Taylor Swift Once Played a $20 Concert at an Alabama High School

Posted on April 5, 2024April 5, 2024 by Bob Ballard

It seems hard to imagine now, but in 2007 Taylor Swift played a concert at a small high school in Anniston, Alabama and tickets were $20/pop. The best part was that proceeds went to supporting the school’s football team.

That same high school has a current enrollment of 306 kids in grades 8-12, so you can imagine how small of a show it was. There are so many questions, but mostly: Who booked her on this show? And did they lose a bet?

Her five-song set included: “Our Song” . . . “Teardrops on My Guitar” . . . “Should’ve Said No” . . . and “Tim McGraw” . . . before closing with “Picture to Burn”.

That’s a far cry from today and Taylor’s “Eras Tour” where she plays some part of 45 songs! Also, the “Eras Tour” already set the Guinness World record for the highest-grossing tour of all-time by generating over a billion dollars in revenue.

And instead of $20 tickets, the cheapest tickets today cost $365 each. But good luck finding them that cheap! Last year, the average ticket price was $1,088.

This day in Country Music History

Posted on April 5, 2024April 5, 2024 by Bob Ballard

Today in 1975, the single, “Thank God I’m A Country Boy,” by John Denver entered the top 40 chart.
Today in 1980, the Bellamy Brothers topped the country charts with “Sugar Daddy.”
Today in 1995, Alan Jackson’s second album, “Don’t Rock the Jukebox,” was certified quadruple platinum. On the same day, his third album, “A Lot About Livin’ (and A Little ‘Bout Love),” was certified for multi-platinum sales of 5- million.
Today in 1995, Brooks & Dunn’s “Brand New Man” album was certified for multi-platinum sales of 5-million. On the same day, their “Hard Workin’ Man” project was certified quadruple platinum.
Today in 1995, the album, “Homeward Looking Angel,” by Pam Tillis was certified platinum.
Today in 1995, Diamond Rio’s album, “Love A Little Stronger,” was certified gold.
Today in 1995, the “Not A Moment Too Soon” album by Tim McGraw was certified quadruple platinum.
Today in 1995, Tracy Byrd won two Country Dance Music Awards for the “Watermelon Crawl.”
Today in 1996, Terri Clark earned a gold record for her self-titled debut album.
Today in 1996, Shania Twain’s video, “The Woman In Me,” was certified platinum.
Today in 1997, Trace Adkins received his first #1 single in Billboard with “(This Ain’t) No Thinkin’ Thing.”
Today in 1999, three of Tammy Wynette’s daughters filed a $50-million lawsuit that blamed the singer’s death on negligence by her husband and her doctor.
Today in 2000, Faith Hill and Tim McGraw debuted on “Sesame Street” with “Take A Turn,” their song about sharing.
Today in 2002, Dolly Parton kicked-off the tourist season by serving as the Grand Marshal of her “Chasing Rainbows” parade in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. She officially opened her Dollywood theme park for the season the following day.
Today in 2003, Darryl Worley started his seven-week stay at #1 on the Billboard country singles chart with “Have You Forgotten?”
Today in 2008, Johnny Cash’s “Hurt” ranked #1 when CMT debuted its latest installment of “100 Greatest Videos.”
Today in 2009, Brad Paisley won Top Male Vocalist among three trophies during the 44^th annual Academy of Country Music Awards in Las Vegas. He also earns Video of the Year, for “Waitin’ On A Woman”; and Vocal Event, for the Keith Urban duet, “Start A Band.”
Today in 2012, Trace Adkins attended as 250 new acres from the Battle of Shiloh are dedicated by the Civil War Trust at Pickwick Landing State Park in Savannah, Tennessee.
Today in 2013, the Band Perry headlined the Academy of Country Music’s Party For A Cause at the Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas. Also on the bill: Brantley Gilbert, Justin Moore, Florida Georgia Line, Greg Bates and Cassadee Pope.
Today in 2014, Craig Campbell performed at the Las Vegas reception for a couple two days after sitting next to the groom, Tony Ramos, on a flight. The set list included “Keep Them Kisses Comin’.”
Today in 2014, Keith Urban topped the bill on the second night of the Academy of Country Music’s Party For A Cause at The Linq in Las Vegas. Also appearing: Joe Nichols, Chris Young, Brett Eldredge, Dan + Shay and Jerrod Niemann.
Today in 2017, Keith Urban was honored with the Recording Artists’ Coalition Award from the Recording Academy for his commitment to music education during the annual GRAMMYs On The Hill Awards in Washington, D.C.
Today in 2017, the Country Music Association announced Alan Jackson, the late Jerry Reed and songwriter Don Schlitz as the 2017 inductees in the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Today in 2017, Jana Kramer was honored with the Voice of Empowerment Award from Safe Horizon in New York for speaking out publicly about domestic violence.

