Tuesday, April 30, 2013

WILLIE NELSON - 80th Birthday Tribute

'Cause God blessed Texas with His own hand. Brought down angels from the promised land. - Little Texas

And one of those angels was Willie Nelson!

Happy Birthday Willie!

Eighty years old! That’s a long time to live through some of the things Willie Nelson has seen and done… if you’re to believe half of what the media has reported. With the exception of a couple of things, I believe Mr. Nelson has taken everything in his laid-back style we have come to love. I mean, seriously, who doesn't want to have his kind of existence. He is one of the greatest songwriters to ever grace our planet, has a voice most of today’s artists only wish they’d been blessed with, is passionate about music, causes he believes in, his family, friends and fans (over 238,000 on twitter). Most people have to die before they get the become immortalized in a statue. To top it off, he has his own town! He is a true Living Legend!

Of all the people I know, or have had the pleasure of meeting in this business over the years, Willie Nelson is probably the most comfortable in his own skin. He does pretty much what he pleases, doesn’t hurt anyone in the process and is loved and admired by probably more people than the President. Speaking of, do you know how many times his name has come up for holding the auspicious office? I don’t either, but you can bet he’d have a large voter turn-out. That has nothing to do with legalizing recreational substances, but more about his over-all beliefs in the things this country needs to get back on track and stand strong.

Willie Nelson may be perceived as having multiple characteristics. The man is smart and he’s philosophical. His opinions are based on lots of time to think, to read and to discuss the things that pique his interest. He doesn't speak without thinking and he doesn't talk to hear himself. I’d give almost anything to sit and visit with him again.

I met Willie Nelson several years ago when he performed at the Heart of Illinois Fair in Peoria IL. I was in the process of getting autographs on a picture quilt for the UCP telethon in Nashville. I've only been nervous about meeting one celebrity in my entire life… and it was not Willie Nelson. Stepping onto his bus was I’m sure, like walking in the front door of his home  - warm and welcoming. I instantly felt at ease in his presence.

Over the years, he has worked with a wide range of people, crossing genres in music, television and books. The list of artists he has worked with over the past almost sixty years is too long for this column. But it is my opinion the multiple genres he has infused himself with and into show him to be a true Texan. I think, for him it isn't about ‘country’ music. It’s about the MUSIC as a whole. Whether he’s doing something with Snoop Dog or Kris Kristofferson doesn't matter. What I think does matter is that it’s the best product that can come of the collaboration and touch people. Music is universal. And because of this, Willie Nelson is the best Ambassador of Good Will we will ever have.

Country Blessings, Willie Nelson.
Kelly
aka The Country Angel

Monday, April 29, 2013

GEORGE JONES - A Tribute


GEORGE JONES
1931-2013
“The Voice” of Country Music fell silent with the passing of the iconic legend, George Jones in Nashville at the age of 81. Long recognized as country music’s most indescribable voice by not only the fans, but critics in all genres, the music world continues to mourn the loss of its’ finest stylist, who was considered the greatest living country singer. ~ Georgejones.com


George Glen Jones
Saratoga TX

The Beginning:
George grew up with music in the family. His mother played the church piano and his father was an amateur guitarist. George got his first guitar at the age of nine and his first professional gig in his late teens playing on the radio in Jasper, TX. He was later signed to his first record label in 1954. Why Baby Why (co-written with Darrell Edwards) became his first national hit (though not  #1 – that went to White Lightnin’ in 1959) affording him the invitation to be a part of the Louisiana Hayride. He moved to the Grand Old Opry about 1956 – where his public memorial service will be held on Thursday May 2, 2013.

George’s voice was an instrument all it’s own and he played it like a maestro for almost sixty years. Whether singing his own material such as ‘Window Up Above’ or classics co-written with people such as Darrell Edwards, Billy Sherrill or Tammy Wynette, he put his personal brand on every word when he sang. George Jones received more than twenty awards from various industry categories recognizing his ability between 1959 and 1993. He joined the Walkway of Stars at the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1970 and was elected to that honored institution in 1992.

