TAKE MY ADVICE ... INSIGHT FROM ARTISTS, RADIO AND MUSIC INDUSTRY NAMES ON HOW TO MOVE AHEAD IN THE BUSINESS

I observe a lot when it comes to new artists, behavior and notice things that are done all in the name of getting their name out there, some good, some great and some that makes me cringe. If you want to get heard, you have to not only use your business sense but you have to use your common sense. There's more to being heard than good music and having a voice. If you want people to pay attention, there are some things that you, as not only an artist, but as a person, need to pay attention to as well. I thought I'd get some input from some friends on the business, some well known names, some new artists, songwriters, someone from radio and someone from the business side of the industry. Check out what they had to say when it comes to making a name for yourself in the music business. Lots of good insight here about what to do and what not do and some advice that just might help someone along the way. That's the point of this article and it's also why Lovin' Lyrics is here, to help new artists however we can.

Thanks to everyone who took their time to contribute their thoughts and shared their personal advice. If something one of these people help you, please be sure to let them know on social media that it was helpful. I've included their social media pages for your information. They all handle their own accounts and do not rely on social media managers so they do respond personally.

~ Jenn

Follow me on Twitter at @Lovinlyrics and here on Facebook.

Duane Allen

The Oak Ridge Boys, Grand Ole Opry Member, Country Music Hall of Fame Member, ACM, CMA , Dove and Grammy Award winner.

 Hits include "Elvira", "Bobbie Sue" and "Y'all Come Back Saloon"

Twitter - @DuaneAllen

Facebook - Duane Allen Fan Page 

"The main thing I tell young artists is to never give up on their dream. Sing every time you get the chance. You learn something about how to communicate every time you sing. If you are just singing to entertain people, sing something familiar. If you are hoping to get a recording deal, record new songs, don't record favors for anyone, including yourself. Record the best new songs you can find. Always be on time. Arrive at your show with plenty of time to thank people who brought you there. Always thank the helpers and security."

Joe Bonsall 
The Oak Ridge Boys, Grand Ole Opry Member, Country Music Hall of Fame Member, ACM, CMA , Dove and Grammy Award winner, Published Author

 Hits include "Elvira", "Bobbie Sue"and"Y'all Come Back Saloon"

Twitter - @JoeBonsall

"If Duane responded, then you already have the best advice…. I will add one thing… don’t sign anything EVER without a good music lawyer!!!"

T. Graham Brown 

Singer/Songwriter - has performed on the Grand Ole Opry 200+ times. 

Hits include "Darlene", "Come as You Were" and "I Tell It Like It Used To Be"

Twitter - @TGrahamBrown1

Facebook - TGrahamBrown1

If I was sitting in a living room with you or across a table from you and you asked my advice, this is what I would say..... if you want to be professional singer, songwriter or musician, make sure you love it so much, you just can't do anything else! Realize that if you are making a living doing what you love, you have the BEST job in the world. Why? Because your job is making a living  making people happy.  It is the BEST job in the world. Treat people with respect, everyone you meet.  From radio folks to promoters to other artists to audiences, especially audiences! Be thankful every time you walk out on a stage that they're there, waiting for you! It's another chance to make people happy!  Without them, you wouldn't have a job!  Really the only way you can make people happy is for you to be happy.  That will come if you pay attention and notice what's going on in your life and around you.  The days, months and years go by so quickly, like the blink of an eye!  Care about the folks that you're working with, appreciate their talent and hard work.  I guess I'm trying to say, live in the moment as much as possible and you'll create great memories that will last a lifetime.  Give everyone your best, every interview, every show, every time.  If you sing, play or write, try to do it almost every day. The more you practice your talent, the better you'll be. And the better you are, the more you'll get to do what you love.  It may sound simple or silly, but I know that it's true. One last thing.....if this is what you want, with all your heart......keep at it........NEVER EVER GIVE UP!!!

Good luck!! Keep the faith and spread it gently.

Steve Holy 

Singer / Songwriter

Hits include "Good Morning Beautiful", "Brand New Girlfriend" and "Love Don't Run"

Twitter - @SteveHoly

Facebook - SteveHoly

"Listen to your label. When you reach that moment where you figure it all out, use your own ideas and make the label think it was all their idea. Do a lot of listening. My father, Hank Holy, always told me ' Life's a pay attention game.'"

"When on a radio tour, remember names and just when you've had enough, you're tired and want to give up, remember how fortunate you are to be in that position in the first place."

"Cowboy Troy"

Singer - Member of Big and Rich's Muzik Mafia

Songs Include "I Play Chicken with the Train", "If You Don't Wanna Love Me (With Sarah Buxton) and "Cash in the Cookie Jar"

Twitter - @CowboyTroy

Facebook - CowboyTroy

"My advice to new artists on growing your audience would be when using social media, your interactions with your fans should be more than just “listen to my single” or “buy my EP”.  Spend some time engaging your fans with different types of posts. Post things other than sales ads. Only posting sales ads will eventually get you cleaned out from someone’s friends list or unfollowed. You want to grow your audience? Try keeping things light-hearted when possible and compassionate when circumstances are appropriate."

Bridgette Tatum

 Singer / Hit Songwriter

Cuts include "She's Country" by Jason Aldean, "Loud" by Big n Rich,

and "Back" by Randy Houser

Solo songs include "I Like My Cowboys Dirty", "Some Things Need to Be Said" 

and "That's Love Y'all"

Twitter - @BridgetteTatum

Facebook - BridgetteTatumFans

"Learn to accept no. No is OK. Those aren't your "people. Always do something everyday for your career. Make a video! Start a chat! Answer questions! However, do NOT over saturate your fans with music. They know you play music. They wanna know YOU. Get creative! Use social media as much as possible. It's a valuable tool in the arts these days. Absolutely play venues where you can connect with writers/publishers/artists/labels. It doesn't always matter if only five people to play to as long as they are the RIGHT five people."

