Johnny Counterfit John Chaffee Coming November 9thperformer. As a young man, Ben Stillwater heard...
Transcript of Johnny Counterfit John Chaffee Coming November 9thperformer. As a young man, Ben Stillwater heard...
-
Publicizing Entertainers & Entertaining Our Readers
Johnny Counterfit
Coming November 9th
John Chaffee
-
Ben Stillwater - Montana in the Spring
The thought of Montana brings to mind big sky country
and mountain ranges as high as the heavens stretching out
across vast horizon. The seemingly endless Montana prai-
rie issues up wildflowers and ribbons of roadways that go
on and on until they seem to merge together into a John
Ford western. Wintertime brings a blanket of grey and
white that paints the western vistas with a broad brush.
The frozen season brings out the strength of men and
women and the warmth of home. Montana in the winter
isn‘t for the weak or tamed spirit. This big sky country is
for men in rugged clothes and powerful resolve. It is a
place for cowboys, truckers and logging men. But, for
now, let‘s return to Montana in the spring.
Ben Stillwater is a Montana man. He is a mountain of a
man. He is a logging man. He‘s a man that calls his father
and John Wayne hereos. But, what Ben is, in his heart, is a
performer. As a young man, Ben Stillwater heard the sounds of country western music and knew this was his fu-
ture. Listening to the likes of Eddie Arnold, Roy Orbison and even Elvis, made Ben realize a calling that continues
to this day. Perhaps it was his Samick Flat Top or his 335 Gibsons that further inspired him to learn, pick and play
in his early days. Maybe it was the early influence of Hank Snow and the sounds of country from the 1950s and
1960s that stoked the fire to write and perform his own versions and variations of the melodies from country‘s
golden years. Whatever the inspiration, Ben Stillwater has created ‗Montana in the Spring‘ for all of us to enjoy.
This second album of Ben‘s is a journey through nostalgia and memory with a tip of the hat to those that find
themselves lost on the highway of hindsight and the open-road lonely hearts club. There is more than a hint of the
western campfire compassion that burns in the souls of those longing for home (‗Going Home‘ and ‗Almost
Home‘) to the nod of appreciation of an ‗Old Friend‘. Ben‘s guitar style is as smooth as a rock skipping across a
still water lake. The transitions are amazing and the country rhythm technique is all Ben‘s with a recognizable
throw back to the legendary pickers that inspired him. There is a sentimental journey to be taken here as Ben
speaks of a ‗Symphony of Love‘ and ―You and I‘. On ‗Log Truck,‘ the momentum builds as you almost feel the
weight and speed of a man with a mission. That six percent grade Ben sings of never slows the pace of this real
‗gotta‘-get-there‘ tune. Again, the guitar work on this piece is signature Ben Stillwater.
‗Montana in the Spring‘, is an album that truly shows what Ben is capable of when left to his own devices and
style. This all coming from a man, husband and father with uncompromising personal convictions and a love for
what country rhythm once was…and could be again.
Scott Palmer
The Sound of Country Rhythm
WWW.BENSTILLWATER.COM
-
CONTENTS
Country Entertainment USA Staff
DISCLAIMER:
Country Entertainment USA is not liable for any inaccura-
cies submitted by freelance writers, advertisers or publicists.
Opinions and claims made by advertisers and writers are
their own, and do not represent Country Entertainment USA
Magazine or Publisher.
4 News Bits
7 CD Reviews
8 16th Annual 2010 ICM Awards Recap
10 Up Close with Comedian/Impressionist
Johnny Counterfit
15 MusicCircle Storyteller Series
17 Tuesday Night Prayer Group
18 Museums, Theatres and Music Venues
PG 3
Editor:
Cindy Gordon
Assistant Editor:
Holly Marie Tong
Sales, Marketing & Distribution Manager:
Roy Skropits
CD Reviews:
Brenda L. Madden
Advertising Representatives:
Annie Powell & Deborah Whitt
GENERAL INFORMATION:
ADVERTISING & RATES:
PRESS RELEASES:
By Mail
Country Entertainment USA
P.O. Box 100985
Nashville, TN. 37224
Office (615) 977-1734
Cell (615) 474-0162
www.countryentertainmentusa.com
-
NEWS BITS
PG 4
REBA ANNOUNCES LIMITED DELUXE EDITION OF
ALL THE WOMEN I AM NEW ALBUM AVAILABLE FOR PRE-SALE NOW VIA REBA.COM and www.thevalorymusicco.com
NASHVILLE, TN – Multimedia superstar Reba‘s 34th studio album will also be available in a Limited Deluxe
Edition when it hits store shelves on Tuesday, November 9th.
