Tag Archives | 2018

The 2018 SESAC Awards Kicked Off CMA Awards Week

By on November 23, 2018 in Music, Special Events

onstage during the 2018 SESAC Nashville Music Awards at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum on November 11, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Songwriters were the focus, leading up to the CMA Awards, and SESAC celebrated with their roster of hit songwriters on the red carpet Sunday, November 11th as honorees gathered for for its annual awards show.

Focus on the 615 talked to a few of their favorites prior to the awards and performances held at the Country Music Hall of Fame.
One of the biggest songs in 2018 was “One Number Away”; co-written and produced by Sammy Mitchell, recorded by Luke Combs. This is Sammy’s first number one and he let us know how much of a whirlwind this year has been. “My life has changed….SESAC has been great about supporting me. These awards make it all a reality. It’s very cool to be honored for the first time”.

NASHVILLE, TN – NOVEMBER 11: Hillary Scott of musical group Lady Antebellum attends the 2018 SESAC Nashville Music Awards at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum on November 11, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Jason Davis/Getty Images for SESAC) *** Local Caption *** Hillary Scott

We also caught up with Josh Hoge, who was named SESAC Songwriter of the Year in 2016. Josh has penned hits for The Backstreet Boys, Chris Young, Kane brown and many others. This week his song “Hangin On” with Chris Young went went number one Sunday.
“We stayed up until midnight last night and they finally told us it was happening. We are getting an award tonight for our last number one with Chris, “Losin Sleep”, but with this current song that happened today, I am so happy. And I am blessed to have four songs on the Kane Brown record. We also just found out it was the most streamed album in one day, in country music history. Let me just say, it’s been a good weekend!” Hoge says.
Walking her first red carpet before the premiere of the USA Networks newest show “Real Country”, produced by Shania Twain, Jamie Floyd is one of the contestants on the show. “Well, I am still a waitress, but I have some huge news I can share soon….I am honored to walk the red carpet tonight and I am very excited about this television show. I respect Shania, Travis Tritt and Jake Owen so much. Jake is who found me to be on “Real Country”….We filmed it this summer, so I can’t believe it is finally being aired! It’s exciting!” Jamie says. Floyd was also featured in “The Last Songwriter”, a documentary film exposing the struggles songwriters go through. Jamie wrote ‘The Blade” for Ashley Monroe and was nominated for a Grammy in 2015. She has been very vocal and honest about how hard it is to survive as a songwriter and struggling artist in the music industry, being a huge advocate for the Music Modernization Act, which was signed into law on October 11th.
This years top honors went to Matt McGinn, winning Songwriter of the Year and Country Song of the Year for “Heaven”, recorded by Kane Brown.
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SESAC Celebrates Songwriters And Publishers At Nashville Music Awards

By on November 12, 2018 in In The Press

 

NASHVILLE, TN – NOVEMBER 11: SESAC VP of Creative Services Shannan Hatch speaks onstage during the 2018 SESAC Nashville Music Awards at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum on November 11, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images for SESAC) *** Local Caption *** Shannan Hatch

SESAC Inc., celebrated its songwriters and music publishers behind the year’s most-performed country and Americana songs at the company’s annual Nashville Music Awards, tonight, Sunday, Nov. 11, at the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum.

NASHVILLE, TN – NOVEMBER 11: (L-R) Anthony Raiola, SESAC President and COO Kelli Turner, Chairman and CEO of SESAC John Josephson, Ginger Gilbert Ravella, Lee Brice and SESAC VP of creative services Shannan Hatch attend the 2018 SESAC Nashville Music Awards at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum on November 11, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Jason Davis/Getty Images for SESAC) *** Local Caption *** Shannan Hatch;Lee Brice;Kelli Turner;John Josephson;Anthony Raiola;Ginger Gilbert Ravella

Matt McGinn, who has topped the charts with “Heaven,” performed by Kane Brown, was named SESAC’s Songwriter of the Year.  The multi-week, No. 1 multi-Platinum-selling “Heaven,” published by SMACKWORKS MUSIC and Kobalt Group Publishing, was named SESAC Song of the Year. Winning its first-ever Publisher of the Year accolade was SMACKWORKS MUSIC during the event.

