcase full of songs whenever someone was recording," she recalls.  "Everyone knew then that at least three spots on the album were gone.  It was a good lesson for me to learn.  Persistence pays."  Marla was persistent:  she was working as a nurse when Lee Ann Womack took her song, "The Fool," to #1.  She followed up with two more #1s: "Ten Rounds of Jose Cuervo" by Tracy Byrd and "Cleaning This Gun" by Rodney Atkins, and a #4 with Tucker Beathard on "Rock On." "I think Hank would listen to what's on the radio today, shake his head, rub his hands together, and say 'I think they're missing something.  Maybe a melody, or perhaps a lyric.'  Then he'd write them one."  Cannon-Goodman is working hard to follow in Cochran's footsteps, writing hits of her own and enjoying additional cuts by Sammy Kershaw, Billy Currington, Blake Shelton, Eric Church, Kenny Chesney, George Strait and more.

Dale Dodson started out in music as a DJ and then moved on to work at legendary publisher Sony/ATV where he worked his way up the professional ladder.  He became a director of Creative Services, signed a songwriting contract with the company, and befriended many of the songwriters whose tunes he pitched; among them Hank Cochran and Red Lane.  Dodson spent countless hours with Red, just palling around or writing songs, and he became part of Cochran's extended "family," as well as a frequent co-writer.  He's authored numerous hits, among them: "Look Who's Back In Town" for George Strait, "Good News, Bad News" and "Everything But Quits" for Strait and Lee Ann Womack, "Senses" for Reba McEntire and "I Bought The Shoes That Just Walked Out On Me" for Dierks Bentley.  He has two songs on Lee Ann Womack's new album, THE LONELY, THE LONESOME & THE GONE.  Dale's appreciation for "legacy" writers is unmatched, and he pays tribute to the masters every time he picks up a pen as he crafts tunes for the likes of Chely Wright, Shawn Camp, Rodney Atkins, Kellie Pickler, Billy Ray Cyrus, Billy Currington, Jamey Johnson, James House, Ken Mellons, Mark Chesnutt and many others.

Singer, songwriter and actor Waylon Payne is the son of golden-age Country Soul singer Sammi Smith and longtime Willie Nelson guitarist Jody Payne.  Waylon honed his chops on the road with Shelby Lynne before releasing a critically-acclaimed debut album called THE DRIFTER in 2004.  Two cuts ("Use My Heart," "To Learn Her") on Miranda Lambert's double-disc CD THE WEIGHT OF THESE WINGS were the highlights of  2016, and he has a total of four tracks on Lee Ann Womack's new album, THE LONELY, THE LONESOME & THE GONE, including her current single, "All The Trouble."  Payne is also an acclaimed actor, appearing in the Oscar-winning film, I WALK THE LINE, as Jerry Lee Lewis.  He also portrayed legendary guitarist Hank Garland in 2007's CRAZY.  Throughout the years, Hank and Red encouraged Waylon to pursue all creative avenues - and they supported his every endeavor.  "They are part of the Masters of Songwriting," Payne states.  "I was honored to call them both my friends and mentors."

 As a member of Lonesome River Band and as a solo artist, Ronnie Bowman has won International Bluegrass Music Association's (IBMA) Album of the Year in 1991, been awarded IBMA Male Vocalist of the Year three times, twice earned the IBMA Song of the Year award ("Three Rusty Nails" and "Cold Virginia Night"), and was awarded the Gospel Performance of the Year award for "Three Rusty Nails."  As a songwriter Ronnie has earned a great deal of respect not only among Bluegrass professionals, but among his peers in Country music as well.  Brooks & Dunn and Kenny Chesney have taken Ronnie's originals to #1, and Lee Ann Womack also included a song by Ronnie on the multi-platinum album I HOPE YOU DANCE.  He has enjoyed continued songwriting success with three songs on Chris Stapleton's multi-platinum album TRAVELLER, with the single "Nobody To Blame" winning the ACM Song of the Year award.  The disc received the Album of the Year honors from both the ACM and CMA, and won a Grammy for Country Album of the Year.  "Hank and Red are both legends, and I wish our paths had crossed at some point, but tonight will have to be that night for me.  I'm just honored to be here to support such a good cause."

