Zac Brown is building a camp for special needs kids on 360 pine-filled acres near his home in Georgia. The camp will be free to attendees, and it is designed to build children’s music and life skills, plus promote health awareness.
Brown spent many summers as a camp counselor, so building his own facility is a dream come true for him.
Having four healthy children himself, Brown realizes the blessing in helping kids who are not so fortunate. He says, “To me, there is nothing more worthwhile than helping kids. Camp Southern Ground will work with special needs children while providing them with lodging and facilities to most effectively contribute to their rehabilitation.”
Camp Southern Ground will be a state-of-the-art facility that support children that have Tourette’s syndrome, dyslexia, ADD/ADHD, Asperger syndrome and autism.
Zac Brown Band will also support this new endeavor, and $1 from every ticket sold for their concert dates in 2011 will go to benefit Camp Southern Ground.
For more details visit their official site.
The Songwriters Hall of Fame announced their 2011 inductees, and Garth Brooks is one of the names among the many talented lyricists. Over his nearly 30-year career as a singer-songwriter, Brooks has established himself as one of the most influential country artists of all time.
Although Brooks is know for his performer persona, Brooks has also penned several of his greatest hits, including ‘If Tomorrow Never Comes,’ ‘The Thunder Rolls,’ ‘Unanswered Prayers,’ and ‘We Shall Be Free.’
On top of his songwriting achievements, Brooks has also been noted as the top selling solo artist in U.S. history by the RIAA, having sold more than 128 million albums. He is also the only solo musician in RIAA history to have six of his albums reach beyond to 10 million mark in sales.
The ceremony is set to take place on June 16, 2011 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City. Other country music-related inductees include John Bettis and Allen Toussaint. Bettis wrote George Strait’s No. 1 hit ‘Heartland” and Barbara Mandrell‘s ‘One of a Kind Pair of Fools,’ while Toussaint wrote Glen Campbell’s smash hit ‘Southern Nights.’
The Bellamy Brothers are one step closer to facing off with Britney Spears in court. The Bellamy’s threatened legal action last month against the pop star, claiming her new single, 'Hold It Against Me,' is too similar to their classic tune, 'If I Said You Had a Beautiful Body Would You Hold It Against Me.' Now, the Bellamys are in talks with lawyers to bring their threats to fruition.
The case is now in the hands of attorneys, as well as two renowned musicologists, who are evaluating both songs. What is your opinion on this?
Miranda Lambert is expressing her respect for Dolly Parton. In an article she wrote for Grammy.com, Miranda calls Dolly "an icon among icons," and praises her for becoming the definition of the word "entertainer" while never losing, "her East Tennessee roots and infectious humor, which makes her the lady we all adore."
Lambert says she appreciates how Parton, "has proven herself well beyond the boundaries of country music, but she has carried the banner for country music no matter where her career has taken her." As she runs down Dolly's impressive list of accomplishments as a singer, songwriter, and actress, Miranda adds that the legendary performer has, "proven to all of us who look up to her that anything is possible, no matter where you are from, and that dreams really do come true."
Sugarland have partnered with Tickets-for-Charity, a great organization where fans can get tickets to all of their North American tour dates and benefit great causes at the same time! They’ve made some of the best seats in the house available through TFC, and each purchase directly benefits two organizations that Jennifer & Kristian have personally chosen: Habitat for Humanity and the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation.
Not only do you get to see the show from great seats — for many shows, these tickets are in already sold-out sections, you are helping support deserving causes and nationally respected charities.
To learn more about Tickets-for-Charity and get your tickets now, please visit their website by clicking HERE. (www.ticketsforcharity.com)
Mrs. Keith Urban better known as Nicole Kidman — opened up about the surrogacy and birth of the couple’s new daughter, Faith Margaret, in an interview with Australia’s ’60 Minutes.’ Kidman, who called her situation a “roller coaster ride with fertility,” said that seeing Faith born was a “deeply emotional” and “moving” experience. “Having given birth and then being there to see my child born in that way, I felt so much love for our surrogate, gestational carrier,” she said.
Kidman has been the subject of much criticism for her repeated usage of that particular term “gestational carrier,” rather than the more familiar phrase “surrogate” when discussing the birth. Turns out, it’s not just a matter of semantics for the actress. It’s a matter of correctness, and the actress was happy to clarify her word choice. “We were trying to be accurate,” Kidman explained. “The term ‘gestational carrier’ is used if it’s your biological child and if it isn’t, then you use ‘surrogate.’ I mean, who knows what it is? But she’s the most wonderful woman to do this for us.”
