Wednesday, 13 November 2019

Country Bites News snippets October 28 – November 3, 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 – November 6, 2019 with Shannon McCombs
This week, Shannon talks with Craig Morgan about the song he wrote after his son’s death. He talks about how Ricky Skaggs has been a big support for him. Also Clint Black, Trace Adkins, Dierks Bentley, Steve Wariner, Sara Evans, Michael Ray, Darius Rucker, and Travis Tritt are ALL in the news this week!



UK NEWS
On the BBC Radio 2 Playlist Saturday 2 November 2019
A List
Dan + Shay & Justin Bieber - 10,000 Hours upgraded from the “B” to the “A” playlist

(28 Oct 2019) Irish born and American based Mags rose 9-4 on the Hotdisc Top 40 (dated Oct 27, 2019) and thus claimed her second British & Irish No1 with her promo single "Emotional Honesty" (writers David M Ross and Steve O'Brien)
Emotional Honesty as performed by Mags. Written by David M. Ross & Steve O'Brien; 16,769 views published Oct 16, 2019


(29 Oct 2019) Black Deer Festival announced the first wave of acts for the 2020 line-up.
Topping the bill is Wilco and The Waterboys. They will be joined by a line-up that includes The Milk Carton Kids, Courtney Marie Andrews, The Felice Brothers, The Secret Sisters, Jack Broadbent, Madison Violet, The East Pointers, Midnight Skyracer, Native Harrow, The Dead Show, Irish Mythen and Amy Montgomery. Read More  | Tickets

(29 Oct 2019) AmericanaFest UK 2020 Showcase Festival 75 Americana artists from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and the EU, takes place over 6 venues all within walking distance from each other, Hackney Central, 28th & 29th January 2020
Artists announced so far performing at AmericanaFest UK 2020 Showcase Festival (Tues & Weds 28 & 29 January 2020 Hackey, London 6PM - 12 AM)
Ilse Delange, Isaak Opatz, Amelia White, Joshua Burnside, Amy Lavere, Blue Rose Code, Callum Pitt, The Goat Roper Rodeo Band, Izzie Walsh (UK), O & O, Robbie Vincent (UK), The Falls, Blair Dunlop , Jonathan Wilson , Demi Marriner (UK), Dean Maywood , The Secret Sisters , Lucy Feliz (UK), Sam Baker, The Ballroom Thieves, Hollie Rogers (UK), Roseanne Reid (UK), Brand New Zeros , Flats And Sharps (UK), Malin Pettersen (SWE), Gill Landry , Ira Wolf , Pete Gow , The Vanguards (UK) , Chloe Foy
Joan Armatrading announced as Keynote Speaker for AMA-UK 2020 Conference. Wristbands £22 HERE

(29 Oct 2019) Debbie Nunn Bargain Store - Great Products Made Especially For You - Exclusive Merchandise Shop Now Open - Claim Your 15% Discount on all Products Click the link

UK TOUR & GIG UPDATES

Link to Country Routes News Gig Page Image Map

UK CHART NEWS

Official UK Top 100 Singles Chart (Week Ending 7 November 2019)
1 November - 7 November 2019
On its fifth week at No.1, consumption of Dance Monkey - the introductory hit for 19-year-old Toni Watson, from Melbourne as Tones And I – returned to growth, increasing 5.7% to 85,820 units (including 76,187 from sales-equivalent streams) a 23-week high.

Dan + Shay & Justin Bieber with 10,000 Hours hit fell 17-29. The single had been on the BBC Radio 1 "C" Playlist

Official UK Top 100 Albums Chart (Week Ending 7 November 2019)
1 November - 7 November 2019
It's November and the seasonal frenzy started in earnest, with 18 Top 75 debuts and an all-new Top 5 in the artist album chart this week - the sixth in the 63-year history of the list and the first for exactly four years.
The acts filling the top four places (Kanye West 19,407 units, James Blunt 15,385 units, Rick Astley 15,379 units) have had 12 previous No.1 albums between them – the others have had two each, while Stereophonics have had six, which they now increased to seven as their 11th studio album, KIND, debuted at the summit on consumption of 29,844 units (including 1,433 from sales-equivalent streams + 28,411). It is their follow-up to Scream Above The Sounds, which opened at No.2 exactly two years ago, on consumption of 43,760 copies, losing out to Michael Ball & Alfie Boe’s Together Again by a margin of just 35 sales.

New at No.5 Rex Orange County with 12,213 units is a 21-year-old from Hampshire (real name: Alexander O’Connor) who failed to make the Top 200 with his 2016 debut album, Bcos You Will Never Be Free, and reached No.193 with 2018 follow-up Apricot Princess. His third album, Pony, fares much better, debuting at No.5 this week, thanks largely to opening track 10/10, which has had a massive 160 plays from Radio 1 thus far.