Even when George’s personal life was in turmoil, his music was a constant. Being dubbed ‘no show Jones’ became more of an endearment than a dis to the one man who, despite the ebb and flow of this crazy business, stayed true to his country style. George Jones never tried to be anyone except who he was. You either loved him or you didn’t, the latter category being a spec of sand on the popularity beach.

My favorite George Jones song has always been 'He Stopped Loving Her Today'. (YouTube link courtesy of The Ronnie Prophet Show) I’ve watched his career for years and like many of you, I saw the ups and downs, the crashes and burns he experienced throughout his life. I truly believe George Jones became the man he was meant to be when he met his wife, Nancy in 1983. Though not a ‘quick fix’ to his long list of problems, she was the rock he needed as the turbulent seas of his personal issues searched for a calm. It is said No man is an island. We all need that one person in our life that makes us complete. My heart and prayers go out to Nancy and their blended family during this time.

Friday afternoon I received a text from my sister… she quoted lines from ‘Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes?’ (George's performance)  then...  George Jones Dead at 81. I got a chill as I recalled my interview with Bill Anderson recently and how I had referenced those same words. Here's a link to the actual Music Video when the song was released. You can see the depth of emotion in his face as if he truly pondered the question. Those epic words were written by Troy Seals and the late Max. D. Barnes.

As we grow older, we are faced with our own mortality. I find myself searching daily for ways to connect with people like Bill Anderson and George Jones – to talk to them, hear their stories. The people who provided me with country music roots.

I’m sure our parents felt the same way as they watched their music and screen idols leave this earth. Did they often wonder who would ever be as great as the ones they grew up with? Their answer came in the form of the classic artists we now begin to say goodbye to. My fervent prayer is that our current generation of artists strive to leave a legacy as great as those who have come before them. Strive to be your own person while holding tight to the tradition that brought you here. YOU are the ones who are going to fill their shoes. Please make sure they fit.

Sympathies and Country Blessings

Thursday, April 25, 2013

LARRY JOE TAYLOR'S TEXAS MUSIC FESTIVAL - 25th Annual!



This event kicked off Monday the 22nd (Earth Day) with an awesome line-up. So far this week the stage has been blessed with amazing artists as Thom Shepherd, Pat Green, the Josh Abbott Band, Casey Donahew Band, Stoney LaRue and Bart Crow  Today's artists include the Randy Rogers Band, Radney Foster, Wade Bowen and Reckless Kelly.

If you think it can't get any better than that, Check out this LINK for a complete line-up. Get your Party On this weekend at the 25th Annual Larry Joe Taylor's Texas Music Festival!

Party Safe and Country Blessings!

THE PARTY LIST - April 25- May 1


Note: Please remember to check with the venue as to whether or not there is a cover charge or ticket required for the shows you plan to attend. I have provided links to the venues when possible, making it easy for you to check it out.

Not all events take place in Texas. With that in mind I will begin listing them not only by day but by TEXAS and ON THE ROAD.

Don’t see your favorite artist/ band listed. Email their info: kellyscountry (at) missouri (dot) usa (dot) com

With that in mind…

Let’s Get This Party STARTED!

TEXAS

Thursday – 25
W.C. JamesonThe Badu House – Llano – 7 p.m.
/w/ Mike Blakely  Guest: Greg Trooper!
Steve Helms Band Boots and Bistro Event – Mansfield
/w/ Brandon Bolin
Gary Kyle & Jody BoothDosey Doe’s Music Café – Conroe
Texas KGB aka Kelly Green Band Poodie’s Hilltop – Spicewood -
Exile - Buckhorn Lake Resort- Kerrville -


Friday – 26
Randy Brown BandMule Pub – Fort Worth – 9 p.m. – midnight
Steve Helms Band The Hog Pit – Midland
ExileDosey Doe’s Big Barn – The Woodlands –
Mark Allan Atwood & BrimstoneRolling Thunder Grill & Bar – Fluvanna –
Thunder on the Caprock Bike Rally Event!
Lots of stuff going on . Click on the Event link for details!
Cory MorrowFirehouse Saloon – Houston – 9 p.m.


