Vince Gill, Amy Grant Announce Christmas Tour

Vince Gill and Amy Grant will debut their 11-city “Christmas With Amy & Vince” tour on December 8th in Sarasota, Florida. It will conclude December 22nd with two shows at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium.

McBride Loves Her Cheerios

Martina McBride and Cal Ripken Jr. are teaming up with Cheerios to recognize Americans who show commitment to a healthy lifestyle with the “Do What You Love” contest. One music lover and a guest will tour the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum with McBride, hang out with her in her recording studio and get VIP tickets to one of her upcoming concerts. One baseball enthusiast and guest will have lunch with Cal and get a tour of the Ripken Youth Baseball Academy. The winner will also throw out the first pitch at the Cal Ripken World Series game and sit in Cal’s seats at a Baltimore baseball game. To enter, submit a 150-250 word original story and photo at www.Cheerios.com/love. Entries should showcase what they love to do and how they take care of themselves. The contest runs through July 23rd with winners notified the week of August 10th.

Willie Nelson’s Fourth Of July Picnic

It’s time for Willie Nelson’s Annual 4th Of July Picnic. This year’s event takes place just outside Austin at the Backyard At Bee Cave. This year’s line-up includes Willie & Family, Kris Kristofferson, Jamey Johnson, The Courtyard Hounds, Leon Russell, Asleep At The Wheel, Jack Ingram, Gene Watson, Kevin Fowler, David Allan Coe, Billy Joe Shaver, Ray Price, Ray Wylie Hubbard, and many more. The day-long jam session has been held every year since 1972.

AquaPalooza Lineup

Brad Paisley will be joined by Jerrod Niemann, Lee Brice, Joanna Smith and Matt Stillwell on July 10th at AquaPalooza 2010 at the Reserve at Lake Travis, near Austin, Texas. The free concert will let fans watch the show from their boats.

Colt Ford Goes For ‘Chicken And Biscuits’ In Vamp Video

Colt Ford will debut the video for “Chicken and Biscuits” today on CMT.com. The release of the vampire-themed video corresponds with the premiere of the film “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse,” the third installment in Stephanie Meyer’s “Twilight” series. Ford adds a touch of twang to the soundtrack. The video features Bella, Jacob and the entire Cullen clan. Ford stars as the brooding vampire, Edward, only this time his craving for blood is replaced with an insatiable hunger for Bella’s southern fried chicken and biscuits.

 

Steve Azar Drops New Video

Steve Azar has released the video for his latest single, “Sunshine (Everybody Needs a Little).” The track is the second single from Azar’s fourth studio album, “Slide On Over Here.” “Sunshine (Everybody Needs a Little)” is currently at No. 32 on Billboard. The song could become Azar’s highest-charting single since 2001’s “I Don’t Have To Be Me (‘Til Monday),” which peaked at No. 2.

Virginia Label To Reissue Senator Byrd’s 1978 Album

A Virginia record label plans to reissue a bluegrass album recorded by late U.S. Sen. Robert Byrd. The West Virginia Democrat was the longest-serving member of the Senate. He died Monday at 92. The 1978 “Mountain Fiddler” album features Byrd performing old-time and bluegrass songs on fiddle, along with Country Gentlemen band members Doyle Lawson on guitar, James Bailey on banjo, and Spider Gilliam on bass. The CD will be available July 27th.

Lady A Appears On Ellen Special

Lady Antebellum debuted their new single “Our Kind of Love” last night on Ellen DeGeneres’ “Somewhat Special Special” on TBS. The group joined DeGeneres in Chicago recently to pre-tape the special at the Chicago Theatre in front of a sold out crowd.

More Underwood Wedding Rumors

The gossip mags are reporting that Carrie Underwood’s marriage to Mike Fisher will take place July 10th. The wedding date, along with the actual location of the nuptials, has been one of the best-kept secrets in Music City. As for the honeymoon, Carrie says, “I don’t where it is. That was Mike’s project.” Word is, however, that Tahiti and Bora Bora will be where they honeymoon. Carrie completed the first leg of her “Play On Tour” recently and the next leg doesn’t begin until fall so she has a little time set aside.

Dolly’s New Special

Dolly Parton made sure her old pals Kenny Rogers, Billy Ray Cyrus and daughter Miley Cyrus were all on the guest list at the taping of her upcoming TV special celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Dollywood theme park. Dolly says each guest is special to her for different reasons. “Kenny and I are like an old married couple,” Dolly says. “Miley is so hot right now, and Billy Ray, well, he’s just plain hot to me!” Miley and Dolly worked up a special version of “Jolene” for the show, while Kenny helped Dolly on their smash duet “Islands In The Stream,” and “I Will Always Love You.” The special will also include views of the park and taped well wishes from artists who have performed at the theme park through the years. “Dolly Celebrates 25 Years of Dollywood” premieres July 3rd on the Hallmark Channel.

Kenny Chesney DVD Debuts At No. 1

Though it was 3-D in the theatres when the movie bowed this summer, nothing slowed the impact of “Kenny Chesney: Summer in 3D” when the 2-dimensional conversion hit the shelves. Though offered exclusively through Kmart on the initial run, first week sales of the film bested the No. 2 seller offered everywhere – by almost 33%. U2 had the 2nd concert DVD, followed by George Strait, Bon Jovi and Barbra Streisand. Kenny will release his new album, “Hemingway’s Whiskey” on September 28th.

Chuck Wicks Releases ‘Hold That Thought’

Chuck Wicks has released the single and video for “Hold That Thought,” the first single from his upcoming sophomore album. The song is heating up more than a few fans with its sexy portrayal of the much-anticipated reunion of a guy and his gal. The steamy music video captures the spirit of the song, with actress Julia Jones (Leah Clearwater in “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse”) portraying Wicks’ love interest in the video. Fans are also getting to see another side of Chuck in the July issue of People Country, available now, as the magazine cast him in the role of “Mystery Date,” in a tip of the hat to the classic board game.

Gary Allan To Hit The Beach

As the temperatures rise and summer is in full effect, Gary Allan is going to hit the beach as much as he can. In between dates on the Brooks & Dunn “Last Rodeo Tour,” he’ll cool off by the ocean and surf, one of his favorite pastimes. Gary says, “When I get my breaks, I’m going to fly out to beaches most likely. I’m going to spend some time in Mexico and I’m going to spend some time in California, just trying to get as much surfing as I can in.”

Zac Brown Band, Chris Young Win Big At MusicRow Awards

Zac Brown Band and Chris Young were among the winners at this year’s MusicRow Awards, held last Thursday at BMI’s Nashville office. Zac Brown Band took home the award for Breakthrough Artist, while Chris Young received the nod for Breakthrough Songwriter. Song of the Year went to Miranda Lambert’s “The House That Built Me,” written by Allen Shamblin and Tom Douglas.

Jake Owen, Josh Turner Join Oklahoma State Fair Lineup

Jake Owen and Josh Turner are among the country artists appearing at the Oklahoma State Fair in Oklahoma City in September. Owen will perform on September 23rd, followed by Turner’s closing concert on September 24th. The Eli Young Band will open the music series on September 16th. Concerts are free with the purchase of gate admission to the fairgrounds.

Garth Salutes Dick Clark

Garth Brooks was just one of many superstars that took part in a salute to Dick Clark on last night’s Daytime Emmy Awards. Joining Garth was Cher, The Spinners, Marie Osmond, Barry Manilow, Ann-Margret, Jay Leno and Simon Cowell for a tribute to Clark and his show “American Bandstand,” which began its long run in 1957.

