Lawson’s Andy Brown teams up with The Shires’ Crissie Rhodes for debut solo single ‘Landslide’

Andy Brown Press Photo

Following huge success as the front man of Lawson, singer-songwriter Andy Brown has now signed a major recording deal with the legendary Decca Records for his first solo material. His debut single ‘Landslide’ is out now (iTunes | https://lnk.to/ABrLan1PR

 ) and sees him team up with Crissie Rhodes from The Shires.

Having sold over 1 million records with Lawson, Andy is now working on his long-awaited debut solo album. Having spent the past 6 months writing and recording in Nashville, the album draws from the strong blues and country influences, as well as the traditional pop/rock sound that made Lawson so successful. His new sound takes inspiration from artists like Thomas Rhett and Chris Stapleton, as well as John Mayer and James Bay.

Published on Oct 20, 2017 Music video (35K views in 7 days) by Andy Brown performing Landslide. (C) 2017 LTLA Limited, under exclusive licence to Decca, a division of Universal Music Operations Ltd

A duet with country music superstar and label mate, Crissie Rhodes, ‘Landslide’ showcases Andy’s knack for writing evocative and heartfelt lyrics, and draws the listener in with a huge sing along chorus. The Nashville inspired strings are harmonious with Andy’s smooth vocals, providing the ideal platform to explore deep, meaningful concepts of timeless love and companionship. These themes will not only resonate highly with his existing fan base, but will also establish him with a new audience who appreciate the fusion between Americana Soul and contemporary British Folk.

Andy says, “Signing with Decca Records for my first solo album really is a dream come true. I feel so lucky for all the success we had as Lawson, but with this new album I can truly be myself and I have the chance to make the music I am passionate about. I hope my fans will continue to follow me on this journey, and that they love the new music as much as I do!”

Born and raised in the music-centric city of Liverpool, Andy grew up listening to a variety of music styles and conventions throughout his life. He soon became enamoured by Nashville’s innate sense of songcraft. With this album, Andy has discovered a new platform for personal expression, exposing a different, more sensitive side of his song-writing.

So great seeing #Landslide added to @spotifyUK playlists. Check out the ‘a perfect day’ playlist here - https://t.co/YJF0038s4Y #Boom pic.twitter.com/sJt48Csyk2

— Andy Brown (@AndyBrownMusic) 26 October 2017

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Charlie Worsham - UK Tour / Vinyl Release / In-Stores

Charlie Worsham's latest album 'Beginning of Things' (Warner Music Nashville) will be released on limited edition, 12" clear vinyl and made available to fans in the UK/Ireland on his forthcoming tour dates with Lucie Silvas, starting 13th November 2017 in London. In his own words: "The songs on 'Beginning of Things' found their first audience here in the United Kingdom and Europe, and this is a record that was made to be played on vinyl, so I couldn’t be more excited to bring these limited edition LPs with me on tour. Speaking of on tour, I am beside myself to join up with one of my all-time-favourite voices (and human beings), Lucie Silvas. 
These shows are gonna be crazy - my first across the pond with a backing band!" The full tour dates are:

Lucie Silvas & Charlie Worsham

Mon 13 November 2017 -  Islington Assembly Hall, London (Upper Street, Islington, N1 2UD)    

Weds 15 November 2017 - O2 Academy, Birmingham (78 Digbeth High Street, Digbeth, B5 6DY)

Thurs 16 November 2017 - Ruby Lounge, Manchester (28-34 High Street, M4 1QB)                   

Fri 17 November 2017 -  King Tuts, Glasgow (272a ST Vincent Street, G2 5RL)  

Sun 19 November 2017 – Limelight, Belfast (17, Ormeau Avenue, BT2 8HD)

Mon 20 November 2017 - The Academy, Dublin (57 Middle Abbey Street, Dublin,1, IE)

Tickets available from Ticketmaster UK

In addition to these shows, Charlie will be playing a couple of intimate in-store acoustic performances in London and Oxford:

5th November - Rhythm & Roots, Chiswick, London (airbnb experience event), 6pm

9th November - Truck Music Store, Oxford, 6pm

ABOUT CHARLIE WORSHAM:

Come to the crossroads, and you can set your soul up for sale. It’s been done before, most famously in Charlie Worsham’s home state of Mississippi, by blues hero Robert Johnson. It’s done most every day in Nashville, the music town that has nurtured, bruised, sustained and menaced Worsham’s every dream. But soul-selling is a tricky deal, and, anyway, it’s a buyer’s market. And so when Worsham came to his crossroads—an intersection exacerbated by a groaning confusion between the fitting in and the setting apart—he took a different approach. He rose on blue-black winter mornings and opened a Moleskine notebook onto which he had written “Tell the Truth.” Then he sat there in the dawn and scrawled his conscience. Those morning pages filled, one every morning, and the filling of a page was the easy emptying of a mind that had remained awake and weighted through a young man’s fitful slumber.

A record deal and a radio fate… ill-fitting opening gigs, and glorious headlining engagements seen and heard by too few… the struggle to fit a Berklee School of Music-educated array of uncategorizable virtuosity into contemporary trends and formats… all of that felt different in the morning, there at the crossroads, where there was no need to sell a soul and every need to nourish one. He wasn’t writing songs—if writing songs were as easy as telling the truth, songwriters would spend each day on a witness stand—he was unlocking, unbending. He was remembering himself. All that done, he was free to kick ass. He took the Moleskine to town, gathered with comrades who had worked with him on debut album Rubber Band, and read a few revelations. Having figured out what he had to say, all that was left was to decide how to say it, and how to reveal it. He turned to a handful of old friends and one new one: Frank Liddell had produced winning albums for Miranda Lambert, Lee Ann Womack and others. Liddell offered advice that Worsham took as directive: To paraphrase, originality is competition’s Kryptonite, and the setting apart transcends the fitting in. With co-producer Eric Masse and a lean but spectacular core band, Worsham and Liddell entered the studio and created 'Beginning of Things', a landmark album that uncovers Worsham as the rarest of talents, as Mississippi’s first great new-century musical son, and as a survivor of the highest order.

'Beginning of Things' lives on contemporary country music’s cutting edge, with echoes from the past that thunder and whirl their way into an electric Southern symphony of guitars, strings, horns, twang, funk, rhythm, smile and snarl. There are moments of nostalgia, but nothing throwback. It’s both a declaration of independence and a celebration of musical community, and it could only have been made by someone with Worsham’s depth and breadth of experience, understanding, and musicality. “This one’s me,” he says. “I’ve been around long enough now to get why you’re supposed to do what you do, and not do what someone else does.” Worsham's 2013 debut RUBBERBAND (No.12 Country (#64 BB200) selling some 6,000 units) was a display of potent promise, but Worsham’s sophomore work is his emergence. It is promise realized, and perspective attained. “Life is a record,” he sings. “Better cut your groove.” And if that record gets dinged in the shuffling, “Part of the charm is the crackle, the pop and the hiss.”

BEGINNING OF THINGS is out now. (21 April 2017; Warner Music Nashville; Amazon UK - UK iTunes – Amazon.com)

Charlie Worsham is on tour in Europe with Lucie Silvas in November 2017.

