Pryor Baird Makes An Emotional Grand Ole Opry Debut Earning A Standing Ovation

Baird Offered A Release Day Performance Of His Brand-New Track

"Mighta Met A Girl" (1/26)

The Musical Triple Threat Commemorated the Unforgettable Evening in the Opry's Circle Room During An After-Performance Reception

Dynamic songwriter, guitarist, and Black River recording artist Pryor Baird stepped into the legendary Grand Ole Opry circle for the very first time during his Opry debut this past Friday night (Jan. 26). Baird marked the release of his brand-new track, "Mighta Met A Girl" and its accompanying lyric video by offering a release day performance of the powerful third offering from the soulful rising country artist. After stepping off the coveted stage, Baird was joined by his family, friends, and team in the Opry's Circle Room for an intimate post-debut celebration.

Pictured (L-R): Black River’s Rick Froio and Doug Johnson; Starstruck Entertainment’s Berkley Kriz;

Pryor Baird; the Opry's Dan Rogers; and Black River's Gordon Kerr.

Photo Credit: Patrick Sheehan

WSM's Kelly Sutton, the host for the evening, introduced an eager Baird to the Opry stage as he began his debut set with a performance of his (1/26) release, " Mighta Met A Girl" via Black River. Co-written by Baird with Chris Gelbuda and David Tolliver, "Mighta Met A Girl" is produced by Doug Johnson. The feel-good tune brings listeners along on Baird's lighthearted journey during a night out with friends that begins like any other, but ends anything but — leaving him lovestruck and hopeful that he "mighta met a girl last night."

Pryor Baird pictured performing during his Grand Ole Opry debut on 1/26.

Photo Credit: Starstruck Entertainment

After the rush of stepping into the circle and performing his uptempo love story, Baird thanked and acknowledged our US Military, first responders, teachers, and survivors.

Getting even more personal with the supportive Opry crowd, Baird touched on how in life, everyone is faced with hardships and loss. However in overcoming those times, one can find beauty. He then dedicated his next performance to his father, who recently passed unexpectedly, saying, "This one's for you, Dad." With the help of the legendary Opry band's Randy Hart on keys, Baird belted out his emotional unreleased ballad, "Beauty In The Broken."

Although the track has not yet been released, it was the perfect song for Baird to honor one of the most influential people in his life, his father, who helped shape Baird into the artist and person he is today.

Following the emotional performance, Baird was treated to a rare standing ovation and joined host Kelly Sutton for an interview at the podium. In a moment of celebration and reverence, Sutton shared that she was sure his father was indeed looking down on this incredible night. "I think he was here tonight and I hope he had a good time," Baird replied. "He's definitely ready to have a cold beer after this - at least two or three."

Pryor Baird pictured receiving a standing ovation during his Grand Ole Opry debut on 1/26.

Photo Credit: Starstruck Entertainment

Riding the high of reaching the career milestone after dreaming about this day for nearly his whole life, Baird's family, friends, and music industry alike gathered for an intimate after-party to mark the occasion. Hosted by Baird's record label and publishing home, Black River, along with his management team, Starstruck Entertainment, the evening included remarks from Baird and a commemorative cake donning the image of a five-year-old Baird with his first guitar, as well as the Grand Ole Opry stage.

"I want to say thank you to every single person that has ever reached into what I'm doing and said, 'We believe in it. We want to be a part of it.' That just speaks volumes, and I'm so thankful," shared Baird during the reception, surrounded by his closest supporters. "I truly have the greatest team, family, and fans - thank you so much for letting this be a reality. Work hard, and dream big."

Since the track's release, " Mighta Met A Girl" has secured spots on top playlists including Apple Music's New In Country; Spotify's New Music Friday Country; Amazon Music's Breakthrough Country; PANDORA’s Top Country Hits; and Vevo's New Music Friday.

"With an ultra-relatable lyric and memorably catchy melody that masterfully smashes into his gifted know-how of keeping his signature flares well intact, Pryor Baird continues to showcase the unique definitions of who he is as a songwriter and artist..." 

- Jeffrey Kurtis

Baird is only heating up as he prepares to embark on the Nashville Hits the Roof series kicking off on 2/1 with a performance in Nashville before hitting the road for shows in South Carolina and North Carolina. Tickets are available HERE.

For more information, please visit pryorbaird.com and follow Pryor Baird on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and TikTok.

"SPRAY PAINTED LINE", THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED DEBUT ALBUM FROM COUNTRY MUSIC HITMAKER RAY FULCHER, IS AVAILABLE NOW

On the Eve of the Album Release, Fulcher Had a Message for Listeners

Stream and Download Spray Painted Line HERE

The highly anticipated debut album, "Spray Painted Line". from CMA Triple Play Award winner Ray Fulcher is available now. With over 21 million streams, the fan-favorite "Anything Like You Dance" is at Country radio now. Hours before the album came out, Fulcher took to Instagram to speak to fans and friends directly with this heartfelt and inspiring post HERE

Taken from the opening lines of the album's "All Gas No Brakes," a spray painted line is a starting point, and for this artist's debut record, it's the perfect first chapter that sets the foundation for what Ray Fulcher wants to do moving forward.

"I think there's a lot of real-life in this album," said Fulcher. "Spray Painted Line is so uniquely me, and I'm really excited because it leaves us room for growth, to keep going, and to keep evolving. It sets the foundation for the rest of my artist career."

The new track "John Wayne" is a venture out of the comfort zone for Fulcher, and fans at CMA Music Fest seemed to be embracing the cowboy love song. "It's kind of the first time that we've done something in this lane which makes me excited to see what the fans and new listeners think about it," said Fulcher. "I remember when we were writing it, Paul DiGiovanni played this guitar line, and I fell in love with it because it opened up so many melodies for me. We actually pulled that exact guitar line from the demo into the studio session."

Tracks from Spray Painted Line, including "John Wayne," are now playing on top playlists like Apple Music's New In Country; Amazon Music's Breakthrough Country; Spotify's Breakout Country, New Music Friday Country, New Boots, Next From Nashville, Notable Releases; Tidal's Country Waves and Country Airwaves; and YouTube's Country's New Crop.

Release week came with a packed CMA Music Fest schedule for Fulcher. He supported the album's release with multiple performances, including the Maui Jim Reverb Stage at Bridgestone Plaza, the Crown Royal Lounge, meeting fans at the CMA booth in Fan Fair X, two album release shows at Barlines inside the Omni, and The Valentine. Additionally, Fulcher made his 4th performance at the Grand Ole Opry, a plaza performance in the "Opry Loves The '90s" series, and more.

"I think Spray Painted Line has a lot of stuff in there for people to grab onto as their own," said Fulcher. "Which for me is the most important thing."

