INTERVIEW: Anne Murray "All Of Me"

Anne Murray stopped at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville on October 27th to sign copies of her new book titled “All Of Me”. I sat down with Anne after she spent time with the long line of fans that turned out to see her and get a copy of the book autographed. We discussed the personal aspect of writing about yourself as well as the good and the bad memories that come out while searching a person’s soul for content to include in the book.

Q: Your new project is titled, “All of Me” Was the title of the book something you struggled with?

Anne: There were several title suggestions on the list but this one is the one that stuck. I think the book is revealing in the sense that it is my life and I talked about it and I hadn’t done anything like that before. I have kind of kept my life to myself. I think it is a good title

Q: What prompted you to do it now and how is it different for you to give a piece of yourself in a book versus giving a piece of yourself in a song?

Anne: I did the book now because I had some time on my hands. I did a tour in 2008, a three and a half month tour of Canada and the US. I thought that was enough. I have been thinking about retirement for a while and at the end of the tour, I proved to myself I could still do it and come out the other end still singing alright. So I thought that was enough of that. In 2007 I did what I think is my last album; I did a duet album. People have been trying to get me to write a book. I have had a couple of publishers after me but I wasn’t ready, it wasn’t time. Now, I thought it was time. I sat down and started to talk and do some research and here we are.

Singing about something is quite different than sitting down and writing and putting it down on paper because you have to re-live your life and some of it you don’t want to re-live. I had put a lot of it behind me and I had to go back down some roads that were not pleasant. In fact it was very painful going down some of those roads, but in order to tell the story properly, I had to do it. There was a time in the middle of it that I didn’t know if I could go on. My daughter said “why are you doing this, you have been so private about this all these years, why do you have to tell all this stuff now”? In Canada, this book would have been written, no question about it, a book would have been written about my life with or without my permission. I wanted it to come from me. I didn’t want anyone else to write it and make stuff up. It is my story, it is my voice and that is why I decided to do it.

Q: How do you put a life such as yours in one document?

Anne: It is hard. There are things you have to leave out. I was working with a writer with the Globe and Mail Newspaper in Toronto. He has done books before and he was good at picking and choosing. We talked for 30 to 40 hrs on tape and used my Mother’s 30-40 scrapbooks. She kept everything, every clipping I ever had, it was all there for us. There were some things he wrote that I just couldn’t allow in the book because I thought those things would hurt people. This book is about me, it is okay for me to tell stories on myself, and I didn’t want to hurt anyone else. In the book, if it sounds like I am telling tales out of school, I have run these stories by these people; I have run it by them to make sure it is okay with them so they wouldn’t come after me afterwards. (laughing)

Q: You mentioned your daughter; she had a working mom, one that traveled away from home. What did she think about it after reading the book?

Anne: Dawn was not all that happy about me doing the book. She didn’t want to share the things about her anorexia that she is trying to put it behind her. She is doing great. What I wrote, I ran by her and she changed a few things and is okay with it. You can understand no book is worth any dissension in a family so I made sure everyone was okay with it before it went to print, especially my family. Some people have said “this is not how it happened” or “that is not how I remember it” and I have told them that this is my story and I have to tell it the way I remember it.

Q: Is there any passages in the book that are your favorite, close to your heart or certain stories that you are really proud of that you really wanted to get out there.

Anne: It is the fun stories I wanted to tell. Everyone’s career has ups and downs, we all know that. There are fun times and there are tragic times and nobody escapes that and I talk about that. In those early days there were lots of drugs and lots of alcohol as there was in the 1970s. I have included some of those stories. The drugs were not fun for me, I didn’t do drugs but the drugs were being done all around me and having to deal with that was hard. But talking about some of the things that happened out on the road was a fun trip down memory lane.

Q: In talking about the CD and the music, while choosing music for the album was it as big a chore as putting your life out there and deciding what to include?

Anne: Music is much easier because you can hide behind the music. It is not as though I wrote the songs because, I didn’t, I was interpreting the songs. As much as I tried to sing about the songs and interpret them the best I could, those were not my words. These are my words and this is my life, for better or worse.

Q: What time span are we talking about with writing the book?

Anne: We started talking about this in January of this year and there was a deadline. I figured if there was a deadline of five years, I would take five years; but they gave me a deadline of six or seven months to write the book so we did nothing but focus on getting it done. Michael Posner would write a chapter and send it to me. I would read it, take a week or ten days, rewrite it to make it sound more like me, make sure all the facts were right and send it back to him. We would send the chapters back and forth. We were on the computer for hours every day, a long tedious process.


Q: Now that you are officially retired and your book tour is done, what are your plans?

Anne: I don’t really know what I am going to do. I am going to play some golf and take some time for me and find a way to not feel guilty for not working. I have worked so hard and for so long and been so busy for so long and I really believe I need some time for myself. The trick is to find that balance of not feeling guilty. I need to find a day and do two Suduko’s and two crossword puzzles, find some time and relax a little, read some books and play some golf.

With the high profile that I have, I have the opportunity to get involved with some charities, do some charity work and help people. I am on the board of a couple of charitable organizations and I have the time to devote to that. I think that would be a good thing.

Q: Thinking about the value of your experience, for the young lady that is aspiring to reach the heights you have, what would you tell her?

Anne: I would have to say you have to be willing to work really, really hard and you have to do an awful lot of things you don’t want to do, but it is all part of being in the business. You have to be prepared to sacrifice a lot to have a career. I think people in these careers are learning how to have families and spend more time with them. I was the bread winner and I had to do it all.