Leah Turner

 Singer/Songwriter 

Songs include "Take the Keys"and "Pull Me Back" 

Twitter - @LeahTurnerMusic
Facebook - LeahTurnerMusic

Advice someone once gave you that stuck with you - Never Give Up. Don't sit around and wait for it to happen, go and make it happen 

What to do - On radio tours, be ready to work and be in lots of cars, planes and hotels.

Performing - Always connect with the crowd, read your audience, and be real and honest.

Attracting fans - Always reply, always stop and say hi, always stop for the picture, the signature, the handshake or the hug. 

Kyle Jennings

Singer / Songwriter

Songs Include "Jesus, Jack Daniels and Me", "Freedom Strong" 

and "You Can Hear the Opry Cry"

Twitter - @KyleJennings13

Facebook - KyleJenningsMusic

"How to keep from giving up is simple. Don't give up. Let your heart lead your footsteps and succeed or fail you'll never be wrong. Live for what you do and understand there is more purpose in the journey than the destination. Take on every challenge with a full heart and an open mind and aspire to grow from every opportunity you can. Be a student if your craft indefinitely. Appreciate where you are right now, and value it, and give your best effort to each moment but don't disconnect from the hope and drive and ambition to continue down the road. It's a hard concept to completely encapsulate. It really comes down to your value system. Some people simply value commercial "chart success" and/or money as their measure of overall success, regardless of the cost. Some have deeper convictions and aspirations and value things like artistic integrity and over commercial success. Those types have a more comprehensive measure of "success" and I think in the long run find more joy in their work. They also understand it's a much longer and tougher road filled with twists and turns that continually challenge you and test your resiliency and shape your character. Regardless, nothing worth anything is easy. It's a long tenuous road and being passionate about all areas of music isn't just a plus, it's a pre-requisite. At the end of the day, whether you have aspirations as a player, vocalist, or songwriter, focus more on how you can be better tomorrow, than worrying about being good today. If you can acquire that mentality, success is just a matter of time."

Justin and Ryan Harris - McKenzies Mill

Singers/Songwriters

Songs include "Houston", "Just Kickin' It", "God Bless the Southern Man" 

and "Middle of Nowhere"

Twitter - @McKenziesMill

Facebook - McKenziesMillFan

"I guess if there's one thing we have learned over 12 years in this town its the power of people. This industry, like any industry has an infrastructure in place…and that's not a “bad” thing. The quicker you embrace that, and not fight it, the better off you’ll be. Learning how to be true to yourself, true to your art, but not stubborn about the fact that you will need the help of many others along the way, the quicker you’ll have a fighting chance at forming a team in Nashville that can help you get to wherever it is that you want to go. Compromise and “selling out” are not synonymous. Bend but don’t break. You have to be able to look yourself in the mirror and feel good about the work you’re doing, but don’t let pride get the best of you either. It’s a slippery slope. Good Luck!"

Gary Quinn
 Singer / Songwriter (UK)

Songs include "He Don't Show Her Anymore", "Live Each Day" and "Shame"

Twitter - @GaryQuinnMusic
Facebook - GaryQuinnMusic

Advice someone once gave you that stuck with you - "Two of the biggest pieces of advice came from a family member call Mickey Tracey (my mother's cousin who's in the industry) and a country artist from Ireland that I looked up to, Eamon McCann. Eamon said "never compromise" and by that he meant never leave your beliefs of what you want to sound like and want to do. That might have meant I've turned down some 'big' opportunities but I would have ended up doing something I didn't really want to do. Mickey told me once "if there's no platform for you to showcase your talents...then go make one" and so I've been involved to helping set up a few events here and there in the UK and one of the main reasons I co-founded 'BUCKLE & BOOTS COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL' in Manchester along with my friend Karl Hancock last year."

What to do - "It's important to budget radio promo and touring into an album / single release. No point having a great record if no one's going to hear it. As a songwriter performer, it's also important to test your new songs out on a small live crowd. Sometimes the song you've written in the bedroom can sound great to you (because you've invested so much in it) but does it fly when performed live? Do 'live streams' of you performing online to attract new fans, apply to play at all genre festivals, new some interesting covers (maybe mash them up with your own). Also, interact with fans online. Think to yourself how awesome you'd feel if one of your favorite acts replied to a tweet? It's no different regardless of what rung of the ladder you're on."

Attitude - "Simply treat others as you'd wish to be treated and have a really good work ethic. Also have a thick skin as rejection is part and parcel of the industry but have faith in yourself. If you don't have faith in yourself then how can you expect a label to? "

What not to do - "Don't continually email over and over again asking for someone to listen to your stuff. Don't give up on trying to succeed either, its a fine balance."

How to get your name out there - "Play everywhere and anywhere, even if it's in your front room 'live streaming'. Remember, if you don't have a platform then go a create one!"

Josh Pruno
Singer / Songwriter

Songs Include "That's My Cross", "23rd Psalm"and "Long Before I Did"

Twitter - @JoshPruno
Facebook - JoshPrunoMusic

"Here are a few thoughts from this Missouri Boy...and I preface with the fact I obviously don't have 'answers'. Not even close. Hell, I'm still trying to figure most of this out 😉 I will say that growing up with a Dad who was a college baseball coach helped prepare for a lot of the business side of music. It sounds funny I know...but a lot of what he used to preach to his kids (teams) was:

1- YOU NEVER KNOW WHO IS WATCHING. Whether there are 10 people in the crowd or 1000, it doesn't matter. Always know that you are on. Everything you do. Hidden in that is the fact that the majority of the time it's the little things they're watching. If they came out, chances are they know what you can do. What they don't know is how do you treat the people running sound? How do you respond when your monitor isn't working? How do you react to a crowd who isn't really listening? Etc...

