This day in Country Music History

Posted on April 12, 2022April 12, 2022 by Bob Ballard

Today in 1961, at the GRAMMYs, Marty Robbins won Best Country & Western Performance for “El Paso.”
Today in 1972, Nashville’s Municipal Auditorium hosted the first Fan Fair.
Today in 1980, Christy Pride hit the top of the charts with her remake of “Honky Tonk Blues.”
Today in 1986, the Judds topped the singles charts with “Grandpa (Tell Me ‘Bout the Good Ol’ Days).”
Today in 1989, Garth Brooks’ self-titled debut album was released.
Today in 1991, the single, “Down Home,” by Alabama was #1 on the charts.
Today in 1993, Tim McGraw released his self-titled debut album.
Today in 1994, the “Big Time” album by Little Texas was certified platinum.
Today in 1994, Dwight Yoakam’s “Hillbilly Deluxe” album was certified platinum.
Today in 1995, Alabama’s single, “Give Me One More Shot,” topped the country charts.
Today in 1996, Neal McCoy hit #1 with the single, “You Gotta Love That.”
Today in 1997, Travis Tritt married Theresa Nelson in Georgia. He sang “More Than You’ll Ever Know” to his bride.
Today in 1999, the “Greatest Hits” album by Diamond Rio was certified gold.
Today in 1999, Shania Twain became the only female artist in music history to sell at least 10-million units with back-to-back releases. Plus, her “Come On Over” album was given the first-ever Diamond Award.
Today in 2000, Bill Anderson and Jon Randall wrote “Whiskey Lullaby.”
Today in 2002, the annual gala, “An American Celebration At Ford’s Theater,” from Washington D.C. aired on ABC. SHeDAISY was among the list of folks entertaining President Bush, First Lady Laura Bush and a slew of other dignitaries.
Today in 2002, Brooks & Dunn’s “Neon Circus & Wild West Show” tour kicked off in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The show, which included Gary Allan, Chris Cagle, Trick Pony, Dwight Yoakam and Cledus T. Judd (as the emcee), wrapped in Holmdel, New Jersey on July 28^th.
Today in 2010, as the Pultzer Prize winners were announced, Hank Williams was honored with a special citation for “craftsmanship as a songwriter.”
Today in 2014, Taylor Swift made a surprise cameo during Seth Rogen’s opening “Saturday Night Live” monologue, saying: “You’re getting really upset. And whenever a man shows emotion, I appear!”
Today in 2016, Merle Haggard covers abound as Keith Urban and Vince Gill co-host the All for the Hall benefit at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. Gill offered up “The Fightin’ Side Of Me,” Sam Hunt sang “The Way I Am” and Emmylou Harris performed “Kern River.” Also appearing were: Florida Georgia Line, Luke Bryan, Jason Isbell and Maddie & Tae.
Today in 2019. Blake Shelton’s video for “God’s Country” premiered on CMT.
Today in 2020, “Willie Nelson: American Outlaw–An All-Star Concert Celebration” airs on A&E, with George Strait duetting on “Good Hearted Woman.” Also aboard were Jamey Johnson, Eric Church, Emmylou Harris, Ray Benson, Lyle Lovett and Chris Stapleton, who teamed with Nelson on “Always On My Mind.”

Miranda Lambert Releases New Song ‘Actin’ Up’

Posted on April 11, 2022April 11, 2022 by Bob Ballard

Miranda Lambert has given fans another taste of her upcoming album “Palomino.” The singer just released the new track “Actin’ Up.” This actually isn’t the first time fans have heard “Actin’ Up.” She debuted the song last month at a show in London.

And fans won’t have to wait much longer to hear the whole album. “Palomino” is set to drop April 29^th. It will be her first solo release since 2019’s “Wildcard.” Check out “Actin’ Up” below.

