Archive | In The Press RSS feed for this section

Kelsea Ballerini Set To Release Deluxe Edition Of UNAPOLOGETICALLY Featuring Four New Tracks On October 26

By on September 26, 2018 in In The Press

Black River Entertainment’s KELSEA BALLERINI is set to release a deluxe edition of her sophomore album, UNAPOLOGETICALLY, on October 26 and is announcing fan-favorite “Miss Me More” as her next single impacting Country radio on October 15. Produced by Forest Glen Whitehead and Jason Massey, Ballerini penned the up-tempo track alongside David Hodges and Brett McLaughlin.

Available for pre-order now, UNAPOLOGETICALLY (Deluxe Edition), introduces fans to four new songs with the clever “Fun and Games” (Kelsea Ballerini, Forest Glen Whitehead and Shane McAnally); a solo write from Ballerini, “I Think I Fell In Love Today”; a live acoustic cover of Fleetwood Mac’s legendary “Landslide” (Stephanie Nicks); and Ballerini’s new collaboration with The Chainsmokers, “This Feeling” (Andrew Taggart, Alex Pall and Emily Warren).

UNAPOLOGETICALLY (Deluxe Edition) Track Listing

1. “Graveyard” – Ballerini, Whitehead & McAnally
Produced by Whitehead, Massey & McAnally

2. “Miss Me More” – Ballerini, Hodges & McLaughlin
Produced by Whitehead & Massey

3. “Get Over Yourself” – Ballerini, Copperman & McAnally
Produced by Whitehead & Massey

4. “Roses” – Ballerini, Crowell & Gorley
Produced by Whitehead & Massey

5. “Machine Heart” – Ballerini, Wells & Abrahart
Produced by Whitehead & Massey

6. “In Between” – Ballerini, Robbins & McAnally
Produced by Whitehead & Massey

7. “High School” – Ballerini
Produced by Whitehead & Massey

8. “End of the World” – Ballerini, Lindsey & Rimes
Produced by Rimes

9. “I Hate Love Songs” – Ballerini, Rose & McAnally
Produced by Whitehead & Massey

10. “Unapologetically” – Ballerini, Whitehead & Lindsey
Produced by Whitehead & Massey

11. “Music” – Ballerini, Robbins, Galyon & Denmark
Produced by Whitehead, Massey & Robbins

12. “Legends” – Ballerini, Whitehead & Lindsey
Produced Whitehead & Massey

13. “Fun and Games” – Ballerini, Whitehead & McAnally
Produced by Whitehead & Massey

14. “I Think I Fell In Love Today” – Ballerini
Produced by Reynolds

15. “Landslide (Live from Nashville)” – Nicks

16. “This Feeling” (The Chainsmokers feat. Kelsea Ballerini) – Taggart, Pall & Warren
Produced by The Chainsmokers

Ballerini joined forces with The Chainsmokers for their new single, “This Feeling,” released last week, and they will perform the collaboration together for the first time on The Ellen DeGeneres Show tomorrow, Wednesday (9/26). Written by Taggart, Pall, and Warren, the lyric video has earned over seven million views in one week.

Watch the lyric video here.

“I’m such a fan of these guys as people, artists, and songwriters,” shares Ballerini. “I’ve covered a few of their songs on different tours, and as far as collaborators, they’ve always been at the top of my list! I’m really excited for people to hear our worlds blend in ‘This Feeling.’”

Last night (9/24), Ballerini assumed her anticipated role on NBC’s The Voice as their first-ever fifth coach during the premiere episode of the Comeback Stage. Exclusively announced by E! News, the 10-part companion series will follow Ballerini as she mentors six Comeback Artists not chosen during Blind Auditions. Fans can follow their fight for a Top 13 slot as each episode directly follows the hit music competition across multiple digital platforms including YouTube, The Voice Official App, Instagram TV, Facebook and NBC.com.

Watch as Ballerini meets the first contestant, Ayanna Joni, competing for a chance to enter The Voice‘s main competition during the live shows this November.

Continuing on KEITH URBAN’s GRAFFITI U WORLD TOUR through November, she’ll then link up with fellow The Voice coach KELLY CLARKSON as direct support on her MEANING OF LIFE TOUR this winter. Tickets are available now.

Recognized as one of the select all-female honorees at this year’s CMT “Artists of the Year” (airs live on CMT at 8 p.m. ET/PT on October 17), Ballerini is also nominated for Female Vocalist of the Year at The 52nd Annual CMA Awards (airs live on ABC at 8/7c p.m. on November 14). In addition, she’s vying for Favorite Female Artist – Country at the all-genre 2018 American Music Awards (airs live on ABC at 8 p.m. ET on October 9). Voting is open here.

For more information and tour dates on KELSEA BALLERINI, please visit KelseaBallerini.com and reach out to her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

ABOUT KELSEA BALLERINI:
Praised by The New York Times as being an “elegant songwriter,” GRAMMY nominee Kelsea Ballerini’s acclaimed sophomore album UNAPOLOGETICALLY takes listeners on an intimate journey of loss, life, and love. Now available for pre-order, the deluxe edition of UNAPOLOGETICALLY includes four new tracks: “Fun and Games,” “I Think I Fell In Love Today,” “Landslide (Live from Nashville)” (Fleetwood Mac), and her new collaboration with The Chainsmokers, “This Feeling,” plus the original 12-track compilation – all written or co-written by Ballerini. Continuing to blaze a trail that’s all her own, she joins NBC’s hit musical competition series, The Voice, as their first-ever fifth coach during the 10-part Comeback Stage series this season. In addition to being awarded high-profile accolades from ASCAP, iHeartRadio, Billboard, and Radio Disney, plus several breakthrough female artist honors from ACM and CMT, the Black River Entertainment artist remains the only female artist in Country music history, including female duos and groups, to claim #1 with her first three consecutive singles [PLATINUM-certified, #1 smashes – “Love Me Like You Mean It,” “Dibs,” “Peter Pan”] from a debut album [GOLD-certified breakout THE FIRST TIME].

