HOOTIE & THE BLOWFISH BRING CLASSIC HIT “ONLY WANNA BE WITH YOU” TO ABC’s “GOOD MORNING AMERICA” AS "SUMMER CAMP WITH TRUCKS" TOUR ROLLS TO FENWAY PARK

Generation-Defining Band Surprised With Plaque Celebrating RIAA 22x Platinum Certification of Cracked Rear View Top 10 Best-Selling Album in Music History

Also Performed Iconic Hits “Hold My Hand” and “Let Her Cry” on “GMA3: What You Need To Know”

This morning, June 20, iconic band Hootie & the Blowfish electrified audiences nationwide with a live performance of their timeless hit “Only Wanna Be With You” on ABC’s “Good Morning America.” The performance marked a highlight in their ongoing Summer Camp with Trucks Tour, set to make its next stop at Boston’s famed Fenway Park tomorrow, June 21, and running through the fall.

During the broadcast, the band received a special surprise: a commemorative plaque from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) celebrating their debut album, Cracked Rear View, achieving 22x Platinum certification, further extending its Double Diamond-certified status. This monumental accomplishment solidifies Cracked Rear View as one of the top 10 best-selling albums in music history, a testament to the band’s enduring appeal and the album’s lasting impact on the music industry.

Photo Credit: ABC/Paula Lobo

Hootie & the Blowfish, formed by members Darius Rucker, Mark Bryan, Dean Felber and Jim “Soni” Sonefeld during their time as students at the University of South Carolina, also treated fans to their hits “Hold My Hand” and “Let Her Cry” on “GMA3:What You Need To Know.”

WATCH: Hootie & the Blowfish Perform “Let Her Cry” on “GMA3: What You Need To Know”

WATCH: Hootie & the Blowfish Perform “Hold My Hand” on “GMA3: What You Need To Know”

Fans can hear those classic hits and more on the ongoing Summer Camp with Trucks Tour, produced by Live Nation and featuring special guests Collective Soul and Edwin McCain. Visiting arenas, amphitheaters and select stadiums such as tomorrow’s stop at Fenway Park (with special guests Barenaked Ladies), the tour also includes a homecoming to Columbia, S.C.’s Colonial Life Arena for the Gamecock alumni as well as a headlining appearance at Rucker’s own Riverfront Revival Music Festival in their home state in October. Tickets to all shows are on sale now via Hootie.com.

In addition, a celebration of the band's decades-long career that brings their classic sound to fans across the country, they also recently released their rendition of “For What It's Worth.” The timeless anthem originally penned by Stephen Stills in 1966 was recorded by Hootie & the Blowfish in 2017 during their studio sessions for Imperfect Circle. Listen HERE.

For more information, visit Hootie.com and follow on Facebook @hootieandtheblowfish, Instagram @hootieoffcial and Twitter/X @hootietweets.

Remaining Summer Camp with Trucks Tour Dates

June 21 | Boston, Mass. | Fenway Park
June 27 | Bethel, N.Y. | Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
June 28 | Hershey, Pa. | Hersheypark Stadium
June 29 | Burgettstown, Pa. | The Pavilion at Star Lake
July 10 | Denver, Colo. | Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre
July 11 | Salt Lake City, Utah | USANA Amphitheatre
July 13 | Phoenix, Ariz. | Footprint Center
July 16 | Anaheim, Calif. | Honda Center
July 17 | Mountain View, Calif. | Shoreline Amphitheatre
July 19 | Portland, Ore. | RV Inn Styles Amphitheater
July 20 | Seattle, Wash. | White River Amphitheatre
July 26 | Birmingham, Ala. | Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
July 27 | Nashville, Tenn. | Bridgestone Arena
Aug. 1 | Hartford, Conn. | The XFINITY Theatre
Aug. 2 | Holmdel, N.J. | PNC Bank Arts Center
Aug. 3 | Columbia, Md. | Merriweather Post Pavilion
Aug. 8 | Somerset, Wisc. | Somerset Amphitheater
Aug. 9 | Chicago, Ill. | Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre
Aug. 10 | East Troy, Wisc. | Alpine Valley Music Theatre
Aug. 15 | Cleveland, Ohio | Blossom Music Center
Aug. 16 | Philadelphia, Pa. | Freedom Mortgage Pavilion
Aug. 17 | Bristow, Va. | Jiffy Lube Live
Aug. 23 | Las Vegas, Nev. | Fountainebleau Las Vegas
Aug. 24 | Las Vegas, Nev. | Fountainebleau Las Vegas
Aug. 29 | Columbia, S.C. | Colonial Life Arena
Aug. 30 | Columbia, S.C. | Colonial Life Arena
Sept. 5 | Wantagh, N.Y. | Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater
Sept. 6 | Syracuse, N.Y. | Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview
Sept. 7 | Toronto, Ontario | Budweiser Stage
Sept. 12 | Knoxville, Tenn. | Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center
Sept. 13 | Raleigh, N.C. | Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
Sept. 14 | Virginia Beach, Va. | Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater
Sept. 19 | Charlotte, N.C. | PNC Music Pavilion
Sept. 20 | Alpharetta, Ga. | Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
Sept. 21 | Greenville, S.C. | Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Sept. 26 | Tampa, Fla. | MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
Sept. 27 | Jacksonville, Fla. | VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena
Sept. 28 | West Palm Beach, Fla. | iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre
Oct. 12 | North Charleston, S.C. | Riverfront Revival Music Festival

CONCERT REVIEW: JASON CRABB BRINGS HIS MUSICAL TRUTH AND PERSONAL CONVICTION TO KINSTON, NC

Let me start this review by saying if you have never seen Jason Crabb perform live, make it a point to go. He's been in my area many times but I always had a reason here or there as to why I never made it to a show. I saw he was coming within a 2 hour drive this time so I made it a point to go and check it off my bucket list. WOW. I am soooo glad I did. I left there a changed person. I believe Jason is one of the best songwriters the music industry has been blessed with. His words change lives.