Kidman was also frank about the couple’s desire to expand their family and the struggle to get pregnant. “Anyone that’s been in the place of wanting a child knows the disappointment, the pain and the loss you go through,” she said. “Struggling with fertility is such a big thing and it’s not something that I would run away from talking about.” She also got emotional and tearful when admitting, “We were in a place of desperately wanting another child and I couldn’t get pregnant. I get emotional just talking about it, because I’m so grateful.”
Kidman and Urban are also parents to 2-year-old Sunday Rose. Kidman also adopted two children during her marriage to Tom Cruise: Isabella, 18, and Connor, 15.
Kenny Chesney performed for the Everglades Foundation benefit Saturday night. Chesney’s friend and Foundation Board member Jimmy Buffet joined Chesney on stage for Chesney’s “Back Where I Come From” and one of Buffett’s signature songs, “Come Monday.” Mac McAnally joined Chesney on “Down The Road.”
“I was honored that Jimmy (Buffett) asked me to be a part of the Everglades Foundation Benefit. Restoring and protecting future damage to the Everglades is very important to me. Hopefully this helped bring some attention to a very important cause.”
The Everglades Foundation is dedicated to protecting and restoring one of the world’s unique natural ecosystems, providing economic, recreational and life- sustaining benefits to the millions of people who depend on its future health Chesney now turns his full attention to his Corona Presents Kenny Chesney’s “Goin Coastal” Tour which has already sold more than 500,000 tickets and more than 30 shows have not even gone on sale yet! With 11 stadiums and more than 40 arena and amphitheater shows, Corona Presents Kenny Chesney’s “Goin Coastal” Tour finds him back in the Palm Beach County area for the kick-off on March 17th and then onto Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Bay on March 19th.
Blake Shelton has his third consecutive No. 1 single on the Billboard and Country Aircheck (Mediabase) charts with “Who Are You When I’m Not Looking.” This hit marks Shelton’s eighth No. 1 single and his first triple back-to-back No. 1 singles of his career.
Upon hearing that “Who Are You When I’m Not Looking” went No. 1, Blake said “Three No. 1’s in a row?! Thank you to every single person who works at a country radio station, you allow me to do the one thing that I love to do most in this world and that’s sing country music. I….Love…Y’all!”
Shelton will co-host this year’s Academy of Country Music Awards with country music superstar Reba. The 46th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards will broadcast LIVE from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas Sunday, April 3rd, 2011 at 8:00 PM live ET/delayed PT on the CBS Television Network.
Taylor Swift before her show at at Hong Kong’s AsiaWorld-Expo on Monday (2/21), was presented with plaques commemorating her success across Asia. The Associated Press reports Swift’s Fearless album has sold more than 400,000 copies in the region and that her latest release, Speak Now, has been certified Platinum in Taiwan, South Korea, Indonesia and the Philippines.
“Some of them were really surprising to me. I wasn’t aware of every single certification we have in Asia. It really blew my mind,” Swift told The Associated Press backstage before her concert.
Taylor says she’s proud to have a global following. “I love country music, and I love the fact that it’s being accepted all over the world. That is so exciting for me,” she told the AP.
“I have heroes who have taken country music internationally. You have Garth Brooks and Shania Twain. They really did a lot for country music because they brought an awareness to it. The fact that I have the opportunity to do that too and go to other countries where I’ve never been before and play music — it’s what I’ve always dreamed of doing.”
The 2011 “Speak Now World Tour” will head to Europe in March. The North American leg of the tour kicks off in May. An updated listing of tour dates is available at: http://taylorswift.com.
Luke Bryan spoke recently about one rather serous subject: a fake Facebook account that was created in Bryan’s name. The hacker snookered several fans and could have soiled Bryan’s good name, but the singer is taking it all in stride.
When Bryan spoke to WQYK, he admitted that the social networking drama caused him a bit of a headache and said that fans can stay up-to-date on his happenings via his official Twitter handle, which is @LukeBryanOnline.
During a chat with KMPS, Bryan revealed that the Facebook faker used the account to toy with fans, offering free tickets and even had one unfortunate soul thinking he could quit his job and write songs with Bryan. Thankfully, the culprit has been stopped.
During a KFROG chat Bryan admitted that one of his wife’s email addresses got shut down in the wake of the Facebook hack and he was unhappy about how the event intruded into his life.
Toby Keith is giving back. Abigayle Fullenwider, a special needs 6-year-old, has Cerebral Palsy and she is confined to a wheelchair. She just had one dream: to meet the country star.
The girl’s grandmother Cathy Sims reached out to WOAI TV in San Antonio, Texas in hopes that they could help. The station helped arrange a meeting for the young girl and her family.