Q: Thank you for giving for so many wonderful years of beautiful music and for sharing “All Of Me” with us.

Anne: It has been my pleasure and you are so welcome. Thank you for visiting with me, I have enjoyed it.


For more information on Anne Murray visit www.annemurray.com

For additional photos of Anne Murray visit Digital Rodeo Pics at http://www.digitalrodeo.com/drphotos/photos/album/AnneMurrayAllOfMe

ARTICLE: #1 Party at ASCAP for "Out Last Night"

ASCAP held a #1 Party on Wednesday October 21st to celebrate the hit single “Out Last Night” recorded by Kenny Chesney and written by Brett James and Kenny Chesney. Members of Music Row as well as friends and family filled the room to show support in recognizing the songwriters for the special occasion. Connie Bradley welcomed everyone in attendance by announcing the song was # 1 on R & R as well as Billboard for two weeks which garnered much cheering and applause as the songwriters made their way to the front of the room to be recognized for the achievement.

“Out Last Night” is the sixth #1 for Brett James and this is his eighth hit single in 2009 alone. Bradley proudly reminded everyone he was the ASCAP Songwriter of the Year in 2006 and her prediction is that he is working on the award again for this year which again brought whistles and cheers from the crowd.

The single is Kenny Chesney’s fourth #1as a songwriter, and two of them have been with Brett James, so it goes without saying that this made for a very special party. Chesney has achieved nineteen career number one songs, four CMA Entertainer of the Year Awards and is nominated again for the CMA title that will be held next month. If he wins it will be a new record. Chesney has also won four consecutive ACM Entertainer of the Year Awards. The current Sun City Carnival Tour sponsored by Corona Extra has found Chesney in twelve NFL stadiums and playing to more than 1.1 million fans which makes this the eighth year for Chesney to play for over a million fans and makes him the biggest ticket seller of any music genre in this century.
Hank Adam Locklin, Senior Manager of Membership and Industry Relations for CMA presented both James and Chesney with number one awards and spoke generously of their selflessness and both men’s genuine character. CRB Executive Director, Ed Salamon was also on hand to show appreciation and recognition to both writers mentioning the impact they have had on country radio and noting memories from their involvement and participation in past Country Radio Seminar Showcases. A number one plaque was also presented to the two gentlemen by the Art Director for Country Weekly Magazine, Jerry Holthouse.
“Out Last Night” was produced by ASCAP’s Buddy Cannon who was on hand to accept recognition with a number one plaque. Publishers recognized were Sony/ATV Music Publishing, who has held the number one position on Billboard charts for twelve weeks over the summer months of 2009 and Stage Three Music Publishing, which has had four number one songs of the year in 2009. Troy Tomlinson, President and CEO of Sony/ATV Music Publishing Nashville, noted he has worked with Kenny Chesney for over eighteen years and he said he is frequently asked by reporters what he likes most about working with Kenny and what he likes the least, which he said ironically is the same answer for both questions, which is that even though Chesney writes a lot of music, it is difficult to get him to record it; and when he does, he usually cuts his own songs from a project first if he is forced to choose and put in a position to narrow down the final songs on a project. He also said for him to encourage his own songs to be released as a single is rare. He stated these things are what he hates the most, but also respects the most about Chesney. Tomlinson also gave special recognition to the team of Promotions of BNA Records Brian Frasier, Joe Galante and Butch Waugh commemorating the achievement of a number one song with a special plaque.

Tim Hunze, General Manager of Stage Three Music was quoted as saying that both Kenny Chesney and Brett James accomplishments have been “ridiculous” but were the result of working very hard and putting everything into what they do best. He gave uniquely framed #1 plaques to James, Chesney and Cannon and mentioned again the appreciation of all the hard work that went into the song.

During the thank you’s Brett James gave Kenny Chesney a “little something” to remind him of who he is. A black t-shirt with white lettering across the chest that said “I am Brad Pitts brother” and then said he had one made for himself as well that said “I am Brad Pitts other brother” which brought a round of applause and cheers from all that gathered for the ceremony.

Chesney gave much of the credit to writing the song to James and again reiterated that as a songwriter he has had four number one hits, and two of them were co-written with Brett James.

For additional photographs of the #1 celebration at ASCAP for “Out Last Night” visit http://www.digitalrodeo.com/drphotos/photos/album/ASCAP1OutLastNightBrettJamesandKennyChesney

BMI News: NSAI Honors Swift, Keith, Fleming, Varble and More at Annual Awards

NSAI Honors Swift, Keith, Fleming, Varble and More at Annual Awards

Posted in News on October 21, 2009

Taylor Swift accepts the NSAI Songwriter/Artist of the Year Award at the 2009 Nashville Songwriters Association International Hall of Fame Awards on October 18. Photo: Bev Moser

BMI country chart-toppers received accolade after accolade during the 2009 NSAI Awards dinner, held Sunday, October 18 in Nashville. Record-breaker Taylor Swift was named Artist/Songwriter of the Year; beloved Music Row songwriter Wynn Varble earned the Songwriter of the Year crown, while “Waitin’ on a Woman,” which Varble co-wrote, was voted Song of the Year; and genre giant Toby Keith was recognized as the Songwriter/Artist of the Decade.
In addition to honoring the year and decade’s best, the ceremony also featured the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame induction of game-changing songwriter Kye Fleming and the incomparable Tammy Wynette. Late publisher Bill Hall received the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Foundation Mentor Award, which recognizes industry executives who have been exceptionally supportive and nurturing of songwriters.