I arrived at the venue a couple of hours early. Thanks to his wonderful publicist, Aaron, I was able to have some quiet, one on one time with Jason before the show to just sit and talk about his life, his music and his faith. What an amazing conversation. You can read the interview HERE.  There is something so refreshing about an artist who isn't afraid of who they really are, who is willing to show their authenticity and speak their mind even if it isn't freely accepted by today's society. That's what makes Jason Crabb a stand out, not only in a commercialized industry but as an every day person. He says his truth, he stands by his words, he expresses his love of God and his faith in a very open and honest way and he shares his message in the words of each song he sings. You won't hear words come out of his mouth that he doesn't believe or mean. You won't hear lyrics that make you question the content of his music. He's real, he's genuine and he's exactly who he is. His music, stories, testimony and just his personal delivery of all three is a much needed and much welcomed message of encouragement.

Jason took the stage with his band and immediately commanded the attention of the crowd, the applause and cheers were pretty loud. I love the way he interacts with people. He doesn't treat them as fans, he treats them as friends. This was a room full of friends to him. He laughed with us, joked with us and told the best stories. Now let's talk about that voice. WOW. I knew he could sing because I've been a fan for years but to hear him live is a whole new experience. His voice is so strong and he hits every note spot on. You can't help but sit there with a stupid grin on your face listening to him. I know I wasn't the only one looking like that. He sings with a distinct, yet humble, self-confidence and a welcome positivity. He is a great guitar player too. I had already forewarned him not to look at me because I would be crying during some of his songs and his response? "Well then we'll both be crying."

He sang a variety of songs - "Sometimes I Cry", "Just as I Am" and a huge list of older ones and he brought out his newer ones like "Good Morning Mercy" (his duet single with country artist Dylan Scott) and "Do It For You". 

The highlight of the night was when he brought out his daughter, Ashleigh. She is an up and coming singer/songwriter and author of a book she's been working on. What an impressive young lady she was. She sang a beautiful rendition of "Great is Thy Faithfulness". The audience loved her performance so much that Jason kept her on stage for awhile and she sang her own composition, a hauntingly personal and amazing song that I unfortunately missed the name of but when if she releases it as a single, I'll be all over it. It was soooo good. Her voice is simple yet complex and stunning. She stayed on for a duet of the Crabb Family favorite, "Please Forgive Me" which was written by Gerald Crabb. 

This night was one I'll never forget and one that changed my life in a span of about 3 hours. Thank you both for one of the best performances I've ever been blessed to witness.

#NOWPLAYING: SONGS YOU SHOULD BE LISTENING TO - TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

I normally post these on Friday, but due to Hurricane Dorian smacking Eastern NC, I was a little pre-occupied so I am posting these must hear songs today.

If you're looking for new artists and you're getting tired of the same old Top 40 repetition on today's country radio, check out these names you may or may not be familiar with. Some songs listed are new, some may have been out for quite awhile, and all are of various styles because one taste doesn't suit all palates. Some may also be veteran artists that you might already love or some of country's most talented songwriters.

I'm simply introducing you to artists you might enjoy and music you might connect with. There's such a wide world of artists and songs out there to broaden your listening base and beyond what radio is telling us is good music. Don't limit yourself to radio when there are so many other outlets where truly good music can be found.

If you find yourself liking any of these artists, please follow them on social media and let them know you enjoy their music. Please be sure to talk about and share any of the songs and artists you like on this list. I'm sure they'd appreciate it! One more thing, if you purchase and download a song, please be sure to leave a review. These help the artists and their teams more than you realize. If you like the song, let them know why you love it. If not, be constructive and honest (not mean) about why you don't like it so much.

#SHARETHEMUSIC

THIS WEEK'S ARTISTS

RONNIE DUNN

"AMARILLO BY MORNING"

KYLE JENNINGS

"THEY DON'T MAKE LOVE LIKE THAT NO MORE"

CHRIS JANSON

"DONE"

KENDELL MARVEL

"LET IT GO"

DEAN ALEXANDER

"A BREATH AWAY"

RALEIGH KEEGAN

"SOMETHIN' IN THE WHISKEY"

RUTHIE COLLINS

"DANG DALLAS"

]

WHISKEY MYERS

"HOUSTON COUNTY SKY"

JOSH GALLAGHER

"BOOTS LIKE MINE"

#NOWPLAYING - SONGS YOU SHOULD BE LISTENING TO ... FRIDAY, APRIL 19

If you're looking for new artists and you're getting tired of the same old Top 40 repetition on today's country radio, check out these names you may or may not be familiar with. Some songs listed are new, some may have been out a little while, and they are of various styles. Good music doesn't have a shelf life.

