Friday 1 December 2017

Country Bites News snippets November 13 , 2017 – November 19, 2017

UK & Irish News, UK Chart News, Album Releases, Canadian News, Country News (Awards, TV, Babies), Music News, Press Releases, Country Fashion, Gossip, Birthdays, Links to Articles, Reviews, Books, Magazines & Videos.

SOURCES / LINKS shown



For the latest Billboard Country Charts Blog Post go HERE

UK & IRISH News
For a full listing of 2017 UK Tour dates PLEASE check out our Tour Dates Page

On the BBC Radio 2 Playlist for the week commencing Saturday 18th November 2017
B Playlist:
Andy Brown - Landslide (feat. Crissie Rhodes)
C Playlist: Maren Morris - 80s Mercedes added to the "C" Playlist
OUT
First Aid Kit - It's A Shame was removed from the "C" Playlist

(15 Nov 2017) Singer songwriter Sarah McQuaid writes: I’m delighted to announce that my fifth solo album IF WE DIG ANY DEEPER IT COULD GET DANGEROUS will be released on 2nd February 2018 and is now available to pre-order. Produced by guitar legend Michael Chapman (memorably described in The Guardian as “the godfather of new cosmic Americana”), the album features what I’m convinced is by far my best batch of original songs and instrumentals ever ... plus another co-write with the wonderful Gerry O’Beirne, an arrangement of the medieval chant “Dies Irae” and a cover of Jeff Wayne’s classic “Forever Autumn”. In addition to my custom-made Andy Manson and 1965 Martin D-28 acoustic guitars, I’m also playing electric guitar (a lovely Ibanez Artist model that Michael’s kindly given me on long-term loan) and piano! - Sarah McQuaid - Bandcamp
She tours in the UK (Jan 25 Penzance: The Acorn (Album launch) to Feb 11 (Tavistock: The Wharf) before heading to tour in The Netherlands & Germany.

(15 Nov 2017) Helena Mace has issued her latest release, "Strangers" (writer: Helena Mace; Guitar – Helena Mace; Keys and Production – Matt Black), which is the 3rd single from her yet untitled 3rd album. Strangers is a Winter Country/Folk style ballad which is being released in time for Christmas. Strangers will be available to download 12th December and iTunes pre order from the 5th December
The new album is a Country themed album which will have a release date of early 2018 in time for her launch show in March. Her last album, WASH AWAY THE YEARS, received rave reviews from the Industry as well as the general public and she will still continue to promote the album.  Her music has featured on SKY TV and the BBC as well as a large amount of Radio stations worldwide.

"As soon as I heard Helena's single, I considered it a must play for my Radio Show" - Keith Greentree BBC Radio Norfolk
“I am very impressed by Helena’s music and particularly her voice which is excellent. I strongly recommend you listen to her album and new single” - Roger Peck CMR Nashville (British Country Music Show)
Her last single, Breakin Up Aint Easy and I chose you reached the UK iTunes chart, No 1 on Q108 Canadian chart, No 25 on the unsigned chart and has received Rave reviews from the Critics and the public.
Helena will be performing songs from her current album and will be appearing at events across the country in 2018 to promote her music. Visit her Facebook page.



(15 Nov 2017) Singer-songwriter Emily Maguire has been happily busy doing gigs in Germany where she performed at the World Congress of Psychiatry in Berlin, and a tour of Ireland with Duke Special. Now, after 4 years away, she and husband Christian Dunham are heading back to their shack in Australia.  “The borer ants have eaten most of the wood so it’s being rebuilt by Christian’s brother.  It seems like a lifetime ago since I was living there on the farm making goats cheese and writing songs in my yurt.  The yurt is still there, with all our stuff in it – and hopefully no snakes”! We'll be doing some recording for my next album in a beautiful old Queenslander with my favourite sound engineer Pix Vane-Mason.  He recorded my first two albums 'Stranger Place' and 'Keep Walking' there as well as the vocals for ‘A Bit Of Blue’, and I love the place” shares Emily.
They return at the end of January to start Emily's 2018 UK tour at Dorchester Arts on Friday 9 February. Her last gig of 2017 is at The George Hotel in South Molton, Devon on Saturday 2 December (£12 Tickets; Event). 
See her Feb-July 2018 dates on our Tour Dates Page

(17 Nov 2017) Ferris & Sylvester released their brand new single ‘Better In Yellow’ (Amazon UK | UK iTunes). The new song is the latest to be taken from their forthcoming EP Made In Streatham, out February 2nd.

 ‘Better In Yellow’ is an uplifting slice of bluesy Americana, which finds the pair adding big brass notes into their mix of guitar licks and beautiful harmonies.
Regarding the single Ferris & Sylvester say, “We had so much fun working on ‘Better In Yellow’. We liked the idea of writing about yellow being a positive state of mind, happy and vibrant, instead of settling for greyness. It can be easy to wear black and blend in. Sometimes though, it’s best to be yourself, put on some clashy colours and not care too much. Like all the songs on our upcoming EP, ‘Better In Yellow’ was recorded in our kitchen with our favourite musicians. It's part of a collection of songs that represent a defining moment in time for us, so it was only right to record it our way in our South London flat.”


UK CHART NEWS

Official UK Top 100 Singles Chart (Week Ending 23 November 2017)
17 November 2017 - 23 November 2017
Paid-for sales are down for the first time and streaming is down for the second time – but Camila Cabello's Havana (feat. Young Thug) is top of the composite Top 75 for the third week running with 46,269 sales (including 30,500 from streams + 15,800 pure sales). But Rita Ora – who scored the last of her four No.1s in 2014 – mounted a strong challenge with Anywhere surging 5-2 (38,159 sales). Already No.1 on paid-for sales – even though they are down 2.91% week-on-week at 17,362 – Anywhere is still lagging on streams but growing fast, with a 23.90% increase in consumption week-on-week to provide 20,797 of its sales.