To read more about the Hall of Fame inductees, click here.
To learn more about the NSAI, please visit www.nashvillesongwriters.com.

CMT: 2009 Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame

From CMT's website .. a few more of my photos of the 2009 Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame

http://www.cmt.com/pictures/2009-nashville-songwriters-hall-of-fame/1624141/4327109/photo.jhtml

PRESS RELEASE: 39th Anniversary Hall of Fame Dinner & Induction Ceremony (Photos: Bev Moser)

(Press Release)

Hit songwriters Kye Fleming and Mark D. Sanders and late Country music icon Tammy Wynette were inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall Fame during the organization's 39th Anniversary Hall of Fame Dinner & Induction Ceremony, held last night at the Renaissance Nashville Hotel. Sponsored by AT&T, the event celebrated the musical contributions of the newest inductees through star-studded performances of some of their biggest hits.

"What an honor it is to welcome Kye, Mark and Tammy into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. They have obviously demonstrated the talent and done the work that's worthy of such a tribute from the professional songwriting community," said Roger Murrah, Chairman of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Foundation (NaSHOF).

Tammy Wynette was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame by Murrah. Raul Malo performed a beautiful rendition of "Til I Can Make It On My Own." Gaylord Entertainment provided a vintage video clip of Wynette performing her signature hit, "Stand By Your Man."

Kye Fleming was inducted by Barbara Mandrell. Eden's Edge performed a medley of "Give Me Wings," "Nobody," "Sleepin' Single In A Double Bed," "In Times Like These" and "I Was Country When Country Wasn't Cool" before Ronnie Milsap took the stage to perform "Smoky Mountain Rain" and "I Wouldn't Have Missed It For The World." Acknowledging the honor, Fleming said, "I'm honored to receive this award; it's drawn my attention to 30 years of a life I have loved. I deeply appreciate everyone who has co-created it with me."

Mark D. Sanders was inducted by Hall of Fame songwriter Bob DiPiero and longtime co-writer Tia Sillers. Shawn Camp, Megan Mullins and John Bolinger performed a medley that included "This Ain't No Thinkin' Thing," "Heads Carolina,Tails California," "Money in the Bank," "Daddy's Money," "No News," "It Matters To Me" and "Blue Clear Sky." Lee Ann Womack closed out the set with "I Hope You Dance." Sanders said, "When I was a young man playing basketball in high school and college I would dream about making the winning shot in the championship game. Tonight it feels like, some forty years later, that dream is really coming true."

In a special tribute alongside the hall of fame inductions, Hall of Fame songwriter Bob McDill named the late Bill Hall the recipient of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame Foundation Mentor Award. The award acknowledges those in the industry who have taken special care to nurture and encourage songwriters. The veteran publisher formed one of the most successful country music publishing companies in Nashville, Hall-Clement (BMI) and Jack and Bill (ASCAP). Known affectionately as the "Colonel," Hall passed away in 1983.

In addition to the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductions, NaSHOF's sister organization, the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), presented its annual Songwriter Achievement Awards.

The organization's professional songwriter members voted "Waitin' On A Woman," by Don Sampson and Wynn Varble, as their Song of the Year.

The Songwriter of the Year prize went to Varble, co-writer of hits such as "Cheater Cheater" by Joey+Rory, "Sounds Like Life To Me" by Darryl Worley and "Waitin' On A Woman" by Brad Paisley.

The Songwriter/Artist of the Year was presented to Taylor Swift, who scored self-penned hits of her own such as "Love Story" and "Our Song."

The Association also conveyed a pair of once-a-decade songwriting awards recognizing the prolificness of its recipients and their ability to create and achieve hit songs throughout the past 10 years.

Toby Keith was named Songwriter/Artist of the Decade (2000-2009) for his hits ranging from "Courtesy Of The Red, White And Blue (The Angry American)" and "Who's Your Daddy?" to "As Good As I Once Was" and "God Love Her." Among his numerous awards, Keith earned NSAI's Songwriter/Artist of the Year honors in 2003, 2004 and 2006. He also earned BMI Songwriter of the Year honors in 2001, 2004 and 2006.

Craig Wiseman was named Songwriter of the Decade (2000-2009) for hits ranging from "The Good Stuff" by Kenny Chesney (2003 ACM Song of the Year) and "Believe" by Brooks & Dunn (2006 CMA Song of the Year) to "Summertime" by Kenny Chesney and "Love Is A Beautiful Thing" by Phil Vassar. Among Wiseman's numerous awards, he has been ASCAP Country Songwriter of the Year three times (2003, 2005, 2007), and his "Live Like You Were Dying" by Tim McGraw earned a 2004 Grammy for Best Country Song, as well as Song of the Year honors from NSAI and the CMA.