If you find yourself liking someone, follow them on social media and let them know you enjoy their music. Please be sure to talk about and share any of the songs and artists you like on this list. I'm sure they'd appreciate it! One more thing, if you purchase and download a song, please be sure to leave a review. These help the artists and their teams more than you realize. If you like the song, let them know why you love it. If not, be constructive and honest (not mean) about why you don't like it so much.

THIS WEEK'S ARTISTS

Riley Green

"In Love By Now"

Carter Winter

"Before You" (Acoustic)

Sheryl Crow & Johnny Cash

"Redemption Day"

Chris Golden

"Let My Life Be a Light"

Leaving Austin

"Southern Gold"

Steve  Bridgmon

"Push Back"

Doug Adkins

"Whiskey Salesman"

Muscadine Bloodline

"Girl From Mississippi"

Maddie and Tae

"Die From a Broken Heart"

OUR FAVORITE 100 SONGS OF 2018 ... IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER

It's almost the end of another year of great music. Kreuzer's Korner put out his yearly list of his 100 top so, as we do every year, I'm matching the challenge and posting my Top 100 that were played on my playlists this year. You may recognize some names and some you may not. Not all are radio singles, some are songs that are just on an album release or that have been released on Spotify. If you're not familiar with any of the artists, please take the time to go and check them out and see if they're someone you'd like to hear more from. Follow them on social media.

Let's spread the word about good music into 2019! These are in no particular order other than alphabetical, just 100 of my personal favorites from the past year that made an impact on me whether it be emotional or just making me shake my booty. They made me keep listening on repeat. Keep the good music out there! Most are available on all digital outlets, so if you like what you hear, go purchase and leave a review for the artist!

100. "Workin' Overtime" - Lainey Wilson

99. "Say No More" - Kaylee Starr
98.  "Hide the Wine" - Carly Pearce
97. "We've Got Tonight" - Chord Overstreet
96. "That's Where I Grew Up" - Shenandoah
95. "Make Him Wait" - Abby Anderson
94. "Every Which Way But Loose" - Blake Shelton
93. "Billy Graham's Bible" - Joe Nichols
92. "Pray to Jesus" - Oak Ridge Boys
91. "The Ones That Didn't Make It Back Home" - Justin Moore
90. "Party Up" - Cowboy Troy

89. "Power of Garth" - Lucas Hoge
88. "Neon Smoke" - Gord Bamford
87. "Holy Ground" - Cort Carpenter
86. "Dandelion" - Eddie Heinzelman
85.  "Chase Away the Morning" - Pickleback Shine
84. "Milestones" - Adam Brand
83. "Love Someone" - Brett Eldredge
82. "Down Town" - Parmalee
81. "If It Don't Have a Honky Tonk" - Brinley Addington
80. "Tennessee Boy" - Kip Moore

79. "It's Simple" - Dillon Carmichael
78. "Beer Bucket List" - David Adam Byrnes
77. "See You Try" - Craig Campbell
76. "Memorial Day" - Coffey Anderson featuring Neal McCoy
75. "Bar That's Open" - Kasey Tyndall
74. "Woman, Amen" - Dierks Bentley
73. "Chevy and Daddy" - AJ Sanders
72. "Hank Crankin' People" - Tyler Booth
71. "Simple Town" - Walker Montgomery
70. "Ruined This Town" - Lee Gantt

69. "Good and Drunk" - Ward Davis
68. "She-I-O" - Maggie Rose
67. "Someday My Day Will Come" - James Carothers
66. "Daddy Did" - Drew Parker
65. "Hell of a Highway" - Jake Worthington
64. "That's What Grandpas Do" - Gord Bamford
63. "Caught Up in the Country" - Rodney Atkins featuring the Fisk Jubilee Singers
62. "Buy My Own Drinks" - Runaway June
61. "Let's Go There" - Dan Davidson
60. "Stuck on Me + You" - Emily Ann Roberts

59. "Money" - Cold Creek County featuring Mitchell Tenpenny
58. "Soul Searching" - Bobby Hamrick
57. "I Did" - Anthony and Lee Ann Cooper Featuring Josh Pruno and Matt Dame
56. "Burn Out" - Midland
55. "Your Hurricane" - Heather Morgan
54. "Paying Attention" - Ashley Monroe
53. "Run Wild Horses" - Aaron Watson
52. "Maybe It's Time" - Bradley Cooper
51. "Green Light" - Levi Riggs
50. "D.R.U.N.K." - Shooter Jennings

49. "What's That Cowgirl See in Me" - Larry Stewart
48. "Space Cowboy" - Kacey Musgraves
47. "I Don't Remember Me Before You" - Brothers Osborne
46. "Anyone Else" - Lance Carpenter and Krystal Keith
45. "Must Be the Whiskey" - Cody Jinks
44. "People Get Old" - Lori McKenna
43. "Break Up in the End" - Cole Swindell
42. "Wise Man" - Jean Nolan
41. "Sucker for a Good Time" - Brent Cobb
40. "Beautiful Crazy" - Luke Combs

39.  "Movin' On" - Muscadine Bloodline
38. "Got My Name Changed Back" - The Pistol Annies
37. "I Want Love" - Chris Stapleton
36. "Better Together" - Craig Wayne Boyd
35. "Ladies in the 90's" - Lauren Alaina
34. "All Tractors Ain't Green"- Jimmie Allen
33. "If It Wasn't for the Radio" - The Frontmen of Country
32. "All the Trouble" - Lee Ann Womack
31. "Diane" - Cam
30. "You Got 'Em All" - Trent Harmon