Source: Miranda Lambert

This day in Country Music History

Posted on April 11, 2022April 11, 2022 by Bob Ballard

Today in 1953, Hank Williams was on top of the charts with “Your Cheatin’ Heart.”
Today in 1978, the “Waylon & Willie” album by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson was certified platinum.
Today in 1980, Alabama signed their first record contract.
Today in 1981, “You’re The Reason God Made Oklahoma” by David Frizzell and Shelly West hit the top of the charts.
Today in 1988, Ricky Van Shelton earned a gold record for his debut album, “Wild-Eyed Dream.”
Today in 1992, Lee Greenwood married 1989’s Miss Tennessee, Kimberly Payne.
Today in 1992, Wynonna scored her first #1 single as a solo artist with “She Is His Only Need.”
Today in 1994, Tim McGraw’s first big hit, “Indian Outlaw,” was certified gold, despite controversy over the song’s lyrics. For example, one Cherokee chief called it “insulting to Indians.”
Today in 1996, Patty Loveless’ album, “When Fallen Angels Fly,” was certified platinum.
Today in 1997, Tracy Lawrence’s appearance at the Wal-Mart in North Richland Hills, Texas was billed by some as the “largest outdoor in-store appearance in the history of mankind.” The event drew an estimated 6,000 screaming fans, who showed up to hear him perform and see him autograph his album, “The Coast Is Clear.” Later, Tracy took the stage and performed five songs, including “Stars Over Texas,” “Time Marches On” and “Better Man Better Off.” The audience got so rowdy that they actually stormed the stage, bowling over security officers to get Tracy’s autograph.
Today in 2000, Clay Davidson’s debut album, “Unconditional,” was released.
Today in 2000, “Manilow Country” premiered on TNN. The two-hour celebration of pop star Barry Manilow’s 25-year career included artists like Deanna Carter, Lila McCann, Neal McCoy, Jo Dee Messina, Lorrie Morgan, Kevin Sharp and Trisha Yearwood covering some of Barry’s biggest hits, from “It’s a Miracle” to “Copacabana.” Barry called his duet of “Could It Be Magic” with Deana Carter his most romantic moment on stage, ever.
Today in 2000, Collin Raye was the keynote speaker at the 9th annual “Make a Difference Day Awards.”
Today in 2000, Faith Hill appeared on VH1’s “Divas 2000: A Tribute To Diana Ross,” with Mariah Carey and Donna Summer.
Today in 2001, Lonestar’s Richie McDonald and his wife, Lorie, welcomed daughter, Maisie Elizabeth McDonald, in Nashville. The girl is noted in the hit “My Front Porch Looking In,” as a “carrot top who can barely walk.”
Today in 2006, Toby Keith’s new label, Show Dog Nashville, released its first album, Keith’s “White Trash With Money.”
Today in 2013, Taylor Swift’s Diet Coke ad, featuring her song “22,” debuted during the FOX telecast of “American Idol.”
Today in 2016, Darius Rucker made a surprise appearance on the South Carolina Gamecocks’ college team, catching a touchdown at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia during the annual Garnet & Black Game. The black team won the contest, 14-13.
Today in 2017, Lee Brice headlined a black-tie benefit for cancer patients at the East Ivy Mansion in Nashville, joined by American Young, Paul McDonald and Louis Brice.
Today in 2017, Alabama guitarist Jeff Cook revealed in “The Tennessean” that he’s suffering from Parkinson’s disease, forcing him to cut back significantly on concert appearances
Today in 2017, the Grand Ole Opry got surprise visits from Blake Shelton, who sang “Honey Bee” and “Ol’ Red,” and from The Oak Ridge Boys, who performed “Elvira” with Home Free. The night’s scheduled guests included Rascal Flatts, Terri Clark and Keith Urban, marking five years since he was asked to join.

Carrie Underwood Announces New Album ‘Denim & Rhinestones’

Posted on April 8, 2022April 8, 2022 by Bob Ballard

Carrie Underwood fans have been anxiously awaiting a new album and they won’t have to wait much longer. The singer just announced she’ll release “Denim & Rhinestones” on June 10^th.

“I can’t wait any longer!!,” she shared next to the album’s cover. “I have a new album coming June 10! Get ready for Denim & Rhinestones!”

The news comes just weeks after Carrie released the first single from the record, “Ghost Story.”