Besides honoring the Song, Songwriters and Songwriter/Artists, the writers of NSAI's Professional Songwriters Division also singled out 10 songs and their writers for the organization's 2009 awards, informally dubbed "The Songs I Wish I'd Written."
Recipients were "Down The Road" (Mac McAnally / recorded by Kenny Chesney & Mac McAnally); "Everybody Wants To Go To Heaven" (Jim Collins, Marty Dodson / recorded by Kenny Chesney); "I Told You So" (Randy Travis / recorded by Carrie Underwood); "In Color" (Jamey Johnson, Lee Thomas Miller, James Otto / recorded by Jamey Johnson); "Johnny & June" (Deanna Bryant, Heidi Newfield, Stephony Smith / recorded by Heidi Newfield); "Last Call" (Erin Enderlin, Shane McAnally / recorded by Lee Ann Womack); "People Are Crazy" (Bobby Braddock, Troy Jones / recorded by Billy Currington); "Troubadour" (Monty Holmes, Leslie Satcher / recorded by George Strait); "Waitin' On A Woman" (Don Sampson, Wynn Varble / recorded by Brad Paisley); "What Hurts The Most" (Steve Robson, Jeffrey Steele / recorded by Cascada).

ARTICLE: Eric Lee Beddingfield and Friends "Rock For Recovery" Concert for Red Cross

A concert organized by Country artist Eric Lee Beddingfield took place on Friday October 16th on an outdoor stage behind the Midtown Corner Pub in Nashville. The event will benefit the victims of the floods last month in Georgia, Alabama and Tennessee and will raise funds to be donated to the American Red Cross. Online social network Digital Rodeo was one of the event sponsors along with Buffalo Trace Whiskey. The concert was set to coincide with the University of Georgia/Vanderbilt football game in Nashville.

A native Martinez,Ga., Beddingfield headlined the show which kicked off at 7 p.m. Additional artists and performers taking the stage included TOMMY TUTONE, TELLURIDE, WAYNE MILLS BAND(and his 3 1/2 yr old son),TOMMY TOWNSEND, RACHEL WILLIAMS and DAN SHAFER.

"The devastation hit so close to home for my family and fans that I had to do something," Beddingfield says. "Nashville and Georgia share so many musical ties that it's only fitting that we use the talent we have here to help out those affected by the flooding not only back home in Georgia, but right here in Tennessee, too."

All proceeds raised from the event will go to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund to assist those families that were affected in more than 20 counties. Atlanta, Ga. Mayor Shirley Franklin estimates the final damage cost will exceed $1 billion. The American Red Cross has already provided nearly 3,000 overnight stays in their shelters as a result of the floods.

Eric Lee Beddingfield first caught the attention of the Country Music charts with his self-titled debut album in 2007. By 2008, Beddingfield was named by New Music Weekly as one of the top ten artists to watch and three singles from the album landed in the Top 40 of MusicRow's CountryBreakoutTM Chart. Beddingfield's single "Nowhere USA" earned itself a #1 independent release ranking on Power Source Magazine's top country chart. Eric Lee Beddingfield is currently touring throughout the Southeast and finishing up his sophomore album due out in early 2010.

For more photos of the event visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/momentsbymoser/sets/72157622481310015/

The Red Cross is a charitable organization -- not a government agency -- and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org

ARTICLE: IEBA Conference Takes Over Downtown Nashville

More than 500 live entertainment industry professionals converged were in Nashville for the annual conference of the International Entertainment Buyers Association (IEBA) October 11-13 to set the stage for the next touring season with an exclusive look at the hottest talent. IEBA was founded in 1970 as a non-profit trade organization for talent buyers, concert promoters, agents, managers, artists and other related entertainment professionals to provide networking, showcasing and educational opportunities to strengthen relationships, foster growth and increase revenue for the live entertainment industry. It is known for showcasing the best and brightest talent in all genres of music and all fields of entertainment--exposing buyers to the freshest acts for the buying season.

This years convention kicked off the three day event with a show in the Hilton Ballroom celebrating Motown's 50th Anniversary. Boyz II Men harmonized to an amazing line-up of Motown classics, mixed with some of their own powerful hits. Following their showcase, motivational speaker Dan Clark delivered the Opening Keynote to 500 IEBA members who gave the speaker a standing ovation.

Throughout the days events, more music artists took to the same stage to perform and share some of the stories behind the music including Uncle Kracker, TobyMac, Emily West, Rhett Akins, Jamie O'Neal, Mark Wills, and Jeff Bates. Later that evening Miranda Lambert, Lee Ann Womack, Clay Walker, Randy Rogers Band, Wade Bowen, Josh Abbott Band, Whiskey Myers all performed for IEBA conference attendees at a shoulder to shoulder packed crowd at The Stage on downtowns famous Broadway.

Monday evening the 2009 Annual (IEBA) Honors Ceremony was held at the Ryman Auditorium to celebrate the live entertainment industry's top buyers, agents, promoters, venues, festivals and artists. Guests enjoyed performances from Jamey Johnson, Jessie James, Lorrie Morgan, Randy Houser, Jud Laipply, Chris Young, and Chubby Checker. The show was hosted by Luke Perry and honored Chubby Checker, Barbara Hubbard and Joan Saltel.

Brenda Lee presented Chubby Checker with the Career Achievement Award. Joan Saltel won the Lifetime Achievement Award which was presented to her by Lorrie Morgan and CAA's John Huie handed Barbara Hubbard the Harry A. Peebles Award. Other winners included:

Entertainment Buyer of the Year - Todd Boltin of Variety Attractions
Promoter of the Year - Outback Concerts of TN
Talent Agent of the Year - John Huie of CAA
Venue of the Year - Ryman Auditorium, Nashville, TN
Event of the Year - Bonnaroo Music Festival, Manchester, TN

Tuesday’s stage entertainment included an energetic performance with Phil Vassar, new songs and some familiar songs from Michelle Branch and the simple tongue and cheek humor and tunes of Joey + Rory in the Hilton Ballroom

IEBA closed its annual three-day conference with a spectacular show from former Eagle Don Felder and the legendary Wailers. Hundreds of entertainment buyers spent the week in Nashville taking in more than 35 artist showcases, various informative panel discussions and countless hours of networking.

For more information on IEBA visit http://ieba.org/

For additional photos of the event entertainment visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/momentsbymoser/sets/72157622452545653/

MUSIC ROW MAGAZINE: ALL FOR THE HALL BENEFIT WITH KEITH URBAN

Even the ushers were dancing in the aisle last night (10/13) as Keith Urban blazed through “Sweet Thing,” “Better Life,” and a slew of other hits during his We’re All For The Hall concert at the Sommet Center. He spearheaded the benefit for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and recruited the stellar talent of Taylor Swift, Faith Hill, Brad Paisley, Dierks Bentley, Jason Aldean, Lady Antebellum and Little Big Town to join him. That line-up combined with tickets priced around $25 assured a sold-out event. Urban opened with his own set, including a pensive take on Dolly Parton’s “Coat Of Many Colors” which he said was an example of the kind of music that drew him to the United States from his homeland Down Under. The importance of preserving this kind of musical heritage was reiterated throughout the night. Urban’s first guest was Paisley for their hit “Start A Band” and by the end of the song the guitar heros were midway up opposite sides of the arena, jamming amidst a thrilled crowd. An unduly long intermission followed Urban’s set before a video featuring Gill, Dwight Yoakam, actor James Deaton, Emmylou Harris and Kara DioGuardi opened the second act. While most of the male performers showed up in standard pearl-button garb, Gill branched out, showing his hometown spirit in a Predators jersey. The longtime Hall of Fame advocate started the All For The Hall fundraising initiative a few years ago, suggesting that all artists donate just one night’s proceeds to the cause. Urban’s Capitol Nashville labelmates Little Big Town were in fine voice. From looks to talent, they have the potential to be one of the format’s biggest bands. Gill and Urban remained onstage as band members for the night, playing alongside A-list musicians including keyboardist John Hobbs, steel guitarist Paul Franklin and bassist Michael Rhodes. “It’s nice to see Keith Urban and Vince Gill came around and joined our band,” joked Lady Antebellum‘s Charles Kelley. Singer Hillary Scott was sporting darker than usual tresses and seemed plagued by sound problems. The group was great nonetheless on “Need You Now,” and “Run To You.” Faith Hill, Taylor Swift, Dierks Bentley and Jason Aldean wowed the crowd with two songs apiece. Hill’s voice was spot-on for her early-career milestones “Piece of My Heart” and “Let Me Let Go.” Aldean’s huge recent hits “Big Green Tractor” and “She’s Country” show some serious career momentum. Urban told audience members that a remarkable number of artists requested to participate in the event and to mark their calendars for Oct. 5, 2010 for the second annual concert. Sponsors including Verizon and Ford pitched in for the event. Verizon also scrolled photos and text messages from audience members on in-house screens. The show was set to stream live on www.keithurban.net, www.VCASTLive.com and www.countrymusichalloffame.com. Source: Sarah Skates

ADDITIONAL NOTE (not included in original article) for more photos of the event please visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/momentsbymoser/sets/72157622588505750/

PRESS RELEASE: ICM “VOCAL DUO OF THE YEAR”

For Immediate Release

Nashville, TN - The 15th Annual ICM Awards were held at the Trinity Music City USA Auditorium in Hendersonville, Tennessee. These awards honor the “Best of the Best” for artists performing Christian and Inspirational Country Music. Inspired by family, a genuine love for the music and faith, it was no surprise that The Roys were honored with the coveted “Vocal Duo of the Year” award at last night’s ceremony. Lee and Elaine Roy graciously accepted the award as they thanked Jesus, mom and dad and….Ricky Skaggs for all having a hand in inspiring them to follow their dream and create music from the heart.

The 2009 ICM Awards will air in early November on TCT Networks, The Worship Network, Cornerstone TeleVision, NRB Network, My Family TV, CTS Television Canada, Angel Two Network, Total Living Network, Golden Eagle Broadcasting (Oral Roberts University) and DayStar Television Network. All reaching over 500 million people and/or subscribers in the United States, Canada and over 170 nations throughout the world. Details will follow for air times.

Photo credit: Bev Moser

For a complete list of winners, please log onto: http://www.ccma.cc

About The Roys

Focused on creating their own music their own way, The Roys formed Pedestal Records in order to deliver their unique style of country music to fans.

“From the first song we recorded on our previous CD, to the new material we’re working on now, we stand behind our music 100 percent,” Lee says. “This represents us, from the bluegrass sound to traditional country to more contemporary sounds.”

“Everybody has a calling in life,” Elaine says. “Ours was inevitable from a very young age.” Lee adds, “We’re just your typical 15-year overnight sensation.”

About ICM

The annual Inspirational Country Music Awards are dedicated to honoring and showcasing the biggest names and emerging talent among artists who perform Christian and Inspirational Country music. Inspirational music is inspired by Faith, Family, and Country™. The member-voted ICM Awards Show is the keynote event of Inspirational Country Music Week (ICM Week), in Nashville, TN. The convention and show are presented by the 501C-3 not-for-profit corporation, founded in 1992, The Christian Country Music Association.

