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Dierks Bentley’s Miles and Music for Kids Rocks Riverfront Park, Sets New Record

Dierks

Dierks Bentley has done it again. Sunday marked the eighth annual Miles and Music for Kids charity motorcycle ride and concert in Nashville, where Dierks led over 1,000 riders on a 40-mile ride from Columbia, TN to Riverfront Park.

The show itself featured performances by Jake Owen, Brett Eldredge, Chase Rice, Easton Corbin, Luke Bryan, Dierks and more. When you have a lineup like that, you’re going to make some money for the Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital. And make money they did: Over $307,000; a new record for the event.

The festival stayed true to its down-home roots, despite an estimated 10,000 people in attendance. The setup was fairly minimal (at least in comparison to the shows these guys typically put on) and the performances stayed very fun and casual.

Owen played four songs acoustically, including his smash Barefoot Blue Jean Night as well as a Hank Jr. cover. Bentley’s band was set up on stage to join Brett Eldredge and Easton Corbin, as they had the crowd singing along to their hits Don’t Ya and A Little More Country Than That respectively.

Then, all host Storme Warren had to say was, “Luke Bryan,” and the place went berserk. Bryan also played acoustically, and in true Luke Bryan fashion, was cracking jokes, sometimes in the middle of the song. He also took the time to tell the story of how he almost cut off his thumb cooking ribs on Halloween:

“It’s fun doing this with stitches,” he joked. “You always want to cut your thumb off on CMA week.”

Bryan and his guitar sounded just fine, but he ain’t got nothing on Jake Owen’s performance at BMI several weeks ago

Finally, Dierks took the stage, although the crowd had been catching glimpses of him periodically through the night running around back stage with his daughter. The ever-grateful Bentley wasted very little time talking, only thanking everyone involved and the audience for coming. He gave everyone what they came to see, performing hits such as Am I the Only One5-1-5-0Every Mile a Memory and Home.

Dierks also played a new song about partying “on the back porch” that was still a work in progress. Before he went into the bridge, he asked the audience to give him feedback on what they thought. Not surprisingly, it was met with massive applause, and even a beer tossed at Dierks from the VIP section.

In the middle of the set, Warren re-entered to present the check of $307,296 made out to the Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, and signed by Dierks himself.

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Perspective 2013: Changing The Perception Of Entitlement To Free Music

Save The Music America

Nashville Music Community Joins Charitable Foundation To Host Benefit Dinner, Auction and Concert Event To “Save The Music” And Educate The Public

Save The Music America (STMA), a Nashville-based 501(c)(3) charity organization founded as a national initiative to protect copyrighted music work product and to educate the masses about responsible and legal music downloading, is pleased to announce its inaugural Perspective 2013 benefit dinner, auction and concert event. Scheduled to be held amidst one of the mega songwriting communities in the country, the Save The Music America Perspective 2013 will take place Thursday evening, December 5, 2013 at 6:00PM in Nashville, TN at the Titans Stadium West Club, LP Field (located on One Titans Way). The charity’s mission is to change the perception and commonplace of downloading and sharing music illegally and to reveal and realize both the short and long-term effects and damages of FREE music to the financial foundation, livelihood and future of the music entertainment industry and our songcrafters.

Highlights of the evening will include performances by top-notch entertainers, a fine-dining experience, a premier auction and an educational symposium. With the objective to foster an environment for innovative ideas and well-intended plans to change the unlawful downloading climate, the symposium will be supported by industry professionals, artists, songwriters, music manufacturers and session players as representatives of those personally and directly impacted by the digital environment and illegal music downloading.

“There won’t be a music business unless we change the way our society is behaving,” states Dave Pomeroy, President of The Nashville Musicians Association“Save The Music America is a vital organization that is standing up to demand the public to take notice of the problem while teaching music fans to do the right thing when downloading songs or full albums.”

Research has demonstrated that music piracy is directly accountable for over 12 billion dollars in lost revenue and the loss of 70,000 industry-related jobs (many on Music Row). NSAI reports over 90% of American songwriters are unable to rely on their craft as a sole source of income. STMA’s primary objective is to enlighten “Generation X, Y & Z” to preserve the art of music and create awareness via its compelling PSA awareness campaigns and eventually traveling from school to school with a definitive Music 101 education curriculum.

“With the emergence of Napster, the record industry has been struggling to ‘compete with free’ since the late nineties and until we attack the core of the problem (the social perception that people feel they are entitled to free music), we will never get a foothold on piracy,” introduced Mark Dreyer, Executive Director for STMA“We have identified the problem and now we need the backing to implement the essential educational programs. Results take time, money and industry support; there is power in numbers and with voices standing together, we can change the way ‘acquiring’ music is perceived. To all artists and industry professionals: please, lend your voice and talent in support of this initiative. By joining our team, you will empower a movement crucial to forever change the future of music.”