Don Sampson scored #1 singles with Brad Paisley's 2009 NSAI Song Of The Year "Waitin' On A Woman," Gary Allan's "Tough Little Boys," Alan Jackson's "Midnight in Montgomery," and Bryan White's "Rebecca Lynn."  He's won seven NSAI awards, numerous ASCAP awards, and the TNN Music City News Songwriters Award.  His songs have been recorded by Garth Brooks, Chris Stapleton, Darius Rucker, Mo Pitney, Josh Thompson, Jimmy Wayne, George Jones, Tammy Wynette, Willie Nelson, Kenny Rogers, Brad Paisley, Kenny Chesney, Josh Turner, Tim McGraw, Charlie Daniels, John Conlee, Joe Nichols and Charley Pride.  Don and Red were close, and Don recalls that "when Red would call at 2 a.m. and say 'hey,' you had time to get up, make a sandwich and eat it before he would ask 'what ya doing?'  He was definitely one of a kind, and I'm thrilled to be taking part in this fundraiser for THCPF."

The family of Country Music Hall of Fame member Hank Cochran launched THCPF in his honor following his death from Pancreatic cancer in 2010 and it is helmed by Hank's daughter, Booth.  "Honoring Hank was the inspiration for the Fund, but Red was instrumental in getting us motivated to act," Booth recalls.  "Hank is why we did it; Red is how we did it.  They were lifelong friends, and Red was a huge support to our family as Hank fought the disease - and as we grieved.  I thought it fitting to honor them both with our first fundraiser of 2018, and I hope a sell-out crowd can help us pay tribute to these two music men."

ABOUT THCPF

The Hank Cochran Pen Fund  offers financial support to songwriters and their families as they deal with cancer.  "Hank understood songwriters better than anyone," Booth recalls.  "Not every writer is on the charts every week; some never make it there at all, but they are all songwriters."  The Fund shares that philosophy, and is dedicated to helping writers - of all career stages - in whatever way possible.  To date, the Fund has paid mortgage and utility bills, paid for medical supplies, meals, Uber rides and dog sitter fees.  "Everyone's life is different and so everyone has unique needs," notes Cochran.  "Our goal is to help meet the financial needs of the individual so that they can focus on healing." 

Maxine Brown Russell, the vivacious entertainer, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend passed today at Bowman Hospice in Little Rock, Arkansas from complications of heart and kidney disease at the age of 87. Her family was by her side.

Born April 27, 1931 in Campti, Louisiana, Russell was predeceased by her parents, Floyd and Birdie Brown, sisters Bonnie Ring and Norma Sullivan, brothers Jim Ed Brown and Raymond Brown, and her son, Tommy H. Russell, Jr.  She is survived by two children, Jimmy Russell (Mary) and Alicia Short (Curtis), six grandchildren (Caitlin, Daniel, Meredith, Eva, Patrick, and Katherine), and two great-grandchildren (Atlas and Aina).

As one-third of the popular Country trio The Browns, Maxine enjoyed a lengthy career that spanned the 1950s and '60s. The group released multiple "million-sellers," including "The Three Bells," "The Old Lamplighter," "Scarlet Ribbons," and "Send Me The Pillow You Dream On." As a songwriter, her first taste of success came with The Browns' release of "Looking Back To See."

Maxine was the "cut up" of the globally-renowned trio, and always the life of the party during the group's tours, including jaunts in the U.K and Japan. The Browns joined The Grand Ole Opry in 1963 and appeared on hit television shows of the day, including: The Ed Sullivan Show, The Arthur Murray Show, The Perry Como Show, American Bandstand with Dick Clark, and The Jerry Lewis Show.

In 2012, Russell was awarded the Ella Dicky Literary Award for her 2005 autobiography, Looking Back To See. The Browns were proud members of The Arkansas Entertainers Hall of Fame, The Arkansas Walkway of Stars, The Missouri Walkway of Stars, and recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from The Arkansas Country Music Hall of Fame. In 2015, The Browns were inducted into the prestigious Country Music Hall of Fame.

Funeral services are being planned and will be announced soon.

The wait is finally over, as Bluegrass hitmaker Daryl Mosley releases his much-anticipated debut solo album, The Secret Of Life. Released via Pinecastle Records, the project includes 11 new recordings, each spotlighting the singer's world-class vocals and highlighting Mosley's award-winning songwriting. The full collection was co-produced by Danny Roberts (The Grascals). Fans can download and stream the new record HERE.

