Texas Music Journal » Country

Texas Music Series Features Don Williams

Sam Moore — Wed, 02 May 2012 14:28:35 +0000

Texas singer-songwriters Max Stalling at Matt Hillyer will perform with the one of the legends who influenced their styles, Don Williams, in the next Threadgill Series Concert in Greenville.

The concert takes place Tuesday, June 19 at 7:30pm in the Greenville Municipal Auditorium.

Williams is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. He has had 17 #1 hits. He will celebrate the release of his first album in eight years, with his visit to Greenville to headline the Threadgill series.

Born in Florida in 1939, Williams grew up near Corpus Christi. He was playing guitar by age 12, and performed in bands as a teenager. Between 1974 and 1991, Williams had at least one major hit every year. He was the CMA Male Vocalist of the Year in 1978. His “Tulsa Time” was the ACM Record of the Year for 1979.

“And So It Goes” will be available from Sugar Hill on June 19.

Tickets for the concert are now on sale through the GMA website, www.showtimeatthegma.com or by calling 877-435-9849.

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Texas Music Legend Still Recuperating

Sam Moore — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 18:20:44 +0000

Texas music native and country music Hall of Fame member George Jones is recuperating from upper respiratory infection and continues to rest at his Franklin, Tennessee home.

Although, Mr. Jones is doing much better, doctors are ordering mandatory recovery time forcing all tour dates through May 20th, including the entire Canadian run to be postponed.

Texas Music Star Releases New Single

Sam Moore — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 15:17:44 +0000

Texas music star Neal McCoy has released his new single, “Shotgun Rider”, which is being added to radio station playlists nationwide. This latest single is from Neal’s twelfth career album, appropriately titled XII, which was produced by Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert and renowned guitarist Brent Rowan.

Written by hit songwriters Rhett Akins, Dallas Davidson, Keith Anderson and Ben Hayslip, “Shotgun Rider” is an uptempo, feel-good song about asking your girl to take a ride in your truck and spending time together.

“No matter how far or how short the drive, it’s always better to have someone you really like, Ridin’ Shotgun with you, than going it alone,” commented McCoy about the new single.

Texas Music Club Also Wins at ACM Awards

Sam Moore — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 15:15:35 +0000

By Sam Moore

When I heard that the Eli Young Band had won an ACM Award for its song, “Crazy Girl,” I contacted our friends at Billy Bob’s Texas to get their comment. After all, the band had debuted the song on the stage of the world’s largest honky tonk.

Little did I know that Billy Bob’s had a prize of its own!

The ACM Club of the Year Award went to Billy Bob’s Texas. I found out from Pam Minick. She said they were in the audience Sunday night in Las Vegas. That must have been an incredible experience. She said they are excited about their award. They are also very proud of the Denton band, who chose to use Billy Bob’s to launch “Crazy Girl.”

“We are so proud of The Eli Young Band on their ACM song of the year award for ‘Crazy Girl,’” said Pam. ” Watching them grow as the ‘hometown’ favorites here in the Fort Worth area has been an incredible journey. ‘Crazy Girl’ was well received by the audience on New Years Eve 2010 here at Billy Bob’s, and the nation got on the Eli Young ‘Bandwagon’! We look forward to their continued success and appearances here at The World’s Largest Honky Tonk.”

Daughter of Jones and Wynette Upset Over Tombstone Change

Sam Moore — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 14:47:59 +0000

The following story comes from cmt.com.

Tammy Wynette’s children say they are very upset over the decision to change the name on her tombstone.

The country singer, who died in 1998, was born Virginia Wynette Pugh, and last year the name on her grave in Tennessee was changed from her stage name to Virginia W Richardson, the title she took when she married George Richey, whose birth name was Richardson.

Wynette’s daughter Georgette Jones-Lennon, from the star’s marriage to George Jones, was told about the alteration by her stepsister Deirdre Richardson-Hale and thought it was just a temporary measure. She also believed the change stemmed from a legal dispute with Richey’s widow, Sheila, whom he married after Wynette’s death.

She tells CMT.com, “Deirdre called my sister and relayed a message to her that it would be legally necessary — just temporarily — for us to change Mom’s name to her maiden name and that (the change) was in regard to things that were going on regarding Sheila, Richey’s widow.

“We did agree, but we wanted Mom’s name to be changed temporarily to her maiden name, which we thought was going to be ‘Virginia Wynette Pugh.’ Of course, as you can see, it was changed to ‘Virginia W Richardson,’ which was not what we agreed to. … I won’t speak for all of us, but I can say my sisters Tina, Jackie and myself are very upset.”

Sheila Richey has also revealed she is angry about the name change, adding, “Sadly, I cannot tell you the reasons why my stepdaughter, Deirdre, would have requested (cemetery officials) to desecrate the resting place of this world-renowned country legend. My late husband, George Richey, had the name her fans knew, Tammy Wynette, placed there after she died in 1998. Over this issue and others, Deirdre and I no longer speak.”

Eli Young Band Tops Texas Music Charts

Sam Moore — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 15:32:22 +0000

The incredible roll that the members of the Eli Young Band find themselves in is still going strong.

“Even If It Breaks Your Heart,” their latest release, has already reached the top of the Texas music charts. This follows the success of “Crazy Girl,” the Denton-based group’s first national number-one hit.

To see the entire chart results for this week, visit http://www.texasmusicchart.com/Pages/Chart.htm.

Miranda Lambert Releases Emotional New Video

Sam Moore — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 21:45:36 +0000

Miranda Lambert’s emotional new video of the song “Over You” was released today.

The song was co-written by her and husband Blake Shelton about the death of his brother Richie when Blake was just 14. Both have called it one of the most personal songs they’ve ever written. The song’s lyrics became even more potent to the couple in recent weeks as they went through the loss of Blake’s father and then a close friend of Miranda’s.