ADDITIONAL NOTE : (not included on press release) for more photos of the event visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/momentsbymoser/sets/72157622473227323/

PRESS RELEASE: Musicians Hall Of Fame Awards Show (Addt'l Photos Bev Moser)

Press Release by Good Stuff PR Co.

Musicians Hall Of Fame Inducts Legendary Musicians, Celebrates With Jam Packed Award Show
Pictured (back row, l-r): Butch Spyridon, President and CEO, Nashville Convention & Visitors Bureau; Jody Williams, Vice President, Writer/Publisher Relations, BMI; Joe Chambers, Director, Musician's Hall of Fame; Merle Atkins Russell, daughter of the late Chet Atkins; Toto's Steve Lukather, David Paich, Steve Porcaro, and David Hungate; and Clay Bradley, Assistant Vice President, Writer/Publisher Relations, BMI; (front row, l-r): Fred Foster, Dick Dale, Billy Cox, Charlie Daniels, and 2007 inductee Louie Shelton.(Photo Credit: Royce DeGrie)

Charlie Daniels, TOTO, Billy Cox,Dick Dale, Rascal Flatts, Steve Wariner, Al Jardine, Gary Puckett, Tony Joe White, Dickey Betts, Paul Yandell, Chris Layton Among Those Who Performed

NASHVILLE, October 14, 2009 -
The Musicians Hall of Fame celebrated with a room full of industry admirers, peers, and contemporary stars on Monday night, as the crowd gathered in force to salute the 2009 class of virtuosos inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame on Monday, October 12 at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville.

Legends Chet Atkins, Billy Cox, Dick Dale, Charlie Daniels, Fred Foster, Victor Feldman, Paul Riser, and band TOTO all became members of the prestigious club that already includes Booker T. & The MGs, The Crickets, Duane Eddy, Al Kooper, The Memphis Horns, The Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, Billy Sherrill, The Nashville A-Team, The Blue Moon Boys, The Funk Brothers, The Memphis Boys, The Tennessee Two, and The Wrecking Crew.

The late, great guitar legend, Chet Atkins, received tribute from contemporary guitar master and country artist, Steve Wariner, who was joined by longtime Atkins sideman and composer, Paul Yandell. The two played an enchanting tribute to some of Atkins better known tunes and compositions. The award was accepted on Atkins behalf by his daughter, Merle Atkins Russell. "I know my father would be so happy to know that he is in the company of old friends, and so many musicians that he admired so much," she said.

Celebrated King of the Surf Guitar, Dick Dale, known through the decades for his enthusiastic manipulation of the guitar amplifier, and the namesake behind the "Showman Amp," created especially for him by guitar and amplifier Guru, Leo Fender, rocked the house into euphoria, bringing them to their feet, with his energetic and volume pumped performance. It was apparent that Dale was having the time of his life, interacting with audience members and taking the audience on a musical ride that had many jumping up and down at their seats. Dale is best know for his rendition of "Misirlou," a tune that gained a new generation of fans when it became the hit song behind Quentin Tarantino's Pulp Fiction in 1994).

Longtime Dale friend, Al Jardine original Beach Boys member, performed a rousing, audience accompanied version of "Help Me Rhonda," a song on which he sang lead, prior to inducting the guitar great into the Hall of Fame and turning over the microphone to him for his emotional acceptance speech.

The evening continued to gain intensity as Jimi Hendrix longtime friend and bass player, Billy Cox, took the stage to lay down the beat, paying tribute to Hendrix while showcasing his own musical prowess and expertise.

Country star, Charlie Daniels, not only had the crowd in amazement with his stellar guitar playing but continued to take them to the top with his hit, "The Devil Went Down to Georgia", showcasing his fiery fiddle playing and paying tribute to his current band as the best of his entire career."I'm probably the best taken care of artists in the music industry," he said, as he also said thank you to his staff, road crew and all others involved in daily operations.

Cox and Daniels together on stage was also a homecoming of sorts being that Cox once played in Daniels band, after he was no longer playing with Hendrix. It was apparent that the two were having the time of their lives. Former Allman Brothers guitarist, Dickey Betts, joined forces with Daniels for Bett's, "Southbound," to which the two traded licks and tossed melodies back and forth in a tour de force of guitar playing.

Producer Fred Foster, a man who played an important part in the careers of such luminaries as Roy Orbison, Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nelson, and others, was honored via video message from a thankful Dolly Parton. ""I'm sorry I can't be there in person," she said in the message, "but it's your own (damn) fault: you made me famous!" Kristofferson also paid homage via video to the man with whom he co-wrote one of his biggest hits, "Me and Bobby McGee." Blues rocker, Tony Joe White, paid tribute to Foster with his self-penned, "Poke Salad Annie," prior to handing Foster his statue.

Motown legend and 2007 inductee, Bob Babbitt, a member of the famed Funk Brothers, presented the award for Paul Riser and accepted for him in his absence, sharing stories and experiences about Riser and his brilliance as an arranger.

The evening capped off with progressive rockers TOTO (David Paich, Steve Lukather, David Hungate, and Steve Porcaro), taking the stage with good pals Rascal Flatts, to perform a medley of some of their biggest hits, including '"Rosanna," "I'll Be Over You," "Hold the Line," and "Africa." Rascal Flatts stated their thrill with being able to induct original band members, with Jay DeMarcus saying, "My entire life, I've been a Toto fanatic!"