Net proceeds from Save The Music America: Perspective 2013 will directly fund the STMA education programs. Perspective 2013 benefit tickets are on sale now; quantities are limited (available at www.nowplayingnashville.com and www.savethemusicamerica.org). Tickets pricing includes drinks, hors d’oeuvres, dinner, symposium and concert. This event is sponsored in part by: Anderson Musical Instrument Insurance SolutionsBatson Guitar CompanyMuZook., NSAI and Top Promoter-a division of Hit LabAdditional partners are welcome.

As part of a preliminary public and industry awareness campaign to support the overall endeavor, SMTA has plans to host a series of Music City music events (featuring renowned songwriters). Details to follow.

About Save The Music America
Established in 2011, SMTA is a non-for-profit organization with a mission to educate the public and create awareness of intellectual property protection and copyright laws. STMA provides effective ways to counteract illegal downloading of music and media through PSA awareness campaigns designed to capture the hearts and minds of America’s music fans. The goal is to produce future generations with a conscience, preserving the arts and the constitutional rights of people within the creative industries, as well as the history of American music.

STMA has the support of over 80 artists and industry professionals and with a number of PSA campaigns to assist in the movement to restore social Internet responsibility, the organization continues to create empowering messages designed to reach the nation’s younger demographic to “Take The Pledge To Download and Share Music Responsibly.”

For more information on Save The Music America, visit: www.savethemusicamerica.org or contact STMA Executive Director, Mark Dreyer / 615.255.1068 / events@savethemusicamerica.org.

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Awesome October for Average Joes Entertainment Company Celebrates Fifth-Year Anniversary With New Releases, Milestone Achievements

October 2013 marks the 5th Anniversary of Average Joes Entertainment. In the five years since the solely independent entertainment company opened its doors, Average Joes has achieved numerous milestones including a #1 Billboard Top Country Album, 1 million Colt Ford Facebook fans and hundreds of millions of roster YouTube views.

This month the company is primed to release the long-awaited new album from Bubba Sparxxx, “ Pain Management,” new videos from Rehab’s Demun Jones (“The Muddy Muddy,”) Charlie Farley featuring Daniel Lee (“Backwoods Boys,”) and Lenny Cooper f/Charlie  Farley ( “Country Folks Anthem.”) In addition, Colt Ford is currently touring nationwide with Florida-Georgia Line in support of his new album, “ Ride Through the Country (Revisited) ,” and LoCash Cowboys just released their newest single, ” Best Seat in the House.

“I’m proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish, and how we’ve grown,” stated AJE CEO, Shannon Houchins. “We’ve got some exciting new projects on the horizon next year, and a solid team in place.”

Average Joes and affiliated labels’ growing roster of artists and projects includes Colt Ford, Montgomery Gentry, The LACS, LoCash Cowboys, Bubba Sparxxx, JB and The Moonshine Band, JJ Lawhorn, Charlie Farley, Lenny Cooper, the Mud Digger Series, Moonshine Bandits, Demun Jones, Daniel Lee, Sarah Ross and Redneck Social Club.

About Average Joes Entertainment
Average Joes Entertainment launched in 2008 with flagship artist Colt Ford.  Since its inception, the entertainment company has expanded to housing three labels, a management company, a publishing entity and a film and television production company.  Founded by CEO Shannon Houchins, the Nashville-based entertainment company focuses on a grassroots approach, availability of product and cross-promotional opportunities to expand artist visibility.  For more information, visit  www.averagejoesent.com.

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Musicians On Call Nashville Announces Kelly Clarkson For Sixth Anniversary Concert Presented By Citi Private Pass November 14 At Hard Rock Cafe

Kelly Clarkson

Exclusive Pre-Sale for Citi Private Pass Members Begins 10 a.m. CT Wednesday, Oct. 9 with Public On-Sale Opening at Noon Friday, Oct. 11

Musicians On Call (MOC) Nashville is celebrating six years in Music City with an anniversary benefit concert featuring GRAMMY Award-winning superstar Kelly Clarkson. The Nov. 14 event presented by Citi Private Pass will showcase Clarkson in the intimate setting of downtown Nashville’s Hard Rock Cafe, located at 100 Broadway. Tickets will be available for purchase exclusively by Citi Private Pass members for a limited time beginning at 10 a.m. CT Wednesday, Oct. 9 with general on sale opening at noon Friday, Oct. 11. Tickets start at $160 and include a VIP Cocktail Reception provided by Hard Rock Cafe and valet parking provided by Eagle Parking.

