Tuesday 15 October 2019

Country Bites News snippets September 30 – October 6, 2019

UK News, UK Chart News, Album & Single Releases, US & Canadian News, Music News, Press Releases, TV, Interviews, Articles & Videos, Birthdays

BREAKING NEWS
Country News – October 9, 2019 with Shannon McCombs
This week Carrie Underwood talks about how she wrote - what has become her 27th #1 hit! And Shannon talks with Luke Combs about his new album and next tour.



UK NEWS

(4 Oct 2019) Wildwood Kin returned with their self-titled second album which dropped October 4th via Silvertone Records/Sony.
(Amazon UK - iTunes). The 10-track album tagged “Pop” debuted at #6 on UK Alternative iTunes Album Chart (#9 UK iTunes all-genres),

They received a piece in The Times, performed live on Radio 2’s Sunday Brunch and got featured in Spotify’s NMF & #10 iTunes. Their headline tour kicks off in November.
Completely fulfilling the band’s artistic vision, it’s as natural as it is accomplished. The trio’s vocals harmonise effortlessly, there are shades of Simon & Garfunkel, Bear’s Den and early Fleet Foxes in the beautifully gentle melodies, and its lyrics address profound themes like love, loss and spirituality. But above all, there’s a spirit to the record that’s as wild and free as the West Country moors where they grew up.

(4 Oct 2019) CMR Nashville were proud to win the Best Country Music Radio Station 2019 from London's Lux Life Global Hospitality Awards. CEO Lee Williams (Djanjo Promotions and former BCMA President) also won the award for Excellence in Radio Broadcasting. See Facebook Picture

(Oct 2019) Kerry Fearon rules the British & Irish Hotdisc Chart for 5 weeks with “To Ramona”

Following the success of my debut album ‘Honky Tonk Girl’ last year ( Kerry Fearon - Honky Tonk Girl (Album Review) ), decided to get back into the recording studio. She workinged once again with guitarist Wayne Golden (King’s Lynn, Norfolk) who has opened up his brand-new studio, The Blue Room in County Tyrone. Kerry shared “This follow up project is quite different to the traditional country vein of ‘Honky Tonk Girl’ and although very ‘country’, some material may lean more towards roots and Americana. I intend to release a series of taster singles before the full project is released next year”.

‘To Ramona’ is first from the project which was released for radio airplay. Arranged by Golden it has the added element of steel guitar by the very sought-after Richard Nelson, one of the chief organisers of the Irish Steel Guitar Festival.
“To Ramona” was promoted on the August 2019 Hotdisc #248. It made a debut at No.28 on the Hotdisc Top 40 and climbed to a peak of No.7 which it held for three weeks. It also topped the Hotdisc British & Irish chart for 5 weeks and has enjoyed a 10-week chart run (28-25-20-16-11-8-7-7-7-10). As of the chart dated October 13 it is No.10 & No.3 on the respective charts
“A lifelong favourite song of mine which resonated with me in my teenage years has somehow become of even more relevance to me in my late thirties. This folk waltz which was written by American singer-songwriter, author & visual artist Bob Dylan, has somehow found its way on to my set list on my recent UK tour dates and on the Irish tour dates with Ags Connolly & Leo Rondeau” added Fearon.
It has been a busy 2019 so far for Kerry with appearances at the Westport Folk and Bluegrass festival (hosting at the main event) and headlined the Maverick stage at the 25th Millport Country Music Festival on the Isle of Cumbrae in August.
 Kerry Fearon possesses a great voice oozing warmth and intimacy that makes you believe the lyrics of each and every song that she sings.” (www.alancackett.com)
Kerry is a member of the CMA, BCMA & AMA-UK. Keep in touch with her: www.kerryfearonmusic.com

(7 Oct 2019) Lisa Redford will drop her new single “I Just Can’t Forget” on 15 November! Music And Tour News wrote: ”Her ability to pen songs of genuine quality suggests her moment is due very soon.”

UK TOUR & GIG UPDATES
Keith Urban (May 2020 Extra Dates), Brothers Osborne (May), Hannah Rose Platt (Oct-Nov), Danny McMahon (Nov), Joey Clarkson (Nov), Kevin McGuire (Nov), Leaving Traces (A celebration of the life and music of Neal Casal; Nov), The Local Honeys (Nov)Tennessee Twin (Oct-Dec), Nashville Nights UK (Nov), Devon Mayson (Oct-Dec), Bailey Tomkinson (Jan), Megan O'Neill (Oct-Dec).