This day in Country Music History

Posted on April 8, 2022April 8, 2022 by Bob Ballard

Today in 1942, Glenn Walichs and songwriters Johnny Mercer and Buddy DeSylva formed Liberty Records in Hollywood. It was later renamed Capitol Records and known for hits by Keith Urban, Garth Brooks and Merle Haggard.
Today in 1980, Kenny Rogers portrayed Brady Hawkes for the first time when CBS aired a TV movie based around his signature hit, “The Gambler.”
Today in 1985, George Strait’s album “Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind” was certified Gold.
Today in 1988, Rodney Crowell’s “Diamonds & Dirt” album arrived in stores.
Today in 1989, Keith Whitley’s “I’m No Stranger To The Rain” reached #1 in Billboard. One month and one day later, he was dead of alcohol poisoning.
Today in 1991, Ricky Van Shelton’s “RVS 3” album was certified Platinum.
Today in 1992, Mary Chapin Carpenter’s album, “Shooting Straight in The Dark,” was certified gold.
Today in 1994, Lee Roy Parnell hit number one with the single “I’m Holding My Own.”
Today in 1996, Aaron Tippin’s “Tool Box” album was certified Gold.
Today in 1997, Alabama released “Dancin’ On the Boulevard,” Clay Walker released “Rumor Has It,” and Wynonna released her greatest hits album, “Collection.”
Today in 1999, it was revealed that Faith Hill would not only become a spokesmodel for Cover Girl cosmetics, she was also confirmed as a performer on the 1999 VH1 “Divas Live” concert.
Today in 2004, Tracy Lawrence’s album “Strong” debuted on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart at number two, behind Kenny Chesney’s “When the Sun Goes Down.” Kenny’s album was marking its eighth week at number one.
Today in 2004, Rhett Atkins, Chad Brock and Daryle Singletary sang “Take Me Out To The Ballgame” at the first San Diego Padres game in their Petco Park stadium. The Padres beat San Francisco, 4-3.
Today in 2006, Rascal Flatts began a four-week stay at #1 in Billboard with “What Hurts The Most.”
Today in 2008, Kenny Chesney previewed his “Poets & Pirates” show before a small group of invited guests in Nashville.
Today in 2008, Emerson Drive and Neal McCoy took part in opening day baseball games. Emerson Drive sang the national anthem for the Kansas City Royal’s home opener, and also performed “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during the 7th inning stretch. Neal McCoy performed the anthem for the Texas Rangers first game of the season in Arlington, Texas.
Today in 2008, Clint Black displayed his skills as a stand-up comedian on the season premiere of CBS’ “Secret Talents of the Stars.” Meanwhile, Montgomery Gentry’s Eddie Montgomery and Troy Gentry served as coaches for actor George Takei, who played Mr. Sulu on the original “Star Trek,” as he competed on the show as a country singer.
Today in 2008, James Otto’s “Sunset Man” was released. The album was the last to be issued by the Muzik Mafia’s Raybaw Records. Big & Rich’s Big Kenny Alphin and John Rich were among those who ran the now-defunct label. Other new material hitting stores included Jeff Bates and Jypsi’s self-titled albums and Trisha Yearwood’s cookbook, “Georgia Cooking in an Oklahoma Kitchen.”
Today in 2009, Charlie Daniels received the Joe M. Rodgers Spirit of America Award from officials at Middle Tennessee State University at a special luncheon at the school. MTSU presents the award to honor people whose work in government, education, or charitable efforts serves as an example of the American spirit in action.
Today in 2009, Kellie Pickler made a guest appearance on “American Idol,” and performed “Best Days Of Your Life.”
Today in 2010, Mark Chesnutt began a tour of U.S. bases in South Korea with a show at Camp Casey. His trek included a visit to the Demilitarized Zone, which is the area that separates North and South Korea. The singer traveled to Asia with the Tennessee National Guard.
Today in 2011, Zac Brown Band launched their inaugural Southern Ground Music and Food Festival. The three-day event took place at Clemson University in Clemson, South Carolina.
Today in 2011, Lady Antebellum made their Australian concert debut, opening for Keith Urban in Adelaide.
Today in 2011, Carrie Underwood made her film-acting debut as a church counselor for a youth group in the Beth Hamilton biopic, “Soul Surfer.”
Today in 2013, CBS filmed “ACM Presents: Time McGraw’s Superstar Summer Night” at Las Vegas’ MGM Grand Garden Arena. Included in the lineup: His wife, Faith Hill, Jason Aldean, Dierks Bentley, Luke Bryan, Florida Georgia Line, Lady Antebellum, The Band Perry, and Taylor Swift.
Today in 2016, Zac Brown was in the room, but not arrested when two others are booked for cocaine possession in a West Palm Beach, Florida, hotel. After it’s reported by TMZ, Brown issues a statement chalking it up to a case of poor judgment and hanging out with the wrong people.
Today in 2017, Cassadee Pope performed her first USO concert Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska.
Today in 2018, Collin Raye performed “Amazing Grace” as 900 butterflies were released at the Las Vegas Community Healing Garden to honor more than 50 people who were killed at the Route 91 festival the previous October.
Today in 2020, Lady A covered “Islands In The Stream” to kick off “CMT Giants Kenny Rogers: A Benefit For MusiCares.” Other performers in the special included Dolly Parton, Vince Gill, Jennifer Nettles, Randy Houser, Lionel Richie and Rascal Flatts, who deliver “Through The Years.”
Today in 2021, J. Thomas underwent the first of eight chemotherapy treatments at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. He ultimately lost his battle with lung cancer the following May at his home in Texas.
Today in 2021, Margo Price and Annie Nelson were publicly announced as new members of the Farm Aid Board of Directors.
Today in 2021, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams began selling a Dolly Parton flavor, strawberry pretzel pie.
Today in 2021, Jimmie Allen was named New Male Artist of the Year and Gabby Barrett was tapped as New Female at the 56^th annual Academy of Country Music Awards.