Saturday – 27
Larry Joe Taylor’s Texas Music Festival – Stephenville – 8 p.m.
Melody Mountain Ranch
Kelly McGuireSan Luis Hotel – Galveston
Margaritaville Fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House
Mike BlakelyHondo’s On Main – Fredricksburg –
/w/ Larry Nye & Duke Davis
Randy Brown BandCorsicana Palace Theater – Corsicana – 7-10 p.m.
Tickets: 903-872-5411
Scooter Brown Band- Dosey Doe’s Big Barn – The Woodlands –
Zach Walther Band Firehouse Saloon – Houston – 9 p.m.


Sunday – 28
Bracken HalePoodie’s Hilltop – Spicewood
Willie Nelson’s 80th ,After-Party
Marc Broussard Dosey Doe’s Big Barn – The Woodlands –


Monday – 29
W.C. Jameson and/ or George Ensle – Poodie’s Hilltop – Spicewood
Songwriter showcase & Steak Night!

Tuesday – 30
Mike BlakelyRiver City Grille – Marble Falls – 7 p.m
/w/ Larry Nye  Guest: Richard Dobson
Randy Brown RailHead Smokehouse – Willow Park – 7:30 – 10:30
/w/ Bo Phillips
Tommy AlversonRockin’ P – Stephenville


Wednesday - May 1
Mike BlakelyRiver City Grille – Marble Falls –
/w/ John Arthur Martinez and Kurt Baumer
Mark Allan Atwood Poodie’s Hilltop – Spicewood
Open Mic night


ELSEWHERE

Thursday – 25
Oak Ridge Boys Oak Ridge Boys Theater – Branson MO
Buddy Case JJ’s Chill n Grill- Conway AR

Friday – 26
Bellamy Brothers – Burnsville Town Center – Burnsville NC
Neal McCoy- Cactus Pete’s Casino Resort – Jackpot NV
Brian Bax BandBlueberry Hill’s Duck Room -  St. Louis MO - 8 p.m.
Eli Young BandPeoria Civic Center – Peoria IL
No Shoes Nation Tour /w/ Kenny Chesney & Kasey Musgrave
Marc Broussard - Festival International - Lafayette LA

Saturday – 27
Oak Ridge Boys - IP Casino Resort and Spa – Biloxi MS
Bellamy Brothers Morocco Shrine Center Pentates Dance & Concert – Jacksonville FL
Neal McCoy – Cactus Pete’s Casino Resort – Jackpot NV
Eli Young Band Wells Fargo Arena – DesMoines IA
No Shoes Nation Tour /w/ Kenny Chesney & Kacey Musgrave
Exile- Nat'l Championship Bullfights- Ardmore OK

Sunday – 28
Oak Ridge Boys Ford Center – University of MS – University MS

Monday – 29
No Shows found

Tuesday – 30
No Shows Found

Wednesday – May 1
No Shows Found





Monday, April 22, 2013

OUT OF THE CHUTE- April 22

Just a quick note to let you know there is not an Out of the Chute column this week. First off, it's really hard to follow Whisperin' Bill Anderson. hehe  But the main reason is I spent the weekend traveling again. This time to the Arkansas Philharmonic Orchestra in Bentonville Arkansas. Incredible experience and I look forward to attending more symphonies.

If you enjoy classical music, I recommend you check out an outstanding pianist - Jonathan Story. You can hear a sampling of his amazing talent in this YouTube link.

Flutist, Brice Smith, also performed.

This piece from the NWA Homepage gives a bit more background.

My friend, Maestro Steven Byess is the Music Director for the Arkansas Philharmonic. He has this innate sense of how to make any composition his own.

Bob leaves tomorrow for his three weeks on the boat. With the river situation in Illinois, they could be stressful three weeks. But while he's gone, I get so much more done on here and will try to get things back on track ASAP.

Country Blessings!

Thursday, April 18, 2013

THE PARTY LIST - April 18- 24


Note: Please remember to check with the venue as to whether or not there is a cover charge or ticket required for the shows you plan to attend. I have provided links to the venues when possible, making it easy for you to check it out.