2-ALWAYS SURROUND YOURSELF WITH PEOPLE WHO ARE MORE TALENTED THAN YOU. More or less, if you are the best musician in your band, player on your team, etc...you have nobody to push you to be better. I have been so fortunate to have guys in my band who are twice the musicians I am. I love the fact that they push me to be better. I have been so blessed to sit and write with some of the best writers in this town, all of who are so much better than me. I take every opportunity to be a 'sponge' that I can. As far as everything else goes, I only know to be yourself. Who are you? If you can't answer that, nothing else matters. Know who you are and what you are about. Be that. Don't preach it...be it. Then if you're lucky someone comes into your life/career and toots your horn for you. Like anything/everything else in life, if you (personally) have to say it (put yourself over)...then you ain't it."

Rita Ballou
On Air Personality KOKE-FM Austin, TX and Music Blogger

Twitter - @RawhideVelvet

On Radio Tours:

Show up for an interview on time -- if you are even 15 minutes late it can screw up the entire day for someone else. 

Show up sober -- look, we get it. You are a rock star and it was a long night of jagerbombs and fireball, but be a grown up. This is our JOB and a place of business...this isn't the Waffle House after last call. Have some respect. If we have to be sober AT WORK, so should you.

Show up with your instrument -- be ready to play. Trust me, no one wants to listen to you talk unless you are cool like Radney Foster or Ray Wylie Hubbard...and guess what? They play AND sing. If they can, you damn well better.

Don't stink -- the studio is small...just like that van. We get it, things get ripe but a little Febreeze never hurt anyone.

Rita also saw this advice on a feature asking radio personnel the same thing so she included the following:

Rachel Yount Martin (Lone Star 102.5 - KHLB FM Radio): "For up and coming artists I'd say the big #1 is in-studio performances. It obviously helps to be talented, but if the listening audience gets to know you, they'll feel more of a connection with your music. And if you're playing a show in the area- even better! Maybe, hopefully for the radio station, that venue will consider advertising if they hear the interview and it helps turnout. Unfortunately for small market stations, some advertisers need convincing. #2 is your job is fun- I know we may be the 3rd radio station you've been to today, but don't forget to have fun with us! The listeners can't see how tired and bored you are on your radio tour, but they can hear it. Be mindful of your speaking voice as well as your singing voice. #3 is liners- they're super easy and worth reaching out to do. Not every station will want one, but I believe for the Texas artists especially, it's another tool that allows listeners to get to know you. "Hey, this is So-and-so from Frisco, Texas and you're about to hear my new single Blah on BBBB fm!" Obviously can't be done for everyone, but it's worth reaching out. Those are my big 3! Good music is obviously a given, but I hope that helps

Matt Ganssle (KYKX 105.7 - East Texas Best Country): "Encourage the artists to learn about radio and how our medium connects with fans deeper than spins. Be accessible for liners, appearances, radio shows, etc. Interact with station social media like a normal person. Never spam for requests - simply interact like a normal person, share relevant content and have fun with our mutual fans!"

Drew Bennett (KOKE-FM): "Have your artist voice liners and jock shouts for everyone on the air there. EVERYONE needs more of those. Send it along with the record. Otherwise, the occasional food surprise can be nice, but we all have to be careful. I know someone who used to live here in ATX who took some plugola and got black balled along with a station fine."

Dave Rose
Owner Deep South Entertainment, Management for Bruce Hornsby, Little Feat, Stryper, Parmalee, Jason Michael Carroll, Allison Moorer, LANco, Kasey Tyndall, Lee Roy Parnell, and The Warren Brothers, and Published Author. 

Twitter - @DaveRose9811
Facebook - DeepSouthEnt

Advice someone once gave you that stuck with you - "From various people, and in various forms, the advice that has stuck with me most consistently throughout my career is this: It’s about the music. It’s ALL about the music. Make great music, truly brilliant music – music that touches people’s soul – and the rest will take care of itself. Marketing, Branding, Touring, Merchandising, etc. – those are all important, but none of those things matter if the music doesn’t come first."

What to do - "Be nice – to everyone. Always. It’ll pay off many times over. And it just generally makes for a more enjoyable life"

What not to do - "The opposite would apply here. Don’t be an a**hole. And back to my original advice as well, put the music first. Be nice and make brilliant music and you’ll be amazed at the doors that’ll open. Seems simple, but I’ve seen first hand how it can work."

How to get your name out there - "Once you’ve got brilliant music, network, network, and network. Go to shows. Go to music conferences. Go to more shows. Meet local musicians. Go to industry networking events. No matter where you live, get involved in the local music community. Get to know as many people as you can. You’ve heard before that this business is all about relationships – it’s kind of true. Solid relationships can certainly help to kick start things."

CONCERT REVIEW: WRNS SONGWRITERS ROUND FEATURING STEVE HOLY, DOUG JOHNSON, DAVID KROLL AND TOMMY GARRETT - JACKSONVILLE, NC 5/20/15

EVENT: WRNS Songwriter's Round - Steve Holy, Doug Johnson, David Kroll & Tommy Garrett

VENUE: Marine Cadillac Chevy - Jacksonville, NC

DATE: 5/20/15

REVEIWER: Jennifer Smith

Follow Jenn on Twitter at @lovinlyrics

WRNS Songwriters - Steve Holy,Doug Johnson, David Kroll

When I first heard that this event was taking place, it was something I knew I had to be at even though it was an hour away and I'd have to take off work early to do it. I absolutely love a songwriter's round and being in eastern North Carolina, those are few and far between and not only was this a great event, it was an event to show appreciation to our military and that's something I stand behind with pride. This is why I love WRNS, they think outside of the box when it comes to events and they bring in the best music and not just the standard big names. They are a huge supporter of the songwriter and artists that aren't being heard on every major market station in the country. Their events always tend to have a cause associated with them, a way to give back somehow and that is a pretty awesome thing.