More info

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Raise “Two Hands” for Highly-Anticipated New Music from Kalie Shorr

RAISE “TWO HANDS” for highly-anticipated new music from Kalie Shorr

Premiered Exclusively On Radio Disney Country Spotlight

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (October 27, 2017) -- It’s taken six months and three producers to find the rock-infused country sound that Kalie Shorr has been looking for, but she’s finally found it and it’s going to be a game changer. “Two Hands,” the first single off of her highly-anticipated project, premiered exclusively on Radio Disney Country’s ‘Spotlight’ show followed by immediate rotation on Radio Disney Country.

Release Date: October 27, 2017

Label: Kalie Shorr

Time: 3:05

Genres: Country/ Pop

Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com

“I’ve always known ‘Two Hands’ was special. I was so excited the day I wrote it because it was the first love song I had ever written that felt honest to the way I fall in love. I’ve always loved the darker side of writing - whether it’s sassy, or angsty, or moody - but this one still incorporates all of that. Love itself is so complex and crazy and messy - and so am I. ‘Two Hands’ is about being yourself, owning your strengths and weaknesses, and celebrating the people who love you for all that you are,” expresses Kalie.

“’Two Hands’ up for Kalie Shorr.”, comments Phil Guerini, GM of Radio Disney Networks. “We are proud to premiere this next chapter song and sound from one of today’s most promising new artists and songwriters.”

Streaming support has played a huge part in Shorr’s success and is continuing to grow her fan base exponentially. Currently #1 on Breaking Country and added on Cool Country playlists on Apple Music.

As tour dates continue to be announced you can stay current with Kalie

CONNECT with Kalie Shorr:

A country artist with a sweet voice but strong work ethic, Kalie Shorr took the hard road to stardom as she first made her name in Nashville as a teenager. Shorr was born and raised in Portland, Maine on July 11, 1994, where she was the youngest of seven children born to a single mother. Shorr soaked up a rich variety of influences from her siblings, and at the age of six, she began writing songs. At 13, Shorr learned to play guitar and gained experience playing in a rock band in Portland, singing Pink Floyd and Nirvana covers in a friend’s basement. 

While she loved rock and pop, Shorr was certain that her future lay in country music after hearing Johnny Cash's cover of "Hurt”, originally by Nine Inch Nails. Determined to make her mark, Shorr took extra classes so she could graduate from high school early, and then held down two jobs at once so she could raise the money to move to Nashville.  By the time she was 19, Shorr had settled in Music City, and she landed a job at a hot dog stand while she searched for an audience to hear her songs. Things began looking up for Shorr when she became part of a weekly songwriter’s showcase called Song Suffragettes that highlights the work of talented female singer/songwriters in Nashville. Song Suffragettes helped raise Shorr’s profile which resulted in her first publishing deal, solidifying her dream of becoming a professional musician in Nashville. 
With two of her fellow Suffragettes, Hailey Steele and Lena Stone, Shorr wrote a song about resilience titled “Fight Like A Girl” and released it as an independent digital single (iTunes) bursting onto the Nashville music scene in January 2016.  The tune quickly won positive press (Spotify, CMT, Radio Disney Country, Taste of Country, and even Billboard magazine) and airplay on digital radio and social media sources with SiriusXM’s The Highway channel naming Shorr a “Highway Find” and CMT making her part of their “Artist Discovery” program.  With that momentum, she released The Y2K Mixtape, an eight-song collection of some of Shorr’s earliest music that led to her becoming 2016’s second best-selling debut female in all of country music (behind only Grammy-winner Maren Morris).

In 2017, Kalie released her SLINGSHOT EP to rave reviews and was named a “New Artist You Need To Know” by Rolling Stone, “The New Nashville” by Teen Vogue, and one of “2017’s Hottest Artists Under 25” by Taste of Country.  Her new single “Two Hands” just premiered on Radio Disney Country and will be followed by a new EP in late 2017.  Playing over 100 shows a year, Kalie’s message of female-empowerment has led to her being called the “next ‘Women of Country’ generation” [CMChat].

Jeannine Barry headlining at Thousand Island, London Sat 25th November

JEANNINE BARRY
HEADLINING AT THOUSAND ISLAND, LONDON
SATURDAY 25^TH NOVEMBER

When: Saturday 25 November 2017

Where: Thousand Island, London (20-22 Highbury Corner, Islington N5 1RD)

Doors at 18:30, Expected finish time: 22:00

£8.80 Standing alttickets.com | £8.96 (£8.00) See Tickets.com

When you’re the only British artist in a Country music line-up featuring Fort Worth’s finest, it takes more than just a powerful voice and No.3 hit in the UK Country iTunes Chart to blow the boots off a sold-out crowd. It takes a sheer volume of authenticity. Something rising star Jeannine Barry carries in spades…

Jeannine Barry (C) with Austin Allsup & Aaron at Texas Music Take Over 11 Oct 2017

Her roots may lie in the UK, but the way Jeannine effortlessly tunes into the humble, raw and emotional candour of true Country onstage has allowed her to build a loyal fan base worldwide, including the likes of Texas’ major players: Austin Allsup, Pat Green, Wade Bowen and Casey Donahew, all of whom dubbed her an “Honorary Texan” at this year’s Texas Music Takeover festival at The Borderline (Oct 11) and Oslo, Hackney (Oct 13) in London.

Jeannine’s sincere lyrics and beautiful vocal talent has earned her flattering comparisons to Carrie Underwood, Martina McBride, LeAnn Rimes and Emmylou Harris. 

With her unique blend of empowering pop-tinged stompers and bittersweet country ballads, expect to shake away heartache like dust off a heel.

Following a range of prestigious support slots, appearances and an invitation to headline the launch party for the UK’s biggest country music festivalC2C (Country 2 Country) 2017, Jeannine packed her bags for Nashville to tour with Blake Shelton’s guitarist Kevin Post.Now, she’s back on home-turf headlining a highly-anticipated show at Thousand Island on November 25^th.

Jeannine Barry Gigs

Saturday 25 November 2017 - Thousand Island, London (20-22 Highbury Corner, Islington N5 1RD) £8.80 Standing alttickets.com | £8.96 (£8.00) See Tickets.com with The Sean Jackson Band, Tally Spear

Thurs 30 November 2017 - Kitchen Garden Café, Birmingham (17 York Road, Kings Heath, B14 7SA (writers round) Presented by Your Life In A Song this intimate Bluebird Café style songwriters round will be hosted by Birmingham's homegrown duo Sally Rea Morris and Steve Marks as Gasoline & Matches. The evening will also feature stunning performances from Darcy and Jeannine Barry, telling the stories behind the music. Tickets: £10 adv / £12 door £10.00 + £1.00 Booking fee = £11.00 - Event

"When I sing, write, perform I feel right. It’s like I am doing what I was meant to be doing and I am willing to put my all into it.” – Jeannine Barry 

“Her voice and talent are not only moving and honest but “Authentically Country”. It has been a while, since my days teaching Beyoncé Knowles actually, that I have been so excited about teaching a young performer.” - David Lee Brewer, Star Vocal Coach. 