The lead single is the full-circle anthem "A Few Years Ago." Penned by Mosley, the track celebrates a life well spent, reflecting back on the past. The song has already struck a chord, recently being featured in publications like The Bluegrass Situation, who showcased the single. The official video was unveiled earlier this month as part of a multi-faceted premiere on both The Heartland Network and Americana Highways online. Watch the full video HERE.

With the rollout of the record, Mosley's extensive career has been one of the main focuses. Known for his prolific storytelling ability, the chart-topper has quickly captured the hearts of music fans. In addition to penning tracks for artists Lynn Anderson, Bobby Osborne, Josh Williams, the Booth Brothers and Carolina Blue, the singer has also seen great success performing as a member of the celebrated Bluegrass band New Tradition. He was also a co-founder of the "Entertainer of the Year" winning group, The Farm Hands. Recent features have put his three-decade career on full display, in profile pieces in Hallels and Bluegrass Today where he opened up about The Secret Of Life.

"Glad to see Daryl stepping out front and center with his first solo project of more top notch and heartfelt originals. This record is just what bluegrass music needs right now more than ever," says fellow Bluegrass mainstay Irene Kelley. Jeanette Williams agrees, stating that "Daryl Mosley's songs are like a heartfelt conversation with a cherished friend. Each track on his new project 'The Secret Of Life' offers a glimpse of real life that speaks to the soul.”

The reviews are already pouring in from multiple publications. Music Matters Magazine calls the record "a collection driven by sincere, compelling storytelling built on a solid bluegrass foundation." ParcBench calls the project "a comforting blend of country and bluegrass, with a bit of gospel that will soothe whatever your day brings," while the Midwest Record Entertainment says The Secret Of Life is "killer stuff custom made of any fan of top shelf songwriting." No Depression writes "Mosley's warm vocals, his knack for telling a great story, guest vocalists, and his band's straight-ahead, waste-no-notes tunes propel the album, delivering comfort and down-home advice and reflections. There's no secret at all here about Mosley's affection for a good song well-played."

To keep up with all things Daryl Mosley, visit his official website darylmosley.com. While there, music enthusiasts can purchase music, find the latest news stories, upcoming tour dates and more.

The Secret Of Life Track Listing:

1. A Few Years Ago (Daryl Mosley)

2. The Secret Of Life (Daryl Mosley)

3. In A Country Town (Daryl Mosley) 

4. Hands In  Wood (Daryl Mosley) 

5. It Never Gets Old (Daryl Mosley) 

6. Do What The Good Book Says (Daryl Mosley/Rick Lang)

7. All The Way Home (Daryl Mosley)

8. A Piece At A Time (Daryl Mosley)

9. The Deal (Daryl Mosley)

10. I'd Write You (Daryl Mosley)

Taylor Rae bares her heart and soul with her introspective debut single, “Fixer Upper.” The Texas transplant’s emotional creation is a dream weaver that pulls the listener through the twists and turns of canyon highways and palm tree sunsets as it captures the impact of a moment. A love song in its truest sense, “Fixer Upper” becomes more poignant still when we learn that the relationship is now over – and that crafting the song somehow put Taylor on the path to letting go.

“It’s ironic that only six months after writing this, we ended our five-and-a-half-year relationship,” Taylor reflects. “That doesn’t feel coincidental. Now, what was a song soaked in love and nostalgia is a melancholy memoir of our relationship.”

Let’s fall down this canyon

You can be my soft landing

I’ve never had it so easy

Let me be your broken lover

I know you like a fixer upper

Oh I promise I won’t leave (Taylor Rae)

“Fixer Upper” is the first single from Taylor’s upcoming debut album, due for release this fall. The track premiered on Americana Highways, and editor Melissa Clarke predicts, “In your collection of love songs, this will be among the purest and sweetest.” The tune is available for purchase now and it is accessible to radio programmers via AirplayDirect.

Produced by William Gawley (Taylor Hicks, Taylor McCall) and engineered/mixed by Bryce Roberts (Old Crow Medicine Show, Willie Nelson), “Fixer Upper” was recorded at Nashville’s OmniSound Studios. Taylor handled vocals, background vocals and acoustic guitar and was joined by Dave Francis on bass (Maura O’Connell, Luke Combs), Wayne Killius on drums (Luke Bryan, Gretchen Peters), David Flint on acoustic guitar/mandolin (Highway 101), and Chris Nole on piano/keys (Shelby Lynne, Faith Hill).