NASHVILLE, TN – NOVEMBER 11: Tyler Rich performs onstage during the 2018 SESAC Nashville Music Awards at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum on November 11, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Jason Davis/Getty Images for SESAC) *** Local Caption *** Tyler Rich

McGinn’s co-writer and Lindsay Rimes, along with friends Aaron Eshuis and Joey Hyde, performed the No. 1 song “Heaven” in his honor. RCA Nashville recording artist Ryan Hurd was also on hand to present McGinn with his Songwriter of the Year Award.

NASHVILLE, TN – NOVEMBER 11: Hillary Scott of musical group Lady Antebellum attends the 2018 SESAC Nashville Music Awards at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum on November 11, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Jason Davis/Getty Images for SESAC) *** Local Caption *** Hillary Scott

In addition to celebrating songwriters and publishers, the Veteran’s Day event recognized America’s bravest men and women of the armed forces during the awards show. SESAC honored the Folds of Honor Foundation and its mission for providing educational scholarships to families of the fallen and disabled service members, and recognized Lee Brice, a SESAC affiliate, with an award for his involvement in the establishment of the Folds of Honor Nashville Chapter.

NASHVILLE, TN – NOVEMBER 11: Casey Brown(L) and Russell Dickerson attend the 2018 SESAC Nashville Music Awards at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum on November 11, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Jason Davis/Getty Images for SESAC) *** Local Caption *** Casey Brown;Russell Dickerson

The awards ceremony kicked off with Jamey Johnson and John Carter Cash performing “Spirit Rider” from the recent project Johnny Cash: Forever Words, which assembled an A-list of talent and garnered chart accolades from around the world. Lee Brice also performed a moving tribute of his 2013 CMA Song of the Year “I Drive Your Truck” in honor of Veteran’s Day. Culminating the evening, SESAC affiliates DJ KO, Runaway June, Tyler Rich, Seaforth and Michael Tyler provided musical entertainment with their latest hits.

onstage during the 2018 SESAC Nashville Music Awards at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum on November 11, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee.

The festive event, hosted by Shannan Hatch, SESAC’s Vice President of Creative Services, honored top songwriters and publishers behind the year’s biggest hits in the genres of country and Americana. More than 500 songwriters, publishers and industry professionals attended the awards celebration, sponsored in part by W.H. Grant & Sons and Sound Royalties.

NASHVILLE, TN – NOVEMBER 11: (L-R) Lee Brice, Matt McGinn and Sara Reeveley take photos during the 2018 SESAC Nashville Music Awards at Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum on November 11, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images for SESAC) *** Local Caption *** Sara Reeveley;Lee Brice;Matt McGinn

Country Awards:

“YOURS”

Written by:

Casey Brown

published by:

Not Just Another Song Publishing, So Essential Tunes

recorded by:

Russell Dickerson

“HEART BREAK”

written by:

Hillary Scott

published by W.B.M. Music Corp, EKT Publishing

recorded by:

Lady Antebellum

 

“HEAVEN”

written by:

Matt McGinn

published SMACKWORKS MUSIC, Kobalt Group Publishing

recorded by:

Kane Brown

 

“SINGLES YOU UP”

written by:

Justin Ebach

published by: Wordspring Music, WBM Music, Memory Days

recorded by:

Jordan Davis

“LOSING SLEEP”

written by:

Josh Hoge

published by: EMI Foray Music, Write to Be Free

recorded by:

Chris Young

“SHE’S WITH ME”

written by:

Seth Mosley

published by:

CentricSongs, Capitol CMG Amplifier

recorded by:

High Valley

 

“ONE NUMBER AWAY”

written by:

Sammy Mitchell

published by Concord Music, Self Shrevident Music

recorded by:

Luke Combs

Americana Awards:

ALL AMERICAN MADE

contributions by:

Margo Price, Jeremy Ivey

published by:

BMG, Peach Pit, Fisheye

recorded by:

Margo Price

 

FROM A ROOM VOL. 2

contributions by:

Kevin Welch, Brice Long, Jaron Boyer

published by:

Send ME the Checks Music, Spur 66 Music, Universal Tunes, EMI Foray Music, BMG

recorded by:

Chris Stapleton

 

JOHNNY CASH: FOREVER WORDS

contributions by:

Jamey Johnson, Rosanne Cash, Robert Glasper

published by:

Polishit, Chelcait Music, Notable Music, Words of Cash Music, BMG, Big Deal Music

recorded by:

Various Artists

 

