Country Bites News snippets July 1 - July 7, 2013

Country Bites News snippets July 1 – July 7, 2013

SOURCES / LINKS shown in RED

UK & IRISH News

Double award winning British Country Band The Hayley Oliver Band's new album ABINGER GROVE (AOP Productions) is now out. The 14 track album (Time: 49:38) has 12 all new original songs and 2 of their favourite covers  “Dreaming My Dreams” (written by Allen Reynolds and released by Waylon Jennings in 1975) and "I'm Coming Home" (written by Charlie Rich and recorded by Elvis Presley on March 12, 1961 and tracked by Albert Lee & Hogans's Heroes) . It also includes a reworked/carry over track "I Can Still Dream" from Hayley's 2009 solo album of the same name.

It features 2 Hotdisc British & Irish Number 1s. The first single “Right Person At The Right” enjoyed 8 weeks atop the British & Irish Chart from April 21st and the stunning follow up single "Could I Be More Blue" has so far spent 4 weeks at No.1 (#2 peak on Hotdisc Top 40). Guest artists include Albert Lee, Gerry Hogan, John Permenter and Sean Kenny. The album is currently available digitally from Amazon UK and UK iTunes

The physical CD will be out shortly, the inlay cover is awaiting completion and then it will go for pressing.

To hear just now good this album is Listen in full at:

 hayleyoliverband.bandcamp.com or on Spotify

It debuted on the UK Country iTunes Chart at #1458 and currently sits at #1302.

Please support this quality British country band and lovely lead singer and send it spiralling up the chart!

Do you remember Charlotte Howard? – Back in late 2010 as an 18-year old she introduced her music via the single “English Country Girl” produced and mixed by Robin Mayhew (mixed all David Bowie's Ziggy Stardust and Aladdin Sane live shows in the early 70's).

The single was included on the promotional Hotdisc #141. It peaked at #8 on the Hotdisc Top 40 and #2 on the British & Irish Chart (chart Oct 3, 2010). At the time Allan Watkiss (CMA International Broadcaster of the Year 2010) was impressed by the song on his former BBC Radio Sheffield show “Your Country”. Stuart Cameron on his CMR Nashville Hotdisc show also praised the track - “You heard a British girl called Charlotte Howard a  teenager with a great future”

Fast forward to July 2013 and on the current Amazon Hot New Releases and Future Releases chart (Updated hourly) at No.89 they flag up a brand new original single from Charlotte titled “Man Like That" (released June 18, 2013) which sounds very good indeed!

Take a listen / sample in full at Soundcloud.com or Spotify

The track is available for download at Amazon UK and UK iTunes

Born on 17 December 1991, the now 21-year old professional singer/songwriter, who hails from the village of Barnham, West Sussex also displays her versatility as a ADELE 4u Tribute. Watch her perform her cover of Adele’s Grammy winning "Skyfall" and smash hit "To Make You Feel My Love". 

Please show this budding and young talented country singer some summer love by liking her Facebook Page or visit her on MySpace or Reverbnation.com  [Rank #2 Barnham Country / Pop / Country Rock!]

CMA Global artist duo Ward Thomas recently played the Bush Hall, Shepherd's Bush in London supporting Matthew Perryman Jones and Mindy Smith. Watch their lovely performance of  "Who We Are" (filmed by Tomodo Photography)

Check out the UKCountryRadio.com Newsletter for July: details of Listeners' Club Award Finalists, Americana International Live, Introducing: The Cowley Cowboys, Colin Chapman, Sun Records influences Suzanna Shore and more....

It’s Festival Time!

The Maverick Festival took place on 5th to 7th July in Suffolk at Easton Farm Park. It remit is dedicated to country and roots-music from both sides of the Atlantic. The performers slated to appear included Ruth Moody, The Good Lovelies, The Carrivick Sisters, Cherry Lee Mewis (UK), Danni Nicholls (UK), Eileen Rose, Leeroy Stagger (Canada), Mindy Smith, Neil Innes and many more.

Southern Fried (19th - 21st July) based in Perth, is a roots weekender which includes headliners The Mavericks, plus Patty Griffin, Larkin Poe, Tom Russell, Darrell Scott, Bettye LaVette and many more.

Norfolk Country Music Festival (CNCMF)

Where: Norfolk Showground Norwich NR 5 0TT

When: Thurs 18th to Sunday 21st July 2013

Artists appearing: Include John C King, John Taylor Band, Gary Perkins, Nicky James, Billy Bubba King & The Henry Smith Band

For more info. Tel .01362 820947 George or Rita

Prices:£75 per person includes camping - Flyer JPEG

The 33rd Americana International - www.americana-international.co.uk

Where: County Showground in Newark

When: July 11th to July 15th

Artists appearing: (52 artistes) including P.J. Proby, Georgette Jones, Mandy Barnett (USA), Carl Mann, Andrew Fairweather Low and the Low Riders, Bill Kirchen, Billy Yates (USA), Jay Chevalier, Tracey K Houston, Randy Thompson, plus the best of the UK artists: Gary Perkins & The Breeze, Pig Earth, Henry Smith, Raintown, Gone Country, Rootn Tootn, Nancy Cat Lee, The Del Rio Ramblers.

More details on Facebook and Tel. 0115 9390595 - Flyer JPEG

Note: Recently announced Will Banister and Moe Bandy will NOT now be appearing (Circumstances beyond their control?)