Daniel O’Donnell with his 60 track 3-CD Boxset latest POP release HALFWAY TO PARADISE slipped 8-9 (6,378; 2-week total 15,350 units)

Official UK Country Album Top 20 Chart (Week Ending 7 November 2019)
1 November – 7 November 2019
Old Dominion with OLD DOMINION made a debut at No.1
Highwomen with THE HIGHWOMEN held at No.2 (8 weeks; #2 peak)
Sheryl Crow with THREADS held at No.3 (9 weeks; #1 peak)
Keith Urban with GRAFFITI U fell 1-4 (42 weeks; #1 peak)
Megan McKenna with STORY OF ME climbed 12-5 (6 weeks; #5 peak)
Keifer Sutherland with RECKLESS & ME fell 4-6 (27 weeks; #1 peak)
Florida Georgia Line with THE ACOUSTIC SESSIONS climbed 9-8 (2 weeks; #8 peak)
Allison Moorer with BLOOD made a debut at No.9
Rosanne Cash with SHE REMEMBERS EVERYTHING lifted 19-10 (15 weeks; #28 peak)
Outside the Top 10
Zac Brown Band with THE OWL fell 7-11 (5 weeks; #1 peak)
Jessie Buckley with WILD ROSE - OST fell 10-12 (29 weeks; #1 peak)
Kacey Musgraves with GOLDEN HOUR fell 8-13 (69 weeks; #1 peak)
Midland with LET IT ROLL fell 11-14 (10 weeks; #1 peak)
Brantley Gilbert with FIRE & BRIMSTONE fell 13-20 (4 weeks; #3 peak)

Official Americana Albums Chart Top 40 (Week Ending 7 November 2019)
1 November - 7 November 2019
Van Morrison with THREE CHORDS AND THE TRUTH (Exile) arrived at No.1, Neil Young & Crazy Horse with COLORADO (Reprise) blew in at No.2 and Allison Moorer with BLOOD (Autotelic) made a debut at No.11.         

COUNTRY ALBUM & SINGLES RELEASES

(30 Oct 2019) Josh Beddis - One For Sorrow (EP; Josh beddis) UK/ Wales
5 Tracks/ Time 16:43 Amazon UK
Josh released his first single 'At The End Of The Day' in May 2018, his new, and first, EP 'One For Sorrow' keeps his Americana style and words of wisdom; probably beyond his actual years.
Just 10 seconds of acoustic guitar before you hear Josh's voice, it contains a sorrow that matches the description of The Old House, and a hint of a classic country warble. 
The female voice sings along to the chorus "With a little bit of love this house could be fixed " adding that silver lining that I love and makes great country music. Throughout the ep this style is continued – Americana/Country storytelling.
City Lights looks back and reflects on the difference between the city and the country; it's a “grass isn't always greener” song where we have to lose something to experience its worth. The harmonica brings a new sound to If I'm Dreaming; probably the most uplifting song of the EP even so, Josh's voice maintains that plaintive edge. She Sleeps Among the Bluebells & Pines as you guessed is the song about a lost love, but interestingly she cheated and the loss is really retribution.   Should we act so quickly? - Silverbal Country.blogspot.com
Is there any better song than Amazing Grace? Josh has used a harmonized 20 seconds as his introduction to The River, a song encouraging us to seek redemption; a surprisingly catchy song, almost in a Gospel style, but with Josh’s own style.

(1 Nov 2019) Miranda Lambert - Wildcard (Vanner Records/RCA Records Nashville) 
15 Tracks/ Time: 48:46 Amazon UK - iTunes - Amazon.com - Spotify
Debut #1 UK Country iTunes Album Chart (#6 UK iTunes all-genres; #9) | Debut #1 US Country iTunes Album Chart (#1 US iTunes all-genres)
Lambert’s seventh studio album and first collaboration with producer Jay Joyce boasts 14 tracks she co-penned, including lead single “It All Comes Out in the Wash;” early releases “Mess With My Head” and “Bluebird;” and “Way Too Pretty for Prison,” featuring Maren Morris.

(1 Nov 2019) The Mavericks - Play the Hits (Mono Mundo Recordings)
11 Tracks/ Time: 42:53 Amazon UK - iTunes - Amazon.com
Debut #3 UK Country iTunes Album Chart (#55 UK iTunes all-genres) | Debut #3 US Country iTunes Album Chart (#11 US iTunes all-genres)

(1 Nov 2019) Hootie & the Blowfish - Imperfect Circle (Capitol Nashville)
13 Tracks/ Time: 42:24 Amazon UK - iTunes - Amazon.com
Debut #2 UK Country iTunes Album Chart (#10 UK iTunes all-genres) | Debut #2 US Country iTunes Album Chart (#3 US iTunes all-genres)

(1 Nov 2019) Micky and The Motorcars - Long Time Comin'
11 Tracks/ Time: 40:28 Amazon UK - iTunes - Amazon.com
Debut #20 UK Country iTunes Album Chart (outside #800 UK iTunes all-genres) | Debut #5 US Country iTunes Album Chart (#25 UK iTunes all-genres)

(1 Nov 2019) Stoney LaRue - Onward (One Chord Song)
13 Tracks/ Time: 45:39 Amazon UK - iTunes
Debut #7 US Country iTunes Album Chart (#46 UK iTunes all-genres)

(1 Nov 2019) Clayton Smalley - Whiskey Sunrise (EP; YN Records)
5 Tracks/ Time: 16:18 Amazon UK - iTunes
Debut #11 US Country iTunes Album Chart (#97 UK iTunes all-genres)

(31 Oct 2019) Creed Fisher - Old School (Fishdog Records)
11 Tracks/ Time: 44:19 TRAD Amazon UK - iTunes
Debut #18 US Country iTunes Album Chart (#180 US iTunes all-genres)

(1 Nov 2019) Timmy Dunn - It's About Time (EP; Timmy dunn)
4 Tracks/ Time: 13:51 Amazon UK - iTunes
Debut #52 US Country iTunes Album Chart (#508 US iTunes all-genres)

