Rhonda Vincent & The Rage To Headline Springer Mountain Farms Bluegrass Nights At The Ryman July 8 at 7:30pm

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Vincent’s New Album ‘Music Is What I See’ Available Now

Multi-award-winning bluegrass artist and Grand Ole Opry member Rhonda Vincent along with her Grammy award-winning band, The Rage, is set to headline the world-famous Ryman Auditorium Thursday, July 8 at 7:30 pm as part of Springer Mountain Farms Bluegrass Nights At The Ryman. The “Queen of Bluegrass” is certain to delight the audience during this Nashville summer tradition with both classic crowd-pleasers and new tunes from her latest album, Music Is What I See. Their unmatched energy graces every stage they perform on through their timeless yet inventive bluegrass sounds.

To purchase tickets, visit HERE.

“Anytime I get to step on the stage of the Ryman Auditorium is a wonderful day,” shares Vincent. “This is hallowed ground and the sound that resonates with every note is magical. We will be playing songs from my new album Music Is What I See as well as fan favorites from the past. This will be an exciting evening and I hope you will join us!”

Vincent recently released her latest album Music Is What I See. Her high-spirited energy is clearly present through her soaring vocals, blend of new tunes, and fresh arrangements of classics such as the first-ever recorded bluegrass version of the classic, “Unchained Melody,” which she recently debuted live at the Grand Ole Opry. Leading up to the album release, Vincent was featured in People.com, Taste of Country, and Wide Open Country, where each outlet premiered a new single. Growing up performing in her family’s band, The Sally Mountain Show, music was not just something she loved, it was a way of life. This shows in every track, whether referring to “What Ain’t To Be Just Might Happen” written by Porter Wagoner or “Like I Could,” which was written by Jeannie Seely, Erin Enderlin, and Bobby Tomberlin, the Grand Ole Opry weaves throughout this entire project. With her brand new album and a growing tour schedule, “The Queen of Bluegrass” is back in full swing!

WANDA JACKSON GIVES HER ENCORE AUGUST 20

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Rockabilly Queen Enlists Fellow Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Joan Jett and Kenny Laguna for Final Project, Featuring Elle King and Angaleena Presley

1962’s “It Keeps Right On A Hurtin’” Teases Fans Today, But There’s Much More Ahead

The most core-shaking female to ever hit a stage returns with a vengeance! WANDA JACKSON, Rock & Roll, International Gospel and Rockabilly Hall of Famer, teams with fellow Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Joan Jett and Kenny Laguna to conceptualize ENCORE (out August 20 via Big Machine Records/Blackheart Records). ENCORE is rooted in the belief that the pure Rock & Roll that Wanda pioneered, has lived in Jett’s modern version of agency, independence and audacious self-expression that has been taboo for women in music. Jackson’s 32nd album is a final chapter amplifying a career that’s ignited others too, from the Cramps to Amy Winehouse, Adele to Jack White, who produced her 2009 critic’s favorite THE PARTY AIN’T OVER.

“Right around the time I retired from performing and what I thought was the end of my career, I found myself back to writing songs with some of the great writers in Nashville. The songs you hear are truly my life story. This is the first time I have ever inserted so much of my personal life into my music. You’ll get a picture of my early life and have a peak into the closeness that my late husband Wendell and I had in our life together. I’m happy to share this with all of you. Your constant love and support has seen me through the ups and downs of my 64-year career. I love you all and God bless you,” shared Jackson.

Marked by Jackson’s incandescent swagger and effervescence, ENCORE is an in-your-face sonic experience that walks listeners through the Rockabilly, Country and even Punk colors of one of music’s most thrilling vocalists. That growl in her voice and full-tilt femmepower in her songs, it’s no wonder throw down rocker/writers Elle King and Angaleena Presley join Jett to ramp up the bravado and the fun.

Recorded just before announcing her retirement, Jackson’s signature tease and straight up no-nonsense delivers a resounding thump on the choogling taunt “Big Baby.” She’s saucy and snarling on the jaunty “Can’t Keep A Good Girl Down” featuring Presley and Candi Carpenter and wide open on Jett’s garage grunge come on “You Drive Me Wild,” as well offering clear-eyed tenderness on the classic balladry on ENCORE’s closing “That’s What Love Is.”

“Real, authentic rock and roll is something you have to have inside. It can’t be taught, it can’t be faked. Wanda Jackson has it. Joan Jett has it. ENCORE has it. It is rare,” said Laguna.

The bodacious vocalist known for “Hot Dog! That Made Him Mad;” “Mean, Mean Man;” “Fujiyama Mama” and “Let’s Have A Party” writes half of ENCORE’s songs, with a coterie of writers including triple Grammy Awards winner Lori McKenna, ACM/CMA/Grammy nominees Will Hoge and Luke Laird, Presley, plus Bluegrass queen Sonia Leigh. Timeless, classic, forward-tilting, Jackson is still teaching the kids how it’s done.

To give fans a taste of the set, the vintage Country of Johnny Tillotson’s 1962 Rhythm & Blues smash “It Keeps Right On A Hurtin’,” arrives today, June 25. The sweeping stroll embodies the Hargus “Pig” Robbins Country that captivated jukeboxes throughout the ‘60s; most notably re-recorded by Elvis Presley on his 1969 FROM ELVIS IN MEMPHIS.