The night will also include a silent auction featuring items from local vendors and autographed memorabilia from today’s hottest stars.  All proceeds from the event will go directly to MOC Nashville and its efforts to bring live and recorded music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities.  Since MOC’s expansion into Nashville in April 2007, it has brought the healing power of music to over 70,000 patients, families and staff in Middle Tennessee through 12 weekly programs in seven area healthcare facilities including the latest program, which recently launched at Alive Hospice. Through the generous support of artists like Clarkson, as well as sponsors Citi Private Pass, Hard Rock Cafe Nashville, and City National Bank, MOC Nashville will continue to thrive and grow.

Clarkson has long been a champion for MOC – last year surprising patients and lifting spirits at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt with an impromptu performance for the holidays.  The vibrant singer is nominated for Female Vocalist of the Year at this year’s CMA Awards as well as nominated for Musical Event of the Year for her collaboration with Vince Gill on “Don’t Rush.”  Clarkson brings her soulful vocals to her latest Oct. 29 holiday release, Wrapped In Red.

For more information on the MOC Nashville Sixth Anniversary Concert, visit www.musiciansoncall.org/kellyclarkson. For sponsorship inquiries, contact Dana Sones at dana@musiciansoncall.org.

About Kelly Clarkson
Since bursting onto the music scene 10 years ago, Kelly Clarkson has released five studio albums (Thankful, Breakaway, My December, All I Ever Wanted, Stronger), one Greatest Hits album, sold over 20 million albums worldwide, 10 million albums in the US and has had 10 singles in the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart. She is the recipient of three GRAMMY Awards, four American Music Awards, three MTV Video Music Awards, two Academy of Country Music Awards, one country Music Association Award and 12 Billboard Music Awards. Clarkson’s last studio effort Stronger debuted at No. 2 on both the Billboard Top 200 and Digital Albums Chart. The album produced the smash singles, “Mr. Know It All” and “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” which marks Kelly’s 9th and 10th Top 10 hit. “Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” was No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 Chart for two consecutive weeks (three weeks total) marking her 3rd No. 1 on the Hot 100 chart.  Clarkson’s Stronger was certified Platinum by the R.I.A.A. and won the GRAMMY for Best Pop Vocal Album. Clarkson released Greatest Hits – Chapter 1 last year, which featured three brand new tracks as well as a compilation of some of her greatest hits to date.  Kelly spent the summer touring with Maroon 5 and recording her very first Christmas album Wrapped In Red, which is set for release on October 29th.

About Musicians On Call (MOC)
Musicians On Call (MOC) was founded in 1999 with the mission of bringing live and recorded music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities. To date, its volunteers have played for over 400,000 people nationwide. Musicians On Call continues its mission through room-to-room hospital performances by both local musicians and national celebrities as well as the Music Pharmacy Program. www.musiciansoncall.org

About Citi Private Pass
The Citi Private Pass entertainment access program rewards Citi customers by offering access to thousands of events including preferred seating, early access, VIP experiences, complimentary tickets and more. The only way to get access is by purchasing tickets with a Citi credit card or Citibank debit card; customers can view a list of upcoming events and sign up for the Citi Private Pass newsletter at www.citiprivatepass.com.

About Citi
Citi, the leading global bank, has approximately 200 million customer accounts and does business in more than 160 countries and jurisdictions. Citi provides consumers, corporations, governments and institutions with a broad range of financial products and services, including consumer banking and credit, corporate and investment banking, securities brokerage, transaction services, and wealth management.

About Hard Rock International
With a total of 170 venues in 54 countries, including 133 cafes, 18 hotels and 7 casinos, Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s greatest collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock is also known for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, Hard Rock Live performance venues and an award-winning website. HRI owns the global trademark for all Hard Rock brands. The company owns, operates and franchises Cafes in iconic cities including London, New York, San Francisco, Sydney and Dubai. HRI also owns, licenses and/or manages hotel/casino properties worldwide. Destinations include the company’s two most successful Hotel and Casino properties in Tampa and Hollywood, Fl., both owned and operated by HRI parent company The Seminole Tribe of Florida., as well as other exciting locations including Bali, Biloxi, Chicago, Cancun, Las Vegas, Palm Springs, San Diego and Singapore. Upcoming new Hard Rock Cafe locations include Johannesburg, Chennai, Istanbul and Tenerife. New Hard Rock Hotel projects include Daytona Beach, Aruba, Riviera Maya, Abu Dhabi and Shenzhen and Haikou in China. New Hard Rock Casino projects in development include Hungary and Northfield, OH. For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com.