(28 Oct 2019) Bryan Martin - Six-Strings-Three-Chords-&-The-Truth (TXM Records)
8 Tracks/ Time: 30:06 TRAD Amazon UK - iTunes
Debut #96 US Country iTunes Album Chart

(1 Nov 2019) A.C. Jones - Campfire Sessions (EP; Sialia Records)
4 Tracks/ Time: 12:35 Amazon UK - iTunes
Debut #87 US Country iTunes Album Chart

(1 Nov 2019) Carly Connor - Always the Bridesmaid, Never the Bride (EP; Carly Connor) UK
4 Tracks/ Time: 14:23 Amazon UK - iTunes 
Debut #14 UK Country iTunes Album Chart (#609 UK iTunes all-genres), then #8 (#285), then #6 (#209), then #5 (#186; 194; #172) | Sat Nov 2: #6 (#287 UK iTunes all-genres)
Always The Bridesmaid, Never The Bride (>> Official Music Video) by Carly Connor Directed by Mark McMurtrie
Carly Connor has a voice you will never forget; it rasps and yells like Janis Joplin, yearns the pain of heartache like Lucinda Williams and rages the wild fire of Tina Turner and Maria McKee. All of these souls she carries into her intimate but powerful live performance, an explosive cocktail tinged with a God given natural humour. It’s fair to say Carly wears her heart on her sleeve and is honest to the core, staying forever true to her roots.
Raised in Glasgow’s tough housing scheme of Easterhouse, the now 25-year-old Singer-songwriter Carly earned her stripes as a young teen playing tiny working men's pubs and clubs, not unlike some of the great Glaswegians before her such as Maggie Bell, Frankie Miller, Lulu and her long-time friend Paulo Nutini. | Facebook (4,712 Likes)

(1 Nov 2019) Donna Ulisse - Time for Love (Billy Blue Records)
13 Tracks/ Time: 41:23 Bluegrass Amazon UK - iTunes - Amazon.com
"Really lovely album" - Marie Crichton BBC Page

(1 Nov 2019) Erin Enderlin - Faulkner County (Black Crow Productions)
14 Tracks Amazon UK - iTunes - Amazon.com
Debut #15 UK Country iTunes Album Chart (#614 UK iTunes all-genres), then off top 200 | Debut #88 US Country iTunes Album Chart | Sat Nov 2: #59 US Country iTunes Album Chart (#411 US iTunes all-genres)
Ernest Tubb Record Shop Erin Enderlin Album Release Party. She signed extra LP’s and CD’s Facebook Video

(1 Nov 2019) The Local Honeys - The Gospel (JA-093D)
12 Tracks/ Time: 39:51 Folk Amazon UK

(1 Nov 2019) Judy Blank - Morning After (Munich Records) NL
5 Tracks/ Time: 17:11 Country Americana
If blue-eyed songstress Judy Blank would tell you she grew up in some one-horse-town in Louisiana, you’d probably believe her. But nothing could be further from the truth. Hailing from Utrecht, The Netherlands, the 24-year-old singer-songwriter is not afraid to fuse musical genres, influenced by several pilgrimages across the southern United States.
On her new LP Morning Sun, a 70’s inspired coming-of-age confessional that she recorded with Chris Taylor (Rival Sons, Dylan LeBlanc, The Wood Brothers), she effortlessly mixes traditional folk and groovy Americana. From the green-eyed soul of her hit single "Mary Jane" to the jagged-edged ballad of "Tangled Up in You", she can hit all the notes. Even living legends praise her songwriting skills; her song ‘1995’ was called a favorite by none other than Sir Elton John. Judy Blank officially showcased at SXSW this year, just did a successful European tour with the South Carolina indie rockers from SUSTO and will be playing some of the biggest festivals in the Netherlands this Summer.
  
(1 Nov 2019) Karin Page - Walk Away (Karin Page) AUS
10 Tracks/Time: 32:02 Amazon UK

(1 Nov 2019) Ags Connolly - Wrong Again (Finstock Music) UK
10 Tracks/ Time: 37:35 Americana Amazon UK - iTunes
Debut #41 UK Country iTunes Album Chart (outside #1400 UK iTunes all-genres), then off top 200, then #11 (#430), then #9 (#313 all-genres; #326), then #11 (#429) | Sat Nov 2: #15 (below #700 UK iTunes all-genres) then off the top 200

(1 Nov 2019) Robert Mizzell - Postcard From Paris (Robert Mizzell) IRE
12 Tracks/ iTunes
Debut #21 UK Country iTunes Album Chart (outside #800 UK iTunes all-genres), then #13 (#533), then #18, then #10 (#427) | Sat Nov 2: #14 (below #700 UK iTunes all-genres)

(1 Nov 2019) Curran - The Lonely Road of Faith (EP; Curran) IRE
5 Tracks/ Time: 18:38 Genre: Rock N Roll Country Soul
Debut #5 UK Country iTunes Album Chart (#173 UK iTunes all-genres), then #7 (#275), then #9 (#409), then #18 | Sat Nov 2: #20 (below #800 UK iTunes all-genres)
Band Members: Mark Curran - L.Vocals; Jam Moncur - L.Guitar | Hometown: New Jersey Via Ireland
The Lonely Road of Faith - CURRAN (>> Official Lyric Video) Featuring Sam Coe