In the video, Miranda is seen wearing a vintage dress, walking through the woods on a cold, snowy day. Two little boys are playing together around her, likely symbolic of Blake and Richie, when one disappears. A beautiful white horse then joins Miranda on her walk which ends in an old cemetery where she grieves her loss.

To watch the video, cut and paste the following address into your web browser:

http://blog.gactv.com/blog/2012/03/01/watch-miranda-lamberts-over-you-video/?nl=GAC_030112_Sub1_image&sni_mid=31371&sni_rid=31371.401.121528

Songwriters Enjoy Texas Music in Allen Performance

Sam Moore — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 23:01:00 +0000

What do you get when you put several songwriters in a room at the same time? A celebration of music. And that is exactly what happened in Allen at the public library auditorium last week.

The event was sponsored by Texas Roadhouse of McKinney and Bach to Books. It featured Austin Cunningham, Zane Williams, Kylie Rae Harris, Brad Allen and Michael Prysock.

As a special treat, Bette Winkler Hodges, daughter of the late songwriter Ray Winkler, discussed her father’s collaboration with the late Jim Reeves to compose the hit “Welcome to My World.”

Prysock’s songs reflected his Arkansas upbringing, focusing on the importance of family. Allen’s entertaining stage presence contributed to his popularity to the capacity crowd. He was introduced as a cross between Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie.

The highlights of the evening came from the last three performers. From her first guitar strum, the 22-year-old Harris captivated the audience with her strong vocals and well-crafted lyrics. She also joined Williams to provide beautiful backup vocals on one of his songs, “Pablo and Maria.” And Williams kept everyone entertained, especially with his popular version of “99 Bottles of Beer.”

Cunningham was the headliner, and was fantastic. Not only were his songs incredible, but his banter with the audience kept everyone laughing. He told everyone he was selling CDs out front for $2,500 each. His goal was to sell one!

Cunningham’s songs included “Mother’s Day,” a song he has yet to record, but is dedicated to his mother. Others were “Made to Last” and “Juan’s Drunk Again.”

Zane Williams Follows Long Path to Texas Music Success

Sam Moore — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 20:21:53 +0000

By Sam Moore

It’s funny. Songwriters succeed by telling great stories. Yet they often have difficulty telling their own story. Such is not the case with Zane Williams, who did a fantastic job of outlining his life’s adventure during a performance Monday night at Collin Creek College in Plano.

Williams’ two latest CDs, “The Right Place” (produced by Radney Foster) and “Ride With Me,” have planted him firmly in the list of most popular Texas singer-songwriters. But it took a lengthy stay in Nashville for him to realize how much he loves Texas.

He grew up in a non-musical family. He learned how to play the piano, but did not learn the guitar until he was a senior in high school. After graduating college with a math degree, he decided that math was not in the numbers.

“I decided to move to Nashville and make it big,” he said, a seemingly simple and easy plan.

Williams knew no one in Nashville, and started from scratch. He rented a room for $300 a month. He got a job operating a weedeater.

“When you’re running a weed whacker,” he said, “you have plenty of time to write songs in your head.”

It was during this period that he composed “Hurry Home.” But rather than have an established artist record it, Williams wanted it for himself. He didn’t want a publishing deal. He wanted to be the next Garth Brooks.

Eventually, Williams learned that the best way to success was by writing for someone else. So he got a publishing deal. Through a series of misadventures, “Hurry Home” eventually landed with Jason Michael Carroll. The song cracked the Country Top 20, several years after it was written. And what exactly did that mean?

“I made $240,000 the first year of its release,” Williams bragged.

The money also gave him the freedom to do something he really wanted. After what he called an almost 8-year struggle in Nashville, Williams and his wife bought a house and moved to McKinney TX. He never felt that he was a part of the Nashville scene. The Lone Star State was a different story.

“When we moved, I knew I was part of the Texas country mainstream.”

With the help of generous airplay of his songs on 95.3 The Range, Williams has managed to make a good living with shows in Texas. He has mainly toured solo shows, but is looking forward to having a tour with a full band.

Zane Williams has been working through 20 years of blood, sweat and tears. And he now proudly wears the tag “overnight success.”
For information, visit zanewilliamsmusic.com.

Josh Grider – Live at Billy Bob’s

John South — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:00:45 +0000

Checking out the website for Josh Grider, you find that he loves writing songs and he loves playing for people. This was evident as he was tapped the first winner of the Live at Billy Bob’s Texas Recording Contest. He beat out 41 other contestants. Given the quality of the talent participating in the event, one can appreciate that this was no small feat.

Grider wrote all of the songs on this Live at Billy Bob’s album which from first track to last is quite a treat. The opening track, South of the Border, opens the album with a rhythm that pulls you in quickly, particularly with the brief rest in the refrain that has you hanging on for the next note. From there, the album just gets better with mixtures of styles, rhythms and tonalities.

Slow again uses great rhythms, balladic lyrics, and Grider’s melodic delivery that treats the listener to some real Texas ear candy. Stumbling on the Edge of Greatness has a much more complex lyrical pattern that borders on almost too busy, but when the song hits the refrain, Grider pulls the song together with his vocal craft and rhythmic variations. Overall the song comes together in the end; but it’s complexities may be a bit much for some listeners.

War with Myself opens and ends with amazing a cappella harmonies. It also features accomplished acoustic work in the instrumental solos. The lyrics are telling in that if “you are war with yourself, you’re bound to lose”. True words.

Meet in the Middle features the vocals of Josh and Kristi Grider. Her mountain timbre contrasts well with his melodic voicing. This is one of the top three tracks on the album.

