Texas Music Journal » Texas Music Business

Internet Radio in San Antonio to Feature Texas Music Program

Sam Moore — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 14:24:45 +0000

Editor’s Note: We received the following notice from OpenPR.com.

RadioSanAntonio.com has joined forces with noted performer, producer, and promoter Nikki Young to launch a new program with a special live event.

The Digital Open Mic Night Show, a showcase for Texas music, will premiere in its regular time slot from 6-8pm on Sunday, January 8, with a live broadcast from Sam Ash Music Store in San Antonio. Hosted by Young, the series will feature music by local artists and combine news, reviews, interviews, as well as updates on area concerts and plenty of in-studio performances from area artists of all genres. The premiere event will also feature tons of giveaways, complimentary munchies, and live performances from SA favorites The Tim & Bob Show, Laura Marie, and The Krayolas.

Nikki Young

For Jay Tope, Program Director at RadioSanAntonio.com, Young – a fixture in San Antonio radio, with frequent guest appearances on KONO and KTSA – is a natural fit for the growing Internet radio station. “Besides having a natural presence on radio,” he explains, “Nikki has a presence in the arts scene here in San Antonio. And as a promoter, she understands how the Internet and social networking are transforming the way musicians and listeners connect with each other. So we’re very excited that she’ll be bringing her energy and expertise to RadioSanAntonio.com.”

“Texas has long been a center for musical invention,” Young (a former board member and event coordinator for the Texas Music Coalition) says. “From pop to punk, from country to conjunto, every genre of music has been touched by artists and innovators from this state. This show will be an opportunity to introduce listeners to some of those innovators, to music that has been relatively untapped by broadcast radio. And given that more and more of us are discovering music through the click of a mouse, RadioSanAntonio.com is a perfect fit for the show. I’m thrilled to be working with Jay on this new venture.”

In support of the new show, Sam Ash General Manager Jon Johansen has announced that the store will extend its closing time to 8pm on January 8. “We’re proud to support Nikki and RadioSanAntonio.com in their new show,” he says, “and we encourage everyone to come to the store that evening to support them and the local music scene.”

Musicians interested in having their music featured on upcoming shows can either drop off CDs at the event, email mp3 files to nikki@radiosanantonio.com, or snail mail materials to:

Digital Open Mic Night
c/o Nikki Young
6338 N. New Braunfels #328
San Antonio, TX 78209

Please be sure to include contact info on any and all non-returnable submissions!

Launched in 2011, RadioSanAntonio.com is an internet radio station dedicated to providing audiences with a positive listening experience. Its programming includes music from yesterday and today, morning and evening shows, and live broadcasts from area venues across San Antonio. For information about the station and to listen live, please visit www.radiosanantonio.com.

A native of San Antonio, Nikki Young is one of Texas’ most familiar names in arts and business. As an actress, she has been featured in over 20 films, nearly 50 plays, and numerous print and television campaigns; as a producer, she has developed projects for stage and screen; as a promoter and supporter of the arts and entertainment, she has worked with organizations including the Texas Music Coalition (TMC) and American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP), to name a few. Young has been recognized in newspapers and magazines, on websites, on radio, and on television for her work as a community partner. For more information on Young and her work, please visit nikkiyoung.biz.

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Another Successful Day of Giving

Sam Moore — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 16:07:42 +0000

As was hoped for, more Austin-area businesses, large and small, participated in Health Alliance for Austin Musicians’ 6th HAAM Benefit Day on Tuesday, October 4, and more acts performed live music throughout the city than ever before. The number of participating businesses topped 215, and the number of bands playing reached more than 170.

New records set also include the number of HAAMbassadors and community members who volunteered during the special day that recognizes the hard-working musicians in town and the organization that provides them with access to wide-ranging healthcare service programs, from primary medical care to dental care to vision, hearing and mental health/addiction-recovery services, with a focus on wellness and prevention.

More social media buzz circulated in cyberspace, and thousands used HAAM’s new custom mobile website and its schedule of music performances and venues to plan their day.

Most important, the 6th HAAM Benefit Day raised more money than ever before — $235,000, Health Alliance organizers report — for the expansion of those healthcare service programs and the number of member-musicians (more than 2,700 served) who benefit from them. That figure has come in from businesses that pledged 5% of the day’s proceeds such as presenting sponsor Whole Foods Market or made a donation as well as donations from Austin residents and matching grants from C3 Presents and Texas Heritage Songwriters’ Association.

“We are grateful to everyone who came out and supported HAAM Benefit Day,” says Carolyn Schwarz, executive director of Health Alliance of Austin Musicians. “The day would not have been possible — nor the record-setting numbers — without the community behind us.”

The 7th HAAM Benefit Day is slated for Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2012.

For more information on HAAM and HAAM Benefit Day and to donate: www.myhaam.org.

October is Texas Music Month

Sam Moore — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 15:58:02 +0000

(Editor’s note: The following proclamation was sent by the Texas Music Office.)

Texas is world-renowned for its eclectic music scene. Marked by the contributions of musical legends such as Buddy Holly, “Blind” Lemon Jefferson, Willie Nelson, ZZ Top and Selena, Texans have made an incalculable contribution to music. That is why we say, “You can’t hear American music without hearing Texas.”

The Lone Star State has long enjoyed a wealth of great musical artists. With its phenomenal growth during the last two decades, Texas’ music industry competes internationally to attract songwriters, performers and industry professionals. With nearly 8,000 regularly performing Texas bands and ensembles, the music business is a vibrant and important sector of our economy, providing jobs as well as entertainment for this great state. Our music industry also sparks tourism, as visitors from across the country travel to Texas for festivals such as South by Southwest.

To highlight the importance of the Texas music industry and recognize the accomplishments of our many great musicians, an appreciation campaign is being conducted during the month of October.

At this time, I encourage all Texans to recognize the many contributions of the music industry and those who create great music in our state.

Therefore, I, Rick Perry, Governor of Texas, do hereby proclaim October 2011 to be
Texas Music Month
in Texas, and urge the appropriate
recognition whereof.