Fullenwider suffers from a startle reflex (a response to a sudden stimulus like a loud noise), so there was no way she could sit through a concert, but once Keith heard this he said he would meet them in the venue hall before the show. Toby Keith told his young fan that he “liked her wheels,” made quite an impression on the little girl. Her mom said, “He was really, really sweet and he took time to come and talk to her and take pictures. She couldn’t take her eyes off of him. She kept staring at him.” Her mom adds, “She will remember it forever.”
Keith’s two children’s charities, Ally’s House and the OK Kids Korral, help kids in Oklahoma and their families with housing while they are undergoing medical treatment.
Trace Adkins had an interesting Valentine’s Day surprise this past Monday.
A brand new washer and dryer and Trace didn’t even know he bought it. Adkins told Chicago radio station WUSN that he came home to find a guy installing a brand-new washer and dryer in his garage Monday. He says, “She [his wife] got a washer and dryer put in the garage for the dog’s bed. Isn’t that crazy?”
Trace approached the man installing the appliances in his garage and asked him what he was doing. The guy’s response: “Your wife wanted me to do this.”
When Adkins found his wife, he said, “I have washed stuff in a washing machine that would make you throw up! And then the next load, you can wash a tablecloth. It’s a washing machine! That’s what it does. It gets dirty stuff out, flushes it down the thing and then it’s good to go again.’”
Daytona International Speedway®, American heroes were honored by the NASCAR community during a patriotic ceremony where Rodney Atkins unveiled United States Marine Corps Staff Sergeant (SSgt.) Matthew Hansen as the grand-prize winner of the annual Crown Royal “Your Name Here” 400 program.
Traditionally, the race at Richmond International Raceway has donned the first and last name of the grand-prize winner, but the April 30th NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race will not just recognize Matthew, but also his identical twin brother and fellow Marine, Daniel, who was killed in action Feb. 14th, 2009. Forty-three of NASCAR’s finest drivers will compete for the Crown Royal Presents the Matthew and Daniel Hansen 400 trophy.
Atkins performed his hit song “These are My People” during an acoustic set in front of hundreds of fans and members of the NASCAR community in the Daytona International Speedway FANZONE. When Atkins came to the end of his song, he added in the Hansen brothers’ names to unveil the winner, singing “Matthew and Daniel Hansen.” Atkins will also appear at Richmond International Raceway for the Matthew and Daniel Hansen 400.
Gary Allan is back on the road after taking three months off to recover from vocal surgery. According to his official website, Allan made his return to the stage on Monday night (2/14) at the San Antonio Live Stock Show. The evening marked his ninth consecutive headlining appearance at the Stock Show.
Prior to his performance, Gary celebrated his return to touring with the staffs and guests from two local radio stations backstage. In celebration of Valentine’s Day, Allan, forever the romantic, passed out roses to every woman in the room.
Randy Travis fans can experience the 25 year history of Travis’ rise to stardom from the very beginning by visiting his site, RandyTravis.com.
Videos, photos, media clips and more are available now for Travis’ career from 1986-1990. Continue to check his site as more years will be unlocked from the Randy Travis vault for 1991-1995, 1996-2000, 2001-2005 and 2006-2010.
Randy Travis is one of the most recognizable voices in music with sales in excess of 20 million records. Among his 18 No. 1 hits are “I Told You So,” “Forever and Ever Amen” and “Three Wooden Crosses.”
Wednesday, as Justin Moore traveled to Royal Oaks, MI, his tour bus caught fire. Around 4 a.m. the engine became engulfed in flames while Moore, his band and crew, as well as Valory’s VP of Field Promotion George Briner slept.
The fire started from one of the batteries connecting to the bus’ generator. The smoke alarm sounded as the bus started to fill with smoke.
Everyone evacuated the bus while Moore’s bus driver extinguished the fire and assessed the situation. In all, the fire lasted approximately 10 minutes.
“Well…we really love coming to the Detroit area. I just hope in the future it gets a little more simple, as far as our trips go!” laughs Moore. “In all seriousness, we’re thankful that we’re all safe, and feel blessed. It could’ve been a lot worse than it was.”
No one was harmed and the bus only sustained minor smoke damage. The last time Justin headlined a show at the Royal Oaks Theatre (March 2010), his prized Gibson J-45 guitar was stolen by an enthusiastic fan.
Olivia Newton-John is set to host a benefit concert celebrating the late John Denver as he becomes the first inductee of the Colorado Music Hall of Fame on April 21.
Newton-John, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Lee Ann Womack and John Oates are among those scheduled to perform at the concert.
On March 8, 2011, Charlie Pride releases Choices (Music City Records), his first all-new album in five years.
Choices are exactly what fans will get on the diverse album, which features 13 new recordings. Album cuts include songs penned by some of Pride’s favorite writers including Eddy Raven and Richie McDonald, formerly of Lonestar.