Produced by Jonathan Singleton, the 17-track album is released on Larkin Hill Records under an exclusive license to Black River Entertainment.

Spray Painted Line Track Listing:

1. “All Gas No Brakes” (Ray Fulcher, Jordan Walker, Zach Abend)
2. "Sellin' Cars" (Ray Fulcher, Brad Warren, Brett Warren, Lance Miller)
3. "Anything Like You Dance" (Ray Fulcher, Jonathan Singleton, Thom McHugh)
4. "Girl In It" (Ray Fulcher, Erik Dylan, James McNair)
5. "If You Like Your Boys Like That" (Ray Fulcher, Cole Taylor)
6. "John Wayne" (Ray Fulcher, John Pierce, Paul DiGiovanni)
7. “Compliment” (Ray Fulcher, Jacob Durrett)
8. "After The Rain" (Ray Fulcher, Matt Jenkins, Aj Pruis)
9. "Life Changing Money" (Ray Fulcher, Cole Taylor, Paul DiGiovanni, Jamie Paulin)
10."So Far So Bad" (Ray Fulcher, Jonathan Singleton, Matt Roy)
11. "Bucket List Beers" (Ray Fulcher, Luke Combs, Tim Nichols, Chris Yarber)
12. "The Battle of Betty's Love" (Eric Church, Jon Stone)
13 "Damn If It Didn't Hurt" (Ray Fulcher, Jordan Walker, Drew Parker)
14. "Love Ya Son, Go Dawgs" (Jordan Walker, Ben Hayslip)
15. "Hearts To Break" (Ray Fulcher, Jonathan Singleton)
16. "Way Out" (Ray Fulcher, Ross Copperman, Jon Nite, Michael Ray, Taylor Phillips, Andrew DeRoberts)
17. "Sorry, Heart" (Ray Fulcher, Jameson Rodgers, Dan Isbell)

Fulcher continues to tour this summer in support of the new album and "Anything Like You Dance" at Country radio.

UPCOMING TOUR DATES:

6/24/22 – Country Fest - Cadott, WI

6/25/22 – Shore Side Pub & Grub with Chris Janson - Manson, IA

7/10/22 – Log Still Distillery with Ashley McBryde - New Haven, KY

7/23/22 – Faster Horses - Brooklyn, MI

8/05/22 – WE Fest - Detroit Lakes, MN

8/12/22 – Tidalwave Music Festival - Atlantic City, NJ

9/03/22 – Long Island Community Hospital Amphitheater with Jake Owen - Farmingville, NY

10/19/22 – Meyer Theatre - Green Bay, WI *

10/21/22 – Crystal Grand Music Theatre - Wisconsin Dells, WI *

10/22/22 – The Des Plaines Theatre - Des Plaines, IL *

10/27/22 – Thrasher-Horne Center - Orange Park, FL *

10/29/22 – The Cameo Theater - Bristol, VA *

11/03/22 – Hoyt Sherman Place - Des Moines, IA *

11/11/22 – Ryman Auditorium - Nashville, TN *

* Craig Morgan's God, Family, Country, Tour dates (more here)

"LARKIN HILL MIXES", THE NEW EP FROM COUNTRY MUSIC HITMAKER RAY FULCHER IS AVAILABLE NOW

Fulcher Continues on Tour with Luke Combs and Ashley McBryde as "Girl in It" Impacts Country Radio

Ray Fulcher steps further into the limelight with the release of his new EP Larkin Hill Mixes, available now (9/17) on Black River. Celebrating the follow-up to his hugely successful independent EP, Somebody Like Me, which has since garnered more than 30 million streams, Fulcher played songs from both collections and his new single "Girl in It" during his show at the Exit/In, in Nashville (9/15).

All five songs are digitally available here, and "Compliment" debuted on top playlists, including Apple Music's New In Country and Fifth Gear, the COVER of Amazon Music's Breakthrough Country, Pandora's New Country Now, Spotify's Next From Nashville, New Music Nashville and Hot Country Instagram, and YouTube's The New Americana. "Girl in It" continues to grow in streams and is featured this week on top playlists, including Apple Music's Country in Spatial Audio, Spotify's New Boots and YouTube's Country on the Rise. Additionally, countless Nashvillians saw a larger-than-life Ray Fulcher on Broadway as they drove past The Nashville Sign, where Amazon Music featured Fulcher's new EP, Larkin Hill Mixes, on Friday (9/17). The Apple Country New Release page also features the new EP.

Fresh off an entire weekend of playing shows, packing his bags for a fall tour is a lot easier for Fulcher now as he's recently partnered with Boot Barn. Fulcher joins friend and writing partner Luke Combs and Ashley McBryde at MetraPark Arena in Billings, MT on Tuesday (9/21) and continues with them on the What You See Is What You Get tour and supports Ashley McBryde on select dates.

Filmed on (9/4) while opening for his friend and writing partner Luke Combs in Boone, NC, the music video for "Compliment" features Fulcher performing for over 30,000 people at Kidd Brewer Stadium. Highlighting audience members throughout the video, directed by Christian Hall, a thankful Fulcher reminisced the "Bucket List Beers" experience on Instagram. "When pictures or words don’t do it justice," said Fulcher. "Thank you, @lukecombs for believing in me and including me in your historic, monumental night. We’ll be talking bout this one 20 years from now."

“With this five-song EP, Fulcher proves he’s got an amiable voice and 

plenty more radio-friendly fare in his arsenal.”

 - Billboard

Listening to his Black River debut EP, Larkin Hill Mixes, the songs are instantly recognizable. Heck, they feel like old favorites from the very first listen. Maybe it's the influences he grew up on. Maybe it's the desire to lift people up, let them feel what he's writing. Or maybe, just maybe, the friendly artist who writes songs of misdirection understands that life is what you make it – and lets his songs take it from there.

Teaming with West Tennessee's Jonathan Singleton for production, the pair dug in for a Memphis-meets-'90s country sound. Guitars that sting, hooks that land and story twists that prompt smiles, they created retro-contemporary sounds that are old school, new school and no school country.

Whether it's the quick-word dropping, slow chorus in "Way Out" that pits the notion of how far out of town one lives with the idea of escape or the vocal harmony-basted swagger of the country living truths in "Compliment," Fulcher delivers songs that distill a slower way of life that's equal parts pride, joy and good clean fun. The euphoria almost rises from the tracks as the words, melodies and darning needle guitars fly by.

Certainly "Girl in It" leans into the notion of rhythm and punctuation. Whirling through the phases of love and losing, the truth is that no matter what – there's always a girl in it. "In the verse, you've definitely got that very rhythmic, aggressive tempo going on, but the way the hook lands, it changes everything up," said Fulcher. "You know, you can take a simple idea, but dress it up with how you drop the words, where you put the melody in the hook."