In official recognition whereof,
I hereby affix my signature this the
11th day of September, 2011.

Governor of Texas

http://governor.state.tx.us/music/files/directory/texas-music-month.pdf

The Band Perry Showcases Texas Fans Tonight on National Television

Sam Moore — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 15:14:04 +0000

By Sam Moore

The Band Perry, who were taped during a performance last week at Gilley’s Dallas, will be the featured musical guests tonight on Jimmy Kimmel Live.

The special appearance is part of the summer-long Samsung AT&T Summer Krush 2011 concert series. Taking place in nine cities from mid-July thru mid-September, the series is an exclusive music tour featuring nine well-known musical acts each performing free one-night only music events – open to the public, but with private, limited access. Portions of select performances will air exclusively on ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”

Two songs from the show last week will be shown tonight. “If I Die Young” is the song that pushed the band of two brothers and one sister to number one on the charts. They garnered a Grammy nomination and were named New Artist of the Year by the Academy of Country Music. They also played their newest hit, “You Lie,” which has climbed to number-five on the country charts. They are currently touring with Tim McGraw, and will team up later this year with Keith Urban, then Reba McEntire.

During last week’s performance, lead singer Kimberly Perry let the audience know how important they were.

“You guys are the most important part of tonight,” she said. “We’re just here to back you up!”

Often, that is just what happened, as the crowd sang along to song after song. And as for what it is like for a Tennessee group to play on a stage synonymous with Texas, Kimberly left no doubt as to their feelings.

“I think every act that is not from Texas feels jealous when they perform here. Because when they play in front of people like you, they wish this was their home!”
Samsung AT&T used the opportunity to showcase its new Samsung Infuse 4G phone. Media members were given phones for the evening to use as cameras. The photos in this article are from the photos Texas Music Reporter took from the crowd.

“Jimmy Kimmel Live!” appears on ABC tonight. Check local listings for air time. For more information on The Band Perry, visit www.thebandperry.com.

Levitt Planning for Cool Weather Music

Sam Moore — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 16:37:03 +0000

Carolyn Wonderland

Texas may be going through the pains of a summer drought. But the Levitt Pavilion in Arlington is already hard at work, preparing for its upcoming “cool weather” music.

The Levitt’s free 2011 Texas Power Fall Concert Series begins on Labor Day weekend and runs through Oct. 1 with free music on Thursday through Sunday evenings. This venue is one of the best in north Texas for fun, free, top quality live music.

The Levitt Pavilion continues its fall tradition of having the crowd-pleasing mosh-pit polka music of Brave Combo start the fall series on Sept. 1. Labor Day weekend continues with rockin’ “pianimal,” Jason D. Williams, who channels Jerry Lee Lewis on Sept. 2. Arlington’s favorite country-singing mom, Melissa Lawson, returns to the stage on Sept. 3, and the holiday weekend concludes with blues from a down-home diva, Ruthie Foster, on Sept. 4.

All of the fall concerts will begin at 7:30 p.m. except for two concerts on Sept. 17, which are part of EcoFest, presented by Arlington Parks & Recreation. On that day, Velvet Love Box will perform at 6:30 p.m., and new age percussion masters, Spoonfed Tribe, will perform at 8 p.m.

The Fall Concert Series has something for everyone, including indie rock, lyrical songwriters, Latin pop, contemporary Christian, enchanting music from the Peruvian Andes, rebel funk, Grammy-winning jazz, persuasive percussion and country music with a distinctive Texas flair. Highlights include Carolyn Wonderland, a hot Texas artist with a touch of Janis Joplin and a slice of Stevie Ray Vaughn; alternative country married couple duo, Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis; Grammy-winning jazz saxophonist Jeff Coffin, who plays with the Dave Matthews Band; and popular country nice guy, Deryl Dodd and his band, The Homesick Cowboys.

To make the most of their Levitt experience, participants should bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on, a picnic and cooler with beverages (no glass containers, please), bug spray, and family and friends to enjoy music under the stars. J. Gilligan’s will be back to grill burgers, veggie burgers, chicken and quesadillas. Kettle corn, ice cream and snow cones also return. And concert-lovers can document their evening with the Levitt’s photo kiosk. There is plenty of free parking in the lots all around the pavilion.

The 2011 Texas Power Fall Concert Series is generously supported by our Fall Season Sponsors: Texas Power, Titan Operating LLC, the Mortimer Levitt Foundation, Levitt Pavilions, the City of Arlington, Arlington Parks & Recreation, the Arlington Chamber Foundation, the Arlington Arts Alliance, the Star-Telegram, the Texas Commission on the Arts, FW Weekly and the Sheraton Arlington, the official hotel sponsor for the Levitt Pavilion.

For more information, visit www.levittpavilionarlington.org.

Houston Gets New NSAI Group

Sam Moore — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 20:48:04 +0000

(Editor’s Note: We received the following from Connie Mims with Nashville Songwriters Association International in Houston.)

Announcing new NSAI HOUSTON monthly workshop!

Date: Monday, May 2nd, 2011

Time: 7:00pm-10:00pm

Location: Borders Bookstore, 3025 Kirby Drive @ W. Alabama, Houston, TX 77098; 2nd floor, adjacent to the café
http://www.borders.com/online/store/StoreDetailView_381
In appreciation for Borders hosting our monthly workshops, we encourage everyone to enjoy a beverage from the Seattle’s Best Café, located inside the store!

Format: This is a non-performance monthly workshop, with an emphasis on the craft of songwriting with a commercial appeal.

Agenda: 7:15-7:45 Instructional program; educational element
7:45-9:45 Group Critique- For those wishing to have a song critiqued, please bring at least 10 to 15 copies of typed lyrics on one page for everyone to make comments and suggestions. We typically have time for 10 critiques. First ten critiques are designated for active NSAI members only. Sign up at 7:00pm. If we have time for additional critiques, we will try to fit them all in, especially those who are attending for the first time and/or who are non-members.