(26 Oct 2019) Megan McKenna - This (X Factor Recording) (Single; Syco Music)
Time: 2:14 Pop Amazon UK - iTunes

(1 Nov 2019) Emma King - Landslide (Single; Great British Songwriting Co.) UK
Time: 3:08 Country/ Pop Amazon UK - iTunes
Stevie Nicks cover

(1 Nov 2019) Katy Hurt - Unfinished Business (Single; Katy Hurt) UK
Time: 4:41 iTunes

CANADIAN NEWS
(30 Oct 2019) Twin Kennedy Returns With Release Of Brand-New Single "Blindspot"
Known for their flawless harmonies and unique blend of classical strings & Americana feeling, country music sweethearts Twin Kennedy return with the Oct 25th release of their brand-new single "Blindspot" available everywhere (Amazon | iTunes). With a breathtaking music video to follow, "Blindspot" is a first taste of the new music that twin sisters Carli and Julie Kennedy have planned for release.

Recorded between sessions at both Nashville's Sound Emporium and Vancouver's Warehouse Studio, "Blindspot" was produced by Nashville based, Canadian producer Dustin Olyan and Twin Kennedy themselves. The track comes to life with some of the industry's most talented session players including Derek Wells (CMA Guitar Player of the Year), Mark Hill (Reba McEntire, Keith Urban), Billy Nobel (Tim McGraw) and Shawn Fichter (Tim McGraw, Faith Hill). 

Opening with Carli's gentle guitar strums and Julie's delicate fiddle strokes, "Blindspot" is a heart-swelling ballad with its raw emotions felt through the duo's crystalline vocals. Shot and directed by Dave Wallace of Riptide Studios, the upcoming "Blindspot" video matches the elegance of Twin Kennedy's harmonies with its beautiful visuals of Vancouver Island's Sombrio Beach as well as the duo's hometown of Sooke, BC.
On the new track, Twin Kennedy notes: "Blindspot is about being in a relationship where you don't feel seen. It's so important to know your own worth and to surround yourself with people who make you feel valued. Love yourself and choose to be with people who would never put you in their blindspot."
"Blindspot" marks the duo's first new release since their 2017 album A Twin Kennedy Christmas. Currently based in Nashville, the duo has made themselves a staple in the country music scene in both the US & Canada over the past four years, having toured extensively throughout both countries.

(1 Nov 2019) SPOTLIGHT TRACK Mitchell Tenpenny "Naughty List" "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" "Let It Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!"
Mitchell Tenpenny get's us ready for the Holiday Season with original, "Naughty List" and classic covers of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" and "Let It Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!"!

(1 Nov 2019) SPOTLIGHT Jess Moskaluke

"Country Girls", Jess' brand new lead off single (released Oct 18, 2019 iTunes), has become the biggest release week of her career. As the top selling Canadian single download artist this week on iTunes and over a quarter of a million streams on the new song, Jess debuted the single at the NHL Heritage Classic during a televised performance. Jess also joined forces with the Hunter Brothers to perform their rendition of "The Middle".
Right before the release of "County Girls", Jess was in Australia joining the likes of Tim McGraw, Kelsey Ballerini, and Midland, as one of the only Canadian acts, to grace the stage at the Country To Country(C2C) Festival. From Australia, Jess hosted an exclusive wine tasting event in Kelowna, where members of the Canadian Country Music Radio community were treated to listening session of Jess' brand new music.
Finally, Jess celebrated her third gold career single with "Take Me Home" which reached gold status as of September 12, 2019. Congrats Jess!

NEWS
(29 Oct 2019) Is There Best Life Out There: Reba McEntire will help listeners live their best lives in her new Spotify podcast launching in early 2020. Fans tuning in will hear "Reba’s trademark wit and wisdom as she and expert guests share honest, comedic takes on struggles we all face when it comes to confronting life’s challenges, making good decisions and creating happiness around us." More here.

(29 Oct 2019) Vanner Records/RCA Records' Miranda Lambert will be featured in the short film, "Behind Miranda Lambert’s 'Wildcard,'" releasing exclusively to Apple Music on Monday, November 4th. The film showcases Lambert as she discusses the making of her seventh album, "Wildcard," as well as the importance of creativity, confidence and her signature blend of Country and Rock. The film will also highlight the album's producer, Jay Joyce, as well as co-writers Natalie Hemby, Ashley Monroe, Luke Dick and The Love Junkies' Liz Rose, Lori McKenna and Hillary Lindsey. Enjoy a teaser of the project here.

AMERICANA NEWS
(29 Oct 2019) Official Video for Amy Speace's "Some Dreams Do" from the LP "Me and the Ghost of Charlemagne" – YouTube

(30 Oct 2019) Allison Moorer CBS This Morning Interview Singer Allison Moorer's memoir "Blood," on the legacy of her parents' murder-suicidem - YouTube

(4 Nov 2019) Andrew Combs shares video for new single 'Dry Eyes'
Nashville based artist Andrew Combs has shared the video for his latest single, ‘Dry Eyes’, which premiered with Rolling Stone Country. The release comes ahead of a string of European tour dates, including a show at London’s The Lexington on December 10th.
Shot in black and white, the video is an evocative and atmospheric portrayal of relationships and loss, featuring surreal metaphors of intimacy and enmity. The video follows the release of Combs’ fourth album, Ideal Man, which was released in September to widespread acclaim. Watch HERE

AWARDS
(29 Oct 2019) Ghoul Vibes: Warner/WAR's Chris Janson was presented the Excellence in Creativity Award by RIAA Chairman/CEO Mitch Glazier at the 2019 Global IP Champions Gala at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Tuesday (Oct 29). Celebrating leaders in fields that rely on strong IP to protect their cultural, scientific and economic contributions, the Chamber described Janson as “navigating a new country music genre … expertly perched on the fence between country music’s past and future.” "For anybody who supports the songwriter… that’s the number one," said Janson in his acceptance speech. "I’m a songwriter in my heart, and once I learned to write songs, I realized that’s what it was really all about  and to be here in D.C. tonight … right in the thick of it … it’s just an amazing honor."