“I’ve been in the studio a lot over the last few years. So, I had to make some hard choices when selecting which of the new recordings to include on the album,” notes Pride. “I’m very happy with the final result and I’m thrilled to finally be able to share some of the new music with my fans.”
On the road, the Country Music Hall of Famer shows no signs of slowing down as he kicks off an 11-city tour of Canada starting April 27 in Regina, Saskatchewan.
Gloriana has been invited by The President and First Lady to the White House on Thursday, February 24th to be a part of the concert, “The Motown Sound: In Performance at the White House.”
“The Motown Sound: In Performance at the White House” will be broadcast on PBS stations nationwide on March 1st at 8 p.m. EST (check local listings) and on the American Forces Network March 11th to American service men and women and civilians at U.S. Department of Defense locations around the world.
Gloriana is currently putting the finishing touches on their second studio album, set for release later this year.
In the March issue of GQ, Billy Ray Cyrus reveals that he is “scared for” his daughter Miley. Cyrus says that his relationship with Miley has been on the rocks lately and blames the popular Disney Channel how Hannah Montana for ”driving a wedge between us.” Billy Ray’s relationship with his wife (and Miley’s mother) Tish also suffered. The couple filed for divorce last year.
“It destroyed my family. I’ll tell you right now – the damn show destroyed my family,” Billy Ray says. “I’d take it back in a second. For my family to be here and just be everybody okay, safe and sound and happy and normal, would have been fantastic. Heck, yeah.”
Billy Ray wishes they would have never agreed to do the show. “I’d erase it all in a second if I could,” he says. As for Miley’s recent controversial behavior, Cyrus says he hasn’t gotten involved with it. (Miley was video taped while smoking herb salvia from a bong and photographed drinking beer). He reveals to GQ why he chose not to attend Miley’s 18th birthday.
“You know why I didn’t go? Because they were having it in a bar,” he says. “It was wrong. It was for 21-years-old and up. Once again all them people, they all wanted me to fly out so that then when all the bad press came they could say, ‘Daddy endorsed this stuff … ‘”
“If I would have went out there I would have been right in the middle of all this stuff that’s going on right now with the bong. They’d be hanging it on my ass,” Billy Ray insists. “I had the common sense … I said, ‘This whole thing’s falling apart up there and they just want to blame all of this stuff on you again.’ I’m staying out of it.”
Once he caught wind of everything that was happening he tried to reach out to Miley’s team to find out what was going on. “There’s a train wreck happening and my daughter’s right in the middle of it,” he recalls thinking after he saw the headlines. “They told me it was none of my business,” he claimed. “”I’m dealing with somebody that had only known my daughter for possibly four years and I’m her daddy. I was pretty damn insulted.”
“I want to get her sheltered from the storm, he says. “Stop the insanity just for a minute. When you go through what she’s been through, it takes a beating on you. And there comes a point where you just got to step back.’
Billy Ray admits he is partially to blame for his daughter’s behavior. “How many interviews did I give and say, ‘You know what’s important between me and Miley is I try to be a friend to my kids’? I said it a lot,” he admits. “And sometimes I would even read other parents might say, ‘You don’t need to be a friend, you need to be a parent.’ Well, I’m the first guy to say to them right now: You were right.” “I should have been a better parent. I should have said, ‘Enough is enough – it’s getting dangerous and somebody’s going to get hurt,’” he continues. “I should have, but I didn’t. Honestly, I didn’t know the ball was out of bounds until it was way up in the stands somewhere.”
Billboard.com recently caught up with the Uncle Kracker to chat about heading back into the studio to record a follow up to his 2009 release Happy Hour.
“I’m kind of excited — actually, the most excited I’ve been in a long time,” Kracker tells Billboard.com. He says he’s written “about 20 songs and describes them as “a little more Americana. I don’t want to say rootsy, but I think it’s more ‘me’ than the last record was. The overall goal this time was to go in and have fun.”
As for touring with the “King of Summer,” Kracker says he’s looking forward to it. “We’re both pretty laid-back cats, and he’s just such a great dude, so we do well together,” says Kracker. “He’s just a great guy and a lot of fun to be around, and I’m a pretty fun person. The last thing you want is to be out on the road with some miserable group, just putzing around. I’ve been on plenty of tours where there’s no interaction between bands at all. But when you’re out with Chesney, all day every day, there’s something fun happening.”
James Dupre will be the first to tell you that dreams really do come true. While working as an EMT Paramedic, Dupre fueled his musical dreams by posting his videos on YouTube which was eventually discovered by Ellen Degeneres.
To check out James’ performance on The Ellen Degeneres Show, click HERE. For more information on James Dupre, please visit his website.
Jewel revealed details of her new musical project inspired by her son on the way.