City of Crosses brings us a different variation on Grider’s musical delivery. With droning violin and dark percussion in the background, Grider tells a darker story of having left the City of Crosses and yearning to go back, where he hopes redemption will be waiting for him – the lyrics are deep with the music creating a sombre, almost yearning, scene.

Josh Grider defines the characteristics of the country sound in Texas. In fact, by the end of the first track, you realize that you are listening to one of the future stars in Texas music.

For further information about Josh Grider, visit his website at www.joshgrider.com or check out Grider and the other great musicians at Smith Entertainment’s website, wwww.smithmusic.com. For more details on the album, or Grider, contact Dawn Gardin at dawn@smithmusic.com.

Tribute to Waylon and His Music Now Available

Sam Moore — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:48:11 +0000

WAYLON: The Music Inside, Volume II is available in stores and on iTunes today, February 7, via Average Joes Entertainment. Country duo Montgomery Gentry and Waylon Jennings’ widow Jessi Colter are set for several national television appearances taking place over the next few weeks including CMT Insider, GAC On The Streets, GAC Headline Country and The Daily Buzz.

Montgomery Gentry and Colter each perform a classic Waylon Jennings hit on the newly released tribute album, the second volume in the three-part series dedicated to one of country music’s greatest outlaws. Additional artists include Dierks Bentley, Hank Williams, Jr., Justin Moore, Josh Thompson, Jack Ingram, Jewel, Colt Ford, Pat Green and Wyatt McCubbin.

The artists involved in the making of Volume II couldn’t be more thrilled to be a part of the project and have expressed their deep adoration for Jennings and the impact he had on the industry. “The thing about him (Waylon), or me… we’re not going to put ourselves in a pigeonhole,” says Hank Williams, Jr. “We’re not going to say, we’re country. We’re not going to do that. We play music.”

Josh Thompson notes, “Waylon was the reason I picked up a guitar in the first place. Loving that music drove me to play and that’s why it was important for me to be on this record.”

“I don’t know why certain people can just see what’s needed and do it,” says Jessi Colter on the legacy of her late husband. “Those people are the starters, the leaders, the movers-and-shakers. He was a leader.”

The Oak Ridge Boys and a Texas Music Surprise

Sam Moore — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 06:19:59 +0000

By Sam Moore

In an environment of relaxed excitement, the Oak Ridge Boys delivered their smooth harmonies in a great performance Thursday night at the Allen Event Center.

For the audience, it was like a visit with old friends – not just the Boys, but the songs themselves. The show opened with “The Boys Are Back,” the title track – written by Scooter Jennings – from one of their recent albums. Then the hits started rolling. First, it was “One in a Million.” Others, such as “Y’All Come Back Saloon,” “Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight,” and the beautifully peaceful “Dream On” soon followed. William Lee Golden, he of the baritone voice and mountain man hair, sang his inspiring “Thank God for Kids.” He even paid tribute to his age, ending the tune with “and grandkids, too.”

Lead singer (if this group can actually have a lead singer) Duane Allen is from Taylortown. He and his wife support a scholarship program for music students at Texas A&M. Tenor Joe Bonsall pointed out Allen’s Texas heritage. He said, “No matter what happens, if we sing in Texas, we’ll always have a good size crowd out there.”

In addition to their traditional hits, the Oak Ridge Boys sang several songs from some of their later works, including their current album – available at Cracker Barrel. And to show they remember their traditional gospel roots, they performed an incredible rendition of “Amazing Grace.”

Of course, no Oak Ridge Boys concert would be complete without their final two numbers: “Elvira” and “Bobby Sue.” Both songs featured Richard Sterban, the man with the world’s deepest voice (Can you say “oom-papa”?). The audience members were on their feet, clapping and singing along. It was a great ending to a great night.

And what was the Texas music surprise? It was an opening set by Texas singer-songwriter Drew Womack. He surprised many of those in attendance when he played a monster hit that he penned – “She Got It All” (Kenny Chesney’s first number-one hit) as well as “I Hope You Dance” (Drew’s Sons of the Desert Band was featured on the song as a duet, and won several awards with Lee Ann Womack).

Drew Womack

Despite playing an acoustic set, accompanied only by a drummer, Womack produced a much larger, richer sound than anyone expected. It is a sign of his excellence at what he does, and his ability to deliver a quality product to his listeners.

Credit also goes to the Allen Event Center. The acoustics in this arena are amazing. It really is a perfect place for performers to perform, and for audiences to enjoy the shows. The ushers are helpful and friendly. Even the food is good!

What is a sign that the concert was good? Afterward, while standing in line at In-N-Out Burger, I overheard several men talking about what a great show they just witnessed. One couple talked about how it had been 31 years since their first date – an Oak Ridge Boys concert. Tonight’s show was over, but the memories are still going strong.

Two Texas Music Acts Teaming Up for Tour

Sam Moore — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 17:56:47 +0000

Austin, TX — Hit country recording artist Kyle Park, watching while the title track of his latest album, MAKE OR BREAK ME (September 2011), makes waves on both The Texas Music Chart Top 10 and Texas Regional Radio Report Top 10, will team up with country rocker Cody Johnson in January, February and March 2012 to tour regionally.

Johnson — who describes himself as “Texas, outlaw, country, cowboy” and whose “Diamond in My Pocket” from his latest album, A DIFFERENT DAY, is at #17 on the Texas Regional Radio Report — starts the tour with Park on Jan. 19, 2012, in San Marcos, Texas. Dates continue into March.

The complementary pair of high-energy entertainers recently agreed to hit the road together on the Park/Johnson Dancin’ & Drinkin’ Tour, which will feature full-band sets by each, an acoustic song swap and a finale with both entertainers. Park and Johnson have seen regional success from radio and fans that support them by calling radio stations and requesting their music and packing clubs for their live performances.