Official UK Top 100 Albums Chart (Week Ending 23 November 2017)
17 November 2017 - 23 November 2017

Taylor Swift with her sixth studio album REPUTATION debuts at No.1, earning the 27-year-old singer-songwriter her third straight No.1.
With first week sales of 83,648 (including 41,795 from paid-for downloads; debut PURE SALES 54% down on last album 1989), the album – which has already spawned four Top 40 singles – falls short of the 90,336 copies its immediate predecessor, 1989 (release date Oct 27, 2014), sold when it opened atop the chart three years ago last week. Reputation has not yet been made available for streaming, and 1989 wasn't switched to that model for nine months after release.
Ironically, streams make up the majority of the sales that 1989 secured in the latest frame, accounting for 1,472 of the overall tally of 2,361 that help it to climb 59-54. It is, by far, Swift's biggest selling album with a to-date tally of 1,150,889, of which 69,669 are from streams. Its nearest rival is its 2012 predecessor RED, which sold 61,779 copies when it debuted at No.1 and has now sold 634,636 copies (including 34,555 from streams). Swift has very impressive overall sales of 2,824,164 albums and 11,303,560 singles.
Previous to that her self titled album TAYLOR SWIFT sold only 38 copies the week of its release date, and peaked 94 weeks later at #81, FEARLESS debuted and peaked at #5 (first week sales of 33,829) and SPEAK NOW, debuted and peaked at No.6 (28,223 sales).

Swift is the third female solo artist to land three albums at No.1 in the 2010s, following Rihanna and Lana Del Rey.
The 13th different album to lead the chart in as many weeks, Reputation secures the year's sixth fastest start for an artist album, trailing Ed Sheeran's ÷ (671,542 sales), Rag'N'Bone Man's Human (117,101 sales), Take That's Wonderland (113,211 sales), Liam Gallagher's As You Were (102,660 sales) and Sam Smith's Too Good At Goodbyes, which opened last week at No.1 on sales of 97,328 copies but now shunts down to No.2 (52,781 sales) to accommodate Swift's arrival.

All round entertainer and former EastEnders star Shane Richie with his third album, A COUNTRY SOUL, is being marketed as Americana and new contemporary country music. It made a minor chart ripple, debuting at No.42 (3,036 sales). His two previous albums both failed to make the Top 200, with 1997's The Album eventually selling 5,348 copies after being reissued at a budget price but 2000 release Once Around The Sun sold only 342 copies.

In her seventh frame former No.1 Shania Twain with NOW fell 53-74 (1,800 estimated sales; 7-week total 37,500)
Kelsea Ballerini with UNAPOLOGETICALLY fell off the Top 100 after a No.50 debut the previous week (2,161 sales).

Official UK Country Album Top 20 (Week Ending 23 November 2017)
17 November 2017 - 23 November 2017
Shane Richie with A COUNTRY SOUL debuts at #1
Kelsea Ballerini with UNAPOLOGETICALLY holds at #2 (2 weeks; #2 peak)
Glen Campbell with ADIOS held at #3 (23 weeks; #1 peak)
Margo Price with ALL AMERICAN MADE fell 1-4 (4 weeks; #1 peak)
Lucinda Williams with THIS SWEET OLD WORLD fell 4-5 (4 weeks; #2 peak)
Lady Antebellum with HEART BREAK held at #6 (23 weeks; #2 peak)
Blake Shelton with TEXOMA SHORE rose 12-7 (2 weeks; #7 peak)
White Buffalo with DARKEST DARKS LIGHTEST LIGHTS fell 5-8 (5 weeks; #2 peak)
Kid Rock with SWEET SOUTHERN SUGAR climbed 18-9 (2 weeks; #9 peak)
Thomas Rhett with LIFE CHANGES rose 20-10 (9 weeks; #2 peak)
Outside the Top 10
Darius Rucker with WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME fell 8-11 (4 weeks; #4 peak)
Cadillac Three with LEGACY rose 13-12 (12 weeks; #2 peak)
Brothers Osborne with PAWN SHOP re-entered at #14 (24 weeks; #5 peak)
Wayward Sons with GHOSTS OF YET TO COME fell 9-18 (9 weeks; #2 peak)

Official Americana Albums Chart Top 40 (Week Ending 23 November 2017)
17 November 2017 - 23 November 2017

This Week/ Last Week/ Title/ Artist
1 1 Carry Fire Robert Plant #9 Official Album Chart # Official Album Chart
2 6 A Deeper Understanding War On Drugs [Tagged Alt]
3 4 Roll With The Punches Van Morrison [Tagged Blues]
4 NEW Phases Angel Olsen [Tagged Alternative]
5 3 Life Love Flesh Blood Imelda May [Tagged Singer/Songwriter]
6 8 Adios Glen Campbell [Tagged Country]
7 5 Lotta Sea Lice Courtney Barnett & Kurt Vile [Tagged Alternative]
8 2 Bridges Not Walls Billy Bragg [Tagged Singer/Songwriter]
9 12  A/B Kaleo [Tagged Alt]
10 13 Hitchhiker Neil Young
Outside The Top 10
11 7 Songs From Different Times Jack Savoretti [Tagged  Pop]
14 10 All American Made Margo Price [Tagged Country]
19 NEW Waffles Triangle & Jesus Jim White [Tagged Americana]
21 NEW From The Fires Greta Van Fleet [Tagged Rock]
37 New Medicine Songs Buffy Sainte-Marie [Tagged Singer/Songwriter]

UK COUNTRY ALBUM RELEASES
For a full listing of 2017 Country/Alt/ Americana albums forthcoming and past releases PLEASE check out our Country Music Store Page

(14 Nov 2017) Stephanie Lee "Lady REDneck" (EP; Oh Holy Night) CHRIS
Lady Redneck is a Texas country music singer/songwriter. She has grown her fans to over 200,000 over the last year with her songwriting style that people can relate to. Growing up in Idaho, she played in a family band that sold over 40,000 CDs and was well known in the northwest. Now taking the world by storm, Lady Redneck is here to show you what music is all about.
"Lady REDneck", Stephanie Lee, based out of Dallas, TX.  I write all my songs (these days - I have done a few covers), love dark chocolate, working out in the sun, playing my guitar and anything that has to do with family.  I play guitar, bass, fiddle, mandolin, ukelele, piano and a little - drums. This is the download EP of Oh Holy Night! I hope you love my Christmas music. I absolutely love the holidays! Lady Redneck.org