"I've actually been writing songs for him," says the singer. "I wrote an album called 'Lullaby' when I was trying to get pregnant. Now that I'm pregnant, I'm writing a children's record. It's really been fun to write stuff ... you're thinking about what your child is going to want to hear and what's going to be a fun story."
Jewel says she hopes to deliver the new album in the fall, just in time for the new arrival at home. Until then, she's just basking in the joys that come with expectant motherhood. "Everybody said just try to enjoy being pregnant. So I've really just tried to enjoy it and relax."
Showing her support by wearing a Nashville Predators hockey jersey, Carrie Underwood cheers on her husband and the hometown team Tuesday night in Nashville.
Unfortunately, the Predators lost the game 2-1 in overtime.
Brad Paisley has pushed back the release date of his new album, This Is Country Music, by more than a month. Originally set for release on April 19, fans will now have to wait until May 24 to buy This Is Country Music.
Brad has released the album artwork for the new CD.
Miranda Lambert and Vince Gill are coming together once again for charity. The Estrella Celebrity Consignment store is set to open this spring, with all proceeds going to the nonprofit animal rescue organization, Noah’s Ark Society.
Other country stars that have donated their clothes and other items for sale are Jay DeMarcus from Rascal Flatts, James Otto, Emmylou Harris, Alison Krauss and Amy Grant.
Lori Elam, owner of My Sister’s Closet consignment store in Green Hills, will operate the Estrella Celebrity Consignment. The store satisfies two needs, allowing fans to purchase clothing from their favorite stars and helping take care of local Nashville area rescue animals.
Along with the previously worn clothing of various country stars and Nashville musicians, you’ll find items donated by sports stars as well. The store continues to seek clothing, shoes, jewelry, handbags, furniture and novelty items from Nashville celebrities.
If you would like more information or have items to donate, please call 615–279-0802.
Cosmopolitan's April 2010 issue featuring Gaga sold 1.7 million copies to make it that magazine's best seller, and her Rolling Stone cover sold 245,000 copies, nearly three times RS' average newsstand sales. It seems that oversaturation hasn't dampened people's interest in Gaga. Also faring well on newsstands: Rihanna, thanks in large part to her topless GQ cover.
On the flip side of that, the one way to guarantee poor sales, surprisingly, is to put Taylor Swift on the cover. Why doesn't Swift, one of the top-selling artists in music now, move more magazines? It likely has something to do with the fact that despite countless interviews and front-cover profiles, Swift still hasn't established herself as a headline-making quote machine like Gaga has. Most of her cover stories end up reading like mirror images of each other, with the same anecdotes and oft-repeated revelations that make up most boring promotional puff pieces, and the public has caught on. Also, since this is America, it doesn't help that Swift wears significantly more clothing.
The Band Perry’s debut album, The Band Perry, has achieved Gold certification from the RIAA for sales exceeding 500,000. Released in October 2010, the album and continues to hold steady at #7 on the Billboard Country Albums Chart and #37 on the overall Billboard Top 200.
“You Lie,” from the album is now The Band Perry’s fastest chart-climber to date.
Tim McGraw recently on ‘The Martha Stewart Show’ extended an invitation for Martha to join McGraw on his ‘Emotional Traffic’ tour.
At one point, Stewart said, “I could be the cook on your bus,” to which McGraw ecstatically replied, “Come on! We’re inviting you right now.” Stewart said, “That would be so much to see what it’s like. I was never one of those groupie girls.” The country singer teased Stewart and replied, “Oh come on! Tell us the stories.”
Stewart asked Tim about his arduous touring schedule. “Well it’s gonna take a while,” McGraw said. However, Tim doesn’t let touring get in the way on his family life. “We try to plan the tour around when the kids are out of school. But I’ll fly back and forth a lot,” McGraw continued. “I don’t leave ’til three or four in the afternoon and I get home at one or two in the morning. So I get to be home quite a bit.”
Taylor Swift received a surprising and very public musical valentine, as a new version of her song ‘Enchanted’.
Adam Young — an electro-pop musician who records under the name Owl City — and the country superstar crossed paths briefly in the not-so-distant past, and the encounter seems to have had an impact on both of them. Swift, long known for leaving no-so-subtle clues about the personal meaning of her song lyrics, apparently capitalized the letters “A-D-A-M’ in the lyrics for her version of ‘Enchanted,’ which appears on her most recent album, ‘Speak Now.’
During the 2011 Grammy Awards pre-show chatting with Keith Urban, when Ryan Seacrest first started to speak with Urban before the awards show, Urban slyly smiled — and he then told Seacrest, “Congratulations.”
Let the speculation begin. It is a well known fact that Ryan Seacrest has been dating Julianne Hough, since April 2010.