Not all events take place in Texas. With that in mind I will begin listing them not only by day but by TEXAS and ON THE ROAD. With that in mind…

Let’s Get This Party STARTED!

TEXAS

Thursday – 18
Bracken Hale The Blue Moose Lodge – Houston – 4:30 - $5 door
/w/ Presley Lewis & Jon Brewer
Mike BlakelyThe Badu House – Llano – 7 p.m.
/w/ W.C. Jameson. Guest: Chuck Pyle!
Tommy Alverson Dosey Doe’s – Spring
Granger Smith - Denim & Diamonds - Wichita Falls -

Friday- 19
Bracken Hale Bastrop Brewhouse – Bastrop – 9 p.m.
Cameran NelsonBuckhorn Hall – Llano – 9 p.m.
Jack IngramTexas Crawfish Festival @Old Town Spring – Spring – Noon
Oak Ridge BoysArlington Music Hall – Arlington
Pauline Reese – Journey Bible Fellowship Church – Leander – 7-9 p.m.
Capturing Kids Hearts Foundation Fundraiser
Steve Helms BandSilver Saloon – Terrell –
Randy Brown – TCU Tailgate Party!  - Fort Worth – 5- 6:15 p.m.
Byrd & StreetMarker 10 Bar – Hyatt Regency – Austin - 5-7 p.m.
Terri HendrixOld Settlers Festival – Driftwood- 5:25 p.m.
/w/ Band!
Granger Smith - Wild West Lubbuck - Lubbock -
Jon Brewer - Windfest - Corpus Christi

Saturday – 20
Cameran NelsonFredricksburg Trade Days – Fredricksburg – Noon
Jack IngramGruene Hall – New Braunfels – 8 p.m.
Bellamy BrothersOld Coupland Inn & Dance Hall- Coupland – 10 p.m.
Pauline ReeseNorth Shore Music Fest – Lago Vista – 9 – 10:30 p.m.
Randy Brown Band Love and War – Plano – 9-11:30 p.m.
Tommy AlversonThe Oasis Bar & Grill - Midlothian - 6 p.m. $10 Cover
Byrd & StreetDahlia Café – Liberty – 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Granger Smith - Midnight Rodeo - Amarillo


Sunday – 21
Bracken HalePoodie’s Hilltop Roadhouse – Spicewood – 8 p.m.
Cameran NelsonFredricksburg Trade Days – Fredricksburg – Noon
Pauline Reese – Texas Regional Radio Music Awards – Arlington – 7-10 p.m.
Pauline is nominated for Female Vocalist of the Year!
Randy Brown – AMBUCS – Cross Timbers Winery – Grapevine – 3-7 p.m.

Monday – 22
Terri Hendrix – Tarleton State U. Speaker Symposium – Stephenville – 7:30 p.m.
W.C. Jameson - Poodie's Hilltop - Spicewood - 6:30-9:30

Tuesday – 23
Steve Helms BandRailhead BBQ – Willow Park –
/w/ Josh Weathers Band
Mike BlakelyRiver City Grille – Marble Falls – 7 p.m.
/w/ Larry Nye
Terri Hendrix Larry Joe Taylor’s Music Festival – Stephenville -

Wednesday 24



ELSEWHERE

Thursday – 18
Kelly McGuire – Fidos in San Pedro- Ambergris Caye - 6-9 p.m.
Kip Moore - MS Coast Colesium - Biloxi MS

Friday – 19
Neal McCoyColusa Resort Casino – Colusa CA
Kip Moore - Bancorp South Arena - Tupelo MS


Saturday – 20
Oak Ridge BoysBroken Arrow Performing Arts Center – Broken Arrow OK
Neal McCoy – Pauline Davis Pavilion – Red Bluff CA
Kelly McGuire – Joe & Connie Capozzi House Concert – Landsdale PA – 3:30-7 p.m.
Contact: debbie@islandvibesentertainment.com for ticket info
Buddy CaseO’Henry’s – Conway AR - 6-9 p.m.
Kip Moore - Eastern KY Expo Center - Pikeville KY