Whether the feral Funk “Treat Me Like A Lady” with its time changes – featuring both Jackson’s grit and soft as silk approaches – or the giddyup Rockabilly of “Two Shots” – matching her with King and Jett – the diminutive dark-haired vixen remains every bit as sultry and in charge as ever. Hearing women tell it not just like it is, but how it’s going to be, has defined Jackson. For seven decades she has made fringe sing, bodies swing and the mind do untold things.

Pre-order ENCORE: https://WandaJackson.lnk.to/EncorePR

Listen/Stream “It Keeps Right On A Hurtin’”: https://WandaJackson.lnk.to/IKROAHPR

NAOMI JUDD INDUCTED INTO WOMEN SONGWRITERS HALL OF FAME

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The Women Songwriters Hall of Fame inducted country music icon and GRAMMY® winning songwriter Naomi Judd during its first ceremony at the National Museum of Women in the Arts. The event paid homage to women whose body of work represents the best of heritage and legacy of modern American music.

“It’s always gratifying when someone acknowledges your best efforts. I love expressing my deepest feelings as I did in writing ‘Love Can Build A Bridge.’ Not only was I being celebrated at this auspicious event in Washington, D.C., I was among other accomplished songwriters. It was fun to reconnect with Valerie Simpson of Ashford & Simpson fame. We met years ago. A good time was had by all!” Naomi Judd shared.

Judd joined other inaugural inductees, including Valerie Simpson, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Roberta Flack, Tawatha Agee, Klymaxx, Deniece Williams, Jeri Keever “Bunny” Hull and Veryl Howard.

Recently, Judd acted and starred in Lifetime’s V.C. Andrews’ Ruby, a four-party movie series that followed Ruby Landry, who after being raised by her loving spiritual healer grandmother (Judd) in the Louisiana bayou, is ensnared in a world of dark family secrets and betrayal, upon discovering that she has another family living in New Orleans.

Naomi Judd is a six-time GRAMMY®, nine-time CMA and seven-time ACM Award-winning singer, songwriter, actress, philanthropist, author and public speaker, whose life and career continues to inspire dreamers today. Naomi and her daughter Wynonna brought a fresh acoustic sound to country music, with unmistakable harmonies as The Judds surrounding Wynonna’s powerful lead vocals. The Judds are often celebrated for a rarely-interrupted stretch of 14 No. 1 hits when every single of theirs released by RCA Nashville/Curb landed in the Billboard Top 10; and a career that defined what it means to be individualists in the music business. The Judds dominated touring with 20 Top 10 hits, have sold more than 20 million albums and blazed a trail for duos and women who have followed them. Hailing from the Appalachian foothills of Ashland, Ky., mother and daughter duo The Judds were discovered by RCA Nashville label head Joe Galante in 1983, after they landed a guest spot on WSM-TV’s Ralph Emery Show. The Judds made their Billboard country chart debut at the end of that year, with “Had a Dream (for the Heart),” and they were on their way to a history-making career. In 1991 when Naomi’s diagnosis of hepatitis C forced her to retire from the road, The Judds embarked on a historic farewell tour with Garth Brooks as an opening act. Naomi focused on her health, beating the disease and wrote several New York Times Best Sellers and became a popular motivational speaker and actress. To this day, their enduring legacy has inspired their peers, as well as established and aspiring artists. The Judds broke the mold for what it means to be an entertainment titan and remain one of the most successful acts in the history of the country music format. In 2022, The Judds will receive a star on the world’s most famous walkway, The Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Billy Bob’s Texas Continues To Celebrate Their 40thAnniversary Featuring Some Of The Biggest Names In Music Such As Steve Earle & The Dukes, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Lady A, Neal McCoy, And More

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Anniversary Featuring Some Of The Biggest Names In Music Such As Steve Earle & The Dukes, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Lady A, Neal McCoy, And More

Billy Bob’s Texas has been a prominent venue located in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District since they first opened their doors in 1981. Continuing to celebrate their 40th Anniversary, Billy Bob’s continues to be a popular destination amongst tourists and locals alike, offering the hottest live music and biggest names in entertainment throughout the year. With almost 17 million visitors from around the world, Billy Bob’s is a must-see attraction in Fort Worth, Texas. The atmosphere of this distinctive venue is unmatched, allowing guests to embrace their inner cowboy or cowgirl with line dancing classes, live music, armadillo racing, and once again the return of their live bull riding experience.

Their Honky Tonk Kitchen’s new Executive Chef, Alex Walters serves up a wide variety of finger-licking authentic Texas Cuisine with options for every type of eater, ranging from burgers and BBQ, to Chicken Fried Steak and Ribeyes and a variety of vegetarian options. Billy Bob’s has it all.

With summer in full swing, Billy Bob’s Texas welcomes CMT 2021 Female Video of the Year winner Gabby Barrett (July 1), followed by Steve Earle & The Dukes (July 2). Kenny Wayne Shepherd (July 3) will take the stage and perform some of his classic hits including “Blue on Black” and Summerland Tour: Everclear, Living Colour, Hoobastank, and Wheatus (July 9) will entertain the crowd with a variety of live music. With his latest single, “Can Down,” Mike Ryan (July 10) will certainly delight, setting the stage for country trio Lady A (July 16 & 17) performing their greatest hits “Need You Now,” “What If I Never Get Over You,” “Downtown,” and more along with newcomer Jameson Rodgers kicking off the show. Jay Buchanan (July 16) and Seth James (July 23) will bring their funky tunes to the 81 Club while Randy Rogers & Wade Bowen (July 23 & 24) charm the main stage. Power-house vocalist Josh Weathers (July 30) will rock out with the audience as country singer Neal McCoy (July 31) closes out the month in classic Billy-Bob’s style.