Carrie’s Wedding Not Postponed

Despite recent rumors in OK! magazine that Carrie Underwood and fiancé Mike Fisher had postponed their wedding due to a scuffle over what food will be served at the reception, Fisher’s agent, Todd Reynolds, said the wedding date has not been moved. The couple will wed in July, although a specific date and location are being kept tightly under wraps.

Rascal Flatts Gearing Up For New Tour

Rascal Flatts launches a new tour this Friday in Raleigh, North Carolina. The first leg of the “JC Penney Presents Rascal Flatts Nothing Like This Tour” will continue with 28 shows through September 19th at Boston’s Comcast Center. Kellie Pickler and Chris Young will open. Rascal Flatts recently wrapped their “Rascal Flatts American Living Unstoppable Tour,” which played 57 shows during its run from June 2009 to March 2010, with fan attendance near 800,000. The total also includes the two sold-out stadium concerts at Chicago’s Wrigley Field and Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio, last summer. Meanwhile, the band expects to release a new disc this fall.

Charlie Daniels Releasing Two Patriotic Singles

The Charlie Daniels Band is releasing a pair of digital singles, “Iraq Blues” and “(What This World Needs Is) A Few More Rednecks 2010,” on July 4th. The two tracks are featured on the CDB’s August 10th release of “Land That I Love,” a patriotic compilation album. Charlie says, “I wrote ‘Iraq Blues’ on three separate trips to entertain troops over there in Iraq. It’s about the troops and for the troops. ‘(What This World Needs Is) A Few More Rednecks 2010’ is an updated version of a song I recorded several years ago. The new lyrics reflect life in America in the 21st century.” The singles will be available at all major online retailers.

Billy Ray Cyrus, Phil Vassar Bow Out Of Roswell UFO Festival

Billy Ray Cyrus and Phil Vassar have bowed out of this year’s UFO Festival in Roswell, New Mexico. While neither Cyrus nor Vassar said why they dropped out, the chairwoman of the UFO Festival blames the cancellations on publicity about the way the festival is funded. The festival is still on; it runs June 30th through July 5th.

Garth Brooks Sells Out Again

The latest Garth Brooks tickets are already gone. Tickets for the third round of dates went on sale Saturday. The tickets were for 20 shows this fall at the Encore Theatre at the Las Vegas Wynn Hotel.

Headlining Lambert

Miranda Lambert embarked on her first-ever headlining tour this year, with her “Roadside Bars & Pink Guitars” tour. While Miranda confesses that she was feeling the pressure of being a headliner, she’s thrilled that the tour has been great and that this year overall has already become “more than a dream come true.”

New Music Releases & Re-Releases:

Derek Trucks Band – “Roadsongs”
Jaron and the Long Road to Love – “Getting Dressed in the Dark”
Justin Byrd – “Walking On A Beach”
Mark Chesnutt – “Outlaw”
Miley Cyrus – “Can't Be Tamed”
Uncle Kracker – “Happy Hour: The South River Road Sessions”
Various – “Broken Hearts & Dirty Windows: Songs Of John Prine”

Soundtracks:
“180 South”	“Hung”
“Crazy”	“Live In Anaheim”
“The A-Team”

New Video Preview!

Thak to our frieds at RowdyNites.com we are featuring the new videos to hit CMT this weekend a little eirly!
See them NOW before you can see them on TV!

Click here to check out the New:

Gary Allan - "Get Off on the Pain"
Jessie James - "Boys in the Summer"
LeAnn Rimes - "Swingin'"
Trace Adkins - "This Ain't No Love Song"
Tim McGraw - "Still (Live)"
Lady Antebellum - "Stars Tonight"
James Otto - "Groovy Little Summer

Alison Krauss Contributes New Song To ‘Get Low’ Soundtrack

Alison Krauss has contributed a new song, “Lay My Burden Down,” to the soundtrack for the upcoming film “Get Low.” The soundtrack will be released July 27th. The film stars Robert Duvall, Bill Murray, Sissy Spacek and Lucas Black. The film is based on the true story of Felix “Bush” Breazeale, a Tennessee recluse who planned his own funeral in 1938 while he was still alive so he could enjoy it.

Justin Moore’s Home Burglarized

Justin Moore – whose guitar was stolen and later returned in March – now says his house was broken into recently as well. Nobody was home when the burglary occurred. Only his wallet and some of his memorabilia were stolen, while the rest of the house was untouched. Police are still investigating the crime, which may be the work of an obsessed fan.

Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute CD Honors Band’s Country Roots

Randy Houser, Jamey Johnson and Uncle Kracker are among the musicians who have recorded tracks for “Sweet Home Alabama – The Country Music Tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd,” due out July 20th and available exclusively at Walmart.

Little Big Town Announces New Album Release Date

Little Big Town will release their new album, “The Reason Why,” on August 24th. The first single from the album is “Little White Church.” The group is currently on the “Country Throwdown” tour, which concludes Sunday in Mountain View, California.

Jamey Johnson? There’s An App For That!

Jamey Johnson has a new digital mobile app that’ll give fans access to his music, videos and tour info. Created by Mobile Rodie, it’s free and available for use with an iPhone, iPad, iTouch or Android.

Mark Chesnutt An ‘Outlaw’

Mark Chesnutt revives the music from the outlaw movement of the 70’s when his new album, “Outlaw,” comes out next Tuesday. Mark says, “I was introduced to Waylon and Willie and those guys on the rock stations. I was into 70’s rock at the time. Up ‘til then country stations played country and rock stations played rock. Then, there’s these long-haired guys with beards on both formats. They put the real meaning behind ‘cross-over’ artists and they made a life-long impression on me.”

Tracy Lawrence’s Dog Is Missing

Tracy Lawrence is asking Nashville-area residents, law officials and media for assistance in the search of his dog, Tank. The two-year-old English bulldog was removed from Lawrence’s truck Tuesday evening while he made a quick stop at a local Walgreens. Having just been bathed, Tank was not wearing his collar or ID. “Tank was my Father’s Day present two years ago,” Lawrence said. “He’s not only a member of our family but a part of our road crew.” Lawrence is offering a $500 reward to anyone with information about the dog’s theft or whereabouts. If you have any info, contact Sgt. Michael Mullins at the Mt. Juliet Police Department at 615.754.2552.

Tim McGraw Paying Tribute To Cowboys

Tim McGraw has scored a dream gig, performing at a historic NFL event. On September 10th, Tim will sing at a dual-celebration show honoring recent Pro Football Hall of Fame member Emmitt Smith as well as celebrating the Dallas Cowboys’ 50th anniversary. Tim will be the final performer in a three-concert series dubbed “XLV: Live From Cowboy’s Stadium,” which began with his wife, Faith Hill, back in March and also included a sold-out show by Sting last month.

Martina McBride Helps YWCA Raise More Than $100,000

This year’s YWCA celebrity auction hosted by Martina McBride raised $102,289 during the CMA Music Festival in Nashville. Sunday’s event benefited the YWCA of Nashville and Middle Tennessee. The highest bids of the day were two $11,000 offers for handwritten, autographed and framed lyrics for “She’s a Butterfly.” Big Kenny, who co-wrote the song, assisted McBride in the auction. The money raised at this year’s auction is a 29% increase over last year. McBride has hosted the charity auction since 1995.

Jimmy Dean To Be Interred In Piano-Shaped Mausoleum

Jimmy Dean, who died Sunday at age 81, will be laid to rest in a $350,000 piano-shaped granite mausoleum that he purchased several years ago. The 9 1/2-foot long tomb is located near the banks of the James River on his property in Varina, Virginia. In reference to the lyrics of his 1961 hit “Big Bad John,” the mausoleum will be inscribed with the epitaph “Here lies one hell of a man.” Funeral services are scheduled for June 21st at Grove Avenue Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia.