“Make or Break Me,” the first single from Park’s album, has already cracked the Top 10 on The Texas Music Chart, reaching #3. Written by Park and his friend Ryan Beaver, it earned the attention of Robert K. Oermann of MusicRow.com, who called the upbeat love song “listenable in the extreme.”

The Park/Johnson Dancin’ & Drinkin’ Tour promises a great evening of dynamite music, a sort of “two-fer” of talent, and a rare opportunity for Park and Johnson fans to see them both in full-out shows in dancehalls and larger venues this spring.

Park/Johnson Tour dates include:
Jan. 19, 2012, Cheatham Street Warehouse, San Marcos
January 20, Big Texas, Webster
January 26, Casablanca’s, Laredo
January 27, Harry’s, College Station
February 2, Glass Cactus, Grapevine
February 3, Big Texas, Spring
February 10, Midnight Rodeo, San Angelo
February 11, City Limits, Stephenville
February 15, Shenanigan’s, Huntsville
February 16, Dixie Dancehall, Beaumont
February 17, Midnight Rodeo, Austin
February 22, Electric Cowboy, Tyler
February 23, Denim & Diamonds, Wichita Falls
February 24, Midnight Rodeo, Amarillo
February 25, Wild West, Lubbock
March 1, Crazy Town, Joplin, Mo.
March 2, Tumbleweed Dancehall, Stillwater, Okla.
March 3, Wormy Dog, Oklahoma City

From Christmas Tree Farm to Texas Music Stage

Sam Moore — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 23:23:51 +0000

By Sam Moore, Texas Music Reporter

D.J. Miller is an unusual person. He has 20 years’ experience in country music stage performance. What makes him unusual is he is only 22 years old.

Miller, a native of Indiana, will appear at Billy Bob’s Texas on Sunday, as part of the Wolf’s 12 Man Jam. That lineup includes Texas’ Eli Young Band, with whom Miller appears at times across the country.

For the past year, Miller has been conducting an extensive radio station tour. He has visited 48 states and more than 250 stations, promoting his current single, “Between Sundays.” It currently sits at number 24 on the Music Row chart. The video of the song debuted at number six on the DMT Pure’s Top 12 Countdown last week.

“It’s a song that pushes the philosophy and walking the walk and talking the talk,” said Miller. “So many people say ‘I went to church on Sunday, so I’m good to go,’ just to feel better about themselves. But what is really important is what you do between Sundays.”

The song was originally going to another artist. But Miller said it grabbed him once he heard it. It promoted the morals and values that he grew up on.

“It reminded me of my family, especially my grandpa. He worked the farm every day and helped everyone without wanting anything in return. And now, that song has the same impact on my audience. And I really want to record and perform for my audience.”

He learned a lot about videos during the production phase for “Between Sundays.”

“This was my first video,” Miller commented. “I didn’t know what to expect. But it turned out great. Now it has been nominated for a best new artist video award (Yallwire Video Music Awards).”

Of course, D.J. Miller is not really a new artist. So how did Miller get so much experience so soon?

He told TMJ, with a laugh, “I have been on the stage since I was 2. My dad had a country rock band – it was really a family band. So naturally, I grew up in the country atmosphere.”

Miller was a huge fan of Garth Brooks. He has studied him and his performance techniques. As a result, members of a D.J. Miller audience will often see a wild, hot-paced and energetic performance. Ironically, Miller has actually attended just one Garth concert, “one of the benefit shows after the Nashville flood.” And he has never met his boyhood idol. “I don’t know what I will do when I do finally meet him,” he said.

One of the other major factors that has helped make D.J. Miller who he is today is the fact that he grew up on a farm. It was not just any old farm – it was a Christmas tree farm. That experience helped humble him.

He said, “In any kind of musical profession, you want to stay humble. Working on the tree farm with my dad, we didn’t have any air conditioning in the summer or heat in the winter. We were roughing it, and that helped keep me grounded and down to earth. It gives me that kind of push that I really AM country. I live in the sticks and I’m used to coming home with dirt under my nails. I am definitely NOT a New York City cowboy.”

That is one of the things Miller loves about coming to Texas. At some places he performs around the country, he may be the only one wearing boots. But in Texas, he feels right at home. He loves the boots, the hats, the horses, the Wranglers, the cattle, and – of course – the fans.

“It’s really a big honor to come to Texas and play at a place like Billy Bob’s,” he replied. “You don’t have to explain to anybody anywhere in the country when you are performing there. It’s fun to see people’s faces light up when you tell them. It’s kind of like one of those Grand Ole Opry scenes. It’s just one of those awesome places to make you proud to say you play there.

“And there is one thing I learned right away when I played there last year. The fans are rowdy and they love their music. If they like you, they will make you feel welcome and take care of you. They told me last year that they had never heard of me before, but they loved my music. That really makes me feel good.”

This year, those fans will get a taste of some new songs. In addition to the single, Miller has been working hard on a new CD. It will be released in early 2012. And Miller says that, despite the trend of pushing just single releases, he is excited about the CD.

“Not everyone is plugged in to iTunes,” he said. I’m 22 years old. I have a bunch of friends who keep CD collections in their cars. If you really like an artist for his music, you will want to have everything he does.”

At 22, Miller is living the dream that so many people have. So what is his advice to others?

“You need to get writing. It is a huge thing in this career. Don’t give up and just keep pushing. I can tell you, the songwriting really helps get things started.”

For now, Miller will continue hitting the road and gaining exposure. He has some concerts lined up for next year. He believes that if you are not on the road, you aren’t doing a very good job of getting your name out there. And as he finishes up his radio tour, he is planning to hit the colleges in 2012.