Billy Bob’s Texas has released a book titled, “Billy Bob’s Texas: 40 Years at the World’s Largest Honky Tonk.” The book features everything from Billy Bob’s Texas and includes historical documents, vintage photography, and personal anecdotes. The Billy Bob’s Texas 40th Anniversary coffee table book takes a never-before-seen look into The World’s Largest Honky Tonk. The result is a collection that explores the rich history and larger-than-life stories of Billy Bob’s Texas. The book is available in-store or online, purchase yours HERE.

With such a wide variety of live music, delicious menu, fun activities, and friendly atmosphere, Billy Bob’s Texas is the place to be!

July Concert Lineup:
JUL 01 – Gabby Barrett (Ticket Info)
JUL 02 – Steve Earle & The Dukes (Ticket Info)
JUL 03 – Kenny Wayne Shepherd (Ticket Info)
JUL 09 – Summerland Tour: Everclear, Living Colour, Hoobastank and Wheatus (Ticket Info)
JUL 10 – Mike Ryan (Ticket Info)
JUL 16 – Lady A with Jameson Rodgers (Ticket Info)
JUL 16 – Jay Buchanan @ The 81 Club (Ticket Info)
JUL 17 – Lady A (Ticket Info)
JUL 23 – Seth James @ The 81 Club (Ticket Info)
JUL 23 – Randy Rogers & Wade Bowen (Ticket Info)
JUL 24 – Randy Rogers & Wade Bowen (Ticket Info)
JUL 30 – Josh Weathers (Ticket Info)
JUL 31 – Neal McCoy (Ticket Info)

Laine Hardy To Headline Monster Energy Outbreak Tour

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Tickets for all dates on sale to the general public July 1

Rising Country star and American Idol winner Laine Hardy is hitting the road with the Monster Energy Outbreak Tour. Kicking off on July 22, Laine will headline shows coast to coast spanning the fall, joined on select dates by Chris Bandi, Kylie Frey, Wyatt McCubbin, and Nick Walsh.  Tickets for the Monster Energy Outbreak Tour featuring Laine Hardy go on sale July 1. Visit www.outbreakpresents.com for more information.

“I can’t wait to head out on tour in the fall and play some brand new music for everyone,” says Laine.  “Really excited to be hitting the road with the Monster Energy Outbreak Tour.  It’s going to be a blast!”

Laine joins previous headlining alumni of the tastemaker concert series, including Lindsay Ell, Bones UK, Post Malone, Kendrick Lamar, Macklemore, The Chainsmokers, Mike Shinoda, Cole Swindell, Larkin Poe and many others. Since its inception in 2011, the Monster Energy Outbreak Tour has grown into the largest national touring brand in the club and theater space, showcasing the hottest breakthrough artists on groundbreaking nationwide tours.

To celebrate the news, Laine is releasing an acoustic version of his brand-new single, “Memorize You,” which fans can stream and/or download on all platforms starting tomorrow, June 25!  The feel-good summertime groove is written by Michael Tyler, Eric Arjes and Steven Dale Jones, and produced by Michael Knox (Jason Aldean, Thomas Rhett).  Watch the beachy official music video for “Memorize You,” which has racked up over 4 million views, HERE.

For more information about Laine Hardy, visit LaineHardyMusic.com and join his journey @TheLaineHardy.

ABOUT LAINE HARDY: A native of Livingston, Louisiana (pop. 2,000) Laine Hardy was six when he picked up his first guitar and later joined his brother playing in local clubs and bars for upwards of six hours a night, inspired by artists ranging from Luke Combs and Elvis Presley to Mark Broussard. After winning American Idol in 2019, Laine focused on songwriting and touring, headlining shows in Denver, Indianapolis, Sacramento, Minneapolis, Lexington and more.  Laine’s 2020 “Ground I Grew Up On” virtual tour, made 20-plus online stops to date, with views at 2 million and counting. Catch Laine as he hits the road with the Monster Energy Outbreak Tour. Kicking off on July 22, Laine will headline shows coast to coast spanning the fall. Tickets for The Monster Energy Outbreak Tour featuring Laine Hardy go on sale July 1. Visit www.outbreakpresents.com for more information.

On May 14, 2021, Laine released feel-good summertime track and video, “Memorize You,” written by Michael Tyler, Eric Arjes and Steven Dale Jones, and produced by Michael Knox (Jason Aldean, Thomas Rhett).  Follow his socials to keep up to date on his new music plans for the rest of the year!

While Louisiana is home, Nashville is where he is destined to be.  There, he met his producer Michael Knox and the pair went to work on Laine’s 2020 music releases including his single “Tiny Town” (Michael Tyler), and tracks “Ground I Grew Up On” (Brandon Kinney, Josh Thompson, Brett Beavers), “Let There Be Country” (Jason Afable, Steve Moakler, Tim Nichols), “Other LA” (Laine Hardy, Andy Sheridan, Erik Dylan and Dan Isbell) on Buena Vista Records / Industrial Media’s 19 Recordings.   The songs, which earned Laine a Taste of Country RISER designation, tell the stories of Laine’s childhood on the bayou where on an average day you’ll find him fishing, riding his four-wheeler, spending time with his family, dogs, and feasting on jambalaya or his grandmother’s traditional Korean kimchi.

For more information about Laine Hardy, visit LaineHardyMusic.com and join his journey @TheLaineHardy.