(15 Nov 2017) Lacy J Dalton - Carl The Christmas Do (Single) CHRIS
UK iTunes - CD Baby Genre: Country: Americana
Not your typical Christmas Song. Lacy J Dalton's Latest Song, "Carl The Christmas Dog" is based on a true story! Much like the movies, this is not an accurate portrayal (Carl didn't eat the cat). He did eat the tree, presents, and a bunch of other stuff!
Watch the YouTube Video (published Nov 15, 2017) www.lacyjdalton.org
First hitting the Country Top-40 in 1979 with “Crazy Blue Eyes,” Dalton was one the most successful female vocalists of the format during the 80s with such hits as “Takin’ It Easy,” “Hillbilly Girl With The Blues,” “Black Coffee,” and the CMA-nominated anthem “16th Avenue.” During her career, she has collaborated with such Country Music Hall of Fame members as Bobby Bare, Glen Campbell, Willie Nelson, and George Jones. Her most recent recorded work was a tribute album to Hank Williams entitled Here’s To Hank. Dalton is a 2017 inductee of the North American Country Music Association International Hall of Fame.

(17 Nov 2017) Tim McGraw & Faith Hill - The Rest of Our Life (2017 McGraw Music, LLC, Sony Music Ent.)
11 Tracks/ Time: 44:11 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com
Nine of the 11 songs on their first-ever duets album were produced by longtime collaborator Byron Gallimore and two by Dann Huff. The title track was written by Ed Sheeran with Amy Wadge, Johnny McDaid and Steve Mac and “Damn Good at Holding On” was co-written by “Humble & Kind” composer Lori McKenna. Meghan Trainor is featured on the album closer “Roll the Dice,” co-penned with Shy Carter, Bobby Hamrick and James LeBlanc.
Debut Fri 17 Nov #1 UK Country iTunes (#10 overall UK Albums chart) | #2 US iTunes

(17 Nov 2017) Chase Rice - Lambs & Lions (Broken Bow Records)
10 Tracks/ Time:  37:32 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com
Debut Fri 17 Nov #3 UK Country iTunes (#81 overall UK Albums chart) | #3 US iTunes
Chase Rice Appears On 'CBS This Morning'
Broken Bow Records' Chase Rice appeared (Nov 17) on CBS-TV's "CBS This Morning" to discuss his new album, "Lambs & Lions". RICE shared details of his unusual path to fame during the interview piece. Rice brought in producers Chris DeStefano, Ross Copperman, Mac McAnally and Jacquire King for his sophomore 10-song collection. He wrote “Three Chords & The Truth” with Copperman and Jon Nite, and welcomed Ned LeDoux on a cover of his late father Chris LeDoux’s “This Cowboy’s Hat.”



(17 Nov 2017) Nathan Carter - Live At 3Arena (Sharpe Music)
18 Tracks Amazon UK (CD) - Amazon UK (DVD) UK iTunes
Debut Fri 17 Nov #9 UK Country iTunes (#307 overall UK Albums chart), then #6 (#173) | Sat Nov 18 #2 (#118 overall UK Albums chart)

(17 Nov 2017) Petric - 18 Ends (EP; 2017 Steelhead Music Inc)
6 Tracks/ Time: 17:58 UK iTunes - Amazon.com
Debut Fri 17 Nov #19 UK Country iTunes (#751 overall UK Albums chart)

(17 Nov 2017) Cody Jinks - Less Wise (Modified 2017) (2017 CODY JINKS MUSIC) 
13 Tracks/ Time: 54:03 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com
Debut Fri 17 Nov #20 UK Country iTunes (#753 overall UK Albums chart)

(17 Nov 2017) The Wandering Hearts - Burning Bridges (EP; 2017 Decca) UK
4 Tracks/ Time: 14:24 Indie & Alternative Amazon UK - UK iTunes
Debut Fri 17 Nov #38 UK Alternative iTunes (#227 overall UK Albums chart) , then #12 Alternative iTunes (#62 overall UK Albums chart) then #56 | Mon 20 Nov #39 Alternative iTunes (#241 overall UK Albums)

(17 Nov 2017) Ashton Lane - Winter Star - EP (2017 OC Records) UK
 4 Tracks/ Time: 16:08 Amazon UK - UK iTunes
Debut Fri 17 Nov #2 UK Country iTunes (#77 overall UK Albums chart), then #4 (#147) | Sat Nov 18: #21 (#810 overall) | Sun #72 (off top 1500)

17 Nov 2017) Taylor Acorn - Put It In A Song (EP; Play It Again Records)
5 Tracks/ Time: 17:14 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com
Debut #128 US Country iTunes

(17 Nov 2017) Aaron McDonnell - Lucky Me (2017 Independence Records)
7 Tracks/ Time: 28:54 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com
Debut #134 US Country iTunes

(17 Nov 2017) Leah Turner - Leah Turner (EP) | Debut #138 US Country iTunes
4 Tracks/ Time: 12:26Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com

(17 Nov 2017) Gwen Sebastian - Once Upon a Time in the West: Act 1 (Flying Island Entertainment)
13 Tracks/ Time: 48:20 Indie & Alternative/ Singer-Songwriter Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com
Debut Sat 18 Nov #1 Singer/Songwriter #191 (US Country iTunes overall)
The album features 13 songs, all of which were either written or co-written by Sebastian herself. It will be released independently on Flying Island. Several of her noteworthy fellow co-writers include country queen Miranda Lambert, country songstress Ashley Monroe, Brady Seals, and Anderson East, among others. >> Facebook Videos
Ashley Monroe, Brady Seals and Anderson East. “The sound is as if Quentin Tarantino met Bonnie Raitt, Emmylou Harris and Brandi Carlile and they made a record,” says Sebastian. Read more Digital Journal.com

(17 Nov 2017) Tucker Beathard - Dear Someone (Big Machine Label)
13 Tracks/ Time: 45:58 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Google Play -
Beathard’s full-length debut album features 13 tracks, with six songs from his Fight Like Hell EP, and seven new cuts. “I named the album Dear Someone because it’s full of honest messages written from my heart to whoever is listening, whoever might feel a little different or maybe a little misunderstood like me,” said Beathard.