Facilitator: NSAI Houston North Metro Regional Coordinator, Connie Mims

Please help us spread the word about this exciting new opportunity for Houston area songwriters to learn more about the craft and business of songwriting from Nashville Songwriters Association International! Please “Like”our page on Facebook: NSAI HOUSTON.

See you there!

Connie Mims
NSAI Houston Regional Workshop Coordinator
nsaihouston@gmail.com

Join NSAI: http://nashvillesongwriters.com

“It all begins with a song”

New Book Outlines 30 Years of Texas Honky Tonking

Sam Moore — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 20:26:32 +0000

Everything is bigger in Texas, as the saying goes. Now, a book is available that details the biggest old time music hall in the country.

Billy Bob’s Texas is billed as the world’s largest honky tonk. Now, the club’s history is detailed in “A Texas Legend,” an outline of the Fort Worth establishment’s 30 rocking years.

The book outlines the history, year by year. It tells the stories of the stars, the fans, and the shows. It goes on sale next week at Billy Bob’s gift store. It can also be purchased online at www.billybobstexas.com.

Also available is a 30th anniversary double CD, “30 Years – 30 Songs. The Best of the Live at Billy Bob’s Concert Series.”

Texas Music Making Headlines

Sam Moore — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 18:49:43 +0000

I learned a lesson this past weekend. Leave the state, get sick, or otherwise get involved in life, and when you return you discover you have missed at least a handful of Texas music headlines!

JEWEL HIT BY EMERGENCY VEHICLE

Probably the most important story that happened was the accident in Stephenville, in whichh a car being driven by Jewel was hit by a fire truck on the way to a fire. At last word, both Jewel and her unborn baby are doing fine. That is definitely good news.

SET THE DATE

OK, everybody start watching the mailbox for your invitation. Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton have set a wedding date. They will be married May 14 in Oklahoma.

SXSW

Yes, the South By Southwest conference is underway. With it come live music, high tech exhibits, and – of course – all the other festivals run by people who are upset that SxSW no longer cater exclusively to Texas acts. On a positive note, we learned that the New York Times picked Texas native Sarah Jaffe as one of the acts expected to make a big splash in Austin. This follows what is considered to be the most successful year of her young career so far. Kirtland Records also just announced a national re-release of her first EP.

ELI YOUNG BAND GETTING MORE POPULAR

And how do we know that? Well, their new release, Crazy Girl, was the most downloaded song on iTunes last week. The video, depicting young lovers trying to escape from an asylum, has been generating a lot of activity on cmt.com.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY WEEKEND BRINGS OUT THE MUSIC

Name a town. Name a club. Insert band name here!

Little Girl – Big Words

John South — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 02:37:41 +0000

Early Morning Hours

When I opened the package from Emmeline’s team containing her debut EP, “Early Morning Hours”, out popped a neat little piece of marketing swag proclaiming, “Emmeline – little girl – big words”. Not to criticize the marketing, but it missed the mark. It should actually have read, “Little Girl – Big Talent”! As I cranked up the first cut of Emmeline’s debut EP, “The Story”, I was certain that listening to this disc was going to be a pleasant experience. From the first cut to the last, Emmeline took me on a journey, offering me a peek into her love, her pain, and the musical soul that drives this level of music.

The opening piano riff of “The Story” (played by Emmeline) catches you right away. When the cymbal work of Guy Cramer and the vibes of Kevin Hood join in, you’re hooked. The soft jazz working with her powerful lyrics reminds me of some of my favorite Diana Krall tunes. Add in a strong dose of Tom Waits’ work on “Blue Valentine”, and you have a feel for the cut.

Emmeline’s voicing is superb. Her sultry singing draws you into Miranda’s story of love lost with her husband in the grave. We also meet Sebastian, who is fighting his own demons. They are two lost souls, each wondering if they’re “gonna get it back again”. Emmeline paints an exquisite musical picture of the pain and suffering of these two.

“Give a Damn” takes us in another direction, much lighter than the opening offering. However, the message is still strong and clear. The singer’s pain has come from the realization that the love of her life is not focused on her; in fact he “…doesn’t give a damn about [her].” Emmeline shows us the versatility of her singing and her lyrics. The rhythmic progression of the song emphasizes her awakening.

“Where the Light Is” is an awakening story, one where the singer realizes that she and her friend are no longer traveling on the same road. She sees “where the light is”, but her friend is unable to see it. Again, Emmeline provides us powerful lyrics. She changes pace through the song to emphasize the pain she is feeling. The outro brings the song to a sad, but inevitable conclusion.

“Not that Girl” opens with a piano and percussion riff that tells us that we’re going back to a Tom Waits- like-song. However, throw in a touch of Marilyn Monroe at the end of each refrain , and you have the mixture of power, syncopation, and desire that this song exudes. Nevertheless, there is conflict – the tug of lust from across the room versus the singer’s values that prevent her from doing anything, as she’s “…not that girl.” The track is supported by strong trumpet work from Brittany Hendricks.

“Exit” reflects a singer-songwriter offering that one could hear in many of the cafés around Texas. With Josh Cooley at the guitar, Emmeline keeps up a quick beat, but the story reflects another case of love that’s reached the end of the line. It’s like she has made up her mind to “Exit” the relationship and has to run before she changes her mind.

“I Could Be Good” reminds me a lot of the work of another fantastic Texas singer-songwriter, Terri Hendrix, another great storyteller. The song epitomizes the singer’s being “a little left of center”, but “living out loud”. It’s a fun song where the pacing and verse constructs add to the overall interest of the piece.

The last track, “A Hundred Years”, opens with a great line that seems to me to reflect directly on Emmeline: “I like to think that I walk with purpose”. Nicely, the song ends the EP with hope for the future, rather than the love lost and desperation of the earlier tracks.

Emmeline’s debut work points to a promising future. She is able to take us down into the depths of despair with people whose futures are uncertain, their present unbearable. Through musical portraits of love lost, love that’s reached its end, and love about to blossom, we see the breadth of emotion that Emmeline has brought into her songs. She has a great voice, strong lyrics and talented delivery that provide a wonderful experience for her audience.