Miller also has some ambitious long term goals.

“I’m going to cross my fingers,” he said. “But I want to have a few Entertainer of the Year awards. That is something I really do want. I want my songs out there, and I want to be a headliner on the road.”

To reach that goal, he strives to learn.

“I always watch the other performers on stage,” he said, “especially the ones I open for. You can always learn something. You should never say you know it all.”

His next chance to learn comes Sunday at Billy Bob’s.

“I know we are going to have a great time. I love my Texas crowd!”

For more information, visit http://www.djmillercountry.com/

Texas Musicians Have a New Christmas CD

Sam Moore — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 16:12:16 +0000

Kirtland Records is putting out a holiday CD from many members of its musical stable.

“The Light Connected” is a contemporary compilation of both Holiday classics and originals. Austin’s well-known Bob Schneider contributes a Pogues cover while much loved Texas country band Eleven Hundred Springs does a surprising Billy Squier cover. Other notable acts include former State of Texas Musician of the Year, Sara Hickman and People on Vacation, the new project from Bowling for Soup front man Jaret Reddick.

The CD costs $12 and be purchased on their online store, http://www.kirtlandrecords.com/store.htm.

Kris Gordon Releases Debut Album

Sam Moore — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 20:16:47 +0000

Country recording artist Kris Gordon, called “jaunty and easy-going” by MusicRow, releases today, November 29, his debut album, DON’T LET GO TONIGHT, which features the “The Upside of Down,” the recording’s first single, with a special album release show.

Square Groove Entertainment presents Gordon and his band playing cuts from the new release at a free show 6-9 p.m. tonight at The Stage on Sixth, 508 E. Sixth St in Austin. Information: 512.614.1540

The single release prompted MusicRow’s Robert K. Oermann to write in his November 23 DISClaimer column: “It has a very cool, loping groove and some charming guitar and steel licks. His jaunty, relaxed vocal performance matches the song’s upbeat mood perfectly. Playable in the extreme.”

Roughstock.com echoed, “Take a listen to this song … Currently a hit on many stations in Texas, we feel this one has enough to suggest it could be a sleeper nationwide hit. …”

Gordon brings to life with his rich baritone the post-breakup lament written by Tony Ramey and Michael White, which features a catchy chorus: “… I’m honky-tonking my way around this heartache tonight/If I’m losing your love I’m gonna do it right/Your memory’ll have to chase me all over town/I’ll be OK as long as I stay on the upside of down.”

Says DJ Anne Hudson of KASE 101 in Austin: “I like an artist with a sense of humor. Kris Gordon clearly has one in his single ‘The Upside of Down.’ I dig the song and its spin on being dumped.”

DON’T LET GO TONIGHT is an upbeat collection of 10 songs that was produced by Dean Miller, son of Roger Miller, who also contributed a co-write with Gordon: rockin’ optimism sandwiched by traditional full-out country vocals by Gordon and great instrumentation.

Texas Music Legend Legacy Continues in Nashville

Sam Moore — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:43:51 +0000

If you spend time in Nashville next month, you will have a chance to attend a show that was run for years by a Texas music legend.

Traditional country music fans have the opportunity to enjoy a stellar line-up this December at the Ernest Tubb Midnite Jamboree, which broadcasts LIVE from the landmark Texas Troubadour Theatre (2416 Music Valley Drive, Nashville) every Saturday night beginning at midnight.

George Hamilton IV

December’s hosts will include Mel Tillis, Leona Williams, George Hamilton IV, Dianne Sherril and Jett Williams. Hosted by Admission to these shows are FREE and many artists typically stick around after the show to sign autographs in the lobby. For visitors and natives of Nashville alike, an evening at the Midnite Jamboree provides up-close and intimate performances by legendary artists, as well a glimpse into the history of country music with onsite exhibits and exclusive memorabilia, including Ernest Tubb’s 1964 tour bus. For more information on the Ernest Tubb Midnite Jamboree, visit etrecordshop.com.

“I am very excited about the artists that will be hosting the Midnite Jamboree in December,” says Ernest Tubb Record Shop owner David McCormick. “The record shop has so many artist friends that I am just humbled and honored that they continue to come host our weekly program.”

Hosting the Ernest Tubb Midnite Jamboree in December are: **

Mel Tillis – December 3rd
Leona Williams – December 10th
George Hamilton IV – December 17th
Dianne Sherril – December 24th
Jett Williams – December 31st

** Line-up is subject to change without notice

Founded by the legendary Ernest Tubb, The Ernest Tubb Record Shops have been fulfilling country music fans’ needs for over 64 years. As part of that tradition, the second longest-running radio show in history, Ernest Tubb Midnite Jamboree, continues to broadcast weekly on AM-650 WSM on Saturday nights at 12 A.M. (Midnight) live from the Texas Troubadour Theatre on Music Valley Drive in Nashville, Tennessee.

Shawn Nelson Brings His Music to Dallas

Sam Moore — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:16:33 +0000

Country singer-songwriter Shawn Nelson will bring tunes from his new album of originals, SAN JUAN STREET (October 25; Fonky Tonk Records), to fans in Dallas in December as he shares his fourth recording with the world, an album that, like his first three, highlights his best: rich, round, reedy vocals; lyrics both lively and filled with longing; and master-level multi-instrumental skill.

He and his stage band play at 10 p.m. Friday, December 16, at City Tavern, 1402 Main St. Cover is $5; information: 214.745.1402. Also on the bill is Graham Wilkinson.