(4 Nov 2019) "AND THE CMA AWARD GOES TO..."  No Time Like The Present: Bobby BonesBlanco Brown, Deana CarterJanie FrickeVince GillKathy MatteaMartina McBrideMidlandCraig Morgan, Jennifer NettlesPam TillisMorgan Wallen and Trisha Yearwood are among the presenters for the 53rd Annual CMA Awards, airing live from Nashville's Bridgestone Arena Nov. 13 on ABC. Full list of presenters and performers here.

TV
(30 Oct 2019) Year Won: The 10th Annual CMT Artists of the Year special honoring Carrie Underwood, Dan + Shay, Kane Brown, Luke Combs, Thomas Rhett, Breakout Artist of the Year Ashley McBryde and Artist of a Lifetime Reba McEntire saw 108% growth year-over-year among P18-34, according to the network. The telecast also experienced 301% growth in social engagements and a 277% increase in social video viewing from last year making the Oct. 16 special the most socially viewed and engaging in CMT history. "We are thrilled this year's celebration connected with our audience across all mediums and proud it generated the most social views and engagement on CMT channels in tent pole history," said SVP/Music Strategy & Talent Leslie Fram. "It truly shows country music transcending age and screens and how the healing power of music and resilience in our community continues to resonate with all."

(30 Oct 2019) In Case You Missed It: RCA's Miranda Lambert performed "It All Comes Out In The Wash" on CBS' The Late Show with Stephen Colbert (Oct 30). Watch here.

(1 Nov 2019) Sleigh, Queen: The 10th annual CMA Country Christmas will air Dec. 3 at 9pm ET on ABC. Host and performer Trisha Yearwood will be joined by Kristin Chenoweth, For King & Country, Chris Janson, Tori Kelly, Lady Antebellum, Rascal Flatts, Runaway June, CeCe Winans, Brett Young and Chris Young

BABY NEWS
(31 Oct 2019) My Boo: RCA's Kane Brown and wife Katelyn welcomed their first child, daughter Kingsley Rose, Tuesday (Oct 29). See Brown's announcement on Instagram here. His wife wrote, “Obsessed with my little family. KINGSLEY ROSE, we are absolutely in love with you.”

(1 Nov 2019) Crib Note: Round Here Records' Canaan Smith and wife Christy welcomed their first child, daughter Virginia Rose. "I’ve tried putting words to this, but keep erasing them cause nothing says it," Smith posted on Instagram. "For now, I’ll just say thank you Jesus for the precious gift of life and unconditional love.

PRESS RELEASES
(29 Oct 2019) George Strait Partners With The 100 Club Of San Antonio In Recognition Of National First Responders Day
The undisputed “King of Country Music,” George Strait again used his platform for good, recognizing National First Responders Day on Oct. 28, by supporting The 100 Club of San Antonio’s efforts to assist families of fallen first responders in connection with his latest single “The Weight of the Badge.” >> Facebook Video
Written together by Strait, his son Bubba and longtime collaborator Dean Dillon, “The Weight of the Badge” off Strait’s most recent album, Honky Tonk Time Machine, speaks to the sacrifices made by our nation’s first responders and marks Strait’s record-extending 100th entry on the Billboard Country Airplay chart, where he also holds the record for most Top 10s with 61 songs.

(1 Nov 2019) South Carolina born, singer-songwriter Noah Guthrie released a new single, titled “Hell or High Water.” The latest release features the Alt-Country, Americana artist’s soulful, tenor vocal range, and is a standout from the modern sound of Country music today.
Over the years, Guthrie has earned a reputation for writing honest music that is representative of real-life stories. The dynamic recording, Hell or High Water,” signifies that and illustrates the reality of taking risks and navigating life while showcasing Guthrie’s powerful vocal abilities. The new release, written by Guthrie, and co-produced by Noah and his brother, Ian Guthrie at Studio 101 in Woodruff, South Carolina, is now available HERE.
The Hell or High Water tour will run throughout the month of December and includes:
12.5 | London, United Kingdom (St. Pancras Old Church)
12.8 | Glasgow, United Kingdom (Broadcast)

(1 Nov 2019) GEORGE STRAIT, THE UNDISPUTED ‘KING OF COUNTRY MUSIC,’ RELEASES LIMITED-EDITION VINYL SET DEC. 9
George Strait is set to release Strait Out of the Box: Vinyl Collection, a limited-edition, 10-volume vinyl set on sale Friday, Dec. 9, with pre-orders have begun at GeorgeStraitBoxSet.com.
The American music icon has released 30 studio albums with over 400 cuts in his illustrious career—this unparalleled compilation offers 128 of those songs, featuring an incredible 57 No. 1 singles. With hits spanning 35 prolific years (1981 – 2016), the collection will comprise all of the songs on previous Strait Out Of The Box projects, including singles such as “All My Ex’s Live in Texas,” “Check Yes or No” and “She’ll Leave You with a Smile.”
This multi-volume set concludes a momentous year for the longtime MCA Nashville artist, who released Honky Tonk Time Machine in March. Produced by Strait and Chuck Ainlay, the album quickly became the Country Music Hall of Fame member’s record-extending 27th No. 1 Billboard country album.