Emmeline’s tour schedule can be found at www.emmelinemusic.com. In addition, you can hear her music in a number of sites on line:

www.myspace.com/emmelinemilesmusic
www.facebook.com/emmelinemusic
www.reverbnation.com/emmeline
www.youtube.com/emmeline
www.twitter.com/emmemusic

New Texas Music Venue to Open in Historic San Marcos

Sam Moore — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 16:46:37 +0000

Texas Music Theater San Marcos, the new live music venue equipped with state-of-the-art sound, lighting and video components ready to handle intimate acoustic performances as well as large-scale special events and full-production national touring acts, will soon open on the town’s historical downtown square.

Built with musicians in mind, the goal of the three entrepreneurs who reclaimed the theater from its past is creation of the best live entertainment venue along the Interstate Highway 35 corridor, a “must play” for artists and a “must see” for audiences.

Selected to host the 2011 Lone Star Music Awards on March 27, the musical lineup for the evening includes headliner Hayes Carll, Lincoln Durham, Javi Garcia, The Trishas and Max Stalling. Advance general admission tickets are $5, available at www.FrontGateTickets.com. Tickets not sold through the Web site will be available at the door, also for $5.

Texas Music Theater, at 120 E. San Antonio St., will offer a rich variety of entertainers. In fact, any given night of the week, audiences can expect the best in live music performances in musical genres from Americana, Texas country and rock to indie rock, blues and Tejano-Salsa-Latin. The Theater will always be open Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

Other scheduled performances include country rocker Cory Morrow on March 9 and Mr. Fest free music event with a big lineup of entertainers the weekend of April 28-29.

With high-end digital sound and lighting equipment; a stage of oak; space that can accommodate 1,000; VIP, reserved and balcony seating; and ample parking, Texas Music Theater will be the premier live music venue along IH-35. It is also available for private parties, corporate meetings, special events and rehearsals of national touring acts.

Performing artists will enjoy easy load-in and a first-class green room and will appreciate the staging and production equipment waiting for them, which includes Renkus Heinz line arrays and Shure Beta, AKG and Sennheiser microphones; and Panasonic PTFW300U projectors with VuTec 110-inch rear-projection screens. (Full Production Specifications package available upon request.)

“Once they’re onstage and performing, the musicians who play here won’t want to leave,” says Gray Gregson, one of the owners of Texas Music Theater, a lifelong musician and winner of a W.C. Handy Award for 2003 Blues Song of the Year. “We look forward to presenting the very best music to our friends, neighbors, Texans and the rest of the world.”

In its long history, the theater — a short walk from Texas State University, one of the largest and fastest-growing colleges in Texas — has had many uses: theater, movie house, restaurant and most recently, a bar/live music venue called Gordo’s. “The theater has proven itself to be a very popular place over the years,” says Scott Gregson, another owner and a local investor active in the redevelopment of downtown San Marcos. “We know musicians everywhere will appreciate what we’ve done to revitalize it, and we know that music lovers will, too.”

For more information, visit www.texasmusictheatersanmarcos.com or call 512.878.2459.

Texas Music Artists Join In on the Boot Campaign

Sam Moore — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 15:42:06 +0000

One-by-one country music stars are taking off their cowboy boots and replacing them with army boots! The Boot Campaign was inspired by retired US Navy SEAL and author of the book Lone Survivor, Marcus Luttrell. The campaign is a way for Americans to give back and say thank you to our armed forces.

Country music stars involved include: legends like George Jones, Oak Ridge Boys, Jan Howard, Mel Tillis, Lee Greenwood and Charlie Daniels, along with hit-makers Josh Turner, Phil Vassar, Joe Nichols, Randy Houser, Gretchen Wilson, Little Texas, Joe Diffie, Jamie O’Neal, Heidi Newfield, Justin Moore, Chuck Wicks, Colt Ford, Randy Rogers Band, Eli Young Band, Derek Sholl, Joey + Rory and Jack Ingram.

Charlie Daniels, who even chose the Boot Campaign to be a part of his annual charity event at the Nashville Palm said, “I’ve never seen anything quite as unique as the Boot Campaign, and I’ve seen a lot!”

Also on board are bluegrass artists The Grascals and The Roys, along with Texas sensations Cross Canadian Ragweed, Robert Earl Keen, Jason Boland, Aaron Watson, Mick and the Motorcars, Reckless Kelly, Wade Bowen, Kevin Fowler, Stoney LaRue, No Justice, Bleu Edmondson, and Granger Smith.

These celebrities along with the Boot Girls are helping to spread the organizations motto: “When They Come Back, We Give Back!” The campaign encourages Americans to purchase a pair of army combat boots to wear in support of our nation’s troops. Proceeds from the boot sales are donated to partner charities, including Luttrell’s Lone Survivor Foundation.

About The Boot Campaign
Known as “the Boot Girls,” Ginger, Leigh Ann, Sherri, Heather and Mariae banned together one fateful night in Tyler, Texas to launch The Boot Campaign giving gratitude and appreciation for the American military. The initiative is quickly gaining awareness with the repertoire of boot images expanding every day. The Boot Girls ask Americans to put their boots on during the routine of daily life to symbolically walk in the shoes of our military men and women, remembering their service and sacrifice. The Campaign’s signature boots are available for purchase online with proceeds benefiting organizations like The Lone Survivor Foundation.

For more information about The Boot Campaign, please visit: www.bootcampaign.com.

DSA Sponsors Songwriting Contest

Sam Moore — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 20:10:07 +0000

Amateur songwriters from around the world are invited to compete in the 2011 Annual Song Contest hosted by the Dallas Songwriters Association (DSA).

This year’s contest will feature eight categories judged by established music industry professionals and will offer almost $5,000 in prizes to the top winners in each category.