When we arrived, we immediately noticed this was going to be a more intimate event with maybe 100 people or less. YES! Intimate shows are the best shows ever! We took our seats just about the time the artists took the stage and for a small intimate crowd, they were a loud one. Now if you've never been to a writer's round, they're different than your typical show. The writers all sit on stage together, and they go down the line, telling the story behind the song, performing that song and then the next artist does the same thing and it keeps rotating until the end of the show. 

One thing about songwriter's rounds, sometimes even though the songs are wonderful, the writers aren't always the best vocalists. This was not the case here. All of the artists were fantastic.

David Kroll, a singer/songwriter born in Iowa and transplanted to Nashville, is known for his 2012 appearance on "The X Factor" TV show. He made it through the auditions and performed his song, "Little Soldiers" for the celebrity judges, including Simon Cowell. He was a hit with all judges (even got a smile instead of the well known scowl from Simon) and got a standing ovation for his performance. He's written songs for many artists, including hits for Easton Corbin, Billy Currington and Mark Wills.

David performed some great music, what a great voice and he's very personable. There were 2 songs that really stood out to me, the first one being his signature "Little Soldiers", which really hit home being that this event was honoring our military and the crowd was probably 90% military families. There were quite a few tears. The second song was "Something in My Pocket". This song was awesome! It started out telling the story of a couple on a date, he's dressed up and telling his date how special she is, how he had something in his pocket that was gonna make her cry and how he considered himself the happiest guy in Tennessee and assures her she's never gonna forget tonight.  She stops him in mid-sentence and says if it's a ring, the answer is an emphatic hell no, telling him he can't provide the material things she needs. She's not interested, doesn't want it, and is just mean about it. He continues the story to let her know that he appreciates her honesty, but what's in his pocket isn't a ring but a multi-million dollar winning lottery ticket. He's still the luckiest man in Tennesse and what was in his pocket was still gonna make her cry as he waved bye bye. GREAT SONG! I really wish this one was available on iTunes. 

Doug Johnson is a well known, prolific Nashville songwriter, musician, producer and engineer. He has worked with the biggest names in the business including Ricky Skaggs, Dolly Parton, Joe Diffie, Collin Raye and others. He was signed by Mike Curb at the age of 16 as a songwriter and his career took off from there and has made him one of the most respected names in the business. His hits include "Three Wooden Crosses" (Randy Travis), "She Won't Be Lonely Long" (Clay Walker), "Love Like Crazy" (Lee Brice) and one of his most meaningful, "Til the Last Shot's Fired" which was recorded by Trace Adkins and is the song used by the Wounded Warrior Project in it's commercials. Doug is currently the head of A&R at Black River Records and is working with Kelsea Ballerini, John King, and Kellie Pickler to name a few. This guy's resume is more than impressive, it's historical. He received an extended standing ovation when he performed "Til the Last Shot's Fired" which made a big impact with the military families in attendance. There was complete silence during the entire song. To quote Jennifer Lopez, it gave me "goosies".

Tommy Garrett, who also happens to be the WRNS program director / "head honcho" / "man with the plan", is also a songwriter, recently signed to Blue Guitar Music Publishing. His song, "Don't Give Up On Me" was written with Stokes Nielson of the Lost Trailers and was released by the band in January 2013. The song comes from a personal experience in Tommy's life, a near fatal car accident that left him hospitalized and in a coma for over a month. He recalls the emotional toll it took on his family, especially his wife and says he simply asked one thing of her, to not give up on him because he would be back to normal soon.. She didn't give up and Tommy didn't give up and he took that experience and put it to song. He also performed a song with his daughter about their connection since the day she was born and the history they would build through the years together. His wife and daughter are also musically inclined and provided vocal harmonies on a couple of songs. He's got mad keyboard skills too. 

The crowd was especially enthusiastic to see Steve Holy, who has taken intermittent time off over the past few years to raise his daughters and spend time with his family. His voice has been missing from country music for awhile now and it was obvious by the level of applause and 3 standing ovations that fans want him back. He opened his set with a song that is personally one of my favorites, it's one that shows his personality in a HUGE way and coined the term "Pucker Punch" - "Hauled Off and Kissed Me". The crowd loved it. I gotta tell you, his is a voice that you have to really hear live to truly appreciate how strong and clear it is. I knew he was great but he blew me away. My mom looked at me with her mouth hanging open and said "now THAT is the good stuff." She's hooked. His longtime band mates, Adam Ricker and James Watkins, are not only fantastic musicians, their harmonies are tighter than Luke Bryan's skinny jeans. Next up was one of the most played songs on country radio, his #1 hit, "Good Morning Beautiful" and this was the first of his 3 standing ovations. He broke out a new emotional tune called "Mama", which is basically a phone call between a son and his mother put to music. The song will tug at your heartstrings as you listen to the story, asking yourself if you've thanked your mother enough for all she's done for you. I cried. This song has HUGE potential. I posted the video on my Facebook page and it's gotten nothing but positive response. I hope to see this one released as a single in the future. This was his second standing ovation of the night. Then, the crazy happened. Now Steve and I met through social media about 3 years ago when I helped him do some promoting for "Hauled Off" and this working relationship turned into over 300 conversations and a close personal friendship that I am so thankful for every day. So, back to the crazy ... not only was this the first time I'd heard him perform live, it was also the first time we'd met in person so it was already an emotional night for me. He knows that "Love Don't Run" has a special place in my heart and has changed me as a person for the better. He decided at the last minute to change up the set list and play that for me. Uh oh. I knew this couldn't end well for makeup. Not only did he decide to play it, he also decided to tell the room how we met and that I was in the crowd and made me stand up! Homegirl gets totally embarrassed in situations like this, I mean I turn every shade of red imaginable and can't breathe. I stood up and got through it without bursting out in a nervous fit of 9 year old little girl giggles. Thank God! So he sang the song, I cried my eyes out and stood up along with everyone else in the room in applause. He rounded out his set with a song that his label didn't want to cut, they didn't like it but he went ahead and released it based on his faith in the song and that song, "Brand New Girlfriend" went straight to #1, proving that fact that the professionals don't always get it right. And that was ovation #3.