Was Urban congratulating Seacrest because the couple is engaged? Despite their 14 year age gap, it seems like a viable conclusion considering that Seacrest and Hough seem to be head over heels for each other.
Craig Morgan saved the lives of a Dickson, Tenn. family on Sunday afternoon. Craig spotted a house fire Sunday and his former EMT and Sheriff's deputy instincts took over. He raced to the scene of the blaze and ran into the smoke-filled house to rescue two young children trapped inside. After firefighters arrived at the scene, they handed Craig a hose to help put out the flames.
Because of Craig's lightning quick reflexes, the home suffered only minor damage and everyone in the house was safe and unharmed.
The Tennessee native has been busy filming the second season of his television show 'Craig Morgan: All Access Outdoors' for the Outdoor Channel, which will debut in June. He returns to the road TOMORROW, (Feb 16) for a show in Jackson, Miss.
Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton were among the majority of country music artists using the popular social networking site Twitter… key world = were. The duo have left their collective 350,000+ followers in the dark lately as they’ve both stopped using the popular site where users can update their status in 140 characters or less. Although this isn’t the first time the two have taken a break from Twitter, Miranda explains that they’ve just grown tired of it.
“We just got sick of it. I’ve been telling people we need to invent this machine that makes you blow in it before you send a tweet or an email, because there’s definitely the dangers of drunk tweeting,” Miranda tells The Daily Beast.
Carrie Underwood tells Women’s Health that she has to work to keep her figure just like everyone else. She says, “The older I get, the harder it is to splurge without consequences. I love food. Chocolate and cheese and anything that’s bad for me. I’ll be really good when I’m at home so I can eat what I want to when I’m out with friends.” Underwood confesses, “I’m addicted to Hostess 100-calorie packs. I love sweet stuff after meals.” The superstar also loves Healthy Choice ice cream sandwich bars but they are a treat. She advises, “When in doubt, head for Subway. You can’t go wrong with the veggie sub.”
Carrie admits that she has a public image to worry about. She says, “Everyone has all these expectations about what people should look like. Some people think I’m fat, some people don’t. Who are they to judge? But it does bother me – if I see a picture, and I look chubby, it affects how I feel about myself.” Carrie also confesses that when she sees herself on the Internet it’s hard not to click and see what is written about her. She says, “I read magazines but not the (message) boards. Those comments can be really hurtful. Occasionally I’ll be on the Internet and see something about me and give in to the urge to click on it. It’s hard not to. Usually I wish I didn’t.”
Jason Aldean admits the relationship he has with his wife is difficult to explain. But he says his life would be radically different if Jessica weren't a part of it.
Aldean, who'll turn 34 at the end of the month, says he and Jessica have been together for literally half his life -- since he was 17. But Jason and Jessica might not be sharing romantic moments together this Valentine's Day.
February 14th took on a new meaning for the couple in 2003, when their oldest daughter Keeley was born. Aldean has said that their little girl gets their attention on that day, and he and Jessica make time for their Valentine's celebration either the day before, or the day after the actual holiday.
To keep the passion and love interesting Nicole leaves a reminder for Keith Urban. Love notes. Seems Keith and Nicole keep the love alive by having adopted the habit of leaving each other love notes in odd places so that when they're traveling apart the other will find them.
“Keith has left notes for Nicole under the pillow and in the shower but the most unique time was when he wrote ‘I love you’ on the skin of an orange in the fridge,” according to a Nicole Kidman friend.
“She’s not as creative and usually hides them in Keith’ pockets, music equipment and even his underwear.”
The March issue of Architectural Digest, Sheryl Crow throws open the doors to her romantic Hollywood Hills estate.
Her 11-acre, 3-home property boasts a 1926 Spanish Colonial hacienda – her primary residence with her two sons – a 1909 Craftsman bungalow, and a picturesque 19th century cottage. Crow explains that she “grew up in Missouri, where you don’t really see architecture like this.”
The culmination of this personal, hand-selected design aesthetic is distinctly Crow. From the lush landscape visible through the windows and doors to the tepee and swing set on the lawn, her estate serves both family and serenity. This feature gives a rare glimpse of a different side of Crow, and she’s right when she says “there are a lot of people who think of me as very straight… so I imagine this place will come as a surprise.”
To see a beautiful photo gallery of photos visit ArchitecturalDigest.com
The Colon Cancer Alliance announces the 3rd Annual “Stars Go Blue” benefit concert for colon cancer at the Country Music Hall of Fame on Wednesday, March 16th. The event benefits the Blue Note Fund, which provides financial support for colon cancer patients in need of financial assistance.