Link to Country Routes News Gig Page Image Map

UK CHART NEWS
Official UK Top 100 Singles Chart (Week Ending 10 October 2019)
4 October - 10 October 2019
Jumping 7-1, the debut hit for the 19-year-old, real name Toni Watson, Dance Monkey has been No.1 in her home land, Australia, for nine weeks, and its UK coronation occurs on consumption of 50,468 units (including 42,852 from sales-equivalent streams) - the lowest for a No.1 since Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper’s Shallow topped for the second and last time 48 weeks ago on consumption of 48,704 units.

Official UK Top 100 Albums Chart (Week Ending 10 October 2019)
4 October - 10 October 2019
Speaking to in GQ in 2011, Liam Gallagher said: “My favourite album would have to be something from The Beatles: Abbey Road, A Hard Day’s Night, John Lennon’s Imagine…I like everything they’ve done”.
He will, therefore, most likely be happy that the album to dislodge his Why Me? Why Not album from the top of the chart is indeed Abbey Road, which returned to the summit 50 years to the week after it first topped the chart, with multiple remastered and expanded editions issued to mark its golden anniversary helping it to top the list on consumption of 34,680 units (including 2,284 from sales-equivalent streams and 8,707 on vinyl).

Official UK Country Album Top 20 Chart (Week Ending 10 October 2019)
4 October - 10 October 2019
Zac Brown Band with THE OWL climbed 2-1 (2 weeks; #1 peak)
Sheryl Crow with THREADS fell 1-2 (5 weeks; #1 peak)
Highwomen with THE HIGHWOMEN held at No.3 (4 weeks; #2 peak)
Keifer Sutherland with RECKLESS & ME advanced 10-4 (23 weeks; #1 peak)
Chris Stapleton with TRAVELLER held at No.5 (82 weeks; #1 peak)
Midland with LET IT ROLL fell 4-6 (5 weeks; #1 peak)
Bros Landreth with 87’ made a debut at No.7
Jon Pardi with HEARTACHE MEDICATION made a debut at No.8
Jessie Buckley with WILD ROSE - OST fell 6-9 (25 weeks; #1 peak)
Michaela Anne with DESERT DOVE made a debut at No.10
Outside the Top 10
Willie Nelson with RIDE ME HOME fell 7-11 (15 weeks; #1 peak)
Ward Thomas with RESTLESS MINDS fell 8-12 (34 weeks; #1 peak)
Tanya Tucker with WHILE I'M LIVIN' fell 9-16 (6 weeks; #2 peak)

Official UK Americana Album Top 20 Chart (Ending 10 October 2019)
4 October - 10 October 2019
Beth Hart with WAR IN MY MIND (Provogue) made a debut at No.1. Whiskey Myers with Self Titled album (Spinefarm) arrived at No.6 & Bros Landreth with ‘87 (Birthday Cake) made a bow at No.7  

       





















COUNTRY ALBUM & SINGLES RELEASES

(1 Oct 2019) Dave Stamey - Good Dog (Horsecamp Music)
12 Tracks/ Time: 44:39 Amazon UK - iTunes

(4 Oct 2019) Brantley Gilbert - Fire & Brimstone (Valory)
15 Tracks/ Time: 51:22 Amazon UK - iTunes - Amazon.com
Debut #1 UK Country iTunes Album Chart (#36 UK iTunes all-genres) | Debut #1 US Country iTunes Album Chart (#1 US iTunes all-genres)
Gilbert wrote or co-wrote all 15 songs on his fifth studio album, which boasts the single, “What Happens In A Small Town” featuring Lindsay Ell, and collaborations with Willie Nelson, Alison Krauss, Jamey Johnson, Lukas Nelson and Colt Ford.

(4 Oct 2019) King Calaway - Rivers (Stoney Creek Records / 24 Entertainment) UK/US
12 Tracks/ Time: 40:45 Amazon UK - iTunes - Amazon.com
Debut #2 UK Country iTunes Album Chart (#42 UK iTunes all-genres) | Debut #13 US Country iTunes Album Chart (#103 US iTunes all-genres)

(4 Oct 2019) Daniel Meade - Rust (Button Up Records) UK
10 Tracks/ Time: Americana Amazon UK - iTunes
Debut #3 UK Country iTunes Album Chart (#126 UK iTunes all-genres), then #5

(4 Oct 2019) Old Crow Medicine Show - Live at The Ryman (Columbia Records via The Orchard)
11 Tracks/ Time: 42:29 Amazon UK - iTunes - Amazon.com
Debut #20 UK Country iTunes Album Chart | Debut #6 US Country iTunes Album Chart (#61 US iTunes all-genres), then #4 (#38 US all-genres)

(4 Oct 2019) Logan Ledger - I Don't Dream Anymore (EP; Rounder)
4 Tracks/ Time: 18:13 Amazon UK - iTunes
Debut #118 US Country iTunes Album Chart (#923 US iTunes all-genres)

(4 Oct 2019) Alexa Rose - Medicine For Living (Big Legal Mess Records)
10 Tracks/ Singer/Songwriter Amazon UK - iTunes