That same hand-clap percussive drive marks "Damn If It Didn't Hurt," the truth-telling take on life's little defeats and how a man growing up faces life, love and disappointment. The turnaround here comes from the reality that the best things in life often come with just enough pain to let you know, but not enough pain that if you could do it all over again, you'd do a single thing different.

Larkin Hill Mixes Track List

Produced by Jonathan Singleton

1.) "Compliment" – Written by Ray Fulcher and Jacob Durrett

2.) "Girl in It"– Written by Ray Fulcher, Erik Dylan, and James McNair

3.) "Way Out"– Written by Ray Fulcher, Ross Copperman, Andrew DeRoberts, Jon Nite, Taylor Phillips, and Michael Ray

4.) "Bucket List Beers"– Written by Ray Fulcher, Luke Combs, Tim Nichols, and Chris Yarber

5.) "Damn If It Didn't Hurt" – Written by Ray Fulcher, Drew Parker, and Jordan Walker

On June 25th, Fulcher stepped into the circle of the Grand Ole Opry stage for his debut performance and released new music on Black River the same day. PEOPLE.com premiered Ray Fulcher's "Girl in It" music video and gave readers a behind-the-scenes look straight from the set, watch it here. With more than a half-a-million streams, Fulcher's single "Girl in It" debuted on top playlists, including Apple Music's New In Country, Amazon Music's Breakthrough Country, Pandora's New Country and New Country Now, and Spotify's Next From Nashville, New Music Nashville, and RADAR Country.

As a writer, Ray Fulcher understands the sweet spot of life. It's the same joy that marks the songs he's co-written with an old friend named Luke Combs. Eight of those songs ended up on the 2020 CMA Album of the Year What You See Is What You Get. Eight more ended up on This One's for You. Four of those songs – "When It Rains It Pours," "Even Though I'm Leaving," "Lovin' on You" and "Does to Me," featuring their mutual idol and influence Eric Church – went to #1.

For more information on Ray Fulcher's upcoming music, tour dates, merchandise, and more, please visit rayfulchermusic.com and follow him on socials.

RONNIE MILSAP RETURNS WITH “A BETTER WORD FOR LOVE” ON 4/30

Classic Ronnie Milsap with Songs from Mike Reid, Gary Nicholson,

Al Anderson, Jim Weatherly, Allen Shamblin, David Ball, Thomas Cain & More...

featuring a duet with Vince Gill on Carl Perkins’ “Big Bertha”

Country Music Hall of Fame legend Ronnie Milsap follows up his all-star Duets, featuring Kacey Musgraves, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Billy Gibbons, Luke Bryan and George Strait, with a 10-song slice of the soul country he’s inhabited for the last half century. A Better Word for Love explores the R&B-steeped sound that has long been the 6-time GRAMMY award-winner and 3-time Country Music Association Male Vocalist of the Year winner’s trademark.

Teaming with longtime co-producer Rob Galbraith, the pair sought to celebrate the genre-blurring kind of country that led him to an unprecedented four CMA Album of the Year Awards, as well as the coveted CMA Entertainer of the Year. Drawing on some much-loved songs that hadn’t fit prior projects, the pair built an homage to the 70s/80s/90s country Milsap defined.

Mike Reid (“Stranger In My House,” “I Can’t Make You Love Me”), Gary Nicholson (“One More Last Chance,” “The Trouble With The Truth”), Al Anderson (“All You Ever Do Is Bring Me Down,” “The Cowboy In Me”), Jim Weatherly (“Midnight Train To Georgia,” “Best Thing To Ever Happen To Me”), Brent Maher (“Why Not Me,” “Lesson In Leavin’”), Allen Shamblin (“The House That Built Me,” “Life’s A Dance”), and David Ball (“Drinkin’ Problem”) provide the top shelf songs people have come to expect from the legendary musician.

“I have been blessed to work with some of the very best songwriters in the world,” Milsap reflects. “Over the years, they’ve kept bringing me unbelievable songs, and in some cases, they’ve let me hang onto them because I loved them so much. When Rob and I started this project a few years ago, we decided some of those songs were so special... We wanted to build this album around them, so they wouldn’t be treasures only Joycee and I could hear.

 “We got to go back to Ronnie’s Place, the studio I built all those years ago, just dig in and cut them – and some songs that have the same kind of heart, the soul and that joy that I’ve always loved. You know, even a sad song when you do it sad enough’ll make you feel better.”

Along the way, Milsap received a special package from Carl Perkins’ widow. “Big Bertha” was the last song the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer had written. She’d sent it to Milsap thinking he’d do it right. Not only did the Academy of Country Music Pioneer Award winner bring his signature slow burning blues to the song, he enlisted Vince Gill for the quick-hitting, fiddle-punctuated country portion of the paean to more than a woman, but a driver.

“Singing a song about a golf club without Vince Gill just didn’t feel right,” Milsap laughs. “And he was able to bring that thing he does like nobody else to Carl’s song. Somewhere I think he’s smiling.”

Whether the undulating “Wild Honey,” the cascading tavern country “Almost Mine,” the soft soul “Fool” or the vintage Milsap title track, every style of the Georgia and North Carolina Music Hall of Famer’s storied career is on display. To further honor these songs, Milsap enlisted some of Nashville’s finest to play with: guitarists Brent Mason, Steve Gibson, Mark Casstevens, and Chris Leuzinger, bass player Michael Rhodes, drummer Lonnie Wilson, double steel players Mike Johnson and Paul Franklin, and Milsap’s longtime musical director Jamie Brantley.

As a further homage to his longtime musical compatriots, Milsap includes “Civil War,” recorded live at Atlanta’s Chastain Park in 1993. Capturing his longtime touring band in their prime, the Cindy Richardson/Carol Chase song weaves Southern gospel into a song of marital dissolution – and demonstrates the vocal dynamics, keyboard stylings and drama onstage.

 “Music makes the world a better place,” Milsap says. “Love songs may not change everything, but they sure speak to the heart, give people joy and maybe starting there in these crazy times is a good thing.”

 Ronnie Milsap - “A Better Word for Love”

Track Listing

“Big Bertha” featuring Vince Gill

Randy Moore, Carl Perkins, DJ Perkins

 

“Wild Honey”

Jim Weatherly, Nigel Wright

  

“A Better Word for Love”

Al Anderson, Gary Nicholson

“Almost Mine”

David Ball, Randy Goodrum

 

“Fool”

Thomas Cain

 

“This Side of Heaven”

Brent Maher, Allen Shamblin, Mike Reid

“Civil War (Live)”

Cindy Richardson, Carol Chase

 

“Fireworks”

Steve Dean, Don Gatlin, Mike Ulvila

 

“Now”

Thomas Cain, Tim Nichols

 

“Too Bad for My Own Good”

Joe H. Hunter, Jim Whitehead, Jim Weatherly

 

 

BLACK RIVER ENTERTAINMENT SIGNS RAY FULCHER TO ARTIST ROSTER

Back Row: Terry Wakefield (Universal Music Publishing), Gordon Kerr (Black River), Abby Miller (Black River), Zebb Luster (River House), Doug Johnson (Black River), Neil Mason (Badlands Management), Lynn Oliver (River House Publishing), Ray Fulcher, Mike Wilson (Black River), Rick Froio (Black River), Austin Mullins (WME), Dawn Delvo (Black River), and Chris King (King Business and Financial Management).