What a fantastic night, much better than any arena show I could ever go to because it had meaning, it gave life to the songs by those who created them. It made me realize just how much love I have for music and just how powerful it can be. I have such a respect for the people that write and play these songs that make up the day to day soundtrack of my own personal life and don't think they get nearly enough credit. Thank you WRNS for bringing it all back home for me.

Find out more about each artist online:

David Kroll - http://davidkrollmusic.com/

                      Twitter - @David_Kroll

                      Facebook - www.facebook.com/KrollPatrol

Doug Johnson - http://www.georgiamusicchannel.com/Doug_Johnson_Songwriter.html

Tommy Garrett - http://www.wrns.com/page.php?page_id=107

Steve Holy - www.steveholy.com

                    Twitter - @steveholy

                    Facebook - www.facebook.com/steveholy

 Tune into WRNS 95.1 FM in eastern NC or online at www.wrns.com

STEVE HOLY UPCOMING TOUR DATES

Steve Holy is hitting the road for a few dates in the spring/summer. Is he coming your way?

Apr 3 - Uptown Theatre in Kansas City, MO - GET TICKETS

May 2 - Kentucky Derby Fest-A-Ville in Louisville, KY - GET TICKETS

May 30 - Country 4 Coaches Fundraiser in Woodland, CA - TICKET INFO TBA

TWITTER CD GIVEAWAY: WIN A COPY OF STEVE HOLY'S "LOVE DON'T RUN" CD

It's the day after Valentine's Day and candy shelves aren't the only place to get the good stuff today! In keeping with the theme of the weekend, Steve Holy sums it up best with "Love Don't Run", so we want to give you a chance to win this fantastic cd. Not only is it FREE but it's also calorie free! The cd contains the hit title track as well as songs like "Hauled Off and Kissed Me", "Until the Rain Stops", "Heart of a Hero", his heartfelt remake of the classic "Help Me Make It Through the Night", and an acoustic version of the song that kicked it all off, his #1 hit song, "Good Morning Beautiful". We want to share Steve's music with you and hope that you'll want to share it with others too!

All you have to do is follow @LovinLyrics and @SteveHoly on Twitter and tweet the following message:

"Please RT: Have you turned your #RadioUp and tuned into @SteveHoly? #LDRContest"

That's it! We'll choose the winner tomorrow night, Sunday 2/16, by midnight! Thanks for sharing Steve's music!

"BEST OF STEVE HOLY" CD TO BE RELEASED ON FEBRUARY 11 - PRE-ORDER NOW!

Ya'll head over and pre-order Steve Holy's new cd that comes out in the next couple of weeks - "The Best of Steve Holy". Walmart has the pre-order on sale for half price right now, only $5.00! This one has all of his hits including his #1 songs "Brand New Girlfriend" and "Good Morning Beautiful", his hit single "Love Don't Run, and his latest single, "Radio Up". You can also pre-order on iTunes.

Track Listing:

1. Brand New Girlfriend

2. Good Morning Beautiful

3. Love Don't Run

4. Men Buy The Drinks (Girls Call The Shots)

5. Come On Rain

6. Put Your Best Dress On

7. Blue Moon

8. Don't Make Me Beg

9. I'm Not Breakin'

10. Radio Up (Single)

STEVE HOLY ADDS WINTER TOUR DATES TO SCHEDULE

Curb recording artist Steve Holy has added two dates to his winter tour schedule in support of his latest single, "Radio Up". The new single is getting rave reviews from radio on both coasts and is gaining momentum with overwhelmingly positive listener feedback. "Radio Up" is setting itself up to be the comeback hit for one of country's most missed voices. Request it on your local station, let them know you want to hear more from Steve Holy.

FRI FEB 14, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Radio Up Radio Tour with WCYQ
Knoxville, TN
CONTACT WCYQ FOR INFO

SAT FEB 15, 2014 - 7:00 PM
Chisholm Trail Festival
Donna, TX
CLICK HERE FOR INFO

THE ONES TO WATCH IN 2014

Look out for these artists in 2014, they're gonna come at you like baby spider monkeys jacked up on Mountain Dew! This looks to be the year that the songwriters step into the spotlight with their own music. I really hope country radio pulls it's head out of it's ass so their ears are clear to listen to what these artists have to offer their listeners.

Sam Hunt

He may be known for his skills on the football field as a former quarterback for UAB and a free agent with the Kansas City Chiefs and also for his songwriting skills, having written Kenny Chesney's #1 single "Come Over" as well as the upcoming singles "Cop Car" from Keith Urban and "We Are Tonight" from Billy Currington, but Sam Hunt proved in 2013 that he's got the chops to step out from behind the pen and step up to the mic with his own hit single, "Raised On It", which got rave reviews from Sirius XM The Highway listeners and smaller market mainstream and locally owned stations. His live shows are fantastic and you can pretty much count on a sell out crowd. He's ready to score his first touchdown as a country artist in 2014.