PHIL VASSAR ANNOUNCED AS A 2021 NASHVILLE SONGWRITERS HALL OF FAME NOMINEE

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Vassar Nominated Alongside Toby Keith, Brad Paisley and Shania Twain in Songwriter/Artist Category 

 Multi-platinum selling Phil Vassar, whose career has garnered 10 No. 1 singles and 26 Top 40 hits including signature self-penned hits “Just Another Day in Paradise” and “Carlene,” is a 2021 nominee for Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. Nominated in the Songwriter/Artist category, Vassar has also written top-charting songs for artists Tim McGraw (“My Next Thirty Years,”” For a Little While”), Alan Jackson (“Right on the Money”), Jo Dee Messina (“Bye Bye,” “Alright”) and many more.

“It is such an honor to be a nominee for the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. I am so humbled to be nominated as not only a songwriter, but also an artist alongside such great company,” shared Vassar.

Vassar is among four nominees in the Songwriter/Artists category alongside Toby Keith, Brad Paisley and Shania Twain. Nominees in the Songwriters category which includes Rhett Akins, Buddy Cannon, Larry Cordle, Carl Jackson, Mary Ann Kennedy, David Malloy, Frank J. Myers, and Tia Sillers.

All nominees experienced their first Top 20 song at least 20 years ago. Two songwriters and one songwriter/artist will be elected in these categories by their professional songwriter peers and members of the Hall of Fame. In addition, two more will be named to the Class of 2021. A separate body of veteran voters will elect a veteran songwriter and a veteran songwriter/artist, both of whom experienced their first Top 20 song at least 30 years ago. As part of that process, nominees in those categories are not announced.

The new group will be among those honored at the “50/51” Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Gala on Monday, November 1, 2021, at the Music City Center alongside the organization’s previously named Class of 2020: Steve Earle, Bobbie Gentry, Kent Blazy, Brett James and Spooner Oldham.

“We were forced to postpone our 50th Anniversary celebration last year, so this will be our ‘50/51’ party—celebrating two years and two classes in a special double-sized event,” says NaSHOF Executive Director Mark Ford. “We congratulate all of this year’s nominees and look forward to next month, when we will announce those who will be inducted as members of the Class of 2021.”

ABOUT PHIL VASSAR
Phil Vassar’s reign of signature songs include 10 No. 1 singles and 26 Top 40 hits, including Carlene, Just Another Day in Paradise, Six-Pack Summer, When I Love You, and many more. Vassar was racking up hits on the radio long before he even began his own recording career that has seen the release of nine albums, two ASCAP Songwriter of the Year trophies, ACM’s Top New Male Vocalist and sold-out shows across the country. Vassar’s songwriting career blossomed in the mid-’90s when he landed a publishing contract with EMI and penned hits for Collin Raye (Little Red Rodeo), Alan Jackson (Right on the Money), Tim McGraw (My Next Thirty Years, For a Little While), Jo Dee Messina (Bye Bye, Alright), and Blackhawk (Postmarked Birmingham). He signed a record deal of his own with Arista in 1998 and was named ASCAP’s Country Songwriter of the Year in 1999 and 2001. 2020 marked an important anniversary for Vassar, 20 years since his first No. 1 single, “Just Another Day in Paradise,” was released. To celebrate, Vassar released his long-awaited 10th studio album, Stripped Down. The album’s effortless production puts the songs front and center. It features songs written over the past 20 years but never-before recorded and new music, including “This is Where The End Starts”, co- written with daughter, Haley Vassar and Vassar’s take on “Postmarked Birmingham,” a hit he wrote for Blackhawk. Vassar will release a brand new project in 2021 featuring covers from artists that have inspired him throughout his career. Additionally the hitmaker will release a new podcast on the American Songwriter Podcast Network and season 3 of Phil Vassar’s Songs from the Cellar on Circle.

For more information on Phil Vassar, visit PhilVassar.com and follow him on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

ALYSSA TRAHAN ANNOUNCES BABY BLUES & STILETTOS TOUR

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Rising country music star Alyssa Trahan is hitting the road for her upcoming “Baby Blues & Stilettos Tour.” The tour will be kicking off July 1st in Fairport, NY to accompany her recently released debut album Baby Blues & Stilettos. Trahan will be in good company opening for some big names such as Maddie & Tae, Molly Hatchet and Tracy Lawrence. Tickets and more information can be found here.

“I am so excited to finally get back on the road with this tour! Performing is such a huge part of what I do and I’ve felt like a part of me has been missing for the last year and a half. We’ve got an all-new setlist, including songs from the new record, and I’m so ready to sing and dance with everyone! This tour also includes everything from intimate acoustic shows to large outdoor amphitheaters, including my dream venue called CMAC which is where I went to college, with acts like Maddie & Tae, Tracy Lawrence, and more, so every night is going to be different and special!” says Trahan.

Trahan’s vocals and epic songwriting are showcased on her album as she details her experiences with heartbreak, family, and personal relationships. Trahan pulls back the curtain and gives listeners a closer look into who she really is. Alyssa has already made her mark on the country music scene, impressively making the top 10 on iTunes Top Country Albums Chart with her debut album. After a year apart, join Alyssa Trahan on tour to celebrate the return of live music with friends and family.