Entries must be post-marked by March 31. Song categories for 2011 are:

1. Christian/Inspirational

2. Country

3. Americana/Folk/Bluegrass

4. Pop/Rock/R&B/Alternative

5. Love Songs/Easy Listening

6. Children’s/Novelty

7. Singer/Songwriter

8. Instrumental

Contestants can enter now through March 31 online by clicking the Songwriting Contest tab at http://www.dallassongwriters.org/ , or by mail with entry forms mailed to: DSA, 2011 Song Contest, Sammons Center for the Arts, 3630 Harry Hines Blvd. No 20, Dallas, TX 75219. Entry fees are $20 per song. Only CD format will be accepted via mail.

The Grand Prize winner will take home a new Tradition electric guitar, get a Premier Demo by Beaird Music Group-one of Nashville’s top recording facilities-and receive a one-year Primo MoB membership with Broadjam, the on-line resource company and web community for musicians.

Grand Prize runner up gets a day of free recording at Enchanted Rock Audio and a night in Merlin’s Cabin, both nestled along the Llano River on the back of a 300 acre ranch in the Texas Hill Country, in addition to a one-year Broadjam Primo MoB membership.

Third Place overall receives a song demo/consultation with Kim Copeland of Nashville’s Kim Copeland Productions and a one-year Broadjam Primo MoB membership.

All first place category winners win $100, a one-year Broadjam MoB membership and a year’s membership in the DSA. Second place winners win $50 and a year’s DSA membership, and third place finishers win a DSA membership.
Last year’s Grand Prize Winner, Lanny Sherwin of Santa Barbara, Calif., swept the Novelty/Children’s category with first, second and third place wins. His top winner was “I Can’t Rhyme,” taking first place in the category as well as Grand Prize for the overall contest.
Additional sponsors include Crystal Clear Sound, Patrick McGuire Recording and WM Sales/Cam Audio. Submission partners are Broadjam.com and Sonicbids. Music industry partners are Dallas International Guitar Festival, Arlington Guitar Show, Tradition Guitars, MyStudio Recording Studios, Texas Music Group, Bar-b Music Marketing Consultants, Musemuse.com, Sante Fe Design, Austin Songwriters Group and DIFS.

Dallas Songwriters Assoc. is a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to providing information about the craft and business of songwriting. All styles of music are welcome in the DSA, and membership includes writers of all ages. DSA monthly activities include meetings with guest speakers, song critiques and performance showcases that are open to the public. In addition, the DSA supports and promotes workshops and contests and publishes a monthly newsletter. For more information, visit www.dallassongwriters.org.

Texas Music To Benefit Hospital Efforts

Sam Moore — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 15:20:51 +0000

Texas music is coming to the aid of sick children.

The inaugural 2011 Texas Music Calendar to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is on sale now. The 13-month calendar features artists including George Strait, Miranda Lambert, Richie McDonald, Clay Walker, Leann Rimes, Clint Black,Jewel, Pat Green and Radney Foster, Robert Earl Keen, Chris Cagle, Randy Rogers Band and Trent Willmon.

The calendar is part of country fans care for st. Jude kids, a fundraising program that seeks to unite the fans of country music’s new and established stars. The calendar costs $15 (plus shipping and handling) and can be purchased by clicking the url below.

http://va.eftsecure.net/eftcart/additem.asp?m_id=465169677573&p_id=152319

Nashville and Dallas Lawyers to Work Together on Music

Sam Moore — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 18:12:47 +0000

Here is another sign that Nashville takes Texas music seriously. A Nashville firm that represents such artists as Faith Hill and Aaron Neville is merging with a Dallas law practice to work with Texas artists.

The full article is in the Dallas Morning News. To see the article, visit:

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/membership/join.jsp?fw=http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/bus/stories/DN-musiclaw_03bus.ART.State.Edition1.7e2bee.html

Grammy Awards

Sam Moore — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 17:01:23 +0000

It’s been a great year for Texas music and musicians. The Grammy nominations
agree, 42 Texas born-or-based acts have received a total of 53 GRAMMY nominations. They
are listed below.

For a list of all nominees, please visit:
http://www.grammy.com/nominees
The National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences
53rd Annual GRAMMY® Awards
For recordings released during the Eligibility Year September 1, 2009 through
September 30, 2010.

Arcade Fire
-Album of the Year for The Suburbs
-Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for Ready to Start
-Best Alternative Music Album for The Suburbs

ARS Lyrica Houston
-Best Opera Recording for Hasse: Marc’ Antonio E Cleopatra Devendra Banhart
-Best Recording Package for What Will We Be (with Jon Beasley)

John Beasley
-Best Jazz Instrumental Album, Individual of Group for Positootly!

Beyoncé
-Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for Halo(Live)
-Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals for Telephone (with Lady GaGa)

Ryan Bingham
-Best Song Written For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual Media for The Weary Kind with T Bone Burnett

Carol Burnett
-Best Spoken Word Album for This Time Together: Laughter and Reflection

T Bone Burnett
-Best Compilation Soundtrack Album For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual Media for Crazy Heart
-Best Song Written For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual Media for The Weary Kind with Ryan Bingham

Guy Clark
-Best Contemporary Folk Album for Somedays the Song Writes You

James Cotton
-Best Traditional Blues Album for Giant

David Crowder Band
-Best Rock or Rap Gospel Album for Church Music

Steve Earle
-Best Song Written For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual Media for This City

Roky Erickson with Okkervil River
-Best Album Notes for True Love Cast Out All Evil

Patty Griffin
-Best Traditional Gospel Album for Downtown Church

El Güero Y Su Banda Centenario
-Best Banda Album for Enamórate De Mí Grupo Fantasma
-Best Latin Rock, Alternative or Urban Album for El Existential

Ty Herndon
-Best Southern, Country or Bluegrass Gospel Album for Journey On

Buddy Holly
-Best Historical Album for Not Fade Away: The Complete Studio Recordings and More

Intocable
-Best Norteño Album for Classic

Israel Houghton
-Best Gospel Performance for You Hold My World
-Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album for Love God, Love People