Sunday – 21
Oak Ridge Boys Bridgeview Center – Ottumwa IA
Kelly McGuire – Atlanta Trop  Rock Alliance House Concert – Marianna GA – 3-7 p.m.
Contact: kimjoyce01@comcast.net

Monday – 22
Granger Smith - The Blue Note - Columbia MO -

Tuesday – 23
Oak Ridge BoysOak Ridge Boys Theater – Branson MO
Granger Smith - Charlie Yoke's - Ames IA


Wednesday - 24
Oak Ridge Boys Oak Ridge Boys Theater – Branson MO
Granger Smith - Dirty Dawg Saloon - Manhattan KS


Thursday, April 11, 2013

THE PARTY LIST - April 11-17


Note: Please remember to check with the venue as to whether or not there is a cover charge or ticket required for the shows you plan to attend. I have provided links to the venues when possible, making it easy for you to check it out. 

Due to rain/ storms in the area, not all of the venues are linked. I'll try to come back in and fix those this evening. 

Not all events take place in Texas. With that in mind I will begin listing them not only by day but by TEXAS and ON THE ROAD. With that in mind… 

Let’s Get This Party STARTED!

TEXAS
Thursday – 11
1st Annual MJ&M Festival – Austin 
What an AWESOME line-up for a first year!
http://mackjackmcconaughey.org/
Jason Bolander & the StragglersTexas Music Theater- San Marcos
w/ Shooter Jennings!
Brenda Kay Southern Nights Dance Hall – Abilene
W. C. Jameson The Badu House – Llano - 7 p.m.
/w/ Mike Blakely & Guest – Susan Gibson
Bracken Hale The White Horse – Austin – 10 p.m.
Josh Ward Cruisin J’s Bar & Grill – Montgomery – 7 p.m.

Friday – 12
Thomas Michael Riley’s 6th Annual Music Festival @ Luckenbach
              Today – Sunday  AWESOME line-up. See poster on previous post for all the details!
Travis Tritt – Texas Music Theater – San Marcos –
Heather Roberts BandKaliente’s Icehouse – Madisonville –
Scott Sturgeon Texas Motor Speedway - Fort Worth -
Mark Allan Atwood & Brimstone – Crawfish Boil – Loredo
Richie Allbright – Vick’s Place – Mathis
Paul ThornFloore’s Country Store – Helotes
Blacktop OutlawRoots – Strawn
Bracken Hale – Freddie’s Place – Austin  - 6 p.m.
Casey Donahew Band – Galveston Country Fair & Rodeo – Hitchcock
Josh WardOutlaw Ray’s – Crosby – 11 p.m.
Cameran NelsonTejas Rodeo Company – Bulverde – 8 p.m.
Jack Ingram - @Austin City Limits- Moody Theater – Austin – 7 p.m.
/w/ Kris Kristofferson
Mike Blakely – Lake Jackson’s Concert on the (Civic Center) Plaza – 7-9 p.m.
Song Swap /w/ Woody Eastman!  - No cover. BYOB – No glass containers
Pauline Reese – Crossroads Saloon & Steakhouse – Fredricksburg – 8:30-11:30 p.m.

Saturday – 13
Scott Taylor Band Eat Tail Suck Head Crawfish Event – Victoria 
/w/ Texas Fiddler’s Hall of Fame inductee – Wade Stockton!
Proceeds Benefit Warrior’s Weekend – Texas!
 www.warriorsweekend.org
Kids 10 & Under – FREE
Scott Sturgeon Torino’s Pizza Pub – Midland
Rod Ballou Ransom’s Steakhouse & Saloon – Houston
Richie Allbright – Scott Taylor’s Crawfish Festival – Victoria
Saints Eleven The Rockett Café – Waxahachie –
Brenda Kay & Caprock Drifters – Crossroads Saloon – Big Spring
Aubrey Lynn & Yellow Rose – Starlight Club – Ardmore
Byrd & Street – Waterloo Ice House – Austin – 7-9 p.m.
/w/ Bradley Kopp (guitar)
Casey Donahew Band Strawberry Festival – Poteet
Josh Ward Papa Woody’s – Paige
Cameran Nelson Enchanted Springs Ranch – Boerne – 7 p.m.
Jack Ingram HEB PLUS – San Antonio – 7 p.m. FREE
1 Year Birthday Celebration!
Mike Blakely – Jay’s Chilli Joint (formerly The Iron Cactus) – Sargent
Hawkinsville Country Market Music Fest & Craft Fair
              Proceeds benefit wounded veterans
                Mike headlines & plays around 8 p.m.
Bellamy Brothers – Boots ‘N Jeans Gala – Austin – 8 p.m.
Neal McCoy – Arlington Music Hall- Arlington -