29. "Short Are the Years" - Jason Crabb
28. "What If I Stay" - Adley
27. "Beautifully Broken" - John Berry
26.  "Jack It To Jesus" - Jaida Dreyer
25. "Slow and Easy" - Karen Waldrup
24. "Chose to Be a Man" - Kyle Jennings
23. "Desperate Man" - Eric Church
22. "Heartache Off My Back" - Kendell Marvel
21. "The Lucky Architect" - Griffin Anthony
20. "On My Way to You" - Cody Johnson

19. "Get Along" - Kenny Chesney
18. "Blank Stares" - Jay Allen
17. "Damage" - Rachel Wammack
16. "When Willie's Gone" - Adam Harvey
15. "Most People Are Good" - Luke Bryan
14. "Every Little Thing" - Carly Pearce
13. "Mercy" - Brett Young
12. "Better Me" - Montgomery Gentry
11. "Best Years of My Life" - The Pistol Annies
10. "You Won't See Me Cry" - Cash Creek

9. "Shoot Me Straight" - Brothers Osborne
8. "Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega" - Ashley McBryde
7. "Fear is a Liar" - Zach Williams
6. "What Whiskey Does" - Randy Houser featuring Hillary Lindsay
5. "Girl Goin' Nowhere" - Ashley McBryde
4. "Five More Minutes" - Scotty McCreery
3. "One Number Away" - Luke Combs
2 (TIE). "In Case You Didn't Know"- Trent Tomlinson version
             "In Case You Didn't Know" - Brett Young version
             ** BOTH VERSIONS ARE AMAZING **

1. "Drunk Girl" - Chris Janson

10 OF OUR FAVORITE VIDEOS FROM ARTISTS YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW #2016

Cody Johnson
 "With You I Am"

Website - thecjb.com 

Carolina Gold  "California"
Website  - www.carolinagoldmusic.com




Stephanie Quayle  "Dancing with Dolly"
Website - www.stephaniequayle.com



Kyle Jennings  "Jesus, Jack Daniels and Me"
Website - www.kylejenningsmusic.com 



Craig Campbell   "Outskirts of Heaven"
Website - www.craigcampbell.tv



LanCo  "Long Live Tonight"
Website - www.lancomusic.com



Halfway to Hazard  "American Outlaw"
Website - www.halfwaytohazard.com



Bradley Walker   "Call Me Old Fashioned"
Website - www.bradleywalker.com


Hudson Moore  "Some Are"
Website - www.hudsonmoore.net


Cash Creek  "She Got Me"
Website - www.cashcreekband.com

MARIE OSMOND RELEASES VIDEO FOR NEW SINGLE, "MUSIC IS MEDICINE"

Marie Osmond has spent 5 iconic decades in the entertainment industry and has remained an instantly recognizable figure across the globe. She has two Grammy nominations, a CMA Vocal Duo of the Year Award, numerous Billboard chart-topping singles and albums, and has entertained millions of people through film, television, radio, literature, live concerts and Broadway performances. In addition to touring all over the world, she still performs with her brother Donny at the Flamingo Hotel's Donny & Marie Showroom in Las Vegas, and has helped raise over 5 billion dollars to date as co-founder of Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. an organization that helps over 11 million children each year.

"Music is Medicine" marks Marie's latest and perhaps most important studio release. It was produced by veteran country/pop/latin producer Jason Deere and features notable guest artists such as Olivia Newton-John, Diamond Rio, SisQo (Dru Hill), John Rich (Big & Rich), Marty Roe, and Alex Boye. The album was in the top ten albums sold the week of its release and the new video from the title track is not only highly entertaining but also helps raise awareness for the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals.

#SEASONOFMUSICALGIVING - IT'S TIME TO TUNE INTO CHRISTMAS

We love this time of year - it's full of love, family, friendship, sharing, eating so much amazing food that makes you believe that those Walmart $5.00 stretchy pants are the best thing ever, opening presents, and of course, the music. Get into the Christmas spirit and turn up some new holiday music or tune into your favorite classic country Christmas tunes. Here's some of our new favorites and some of the classics that tune right into our holiday hearts. This season, give the gift that gives back, the gift of music. Put some new music into your new year.

A few new tunes to sing along to this season include:

"Do You Want to Build a Snowman?" - Mickey Guyton

"White Christmas" - William Michael Morgan



"My Christmas Caroline" - Kellie Pickler


"The Very Merry Little Christmas Medley" - Haley and Michaels

"Merry Christmas to You" - The Cains



"Hometown Christmas" - Allie Louise

"Thinking About Drinking For Christmas" - Kristian Bush


"Celebrate Me Home" - Lee Ann Rimes Feat. Gavin DeGraw



"Today is Christmas" - Lee Ann Rimes

Some of our other favorites to get you in the spirit

Casey James - "I Like Christmas"

Sugarland - "Gold and Green"



Kellie Pickler - "Santa Baby"

Craig Campbell - "I'll Be Home for Christmas"




Alan Jackson - "Let It Be Christmas"



Blake Shelton feat. Reba - "Oklahoma Christmas"

Randy Travis - "Meet Me Under the Mistletoe"

JT Hodges - "Joy to the World"




Tim McGraw - "Dear Santa"




Oak Ridge Boys - "Thank God for Kids"




Alabama - "Christmas in Dixie"




Dolly Parton - "Hard Candy Christmas"




Merle Haggard - "If We Make It Through December"




Amy Grant - "Tennessee Christmas"

Vince Gill (feat. Jenny Gill) - "Let There Be Peace on Earth" (this is our own video from our local show a few years back and was the first time they'd performed it together since Jenny was 11 years old.