Welshpool Country & Western Music Festival  - www.countrywestern.org.uk

When: 19 July at 12:00 until 21 July (23:00)

Artists appearing: Alan Gregory, Next of Kin, Nancy Ann Lee, Peter Shaw

Sarah Jory's SJ Country Band, Alan Gregory, Cowboy up , Next Of Kin, Twin Falls, Peter Shaw, Nancy Ann Lee, Spur * Pedro & guests ( in the Late night Tent) * , Texas Gun, Johnny Cash Tribute Revisited by Rick McKay and The Haley Sisters

Prices: £30 on the gate. For more info Tele. Daid Corfield 0785 48422 - Flyer JPG

Fort San Antone Music Festival - Event Detail fort-san-antone.com

Where: Great Birchwood, Country Park, Lytham Road, Warton, Preston, Lancashire PR4 1TE

When: 18th, 19th & 20th October 2013

Artists appearing: The Fabulous Picasso Brothers, The Grand Scheme, Jess Roberts, Raintown, Garry Quinn, Next of Kin, Kenny Johnson, Clarissa, Mad Jack & the Hatters

Weekend Prices: Entry Pass Plus (£25 per person) Phone: 01772 633162 - Flyer JPG

Country Festivals in Europe:

July 3-6 - Countryfestivalen Vinstra Norway  (Rascal Flatts, Laura Bell Bundy, Aaron Watson)

July 3-7 - Seljordfestivalen Seljord, Norway  (The Bellamy Brothers)

July 24-28 - Countryfestivalen Seljord, Norway (Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Bo Bice)

July 26-28 - 26th Festival Country Rendez-Vous Craponne-sur-Arzon, France  (The Mavericks)

September 20-22 - 25th Country Night Gstaad Switzerland  (The Time Jumpers, Gretchen Wilson, LeAnn Rimes)

September 20-22 - Schupfart Festival Switzerland (The Bellamy Brothers)

UK CHART NEWS

On the Official UK Singles Top 100 Chart (Week Ending July 13, 2013)

Taylor Swift’s new single” Everything Has Changed” (Mercury) feat. Ed Sheeran, was down 2 places 13-15 in its 7th retail week. Taylor’s other singles from RED saw “22” to down 13 places 83-96 in its 20th chart week. Swift’s “I Knew You Were Trouble” (Mercury) which peaked at #2, fell 20 slots (77-97) on its 39th chart week.

On the Official Top 40 Biggest Selling Singles of 2013 so far in the UK finds at No.10 "I Knew You Were Trouble". The entire Top 10 singles have sold more than half a million copies, each, while nearly three quarters of the Top 40 (27 tracks) have sold over 300,000 copies each.

On the Official UK Albums Top 100 (Week Ending July 13, 2013)

Taylor Swift’s RED was down 6 places (18-24) in its 37th chart week.

On the Official Top 40 Biggest Selling Albums of 2013 so far finds “RED” at No.20.

Lady Antebellum with GOLDEN have fallen off the Top 100 chart in their 9th retail week from last weeks No.87 slot.

Appearing on The Official Top 40 Biggest Selling Compilation Albums of 2013 to date at #20 is The Music Of Nashville - Season 1 Vol 1 Original TV Soundtrack and at #33 American Heartland (Various Artists)

The latest installment of the hugely successful Now That’s What I Call Music series of compilations, Now That’s What I Call Music 84, is the biggest selling album of 2013 so far, with sales of more than 658,000 copies.

Official UK Country Album Chart (Week Ending July 13, 2013)

Lady Antebellum remain at No.1 with GOLDEN (Decca) for a 9th consecutive week

The Zac Brown Band thanks to their recent UK appearances and BBC Radio 2 play listing jumped up from 8-2 with UNCAGED (Atlantic) in its 33rd chart week. They also posted their albums THE FOUNDATION at No.6 and YOU GET WHAT YOU GIVE at No.12. The Band Perry were down 2-3 with PIONEER.

New at No.4 is Tom Russell & The Norwegian and AZTEC JAZZ (Proper). Blurb: For over three decades and 28 album releases Tom Russell has continued to live up to his status as (re: Washington Post) "one of the greatest songwriters of our time." Aztec Jazz was recorded as a live concert in Halden, Norway in May of 2012 with the world-renown 32 piece Norwegian Wind Ensemble and guitarist Thad Beckman. Russell's classic songs: St. Olav's Gate, Nina Simone, Guadalupe, Stealing Electricity, Goodnight Juarez and others...are performed on acoustic guitars against a lush backdrop of oboes, trumpets, saxophones, French horns, trombones and percussion.

On the Hotdisc Chart (July 7, 2013 Chart)  

David Shelby retained the No.1 for a fifth week with his debut European single, "Kick A Little Dirt Around". He held off the competition which includes a large bunch of new entries, a record-breaking 12 of them coming straight into the Top 20 from the July Hotdisc #175 edition.

Hayley Oliver Band's song, "Could I Be More Blue," stays at No.2 for a third week and tops the British and Irish Top 10 for a fourth straight week. They have enjoyed 12 consecutive weeks on top of the British & Irish Top 10 list with two separate songs

Karen Lynne posted the highest new entry debut at No.3 for Australian darling with her latest single, "Little Mountain Church House," while Chuck Hancock landed a new entry at No.4 with “Just Can't Get The Texas Out Of Me” and Branch & Dean's follow up to the massive No.1 hit "Your Ol' Lady's Gone" enters at 5. That song, "The Dash" is written and dedicated to Steve Branch's son Theron who sadly died a few months ago. The poignant release is a real heart wrenching song which is likely to challenge for the top spot over the coming weeks.

The Lawrence John project also made it into the Top 10 with "Country Girl" (No.8) proving their consistency yet again.