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Special Guests and Covers Reign Supreme at Southern Ground Night 1

Southern Ground Festival

Photo Credit: Southern Reel Nashville

Stella Sisters Remain Adorable, Kenny Chesney Still Can’t Play Guitar, and ZBB Channels DMB at the Second Annual Southern Ground Music and Food Festival

Zac Brown kicked off his second annual Southern Ground Music and Food Festival Friday night at the Lawn at Riverfront Park in extreme fashion, playing a set packed full of hits, covers and special guests. He also had a killer lineup before ZBB even took the stage.

As the crowd started to fill in, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue treated everyone to 45 minutes of a brass instrument jam session. Following them was the radio-friendly (but not nearly as festival crowd-friendly) Eli Young Band.

Grace Potter and the Nocturnals took to the stage next, bringing the energy level way up, as guys and girls alike gawked at Grace Potter’s legs. Her voice is electrifying and flawless, not to mention she plays guitar and keys, and even hopped on the drum kit once.

GPN has gained a significant fan base in country music, having toured and recorded with Kenny Chesney (more on that in just a moment). Although their sound isn’t country, the music and artistic talent of the band is undeniable and inescapable. Never playing the same setlist twice, they ran through several fan favorites, including Paris (Ooh La La)Nothing But The Water (which featured Grace by herself on slide guitar during the Part I intro), and Stars.

Then came the one glaring absence from the entire night: As mentioned, Grace is noted in the country world for her duet You and Tequila with Kenny Chesney. Chesney was in the house, scheduled to make an appearance during ZBB’s set; so naturally, at some point that number one hit has to take place, right? Wrong. Didn’t happen. Cue disappointment.

Then it was the Zac Brown Band’s turn, and as a white curtain rose over the front of the stage, so did the excitement. A silhouetted intro led into Zac walking from behind the curtain to sing the first line of “Jump Right In” before the curtain fell and the energy erupted.

Although Zac never missed a chance to thank everyone involved, he did very little talking between songs, choosing instead to focus on the music. The band continued with Keep Me In Mind and Toes before bringing out their first special guest, Kenny Rogers. Zac had a giddy smile on his face for the majority of the time as they played an early Rogers hit, Just Dropped In, followed by the song Rogers said, “I can’t go anywhere without playing…” The Gambler.

Next up, ZBB brought on the Stella sisters, Lennon & Maisy, who play Rayna James’ daughters on ABC’s Nashville. They’re also known for their adorable cover version of Ho Hey, which they performed, accompanied by the band. At this point their parents, The Stellas, joined in for a family sing along to Paul Simon’s Slip Slidin’ Away.

Zac Brown Band continued with hit after hit, even throwing in covers of Metallica’s Enter Sandman (random, but awesome) and Dave Matthew’s Band’s Ant’s Marching (just plain awesome).

Then it was special guest time again, this time bringing out the only surprise guest of the evening, Amos Lee, who joined the band for their collaborated song Day That I Die.

Jason Mraz was short to follow, launching into his smash I’m Yours, which segued into a cover of Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds. He then brought back Lennon and Maisy to harmonize with him on I Won’t Give Up.

After a couple more ZBB hits, Chesney made his appearance to show just how overrated he can be. He was the only guest not to play one of his own songs, joining the group for their tune Knee Deep, and a cover of Tom Petty’s Runnin’ Down A Dream. To reiterate, after Chesney was finished pretending to play guitar, Grace Potter did not come out to perform You and Tequila. That didn’t happen. Why didn’t that happen?

In any rate, ZBB finished strong with several more hits, finishing the set with the song that put them on the map, Chicken Fried. They even included an incredibly insincere attempt at patriotism, bringing on a stoically handsome veteran to stand on stage and salute during the line “salute the ones who died / the ones who give there life…” (With all the respect in the world to the military, that came across as insanely hokey.)

The encore was even more wild and unexpected than one could imagine. Another curtain went up, and when it fell, it revealed the band adorned in glow-in-the-dark skeleton outfits, launching into Uncaged engulfed in black light. They finished up the night with yet another cover; however, it’s the one that this band does arguably better than the original: Devil Went Down To Georgia, which they do in DOUBLE TIME.

The night capped off with fireworks gracing the skyline as the house music blared Back Down South by Kings of Leon, and thousands of satisfied fans were corralled into the streets of Nashville, ready for even more madness Saturday.

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Brian Milson To Release “Nothing Grows In Shadows” In Cooperation With National Bullying Month [VIDEO]

He is one of country’s brightest young stars – and he is a man on a mission.

Brian Milson, who has ridden an electric stage presence and an enviable road apprenticeship into the national spotlight, is well aware of country music’s affiliation with good causes. Few artists, though, ever embrace one so early and so effectively.

Brian’s breakthrough single, “Nothing Grows In Shadows,” not only establishes him as a singer to be reckoned with, it makes a powerful and compelling statement about a genuine societal plague – bullying.

“I was bullied as a kid,” says the Odessa, TX-born singer, “and I’m afraid I did a little of it myself, so this song means a great deal to me. The statistics are just horrendous–one out of four kids is bullied.  On any given day, kids just stay home out of a fear of bullying. And 85 percent of the time, there’s no intervention. This is a song that addresses that.”

“Nothing Grows in Shadows” tackles the subject head-on, challenging those who perpetuate it and offering support to those who fall victim, before wrapping it up in a verse that makes the subject spine-tinglingly personal.

As in the best songs, though, it is effective because of Brian’s delivery. His is an honest, straightforward style perfectly suited to the dramatic storyline and the admonition that it’s up to all of us to make a difference. The song is a stirring blend of craft and emotion, displaying the kind of vocal power and integrity that mark all of Brian’s work.

“Nothing Grows in Shadows” is the public’s first taste of an album Brian cut in Nashville with one of the all-time great producers, James Stroud (Toby Keith, Willie Nelson, Tim McGraw, Chris Young).

“Brian can just flat out sing,” says Stroud, with an air of authority on the topic.  “There’s a power and a depth to his voice that’s extremely rare and just draws you in to these songs.”

It’s easy, hearing Brian on record or watching him live, to understand why he’s gotten the call to open for the likes of Joe Nichols, Easton Corbin and Neal McCoy, or for his idol Willie Nelson, a gig that found Brian “in front of three thousand of the most diverse audience members you could run across. They had all come to see a musical icon and for me to be a part of that was really something special.”

Brian is a product of Odessa, the West Texas town that gave the world “Friday Night Lights,” about Permian High School, the town’s football powerhouse and embodiment of the quasi-religious phenomenon known as Texas football. Brian played for a year, but baseball and golf were his sports. But it was actually music that captured much of his time and attention from an early age.

“The very first song I knew the words to was ‘Blue Skies,’ which was on Willie’s Stardust album,” he says. “There’s a home video of me singing it back when I was four or five years old.” Brian developed a love for his father’s favorites, Hank Sr. and Ernest Tubb, and went on to become a fan of music that embraced Motown, classic and current rock and even classical music.

“I joined the choir,” he says, “and I came to appreciate Beethoven. Not every seventh-grader enjoys that sort of thing, but it’s cool when you know how to sing something in a different language.” By the time he was a senior in high school, he had auditioned successfully for Permian High’s Black Magic show choir, a select group that performs widely in the area.

“It was the finest year of my life to that point,” he says. “I can’t describe how much fun it was. The other members became like my extended family–the way no one except my current band mates ever has. And the education was priceless – we did everything from Handel’s ‘Messiah’ to Marvin Gaye’s ‘How Sweet It Is.’”

That year, the choir was voted the state’s #1 mixed chorus by Texas Music Educators Association.  Meanwhile, Brian was drawn into popular music by two guitar-playing friends who helped spur him to learn to play. One friend was a classic rocker and the other was, he says, “as country as you can get. The first song I heard him play was ‘Amarillo By Morning.’ It really hit home to me how true country music is and what it can do to your emotions.”

His first performance outside of the show choir was at Permian’s Cinco de Mayo festival.  “I did, ‘I Can Still Make Cheyenne,'” he says, “and it was the most nervous I’ve ever been. I had to keep my knees bent just to keep from getting light-headed, but the reception I got was unreal. It was better than any buzz I’ve ever had.”

He began playing house parties during his freshman year at Texas Tech. He was majoring in music and learning theory but,” he says, “I was always trying to learn the new Strait and Garth songs.”

Before long, he got the chance to open a show for a friend in Lubbock.

“It was so much fun, I knew right then there was not another option besides making music for me,” he says. He opened more shows and then put his own band together.

The band recorded a self-produced album called Walking A Thin Line in 2008–by then, Brian was writing, thanks in part to a break-up he decided to commit to paper. In 2010, he recorded two singles in Nashville, using session players and learning more about the studio and his own singing ability.  Both hit the Top 40 on the Texas charts.

That education, in fact, has been non-stop since those early days of hearing Hank Sr. and Ernest Tubb in his dad’s truck.

“I pay attention to everything,” he says of the music of his idols, “and I try to let it help shape the way I express myself vocally and on stage.”

The resulting growth has been phenomenal.

“I’ll never forget that first gig I did,” he says. “I’ll bet I didn’t move two inches in the entire set. These days I like to consider myself more of a high-energy performer, someone who’s braver and a lot more confident. When it comes down to it, it’s all about emotion. Technique is always there in the back of my mind, but it’s the feeling that carries it. That’s what delivers a song.”

He has toured throughout the Southwest with his band and done acoustic shows across the country, introducing himself and his music to fans and radio stations alike.

Now, with the release of “Nothing Grows In Shadows,” all that education and experience has come together. For the young man from Odessa, the journey is just beginning.

Brian Milson

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Founders of Nashville Underground Radio Announce Launch of “Nashville Underground Artist Management,” Sign Newcomer Zeke Duhon

#NUartist

Dubbed #NU Artist Management, Matt Williams and Shawn Carnes Expand The Nashville Underground Brand with Young Flagship Artist

Nashville Underground Radio officially launched on Friday, September 13th with a party at The Basement in Nashville, where founders Matt Williams and Shawn Carnes announced their new venture #NU Artist Management. The new company wasted no time in introducing Zeke Duhon, a young singer/songwriter from Tulsa, OK as their flagship artist.

“We were introduced to this young man and were just blown away,” said Carnes. “You have to be superb for that to happen in this town, and when we heard this kid we knew he was something extraordinary.”

The launch party where the announcement took place included a night full of entertainment, with performances from Austin Jenckes, Michael Lotten, Ann Marie, Guthrie Brown and Duhon.

“We’ve always said that Nashville Underground Radio has limitless potential,” said Williams. “We’ve used it as a springboard to launch a business we’re both very excited and passionate about.”

The weekly Internet radio show highlights new and independent artists on each episode. It broadcasts live on BlogTalkRadio at 5pm CST every Sunday. All episodes are archived and can be streamed at http://nashvilleundergroundradio.com.

About Zeke Duhon
Zeke has been writing songs since he was 13 years old. Upon his first attempt, he brought the song to his father who didn’t believe the song was actually his. Since that time, Zeke has composed hundreds of songs all on his own. Still in his teenage years, the Tulsa, OK phenom constantly impresses with insightful lyrics, incredible guitar licks and beautiful melodies. His move to Nashville, TN less than a month ago has already resulted in outstanding accolades and attention, and has put Zeke well on his way to being a bonified star. For him, however, it’s all about the music. Says Zeke, simply: “I’m a guy who likes to write songs. Hopefully these songs can help in some way.”

zekeduhonmusic.com
@ZekeDuhon

About Shawn Carnes
Shawn is a creative/A&R consultant who has worked with the most relevant people in the music industry. Not only is he sought after by successful recording artists, he is also co-founder, co-producer and co-host of Nashville Underground Radio.

shawncarnesmusic.com
shawn@nashvilleundergroundradio.com
@TheShawnCarnes

About Matt Williams
Matt is an on-air personality, producer and actor. He moved to Nashville in 2010, and a short time later began working with Nashville entertainment blog, FOCUS on the 615. He has also expanded to event hosting and acting, along with starting Nashville Underground Radio and #NU Artist Management.

mattwilliamsonline.com
matt@nashvilleundergroundradio.com
@mattwilliams615

Nashville Underground Artist Management

Website: nuartistmanagement.com
Facebook: facebook.com/nuartistmanagement
Twitter: @NUArtistMGMT

Nashville Underground Radio

Website: nashvilleundergroundradio.com
Facebook: facebook.com/nashvilleundergroundradio
Twitter: @UndergroundNash
Pinterest: pinterest.com/undergroundnash

For media inquiries contact: info@nashvilleundergroundradio.com or call (615) 669-2725

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2013 CMA Awards Nominees

CMA Awards

The Country Music Association (CMA) announced the nominees for the 2013 CMA Awards this morning (Tuesday) live on “Good Morning America.” Sheryl Crow and Florida Georgia Line were on hand to make the announcements. See the complete list below:

Entertainer of the Year

Jason Aldean
Luke Bryan
Blake Shelton
George Strait
Taylor Swift

Female Vocalist of the Year

Kelly Clarkson
Miranda Lambert
Kacey Musgraves
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood

Male Vocalist of the Year

Jason Aldean
Luke Bryan
Eric Church
Blake Shelton
Keith Urban

Vocal Group of the Year

Eli Young Band
Lady Antebellum
Little Big Town
The Band Perry
Zac Brown Band

Vocal Duo of the Year

Big and Rich
Florida Georgia Line
Love and Theft
Sugarland
Civil Wars
Thompson Square

New Artist of the Year

Lee Brice
Brett Eldredge
Florida Georgia Line
Kip Moore
Kacey Musgraves

Album of the Year

Blake Shelton, ‘Based On a True Story’
Carrie Underwood, ‘Blown Away’
Taylor Swift, ‘Red’
Kacey Musgraves, ‘Same Trailer Different Park’
Little Big Town, ‘Tornado’

Song of the Year (Awarded to songwriters)

Lee Brice, ‘I Drive Your Truck’
Miranda Lambert, ‘Mama’s Broken Heart’
Kacey Musgraves, ‘Merry Go Round’
Little Big Town, ‘Pontoon’
Darius Rucker, ‘Wagon Wheel’

Single of the Year

Florida Georgia Line, ‘Cruise’
Tim McGraw (Feat. Keith Urban and Taylor Swift), ‘Highway Don’t Care’
Miranda Lambert, ‘Mama’s Broken Heart’
Kacey Musgraves, ‘Merry Go Round’
Darius Rucker, ‘Wagon Wheel

Musical Event of the Year

Blake Shelton (Feat. Pistol Annies), ‘Boys ‘Round Here’
Florida Georgia Line (Feat. Nelly), ‘Cruise’
Kelly Clarkson (Feat. Vince Gill), ‘Don’t Rush’
Tim McGraw (Feat. Keith Urban and Taylor Swift), ‘Highway Don’t Care’
Jason Aldean (Feat. Luke Bryan and Eric Church), ‘The Only Way I Know’

Music Video of the Year

Carrie Underwood, ‘Blown Away’
Blake Shelton (Feat. Pistol Annies), ‘Boys ‘Round Here’
Lady Antebellum, ‘Downtown’
Tim McGraw (Feat. Keith Urban and Taylor Swift), ‘Highway Don’t Care’
Miranda Lambert, ‘Mama’s Broken Heart’
Little Big Town, ‘Tornado’

Musician of the Year

Sam Bush
Paul Franklin
Dann Huff
Brent Mason
Mac McAnally

The 47th annual CMA Awards will air live on ABC at 8PM ET on Nov. 6. Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood will return to co-host the show for the sixth consecutive year.

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Big Kenny’s ELECTRO SHINE Releases New Music

Big and Rich Remix

New Bundle of Big & Rich Remix Tracks Available

Big Kenny, one-half of multi-platinum country duo Big & Rich, is continuing to push boundaries with his ELECTRO SHINE music project, where he brings together an eclectic fusion of beats, instrumentation and feel-good lyrics.  On September 3rd, a new installment of Electro Shine Remix tracks was released on Glotown Records, including “Party Like Cowboyz” and “Born Again” from Big & Rich’s latest release, Hillbilly Jedi.

“I’ve decided that it’s time to get everybody dancing again! It’s time to start celebrating life, no matter how much BS we keep enduring in the world. I want to throw big dance parties and get us all to know one another and make new friends.  John (Rich) and I had such a huge hit and success with our dance remix of “Save a Horse,” I was inspired to try some of the Electro Shine sounds to my favorite new B&R hits, “Born Again” and “Party Like Cowboyz.” Now lets crank up the tunes and dance. It’s a great way to meet girls,” says Big Kenny.

Big KennyFor those passionate “out of the box” EDM, country and hick-hop music lovers, ELECTRO SHINE has more for your listening pleasure.  ELECTRO SHINE’s debut EP, The Hits Vol. 1, that features a love of “Muzik Without Prejudice,” the mariachi inspired and pop infused “Electro Country Shine,” the feel good dance anthem “Hope Chant,” electronic country and rap anthem “Star,” and three versions of “Dance Upon The Solid Ground,” the up-tempo jam ingrained with twangy fiddle, banjo and electronic melodies is also available at all digital retail outlets.

“Electro Shine is going to be a great way to introduce country to the Electronic Dance world, which is so huge now. And a great way to introduce the Electronic Dance World to Big & Rich and Electro Shine,” adds Big Kenny.

In addition to the recordings, soon to be announced will be the ELECTRO SHINE touring show.  The Vegas-style show under a big top tent will include singers, musicians, rappers, dancers, badass beats, aerialists, lights, lasers, psychedelic great visuals, and even little blue flying winged cherubs!  An experience that could be best described as a musical circus, hosted by Big Kenny, where a collision of EDM, Americana, Country, Reggae, Rock,  Pop, and Hip-Hop will create the vibe and party atmosphere that will keep everyone inspired and on the dance floor.

About ELECTRO SHINE:
ELECTRO SHINE is spearheaded by singer, songwriter and producer Big Kenny of Big & Rich.  The farm boy from Culpeper, Virginia, powers the engine behind the madness of ELECTRO SHINE and has the passion and vision to propel it into an unforgettable experience.  The ELECTRO SHINE sound is truly something that hasn’t been heard before from what might typically be thought of as an unlikely pairing.

For more information about ELECTRO SHINE, connect digitally at:
www.electroshine.tv
www.youtube.com/electroshinetv
www.twitter.com/eshinetv
www.facebook.com/electroshinetv
instagram.com/eshinetv

For Media and Tour/Sponsorship Opportunities, please contact:
Webster & Associates Public Relations & Marketing
Jeremy Westby / 615-777-6995 x228 / jeremy@websterpr.com
Kirt Webster / 615-777-6995 x230 / kirt@websterpr.com

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Inaugural Wizard World Nashville Comic Con, October 18-20

Nashville Comic Con

Pop Culture Festival At Music City Center To Feature Stan Lee, Norman Reedus, Henry Winkler and other Celebrity Guests

Eisner Award Hall of Famer Stan LeeNorman Reedus of “The Walking Dead” and “The Fonz” Henry Winkler are among the top celebrities scheduled to attend the inaugural Wizard World Nashville Comic Con, October 18-20 at Music City Center.  The standout roster will also include Bruce Campbell of Evil DeadEliza Dushku of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” pop culture icon Billy Dee Williams and many others.  It is the seventh in the 2013 series produced by Wizard World, Inc. (OTCBB: WIZD) and will also feature a top-drawer collection of well-known artists and writers and a variety of activities, exhibitors and special attractions.

Reedus, Williams and Winkler are scheduled to be in attendance all three days; Campbell will appear on Friday, Oct. 18; Lee and Dushku will be on site on Saturday, Oct. 19.

Additionally, all full price attendees will receive a free copy of the Exclusive Variant Cover of The Walking Dead #1 comic, available only at Wizard World Nashville Comic Con.

Superstar comics creators scheduled to attend include Eisner Award Hall of Famer Neal Adams (“Batman,” “Green Lantern”), “Mr. Garcin” (“Spider-Man,” “Captain America”), Guy Gilchrist (“NANCY,” “Jim Henson’s Muppets”), Mico Suayan (“The Punisher,” “Wolverine”), Fernando Dagnino (“Suicide Squad,” “Superman”), Mike Grell (“Green Arrow,” “Green Lantern”), “Zombie King” Arthur Suydam (“Marvel Zombies,” “Army of Darkness”) and Michael Golden (“Hulk,” “Daredevil”).

Other celebrities on the Nashville Comic Con roster are Ray Park (Star Wars: Episode 1X-Men), Dean Cain (“Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman,” “Smallville”), James Marsters (“Buffy The Vampire Slayer,” “Caprica”), Lou Ferrigno (“The Incredible Hulk,” “The King of Queens”), Jason David Frank (“Mighty Morphin Power Rangers”), Kevin Sorbo (“Hercules,” “Andromeda”), Ernie Hudson (Ghostbusters, “Oz”), Amy Dumas (former 4-time WWE women’s champion), Sean Patrick Flanery (Boondock Saints, “Dexter”) and Sara Underwood (“Attack of the Show!,” Epic Movie).

Wizard World Comic Con events bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.  Wizard World Nashville Comic Con show hours are Friday, Oct. 18, 3-8 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 19, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 20, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

A first-class lineup of topical programming takes place all three days at the event, with celebrity Q&A’s, comics-themed sessions, costume contest, movie screenings, evening parties and more.  Sunday, Oct. 20, is also Kids Day, with an array of activities and programming specially designed for the younger Wizard World fans.

Nashville Comic Con is also the place for cosplay, with fans young and old showing off their best costumes throughout the event.  Fans dressed as every imaginable character – and some never before dreamed –  will roam the convention floor, often stopping by the Cosplay Stage, the ideal place to see and be seen.

For more on the 2013 Wizard World Nashville Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-nashville.html.

About Wizard World:

Wizard World (OTCBB: WIZD) produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

Save the Dates 2013-14

September 20-22 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
October 18-20 – Wizard World Nashville Comic Con
November 22-24 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con
January 24-26, 2014 – Wizard World Portland Comic Con
February 7-9, 2014 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
April 4-6, 2014 – Wizard World St. Louis Comic Con
June 19-22, 2014 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con
August 21-24, 2014 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

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