Brandy Clark

As a songwriter, Brandy Clark's songs have been recorded by the likes of Miranda Lambert, The Band Perry, Reba McEntire, LeAnn Rimes, Billy Currington, Darius Rucker and Kacey Musgraves. Her style is simplistic, getting right to the heart of her own observation of human nature. They're dark yet retain a sense of humor about the reality of the topic at hand. As an artist, she's even better. She can tell the stories themselves better than anyone else, putting her own personality and spin into the storytelling. Her single, "Stripes", was a hit on Sirius XM's "The Highway" and mainstream stations that actually realize there's great music outside the Top 20 and aren't afraid to listen to their fans and play it.

She's got country twang, almost reminiscent of a new Loretta Lynn. I think Brandy is what country's been missing, a strong female presence who keeps it real and puts herself out there as who she is and her music is a reflection of that person. Her cd "12 Stories" is one of the best cd's released this year. She will be making a huge impact in 2014.

"Her debut album 12 Stories, which is available now, Brandy delivers a stunning tour-de-force worthy of mention alongside the very best albums of the year." -  Darryl Addison, Great American Country

"12 Stories is one of those rare albums whose every song is worth hearing — every one is that striking, that textured and finely detailed. It is my fervent hope that Clark, who's helped other women achieve hit singles — Miranda Lambert, The Band Perry and Kasey Musgraves, to name a few — will have her own hits from among these smoothly crafted, emotionally rough compositions." - - Ken Tucker, NPR.Org

Chris Stapleton

Chris Stapleton is another songwriter who had a great career with hits like Kenny Chesney's "Never Wanted Nothing More", George Strait's “Love's Gonna Make It Alright” and "Come Back Song" from Darius Rucker. Over 150 of his songs have made the cut on albums by artists including Adele, Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley and Dierks Bentley. While his songwriting is outstanding, it's his voice that will stop you in your tracks. With powerful vocals, a wide range and solid ability, Chris can belt out a song and make you listen. His first solo effort, "What Are You Listening To" has garnered top shelf reviews from industry folk ...

"The timing couldn’t be better for a song like this, but really there’s no wrong time for a track that mixes tear-jerking lyrics and genuine vocals. It’s a veteran performance from a man who is only a country newcomer in the eyes of radio." - 

 Billy Dukes, Taste of Country

"Every once in a while you run into a singer here in Nashville who just blows you away, an artist who can create sound in an effortless manner and transport your soul out of this world ... That someone proved to be Chris Stapleton." -  Lisa Konicki, Country Weekly

I think we'll be hearing a lot more from Chris in 2014, whether country radio stands behind him or not. Country music stands behind him.

Eric Paslay

Other than his songwriting, I never really understood the draw of Eric Paslay until I saw him perform live and that was the moment I completely got it. Eric, who's written such hits as "Barefoot Blue Jean Night", Eli Young Band's "Even If It Breaks Your Heart" and Love and Theft's single "Angel Eyes", can stand on his own as a performer just fine. His breakout single, "Never Really Wanted" peaked at #48, his follow up single, "If The Fish Don't Bite" peaked at #58 but it was his recent hit, "Friday Night" that really resonated with country radio, peaking at #8 on the Country Airplay charts. 

His performance style is simple and understated and that's what makes him so great to watch. He doesn't have to rely on stage antics, videos playing in the background, all the flashing lights or things that actually distract from the music itself. You can see the love of what he does best when it's just he and his guitar. He keeps the same energy level you hear in the radio version of his music and that energy transfers to those in the audience.

His debut cd is due in February and I think he's gonna have a top seller on his hands.

"His genius is not overthinking simple ideas that fans will enjoy for their simplicity." -  Billy Dukes, Taste of Country

"With this single and music video for “Friday Night,” Eric Paslay proves that he is one of the most underrated singers and songwriters in country music." - - Markos Papadatos - Digital Journal

Kellie Pickler

Kellie's been a household name ever since she was on American Idol. She's had a few songs here and there but none that really showcased just how good of an artist she really is. She's so much more than a bubbly personality or that cute blonde girl from NC. She's an artist to be reckoned with and her last cd, "100 Proof" proved that. Her new cd, "The Woman I Am" proves it even more. This cd is a combination of the two cds. I would have called it "100% Kellie" because it is exactly that, 100% the woman she is.

What I love about Kellie is that she's not really out to impress anyone, she just sings and has so much fun doing it. She's as country as they come and as complicated as you probably don't see. She breaks out both in her music and the combination is perfectly Kellie. I hope she makes her mark this year because she's more than proven herself.

"One of biggest injustices of Country Music the past couple of years was the fact that 100 Proof did not make Kellie Pickler a household name with Country Music fans." 

"Kellie Pickler shows that in addition to being one of country music's most dominant personalities - she's also one of it's most effective singers. Hopefully, this album will show that to the masses!"

- Both quotes by Chuck Dauphin, Music News Nashville and Billboard

Steve Holy

Steve Holy has something that's hard to find in country music, the ability to actually infuse his personality into each song he sings. If you've ever met Steve, you know he's one of the most humble, kindest and funniest people you'll ever meet and his music reflects each of those aspects of his character. He loves to tell a story, whether it be through a ballad like his #1 song "Good Morning Beautiful", his #1 hit, the tongue in cheek "Brand New Girlfriend", or any other song he sings. The story never fails to come through and people love that about him. 

