ACM Awards Announce Planned Collaborations & More

Posted on April 14, 2021April 14, 2021 by Bob Ballard

The 56th Annual ACM Awards are just days away, and it sure sounds like fans can expect to see a whole host of great performances on the show, including exciting collaborations and world premieres.

ACM announced Miranda Lambert and Ell King will open the show with the world television premiere of “Drunk (And I Don’t Wanna Go Home).” But that’s far from the night’s only collaboration.

Other pairings include Dierks Bentley and The War and Treaty, who’ll perform a cover of U2’s “Pride (In The Name of Love),” Miranda will team with her “Marfa Tapes” partners Jack Ingram and Jon Randall on “In His Arms,” Chris Young and Kane Brown will perform “Famous Friends,” Maren Morris and hubby Ryan Hurd will perform “Chasing After You,” Carly Pearce and Lee Brice will sing “I Hope You’re Happy Now,” Kelsea Ballerini and Kenny Chesney will perform “half of my home town,” and Carrie Underwood will sing a “My Savior” medley with guest CeCe Winans.

Blake Shelton is also set for a special performance, performing his first hit single “Austin,” in honor of its 20th anniversary, along with his latest track “Minimum Wave.”

And that’s just a few of the performances fans can expect. Others include Brothers Osborne (“I’m Not For Everyone”), Kenny Chesney (“Knowing You”), Eric Church (“Bunch Of Nothing”), Luke Combs (“Forever After All”), Dan + Shay (“Glad You Exist”), Mickey Guyton (“Hold On”), Alan Jackson (“You’ll Always Be My Baby” and “Drive (For Daddy Gene),”) Thomas Rhett (“What’s Your Country Song” and “Country Again”), Chris Stapleton (“Maggie’s Song”), and Chris Young and Kane Brown (“Famous Friends”). Also performing on the show are host Keith Urban, Ashley McBryde, Little Big Town, the newly added Lady A, and New Artist of the Year winners Gabby Barrett and Jimmie Allen.

One person who’s no longer set to perform is Luke Bryan, who was pulled out of the show after testing positive for COVID-19 earlier this week.

The 56th Annual ACM Awards, hosted by Keith Urban and Mickey Guyton, airs live from Nashville Sunday on CBS (8 pm). The performances will take place in three iconic Music City venues – the Grand Ole Opry House, the historic Ryman Auditorium and The Bluebird Café.