The Limited Deluxe Edition of ALL THE WOMEN I AM includes an interview and video performances of
Reba‘s 4-week #1 ―Consider Me Gone,‖ the Top 10 hit ―Strange,‖ ―I Want a Cowboy,‖ and ―Eight Crazy Hours
(In The Story of Love)‖ from Reba's recent AOL Sessions.
The bonus DVD will also include Reba‘s much buzzed-about performance of "If I Were A Boy" on CMT Un-
plugged. In addition, the Limited Deluxe Edition will include a dance remix of ―I Want A Cowboy‖ and behind-
the-scenes footage of the making of the "Turn On The Radio" video as well as the "Turn On The Radio" music
video itself.
ABOUT ALL THE WOMEN I AM
Reba‘s 34th career studio album highlights include the smash hit, “Turn
On the Radio,” the break-out “Somebody‟s Chelsea,” co-written by
Reba, as well as the superstar‘s popular cover of Beyonce‟s hit, “If I
Were A Boy,” which became a viral sensation when she first performed
the song on CMT Unplugged earlier this year.
ALL THE WOMEN I AM, marks Reba‘s first project with award-winning
producer Dann Huff (Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Rascal Flatts) and
her second album for The Valory Music Co.
ABOUT REBA
One of the most successful female recording artists in history, Reba has sold over 55 million albums worldwide
and her previous 13 studio albums have all achieved Gold or Platinum-plus status. She has won 15 American
Music Awards; 12 Academy of Country Music Awards; 9 People‘s Choice Awards; 7 Country Music Associa-
tion Awards and 2 GRAMMY Awards.
Reba‘s reign of #1 hits spans four decades and the multimedia superstar was recently recognized by Bill-
board, Country Aircheck and Mediabase as the biggest female hit-maker in country music history. Reba‘s
current album, Keep On Loving You, was recently certified Gold. The album includes Reba‘s biggest career sin-
gle to-date, the 4-week #1 ―Consider Me Gone.‖ Earlier this year, the superstar earned her 63rd Top 10 hit with
the album‘s title track.
Reba is a 2010 CMA Nomination for “Female Vocalist of the Year.” The superstar recently surpassed the
one million fan mark on Facebook, propelling her into an elite group of only 10 Country artists to achieve the
popularity milestone.
www.countryentertainmentusa.com
-
NEWS BITS
PG 5
WITH THE MID-TERM ELECTION LESS THAN THREE WEEKS AWAY,
SINGER/SONGWRITER JOHN CHAFFEE‟S INDEPENDENT LION IS
ROARING LOUD AND CLEAR TO VOTERS TIRED OF THE
GOVERNMENT‟S FREESPENDING WAYS WITH „EASY MONEY‟
As the mid-term Election on Tuesday, November 2 inches closer by the day,
Americans fed up with the U.S. government‘s freewheeling spendthrift ways are finding ways even before cast-
ing their ballots to vent their frustrations.
Entrepreneurial singer/songwriter John Chaffee has been getting plenty of people
talking with his rollicking country flavored satire tune “Easy Money,” whose biting, infectious chorus says it
all: ―Easy Money/We print it, we mint it, we give it all away/Easy Money/Easy come, easy go, we just have hell
to pay/…We grow our government big and bigger, we add more rules no one can ―figger…‖
Fresh off his win for “Best Country Song” at the Hollywood Music In Media
Awards (HMMA) for the biting and satirical “Play By The Rules”—whose video, featuring Chaffee dressed as
Uncle Sam, has been viewed close to 30,000 times on YouTube—he also recently launched
www.independentlion.com to help disenchanted Americans express their feelings.
The Independent Lion website sells T-shirts featuring a trademarked red, white
and blue lion (styled like the Democratic Donkey and Republican Elephant) underscored by a memorable
catchphrase that sums up what millions are thinking as we approach the 2010 midterm elections:
“Not Left. Not Right. Not Satisfied.”
Listen to ―Easy Money‖ at http://luckmedia.com/projects/johnchaffee.
www.countryentertainmentusa.com
-
NEWS BITS
PG 6
Music City‟s Resident Virtuoso David Andersen Reaches Milestone Achievement
Performing 3,000th Show at the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum
Guitar virtuoso David Andersen, widely hailed as the ―Ambassador of Music City,‖ will be playing his 3,000th
show at the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum on Wednesday, October 27th. Andersen will perform this
career highlight at 12pm, which will be during his regular show at the Hall of Fame, where he has played daily
for the past nine years.