Jewel
-Best Female Country Vocal Performance for Satisfied

Norah Jones
-Best Female Vocal Pop Performance for Chasing Pirates

Miranda Lambert
-Song of the Year for The House That Built Me
-Best Female Country Vocal Performance for The House That Built Me
-Best Country Collaboration with Vocals for Bad Angel (with Dierks Bentley and Jamey Johnson)
-Best Country Song for The House That Built Me
-Best Country Album for Revolution

Lecrae
-Best Rock or Rap Gospel Album for Rehab

Little Joe Y La Familia
-Best Tejano Album for Recuerdos

Alan Lomax
-Best Album Notes for Alan Lomax in Haiti: Recordings for the Library of Congress, 1936-1937
-Best Historical Album for Alan Lomax in Haiti: Recordings for the Library of Congress, 1936-1937

Johnny Mathis
-Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album for Let It Be Me: Mathis in Nashville

Juan P. Moreno
-Best Tejano Album for Sabes Bien

Willie Nelson
-Best Americana Album for Country Music

Pinetop Perkins
-Best Traditional Blues Album for Joined at the Hip (with Willie ‘Big Eyes’ Smith)

Joe Posada
-Best Tejano Album for In The Pocket

LeAnn Rimes
-Best Female Country Vocal Performance for Swingin

Poncho Sanchez
-Best Latin Jazz Album for Psychedelic Blues

Sunny Sauceda Y Todo Eso
-Best Tejano Album for Homenaje A Mi Padre

Allen Shamblin
-Song of the Year for The House That Built Me with Tom Douglas
-Best Country Song for The House That Built Me with Tom Douglas

Esperanza Spalding
-Best New Artist

George Strait
-Best Country Song for The Breath You Take

Chris Tomlin
-Best Gospel Song for Our God

Tortilla Factory
-Best Tejano Album for Cookin

Jimmie Vaughan
-Best Traditional Blues Album for Plays Blues Ballads and Favorites

Cedric Watson et Bijou Créole
-Best Zydeco or Cajun Music Album for Creole Moon: Live At The Blue Moon Saloon

Kirk Whalum
-Best Pop Instrumental Album for Everything is Everything: The Music of Donny Hathaway
-Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for We’re Still Friends (with Musiq Soulchild)
-Best Gospel Performance for He’s Just Been That Good (with Lalah Hathaway)
-Best Gospel Song for It’s What I Do (with Lalah Hathaway)

Joseph Banowetz
-Best Instrumental Soloist(s) Performance (with Orchestra) for Kletzki: Piano Concerto In D Minor, Op. 22

Sara Hickman
- Best Spoken Word Album for Children Healthy Food For Thought: Good Enough To Eat
(Hickman contributed two selections)

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Casey Monahan, Director
Texas Music Office, Governor’s Office
(512) 463-6666
music@governor.state.tx.us
http://EnjoyTexasMusic.com/
Grammy Nominations

Texas Music Chart Hits Milestone

Sam Moore — Sat, 20 Nov 2010 03:56:27 +0000

(Editor’s Note: The following is courtesy of All Access Music Group.)

Texas Music Chart publishers Ed and Pam Shane are celebrating as the Chart recognizes 10 years of tracking airplay of Texas and Red Dirt music in the Southwest. The Chart debuted November 20, 2000 with airplay information from 35 radio stations in Texas. Today, the number of radio reporters has grown to more than 90, most in Texas and a handful in contiguous states.

The Chart publishes the Top 50 “spins,” or plays, each Monday at www.TexasMusicChart.com, with coverage every Monday in ALL ACCESS NET NEWS, inside the Country section.

Miranda Lambert said: “I really believe that hitting the Texas Music Chart with my first single, ‘Texas Pride,’ put my name on the map not only in Texas, but it also put me on the Nashville radar.”

TMC Editor Katie Key added: “We couldn’t do it without the dedication of our radio station reporters. They’re enthusiastic about the music they play and they enjoy helping the artists get the recognition they deserve.”

The weekly Texas Music Chart is the industry standard for measurement of airplay at Texas radio, published by Shane Media Services of Houston, which also publishes Best In Texas Music Magazine, available free each month at live music venues, restaurants and retail across Texas.

Anniversary Wishes from Texas Stars

Public Art Promotes Love of Music

Sam Moore — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 21:57:43 +0000

When the Fall Concert Series at the Levitt Pavilion in Arlington ended in October, a new bronze sculpture was unveiled in Founders’ Plaza — a gift to the community that represents the intergenerational appeal of music and the legacy of passing a love of music from one generation to the next.

The sculpture was commissioned and donated by long-time Arlington residents, Debra Duncan and her husband, Randy Jordan. The couple are also donors to the Levitt Pavilion, and Duncan serves as board secretary on the Friends of the Levitt Pavilion Board of Directors.

The Gift was created by award-winning sculptor Seth Vandable from Cedar Hill and cast by Schaeffer Art Bronze in Arlington. The piece sits in a circular area created when Founders’ Plaza was built just to the left of the pavilion stage on the Abram Street side at the History Garden entrance on Abram and Center streets.
The Duncan family came to Arlington in the early 1920s, where J.C. Duncan served as Mobil Oil and Gas distributor for Tarrant County. His business office was on Abram Street directly across the street from Founders’ Plaza, where Arlington’s City Hall is today.

In 1951, J.C. and his sons, Maurice and Bob, took over Arlington Disposal and began the 45-year process of building it from two trucks serving 7,500 residents to the largest family-owned hauling company in the south. Duncan family members were charter members of Arlington’s service clubs, elders of churches and leaders in business and the community. The Duncans’ interest in music also was strong. Twins Jan Tucker Duncan and Ann Tucker Sanders sang their way to full college scholarships, then went on to teach in Arlington.
Randy Jordan arrived in Arlington in 1982 and created an award- winning choral program at James Martin High School, where he taught for 23 years, growing the choir to 400 students and winning 74 Sweepstakes Awards in University Interscholastic League competitions before he retired. As director of the Arlington Master Chorale, Mr. Jordan has grown the chorale from 38 members to 90 and taken his singers to perform in the ultimate music venue, New York’s Carnegie Hall.