(17 Nov 2017) Various Artists - A Tribute to Dan Fogelberg (BMG Rights Management (US) LLC)
14 Tracks/ Time: 1:00:23 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com
Produced by Fogelburg’s wife, Jean, Norbert Putnam, his lifelong friend/manager, Irving Azoff, and Chuck Morris, the homage to Fogelberg will be released through BMG.
The collection contains recreations of some of Fogelberg’s biggest hits, including “Longer,” “Hard to Say,” “Leader of the Band,” (performed by Zac Brown), and “Same Old Lang Syne,” (performed by Train.) A moving rendition of “Part of the Plan,” from 1974’s Souvenirs, performed by the Eagles, is also included on the album.
“A good thing never dies and that ‘good thing’ is Dan’s music,” said Garth Brooks about Fogelburg’s influence. “As for me, my life has been a poor attempt to imitate the man. That man is Dan Fogelberg, and he will live forever in those of us who have let his gift bring so much light to our paths.

(17 Nov 2017) Josh Kelley - Under the Covers (Independent)
10 Tracks/ Time: 39:16 Singer-Songwriters Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com
Josh Kelley will have a Christmas album out as well Dec 1

(17 Nov 2017) Sarah Darling - Winter Wonderland (Be Darling Records) CHRIS
8 Tracks/ Time: 28:47 Amazon UK - UK iTunes - Amazon.com - Website (CD)
Sarah Darling is already heralded as one of country music’s breakout performers and an elite vocalist in the US. After three studio albums Sarah releases her Christmas album.

(17 Nov 2017) Amber Lawrence - Aussie Aussie Christmas (Universal Music Australia) CHRIS
11 Tracks/ Time: 23:22 Amazon UK - Amazon.com
Country music superstar Amber Lawrence will release her new kids album just in time for Christmas!  AUSSIE AUSSIE CHRISTMAS will get all the kids singing and dancing around the barbeque with these distinctly Australian songs.

CANADIAN NEWS
(13 Nov 2017) Jade Mya featuring Ben Pelchat "One Christmas Wish"
One Christmas Wish is a reflection on navigating broken relationships during the holidays, and the desire for reconciliation. It provides a perspective from both sides of the relationship. One Christmas Wish comes from a very real place, and we think people will feel that when they hear it.
The song is an acoustic-guitar based ballad, featuring classic country lap-steel, electric guitar, cello, bass and roots percussion. (Ben Pelchat played all of the instruments.) Jade Mya and Ben Pelchat provide an intertwining harmony vocal performance throughout.  Ben composes, sings and is a multi-instrumentalist - a musician's musician.  Now going solo, he is creating material that is rapidly gaining recognition.
As you may be aware, Jade Mya is not your Girl Next Door. She is a unique persona rebelling from the country norm, while still keeping to her edgy twist which connects her to young fans home and abroad.

(13 Nov 2017) Manitoba Country Music Awards Handed Out!
Winners include:
FEMALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR: Kayla Luky
MALE ARTIST OF THE YEAR: Quinton Blair
GROUP OR DUO OF THE YEAR: Petric
ALBUM OF THE YEAR: Weathervane Doc Walker
SINGLE OF THE YEAR: What if I Don't David James

(15 Nov 2017) Signage: Pop/Country Canadian singer/songwriter Sykamore (aka Jordan Ostrom) has signed with Home Team Publishing, a company founded by Rhett Akins, Thomas Rhett, Virginia Davis and Roc Nation/Warner Chappell. She released a taylor Swift-esque single "Houseboat" (5 July 2017; Amazon | Spotify)

(15 Nov 2017) Brenda Dirk "Too Broke For Christmas" (Brenda Dirk Music)
Brenda Dirk is a young lady with a big voice and even bigger plans. Her love and talent for performing is only equalled by her passion for songwriting. Brenda has a joy and zest for life that comes out in her musical and songwriting abilities. She draws her inspiration for life around her and a family that she adores. Growing up on an acreage in Spruce Grove, and being the youngest of three in the family, she knew her work was cut out for her to make her mark. It was self released on iTunes Nov 14, 2017 UK iTunes
"Too Broke for Christmas" is something everyone can relate to and enjoy with its tongue-in-cheek attitude and toe-tapping rhythm.

(17 Nov 2017) Michaela Clarke "All I Really Want" 
An original country pop Christmas song that is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit
Ever notice at Christmas time people are happy spending time visiting with family and friends and listening to Christmas music on the radio. Michaela Clarke brings us a Christmas song that could become a classic with "All I Really Want"
Michaela Clarke is a 3 time nominee of the Alberta Country Music Awards. Her accolades include: sharing the stage with the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, being nominated for Female Artist of the year, Fans Choice, Song of the Year, Video of the Year and Album of the Year at the Alberta Country Music awards. Her single "Long Gone" was featured in the movie "Fire with Fire", starring Bruce Willis in 2012. She has performed at the Canadian Country Music Awards on the Diamonds in the Rough stage for two consecutive years.

(17 Nov 2017) Danielle Bourjeaurd "Hey There Santa"


She shares: Hallelujah, I love the winter! I used to live in Whistler, BC and "Hey There Santa" was very inspired by that west coast lifestyle. I used to take my snowmobile up the peak of the glacier mountains and find a cabin and camp out for a few days. All you needed was a case of Guinness or a box of wine (don't judge me), some fresh caught fish to cook on the hot oven stove, my guitar, and a stack of cedar logs to keep that fire blazing. Man, it was heaven!
One of my most special Christmas's ever was out there in BC because my Mama, Dad, and my sister surprised me on Christmas morning. I cried like a baby because I missed them so much. Christmas to me is all about family. It's about making memories, and giving back to others. This year I'll be donating my revenue of "Hey There Santa" to the dog rescue I work with in Nashville TN "Pittie in Pink". Originally released Dec 13, 2015 is available for digital download Amazon UK | iTunes

NEWS
(13 Nov 2017) Say Anything...Columbia's Maren Morris has partnered with Bose and Vice Media to launch "Bring the Micro," a campaign highlighting Bose's newest speaker, the SoundLink Micro. The campaign includes three digital films featuring Morris, Niall Horan and Ray BLK. Watch the first film, featuring Morris, here.