SAN JUAN STREET — recorded at Guzman Fox Studios in Austin, produced and engineered by Joel Guzman, mixed by Bradley Kopp, and mastered by David Glasser at Airshow Mastering in Boulder, Colo. — has something to satisfy every music lover: the South of the Border-flavored title track, featuring Mexican horn and mandolin and beat; the haunting “Down Here,” with its rock ’n’ roll-driven guitar and fiddle; “Hit the Road,” a pure-D, long-voweled country love song with the smart lyrical twists and turns that mark Nelson’s originals; and many more.

Nelson, who plays electric and acoustic guitars, harmonica, trombone, and coronet on the new album, tours tirelessly, especially across Texas. His first three albums, SHAWN NELSON AND THE RAMBLERS (November 2004), LIVE FROM ANTONE’S (November 2005) and AIN’T NO EASY WAY (March 2009), yielded songs that have become favorites for fans and band.

Kyle Park Climbing the Texas Charts

Sam Moore — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 22:09:33 +0000

Just as we thought: Kyle Park is doing good.

Country artist Park is watching the first single and title cut from his September release, MAKE OR BREAK ME, quickly climb The Texas Music Chart, reaching #3 this week. “Make or Break Me” jumped five spots in less than a week.

The charting single from the new full-length album — a mixture of up-tempo, guitar-driven honky-tonkers and heartfelt ballads — is earning its own raves. Texas Music Reporter reviewed the collection earlier this year.

Park and his band will continue to tour — including January’s Steamboat (Colo.) Music Fest — behind the release of MAKE OR BREAK ME, doing what he likes best: playing live for his fans.

Upcoming Kyle Park shows include:

November 17, George’s Majestic Lounge, Fayetteville, Ark.
November 18, Banita Creek, Nacogdoches, Texas
November 19, Armadillo Ballroom, Brazoria, Texas
November 23, Schroeder Dance Hall, Goliad, Texas
November 25, Nutty Jerry’s, Winnie, Texas
November 26, Mo’s Place, Katy, Texas
December 1, Graham Central Station, Pflugerville, Texas
December 3, Arena 1, Bee County Expo, Beeville, Texas
December 7, Peckerhead’s On Sixth, Austin
December 8, Buckaroo’s Dance Hall, Temple, Texas
December 9, Silver Star, Alvarado, Texas
December 10, Dos Amigos, Odessa, Texas
December 14, Palmer Events Center, Austin
December 15, Billy Bob’s Texas, Fort Worth
December 16, Lone Star Saloon, Uvalde, Texas
December 17, Papa’s Ice House, The Woodlands, Texas
December 21, Electric Cowboy, Tyler, Texas
December 22, Brewster St. Ice House, Corpus Christi, Texas
December 23, Cowboy’s, San Antonio
January 5, Steamboat Music Fest, Steamboat, Colo.
January 20, Big Texas, Webster, Texas
January 21, Cowboy’s, San Antonio
January 27, Hall of Fame, Bryan, Texas
February 4, Nacogdoches Expo Center, Nacogdoches, Texas
February 17, Midnight Rodeo, Austin
March 30, Floresville Event Center, Floresville, Texas
April 12, Longhorn’s, Manhattan, Kan.
May 18, Crude Fest, Midland, Texas

Lambert Wins CMA Award

Sam Moore — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 03:52:05 +0000

The Texas Music Reporter would like to congratulate Miranda Lambert, who was just named Female Vocalist of the Year during the CMA Awards in Nashville.

The victory marked a sweep for the household. Husband Blake Shelton earlier picked up the award for top Male Vocalist.

Eli Young Makes It to the Top

Sam Moore — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 23:26:19 +0000

Congratulations to the Eli Young Band.

Depending on which chart you watch, they now have the number one Country song in the nation this week, as “Crazy Girl” sits at the top of the MEDIABASE “Country Singles Chart.” “Crazy Girl” is the band’s first number one song, which has spent 36 weeks on the chart.

“Crazy Girl” is number two on the Billboard country chart.

Lead singer Mike Eli said, “The last ten years of our lives we’ve been really, I mean extremely, lucky to have a lot of success. But this song has changed a lot for us, especially now that it’s getting so much radio play.”

For more on the ELI YOUNG BAND visit www.eliyoungband.com.

George Jones Keeps On Going

Sam Moore — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 18:17:00 +0000

Although country great George Jones celebrated his 80th Birthday last month, he won’t need a rocking chair anytime soon. “The Possum” is keeping busy with 35 shows scheduled to date throughout the U.S. and Canada from now through November 2012. As Jones sings, “I don’t need a rocking chair…I do my rockin’ on the stage, you can’t put this possum in a cage.”

Jones said, “I’m always excited to get back out on the road and we’re working up new shows and new songs. I’m feelin’ great and givin’ the road hell!”
George Jones, often referred to as the “the greatest living country singer,” first hit the charts in 1955 with his hit “Why Baby Why” and has since garnered over 140 more while touring extensively. Fans can see the star perform hits such as “White Lightning,” “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” ”Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes” and “I Don’t Need Your Rockin’ Chair” throughout North America on initial tour dates listed below.