When Randy Jordan met and married Debra Duncan, the two families’ love of singing and music was shared with many more families in our community. For both, sharing their love of music with the next generation has been second nature. Together, they have two altos, a tenor and a baritone, and seven grandsons, voices to be determined.
The Duncans and the Jordans believe in community and sharing the magic of music, and their belief is the concept for The Gift sculpture in Founders’ Plaza. The gift of music is a gift that’s meant to be shared with each other, with the community and from generation to generation.

NSAI Houston Upcoming Events

John South — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 14:47:49 +0000

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 24TH NSAI SUNDAY SONGSWAP 4:00pm to 6:00pm, followed by Sunday Night Open Mic

Every 4th Sunday at JP Hops House

This is not a formal meeting, program, showcase or critique format- just writers hanging out with other writers, giving and getting some inspiration. We will do a “song circle” style of gathering, for writers to try out a new song or two and get feedback from fellow writers. You do not have to be a member of NSAI to attend or participate. Our facilitators alternate month-to-month, and include NSAI members Tina Allen, Leslie Krafka and Mitch Tiffin. For more information email Tina Allen at ladyti1@comcast.net

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NSAI SONG CONTEST DEADLINE OCTOBER 31ST
Want industry access? Submit your best tunes to the NSAI Song Contest Presented by CMT & you might win a mentoring session with Darius Rucker, meetings with major publishers and more! The NSAI Song Contest Presented by CMT runs through October 31. The Grand Prize Winner will receive a mentoring session with Capitol Records Nashville recording artist and Grammy-winning songwriter, Darius Rucker! Aspiring songwriters in ALL GENRES are encouraged to submit their best tunes for a chance at the NSAI Grand Prize or the fan-voted CMT Listeners’ Choice. For contest details and a full list of prizes, visit nsai.cmt.com. Enter today! Stay connected at facebook.com/nsaiofficial and twitter.com/nsaiofficial.

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RECORDING A FULL-LENGTH CD PROJECT? THEN, YOU MUST ATTEND THIS FREE SEMINAR NOVEMBER 6TH!

Nov 6, 1-3pm
JP Hops House – 2317 South Highway 6, Houston, Texas 77077; 281-496-0623

http://www.jphopshouse.com/
For anyone thinking about recording a new CD, producer Kim Copeland will walk you through the process in this FREE seminar, designed specifically for recording artists. Kim will bring her years of experience in music production, artist management and her talents as a vocalist, to help you prepare and make wise choices.

The last thing you want to do is spend too much money and not get a great product!

Some of the topics covered in this seminar are:

1. Defining your uniqueness

2. Planning a realistic budget

3. A step by step description of the recording process

4. Do I need a producer and how do I chose one

5. Selecting the right songs for the project

6. Communicating your ideas to the producer

7. Key selection

8. Vocal tuning

9. Mastering

10. How to avoid getting ripped off by the “sharks”

Don’t spend your hard earned money till you know exactly how a professional recording experience should work. Space is limited. Send an email to info@kimcopelandproductions.com to reserve your spot. More info at www.kimcopelandproductions.com

Kim Copeland is a long time mentor for The Nashville Songwriters Assoc., the Country Music Hall of Fame and TAXI. She was recently invited to participate in The Art & Science of Sound, the acclaimed video series on music production and recording put together by world-renowned producer/artist Alan Parsons and featuring legends like Michael McDonald and producer Tony Brown.

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Now you have TWO opportunities to attend NSAI Houston monthly workshops!

NSAI HOUSTON NORTH METRO meeting in The Woodlands, and NSAI CLEAR LAKE/SOUTH HOUSTON, meeting in Seabrook.

Join NSAI today: http://nashvillesongwriters.com

Fort Worth Losing a Listening Room

Sam Moore — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 15:41:31 +0000

(Editor’s Note: The following is courtesy of galleywinter.com.)

After nearly 9 years of exceptional listening room moments and memories, Miss Joni and the gang are closing the door on Clubhouse Concerts in Fort Worth. What started one night in 2002 in an apartment complex pool clubhouse with Max Stalling has blossomed into one of the premiere listening experiences in the south!

Through venue changes and shifts in the Red Dirt scene, Joni always provided a top notch venue though which songwriters were able to bare their souls to receptive audiences. By following 3 main rules: sit down, shut up and listen; the Clubhouse was able to attract a very talented and diverse roster of guests. The Clubhouse atsmosphere fostered and helped grow the careers of Ryan Bingham, Randy Rogers, Wade Bowen, and Stoney LaRue among many others.

There a couple of final shows and then a big blowout featuring MANY of the great names to have graced the Clubhouse stage over the years will take place on Sunday December 12th at Keys Lounge in Fort Worth. Tickets are $30 and go on sale November 1st. For more information, go to www.clubhouseconcerts.com.

Houston Attorney to Rally Music Industry to Benefit the Homeless

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:15:55 +0000

In times like today, Americans realize the most powerful song one can write is one that expresses care for others. That’s why at 9am Oct. 16, 2010, producers, artists, record label executives and other music industry professionals from all genres will gather in Houston at St. John’s Downtown Church to collaborate on one such song, serving the homeless population as Cross Media Live presents its seminar, “Make More Money When Releasing Your Music.”

The event organizer, Attorney Leslie Cross Jr., is asking participants to bring in toiletries such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, deodorant, wash clothes, hand sanitizers, etc., which will all be given to the homeless population served at St. John’s Downtown Church. Selected participants will also collaborate on an upcoming inspirational single.

“Just as I’m sharing the knowledge and wisdom I’ve learned with the music industry, I want the music industry to share with the less fortunate,” Cross said. “I couldn’t think of a better way to do this than to partner with Pastor Rudy at St. John’s.”

The event has already garnered support from the both business and music professionals including Kasino Brown Music, LLC, Jayen Associates, Inc. , Skytone Productions, Houston Business Developers and The Cross Firm, P.C., to name a few.