(4 Nov 2019) Brett Young Announces Headlining THE CHAPTERS TOUR
Riding the momentum of “an incredible 2019” (E! News), multi-PLATINUM selling performer Brett Young shared details for his headlining THE CHAPTERS TOUR. Hitting nearly 30 cities on the trek throughout the U.S. and Canada, Young will bring his “big stage presence” to a “die-hard audience” (OC Register) beginning in January. Featuring special guest Matt Ferranti, tickets go on sale starting Friday, Nov. 8 at 10am local time at BrettYoungMusic.com
“I’m so excited about THE CHAPTERS TOUR for so many reasons,” Young shared. “Being in a position to continue to headline even bigger shows is an honor and humbling, and I can’t wait to show our fans what we’ve been working on for them. They’re definitely in for some surprises!”

(4 Nov 2019) Garth Brooks' “Dive Bar” Music Video With Blake Shelton Amasses Over 26 Million Views On Facebook In 72 Hours
Current CMA “Entertainer of the Year” nominee and 12-time “Entertainer of the Year” Garth Brooks premiered his first music video in 12 years on Friday and the video has already accumulated over 26 million views on Facebook in 72 hours. The video for his and Blake Shelton’s climbing single, “Dive Bar,” has the band taking a literal dive underwater for the “anthemic” (Billboard) track. The music video for “Dive Bar” is available to watch NOW on Facebook

(4 Nov 2019) NPR And People Feature Kalie Shorr And Highlight “Alice In Wonderland” As First Single From Debut Album Open Book
Taking listeners on a raw and emotional journey, Kalie Shorr chose Alice in Wonderland” as the first single off of her debut album, Open Book. Shorr was recently featured in an interview with People, opening up about the tumultuous year that led to creating the project. Released Friday, the song has already been featured on The Boot’s New Country Songs You Need to Hear and on Whiskey Riff’s New Music Friday playlist.
Check out her imaginative take on wonderland, along with the rest of her full-length project, here.


(4 Nov 2019) Temecula Road Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut
L-R: Temecula Road's Emma Salute, Maddie Salute
 and Dawson Anderson
Photo credit: Chris Hollo / Grand Ole Opry 
Rising country trio Temecula Road made their Grand Ole Opry debut on Friday, November 1 at the first weekend of the show’s annual winter run of Opry At The Ryman in downtown Nashville.  Maddie, Emma, and Dawson, introduced by Connie Smith, brought their unforgettable harmonies to the iconic stage.  Performing their latest single “Maybe Not” and a stripped-down acoustic version of the Eagles classic “Desperado,” their debut brought a packed house of family, friends, and fans to their feet for a standing ovation. 
“Tonight has been a dream come true,” says Emma.  “We feel so very blessed,” says Maddie.  “I am speechless, and that doesn’t happen very often. What an amazing night,” adds Dawson.

(4 Nov 2019) Dylan Schneider Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut
Round Here Records/Interscope artist Dylan Schneider made his Grand Ole Opry debut on Saturday (Nov 2), performing tracks “Hometown Heartless” and “How To Country” from his latest EP Whole Town Talk, which released in August. The evening was made even more special for the rising singer/songwriter, as it took place at the Opry’s original home - Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium. 
“I’ve passed the Ryman Auditorium a million times in the past few years, and I always told myself I wouldn’t set foot in the building until I was there to play that stage. So for my Opry debut to be in its original Ryman home was an incredible honor and one I’ll never forget,” said Schneider.
Schneider made his major label debut with the single “No Problem,” which has amassed more than 16.8 million streams. His headline shows have sold out across the U.S. and U.K. and he has toured as direct support for Chris Lane and Granger Smith.

(4 Nov 2019) Live In The Vineyard (LITV) wrapped their exclusive sought-after 2019 event that featured music, food and wine.  The 4-day event, spanning the Valley, came to an end on Sunday, November 3 amidst the lush scenery of boutique wineries in Napa, California. Countless performances took place as attendees were given an exclusive experience at grandiose vineyards and wineries while enjoying wines from some of the areas finest vintners, paired meals that were prepared by world renowned chefs.
This year’s LITV featured performances by A Thousand Horses, American Young, Amy Allen, Arlissa, Asher Knight, Kelsea Ballerini, Rachael Bawn, Natasha Bedingfield, CAM, Dillon Carmichael, Shy Carter, Delacey, Delta Rae, Dermot Kennedy, Jay Dref, for KING & COUNTRY, Nicolle Galyon, King Calaway, Kevin Griffin (Better Than Ezra), Ryan Griffin, Koryn Hawthorne, Ryland James, Jewel, Brett Kissel, Madison Kozak, Avril Lavigne, Tatum Lynn, The Band Camino, MAX, Morgxn, Maren Morris, OBB, Meghan Patrick, Maddie Poppe, Public, Stephanie Quayle, Quiet On The Set, Caitlyn Smith, Wyn Starks, Lindsey Sterling, Maddie & Tae, Delta Rae and Walk Off The Earth.