Front Row: Tali Canterbury (50 Egg), Ron Stuve (Universal Music Publishing), Rebekah Gordon (Black River), Emily Hungate (Black River), Lauren Kilgore (Shackelford, Bowen, McKinley & Norton, LLP), Bill Macky (Black River), Tanya Schrage (Black River), Jordon Petty (270 Media Co), and Jonathan Singleton (Producer).

Black River Entertainment is proud to announce the signing of hit songwriter and artist Ray Fulcher to its artist roster today.

With more than 30 million streams as an artist in his own right and 3 billion streams as a songwriter, Fulcher has amassed a loyal fanbase. Today, Fulcher honored his fans' support on his musical journey thus far by sharing this special moment with them first.

"Fans are the reason I write songs," said Fulcher. "They are the lifeblood of our industry, and without them, this wouldn't be possible, so it's only right for them to know first."

Black River joins an accomplished team alongside WME, Universal Music Publishing, River House Publishing, and Badlands Management. They all look forward to a music-filled 2021, complete with a fall tour as Fulcher is set as support for Luke Combs for the third time.

"What a great day for all of us!" said Black River's President and CEO Gordon Kerr. "What an impressive team we are now partnered alongside. Most importantly, what an artist! We are honored to step into this already impressive journey and can't wait to see what is in store for Ray!"

Upon signing with Black River, Fulcher shared, "I always knew I didn't want to sign anywhere unless they really believed in our music and vision as much as we did ourselves. They had to really get the songs and what we wanted to do with them and believe that I was the guy to carry them to the masses. With Black River, we have gotten all that and more...and the more I've gotten to know the people, the more I see what a great group of not just professionals they are, but humans. Just felt like a real easy decision."

Black River Entertainment's President and CEO Gordon Kerr and Ray Fulcher

Born and raised in the small town of Harlem, Georgia, Ray Fulcher grew up on many of country music's best songwriters & storytellers, and it shows. Some of his biggest influences were Alan Jackson, Keith Whitley, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Eric Church, and George Strait. Seeing Eric Church play at Athens' Georgia Theatre at 21 years old, Fulcher was filled with inspiration and immediately went out and bought his first guitar. Shortly after graduating from the University of Georgia in 2014, Fulcher moved to Nashville to pursue a songwriting and an artist career. Soon after, Fulcher signed his first publishing deal with River House Publishing, began getting cuts as a songwriter, and released his second EP, Here We Go Again, which debuted in the Top 10 of the country charts. This early success led to coveted support spots, including the Luke Combs Beer Never Broke My Heart Tour (2019) and the Matt Stell Everywhere But On Tour (2020), as well as extensive headlining and festival dates.

Songwriting ignited Fulcher's career as he's the co-writer of eight songs on Luke Combs' Platinum debut album, This One's For You, including the No.1 single "When It Rains It Pours," which has been certified triple platinum. Adding fuel to the fire, Fulcher co-wrote eight songs on Luke's follow-up album, What You See Is What You Get, including the No. 1 singles "Even Though I'm Leaving," "Does To Me" ft. Eric Church, and "Lovin' On You." Ray's latest EP, Somebody Like Me (2019), features the singles "Anything Like You Dance" and "Life After Your Leavin'." Signed to Black River Entertainment in 2021, Fulcher is writing and recording new music with producer Jonathan Singleton and is set to support Luke Combs this fall on the What You See Is What You Get Tour.

For more information on Ray Fulcher's upcoming music, tour dates, merchandise, and more, please visit rayfulchermusic.com.

RONNIE MILSAP GETS HIS CHRISTMAS ON - COUNTRY MUSIC HALL OF FAME MEMBER RELEASES HOLIDAY SINGLE 10/16

“ Merry, Merry Christmas Baby” Is His First Holiday Song in Two Decades

featuring double Musicians Hall of Famer Jim Horn on Sax 

Country Music Hall of Fame member, six-time GRAMMY winner and CMA Entertainer of the Year Ronnie Milsap is getting into the holiday spirit. Known for his genre-blending soul-country, the man who’s won four CMA Album of the Year and three Male Vocalist of the Year Awards offers a yearning take on the soul classic “Merry, Merry Christmas Baby.”

            “I have always loved Christmas,” Milsap says of his choice. “Even though it’s a sad time for many, there’s a real soul to the way the holidays make even those feelings feel. I’ve always loved Dodie Stevens’ version of this, which recasts ‘Happy, Happy Birthday Baby’ for the holidays. So, it felt like a way to remember the ones remembering over the holidays...”

Opening with a few descending notes, the keyboards fall in, then Milsap’s smoky voice rises. Slightly nostalgic, “Merry, Merry Christmas Baby” comes wrapped in ribbons of Jim Horn’s sax, and old school background vocals. Produced by Rob Galbraith and Milsap, this version provides a strong mix of Rat Pack elegance, Patsy Cline’s sultry anguish and the Ray Charles vintage country/soul band presence that saw Milsap become a crossover powerhouse and cross-genre critical favorite in the ‘80s.

“A lot of today’s country singers make records with an R&B influence, but they have nothing on Ronnie Milsap,” offered USA Today. American Songwriter has raved about “his gift for interpretation, while the Nashville Scene praised “the soul of a country-pop master” and The Tennessean writes, “Milsap has long thrived by ignoring genre distinctions.”

Teaming with Black River Entertainment in time for the holiday season, the legendary blind keyboard player who’s done session work for Elvis, done duets with Ray Charles, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton and tv appearances with Little Big Town and Luke Bryan, as well as played the Howard Theater and the Whiskey A-Go-Go on his way to winning back-to-back Best Country Vocal Performance, Male Grammys for “Lost In The ‘50s Tonight” mines his rich musical history to put his stamp on this broken-hearted Christmas classic.

“At a time when the world needs love, and it’s harder to get than ever,” Milsap says, “this seemed like the perfect song. I’m blessed to have my wife Joycie, but I know so many people missing their loved ones. And I know Rick Froio, Mike Wilson and everyone at Black River, not only understand, they recognize how many people are feeling this, too.”

“Merry Merry Christmas Baby” will be digitally available to stream and download on October 16th, 2020.