ACCOMPLICE ONE

contributions by:

Anthony Snape

published by:

Anthony Snape Music Publishing

recorded by:

Tommy Emmanuel

 

THE LONELY, THE LONESOME & THE GONE

contributions by:

Andrew Combs

published by:

Concord Music, Chunk of Coal Publishing

recorded by:

Lee Ann Womack

TIME FLIES

contributions by:

Jim Lauderdale

published by:

BMG Cicada, Jim Lauderdale Music

Performed by:

Jim Lauderdale

 

FREE YOURSELF UP

contributions by:

Rachael Price, Michael Olson

published by:

W.B.M. Music, 17 Lake Street Music

recorded by:

Lake Street Music

 

SESAC Holdings, Inc.:

About SESAC Holdings, Inc.:

SESAC Holdings is the only U.S.-based Music Rights Organization that administers public performance, mechanical, and other rights. SESAC Holdings is unique in its ability to offer singular licenses for the works of its affiliated writers and publishers that aggregate both performance and mechanical rights in order to drive greater efficiency in licensing for music users, as well as enhanced value for music creators and publishers. Its businesses operate on a sophisticated information technology and data platform to provide timely, efficient royalty collection and distribution.

SESAC Holdings’ subsidiaries are some of the most well-known companies in music licensing and administration. SESAC Performing Rights is the second oldest and most progressive performing rights organization in the U.S.  SESAC Holdings’ acquisition of the Harry Fox Agency (HFA) accelerated its transition to a “multi-rights” organization with HFA’s deep publisher relations and mechanical licensing history. Following the HFA acquisition, HFA’s administrative service business unit adopted the Rumblefish brand of its sister company. Rumblefish simplifies business for digital services, publishers, labels, artists and apps. Rumblefish’s transparent composition and recording administration, data and royalty management, licensing and network monetization allow clients to focus on their core business. Rights. Simplified. Royalties. Amplified.

SESAC Holdings has offices in New York, Nashville, Los Angeles, Portland, San Francisco, London and Munich.

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Jason Aldean, Maren Morris, Big & Rich And More Will Be Joining The Onsite Foundation At Annual INSPIRE Event

By on October 20, 2018 in In The Press

The Onsite Foundation just announced that Jason Aldean and Big & Rich will perform, and a special presentation by Maren Morris will take place, at their annual INSPIRE event this month.  The evening will honor Live Nation’s President of Country Touring Brian O’Connell and his Nashville team with their 2018 Inspiration Award, taking place October 23 at Marathon Music Works. The country music industry is rallying around this important event recognizing O’Connell’s ongoing commitment to helping of the victims and families of the Oct. 1 tragedy in Las Vegas. The Onsite Foundation has created a 100% Scholarship, trauma and grief intensive program specifically for those who lost loved ones and proceeds from INSPIRE will benefit this directly, helping to find healing through mental health resources. To purchase tickets and sponsorships packages visit here: https://give.classy.org/inspire.

About The Onsite Foundation:
The Onsite Foundation provides funding to vulnerable populations including, victims of mass tragedies, refugees, veterans, first responders, creatives, and every day people needing mental health resources. This aids in the healing and rebuilding of those who struggle from the effects of trauma, abuse, stress, mental-health and relationship issues.  Inspire is an event honoring and celebrating the creative community and the individuals who give their heart and soul to make it what it is. This energy and culture is made possible by the tireless efforts of those who use their platforms to make an impact by giving back to their communities and inspiring those in need. Past recipients include Troy Tomlinson, Tracie and Scott Hamilton, Rod Essig and Pete Fisher. Past performers include Kenny Chesney, Wynonna, Jewel, Sheryl Crow, Vince Gill, Big & Rich, Ashley Monroe, LeAnn Rimes, and many more.  For more information, visit: https://inspirenashville.net/about/.