Andersen has strummed out nearly 300,000 tunes during his years at the Hall of Fame and has entertained over 1
million visitors from 82 nations around the globe. With such a diverse fan
base and a surplus of songs in his arsenal, it‘s not any wonder how this mu-
sical genius is reaching such a commemorative milestone in his already
long, successful career.
In addition to this significant performance achievement, the guitarist has a
new album, Countrypolitan, which features new compositions of the clas-
sics he plays everyday for the Hall of Fame‘s visitors.
―People ask me to play their favorites every day,‖ said Andersen, ―and when
you‘ve played a song thousands of times, you start to hear variations on the
theme, and new melodies will come out.‖
For Countrypolitan, Andersen teamed with his personal guitar hero and
longtime friend, Harold Bradley, a Music City recording pioneer and recipi-
ent of the American Federation of Musicians‘ Lifetime Achievement
Award. Including Bradley, who played guitar on the album, Andersen sa-
lutes the work of other early guitar icons like Les Paul and Chet Atkins.
―It was an honor to recompose new music based on the themes of the mas-
ters,‖ said Andersen. ―I spent a lot of time writing out the melodies on sheet
music, shifting things around, moving the accents.‖
His new album, which is currently available in the Country Music Hall of Fame‘s gift shop as well as on Ander-
sen‘s website.
A child music prodigy reared in Long Beach, California, Andersen could play music before he could even talk.
An accomplished songwriter and proficient on multiple instruments, Andersen was recently a guest on WAMB-
FM, where his music is currently being played.
Each day, he gives every new friend he meets at the Country Music Hall of Fame his signature guitar pick and a
challenge..."remember why they came to Nashville and to take time to enjoy the music they came here to find."
Indeed, with a new album and a landmark accomplishment under his belt, Andersen not only remembers but
lives and breathes the music of Nashville everyday.
For more information on David, his 3,000th performance or to purchase the latest album, visit
www.davidandersenmusic.com.
www.countryentertainmentusa.com
http://e2ma.net/go/8715874219/3162546/99452067/1565/goto:http:/www.davidandersenmusic.com/
-
CD REVIEWS
Mail CD's for Reviews To:
Country Entertainment USA
P.O. Box 100985
Nashville, TN. 37224
Robert Allen / Country Treasures www.myspace.com/robertallenmusic
Country Treasures is an appropriate title for this CD by Robert Allen. Chocked full
of covers, listening is like taking a walk down memory lane. Even though these
songs were originally cut by legendary artists such as George Strait (―Ace In The
Hole‖), Stonewall Jackson (―Don‘t Be Angry‖), Jack Greene (―Name It After Me
(Statue Of A Fool)‖), and Alan Jackson (―Who‘s Cheatin‘ Who‖), Robert‘s strong
vocals reflects his confidence in making each song his own – not just a copy. He has
also included two tunes of his own, ―Some Things You Just Can‘t Drink Away,‖ and
―When I‘m Gone‖ which are well written and fit in fine with the classics. Don‘t feel
like going out to a honky tonk - pull up a chair, grab a beer and put Country Treas-
ures in the CD player for a good night of music.
Ben Stillwater / Montana In The Spring www.benstillwater.com
Ben Stillwater‘s Montana In The Spring brings traditional country music back to the
forefront. Ben shows a reverence for tradition in this recording of self-penned songs.
While his influences, Lefty Frizzell, Sonny James, Merle Haggard, and Don Wil-
liams can be heard in the shadows of his music, his songs are still fresh and new.
From the lonesome-sounding ―Montana In The Spring‖ to the up-tempo ―Log
Truck‖ and the thought-provoking ―Crossroad,‖ Ben has stories to tell and wisdom
to share. Not overproduced, this project has been dubbed ―the sound of country
rhythm,‖ yet it relies heavily on the lyrics and Ben‘s straightforward and honest vo-
cals. Ben Stillwater shows a lot of promise and proves that traditional country music
is alive and well.