Source: ACM

This day in Country Music History

Posted on April 14, 2021April 14, 2021 by Bob Ballard

Today in 1932, Loretta Lynn was born in Butcher Holly, Kentucky. She was the first woman to win the Country Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year award in 1972 and landed in the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1988.
Today in 1958, Don Gibson’s “Oh Lonesome Me” hit the top spot on the Billboard country chart.
Today in 1964, Fiddler Stuart Duncan was born in Quantico, Virginia. He plays on numerous country hits with the Nashville Bluegrass Band and also with Faith Hill (“Breathe”), The Band Perry (“If I Die Young”) and Shania Twain (“Man! I Feel Like A Woman!).
Today in 1979, the “Classics” album by Kenny Rogers & Dottie West was released.
Today in 1979, Barbara Mandrell’s remake of the R&B hit, “(If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don’t Want To Be Right” tops the Billboard country chart.
Today in 1981, Hank Williams Jr. recorded “A Country Boy Can Survive.”
Today in 1983, Kenny Rogers’ album, “We’ve Got Tonight,” was certified gold.
Today in 1986, “Alabama’s Greatest Video Hits” video by Alabama was certified gold. As a bonus, Alabama won Entertainer of the Year for a record fifth straight time at the 21st annual Academy of Country Music awards, aired by NBC from Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California. The band also collected its sixth straight Top Vocal Group trophy.
Today in 1992, the single, “Achy Breaky Heart,” by Billy Ray Cyrus was released.
Today in 1997, the website, country.com, now known as CMT.com, was officially launched.
Today in 1997, Pam Tillis released her single “All the Good Ones Are Gone.”
Today in 1998, Shania Twain joined Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Aretha Franklin, Gloria Estefan and Carole King at New York’s Beacon Theatre for a taping of “VH1 Divas Live,” with all six singers combining talents on “Natural Woman (You Make Me Feel Like).”
Today in 1999, the body of Tammy Wynette was exhumed and an autopsy performed in Nashville at the request of her husband, George Richey.
Today in 2000, Brad Paisley was named International Rising Star at the HMV British Country Music Awards. Other prizes went to Reba McEntire was dubbed the International Female Vocalist (for the second consecutive year) and the Dixie Chicks scored two trophies in the International Group/Duo and International Album categories. George Jones snagged an award for International Male Vocalist while Dolly Parton won for International Independent Artist. Alison Krauss & Union Station didn’t do too badly either, they garnered their 7th consecutive win as International Bluegrass Group.
Today in 2002, Vince Gill, Emmylou Harris, Lyle Lovett and Dave Matthews were among the artists saluting Willie Nelson at a special concert at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium.
Today in 2004, Dolly Parton was honored as a Living Legend by the Library of Congress in Washington, DC.
Today in 2008, Taylor Swift, Kellie Pickler, and Trace Adkins were the big winners at the CMT Music Awards. Rascal Flatts, Sugarland, and Brad Paisley also took awards, along with country-rock duets by Bon Jovi and LeAnn Rimes and Robert Plant and Alison Krauss.
Today in 2008, the CMT talent competition “Can You Duet” debuted. Amongst the panelists were Naomi Judd and “Amazed” songwriter Aimee Mayo.
Today in 2008, Kelly Pickler won three trophies during the CMT Music Awards at Belmont University’s Curb Events Center in Nashville.
Today in 2008, Montgomery Gentry’s Eddie Montgomery and his wife, Tracy, were honored for their charitable efforts on behalf of the Danville, Kentucky fire department’s Christmas Toy Drive. Danville is the singer’s hometown.
Today in 2009, LeAnn Rimes’ book “What I Cannot Change” arrived in stores.
Today in 2010, Kenny Chesney attended a special advanced screening of his concert film “Kenny Chesney: Summer in 3D” in his hometown of Knoxville, Tennessee.
Today in 2010, Garth Brooks was in Washington, DC for Grammys on the Hill, a music advocacy and awards event.
Today in 2010, Lyric Street Records announced that the label was closing. Rascal Flatts was among the acts with the company.
Today in 2011, Jason Aldean joined Kelly Clarkson to perform their chart-topping collaboration “Don’t You Wanna Stay” on “American Idol.”
Today in 2012, Lady Antebellum’s Dave Haywood married Kelli Cashiola at Front Porch Farms in Ashland City, Tennessee. Lady A bandmates Charles Kelley and Hillary Scott attended. Singer/songwriter Dave Barnes performed.
Today in 2012, Trisha Yearwood launched her cooking show, “Trisha’s Southern Kitchen,” on the Food Network.

Luke Bryan Misses Live ‘American Idol’ After Testing Positive For COVID

Posted on April 13, 2021April 13, 2021 by Bob Ballard

“American Idol” kicked off their live shows last night, but it was without Luke Bryan, who was sidelined after testing positive for COVID-19.

“I’m sad to say I won’t be a part of tonight’s first live @AmericanIdol show,” he shared. “I tested positive for COVID but I’m doing well and look forward to being back at it soon.” “Idol’s” Instagram page added that Luke is “resting now in quarantine at home.”

Meanwhile, “Idol” producers found a familiar face to replace him last night – original “American Idol” judge Paula Abdul, who was a judge from the Fox show’s 2002 launch, leaving theshow after its eighth season.

“We’ll miss you tonight @LukeBryanOnline,” Paul tweeted. “Thank you for trusting me with your judge’s seat!”