Comments { 0 }

“Dee Jay Silver Day” Proclaimed in Las Vegas On Friday, September 21

By on September 26, 2018 in In The Press

Dee Jay Silver and Mayor Goodman

For his birthday this year, DEE JAY SILVER received an extra special gift from a city near and dear to his heart when Friday, September 21 was officially proclaimed “Dee Jay Silver Day” in Las Vegas by Mayor Carolyn Goodman. The groundbreaking DJ/remixer/producer/radio host received the declaration while onstage at Rehab Pool at the Hard Rock Hotel headlining his final appearance at the famed pool party, where he’s held a residency for the last four consecutive years. Throughout the last decade, DEE JAY SILVER has hosted various residencies in Las Vegas at hotspots including Hyde Nightclub, Foundation Room, LAX Nightclub and Body English, in addition to his annual appearances at the Academy of Country Music Awards (ACM) events and the National Finals Rodeo, where he returns this December, among others. He’ll be back in the city this Sunday, September 30 to headline Omnia Nightclub.

 

“It was an absolute honor and a pleasure to spend some time with Mayor Goodman!,” shares DEE JAYSILVER. “I felt like I left with a new friend…and still can’t believe I have my own day in Las Vegas! I love this city, the energy, the people, and I’m proud to be a small part of it!”

 

The open-format performer, known for his unique ability to blend all types of music from hip-hop and rock to house and country, wraps his 9th tour with Jason Aldean this Saturday, September 29 when the “High Noon Neon Tour,” also featuring Luke Combs and Lauren Alaina, stops at FivePoint Amphitheatre in Irvine, CA. After a short break, SILVER heads back out on the road from October 25 through December 1 for another round of tour dates supporting Chris Young, following dates this past April and May on the country star’s “Losing Sleep Tour.” The upcoming trek also features support from Dan + Shay and Morgan Evans. Other confirmed appearances for DEE JAY SILVER this year include Hakkasan in Las Vegas (12/8) and the Dallas Cowboys home game (11/5), among others. Additionally, the Nashville-based artist is working on new original music (to be released soon) and continues to host (since 2014) his own weekly radioshow “The Country Club with Dee Jay Silver,” syndicated nationally via Compass Media Networks every Friday and Saturday night. For more information and details on upcoming tour dates, go to www.deejaysilver.com.

Dee Jay Silver Day at Rehab

Comments { 0 }

Mumford & Sons Debut “Guiding Light” On “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon”

By on September 26, 2018 in In The Press

Photo credit: Alistair Taylor-Young

Mumford & Sons debuted their new single, “Guiding Light” on last night’s “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” with special guests The Roots. Watch the performance HERE. Marcus Mumford also joined host Jimmy Fallon as a guest on the couch. Watch the interview HERE.

“Guiding Light” is from the multi-Platinum, Grammy Award-winning band’s forthcoming album, Delta. Available now for pre-sale, the band’s fourth release hits shelves November 16 on Gentlemen of the Road/Glassnote Records. Delta was written collectively by the band, produced by Paul Epworth and recorded at London’s The Church Studios. Listen to the album’s first single, “Guiding Light,” HERE.

In support of the release, the band will embark on an extensive sixty-date worldwide arena tour beginning in later this year. Full tour details to be revealed October 4.

Marking ten years since Mumford & Sons made their meteoric debut, the new music follows 2015’s Wilder Mind, which debuted at No. 1 in the U.S., U.K., Australia Canada, Ireland, the Netherlands and Norway and, most recently, 2016’s collaborative Johannesburg EP. Previous LPs include 2012’s Babel, which was awarded the 2013 Grammy for Album of the Year, and their 2009 debut, Sigh No More.

Mumford & Sons are Ben Lovett, Marcus Mumford, Ted Dwane and Winston Marshall.

Comments { 0 }

Billy Currington’s New Single No. 1 Most Added At Country Radio

By on September 26, 2018 in In The Press

Photo Courtesy of UMG Nashville

Multi-platinum-selling country star Billy Currington’s new single “Bring It On Over” was the No. 1 most added song at country radio this week with 52 total first week stations. Written by Dallas Davidson, Rhett Akins, Ben Hayslip, and Jesse Frasure, the song is the first release since Currington’s hit album Summer Forever and serves as the lead single to his upcoming new album. Following his back-to-back, multi-week No. 1 hits “It Don’t Hurt Like It Used To” and “Do I Make You Wanna,” the upbeat tune showcases Currington’s “characteristic laid-back soul” (Rolling Stone).

 

The talented Georgia native has spent more than a decade in the spotlight proving he’s truly a man for all seasons. Currington has earned 12 No.1 singles to his name, including the double-platinum hits “People Are Crazy” and “Must Be Doin’ Somethin’ Right.” Possessing one of the smoothest and most distinct voices in any genre of music, Currington is equally skilled at delivering upbeat summertime anthems as well as exploring the complexities of life and love with a poignant ballad. His latest album Summer Forever debuted at No. 3 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart.

http://www.billycurrington.com/ | https://www.facebook.com/BillyCurrington/ | https://www.instagram.com/bccoconutman/ | https://twitter.com/billycurrington

Comments { 0 }

Rodeo Benefiting FCA Outdoors At Wilson County Fairgrounds THIS Weekend

By on September 26, 2018 in In The Press

Get ready for a weekend of fellowship and fun at the Wilson County Fairgrounds as the Mending Fences Cowboy Church Rodeo comes to town this Friday and Saturday, September 28 and 29, 2018. Benefiting the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Outdoors of Northern-Middle Tennessee, the rodeo is sponsored by the Mending Fences Cowboy Church and produced by Hedrick Rodeo Company.

This weekend, cowboys and cowgirls from around the country will compete in events such as Bronc Riding, Calf Roping, Barrel Racing, Bull Riding and more at this IPRA/SPRA sanctioned rodeo. There will also be a special appearance by Miss Rodeo USA Summer Wheldon and Brisket the Bull!

Delicious food vendors as well as arts and crafts vendors will be on-site as well, making it a perfect outing the whole family can enjoy. 

Tickets for adults are $10 in advance, and $15 at the door. Kids 6-12 are $7 in advance, and $10 at the door. Kids 6 and under are FREE. Please visit the following Middle Tennessee locations to purchase your advance tickets.