NFL Tough Guy Goes Country

Former NFL tough guy Kyle Turley will try his hand at country music. The 10-year NFL veteran had a reputation as a dirty player during his tenure with the St. Louis Cardinals and New Orleans Saints. Turley is hosting a concert showcase in Nashville next month. A video of his debut single, “Another Whiskey,” is airing on YouTube.

Rascal Flatts Headed ‘To Appomattox’ For HBO Miniseries

Rascal Flatts will appear in a miniseries about the Civil War on HBO called “To Appomattox,” lead singer Gary LeVox says. The battle at Appomattox, Virginia, effectively ended the Civil War, as General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant.

CMA Music Festival A Hit

Just weeks after that devastating flood, the CMA Music Festival hit an all-time record. The Country Music Association says all four nights were sold out at LP Field, where the headliners performed Thursday through Sunday. The CMA says this year the estimated daily attendance throughout the festival was 65,000. That compares with 56,000 last year.

Jimmy Dean Misses Country Music Hall Of Fame Induction

Jimmy Dean died knowing he’d been selected for the Country Music Hall of Fame, but he didn’t get to go to the ceremony. It was planned for this October. His wife says she thinks he was looking forward to it. Dean had tied with Ferlin Husky in voting, so both were selected. Husky’s induction was a few weeks ago, with Billy Sherrill. Jimmy Dean’s induction ceremony was set for October with Don Williams.

A Capitol Fourth For Reba And Darius

Reba McEntire and Darius Rucker will get to see Fourth of July fireworks from the bandstand on the lawn of the Capitol Building in Washington. They’ll be performing at the annual Independence Day special, “A Capitol Fourth.” McEntire will also be presented with the country’s National Artistic Achievement Award. “A Capitol Fourth” airs live on PBS.

Sarver Releases Video For First Single

Michael Sarver has released his first video, “Ferris Wheel,” from his upcoming self titled CD, due out July 27th. He was “American Idol’s” Top 10 contestant from last year. Sarver signed to Dream Records, a Universal Music Group affiliated independent label run by the Dream Center in Los Angeles, a non-profit outreach dedicated to helping inner-cities. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the CD go to the center’s work providing food, clothing, shelter, life rehabilitation, education and job training to thousands of people.

Natalie Maines’ New Buzz Cut

Natalie Maines has pulled another shocker, only this time it wasn’t with her mouth. Maines now sports a buzz cut. She’s been laying low for a while, but now that she and the rest of the Dixie Chicks are on a limited tour, she’s out there front and center onstage with almost no hair.

Taylor Swift Thanks Fans At CMA Music Festival

Fifteen-year-old Aleeshya Broome immediately started crying when she scored the wristband she needed to meet Taylor Swift during the singer’s 13-hour fan party and autograph session. Aleeshya says she found the whole experience “too overwhelming.” In fact, that 13-hour meet-n-greet turned into 15 hours, with over 10,000 fans showing up. The event finally concluded at 11 p.m. [CT] Sunday. Taylor personally greeted 2,000 fans who won the special wristbands for the meet-n-greet. Swift says the marathon meet-n-greet was a way of saying thanks to her fans. She also thanked them from the stage at the CMA Music Fest.

Jason Aldean Gets His Chesney Experience

Playing at LP Field at the CMA Music Festival was a different kind of experience for Jason Aldean. He says usually only huge stars like Kenny Chesney know what it’s like to play for a stadium full of fans. Aldean says “it’s exciting to go out and play for that many people.” LP Field seats about 68,000 fans.

Little Big Town Announces New Music

A new album from Little Big Town is coming in late August. “The Reason Why” will be out with a dozen songs including their current single, “Little White Church.” This will be LBT’s fourth album and first since 2007’s “A Place to Land.”

Lady Antebellum Comments On CMA Music Fest

This year wasn’t just another CMA Music Fest. After what middle and west Tennessee went through, with the floods, Hillary Scott of Lady Antebellum says, “It took a lot of hard work to pull it all together.” Charles Kelley says the festival was important because “this is Nashville: Music City. And the music needs to keep playing.”

Tim, Faith Add Artists, More Tickets For Flood Relief Concert

Additional tickets and artists have been announced for Tim McGraw and Faith Hill’s June 22nd “Nashville Rising” concert. Proceeds from the concert will benefit flood relief efforts of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee. Seats previously reserved for production purposes went on sale to the public yesterday. Toby Keith, who lost nearly all of his touring equipment in last month’s flood, has been added to the lineup. Other additions include Billy Ray Cyrus, Montgomery Gentry, Julie Roberts, Blake Shelton and ZZ Top. Previously announced performers include Jason Aldean, Brooks & Dunn, Luke Bryan, Miley Cyrus, Amy Grant, LeAnn Rimes, Michael W. Smith, Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood.

Tim McGraw’s ‘Fan Fair’ Fun

Thursday night was a first for Tim McGraw. He says it was the first time he’d played at the new CMA Fest, which he still calls by its previous name, Fan Fair. Tim says it’s the first time he’s “played in this setting in a long, long time.” McGraw taped a CMA Music Fest special that will air September 1st on ABC.

Luke Bryan Spills Baby Name

Luke Bryan’s second son is due in August and he will officially be named Tatum Christopher, the singer has revealed. “Tatum is a guy from my hometown, and then my brother’s name was Chris,” Luke tells The Boot. “So then we’ll have Bo and Tate – sounds like two little rednecks!” Bryan’s first son, Thomas Boyer Bryan, was born in March 2008, nearly a year after Bryan and his wife Caroline were married.

Who Faith Hill Thinks Is Hot

You’d think Faith Hill would agree with People magazine that Tim McGraw is the hottest guy in country music. But McGraw tells People his “wife would pick George Strait. She thinks he’s gorgeous! Or Kris Kristofferson.” McGraw says when he and Hill are around Kristofferson, “she can barely speak.” There are 25 stars on People’s list of Country’s Hottest Guys, including Kenny Chesney, Keith Urban, Brad Paisley, Blake Shelton and George Strait.

Garth Brooks Announces New Concert Dates

Garth Brooks has scheduled a string of additional Las Vegas concert dates for September, October and November. Tickets to the shows at the Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas go on sale Saturday through Ticketmaster. The new dates are September 10th-12th, October 1st-3rd, October 22nd-24th, November 5th-7th, and November 19th-21st. Tickets for 20 Garth concerts at the Encore Theater for the spring and summer sold out within hours.

Jamey Johnson Preps ‘Guitar Song’

Jamey Johnson will release the follow-up album to his Grammy-nominated “That Lonesome Song” on September 14th. The new 2-CD-set, “The Guitar Song,” includes 25 songs and over two hours of music. A song titled “Macon,” from Johnson’s upcoming release, is now available at all digital retailers and www.JameyJohnson.com. He debuted the song on The 2010 CMT Music Awards. In addition, Jamey made his debut at Bonnaroo yesterday. Spin magazine featured Jamey in their “30 Must Hear Artists at Bonnaroo.”

Billy Currington Celebrating Fast-Rising Single

Billy Currington’s current single, “Pretty Good At Drinkin’ Beer,” is the fastest-rising and biggest-selling, first week digital single of his career to date, tallying over 21,000 track sales – a 42% increase from his previous best with “Don’t.” “Beer” is the debut single from Currington’s upcoming fourth album due out this September. Currington was recently in Charleston, South Carolina, for a two-day photo shoot for the new album. He was back in front of the cameras Friday in Nashville for the filming of a new video for the single and Saturday night when he performed at LP Field for CMA Music Fest. After headlining a summer tour, Billy will hit the road this fall with Carrie Underwood.

Chris Young Is HOT

Chris Young is among the favorite men selected as Country’s Hottest Guys in the July issue of People Country. Featuring a two-page photo of Young, the issue will be available nationwide this week. Chris performed on last Wednesday’s 2010 CMT Music Awards. He was also named the winner of the fan-voted Nationwide Insurance On Your Side Award. Young’s honors continued into Thursday, when a combination early 25th birthday party and celebration for his three-week No. 1 smash, “The Man I Want to Be,” found Chris playing to a packed house of industry and fans at Nashville’s Tin Roof. Young was given a plaque celebrating back-to-back No. 1 singles for “The Man I Want to Be” and last fall’s “Gettin’ You Home,” and another recognizing 500,000 digital transactions for “Gettin’ You Home.”

2010 CMT Music Awards Most-Viewed Ever

Last Wednesday night’s 2010 CMT Music Awards was a hit with television audiences, pulling the largest audience in the history of the network. Early Nielsen returns report over 10.8-million viewed some portion of the show, up nearly 20% over last year. The event won the night among Cable Channels in the 18-49 demo.

 

Blake Shelton Hitting The Road This Summer

Blake Shelton has tacked more shows onto his in-progress summer tour. In all, Shelton will visit 47 North American cities before the tour’s November 20th conclusion in Lake Delton, Wisconsin. Meet-n-greet packages for several cities are available now via Shelton’s website. Shelton’s most recent studio set, “Startin’ Fires,” surfaced in late 2008. The album, which features a duet (“Bare Skin Rug”) with fiancé Miranda Lambert, spawned two Top 10 country singles: “She Wouldn’t Be Gone” and “I’ll Just Hold On.”

McGraw Hosting CMA Music Fest TV Special

Tim McGraw will host the TV special of “CMA Music Festival: Country’s Night to Rock” that was filmed last week for airing on September 1st on ABC. The special features country stars that performed during the four-day fest in Nashville, including Trace Adkins, Jason Aldean, Billy Currington, Alan Jackson, Kid Rock, Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride, Reba McEntire, Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley, Kellie Pickler, Rascal Flatts, Darius Rucker, Blake Shelton, Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood and the Zac Brown Band.

Heat Causes Health Emergencies At CMA Music Fest

More than 300 heat-related emergencies were reported since the Country Music Association Music Festival that started Thursday, with 18 going to the hospital. High temperatures were also expected yesterday, the final day of the annual festival. A CMA security guard was found dead inside a medical tent on Friday with no cause of death announced. The guard had not worked during the heat of the day. A total of 1,388 people were overheated at four different tents during the festival. Sunburns, blisters and allergies were among the problems. The temperature reached 93 on Saturday with a similar high expected yesterday.

Singer-Sausage Man Jimmy Dean Dies

Jimmy Dean, a country music legend for his hit “Big Bad John” and an entrepreneur known for his sausage brand, died Sunday. He was 81. His wife, Donna Dean, said her husband died at their Henrico County, Virginia, home. Dean had some health problems but was still doing well at the time of his death, according to his wife. She said he was eating in front of the television. She left the room for a time and came back and was he was unresponsive. She said he was pronounced dead at 7:54 p.m.

Mix Me In2 Technology Debuts With Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift is the first artist to be part of the groundbreaking new technology called Mix Me In2, from Atlanta-based Fried Green Apps. It’s a new iPhone app that allows anyone to literally “go into the music.” One can create different versions of their favorite songs – removing or changing instruments and even mix themselves into the music replacing instruments or vocals with their own. The unveiling will be Sunday in Nashville as part of Taylor’s 13-hour meet-n-greet.

Sarah Buxton Writing Songs For Remake Of ‘Footloose’

Sarah Buxton is writing songs with Julianne Hough and Blair Daly for a remake of the classic 1980s film “Footloose.” Director Kenny Ortega and actor Chace Crawford have both been linked to the film, which will begin shooting in March. Buxton is also working on a new record with Jedd Hughes as the Buxton Hughes duo. The two first connected after Buxton’s record label, Lyric Street, went out of business. Buxton is also currently touring with the “Country Throwdown” tour, which features several other artists such as Eric Church, Heidi Newfield, Montgomery Gentry, Little Big Town, Eli Young Band, Emily West and more.

Busy Times Ahead For Jo Dee Messina

Jo Dee Messina plans a very busy two weeks with performances, fundraisers for Nashville Flood Relief and an occasional Road Race. On Saturday, she hosts the 5K St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital MusicFest Road Race. On Sunday, Jo Dee performs at the Music Fest’s Riverstages. Next Saturday, she’ll perform at the Grand Ole Opry at the Ryman. Meanwhile, Jo Dee continues her North American tour in support of the first of a trilogy of EP’s, “Unmistakable: Love,” which will be followed by “Unmistakable: Drive” this summer and “Unmistakable: Inspiration” later this year.

Blake Shelton Believes In 6-Paks

Building from the success of his first 6-Pak album, Blake Shelton has scheduled the release of his second one on August 10th. “All About Tonight” is the featured tune for the new project. His first 6-Pak album, “Hillbilly Bone,” was released earlier this year and has done well. The 6-Pak concept came about as a suggestion from fans, who said they wanted more new music more often from Blake.

Jimmy Wayne’s Walk Featured In People Magazine

People Magazine is running a feature on Jimmy Wayne’s Meet Me Halfway walk. The current issue, on stands now, was written by reporter Danielle Anderson and photographer Chris Baldwin, who joined Jimmy while walking through New Mexico on his final 400-miles to Phoenix. Jimmy says, “It hasn’t been easy, and took a lot more time than I thought it would, but I wouldn’t change a thing – except maybe the temperatures in January, and now! All kidding aside, I have met a lot of great people along the way and I feel I have definitely raised awareness of the issues young people who age out of the Foster Care system face. Without a family or any kind of support group, they often end up homeless. We’ve got to change that.”

Urban, Avetts To Play Grammy Benefit

Keith Urban will headline the Grammy Foundation’s benefit “Starry Night” concert on July 23rd at the L.A. Tennis Center at the University of California, Los Angeles. The Avett Brothers will open.

Judds Gear Up For ‘Last Encore’

The Judds not only helped launch the 2010 CMA Music Festival in Nashville, they also announced the name of their fall tour – “The Judds: The Last Encore.” The Judds last toured together in 2000 on the “Power to Change” tour. Wynonna and Naomi recently asked fans to name their upcoming tour in The Judds “Name That Tour” contest. Jacqualine Budgell from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, was the winner. The tour starts November 26th in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Judds will close their final tour on December 19th in Phoenix, where their 2000 “Power To Change” tour began.

Darius Rucker Concert Raises Big Money For St. Jude

Darius Rucker and his friends helped raise $48,720 for St. Jude Children’s Hospital during a charity concert in Nashville. Rucker hosted the concert at the Wildhorse Saloon on Monday with guests Radney Foster, Randy Houser, Jamey Johnson, Jake Owen and surprise guest Kid Rock. Rucker also performed his new single, “Come Back Song,” for the first time at the event. The single will be released June 28th. It’s the first release from his upcoming album, expected to be released in October.

Lee Ann Womack’s Niece Featured In NY Times Piece

Lee Ann Womack’s 16-year-old niece Joy was featured in Sunday’s New York Times World section in a story devoted to American students who have traveled to Russia to study at the prestigious Bolshoi Ballet. The 16-page spread is also featured on the Times’ website, where readers can view Joy’s studies and life in Russia. Joy took a summer session in America with Bolshoi teachers and they asked if she would like to enroll at the school to study with 750 of the country’s best dancers. She was one of 90 foreign students selected to attend. Check out Joy’s website at www.joywomack.com.

Guitars Of The Stars Auction

The second annual Guitars of the Stars Benefit Auction takes place tomorrow at the Ryman Auditorium. Fans have the chance to bid on acoustic guitars decorated by some of country’s hottest stars. All proceeds benefit the Opry Trust Find earmarked for victims of the Tennessee floods. Some of the guitars up for auction come from Alan Jackson, Rascal Flatts, Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Danny Gokey, George Jones, The Judds, Jake Owen and Darius Rucker.

Gloriana Awards Milk Prize

Gloriana were featured on more than 50 million milk containers in schools across the U.S. during March and April as part of the Milk Rocks! campaign, in which thousands of students entered to win a $10,000 prize to use for future educational purposes from pen manufacturer Paper Mate. Robert K. Golz, 13, of Orland Park, Illinois, will receive the scholarship money along with three tickets to attend an upcoming Gloriana concert and a chance to meet the band.

Sunday Mornin’ Country Concert Honors Roy Clark

Country Music Hall of Fame member Roy Clark will be honored Sunday during the 31st annual Sunday Mornin’ Country concert at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center in Nashville. Taking place during the CMA Music Festival, the tribute will feature fellow Hall of Fame member Charlie McCoy and several other “Hee Haw” cast members, including LuLu Roman, Roni Stoneman and the Nashville Edition. Other performers include Louise Mandrell, Buddy Jewell, Jason Crabb, Gary Morris, T. Graham Brown and the Fox Brothers. The event will also allow fans to contribute nonperishable food items to Nashville’s Second Harvest Food Bank.

Teen Choice Awards Adds Country Category

It’s about time! The people at the Teen Choice Awards have added a country music category to this summer’s awards. They’re calling it Choice Country Music Artist. The move comes after Taylor Swift won two Teen Choice Awards last year. This year’s Teen Choice Awards will air August 9th on Fox.

Toby Keith To Join Boston Pops On July 4th

Toby Keith will celebrate Independence Day with the Boston Pops. Liberty Mutual, the event’s sponsor, announced that Keith will join conductor Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops for the annual Fourth of July concert and fireworks show on the banks of the Charles River. The “Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular,” hosted by Craig Ferguson of “The Late Late Show,” will be televised on CBS.

Shania Twain’s Divorce Finalized

Shania Twain’s divorce from record producer Robert “Mutt” Lange has been finalized, according to documents filed last week in Switzerland. The couple’s separation was announced on May 15, 2008. They first met at Fan Fair (now the CMA Music Festival) in 1993 and married at the end of that year. Twain is currently dating Frédéric Thiébaud, whose ex-wife reportedly had an affair with Lange. Twain is preparing a new TV series, “Why Not? With Shania Twain,” for the Oprah Winfrey Network.

CMT Awards

The CMT Awards aired last night. The winners:

 

Video of the Year: “Cowboy Casanova” – Carrie Underwood

Male Video of the Year: “‘Til Summer Comes Around” – Keith Urban.

Female Video of the Year: “White Liar” – Miranda Lambert

Group Video of the Year: “Need You Now” – Lady Antebellum

Duo Video of the Year: “Indian Summer” – Brooks & Dunn

USA Weekend Breakthrough Video of the Year: “Do I” – Luke Bryan

Collaborative Video of the Year: “Hillbilly Bone” – Blake Shelton f/ Trace Adkins

CMT Performance of the Year: “Temporary Home” from “Invitation Only: Carrie Underwood” – Carrie Underwood

New Country Artist: Chris Young

 

Toby Keith? There’s An App For That

Toby Keith has a new phone app that gives his fans access to all things Toby, including show schedules, new tracks, ticket purchases, the official store and his special Fan Wall. To get the free official iPhone app, visit http://mobileroadie.com/apps/toby-keith. 

Miranda Lambert’s No. 1 Fan

While Miranda Lambert works the road on her “Roadside Bars and Pink Guitars” tour, her mother Bev is back home prepping for the next fan club event. Bev is the president of Miranda’s fan club and can often be found socializing with her daughter’s fans at club events. “Mom does a great job with the fan club party,” Lambert told TheBoot.com. “She’s almost so involved with the fans sometimes I think it’s scary, because I’m like, ‘Mom, if they get mad at me, they’re gonna get mad at you too!’” She adds, “She’s so personal with them, which is awesome; that’s what good about having your mom as your fan club president

 

ABC To Hold Block Party At CMA Music Festival

ABC is hosting a “block party” this Friday and Saturday at the CMA Music Festival. A lot of the network’s soap stars will be there signing autographs. Plus, Emily West and Chris Janson will perform. And, there will be games and network-branded giveaways like T-shirts. ABC is filming the festival for a three-hour special to air September 1st.

Danny Gokey To Be CMT Twitter Correspondent

Danny Gokey’s thumbs will get a workout during the CMA Music Fest. He’ll be tweeting from the festival for CMT. The network has named him their official Twitter Correspondent. The tweets will be about his own experiences as a CMA festival first-timer. On opening day Thursday, Gokey will be super-busy. During the day, he’ll sign autographs at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and at the Greased Lightning Fan Fair Hall for both CMT and CMA. On Thursday night, he’ll perform on the LP Field main stage.

Chely Wright To Be Chicago Gay Pride Grand Marshal

The Chicago gay pride parade has nabbed the newly out Chely Wright to be their grand marshal. Chely will be riding in a classic car near the front of this year’s parade, set for June 27th.

Paris Hilton Tweets Jimmy Wayne

Jimmy Wayne, who is on his 1,700-mile Meet Me Halfway walk to raise awareness for teen homelessness, got a tweet recently on his Twitter account that he certainly wasn’t expecting: a shout out from Paris Hilton. Out of the blue Paris tweeted: “Jimmy Wayne, I’d love to walk with you!”

Jimmy Wayne, Bryan Foods To Help Nashville’s Flood Victims

Jimmy Wayne and Bryan Foods have teamed up to donate 250,000 pounds of food to the Second Harvest Food Bank to assist Nashville flood victims. Wayne is currently on his Meet Me Halfway walk from Nashville to Phoenix to raise awareness for homeless teenagers. “It’s been really hard for me to be away from Nashville during this time,” said Wayne, who began his trek on January 1st. “Hearing from friends who have suffered immeasurable loss is so difficult. And seeing people who are now homeless just breaks my heart.”

Rascal Flatts To Perform On ‘Today Show’s’ Concert Series

Rascal Flatts will head to New York City to perform on NBC’s Today Show’s “Summer Concert Series” on Friday. The group will perform “Unstoppable” as well as a few other hits. The performance will happen the day prior to an appearance at the CMA Music Festival in Nashville, where the band will sign autographs for fans at the Greased Lightning Fan Fair Hall in the CMT booth and will also perform at LP Field later that evening on Saturday. Rascal Flatts’ will launch the “Nothing Like This Tour” on June 25th in Raleigh, North Carolina, with opening acts Chris Young and Kellie Pickler.

Top 25 Country Artists Of Last 25 Years

George Strait tops Billboard’s list of the top 25 country music artists of the past 25 years. The list was compiled by Billboard to coincide with the magazine’s Country Music Summit, taking place this week in Nashville. Strait has sold more than 68.5 million albums and has placed 82 songs in the Top 10, with 44 of his singles reaching No. 1. Among his other chart accomplishments, he’s had a Top 10 hit in 30 consecutive years, setting another Billboard record. The full list:

 

1. George Strait	8. Kenny Chesney	15. The Judds	22. Dwight Yoakam
2. Garth Brooks	9. Alabama	16. Faith Hill	23. Martina McBride
3. Reba McEntire	10. Brooks & Dunn	17. Vince Gill	24. Travis Tritt
4. Alan Jackson	11. Rascal Flatts	18. Dixie Chicks	25. LeAnn Rimes
5. Tim McGraw	12. Clint Black	19. Keith Urban
6. Randy Travis	13. Hank Williams Jr.	20. Brad Paisley
7. Toby Keith	14. Shania Twain	21. Ricky Van Shelton

CMT Awards Tonight

The CMT Awards will be aired tonight. The fan voted awards contest will be held at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena with Kid Rock as host. Nominees include:

 

Video of the Year:“American Ride” – Toby Keith, “Cowboy Casanova” – Carrie Underwood, “Need You Now” – Lady Antebellum, “Out Last Night” – Kenny Chesney, “The Truth” – Jason Aldean, “‘Til Summer Comes Around” – Keith Urban, “Toes” – Zac Brown Band, “Welcome to the Future” – Brad Paisley, “White Liar” – Miranda Lambert and “You Belong With Me” – Taylor Swift.

Male Video of the Year: “American Ride” – Toby Keith, “People Are Crazy” – Billy Currington, “Southern Voice” – Tim McGraw, “The Truth” – Jason Aldean and “‘Til Summer Comes Around” – Keith Urban.

Female Video of the Year: “Consider Me Gone” – Reba McEntire, “Cowboy Casanova” – Carrie Underwood, “White Liar” – Miranda Lambert and “You Belong With Me” – Taylor Swift.

Group Video of the Year: “Here Comes Goodbye” – Rascal Flatts, “How Far Do You Wanna Go?” – Gloriana, “Need You Now” – Lady Antebellum and “Toes” – Zac Brown Band.

Duo Video of the Year: “Indian Summer” – Brooks & Dunn, “Keep On Lovin’ You” – Steel Magnolia, “Keep You” – Sugarland and “Nightswimming/Joey” – Sugarland.

USA Weekend Breakthrough Video of the Year: “A Little More Country Than That” – Easton Corbin, “Do I” – Luke Bryan, “Giddy On Up” – Laura Bell Bundy and “Keep On Lovin’ You” – Steel Magnolia.

Collaborative Video of the Year: “Best Days of Your Life” – Kellie Pickler f/ Taylor Swift, “Heaven” from “CMT Crossroads: Bryan Adams and Jason Aldean” – Jason Aldean and Bryan Adams, “Hillbilly Bone” – Blake Shelton f/ Trace Adkins, and “I’m Alive” – Kenny Chesney with Dave Matthews.

CMT Performance of the Year: “Consider Me Gone” from “Invitation Only: Reba” – Reba McEntire, “Lookin’ for a Good Time” from the 2009 CMT Music Awards – Lady Antebellum, “Southern Voice” from “Invitation Only: Tim McGraw” – Tim McGraw, “Temporary Home” from “Invitation Only: Carrie Underwood” – Carrie Underwood, and “Then” from the 2009 CMT Music Awards – Brad Paisley.

New Country Artist: Ryan Bingham, Randy Houser, Justin Moore and Chris Young.

Eli Young Band Bassist Engaged

Jon Jones, bassist for the Eli Young Band, recently popped the question to longtime girlfriend, Sarah Guinn. The couple will tie the knot on January 29th in Jamaica. “We have been together for nine years, almost as long as the band has been together,” Jon told The Boot. “And we have a Boxer that’s almost eight years old ... It’s time!”

Country Thunder Announces New Admission Policy

Country Thunder in Twin Lakes Wisconsin has announced a new admission policy. Children 12 and under will now gain admission to the weekend event completely free of charge. Along with the new admission policy, Country Thunder is also offering a quiet, family oriented campground. Family camping offers over 150 campsites specifically geared towards families and children. Festival-goers can expect performances from artists such as Kenny Chesney, Sugarland and Miranda Lambert. Find out more at www.countrythunder.com.

The Band Perry Plans An Energetic Summer

As the summer gets going, The Band Perry – siblings Kimberly, Neil and Reid Perry – unveil both a powerful new single and an ambitious touring schedule. “If I Die Young” is their second single and was written by the band. They’re opening shows Keith Urban, Brooks & Dunn, Alan Jackson and Zac Brown Band this summer. Kimberly Perry says, “Reid, Neil, and I have played our fair share of festivals and fairs over the past ten years; it’ll be a familiar atmosphere for the three of us.”

Jamey Johnson Plans 2-CD Set For September

The long-awaited follow-up disc by Jamey Johnson actually will be two discs. “The Guitar Song” will be out September 14th with 25 songs and more than two hours of music. The album is the follow-up to “That Lonesome Song,” which received excellent reviews and catapulted Johnson’s career. Available now at all digital retailers and at Johnson’s website is the song “Macon” from the upcoming release. Jamey will debut the song tonight on The 2010 CMT Music Awards. Johnson has asked a few surprise guests to be part of his performance.

Kris Kristofferson, Terri Clark Helping Tootsie’s Celebrate

Kris Kristofferson and Terri Clark are among the performers who will pay tribute to the 50th anniversary of Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge during a concert at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville on November 7th. Early in his career, Kristofferson befriended owner and bartender “Tootsie” Bess, while Clark held down a regular gig at the bar prior to signing a record deal. The famous honky-tonk is located across the alley from the Ryman, the former home of the Grand Ole Opry. In the 1960s and 1970s, many Opry stars would cross the alley into Tootsies’ back door between their performances.

Kid Rock Added To CMA Line-Up

Kid Rock is already in Nashville this week to host tonight’s CMT Awards. So he’s going to hang around and be part of the CMA Music Festival as well. Kid Rock has been added to Friday’s line-up.

Chris Young Celebrates The Classics

Chris Young is an artist with a healthy respect for traditional country music, and he’s often talked about Keith Whitley as one of his big heroes. So when Chris recorded his just-released digital “Voices E,” one of the songs had to be a Keith Whitley favorite. Chris chose Keith’s “I’m Over You.” He said it was a humbling experience to try his hand at the EP’s trio of classic songs, which also includes John Anderson’s “Swingin’” and Vern Gosdin’s “Chiseled In Stone.” But he’d love to think that there might be a few songs – maybe some younger fans – who missed hearing those songs the first time and who might become inspired to discover the original recordings. Chris admits it’s humbling to think that people buy his music, even more so when he’s recording those classics.

Kellie Pickler ‘in Love Again’

When Kellie Pickler was making her latest album, she says it was a last-minute choice to record the song that’s become her new single, “Makin’ Me Fall In Love Again.” For Kellie, it was a song that really seemed to connect with her, and she says it feels good to be singing about the happy side of love.

Brady Seals Plays Tour Guide

Brady Seals is preparing for a busy 2010 CMA Music Fest with media interviews, autograph signings and a free performance in the Bridgestone Arena Plaza highlighting songs from his new album, “Play Time,” as well as some well-loved fan favorites from his time with Little Texas and Hot Apple Pie. In addition, he shares his top five favorite Nashville stops for those visiting the city next week. Seals is currently headlining “The Play Time 2010 Tour” in support of his latest single for “Been There, Drunk That.” Seals’ top five places to visit in Nashville:

 

Noshville (1918 Broadway, 37203) - “This local restaurant offers a GREAT tuna melt and the best vegetable soup around!”

Cumberland Transit (2807 West End Ave, 37203) - “I love to hike and they have almost everything I need there.”

Radnor Lake (1160 Otter Creek Rd, 37220) - “I think it’s the most serene place in Nashville. Hiking Gainer Ridge is therapeutic for me.”

Edgehill Cafe (1201 Villa Place, 37212) - “Great coffee for a good price! I always see a familiar face there - Robert Reynolds, ha!”

The Arcade (Between 4th & 5th Ave. Downtown) - “Great vibe, great pizza joint, the BEST candy store!”

Blake Shelton, NRACountry Take Aim At Flood Relief

Blake Shelton will host the first annual NRACountry sporting clay shoot charity event, sponsored by the National Rifle Association, in conjunction with the CMA Music Festival. The event, which takes place Thursday at the Tennessee Clay Target Complex in Nashville, will benefit Middle Tennessee flood relief efforts through the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee.

Sheryl Crow Adopts Second Baby Boy

Sheryl Crow has announced that she’s adopted a second baby boy. “I have some exciting news to share with you guys,” Sheryl writes on her website, “Wyatt has a new little brother!” Levi James Crow was born April 30th. Details of his adoption and birthplace are not known. Big brother Wyatt Steven Crow was adopted in 2007, the year Sheryl had just gone through breast cancer treatment and had broken off an engagement to cyclist Lance Armstrong.

Trisha Helps Chely Help Schools

Trisha Yearwood is the latest special guest added to the stellar lineup of performers at Chely Wright’s 10th annual Reading, Writing & Rhythm benefit concert, set for tomorrow at Nashville’s James K. Polk Theater in the Tennessee Performing Arts Center. Trisha joins previously announced performers including Rodney Crowell, SHeDAISY, Justin Moore, Buxton Hughes, Bucky Covington and Jamey Johnson.

Trailer Choir To Perform On 2010 CMT Music Awards

Trailer Choir has been announced as performers on the upcoming 2010 CMT Music Awards, airing live on Wednesday. The band will premiere “Shakin’ That Tailgate,” a track from their debut CD, “Tailgate,” due out 6th. The song will also be made available as a free download for 24 hours on www.trailerchoir.com and www.cmt.com immediately following the awards show.

Jimmy Buffett Talks Oil Spill In Florida

Jimmy Buffett plans to open a Margaritaville hotel in Pensacola Beach later this week as the oil spill reaches Florida’s beaches. Buffett took a walk Saturday along the beach with Florida Governor Charlie Crist and said he wants people in the area to know that he’s there for them. He says if he’s good for anything, it’s “helping people forget their troubles for a couple of hours.” Buffett led a pro-beach rally, urging Floridians to “not get a ‘sky is falling’ attitude” over the oil slick. He said he has survived hurricanes, getting shot at in Jamaica and a plane crash, and insisted he’s ready to ride out the oil-spill disaster. “This is an environmental disaster nobody asked for, but Floridians are a tough people,” Buffet said to the crowd of 1,000 beachgoers. Tar balls swept along by strong winds hit more of the Panhandle coast Saturday. A dozen tar mats – slabs of thickened crude as long as 30 feet – were found near Navarre Beach. “Just batten down the hatches,” Buffett said.

Taylor Swift On Cover Of Marie Claire

Taylor Swift will be featured on the front cover of the June edition of Marie Claire. The 20-year-old talks about her songwriting in an interview with the magazine. “Everyone in my life knows whenever something happens, the only way it’s going to be over and finished and put to bed is if it’s written about,” Swift says. The special issue of Marie Claire will be on stands tomorrow.

Julianne Hough Releases New Single

Julianne Hough has released a new single, “Is That So Wrong,” in advance of a new album tentatively scheduled to arrive in November. Hough co-wrote the song with Sarah Buxton and Blair Daly. Hough is also scheduled to release a second fitness DVD in November. Her first, “Dance With Julianne: Cardio Ballroom,” was released late last year. Hough is a two-time champion on “Dancing With the Stars.”

Chat With Keith Urban

Keith Urban will appear live on his website today at 6 p.m. [ET] to chat with his fans about his current “Summer Lovin’ 2010” tour, his upcoming appearance at CMA Fest, his performance with John Mayer at the CMT Awards, and his new single, “I’m In.” “No question will be off limits,” according to a press release. People can submit their questions in advance at Urban’s website or via Facebook or Twitter. The chat will be streamed live at www.keithurban.net/live.

Where In The Water World Is Brad?

This past weekend Brad Paisley’s “H2O World Tour” played to over 30,000 fans in Kansas City and St. Louis. On Saturday, Paisley took to the Water World Plaza Stage as a surprise and played guitar for Steel Magnolia on the Tom Petty/Stevie Nicks duet “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around.” With the “H2O World Tour” and Water World Plaza you never know where Paisley might show up. The previous weekend he was spotted driving the Chevy ZR1 Racing simulator and Chevy H2O FLW fishing simulator - as well as checking out the other booths and activities in Water World. The tour continues this weekend with shows on Friday in Toledo; Saturday in Indianapolis; and Sunday in Cincinnati.

Pickler Sets Mini-Acoustic Concert At Opry Originals

Kellie Pickler will be visiting with fans and signing autographs at Opry Originals: The Shop on Broadway located in downtown Nashville’s famed Lower Broadway area at 300 Broadway on June 10th. Pickler will immediately follow the signing with a 30-minute acoustic performance in the store, which will distribute a limited number of autograph vouchers with the purchase of a Pickler CD or Pickler-branded prints and photos created exclusively for the event. Kellie will begin signing at noon. The vouchers will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis. Meanwhile, Pickler will perform her current single, “Making Me Fall In Love Again,” on Fox & Friends’ “All American Concert Series,” tomorrow morning. Viewers can also visit the www.foxandfriends.com, which will feature post-performance coverage of Kellie’s appearance, including an exclusive performance not included on the televised portion.

Lady Antebellum’s ‘Need You Now’ a Record-Breaker!

Lady Antebellum continues to rule the country album chart with “Need You Now.” The album holds the No. 1 spot on the Billboard chart for the 18th consecutive week. The group has also set a record on the Adult Contemporary chart with the title track, which has become a huge crossover hit. “Need You Now” is the longest-running No. 1 song by a country group since Billboard started the AC radio airplay chart 49 years ago. The single has topped that chart for a record 10 weeks, surpassing Rascal Flatts’ nine-week run at the top in 2006 with “What Hurts the Most.”

Shania Wants To Take Her Music To ‘Desperate’ Parts Of The World

Shania Twain says she wants to give concerts to less fortunate fans around the world. In a recent interview at an event for the Swiss Red Cross, Twain says she could see herself going to impoverished nations for simple, stripped-down performances. “I would like to visit people, perhaps desperate in sensitive areas, and bring them comfort through music,” Shania told the Tribune de Genéve. “I imagine something very simple, acoustical.” Twain has inked a deal with Oprah Winfrey’s OWN Network for a new reality program titled “Why Not? With Shania Twain.” The show is set to debut in 2011. She’s also reportedly working on her long-awaited follow up to 2002’s “Up!.”

George Strait Reissues Live DVD

George Strait will re-issue “George Strait Live” on DVD exclusively to Walmart on June 15th. Strait, backed by his Ace in the Hole Band, is captured for the first time on video performing greatest hits and all time fan favorites at the Dallas Reunion Arena on New Year’s night 1986-1987. The DVD has been digitally re-mastered and includes five bonus music videos made available for the first time ever on DVD.

Dolly Presents Donation For Nashville Flood Relief

Dolly Parton visited Music City to present a check to the United Way’s “Restore the Dream” fund yesterday. Parton donated $250,000 at a media event with Nashville Mayor Karl Dean. “They are actually going out into these areas where people have lost everything and trying to get them back into their homes,” she said. “That was very important to me, that we really work with the people that are trying to get that done.”

Jewel’s Interactive Release Party

Jewel is teaming with Velocity Broadcasting’s First Spin for a launch party for her album “Sweet And Wild.” The release party will take place June 7th, the day before her album is released. The broadcast event will be taped in HD and simulcast at venues nationwide at select Morton’s Steakhouses, Maggiano’s Little Italy, Club Corp private clubs and HD-equipped theaters. It will be broadcast in more than 75 cities across the U.S. and Australia. Steel Magnolia will open the concert. Fans will also be able to request songs and ask Jewel questions via phone, text and e-mail. For more details, visit www.velocityboxoffice.com.

Reba Opens New Home For Families In Need

Reba McEntire recently cut the ribbon a Reba’s Ranch House at the Texoma Medical Center in Denison, Texas. The facility is designed for families of hospital patients battling a serious illness. The ranch is a “home away from home” for families of critically ill patients who are hospitalized at the Texoma Medical Center. The original house was built 1992 with money raised from five Memorial Day benefit concerts. The new ranch house has 12 rooms for families.

Toby Keith Fundraiser Takes Big Money

The seventh annual Toby Keith & Friends Golf Classic raised close to $600,000. Held May 21-22 in Norman, Oklahoma, the fundraiser was comprised of a dinner/auction/concert and golf tournament. The event has raised almost $3 million since its inception for Oklahoma’s children battling cancer and their families. Larry The Cable Guy served as emcee while Keith jumped on stage to perform with headliner David Allan Coe. Surprise guest Phil Vassar also took the stage. Top draws in the auction included dinner for 20 with Keith. He agreed to do two dinners, one for each of the top bidders at $28,000 a piece. A Super Bowl package went for $16,000 and top silent auction items included a canvas of Keith featuring the lyrics to “Cryin’ For Me (Wayman’s Song)” for $3,900, Vikings and Jets Brett Favre jerseys at $4,100 and a Cal Ripken Jr. package that brought in $3,500.

Swift Schedules 13-Hour Meet-N-Greet

Taylor Swift has scheduled a 13-hour meet-n-greet session on June 13th during the CMA Music Festival. Swift will spend the day at the Bridgestone Arena in downtown Nashville and will perform a short acoustic set around 2 p.m. This will be her only performance during the Festival. “My favorite thing about CMA Music Fest has always been getting to spend time with the fans, so this year I wanted to figure out a way to meet as many of them as possible,” Swift said. “Thirteen is my lucky number, and the 13th is during Music Fest, so I think spending 13 hours that day with my fans is going to be amazing!”

CMT Music Awards Lineup Grows

Jamey Johnson, LeAnn Rimes, Keith Urban and John Mayer have been added to the performance lineup of the 2010 CMT Music Awards, airing June 9th on CMT. Johnson will debut “Macon,” from his upcoming fall release, while Rimes will perform a fully choreographed rendition of John Anderson’s “Swingin’,” from her upcoming album “Lady and Gentlemen.” “CMT Crossroads” partners John Mayer and Keith Urban will perform “Hit the Ground Running,” a song featured on Urban’s “Defying Gravity” album, for the first time on TV. Hosted by Kid Rock, the event will also feature previously announced performers Toby Keith, Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lambert, Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood and The Zac Brown Band.

Opryland Hotel Damage Update

While workers are trying to restore the Opryland Resort from last month’s flood, there’s word that damage could be a lot more than the amount of the insurance policy. A stock market analyst has downgraded stock of Gaylord Entertainment, which owns the hotel and the Grand Ole Opry. He says the Opryland Hotel has a $50 million insurance policy, but it could cost the company at least $100 million beyond that to repair the place.

Historic Nashville Cemetery Vandalized

The Nashville resting place of country icon Minnie Pearl, historically open around the clock, will now close at night due to vandalism, groundskeepers say. Vandals destroyed nearly two dozen grave sites at the 135-year-old Mt. Hope Cemetery, breaking vases and kicking over headstones and a flagpole. The damage was estimated at more than $20,000. Although they came close, the vandals did not destroy the grave of Sarah Cannon, better known as Minnie Pearl. Cemetery manager William Puckett said the grounds, open 24 hours a day since 1875, will now only be available to the public from dawn to dusk.

The End For The Lost Trailers

The Lost Trailers never could ever catch a break. Their band name even comes from a history of stolen instruments and equipment from their trailers. Now they’ve decided to throw in the towel after their current tour ends. Bass player Manny Medina said on his Facebook page: “Ryder [Lee], [Jeff] Potter and I are starting a new project and will continue making music together. I’m very excited for the future. I had an incredible run as a Trailer and all of us will always be friends. It wasn’t an easy decision, but you have to follow your heart.” In 2006, the Trailers released a version of “Chicken Fried,” though the single was eventually withdrawn. The song went on to become the breakthrough release for the Zac Brown Band, who released their version as the Trailers were making waves with “Holler Back,” their only single that reached the Top 10. Their follow-up, “How ‘Bout You Don’t,” peaked in the Top 20.

Hank Williams Honored

Hank Williams has earned a posthumous Special Citation from the Pulitzer Prize. The award was accepted by Hank’s daughter, Jett Williams, at a special luncheon/awards ceremony on May 24th at Columbia University in New York. “Hank Williams has always been in a class all his own as the Shakespeare of ‘the common man,’ whom he touched so deeply and for so long with his lyrical genius,” said Jett.

Zac Brown Band’s ‘Free’ Video A Tribute To Troops

The Zac Brown Band released their new video for “Free” last week. The clip showcases the band playing in front of U.S. troops. The song is featured on their 2008 album, “The Foundation.” For this year’s National Memorial Day Concert, the band joined several other artists to pay tribute to troops. Brad Paisley and Lionel Richie were among the other performers.

‘Country Throwdown’ Cancels Shows

The “Country Throwdown Tour” is canceling four upcoming shows due to low ticket sales. The canceled shows are June 9th in Houston, June 10th in Dallas, June 17th in San Diego and June 18th in Phoenix. Meanwhile, the Bakersfield, California, date, originally set for June 16th, was moved to June 18th. Tickets for the Houston, Dallas, San Diego and Phoenix shows will be honored at all other “Throwdown” tour dates. Refunds are also available. The tour features Montgomery Gentry, Jamey Johnson, Eric Church, Little Big Town and Jack Ingram, among others.

Willie Nelson BLVD

The city council in Austin, Texas, has voted to add “Willie Nelson Boulevard” to a street in town. The city will install a street sign but the formal name still will be Second Street. However, people with homes and businesses along that stretch can get mail with Willie Nelson Boulevard as the address. Meanwhile, a nonprofit group called Capital Area Statues is raising money to put a life-size statue of Nelson on Second Street, in front of the “Austin City Limits” studio. It’s not known if the statue will be with his old braids or his new short ‘do.

Judy Lynn Dies

Country recording artist Judy Lynn has died in Indiana at the age of 74. Kelly, who performed under the name Judy Lynn, died Wednesday at her home in Jeffersonville after suffering congestive heart failure. Lynn got her big break in her teens when she was hired to fill in for Jean Shepard during a touring show of performers from the Grand Ole Opry. In 1952, she was part of a show with Gene Autry. She retired from show business in 1980 and became a minister.