Archive | May, 2012

Behind The Scenes Of Tommy Steele’s Video Shoot For “My Side Of The Street”

Tommy SteeleBack on Friday, March 23rd, I was invited to capture some behind-the-scenes shots and watch as Tommy Steele created his new video for his newest single “My Side Of The Street” here in Nashville.  You can see my slideshow footage from behind-the-scenes by clicking right HERE!

We met late afternoon at The Turnip Truck in the trendy The Gulch area in Nashville to shoot a couple of scenes with Tommy Steele and his co-star, LeLoni Hamilton, who plays his romantic interest in the video.

The song and video are about falling in love with someone with a different social and economic background than you.  Wishing you could meet in the middle somehow despite differences.  A sad tale since the two can’t seem to make it work and get past their differences.  Easy to relate to by most people.

I enjoy Michigan-native, Tommy Steele‘s voice, which is distinctive, and this song.  Almost puts me in mind of Bruce Springsteen.  Check out the video I’ve included below! Even includes some footage of another friend of mine, David Bradley, as Tommy Steele’s motorcycle riding buddy in the video. David’s a great country artist himself and check out his music, too!

The whole experience was both interesting and fun! I really enjoyed being around Tommy Steele, Martha Moore, and the whole production team that day. Thanks for the invitation and making me feel so welcome!

Video director/producer: Jarboe

Camera op/editor: Joseph Spence

Make-up/wardrobe/stylist: Niki Depalma

Key grip/gaffer/talent: Jamal Jarboe

Craft service/key P.A.: L’Tanya Bell

Key P.A/2nd camera: Sheyla Paz

Media Czar: Bob Saporiti

Talent/co-star: LeLoni Hamilton

Talent/artist: Tommy Steele

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The McCrary Sisters, The Kicks Bring the House Down at Musicians Corner

Marc Scibilia and Umbrella Tree Round Out a Fantastic Lineup on Saturday in Centennial Park

On Saturday, Musicians Corner almost looked like it wouldn’t take place about half an hour before show time. Despite a great weather forecast, the heavens opened at 2:30 and it monsooned on Centennial Park. The power was shut off and volunteers ran for cover. Yet somehow, at 2:50 the skies cleared, the power was turned back on and we were back in business for a great afternoon full of music.

Musicians Corner

To kick off the day was special guest Steve Moakler. He played two acoustic songs, including his “first attempt at a country song,” and got the crowd warmed up for Marc Scibilia. Marc also played acoustically to serenade the crowd with his alternative bluesy style. He brought up the second special guest of the day, music dynamo Tommy Sims.

First up on the Lightning 100 Acoustic Stage was MC’s own Kristen Wright singing beautiful songs from her newest album “In the Year of Letting Go.” Following Kristen on the main stage were The McCrary Sisters who absolutely took us to church. The three sisters (there are normally four, but one unfortunately could not make it) had everyone clapping and standing with their powerful gospel music.

The Kicks

After a beautiful Spring Quartet by Benjamin Chakoran Jones on the Acoustic Stage and the coveted Dog of the Day award, Umbrella Tree took the stage. This duo is nothing if not exciting to watch with their unique sound and energetic personalities.

The final Acoustic Stage act of the day was Poly, who played what can only be described as “happy music.” Then to close out the day were rockers The Kicks. The Kicks were actually supposed to play last season at Musicians Corner, but were forced to cancel due to illness. Boy was the crowd happy to have them back! Mixing classic, old school rock style with modern rock sensibilities and three-piece harmonies, these guys are superb. Think Rolling Stones meets Boston with an alternative twist.

Aside from the freak rain storm right beforehand, the day turned out perfect and sunny. Let’s hope it stays that way for next weekend when Andy Davis, Heypenny, Star and Micey, and Us and Our Daughters take the stage.

Musicians Corner is a non-profit program of The Conservancy for the Parthenon & Centennial Park. The spring season of runs every Saturday through June, and promises more great artists, special guests and fun activities. For additional information and the entire spring schedule please visit www.musicianscornernashville.com.

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Country Artist Amber Hayes Makes Big Screen Acting Debut, Contributes Music For May 25 Release of “Cowgirls N’ Angels”

Cowgirls N' Angels(Nashville, Tenn. – May 15, 2012) Fans can see Country artist Amber Hayes make her big screen acting debut and hear her music in the upcoming film, “Cowgirls N’ Angels,” opening in theaters May 25.

The movie features three of Hayes’ songs, including her 2010 Top 40 Music Row single, “C’mon,” which can be heard in the “Cowgirls N’ Angels” preview trailer here.  Hayes plays a honky tonk singer in the film and performs the song as part of a prominent line dancing scene.  Also included is “Always There For Me,” a previously unreleased duet with Lonestar front man Richie McDonald, who has a cameo as Amber’s father in the same scene.  “Right As Rain” is the third Hayes track featured in the film.  All three songs are included on the official “Cowgirls N’ Angels” soundtrack, available on iTunes or Amazon.com.

“I am so excited for this movie to finally come out!” says Hayes.  “I got to film my part last year in Oklahoma, which is where I’m originally from, so it was a big thrill for me to be near my family and friends for a few days.  Having never shot a movie before, everything was such a cool experience for me, and getting to work around people like James Cromwell and Bailee Madison was just awesome.  It’s a great, heart-warming family film, and I’m so proud to have been a part of it.  I can’t wait to see it in the theater!”

Hayes recently finished recording her sophomore album in Nashville, with plans to release the project later this year.  Tracks “Somewhere Out West,” “I Built This Wall” and the uplifting “Any Day Is A Good Day” are available to stream at www.AmberHayesMusic.com.  An accomplished theater performer, Hayes’ break in Nashville came during her role as Kathy Twitty in the 2008-2009 Conway Twitty production, “Conway Twitty: The Man, The Music, The Legend, The Musical.”  Hayes released her debut C’mon EP in 2010, which included her second Music Row Top 40 single, 2011’s “Wait.”

The Timothy Armstrong-directed “Cowgirls N’ Angels” stars Oscar-nominated actor James Cromwell (“Babe,” “L.A. Confidential,” “The Green Mile,” “The Artist”) Bailee Madison (“Bridge To Terabithia,” “Brothers,” “Just Go With It”), Alicia Witt (“Friday Night Lights,”  “The Mentalist”) Frankie Faison (“The Silence of the Lambs,” “The Wire”) and Jackson Rathbone (“Twilight” films) among others.

“Cowgirls N’ Angels” follows the adventures of young Ida Clayton (Bailee Madison), who joins a group of female rodeo trick riders in a quest to find her real father.  “Cowgirls N’ Angels” world premiered at the Dallas International Film Festival in April 2012 and is distributed by Samuel Goldwyn Films.

“Cowgirls N’ Angels” opens Friday, May 25, in Nashville area theaters at the following locations:

Wynnsong 10 (Madison)

Hollywood 27 (Nashville)
Opry Mills 20 (Nashville)
Thoroughbred 20 (Franklin)
Great Escape 16 (Clarksville)
Wynnsong 16 (Murfeesboro)
For more information, visit www.Cowgirls-n-Angels.com or www.AmberHayesMusic.com.
See this related interview we had with Amber during CRS in February HERE.
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Album Review: Florida Georgia Line ‘It’z Just What We Do’

I know, I look like I just made a big typo in the title, right? ha  No, but I’ll readily admit that you’ll see a typo from me on occasion no matter HOW much I proofread! 🙂 

‘It’z Just What We Do’ is the name of this brand new 5-song EP from up-and-coming country duo, Florida Georgia Line, comprised of Brian Kelley and Tyler Hubbard.  Released on iTunes just this week, it’s already doing quite well on the iTunes country chart and seems to be creating quite a buzz about this new duo.  There’s also sure to be more buzz created as they are embarking on the 2012 Country Throwdown Tour that features headliner Gary Allan along with Sunny Sweeney, Josh Thompson, Justin Moore, Eric Paslay, Rodney Atkins, and more artists.

This new EP is just plain fun to listen to.  It’s the type of music that is both catchy and just takes you away from your troubles for a bit.  I enjoyed the blending of their two voices together and found the album very easy to listen to.  Very radio-friendly.  I didn’t have to listen a second time to decide if I liked it or not, I just do and it immediately caught my interest.  I wouldn’t say the lyrics have deep emotional depth, but I found it to be very catchy combined with the excellent musicianship I heard on this new release.   There wasn’t a song that really pulled at my heartstrings, but overall I found this new release very enjoyable, filled with uptempo tunes, stellar production, and I imagine live that these guys are quite fun.   Plus, I’m sure all of the ladies will take quite an interest in them, too!

My favorite songs on the album are “Get Your Shine On” and “Tell Me How You Like It”.

Find them on iTunes and give them a listen!

Rated 4 out of 5 stars.

Check out this related article and listen to “Cruise” from the album HERE.

 

 

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Album Review: Marlee Scott, “Beautiful Maybe”

Marlee ScottBack during CRS time, we got to interview the lovely Marlee Scott (check that out here.) She’s a lot of fun and we had a great interview. (Thanks Marlee!) So naturally I was excited to hear her music, and she had just released Train Wreck to country radio.

I listened and didn’t like it. (Sorry Marlee!) And I mean, I really didn’t like it. I still don’t; it does nothing for me. What’s worse, I feel like I’m not allowed to dislike it: Sarah Buxton, a very talented singer/songwriter helped pen the song and (get this) Vince Gill is on background vocals!

HOWEVER… one song does not define an album, so when I got the full album, “Beautiful Maybe,” I dove in with an open mind, and I really liked it! (Yes, I just began an album review with “I liked it…” And somewhere, a music critic begins to cry.) Anyway, listen up:

The album is a great introduction to Marlee as an artist with an eclectic mix of songs. It feels like Carrie Underwood meets Shania Twain plus rock guitars, banjos and big melodies, all coming together to create “Marlee Scott.”

She’s got some sassy up-tempos (Train Wreck, I Love Hating You), several story-rich slower songs (Let It Rain, Life Is Not A Movie, Kiss Of Coming Home), and a number of songs that I could see being a hit on the radio (Beautiful Maybe, Jane Doe). She even has a Toby Keith-style talking/rapping song, Crazy For You.

Overall a very talented singer and a very good selection of songs. “Beautiful Maybe” will be released Tuesday, June 19th on Big Ride Entertainment, and is absolutely worth picking up to check out a great new artist.

For more information, visit www.MarleeScott.com.

Beautiful Maybe album track list:
“Beautiful Maybe”
“Jane Doe”
“I Love Hating You”
“I Won’t Love You Anymore”
“I’m Not Your Baby Anymore”
“Let It Rain”
“Planet Of Your Own”
“Rhinestone In The Rough”
“Crazy For You”
“Kiss Of Coming Home”
“Train Wreck”
“Life Is Not A Movie”

 

Train Wreck Official Music Video

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Production And Artist Development Company Artist Concepts Launches In Nashville

Artist Concepts partners Becky Harris, Anthony Smith and Chris Young sign Brinley Addington for artist representation

May 16, 2012 – Nashville, TN – No matter how big Nashville grows, as with all Music City connections, it’s still a very small town.  Successful business manager BECKY HARRIS, hit songwriter ANTHONY SMITH (“Tomorrow”) and RCA recording artist CHRIS YOUNG have teamed up to create ARIST CONCEPTS, a production and artist development company fostering up-and-coming talent in the music industry.  While all three partners will work to seek out top new talent, Smith will spearhead the search for music. Smith has produced acts in the past, however this will be Young’s first time to serve as co-producer. Harris has been tapped to handle the bookkeeping and business management for Artist Concepts.

After a lengthy search for fresh new talent, Artist Concepts’ new signing is Belmont alumnus and singer/songwriter BRINLEY ADDINGTON. Smith is currently accepting song submissions for the project at artistconcepts@yahoo.com. The team plans to take Addington into the studio within the next month to produce several sides to pitch to Nashville record labels with a showcase to be scheduled in the near future. Thanks to Harris’ introduction to veteran publisher Lisa Johnson, Addington has already signed a publishing contract with Razor & Tie. “We are very happy to have Brinley Addington in our Razor and Tie family and we are excited that he has the opportunity to work with such creatively talented pros as Anthony Smith and Chris Young,” shared Johnson.

Addington already has a busy schedule, recently opening several shows for Young, and has been added to the list of talent for the Blake Shelton & Friends Cruise setting sail this fall.  Find more information on Addington and to check out video clips and music samples, visit www.brinleyaddington.com and follow the singer on Twitter @Brinley_.

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The Music Row Show Finds New Home On Radio & TV

Music Industry-geared Show Partners with 650 AM WSM and BlueHighways TV

Music Row ShowToday, The Music Row Show announced that on Sunday, June 3, the radio program will make the leap to the legendary 650 AM WSM airwaves, calling the southern powerhouse station its new home.  In addition, BlueHighways TV will begin filming the show in June, with plans to air the program on television starting in July.

“We can’t even express how excited we are to bring The Music Row Show to WSM and BlueHighways TV!  It’s an honor to be even a small part of WSM’s 86 year history and its musical legacy,” says co-host Scott Southworth.

Co-host Heino Moeller adds, “Plus to become a member of the BlueHighways TV family and its commitment to celebrating American music, art and culture is more than Scott and I ever imagined when we started the show.”

Broadcast live from Nashville, Tennessee, The Music Row Show, a weekly two-hour radio program, features hosts Scott Southworth and Heino Moeller, as they offer a welcoming and comfortable forum for their guests to talk about their craft and reveal adventures in the music business.  In 2007, Southworth and Moeller launched The Music Row Show on Nashville’s WLAC airwaves.

“We are so incredibly thankful for the almost five years we spent broadcasting from Nashville’s WLAC,” says Moeller.  “Without WLAC, we wouldn’t be where we are today.  We are forever grateful for all the opportunities they gave us.”

The Music Row Show‘s popularity has soared since its debut, building a solid listenership and attracting an array of guests that includes some of the music industry’s most notable decisionmakers and recording artists.

“Scott and Heino have done an amazing job building such a loyal international fan base for The Music Row Show,” notes Tom English, General Manager 650 AM WSM. “We are very proud to now bring the duo to our legendary airwaves and introduce this video version of the show exclusively on BlueHighways TV.

“Our viewers will love this video version of Scott and Heino’s The Music Row Show,” said Stan Hitchcock, Chairman and CEO of BlueHighways TV.  “Their entertaining delivery and keen knowledge of the music industry will connect with the BlueHighways TV audience. We are also pleased to partner with WSM, as it brings strong credentials to our television version of this popular radio program.”

Catch The Music Row Show on Sunday evenings on 650 AM WSM from 7-9 PM CT starting June 3.

Debut of BlueHighways TV edition of The Music Show Show TBA.  Bluehighways TV can be viewed in over 250 markets thoughout the nation.

About BlueHighways TV
BlueHighways TV is an independent multi-platform network, delivered in both standard and high definition, which grew out of the great interest that audiences have in exploring the folklore, music, traditions, destinations and artistry of America.   Conceived and created by Network Creative Group, LLC, BlueHighways TV captures that welcoming, down-home spirit that Americans are known for, delivered with a fresh and sincere voice.

For more information on BlueHighways TV visit www.BlueHighwaysTV.com.

About WSM Radio
650 AM WSM’s first official broadcast day was October 5, 1925.  The station is the radio home of the Grand Ole Opry, which has been broadcast live over the airwaves since its inception.  650 AM WSM can be heard in 38 states and worldwide at wsmonline.com.  WSM-AM is owned by Gaylord Entertainment, a Nashville-based hospitality and entertainment company that owns and operates Gaylord Hotels, the Grand Ole Opry, and the historic Ryman Auditorium.  A weekly listing of all 650 AM WSM programming is available at www.wsmonline.com.

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Artist Red Carpet Arrivals, Fashion Show, Music, And Much More Added To Fan Fair Hall During CMA Music Festival

Individual Tickets to the Fan Fair Hall at the Nashville Convention Center Available for $25; $20 if Purchased With a CMA Music Festival Nightly Concert Ticket for LP Field

NASHVILLE – Live performances, exciting new events, lifestyle exhibits, and autograph signings are the centerpiece of the Fan Fair® Hall during the 2012 CMA Music Festival, which will be held Thursday through Sunday, June 7-10 in Nashville, Tenn.

“The unique bond between our artists and their fans has been the foundation of this event since it began as Fan Fair in 1972,” said Steve Moore, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “And the epicenter of that relationship exists today in the Fan Fair Hall.”

“We are constantly looking for ways to enhance the experience for our fans and the artists and we have made several exciting changes and additions to the Fan Fair Hall this year that are sure to be popular with our attendees,”said Sheri Warnke, CMA Senior Vice President of Communications and Marketing.

Hours for the Fan Fair Hall are Thursday through Saturday June 7-9 from 10:00 AM-5:00 PM/CT; Sunday, June 10 from 10:00 AM-3:00 PM.

Each day new names are being added to the list of celebrities signing in the Fan Fair Hall including Lauren Alaina, Bill Anderson, Lynn Anderson, Laura Bell Bundy, Bucky Covington, Cowboy Troy, Billy Dean, Donna Fargo, Colt Ford, William Lee Golden, Jack Greene, Casey James, Joey + Rory, The Lacs, LoCash Cowboys, Manuel, The McClymonts, Scotty McCreery, Robin Meade, Montgomery Gentry, Craig Morgan, Joe Nichols, LuLu Roman, Matt Stillwell, Doug Stone, Two Foot Fred, Bryan White, Winfield’s Locket, Chris Young, and many more to be announced soon.

CMA Music Festival

Fans gather around the CMA booth in the Fan Fair hall during the 2011 CMA Music Festival. Photo Credit: Jim Hagans

Durango Acoustic Corner Broadcast by 650 AM WSM

CMA Music Festival is about music and the fans and you will find both in the Durango Acoustic Corner Broadcast by 650 AM WSM. For the first time in 2012, the Durango Acoustic Corner is moving to the floor of the convention center with seating for fans and continuous music.

Performances take place Thursday through Saturday, June 7-9 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM; on Sunday, June 10 from 11:00 AM-3:00 PM. Schedule in order of appearance (subject to change):

Thursday, June 7 – Gene Watson, Georgette Jones, Lulu Roman, Riders in the Sky, Bryan White. Jesse Keith Whitley, James Wesley, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, The Black Lillies, Billy Dean

Friday, June 8 – The Roys, Bucky Covington, Janie Fricke, Gwen Sebastian, Buddy Jewell, T. Graham Brown, Carter’s Chord, Jimmy Fortune, Marty Raybon, Con Hunley

Saturday, June 9 – Dana Romanello, Jason Michael Carroll, Lonesome River Band, Heidi Newfield, Doug Stone, Mark Wills, Lynn Anderson, Teea Goans, Chase Rice, Joanna Smith

Sunday, June 10 – Donna Ulisse & The Poor Mountain Boys, Chuck Wagon Gang, Sarah Darling, The Grascals, Due West, The McClymonts, Lesley McDaniel, Russell Moore & IIIrd Tyme Out

Fan Fair Hall Red Carpet

Fans get to be the paparazzi! An exciting new feature of the Fan Fair Hall in 2012 is the Red Carpet where fans can take photos of their favorite stars as they arrive to sign autographs throughout the day.

“Crowding around booths sometimes made it difficult to get a good photo of an artist, but with this new area with a raised Red Carpet, fans will have a much better opportunity to get that coveted photo of a favorite artist as they enter or leave the Hall,” Warnke said.

Wrangler Fashion Show

The Wrangler Fashion Show is the place for Country Music fashionistas to see artists modeling the hottest styles. Hosted by GAC personality Suzanne Alexander, the Wrangler Fashion Show will be held Saturday, June 9 (1:00-2:00 PM) at the Fan Fair Hall Red Carpet.

The Wrangler Fashion Show will be a showcase of Wrangler fashion with additional designs from Manuel, designer to the stars who is known world-wide for his embellished and embroidered motifs. Manuel will also be embellishing a two Wrangler items that will be auctioned after CMA Music Festival to raise funds for CMA’s music education campaign, Keep the Music Playing. Durango Boots will be providing footwear for all models.

Budweiser Supports Folds of Honor Foundation

As part of their Fan Fair Hall exhibit, Budweiser is continuing their 100+ year commitment to the brave men and women of the U.S. armed forces by partnering with the Folds of Honor Foundation to honor the sacrifices of the fallen and support their families through scholarships and other opportunities.

Budweiser is dedicating the 2012 baseball season to recognizing their sacrifices through the Walk-Off A Hero program; for every walk-off win, Budweiser will donate $5,000 to Folds of Honor. Budweiser is also pleased to feature special patriotic cans and bottles available in stores this summer.

Additionally, Budweiser will be donating a portion of sales (April 20-July 7) to Folds of Honor Foundation. These programs are all part of an effort to raise as much as $2.5 million. The partnership between the Folds of Honor Foundation and Budweiser will significantly expand the mission to help these deserving military families.

The Fan Fair Hall Marketplace

Special mementos and unique fashions can be found in the Fan Fair Hall Marketplace featuring a variety of vendors including Apparel, The Charleston Soap Company, Dillards for the Reba Brand, Hillbilly Brand, Manuel, Mignon’s, Twisted Sisters, and more.

New Autograph Drawing

CMA recently announced new procedures for autograph seekers to enhance the overall Festival experience, improve safety, and make the process for securing a treasured autograph equitable for all Festival goers. The new system will be a drawing with online sign ups and advance notification, which will enable Festival goers to better schedule their time so they can attend concerts and take part in free events and activities rather than waiting in line in hopes of securing a signature. The advance sign-up system creates a level playing field for all fans to enter for their chance to win an autograph signing ticket.

Here is how it works: Individual booths will no longer distribute tickets for autograph signings each morning inside the Hall. Instead, fans will enter a random drawing for the opportunity to meet various artists appearing in the Fan Fair Exhibit Hall. Patrons will enter this drawing in advance of CMA Music Festival via an online entry form at CMAfest.com. Entering the drawing is easy:

Go to www.CMAfest.com anytime until May 28 (ending at 5:00 PM/CT).
Patrons enter their contact information and then select from the list of participating artists signing autographs in the Hall.
Patrons may select as few or as many of the artists listed to be entered to win a ticket for each respective signing.
Once the entry has been submitted, it can’t be changed. Duplicate entries will not be considered.
All winners will be notified on Friday, June 1 via email.

The confirmation emails will contain detailed information on which artist(s) the fan gets to meet as well as the date, time, and location of the signings inside the Fan Fair Hall, plus instructions on where, when, and how to retrieve autograph wrist bands inside the Nashville Convention Center.

Tickets for the Fan Fair Hall

CMA Music Festival four-day ticket holders aren’t the only lucky ones with access to the Fan Fair Hall. Tickets to visit the Fan Fair Hall cost $25 per ticket, per day; $20 if purchased with a ticket to one of the Nightly Concerts at LP Field. Tickets are available now through Ticketmaster.com (http://www.ticketmaster.com/Country-Music-Festival-tickets/artist/1711387). Tickets will also be available at the Nashville Convention Center at the Commerce Street entrance beginning Wednesday, June 6 from 9:00 AM-6:00 PM.

CMA Music Festival is the Ultimate Country Music Fan Experience – a celebration of America’s music that takes over downtown Nashville with non-stop concerts on multiple stages with a vast and varied roster of artists. CMA Music Festival is a four-time winner of the International Entertainment Buyers Association’s LIVE! Award for Festival of the Year (2004, 2006, 2008, 2010).

CMA Music Festival is organized and produced by the Country Music Association. Fan Fair® is a registered trademark of CMA. Chevrolet™ is the Official Ride of Country Music. BIC is an Official Partner of the 2012 CMA Music Festival. Connect with CMA online at CMAfest.com, Facebook.com/CMA and Twitter.com/CountryMusic.

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A Closer Look @ JT Hodges

 

Check out this interview with JT Hodges! We caught up with him just following CRS so I guess you could say this was our very last official/unofficial interview of CRS since we had to delay our interview with him.  JT was kind enough to not only give us an interview, but performed at our very first ‘Music In Motion’ benefit for MS on March 10th at the Hard Rock Cafe in Nashville. http://youtu.be/ame6RGOiiGY

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A Closer Look @ JT Hodges

JT Hodges

Check out this interview with JT Hodges! We caught up with him just following CRS so I guess you could say this was our very last official/unofficial interview of CRS since we had to delay our interview with him.  JT was kind enough to not only give us an interview, but performed at our very first ‘Music In Motion’ benefit for MS on March 10th at the Hard Rock Cafe in Nashville. http://youtu.be/ame6RGOiiGY

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