“Alyssa Trahan’s Baby Blues and Stilettos weaves in and out of riffs, chords, and arpeggios as easily as it weaves in and out of moods. In doing so, it provides a fabric that tells the story of so many strong females.” – Marissa Bergen, Guitar Girl Magazine

“Baby Blues and Stilettos definitely looks the look and walks the walk with well written lyrics along with commensurate music, vocals and harmonies.  This CD will help you prepare to face your losses, celebrate your accomplishments and look forward to experiencing a spiritual rebirth.” – Denise Labrie, Country Music News

“Baby Blues & Stilettos Tour” Dates:
July 1 – Fairport, N.Y. – Smokin Hot Chicks BBQ
July 2 – Batavia, N.Y. – Batavia Downs w/ Molly Hatchet
July 3 – Le Roy, N.Y. – Private Event
July 8 – Rochester, N.Y. – Sunset Lock Tour (Colonial Belle)
July 9 – Fairport, N.Y. – Iron Smoke Distillery
July 10 – Canandaigua, N.Y. – CMAC
July 11 – Canandaigua, N.Y. – Peacemaker Brewing Co.
July 17 – Kingston Springs, Tenn. – Kingston Springs Farmers Market
July 25 – Perry, N.Y. – Silver Lake Twin Drive-In w/ Maddie & Tae
Aug. 4 – Rochester, N.Y. – Bands at Barnard w/ Draw The Line
Aug. 5 – Rochester, N.Y. – Native Eatery
Aug. 6 – Henrietta, N.Y. – Nashvilles
Aug. 7 – Rochester, N.Y. – Russell Station Bar & Grill
Aug. 11 – Rochester, N.Y. – The Penthouse at One East Ave.
Aug. 12 – Fairport, N.Y. – B-Side
Aug. 13 – Penn Yan, N.Y. – Silverbird Woodfired
Aug. 14 – ER, N.Y. – Daryl Pierson Fundraiser
Aug. 14 – Farmington, N.Y. – Club Remedy @ Finger Lakes Gaming
Aug. 21 – Kingston Springs, Tenn. – Kingston Springs Farmers Market
Aug. 27 – Rochester, N.Y. – Marge’s Lakeside Inn
Aug. 28 – Le Roy, N.Y. – Jam at the Ridge w/ Tracy Lawrence
Aug. 29 – Rochester, N.Y. – Private Event
Oct. 1 – Vernon, N.Y. – Nothin Fancy Country Rock Saloon
Oct. 2 – Rochester, N.Y. – Homesteads for Hope Annual BBQ
About Alyssa Trahan
In a male-dominated business, Alyssa Trahan is giving the guys a run for their money. A jill-of-all-trades, singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and audio engineer, Trahan began making waves in Nashville as soon as she moved from her hometown of East Rochester, N.Y. in 2016. By producing her own music, she is able to blur genre lines with her modern pop production mixed with traditional country instrumentation winning fans over from all genres. With clever songwriting along with her catchy melodies and sweet vocals, Trahan’s music has taken off with her fans on social media. The release of her single “Ain’t Ever Goin’ Back” garnered more than 1 Million views on Tik Tok, leading to features in Guitar Girl Magazine along with the next single, “Psychology” being featured in American Songwriter. In an unprecedented year, Trahan, who is used to playing over 100 shows a year opening for Jana Kramer, Josh Turner, Lee Greenwood, Lee Ann Womack, Midland and more, focused on the self-production of her first ever full length album. The multi-instrumentalist is now ready to showcase her creativity and talents with the world when Baby Blues & Stilettos releases this spring. With her fast-growing and dedicated fan base, talent and determination, the sky is truly the limit. For more information, follow her at alyssatrahan.com.

COUNTRY MUSIC SUCCESS STORIES WITH CANDY O’TERRY PODCAST RELEASES INTIMATE CONVERSATION WITH SARA EVANS

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Longtime Country hitmaker, Sara Evans, joined award-winning broadcaster and podcaster, Candy O’Terry and Music City Mentor, Jacy Dawn Valeras on their current episode of their joint podcast project, Country Music Success Stories with Candy O’Terry. They say you should never meet your idols because you might be disappointed, but when Candy and Jacy pulled up to Sara Evan’s home just outside of Nashville, and she greeted them with a warm hug and a welcoming smile at the door, they knew that their time together with Sara would be very special. Country Music Success Stories with Candy O’Terry is well on the way to becoming a success story on its own. Subscribe to the podcast here and listen on all podcast platforms here.

“I loved welcoming Candy and Jacy into my home to talk about my life and career,” shared Sara Evans. “They were the sweetest!”

“This might be my favorite interview so far,” says Candy O’Terry. “With five #1 songs, an ACM Award for Top Female Vocalist, a CMA for Video of the Year, Grammy, Billboard, BMI, R&R, CMA & ACM nominations, and 10 studio albums, Sara Evans is a success story by any standard, but it is her personal story that really blew us away. Turns out, the girl next door who sang Suds in the Bucket really did grow up on a farm in Missouri, with the clothes hanging out on the line.”

“Having the opportunity to sit down and talk with Sara, an artist I have personally admired for so long, was truly a career highlight for me,”  shared Jacy Dawn Valeras. “The wisdom and advice she graciously and honestly gave me to pass along to our listeners has been one of my favorite moments in the podcast so far.”

Future guests will include Jim Messina, Bill Anderson, John Schneider, Jim Vest, Chris Lindsey, Pam Lewis and many others, including surprise guests along the way. Past guests have included Collin Raye, Aimee Mayo, John and Robin Berry, Steve Dorff, Naomi Judd, Jeannie Seely, Crystal Gayle, Lori McKenna, Karen Staley, Kent Blazy, Larry Strickland, T.G. Sheppard and Kelly Lang.