Sunday – 14
Bracken HalePoodie’s Hilltop Roadhouse – Spicewood – 8 p.m.
Dimitri’s Rail Conference Center – Austin –
Local bands line a 10-mile course! Wow!
http://www.austin1020.com/
Josh WardRocket Café & Pub – Waxahachie – 8 p.m.
Pauline ReeseReckless Kelly Celebrity Softball Tournament – Round Rock –
Noon – 10 p.m. with a great collection of aritists!
Neal McCoyStrawberry Festival – Poteet
Steve Helms BandTurkey Creek – Alvarado
/w/ John Conlee

Monday – 15
Steve Helms Band – Puttin’ For Preemies – Mansfield
/w/ Wade Bowen & 2 others
W.C. Jameson - Poodie's Hilltop Roadhouse - Spicewood - 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Tuesday – 16
Mike BlakelyRiver City Grille – Marble Falls – 7 p.m.
/w/ Larry Nye
Randy Brown Band Railhead Smokehouse – Willow Park – 7:30- 10:30
/w/ Johnny Cooper

Wednesday – 17
No Dates found

ELSEWHERE
Thursday – 11
Eli Young Band – Orange Beach, AL
No Shoes Nation tour /w/ Kenny Chesney, Eric Church & Kasey Musgraves
The Bellamy Brothers – Armory MSU Northern – Havre MT

Friday – 12
Kelly McGuire – Mulligan’s IslandFest – Isla Mujeras, Q.R. Mexico
Brantley Gilbert – Inn of the Mountain Gods- Mescalero NM
/w/ Kip Moore
Oak Ridge Boys – Struthers Library Theatre – Warren PA

Saturday – 13
Jason Helms Band – Jeff Mills Rockin’ Honky Tonky – Texarcana AR
Eli Young Band – Fort Lauderdale, FL –
See Thursday 11 for Details!

Sunday – 14
Oak Ridge Boys – Newberry Opera House – Newberry SC

Monday – 15
No Dates Found

Tuesday – 16
Brantley Gilbert – Bridgestone Arena – Nashville
Kelly McGuire – Fidos – San Pedro Belize – 6-9 p.m.

Wednesday – 17
Casey Donahew Band – Varsity Theater – Baton Rouge LA
CD Release Party!





Tuesday, April 9, 2013

THOMAS MICHAEL RILEY'S 6TH ANNUAL MUSIC FESTIVAL!


Look at the line-up! There's still time to get your tickets. Gonna be one KICKIN' Party! You do not want to miss this awesome event... the kind that can only happen at LUCKENBACH!

Sunday, April 7, 2013

OUT OF THE CHUTE - Bill Anderson



Today's Out of the Chute is a bit different. Rather than the basic eight questions, I've put something together based on a recent phone interview. When you're finished here, I hope you'll hop over to Bill Anderson's website Bill Anderson - where you'll find lots of great information as well as goodies in his store... including a FREE download. The song, Gone Away, was recorded with the Oak Ridge Boys in January 2012.


        In my earliest recollection of listening to country music, one of the names that stand out in my memory is Bill Anderson. As a songwriter, a radio and television personality and as a human being, Whisperin’ Bill Anderson is the complete package. Fans may think that from the moment Ray Price took City Lights (link takes you to a YouTube of Mr. Price performing the song) to the airwaves Bill’s life was changed forever. But the change really began long before then… a change Bill Anderson himself was not aware of.