Jadi Norris / Make Hay www.jadinorris.com
The debut CD by Jadi Norris, Make Hay, is a diverse collection of styles. The open-
ing cut ―Borrowed Time,‖ brings a little swing and from there the project rolls into a
Hank, Jr.-type song, ―Workin‘ Man‘s Saturday Night.‖ At that point, it seemed the
album may be disjointed, but after listening to the CD in its entirety, it simply high-
lights Jadi‘s diversity. His single ―Home Is Where The Heart Is‖ is a rockin‘ tongue-
in-cheek number - a groove where Jadi shines the brightest; although he transitions
well to ballads like ―Not In Love By Morning‖ and the patriotic ―Hail The American
Soldier.‖ Don‘t be surprised though, whether he‘s rockin‘ or slowin‘ the tempo
down, there is plenty of country twang. Jadi‘s songwriting talents are also on display
with eleven of the thirteen songs being self-penned. Overall, this is a strong first al-
bum, and holds a little something for everyone.
by Brenda L. Madden
Up To 5 Star Rating
-
16th Annual 2010 ICM Awards Recap
As always, ICM seat holders were delivered a wide
variety of entertainment as a diverse selection of
artists graced this year‘s stage. This year the ICMS
added ―Red, White and Blue‖ to recognize and
honor our military and our country. In doing so,
Voices of Glory and the top 5 from America‘s Got
Talent 2010 sang, ―God Bless America.‖ Another
very worthy cause that was highlighted at the ICM
awards this year is the Soles4Souls project in order
to raise awareness for the millions of children who
unfortunately do not have shoes. The Corey Brooks
Band walked barefoot in order to raise awareness
for Soles4Souls which has amazingly given away 11
million pairs of shoes in over 170 countries in its
first five years.
Mainstream country artists Joey + Rory performed
their song ―Where Jesus Is,‖ while Love and Theft
performed ―Dancing In Circles.‖ Katrina Elam also
made a special appearance as she belted out ―Dream
Big.‖
Picture of Holly with Leigh Anne Tuohy (which is
the real life mother that the "Blind Side" movie is
based on).
by Holly Marie Tong
Thursday, October 14th the
Inspirational Country Music
(ICM awards) successfully
took place at the Trinity Mu-
sic City USA Auditorium in
Hendersonville, TN. The
ICM awards respectively base their foundation and
purpose on Faith, Family and Country. They con-
sistently present Christian and Inspirational country
artists giving them the opportunity to showcase their
God given talents whether they are a rising talent or
a long established name. This year's highly antici-
pated event was co-hosted by Storme Warren of
GAC and Megan Alexander (Inside Edition). For
every ICM award winner, beautiful Block Agency
model and actress Sophie Strong was on hand as the
―trophy presenter.‖
A large audience anxiously awaited the talent filled
performances of their favorite entertainers along
with the announcing of this years ICM winners.
Having the opportunity to watch this year‘s event
from backstage, I was able to meet new award
nominees as well as reunite and catch up with previ-
ous winners. There were some instances in which
history repeated itself but there were several new
names that entered this year‘s winners circle. Nota-
bly, I was able to meet Laura Dodd prior to the an-
nouncement of the ―New Artist‖ award winner.
Laura Dodd is not only a standout emerging talent,
but she is extremely personable and became an in-
stant friend. When she was announced as the win-
ner for ―New Artist,‖ her genuine appreciation and
enthusiasm shined and was simply contagious as she
returned back stage with her award in hand. I was
also able to catch up with ICM Sweetheart Sandra
Dee (2009 Top Female Vocalist) who looked ele-
gant as always. Sandra is continuing to record and
continuing to bring fans the great music they know
and love. A remarkable new addition to the ICM
awards back stage area this year was Leigh Ann
Tuohy. Leigh Ann humbly accepted the trophy for
―Blind Side‖ as her true inspiring story won ―Faith
Family and Country Movie.‖
PG 8 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
-
16th Annual 2010 ICM Awards Recap
Comedy Act
Johnny Lee Cook
Radio Personality
Rich Miller
Radio Station
WCWV, Summerville, WV
Video
―Temporary Home‖
Carrie Underwood-Director, Deaton-Flanigen
Pioneer-Living Legend Award
Dan Cowart – Audio Outreach Ministries
Inspirational Bluegrass Artist
Ricky Skaggs
Youth In Music Award
Renee Spencer
Music Evangelist of the Year
Greg McDougal
Faith, Family & Country Movie
The Blind Side
Alcon Entertainment
Warner Brothers Pictures
Following the awards, the ICM after party took
place at the Bluegrass Country Club. ICM at-
tendees were able to celebrate, socialize, net-
work and enjoy a delicious dinner. Congratu-
lations to all the award winners, nominees and
performers this year! Kudos to all who coordi-
nated and assisted in the organization of this
smooth running and completely enjoyable
event. See ya next year!
www.icm-awards.com
Picture of Sophie Strong
Trophy Presenter
Elam, who has always been an outstanding Nash-
ville recording artist can now add major acting cre-
dentials to her name as she starred in Pure Country 2
which was just released to theatres on October 15.th
Other top notch performances this year were given
by Branded, Nathan Stanley, The Roys, The
Springs, Emma Jacob, Mary James, Russ Murphy,
CrossCountry The Band, Ricky Skaggs, Andy
Griggs, Jeff Bates, Sarah Darling, Tommy Brandt
and Steve Richard.