“The knowledge Attorney Cross possesses is phenomenal. What’s even more exciting is his willingness to share and empower musicians, recording artists, producers and other industry professionals outside a paid consultation or retained relationship,” said Jewel Johnson, owner of Jayen Associates, Inc.

With recent developments drastically changing the music industry, Cross Live Media seized this opportunity to inform, educate and empower the music industry. Topics such as investors, distribution, promotions, contracts, ASCAP, Sound Exchange and more will be discussed. More than 10,000 artists, record label executives, and music industry professionals will learn of this event through marketing tools such as social media, email blasts and peer group marketing. However, space is limited to an expected audience of 200; thus, attendees should register early.

Cross Live Media exists to self-empower individuals and companies through the use of innovative and motivational learning materials and lectures to have the freedom to pursue, overtake and accomplish their purpose and/or mission in the entertainment industry.

For more information or to request an interview, please contact Monica Coleman at 832-377-1657 or send an email to mcoleman@theservantmedia.com. Follow updates and news regarding recently added sponsors for this event at http://www.musicbusinessheretic.com or http://www.facebook.com/pages/Music-Business-Heretic/301141641268. Or register for the event here.

Austin Produces Different Texas Music with Stereognosis

Sam Moore — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 23:51:05 +0000

By Tamara Loggins

Stereognosis is perhaps one of the most eclectic bands I’ve ever had the pleasure of coming across. This musical group is comprised of about 16 musical artists from different genres and hailing from all over the globe. Each brings a unique musical style and, when combined with the others’ styles, creates something even more mind blowing and intriguing.

Aaron Hermes of Stereognosis

“The Hybrid” is an interesting mix of insane drum beats, rhythmic guitar riffs, angelic vocals, and Middle Eastern musical stylings intermingled with violin, electric bass, and whole slew of different types of instruments. At times, it even seems that the group draws some its musical inspiration from Latin America. To make this band all the more unusual, they even have a beat boxer, Blake Lewis (former winner of American Idol) adding in his own style to the music.

When I first read the little excerpt explaining what kind of music this is on CDBaby, I didn’t know what to make of it. I couldn’t fathom mixing “urban western beats with traditional Middle Eastern” ones. But this group not only makes it fathomable, they completely transport you to another world.

Truly, you must purchase this album. I don’t think there’s another one more worthy of being placed on your CD shelf. My only complaint is that it’s far too short for my liking. If only it lasted for an extra 2 hours.

To find more information about the band and their CD, visit their website at: http://www.stereognosis.com/about-stereognosis

Jaffe Debuts Strong with Suburban Nature

Sam Moore — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 15:06:30 +0000

By Tamara Loggins

Sarah Jaffe delivers an eclectic folksy, indie rock record packed with memorable tunes and soft lullabies. She opens with the sad power ballad, “Before You Go.” The song is heavily instrumental based with Jaffe’s vocals complementing the sorrow of the song with her emotionally stirring vocals.

The album continues drawing in with songs about vulnerability, love and love lost. Jaffe’s lyrics accompany unique instrumental stylings in every song, making each one all the more intriguing. Her style is similar to indie rock favorites Lizzie West, Feist and Cat Power; however, her vocals evoke a power all their own that makes her stand out.

This is truly a standout debut album and should be purchased immediately by every Folk/Indie music fan. For more information on Sarah Jaffe and her debut album, go to: http://www.sarahjaffe.com/.

Texas Indie Group Gets Inspiration from Film

Sam Moore — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 15:59:45 +0000

By Tamara Loggins

Shaolin Death Squad integrates hard rock riffs, mild-paced melodies, and Serg Tankian-styled vocals to create their powerful third album, Five Deadly Venoms.

What makes this band so interesting is how they use piano solos, in the style of Tim Burton’s go-to-guy, Danny Elfman, intermingled with System of a Down musical stylings. At first, I wasn’t sure the two could be combined, but after hearing the opening track, “Romanza,” I fell into a deep infatuation. It’s terribly easy to get be transported to the world these guys create with their music.

The concept of the album was inspired by the movie Five Deadly Venoms by Chang Cheh. These guys combined the movie inspirations with their insanely intriguing musical style to create an album worth a slot in your CD collection.

For more information about this independent Texas band and to purchase their CD, go to: http://www.shaolindeathsquad.com/.

Pink Elephant Explains the Pros and Cons of Love

Sam Moore — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 16:41:40 +0000

By Tamara Loggins

R&B singer N’Dambi’s newly released debut album, Pink Elephant, is as soulful as it is sensual. The singer delivers ‘70s-esque rhythms, seductive vocals and semi taboo lyrics about love and aspirations and all the troubles that come with them.

She goes from singing about the work that love requires in order to survive in “What It Takes,” to displaying her displeasure of being with a man who’s already spoken for in “Daisy Chain.” Her style is reminiscent of Lauren Hill’s work, and truly, it felt like N’Dambi was strumming my pain with her finger.

Those who enjoy the musical stylings of Eryka Badu and Indie Arie would be hard pressed to find a more intriguing, soul-filled album than N’Dambi’s.

N’Dambi was raised in Dallas, after her parents moved the family from Memphis. She grew up with many gospel influences from her church.

To check out N’Dambi and purchase her CD go to: http://ndambionline.com/.

San Marcos Band Releases Strong Debut Album

Sam Moore — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 02:12:38 +0000

Devil’s Hollow, a Texas band hailing from San Marcos, delivers a pounding self-titled debut album filled with bluesy lyrics, rock ‘n’ roll guitar solos, country-esque rhythms and funky beats reminiscent of ‘70s groove music.

The CD opens with “The Charm,” a song filled with heartfelt lyrics and a smooth country beat, then moves on to their more funky-blues oriented tracks, such as “Time and Tell” and “Ketchup’s Boogie.” This album makes you want to both dance and throw up your rock symbols while head-banging.

With sexy beats, great lyrics and rockin’ guitar riffs, what more could you ask for in a debut album? This album should make its way into every blues-rock fans collection.

To check out the band and buy the CD, visit: http://www.reverbnation.com/devilshollow