This day in Country Music History

Posted on April 13, 2021April 13, 2021 by Bob Ballard

Today in 1959, George Jones’ “White Lightning” picked up his first #1 country single in Billboard magazine as a recording artist.
Today in 1963, Bill Anderson’s “Still” reached #1 on Billboard’s country chart.
Today in 1965, Roger Miller set a record by winning five GRAMMYS in one night. No other country star has ever won that many at one time.
Today in 1970, Bettie Azevedez picked up five trophies on behalf of Merle Haggard in the Academy Of Country & Western Music awards at the Hollywood Palladium.
Today in 1996, Lonestar’s “No News” topped Billboard for the first time.
Today in 2002, Faith Hill was inducted into the Mississippi Musicians Hall of Fame. She wasn’t there, though, and only about 70 people attended the induction ceremony at the University of Southern Mississippi. Other new inductees include jazz diva Cassandra Wilson; former Miss America Mary Ann Mobley; Walter Turnbull, the founder and conductor of the Boys Choir of Harlem; blues great Howlin’ Wolf; pop musician Van Dyke Parks; and former member of the Temptations David Ruffin.
Today in 2003, Andy Griggs, Kris Kristofferson, Jeffrey Steele and others teamed up to play in a Waylon Jennings tribute concert in Scottsdale, Arizona. The event was one of three shows with the theme “Crossing the Bound’ries,” an acoustic evening of Waylon music and anecdotes that also raised funds for the Make-A-Wish foundation. Also participating were Waylon’s widow, Jessi Coulter, and son Shooter Jennings.
Today in 2005, Willie Nelson’s attorney sent a Texas Senator a letter declining to have a toll road named for the singer. Nelson told the Austin American-Statesman, “I’d put my name on an electric chair, too, but I don’t think that’d be too great a thing.”
Today in 2009, Big Machine released Taylor Swift’s “You Belong With Me” to radio.
Today in 2012, Jana Kramer performed “Why Ya Wanna” as she made her Grand Ole Opry debut.
Today in 2013, Jason Aldean performed the first of a handful of stadium dates on his 2013 itinerary, at Sanford Stadium in Athens, Georgia, with Luke Bryan, Jake Owens and Thomas Rhett. Ludacris made a surprise appearance.
Today in 2014, Taylor Swift made a surprise cameo appearance during Seth Rogen’s show-opening monologue on NBC’s “Saturday Night Live.” “You’re getting really upset,” she exclaimed. “And whenever a man shows emotion, I appear!”
Today in 2014, the late Johnny Cash was atop the “Billboard” country albums chart with “Out Among The Stars.”
Today in 2015, Trace Adkins embarked on a USO tour that took him to Kuwait, Afghanistan and Germany.

Taylor Swift Shares Home Movies In Vid For ‘The Best Day (Taylor’s Version)’

Posted on April 12, 2021April 12, 2021 by Bob Ballard

Taylor Swift dropped “Fearless (Taylor’s Version)” on Friday, and along with it shared a very personal lyric video for the track “The Best Day (Taylor’s Version).”

The original 2009 music video features family home videos and the new clip does the same with footage of her life before she became a pop star, including rare clips of her mom Andrea, dad Scott and brother Austin.

This day in Country Music History

Posted on April 12, 2021April 12, 2021 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.

Clay Walker Announces New Album

Posted on April 9, 2021April 9, 2021 by Bob Ballard

Clay Walker is set to release a new album this summer. The singer just announced his 12th studio album, “Texas To Tennessee,” will drop July 30th.

The album features 10 songs, all co-written by Clay, with the title a shout out to where he recorded the album, both in Nashville, Tennessee and Galveston, Texas.

“I’m really proud of these songs and can’t wait to share them with y’all,” he shared on Instagram. “So grateful for my incredible team and producers @musicknox and @jaronboyer for making this happen.”

Check out the track list below:

“Anything To Do With You”
“Need A Bar Sometimes”
“Catching Up With An Ol’ Memory”
“Country Side”
“Cowboy Loves A Woman”
“Texas To Tennessee”
“I Just Wanna Hold You”
“Loving You Then”
“You Look Good”
“One More”