He's got the classic voice, the classic good looks, the great back story about growing up the youngest of 8 siblings in Texas and he's maintained his personal goal of always remaining true to himself, his music and approachable to his fans. He always makes time for those who come to his shows, often shaking hands, taking pictures and signing right up until he is pushed on stage. He's a people person and loves to include audience participation in his shows.

 For some reason, whether it be problems with his label or poor promotions, the ball seems to always be dropped when it comes to his music. He released "Radio Up" this year, an outstanding song, one that could have put him right back up at the top of the charts and showcases his strongest and best vocals to date. "Radio Up" gained great reviews both from fans and industry personnel alike, but for some reason the ball was dropped yet again and another great artist and song fell through the cracks in 2013. 

With some other projects in the works, I think we'll be seeing Steve Holy at his best in 2014, coming back strong and proving that he deserves air play and that fans want it.

"What a great song by Steve Holy. It has the musicality that made Steve who he is today with a great vibe that makes it "relevant" in today's #Countrymusic world. The lyrics tell that story that Steve is so good at telling. I liked the song on the first spin, felt fresh yet familiar. Makes me very excited for the rest of his new music!" - - Nickie Techmanski, Country Watch

"OK, You know we in the industry love a song that mentions radio in it. But, this is actually one of Steve Holy’s best vocal performances yet. His voices soars into an Orbison-esque stratosphere as the chorus bounces along. A definite hit." - CDXCD.Com 

THE WINNER OF OUR DAY 6 CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY IS ....

Courtney Porter-Tetreault

Congratulations, Courtney! You are our Day 6 winner. Your prize consists of a signed copy of the new "Alabama and Friends" tribute cd, a signed copy of Randy Houser's "How Country Feels" cd, and an unsigned copy of Steve Holy's "Love Don't Run" cd. We'll get these in the mail to you within the next week! Thank you for supporting us and for supporting great music. Merry Christmas and happy holidays to you and your family!

CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY DAY 6: WIN COPIES OF RANDY HOUSER (SIGNED), ALABAMA (SIGNED) AND STEVE HOLY (UNSIGNED) CDS

THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED

WINNER: Courtney Porter-Tetreault

Welcome to Day 6 of our Christmas Giveaway! Today, we're giving away music from some of country's best - Randy Houser, Alabama and Steve Holy. We appreciate truly good music and want to share some of our favorites with you this holiday season. Music is the gift that keeps giving with every note, every melody. 

Today's prize includes:

1 signed copy of the new Randy Houser CD, "How Country Feels"

Track Listing:

1. Runnin' Outta Moonlight

2. Growin' Younger

3. Top of the World

4. The Singer

5. Power of a Song

6. Absolutely Nothing

7. Wherever Love Goes (Duet with Kristy Lee Cook)

8. Like a Cowboy

9. How Country Feels

10. Along for the Ride

11. Sunshine on the Line

12. Goodnight Kiss

13. Let's Not Let It

14. Shine

15. Route 3 Box 250 D

1 copy of "Alabama and Friends" tribute cd, signed by all 3 original members of Alabama: Randy Owen, Jeff Cook and Teddy Gentry.

Track Listing:

1. Tennessee River - Jason Aldean

2. Love in the First Degree - Luke Bryan

3. Old Flame - Rascal Flatts

4. Lady Down on Love - Kenny Chesney

5. The Closer You Get - Eli Young Band

6. Forever's As Far As I'll Go - Trisha Yearwood

7. She and I - Toby Keith

8. I'm in a Hurry (And Don't Know Why) - Florida Georgia Line

9. That's How I Was Raised - Alabama

10. All American - Alabama

11. My Home's in Alabama - Jamey Johnson

1 unsigned copy of "Love Don't Run" cd by Steve Holy

Track Listing:

1. If It Gets You Where You Wanna Go

2. Love Don't Run

3. Hauled Off and Kissed Me

4. Until the Rain Stops

5. Heart of a Hero

6. Every Day Should End Like This

7. Wonders

8. Let the Sun Shine In

9. Like I'm Famous

10. Help Me Make It Through the Night

11. Bonus Track: Good Morning Beautiful (Acoustic Version)

To enter, email us at lovinlyrics@gmail.com with "Music Gives Back" in the subject line, along with your full name, mailing address and Twitter name if you have one. We will announce the winner tomorrow at noon. 

All entries are automatically entered to win our Christmas Day prize, the 8 disc box set by Garth Brooks, "Blame It All on My Roots". 

Good Luck!

EVENT (FOLSOM, CA): TONIGHT! MON, OCT 28 - STEVE HOLY PERFORMING FREE SHOW AT TOBY KEITH'S

Steve Holy has been partnering with many different radio stations across America on his Radio Run tour. Tonight, on October 28th, Steve partners with KNCI 105.1 to play Toby Keith's This Bar and Grill in Folsom, California. The show starts at 7 pm and is absolutely free.

For more information, check out Toby Keith's This Bar and Grill.

EVENT (PORTLAND, OR): WED, OCT 30: CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN WITH STEVE HOLY AT DUKE'S BAR AND GRILL

Come celebrate Halloween with Steve Holy this Wednesday, October 30th. 

Steve is partnering with 98.7 The Bull while on his Radio Up Tour and will be performing at Duke's Country Bar and Grill. This show is 21 & up. Doors open at 4 pm and the show starts at 7 pm.

For more information and to get your ticket click here!

STEVE HOLY ADDS OCTOBER TOUR DATES TO SCHEDULE

Steve Holy has added more dates to finish up his October tour schedule including two radio shows to promote the new single, "Radio Up". Tickets are available for all of these shows. Come on out and support Steve and help make this single his next hit! Request "Radio Up" on your local stations and if you hear it, remember to thank your dj for playing it! You can download the single now on iTunes and Amazon now. Be sure to leave a review, let Steve know what you think of the song!