(4 Oct 2019) Bonnie Bishop - The Walk (Plan BB Music)
7 Tracks/ Time: 40:55 Singer/Songwriter Folk Amazon UK - iTunes

(Oct 2019) Brea Burns & the Boleros - Heartbreak & Drinkin' Songs (Brea Burns & the Boleros) 12 Tracks
Brea Burns and the Boleros have been called "Hank Williams and Wanda Jackson meeting Country Music's future". Founded by front woman and songwriter Brea Burns, this band has been on an upward spiral from the start.
Brea's well-crafted songs take the listener on a journey through cheating, heartaches, honky-tonks, and everything in between. Their unique sound is steeped in all the best aspects of traditional Country and Rockabilly music, with a fresh approach that keeps the modern listener engaged. The band's dynamic live performance has found them sharing the stage with many roots music legends including Dale Watson, Billy Joe Shaver, Wayne Hancock, Kim Lenz, Big Sandy and his Fly-Rite boys, Junior Brown, and Asleep at the Wheel, among others.

(4 Oct 2019) Brooke White - Calico (June Baby Records)
12 Tracks/ Time: 45:39 Amazon UK - iTunes - Amazon.com - Bandcamp
Debut #10 US Country iTunes Album Chart (#96 US iTunes all-genres), then #9 (#77 US iTunes all-genres).

In June Brooke released new single “Calico” on Nevado Music / June Baby Records.
Cue “Calico”, a collection of twelve lush and lively anthems, the record earmarks the journey of the songstress as it turns the page on her most passionate, powerful, and personal chapter to date.
The Arizona-born Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, extends a warm invite to a place smack dab in the middle of Nashville and Laurel Canyon, on her new single and forthcoming album, Calico – short for “California Country.”
Landing her first big break as top 5 finalist on season 7 of American Idol, millions of viewers formed an emotional bond and welcomed her barefoot-at-the-piano style into their homes on a weekly basis.
While singer-songwriters from the golden era of the 70s attributed to her sound, it was the influence of the country legends she grew up listening to that came soaring through her vocals
The debut single and title track, ‘Calico’ encompasses the spirit of the album, with a stomping groove and sunny storytelling, punctuated by a big chant, banjo solo and handclaps.  “This is the wild, wild west."
American Idol's Brooke White Paves Her Own Country Path - Phoenixnewtimes.com

(Oct 2019) Carolina East - Soaked in Whiskey (Carolina East)

(4 Oct 2019) Houses On The Hill - Fall into You (EP; Epidemic Sound)
6 Tracks/ Time: 18:18 Amazon UK - iTunes
Debut #39 UK Country iTunes Album Chart

(4 Oct 2019) Kelsey Waldon - White Noise / White Lines (Oh Boy Records/ Thirty Tigers)
11 Tracks/ Time: 33:48 Amazon UK - iTunes - Amazon.com
Debut #19 UK Country iTunes Album Chart (# UK iTunes all-genres) | Debut #21 US Country iTunes Album Chart (#175 US iTunes all-genres), then #10 (#81 US all-genres)
White Lines, White Noise is an album best listened to in whole, in whole sequence. You’ll want to listen, and to re-listen, to Kelsey Waldon’s White Lines, White Noise. With the support of Oh Boy! Records, Kelsey got the bigger canvas she deserves to share her vision. - Lyric Magazine

(4 Oct 2019) Lizanne Knott - Bones and Gravity (Lizanne Knott) 
11 Tracks/ Time: 40:00 Folk Amazon UK - iTunes - Amazon.com
Debut #40 UK Country iTunes Album Chart

(4 Oct 2019) Louise Mandrell - Playing Favorites (Time-Life Music)
15 Tracks/ Time: 47:38 Amazon UK - iTunes - Amazon.com

(4 Oct 2019) Mikaela Finne - Mikaela Finne (Mikaela Finne) NOR/SWE
12 Tracks/ Time: 49:09 Country/Pop Amazon UK - iTunes

(4 Oct 2019) Monica Rizzio - Sunshine Is Free (Washashore Music)
11 Tracks/ Time: 39:17 Folk Amazon UK - iTunes - Amazon.com

(4 Oct 2019) Stephanie Quayle - If I Was A Cowboy (Rebel Engine)
Co-penning three of the five tracks featured alongside writers including Nicolle Glayon, Ross Copperman and Shane McAnally, Quayle partnered with Wrangler on the video for the title track

(4 Oct 2019) Wildwood Kin - Wildwood Kin (Sony Music Entertainment UK) UK Pop
10 Tracks Alternative Amazon UK - iTunes
Debut #6 UK Alternative iTunes Album Chart (#9 UK iTunes all-genres),