H & S FEED & COUNTRY STORE PET OF THE WEEK: SCRAPPY

Posted on April 4, 2024April 4, 2024 by Bob Ballard

This week’s H&S Feed & Country Store Pet of the Week is “Scrappy”, a lovable 3 year old Shepherd mix. Scrappy gets along great with everyone! He loves adults, kids, other dogs and even cats. Scrappy is a friendly fellow with lots of energy, and would make some lucky family a great companion! Scrappy is fully vetted, vaccinated and ready to go to a loving home.

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

Here Are The Presenters For This Weekend’s CMT Music Awards

Posted on April 4, 2024April 4, 2024 by Bob Ballard

This weekend’s “CMT Music Awards” is shaping up to be quite an event. Yesterday the presenters for the awards show were announced, and the list is impressive. Jelly Roll, Carly Pearce, Gayle King, Melissa Etheridge, Amber Riley, Billy Bob Thornton, Cody Alan, Cody Johnson, Emily Osment, Emma Roberts, Megan Moroney, Mickey Guyton, Minnie Driver, Montana Jordan, Parmalee and Paul Walter Hauser have all been asked to hand out awards. In addition, two more performers were revealed yesterday: Jason Aldean and Dasha. The show airs live this Sunday at 8 p.m. ET on CBS while also streaming on Paramount+.

This day in Country Music History

Posted on April 4, 2024April 4, 2024 by Bob Ballard

Today in 1959, Bill Anderson made his Grand Ole Opry debut at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium.
Today in 1985, the album, “Why Not Me,” by the Judds was certified gold.
Today in 1987, George Strait scored his 10th #1 hit with “Ocean Front Property.”
Today in 1989, Alabama’s “Southern Star” album was certified gold.
Today in 1989, the Judds’ album, “River Of Time,” was released.
Today in 1992, Billy Ray Cyrus’ debut single “Achy Breaky Heart” made its first appearance on the charts.
Today in 1996, the Mavericks’ album, “Music For All Occasions,” went gold.
Today in 1998, Trisha Yearwood hit #1 in Billboard with “A Perfect Love.”
Today in 2000, the home video and DVD versions of the animated TNN movie, “Tom Sawyer,” were released with the soundtrack. The film featured celebrity voices galore with the talents of Rhett Akins, Lee Ann Womack, Mark Wills, Waylon Jennings, Hank Williams Jr. and more. For each video sold, MGM donates a percentage of the profits to St. Jude Children’s Research program.
Today in 2000, SHeDAISY made their television debut on “Live! with Regis & Kathie Lee” singing “This Woman Needs,” while Jessica Andrews guested on “Donny & Marie” with the single, “Unbreakable Heart.”
Today in 2000, the Wilkinsons’ album, “Here and Now” and BR5-49’s “Coast To Coast” album arrived in stores.
Today in 2000, the Dixie Chicks’ single, “Goodbye Earl,” was certified gold. On the same day, their debut album, “Wide Open Spaces,” was certified for sales of 9-million. The project has since been certified for multi-platinum sales of 11-million.
Today in 2002, Jo Dee Messina celebrated the #1 success of her single, “Bring On The Rain,” during a party on Nashville’s Music Row for songwriters Billy Montana and Helen Darling.
Today in 2004, Martina McBride’s “Independence Day” tops the list as CMT presents “100 Greatest Music ”
Today in 2006, Rascal Flatts’ album, “Me And My Gang,” arrived in stores.
Today in 2013, Carrie Underwood performed “See You Again” on FOX’s “American Idol.” Casey James was also a musical guest on the show, featuring Keith Urban as a judge.
Today in 2014, “My Eyes,” by Blake Shelton featuring Gwen Sebastian was released to radio.
Today in 2016, retired NFL quarterback Peyton Manning surprised folks at Nashville’s Winners Bar & Grill and sang “Rocky Top” with Lee Brice and Shay Mooney, of Dan + Shay.
Today in 2017, Darryl Worley, Josh Thompson and Halfway To Hazard performed at a benefit for Nashville musician Smith Curry at the Tin Roof. The bill also included Zac Brown co-writers Sonia Leigh, Wyatt Durrette and Levi Lowery.
Today in 2019, Brad Paisley and wife Kimberly broke ground on their “Free Grocery Store” in Nashville.