MEET THE H & S FEED & COUNTRY STORE PET OF THE WEEK: “HARLEY”

Posted on April 7, 2022April 7, 2022 by Bob Ballard

This week’s H & S Feed & Country Store Pet of the Week is “Harley”, a 4 year old female Husky. Harley’s trained to sit & lay down, and she gets along well with other dogs, but plays rough with cats. She’s got a sweet disposition, is playful and energetic, and would love to meet you!

If you’d like to set up an appointment to meet Harley or any of the pets at Stephen Memorial Animal Shelter, visit https://www.stephenmemorial.org/ and fill out an adoption application.

Check out our visit about Harley with Terry Gott from Stephen Memorial Animal Shelter here:

MEET THE H & S FEED & COUNTRY STORE PET OF THE WEEK: “HARLEY”

Posted on April 7, 2022 by Bob Ballard

This week’s H & S Feed & Country Store Pet of the Week is “Harley”, a 4 year old female Husky/German Shepherd mix. Harley’s trained to sit & lay down, and she gets along well with other dogs, but plays rough with cats. She’s got a sweet disposition, is playful and energetic, and would love to meet you!

If you’d like to set up an appointment to meet Harley or any of the pets at Stephen Memorial Animal Shelter, visit https://www.stephenmemorial.org/ and fill out an adoption application.

Check out our visit about Harley with Terry Gott from Stephen Memorial Animal Shelter here:

Dierks Bentley Added To Music City Walk Of Fame

Posted on April 7, 2022April 7, 2022 by Bob Ballard

Dierks Bentley is the recipient of a prestigious Nashville honor. The singer was just added to the Music City Walk of Fame, along with musicians Keb’Mo, Bobby Bare and Connie Smith.

Meanwhile, at the ceremony Dierks chatted with “Entertainment Tonight” about a recent fishing trip his family went on with Luke Bryan, and apparently Dierks’ kids can’t quite get over Luke.

“We went fishing a couple of days ago,” Dierks shares. “I’m a pretty good fisherman, but he’s like … he is Mr. fisherman. So, for him to take my kids out there [fishing] and kind of show ’em.” He adds, “They’re still enthralled with his accent. He’s got that deep southern Georgia accent.”