The 2010 ICM Award Winners:
Entertainer of the Year
Point of Grace
Male Vocalist
Tommy Brandt
Female Vocalist
Mary James
Vocal Duo
The Roys
Vocal Group
CrossCountry The Band
Mainstream Inspirational Country Song
―This Ain‘t Nothin‖
Craig Morgan
Christian Country Song
―Cowboys Love Jesus Too‖
Russ Murphy
Mainstream Country Artist
Craig morgan
New Artist
Laura Dodd
Musician
Dennis Agajanian
PG 9 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
-
Up Close
Johnny had joined a band and was requested for
many events and live shows, thus gaining a large fan
base and experiencing a broad array of opportunity.
Johnny‘s first television break arose when the ABC
Television network asked him to appear on their
new show, ―America‘s Funniest People.‖ This
proved to be a great opportunity for Johnny to get
some footage and professional experience that could
be used as a promotional sample of his special gift
to entertain. He was also the voice of ―Rex‖ in a
Claymation Christmas celebration, a television spe-
cial that won an Emmy. Johnny‘s career deservedly
has skyrocketed over the years as he has appeared
on CBS, TBS, TNN, cable and satellite television
and radio shows. Not surprisingly one of Johnny‘s
favorite places to perform is the
Grand Ole Opry stage.
While the name Johnny Coun-
terfit seems fairly self explana-
tory in the sense that he is a pro-
fessional comedian/
impressionist, I couldn‘t help
but ask him when he settled on
the name and how ―Counterfit‖
came to be. Johnny explained
that he knew he needed some-
thing out of the ordinary and he
wanted it to perfectly state what
he does
Since impersonating Johnny
Cash was a very important com-
ponent of his work, he figured it
would be perfect for this. He
also chose to set ―Counterfit‖
apart even more by revising the
usual spelling of ―Counterfeit.‖
I think he was certainly onto
something as the name ―Johnny
Counterfit‖ is an unforgettable one that couldn‘t be
more fitting.
with Comedian/Impressionist Johnny Counterfit
Somewhere every day in
Music City USA, you can
expect to hear both aspiring
and established acts cover-
ing the legendary Johnny
Cash‘s timeless tunes. It
certainly isn‘t uncommon
for these acts to try and impersonate Johnny Cash‘s
priceless disposition as an entertainer. However,
what is uncommon is finding one that can do such
an impeccable impersonation that even Johnny him-
self was beyond impressed deeming them as the best
that HE has ever seen. What is even more uncom-
mon is finding one that can not only pull off Johnny
Cash‘s vocals and mannerisms to a T but can also
present you with over 200 accurate
and entertaining voice impersona-
tions jumping from one to the next
without any sign of hesitation. As
much of a rarity as this may seem, I
was able to sit down and talk with a
fascinating comedian/impressionist
that can exceedingly do all of the
above and more. I‘m proudly intro-
ducing you to Portland, Oregon Na-
tive Johnny Counterfit:
When I asked Johnny about his
journey and if he always knew if he
wanted to be a comedian, I found
out that he discovered his talent at
just 5 years old and found his love
and ability for his work by simply
watching cartoons. He realized he
could impersonate the different
voices he was watching on televi-
sion and enjoyed doing so. He ex-
plained that he was raised in a
family where comedy came natu-
rally as they always enjoyed joking around, making
each other laugh and pulling gags on one another. It
PG 10
by Holly Marie Tong
Photo by David Bailey Photography
www.countryentertainmentusa.com
-
Up Close
solid country acts, always making his shows clean
comedies that are family friendly. He truly loves
what he does and says he rehearses every day.
When I inquired about what types of responses and
feedback Johnny has received from those he imper-
sonates, Johnny told me of several stories in which
his real life characters have laughed at themselves
and have been amazed at just how well he has re-
spectfully ―gotten them down.‖
Alongside Johnny Cash, Bill Clinton was among
those who were positively impressed by Counterfit‘s
impersonation of them. Along those lines, Johnny
not surprisingly recalls his Whitehouse performance
for the President of the United States as one of his
most memorable. In addition to wowing Clinton,
Johnny was contacted by the Whitehouse once again
when President George W. Bush was in office.
When the war in Iraq began, Johnny had penned a
tune entitled ―We‘re in it, let‘s win it‖ and the Bush
administration had heard the song, loved it and
wanted it sent to them. (Yet another amazing career
highlight!)