LAINEY WILSON GETS PROPS FROM JOHN FOGERTY FOR COVER OF “TRAVELIN’ BAND”

Posted on April 3, 2024April 3, 2024 by Bob Ballard

When you reach a certain level in music, you almost become used to getting props from your peers and fans. But occasionally a moment comes along, a comment or some “flowers” from someone that stands out. Lainey Wilson had just such an experience recently.

John Fogerty, Rock N’ Roll Hall Of Famer, lead singer and co-founder of Creedence Clearwater Revival and bonafide living legend, was impressed by a recent performance of Wilson’s where she did a lively rendition of CCR’s “Travelin’ Band” – impressed enough that he posted the clip on his Instagram page, with a caption that read, “Such a great cover of ‘Travelin’ Band’ by @laineywilson,” along with a clapping hands emoji. That’s huge.

Lainey saw the post and chimed in in the comments section. “Heyyy thank ya very much @johnfogerty. One of my all time favorites!”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by John Fogerty (@johnfogerty)

Source: AmericanSongwriter

This day in Country Music History

Posted on April 3, 2024April 3, 2024 by Bob Ballard

Today in 1948, the radio debut of Louisiana Hayride was broadcast on KWKH in Shreveport, Louisiana. It would go on to feature such acts as Elvis Presley, Hank Williams, Sr., Jim Reeves and George Jones.
Today in 1950, Bass player and son of Cliffie Stone, Curtis Stone was born in North Hollywood, California. He joined Highway 101, which later earned the Country Music Association’s vocal group awards in 1988 and 1989.
Today in 1968, Roy Clark made his first of several guest appearances on “The Beverly Hillbillies” as cousin Roy and Mother Myrtle.
Today in 1975, Emmylou Harris debuted with her famous “Hot Band” at a San Francisco club. Made up of some of the industry’s best singers and players, the “Hot Band” eventually became a proving ground for future country stars. Over the years, the lineup included, at various times, Rodney Crowell, Vince Gill and Ricky Skaggs.
Today in 1982, The Oak Ridge Boys storm the #1 spot in Billboard with “Bobbie Sue.”
Today in 1987, President Reagan presented Minnie Pearl with American Cancer Society’s annual Courage Award for her personal fight against cancer.
Today in 1992, Dolly Parton’s film, “Straight Talk,” opened in theaters nationwide.
Today in 1995, BlackHawk released the single, “That’s Just About Right.”
Today in 1995, Diamond Rio’s single, “Bubba Hyde,” hit #9 on the charts.
Today in 2002, Brad Paisley was surprised with the annual NASI (Nashville Songwriters Association International) “Songwriter/Artist of the Year” award while he was in Nashville at the Legendary Songwriters Acoustic Concert. The NASI is one of the organizers of Tin Pan South, the annual songwriter event, which also takes place in Nashville. Bill Anderson, who hosted the event and is a collaborator friend of Brad’s, presented him with the award.
Today in 2002, Brad Paisley received the Nashville Songwriter’s Association’s Songwriter/Artist of the Year award.
Today in 2004, Kenny Chesney and Uncle Kracker hoisted “When The Sun Goes Down” to #1 on the Billboard chart.
Today in 2009, Reba McEntire and Heidi Newfield were featured in a country edition of the daytime game show “The Price Is Right.”
Today in 2010, Love And Theft’s Eric Gunderson married Emily Hagar at the Hazel Path Mansion in Hendersonville, Tennessee.
Today in 2011, Miranda Lambert won four trophies during the 46th annual Academy of Country Music Awards at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. She nabbed Top Female Vocalist, while her song, “The House That Built Me,” garnered trophies in the Single Record, Song and Video of the Year categories.