(13 Nov 2017) John Anderson Joins Absolute Publicity Roster
Nashville Songwriter Hall Of Famer John Anderson has signed with Absolute Publicity for exclusive PR representation. ANDERSON joins Ricky Skaggs, The Marshall Tucker Band, Larry Gatlin & The Gatlin Brothers, Ray Stevens, and several others. "Having watched ABSOLUTE PUBLICITY grow for nearly a decade, I'm proud to be a client as of today," shared Anderson. "[ABSOLUTE PUBLICITY President] Don Murry Grubbs understands the music and what I've done over the past 35 years. And, he understands the vision of my future better than most." Grubbs added, "To say we are excited to work with the iconic John Anderson is an understatement. JOHN's body of work speaks for itself, and we are ecstatic to be a part of the next chapter of his legendary career. Welcome to the family, JOHN!"

(13 Nov 2017) Well-Wishes For Leslie Fram
Well-wishes to CMT SVP/Music Strategy Leslie Fram, who is preparing to undergo surgery following an accident at her home. FRAM's husband, LANNY WEST, reported via FACEBOOK that FRAM was walking their dog BO in the back yard last WEDNESDAY (11/8) when the dog took off running at full speed, slammed in to FRAM's left knee, and snapped it. FRAM was rushed to the hospital where it was determined that she has a bad fracture of the knee.
TOMORROW (11/14), FRAM will undergo knee repair surgery. She will then work through a three-month, non-weight-bearing recovery period followed by knee and leg rehab.

(13 Nov 2017) UMG Nashville Thankgiving Liners


(14 Nov 2017) Country Music Hall Of Fame And Museum To Open Tim McGraw & Faith Hill Exhibit




















The Country Music Hall Of Fame And Museum (CMHOF) has revealed details of its Tim McGraw and Faith Hill exhibition (NET NEWS 1/12) entitled "Tim Mcgraw & Faith Hill: Mississippi Woman, Louisiana Man." Opening Friday, November 17th, the exhibit will chronicle the parallel singing careers that started in adjacent SOUTHERN states and merged -- as spouses and performing partners -- in NASHVILLE.
"Tim Mcgraw & Faith Hill: Mississippi Woman, Louisiana Man" will incorporate a wide array of memorabilia representing milestones and significant moments in the couple's lives both separately and together. "We are honored to be included in the halls of this historic museum, among the names and faces of so many of our friends and music heroes," said MCGRAW and HILL. "This is a moment that dreams are made of, and we are so appreciative to the COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME AND MUSEUM for all the hard work and care that has gone into the exhibit.

(16 Nov 2017) Singer-songwriter Jenn Bostic has launched a Pledge crowd fund campaign that allows fans to pre-order the new album Revival out in April 2018. It’s an unapologetic fusion of roots, rock, blues, pop, country and gospel.
Pledges of an unknown goal start at $8/ £6 to get a download of the new album as soon as it’s released up to $2,500/ £1898 GBP where Jenn will bring her full band along to play a house concert, wedding or private event for you, performing songs from the new album plus albums past.

(17 Nov 2017) Expect to hear new Taylor Swift music on country radio soon. The country-turned-pop mega-star is releasing a new song called "New Year's Day" to country stations.
"New Year's Day" is the closing song on Swift's brand-new album, Reputation, which mostly focuses on far more progressive pop tracks including "Look What You Made Me Do" and "... Ready for It?"  And while the pop-influenced piano ballad isn't going to draw any comparisons to classic Loretta Lynn or Tammy Wynette, it's every bit as much of a contemporary country track as many of the songs Swift scored big country hits with, and probably more so than a track like "We Are Never, Ever Getting Back Together."

(17 Nov 2017) Lance Carpenter Signs With Show Dog Nashville
Singer-songwriter Lance Carpenter has signed with Show Dog Nashville. Carpenter co-wrote "Love Me Like You Mean It," the #1 debut single from Black River Entertainment's Kelsea Ballerini.
"It takes a village of people to build a career, and there are so many people who've helped me get to this point," said CARPENTER. "I'm thankful for that. This is an opportunity I never thought I'd get, and I'll do my damndest to make the best of it."

(17 Nov 2017) Sugarland Confirms Reunion, Forthcoming New Music During Facebook Live Video
SUGARLAND's Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush have made it officially official -- they are getting the band back together. The pair took to the SUGARLAND official FACEBOOK page to share a brief FACEBOOK LIVE video Friday morning (Nov 17) with fans to reveal that they have been writing and recording together, and that new music will be forthcoming.
Though no details are known about the reunion or the new music, Sugarland was visibly together during "The 51st Annual CMA Awards," during which they appeared together to present the award for Vocal Duo Of The Year. Following the Awards, the pair also reunited on stage at the BIG MACHINE LABEL GROUP after party to play some of their biggest hits, leading many to believe that the pair will be a part of the BMLG family, where NETTLES has been signed in recent years.

AWARDS
(20 Nov 2017) Keith Urban and Bruno Mars were the big winners at the American Music Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday (19 Nov 17).
Urban swept the country awards for which he was nominated and seemed genuinely shocked (Photo) with his triple - for Male Artist, Song and Album - while Bruno picked up the coveted Artist of the Year trophy. The show began on a sombre note as Jamie Foxx and his daughter Corinne offered up a tribute to America's first responders. Foxx introduced the night's opening performance - Kelly Clarkson and Pink's emotional performance of R.E.M.'s Everybody Hurts, after delivering his own powerful message.
The list of winners include:
Artist of the Year: Bruno Mars
Lifetime Achievement: Diana Ross
New Artist of the Year: Niall Horan
Tour of the Year: WINNER: Coldplay, Garth Brooks, U2
Favorite Male Artist (Country): Sam Hunt, Thomas Rhett, WINNER: Keith Urban
Favorite Female Artist (Country): Miranda Lambert, Maren Morris, WINNER: Carrie Underwood
Favorite Duo or Group (Country): Florida Georgia Line, WINNER: Little Big Town, Old Dominion
Favorite Album (Country): Jason Aldean — They Don’t Know, Chris Stapleton — From a Room: Volume 1, WINNER: Keith Urban — Ripcord
Favorite Song (Country): “Body Like a Back Road” — Sam Hunt, “Dirt on My Boots” — Jon Pardi, WINNER: “Blue Ain’t Your Color” — Keith Urban

TV
(13 Nov 2017) Natalie Stovall was sent home after her Voice battle round performance of Little Big Town’s ‘Boondocks’ with fellow Team Blake member Adam Cunningham on ‘The Voice’ a few weeks ago. But, she has been chosen to return as a Comeback Artist! She tweeted: Never. Give. Up. You’ve asked. I’ve almost bursted not being able to tell you. But YES!!!!! I’m the comeback artist for #TeamBlake!!!!!! And look at this amazing company of other comeback artists I get to be with!”