10/28 - Sacramento, CA - KNCI 105.1 Radio Up Radio Tour- Ticket Info TBA

10/29 - Spokane, WA - KXLY 99.9 Radio Up Radio Tour - Ticket Info TBA

10/30 - Portland, OR - Duke's Bar and Grill w/ KUPL 98.7 - Get Tickets Here - ONLY $8.00! (21+)

10/31 - Las Vegas, NV - KWNR Radio Up Radio Tour - Ticket Info TBA

NEW MUSIC REVIEW: "RADIO UP", THE NEW SINGLE FROM STEVE HOLY

There are certain voices in music that were put there for a reason, that you know from the first note were created just for that purpose. They're timeless, flawless and there's just that something that you immediately love. Steve Holy was blessed with one of those voices and just when you think you've heard his best vocals, he tops himself yet again. From "Blue Moon" to "Good Morning Beautiful" to "Love Don't Run", his strength, power and range have only improved with time and his new single, "Radio Up" proves it once again. The single was just released country radio a couple of weeks ago and is available for download on iTunes and Amazon. The single was included in iTunes' "New and Noteworthy" section as one of the top new singles to keep an ear on. As far as serious recording goes, Steve's had a couple of years off to really focus his efforts on the direction he wants to take, choose the perfect songs and make sure his voice is at it's absolute best and I can tell you, having been a dedicated fan for years, he's reached that goal ... he is at his absolute vocal best.

Recently released to country radio, "Radio Up", the first single on Curb's new label MMC. It's is a catchy, mid-tempo song that tells the story we're all too familiar with and every single one of us can relate to, the inevitable impending break up that you know is coming but you don't want to hear, and would do anything to not have to hear those heart breaking words, "it's over". Few artists have a knack for putting you right smack in the middle of the story of a song, but Steve Holy has the ability to do just that. In the song, the subject does what any music lover would do in his position, he turns the "Radio Up" and drowns out the words to music. We've all been that person at least once in our lives, the person with their hand on the volume, turning it up before the words we didn't want to hear reached our ears and our hearts. We have all turned the radio up in life. The song, written by 3 of Nashville's best writers, Brian White ("Watching You", Rodney Atkins), Ben Glover ("Love Don't Run") and Bruce Wallace, is well crafted and will have you singing along probably by the 2nd or 3rd time you've heard it and you will find yourself singing the chorus to yourself even when the song isn't playing. The chorus is catchy and fun and the melody contagious. This is the quality of music that first made people take notice of Steve's talent and it's the kind that will have them want to keep hearing more from him. "Radio Up" will definitely make you want to turn your own "Radio Up".


We think Steve Holy has another top hit on his hands with this one and from the feedback we've seen and heard so far, I think listeners agree. We hope to see him back at the top of the charts where he should be.

On a Marshall amp, I give it a 12 on a scale of 1-11. Turn the "Radio Up", turn it up LOUD!

You can purchase the single on iTunes or on Amazon now.

Please be sure to leave a review of the single when you purchase. Keep requesting the single on your local stations and keep an eye on your music charts because this one's gonna move fast!

Join Steve's official street team at www.steveholy.com and spread the word. Steve is also on Twitter at @SteveHoly (he's a funny Texas son of a gun) and on Facebook as well.

STEVE HOLY HITS THE ROAD STARTING IN OCTOBER

Steve Holy is hitting the road for a few October dates. Get your tickets now!

Be sure to download Steve's new single, "Radio Up," for only .69 cents on iTunes. Be sure to leave a review. You can also purchase on Amazon.

You can help make the song, written by Brian White, Bruce Wallace, and Ben Glover, Steve's 3rd #1 hit by coming together and letting your local stations know you want them to play it. #TeamHoly has done it before, let's do it again!

This month to promote "Radio Up", Steve is embarking on a nationwide radio tour through the west coast, the southeast, and the northeast. He will visit stations in California,Oregon, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New York, Massachusetts, Arizona, Missouri, and Colorado.

Below are Steve's October 2013 tour dates:

October 15th- Toby Keith's "I Love This Bar and Grill" with US106.1 - Norfolk, VA

October 25th - Renfro Valley Entertainment Center - Mt. Vernon, KY

October 30th- Duke's Bar and Grill with 98.7 The Bull - Portland, OR

STEVE HOLY RELEASES NEW SINGLE "RADIO UP" TO iTUNES AND OTHER ONLINE RETAILERS

STEVE HOLY/JASON MICHAEL CARROLL FANS GET A WEEKEND DOUBLE HEADER

If you're fans of Steve Holy and Jason Michael Carroll, you're in for a hell of a weekend! Both are performing on the same stages this weekend as part of their "Ante Up" Tour. Steve just released his much anticipated new single, "Radio Up" to iTunes and Amazon with an upcoming release to country radio and Jason's long awaited new single, "Close Enough" is scheduled for official release to radio on August 13. Come out and support two great artists for one low price! Tickets are still available for both shows, so get them while you can.

Friday, August 2 - Summit Station, PA

Schuykill County Fair

Shows at 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM 

Fairgrounds Admission- $12.00 - both shows included.

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE GATE

Saturday, August 3 - North Collins, NY

Down Home Country Fair

Admission: $20.00 at the gate

 Gates open at 3 pm

Children 12 & under FREE 

No presale tickets or reserved seating 

Located at the Langford Tractor Pull Grounds

Sorry, No Carry-Ins Allowed

Food tent open throughout the evening 

Chicken BBQ at 5pm 

Children under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian