ARTICLE: Country Radio Seminar takes over Nashville for it’s 40th Anniversary.

The first weekend in March country radio brings in 1000’s of representatives from stations all over the map and Nashville TN comes alive with special events tailored to showcase artists and labels to the special guests in town attending CRS (Country Radio Seminar). Hundreds of artists gather to give interviews, tape special radio announcements and host special events to bring attention to their music and cater to radio.

Tuesday night kicks off the week with a black tie reception, gala dinner and awards presentation in the Grand Ballroom of the Renaissance Hotel. This year Bob McKay and Moon Mullins were inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame while Chuck Collier and Gerry House were inducted into the DJ Hall of Fame. The Career Achievement award was presented to Merle Haggard and special and touching performances in his honor were offered by Emmylou Harris and Jack Ingram. The President's Award was presented to Sheila Shipley Biddy.

A ceremony to officially welcome everyone starts off Wednesday morning, followed by more awards and special guests and entertainment. This year, Randy Owen was the recipient of the Humanitarian Award, which was presented by last years winner, Clay Walker.

CRS is sponsored by the Country Radio Broadcasters or CRB, who provide the radio attendees three days of panel discussions to address the ever-changing demands of listeners and music availability. Special guest speakers ranging from legendary DJ’s and other well known and nationally recognized air personalities to hit song writers and artists, as well as professionals from the industry and music row. Seth Godin, well known author and inspirational speaker was a keynote speaker entertaining the crowd and signing copies of his books.

Each day at lunch a very unique show sponsored by various music labels offers the radio community a chance to see up close and personal the artists and performers vying for radio air play. This year Golden Music showcased newcomers Benton Blount and Williams Riley, Sony Music’s Jake Owen and Miranda Lambert wowed the audience on Thursday and Friday Darius Rucker and Little Big Town took to the stage to give the crowd an outstanding performance.

Another favorite of the seminar is the very special “Life Of A Legend”, where a country music icon is brought in to share personal moments of their career in country music. This year Kix Brooks interviewed the talented and beautiful Barbara Mandrell in front of a standing room only crowd as she shared intimate and touching stories from her past and allowed those in the room to see a side of her usually reserved for her family and friends.

Evening brings more entertainment on Wednesday with the Academy of Country Music sponsored “Music City Jam”. This year featured Tim McGraw and friends and Friday the long running “New Faces Show” which allows the newcomers of country music to perform. This year Lady Antebellum, James Otto, Chuck Wicks, The Zac Brown Band and Kellie Pickler had the attendees on their feet and singing along.

Downtown Nashville takes full advantage of the opportunity to offer after hours events as well. This year Universal Music Group closed down part of Commerce Street as Jayme Johnson did a live concert, the General Jackson was booked for a private cruise filled with entertainers such as Martina McBride, Kenny Chesney and many others, Rocket Town showcased a full line up of entertainment including Tracy Lawrence, The Rutlege found Keith Urban showing off his guitar skills to a packed house and a special 40th Anniversary Jam was held at the Cadillac Ranch sponsored by Digital Rodeo. Performers at the jam packed show included Jamie O’Neil, Brady Seals, Emerson Drive, Adam Gregory, Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, Andy Griggs, Chuck Wicks, Julianne Hough, James Otto and many many more! There were also special private parties held at the Ryman, Fuel and other venues to showcase artists and allow those in attendance the chance to get to know the performers. CRS is a week everyone looks forward too and this year let no one down.

For more photos of this years event go to www.flickr.com/photos/momentsbymoser