ALABAMA REVEALS JUNE JAM LINEUP

Posted on April 2, 2024April 2, 2024 by Bob Ballard

The lineup for “Alabama Jam XVIII,” the annual event hosted by Alabama, was announced yesterday, and it has a decided old school feel.

Most of this years “Jam” performers were at their peak from the 80s-00s. Along with the hosts, Old Dominion, Shenandoah, Lee Greenwood, Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry, Mark Wills, Exile, John Berry, Taylor Hicks, The Malpass Brothers, The Castellows and more have signed on for the one-day event, taking place in Fort Payne, Alabama on June 1. More acts are expected to be announced as the event draws closer.

“When we started the first June Jam in 1982 as a charity concert event, it was attended by over 30-thousand fans,” explains Alabama’s Teddy Gentry. “At the time, it was the largest country music festival in the United States. Now we are getting ready for our 18th concert. We want to welcome everyone to Fort Payne, Alabama, our hometown. Come have a great time and help others in need!” The concert is a charity event, with proceeds going to the June Jam Foundation, and will benefit those in need and disaster relief in and around Alabama.

Tickets for June Jam are on sale now via Ticketmaster.

Source: TheMusicUniverse

This day in Country Music History

Posted on April 2, 2024April 2, 2024 by Bob Ballard

Today in 1956, Johnny Cash recorded “I Walk The Line” and “Get Rhythm” at the Sun Recording Studio in Memphis.
Today in 1961, Buddy Jewell was born in Osceola, Arkansas. He won the first “Nashville Star” TV competition in 2003 that lead him to a recording contract and gold album.
Today in 1977, “Lucille” led Kenny Rogers to his first #1 country single in Billboard magazine.
Today in 1982, the “High Notes” album by Hank Williams Jr. was released.
Today in 1984, Alabama’s “Roll On” album was certified Gold and Platinum simultaneously.
Today in 1990, Diamond Rio signed its first recording contract with Artista Records.
Today in 1991, the album “Electric Barnyard” by Kentucky Headhunters was released.
Today in 1991, Garth Brooks’ “No Fences” album was certified triple Platinum. It has since been certified for multi-Platinum sales of 16-million.
Today in 1992, the “Forever And Ever” video by Randy Travis was certified Gold.
Today in 1992, Wynonna Judd performed her first solo concert in Midland, Texas.
Today in 1994, Little Texas topped the Billboard country chart for the first time with “My Love.”
Today in 1994, Tim McGraw’s single “Indian Outlaw” hit number 15 on the charts.
Today in 1999, Trisha Yearwood appeared on “Sesame Street,” and got to rub shoulders with one of her biggest childhood influences. She said, quote, “As a child, Grover was my hero. To finally get to meet my childhood hero and have an opportunity to perform with him is something I’ll never forget.”
Today in 2000, Faith Hill’s “Breathe” album was certified multi-Platinum for sales of six-million copies.
Today in 2002, Elton John and Ryan Adams performed together at a studio in the Grand Ole Opry House for a taping of “CMT Crossroads.” Among their collaborations are duets on Jim Reeves’ “He’ll Have To Go” and Jerry Lee Lewis’ “Great Balls of Fire.”
Today in 2004, Martina McBride’s image was shown on the billboard above NASDAQ’s headquarters in New York’s Times Square as Lifetime TV and the National Domestic Violence Hotline honored her commitment to ending domestic violence.
Today in 2005, Tracy Byrd launched his 10th annual Homecoming Weekend.