In addition to comedy/impersonations, Johnny who
is currently working on a book is also a very note-
worthy songwriter who records originals/comedies,
produces and even owns and operates his own re-
cord label. Throughout his career, Johnny has ap-
peared on CBS, TBS, TNN, cable and satellite tele-
vision and radio shows. You can currently find
Johnny on several radios and television networks, as
well as on tour as he brings smiles and laughs to en-
tertained guests all across the U.S.
To read more about Johnny Counterfit/to see his up-
coming schedule, please visit www.counterfit.com
While Johnny is continually recognized for his ac-
curate character impersonation of Johnny Cash, he
fabulously impersonates numerous other singers,
politicians and actors. It was never his desire to be
limited to one voice and therefore he has positively
exceeded the norm for comedy/impressionism. You
may be wondering what are Johnny‘s most unique
voices. Edith Bunker of Archie Bunker and Vince
Gill are two examples of just how far Johnny Coun-
terfit‘s unusual talent ranges.
Some other special characteristics that truly make
Johnny Counterfit a positive one of a kind really
stood out to me while talking with him. Johnny is a
comedian of values and respect, both for his audi-
ence and those he impersonates. He is down to
earth and contains the transparency of a humble in-
dividual that is thankful for every opportunity that
comes his way. He emphasized that he never wants
to demean or make fun of anyone but that he simply
likes to have fun. It is clear that Johnny truly enjoys
interacting with his audience as he explained that his
show goers often like to guess who he is imperson-
ating by hollering out the different names, making it
a game. He is also very open to trying what the au-
dience asks of him. He consistently brings forth a
vast array of nostalgic, brand new, young and old
PG 11 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
-
Life‘s Kiss
Where have all my friends gone:
Janice Joplin, Jim Morrison,
Jimi Hendrix, Hank Williams.
Their nights came too early.
We never know when our night will come,
But surely it must.
How do we live our days?
Do we look at the past, present, or future?
Do we count the seconds, the minutes?
The heart beats without our permission.
The heart stops without our permission.
Many times we take the morning for granted,
The sun, the moon, the stars.
When we see a rose do we smile?
What about a snowflake in its geometrical perfection?
What about the woman crossing the street,
Or the man watering the lawn?
Do we consider these things?
Are they miracles brought by God?
The newborn is a miracle.
Is death a miracle, too?
War takes the soul,
Peace makes the soul.
And when do we pray?
Before the curse or after?
Sing, sing, sing.
Whether you have the voice or not,
Sing.
The music will come
Like the summer fades to fall, fades to winter.
Listen, hear the song of life.
It can be subtle, but it’s there.
Will we bend but not break
Under life’s earthquake?
Or will we shatter into shambles?
All I can say is hold your head up high.
We live, we die.
And in between is the miracle.
James Tyler
-
MusicCircle Storyteller Series
Interestingly Kent is the co-writer behind not one
but several of Garth Brook‘s biggest smash hits that
paved his way to superstardom, including his first
#1 hit ―If Tomorrow Never Comes.‖ Kent‘s most
recent #1 is Chris Young‘s ―Getting You
Home‖ (The Black Dress Song). You can also hear
his material of the albums of Diamond Rio, Danny
Gokey, Blaine Larsen, Kenny Chesney, Julie Rob-
erts, Terri Clark, Andy Griggs, Patty Loveless and
more. Kent will be in good company as talented
singer/songwriter Spencer Tenney will be joining
him. Together the two are bound to bring an unfor-
gettable show.
November 12th: Chris Wallin and Matt Jenkins.
Like Kent, Chris is certainly no stranger to the #1
slots on country charts as he is the writer Toby
Keith‘s ―Love Me If You Can,‖ Kenny Chesney‘s
―Don‘t Blink‖ and Montgomery Gentry‘s
―Something To Be Proud Of.‖ He has also enjoyed
several other top 5 hits and numerous other cuts
with artists such as Trace Adkins,
Brian McComas, Confederate Rail-
road, Anthony Smith, Lorrie Morgan,
Keith Anderson, Sammy Kershaw,
Joe Diffie, Michael Peterson, Jeffrey
Steele, Neal McCoy, Brad Paisley and
more. Alongside Chris is standout
performer Matt Jenkins. These two
will undoubtedly end this already suc-
cessful series with a bang!