The theme of this year’s show is “Couples in Country Music” featuring Grand Ole Opry member Josh Turner and his wife and band member, Jennifer, along others. Tickets are $100.00 per person and include the intimate concert in the Ford Theater, a VIP cocktail reception, and auction after the concert. For tickets or more information, please visit www.thestarsgoblue.com.
Over the past two years, friends and fellow musicians such as Vince Gill, Amy Grant, Hal Ketchum, Jamie O’Neal, Rodney Crowell, Mike Snider, Wade Hayes and others have lent their talents to “Stars Go Blue,” helping to raise over $30,000 to date.
Lee Brice says he might not be married to his son's mother, but she's still very special to him. Lee first met Sarah 12 years ago, "in a storybook way," telling TheBoot.com, it was a chance encounter on the beach while he was on vacation.
Lee recalls that she passed him and his buddies, "in this big ole sweatshirt, and you can't tell if she's attractive or not." But the way the light hit her he thought she was simply "gorgeous," and he dumped his friends to stay on the beach with her.
Brice explains that at first they dated, were just friends in college, and eventually lost touch -- in part because she was living in Ohio. He says a few years ago he decided to reconnect with her, and looked her up during a tour stop in her home state. Romance blossomed again, this time resulting in their son, Takoda, who's now two.
Brice admits that even with a child they still want to be careful about their relationship. He explains they weren't going to rush into a marriage just because of the baby, but, "we wanted to do it for the right reasons." However, Lee might be finding some compelling reasons to formalize his relationship.
Lee describes Sarah as "just an awesome person" and "a wonderful girl," and adds that it's hard for him to be away from her and their son.
Little Big Town are bringing the live experience of their shows to you with the help of Country Financial. The company is presenting 20 concerts by the foursome as part of the Road Trips and Guitar Picks concert series and will provide weekly exclusive videos and photos of the band on the road, free MP3 downloads and behind-the-scenes news.
Fans may also participate in discussions and receive the Road Trips and Guitar Picks newsletter by hitting 'Like' on the Trips and Picks Facebook page for access to the content.
Little Big Town will also hit the road this spring on the 2011 leg of Sugarland's Incredible Machine tour, which kicks off March 3.
But first, Little Big Town is in Los Angeles for the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards, where they are nominated for Country Performance by a Duo or Group for their infectious tune, 'Little White Church.'
Road Trips and Guitar Picks Dates:
April 16 - Nashville - Bridgestone Arena
May 6 - Chicago - TBD
May 7 - Minneapolis – TBD
Little Big Town are hoping to hang out with some celebrity stars at the Grammy’s This Weekend:
"When we get out there, we usually scope our seats and see who we're sitting next to," Karen tells The Boot. "Last time we sat with the Fray, or maybe that was the time before last, but it's always fun. I always end up wanting to meet people from Nashville out there that I've never ever met before, like Dolly Parton or Willie Nelson. I don't know who I'll be stalking this year, but it'll be somebody good. Lady Gaga maybe? I want to meet her!"
Craig Morgan has become the latest artist to part ways with the Sony Music Nashville umbrella. It was announced yesterday that Craig and BNA Records have amicably parted ways. Craig signed with the label back in 2008 after his departure from Broken Bow Records.
Kellie Pickler tweeted a response to an incident involving socialite Kim Kardashian and Prince Monday. Kim failed to dance with the rock icon Prince after he pulled her up onstage at a show in New York City. Kellie apparently would Party Like It’s 1999!
Carrie Underwood‘s husband Mike Fisher has officially been traded from the Ottawa Senators to the Nashville Predators.
“We were seeking a top-six forward and Mike Fisher was the player we set our sights on,” Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile said. “He plays playoff-style hockey all season long. He plays on the power play, kills penalties, is strong on draws and can match up against any opposing line.”
The team has a pretty good record too – currently they are second in the Central Division and fifth in the Western Conference. Dirk Hoag of the Predators agrees giving up a first-round pick is a “steep price” for a Nashville team but it seems to think it’s worth it.
No word yet if they will also keep their brand new dream house in Canada or not. Some Canadians aren't going to take this trade sitting down and have decided to wage an all-out boycott of all things Carrie. CTV Ottawa reports that Ottawa's 105.3 KISS-FM promises to ban Carrie's music from their airwaves from now on.
"As Ottawa residents, we feel this is a betrayal to our community. We know Mike Fisher is not to blame for this trade but feel he was lured away from Ottawa by a country music superstar," reads a statement from the radio station. "Sure, she's pretty. Yes, she can sing. But can she play hockey? Can she put one top shelf with a slap shot? No!"
Carrie Underwood released a statement regarding Mike’s trade…“We will both truly miss Ottawa. Mike has been such a big part of the community, and I will never forget how they welcomed me with open arms. We obviously love Nashville, and the teams’ decision for him to now play with the Predators is an exciting opportunity for Mike. I support him wherever he plays!”