“I’m so grateful to everyone involved in the creative process; they cared for this song gently and really captured the magic within it,” Taylor notes.

The singer/songwriter readily admits “Fixer Upper” is special to her. From start to finish the writing took less than 20 minutes. “I was the vessel in the right place at the right time, and any songwriter will understand that feeling,” she says. “It’s truly autobiographical. I was very broken when we met, so I used the term “Fixer Upper” to describe myself,” Taylor recalls. “My then-partner was always drawn to run-down cars, houses and things that he could rebuild with his hands. Our story didn’t have a fairy tale ending but I am so grateful to have shared those pivotal years ‘growing up,’ so to speak, with him. Recording it was very cathartic for me.”

Over the years, hitmaker Daryl Mosley has become one of the most critically acclaimed artists in Bluegrass and American Roots genres. In addition to receiving two Songwriter of the Year awards, performing on the Grand Ole Opry numerous times, and penning six different #1 hits, Daryl debuted as a solo artist with his 2020 album, THE SECRET OF LIFE (Pinecastle Records). The Waverly, Tennessee native is excited to reveal his latest single, “Transistor Radio,” which is out today. Fans can download and stream it HERE and radio programmers can access via AirplayDirect.

“Transistor Radio” is the lead single from Daryl’s sophomore album for Pinecastle - SMALL TOWN DREAMER, releasing this fall. The single showcases Mosley’s signature vocals, accompanied by the highly relatable lyrics. Its nostalgic vibe is sure to take listeners back to a time when things seemed a little simpler. The lyrics pay tribute to the Opry, Elvis, Bill Monroe, Aretha Franklin, Motown and other music heroes. The single was produced by Danny Roberts and Mosley. Rising Bluegrass star Jaelee Roberts handles the harmony vocals.

It fit right in my pocket, I'd take it everywhere

Just place it on the window, the reception's better there

I'd run my thumb across it til the station comes in clear

Then I'd sing right along to the sounds that I would hear

From the Opry down in Nashville to the Ozark Jubilee

To the new sounds out of Motown, it all sounded good to me

I sang along with Elvis and played with Bill Monroe

On the stage in my bedroom and my transistor radio

(Daryl Mosley, Rick Lang)

“Grammy-nominated songwriter Rick Lang was my co-writer on the track. He came to me with the idea because a transistor radio is how he first heard popular music,” explains Mosley. “I grew up lying awake at night with a portable radio listening to baseball games from St. Louis, and music from Memphis and Nashville, so I related to it immediately. Rick and I often pitch songs to other artists, but as soon as we finished writing this one, I knew that I had to record it. I was just so connected to the song.”

To keep up with the latest news stories, upcoming tour dates and more, visit Daryl’s official website. Stay tuned for even more exciting news to come about SMALL TOWN DREAMER.

“I love the road. It’s been incredible getting back out there and sharing the music from MAD TWENTIES – as well as some of my older songs. These shows are all little celebrations for me. There was never a moment in my life where I had to decide what I wanted to be when I grew up – I WAS a singer from the time I was seven years old,” says Taylor Rae, now 28.

Pre-pandemic, the California native was performing 200 nights a year, writing constantly and living exactly the kind of life she had imagined as a child growing up in Ben Lomond, CA. With the cessation of touring in 2020, the Austin-based singer/songwriter Taylor Rae turned her focus to the creation of her debut album. Now, like the rest of us, she is venturing forth once again and has taken to the road, performing solo shows, and making radio station visits to promote MAD TWENTIES. The commanding 12-track collection is a largely chronological concept album that charts the progress of a romantic relationship - from its magical start to its seemingly inevitable finish. The coloring-outside-the-lines Americana/Folk/Jazz/Blues project highlights Taylor’s talents as she explores life, love, and the vagaries of the human condition.

Tastemakers and music lovers worldwide have turned a laser-like focus on the newcomer, and Taylor has conjured comparisons to Norah Jones, Sheryl Crow and Kacey Musgraves. With a voice that can ring like a bell, grind with grit, or gently caress, Taylor’s emotive performances are quickly becoming legendary. She can rouse a crowd to its feet or hypnotize them with her songs - holding any audience in the palm of her hand.

MAD TWENTIES is available for digital purchase, and vinyl copies can be ordered from Taylor’s website or this online store. 

Upcoming shows include:

2/11     Tooth & Nail - Paso Robles, CA

2/12     Michaels on Main - Soquel, CA

2/13     Folktale Winery - Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

2/17     Golden Era Lounge - Nevada City, CA

2/19     The Lost Church - Santa Rosa (w/ The Coffis Brothers)

2/20     Bear Republic Brewing - Rohnert Park, CA

2/23     WSM Radio / Circle TV - Coffee, Country & Cody - Nashville, TN

2/23     The Listening Room - Nashville, TN

2/24     Nash House - Nashville, TN

2/26     WDVX Radio “Blue Plate Special” - Visitor Center - Knoxville, TN

2/26     Pretentious Beer Co - Knoxville, TN

2/28     Woodsongs / The Lyric Theatre - Lexington, KY

3/2        White Horse Black Mountain - Black Mountain, NC

3/9        ISIS Music Hall - Asheville, NC

3/10     Bluebird Café - Nashville, TN

3/19     Renegade Showcases - Austin, TX

Taylor Rae’s debut CD, MAD TWENTIES, marks its 20th week on the AMA Americana Radio Albums Chart, where it previously reached the Top 10. Currently only two other artists’ albums match that chart longevity. MAD TWENTIES is enjoying its first week on the Roots Music Report’s Top 50 Americana Country Albums Chart, entering at #5. The California native’s current single, “Just Be,” was released last month and the Groove/Blues/Rocker debuts on charts this week. The track follows the five-week Top 10 success of Taylor’s first single, “Home On The Road.”
 
Written after Taylor’s first solo trip to Nashville, “Just Be” was inspired by the stark contrast she found between Nashville and Los Angeles. Taylor recalls, “In L.A., it is easy to get caught up in the ‘next best thing’ mentality and I feel that in Nashville the culture allows for more opportunity to find happiness in the small achievements and simple moments. The one-take track is a fun, dirty bar Blues jam that sounds live and real.”

 Henry Carrigan, writing for No Depression notes, “Rae lays down her powerful and fierce lead vocals; Miranda Lambert meets Chi Coltrane meets Marcia Ball on this rousing affirmation of living life in the moment . . . on this standout song.”
 
British journalist Alan Cackett (Alan Cackett Reviews) describes the single as “a steamy, sultry track, straight out of some invitingly cool jam night in the 1970s. Whether you call it swamp boogie, Memphis Soul, Blues or Jazz-Rock, it is ultimately a cauldron of emotional freedom from which musical magic emerges.”
 
Fervor Coulee’s Donald Teplyske compares “Just Be” to a “relaxed jam between highly talented friends.”  
 
Recent performances include the Rochester International Jazz Festival (NY), NPR’s Mountain Stage and Nashville’s City Winery. Taylor’s fan base continues to grow with her music’s inclusion on Woodsongs, WXPN’s World Café playlist, CMT The Edge, and more.
 
Taylor will join popular singer/songwriter and New West Records’ artist Pokey LaFarge for a mini tour Aug. 2-9. She will also appear on select shows in September and October with award-winning Bluegrass singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and Rounder Records’ star Sierra Hull.
 
Full Itinerary
July 22       Seattle, WA - The Rabbit Box
July 30       Half Moon Bay, CA - Half Moon Bay Brewing Company
July 31       Corte Madera, CA - Corte Madera Summer Concerts
Aug 2        Indianapolis, IN - Clowes Memorial Hall (Butler U.) - Pokey LaFarge
Aug 4         Durand, WI - Blues on the Chippewa - Pokey LaFarge       
Aug 5        Minneapolis, MN - Dakota - Pokey LaFarge
Aug 7        Berwyn, IL - Fitzgerald's - Pokey LaFarge
Aug 9        Grand Rapids, MI - The Listening Room - Pokey LaFarge
Aug 11       Santa Rosa, CA - KRSH Backyard Concert
Sept 13-17  Nashville, TN - AMERICANAFEST
Sept 24       Burlington, VT - Higher Ground - Sierra Hull
Sept 27       Pittsburgh, PA - Thunderbird Café - Sierra Hull
Sept 28       Cincinnati, OH - Memorial Hall - Sierra Hull
Sept 29       Boone, NC - Appalachian Theatre - Sierra Hull
Oct 2        Charleston, SC - Pour House - Sierra Hull

The inaugural, three-day Bluegrass festival dubbed CROWE FEST is set for August 25, 26 and 27. The event celebrates the legendary banjo picker and Grammy Award-winner J.D. Crowe, whose fearless bending of the genre introduced new listeners to Bluegrass. The Fest will be held at Meadowgreen Appalachian Music Park in Clay City, Kentucky - just 40 miles from Crowe’s Lexington birthplace. Bluegrassers performing include Doyle Lawson, Moe Pitney, Sideline, Paul Williams, along with special shows by New South Reunion, hosted by Rickey Wasson. Additionally, Authentic Unlimited, Junior Sisk, Terry Baucom's Dukes of Drive, Ralph Stanley II & The Clinch Mountain Boys and others, will perform. Complete details can be found at www.CroweFest.net or by calling 904-545-3079 or, for camping information, 606-945-5999.

Crowe was among the first to fuse Rock, Folk, and R&B to the Bluegrass sound and he is revered for his creativity, his tone and flawless meter. Grammy Award-winning guitarist Billy Strings called J.D. an “absolute legend” and notes, “He was just the best Bluegrass banjo player out there.” After J.D.’s passing, banjoist Bela Fleck stated, “We lost one of the greatest banjo players ever to pick up the five.”

On August 25, 26 and 27, the spirit of J.D. Crowe will live on as Bluegrass lovers gather in Clay City. CROWE FEST organizers Ernie Evans, Rickey Wasson (friend and long-time guitarist/lead singer for J.D. Crowe & the New South) and Tim Dillman, promise a good time and great music. “Join us as we celebrate the best of today’s Bluegrass and honor our friend J.D.,” says Evans. “It should be an exciting three days.”  

Award-winning singer/songwriter Daryl Mosley shares words of wisdom with his new single, “A Life Well Lived.” The record, which premiered on Bluegrass Today and was featured on Roughstock earlier this week, is the first release and title track of Mosley’s upcoming album due later this year on Pinecastle Records. The single is available to radio via Airplay Direct, and fans can order it HERE now.

Daryl’s warm tenor vocal and a tight Bluegrass arrangement highlight the Mosley/Danny Roberts co-production. Five-time SPBGMA Mandolin Player of the Year and IBMA award-winner Roberts’ flawless mandolin is front and center, guiding the way for Adam Haynes’ fine fiddle work, Mosley’s signature steady bass, and Tony Wray’s engaging guitar and banjo. The talented Jaelee Roberts (Sister Sadie) brings her angelic background vocals in for a powerhouse play.

The mid-tempo’s message is one of timeless wisdom. “I was inspired by a meme of all things,” says Daryl of this Rick Lang co-write. “It was an old man, slicing an apple with a pocket knife and eating it right off the blade … I’d seen my grandpa do that a million times.” Lang recalls that the two shared a laugh about the image, and then dove into a deep conversation about all the life lessons they’d learned from their elders – and a song was born. Both writers agree that the song’s message is “to be kinder, be grateful for what we have, to set a good example for others, and to leave something good behind.” A powerful message indeed.

As this month marks the forty-sixth anniversary of Elvis’ death on August 16, 1977, the legions of fans fascinated by the King of Rock & Roll continues to grow. Proof positive was the global success in 2022 of the Warner Brothers film release, Elvis, which drew major box office numbers and critical acclaim worldwide. The desire to know increasingly more about the man behind the legend has never grown dim for both old fans and the continuing new generations of Elvis followers that have come.

With the release of his new book, My Army Days With Elvis (Friendship, Football & Follies), author Johnny Lang is fulfilling a lifetime dream. It answers the seemingly insatiable desire fans have to “know the real Elvis”— this time in the somewhat hidden years of his life in the military in Germany where Elvis served from March 1958 to March 1960. His memories bring readers a portrait of the young King that Lang knew on that youthful “field of dreams” at the Army base outside the small town of Friedberg, Germany. Elvis was his pal, partying buddy, fellow soldier, and Sunday afternoon team quarterback. Lang’s devotion to their friendship remains true throughout the book - a loyalty proven true by the myriad of “rag mag expose” opportunities Lang has passed on over the years. He noted in a recent interview: “We were kids, clowning around, having fun, playing football, and chasing girls. I didn’t know him in his turbulent years or have exposure to any prescription drug abuse. I only knew the young, very funny, and unvarnished version of Elvis. That’s the one I knew and want his fans to know and remember.”

It was, in fact, seeing the Elvis bio pic last year that spurred Lang to write and publish his new book. Recalls the author’s son, Jeff: “Seeing my Dad’s emotional reaction to the movie, I said to him, ‘Dad, why don’t you write your book and get it out there?’ Throughout my childhood in the ‘70s my dad had walked me and my sisters through his treasured Elvis photo album countless times. It held three dozen black and white photos of Dad with Elvis – all lovingly enshrined in what I can still see in my mind’s eye—a threadbare, leather-bound treasure chest filled with priceless memories. A few years ago, someone stole the photos—along with the album itself—a family tragedy, yes, but one that couldn’t steal the devotion in my dad’s heart for his old Army buddy and his determination to get the truth told about the Elvis he knew."

Readers will pick up rare gems of information and memories of Elvis that are unique. The book is populated by glimpses of some the familiar legendary members of the “Memphis Mafia” - Charlie Hodge, Red West, and Lamar Fike - Elvis’ dad, Vernon, as well as the opening notes of the King’s relationship with his first secretary - Elisabeth Mansfield who Johnny introduced to the Elvis’ circle in Germany.
 
Now for Lang, at 87 and on regular dialysis from his home in rural Michigan, the release of “My Army Days With Elvis” checks off a major to-do on his life’s “bucket list.” Laughing in the improbable face of “old age” Johnny, spunky, full of fun and outspoken humor, is a local pub celebrity and still cuts a mean rug on the dance floor. His friend, the King, would be proud.
 
The book, from Xulon Press, is available at Amazon.com.

Australia’s award-winning Americana/Bluegrass band, The Stetson Family, announces the release of their fourth album, coming on April 19. THE STARS, IF YOU LOOK CLOSELY features 11 intriguing original songs, with a mixture of up-tempos and ballads along with the instrumental, “Nightfall.” Ern Rose, the legendary producer and engineer behind many iconic projects (The Little River Band, Renee Geyer, Daddy Cool), mixed and co-produced the album with lead vocalist, Nadine Budge.

Known for creating a spirited and freewheeling sound, the Melbourne-based group was formed in 2008. The Stetson Family is comprised of Budge (lead vocals, guitar, resonator guitar), John Bartholomeusz (guitar, harmonies, lead guitar), Colin Swan (banjo, harmonies), Luke Richardson (double bass), and Greg Field (mandolin and fiddle). It’s been nine years since their last album, TRUE NORTH. But like a slow train coming, THE STARS, IF YOU LOOK CLOSELY is a welcome sight for the band’s loyal fans. The album is available for pre-save now.

Illuminating and insightful songwriting is found throughout the project. The title track was released as a single last Fall and put The Stetson Family back on the charts. It boasted impeccable instrumentation, full-throated vocals, and brought a message of hope to the lost. The newest radio offering, “The Other Side,” is a groove-based mid-tempo about never giving up. “Dollar In My Hand” kicks off with a haunting mandolin riff and Budge’s gritty vocal brings a sense of danger to this warning against greed and corruption. “Better Left Unsaid” tells of heartache and loss – as it plumbs the depths of despair the human heart can reach. “Brother” offers a dose of devotion and support as it reaffirms the belief that blood will always be thicker than water.

Track Listing

The Stars, If You Look Closely (A. Carswell, N. Budge)

The Other Side (J. Bartholomeusz, N. Budge)

Dollar In My Hand (J. Bartholomeusz)

Lonesome Valley (J. Bartholomeusz)

Nightfall (N. Budge)

Better Left Unsaid (N. Budge)

Heading West (J. Bartholomeusz, N. Budge)

Brother (N. Budge)

Angel’s Hand (A. Carswell, N. Budge, The Stetson Family)

Make Me Ashes (N. Budge)

Mama’s Gonna Take You Home (J. Bartholomeusz)