Inside Track with Preshias Harris – February 2017

inside track on music row by preshias Harris

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:

If I am chasing your dream faster than you, then I am in the wrong dream – Preshias (TM)

ALBUM NEWS:

Honing in on the melodious foundation that first brought the multi-PLATINUM trio together, Lady Antebellum returned to radio airwaves with “You Look Good,” the debut single off their sixth studio album Heart Break (Capitol Nashville), to be released June 9. After taking time to pursue solo projects last year, Charles Kelley, Hillary Scott and Dave Haywood simultaneously share plans to return to the road, with more than 65 shows planned in six countries on their You Look Good World Tour, presented by Nabisco. The single is available at Country radio and available now at all digital and streaming partners. Fans can take a look into the making of “You Look Good” with its lyric video featuring photos from the band’s time making new music.

ARTIST NEWS:

UMG’s Eric Church has kicked off his 2017 Holdin’ My Own Tour with shows in Lincoln, Neb, Grand Forks, N.D. and Sioux Falls, SD. in January. As part of his initiative to assist with keeping music within schools, at one of his shows, Church invited the 24-member local Omaha South High choir to finish out “Mistress Named Music” with him. Throughout the tour Church will continue to invite local participating student choirs onstage with him, and will make contributions to underfunded schools on the tour as part of GRAMMY Foundation’s Community Award Grant. The Holdin’ My Own Tour will cross North America throughout the year. Keep up with the tour details and info on VIP packages at ericchurch.com.

BABY NEWS:

Patter of Tiny Feet Department: Lee Brice and wife Sara took to social media to announce the gender of their third child. If you want to know if it will be a boy or a girl, go to facebook.com/leebricemusic/. You can also find a video there of the ‘gender reveal’ recorded at the Brice family home!

CABLE NEWS:

The Country Network (TCN), the nation’s newest country music television broadcaster which launched early last year and is now available in 54 markets (over 60 million DMA households), continues its momentum in 2017 with the announcement of added affiliates and staff. Veteran broadcaster, Kent Bailey has joined The Country Network’s Nashville team as Program Director. Bailey’s experience in radio and TV spans over three decades, including stints at CMT International, as well as alongside former associate Cary Rolfe, VP of Programming and Artist Relations for The Country Network. Bailey assisted Rolfe in programming The Country Network during its original launch in 2012. Online streaming and info of local TV channel availability at tcncountry.com

CD NEWS:

Ronnie McDowell, known for 40 years of hit singles and genuine warmth that fills seats show after show, is set to release Songs I Love, a brand new album featuring his versions of his all-time favorite songs, as well as two original tracks. Fans can pre-order the album, along with McDowell’s most recent print, as part of an exclusive bundle on RonnieMcDowellStore.com. McDowell is accompanying the album with his most recent artwork in the exclusive pre-order bundle. “Just In The Nick Of Time” features Elvis Presley and his 1950’s band (Scotty Moore, D.J. Fontana and Bill Black) on their way to a show. Each print and CD will be autographed by McDowell.

CD RELEASES:

When Michael Tyler (“MT”) looked at his odometer after he arrived in Nashville from his hometown in Thayer, Mo., he noticed a number in his dash that’s resonated with him since his arrival: 317. It’s no coincidence that the 23-year-old’s debut album will be titled 317. MT is already an established songwriter. SESAC awarded Song of the Year to him for co-writing the multi-week No. 1 platinum-selling Dierks Bentley smash “Somewhere On A Beach.” MT also penned Jason Aldean’s “Laid Back” on the platinum-selling album Old Boots New Dirt, three songs on the LOCASH album The Fighters (“Shipwrecked,” “Ain’t Startin Tonight,” and “Moonwalkin”) and a Jason Aldean/Kelsea Ballerini duet “First Time Again” on Aldean’s No. 1 album They Don’t Know. More at themichaeltyler.com.

CDX NEWS:

Joe Kelly, VP/GM of CDX Nashville, is one of Nashville’s executive with a vast insider knowledge about the radio industry, including airplay reports, station manager and listener behavior, and how artists can leverage monitored radio airplay to maximize concert profits. Joe and CDX has the industry talking about CDX’s new technology system called “TrAction.” It is the new revolutionary airplay monitoring system that CDX rolled out in early spring of 2016. CDX was recently nominated as Finalist for the Innovator of the Year Award for 2015 by the Nashville Technology Council for its TrAction software. More on CDX and TrAction at cdxnashville.com.

CLUB NEWS:

Country Superstar Blake Shelton is bringing a new meaning to his 2001 hit “Ol Red” in the form of entertainment venues. One will be in his hometown of Tishomingo, Okla. and the other will be in Nashville. The 26,000-square-foot Nashville venue will open 2018. Blake will be able to (from anywhere in globe) pop in via technology, when the project is completed.