(4 Oct 2019) Darryl Worley - Country Christmas (Creekhouse Entertainment / BFD / AUDIUM Nashville) CHRIS
7 Tracks/ Time: 20:32 Amazon UK - iTunes - Amazon.com

(4 Oct 2019) Lauren Jane - The Other Side (Single; Lauren Jane) UK
Time: 3:36 Amazon UK - iTunes - Spotify
Debut #32 UK Country iTunes Singles Chart (# UK iTunes all-genres), then #34, then #13, then #16, then #23, then #32

(4 Oct 2019) Mairead - If You Loved Me Once (feat. Johnny Brady) (Single; Máiréad) IRE
Time: 3:39 Amazon UK - iTunes
Debut #31 UK Country iTunes Singles Chart (# UK iTunes all-genres), then #26, then #46

(7 Oct 2019) Remember Monday - Home To Me (Remember Monday) UK
Debut #32 UK Country iTunes Singles Chart, then #30, #9 (#515 all-genres), then #8, then #6 (#203, 213, #228, 221) | Tues Oct 8: #6 (#218), then #8, then #9
Remember Monday's 2nd single ‘Home To Me’ dropped at midnight (Monday Oct 7) after receiving an exclusive first play on Country Hits Radio by Matt Spracklen
"I'm playing the best in British country music and talking about the best I have got a track for you now by one of the best country bands in the UK and they have a brand new single out, tonight, get excited for this I've got the brand new exclusive from Remember Monday this is awesome as you knew it would be" - Matt Spracklen  

CANADIAN NEWS
(30 Sept 2019) HOT AND NEW Amanda Jordan "Driving in the Dark"
Strong and sensitive, Amanda Jordan is an independent country music artist who cares deeply about the world around her and is using her natural musical gifts to make smooth strides as an emerging international presence both in Canada and in Nashville.
Amanda Jordan presently divides her time between Nashville - where she performs as a featured songwriter on the Nashville Songbird Tour Bus and has been writing with the likes of  Phil Barton, Jason Matthews, Daniel Ross, and Abram Dean - and Canada, where she has been recording with award winning producer Jason Barry. With new music having come to fruition in the form of 2019's contemporary country single, "Driving in the Dark", Amanda Jordan is ready put her unique spin on the international country music landscape - and make it count. Released 20 Aug 2019 - iTunes - Spotify



(30 Sept 2019) Michelle Wright Announces 2019 Christmas Tour and New Music for Christmas
In December, celebrated recording artist Michelle Wright, will embark on her 2019 Christmas Tour. The tour begins December 3 in Brantford, ON with shows set across Ontario and Alberta through December 15.
 The Michelle Wright Christmas Tour is a holiday tradition for music lovers of all ages. From carols to your favorite holiday classics, the renowned show has been putting audiences across Canada in the festive spirit of the holiday season for over a decade.
Soon it will be Christmas Day


Release Date: 20 Sept 2019
Michelle Wright - Silver Bells (Single; Navigator Records)
Time: 2:43 Christmas Amazon UK - iTunesYouTube Audio - Spotify

Christmas is always a special time for Michelle and, between breaks in her summer tour schedule, Michelle and producer Bob Funk have been working on new Christmas music. Navigator Records will release "Silver Bells" to radio and across all digital platforms just in time for the holidays.

(3 Oct 2019) HOT AND NEW Danielle Todd "Back Burner"
Following a childhood comprised of watching her rock-turned-country musician father make a living and eventually making a name for herself doing the same, Canadian country singer/songwriter Danielle Todd made the move to Nashville, Tennessee. Cutting her teeth day in and day out under the neon lights of Broadway, she quickly learned the grit it takes to survive an industry that sometimes takes as much as it gives.
"Backburner." is Danielle's new single. This song unveils a fierce and edgy side to Danielle's natural charm, focusing on the empowerment of walking away from a toxic relationship. This highly anticipated radio single will be followed with an East Coast and Ontario radio tour and run of shows in Australia in early 2020.

NEWS
(1 Oct 2019) Opry Hosts 'Dolly Week 2019'
The GRAND OLE OPRY will celebrate DOLLY PARTON's 50th anniversary as an OPRY member by hosting "DOLLY Week 2019." The Opry will host five nights of shows to honor the Country music legend, including performances from Bill Anderson, Dierks Bentley, Emmylou Harris, Chris Janson, Toby Keith, Lady Antebellum, Margo Price, Jeannie Seely, Hank Williams, JR. and more. Each artist will perform a mix of their own songs as well as iconic hits from PARTON.
PARTON will finish off the week of celebration by taking the stage for two sold-out shows on Saturday, October 12th.

(1 Oct 2019) Lady Antebellum, Clint Black and Mac McAnally will receive stars on the Music City Walk of Fame during an induction ceremony Oct. 22 in Nashville's Music City Walk of Fame Park. Chet Atkins and DeFord Bailey will also be honored, receiving stars posthumously.