He first saw the Grand Ole Opry at the age of fourteen. At the time he felt being a part of something so grand was the ultimate dream for someone who loved country music. While it was a far-fetched idea for a teenager from Georgia, little did he know his dream would become his reality. Mr. Anderson says he is “grateful and blessed for the opportunities and wouldn’t change his life for anything.” 
 
One of his greatest thrills came in 1961 when he was asked to join The Opry family. I asked him if when he got the call, he was caught off guard and had a moment of wondering if they had called the wrong person. ‘If they had, I wasn’t going to tell them,” he replied with a laugh. Joining the Opry then wasn’t the big coronation it is today. Back then, they asked you to join then made it official during the Opry broadcast. A simple ‘we’ll be seeing a lot more of you from now on’ summed up the festivities.

However, his heart-felt accomplishment has been his induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. For someone with his heart and soul in country music, that is the top of the ladder.

With over sixty years in the business, and having worked with every conceivable person in the industry, there’s one person Bill Anderson said he would like to have had the opportunity to work with. He told me when it came to singing and song writing, Hank Williams, Sr. was the best there was.

While talking with him, I began to see things a bit differently than I have for some time. When I think Bill Anderson, I think Country Music but oddly enough, in the 1960’s he was considered a ‘cross-over’ artist- more contemporary, not country. For years I’ve been digging my heels into what classifies as country music in my opinion. He enlightened me to the fact that everything changes. “The only thing constant is it is constantly changing.” 

Does that mean that what I listen to today isn’t country? Or that Nashville is sacrificing its roots for dollar signs? No. It means that categorically, music has to evolve to tap into its present audience. But I still have to wonder how many of today’s ‘country’ listeners are aware of the foundation on which their contemporary country is built?

While the powers-that-be in Nashville continue to bring us what is current, Bill Anderson and Larry Black work diligently to preserve the roots with programs like Country Family Reunion and Larry’s Country Diner. Both shows, broadcast on RFD-TV, provide a mix of songs and stories from some of the great artists who paved the way for today’s performers. The format for both shows reach an audience radio doesn’t, while letting viewers know the men and women of yesterday’s country are still alive and kicking.

I am thankful to have had the opportunity to speak with the legendary Bill Anderson and for his pearls of wisdom that can only come from someone who has seen so many changes in this business. For as much as the industry has been shouting that THIS is country music... I heard it better in a whisper.
With that said, I’ll leave you with the words from a George Jones classic…
Who’s gonna give their heart and soul to get to me and you… Oh I wonder. Who’s gonna fill their shoes. 

For the rest of the song, check out this YouTube video

Thursday, April 4, 2013

THE PARTY LIST - April 5- 10


Note: Please remember to check with the venue as to whether or not there is a cover charge or ticket required for the shows you plan to attend. I have provided links to the venues when possible, making it easy for you to check it out. I am also not responsible for canceled shows. Please check with the venue for any updates.


Let’s Get This Party STARTED!

TEXAS

Thursday – 4
Mike BlakelyThe Badu House – Llano – 7 p.m.
W.C. Jameson  /w/Guest Bob Cheevers
Max StallingDosey Doe’s (Music Café )– Conroe
Eric Myers opens!
The Texas KGBPoodie’s Hilltop Roadhouse – Spicewood – 6 p.m.
Kem WattsPoodie’s Hilltop Roadhouse – Spicewood – 8:30 p.m.
Dallas Moore BandPoodie’s Hilltop Roadhouse – Spicewood – 10:30 p.m.
No JusticeDenim & Diamonds – Witchita Falls –

Friday – 5
William Clark GreenDosey Doe’s – (Music Café) - Conroe
CD Release Party!  - Mark Jones opens
Mike BlakelyThe Bugle Boy – LaGrange – 8 p.m.
/w/ Larry Nye /w/ harmonies by Annie Blakely
John Napier – Poodie’s Hilltop Roadhouse – Spicewood – 6 p.m.
Chris Allbright BandPoodie’s Hilltop Roadhouse – Spicewood – 8:30 p.m.
The Bad IntentionsPoodie’s Hilltop Roadhouse – Spicewood – 11 p.m.
No JusticeHog Creek Icehouse – Waco –
Max StallingMidnight Rodeo – Austin
Adam Johnson Band Cheatham Street Warehouse – San Marcos –
Jason CassidyFlorre’s Country Store – Helotes
/w/ Buster Jiggs $8/ $5 extra for minors
Zane Williams Love & War – Plano –
/w/ Justin Bowerman - $10
Whitney O’NeilLove & War – Grapevine