 

CONCERT NEWS:

Gene Watson, one of the most iconic voices in country music, will return to Music City on February 10, for an upcoming appearance at the historic Nashville Palace. Fans won’t want to miss this rare Nashville appearance by the man known as ‘The Singer’s Singer’ and, as journalist, Robert Oermann states, “A man that every country vocalist in this city should bow to. And most of them do.” Gene says,“Fans have supported us in the early days and they just keep on supporting us.” The country chart-topper has experienced a resurgence, following the release of his latest project, Real.Country.Music. The 2016 album was met with high critical acclaim. The project serves as the 33rd studio album by the Texas native, who has charted more than 75 singles. The current single, “Help Me,” was written by Larry Gatlin and continues its climb to No. 1 on the Christian charts. Modern traditionalist and Amerimonte Records recording artist Shane Owens serves as the opener for the event. Tour and ticket info at genewatsonmusic.com, or follow him on Facebook and Twitter.

CRB (Country Radio Broadcasters) NEWS:

The Country Radio Seminar is back in Music City, February 22 through 24 at Nashville’s Omni Hotel. Billed as the largest annual gathering of country radio executives, programmers and air personalities in the world, CRS is where established and aspiring country artists get to mingle with the decision makers who play their songs on the radio. A highlight of CRS is always the New Faces Show, this year featuring performances by William Michael Morgan, Maren Morris, Jon Pardi, Granger Smith and Drake White. Additionally, this year’s Seminar will include an artist interview session with Toby Keith, a Keynote address from Olympic Gold Medalist Scott Hamilton, a Grand Ole Opry Show, the ever-popular Bob Kingsley’s Acoustic Alley (featuring performances by Nashville’s top hit songwriters) and numerous break-out educational sessions for the radio industry attendees. CRS is a production of the Nashville-based non-profit organization, Country Radio Broadcasters. More info at countryradioseminar.com.

GRAND OLE OPRY NEWS:

Grammy®-winning songstress Crystal Gayle has finally been inducted into the Grand Ole Opry® at the Ryman Auditorium by her sister and Opry legend Loretta Lynn. Gayle made her Opry debut 50 years ago on the Ryman stage, singing the country classic “Ribbon of Darkness” at age 16. She had been publicly invited to join the Opry by Opry member Carrie Underwood in November. “We’ve been together a long time, honey. And we’ve never had a fight,” Lynn said at the ceremony. Gayle responded: “Being a member of the Opry is just incredible. It’s really hard to comprehend. I have felt like a part of the Opry for all these years. Now, I’m official.” More at crystalgayle.com.

 

DUO NEWS:

The hot, new, dynamic sister duo, Presley & Taylor, released their new single, “This Phone,” to country radio in late January. It is the teenagers’ fifth career single, and the lead single from their sophomore CD (expected in Spring 2017/Mercy Music City, LLC). Written and produced by Presley & Taylor, the modern breakup ballad was recorded in Nashville and made its global on-air debut on WSM-AM’s “Coffee, Country & Cody.” Presley & Taylor will participate in Country Radio Seminar (CRS-2017) in their second consecutive year and are scheduled to perform live at the “Fresh On The Row” Show, Wednesday, February 22, 2017 at The Listening Room Café. “This Phone” will be available via all major digital and streaming outlets (Amazon/iTunes/Pandora/Spotify). More at presleyandtaylor.com

COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME:

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has revealed their 2017 Exhibit lineup. Mark your calendar now for the following: Jason Aldean Exhibit May 26 to November 5, 2017; Shania Twain Exhibit June 26 2017 to June 17, 2018; Loretta Lynn Exhibit August 25, 2017 to June 11, 2018; Tim and Faith Exhibit November 17, 2017 to May 13, 2018. See full details, photos and videos relating to the upcoming Exhibits at countrymusichalloffame.org

FUN MUSIC NEWS:

My KY boys — The Kentucky Headhunters have been taking fans on a musical adventure for five decades, with no signs of slowing down in 2017. The band took their energetic and unruly live show offshore on this year’s sold out Rock Legends Cruise in support of their brand-new album On Safari. The Headhunters ventured out to sea with some of rock music’s greats including Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, REO Speedwagon, Creedence Clearwater Revisted, Thin Lizzy, The Marshall Tucker Band, John Mayall, Todd Rundgren and more. The cruise set sail on Jan. 19 on Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas. I sure wish I was a stowaway!!!! More about my buds, the Headhunters at KentuckyHeadhunters.com

GLOBAL MUSIC NEWS:

Tony Coleman, know as “Rhythm & Blues Man” has introduced his new independent recording project titled TAKE ME AS I AM, released January 27, 2017 (Heardrum Music/Portland, OR). The fifth album from the global touring and recording artist and famed drummer’s independent collection of studio recordings (produced by Coleman) highlights six originals including the title track, “Nothing But Love For You,” “Get Up Out Of Your Seat,” the musician’s personal anthem “The Blues Had A Baby” and a spotlight performance of his personal favorite “Get Ready” written by Smokey Robinson. “This project is an antidote to the blues,” said Coleman. “I write and record my interpretation of blues music for enjoyment and to transport the listener to a happier place.” TAKE ME AS I AM is available via all digital retail and streaming outlets (Amazon/iTunes/Pandora/ Spotify). More – in English and French! – at tonycoleman.fr.