(3 Oct 2019) Jon Pardi Proposes At Ryman Auditorium
CAPITOL NASHVILLE's Jon Pardi proposed to his girlfriend, Summer Duncan, onstage during his show at the RYMAN AUDITORIUM in NASHVILLE on Wednesday, October 2nd, the second of his two consecutive headlining shows at the venue. Close pal, and labelmate Dierks Bentley was side-stage for the event and shared his well-wishes to Pardi and Duncan via INSTAGRAM

(3 Oct 2019) MGM Settles With Route 91 Victims: Two years after the tragedy at Route 91 Harvest Festival, MGM Resorts International and the victims of the Las Vegas mass shooting reached a settlement. Depending upon the number of claimants, the settlement is worth up to $800 million, with MGM Resorts' insurance coverage estimated at $751 million. "Our goal has always been to resolve these matters so our community and the victims and their families can move forward in the healing process," says MGM Resorts Chairman/CEO Jim Murren. "This agreement with the plaintiffs' counsel is a major step and one that we hoped for a long time would be possible. We have always believed that prolonged litigation around these matters is in no one's best interest. It is our sincere hope that this agreement means that scenario will be avoided."

(6 Oct 2019) Michael Ray and Carly Pearce wed
Country music stars Michael Ray and Carly Pearce tied the knot in front of family and friends in Nashville, Tennessee on Sunday.
The pair exchanged vows they had written themselves during the emotional ceremony at the Drakewood Farm, which was officiated by country music DJ Bill Cody.
While they'd hoped to have their wedding outdoors, severe rain storms meant they had to marry inside one of the venue's barns, but that just added to the "earthy, whimsical and romantic" tone Carly was going for.
The 29-year-old singer opted for a non-traditional gown for her big day and looked stunning in her Samantha Sleeper dress, featuring a high neckline and short skirt, with a piece of patterned lace over the top. Celebrity guests at the event included singers Lindsay Ell and Jake Owen, who performed while the newlyweds enjoyed their first dance as husband and wife.
In an interview with People about their nuptials, the couple, who got engaged last December after five months of dating, gushed about their love for one another.
"Knowing without a shadow of a doubt that I didn't settle for something less than truly the person that I think was made for me is something that I am thankful for," Carly said, while Michael added: "No matter what, I have her in my corner. No matter what, she has me in her corner. I tell her, you're never going to face anything alone. Never will there be anything in life that you don't look over and I'm standing beside you." - Instagram (People)

(7 Oct 2019) Signage: Singer/songwriter Adam Doleac has signed with Sony Music Nashville's Arista imprint. His first single with the label group, "Famous," ships to Country radio Dec. 16.

AWARDS
(30 Sept 2019) Florida Georgia Line Earns Three ACM 'Decade Awards'
BMLGR's Florida Georgia Line received the Academy of Country Music's inaugural Breakout Artist of the Decade Award, Single of the Decade Award for "Cruise" and Music Event of the Decade Award for "Meant To Be" with Bebe Rexha during a surprise backstage presentation Saturday (9/28) at their final stop on the Can't Say I Ain't Country Tour in Irvine, CA. They join recently announced Artist-Songwriter of the Decade Chris Stapleton, Songwriter of the Decade Rhett Akins and Song of the Decade Award recipients Miranda Lambert, and songwriters Tom Douglas and Allen Shamblin, for “The House That Built Me." Jason Aldean was celebrated as Artist of the Decade at the 54th ACM Awards. "We are excited to award BK and Tyler with these well-deserved awards to celebrate these unprecedented multiple career milestones from this past decade," says ACM Interim Exec. Dir. RAC Clark. The last of the seven all-new ACM Decade Award categories, Album of the Decade, will be announced in the coming weeks.

(2 Oct 2019) Ashley McBryde To Receive CMT's Breakout Artist Of The Year Award
Warner Music Nashville/War's Ashley McBryde will receive the Breakout Artist Of The Year award at the 2019 "CMT Artists Of The Year" event. Previous recipients of the honor have been Chris Stapleton in 2015 and Kelsea Ballerini in 2016. The 90-minute show will air on CMT from Nashville's Schermerhorn Symphony Center on Wednesday, Oct 16th at 8p (ET). 

TOURS
(7 Oct 2019) Tour Support: Monster Energy Outbreak Tour Presents: Morgan Wallen's Whiskey Glasses Roadshow kicks off Jan. 2 in Grand Rapids, MI. Joining Wallen are Jon Langston and Ashland Craft. Schedule here.