Pre-save “Merry, Merry Christmas Baby” 

https://orcd.co/mmcb

Sax 

#CMAFEST2019 - BLACK RIVER ENTERTAINMENT HOSTS FIRST-EVER ‘60-SECOND SPOTLIGHT’ AT 2019 CMA MUSIC FEST

Take the chance

You never know who’s watching or what could happen

For the first time ever, Black River Entertainment is set to host the newly created ‘60-Second Spotlight’ at the Music City Center during the 2019 CMA Music Fest, June 6 – 9. Black River’s ‘60-Second Spotlight’ is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to perform before an audience of music industry professionals with one minute on the clock to make a lasting impression! Participants can sign up on 60SecSpotlight.com beginning May 31 or at XFINITY Fan Fair X (booth 170) between June 6 and June 8.

Taking place in the Music City Center, the ‘60-Second Spotlight’ stage provides the opportunity for anyone to perform live in front of an audience and industry professionals including Black River Entertainment’s President & CEO Gordon Kerr, Executive Vice President Rick Froio and Vice President of A&R Doug Johnson. The three executives have more than 70 years of combined experience in the music industry and are looking forward to seeing some of the country’s brightest new talent.

“There is so much talent in the world and these days, it seems that discovering talent can happen in many different ways,” said Black River Entertainment’s President & CEO Gordon Kerr. “At Black River, we love gathering together to hear new talent perform in a comfortable setting, as we do in our new space called ‘The Deck.’ Our desire through the ‘60-Second Spotlight’ is to create a similar environment where an aspiring artist/songwriter has the opportunity to share their talent and take one more step towards their dream. We see ‘60-Second Spotlight’ as an opportunity to bring ‘The Deck’ experience to the fans of Country music at CMA Music Fest and possibly discover incredible new talent. You just never know what could happen…”

Open to participants 18 years or older, performers can sign up at 60SecSpotlight.com beginning May 31 or at the Black River Entertainment booth in XFINITY Fan Fair X (booth 170) between June 6 and 8.

Due to security restrictions, personal instruments are not permitted inside Music City Center. However, Fender guitars and a Nord keyboard will be provided on stage for participants’ use. To learn more information and sign-up, please visit 60SecSpotlight.com.

#COUNTRYREWIND - KELSEA BALLERINI TAKES OVER NYC’S CENTRAL PARK FOR HEADLINE DEBUT ON GOOD MORNING AMERICA SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

WATCH HER PERFORM CHART-CLIMBING “I HATE LOVE SONGS” PLUS HER HISTORY-MAKING #1 HITS AS SPECIAL WEB EXCLUSIVES

—

 TO CO-HOST ABC’S THREE-HOUR CMA FEST NEXT WEEK (8/8)

Taking over the iconic location in New York City earlier, Black River Entertainment’s KELSEA BALLERINI boldly made her Central Park headlining debut with ABC's Good Morning America Summer Concert Series. The bona fide trailblazer was the only Country artist billed for the national program this year.

Dressed in a silver sequin Robert Rodriguez hoodie with matching Paco Rabanne stiletto booties, Ballerini's high-energy set featured a teal-colored balloon drop atop the glittering stage of the same electric hue. She delivered a “thoughtful performance of ‘Unapologetically,’” praised Billboard, as the crowd of “country fans sang along to the love song's catchy lyrics.” As heard on her acclaimed sophomore album of the same name, she also performed her chart-climbing current single “I Hate Love Songs.”

Watch Kelsea Ballerini bring “Unapologetically” and “I Hate Love Songs” to the Big Apple on ABC’s Good Morning America.

Loading her monster appearance, she chatted with GMA anchor Lara Spencer plus closed with her breakout smash “Love Me Like You Mean It.” Further filming two additional hits as web exclusives, Ballerini pumped up the big city crowd with “Dibs” and “Peter Pan.” All three #1 tracks – “Love Me Like You Mean It,” “Dibs,” and “Peter Pan” – made history, as Ballerini remains the first and only female artist in Country music history, including female duos and groups, to top the chart with her first three consecutive singles from a debut album (GOLD-certified THE FIRST TIME).

Watch Kelsea Ballerini reprise her #1 record-breakers, “Love Me Like You Mean It,” “Dibs,” and “Peter Pan.”

On Wednesday (8/8), she’ll return to ABC to co-host the 15th consecutive year of the three-hour CMA Fest special. Joining Thomas Rhett for the second year, the concert footage was gathered over the annual four-day music festival at Nashville’s Nissan Stadium. Tune in to see Ballerini also join the lineup, as the program begins at 8/7c.

Ballerini hits the road this weekend for another run on Keith Urban’s GRAFFITI U WORLD TOUR. As his special guest, she’ll continue to support through November 3 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, TX, with a local show set for August 24 at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena.

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

KELSEA BALLERINI ADDS TO AWARDS NOMINATION TALLY, SCORING MULTIPLE RADIO DISNEY NODS

Up for FOUR Awards, the Country Superstar Is Also CO-HOSTING the RADIO DISNEY MUSIC AWARDS on April 30

First UK Concert Sells Out in Under an Hour

 Current Single "Yeah Boy" Top 10 At Country Radio

Photo Credit: Guerin Blask

KELSEA BALLERINI has earned yet another round of award show accolades, continuing a meteoric rise to country stardom as she scores FOUR nominations for the upcoming RADIO DISNEY MUSIC AWARDS.

Nominated in the categories of The Buzz – Breakout Artist of the Year, XOXO – Best Crush Song (for “Yeah Boy”), Play It Again! – Radio Disney Country Favorite Song (for “Peter Pan”), and The Bestest! – Radio Disney Country Favorite Artist, Ballerini will also CO-HOST the show, which takes place in Los Angeles on April 29 and airs the following night (4/30) at 7 p.m. ET on the Disney Channel and other Disney platforms.

Fan voting is open now until April 9 at Disney.com/RDMA, the Radio Disney App, Google OneBox, and via Radio Disney’s Facebook and Twitter pages.

Ballerini was also nominated for Best New Artist at the 2017 iHeartRadio Music Awards and won the show’s Best New Country Artist trophy on March 5. Likewise, she’s up for two honors at the 52nd ACM Awards – Female Vocalist of the Year and Video of the Year (for “Peter Pan”). The 52nd ACM Awards air live from Las Vegas April 2 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

Meanwhile, Ballerini’s first show in the United Kingdom (5/11) has completely SOLD OUT. Showing incredible international appeal, tickets to her concert at London’s Under the Bridge were eagerly snatched up under an hour of going on sale. The singer-songwriter is currently touring with Thomas Rhett on his HOME TEAM TOUR, and will join Lady Antebellum’s YOU LOOK GOOD WORLD TOUR when it kicks off May 26 in Bakersfield, California.