Locations:

BOOT BARN
1008 Cumberland Center Blvd.
Lebanon, TN. 37087

 

THE WESTERN LOOK
630 North Cumberland Street
Lebanon, TN. 37087

 

WILSON COUNTY CO-OP
107 Babb Drive
Lebanon, TN. 37087

 

SUMNER COUNTY CO-OP
450 Red River Road
Gallatin, TN. 37066

 

TJ COURTNEYS RESTAURANT
4066 North Mt. Juliet Road
Mt. Juliet, TN. 37122

Comments { 0 }

New Superstars, Gospel Events Added To 2019 Soul Train Cruise

By on September 26, 2018 in In The Press
The 2019 Soul Train Cruise adds five legendary entertainers to its superstar lineup as Heatwave, BT Express, Meli’sa Morgan, The Dazz Band and Clifton Davis join Smokey Robinson (in a special appearance on 1/23/19), Gladys Knight and more when it sails through the Caribbean from January 20-27, 2019.   George Clinton, in one of his final performances before he retires, The Ohio Players, Stephanie Mills, Morris Day & The Time, The Chi-Lites featuring Marshall Thompson, Bloodstone, New Birth, Evelyn “Champagne” King, Ray, Goodman & Brown, Al McKay All Stars performing the music of Earth, Wind & Fire and Jacob Lusk (a tribute to Luther Vandross), along with Cruise Host Tony Cornelius, The Urban Guerilla Orchestra, co-host Angela Stribling of Pillow Talk, co-host Jerry Wells, original Soul Train Dancer Cheryl Song, The Soul Train Cruise comedy club presents A.J. Jamal and Kivi Rigers and music executive Chuck Gamble will also spend the week with fans, delivering the vacation experience of a lifetime. In all, over 50 concerts will play throughout the Soul Train Cruise as it departs from Ft. Lauderdale and sails to the Dominican Republic, San Juan, and the beautiful private island of Half Moon Cay on Holland America Line’s luxurious Nieuw Amsterdam.
“When we were invited to join the 2019 Soul Train Cruise, we were just as excited about performing for fans as we are about watching all of the other concerts onboard,” says Eugene Phillips of Heatwave.  “The amount of star power on this cruise is ‘mind blowing.’” Formed in 1975, Heatwave are best known for their string of funky dance hits, “Boogie Nights,” “The Groove Line,” “Mind Blowing Decisions” and the classic ballad, “Always and Forever.”
Singer, producer, actor and longtime Christian minister Clifton Davis will also join the Soul Train Cruise to lead a series of special gospel and worship events, including:
  • A praise and worship concert honoring the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
  • A gospel service backed by The Urban Guerrilla Orchestra
  • A tribute concert honoring the Queen of Soul, Ms. Aretha Franklin
“Gospel music is such an integral part of our lives, and the Soul Train Cruise producers have taken great steps to make sure the voyage is enriched with the music and the messages of faith,” says Davis. “I am grateful and humbled to be a part of bringing this experience to everyone on the ship.”
The ultimate experience for classic R&B and soul fans, The Soul Train Cruise brings seven days of nonstop Love, Peace and Soul through more than 50 live performances and over 25 celebrity interactive events including parties at the pool, a Gospel Hour, live interviews, cocktail receptions, Q&A sessions, dance classes with the original Soul Train dancers, wine tasting, costume parties and so much more. The cruise will take place aboard the Holland America Line Nieuw Amsterdam, a luxurious ship that features an array of premier dining, lounges surrounded by panoramic views, a world class spa and salon and elegant staterooms.
Cabin prices start at only $1,900 per person and include access to all of the major concerts, gourmet meals, 24-hour room service and daily events.  Further information is available at www.soultraincruise.com or by calling 844-266-7685.
About StarVista LIVE:
StarVista LIVE creates unique entertainment experiences that bring fans together to relive their favorite moments, create new memories, and enjoy unparalleled access to the superstars they love. StarVista LIVE cruise events include the Malt Shop Memories Cruise, the Soul Train Cruise, The Country Music Cruise, The Flower Power Cruise, the ‘70s Rock and Romance Cruise, the Southern Rock Cruise, the Ultimate Disco Cruise and Abbey Road on the River festival.  StarVista LIVE is a division of Direct Holdings Global. Direct Holdings Global is a leading multi-channel marketer with a broad portfolio of products and services, most notably associated with the success of the StarVista / Time Life brand, delivered with a commitment to excellence and integrity.  Additional information about StarVista LIVE can be found at:
Comments { 0 }

CMT Honors Country Music Icon Loretta Lynn With “Artist Of A Lifetime” Award Presented By Ram Trucks At This Year’s All-Female “Artists Of The Year” Celebration

By on September 25, 2018 in In The Press

Loretta Lynn

In a year of celebrating the achievements of women in country music, CMT today announced that Loretta Lynn will be honored with the “Artist of a Lifetime” award presented by Ram Trucks at this year’s all-female “CMT Artists of the Year” event premiering live Wednesday, October 17 at 8:00 PM ET/PT. Academy Award winner and “Coal Miner’s Daughter” actress Sissy Spacek will bestow the award to Lynn, who joins previous recipients of the honor including Shania Twain (2016), Kenny Rogers (2015), and Merle Haggard (2014).

“I’m always so proud when I receive any awards for my music, but when I heard it was this year’s “Artist of a Lifetime” award it made me really happy,” says Loretta Lynn. “It’s an honor to be able to make music that people enjoy and I’m really excited to have a new album coming out. Thank you CMT for acknowledging me with this award and for honoring the women in country music at Artists of the Year.”

Loretta Lynn has long been established as the undisputed Queen of Country Music, with more than 50 years of recording and touring to her name. A self-taught guitarist and songwriter, Lynn was one of the most distinctive performers in Nashville in the 1960s and 1970s. She shook up Nashville by writing her own songs, many of which tackled boundary-pushing topics drawn from her own life experiences as a wife and mother. “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” “Fist City” and “Don’t Come Home A’ Drinkin’ (With Lovin’ on Your Mind)” are just three of 16 country No. 1 singles. She has sold over 45 million records worldwide. Lynn’s latest studio album, Wouldn’t It Be Great, (Legacy Recordings, a division of Sony Music Entertainment) will be released Friday, September 28.