TV
(1 Oct 2019) Capitol's Jon Pardi performed "Heartache Medication" and "Me And Jack" on ABC's Jimmy Kimmel Live (10/1).
Watch HERE and HERE

(3 Oct 2019) In Case You Missed It: Wheelhouse's Runaway June sang "We Were Rich" on ABC's Good Morning America (10/3). Watch here.

(3 Oct 2019) Low Country Sound/Elektra Records' The Highwomen played "Redesigning Women" on The Ellen DeGeneres Show (10/3). Watch here.

(4 Oct 2019) In Case You Missed It: Capitol's Carrie Underwood performed "Low" on CBS' The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (10/3). Watch here; interview here.



MUSIC NEWS
(1 Oct 2019) BMI 5 Tips for Coping When Your Songs Are Rejected

(4 Oct 2019) Streaming Stocks Like Spotify, Tencent and Netflix Are Getting Slammed. Why?
Billboard Fresh competition and slowing subscriber growth have knocked more than $53 billion of dollars off streaming companies’ market values. Streaming companies might not be dying from a thousand cuts, but each tiny wound isn’t helping Wall Street’s opinion of them. A steady drip of news reports and analyst downgrades have eroded billions of dollars from streaming companies’ market value in the third quarter. One day a main competitor is bundled with smartphones and mobile service, the next, a new entrant to video subscriptions pays an ungodly sum of money for an exclusive license to a TV show.
The result? Over $53 billion in market value disappeared from Spotify, Tencent Music Entertainment and Netflix.
Spotify was hit by two announcements. On Tuesday (Sept. 24), Wells Fargo initiated coverage of Spotify with an “underperform” rating (meaning the stock is expected to perform below the overall market) and a $115 price target, $6.61 below the prior day’s closing price. Then on Friday (Sept. 27), Google announced it will pre-install YouTube Music on devices launching with Android versions 9 and 10. By the end of the week, Spotify shares had dropped 7%.
But the week’s drubbing wasn’t a new development. Since the beginning of August, the day after the company’s second-quarter earnings were released, Spotify shares have fallen 27.6%, knocking $7.7 billion from its market value. Nearly the entire decline came in the last 12 trading days dating back to Sept. 12. - Billboard

(6 Oct 2019) Kylie Minogue has announced details of a new live album and DVD plus an expanded edition of her greatest hits collection Step Back in Time.
The star will release Golden: Live in Concert on December 6. The 2CD and DVD album features the full live performance of her recent Golden tour as well as an extra bonus feature called We Are Golden.
Kylie's Golden tour took in 14 arena shows across the UK and Ireland in 2018, plus a further 19 shows across Europe and Australia. Watch a taster of what to expect from the DVD HERE

PRESS RELEASES
(1 Oct 2019) MADDIE & TAE DROP EP TITLE TRACK “EVERYWHERE I’M GOIN
 In the midst of a landmark week, current CMA Awards Vocal Duo of the Year nominees Maddie & Tae surprised fans by dropping the title track for Part Two of their album, Everywhere I’m Goin,' out on October 18 (Mercury Nashville). Written by the award-winning duo with Josh Thompson and Jimmy Robbins, the soaring track is both an intimate tribute to the past and snapshot into the future, while continuing to showcase “their vocal blend is among the most ear-catching in country today” (PEOPLE).  Listen here and watch here:



(8 Oct 2019) Record-breaking country superstar Luke Combs has released his newest single Even Though I’m Leaving. A stand-out track from hotly anticipated forthcoming second album WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU GET, out on
November 8, the song was recently shipped to country radio in the US to widespread critical acclaim, including
Official music video here:



 Even Though I’m Leaving marks another milestone in an already monumental year, during which Combs has continued to smash record after record, and is nominated for three awards at the 2019 CMA Awards: Male Vocalist of the Year, Song of the Year (“Beautiful Crazy”) and

In the UK, Luke is slated to be the best-selling male country artist of 2019 and was the first US country artist to sell out two Shepherds Bush Empire shows on his debut UK tour. See BLOG POST: Luke Combs’ next album, What You See Is What You Get, to drop November 8

INTERVIEWS
(2 Oct 2019) Lyricinterviews: Wildwood Kin On Their New Album, Their ‘Concise’ Recording Process And How They Take Their Tea..By Neil Markides  On: October 2, 2019

(6 Oct 2019) Ep 17 - In Conversation With Mairead Country Music - The Inside Track
In this episode Samantha Melrose talks to up and coming Mairead about her latest single ‘If You Loved Me Once’ as well as future plans and all things country... Apple Music Podcast

(6 Oct 2019) Your Life In A Song Interview. Dan Wharton joined Ashley McBryde conducted backstage on Sunday 29 September 2019 at the Manchester Academy 2. They talk about live shows and forthcoming new album





LISTEN
(3 Oct 2019) 10 Minute Country - Episode 50 - Everything I've Ever Learned About Country Music (By James Daykin Lyric Magazine)

Description: So, strap yourself in for the ride as we go deep into the murky waters of all the stuff that James has learned about Country music, on both sides of the Atlantic. The definitions, the evolutions, the people and places - all come under discussion.