The evenings MC honors rotated between Union Gap's Gary Puckett and Steve Wariner, with Gary Puckett bringing the crowd to their feet with his performance of "Woman Woman."

The event was sponsored by BMI, Hilton, Union Station, Gretsch, Nashville Convention & Visitor's Bureau, and U.S. Imprints.

This was the 3rd Annual Musicians Hall of Fame show. Inductees are nominated nationally by the Musicians Union who has a membership of over 90,000 as well as a stellar list of other music industry professionals.

FOR PHOTOS BY BEV MOSER please visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/momentsbymoser/sets/72157622588391478/

PRESS RELEASE: ICM Awards 2009 (Addit'l Photos Bev Moser)

Press Release by Team Strategies

WINNERS ANNOUNCED FOR THE 15th ANNUAL INSPIRATIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC AWARD SHOW

NASHVILLE, TN-October 16, 2009— Power Source Music Group announced the winners of the 15th Annual Inspirational Country Music Award Show (ICM awards) last night. Honorees received their awards during a star-studded ceremony taped broadcast from Trinity Music City USA Auditorium.

Multi-Award winning giant, Ricky Skaggs was selected Mainstream Country Artist of the Year. Skaggs continues to add to his of awards and genres, the Inspirational Country Music Awards, the Grammy’s, CMA’s and IBMA’s winning as both a country and a bluegrass artist.

Country greats, Craig Morgan, received the Video of the Year for his single “God Must Really Love Me” and Tracy Lawrence won Mainstream Inspirational Song of the Year for Up To Him. Other big winners included, Cross Country the Band won Entertainer of the Year for the second year in a row. Tommy Brandy received Male Vocalist of the Year and Sandra Dee took home Female Vocalist of the Year.

Point of Grace won Vocal Group of the Year. This is no surprise at all to those who have watched followed their success in the gospel market that the talented and gifted group has recently seen their audience expand to the country music arena with the poignant hit “How You Live (Turn Up the Music).” The beautiful ballad is the centerpiece of Point of Grace’s “How You Live Deluxe Edition,” featuring a newly recorded acoustic version of the multi-format hit.

The 2009 ICM Awards will be aired on TCT Networks, The Worship Network, Cornerstone TeleVision, NRB Network, My Family TV, CTS Television Canada, Angel Two Network, Total Living Network, Golden Eagle Broadcasting (Oral Roberts University) and DayStar Television Network. All reaching over 500 million people and/or subscribers in the United States, Canada and over 170 nations throughout the world. The taped show with a live audience was held at Trinity Music City USA.

Inspirational Country Music Award Show highlights:

Actor and protect.org advocate, David Keith hosted the annual award show.
BNA Recording artist, Craig Morgan wowed the audience with his single “God Must Really Love Me” from his fifth studio album, That’s Why. Craig has made more than 150 appearances on The Grand Ole Opry and plays over 200 sold-out concerts a year.
Wayne Elsey, CEO & Founder of Soles4Souls, went barefoot as he presented an award to raise awareness that over 300 million children in the world do not have shoes. The international shoe charity has given away 5.5 million pairs of shoes in over 170 countries in the first five years of its inception.
Ricky Skaggs & The Whites performed “Salt of The Earth”.
Dennis Agajanian wins Musician of the Year. Agajanian has been performing for over thirty-five years At 15, he taught himself to play the guitar. From early on in his career, Dennis' versatile guitar style and musicianship has amazed many. He is recognized as one of the best acoustic guitar players of his time. He is also an alumnus of the "Guinness Book of World Records" as the fastest flat picker.
New artists, the Carter Twins showed their vocal talents when the performed “Erasable”.
Additional star-studded performances included: Dennis Agajanian, Halfway to Hazard, Katalyst, Jordyn Shellhart, the Cherryholmes, CrossCountry the Band, Jason Crabb, Randy Houser, Adam Gregory, James Payne, Del Way, Tommy Brandt, Greg McDougal and Amanda Fessant.
Following is the list of winners in the 21 categories voted on by the CCMA membership:

Entertainer of the Year
CrossCountry the Band

Male Vocalist
Tommy Brandt

Female Vocalist
Sandra Dee

Vocal Duo
The Roys

Vocal Group
Point of Grace

Mainstream Inspirational Country Song
Up To Him
Tracy Lawrence

Mainstream Country Artist
Ricky Skaggs

Christian Country Song
Good Ole Boys
James Payne & Del Way

Songwriter
Russ Murphy

Video
God Must Really Love Me
Craig Morgan
Director, Eric Welch

New Artist
Steve Richard

Musician
Dennis Agajanian

Comedy Act
Barry McGee

Radio Personality
Leon Joplin

Radio Station
WCWV, Summersville, WV

Living Legend Award
Ken Holloway

Inspirational Bluegrass Artist
The Isaacs

Youth In Music Award
Matthew Wacaster

Music Evangelist of the Year
Russ Murphy

Faith, Family, & Country Movie
Fireproof, Provident Films

Television Network
TCT Network

( FOR PHOTOS by Bev Moser visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/momentsbymoser/sets/72157622473227323/

PRESS CONFERENCE: Garth Brooks is Officially Coming Out of Retirement

Thursday morning may have been gloomy and wet on the streets of Nashville, but the atmosphere inside the Grand Ole Opry was nothing but, as Garth Brooks held the first of two press conferences to announce he is coming out of retirement. Most of those invited were met at the door and welcomed personally by Brooks and his wife Trisha Yearwood. Those in attendance at the press conference joined the industry icon on the stage of the infamous venue as he beamed with anxious nervousness about his announcement.