Sissy Spacek has been one of the industry’s most respected actresses in a career spanning four decades. Her many honors include an Academy Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, five additional Oscar nominations, a Grammy nomination, three Golden Globe Awards and numerous critics awards. In 1980, Spacek starred as Loretta Lynn in the acclaimed biopic “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” winning the Oscar and Golden Globe Award for her performance. Spacek also swept the New York Film Critics Circle, Los Angeles Film Critics, National Board of Review, and National Society of Film Critics Awards for her portrayal of the country music legend. Some of Spacek’s other film credits include “A Home at the End of the World,” “The Straight Story,” “Affliction,” “JFK,” “The Long Walk Home,” “Hot Rod,” “Night, Mother,” “Four Christmases,” “Get Low”, “The Help” and “The Old Man and The Gun”.

For the first-time ever the annual “CMT Artists of the Year” special is dedicated to the women of country music—past, present and future. This year’s all-female “Artists of the Year” celebration will honor Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Kelsea Ballerini,

Maren Morris, Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild and Kimberly Schlapman, and Lady Antebellum’s Hillary Scott.

As in past years, the event will feature surprise musical pairings and guests that will be announced at a later date. In addition, CMT will further its commitment to female artists through a day-long “Women of Country Music” takeover across all CMT platforms where music lives including music hours on CMT, the 24/7 digital channel CMT Music and CMT Radio’s widely-syndicated shows “CMT Radio LIVE” and “CMT After Midnite” to encourage and inspire increased female airplay on October 17.

A staunch advocate for country music’s female artists, CMT launched its dedicated “Next Women of Country” campaign in 2013 as a way to give female artists voice and airplay across all CMT platforms. The franchise has received critical acclaim, and in five years since launch CMT has expanded to include tours, digital programming and more. Ballerini and Morris are both alumnae of the “Next Women” franchise.

Last year’s special notched its highest ratings to date and ranked as the most watched in the event’s eight-year history. More than 1.1 million fans tuned in to the premiere telecast and the encore. Socially, #CMTAOTY trended nationally on Twitter during the show and the special ranked as the #1 Most Social Entertainment Program in Primetime on Cable.

Previous “CMT Artists of the Year” performances have included Adele and Darius Rucker performing Lady Antebellum’s “Need You Now;” Meghan Trainor, Jill Scott and Kelsea Ballerini honoring Shania Twain with a medley of her biggest hits; Jason Aldean, Keith Urban and Chris Stapleton in a moving Tom Petty tribute with “I Won’t Back Down;” Adam Lambert and Leona Lewis paying tribute to Little Big Town’s “Girl Crush;” and Maroon 5 covering Taylor Swift’s “Mine.” The show has featured appearances by Ellen DeGeneres, Matthew McConaughey, Selena Gomez, Billy Bob Thornton, Roger Clemens, Morgan Freeman, the cast of Nashville and more.

Former “CMT Artists of the Year” honorees include Blake Shelton (2015), Brad Paisley (2011), Carrie Underwood (2010, 2012, 2016), Cast of “Nashville” (2015), Chris Stapleton (2015, 2016, 2017), Eric Church (2012), Florida Georgia Line (2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017), Hunter Hayes (2013), Jason Aldean (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017), Keith Urban (2017), Kelsea Ballerini (2016), Kenny Chesney (2011, 2012), Kenny Rogers (2015), Lady Antebellum (2010, 2011), Little Big Town (2015), Luke Bryan (2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017), Merle Haggard (2014), Miranda Lambert (2012, 2014), Sam Hunt (2015, 2017), Shania Twain (2016), Taylor Swift (2010, 2011), Thomas Rhett (2016), Tim McGraw (2013) and Toby Keith (2012.)

CMT is the leading authority on country music and lifestyle, offering a mix of original series, music events and specials. CMT is everywhere its fans are including two cable channels (CMT and the 24-hour music channel, CMT Music), radio (CMT Radio), digital (CMT App, CMT.com) and social (CMT on Facebook, CMT on Instagram and CMT on

Twitter). CMT is a unit of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB). For more information, please visit CMT Press.

Comments { 0 }

Scott Borchetta’s THE LAUNCH Unveils Details For Season 2

By on September 20, 2018 in In The Press
Tickets to attend live studio audience tapings of THE LAUNCH now available –
– Season 2 to feature limited commercial time with custom advertising opportunities –
Days before production kicks off on the highly anticipated second season of its hit original series THE LAUNCH, CTV announced today the first wave of celebrity mentors on deck to guide this season’s round of hand-picked emerging artists vying for an opportunity to create a new hit single. Recording superstar Ryan Tedder, the creative force behind THE LAUNCH Season 1 certified platinum hit single “Ain’t Easy”, returns to the series in a dual role as celebrity mentor and producer, along with Grammy® Award-winning singer/songwriter Sarah McLachlan and Max Kerman, the 4x JUNO-Award winning frontman for Hamilton rock band Arkells.

THE LAUNCH also announced today that Québec pop icon Marie-Mai (STAR ACADÉMIE, LA VOIX) joins the series’ as a permanent mentor on the weekly celebrity panel alongside music industry powerhouse Scott Borchetta. In addition, fan favourite entertainment reporter Liz Trinnear (ETALK) joins the show in a new hosting role. THE LAUNCH begins production on its second season Sept. 26 in Toronto. Audience tickets are now available; see details below.

**Media Note** – Download photography and bios for Marie-Mai, Trinnear, and Season 2 mentors announced to date at BellMediaPR.ca.

“Marie-Mai is an amazing artist and performer, and her vast industry know-how will provide a powerful counterpoint to Scott’s expertise, bringing a new and engaging dynamic for both artists and viewers,” said Randy Lennox, President, Bell Media. “We also welcome the superb energy that Liz brings as a host as she guides the performers and the audience through the emotional journey of launching new artists and new songs each week.”

“I’m truly so excited to kick off Season 2 of THE LAUNCH! We have great artistic talent from all across Canada, a new permanent second-seat mentor with the amazingly talented Marie-Mai, and we’ve landed the host with the absolute most, Liz Trinnear,” said Scott Borchetta, Founder/President/CEO of the Big Machine Label Group and co-creator and Executive Producer of THE LAUNCH. “Ryan (Tedder) is coming back and is so fired up about producing another LAUNCH winner, Sarah McLachlan will be amazing to work with as will my new friend Max Kerman… LETS. ROCK. THE. LAUNCH. S2!”

THE LAUNCH heads into production for Season 2 on the heels of a breakthrough inaugural season that garnered an exclusive worldwide distribution deal with Sony Pictures Television (SPT). In addition, the series delivered a series of consecutive #1 hit songs amassing more than 21 million streams internationally to date, including certified platinum “Ain’t Easy” by Season 1 chosen artists Elijah Woods x Jamie Fine. The pop/hip-hop duo won the iHeartRadio MMVA for Best New Canadian Artist in August, and recently dropped their latest single “Better Off.”

As announced earlier this year, each super-sized episode of THE LAUNCH will now feature reduced commercial time, delivering even more music and extended insight into featured artists’ auditions, and the process of recording, performing, and launching a new hit song. Each hour-long episode provides custom advertising opportunities including 30-second “superpods.” Featuring one advertiser per break, the custom creative offers a more seamless and engaging viewer experience between the commercial content and the program.

Following its hit inaugural season, THE LAUNCH vetted thousands of emerging performers for Season 2 following a coast-to-coast-to-coast casting call this past May. More celebrity mentors, songwriters/producers, as well as the artists selected to perform on Season 2 of THE LAUNCH, will be announced soon.

In each stand-alone episode of THE LAUNCH, unsigned aspiring artists audition for the opportunity to learn, record, and perform their version of a new original song by a world famous songwriter/producer. The artists are mentored by a panel of internationally renowned music industry legends alongside Borchetta, who then decide which version of the song will be released across the country immediately following the broadcast of the episode each week. THE LAUNCH is set to premiere on CTV and VRAK in early 2019.

Marie-Mai is the undisputed Queen of pop in Québec. As a supremely talented singer-songwriter, Marie-Mai dominated the Québec live music scene for more than 15 years, with more than two million spectators flocking to her successful live shows. Her four platinum albums, 17 #1 hits, 10 Félix Awards (the highest honour in Québec music – including five for Female Artist of the Year), have solidified her status as a force in the music industry. As a successful songwriter in both French and English, Marie-Mai has won seven awards from SOCAN and was honored as Songwriter of the Year in 2014. Marie-Mai was a featured performer at the Closing Ceremonies of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games. Building on her success, she took on a coaching role on the Québec version of THE VOICE (LA VOIX) and THE VOICE KIDS (LA VOIX KIDS). Marie-Mai is set to release her sixth French album on November 9, 2018. Her first single “Empire” shattered records on the Québec music charts and her most recent second single “Je décolle”, was released last week.

Liz Trinnear is a well-known face to music and entertainment lovers in Canada, who built her career connecting with audiences and artists in a genuine and authentic manner while in the role as reporter for ETALK, Canada’s most-watched entertainment news program (2015-18), and previously on the front lines of MUCH programming for nine years. Hailing from London, Ontario, Trinnear was voted “most likely to be a MuchMusic VJ” in high school and in 2009, beat out 4,000 candidates to hand herself a job at the legendary music station. The former co-host of THE MUCH MUSIC VIDEO AWARDS (2012-14) has also interviewed some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Lady Gaga, Shawn Mendes, Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, Mariah Carey, Harry Styles, and Justin Timberlake.

Scott Borchetta is Founder, President and CEO of Big Machine Label Group, the #1 independent record label in the world and home to superstars such as Taylor Swift, Florida Georgia Line, Reba McEntire, Rascal Flatts, and Thomas Rhett. Borchetta has led the charge on more than 50 million albums sold by Big Machine artists in addition to sending over 200 singles to #1 on the Country, Pop, and Rock charts. His groundbreaking business savvy, Borchetta has been included on Billboard’s Power 100 list and Fast Company’s 100 Most Creative People in Business. During the final two seasons of AMERICAN IDOL, Borchetta served as in-house mentor and guided contestants throughout the competition as well as signing the winners to record deals.

THE LAUNCH Live Studio Audience!

CTV is giving viewers in the Greater Toronto Area an opportunity to experience the excitement first-hand by attending a taping of THE LAUNCH. The studio is located in downtown Toronto and those interested in tickets can go to CTV.ca/TheLaunch for more information. All audience members must be at least 11 years of age and an adult must accompany those under the age of 16.

  • Sept. 28: Max Kerman
    Fans in attendance will have an opportunity to meet Season 1 chosen artists Elijah Woods x Jamie Fine, who will be on set to greet fans.
  • Oct. 7: Sarah McLachlan
  • Oct. 12: Ryan Tedder
**Additional celebrity mentors and in-studio live taping dates will be announced soon.

THE LAUNCH format was put into development in January 2016 and was co-developed by Randy Lennox and Bell Media in association with Scott Borchetta of Big Machine Label Group, and Paul Franklin of Eureka (MASTERCHEF, THE BIGGEST LOSER), in partnership with John Brunton and Lindsay Cox of Insight Productions (THE AMAZING RACE CANADA, CANADIAN IDOL, THE JUNO AWARDS).

THE LAUNCH is executive produced by Randy Lennox, Scott Borchetta, and John Brunton; Lindsay Cox and Paul Franklin are Executive Producers; Executive Producers for Bell Media are Robin Johnston and Corrie Coe, who is also Senior Vice-President, Original Programming, Bell Media. Pat DiVittorio is Vice-President, CTV and Specialty Programming, Mike Cosentino is President, Content and Programming, Bell Media. Randy Lennox is President, Bell Media.

ABOUT BIG MACHINE LABEL GROUP
Led by Founder, President and CEO Scott Borchetta, the Big Machine Label Group encompasses Big Machine Records, The Valory Music Co., BMLG Records, Big Machine Records/John Varvatos Records and publishing company Big Machine Music as well as its own digital radio station, Big Machine Radio. BMLG artists include superstars Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts, Reba McEntire, Florida Georgia Line, Thomas Rhett, Brantley Gilbert, Ronnie Dunn, Cheap Trick and Sugarland; chart-topping acts Justin Moore, Eli Young Band, Brett Young, Aaron Lewis, Midland, Carly Pearce; THE VOICE winner Danielle Bradbery, and 2015 AMERICAN IDOL winner Trent Harmon. BMLG artists have received multiple Grammy, CMA, ACM, AMA, CMT, Teen Choice, MTV, Billboard, People’s Choice, and Brit Awards. Big Machine is the first-ever American label to align with terrestrial radio for performance royalty rights for its artists and is an industry leader in fighting for artist, songwriter, publisher, and record company rights. Big Machine Label Group created the Music Has Value Fund to provide assistance to nonprofit organizations that make music, aspire to make music, and access and access and appreciate music. Visit BigMachineLabelGroup.com for more information.

ABOUT EUREKA
Eureka is a next-generation production company combining the expertise, credibility and key relationships traditionally found within large multi-national production companies with the energy and nimbleness of a startup. Launched in January 2016, Eureka has offices in Los Angeles and Sydney and produces both unscripted and scripted programs. Within less than a year of opening Eureka has over sixty hours of programming commissioned in 2017 with more series to be announced soon.

ABOUT INSIGHT PRODUCTION COMPANY, LTD.
Insight Productions, known for its award-winning ratings juggernauts, is Canada’s most established content producer and an industry leader in the development, financing, and production of hit programming, both scripted and unscripted, as well as digital content. With thousands of hours of programming under its belt, the company has created some of the most dynamic and top-rated programs in the world including Canada’s Grammy Awards – THE 2018 JUNO AWARDS, THE AMAZING RACE CANADA, BIG BROTHER CANADA, TOP CHEF CANADA, INTERVENTION, and original formats including THE LAUNCH (for which Lindsay Cox serves as EP and Showrunner alongside EP John Brunton) and BATTLE OF THE BLADES Insight’s scripted programming includes award-winning READY OR NOT, FALCON BEACH, HATCHING, MATCHING & DISPATCHING, A FURY CHRISTMAS, BUT I’M CHRIS JERICHO!, and THE JON DORE TELEVISION SHOW. In 2017, Insight produced THE TRAGICALLY HIP: A NATIONAL CELEBRATION, a live concert special watched by one in three Canadians. Insight Productions was founded in 1979 and has since created thousands of hours of groundbreaking content.  For more information on Insight Productions, please visit www.insighttv.com or on Twitter – @insightprod or Facebook www.facebook.com/InsightProductions.

ABOUT BELL MEDIA ORIGINAL PROGRAMMING
Bell Media has commissioned some of Canada’s most-watched and most-acclaimed original programming, working with the best Canadian independent producers in the country. Hit series commissioned by CTV include the hit drama CARDINAL; the record-breaking Canadian formats THE AMAZING RACE CANADA and MASTERCHEF CANADA; the original international TV format THE LAUNCH; satirical news series THE BEAVERTON; new comedy series JANN; new lifestyle series starring Mary Berg; and CANADA’S WALK OF FAME AWARDS. Among the original series on Bell Media specialty and streaming platforms are Space’s KILLJOYS and WYNONNA EARP; Bravo’s mystery dramedy CARTER; Comedy’s CORNER GAS ANIMATED;  CraveTV’s hit comedy LETTERKENNY; and SnackableTV’s interactive stand-up series JOKEOFF and upcoming animated series LITTLEKENNY. In addition to adventure drama FRONTIER, Discovery is also home to Bell Media’s hit factual franchises HIGHWAY THRU HELL, HEAVY RESCUE: 401, and CANADA’S WORST DRIVER, in addition to new original series DISASTERS AT SEA, among others. Bell Media is one of the first media companies in North America to commit to producing all new original scripted series in 4K.

ABOUT CTV
CTV is Canada’s #1 private broadcaster. Featuring a wide range of quality news, sports, information, and entertainment programming, CTV has been Canada’s most-watched television network for the past 17 years in a row. CTV is a division of Bell Media, Canada’s premier multimedia company with leading assets in television, radio, digital, and Out-of-Home. Bell Media is owned by BCE Inc. (TSX, NYSE: BCE), Canada’s largest communications company. More information about CTV can be found on the network’s website at CTV.ca.

Comments { 0 }

Songwriters Celebrated At Inaugural Nashville Songwriter Awards

By on September 20, 2018 in In The Press

A packed house at the RYMAN on Wednesday September 19th celebrated the inaugural Nashville Songwriter Awards, presented by the Nashville Songwriters Association International and City National Bank. The top honor of the night, ‘Song of the Year’ was awarded to Matt Dragstrem, Ben Hayslip, and Josh Thompson for “I’ll Name The Dogs,” recorded by Blake Shelton. Ashley Gorley was recognized as ‘Songwriter of the Year’ for the 4th time, and Brandon Lancaster received the award for ‘Songwriter-Artist of the Year.’

The evening included stories, videos, and incredible performances by some of today’s hottest artists who filled the RYMAN to honor the songs, songwriters, and those dedicated to the songwriting community. Performers included Blake Shelton, Thomas Rhett, Jamey Johnson, Chris Janson, LANCO, Kip Moore, Jewel, Darius Rucker, Brantley Gilbert, Travis Denning, and more!

“The first ever Nashville Songwriter Awards was a joyous celebration of songwriters, stars, and the real stars of the show: THE SONGS. It was a great evening of great writers with the great artists they write for and with, a whirlwind of music and moments honoring our champions, our heroes and the best songwriters among us.” – Steve Bogard (NSAI Board President)

Additional honorees of the evening included Bill Anderson recognized with the Kris Kristofferson Lifetime Achievement Award, Congressman Doug Collins, who was honored with the White Hat Award, and Cary Sherman, who was honored with the Stephen Foster Award. The annual awards are set to return to the Ryman Auditorium Fall 2019.