Keith Whitley - "A Christmas Letter"




Darius Rucker - "What God Wants for Christmas"




Joe Nichols - "Old Toy Trains"




Faith Hill - "Where Are You Christmas?"

HOME FREE DEBUTS “9 TO 5” MUSIC VIDEO EXCLUSIVELY ON CELEBUZZ.COM TODAY

Photo Credit: Nick DuPlessis

PRESS RELEASE

Currently in the midst of a 47-date North American tour, Columbia Records’ country sensation Home Free is partnering with top entertainment site Celebuzz.com for the official premiere of their “9 To 5” music video today (10/30). The group’s novel rendition of the Academy Award-nominated and GRAMMY Award-winning song is featured on their third studio album, COUNTRY EVOLUTION.

"We are honored to cover one of Dolly Parton's smash hits in '9 To 5,’'' said tenor soloist Rob Lundquist. "We had a great time working with some uber-talented creatives in Darren Rust, who put together this funky arrangement, and Landon Donoho and Kristin Denehy, who helped us accompany the sound with a great video. We hope everyone enjoys it."

Directed by Donoho, Home Free’s entertaining visual accompaniment to their rendition of “9 To 5” is a throwback to popular ‘90s boy band videos complete with matching attire and choreographed dance moves. The band previously released six videos from COUNTRY EVOLUTION bringing their YouTube views to over 47 million:

“Elvira” Feat. The Oak Ridge Boys (publ. 8.21.15) – 963,000+ YouTube views 

“Honey, I’m Good” (publ. 4.14.15) – 1 million+ YouTube views

“Summer In The Country” (Original) (publ. 6.4.15) – 403,000+ YouTube views

“Fishin’ In The Dark / Down In The Boondocks” 

 (publ. 8.28.15) –337,000+ YouTube views

“House Party” (publ. 9.4.15) – 200,000+ YouTube views 

“Seven Bridges Road” (publ. 9.19.15) – 267,000+ YouTube views 

On December 1, Home Free is embarking on the HOME FREE FOR THE HOLIDAYS Tour bringing fan favorites and holiday jingles to 17 cities nationwide. Then in January, the band will make their European debut with an appearance at the star-studded annual LONDON A CAPPELLA FESTIVAL and just-announced dates in Birmingham, England; St. Andrews, Scotland and Dublin, Ireland. Now on sale, their European stretch launches on January 27 in Birmingham, England.

European Tour Dates:

1/27 – Birmingham, England – Bramall Music Building at University of Birmingham
1/28 – St. Andrews, Scotland – Younger Hall at University of St. Andrews
1/29 – Dublin, Ireland – Whelan’s
1/30 – London, England - London A Cappella Festival

Releasing to wide acclaim, COUNTRY EVOLUTION hit No. 4 on Billboard’s Country Album’s chart. Elevating the band “from auxiliary entertainment to headlining attraction” (Times Leader), the deluxe version includes five originals and nine new renditions of hit songs. Produced by longtime collaborator Darren Rust, the high-energy album showcases the band’s extraordinary talents, tight harmonies and intelligent arrangements that are uniquely their own. Ranging from Country classics to unexpected twists on popular modern hits, including “Honey, I’m Good” and “House Party,” the project features collaborations with special guest artists Charlie Daniels, The Oak Ridge Boys and YouTube star Taylor Davis.

Since being crowned NBC’s “The Sing-Off” victors, Home Free has made their mark on the music scene selling more than 150,000 copies combined of their popular albums, CRAZY LIFE and FULL OF CHEER, embarking on two major national tours and amassing over 47 million YouTube views. The five-man band from Minnesota, comprised of Austin Brown (high tenor), Tim Foust (bass), Rob Lundquist (tenor), Adam Rupp (vocal percussion/beat boxer) and Chris Rupp (baritone), dropped their debut album CRAZY LIFE in 2014, which hit #1 on iTunes Country and #4 overall. Founded by brothers Chris and Adam Rupp during their college years, Home Free has been perfecting their live show for nearly a decade performing together for packed crowds at major fairs, colleges and theatres. Their experiences on the road helped carry them to the Sing-Off victory, build a loyal fan base and bring their homegrown country style into the national spotlight.

For tour dates and more information on Home Free, visit http://homefreemusic.com/