2011
Oct. 28 – Elkhart, IN – Lerner PAC
Oct. 29 – Waukegan, IL – Waukegan, IL
Oct. 30 – Green Bay, WI – Oneida Casino
Nov. 18 – Beckley, WV – Convention Center
Nov. 25 – Ft. Smith, AR – Convention Center
Nov. 26 – Texarkana, TX – Perot Theater
Dec. 2 – Grand Berry, TX – Rio Brazos Live
Dec. 3 – Fulton, MS – Community College
Dec. 17– Tulsa, OK – Osage Casino

2012
Feb. 3 – Huntington, WV – Big Sandy Superstore Arena
Feb. 4 – Tunica, MS – Sam’s Town
Feb. 9 – Daytona Beach, FL – Peabody Auditorium
Feb. 10 – Melbourne, FL – King Center
Feb. 17 – Wabash, IN – Honeywell Center
Feb. 18 – Columbus, OH – TBA
Feb. 24 – Reno, NV – TBA
Feb. 25 – Wendover, UT – TBA
March 1 – Pendelton, OR – TBA
March 2 – Shelton– WA – TBA
March 3-4 – Lincoln City, OR – TBA
March 23 – Metropolis, IL – TBA
March 24 – Peoria, IL – Peoria Civic Center
April 20 – Mahnomen, MN – Shooting Star Casino
April 21 – Deadwood, SD – Deadwood Mountain Grand Casino
May 10 – 20 – Canada – TBA
June 3 – Lancaster, PA – American Music Theater
July 27 – 28 – Pigeon Forge, TN – Country Tonight
Aug.17 – Savannah, GA – Johnny Mercer Theater
Aug. 18 – Durham, NC – Durham PAC
Sept. 22 – Myrtle Beach, SC – Alabama Theater
Oct. 12 – Branson, MO – The Mansion Theatre
Oct. 13 – Renfro Valley, KY – Renfro Valley Entertainment Center
Nov. 9 – Branson, MO – The Mansion Theatre
Nov. 23 – Winnie, TX – Nutty Jerry’s Winnie Arena
Nov. 24 – Bossier City, LA – Horseshoe Casino

George Jones is the #2 best-charting country artist of all time, with a staggering list of hit singles in every decade since the ‘50s. Jones also has 143 Top 40 hits to his name, two Grammy Awards, is inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and holds a National Medal of Arts. At 80, Jones continues to be an active country music superstar, headlining dozens of concerts each year. Visit www.georgejones.com for further information.

Kris Gordon Releases Radio Single

Sam Moore — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 18:50:55 +0000

Kris Gordon will release his debut album, DON’T LET GO TONIGHT on November 29, a lively collection of positive-themed songs produced by Dean Miller (son of legend Roger Miller), the first single, “The Upside of Down,” was sent to radio stations last week.

“The Upside of Down,” written by Tony Ramey and Michael White, is a classic post-breakup lament that turns pain into a heartening experience with its catchy chorus — “… I’m honky-tonking my way around this heartache tonight/If I’m losing your love I’m gonna do it right/Your memory’ll have to chase me all over town/I’ll be OK as long as I stay on the upside of down” — and with Gordon’s rich baritone, the steel guitar and the rock guitar, shoots skyward. Catch the music video at http://youtube/JD7yarmm764.

The rest of DON’T LET GO TONIGHT is packed with the same style and sound: country-rock, upbeat lyrics, great instrumentation and traditional full-out vocals by Gordon.

Upcoming shows by Gordon include 9 p.m. October 29 at Waco’s Denim & Diamonds and 10 p.m. November 4 at Thirsty Horse Saloon in San Antonio.

For more information: www.krisgordon.net

George Strait Planning Next Tour

Sam Moore — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 14:22:15 +0000

January 2012 begins a new year and a new tour for Superstar George Strait. The King of Country kicks off his 2012 tour January 27th in Lafayette, Louisiana and to date, the tour itinerary includes stops in Louisiana, Georgia, Florida, Arizona, Oklahoma, Nevada, Utah and Kansas.

The February 4th Las Vegas appearance will go on sale Saturday, October 29th with other ticket on-sale dates announced soon.

Year after year, night after night, when it comes to showing fans a good time whether it’s on the road or on the radio, Strait always delivers the kind of country music fans nationwide hunger for. This year he’s invited another award-winning country music superstar to join him on stage – Martina McBride.

“I love Martina. She’s been on our tours before and she’s great,“ commented Strait. “I’m really looking forward to the tour. Martina will definitely make it a special night.”

Strait’s 39th studio album HERE FOR A GOOD TIME received rave reviews and recently debuted at Number One on the Billboard Country Album Charts (his 3rd number one album debut in a row) and #3 on Billboard Top 200 Chart. The title track “Here For A Good Time,” written by Strait, his son Bubba Strait and songwriter Dean Dillon, is Strait’s 73rd Top 5 hit out of 89 career singles and sits at Number 2 this week on the Billboard and Mediabase/Country Aircheck charts.

“Obviously with each new album, Strait proves he’s not living off the heat from those first initial hits,” says Houston Chronicle while USA Today reports “Strait hasn’t lost his touch for finding astonishing material…”

George Strait has the most number one singles of any artist in history including Elvis (57 to date inclusive of all charts). He has sold nearly 69 million records and with 33 different platinum or multi-platinum albums has the most RIAA platinum certifications in country music and the third in all genres, behind The Beatles and Elvis Presley. He is the only artist who has had 84 out of 89 radio singles make it to Top 10 (57 to Number One) and 24 albums at the number one position on Billboard’s Country Music Album Chart.

2012 TOUR DATES
For more information and 2012 tour updates, visit: www.georgestrait.com

Lafayette, LA Cajundome Friday, Januray 27
Bossier City, LA CenturyLink Center Saturday, January 28
Phoenix, AZ US Airways Center Friday, February 3
Las Vegas, NV MGM Saturday, February 4
Atlanta, GA The Arena at Gwinnett Center Friday, February 10
Orlando, FL Amway Center Saturday, February 11
Tulsa, OK BOK Center Thurday, February 16
St. Louis, MO Scottrade Center Friday, February 17
Wichita, KS INTRUST Bank Arena Saturday, February 18
Des Moines, IA Wells Fargo Arena Friday, February 24
Kansas City, MO Sprint Center Saturday, February 25

Martina McBride celebrated the release of her eleventh studio album, ELEVEN, on Republic Nashville this week with “ELEVEN Across America Powered by Amtrak,” a four-day train ride with 11 stops, which culminatesin New York City where she will light the Empire State Building pink. The current single, “I’m Gonna Love You Through It,” is climbing the charts at radio and has seen steady online digital sales since it was released on August 19. The music video for I’m Gonna Love Your Through It” garnered over 150,000 downloads as the iTunes “Video of The Week” and features dozens of cancer survivors and supporters, including four well-known celebrities – Robin Roberts (anchor for ABC’s Good Morning America); Hoda Kotb (anchor for NBC’s TODAY Show); Grammy award-winning singer Sheryl Crow and ABC journalist Katie Couric – who each have very personal connections to the disease.