Related BLOG Posts:

Nov 2016: Jeannine Barry – Bittersweet (EP) Review

The C2C 2017 Launch Party (Artist Spotlight/ Jeannine Barry REWIND)

CONNECT with Jeannine Barry:

Country Bites News snippets October 16, 2017 – October 22, 2017

UK News, UK Chart News, Album Releases, Aussie & Canadian News: Country News, TV, Awards, Baby News, Press Releases | Links to Articles, Reviews, Videos, Country Fashion | Country Gossip, Birthdays & R.I.P

SOURCES / LINKS shown

For the latest Billboard Country Charts Blog Post go HERE

Tap or Click to listen:

Chris Country is The UK's Country Station, playing a mix of American and British country artists, 24 hours a day.

For more information & ways to listen Radio Waves: Radio Presenter Spotlight – Chris Country

All-new Fire TV with 4K Ultra HD and HDR support in a compact and portable form factor. In stock on November 3, 2017.

Experience true-to-life picture quality and sound with access to vivid 4K Ultra HD up to 60 fps, HDR and Dolby Atmos audio.
10,000+ channels, apps and Alexa skills with access to over 200,000 movies and TV episodes from the BBC, Prime Video, Netflix, YouTube, ITV, Curzon, UKTV Play, and more. >> Promo Video

Prime Music is a benefit of an Amazon Prime membership, featuring a curated streaming catalogue of two million songs, always ad-free and on-demand. Visit Amazon UK

Today's Deals: Amazon UK Deals of the Day run for 24 hours (subject to availability) GO HERE

UK & IRISH News

2017 UK Tour dates PLEASE check out our Tour Dates Page

On the BBC Radio 2 Playlist for the week commencing Saturday 21st October 2017

B Playlist:

Kelsea Ballerini - Legends

C Playlist:

First Aid Kit - It's A Shame added to the "C" Playlist

Saturday night Nashville Nights UK returned at Under The Bridge in Chelsea (434 Fulham Rd, Fulham, London SW10 9UN).

Their special guest was Kevin McGuire Scotland’s answer to the Country music wave (Sam Hunt, Kane Brown) currently sweeping the UK. Beginning his career at the age of 17, Kevin quickly went on to perform in top venues including King Tuts, the O2 Academy, ABC, The Glasgow Royal Concert Hall and more recently at both C2C 2017 and Nashville Meets London.

Over the last few years, Kevin has managed to build up a following across parts of the UK from supporting artists ranging from the likes of Union J to Deacon Blue. Perhaps this says a lot about Kevin’s music, appealing to many age-groups and styles. Now, having matured and developed a unique sound (Country-style songwriting mixed with RnB-Pop melodic ideas), March 2017 saw the release of his debut EP, FOREIGN COUNTRY. Heavily influenced by the likes of US Country music superstars Rascal Flatts, and current US chart-topper Sam Hunt. Apparently the blurb says: we are able to draw comparisons in the Scot’s real-life emotional storytelling.

(18 Oct 2017) Texan singer-songwriter Maren Morris, signed to Sony Music Nashville, will be returning to the UK in November for her latest tour. Former Maverick Magazine creator and editor Alan Cackett (CMA Wesley Rose Winner) was involved in bringing Maren (and her family) to the UK in the summer of 2006 for a handful of club and festival gigs. He first came across Maren’s music a year before when he got hold of her WALK ON debut album recorded when she was 14. Alan was suitably impressed, and after reviewing the album for Maverick magazine, and set about helping Maren to get her music more widely known and established in the UK. This was not for Cackett to make money or boost advertising revenue in the magazine, this was entirely down to the fact that he believed in Maren’s talent and her enthusiasm and drive to bring her music to UK audiences. Visit www.alancackett.com you will be able to read the first feature about Maren that was published in Maverick in March 2006— more than ten years ago, but "I believe, still relevant today" he shares. There were two further features on Maren published in Maverick, years before she became the major international country star that she is today

(18 Oct 2017) Holloway Road shared their new video >> "Under Cover"

(20 Oct 2017) BBC Music goes Country crazy

The BBC will be celebrating all things Country with programming on Radio 2 and BBC Four to celebrate the forthcoming 51st Country Music Association Awards 2017.

The awards, which are the biggest night of the year in country music, take place in Nashville on 8 November and are hosted by Country artists Carrie Underwood and Brad Paisley for the 10th year running.

Bob Shennan, Director of BBC Radio and Music, says: “Each November, the Country music world congregates in Nashville to celebrate country music, so I’m delighted to give BBC listeners and viewers exclusive access to the awards show and hear from some of the genre’s most acclaimed stars.”

Legendary country music presenter Bob Harris (OBE) will present programmes for both BBC Radio 2 and BBC Four.

Bob Harris says: "The CMAs is the jewel in the country music crown, and once again, I’m excited to be visiting Tennessee to bring the best of Nashville to both Radio 2 listeners and BBC Four viewers."

CMA Awards Highlights 2017, presented by Bob Harris Saturday 11 November, 6-8pm: In

addition to his weekly country music show Bob Harris Country each Thursday night from 7-8pm, Bob Harris will broadcasting live from Music Row in Nashville, presenting highlights from the CMAs. The two hour show sees Bob present a round-up of the winners along with the live performances from the awards show from artists including reigning Entertainer of the Year and country superstar Garth Brooks, plus nominees Brothers Osborne, Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Old Dominion, Jon Pardi, Chris Stapleton and Thomas Rhett. There will also be an appearance from Country Music Hall of Fame inductee and 16-time CMA Awards winner Alan Jackson.

For the first time in 10 years, Bob Harris presents highlights from the CMAs to be broadcast later in November. In a 1x60' programme produced by BBC Studios, Bob will introduce the hottest performances of the night, including some of the biggest names in Nashville, including Thomas Rhett, Keith Urban, Miranda Lambert and Shania Twain, who performed in the UK for the first time in 13 years at Radio 2 Live in Hyde Park this year.

Jan Younghusband, Head of TV Commissioning, BBC Music says: "Music on BBC television is currently thriving, from Sounds Like Friday Night launching on BBC One next week, to Harry Styles at the BBC and Sam Smith at the BBC airing on BBC One next month. Every Friday night on BBC Four is a treasure trove of music programming, and it’s thrilling to welcome the CMAs back to BBC television after 10 years."

The BBC Four programming was commissioned by Jan Younghusband, Head of TV Commissioning, BBC Music and Cassian Harrison, Channel Editor, BBC Four. The executive producer is Mark Cooper, Head of Music, BBC Studios.

(22 Oct 2017) Report: 2017 British Country Music Association Awards Winners

UK CHART NEWS

Official UK Top 100 Singles Chart (Week Ending 26 October 2017)

20 October 2017 - 26 October 2017

Still No.1 on streams and No.3 on paid-for sales, Post Malone’s Rockstar (feat. 21 Savage) spent its third week atop the singles chart, denying Camila Cabello’s Havana (feat. Young Thug) the opportunity to reach a new peak for the ninth week in a row.

Rockstar actually increased the margin of its victory from 23.8% to 30.4%, with sales of 51,374 in the week, of which 40,413 are from sales-equivalent streams.