COUNTRY EVOLUTION is available here: http://apple.co/1YkRjOZ

THE FINE LINE BETWEEN SIN AND SALVATION: MEET BRIAN BONDS

Purchase "Wrong Side of Tennessee" on iTunes

Get social with Brian on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram

When you first see Brian Bonds, based on the mohawk, guy liner, piercings, hair metal band tshirts and an abundance of tattoos, it's sadly very easy to form a judgement on who you think he is and what you think he's about. I can tell you almost immediately that your judgement would be dead wrong. When I first met the former guitar player for Florida Georgia Line during an interview in 2010, I admit without hesitation that I had those same judgements. You immediately think he runs with a rough crowd, gets into the wrong situations and is a reckless soul. You're right, he has run with a rough crowd, he has gotten into the wrong situations (haven't we all at one time or another?) but he is far from a reckless soul and if one takes the time to sit down with him and have one conversation, I can promise you that your opinion will change. There's something about him that can't help but draw you in, to make you see beyond the obvious. Does he cuss? Yep. Does he drink? Yep. Does he really care what people think about him? Yep, more than you would think. Fans LOVE him. He's kind hearted, soft spoken, quick witted and willing to share his love of music with anyone who wants to listen. He's telling his stories in a way that's hard to come by these days, with raw emotion and personal experience. He's lived on both ends of the musician's fence - traveling the world as part of country's most visible and successful bands, Florida Georgia Line. He's the one you can always find mingling with fans in the parking lot or wandering meet and greet lines saying hello, not just sitting in the bus until showtime. He loves people and knows the importance of getting to know them and to let them get to know him. He's seen it all, some he probably wishes he hadn't seen. He's lived the musician's tales of excess, fame and fortune and he's seen the ups and he's experienced the downs. He's also lived on the good side - he has a beautiful family who he loves very much. Watching him play with his young son, Hendrix, and how much this kid adores him is a vivid reminder that what you see truly is just on the outside, the really good in Brian is what you don't see upon first glance, who he is on the inside.

He decided to leave the "good life" to truly focus on the GOOD life - his family, to mentor young musicians and help them find their way in the business and to develop his own music and his own unique way of bridging the various styles he grew up on, rock, blues and country, into a style all his own. His vision is to show both sides of the coin and tell the stories of what happens between rock bottom and the brass ring, not only as how he's lived them but as we've all lived them at one time or another in our lives, and how we survive the struggle between the two. It was the right time to step out from the shadows of the road and stand in his own spotlight. His sound is so unlike anything else out there and undeniably "love it or hate it", but whether you make the decision to love it or hate it, it's always going to be 100% Brian Bonds and there is no selling out and no blending in with the rest. He's not shooting for musical perfection, he wants the imperfections to be noticed, the emotion to be heard and the music to simply be relateable to everyone that listens. The only way to really describe his music is a musical conglomerate of the bad boy, outlaw side of Waylon, the fightin' side of Merle, the sensitive side of Willie and the dark side of Johnny mixed with the heavy rock influence of Def Leppard, Pantera, White Snake, Van Halen and other heavier bands all while keeping the basic ingredients of country like banjos, steel guitar, Dobro, storytelling, honesty and sincerity. As a multi-genre fan, I love it and this is only song one.

His first single, "Wrong Side of Tennessee" was recently released and has been getting great reviews from fans, writers and other industry insiders. It's about the "wrong side" and about temptation. The single is available for download on iTunes now. He's working on follow up singles and I had the pleasure of hearing them before they've been mixed and released and they're fantastic. I'm not really a "genre discriminator" because I love most styles of music (ok, I don't care for rap so maybe I do discriminate a little there) and personally I love that there are so many styles out there right now and this is a marriage of genres that actually work and don't sound like a screwed up mess that happened to slip out of the studio. There's plenty of "country rock" out there but I think this falls under the "rock country" label with a mad dash of today's brand of outlaw (if you're really going to slap a label on it). It's definitely heavier on the rock side and it will rock your ass off. It's like that first slow sip of whiskey, it kicks you hard right out of the bottle but once it hits you, the burn is nice and easy but will leave you wanting another sip.

CURTIS BRALY RELEASES "SOONER OR LATER" VIDEO FEATURING KIMBERLY CALDWELL

Studio Gold Nashville artist,Curtis Braly, has released the video for his new single "Sooner Or Later" featuring Kimberly Caldwell. The video was produced byTerry Corso, and directed by Clint Gregory, of Let ‘Em Have It! Productions in Los Angeles. The song was written by Ireland based songwriter Paul Cunningham, Jr. and produced by Emmy award winner Kenny Royster of Direct Image Studio in Nashville.

"Sooner or Later, I’ll find the strength to let you know the way I’ve been feeling for so long.”

"Sooner Or Later" is a timeless duet with exceptionally strong vocal performances from both artists. The song is about two people who have developed feelings for each other, and as the song grows, so does their courage to express those feelings. The video perfectly encompasses the storyline as you see two of the characters in the video grow from meeting eyes across the room at the beginning of the video to finally being together at the end of the video. 

Kimberly performed in talent shows and pageants all across Texas, and until age15, was performing two shows a day, six days a week, in Branson, Missouri. After finishing high school, she became a household name as a finalist on Season 2 of American Idol and since then has hosted numerous TV shows, has written and recorded her debut album, “Without Regret”, and has recently launched her own handmade leather handbag line.

Curtis began singing with his mom in the church choir, and later performing at talent competitions as well. Along the way, he won the grand prize at a national talent competition, a trip to Nashville, which reinforced his desire to become a country music artist. Even before he recorded his first demo, he gained industry insight by working at a Houston radio station. In 2014, Curtis signed an artist development deal with Studio Gold in Nashville, and has since released two singles to country radio. Curtis was recently recognized by the Mayor of Houston, Annise Parker, for his efforts in supporting several non-profit organizations, and she has proclaimed August 8th as “Curtis Braly Day."

#NEWARTISTVIDEO - "HOMETOWN" - JD SHELBURNE

"Hometown", the latest video from JD Shelburne is a personal chronicle of his small town upbringing and his hopes that it endures for future generations.