Today in 2006, Craig Morgan broke his left wrist and suffered a concussion after he’s thrown over handlebars in an accident during a cross-country motorcycle race in Bucksnort, Tennessee. He continued to finish the race and perform that evening.
Today in 2006, Brad Paisley performed “When I Get Where I’m Going” during the funeral for Buck Owens at the Valley Baptist Church in Bakersfield. Garth Brooks, Chris Hillman, Herb Pederson, Lulu Roman, Dwight Yoakam, John Berry and Trace Adkins were also in attendance.
Today in 2007, Taylor Swift helped the Los Angeles Dodgers launch the new baseball season, by performing a 30-minute concert at Dodger Stadium in advance of the game and singing the national anthem before the first pitch.
Today in 2007, Clay Walker took part in opening day for the Houston Astros, singing the national anthem in advance of the baseball game and performing “God Bless America” during the seventh inning stretch.
Today in 2008, Carrie Underwood and the Wreckers’ Michelle Branch were among the performers at a special free concert in Indianapolis, Indiana in conjunction with the NCAA Final Four championship games.
Today in 2008, Montgomery Gentry’s Eddie Montgomery broke ground for his new Eddie Montgomery Steakhouse, the restaurant he was opening in Harrodsburg, Kentucky.
Today in 2008, Steve Azar took part in the Murray Brothers’ eighth annual Caddyshack Charity Golf Tournament. The star-studded event, held near Jacksonville, Florida, raised funds for St. Vincent’s Mobile Health Outreach, a facility on wheels that provides health care services to the homeless, migrant farm workers, and disadvantaged people of northeast Florida.
Today in 2008, Chuck Wicks and Luke Bryan took part in the Mike Curb College of Entertainment and Music Business’ “The Insider’s View” seminar series.
Today in 2013, Republic Nashville released The Band Perry’s album “Pioneer.”
Today in 2013, new country releases included Florida Georgia Line’s “Cruise” remix featuring Nelly.
Today in 2013, Wynonna Judd was the first celebrity voted off “Dancing With the Stars.”
Today in 2015, Lynn Anderson, Tanya Tucker, John Berry, T. Graham Brown and John Conlee participated in a celebrity waiters event at the Stones River Country Club in Murfreesboro, Tennessee to raise money for a child-abuse agency. Also working the floor – Jan Howard, Barbara Fairchild, Crook & Chase and Rex Allen Jr.
Today in 2016, Lee Brice surprised a military widow with the 1992 Chevy Silverado pickup her late husband formerly owned during the ACM Party For A Cause in Las Vegas. Brice donated a $40,000 check to the Folds of Honor charity and sang “I Drive Your Truck.” Eric Paslay and Charles Kelley also showed up to perform “The Driver” with Dierks Bentley.
Today in 2017, Clint Black postponed a concert at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center in Tennessee for a week as he battled an unspecified illness.

Toby Keith’s Final Recording Is On Hardy’s “Hixtape” Version Of “Ships That Don’t Come In”

Posted on April 1, 2024April 1, 2024 by Bob Ballard

It’s fitting: the last song recorded by Toby Keith before his passing February 5 was a collaboration with Hardy, Luke Combs and the late Joe Diffie on the reflective, bittersweet Diffie classic “Ships That Don’t Come In.” The song was recorded shortly before Toby’s final three shows in Las Vegas in mid-December and is included on the Diffie tribute album “Hixtape Vol 3: Difftape,” which was released Friday.

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