INT’L NEWS:

The Bellamy Brothers will embark on their 2017 World Tour in Dubai, Singapore, Switzerland, Ireland and Faroe Islands. David and Howard Bellamy will criss-cross the globe and celebrate the 25th Anniversary of their own record label, Bellamy Brothers Records, which licenses products in more than 30 countries.The duo’s performance in Singapore also resulted in another licensing deal with EQ Music and Media for their 40 YEARS: THE ALBUM, a compilation of past hits and new songs that encompasses “Let Your Love Flow,” ”Redneck Girl” and “If I Said You Have a Beautiful Body (Would You Hold It Against Me)” and 20 new songs. Howard and David Bellamy have created one of the most successful careers in the history of country music with 27 Top 10 and 14 No. 1 singles. Follow The Bellamy Brothers on social media and bellamybrothers.com.

INDIE NEWS:

Crossroads Entertainment and Marketing has announced the return of The Old Paths. After the success of their previous recordings with Sonlite Records, Crossroads stated that they are looking forward with anticipation of continuing with them in this future endeavor. With former members Tim Rackley, Doug Roark and Daniel Ashmore and the addition of Steve Ladd on tenor, the group is poised to retain and even surpass their previous level of success, according to Crossroads. New music will be available summer 2017 on Sonlite Records. More at horizonsonliterecords.com.

INDUSTRY NEWS:

Nashville is re-launching yet another label. The Monument record label is back, according to an announcement on Country Aircheck® website. Monument Records, (coming under the Sony Music Entertainment umbrella), is following the footsteps of another ‘relaunched’ label; Dot Records. Staff appointments as follows: Manager Jason Owen and songwriter/producer Shane McAnally will serve as Co-Presidents of the new venture and UMG/Nashville Dir./Marketing Katie McCartney has joined as SVP/Marketing & Label Operations. Industry vet Kelli Porter has been named Mgr./Marketing & Label Operations. They launched Monument Records with singer-songwriters Caitlyn Smith and Walker Hayes first to its roster. “It’s always an amazing opportunity to work with two people who are as talented and nice as Jason and Shane.” “We think they’re a great team and a terrific addition to the Sony Music family,” says SME CEO Doug Morris.

LABEL NEWS:

(Broken Bow) Jason Aldean (RIAA’s top digital Country male artist of all time ) is returning to the road with his JASON ALDEAN: THEY DON’T KNOW TOUR, launching in Toledo, OH, on Apr. 27. Named after the only Country album to claim the top spot on the all-genre Billboard 200 chart in 2016, the Multi-PLATINUM entertainer will doubtless bring that same energy to the stage while boasting support from special guests Chris Young, Kane Brown and Dee Jay Silver. Tickets for the first dates are now available on JasonAldean.com and LiveNation.com. Select cities are also part of Live Nation’s Country Megaticket at www.megaticket.com. Live Nation is the official promoter of the tour. In addition to the new tour, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum announced a special exhibit honoring Aldean will open its doors on May 27.

(Valory/Nashville) Thomas Rhett will be extending his first-ever headlining 2017 HOME TEAM TOUR. After drawing capacity crowds overseas last year, he plans to return to Europe while also making his debut headlining run in Canada and adding additional US dates. Even before his inaugural leg kicks off Feb. 23, multiple sellouts and fan-demand have already prompted more shows as select dates will become available as part of Live Nation’s Country Megaticket at www.megaticket.com. Additional dates and ticket information including support for each market will be available in the coming weeks at ThomasRhett.com

MEDIA NEWS:

Hope Nation Radio has joined the roster of Brickshore Media, Inc., the public relations and social media firm in Nashville. This online station, which is dedicated to childhood cancer, is joining forces with Brickshore as they gear up for several prominent music events this year in the Nashville community. Formed in 2013 by Nile “Big Daddy” Peaytt and Thomas Hammonds, this station plays a variety of country music, pop, rock, contemporary, Christian and gospel from signed and independent artists. This is a station anyone can listen to, including the children in the hospital; whether for a lengthy stay or to help pass the time while getting treatments. Live streaming and more info at HopeIsEverything.org or follow on all social media @HopeNationRadio.