Bart Connell (#12 “Enough Ain’t Enough”), Laurie Shaw (#14 “I Got Here As Soon As I Could”), Chris Higbee (#15 “Fiddles Rock”), Lana Gibson (#16 “I’m Movin’ On”), Gwen Sebastian (#17 “Suitcase”), The Diablos (#18  “Will I Get To Sleep”), George Inglis (#19 “Border Man”) and Ray Scott (#20 “High Road”) are very closely placed with their sprinkling of new Hotdisc bows.

UK COUNTRY ALBUM / SINGLE RELEASES

(1 July 2013) Tom Russell Aztec Jazz (With The Norwegian Wind Ensemble) [Limited Edition] Proper Records

CD - MP3

(4 June 2013) Zane Williams - Overnight Success (Be Music & Entertainment)

11 tracks Time: 42:47 - MP3 - UK iTunes

(18 Jun 2013) Rachele Lynae - Party Pack (Momentum) 6 Track EP - MP3

(1 July 2013) First Aid Kit - The Big Black and The Blue [Deluxe Edition]  (Wichita Recordings) CD

(5 July 2013) Various Artists - New Country Rock Vol.7 (Country Roads (ZYX) CD

Enjoy the very best hits in modern country rock by Confederate Railroad, Debbie Nunn, Bonnie Tyler, Vince Gill and many more

(8 July 2013)  Rascal Flatts – Changed (Decca) 15 tracks Time:57:55 CD - MP3

Sainsburys CD £9.99 + 18 nectar Points -  iTunes Official UK release ahead of the London shows on July 11th & 12th

Album Sampler >> YouTube

(9 July 2013) Michael Martin Murphey - Red River Drifter [Import] (Red River Entertaint) CD

(16 June 2013) Travis Tritt "Sometimes Love Just Ain't Enough" (feat. Tyler Reese Tritt) (Post Oak Recordings) MP3 - UK iTunes Spotify

(25 June 2013)  Kelly Clarkson "Tie It Up" (RCA Records Label) New country single - MP3

(21 Jun 2013) Ashton Shepherd "This Is America" (pickin shed records) New country single - MP3 - UK iTunes

(1 July 2013) Danni Nicholls "Goodnight Moon" (Transmission Recordings) MP3

AUSSIE NEWS

Australia's Top 30 Country Tracks (Week of Sat, 6 July compiled from radio airplay - Chart

Kaylee Bell with Bobby Hamrick (written a song on Keith Urban's new album) and Jeff Cohen (Sugarland, The Band Perry) who have written Song Of My Summer off the album - Image

Kaylee Bell judged the 2013 Toyota Star Maker winner has released her prize album “Heart First”. The follow-up to her original self-funded release, Heart First is described as an album "far more than mere tales of life, love and living in the moment, the

songs comprising... a bold mirror of self. "The 12 fresh, melody-heavy, new tracks are a window to the essence of a young woman keen to rejoice and reflect in equal share," says the official media release - "I'm really excited for people to hear it," Kaylee said. "It really showcases me vocally and I think it reflects a lot more of me. It's a big step up. I feel really proud of it."

McAlister Kemp arrived in Nashville on Monday to begin recording their 3rd Album. The duo recently opened for Big and Rich in their native land of Australia. John Rich was so impressed with the duo, he stated; “They are the best act to come out of Australia since Keith Urban.”

Message from Dianna Corcoran: This weekend, you will be able to pre-order my brand new SINGLE, Therapy!!!! The first from my new album, LOVE & THERAPY which is due for release in Australia on August 9th.

Rob Potts Entertainment Edge, Chugg Entertainment and Foxtel’s Country Music Channel (CMC) announced that Aussie hell-raisers Adam Brand, McAlister Kemp, Buddy Goode, The Wolfe Brothers, Jayne Denham and Doug Bruce and the Tailgaters will complete the massive artist lineup for the CMC Rocks North QLD 2013 one-day festival at Reid Park, Townsville. These in-demand artists will join previously announced international superstars, Alan Jackson (USA), Sara Evans (USA), and Corb Lund (CAN), along with local artists, Jasmine Rae and Morgan Evans. The festival will be held on Saturday 28 September 2013.

The Royal Australian Mint has officially launched a coin recognizing the legendary Slim Dusty's contribution to Australian society. This coin is the latest release in the Mint’s “Inspirational Australian” series which recognizes and celebrates individual achievements and commemorates unique Australians who have made an extraordinary contribution to our society.

“The name Slim Dusty has been synonymous with Australian country music for nearly seventy years,” said Mint CEO, Ross MacDiarmid.

CANADIAN NEWS

The Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame has announced  two new inductees for 2013. Rita MacNeil will be inducted in the Artist category, and Ed Harris has been chosen as the 2013 inductee in the Builder category.

On July 1st Canada celebrated “Canada Day” What is it? - It's Canada's birthday! It used to be called Dominion Day because on July 1, 1867 the British North America Act was passed to unite several provinces and form the Dominion of Canada as its own country, while maintaining the British line of command. The last vestiges of British power were shed in 1982 with the Canada Act, and the day was renamed "Canada Day". Cunucks celebrate with BBQs, picnics, parades, and lots of beer.

Arena concerts by Tim McGraw, the Dixie Chicks, KISS and Carly Rae Jepsen have been canceled by Calgary Stampede organizers as the Canadian city is recovering from floods in June. The shows were scheduled for the Scotiabank Saddledome, which was flooded to the 10th row. McGraw had been confirmed for July 11, followed by the Dixie Chicks on July 12.

NEWS

Breakings News (July 8) Randy Travis has been admitted to a Texas hospital and is listed in critical condition. He was being treated for viral cardiomyopathy (kahr-dee-oh-my-OP-uh-thee), a heart condition caused by a virus, according to his publicist, Kirt Webster.