The popular podcast is the 2021 winner of two Awards of Distinction recognized by the Communicator Awards for Best Host, and Best Music-based Podcast. The popular podcast made its debut on in the top #25 on Apple Podcasts USA Music Interviews Chart and has been picked up by iHeartMedia, the #1 commercial podcast publisher globally and RADIO.COM which is powered by Entercom, the 2nd largest radio group in the country and the top podcast producer which includes 800+ streaming stations across the US.

In this Nashville based podcast, radio legend & master interviewer Candy O’Terry goes straight to the pros to hear their stories. From singers to producers, songwriters to record label executives, radio programmers and DJ’s to PR and marketing pros, every episode is a deep dive into what it takes to succeed in the country music industry. If you want to make it in Nashville, you need a roadmap. Music City Mentor and Founder of Platinum Circle Media, Jacy Dawn Valeras provides valuable advice about everything from writer’s rounds to online marketing and building a network that will go the distance

After spending a week together in Nashville with the idea of doing a 4-part series for O’Terry’s award-winning podcast and radio program The Story Behind Her Success, the two realized that the city was rich with stories to tell and that a platform for music industry stories, combined with the rich content Valeras had accumulated through her YouTube series, might be a hit.   As life-long singers and country music fans, Candy & Jacy have a clear vision of the guests they seek.  “We’re on the lookout for women and men who aren’t afraid to tell the world how they got to where they are today in the music business, including the good times when they were riding high, and the bad times when they were on the verge of giving up. These stories are meant to teach and inspire others to take a chance on living their dreams.”

Stay current with Country Music Success Stories on the website countrymusicsuccessstories.com and stay up to date on social media platforms Facebook and Instagram.

Stay current with Candy O’Terry on her website candyoterry.com and follow her on social media platforms Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Stay current with Jacy Dawn Valeras on her websites jacydawnvaleras.com and  platinumcirclemedia.com and follow her on social media platforms Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Sara Evans: 
Multi-platinum entertainer Sara Evans is at the top of her game. As the fifth most-played female artist at country radio in nearly the last two decades, her five No. 1 singles include “No Place That Far,” “Suds In The Bucket, “A Real Fine Place To Start,” “Born to Fly,” and “A Little Bit Stronger,” which spent 2 weeks in the top spot and was certified platinum by the R.I.A.A. Sara’s “stunning, country voice” (Rolling Stone) has earned her the prestigious Academy of Country Music Top Female vocalist accolade as well as numerous American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, Country Music Association, CMT and Grammy Awards nominations. In addition, the CMA awarded Video of the Year honors for her hit chart-topping single, “Born to Fly” from her landmark double-platinum album of the same name.  Evans’ discography also includes the platinum-selling studio albums Real Fine Place and Restless as well as the gold-certified projects Stronger and No Place That Far. Sara has continued to forge her bold, creative path with Copy That, which opened at #1 on the iTunes Country chart, released on her own Born To Fly Records on May 15, 2020. The 13-song collection, spanning six decades, showcased Evans’ distinctive creative stamp on some of the most iconic songs in country and pop music, songs that have inspired her life and career, as well as shining a spotlight on some little-known gems. Copy That follows her critically acclaimed Words, which debuted at #2 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums Chart in 2017. Last year brought album and touring collaborations with her children, Avery and Olivia Barker, for The Barker Family Band.  Sara released her memoir, Born To Fly, on September 8, 2020 through Howard Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster. Named after her landmark double-platinum album, which celebrated its 20th anniversary this year, Born To Fly finds Evans opening up and sharing stories not only about her career and what it is like living in the spotlight, but about what inspires her and how her faith keeps her strong. For more information on Sara Evans, visit  SaraEvans.com and engage with her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Candy O’Terry:
Candy O’Terry is an award-winning broadcaster and podcaster.  Known as Boston’s Beloved Radio Voice, she spent 25 years on the air at Magic 106.7/WMJX.  As the Founder of My Dove Productions, the Candy O Radio Network co-founder of the newly formed Two Dreams Entertainment, Candy’s lens is focused on storytelling.  She is the host of The Story Behind Her Success weekly podcast and radio series, The Speaker Coach podcast, 16 Life Lessons Motivation Monday feature, and the Nashville-based podcast series Country Music Success Stories featuring business partner, Music City Mentor, Jacy Valeras. Chosen by her peers as the 2015 Massachusetts Broadcaster of the Year, Candy is the winner of 52 local and national awards.  Known for her unique ability to turn any interview into an easy conversation, she has interviewed 800 women from every walk of life, and counting. A lifelong singer, Candy’s full-length CD Dream Come True includes songs heard around the world. She’s no stranger to TV and film, having served as the center judge for 7 seasons on the Emmy Award-winning TV talent show Community Auditions, and as an actress in 4 independent feature films. Born in New York City and raised in Connecticut, Candy came to Boston as a 1-meter diving champion for Boston College.  The Co-Founder of Boston Women in Media & Entertainment, she is a sought after public speaker, communications coach, emcee, voice over talent, influencer and endorser. The consummate performer, Candy O has never met a microphone she didn’t love!