Jame Daykin states: "Garth Brooks' In Pieces is the best country album of all time in 1993. I dabbled with country across the 90s but also listening to Hootie, Counting Crows, Matchbox 20 but it wasn't until 2004 when 3 albums came out that changed my view as to what country music could be and what I could listen to: Keith Urban's DAYS GO BY,  Sugarland's debut and Horse Of a Different by Big & Rich that blew my mind that sort of fusion of rock, hip-hop and country could be something I'm into. I've been into country on and off for 27 years.

Available to listen on Buzzsprout.com | Apple Music or on the player below




There is NO such thing as country music, Ken Burns in his recent documentory on the genre described it as a mighty mighty river with many tributaries. He described it on The Bobby Cast (Bobby Bones Podcast) as an alloy, a combination of 2 more metalic elements that together are strong than their constiguent parts. Country music is an alloy of roots, bluegrass roots, blues, rock, pop and Americana. It is stronger than when the are pulled apart so for me there is no such thing as country music it is an amalgam of all those styles.
Related Source: Bobbycast #200 - Ken Burns on Country Music documentary, Willie Nelson's struggle to be an artist, Story Behind 'Walk The Line" and Garth Brooks Moving To Nashville

Daykin observed: “There’s always voices aroung the genre claiming that what you are listening to is not country music. Used to quite annoy me when people tell me I'm not listening to country music that element of music snobbery, I know more than you". It's lazy a pointless mindset saying that's not country that doesn't belong in our genre because there is NO genre. 
You don't get music of depth from males right now. Most of music coming from men these days is poor, generic and boring. This week the song sitting at No1 in the charts this week is Chris Lane. There is no more ideal symbol of the shallowness, generic nature of what men are putting out there than Chris Lane.  
The best country music is happening away from radio. With streaming platforms and social media, and YouTube you can create your own playlists and not listen to the radio anymore. Radio is a beast that surely is on its knees in 2019.

WATCH
(3 Oct 2019) Billboard.com exclusively premiered compelling songstress Sandra Lynn's stunning "I Think of You" video for the "stirring ballad which features Lynn’s vulnerable and whispered vocals with delicate piano accompaniment and a steady drumbeat (Billboard/Annie Reuter)." 
Filmed in Santa Clarita, Calif., a remote ranch home became the setting where several seasons of a relationship could unfold; intercut seamlessly between past and present, brought to life by Lynn and actor Randy Jay Burrell, who was recently featured in Tori Kelly's "Change Your Mind" video.

(4 Oct 2019) Suzie Brown - C'mon Rain (Official) Written by Suzie Brown, Robby Hecht, and Hillary McBride
She shared When I’ve felt the saddest, I have taken so much comfort in having permission be as sad as I am. The last thing I’ve wanted is for someone to ‘look on the bright side’ (which only serves to invalidate how I’m feeling). This song is for all of us in our dark moments, to just let us be, no apologies needed.
I wrote this song with Robby Hecht and Hillary McBride in about 2 hours.  Scot Sax and I went out on a HOT summer day to film the video.  I was roasting in that raincoat, you have no idea!!!! My favorite thing about it is that the sun was going in and out of the clouds, so the light changes in this mysterious way at different parts of the video.


(7 Oct 2019) Billboard.com Exclusively Premieres Olivia Ooms' "California Country" Video
Huntington Beach-based songstress, Olivia Ooms, continued making waves when Billboard.com exclusively premiered the video for her latest single "California Country." CMT.com also added the road-trip themed video to Next Up Now.
The "star on the rise (
Guitar Girl Mag/Victoria Shaffer)" co-wrote "California Country" with ACM Award-winner Jamie O'Neal and co-directed the video with David Javier. Ooms previously worked with Javier on her "Thoughts of You" video, which world-premiered on CMT and earned Ooms a spot in CMT's Artist Discovery program.
Throughout the video, Ooms explores many locations along the west coast with her Highway 39 band members, explaining that the footage "quickly became a metaphor for 'traveling along the road of life and the many people we meet who influence us along our journey!'"