Today (3/6), Ballerini appears as a guest co-host on CBS’ The Talk at 2 p.m. ET (1 p.m. PT/CT), on hand to swap stories and share laughs with hosts Julie Chen, Sara Gilbert, Sharon Osbourne, Aisha Tyler and Sheryl Underwood.

“Yeah Boy,” the latest single from her debut album, THE FIRST TIME, has launched into the Top 10 at Country radio this week. Her first three, “Love Me Like You Mean It,” “Dibs” and “Peter Pan,” all reached #1, a history-making feat for females in country music.

KELSEA BALLERINI NOMINATED FOR BEST NEW ARTIST AT THE 59th ANNUAL GRAMMY AWARDS

“Peter Pan” Soars To Platinum Success; Fantasy-Themed Single Is Her Second 1-Million Seller

“Yeah Boy” Quickly Climbing The Country Radio Charts

Quickly becoming one of country’s most beloved new superstars, KELSEA BALLERINI is nominated for Best New Artist in the all-genre category at the 59th Annual GRAMMY Awards on February 12.

Humbled by receiving her first GRAMMY nomination, Ballerini instantly took to social media Tuesday morning to share her sweet reaction. “I was 15 the first time I saw a GRAMMY. It was in a studio I was recording some of my first demos in. I remember asking if I could hold it, being its biggest fan, and knowing how important it was,” she recalled on Instagram. “I wish I could go back and tell that 15 year old starry eyed girl that she'd be nominated a few years later. #BestNewArtist @recordingacademy” Read her additional tweet here.

She also took a moment to record a special video message to her fans:

Today is the best day. pic.twitter.com/ygiAioMubS

— Kelsea Ballerini (@KelseaBallerini) December 6, 2016

The Black River artist is also celebrating her fastest-selling single to date, “Peter Pan,” which has now been officially certified PLATINUM by the RIAA.

An epic, girl-power anthem about a love interest who will never grow up, “Peter Pan” was co-written by Ballerini with Jesse Lee and Forest Glen Whitehead and is her second taste of PLATINUM success following the breakout debut, “Love Me Like You Mean It.” Both tracks, plus the GOLD-certified “Dibs,” were part of Ballerini’s groundbreaking first album, THE FIRST TIME.

"PLATINUM IS SO MANY. Knowing this song had the reaction it did and that a million people liked it enough to welcome it into their radios and stereos and lives is so incredible," Ballerini shares. "As a songwriter, that is one of my proudest accomplishments so far."

Resonating strongly with country fans since its release in March, “Peter Pan” was already a historic milestone, making Ballerini the first female artist – including duos or groups – to hit #1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart with her first three singles. Simultaneously, the fantasy-themed tune rose to the top spot on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, also making Ballerini the first female artist to score a double #1.

A visually-stunning video for the track was directed by Kristin Barlowe and has already been viewed over 22 million times on YouTube, which can be watched here.

Heading for a strong finish to 2016, Ballerini kicked off her first ever headlining tour – aptly titled THE FIRST TIME TOUR – claiming sold out dates in Washington, D.C., her hometown of Knoxville, TN, Atlanta, Chicago, Minneapolis, MN, Boston, New York City, and Buffalo, NY. The tour continues this week with upcoming shows at The Wiltern in Los Angeles (12/8) and a two-night run at Orleans Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas (12/9-10) before wrapping in Houston, TX (12/14).

Meanwhile, Ballerini’s new single – the fun-and-flirty “Yeah Boy” – is currently making its way up the charts. She’ll also perform at Kelly Clarkson’s Miracle on Broadway benefit concert in Nashville, TN on December 16.

For updated tour dates and information on Kelsea Ballerini’s THE FIRST TIME Tour and brand new Fan Club visit the newly launched KelseaBallerini.com and reach out to her on social media!

CRAIG MORGAN HONORS VETERANS DURING “AMERICAN STORIES” CONCERT EXPERIENCE TOUR DATES IN WASHINGTON, D.C. AND ROANOKE, VA

Country music entertainer, TV host and former soldier CRAIG MORGAN honored our United States military veterans over the weekend during his “American Stories” concert experience tour stops in Washington, D.C. and Roanoke, VA. Joined by his daughter Alexandra, Third Day front man Mac Powell, best-selling author (American Wife) and Veterans’ family activist Taya Kyle, songwriter/producer Phil O’Donnell (“Give It All We Got Tonight,” “Back When I Knew It All”), Morgan and friends celebrated American values and the service of our men and women in uniform through music and storytelling.

Nearly 200 members of the Armed Services and their families were given complimentary tickets to attend the show at Washington D.C.’s Warner Theater courtesy of the USO, with The Washington Post sharing the unique concert experience. The following night at Berglund Center in Roanoke, VA, Morgan presented a $20,000 donation to Folds of Honor on behalf of Record Rack® and Tarter. Folds of Honor provides educational scholarships to families of military men and women who have fallen or been disabled while on active duty in the United States Armed Forces. In addition, with the help of Record Rack® premium game feeds, five veterans were selected to win a once-in-a-lifetime hunting experience at Rancho Bellas Rocas along with an assortment of hunting gear.

Craig Morgan’s “American Stories” concert experience dates:

October 29*                Peoria, IL               Limelight
November 10**           Washington, D.C.    Warner Theatre
November 11**           Roanoke, VA           Berglund Center
November 17 ***         Manitowoc, WI       Capitol Civic Centre
November 18***          Milwaukee, WI       Northern Lights Theatre
November 19***          Warsaw, IN            Wagon Wheel Theatre

*with Shane Minor and Keni Thomas
**with Phil O’Donnell and Taya Kyle
***with Marla Cannon-Goodman and Clint Romesha

Learn more about the limited engagement “American Stories” concert experience HERE.

The Black River Entertainment recording artist’s ninth album, A Whole Lot More To Me, released June 3rd and includes “I’ll Be Home Soon” and “When I’m Gone” along with the inspiring ballad “Hearts I Leave Behind” with Mac Powell. Co-produced by Craig and Byron Gallimore (Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Lee Ann Womack), Morgan co-wrote nearly half of the album's tracks with some of Music City's hottest writers like Josh Osborne, Kevin Denney, Jim McBride and Phil O'Donnell.

AUSTRALIAN COUNTRY NEWCOMER NIKITA KARMEN HITS IT "OUT OF THE PARK" WITH DEBUT SINGLE

Black River Entertainment announces the release of Nikita Karmen’s debut single “Out of the Park” is digitally available now and at Australian radio via Play MPE.

An Australian native, Nikita Karmen began crafting her songwriting back home near the beaches of Sydney and made the move to Nashville, TN in November of 2015. In June of 2016, Nikita signed with the US based entertainment company.