There you have it! Great music with
great stories! If you love music, and
appreciate the depth of a song, be sure
to mark your calendars for the first
two Fridays this month! These
unique, one of a kind events have
been taking place in an intimate and
personable setting each week at the
James Gang Company in White‘s Creek, TN. Each
show starts at 8:00 and has a $10 cover charge.
These prolific storytellers hope to see you there!
by Holly Marie Tong
Being a good songwriter of-
ten means that you are also a
good storyteller. These two
creative talents seem to con-
sistently walk together hand
in hand interchangeably.
Every great song contains an interesting story.
Likewise every great story can be translated into a
commercial song. While it is undoubtedly entertain-
ing to watch a successful artist perform the material
that has been written for them, nothing can replace
the deep and personable significance of watching
the writer perform their famous creation and telling
the story behind their inspiration. If you are among
the majority who appreciates Nashville songwriters,
both the established and the emerging, I highly rec-
ommend you attend the remaining events of the Mu-
sicCircle Storytellers Series that is currently taking
place. Each Friday night they are continuing to fea-
ture a hit songwriter that presents the stories behind
your favorite songs that they have
personally written. Each hit song-
writer is joined by one of Nash-
ville‘s most raved about rising tal-
ents, forming a creative pair and a
fun filled evening every time.
Among those that have recently
been featured are Rivers Ruther-
ford and Billy Dawson, Chuck
Cannon and Mason Douglas,
Aaron Barker and Lainey Ed-
wards, and Clay Mills and Lauren
Rainey. While we are about to
enter week 5 of the event, you still
have the opportunity to get in on
this must see series. Whether your
favorite song was recorded by
Brad Paisley or Kenny Chesney,
you just may be able to not only see it be performed
by the writer, but you may also possibly hear the
story behind it. The remaining schedule is as fol-
lows:
November 5: Kent Blazy and Spencer Tenney.
PG 15
Photo by Susan Greene
www.countryentertainmentusa.com
-
Tuesday Night Prayer Group
After this time of comfort and prayer, the request
was made to Kim that this fellowship continue. As
a result, the Tuesday Night Prayer Group was born
and they recently celebrated their 9 year anniver-
sary.
TNPG is simply a group of loving, genuine people
who prayerfully desire for a deeper relationship with
Jesus Christ. You are welcome to come just as you
are, hungry for the word and expectant for good
news. Alongside Kim‘s meaningful Bible studies
and the sharing of scripture, you are given the op-
portunity to sing with her as she shares her God
given musical talents. Are you a musician too?
While TNPG is not a song pitching meeting or ca-
reer networking group, as the ultimate purpose of
our group is share the love of the father, please feel
free to bring your instrument along. Kim loves
TNPG guests to accompany her. TNPG hopes to
see you this Tuesday night! Oh, and don‘t forget to
bring a friend!
To read more about TNPG, you can join their
Facebook page or visit
www.tuesdaynightprayergroup.org
by Holly Marie Tong
Any aspiring singer song-
writer that moves to Nash-
ville in pursuit of their mu-
sic dreams knows all too
well just how difficult, yet
how much of a priceless
blessing the journey can be. Professional Singer
Songwriter Kim McLean has a genuine understand-
ing and compassion not just for those with musical
aspirations, but for the well being of all people.
While Kim has enjoyed success as a singer/
songwriter and has experienced cuts with a diverse
array of artists, released several albums, operates a
record label and continually pursues many exciting
side projects, her ministry is what comes first and is
what holds the utmost importance in her life. After
fulfilling her dream of receiving a college education,
she decided to return to school once again to get her
Masters in Bible. Kim, who has humbly built her
career all on the foundation of Jesus Christ gives all
the glory to the Lord for all that she has experienced
along the way. She seeks to encourage, build up,
and to minister for the good of his kingdom…and
thankfully each week you are invited to be a part of
this uplifting encouragement.
Who: Anyone and everyone. All are welcome here.
This is a Bible based, multi-denominational group
of different church backgrounds. No membership
required and no intention of taking from other
church memberships.
What: Tuesday Night Prayer Group (TNPG) – A
weekly Christian Faith fellowship led by Pastor/
Songwriter Kim McLean
When: Tuesdays of course! Time: 6:30.
Where: First Lutheran Church/Downtown Nash-
ville (8th Avenue Broadway)
Why: To sing, share, pray, form new friendships
and to grow in the love of Christ
You may be wondering how Tuesday Night Prayer
Group came to be. Answer: On September 11,
2001, the day America will never forget, Kim and a
group of people gathered together to pray.