The Mayo Clinic website says the disease weakens and enlarges the heart muscle, making it harder for the heart to pump blood and carry it to the rest of the body. It can lead to heart failure. Treatments range from medications and surgically implanted devices to heart transplants. The illness is a continuation of a tough run for Travis after a handful of recent high-profile appearances, including a performance during the Country Music Association Festival's nightly concert series and George Jones' funeral.

(update July 9) Randy Travis has undergone heart surgery after being hospitalized. His sister-in-law says the family has a long history of heart troubles. Teresa Traywick tells People that the singer had surgery. “Our prayers are going out to him because my husband just had a heart attack last year, so it is in their family,” the wife of Ricky Traywick says. Travis’ real name is Randy Traywick. “Their mother passed away at an early age with her heart, so it is like these boys are following right in their footsteps,” she adds.

TMZ cites an unidentified source, saying Travis was airlifted to a Texas hospital after a few days of deteriorating health. What he thought was a cold turned out to be pneumonia, and he’s gone downhill since.

** UPDATE:  Dallas, TX (July 9, 2013) – Contrary to reports, Randy Travis has not undergone heart surgery. Travis is being treated for viral cardiomyopathy. Travis was admitted into a Texas hospital on Sunday and underwent placement of an IMPELLA peripheral left ventricular assist device for stabilization prior to transferring hospitals. The Grammy winner remains in critical condition. “We are very thankful to the fans for their love and support during this time,” says Randy Travis - Webster & Associates PR

Grand Ole Opry icon Jimmy Dickens, who has been absent from his beloved Opry stage for most of 2013, is set to undergo three weeks of short-term radiation treatments for a pre-cancerous condition on his vocal chords beginning next week. The Opry member’s doctors expect him to make a full recovery.

Dickens, 92, became a Grand Ole Opry member in 1948 and was elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1983. Among his enduring classics are “Take An Old Cold Tater (And Wait),” “Country Boy,” “Out Behind The Barn,” and “May The Bird Of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose.”

Charles Carr, who was just a college freshman when he drove country music legend Hank Williams on his final, lonesome journey six decades ago, died. The director of the Hank Williams Museum in Montgomery, Beth Petty, said Carr, a retired investor, died Monday after a brief illness. He was 79.

Carr's son, Charles Lands Carr, said his father didn't talk much about being Williams' driver on that final trip, until late in his life.

Related Post - savingcountrymusic.com

Shooter Jennings and Misty Brooke Swain found the perfect combination for their nuptials: dessert in the desert!

The rocker, 34, and his bride were married on June 4 in Joshua Tree, Calif., PEOPLE can now confirm, with the San Gabriel Mountains in the Mojave Desert as a picturesque backdrop. Swain wore a satin A-line gown with crystal details at the waist and a chapel-length train. Jennings – who is the son of the late country singer Waylon Jennings – wore a custom black rose shirt made by Manuel, who originally created it for Jennings's godfather, the late Johnny Cash.

The late-afternoon ceremony was held in front of an intimate group of family and friends, while the groom's father's music played in the background.

Tim McGraw is involved in another legal battle, but this time, Curb Records isn’t involved! Neighbours of couple McGraw and Faith Hill claim that their home is being damaged due to negligent action on behalf of the trust that owns the $12 million home.

Ernest and Jennifer Gendron sued the 1152 Crater Hill Trust in Davidson County Chancery Court on Thursday. The trust owns the home that belongs to the country stars, according to reports. The Gendrons live downhill from the mansion and claim that damage caused by the May 2010 Nashville flood continues to have a negative effect on their home.

The Teen Choice Awards announced their second wave of nominations and Taylor Swift is nominated for thee additional awards including Choice Country Song for "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together," Choice Single: Female Artist for "I Knew You Were Trouble," and Choice Break-Up Song for "WANEGBT”. These nominations put Taylor in the running for SIX Teen Choice Awards! The awards will be broadcasting live on August 11th of FOX.

Average Joes Entertainment announced the signing of country rapper Charlie Farley to their growing roster that already includes artists like Rehab and Bubba Sparxxx. To celebrate the signing, AltSounds were lucky enough (?!) to have the exclusive Song Premiere of Charlie Farley's newest track "Lose Control" which is included on the “Mud Digger 4” compilation album (released July 2nd) . Charlie commented: Average Joes has the country/rap, hick/hop, or whatever you want to call this business in a headlock. They have the ability to put me in front of the people that I relate to and write music for. I’m just an Ol’ country boy so I write about what I know, which is the country. I can’t sing so when I turn my thoughts on paper into music, I rap it rather than sing it. Average Joes was the perfect fit for me because they allow me to be me.

Miranda Lambert headlined the 6th Annual Cause for the Paws concert benefiting her own MuttNation Foundation on Friday, May 21 in Thackerville, Oklahoma. So far in 2013, MuttNation has raised more than $400,000 from the concert and various other donations

MisBhavin’ Records announced that Breelan Angel (“It’s My Turn”) has been added to the lineup at the 2nd Annual Girls With Guitars event on Thursday, July 11 at Houston’s Arena Theatre.  Presented by Houston’s The Bull 100.3 and hosted by Jack Ingram, Breelan will perform alongside country’s music’s most talented Nashville and Texas artists including Kristen Kelly, Cassadee Pope, Katie Armiger, Jaida Dreyer, Maggie Rose, Kristy Lee Cook, Bonnie Bishop, Sarah Darling, Macy Maloy, Heather Roberts Band and Ashley Lee.

A Baytown, Texas native, Breelan has shared the stage with the likes of Easton Corbin, Kevin Fowler, Joe Nichols, Randy Rogers Band and legends Travis Tritt, Doug Stone and Don Williams.

The Big Machine Label Group (BMLG) announced songwriter and entertainer Laura Bell Bundy to the label’s star-studded roster of artists. Bundy is currently featured on Rascal Flatts’ LIVE & LOUD TOUR, performing as part of the DANCE YA’LL EXPERIENCE. The summer trek allows Bundy to give fans a first-look at her forthcoming single, “Two Step,” which will officially be available on iTunes July 9 and impact Country radio on August 5.

“I can only be grateful in this moment … for the many relationships, lessons and experiences I’ve had on Music Row that have led me here and finding a true partner in Big Machine and Scott Borchetta,” said Bundy. “Inspiration and passion breed a crazy sort of jet fuel in myself and those at Big Machine. “It drives us to constantly create and work really hard to reach those we are creating for. You can call it ‘synergy’ or even ‘madness’ but I call it ‘home sweet home.’ And I can’t stop smiling.”

“Laura Bell is a fireball of energy and attitude with all the right moves,” said Scott Borchetta, President and CEO of the Big Machine Label Group.  “She is a natural to lead the Country Dance Music movement that is starting to blow up and I’m confident we will find great success with her many talents”.

Laura Bell Bundy, goes from “mundane” to “oh my!” in the new music video for her first single “Two Step.” Co-written by Bundy, the punchy melody and playful lyrics are all about independence … “I’m gonna do my two step … watch where you step, you’re two steps behind!”

Director Becky Fluke and Bundy conceptualized the video, which features a juxtaposition of mundane work and dance-party-laced scenes. Enlisting several of her close friends for a road trip to Lexington, KY, where Bundy grew up, the sassy meets silly scenes were filmed at her dad’s factory.

Laura Bell Bundy ft. Colt Ford “Two Step” is composed by Laura Bell Bundy, Andy Davis, Colt Ford, Lance Kotara, Adam McInnis. Check out Laura and her hot Machine Shop pals turn up the heat- It’s a cutting edge video! - http://vevo.ly/iSLMVr

Brad Paisley scored his 22nd No. 1 single with “Beat This Summer”. Reaching the summit of the Country Aircheck and MediaBase country airplay chart.

After parting ways with his record label Sony on June 8th, 2012, Ronnie Dunn’s been making bold moves in the music business, accompanied by inspired, breathy statements on his Facebook page that many times decry the current structure of the country music business, especially radio and distribution. On July 2nd on Facebook he announced he has formed a record label, “Little Will-E Records.”

A devoted Dolly Parton fan who owns an enormous collection of memorabilia has gotten the singer’s permission to open a museum exhibit devoted to her career in Nashville. Patric Parkey had already been collecting Parton items for 15 years when he bought one of the singer’s dresses at an auction in 1998. It was his first major acquisition, and from there, he told MSN, “It kind of snowballed.” That’s putting it mildly. The 54-year-old retired office worker and his partner, Harrell Gabehart, now own a vast collection that they estimate numbers from 30,000 to 40,000 items, including Parton’s king-sized bed, wigs and stage wear, and even one of her old Christmas trees. They have spent a total of $250,000 on the collection, which they estimate is worth $500,000 now.

Gimme Five: Billboard.com asked Miley Cyrus to count down her five favorite female artists, and of course Dolly is her top one. She replied: "No. 1 has to be Dolly Parton because she's my godmother and because she is a real life Barbie doll and I love that. And she is a legend and her music I think represents, like, my whole childhood. So you know you always have that record you listen to all the time, so Dolly was always on at my house. She's just the most special person in the world." Following her at No. 2 was Joan Jett, then Lil' Kim, NIcki Minaj and Beth Hart.

Taylor Swift made a dream come true for 11-year-old Selena Yorke with a rare disease. She meet her favorite singer at the Red Tour stop in Vancouver. Huffington Post reported that last year, Yorke was diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia, a rare degenerative neuro-muscular disease that will progressively affect her ability to speak and walk, causing her to use a wheelchair part-time. There is no known cure for this condition.

The Independent Country Music Association announced winners of their member-voted "ICoMA AWARDS" (7/3).

Congratulations to all the winners, including "Best Radio Station" winner, Renegade Radio Nashville which won with 55.9% of the votes.

Alison Krauss celebrated her 20th anniversary as an Opry member! Alison and Union Station performed during the newly launched Wednesday night Opry shows and was then presented with a commemorative print by Opry executives. 

Alison was also joined onstage by Jamey Johnson, with whom she dueted on Jamey’s Living for a Song: A Tribute to Hank Cochran album.“We all feel so lucky to get to do this together,” she remarked about performing at the hallowed venue with her Union Station mates. Alison, was inducted as a Grand Ole Opry member on July 3, 1993 - Opry Photosets

More than 60,000 fans were at the University of Oklahoma in Norman on Saturday for Toby Keith’s sold-out Oklahoma Twister Relief Concert.

Florida Georgia Line are working ahead on their next album

http://www.musicnewsnashville.com/florida-georgia-line-working-ahead-on-next-album

FGL’s Brian Kelly said, “We’ve been writing as much as we can. Probably since January, we’ve gotten a bus so we’ve had some writers out.” According to Brian, “We probably got twelve to fourteen songs that if we had to cut tomorrow, we could put out a pretty amazing record. We really believe that. Probably won’t start cutting ‘til the Fall but we got a good, good, good, good start and we’re very excited about it.” FGL will likely head into the studio after they finish up on Luke Bryan’s Dirt Road Diaries Tour, which will wrap up on October 26th.

Brantley Gilbert’s relationship will show up a little (but not a lot) on his next album - “As far as my current relationship, this album is four years old and a lot happened in those four years,” explains Brantley. “I’ve only been engaged since January. I met her [Jana Kramer] in June; June 6th. She’s definitely changed my life. She’s priority one now. She’s definitely got a song on there.” His next album will likely be released sometime toward the end of this year or in early 2014.

Jake Owen posted pictures of himself in the hospital Sunday night (7/7) with the message, "Got in a little go kart accident tryin to beat [NASCAR drivers] @KevinHarvick & @ClintBowyer. I'll stick to singing country songs." No word from Jake's representatives on the seriousness of his condition.

The fiancée of Jo Dee Messina’s murdered stage manager faces charges. Jo Dee’s stage manager was killed outside his Tennessee home in November 2012. Now, authorities in Florida have arrested his fiancée. Connie Sanders King was found covered in blood outside the home after the shootings. She is facing first-degree murder charges.

Police say she arranged the death of Tom Colucci with her estranged husband, Troy King. Troy King was arrested in March. He was attempting to enter Mexico at the time of his arrest.

TV

ABC Television’s “Good Morning America” aired a sneak peek (American Viewers only) of Kellie Pickler’s new music video for “Someone Somewhere Tonight.” The video reunites Pickler with her “Dancing with the Stars” Mirrorball Trophy-winning partner, Derek Hough. [EB Media]

SINGLE / ALBUM NEWS / DVD

Sarah Darling's brand-new music video, "Little Umbrellas," went LIVE on Parade.com as part of a 48-hour exclusive World Premiere! Her single,  "Little Umbrellas," impacts country radio and is now available on US iTunes, Amazon and other digital retailers worldwide. Bikini-clad and margarita in-hand, Darling's music video just may surprise you as she takes a detour from her serious demeanor and joins her girlfriends poolside for some full-blown summertime fun. Watch it here. [aweber.com PR]

Cover Art and track listing was revealed for Carrie Underwood's Concert DVD, "The Blown Away Tour: LIVE"

Pollstar’s Top Female Country Touring Artist of 2012, six-time GRAMMY winner Carrie Underwood will bring her sold-out “Blown Away Tour” to DVD with the August 13 release of The Blown Away Tour: LIVE.

Filmed in concert this past March, it features nearly 100 minutes of performance footage, including a dozen of Carrie’s #1 singles. By the numbers, the state-of-the-art stage production for the “Blown Away Tour” included 575,424 individual LED lights in 3,000 square feet of video walls and an incredible 23,063 feet of cable to generate the 172 different colors used in the show’s lighting. It available to pre-order on Amazon UK. 

It's in Region 2 format (This DVD may not be viewable outside Europe)

The Henningsens band have followed 1st single “American Beautiful” at country radio with another track from their EP, the beautiful ballad “I Miss You,” co-written by the trio and Don Poythress.  The family band consisting of Clara Henningsen (lead vocals, guitar), Aaron Henningsen (guitar, vocals), and their father Brian Henningsen (bass, guitar, vocals), released their self-titled digital debut EP on May 28, showcasing a “sound that is fresh, vibrant, and uniquely their own”.

Listen to the track in full on soundcloud.com

New Guitar singer Charlie Worsham is set to release his debut album Rubberband on August 20, 2013 via Warner Bros. Records. The album, which features 11 tracks, was co-written by Charlie Worsham and co-produced by Ryan Tyndell. "Could It Be," the album's lead-single, is currently at #32 on the Billboard Radio Charts. The song "Tools of the Trade" features Country Music icons Vince Gill and Marty Stuart and the album showcases Worsham's unique approach to the genre.

“The Voice” winner Danielle Bradbery is on the fast track to fame. The 16-year-old Texas native won season 4 of NBC’s “The Voice” on June 18, signed to Big Machine Records a short time later, and on July 16, she’ll release her debut single, “The Heart of Dixie.” The song is one of two tracks Bradbery recorded in Nashville for her debut album. When she went in to record the tracks, it was actually her first time in a recording studio - Bradbery says the songs are a true reflection of who she is as an artist. “It definitely has that country twang to them,” she explained. “You can hear the little crossover. So it’s really interesting and I love them.”

“The Heart of Dixie” was co-written by Brett James (who produces the track, and also co-wrote Carrie Underwood’s first #1 hit, the Grammy winning “Jesus Take The Wheel”), Caitlyn Smith (who co-wrote label mate Cassadee Pope’s “Wasting All These Tears”), and Troy Verges (who cowrote Carrie Underwood’s #1 country hit “Wasted” and Hunter Hayes’s crossover smash “Wanted”).

Danielle will debut it live on the Today show on July 17th.

But was having a 16 year old whose only major weakness is an underdeveloped storytelling ability rush-record a song about an adult woman leaving behind an inadequate spouse really the right choice for her debut single?

Lisa Matassa “riding high” on the strength of her “Somebody’s Baby” EP, country singer has announced the release of a new single called “I Won’t Ask.” The song does not appear on the “Somebody’s Baby” EP . Once the video is made, it will no doubt go into frequent rotation.

PRESS RELEASES

• The Bill Monroe Music Park and Campground announced the 15th Annual Bill Monroe Bean Blossom Bluegrass Gospel Jubilee.
• Newcomer, JJ Lawhorn, is set to release his Average Joes Entertainment debut album, “Original Good Ol’ Boy,” on July 16, 2013. 
• Craig Morgan: The 19th Jack Daniel’s/USO “Toast to the Troops” Care Package Stuffing Party
• Rural Rhythm Records announced the release of the new Locust Ridge album “Healed” on July 30th.
• Michael Cleveland & Flamekeeper have a new record Label with Compass Records
• Kenny Chesney took “Bar” to the Jay Leno TV show 7/22 to perform his reflective (?!) “When I See This Bar”
• Willie Robertson of A&E's Duck Dynasty is set for Craven Country Jamboree!
• Morgan Frazier, Sidewalk Records recording artist, released her 5 song EP through an exclusive deal at bestbuy.com that will run July 2013 through September 2013.The EP features Morgan’s debut single released to country radio “Yellow Brick Road,” which she co-wrote with Jim Brown and Steve Clark. The cleverly written Frazier original discusses the hardship of finding a man in an imperfect world—using analogies from the famed movie Wizard of Oz.
• David Shelby (Highway South Records) hailing from the labels own backyard, Motor City, MI announced Shelby is preparing to make his mark on Music City, country radio and its listeners with his twang, rhythm and groove-infused LP entitled RUST BELT COWBOY (Slated for an Aug 6, 2013) Shelby made his entry into the country music scene official with his debut single release, “Kick A Little Dirt Around,” (CDX Vol. 568/Track No.10). The tune has made an impression in Europe sitting at the No. 1 slot of the UK’s HOTDISC Top 40 for its fifth consecutive week - Listen to the single
• Christopher Cross after the release of the studio album “Doctor Faith”, Grammy Award-winning artist started one of his biggest European tours of the last 15 years. A Night In Paris is his first live 2CD/DVD. It will be released on July 16, 2013 via earMUSIC/Eagle Rock Entertainment [MSRP $23.98]. A Night In Paris, filmed at the notorious Theatre Le Trianon in Paris, France in April 2012, was filmed by 9 cameras in HD.
• Ronnie Dunn, has a fresh contemporary single, “Kiss You There,” (From a forthcoming 2013 album) leaping onto the sales charts due to early online exposure and a push from Sirius XM’s The Highway.

ARTICLES

• Billboard 615 Travis Tritt Talks New Album 'The Calm After,' Dueting With Daughter: Extract: Travis Tritt returns to the radio world with his first new single since 2007 with a song that you might have heard before -- “Sometimes Love Just Ain’t Enough,” a 1992 hit from Patty Smyth and Don Henley. And, he’s got a brand new duet partner that he’s very excited for the public to hear -- his daughter Tyler Reese. In an exclusive interview with Billboard, Tritt recalled how the duet came about
• lifestylefrisco.com Interview with 17 year old Ali Isabella, Star Of Cirque Musica. A chat about singing the two songs written by Debbie Gibson (interview: YouTube) and her upcoming single "Taking My Own Sweet Time". The tour kicked off at Dr. Pepper Arena in Frisco on June 22 and will be doing 20 shows in the US before heading to Europe.
• Good House Keeping : Shawn Colvin's Texas home bursts with vivid, confident hues and one-of-a-kind finds. She shares her style secrets and gives us a peek inside her home...The stucco split–level Colvin, 57, shares with her 15-year-old daughter is an
• eclectic mash–up of colors and collections that are quirky but don't clash....
• Taste Of Country Kix Brooks "Country Stars House" - The builder of this Tennessee home spared no expense, eventually tailoring the 13,000-plus square foot mansion to the tastes of one country star and his wife. It was purchased in 2008 for $5.45 million, and once you read about all the amenities, you might argue he got a deal.
• Aristo International Report Vol. 6 June 2013: Aristo Q&A With Canadian Executive Ted Ellis, Nashville and Tamworth Become Sister Cities…

REVIEWS

(Rating: 1. 1/2 of 2 guns down ) Song Review – Florida Georgia Line’s “‘Round Here”...I don’t see “‘Round Here” being a blockbuster, but it doesn’t need to be. It just needs to be something new for radio, while their next blockbuster waits in the wings to pounce on American’s gullible ears, and to terrorize real country fans.

Ken Bloom's HUGGY BEAR May Day Bank Holiday Weekend CM Festival write up on page 24 - JPEG

MAGAZINES

Issue no. 4 of the UKCMM magazine for July - September out now free featuring Charlie Landsborough see page 21. It's free to all CMC across the UK or phone 01623 869322 for more details.

Download the July Issue [PDF File] of Magazine Of Country Music: Trace Adkins @ Caesars Windsor AUG. 16, Willie Nelson Recap, Zac Brown Recap, CMA Fest Recap, Luke Bryan, Canadian Country Singer/ Songwriter Tanya Marie Harris....

LISTEN

Kristian Bush has released a new song titled "American Window" - soundcloud.com

SPOTIFY COUNTRY

For users of this online music streaming service here are some of the more recent additions and recommendations.

When its free and easy on Spotify who needs music piracy?

Charlotte Howard – Man Like That -  Fab new Brit country single

Gwen Sebastian – Gwen Sebastian -  June 28, 2013 release

North 40 – Hey Girl Hey -  July 3, 2013 new country radio single

Travis Tritt – The Calm After... - July 2013 release, 12 carry over tracks + 2 new songs

Zane Williams – Overnight Success - Zane Williams (born 1977) is a native of Abilene, Texas. He is now a Texas Country singer/songwriter in McKinney, Texas.

Blurb - Zane wrote all eleven songs on his latest album "Overnight Success" (released June 4), and while they cover a broad range of sonic and lyrical territory, his unique voice runs through them like an thread that ties them all together.

The clever and light-hearted title track, "Overnight Success," highlights the mythical ten steps that any aspiring musician must take to achieve their dream of instant stardom. "Sure Felt Like Goodbye" is a radio-ready rocker that ran up the Texas radio charts in the spring of 2013, and "On a Good Day" is a devastatingly beautiful expression of healing in the face of great loss -

UK ITunes

FREE DOWNLOADS

In anticipation of Guy Clark's latest release "My Favorite Picture Of You" in stores July 23rd, Noisetrade.com offer up some gems from the masterful singer/songwriter's prestigious catalog.

WATCH

The lovely Kelly Lynn from Inside Music Row had a chance to catch up with Darius Rucker and a few of his special guests at the Wildhorse to talk about The 4th Annual 'Darius and Friends' to benefit Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital - YouTube

Taylor Swift’s new music video for "Red" (a glimpse of what The RED Tour is all about)

“The Light Of The Moon” is Aussie Chelsea Basham's fourth single from her debut album 'I Make My Own Sunshine'.

Chelsea writes: Here's one for the ladies, our love interest for the film clip of Light Of The Moon, the lovely and talented Korum Ellis. Tough day at the office hey! ;-p

Just in time for the Fourth of July, Ashton Shepherd performs her patriotic new single “This Is America” as part of Country weekly's Conference Room Country series. Ashton, best known for the hits “Takin’ Off This Pain,” “Sounds So Good” and “Look It Up,” has a new album to be released later this year as well as an online cooking show which will air her first episode on Fourth of July.

Digital Journal Interview - She revealed that her new album should be out around the first week of August of 2013. “We are looking to release it next month. It is a 10-song album and its title is going to be ‘This is America.’ It has songs for everybody in there and I think a lot of fans can relate to them,” Ashton shared.

Her album is going to have a surprise duet with traditional male country artist Darryl Singletary.

Similar to country songstresses Trisha Yearwood and Kimberly Schlapman (from Little Big Town), Ashton will launch her own cooking show entitled “Cookin’ Country,” on the Foodie Network Online EWave TV....Read more

COUNTRY FASHION

Miley Cyrus attended the iHeartRadio Ultimate Pool Party this weekend in Miami, Florida.

The singer showed off her toned figure wearing a vintage Versace dress. Her 80s strappy bondage mini dress with the brand’s signature medusa-motif gold buttons provided enough bling and, so as not to detract from her hot mini, she kept her styling simple with gold earrings, rings, a lone bangle and black Jean-Michel Cazabat ‘Emma’ pumps

COUNTRY GOSSIP

'I knew you were trouble when you walked in': Taylor Swift uses song lyrics to warn trespassers off her Rhode Island property

Taylor has erected a sign outside her $17m beachfront home - Daily Mail

American Saturday Night - The Saturdays to go country? The Saturdays want to record a country song after filming their reality show 'Chasing the Saturdays' in the US. The 'What About Us' girl group - Frankie Sandford, Mollie King, Una Healy, Vanessa White and Rochelle Humes - have recently filmed their own reality TV show in the US, home of country music, and would like to have a go at the genre themselves. Mollie said: ''I have been listening to a lot of country music lately maybe we should give that a go”.

TWEETS

Joey & Rory We're sure excited about our new radio show on 650 AM WSM every Sat night before the Opry. Kicks off tomorrow night at 6 pm! - Graphic

PHOTO

• "There's always that chick that breaks up a band," tweeted Brad Paisley with a picture post of himself, wife Kimberly Williams Paisley and the Rolling Stones. Brad hit the stage with the group in Philadelphia last week to perform "Dead Flowers."
• Zac Brown Band London O2 Shepherds Bush - Photoset (2Country.net)
• Bonnie Raitt (on tour in the UK) and Hayden Panettiere, (promoting the ‘Nashville’ soundtrack) are pictured at the BBC in Salford after both were featured on BBC BREAKFAST program. The popular morning show has seen The Band Perry, Tim McGraw, and Kacey Musgraves all visiting this year. - Image  (Photo credit Nicola Stead/BBC)
• Reba McEntire Happy 4th of July from Ireland!!! - Image

BIRTHDAYS

July 8th:  Toby Keith (1961), Joan Osbourne (1962), Eve Selis 

July 9th: David Ball (1953)

July 10th: Cheryl Wheeler (1951), Bela Fleck (1958), Ken Mellons (1965), Gary Le Vox(Rascal Flatts) (1970), Jessica Simpson (1980)    

July 11th: Jeff Hanna (Nitty Gritty Dirt Band)(1947), Kathleen Edwards (1979) 

July 12th: Julie Miller (1956), Kimberly Perry (The Band Perry) (1983) 

July 13th: Victoria Shaw (1962), Brent Mason (1959), Rhonda Vincent (1962),

July 14th: Woody Guthrie (1912), Leslie Satcher (1962) 

R.I.P

Songwriter Johnny MacCrae died Wednesday (July 3) at his home in Ashland City, Tenn., of heart disease. He was 84. After 15 years of service, MacRae left the Navy with the aim of becoming a songwriter. In the decades that followed, he wrote or co-wrote such country hits as Conway Twitty's "I'd Love to Lay You Down," Reba McEntire's "You Lift Me Up to Heaven," Highway 101's "Whiskey, if You Were a Woman" and Doug Stone's "I'd Be Better Off in a Pine Box."

MacRae's wife Mary told CMT.com there will be no funeral, at MacRae's request, but that she is planning a celebration of his life that is tentatively set for Oct. 19. She explained that the "full moon" celebration, complete with a bonfire and hayrides, will duplicate the ones he held annually at his farm for friends in the music business.