Saturday – 6
Colt FordBanita Creek Hall – Nacogdoches – Doors open at 8 p.m.
Ed MillerAustin Acoustical Café – Austin – 7 p.m.
Karen Mal opens  $12 Adv/ $15 Door
Juice NewtonDosey Doe’s Café  (Big Barn) – The Woodlands
            Susan Gibson opens!
Andrew DuhanDosey Doe’s (Music Café) - Conroe
CD Release Party!
Thomas Michael Riley- Old Peanut Mill – Mason – 9 p.m.

Mike BlakelyPecan Street Brewing – Johnson City – 7-10 pm.
            /w/ Larry Nye
Mark Allan AtwoodPoodie’s Hilltop Roadhouse – Spicewood – 8 p.m. $7
No JusticeHank’s – McKinney –
Randy Rogers BandFloore’s Country Store – Helotes
$20/ $5 extra for minors
Drugstore CowboysHondo’s On Main – Fredricksburg –
Chris Allen Love & War – Plano –
/s/ Devin Leigh $10
Brian ‘the Beer Man’ HouserLove & War – Grapevine


Sunday – 7
Turn the Paige Acoustic Benefit – Jam 4 Life – Blaine’s Pub – San Angelo –
Organ Donor Registry event! Come join the FUN!
The Filling Station – Dosey Doe’s (Music Café) – Conroe
/w/ Kyle Hutton and  Tony Melendez
Carl HutchensPoodie’s Hilltop Roadhouse – Spicewood – 4 p.m.
Bracken HalePoodie’s Hilltop Roadhouse – Spicewood – 7:30 p.m.
Dale Watson with  The Dirty PesosLove & War – Plano - $10


Monday – 8
W.C. JamesonPoodie’s Hilltop Roadhouse – Spicewood – 7:30-9:30 p.m.
/w/ George Ensle - Texas Songwriters Showcase –
Davis RainesCheatham Street Warehouse – San Marcos – 9:45 p.m.
/w/ Ace Ford, Kent Finlay, Walt Wilkins


Tuesday – 9
The TrishasDosey Doe’s Café (Big Barn) – The Woodlands
Randy Rogers Band Cheatham Street Warehouse – San Marcos – 10 p.m.


Wednesday – 10
Kevin Welch Dosey Doe’s (Music Café) – Conroe
BB MorsePoodie’s Hilltop Roadhouse – Spicewood
‘No Bad Wednesdays’ 2nd Wednesday

Monday, April 1, 2013

OUT OF THE CHUTE - Derailed

Yep... it's one of those kind of days. I won't go into details. If you want those - check out my creative blog... http://kellyscreativedreams.blogspot.com

We were suppose to have a guest today, J.D. Faver. J.D was going to talk about her Texas cookbook but the cover is going through some alterations and she wants to show you the shiny revamped product so we are rescheduling her... hopefully for later this month. You know, just in time to get you thinking ahead to back yard BBQs.

I did have a chat with Matt Harlan this morning. Sending congratulations his way. He and his partner of several years, Rachel, tied the knot on their front porch during the Spring Equinox. What a great New Beginning for the two of them. Matt has agreed to a Q & A in the near future so look for him to come Out of the Chute sometime in May.

Next week I have a very special Out of the Chute guest. The Legendary Whisperin' Bill Anderson answered my questions. We had a nice visit on the phone last week. I'm looking forward to meeting him in person at the Starlight Theater in Branson on April 27th. He'll be there for a taping of Larry's Country Diner, broadcast on RFD-TV.

Tomorrow is Turntable Tuesday. I'll be reviewing Kasey Musgrave's album. So stop in and check it out.

Country Blessings!
Kelly