COUNTRY FASHION

(3 Oct 2019) Scottish and Irish based singer Lisa McHugh was snapped for her Country Mile single (May 2019 iTunes) wearing a Black bralet/ Crop top Top Shop , get the look with a Scuba Plunge Cross Bralet Boohoo or a black slinky cami bralet Missguided

She added a Zara BUTTONED SHORTS (Product 19.99 GBP) | Styling (Justine King), Hair (daniel anthony Enniskillen), Cosmetics/ Tan (BPerfect Cosmetics, Beaut Essential; Eden Beauty, Enniskillen) | Source Instagram



(3 Oct 2019) Paris Georgia one third of all girl UK country trio The Adelaides looked beautiful in a band photoshoot with Paul Ward | Makeup (Katy Bird) | Source Instagram

(7 Oct 2019) Una Healy's Autumn picks littlewoodsirl Launch Event

Have you decided on your favourite piece from #TheUnaEdit yet? Shop at Littlewoods Ireland.ie
She joined Ireland AM in studio for a catch up. They asked her all about her fashion line, new music, her radio show and a possible Saturdays reunion!

PHOTO
(Oct 2019) Bailey Tomkinson, 20-year old, 70’s nostalgic sunshine loving pop-country singer/songwriter from St Ives, UK was snapped for a photoshoot.

London based photographer Oleksandr Ivanchenko posted I had an amazing time photographing Bailey down in Cornwall last summer. An awesome girl, very talented singer/songwriter and a great model. Keep going, Bailey!












(4 Oct 2019) UK Country, musician and songwriter Emma King tweeted


BIRTHDAYS
Birthdays in the week ahead
Oct 7: Uncle Dave Macon - (1870; Oct 7, 1870)), Dale Watson (1963), Kieran Kane (1949), Melinda Schneider (1971) 
Oct 9: Brandy Clark (1975), Scotty McCreery (1993)
Oct 10: Tony Arata (1957), John Prine (1946), Tanya Tucker (1958), Luke Thomas (Jess and the Bandits; UK formerly of Luke & Mel)
Oct 11: Paulette Carlson (1952), Gene Watson (1943), the late Dottie West (1932; Oct 11, 1932; died Sept 4, 1991 (aged 58))
Oct 12: Martie Erwin (Dixie Chicks) (1969), Shane MacAnally (1974), Lisa Matassa.
Oct 13: Marie Osmond (1959), Rhett Akins (1969), Lacy J Dalton (1946), John Wiggins (1962)

R.I.P
(29 Sept 2019) Shocking News As The Industry Mourns Producer/Songwriter Busbee's Sudden Passing
Progressive country songwriter and producer Busbee died. According to Variety, a friend of Busbee said he had been “diagnosed with Glioblastoma", a form of brain cancer over the summer.

The well-regarded hitmaker had written hits for many of the most influential artists of the last five years, most notably Maren Morris and Keith Urban.

News of Busbee's (real name: Michael James Ryan) death at the age of 43 started to spread on social media late Sunday night (Sept. 29). Florida Georgia Line, Rascal Flatts and Lady Antebellum are three more he worked with extensively.

A repertoire search at the BMI website shows over 1,000 songwriting credits to Busbee's name.
A Rolling Stone article from 2016 is one of very few extensive pieces on his life and music available.
He came from Los Angeles and a jazz background before he started writing songs for pop and country audiences more than a decade ago. While he found success on country radio as far back as 2011 with Hunter Hayes' breakthrough hit "Storm Warning," it was the songs on Morris' Hero album ("My Church," "'80s Mercedes," "Once") and Urban's Ripcord album ("Sun Don't Let Me Down," "The Fighter," "Your Body") that caught all of Nashville's attention.
FGL's "H.O.L.Y." and Garth Brooks' "People Loving People" are two of his other early credits. His fingerprints could be found all over 2017 albums from Carly Pearce and Lady Antebellum. He also co-produced albums from Lauren Alaina and both of Morris' studio projects.
Pearce shared a particularly emotional Instagram note after learning of his death. Busbee helped her write her breakthrough hit "Every Little Thing."

TRIBUTES
SoundsLikeNashville: This is devastating, but @busbee's legacy will live on through his family and the many incredible songs he had a hand in writing.
Warner Records: Today we lost busbee, a dear friend, business partner with his company Altadena, and one of the best and brightest creative minds in music. busbee’s kindness and legacy will never be forgotten and our hearts and prayers go out to his family at this very difficult time.
Carly Pearce: No words. Rest easy my sweet, sweet friend. @busbee
Ty Bentli: This is the last memory I have #Busbee who’s talent, impact and support have created art unlike anything before it. I hosted this round at #TinPanSouth & was floored by him: kind, humble and genius. I couldn’t go to bed without singing the praises of a man who is already missed
Adam Lambert tweeted: "Shocked and saddened by the news today that we have lost Busbee. I am so grateful I was able to have collaborated with him. He was brilliant and warm, with palpable joy for his craft. RIP Sir.
Twinnie: Struggling to find the words tbh bc it doesn’t feel real. – Photo & statement on Instagram

Amy Wadge: Thank you for the music Busbee I am so incredibly sad to hear of your passing love to your beautiful family so glad we got to write songs together


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