Official UK Top 100 Albums Chart (Week Ending 26 October 2017)

20 October 2017 - 26 October 2017

Almost exactly nine years after her fifth studio album, FUNHOUSE, became her first No.1, Pink returns to the summit with seventh album, BEAUTIFUL TRAUMA.

The eighth album to debut at No.1 in as many weeks, Beautiful Trauma’s success came hot on the heels of introductory single ‘What About Us’ eight week run in the Top 10. Beautiful Trauma’s first week sales of 70,074 (including 5,519 from sales equivalent streams + 64,555 pure sales), are the best for any album by a female solo singer since Beyoncé’s Lemonade opened 77 weeks ago on sales of 73,392.

In her second frame last week’s No.1 Shania Twain with NOW fell 11-22 (3,300 estimated sales; down 42%; 3-week total 29,100)

Glen Campbell with ADIOS fell 76-97 (900 sales estimated; 19-week estimated total 109,400)

Official UK Country Album Top 20 (Week Ending 26 October 2017)

20 October 2017 - 26 October 2017

Glen Campbell with ADIOS held at #1 (19 weeks; #1 peak)

White Buffalo with DARKEST DARKS LIGHTEST LIGHTS made a debut at #2

Lady Antebellum with HEART BREAK fell 2-3 (19 weeks; #2 peak)

Dolly Parton with I BELIEVE IN YOU made a debut at #4

Brett Young with BRETT YOUNG fell 4-5 (21 weeks; #4 peak)

Chris Hillman with BIDIN' MY TIME fell 3-6 (3 weeks; #3 peak)

Lisa McHugh with WHO I AM rose 10-7 (2 weeks; #7 peak)

Alison Krauss with WINDY CITY fell 5-8 (31 weeks; #1 peak)

Midland with ON THE ROCKS rose 13-9 (4 weeks; #8 peak)

John Moreland with BIG BAD LUV re-entered at #10 (8 weeks; #7 peak)

Outside the Top 10

Zac Brown Band with WELCOME HOME rose 12-11 (21 weeks; #1 peak)

Wayward Sons with GHOSTS OF YET TO COME fell 8-12 [Tagged Hard Rock] (4 weeks; #2 peak)

Derek Ryan with THE FIRE fell 6-17 (4 weeks; #4 peak)

Official Americana Albums Chart Top 40 (Week Ending 26 October 2017)

20 October 2017 - 26 October 2017

This Week/ Last Week/ Title/ Artist

1 NEW Carry Fire Robert Plant #3 Official Album Chart

2 NEW Lotta Sea Lice Courtney Barnett & Kurt Vile [Tagged Alt] #11 Official Album Chart

3 NEW Exile & Grace King King [Tagged Blues] #31 Official Album Chart

4 1 Roll With The Punches Van Morrison [Tagged Blues] #62 Official Album Chart

5 NEW Darkest Darks Lightest Lights White Buffalo #95 Official Album Chart

6 2 Adios Glen Campbell [Tagged Country] #97 Official Album Chart

7 4 A Deeper Understanding War On Drugs [Tagged Alt]

8 5 Hitchhiker Neil Young [Tagged Rock]

9 NEW Queens Of The Breakers Barr Brothers [Tagged Alt]

10 8 A/B Kaleo [Tagged Alt]

Outside The Top 10

12 3 Acoustic Rarities Richard Thompson [Tagged Folk-Rock]

25 9 The Weather Station The Weather Station [Tagged Singer/Songwriter Alt/Folk]

31 6 Undivided Heart & Soul JD McPherson [Tagged Rock]

38 7 Fatherland Kele O'Kereke [Tagged Alt]

UK Country iTunes Chart October 22, 2017 10:00 

Songs

1. Dolly Parton - Jolene (#147 overall UK Singles chart)

2. John Denver - Take Me Home, Country Roads (#342 overall UK Singles chart)

3. Johnny Cash - Hurt (#419 overall UK Singles chart)

4. Luke Combs - When It Rains It Pours (#533 overall UK Singles chart)

5. Dolly Parton & Kenny Rogers - Islands In The Stream (#619 overall UK Singles chart)

6. Kelsea Ballerini - Miss Me More (#757 overall UK Singles chart)

7. Dolly Parton - 9 To 5 (#913 overall UK Singles chart)

8. Chris Stapleton - Tennessee Whiskey (#839 overall UK Singles chart)

9. Lady Antebellum - Need You Now (#899 overall UK Singles chart)

10. The Charlie Daniels Band - The Devil Went Down to Georgia (#930 overall UK Singles chart)

Of Note

11. Lee Ann Womack - I Hope You Dance (#963 overall UK Singles chart)

15. Carly Pearce - Every Little Thing (#1002 overall UK Singles chart)

16. Chris Stapleton - Millionaire (#1008 overall UK Singles chart)

UK Country iTunes Chart October 22, 2017 10:00

Albums

1. Chris Young - Losing Sleep (#47 overall UK Albums chart) | Debut Fri 20 Oct: #1 UK Country iTunes (#17 overall UK Albums chart)

2. Darius Rucker - When Was the Last Time (#74 overall UK Albums chart) | Debut Fri 20 Oct: #2 UK Country iTunes (#26 overall UK Albums chart)

3. Margo Price - All American Made (#132 overall UK Albums chart) | Debut Fri 20 Oct: #2 UK Country iTunes (#26 overall UK Albums chart)

4. Shania Twain - Now (Deluxe) (#163 (LW #118) overall UK Albums chart)

5. Various Artists - The Country Album (#266 overall UK Albums chart)

6. Chris Stapleton - Traveller (#274 overall UK Albums chart)

7. Lady Antebellum - Need You Now (#311 overall UK Albums chart)

8. Shania Twain - Greatest Hits (#350 overall UK Albums chart)

9. Luke Combs - This One's For You (#361 overall UK Albums chart)

10. Various Artists - Country - 101 All Time Greats (#426 overall UK Albums chart)

Of Note:

11. Lady Antebellum - Heart Break (#701 ( LW #156) overall UK Albums chart)

20. Lisa McHugh - Who I Am (#1309 overall UK Albums chart)

22. Turnpike Troubadours - A Long Way from Your Heart (#784 overall UK Albums chart) | Debut Fri 20 Oct: #4 UK Country iTunes (#154 overall UK Albums chart)

23. Russell Dickerson - Yours (#794 overall UK Albums chart)

Fri 20 Oct 2017 Debuts:

Willie Nelson - Willie and the Boys: Willie's Stash, Vol. 2 | Debut Fri 20 Oct: #14 UK Country iTunes (#417 overall UK Albums chart)

Tenille Arts - Rebel Child | Debut Fri 20 Oct: #22 UK Country iTunes (#702 overall UK Albums chart) 

Ruthie Collins - Get Drunk and Cry (Curb Records) | Debut Fri 20 Oct: #65 UK Country iTunes

UK COUNTRY ALBUM RELEASES

(20 Oct 2017) Darius Rucker - When Was The Last Time (Humphead)

12 Tracks/ Time: 43:16 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com

Debut Fri 20 Oct: #2 UK Country iTunes (#26 overall UK Albums chart)

Rucker’s fifth studio album was produced by Ross Copperman and features current single “For The First Time” and lead single “If I Told You.” Other tracks include “Don’t,” “Hands On Me” and “Straight To Hell” (with Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan and Charles Kelley).