PG 17
Led By Pastor/ Songwriter Kim McLean
www.countryentertainmentusa.com
-
Museums
Country Music Hall of Fame Museum
(615) 416-2001
222 5th Ave S, Nashville, TN. 37203
www.countrymusichalloffame.com
Tennessee State Museum • (615) 741-2692
505 Deaderick St., Nashville, TN. 37243
www.tnmuseum.org
Adventure Science Center • (615) 862-5160
800 Fort Negley Blvd., Nashville, TN. 37203
www.adventuresci.com
Theatres
The Belcourt Theatre • (615) 383-9140
2102 Belcourt Ave., Nashville TN. 37212
www.belcourt.org
Tennessee Repertory Theatre
(615) 244-4878
161 Rains Ave., Nashville, TN. 37203
www.tennesseerep.org
Music Venues
Basement • (615) 254-8006
1604 8th Ave S, Nashville, TN. 37203
www.thebasementnashville.com
B B Kings Blues Club • (615) 256-2727
152 2nd Ave, N., Nashville, TN. 37201
www.bbkingclubs.com
Bikini Beach Bar • (615) 831-1370
1297 Antioch Pk, Nashville, TN. 37211
www.bikinibeachbar.com
Bluebird Cafe • (615) 383-1461
4104 Hillsboro Pike, Nashville, TN. 37215
www.bluebirdcafe.com
Bourbon Street Blues Bar • (615) 242-5837
220 Printers Alley Nashville, TN. 37201
www.bourbonstreetblues.com
Cadillac Ranch • (615) 742-9078
305 Broadway, Nashville, TN. 37201-2005
www.cadillacranchnashville.com
Commodore Lounge • (615) 327-4707
2613 West End Ave., Nashville, TN 37203
www.commodoregrille.com
Coyote Ugly • (615) 254-8459
154 2nd Ave N, Nashville, TN. 37201
www.coyoteuglysaloon.com
Dan McGuinness • (615) 252-1991
1538 Demonbreun St., Nashville, TN. 37203
www.danmcguinnesspub.com/nashville
Douglas Corner • (615) 298-1688
2106 8th Ave S, Nashville, TN. 37204
www.douglascorner.com
Edgehill Studios Cafe • (615) 301.8539
1201 Villa Place, Nashville, TN. 37212
www.edgehillstudios.com
Fiddle and Steel Guitar Bar • (615) 251-9002
210 Printers Alley, Nashville, TN. 37201
www.fiddleandsteel.com
Gold Rush • (615) 321-1160
2205 Elliston Place, Nashville, TN. 37203
www.goldrushnashville.com
John A's • (615) 885-1540
2421 Music Valley Dr, Nashville, TN. 37214
www.johnasrestaurant.com
Legends Corner • (615) 248-6334
428 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
www.legendscorner.com
Losers Bar • (615) 327-3115
1911 Division St. Nashville, TN. 37203
www.losersbar.com
Music City Bar • (615) 883-2367
2416 Music Valley Dr., Nashville, TN 37214
www.musiccitybar.com
PG 18 www.countryentertainmentusa.com
-
Nashville Nightlife • (615) 885-4747
2620 Music Valley Dr., Nashville, TN. 37214
www.nashvillenightlife.com
Nashville Palace • (615) 884-3004
2611 McGavock Pk., Nashville, TN. 37214
www.nashvillepalace.net
Rebar • (615) 345-6298
1919 Division St. Nashville, TN. 37203
Robert's • (615) 244-9552
416 Broadway, Nashville, TN. 37203
www.robertswesternworld.com
Ryman Auditorium • (615) 458-8700
116 Fifth Ave. N., Nashville, TN. 37219
www.ryman.com • www.opry.com
Second Fiddle • (615) 248-4818
420 Broadway, Nashville, TN. 37201
www.thesecondfiddle.com
Smeraldo's • (615) 865-6533
701 Gallatin Pike N., Madison, TN. 37115
Stage • (615) 726-0504
412 Broadway, Nashville, TN. 37203
www.thestageonbroadway.com
Station Inn • (615) 255-3307
402 12th Ave. S., Nashville, TN. 37203
www.stationinn.com
3rd & Lindsley • (615) 259-9891
816 3rd Ave, Nashville, TN. 37210
www.3rdandlindsley.com
Tootsie's • (615) 726-0463
422 Broadway, Nashville, TN. 37203
www.tootsies.net
Wildhorse • (615) 902-8200
120 2nd Ave, Nashville, TN. 37201
www.wildhorsesaloon.com
Winners Bar • (615) 340-0004
1913 Division St., Nashville, TN. 37203
www.losersbar.com
PG 19
-
Wishing Everyone
A
Happy Thanksgiving