Instagram Link

This day in Country Music History

Posted on April 9, 2021April 9, 2021 by Bob Ballard

Today in 1961, Patsy Cline’s “I Fall to Pieces” entered the country charts.
Today in 1987, the “Heartland” album by the Judds was certified gold.
Today in 1988, George Strait released his number one single, “Famous Last Words Of A Fool.”
Today in 1990, Tanya Tucker’s “Tennessee Woman” album was released.
Today in 1991, the album, “Something In Red,” by Lorrie Morgan was released.
Today in 1991, Patty Loveless earned her first gold album certification for “Honky Tonk Angel.”
Today in 1992, Pam Tillis’ “Greatest Hits” album was certified gold.
Today in 1997, songwriter Mae Boren Axton died at the age of 82. She co-wrote the Elvis Presley classic, “Heartbreak Hotel.”
Today in 1998, Tammy Wynette’s funeral was held at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. Stars including Wynonna, Randy Travis, Dolly Parton, Lorrie Morgan and the Oak Ridge Boys all performed musical tributes. Before that very public service, there was a private service earlier in the day attended by Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, Vince Gill and George Jones.
Today in 1999, Faith Hill kicked off the first leg of her “This Kiss” tour at the Historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was her first tour as a solo headliner.
Today in 2001, former BlackHawk member Van Stephenson died at his Nashville home at the age of 47 following a valiant fight against skin cancer.
Today in 2002, Toby Keith’s single, “My List,” topped the “Radio & Records’” Country Top 50 chart.
Today in 2002, Tommy Shane Steiner’s debut album, “Then Came The Night,” and Chris LeDoux’s “After The Storm” project arrived in stores.
Today in 2002, folks at “InStyle” magazine told us that their April 2001 edition, which featured Faith Hill on the cover, was their #1 seller that year. As a matter of fact, her issue trounced cover girls Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Lopez and Kate Hudson.
Today in 2005, Anna Nicole Smith appeared on the Grand Ole Opry. She flashed what appeared to some fans to be her breasts, though Opry officials insisted she was wearing a nude bra. She also met Joe Nichols, who ironically sang at her 2007 funeral.
Today in 2007, Rascal Flatts and Loretta Lynn were celebrated at the Recording Academy Honors at Loews Vanderbilt Plaza in Nashville. Also recognized were non-country acts Jars Of Clay and the Fisk Jubilee Singers.
Today in 2012, Keith Urban’s “For You,” from the movie “Act of Valor” was released to radio.
Today in 2013, Brad Paisley’s album, “Wheelhouse,” arrived in stores.
Today in 2016, Carrie Underwood, Brooks & Dunn and David Foster play the 22nd annual Celebrity Fight Night benefit in Phoenix, hosted by Reba McEntire. The event marks the last public appearance by boxer Muhammad Ali, who dies two months later.
Today in 2016, Marty Stuart and Connie Smith sang “Silver Wings” during the funeral for Merle Haggard at his ranch in Palo Cedro, California. Kris Kristofferson performed”Sing Me Back Home,” and Haggard’s sons – Marty, Noel and Ben Haggard – deliver “Today I Started Loving You Again.” A year later on the same day? Merle’s widow, Theresa Haggard, was on hand as his childhood home, opened for public viewing in Bakersfield. It had been built from a converted boxcar.
Today in 2018, Walker Hayes scored a platinum single from the RIAA for “You Broke Up With Me.”
Today in 2018, Sugarland sang “Stuck Like Glue” with contestant Layla Spring and “Stay” with Gabby Barrett on ABC’s telecast of “American Idol” for judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Katy Perry.

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

Posted on April 8, 2021April 8, 2021 by Bob Ballard

This week’s H & S Feed & Country Store Pet of the Week is “Buttercup”. Buttercup is a beautiful 4 year old domestic shorthair mix cat who is spayed and would love to meet you! She’s a little shy at first, but will warm up to you and she gets along with other cats as well.

If you’d like to set up an appointment to meet Buttercup 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 with Terry Gott from Stephen Memorial Animal Shelter here:

Zac Brown Band Announce New Livestream

Posted on April 8, 2021April 8, 2021 by Bob Ballard

Zac Brown Band is ready to perform again. The band announced they’ll headline a special May 8th livestream from their Southern Ground Studio in Nashville.

“I’m so excited to invite our fans to our special livestream performance,” Zac shares on social media. “It’s been a long time since we took the stage, and we think it’s about time we bring family and friends together from our very own Southern Ground Studio in Nashville for the first time ever.”

He adds, “After the live performance, stick around for our special encore event, where we’ll be answering fan-submitted questions. We can’t wait for you to join us!” If that’s not exciting enough, the announcement notes, “The band will also share some exciting news with fans who tune in.”

The livestream will kick of at 9 pm ET, and tickets are on sale now via Sessions Live. There will also be VIP bundles that will include exclusive merch, and “extremely limited short 1:1 virtual hangs with Zac.”

Source: Zac Brown Band

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