Shelburne is currently on tour and has performed at over 500 festivals and 1000 clubs in his career, opening for artists such as Kenny Chesney and the Steve Miller Band. He has appeared at NCAA, NASCAR, and NBA events, the SEC Basketball Tournament and twice at the Kentucky Derby where he was interviewed by the David Letterman Show (2014.) He has two independent album releases since 2008 and has accumulated over 14k Facebook fans. His website JDShelburne.com has garnered over 1 million hits since it launched in 2005.

SKYLAR ELISE SALUTES AMERICA WITH PERFORMANCE OF THE NATIONAL ANTHEM AND GOD BLESS AMERICA AT SATURDAY’S TEXAS RANGERS GAME IN ARLINGTON

Photo credit: Kelly Gavin/Texas Rangers

Rising country singer/songwriter Skylar Elise made a very patriotic debut over the weekend, when she performed “The National Anthem” and “God Bless America” at Saturday’s Texas Rangers game.  The songstress’ debut was even more special because it was in her hometown of Arlington, TX for her favorite team.

“Saturday was one of the best days of my life,” says Skylar Elise.  “I was both honored and thrilled to perform the National Anthem and God Bless America for my hometown team.”

NATIONAL ANTHEM PERFORMANCE

GOD BLESS AMERICA PERFORMANCE

DYLAN SCOTT STRIPS DOWN

Curb Records recording artist Dylan Scott "Stripped" has officially launched with the first song, "Crazy Over Me". Look for brand new videos in the series to launch each Thursday. The new series includes songs that are more acoustic stripped down versions of music that Dylan has been working on while on the road!

SINGLE REVIEW: "KIDS WITH CARS" - DALLAS SMITH

SINGLE: "Kids With Cars"
ARTIST: Dallas Smith
REVIEW: Maria Talamo
Follow Maria on Twitter at @Maria_Talamo

Dallas Smith is no stranger to the music industry. He was best known for being the lead singer of the band Default which became a popular name in the United States after releasing their hit single “Wasting My Time.” In May of 2012 Smith released his debut country album “Jumped Right In” as a solo artist. Since then, Dallas has been nominated for quite a few Canadian country music awards, and rightfully so. This guy is great! It was only a matter of time that an American record label would show interest in him. Last week he signed a U.S. record deal with Blaster Records through their recent partnership with Big Loud Mountain. “Kids With Cars” is the first look at what’s possibly to come from his new record deal. It was written by Jesse Frasure, Ryan Hurd and Brad Tursi. He sings “Kids with cars/ back when who you are/ was all about having a ride on a Friday night/ and how many friends you can pack inside…” It brings you back to the carefree days when you finally get the freedom of having a car, with all your friends, doing whatever you want.

“Kids with Cars” is set to hit radio September 14.

SINGLE REVIEW: "I MET A GIRL" - WILLIAM MICHAEL MORGAN

SINGLE: "I Met a Girl"
ARTIST: William Michael Morgan
REVIEWER: Alyse Smith
Follow Alyse on Twitter at @ASmith1300

Download "I Met a Girl" on iTunes

Newcomer William Michael Morgan has released his debut single “I Met A Girl”, a sweet song about a girl he’s enraptured with and has to share it with the world.  A slow-tempo serenade, very little is present aside from Morgan and a guitar. As he croons about his love and her “baby blues and crazy shoes,” he remembers when he was near speechless upon meeting her, only able to utter monosyllabic greetings. As the song plays, he declares how enthralled he is by the beginning of a relationship, wherein she let him into her world and he doesn’t know much about her yet but can’t wait to learn more. The stripped-down arrangement of the song only serves to amplify the story and Morgan’s voice.

Though the story of “I Met A Girl” has been told before, lately the slow and soft arrangement has not been favored.  In the current landscape of country music, between the tempo and Morgan’s vocals, it is sure to stand out. I almost didn’t recognize the song until I further looked into it. If anybody was wondering if there seemed to be the fingerprints of a Hunt on fire, a famed McAnally or perhaps a touch of Old Dominion a la Trevor Rosen, then you’d be right. Sam Hunt has sung this song before (though granted it sounded incredibly different, which is what Hunt strives for.) as well as co-written it with Shane McAnally and Trevor Rosen. What the stroke of luck was that William Michael Morgan, a 22 year old from Vicksburg, Mississippi connected with the song and some of Nashville's biggest and most successful songwriting powerhouses, we may never know, but we're sure glad someone saw fit to connect them through this song.

On his Facebook artist page, Morgan describes himself as a “typical 22-year-old,” which is when he first started lying to us because from the second he opened his mouth one could easily tell there is nothing typical about him.  I mean, we’ve heard the story before, kid dreams of being a country singer, turns 18 and packs his bags, heads to Music City.  From there though, the luck, talent and perseverance it took him to get here is more of a Taylor Swift fairy tale than anything else.  A tale full of talent at a young age, a voice existing outside of time and a boy ready to take the world by storm with his family behind him.  Record deal with Warner at 19, a lover of old country and new, this is surely only the tip of the iceberg with Morgan.  I can’t wait to see what stories he regales us with next.

Get social with William Michael Morgan -

Facebook - WilliamMichaelMorgan
Twitter - @WMMorgan
Instagram - @Wmmorganmusic

DALLAS SMITH INKS NEW U.S. RECORD DEAL

Blockbuster Vocalist Gears Up For Release Of Single “Kids With Cars” 

Already Amassing International Appeal & Opening Slots On Major Tours

Photo credit: Kristin Barlowe

Earlier today, Dallas Smith inked a new U.S. record deal with Blaster Records through the label’s recent partnership with Big Loud Mountain. In celebration of the signing, the record-breaking Canadian country artist will release his new super-charged single “Kids With Cars” to Country radio this September and to digital retailers September 11. Produced and mixed by Joey Moi (Florida Georgia Line, Jake Owen), a preview of the high-octane song is now available on YouTube.