With a regular gig opening for and as part of Bobby Bones and the Raging Idiots, the musical comedy group comprised of Bobby Bones and Producer Eddie from iHeartMedia's The Bobby Bones Show, Nikita will tour much of the United States.

Her newest opportunity to step up to the plate in Nashville is with the Australian release of “Out of the Park,” a song she penned as a message of hope for her sister, someday meeting the right guy.

“Being on the other side of the world and having the opportunity to release a song back at home is so exciting to me,” said Nikita. “While Nashville is where I have always dreamed of being, I started writing songs back in Australia so it feels amazing to have something for all my friends and family to hear over there.”

“Out of the Park” is digitally available now. To stay updated on Nikita Karmen visit her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

KELSEA BALLERINI ROCKS GOOD MORNING AMERICA’S SUMMER CONCERT SERIES THIS FRIDAY (8/19)

Award-winning Country Sweetheart’s Jimmy Kimmel Live! Performance To Re-Air Tonight (8/15)

Photo Credit: David O'Donohue

Following the re-air of her stellar Jimmy Kimmel Live! outdoor stage performance tonight (8/15), award-winning country sweetheart Kelsea Ballerini will bring her signature musical style and sparkling personality to ABC’s Good Morning America Summer Concert series. Tune in to see the Black River Entertainment artist perform her GOLD-certified hit “Peter Pan,” which is Top 5 at country radio and has tallied 17.5 million plus streams on Spotify worldwide. The music video for the high-flying single, directed by Kristin Barlowe, has surpassed the 11 million views mark on Vevo. Written by Ballerini, Jesse Lee, and Forest Glen Whitehead, “Peter Pan” highlights Ballerini’s wise beyond her years maturity heard throughout her critically acclaimed debut THE FIRST TIME.

Currently on Rascal Flatts' nationwide RHYTHM & ROOTS Tour, Ballerini will embark on her first 10-city headlining tour this fall – aptly titled THE FIRST TIME Tour – with tickets on sale now.

KELSEA BALLERINI TO EMBARK ON FIRST HEADLINING TOUR

THE FIRST TIME Tour Kicks Off October 21 With Additional Dates Announcing Soon

High-Flying Single “Peter Pan” Top 10 & Climbing At Country Radio

Platinum-selling country sweetheart Kelsea Ballerini has achieved yet another milestone on her way to superstardom, announcing today (8/1) her first-ever headlining tour -- aptly titled THE FIRST TIME Tour.

Named after her critically-acclaimed debut album THE FIRST TIME and kicking off October 21 in Houston, TX, the Black River artist's nationwide trek will take her record-breaking hits like “Love Me Like You Mean It” and “Dibs” to 10 cities over the 11 dates with additional dates to be announced soon. The tour is set to wrap up with a two-night stand in Las Vegas with special guest Cam in early December. The news comes on the heels of Ballerini’s latest single, the smash “Peter Pan,” entering the Top 10 on both the Billboard Country Airplay and Mediabase radio charts, while its fantasy-themed music video , directed by Kristin Barlowe, nears 10 million views on Vevo.

“I’ve been blessed to open for so many incredible artists and people I admire. Getting to watch their shows and learn more about our craft has inspired me to grow as an artist,” shared Ballerini. “One of the highlights of touring has been meeting fans and creating new relationships along the way. And for that reason, I was inspired to put together my first headlining tour. I can’t wait to get up close and personal with the people who have made the last few years so incredible. See you this fall!”

Tickets for THE FIRST TIME Tour will be available to fan club members beginning Wednesday (8/3) and go on sale to the general public this Friday (8/5) at 10 a.m. local time. A limited number of VIP experiences will also be up for grabs to fan club members starting Wednesday (8/3) at 10 a.m., with non-members joining the sale at noon local time.

Already on the road as part of Rascal Flatts’ RHYTHM & ROOTS Tour, media outlets around the country can’t get enough of Ballerini’s musical style and sparkling personality, raving about recent performances with quotes such as:

“…Ballerini, who has the fresh-faced, doe-eyed enthusiasm of a younger Mandy Moore, impressed with her soulful voice and inviting stage presence...” - The Charlotte Observer

“…Ballerini's vivacity is almost tangible, and it is easy to see her taking the next steps towards stardom…” - The Plain Dealer

“…Ballerini quickly climbs to top of country music world…” - Albuquerque Journal

Announced dates and cities on Kelsea Ballerini’s THE FIRST TIME Tour:

10/21 - Houston, TX - House of Blues*

10/22 - Dallas, TX - House of Blues *

11/11 - Knoxville, TN - TN Theatre +

11/12 - Atlanta, GA - Buckhead Theatre +

11/18 - Mahnomen, MN - Shooting Star Casino (Delayed on sale date from National Tour)

11/19 - Minneapolis, MN - Mill City Nights ^

12/2 - New York City, NY - Irving Plaza ~

12/3 - Buffalo, NY - Town Ballroom ~

12/8 - Los Angeles, CA - Wiltern (Delayed on sale date from National Tour)

12/9 - Las Vegas, NV - Orleans Casino w/ special guest Cam

12/10 - Las Vegas, NV - Orleans Casino w/ special guest Cam

Special guests:

* With Carly Pearce

+ With Morgan Evans

^ With Levi Hummon
~ With Jacob Davis

Adding to the excitement, Ballerini will perform tonight (8/1) on ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live! outdoor stage, this Wednesday (8/3) will feature her as part of the massive CMA Music Festival: Country’s Night to Rock concert special (also on ABC) and on Thursday (8/4), she and Arsenio Hall will co-host the grand finale of ABC’s musical retrospective “Greatest Hits” live from Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

For tour updates, tickets and more information, visit KelseaBallerini.com. Reach out to her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

KELSEA BALLERINI SPARKLES WITH A PAIR OF FIRST-EVER ACM AWARD NOMINATIONS FOR FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR & NEW FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR

What a way to start a Monday for rising New Artist Kelsea Ballerini whose record-breaking debut single “Love Me Like You Mean It” was just released to radio a little over a year ago. Today (2/1), the Black River Entertainment recording artist sparkles with her first-ever ACM Award Nominations in two categories – Female Vocalist of the Year and New Female Vocalist of the Year.

Ballerini took to Twitter immediately upon hearing the news and tweeted, “OH MY GOD. this is unreal. I don't even know what to say. thank you.”

Currently climbing the Country radio charts with her follow-up Top 10-and-climbing smash “Dibs,” the Radio Disney’s “NBT” (Next Big Thing) is prepping to perform next week at the prestigious New Faces Show during Country Radio Seminar, held Feb. 8-10 in Nashville, TN.