ARTICLES
(31 Oct 2019) Billboard Fine Tune: Inside Miranda Lambert's Brilliant Catalog of Timeless Country
There’s a tempting mythology in the life and career of Miranda Lambert, who has as strong of a claim to current country royalty as anyone -- or maybe there’s a few different versions, depending on who you talk to.
For country fans, she’s the tough-talking small-town Texan who grew up hearing stories about infidelity and violence from her parents, who were private investigators. It was predestined, it seemed, that someone with her voice and talent would turn those stories into songs. Read More

INTERVIEWS
(30 Oct 2019) Entertainment Focus  Interview: Danielle Bradbery talked about Introducing Nashville, the Charlie’s Angels soundtrack and a potential UK headline tour

(30 Oct 2019) That Nashville Sound The Art Of Storytelling In Faulkner County - An Exclusive Interview With Erin Enderlin

(1 Nov 2019) Charles Esten joined Dan Wharton (Your Life In A Song) in Birmingham last week to discuss his connection with the UK fans, new single 'A Road And A Radio', upcoming C2C main stage appearance and his Peaky Blinders addiction!

INTERVIEW: CHARLES ESTEN
INTERVIEW: Charles Esten joined us in Birmingham last week to discuss his connection with the UK fans, new single 'A Road And A Radio', upcoming C2C main stage appearance and his Peaky Blinders addiction!
Posted by Your Life In A Song on Friday, 1 November 2019

(3 Nov 2019) You Plaid Me At Hello: RCA's Miranda Lambert (r) with Westwood One's Elaina Smith. Listen to Lambert's episode of Breaking Thru here. Miranda Lambert stops by to visit with Elaina... and she has some advice for hopeful country music stars.

WATCH
(29 Oct 2019) Allie Colleen released a personal and reflective insight to her behind the music video released in support of her current single, “Along The Way.”  Watch the video on YouTube here.
“I wanted to share with listeners a few of the reason’s why I chose to release "Along The Way" and why the song means so much to me," expressed Allie Colleen. "We had so much fun recording this one and we hope that is shows!!”

(1 Nov 2019) Amie Knight - I Don't (Official Studio Video) Recorded at Kore Studios and featuring some of the UK's best session musicians. >> YouTube

COUNTRY FASHION

REMEMBER MONDAY tweeted (22 Oct) We HATE to toot our own horns but can we take a quick sec to talk about these SASSY AS HECK outfits from The Hippie Shake
Photo Credit - Shona Nolan (Facebook) The Home Of 70s Retro & Bohemian Chic








































BOHEMIAN QUEENS Here Comes The Sun, Festival Vibe: The UK country/pop trio made up of Holly-Anne Hull, Lauren Byrne, and Charlotte Steele coo-ordinated with retro brown florals:

‘Maggie Mae’ Brown Floral Maxi Skirt (Product £32.00) for those who love dreamy pieces.
‘Day Tripper’ Brown Floral 70s Retro Shirt (Product £35.00) such a versatile item with a 70s dagger collar, buttoned front and cuffs.
Lucy In The Sky’ Brown Floral Festival Body (Product; £59.00) the perfect festival piece. Gorgeous jersey printed body with low front and georgette caped sleeves, perfect for dancing!
‘Let It Be’ Brown Floral Skinny Scarf (Product; £10.00) The perfect accessory to match the floral printed pieces.

Remember Monday? Back on September 12 the trio chatted to Country Hits Radio presenter Matt Spracklen at The Long Road Festival about the crazy year they’ve had appearing on The Voice UK and that they had given up their jobs and were “Doing the band thing full time”

Lauren Byrne 1/3 of Remember Monday shared a photo on Twitter wearing a studded Jane Seymour outfit for Six The Musical UK Tour (rep by Palin And Jenkins Artist Management Website)
So we opened last night. I didn’t slip on confetti, or fall down the stairs, or forget my lines or lyrics, so basically it was a win. Can’t believe I get to do this for the next 9 months, and with the most hilarious group of girls. FEELIN THE LOVE QUEENS 👑💜
@sixthemusical

Nominated for 5 Olivier Awards including Best New Musical, the sell-out international smash hit ‘SIX’ is the phenomenon everyone is losing their head over!
From Tudor queens to pop princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII finally take to the mic to tell their tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80-minute celebration of 21st century girl power. These Queens may have green sleeves but their lipstick is rebellious red.
It’s time they told their story.

WhatsOnStage exclusively revealed the cast for the tour of Six, the hit musical based on the lives of Henry VIII wives.
The touring Queens will be played by Lauren Drew (Catherine of Aragon), Maddison Bulleyment (Anne Boleyn), Lauren Byrne (Jane Seymour), Shekinah McFarlane (Anna of Cleves), Jodie Steele (Katherine Howard) and Athena Collins (Catherine Parr), with alternates Jennifer Caldwell, Cassandra Lee and Harriet Watson.
Opening at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford on 24 October, tour dates include Malvern (29 October to 3 November), Glasgow (5 to 10 November), Kingston (12 to 15 November), Oxford (18 to 23 November), Milton Keynes (25 to 30 November), Salford Quays (3 December to 5 January), Cardiff (21 to 25 January), Cheltenham (27 January to 1 February), Edinburgh (4 to 9 February), Aylesbury (11 to 15 February), Bath (18 to 23 February), Nottingham (24 to 29 March), Bromley (31 March to 5 April), Southend (7 to 12 April), Sheffield (28 April to 2 May), Hull (13 to 17 May), Canterbury (19 to 24 May), Coventry (2 to 7 June), Leicester (9 to 14 June), Newcastle (22 to 27 June), Southampton (1 to 5 July) and Birmingham (21 to 25 July).
Cast video >> YouTube

Holly-Anne Hull 1/3 of Remember Monday has shared photos wearing a costume in the production of Les Misérables
LesMizConcert at the Gielgud Theatre until 30 Nov. New Production of Les Miz at the Sondheim Theatre from 18 Dec. #LesMizTour in Southampton until 23 Nov.