MUSIC NEWS:

Congrats and kudos to Carrie Underwood who is celebrating a major career milestone. The CMA Vocalist of the Year has scored her 25th Number One with her current single, ‘Dirty Laundry.’ The song marks Underwood’s 22nd chart-topping hit on country radio, but when you add in a Billboard Hot 100 Number One (‘Inside Your Heaven’) plus her two Number Ones on the Hot Country Songs chart (‘Something Bad’ and ‘Something in the Water’), she has scored a total of twenty five chart toppers. Congratulations Carrie on this wonderful accomplishment! It is a truly deserved honor, and doubtless many more will follow. Check out carrieunderwoodofficial.com – and note the ‘official’ in the address if you want to reach the ‘correct’ Carrie!

NUMBER ONE NEWS:

Congrats to William Michael Morgan and his co-writers Sam Hunt, Shane McAnally and Trevor Rosen who were feted on January 30th for Morgan’s Number One hit “I Met A Girl.” The Number One party, held at South, was co-hosted by ASCAP and First Tennessee Bank. The song, produced by Scott Hendricks and Jimmy Ritchey, is from Morgan’s debut album VINYL on Warner Brothers, Nashville.

SINGLE NEWS:

Keith Urban parted the skies with his 22nd number one single “Blue Ain’t Your Color” topped in at number one – on the Billboard Country Airplay, the Hot Country Songs, and the Country Digital Song Sales charts simultaneously. Too add to flame, Urban upped the “anny”on himself this week, also topping the Country Streaming chart (while remaining at No. 1 on the other three). This feat has only been conquered twice before, with Jason Aldean’s “Burnin’ It Down” (2014) and Luke Bryan’s “Play It Again” (2014). While it marks a different direction than Urban is used to, it’s that special sound that got him hooked on the idea of adding it to his project, Ripcord.

TEXAS MUSIC NEWS:

Houston-based country/Americana band, Charlie & The Regrets will release their new album Rivers In The Streets on February 25th via Sony RED Distribution. Under the creative and technical direction of producer Derek Hames and engineer John Shelton, the album features a robust and eclectic collection of bohemian-infused honky-tonk intended to make you stomp your feet, but also make you stop and think. The first single “Time Moves Slow” sets the tone for a collection of tunes about real life in real-time rural America. Charlie Harrison, the band’s namesake and primary songwriter, writes socially conscious music that speaks to the not-always-glamorous life he has seen, and his part in it. Hear the single at charlieandtheregrets.com.

TOUR NEWS:

After selling out the first shows on their 2016 Obsessed Tour, Dan + Shay decided to keep the good times going by adding 24 more dates across the USA and Canada through spring of 2017. The duo have announced that they will also be bringing special guests Bailey Bryan (GRAMMY’s Artist of Tomorrow, Rolling Stone’s “Artists You Need to Know” and The Bobby Bones Show’s “Class of 2017” artist) and Jackie Lee (named one of Bobby Bones’ “Class of 2017” and a CMT “17 for 2017 LISTEN UP” artist) along for the ride in 2017. The newest single off of their 2016 release, Obsessed, “How Not To,” was written by Adam Hambrick, Paul DiGiovanni and Kevin Bard, and is at radio now and quickly climbing the charts. Check out danandshay.com

VIDEO / CMT NEWS:

“Ring On Every Finger,” LOCASH’s new sweet sentiment single premiered all over CMT channels and platforms in late January, including CMT, CMT Music and CMT.com. Filmed in Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, the Reviver Records hot country duo comprising Chris Lucas and Preston Brust, bring their contagious energy to the screen for their third single from their album THE FIGHTERS. Mandalay Bay and Comcast Spotlight will provide fans a chance to win a trip to Vegas through their “Ring On Every Finger” Sweepstakes. Two men, plus three friends each and two women, plus three friends each, will receive airfare, ground transportation and three nights March 31-April 3 at Mandalay Bay by entering at RingOnEveryFinger.com. More at locashmusic.com and their social media outlets.

WWWEBSITES TO CHECK OUT:

www.bouldercreekguitars.com / www.ascap.com / www.sesac.com / www.globalsongwriters.com / www.bmi.com

WHO’S LOOKING * WHO’S CUTTING:

Cassadee Pope, Sara Evans, Joe Diffie, Chase Rice and Chris Young.

 

Preshias Harris provides this exclusive monthly column with Nashville Music Guide to keep artists, musicians, writers and more up to date on the news that is coming from music row and beyond. It includes music industry news from labels, publishers, writers, singers and more.

Send me music stuff, I love to get it! / Preshiaswriter@hotmail.com TN/USA. Google “Preshias”

 

 

 

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