Yesterday (1/31) Ballerini performed at the NHL All-Star Weekend in Nashville, TN after just returning from taping the special “The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60” in LA with artists such as Elton John, Jessie J, Tori Kelly and Ne-Yo, airing February 21 at 8:00p.m. ET on ABC. Gearing up for her first international trek to Australia this March to perform at the Country CMC Rocks Festival, she has previously shared the stage with Alan Jackson, Lady Antebellum, Tim McGraw, Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban and will join Rascal Flatts for previously announced dates this summer.

KELSEA BALLERINI CLOSES OUT 2015 WITH NUMEROUS NATIONAL TV APPEARANCES

Photo credit: Brad Lovell – Courtesy of Iconic Entertainment 

Kelsea Ballerini will close out 2015 with numerous national TV appearances this week, including Billboard’s Women In Music event, American Country Countdown’s “Top 10 Stories of 2015” special and iHeart Radio’s Jingle Ball two-hour concert special in addition to continual airings of PBS’ National Christmas Tree Lighting broadcast throughout the month of December.

Tune in tonight (12/17) to see Ballerini pop by NYC’s legendary Madison Square Garden to introduce Selena Gomez at iHeart Radio’s Jingle Ball concert, airing at 8p ET/PT on the CW. Also on tap for tonight, Ballerini will appear on American Country Countdown’s “Top 10 Stories of 2015” special, airing at 8/7c on FOX.

Up next, fans can see the Black River Entertainment Recording artist accept the “Rising Star” award and perform at Billboard's prestigious Women In Music event held at Cipriani in New York City (12/11), which will air tomorrow, Friday (12/18) at 8/7c on Lifetime. Lady Antebellum’s Hillary Scott joined Ballerini at the celebration to present her award alongside the honorees, including Woman of the Year Lady Gaga, Missy Elliott, Fifth Harmony, Selena Gomez, Alabama Shakes’ Brittany Howard, Tori Kelly, Demi Lovato, Loretta Lynn and Lana Del Rey. Billboard took early notice of Ballerini’s success, praising her as “Country’s Next Queen.”

Ballerini racked up her first AMA, CMA and CMT award nominations throughout 2015 and is continuing the momentum with her Top 15-and-climbing single “Dibs” (Ballerini, Jason Duke, Ryan Griffin, Josh Kerr). Newly named Radio Disney’s newest "NBT" (Next Big Thing), she will ring in 2016 with a live performance in Nashville, TN at the annual "Bash on Broadway: New Year’s Eve in Music City" featuring Kings Of Leon and Chris Stapleton. Previously sharing the stage with Alan Jackson, Lady Antebellum, Tim McGraw, Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban, she will join select dates on Billy Currington’s SUMMER FOREVER Tour kicking off in February 2016.

CONCERT REVIEW/PHOTOS: KELSEA BALLERINI - MADISON THEATRE 12/10/15

ARTIST: Kelsea Ballerini
VENUE: Madison Theatre - Covington, KY
DATE: 12/11/15
REVIEWER/PHOTOGRAPHER: Jason Evans
Connect with Jason on Twitter at @J_EvansPhotos
SEE ENTIRE PHOTO GALLERY

Photo credit: Jason Evans Photography

CLICK HERE FOR ENTIRE PHOTO GALLERY

B105.1 hosted an amazing night of country music at the Madison Theatre in Covington, Kentucky. The concert was a benefit for the kids through the Toys for Tots foundation. The night kicked off with an energetic performance from Michael Ray, who scored his first #1 single in 2015 with "Kiss You in the Morning" and currently has a follow up hit out on country radio, "Real Men Love Jesus." Ray was followed by one of the hottest newcomers in country music this past year, Kelsea Ballerini, who has risen to the top of the country charts with her hits "Love Me Like You Mean It" and most recently "Dibs". The show was headlined by a group who has also made country headlines this year with their hits "Smoke" and "(This Ain't No) Drunk Dial", A Thousand Horses, whom I unfortunately had to miss as I had a 2 hour drive back home.

The Madison Theatre was packed in tight with the main floor deep from stage all the way to concessions, from one wall to the other with excited screaming fans standing shoulder to shoulder. There was no room for an additional single person on the main floor. This was no doubt a sold out show. Unfortunately, I didn't arrive in time for Michael Ray's set due to traffic. He had finished his set and the stage hands were working hard to clear the stage in preparation for Kelsea as I walked into the venue. As I walked in, a $1,000.00 check was being presented to Toys for Tots. Some fans took advantage of this short break to hit the concession stands while others decided to check out and participate in the silent auction which was being held to benefit. Once things settled down onstage, it was time for Kelsea Ballerini's performance.

Kelsea's live performance is filled with a fun, uplifting energy that will have you singing along to every line whether you know the song or not and if you don't know the words, you couldn't help but hum along. Kelsea began her set with a couple of tunes from her debut album, "The First Time", as well as a cover of Carrie Underwood's "Cowboy Cassanova". The rising star then performed her most recent radio hit as she claimed "Dibs" on the Cincinnati crowd, resulting in a very loud reception of applause and cheers. Kelsea would also perform her original songs such as "Yeah Boy", "Peter Pan" and one of my personal favorites "Square Pegs" from "The First Time" album. Kelsea is not one to avoid getting up close and personal with her fans. She sat on the edge of the stage, shaking hands, and taking selfies all throughout her performance. It's great to see an artist connect with the fans like Kelsea takes the time to do, not out of obligation but out of appreciation. You can tell she genuinely loves it.

As if the crowd wasn't already having a great time, Kelsea turned up the intensity and had the crowd dancing to a medley of dance covers featuring many popular hits from artists such as The Backstreet Boys, N*SYNC, Beyonce, and Christina Aguilera. With the night nearing an end, Kelsea had yet to perform her biggest and first #1  hit. She spoke to the crowd about songwriting and mentioned that she and her friends were listening to "this song" and began to play and sing Rihanna's "Take A Bow". She would mention that after listening to that song, she and her friends got to work at writing "Love Me Like You Mean It" and as she began to play, the crowd exploded with screams. Kelsea performed a 45 minute set that left the crowd begging for more!

The Toys for Tots foundation is a charitable organization run by directors who have all served in the United States Marine Corps. Per the official website of the Toys for Tots, "The primary goal of Toys for Tots is to deliver, through a new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to less fortunate youngsters that will assist them in becoming responsible, productive, patriotic citizens.". For more information on the organization, go to www.toysfortots.org.

Kelsea Ballerini 12/10/15-Covington, KY Setlist

1. Lookin' At Stars

2. Sirens

3. Cowboy Casanova (Carrie Underwood Cover)

4. Dibs

5. Yeah Boy

6. Peter Pan

7. Girl Crush (Little Big Town Cover)

8. Pop Medley featuring: Baby One More Time/Oops I did It Again/Everybody (Backstreet's Back)/Bye Bye Bye/Genie In A Bottle/Bootylicious

9. Square Pegs

10. XO

11. Take A Bow

12. Love Me Like You Mean It