(14 Nov 2017) Taylor Swift made an unscheduled visit to the Tonight Show on Monday (Nov. 13) to perform a special tribute to Jimmy Fallon's mom, who died recently, and her song left the host and his staff in tears. Watch >> here
She was wearing a RtA ‘Marvin Hoodie’ - $596.00 Product

(15 Nov 2017) I'm Special, So Special: Capitol's Carrie Underwood and John Legend will co-host Grammy's Greatest Stories: A 60th Anniversary Special Nov. 24 on CBS-TV. The show will feature rare archival footage, exclusive interviews and appearances by Grammy winners and nominees, including Blake Shelton and Keith Urban.

(17 Nov 2017) The Hollywood Reporter (THR) has reported that CMT-TV's "NASHVILLE" will end following its upcoming sixth season. "NASHVILLE" originally aired on ABC-TV
before being dropped after its fourth season; CMT-TV then picked up the scripted drama in partnership with online streaming content provider HULU last June for the show's fifth season (6/10/16). "NASHVILLE" was renewed for its sixth season in April (4/10), and the final season will begin airing on CMT-TV on Thursday, January 4th, 2018.
THR goes on to state that once "NASHVILLE" wraps its sixth season, CMT-TV will exit the scripted originals space that previously included the Billy Ray Cyrus series "Still The King" and mini-series "Sun Records." No word yet on how the move away from scripted originals will effect CMT VP/Scripted Programming SHALEEN DESAI, who was brought on board in that role last OCTOBER
NASHVILLE on CMT | The Final Season >> Sneak Peek | Season 6 -
Curtain Call: CMT's Nashville will end after its upcoming sixth season, which premieres Jan. 4 on the network. The Lionsgate Television/Opry Entertainment-produced series first aired on ABC-TV in 2012, running for four seasons before moving to CMT in 2016. "After more than 120 episodes of unforgettable television, we believe that creatively it is time for the series to come to its triumphant close at the end of the upcoming season," says Lionsgate Chairman Kevin Beggs. Adds Exec. Producer Marshall Herskovitz, "All of us on Nashville are so incredibly grateful to the show's fans, who convinced CMT to give us a chance to keep telling the story of these remarkable characters.

BABY NEWS
(14 Nov 2017) Valory's Brantley Gilbert and wife Amber welcomed their first child, Barrett Hardy-Clay Gilbert, Saturday (11/11). "Honestly, I’m just speechless," Gilbert told People. "Watching the delivery, I don't even know what to say. Amber and I are just so thankful and blessed to have this beautiful little boy."

MUSIC NEWS
(17 Nov 2017) Neil Young announced that a high-quality archive of his complete catalog will be made available to stream (for free as of its launch) on December 1, featuring uncompressed master recordings on a digital timeline with supplemental info cards, corresponding media and even memorabilia. Read more

(21 Nov 2017) P1 Media Group Study: America's Most-Played Christmas Hits
Play It Again, Santa! P1 MEDIA GROUP conducted a survey over the past weekend to find out how Americans 25-54 rate the 40 most-played CHRISTMAS songs from the 2016 holiday Season. Six decades after its release, “Jingle Bell Rock” by BOBBY HELMS was the top testing CHRISTMAS Song for 2017, followed by Brenda Lee's "Rockin' Around The CHRISTMAS Tree," Andy Williams' "It's The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year," and Burl Ives' "Holly Jolly CHRISTMAS." Amy Grant's "Winter Wonderland" came in at No.13. The full results are available here.

SINGLE / ALBUM NEWS
(16 Nov 2017) Brandi Carlile releases lead single “The Joke” from forthcoming Dave Cobb-Produced Album

PRESS RELEASES
(14 Nov 2017) 7th Annual Natd Honors Gala Recognizes Charley Pride, Jeannie Seely, David Corlew, Barbara Hubbard, Sean Henry And Bobby Roberts Special Appearances By Charlie Daniels, Bobby Bare, John Anderson, Lorrie Morgan, Bill Anderson, Doc Mcghee And Grand Ole Opry General Manager Sally Williams
The Nashville Association of Talent Directors’ (NATD) 7th Annual Honors Gala recognized some of the best in their respective fields for their accomplishments and service to the Nashville entertainment industry. The event, presented by the Grand Ole Opry and Springer Mountain Farms, featured some of Nashville’s best to present and show respect to the honorees and included emcees Nash Nights Live’s Shawn Parr and WKRN’s Stephanie Langston.
Country legend and member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and member of the Grand Ole Opry, Charlie Daniels, who has worked for over more than 44 years with President/Co-Owner of Blue Hat Records, David Corlew, shared stories of their long working relationship and presented his lifelong friend the award.
GRAMMY® award-winning artist, “Miss Country Soul”, Jeannie Seely was paid a musical tribute by fellow Grand Ole Opry member Lorrie Morgan, who performed “Don’t Touch Me." Sally Williams, SVP of Programming and Artist Relations for Opry Entertainment and General Manager of the Grand Ole Opry spoke of Seely’s illustrious career. Bill Anderson, a member of the Grand Ole Opry for over fifty years presented her with her award.
Entertainment Group
L-R  Honorees David Corlew, Barbara Hubbard, Charley Pride, Jeannie Seely, Bobby Roberts , and Sean Henry attend the 2017 NATD Honors Gala at Hermitage Hotel on November 14, 2017 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Rick Diamond/Getty Images for NATD)
(16 Nov 2017) Platinum-selling recording artist and hit songwriter, Jamie O’Neal has signed with Sawyer and Garner Management (who also represents Tanya Tucker) and Buddy Lee Attractions as she prepares to launch a new album in the first quarter of 2018.
O’Neal became a household name in 2000 with her back-to-back #1 singles, "There Is No Arizona" and "When I Think About Angels."  With multiple hits that followed, including "Shiver," "Trying To Find Atlantis" and "Somebody's Hero," O'Neal was on fire. She earned numerous career accolades (including multiple Grammy nominations), won Academy of Country Music Awards and Billboard Awards and appeared on national television shows Access Hollywood, Entertainment Tonight, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with David Letterman, among many others.  Her voice was also heard internationally in major motion pictures, including Bridget Jones's Diary, on ABC's Desperate Housewives and in commercials.