(20 Oct 2017) Chris Young - Losing Sleep (RCA)

10 Tracks/ Time: 30:12 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com

Debut Fri 20 Oct: #1 UK Country iTunes (#17 overall UK Albums chart)

Young co-wrote every song on his new project, which features the current single/title track “Losing Sleep,” plus tracks including “Holiday,” “Hangin’ On,” “Where I Go When I Drink” and “Woke Up Like This. In addition to co-penning every track on the 10-song offer, Chris enlisted the help of top songwriters Chris DeStefano, Josh Hoge, Cary Barlowe, Corey Crowder, Liz Rose and more. 

(20 Oct 2017) Margo Price - All American Made (Third Man Records)

12 Tracks/ Time: 45:50 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com (CMP Oct 2017 4 STARS)

Debut Fri 20 Oct: #3 UK Country iTunes (#70 overall UK Albums chart)

(20 Oct 2017) Turnpike Troubadours - A Long Way from Your Heart (Bossier City Records)

11 Tracks/ Time: 39:36 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com

Debut Fri 20 Oct: #4 UK Country iTunes (#154 overall UK Albums chart)

(20 Oct 2017) Tenille Arts - Rebel Child (19th & Grand Records)

11 Tracks/ Time: 35:17 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com

Debut Fri 20 Oct: #22 UK Country iTunes (#702 overall UK Albums chart)

Live From 12th & Porter in Nashville for Rebel Child Album Release Party – Facebook Video

(20 Oct 2017) Ruthie Collins - Get Drunk and Cry (Curb Records)

10 Tracks/ Time: 34:46 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com

Debut Fri 20 Oct: #65 UK Country iTunes

Collins’ wrote all 10 tracks on her debut album, which includes “Getting Out There,” “Boys And Beaches,” “Me And Emmylou” and “Pink Bic Lighter.”

Published on Sep 19, 2017, the first single off her debut album, "Get Drunk & Cry" - YouTube

The country singer has officially unveiled her newest single, "Getting Out There," and it's the perfect pick-me-up for anyone who's still feeling the effects of a broken heart.

(20 Oct 2017) Simon James - Ordinary Man (2017 Simon James) UK

11 Tracks/ Time: 48:51Amazon UK - UK iTunes -

Debut Fri 20 Oct: #50 UK Country iTunes | Sun Oct 22: off the top 200

(20 Oct 2017) Mike Ryan - Blink You'll Miss It (Rock & Soul)

7 Tracks/ Time: 24:18 Country/Pop Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com

Debut Fri 20 Oct: #100 UK Country iTunes

(20 Oct 2017) The Band Steele - Moon in a Mason Jar (Fire River Records Inc.)

10 Tracks/ Time: 36:26 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com

Debut Fri 20 Oct: #50 US Country iTunes (#446 overall US Albums chart)

(20 Oct 2017) Daniel Lee - Homemade (EP; 2017 Daniel Lee)

5 Tracks/ Time: 15:59 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com

Debut Fri 20 Oct: #135 US Country iTunes (#1190 overall US Albums chart)

(20 Oct 2017) Porter and The Bluebonnet Rattlesnakes - Don't Go Baby It's Gonna Get Weird Without You (Cornelius Chapel Records) 11 Tracks/ Time: 41:32

Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com

Debut Fri 20 Oct: #156 US Country iTunes (#1359 overall US Albums chart)

(20 Oct 2017) Brit Kerr - Careless Kids (EP; 2017 Brit Kerr)

4 Tracks UK iTunes - https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/careless-kids-ep/id1293401063

Debut Fri 20 Oct: #164 US Country iTunes (#1444 overall US Albums chart)

(6 Oct 2017) Jimmie Allen - Jimmie Allen (EP; Broken Bow Records)

5 Tracks/ Time: 15:07Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com

Debut Fri 20 Oct: #200 US Country iTunes

(20 Oct 2017) Tyminski - Southern Gothic (Mercury/ Decca (UMO))

13 Tracks/ Time: 45:42 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com

Tyminski, a 14-time Grammy winner and member of Alison Krauss’ Union Station, cowrote all 13 tracks to pitch to other artists, but decided to record them himself. He describes the album, produced by Jesse Frasure, as “holding up a mirror to society without judgment or opinions.”

(20 Oct 2017) Dori Freeman - Letters Never Read (MRI)

10 Tracks/ Time: 28:17Amazon UK - Amazon.com

(20 Oct 2017) Lucas Hoge - Christmas Is Here (Rebel Engine Entertainment LLC)

10 Tracks/ Time: 37:04 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com

Following his No. 1 Billboard Country debut for album, Dirty South, rising country star Lucas Hoge is releasing a brand-new Christmas album, CHRISTMAS IS HERE. "Home for the Holidays" is released to radio next month.

(20 Oct 2017) At The Louisiana Hayride Tonight Truly Historic Box Set - Features Previously Unheard Recordings From Hank Sr, Elvis, Cash & More (Bear Family Records; WEBSITE )

Information on the 20-CD set, including the complete track listing is available at the Bear Family Records website.

(20 Oct 2017) Mary English - Bright Light (EP; 2017 Mary English)

4 Tracks/ Time: 12:33 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com Country/ Pop

(21 Oct 2017) The Reeves Brothers - King of Country Music (Joe Missouri Entertainment)

10 Tracks/ Time: 28:33 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com  (CMP Oct 2017 5 STARS Honky Tonker of the Month)

AUSSIE NEWS

(19 Oct 2017) Following his first UK tour earlier this year and the highly successful release of his debut Warner Music Nashville single 'Kiss Somebody' - which has received major airplay across the USA, Australia and the UK including BBC Radio 2 & Chris Country - rising country artist Morgan Evans has been announced as one of the Spotlight Stage artists at next year's Country to Country (C2C) festival at the O2 Arena in London, taking place 9th-11th March 2018. Looking forward to the trip, Morgan said: "There's a really special feeling about the country music community in the UK. The fans are so passionate, the sing-alongs are so epic and energy is contagious! I can't wait to get back to London in March 2018 for the C2C Festival!"

See BLOG: Morgan Evans releases debut worldwide single 'Kiss Somebody'

CANADIAN NEWS

(16 Oct 2017) Paige Willaims "Give You Hell"

Paige Williams and her 'California Country' sound is back with her latest single to country radio - "Give You Hell".   Paige is a dual citizen of Canada, with roots in North Battleford, Saskatchewan and the United States.

Her debut EP titled "California Country will release in November 2017.  Musically, Paige has finally created her own version of what country music sounds like and means to her. 

Twenty-five percent of her album sales will go to Childhood Cancer Foundations, a cause near and dear to her heart. 

 As well as her new single to radio and her debut EP, Paige will be releasing a Christmas single "O Holy Night" to radio in November. Paige is looking forward to bringing her 'California Country' sound to stages across Canada and throughout California.   Once the dates are confirmed we will be making an announcement - so stay tuned....

So in a culture seemingly driven by instant gratification, music fans appear starved for that next jolt of electricity. Paige Williams is a self-avowed fan of Shania Twain, Faith Hill and Carrie Underwood. With her vivacious sprit and Californian charm, she's a legitimate candidate to join the ranks of those who've inspired her. 

'California Country' - "y'all meets dude, let's go to the beach and have a great time"!  So you know it has to be fun!

Paige will be visiting Ontario radio the week following the release. WEBSITE – FACEBOOK - TWITTER

(16 Oct 2017) Desiree Dorion "Like a Flower"

Desiree Dorion 's 11 track fourth studio album, "Tough Street" (April 3, 2017 iTunes) is a beautiful and humble homage to her upbringing. This is her most personal and honest work yet. The album compiles "darkly beautiful and introspective songs..."[her] best recorded vocals yet," (Bruce Leperre, 730 CKDM)."

Her first single from the album, "Whiskey Knows" was released to radio across Canada and reached #1 on the National Indigenous Music Countdown and landed on the Canadian Country music charts. Tough Street is already receiving rave reviews and has been nominated for five 2017 Manitoba Country Music Awards and a 2017 Canadian Folk Music Award.

Dorion's previous albums have garnered nominations at the 2014 JUNO Awards, 2014 WCMA Awards; 2014 and 2013 Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards; 2013 Indian Summer Music Awards, the 2012 International Songwriting Competition; Best Country Album and Best Female Artist at the 2010 Canadian Aboriginal Music Awards; Best Country Artist at the 2010 Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards; Best Country Album at the 2011 North American Indigenous Image Award; Best Country Album at the 2011 Indian Summer Music Awards; and Best Country Album and Best Female Artist at the 2011 Native American Music Awards.

(17 Oct 2017) Runaway Angel "Witness"

Zero.  If you're wondering why Runaway Angel would choose such a title for their 7 track highly anticipated sophomore album (out Oct 27 iTunes), Cadence Grace, Ann Chaplin and Stacey Zegers say they couldn't find a better way to describe the project. Could it represent new beginnings? No fears or regrets? Perhaps, it's just their way of saying they went into the project with zero thoughts on what is "too country" or "too pop" and made the record that represented exactly who they are - which is the perfect blend of both.

Zero's fun and vibrant lead single "Witness" is a strong example of that. While Cadence, Ann and Stacey have all had major successes in their own rights as solo female artists, it's their collective talents that have led them to the perfect the recipe of harmony and friendship as Runaway Angel.

NEWS

(17 Oct 2017) Trisha Yearwood Surprised Onstage By Jimmy Carter

Country icon Trisha Yearwood was surprised onstage by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter during last week's MERCEDES-BENZ STADIUM show in her home state of GEORGIA. Carter presented Yearwood with a proclamation from the state for her work with HABITAT FOR HUMANITY, which she has assisted in building homes and communities for those who need shelter and aid. "It’s such an honor to receive recognition from my home state of GEORGIA, and to have President Jimmy Carter, a man who has inspired me, present my proclamation, is truly special," YEARWOOD noted. "The work HABITAT FOR HUMANITY does is so important, and I’m humbled to be a part of their organization. I hope to continue working on site builds for a very long time."

(18 Oct 2017) Kacey Musgraves Shares First Wedding Photos

Kacey Musgraves definitely gave off that glowing look as many brides do on their special day, and it shines clear through the first pictures shared of her special day. The country singer kept rather quiet about her wedding plans to now husband Ruston Kelly, but she finally let fans in on some of the private details by sharing several gorgeous photos from their wedding day.

Guests at the wedding included Brothers Osborne, Lucie Silvas, and hit songwriter Shane McAnally. - Instagram

(18 Oct 2017) October 21, Rebel Engine recording artist Stephanie Quayle will perform for five former U.S. presidents as part of the hurricane relief concert “Deep From The Heart: The One America Appeal” at Texas A&M’s Reed Arena. As previously announced by The George H. W. Bush Presidential Library Foundation, the already sold-out benefit concert will bring Presidents Obama, George W. Bush, Clinton, George H. W. Bush and Carter together to raise funds for citizens who have been devastated by recent Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria in Puerto Rico, Texas, Florida and the Caribbean.

Quayle joins a star-studded lineup for the event that includes ALABAMA, LyleLovett, Robert Earl Keen, Lee Greenwood, Sam Moore, Cassadee Pope, The Gatlin Brothers and Yolanda Adams. - www.oneamericaappeal.org

(19 Oct 2017) Jason Aldean honours Vegas shooting victims at CMT's Artists of the Year show

Jason Aldean honoured those who lost their lives in the recent Las Vegas shooting as he took to the stage at the CMT Artists of the Year show on Wednesday night (18 Oct 2017).

"We've been tested beyond our worst nightmare these past few months," he said, as the show was broadcasted live from Nashville, Tennessee. "Heartbroken doesn't even begin to describe how some of us feel. But we have proven time and again in this country that we have the power to overcome anything that threatens our way of life, or our freedom. We dedicate this night to you and everyone who has experienced loss or tragedy in the last few months."

"On this night when we usually celebrate a year of music, we also want to celebrate a year of incredible human spirit, the spirit we see in our fans every night," Chris Stapleton said, while Keith Urban added: "So in some small way we want to thank you for your resolve and perhaps lift your spirits for just a moment."

(22 Oct 2017) Clare Bowen and Brandon Robert Young tied the knot! The couple married on Saturday (Oct. 21) in a ceremony in Nashville, Us Weekly confirmed. Young proposed to the actress — best known for her role as Scarlett O'Connor on Nashville — after her performance on the Grand Ole Opry in 2015. They decided to wait to make wedding plans in light of her brother's cancer diagnosis that same year. He is now in remission.

(22 Oct 2017) Wedding Belles: Parmalee bassist Barry Knox married longtime girlfriend Kristin "KJ" Joyner Saturday (10/21) at Secrets Wild Orchid in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

(22 Oct 2017) Dan + Shay singer Shay Mooney married fiancé Hannah Billingsley on Friday (Oct. 20) during an outdoor ceremony in Arkansas. The couple became engaged in 2016 before announcing they were expecting a baby in January 2017. Little Asher James was carried down the aisle in a baby tuxedo, according to People. The duo’s Dan Smyers and guitarist Justin Richards were groomsman at a ceremony that took place at Billingsley’s family property in Arkansas. The bride wore a Ravini gown.

AWARDS

(18 Oct 2018) “The 51st Annual CMA Awards” will air live Wednesday, November 8 on ABC at 8 | 7c. Country superstars Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood return as hosts and performers for the show. the first round of performers were announced

Garth Brooks, Brothers Osborne, Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Alan Jackson, Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Old Dominion, Jon Pardi, Chris Stapleton, Thomas Rhett, and Carrie Underwood will all take the stage

(18 Oct 2017) Chris Young Officially A Grand Ole Opry Member

RCA NASHVILLE's Chris Young was formally welcomed as the newest member of the GRAND OLE OPRY last night (Oct 17), with his friend, SONY MUSIC NASHVILLE lablemate, and GRAND OLE OPRY member Brad Paisley making it officially official.

Chris Young joins the Grand Ole Opry Family

YOUNG was invited to be an OPRY member by Vince Gill during an appearance in August (8/30). Hhis new album, "Losing Sleep," streets FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20th.

TV

(18 Oct 2017) Warner Bros./WMN's RaeLynn appeared on NBC-TV's Today this morning (10/18). Watch her >> performance of "Lonely Call

(19 Oct 2017) Wednesday night's (Oct 18) 2017 CMT Artists of the Year received the

highest ratings in the show's eight-year history, earning a .35 Adults 18-49 Live + Same Day, a 66% increase over last year. More than 1.1 million viewers tuned in for the premiere and encore, according to the network. Refocused as "a night of hope and healing through the power of music," the show drew its strongest ratings in Las Vegas, with a 1.77 household rating.

A moving tribute to each of the 58 people who lost their lives at the Route 91 Harvest festival in Las Vegas Oct. 1 has been compiled by CMT.com's Alison Bonaguro and Lauren Tingle. Read about the lives led by those 36 women and 22 men here.

See Andra Day and Little Big Town perform >> "Rise Up" here;

Keith Urban offered a slowed-down, Jazzy version of "Blue Ain't Your Color" here  

Chris Stapleton performs "Broken Halos" here;

Luke Bryan performs "Fast" here

Phillip Phillips covers Sam Hunt's "Body Like A Backroad" here

Backstreet Boys cover Florida Georgia Line's "H.O.L.Y." here

Jason Aldean, Chris Stapleton, Keith Urban and Little Big Town cover Tom Petty's "I Won't Back Down" here. They traded guitar licks, and Little Big Town's impeccable harmonies. Said ALDEAN, "Heartbroken doesn't even begin to describe how some of us feel. But, we have proven time and again in this country that we have the power to overcome anything that threatens our way of life, or our freedom. We dedicate this night to you and everyone who has experienced loss or tragedy in the last few months.".

MUSIC NEWS

(18 Oct 2017) Tina Turner has put an end to her retirement to promote a new musical about her life.

The legendary singer retired from the stage and spotlight in 2009 after completing her final concert series, the Tina!: 50th Anniversary Tour, but the 77-year-old has returned to the public eye to support theatre director Phyllida Lloyd's new biographical show Tina.

During the unveiling of the musical at The Hospital Club in London, England on Tuesday (17 Oct 2017), Tina admitted she had mixed feelings about returning to the limelight. “I didn’t want to do it," she confessed of her reluctance to withdraw from retirement. “This is going to be a little difficult. I don’t (want this to happen). I don’t need a musical, I don’t need another show.”

The What's Love Got to Do With It hitmaker has simply enjoyed being retired far too much these past seven years to give it up.

“I am sure you all want to know what I have been doing in retirement for the last seven years. I am very excited to be a part of this (but) this took me out of retirement," she shared. "Retirement is wonderful, it’s easy to sleep long (hours), (to) do what you want, decorate the house two (or) three times. Easy things that you dreamed about when you were working.”

The musical details Tina's life, including her marriage to abusive ex-husband Ike Turner in the early years of her career from 1962 to 1978.

“There were many times when I got knocked out (by Ike)," she recalled. "Sometimes I stood on stage and had pain that you cannot imagine. Black eye, swollen nose. But you had to plough through it, you had to suffer through it.

“We weren’t cancelling shows because we needed the money. It was plane, bus, car. The stage. Partying every night. Sometimes it was what you have to do."

PRESS RELEASES

Introducing the ‘Bright Light’ that is Mary English

VIDEO: Lady Antebellum Gives Flashback of 2017

(17 Oct 2017) Nashville To Celebrate “Heal The Music Day” on October 20

 Following Nashville Mayor Megan Barry’s official proclamation declaring October 20th as “Heal The Music Day,” a number of events are on tap to support the initiative. “Heal The Music Day” is an effort to raise awareness and support for the more than 56,000 people who make a living in the music industry, 76% of whom are self-employed or part of small business without access to group health benefits - including songwriters, producers, audio engineers, musicians, recording artists, publishers and more.

Facebook - Event

(19 Oct 2017) Dolly Parton will assist with the ongoing relief efforts around the United States and its territories by making a contribution to the One America Appeal for Hurricane Relief to assist with immediate life sustaining needs of those affected. The One America Appeal is a joint appeal that was originally launched by all five living former American Presidents to encourage their fellow citizens to support recovery efforts from Hurricane Harvey. This special appeal has been expanded to include areas most affected by Hurricanes Irma and Maria.

(20 Oct 2017) Chris Stapleton has released >> “Millionaire” a new song from his highly anticipated forthcoming album From A Room: Volume 2. The heartfelt version of Kevin Welch country classic “Millionaire” features Morgane Stapleton on beautiful harmony vocals and is out now. From A Room: Volume 2 will be released December 1 on Mercury Records Nashville/Decca and is now available to pre-order digitally and with exclusive limited-edition bundles.

(20 Oct 2017) Singer/songwriter, Danielle Bradbery, keeps surprising fans, releasing yet another track from her forthcoming, sophomore BMLG Records album I DON’T BELIEVE WE’VE MET due December 1. With her lead single “Sway” at radio now, Bradbery revealed the track “Potential”, along with a companion video on PEOPLE. “Potential” makes the fourth track to be released from her transformational sophomore album, after Bradbery released single “Sway,” as well as tracks “Human Diary” and “Hello Summer” earlier this year. Written by Bradbery, Johan Lindbrant and Weisband, “Potential” captures the feeling of being in love with the thought of who someone could be rather than who that person actually is with lyrics such as:

If you just grew up, yeah / A little more, then /You know that you'd be perfect, you'd be perfect If you just tried harder Like I know you could, then You know that it'd be worth it, it'd be worth it

(20 Oct 2017) Country singer Olivia Lane showed fans a new side to her with the release of “Devil and You" (First released Set 15, 2017 ITunes). The audio premiered on Yahoo Music earlier in the week, followed by an exclusive broadcast premiere on CMT Music Thursday Oct. 19. Watch Olivia Lane’s video for “Devil and You” here.

REVIEWS

(20 Oct 2017) Faith Hill and Tim McGraw "owned the arena-sized stage." – Tampa Bay Times

Review: Faith Hill and Tim McGraw shower love, star power on Tampa's Amalie Arena

WATCH

(17 Oct 2017) Louise Connell "Ilo" The first single from 'Squall' (October, 2017) >> YouTube Published on Oct 13, 2017 (5.2K views)

Louise Connell is a singer-songwriter from Airdrie, near Glasgow. Previously performing and releasing her music under the name REVERIEME, she has earned a considerable reputation as an outstanding songwriter, with a particular knack for framing intelligent, literate lyrics in haunting and beautiful melodies, delivered by “a voice that would melt iron” (Ravechild)

Her first studio album, STRAW WOMAN (2016), was released to consistent critical acclaim and overwhelmingly positive reviews, and was the featured Album Of The Week on several BBC Radio Scotland programmes as well as receiving general airplay on Radio 2, Radio 6 (Lauren Laverne’s “Headphone Moment”), Radio 4, Virgin Radio and Amazing Radio. 

These will be a series of three 6-track EPs, each of which will reflect a slightly different aspect of Louise’s writing and performance. The first EP, SQUALL will be released on October 20th, with parts 2 and 3 (Echo and Rale) following in January and March 2018 respectively. FACEBOOK | BANDCAMP

COUNTRY FASHION

(19 Oct 2017) Bead Bottles: Break the creative limits with a bottle of endless jewelry options that are made by YOU!

These bright and fun bottles of beads, charms, and leather provide hours of fun and creativity! There are hundreds of designs that you can choose from when crafting your personal jewelry. The options are endless. Perfect for the creative cowgirl, they make fantastic gifts. Each bottle contains various semi-precious stones, metals charms, glass beads and leather cording with two lobster closures. Story cards with simple assembly instructions are provided with each purchase. Visit Cowgirl Magazine.com

(23 Oct 2017)

Proud to be the first country artist signed to the @Wilhelmina family! I’ve always loved fashion, so this is such an exciting partnership! pic.twitter.com/YxiFDdw63i

— MAREN MORRIS (@MarenMorris) 23 October 2017

Maren Morris the Grammy-winning (and recently engaged) country star, 27, just signed with Wilhelmina Models, making her the first country artist to join the New York modeling agency’s celebrity division, which includes other celebs like Nicki Minaj, Shawn Mendes and more.

“This is one of the most exciting things for me personally just because I’ve always loved fashion and I’ve loved pushing the envelope and I just feel like taking it to the next level with Wilhelmina,” she told PEOPLE exclusively about the new gig.

“For me to be their first country music signing of the agency is incredible,” she adds. “Bridging that fashion and country music gap is such an amazing step forward for them and our genre. And I think it will certainly bring country music and its artists into the conversation with the high-fashion world.” 

COUNTRY GOSSIP

(22 Oct 2017) Cold River Records Addresses Katie Armiger Harrassment Claims

COLD RIVER RECORDS (CRR) President Pete O'heeron (Oct 23) responded to a FOX NEWS online report quoting former CRR artist Katie Armiger's claim that she was blacklisted from Country music after her allegations of sexual harassment during her time with the label. In the piece, Armiger recounted stories of inappropriate behavior from radio personnel during promotional tours, describing her reaction as "shocked" and "terrified." Armiger is also quoted in the article, saying, "I brought up my fears, and I was told that's how it was, and if I wanted to be in music, I'd have to get over it." ARMIGER and COLD RIVER traded lawsuits last year, leading to her eventual departure from the label (June 16, 2016).

On his FACEBOOK page, O'HEERON stated, "The behavior that KATIE ARMIGER alleges in the FOXNEWS.com article is unacceptable, and COLD RIVER RECORDS strongly condemns sexual harassment of anyone.

BIRTHDAYS

Birthdays in the week ahead

Oct 23: Dwight Yoakam (1956),

Oct 25:  Chely Wright (1970)

Oct 26: Charlie Landsborough (1941), Keith Urban (1967)

Oct 27: Dallas Frazier (1939), Lee Greenwood (1942)

Oct 28: Charlie Daniels (1936), Brad Paisley (1972)

R.I.P

HOLDROYD VIC On 2nd October, 2017 Peacefully at Kirkwood Hospice (cancer related), Vic aged 71 years, the much loved partner of Brenda, devoted dad of Sarah, Chris and Ruth, adored grandad of Lucy, James, Thomas and Amber, dear brother of Peter and a good friend to many who will be greatly missed. The funeral service took place at Park Wood Crematorium, Elland on Tuesday 17th October at 12.45pm.

Vic Holdroyd was a British Country Music Award Nominee for Album of the Year and Original Song of the Year 2011

As a PRS/MCPS member, he went through some of the deepest valley’s a man could find during his life, yet he never gave up

Vic Holdroyd was a British songwriter, who fought a really hard battle and won – he survived.

Mr. Holdroyd was one of the music business best songwriters, and very well known worldwide, from London to Holland, USA, Australia you name it and back again.

Vic spent most of his retirement trying to improve his songwriting, and having good-quality demos produced.

Facebook/VicHoldroydSongs | Soundclick | 2014 Interview CMNI

Mr. Holdroyd IN HIS OWN WORDS: Born in U.K. September 1946.  I was lucky enough to have a brother who was 8 years older than me. So in the 50s, when he was working and buying records, I was the one who played them the most! Elvis, Bobby Darin, Everly Brothers, Buddy Holly - you name them, and I knew all the words to their songs!! Been writing songs as a hobby, on and off, most of my adult years. My early writing had no direction, but I enjoyed it. In 2009 I got lucky again! I was introduced to John Taylor, a U.K. producer whom Nathan Carter (young British Country singer) had worked with on 2 albums. What a fantastic musician! He made my songs come alive, and my early demos with him led to cuts by various Irish/Country Music singers.

I also had demos produced in Nashville with Frank Michels, and Vaughn Lofstead, which involved some top-notch musicians and vocalists. Things took off for me, and I got quite a few covers as the months rolled by. I now have cuts by Independent singers in USA, England, Ireland, Denmark, Germany, New Zealand, Austria, and Holland. The U.K.'s most popular Country singer, Darren Busby (BCMAwards Solo Act of the Year) cut a 5-track CD of my songs, and that album, together with my "own album", were nominated in the BCMA Awards for 2011 in the "Album of the Year" section. My project album issued under the collective name of "The Company U.K." featuring John Taylor and Sarah Jory, is something of which I am very proud, with the track "California Here I Come" nominated for "Original song of the Year" at British MCA 2011. The album, Country Songs For Today got massive air-time, but the publisher to whom I assigned the copyrights was difficult to work with, and I had to buy my copyrights back from him - an expensive exercise!

I have co-written with a few other songwriters, particularly John D Cole, and Lonnie Ratliff, with some success. I continue to pitch to as many Independent Country Music singers as possible, and offer free promo for any cut they make. 

Tributes

Jannet Bodewes Emmen, Netherlands: So very sorry to hear that my songwriter friend Vic Holdroyd has lost his battle with cancer.....Vic was one of the first people I met through facebook, when I first restarted my carreer in 2011. He believed in my talent and helped me make my first mini album by giving me 2 songs he wrote, for free and he introduced me to Lonnie Ratliff, who would later that year offer me a record deal, which got the ball rolling a lot faster...

Country & Western Info for the UK: I am so shocked to learn that Vic Holdroyd has lost his battle for life, this not a good week so far for us country music fans, my condolences go out to all the family and friends of Vic and I thank you Vic for all your music over the years

Tom Reno: I am saddened by the news that Vic Holdroyd left us forever…Vic was an excellent songwriter and I'm proud that he supported me with his songs for my album "Twelve"……

All the songs on Victoria Eman's 13 track album MEET YOU ON THE MOON (Amazon released 29 Sept 2016; Listen on

Reverbnation.com) were written by Vic Holdroyd.

Darren Busby's "At The End Of The Day" written by Vic Holroyd Song Copyright Wye Creek Music >> YouTube

All My Life (duet) - Artists/Singers: Victoria Eman & Vic Holdroyd >> YouTube

Another Victim Of Love - Artist/Singer: Victoria Eman Songwriter: Vic Holdroyd (from the UK) >> YouTube