“Nothing excites us more than being involved with great music and with passionate, committed people,” says Blaster Records’ President Derek Simon. “We loved the music Dallas was making and jumped at the chance to partner with Big Loud Mountain to become his American label. Spend 10 minutes watching one of Dallas' shows and it’s clear how special of a singer and performer he is. The new music he's making is so strong and compelling and we couldn’t ask for better partners than Craig, Seth, Chief and Joey.”

"It's great to collaborate with the team at Blaster. They are equally as passionate as I am," shares Dallas Smith. “I’m excited to continue to build on what we are doing and take it to the next level."

Armed with an arena-sized voice, Smith has amassed international appeal since making his American country debut with the infectious single “Tippin’ Point” and dominating the Canadian Country charts with songs like "Lifted" and multi-week #1 hit "Wastin' Gas." Named one of the Huffington Post’s 15 Country Artists to Watch in 2015, Smith is the only Canadian male country artist to spend multiple weeks at the top of the Country Airplay Chart in the Nielsen BDS era for single “Wastin’ Gas.”

The accolades continue to pile up for the Vancouver, British Columbia native as he will vie for four honors at the 2015 CCMA Awards - Album of the Year (LIFTED), Single of the Year (“Wastin’ Gas”), Male Artist of the Year and Fans’ Choice Award - and earlier this year, won the JUNO Award for Country Album of the Year (LIFTED).

Smith is currently in the studio working on his first American full-length debut with longstanding producer Moi, who produced his prior award-winning Canadian projects JUMPED RIGHT IN and LIFTED.

Previously touring with Florida Georgia Line, Smith has been tearing up U.S. roads playing major festivals and opening select shows for Keith Urban and Thomas Rhett. Fans can catch the blockbuster performer and former lead singer of the multi-platinum rock group Default at upcoming tour stops in Gardendale, TX (8/23) and St. Paul, MN (9/4 & 9/5).

For tour dates and more information, visit DallasSmithmusic.com.

SIX MONTHS ... SIX SONGS

We're already half way through 2015, can you believe it? The year has been full of great music with even more great music to come. Since we're at the mid point of the year, I'd like to point out six songs, released in 2015, that were most played on my iPod and fall into the category of "Damn I Love This Song." They're all great artists and all of the music is available on iTunes. Keep in mind, these are just my personal favorites so they may not necessarily agree with yours, so no, I didn't "leave anyone out". I just decided to narrow it down to six since we're six months away from another year and I threw in one bonus. These are in no particular order, they all rock.

1. "Love Me Like You Mean It" - Kelsea Ballerini

Kelsea Ballerini is hardly the "tomato" in country music's "salad" as a certain radio consultant referred to female country artists this week in an interview with Country Aircheck. She's the dressing that tops off the salad and gives boring lettuce that extra oomph. As a matter of fact, Kelsea Ballerini is chock full of oomph and awesome from the top of her blonde head down to the tips of her stillettos.

Her personality is infectious and she's that girl that turns everyone's head when she enters the room because of her great attitude. Love, love, love this girl and love seeing how far she's gone. This song just makes you sing along.

2. "Can't Get Away From a Good Time" - Logan Mize

He may be a simple, blue collar kinda guy, having gone from truck driver to the new guy on the country music block, but there's nothing simple about his songwriting abilities. Logan Mize is impressive with his lyrics and delivery. He's got that killer rasp in his voice that comes naturally, not put on like some artists do. His songs tell a story and the stories they tell come from the life he's lived. He's a likeable guy, very personable and literally the kind of guy you can sit down with as a stranger and leave as a friend.

3. "Clean Up on Aisle Five" - Mo Pitney

Mo, Mo, Mo. Mo Pitney came along at the perfect time, right when country music needed a clean up of it's own. I really can't say enough about him. As a person, he's impressive. As an artist, he's amazing. As someone who can give country back the roots it's strayed from, he's perfect. This song made me cry the first time I heard it and cry even harder each additional time. It resulted in a standing ovation at the Grand Ole Opry. All I can say is thank you Mo.

4. "Country" - Mo Pitney

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See? I can't say enough about him and I really can't listen to him enough either. I really can't wait until the full length album comes out. Mo defines country and country, in turn, defines Mo Pitney. If you do one thing right this year, buy Mo's music.

5. "Better Than You Left Me" - Mickey Guyton

I love Mickey Guyton. Everything about Mickey and this song is refreshing. Country needs to hear more from this songbird. 

6. "On To Something Good" - Ashley Monroe

Another hands in the air, let's give it up for the women that can sing about more than a broken heart and how they can get back at the guy. This song just makes me feel good from the first note to the last, it makes me "seat dance" in the car, and it's very motivational and inspires you to keep on going! Really hope radio latches on to this "something good" song.

7. *BONUS* - "My Mistake" - Cam

Cam is the bomb.com. She's bubbly, she's "in your face" and she can sing her canary yellow wearing butt off. For a debut single, she made one heck of an imprint on country music. How can you not like this girl? Her entire EP is fantastic and man can she sing! Did I mention she can SING?