(16 Nov 2017) “Miss Country Soul,” Jeannie Seely has signed with 117 Publicity for exclusive representation while she continues to celebrate her illustrious career. “It is so exciting for me to be a part of 117 Publicity.”, said Jeannie Seely, adding, “Zach Farnum is a very knowledgeable, ambitious young man and he has surrounded himself with a like-minded staff.  They have respect for the legends and have a vision of how to represent them in this ever-changing business. I’m looking forward to working in this vibrant environment!”

(15 Nov 2017) Country music hitmaker and Grand Ole Opry member John Conlee shows no signs of slowing down, at age 71, with the announcement of a new album, CLASSICS 3, which will include some of his signature hits as well as a few new cuts. The project is slated for release Friday, January 26 on his own Rose Colored Records

(20 Nov 2017) Taylor Guitars has officially added Lucy Angel to their Artist Endorsement Program. Lucy Angel joins the star-studded list of artists and musicians including Taylor Swift, Blackberry Smoke, Dave Mathews, Zac Brown, Kenny Loggins, George Strait and more. Emily Anderton of Lucy Angel, who primarily plays one of 32 limited edition 614 Gerry Buckley (GB) Taylor’s, loves to travel with the Baby Taylor due to its compact and lightweight frame. To celebrate the partnership, the trio launched a social media contest where a fan has a chance to win their own Baby Taylor Guitar. Click HERE to view the contest.

(20 Nov 2017) Reigning ACM and CMA Vocal Duo of the Year Brothers Osborne, all-around entertainer Mac Davis and ACM and NSAI Song of the Year winner Natalie Hemby will take the stage at Nashville’s City Winery on February 28, 2018 to perform the very first and the very worst songs they ever wrote, in addition to their biggest hits, all in support of Music Health Alliance. “The First And The Worst,” now in its fourth year, is a one-of-a-kind event only Nashville can deliver as our greatest talents come together to showcase their silliest and most shameful songs, all while competing for the audience-voted “Crappy” trophy.

ARTICLES
(13 Nov 2017) Shania Twain: Life’s About To Get Good: After serious illness and divorce, the iconic country singer reveals the struggles behind her first album in 15 years Read More at Cowgirl Magazine

REVIEWS
(15 Nov 2017) Alan Cackett.com Kenny Chesney - LIVE IN NO SHOES NATION: Ten Years Of Concert Hits (Blue Chair Bay/Sony Nashville) 4 STARS

INTERVIEWS
(15 Nov 2017) NOW The big Shania Twain Interview by Christian Lamitschka on Country Music News International

Listen to "Shania Twain Interview by Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International" on Spreaker.

(22 Nov 2017) Capitol's Little Big Town appeared on Pickler & Ben (Nov 22). Watch the interview here.

MAGAZINES
(20 Nov 2017) Black Friday Deals on Country Music Magazine Annual Direct Debit - save 45%! (£19.75 for 6 issues)

LISTEN
(18 Nov 2017) Chris Stapleton reveals his own methods of introspection on the unapologetic "Tryin' to Untangle My Mind," the next preview of his forthcoming installment From A Room: Vol. 2 (out Dec. 1). Listen here

WATCH
(15 Nov 2017) Reba singing O Holy Night makes us wish it was Christmas
Reba can do no wrong. From her love of horses to her amazing vocal talents, she is a true dime.
As if we needed more reasons to love Reba, she recently released a Christmas album, titled MY KIND OF CHRISTMAS.
The album has all of the major Christmas classics, such as White Christmas and O Holy Night. The record is a re-release of her last Christmas album, with several new tracks for listeners to enjoy.
Reba McEntire performed "O Holy Night" on Pickler & Ben (Pickler & Ben is an hour-long, multi-segmented lifestyle talk show filmed in Nashville and hosted by country star Kellie Pickler — known for her quick-wit and bubbly personality — and journalist Ben Aaron, a funny, curious, and good-natured New Yorker.) >> YouTube Reba McEntire meets her biggest fan! on Pickler & Ben YouTube

COUNTRY FASHION
(13 Nov 2017) Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: BOOT), America’s largest western and work wear retailer, is proud to introduce Idyllwind - a lifestyle brand created by Miranda Lambert. The brand is inspired by vintage and retro looks with a modern fashion edge and a focus on comfort, fit and quality. The product range of apparel, accessories, and, of course, cowboy boots are true to Miranda’s spirit, -reflecting her roots, personality, and style – original, authentic, sexy, and fearless.
Idyllwind will be introduced this holiday in select Boot Barn stores in California, Texas, Tennessee, Nevada, Florida, Minnesota, South Dakota, Colorado, and Arizona. The full Idyllwind Fueled by Miranda Lambert launch will occur in Fall 2018.
The Boot Barn Team is excited to partner with Miranda Lambert on her exclusive Idyllwind brand. We view Miranda as the number one female country music star in the world and feel that her brand, coupled with her personal authenticity, are a natural fit with Boot Barn and our customer base,” said Mike Love, Senior Vice President of Marketing. “These limited trunk shows allow us to share the incredible styles of Idyllwind and serve as a precursor to the full launch coming in 2018.”
For additional details on the Miranda Lambert Idyllwind Trunk Shows, please visit www.bootbarn.com

(15 Nov 2017) Taylor Swift - Target commercial (x) | November 4, 2017

In her Target commercial Poster Taylor Swift embodied the entire rainbow to the max wearing a sequinned colorful mini dress by Ashish (Ashish ‘Rainbow Striped Sequin Mini Dress’ - $1,654.00 Product | >> Video