As one of the most spectacular voices in any genre of music, Martina McBride is a four-time CMA Female Vocalist of the Year, three-time ACM Female Vocalist of the Year and GRAMMY® winning recording artist with more than18 million in album sales. Recently she was nominated for both CMA and CMT Music Awards.

Both Mediabase and Broadcast Data Systems (BDS) have also declared her as the “most played female artist on country radio for the past 11 years.” The superstar has appeared on such high-profile programs as VH1 Divas, Dancing with the Stars, the Today show’s “Today Throws a Wedding,” American Idol, Oprah, The Bachelorette, Private Sessions, a 20/20 special and will be a guest on The Late Show with David Letterman (10/13) and Good Morning America (10/14) later this week. Martina has also graced the covers of publications like Redbook, Ladies Home Journal, People Magazine, Country Weekly and Shape. For more on Martina, please visit martinamcbride.com.

Lots of Texas Ties with Two McCoy Projects

Sam Moore — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 16:40:39 +0000

Neal McCoy has an embarrassment of riches in his fall and winter schedule, with two recording projects due beginning this month and rolling out through January 2012.

In November, DPTV Media, the multi-million dollar entertainment label of WTVS Detroit Public Television, will release a concert CD and DVD collaboration pairing McCoy and his band with the iconic Les Brown Jr. and His Band of Renown. “Music of Your Life with Les Brown Jr. and His Band of Renown, Starring Neal McCoy, and Special Guests Charley Pride and Janie Fricke” includes many of Neal McCoy’s Top 10 hits and American Songbook standards. A 13-song CD and 21-song DVD are due 11/8/2011, and will be available through traditional, online and digital outlets across North America.

Also due from McCoy in January 2012: After eleven albums, over twenty-five charted singles, and countless fans across the nation, McCoy will be releasing his highly-anticipated studio album, ‘XII’. The new collection of twelve songs, produced by Miranda Lambert, Blake Shelton and Brent Rowan, marks McCoy’s 12th studio album, and his first with new label home, Blaster Records. McCoy’s first single from “XII”, “A-OK,” penned by Barry Dean, Luke Laird and Brett Eldredge, will be released in October 2011.

McCoy, twice named Entertainer of the Year by the fan-voted TNN/Music City News Awards, says of his different upcoming releases, “My DPTV project with Les Brown gave me the opportunity to do something I always wanted to do, sing with horns and a Big Band. And I’d like to do more of that. Having Miranda and Blake involved in ‘XII’, the first project at my new label, Blaster Records, is huge for me. Not only do they have great vision, but they know when to have fun and when to get serious along with being fantastic musicians. I’m so excited about everything that’s coming up.”

The DPTV Media project has roots in McCoy’s earliest years, when he started out singing standards with a small jazz band in Texas. “Sentimental Journey,” a huge hit for Les Brown’s Band of Renown (the band Les Brown Sr. founded in the 1930’s as Les Brown and His Blue Devils), was a favorite of McCoy’s. When Brown and McCoy met in Branson, where Brown lives and hosts his syndicated radio show on the “Music of Your Life” Network, Brown was tickled to know the song, written by Les Brown Sr., Bud Green and Benjamin Homer, was in McCoy’s repertoire.

McCoy says, “I grew up on pop music and Great American Songbook, and I love melody and good phrasing in whatever I’m singin’. As I established my cred in country, I started putting songs like ‘Sentimental Journey’ and ‘I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face,’ back in the shows. People love the old songs because it’s just great writing all around.”

McCoy and Brown also share a strong connection to the USO. McCoy frequently entertains U.S. and allied troops around the world, as did Les Brown Sr. in his many USO shows with Bob Hope. To date, McCoy has performed seven concerts in Iraq, two in Afghanistan, along with shows in Pakistan, Germany and Bosnia, on ships in the Persian Gulf and military bases all over the states. In the DPTV Media show, McCoy and Brown pay tribute to our military men and women with the song, “I’m Your Biggest Fan” to a great crowd reaction.

DPTV Media, in its maverick fashion, pulled the trigger quickly on the project. “I’m a big Neal McCoy fan,” says Jamie Westrick, Executive Producer of DPTV Media. “Les Brown and Neal McCoy have created something very unique. We’re proud to be a part of it, and to be sharing it on PBS stations through DPTV Media.”

DPTV is the only PBS licensee in the country – and the first of its kind – with its own entertainment label, DPTV Media. DPTV Media was the #1 Billboard Top World label in 2004. DPTV Media is distributed throughout North America by eOne Entertainment. Executive Producers for this project are Jamie Westrick and Les Brown Jr., with Josette Marano serving as TV producer, and Keith Olsen and Les Brown Jr. as music producers.

The 60-minute DPTV Media concert special delivers a mix of many of McCoy’s Top 10 Country hits plus several standards, all with the backing of the 20+ piece orchestra (including McCoy’s band with each player featured throughout the show). Added to the performance roster are singer Janie Fricke, who discovered Neal McCoy, and Charley Pride, who signed McCoy to his first record deal. Fricke and McCoy team on “It’s a Cheating Situation.” Pride and McCoy duet on “You’re My Jamaica”.