About Brian O’Connell:
President of Country Music Touring for Live Nation, Brian O’Connell is first and foremost a music fan. His passion for the artist, live shows and the fan experience remains engrained in his award-winning career of more than 25 years. O’Connell not only has a hand in some of the most important careers in country music, but has helped to revolutionize country touring. Toby Keith, Rascal Flatts, Brad Paisley, Jason Aldean, Florida Georgia Line, Lady Antebellum, Luke Bryan, Brooks & Dunn, Tim McGraw, Keith Urban, Dierks Bentley, Miranda Lambert, Thomas Rhett, Sam Hunt and many more are part of his growing tour legacy. He developed the innovative and successful Country Megaticket, and continues to grow a vibrant festival division, including Watershed Music and Camping Festival, Faster Horses, Country LakeShake, Tortuga Music Festival and Seven Peaks Music Festival.  In 2018, O’Connell was honored with the CMA Touring Lifetime Achievement Award and he is a eight-time winner of the Academy of Country Music’s Promoter of the Year award – more than any other promoter. He is a four-time winner of the Country Music Association’s Talent Buyer/Promoter of the Year award. In 2013 he was named Promoter of the Year by IEBA (The International Entertainment Buyers Association) and recognized by the industry’s leading tour source Pollstar with the 2006 Bill Graham Promoter of the Year Award, as well as the 2017, 2014 and 2013 Talent Buyer of the Year award.

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CMT To Honor Country Music Icon Loretta Lynn At “2018 CMT Artists Of The Year” With Special Tribute From Sheryl Crow, Dierks Bentley And Martina McBride

By on October 16, 2018 in In The Press

CMT today revealed an all-star tribute to country legend and 2018 “Artist of a Lifetime” Award recipient, Loretta Lynn, featuring Sheryl Crow, Dierks Bentley and Martina McBride. The trio will perform LIVE from Nashville at the 9th annual “2018 CMT Artists of the Year” special on Wednesday, October 17 at 8:00pm ET/PT. Some of music’s biggest stars are set to present at the event, including Sheryl Crow, Keith Urban, Smokey Robinson, singer-songwriter Elle King, Hillary Scott, Jimi Westbrook, Phillip Sweet, Charles Kelley and Dave Haywood, along with a special introduction by platinum-selling artist, Trisha Yearwood. They all join previously announced presenter Sissy Spacek.

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” are Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Kelsea Ballerini, Maren Morris, Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild and Kimberly Schlapman and Lady Antebellum’s Hillary Scott. The coveted “Artist of a Lifetime” award presented by Ram Trucks will be given to icon Loretta Lynn.

To continue this year’s celebration of women, CMT last week added seven female-powered powerhouse performances to the “2018 CMT Artists of the Year” lineup: Carrie Underwood with CMT Next Women of Country and tour mates Maddie & Tae and Runaway June; Miranda Lambert and Pistol Annies; Kelsea Ballerini with Alison Krauss; Karen Fairchild and Kimberly Schlapmanwith soul legend Gladys Knight; and Hillary Scott with singer-songwriter Tori Kelly and Grammy-award winning gospel artist Kirk Franklin. In addition, honoree Maren Morriswill join forces with Brandi Carlile for a powerful tribute to late icon Aretha Franklin.

In addition to the “2018 CMT Artists of the Year” live special, 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 Ballerinihonoring 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 5covering 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.

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World Famous Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge 58th Annual Birthday Bash Set For Wednesday, October 10th

By on October 6, 2018 in In The Press

The World Famous Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Music City’s legendary honky-tonk, will celebrate its 58th Birthday in downtown Nashville Wednesday, October 10th. As part of the celebration, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge will feature entertainment on the outdoor Broadway stage throughout the day with a FREE, star-studded evening concert featuring performances from Platinum-selling powerhouse Randy Houser, international superstar Kid Rock and country hitmaker Jake Owen.

Hosted by Ty, Kelly and Chuck Mornings’ Ty Bentli, Kelly Ford and Chuck Wicks, as well as NASH Nights Live co-hosts Shawn Parr and Elaina Smith, the annual Broadway street-party will also feature performances from country music’s finest, including Terri Clark, Darryl Worley, Montgomery Gentry, John Stone, Anthony Orio, Scott Collier and more to be announced!

“Tootsie’s Birthday Bash has become one of the most highly-anticipated annual events on lower Broadway. Each year it gets bigger and better,” said Tootsie’s owner Steve Smith. “Many artists started at Tootsie’s, and having them come back year after year is a great honor to the legacy and memory of Tootsie Bess! Everyone should come out and experience that magic on our 58th birthday.”

Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge Annual Birthday Bash attracts some of the biggest stars in music, including surprise appearances. The event, which takes place Oct. 10th on Broadway between 4th and 5th Avenue, will host entertainment on an outdoor stage throughout the day and is FREE to the public.

About Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge:
Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge has operated across the alley from the Ryman almost continuously since 1960. Its proprietor from 1960 to 1978, Hattie Louise “Tootsie” Bess, bought the lounge called “Mom’s” and named it for herself. According to tradition, a painter mistakenly painted the exterior orchid purple. The color was never changed and became Tootsie’s signature color. Over the years, she served such famous customers as Kris Kristofferson, Faron Young and Willie Nelson when they were still up-and-coming artists, and Tootsie was well-known for her generosity toward struggling musicians. The photo and memorabilia-lined walls are called “Tootsie’s Wall of Fame.”

Today, Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge is a must-see Music City destination for tourists and is frequented by locals, including some of the biggest names in country music, who often drop in and surprise patrons with impromptu performances. Kenny Chesney with classic rock icon Steve Miller, Keith Urban, Kix Brooks, Montgomery Gentry, Kid Rock, Steven Tyler, Randy Houser, Jamey Johnson, Dierks Bentley and Hank Williams, Jr. are among the artists who have recently performed there. For additional information, visit www.tootsies.net.

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Brewery Lineup Announced For Tennessee Beer And Wine Festival

By on October 4, 2018 in In The Press

The 2018 Tennessee Beer and Wine Festival returns on Saturday, Oct. 20 at Two Rivers Mansion in Donelson. The annual outdoor event will feature an extensive list of breweries, along with an assortment of wines, food vendors and live entertainment. The nonprofit festival raises funds for local organizations in the Hermitage and Donelson communities.

 

“We are thrilled to once again offer visitors a wide variety of beer and wine at our 9th annual festival,” said Bill LaFollette, chair of the Tennessee Beer and Wine Festival’s volunteer planning committee. “Beer and wine lovers will not only be able to sample several varieties, but also enjoy food, live music and a German beer garden courtesy of Bavarian Bierhaus, all while benefiting a great cause.”

 

The festival’s brewery lineup includes favorites such as Jackalope Brewing Company, Black Abbey Brewing Company, Blackstone Brewing Company, Highland Brewing Company, Hi-Wire Brewing, Founders Brewing and Ballast Point Brewing Company. In addition, guests are invited to stroll along the beautiful grounds of Two Rivers Mansion while enjoying local musical talent and a variety of food and artisan vendors. Food vendors include Little Cancun on the Go and Smokin’ Bowls, along with burgers and bratwursts. This year’s festival will also feature a biergarten sponsored by Bavarian Bierhaus, which includes food and beer tastings.

Guests can purchase tickets prior to the event for $40 and onsite for $50. Designated driver tickets are offered for $15. Additional information can be found by visiting www.tennesseebeerandwinefestival.com. Tickets include access to the event, samples of beer and wine, a commemorative tasting glass and an invite to the event’s official after party atScoreboard Sports Bar & Grill. Free parking at the event is available for all attendees.

The Tennessee Beer and Wine Festival at Two Rivers Mansion is located at 3130 McGavock Pike. The festival is made possible by generous event sponsors, including presenting sponsors Wealth Strategy Partners and Ryman Entertainment. Supporting sponsors include John C. Hobbs Re/Max Carriage House, BigMeanKitty.com, Bush Insurance Agencies, Scoreboard Sports Bar & Grill and Freeman.

About the Tennessee Beer and Wine Festival
The Tennessee Beer and Wine Festival is held the third Saturday in October at Two Rivers Mansion. More than 2,000 enthusiastic beer and wine tasters show up for a great afternoon featuring more than 30 local, national and international breweries with a selection of approximately 100 beers to taste along with more than 90 wines. The festival raises money for many non-profits while promoting the Donelson-Hermitage area. For more information, please visit www.tennesseebeerandwinefestival.com.