Jacy Dawn Valeras:
Jacy Dawn Valeras has spent her entire career focused on both the performance and the business side of country music.  Born and raised just outside of Boston, she started singing professionally at 13 and by 19, Jacy Dawn was opening for country music legends like Reba and Willie at iconic venues like Madison Square Garden, the Bluebird Café and the Texas Troubadour Theatre. When vocal issues caused her to press pause on her singing career, Jacy Dawn knew she could combine her experience as a performer with her love of social media marketing, graphic design and content creation.  In 2012, she launched her Nashville-based company, Platinum Circle Media with a client roster that includes country music superstars, record labels and Fortune 500 companies who come to her for what she does naturally:  create star power. As the creator and host of the popular YouTube series Music City Mentor, Jacy Dawn shares her wisdom with rising artists and has developed a unique platform devoted to mentorship with over 250 thousand views and counting.  In 2020, she joined forces with Boston radio legend Candy O’Terry to create the award-winning Nashville-based podcast series Country Music Success Stories where music industry icons open the doors to their homes to share firsthand how they got to where they are today. In 2021, Valeras and O’Terry formed Two Dreams Entertainment, LLC with a vision to expand their brand through the creation of a robust website:  countrymusicsuccessstories.com, YouTube channel, vlog, and educational summits for the next generation of country music stars.

GSM OUTDOORS PARTNERS WITH LUCAS HOGE’S SERIES AS TITLE SPONSOR

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“GSM’s Hoge Wild” Will Return To the Sportsman Channel June 28 at 7:30 p.m. ET 

 GSM Outdoors comes on board as the title sponsor to Lucas Hoge‘s series on Sportsman Channel including their products like Stealth Cam, Walker’s, Muddy’s Blinds and Hawk. “GSM’s Hoge Wild” will return for a second season on the Sportsman Channel on June 28 at 7:30 ET/6:30pm CT.

GSM Outdoors has partnered with Hoge for more than three years to date, prior to his series on Sportsman Channel, and have grown to be the title sponsor of the show. Hoge will use GSM’s products in the upcoming seasons as he hunts, fishes, dives and performs across the world.

“GSM Outdoors is ecstatic to partner with Lucas as he travels the globe showcasing the beauty in wildlife conservation. We are not only fans of his music but also his love for the outdoors. This was a natural partnership as Lucas has been using several of our products for many years. We are so proud to partner with Lucas and his series ‘Hoge Wild,'” shared GSM Outdoors CEO, Eddie Castro.

Hosted by Billboard No. 1 charting artist Lucas Hoge, “GSM’s Hoge Wild” follows the singer-songwriter on his epic adventures throughout the globe. Hoge, who is the creator and executive producer, shares his passion for wildlife conservation throughout the series, changing the narrative around the hunting lifestyle. The premiere season of the series documents Hoge as he performs overseas, hunts duck, elk, deer, fallow, redstag and hits the open waters in Puerto Vallarta, Cayman Islands and Catalina Island.​ Hoge enlists some familiar faces throughout the series, inviting along friends and country duo The Swon Brothers for a hunt and hit songwriter Keesy Timmer on his first deer hunt.

“GSM’s Hoge Wild” is produced by Forge Entertainment Group and Fall West Collective. Partners for the series include Batteries Plus, Millkeeper Wine, GSM Outdoors, Stealth Cam, Muddy, Walkers, Sherwood Scuba, OTS Ocean, Technology Systems, Akona Adventure Gear, Kanati Taxidermy and Captain Morgan and more.

Recently, Hoge released a “playful, mischievous” (Taste of Country / Billy Dukes) video for his new single “Get Lost” which premiered exclusively on Taste of Country and was performed live by Hoge on TBN’s Huckabee the week of release. Additionally, the music video for “Get Lost” has garnered over 1 MILLION views on Facebook and YouTube.

For more information and the latest news on Lucas Hoge, follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and go to LucasHoge.com

ABOUT LUCAS HOGE:
With equal ease and finesse, No. 1 Billboard-charting artist Lucas Hoge can craft a song, cast a line or call in a turkey in front of a film crew, all while holding an audience’s attention on stage when performing. As a warm, engaging television host on his own weekly series “Hoge Wild,” Lucas takes viewers across the globe as he travels to New Zealand, Bolivia, Africa and unchartered territory in North America to amplify his passion for the outdoors and change the narrative around conservation. For more than two years, Lucas has been bringing his gospel “Sunday Sessions” to his fans every week, which eclipsed 25 million views in early 2020. Even during the height of online engagement worldwide during the COVID pandemic, Lucas still found a way to dominate the live streaming charts with weekly virtual concerts that consistently amassed chart-topping audience numbers, Hoge found himself alongside Luke Combs, Snoop Dogg, DMX, BTS in the Top Ten on Pollstar’s Weekly Livestream Chart. Lucas Hoge’s restless creative spirit, abundance of Midwestern charm and a work ethic that won’t let him slow down, it looks like the best is yet to come.

ABOUT GSM OUTDOORS: 
Few American outdoor companies enjoy a mutually respected relationship with their customers that spans over 5 generations. GSM Outdoors is among those few! For over 70 years, the GSM family of brands has been helping passionate hunters and shooters succeed through innovation and the manufacturer of high-quality, reliable products that continue to prove themselves in the field and on the range to this day. GSM Outdoors continues to leverage the latest technology and provide customers with the best products on the market. Tradition, heritage, and loyalty to outdoor enthusiasts of generations past and generations to come…that’s the GSM Outdoors guarantee!

COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME® AND MUSEUM TO UNVEIL NEW EXHIBIT, MARTINA MCBRIDE: THE POWER OF HER VOICE

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Exhibit opens July 30 with artifacts including her many CMA Female Vocalist of the Year awards and ACM Female Vocalist of the Year awards
The Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum is set to explore the music and legacy of influential vocalist Martina McBride in the exhibition Martina McBride: The Power of Her Voice. The exhibit encompasses the singer’s journey from performing in her family’s band as a child to becoming an award-winning country music artist with an enduring career delivering substantive and socially aware hit songs. Martina McBride: The Power of Her Voice opens July 30, 2021, and runs through Aug. 7, 2022.

McBride—known for hits including “Independence Day” and “A Broken Wing”—has ranked as one of country music’s most powerful voices, owning four CMA Female Vocalist of the Year awards. The Kansas native released her major label debut in 1992 and had her first Top Ten single on Billboard’s country charts in 1993 with “My Baby Loves Me.” Inspired by forerunners such as Linda Ronstadt and Country Music Hall of Fame members Reba McEntire and Connie Smith, McBride brought her own unique voice and style that helped further modernize the image of female artists in country music, choosing material that often highlighted women’s strengths. In 2019, the Academy of Country Music presented her with the Cliffie Stone Icon Award for her contributions to country music.

“Martina McBride has been creating powerful, socially conscious country music for more than 25 years,” said museum CEO Kyle Young. “Her anthems of personal empowerment have addressed the challenges women face and contributed a much-needed perspective to the genre. The empathy at the core of her music informs her life offstage, where she advocates for female artists.”

Born July 29, 1966, Martina Mariea Schiff was raised on a dairy and wheat farm in Sharon, Kansas, population 200. By age seven, she began performing with her family’s band, the Schiffters. After moving to Wichita, Kansas, she performed in rock bands in area clubs and met recording engineer John McBride, whom she married in 1988. After returning home to sing with the Schiffters at a battle of the bands, she decided to move to Nashville and sing country music.

The McBrides moved to Nashville in January 1990, as country music exploded in popularity. John started working as a sound engineer on concert tours and, in 1991, became production manager for Garth Brooks. So that the newlyweds could spend more time together, Martina took a job on Brooks’ tour selling T-shirts. She made a demo recording of five songs to pitch to record labels. To get the demo to the talent scouts at RCA Records, she got past the company’s strict rules about submitting new material by writing, in large letters, “REQUESTED MATERIAL” on a bright purple package, even though RCA had not asked for the tape. The strategy worked. RCA signed McBride to a recording contract in 1991.

Focusing on traditional country music, McBride’s debut album, The Time Has Come, was released in May 1992. The album received critical accolades, but it wasn’t until the release of her second album, The Way That I Am, that she began achieving commercial success, with songs focused on what she described as “melody and message.” The song “My Baby Loves Me” reached #2 on Billboard’s country charts and depicts a woman reveling in her partner’s love of the traits that make her different and distinctive. “Independence Day,” an anthem portraying an abused wife and mother reaching a breaking point, was named Song of the Year in 1995 and Video of the Year in 1994 by the CMA.

The Way That I Am crossed the million-seller plateau in May 1995 and began a streak of platinum albums stretching into the 2000s. McBride ranked among country music’s most acclaimed stars of the era. She won four CMA Female Vocalist of the Year awards, three consecutively (1999, 2002-2004), and three consecutive ACM Top Female Vocalist honors (2001–2003). In November 1995, she became a member of the Grand Ole Opry.

After years of crossover pop success, McBride returned to her roots in traditional country music with her 2005 album, Timeless, the first album she produced alone. She has continued as a commercial force: Each of her albums from 2007 to 2016 reached the Top Five on the country album chart. She continued as a cultural force, too: In 2015, she became a lead voice in combatting the dwindling airplay given to female country artists.

Martina McBride, who will mark her thirtieth year as a recording artist in 2022, epitomizes how country artists can find success as they reflect their changing times and address social issues in songs.

“Postponing the exhibit opening last year due to the pandemic was a difficult decision but the right one,” said McBride. “It did, however, allow us more time to plan and dig through my archive to find several truly special artifacts. I’m excited to finally be able to let everyone see what we’ve created. Having an exhibit in the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is something I’ve had on my dream list for a long, long time. Being able to share moments and mementos from my life and career with my fans and country music fans from all over the world is both humbling and exciting. I’m so grateful to be a part of country music.”

Items featured in Martina McBride: The Power of Her Voice include awards, stage wear, handwritten lyrics and personal artifacts. Some highlights:
  • Shirt, vest and pants ensemble worn on stage by McBride, when she performed at age seven with her family’s band, the Schiffters
  • McBride’s 1984 Sharon High School yearbook
  • The beaded headband and tulle veil worn by Martina at her wedding to John McBride, May 15, 1988
  • Songwriter Gretchen Peters’ original handwritten manuscript for “Independence Day”
  • Letter from Dolly Parton to McBride, congratulating her on being named the Country Music Association’s Female Vocalist of the Year in 2003
  • Jenny Packham dress—embellished with rhinestones, beads and sequins—worn by McBride on the cover of her 2007 album Wake Up Laughing
  • CMA Female Vocalist of the Year awards presented to McBride in 1999, 2002-2004
  • ACM Female Vocalist of the Year awards presented to McBride in 2001-2003

In support of the exhibition’s opening, McBride will participate in a conversation and performance in the museum’s CMA Theater on Sunday, Aug. 1, 2021, at 2:00 p.m., discussing her career and sharing personal stories and memories associated with the artifacts included in Martina McBride: The Power of Her Voice. Tickets will be available at CountryMusicHallofFame.org on Friday, July 2.

More information about this exhibit can be found at www.CountryMusicHallofFame.org.