COUNTRY GOSSIP 
(29 Oct 2019) Miranda Lambert and husband Brendan McLoughlin have an anniversary coming up — one the superstar didn't plan on. Talking for the first time about how they met, Lambert reveals she and the New York City police officer were set up in secret.
As reported previously, Lambert and McLoughlin did meet on the set of GMA in November 2018, but neither made the first move. Lambert told the New York Times she was doing media for the release of the Pistol Annies' Interstate Gospel album, released on Nov. 2, 2018. That's the day Angaleena Presley and Ashley Monroe spotted McLoughlin, who was doing security for the TV show.
"My girlfriends, the Annies, saw him and knew I might be ready to hang out with someone. They invited him to our show behind my back," Lambert tells the Times. "They plucked him for me. My security guy Tom, he was in on it too. He said to me, 'He’s here. And he’s pretty.'" Read More at Taste Of Country

(1 Nov 2019) Carrie Underwood tricked by support acts as tour comes to a close
Carrie Underwood was tricked by her support acts on the final night of her Cry Pretty tour on Thursday.
The country music superstar kicked off the 64-date trek back in May and wrapped up proceedings in Detroit, Michigan, on Halloween, with a few extra surprise’s courtesy of her support acts.
During a 10-song medley of tracks by female country music icons, duo Maddie & Tae hit the stage wearing horror masks, while three male members of the duo's band joined in, dressed in drag.
The three members of Runaway June followed in costumes of their own, including a witch's outfit and a hippie ensemble, as the singer laughed, "I feel like I had a dream like this in some part of my life!"
Elsewhere, it was a sentimental evening for the star, as promotion for her 2018 Cry Pretty album finally came to an end, and she thanked fans for joining her for the ride.
"I think it's fitting ending a tour on Halloween. I don't know why; It just feels right," Carrie told the crowd at the Little Caesars Arena. "It has been a wonderful tour... it's hard to believe it's ending, it's over. It has been a super, duper fun ride. We're gonna miss all of it."
It's been a successful tour for Carrie, with Billboard reporting she could gross up to $50 million (£38.6 million) from the trek - with $1 (£0.77) from each ticket donated to Danita's Children, a nonprofit organisation working with children from Haiti.

(3 Nov 2019) Megan McKenna dumps ex-con boyfriend in bid for Celebrity X Factor win
Celebrity X Factor’s Megan McKenna has ditched her ex-con boyfriend.
The reality star, a favourite to win the ITV show, has split from Zack Gilbert just as her music career looks like taking off.
In 2013 Gilbert, 27, got five years in a young offenders institution for GBH after attacking a man in an East London bar.
Sources say Megan has dumped both her fella and her lip fillers in her bid for X Factor victory.
The former TOWIE and Ex on the Beach blonde has also toned down her heavy make-up and big hair.
A source said: “As part of the new her, she got rid of Zack about the same time as getting rid of her fillers.
“Megan really wants to make the most of all the opportunities X Factor: Celebrity will bring her way – and having a convict boyfriend is not a good look.”
This week the 27-year-old singer said she is a new woman: “I have stripped back with loads of things, my hair, my make-up, my lips, right down to my clothes,” she revealed.

PHOTO
(1 Nov 2019) Sheetfaced: Wheelhouse's Runaway June at WYCD/Detroit. Pictured (l-r) are the station's Holly Hutton and Tim Roberts, RJ's Hannah Mulholland, Jennifer Wayne and Naomi Cooke and the station's Cadillac Jack and Rob Stone.





















BIRTHDAYS
Birthdays in the week ahead 
Nov 4: Delbert McClinton (1940), Kim Forester (Forester Sisters) (1960),
Nov 5: the late Roy Rogers - (1911; died July 6, 1998 (aged 86), the late Billy Sherrill  (Nov 5, 1936; died Aug 4, 2015), the late Gram Parsons (1946; died Sept 19, 1973 (aged 26), Joni Harms (1959), Heather & Jennifer Kinley (Kinleys) (1970), Ryan Adams (1974)
Nov 6: the late Doug Sahm (1941; died Nov 18, 1999 (aged 58), Eamon McCann (1955), the late Guy Clark (1941; died May 17, 2016 (aged 74), the late Glenn Frey (Eagles; ; died Jan 18, 2016 (aged 67) (1946), Stonewall Jackson (1932)
Nov 8: the late Patti Page (1927; died Jan 1, 2013 (aged 85), Bonnie Raitt (1949), Susie Luchsinger (1957), Bucky Covington (1977), Lauren Alaina (1994)
Nov 9: Liv Austen (UK), Chis Lane Christopher Eric Lane (Kernersville, North Carolina, 1984)
Nov 10: Hugh Moffatt (1948), Donna Fargo (1945), Chris Cagle (1968), Miranda Lambert (1983), Sinead Burgess (1990)

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