They also happened to be the brand behind her ‘Not A Lot Going On’ shirt from the "22" music video and famous sequinned crop top and track pants combo. She added a matching Ashish 'Striped Sequinned Cotton Shirt' ($1,619.81; Product) and fierce shiny gold Marco de Vincenzo ‘Cutout Basketweave Satin Ankle Boots ($494.00; Product) which feature unique cutouts and a basketweave construction.
Get the party look with a SHEIN Tied Back Sequin Halter Dress (In Stock SKU:dress170913457; £47.85 now £19.29  www.shein.co.uk)

Taylor Swift - reputation (CD + Target Exclusive Magazine Vol 1) Magazine Bundle Photoshoot





























DKNY Spring 2017 dress with Christian Louboutin ‘Who Dances Bootie’ Image
Only Available at Target, this unique and exclusive 72-page Volume 1 Magazine includes:
Taylor Swift’s New Album – reputation CD/ 14 Photography Portraits/ 20 Personal Photos/ 23 Photos from the Creation of Her Latest Music Video/ 2 Paintings by Taylor/ 1 Target Exclusive Poster/ Poetry by Taylor/ 16 Pages of Handwritten Lyrics on Her Watercolor Paintings (£10.47 (16% off) + Shipping: £23.31; Product Page)

(15 Nov 2017) You Won’t BELIEVE These Boots (customs from Rocket) Cowgirl Magazine

(16 Nov 2017) Get Revved Up in Nuevo Rancho Boots: A new breed of boot, Nuevo Rancho combines classic style with gorgeous details in show-stopping colors. These boots are stunners! www.nuevorancho.com

COUNTRY GOSSIP
(14 Nov 2017) Blake Shelton has been named People Magazine's Sexiest Man Alive 2017.
Country singer, Blake Shelton whose profile has been increased worldwide since he started dating Gwen Stefani, succeeds 2016 winner Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, and said he is more than flattered by the honour.
"I've been ugly my whole life," the 41-year-old joked after his new title was announced. "If I can be sexy for a year, I'm taking it!"
He also joked that he couldn't understand how he had clinched the honour, admitting the first thought that went through his mind when he heard was "that y'all must be running out of people. Like, 'Wow, we're down to somebody who is somewhat symmetrical.'"
But now Blake has been publicly announced as the Sexiest Man Alive, he can't wait to tease his fellow The Voice judge Adam Levine about it - as the Maroon 5 frontman took home the honour in 2013.
"It's going to be used in every conversation, whether it's at The Voice, or at the feed in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, or in a conversation with a doctor," he laughed. "When (people) would say to Adam, 'Mr. Sexy,' you'd always see him go, 'Well, awwww...' If you say that to me, it's going to be, 'You're damn right, I'm Mr. Sexy!'
"I'm not going to treat this like Hugh Jackman or one of those guys who's humble about it. People are going to hate me over this."
Blake's big reveal to Adam was shown on The Voice on Tuesday (14 Nov 2017), when he surprised his pal by showing him a giant version of his cover shot.
"This is a great source of pride and, I win," Blake said as he unveiled the picture, before Adam joked: "I am proud of you buddy, because I'm only friends with other SMAs (Sexiest Men Alive)."
Another person thrilled to learn of Blake's new title was his girlfriend Gwen. When the news was broken to her during an interview with Access Hollywood, the No Doubt star grinned from ear to ear and said: "What? Oh my god, well they got that right! Wow, I knew I was on to something. Wow, I'm gonna look really good huh? I already had scored but now I really scored."

(14 Nov 2017) Jana Kramer and several of her former One Tree Hill castmates and crew members have stepped forward to accuse showrunner Mark Schwahn of sexual harassment over the run of the show.
Former One Tree Hill writer Audrey Wauchope was the first woman to come forward from the show, which ran from 2003-2012 on the WB and the CW. On Saturday (Nov. 11), she posted a series of tweets recounting her first television writing job, alleging that she and her writing partner, Rachel Specter, and numerous other women were systematically sexually harassed on that set.
Wauchope alleged that she and others were subject frequent and unwanted touching, and accused a powerful man from the show of showing nude photos of an actress with whom he was having an affair to cast and crew, as well as discouraging Specter from getting married so that he could date her.

(18 Nov 2017) Carrie Underwood's husband has thanked fans for supporting his wife as she recovered from wrist surgery this week (13 Nov 2017).
Former ice hockey star Mike Fisher rushed to the singer's side after learning she had been hospitalised following a nasty fall at their home in Tennessee last week (10Nov17). Carrie broke her wrist and underwent surgery on Tuesday (14Nov17).
She updated fans the following day, tweeting: "I just wanted to let everyone know that I'm doing great. Had surgery on my wrist yesterday & all went well... even though I'll be setting off airport metal detectors from now on... I'm so thankful for the doctors, nurses, family & friends who've been taking such great care of me."
The injury and subsequent surgery forced the Before He Cheats star to pull out of the induction ceremony for her native Oklahoma Hall of Fame - and she had to give up the honour. She is expected to be nominated again next year (18).

BIRTHDAYS
Birthdays in the week ahead
November 20: the late Curly Putman (1930; died Oct 30, 2016 (aged 85)), Sarah Jory (1969), Joe Walsh (Eagles) (1947), Jim Brickman (1961), Dierks Bentley (1975), Josh Turner (1977)
November 21: the late Jean Shepard (1933; died Sept 25, 2016 (aged 82)), Teresa McCarter & Lisa (McCarter Sisters) (1966), Kelsi Osborne (SheDaisy) (1974) 
November 22: the late John Jennings (1953; died Oct 16, 2015 (aged 61)
November 23: the late Shel Silverstein - (1932; died May 10, 1999 (aged 68)) 
November 25: Eddie Stubbs (Johnson Mountain Boys) (1961), Erin Hay (1970), Amy Grant (1960) 
November 26: Joe Nichols (1976), Linda Davis (1962), Mike Gossin (Gloriana),

R.I.P
Country Music Legend Mel Tillis passes aged 85 - BLOG POST

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