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CMT Spotlights Multiple Genres And Generations At “2018 CMT Artists Of The Year” With Seven New Performances

By on October 3, 2018 in In The Press

HONOREES CARRIE UNDERWOOD, MIRANDA LAMBERT, KELSEA BALLERINI, MAREN MORRIS, LITTLE BIG TOWN’S KAREN FAIRCHILD AND KIMBERLY SCHLAPMAN AND LADY ANTEBELLUM’S HILLARY SCOTT SET TO PERFORM

ADDITIONAL PERFORMERS INCLUDE GLADYS KNIGHT, TORI KELLY, ALISON KRAUSS, PISTOL ANNIES, BRANDI CARLILE, KIRK FRANKLIN, MADDIE & TAE AND RUNAWAY JUNE LIVE FROM NASHVILLE OCTOBER 17

To continue this year’s celebration of women, CMT has added seven new powerhouse performances to the “2018 CMT Artists of the Year” lineup: Carrie Underwood with CMT Next Women of Country and tour mates Maddie & Tae and Runaway June; Miranda Lambert and Pistol Annies; Kelsea Ballerini with Alison Krauss; Karen Fairchildand Kimberly Schlapman with soul legend Gladys Knight; and Hillary Scott with singer-songwriter Tori Kelly and Grammy-award winning gospel artist Kirk Franklin. In addition, honoree Maren Morris will join forces with Brandi Carlile for a powerful tribute to late icon Aretha Franklin. The 9thannual special premieres LIVE from Nashville on Wednesday, October 17 at 8:00pm ET/PT, only on CMT.

In recognition of the undeniable influence and impact of female artists in country music, the “2018 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” are Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Kelsea Ballerini, Maren Morris, Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild and Kimberly Schlapman and Lady Antebellum’s Hillary Scott. The coveted “Artist of a Lifetime” award presented by Ram Trucks will be given to country music icon Loretta Lynn.

In addition to the “2018 CMT Artists of the Year” live special, 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 Ballerinihonoring 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 5covering 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).

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2018 Music City Food + Wine Festival: The Food, The Fun, The Music

By on September 21, 2018 in Music, Special Events

The Music City Food + Wine Festival returned to Nashville last weekend, September 14-16, in what is now its 6th year.  I have had the pleasure of attending this fabulous festival for the last 4 years, and it is something I eagerly look forward to all year long.

The festival kicked off Friday evening at the beautiful Bicentennial Mall near downtown by the State Capitol building to an eager crowd waiting for the gates to open.

The 1st night included the vast Grand Tasting areas featuring Nashville’s finest culinary offerings from celebrity and up-and-coming chefs along with tastings of wine, spirits, and cocktails from all over.

The Friday Night Throwdown was the ultimate culinary face-off as star chefs Anne Burrell and Tim Love went head-to-head in a spirited cooking demo, each captaining a team featuring celebrity sous chefs from the Nashville Predators and Tennessee Titans.  The competition was emceed by Jessie James Decker and Eric Decker.

Burrell and the Preds’ Subban and Josi battled Love and the Titans’ Lewan and Mariota as each team was challenged to create the ultimate meal from a surprise ingredient box.  Festival goers packed this area to cheer on our hometown teams and enjoy the fun cooking competition.

Thompson Nashville’s rooftop bar, L.A. Jackson, won the Official Drink of Nashville title for their cocktail, The 615.  A title voted on by festival attendees on Friday night as bartenders from local establishments from all around competed under one large, tented area complete with mirrorballs and colorful lighting.  With 6 ingredients and 1 fantastic drink, the L.A. Jackson team delivered memorable experiences at the festival.  Sadly, I missed tasting their drink, so I think a visit to the rooftop bar might be in order for the very near future!

Saturday featured another another round of the Grand Tasting area in the Bicentennial Mall area to try an expansive selection of creative & delicious dishes from local favorite restaurants.

There were panel discussions, celebrity book signings and cooking demonstrations throughout the day along with mixing/tasting sessions of various alchohol beverages.  So much to do!

Martin’s Bar-B-Que again featured numerous mouthwatering tastings of their various smoked meats.  Always a crowd favorite!

Some of my very favorites were the creative and fun displays from Hendricks Gin, Reyka Vodka, and Monkey Shoulder.  Each featured delicious cocktails paired with very creative set-ups.   I will go into full detail about all 3 in separate articles very soon to let you know much more about them all.  Until then, enjoy the photos and video clips I have included here.

Saturday evening was the Harvest Night held in downtown Nashville’s Walk of Fame Park.  Always the perfect, picturesque setting for a night of more delicious tastings of culinary offerings, wine, spirits, and cocktails.  The evening included an incredibly-fun concert with the theme of 70’s and 80’s cover songs by festival co-creators, Kings of Leon, and their many special guests like Sheryl Crow, Little Big Town, Robert Randolph, and many more.   They all had the crowd dancing and singing along to classic hit favorites.  Many festival attendees even dressed in 70’s and 80’s attire to join in on the fun.  I really hope they will do a fun theme like that again, it was fun, fabulous, and I danced all night long.