2018 AWARD WINNERS

SONG OF THE YEAR
“I’LL NAME THE DOGS” Written by Matt Dragstrem, Ben Hayslip, Josh Thompson

Matt Dragstrem, Josh Thompson, Blake Shelton, and Ben Hayslip, celebrate backstage after “I’ll Name the Dogs,” was named NSAI 2018 ‘Song of the Year’

SONGWRITER/ARTIST OF THE YEAR
BRANDON LANCASTER

Brandon Lancaster honored as NSAI 2018 ‘Songwriter-Artist of the Year’

SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR
ASHLEY GORLEY

NSAI 2018 ‘Songwriter of the Year,’ Ashley Gorley with wife, Mandy Gorley

KRIS KRISTOFFERSON LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
BILL ANDERSON
Given in recognition to a songwriter whose works have made a significant
contribution to the American songbook and who has inspired the careers of others.

Bill Anderson (pictured with Steve Bogard – NSAI President) received the Kris Kristofferson Lifetime Achievement Award

THE WHITE HAT AWARD
CONGRESSMAN DOUG COLLINS
Bestowed by the NSAI Board of Directors to an individual who has significantly
served the American songwriting community.

Pictured L-R: Steve Bogard (NSAI President), Darius Rucker, Bart Herbison (NSAI Executive Director), Cong. Doug Collins (GA), recipient of The White Hat Award, and Lee Thomas Miller (NSAI Former President)

STEPHEN FOSTER AWARD
CARY SHERMAN
Given in recognition of a lifetime of dedication to music creators and the recording industry.

RIAA Chairman and CEO, and NSAI ‘Stephen Foster Award’ recipient, Cary Sherman and Jewel backstage at the RYMAN

TEN ‘SONGS I WISH I’D WRITTEN’ AWARDS
Each year, the highly-coveted Ten Songs I Wish I’d Written Awards are voted on by Professional Songwriter Members of NSAI honoring the work of their songwriter peers. Songs eligible for the award have at least one Nashville-based writer and charted in the Top 20 of Billboard Airplay chart in the Christian, Country, Mainstream Top 40, and/or Rock genres between July 1, 2017, and April 30, 2018. The NSAI Song Of The Year is the highest vote-getter.

“Broken Halos” – Written by: Mike Henderson, Chris Stapleton
“Every Little Thing” – Written by: busbee, Carly Pearce, Emily Shackelton
“Five More Minutes” – Written by: Monty Criswell, Scotty McCreery, Frank Rogers
“I Could Use A Love Song” – Written by: Maren Morris, Jimmy Robbins, Laura Veltz
“I Lived It” – Written by: Rhett Akins, Ross Copperman, Ashley Gorley, Ben Hayslip
“It Ain’t My Fault” – Written by: Lee Thomas Miller, John Osborne, T.J. Osborne
“Marry Me” – Written by: Jesse Frasure, Ashley Gorley, Shane McAnally, Thomas Rhett
“Most People Are Good” – Written by: David Frasier, Ed Hill, Josh Kear
“Written In The Sand” – Written by: Shane McAnally, Matthew Ramsey, Trevor Rosen, Brad Tursi
“Yours If You Want It” – Written by: Andrew Dorff, Jonathan Singleton

Writers of the NSAI 2018 Ten ‘Songs I Wish I’d Written’ Awards take the stage to celebrate

Sponsors:Presenting Sponsor – City National Bank. Special thanks to our additional supporting sponsors: Academy of Country Music, Hotel Indigo, Jack Daniels, Loeb & Loeb, National Association of Broadcasters/Tennessee Association of Broadcasters, Recording Academy, Recording Industry Association of America, Soundexchange, and Visit Music City.

 

About City National: With $48.7 billion in assets, City National Bank provides banking, investment and trust services through 72 offices, including 19 full-service regional centers, in Southern California, the San Francisco Bay Area, Nevada, New York City, Nashville, Atlanta, Minneapolis and Washington, D.C. In addition, the company and its investment affiliates manage or administer $64.9 billion in client investment assets.

City National is a subsidiary of Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), one of North America’s leading diversified financial services companies. RBC serves more than 16 million personal, business, public sector and institutional clients through offices in Canada, the United States and 34 other countries. For more information about City National, visit the company’s website at cnb.com.

About NSAI: Established in 1967, the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) is the world’s largest not-for-profit songwriters trade organization and has a membership of more than 5,000 spanning the United States and eight (8) foreign countries. Consisting of a body of creative minds, including songwriters from all genres of music, professional and amateur, for over 50 years, NSAI has been committed to protecting the rights and future of the profession of songwriting, as well as carrying a commitment to educate, elevate, and celebrate the songwriter, acting as a unifying force within the music community and the community at large. For more information, visit nashvillesongwriters.com.

Comments { 0 }

Old Dominion Play Bucket List Historic Ryman Auditorium Charity Show For “An Evening With Friends”  

By on September 20, 2018 in In The Press

Tuesday night, acclaimed country band Old Dominion sold out and electrified the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville for their special headline show: “An Evening With Friends.” The gig raised a total of $40K for charity, with half of the proceeds benefitting the Opry Trust Fund  and the other half benefitting the Ryan Seacrest Foundation.
Old Dominion front man and 2017 ASCAP Artist Writer of the Year Matthew Ramsey said, “What an unforgettable night.  The Nashville community has given so much to us. Our lives have changed in ways we could never have imagined – so we felt like this show at the Ryman was a great way to start giving back. There was so much love and music and history swirling around. We are beyond proud to be able to raise money and help those who need it – along with help from our friends!”

Check out photos below of the acclaimed band of songwriters alongside Sally Williams [SVP of Programming and Artist Relations for Opry Entertainment and General Manager of the Grand Ole Opry] and Meredith Seacrest [Executive Director and COO of the Ryan Seacrest Foundation].

Old Dominion with representatives of the Ryan Seacrest Foundation (L-R): Jimmy Leach, Whit Sellers, Brad Tursi, Mamie Shephard, Matthew Ramsey, Meredith Seacrest, Trevor Rosen, Katie Klochany, Geoff Sprung ​
Photo Credit: Mason Allen

 

During this unforgettable evening, the Platinum-selling quintet and reigning Academy of Country Music Vocal Group of the Year welcomed a bevy of special guests to the stage for collaborations, including Kenny Chesney, Kelsea Ballerini, Sam Hunt, and Michael Ray for show-stopping renditions of fan favorites. Kenny surprised the band on stage and had them play “Save It For A Rainy Day,” which was penned by Matthew Ramsey and Brad Tursi and hit #1 for 3 consecutive weeks. Kelsea joined the band to duet their #1 single “Written In The Sand” and her single “I Hate Love Songs,” which was co-written by band member Trevor Rosen . Michael Ray then performed his latest energetic single “The One That Got Away,” which was penned by Matthew and Trevor. Lastly, Sam Hunt performed 2 songs with the band that included the #1 single “Make You Miss Me,” as well as “Ex To See,” both of which were co-written with Sam by Matthew Ramsey. Old Dominion also performed 19 additional songs during their 120 minute set covering all their #1 hit singles, fan favorites, and debuted two brand new song unreleased songs including the youthful, energetic “Make It Sweet” and the sentimental and spiritual “Smooth Sailing.”

 
“An Evening With Friends” represents a milestone for the group who are steeped in songwriting and live to play. A place like Nashville’s legendary Ryman Auditorium is hallowed ground. After selling out arenas across the U.S. and Canada on the winter leg of their “Happy Endings World Tour,” the band wanted to check the iconic venue off their bucket list before picking back up on the fall leg of their arena tour. The run is set to kick off on Oct. 4 in Knoxville, TN at the Knoxville Coliseum.It was a scorching summer for Old Dominion. The band recently released their Spotify Singles — “Hotel Key” and a cover of Halsey’s “Bad At Love.” They also performed “Hotel Key” and “Written In The Sand” as part of the star-studded lineup for ABC’s “CMA Fest” television special. The group’s marathon tour cycle in support of its chart-topping second full-length album, Happy Endings, is well underway as they headline venues coast-to-coast. See the full itinerary below.

 
Tickets on sale now, HERE.
 
On the way to their fifth #1 off of their sophomore album, “Hotel Key,” which is currently #3 on the country charts, is the latest single from the bands sophomore album Happy Endings which debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart and #7 on the Top 200. The album also produced the singles “Written in The Sand” and “No Such Thing As a Broken Heart,” which also hit #1 on the Billboard Country Airplay and MediaBase charts. This achievement marked the Platinum-selling country quintet’s fourth total and third consecutive #1s. The group has also surpassed 1 billion on-demand streams.

 
HAPPY ENDINGS WORLD TOUR FALL 2018 DATES:
Oct. 4               Knoxville, TN                           Knoxville Coliseum
Oct. 5               Glen Allen, VA                         Innsbrook After Hours
Oct. 6               Rochester, NY                         Main Street Armory
Oct. 11             Amarillo, TX                            Amarillo Civic Center
Oct. 12             Las Cruces, NM                       Pan American Center
Oct. 13             Albuquerque, NM                   Balloon Fiesta Park
Oct. 25             Atlantic City, NJ                       Hard Rock Atlantic City
Oct. 26             University Park, PA                 Bryce Jordan Center
Oct. 27             Roanoke, VA                            Berglund Center
Oct. 31             Dublin, IE                                 Whelans
Nov. 1              Belfast, IE                                Empire Music Hall
Nov. 3              Liverpool, ENG                        O2 Academy 2
Nov. 4              London, ENG                           O2 Shepherds Bush Empire
Nov. 5              Bristol, ENG                             Trinity
Nov. 6              Manchester, ENG                    Academy 2
Nov. 8              Birmingham, ENG                   O2 Institute
Nov. 9              Glasglow, SCT                          Queen Maragaret Union
Nov. 10            Glasglow, SCT                          Queen Maragaret Union
Nov. 29            Estero, FL                                Germain Arena
Nov. 30            St. Augustine, FL                     St. Augustine Amphitheatre
Dec. 1              Winston-Salem, NC                 Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Dec. 6              Toledo, OH                              Huntington Center
Dec. 7              Huntington , WV                     Big Sandy Superstore Arena
Dec. 8              Grand Rapids, MI                    DeltaPlex Arena
Dec. 13            Bismarck, ND                          Bismarck Event Center
Dec. 14            Fargo, ND                                Scheels Arena
Dec. 15            Duluth, MN                             AMSOIL Arena

 

About Old Dominion:
Proving that they are not your average country band, Old Dominion blends old-fashioned country charm, lyrical wit and rock‘n’roll grit into radio-friendly, hook-heavy pop nuggets. Old Dominion recently released their highly anticipated sophomore album, Happy Endings, which debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart and #7 on the Top 200. Upholding an unbelievable hot streak, the album features two singles “Written In The Sand,” and “No Such Thing As A Broken Heart,” which hit #1 on Billboard Country Airplay and Mediabase charts. This achievement marks the Platinum-selling country quintet’s fourth total and third consecutive #1s . In addition to their ACM win, Vocal Group of the Year, Old Dominion has also been nominated for an ACM for “Album of the Year,” as well as an American Music Award, two CMA Awards, and recently nominated for “Top Country Duo/Group Artist” at the Billboard Music Awards.  The group emerged as one of the hottest breaking bands in country music with their debut album Meat And Candy, which fused clever lyrics and an infectious sound. The album, which was certified Gold by the RIAA, included several top selling hits including “Break Up With Him” (Platinum), “Snapback” (Gold) and the anthemic “Song For Another Time,” which hit #1 the on Billboard Country Airplay and MediaBase  charts. Following its release, the band was notably named ACM New Group of the Year, ACCA Breakthrough Group of the Year, AIMP Songwriter Artist of the Year and Music Row Breakthrough Artist of the Year.  Old Dominion consists of lead singer Matthew Ramsey, lead guitarist Brad Tursi, multi-instrumentalist Trevor Rosen, bassist Geoff Sprung, and drummer Whit Sellers.

 
FOLLOW OLD DOMINION
Website | iTunes | Spotify | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

 

Comments { 0 }
Verified by MonsterInsights