Source: Entertainment Tonight

This day in Country Music History

Posted on April 7, 2022April 7, 2022 by Bob Ballard

Today in 1956, Carl Perkins’ “Blue Suede Shoes” reached #1 on the Billboard country singles chart.
Today in 1959, Marty Robbins recorded “El Paso” and “Big Iron” in at the Bradley Film & Recording Studio in Nashville.
Today in 1990, Farm Aid IV was held at the Indiana Hoosierdome. Performers included Willie Nelson, Neil Young, Kris Kristofferson, John Mellencamp, Guns N’ Roses and Jackson Browne. Elton John dedicated the song “Candle in the Wind” to AIDS patient Ryan White during the show. White died later that night.
Today in 1998, Brooks & Dunn’s “Greatest Hits” album was certified double platinum.
Today in 1998, Shania Twain’s single, “You’re Still The One,” was certified gold.
Today in 1999, Shania Twain became the first country female to have two albums reach the high mark for her “Come On Over” album, which was recognized for shipments of 10 million copies.
Today in 2003, Toby Keith won three awards at the second annual CMT Flameworthy Video Music Awards at Nashville’s Gaylord Entertainment Center.
Today in 2009, Jason Aldean’s album, “Wide Open,” was released.
Today in 2012, while performing “Don’t Think I Can’t Love You” during a concert in Vero Beach, Florida, Jake Owen proposed to then-girlfriend, Lacey Buchanan. She said yes – and the couple exchanged vows a month later…on May 7^th, 2012.
Today in 2013, Miranda Lambert won trophies in three categories for the 48^th annual Academy of Country Music awards, aired by CBS in Las Vegas’ MGM Grand Garden Arena. Her titles include: Female Vocalist of the Year and “Over You” took Single Record and Song of the Year.
Today in 2015, Thomas Rhett’s “Crash And Burn” hit the airwaves.
Today in 2016, Carrie Underwood performed “Something In The Water” at the close of FOX’s “American Idol.” Scotty McCreery, Kellie Pickler, Lauren Alaina, Kelly Clarkson, Danny Gokey, Casey James and Bucky Covington were among the guests on the last edition of the show, where Keith Urban sat on the judges panel.
Today in 2017, “If Not For You,” the debut solo album by the late Joey Feek, ws released – it had been recorded in 2005.
Today in 2017, Ben Speer – a member of Gospel Music Hall of Fame group The Speer Family, died in Nashville. He also sang background on the Elvis Presley hits “Heartbreak Hotel,” “I Was The One” and “I Want You, I Need You, I Love You.”
Today in 2017, Tim McGraw & Faith Hill launched their Soul2Soul 2017 Tour at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, with Saints quarterback Drew Brees and Matthew McConaughey among the famous folks in the house.
Today in 2017, the Patsy Cline Museum opened in downtown Nashville.
Today in 2019, Dan + Shay claimed three trophies during the 54^th annual Academy of Country Music Awards, aired by CBS from the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. They took Vocal Duo of the Year, while “Tequila” earned Single and Song of the Year.
Today in 2020, John Prine died of complications from COVID-19 at Nashville’s Vanderbilt Medical Center. A 2019 inductee in the Songwriters Hall of Fame, he earned a Top 5 country album with “The Tree Of Forgiveness” and wrote Don Williams’ “Love Is On A Roll” and George Strait’s “I Just Want To Dance With You.”
Today in 2020, “Me And Patsy Kickin’ Up Dust: My Friendship With Patsy Cline,” authored by Loretta Lynn and her daughter, Patsy Lynn Russell, was released.

CMT Music Award Adds New Category

Posted on April 6, 2022April 6, 2022 by Bob Ballard

The 2022 CMT Music Awards are happening Monday, and they’ve added a brand new category that fans can vote on right now.

The network just announced the new Trending Comeback Song of the Year, which “honors iconic stars and their hits that not only stood the test of time but also recently found new popularity.”

This year’s nominees include:

“Freight Train” – Alan Jackson
“Neon Moon” – Brooks & Dunn
“9 to 5” – Dolly Parton
“I’m A Survivor” – Reba McEntire
“Suds in the Bucket” – Sara Evans
“Man! I Feel Like A Woman!” – Shania Twain
“Love Story” – Taylor Swift

Fans have until Saturday to cast their vote in the category.

The 2022 CMT Music Awards, hosted by Kelsea Ballerini and Anthony Mackie, will Monday on CBS, with an extended version with 30 extra minutes of performances to debut April 15^th on CMT. Voting is open now.

Source: CMT

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