Day 3 was the Gospel Brunch featuring brunch favorites and uplifting music.  Always a great way to wrap up the festival.

This wonderful weekend went by so fast, and I am already counting down the days to next year’s festival.  It can’t come soon enough! Can’t wait to see what they do next.  Whatever it is, you can be assured it will be well-organized, tasty, and fun.  Thanks for such a great time Music City Food + Wine Festival!

For more information, please visit http://www.musiccityfoodandwinefestival.com or follow them on Instagram (Instagram.com/musiccityfw) Twitter (Twitter.com/musiccityfw) and Facebook (Facebook.com/musiccityfw) #MCFW.
Music City Food + Wine is generously sponsored by: Nashville Convention + Visitors Bureau, Toyota and FOOD & WINE.
About Music City Food + Wine Festival:
Music City Food + Wine Festival is produced by GRAMMY-award winning artists (and Nashville residents) Kings of Leon, world-renowned chef Jonathan Waxman, Vector Management’s Ken Levitan and Andy Mendelsohn, and Austin-based C3 Presents – producer of Lollapalooza in Chicago’s Grant Park, and Austin City Limits Music Festival in Austin’s Zilker Park.

 

 

 

 

 

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CMT Celebrates The Women Of Country Music With First-Ever All-Female “Artists Of The Year” Special

By on September 11, 2018 in In The Press

In recognition of the undeniable influence and impact of female artists in country music, CMT today announced that 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 CarrieUnderwood, Miranda Lambert, Kelsea Ballerini, Maren Morris, Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild and Kimberly Schlapman, and Lady Antebellum’s Hillary Scott. The 90-minute special will premiere on Wednesday, October 17 at 8:00 PM, ET/PT only on CMT.

“This year, we’re evolving the special to reflect what’s happening right now in culture and in the lives of our fans,” said Leslie Fram, Senior Vice President of Music & Talent, CMT.“In this monumental year for women, dedicating one of the biggest nights in the genre to applaud female country artists not only solidifies our commitment, but we hope will spark a much-needed change in the industry.”

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 Ballerinihonoring 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 5covering 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.

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Music City Food + Wine Festival Announces Additional Harvest Night Chefs, Panel Discussions, Tasting Sessions & Book Signing Schedule

By on September 7, 2018 in In The Press

Music City Food + Wine Festival is pleased to announce the addition of acclaimed chefs Billy Durney (Hometown Bar-B-Que) and Matt Hyland & Graydon Atchley (EMMY Squared Nashville), as well as James Beard Foundation Award semi-finalists Ford Fry (Sea Wolf, Le Loup, Star Rover, Superica) and Matt McClure (The Hive at 21c Museum Hotel Bentonville) to the Harvest Night line-up. Rounding out the festival programming are a dynamic line-up of intimate Panel Discussions and engaging Tasting Sessions, as well as the Book Signing schedule, for the sixth annual festival, September 14-16, 2018. http://www.musiccityfoodandwinefestival.com.

 

Panel Discussions:

Join culinary all-stars on Saturday, September 15 for intimate Panel Discussions that foster engaging and often hilarious conversations. Kick-off the day with moderator Carla Hall (Chef, Author, TV Personality) and chefs Jeni Britton Bauer (Jeni’s Ice Cream), Gerard Craft (Pastaria) and Billy Durney (Hometown Bar-B-Que) to discover the crucial dishes, essential drinks and dream guests that make-up their Ultimate Dinner Party. Don’t miss the chance to learn about the culinary Must-Haves in the kitchen, in the pantry and beyond with chefs Matt Bolus (The 404 Kitchen), Rob Newton (Gray & Dudley)and Andy Little (Josephine), moderated by Tiffani Faison (Sweet Cheeks, Tiger Mama, Fool’s Errand).

 

Moderator Jonathan Waxman (Barbuto, Jams, Adele’s Brezza Cucina) will be joined by chefs Jessica Benefield (Two Ten Jack, The Green Pheasant), Chris Shepherd (UB Preserv), Tandy Wilson (City House, Mop / Broom Mess Hall) for a spirited conversation about their Kitchen Highs & Lows. Listen in as Ruth Reichl (Author & TV Personality) uncovers answers to the Things You Always Wanted To Know But Were Too Afraid To Ask with chefsPat Martin (Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint, Hugh Baby’s), Deb Paquette (Etch Restaurant) and Aarón Sánchez (Johnny Sánchez).