Lee Brice is now being featured on televisions in McDonald’s restaurants around the country.
Customers visiting the popular fast food chain will be treated to a series of segments including music videos, acoustic performances and interviews from some of today’s most popular artists. Be sure to check out Lee’s “Love Like Crazy” feature playing now at participating restaurants.
Lee has also been selected as the featured artist for the in-flight audio entertainment for all Continental Airlines flights. Passengers aboard any Continental Airlines flight between March 1 and April 30 can tune in to hear several songs from Lee’s debut album, including his record-breaking, ACM nominated hit “Love Like Crazy” and his new single, “Beautiful Every Time.”
As Jewel anxiously awaits the birth of her first child -- a boy -- her husband Ty Murray opened up to PEOPLE about what he hopes the future holds for his son.
"It's just a miracle," Murray says. "To have achieved our dreams and goals -- it's nice. And now that we got that out of the way, we feel more settled down and mature."
Murray also revealed that he looks to his own father for inspiration and guidance for raising his own son. "My dad, to this day, is the biggest influence on my life that I've ever had," he said. "He always led his life as an upstanding man, and that's my goal -- to do that for my kid."
The couple is expecting their bundle of joy in July.
The inner workings of Brad Paisley‘s ‘H2O Tour’ was revealed recently on ‘Modern Marvels,’ which airs on the History Channel. The behind-the-scenes episode spotlighted and followed show nine of a 10-city tour last fall. Paisley played Little Rock and then needed to head 300 miles west to Tulsa the next day.
The show chronicled how the crew packs up the elaborate stage set up, which features two-story high video screens as well as lasers, speakers and other equipment. Here’s the math: in 10 hours, nine trucks, driven by nine truckers, need to travel 300 miles. They have 90 minutes, post-show, to break down 1 million pounds of production gear.
If they don’t make it on time to unload and prep, there will be 20,000 disappointed fans, a mountain of legal issues, extra costs for Paisley and the local promoter!
One featured trucker, Jay Rennau, has logged over a million miles – that’s three trips to the moon – so far in his career. Another driver, Fast Eddie White, is on the road about 40 weeks a year.
In fact, it’s a tightly orchestrated, scientifically engineered rush and Paisley himself even said, “Without the truckers, without the people that are really skilled in this area, with the ability to maneuver in and out of these loading docks, to basically make time, there’d be absolutely no performing. It’s insane thinking about what they bring in, set up and tear down. It’s a small city. I dunno how they do it.”
Don’t expect to see Trace at the prestigious Grammys anytime soon. During an interview he made the following comment:
"I went out there once before to the Grammy thing and it was a freak show. I don't know if I'm going to go back there."
Trace goes on to say, "The Grammys are....it's a competition of who has got the biggest bodyguard and there are some big guys, I mean huge chunks of humanity, you know, just massive guys."
Trace is a big guy so does this mean all the bodyguards are 8 foot tall and 543 pounds?
Darryl Worley called in to WGNA/Albany and caught listeners up with what he has been doing this winter, which has been particularly nasty for much of the country. Worley admitted that he has enjoyed a bit of time off; and that during that time he and his family have feasted on a lot of venison.
“We eat more deer meat than anything else,” Worley said about his preferred country cuisine. “My wife just made deer chili and a big ol’ huge deer stew.” He also joked that he grinds up the deer horns for breakfast and laughed that “we put it into a thing called ‘goatmeal.’” Mmm! Sounds delish.
The winter weather has hit the Worley farm in Tennessee, too, and he’s been dealing with all that noise. Worley said, “We had a big ol’ winter down here. For 15-20 years, we never saw any snow. But we had about eight or 10 inches on my farm.”
He also dispelled the myth that those who live in warmer southern states can’t deal with driving in the snow, saying, “Out here in the country, they do fine. If you are in the city, like Jackson or up in Nashville especially, my wife and I saw people running off the road in four-wheel drive trucks and the road wasn’t even white yet. Just the fear of the snow that was falling, like, ‘Ah, we better run off the road just to be safe!’”
Entertainment Weekly is reporting that Nigel Lythgoe, producer of American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance, and his son Simon will launch a new show called CMT’s Next Superstar in search of America’s “next great country star.”
The show will tape 10 episodes beginning in April, with the winner announced during the CMT Awards in June. The contestants will live together and compete for the title of “next great country star. No word yet on who will act as judges for the upcoming TV show, but the producers insist the process of elimination will keep viewers glued to their sets.
CMT’s Next Superstar which will premiere in April. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the winner of the competition will be announced during the 2011 CMT Music Awards and will score a spot on this year’s CMT Tour.