 

Tasting Sessions:

Friday night, September 14 and Saturday, September 15 festivalgoers are encouraged to stop by the Tasting Sessions tent to experience interactive and hands-on sampling of spirits, wines, cocktails and more from the world’s experts. Join The 404 Kitchen sommelier, Jenelle Engleson, to sip and savor four rosé variations during Where There’s A Will, There’s A Rosé. Take A Walk Through Heaven’s Door with Ryan Perry, Heaven’s Door whiskey developer,and taste three expressions from Tennessee’s award-winning whiskey made in partnership with Bob Dylan.

 

Learn about Italy’s wine regions and numerous grape varietals during Formaggio Forever – Pairing Italian Wines and Cheese. Whether taste buds run to festive bubblies, crisp whites or rich reds, there’s a wine to fit every palate and every plate. Festivalgoers can enjoy four wines from Santa Margherita, each paired with a cheese from Nashville’s local cheesemonger, The Bloomy Rind.

 

Find out how to Savor South Walton with chef Dan Vargo serving tastes of Gulf Blue Crab Cocktail with Walton County Greens and Tangerine paired with Inspiration Rosé from Provence Rosé Group.Join Phillip Dormont, Treaty Oak distiller & lead product developer, for Thoughts on Bourbon and Foodfeaturing samples of signature whiskeys, including Red Handed Bourbon Whiskey, Ghost Hill Texas, Bourbon Whiskey, and Red Handed Rye Whiskey.

 

Book Signings:

For a chance to meet & greet with chefs and get their latest cookbook personalized and signed, festivalgoers are encouraging to swing by the Book Signing tent on Saturday September 15. The signing schedule can be found via https://www.musiccityfoodandwinefestival.com/schedule/.

 

Tickets & More Information:

Music City Food + Wine Festival ticket options still available include Friday Night Ticket and Saturday Ticket and a limited number of Gospel Brunch Tickets. All attendees must be 21 years of age or older.

 

The Friday Night Ticket ($165 per person) includes single-day access to Friday, September 14 festival programming at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, including the Official Drink of Nashville competition and the Friday Night Throwdown; Grand Taste, with more than 80 beer, wine, cocktail, and culinary tastings; access to Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint & Friends; and more.

 

The Saturday Ticket ($165 per person) includes single-day access to Saturday, September 15 festival programming at Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, including Grand Taste, with more than 80 beer, wine, cocktail, and culinary tastings; cooking demos; panel discussions; access to Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint & Friends; and more.

 

Gospel Brunch Ticket ($85 per person) will return to Walk of Fame Park on Sunday, September 16, featuring a dynamic roster of restaurants and chefs serving creative brunch favorites. Get a jump-start on the day with eye-opening cocktails, wine, coffee, and a spirited live gospel brunch performance from Gayle Mayes.

 

For more information, please visit http://www.musiccityfoodandwinefestival.com or follow us on Instagram (Instagram.com/musiccityfw) Twitter (Twitter.com/musiccityfw) and Facebook (Facebook.com/musiccityfw) #MCFW.

 

Music City Food + Wine is generously sponsored by: Nashville Convention + Visitors Bureau, Toyota and FOOD & WINE.

 

About Music City Food + Wine Festival:

Music City Food + Wine Festival is produced by GRAMMY-award winning artists (and Nashville residents) Kings of Leon, world-renowned chef Jonathan Waxman, Vector Management’s Ken Levitan and Andy Mendelsohn, and Austin-based C3 Presents – producer of Lollapalooza in Chicago’s Grant Park, and Austin City Limits Music Festival in Austin’s Zilker Park.

 

About FOOD & WINE:

FOOD & WINE is the ultimate authority on the best of what’s new in food, drink, travel, design and entertaining. FOOD & WINE has an extensive social media following on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr and Snapchat. FOOD & WINE includes a monthly magazine in print and digital; a website, foodandwine.com; a books division; plus newsletters, clubs, events, dinnerware and cookware. FOOD & WINE is a registered trademark of Time Inc. Affluent Media Group.

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