A video of the press conference that took place in 2000 when he initially announced his retirement was shown, along with some of the highlights and accomplishments of his life since that time. Garth has never entirely left the music industry, but has been focusing on raising his three daughters and enjoying a much slower pace than when he was playing multi-night shows to large crowds while on tour. It has been no secret his desire to return to the stage burned inside him, but he has stuck to his promise to his daughters and to himself to hold back until his youngest was in college, all three girls were grown and needed less of his time and attention. It was with a knowing heart of his responsibilities that his decision to return to the stage was made.

Dressed in Wrangler jeans, jacket and his black Stetson, Brooks comfortably sat in front of everyone as he casually looked around, smiled and commented that he recognized many of the same faces who were present during the previous press conference when he put “the self inflicted retirement roof over his head” and warmly said that it only made sense to have the same people in attendance as he made his announcements today. The twinkle in his eyes was shining brightly and the smile on his face revealed the excitement as he spoke the words “It is a happy day for my family today, as I am taking that retirement roof off of my head, and I have to tell you, I already feel taller.” The decision to return to performing was with a happy but hesitant heart, as age and time changes people and changes the industry as well.

He made it very clear, that even though he was coming out of retirement to pursue the things he wanted to do, that the touring and making of albums was at least another five years away. His youngest is now 13, and he still has several years of responsibilities at home. He stated that he never wanted the children, especially his youngest, to feel like his hands were on her back pushing her out of the house so he could get back into the music again. In his own words he stated that “the music takes a long time to plan and to do it right”, so he is making plans and going slow by starting with the announcements of today. He also expressed his love of the Grand Ole Opry and said he wants to play more if they will have him.

Garth was very honest and forthcoming about the future, his enthusiasm of the possibilities that await are what you would expect from him. He was not specific, but open to ideas and basically said this is simply opening a door for him to be able to do what he loves and not have to explain it. He misses the faces and the stories that come from the people he meets more than the spotlight itself. His admission that the shows in Kansas City turned his head around, opened his eyes and in his own words he was “stunned by the initial ticket sales, stunned by all the new younger faces, but even more stunned by all the familiar faces who came. It was the best of all worlds.”

In addressing the question about encouraging artist today to take back what is theirs during his acceptance speech for his Leadership Music Award in September of this year he first reiterated “during the next five years” to reinforce that he is not planning on putting out a new album or touring. He spoke of digital downloading and joining forces within the music industry to give credit where credit was due. He spoke of “unionizing” so to speak; having the artists and the industry come together to represent as a whole force to reinforce the ownership of music. He offered a challenge of no music for one day, offering as an example there would be no music on television, on the commercials or anywhere. He quoted Jimmy Bowen saying “no one realizes the power of music”. Brooks stand on the importance of this by stating "If the world goes silent for a day, we will realize how powerful we are."

As much as Garth would like to be remembered for being a great father, husband and other day to day accolades, he admits his performance during the Leadership Music Awards sparked his desire even further to make the leap out of retirement. His face lit up as he spoke lovingly of his touring band, but the admiration and recognition of the session players who were on stage that night with him made his smile shine even brighter. He mimicked the sounds of licks that are recognizable by the first few notes to his biggest hits and said being on stage with the individuals who came up with these sounds brought the biggest smile to his face and warmed his heart.

Garth admits his children are the best gift he has been given, but he misses the music and looks forward to stepping out slowly, step by step to enjoy giving back the gift of music as well.

Photos of todays press conference can be seen by visiting http://www.flickr.com/photos/momentsbymoser/sets/72157622466780213/

ARTICLE: Delilah Hosts Event At Rymer Art Gallery

Friday, October 9th found North Fifth Street in Nashville closed down to traffic, but busy with onlookers as a canopy filled the street and red carpet was rolled out for Delilah; who is promoted as the most-listened-to-woman on the radio. Her persona is a woman with a soothing sound, caring heart and love of music as she touches the hearts of listeners on over two-hundred radio stations across the United States and Canada.

What you may not know about her is that she is a single mother of ten children, seven of them she adopted. She is the founder of a global foundation called Point Hope which was established to focus on children, especially those with special needs in the foster care system. Point Hope is dedicated to improving and inspiring the lives of others and is a beacon of caring and leadership for individuals who want to help as many children as possible realize their full potential. The mission is to provide long-lasting solutions that will benefit the forgotten children, and to be their voice.

Delilah hosted the exclusive party at the Rymer Gallery downtown Nashville where she not only displayed examples of her artwork, but also gave her celebrity friends a very rare opportunity and a unique chance to bid on the personal pieces with all of the proceeds donated to Point Hope. The event was organized in an effort to gain support for the organization that aspires to be the voice for forgotten children.

(Photo: Jamie O'Neal, Wynonna Judd, Delilah, Ronnie Milsap and Carolyn Dawn Johnson)

The red carpet buzzed with activity as the stars and celebrities arrived and spent time interviewing with the media to show their support for the cause, the sponsors and celebrity hostess. Along with Delilah were some of Nashville’s hottest country acts such as Wynonna Judd, Big Kenny and his beautiful wife Christiev, Lonestar, Charlie Allen, Ty Herndon, Jamie O’Neal, Carolyn Dawn Johnson and Ronnie Milsap. Also gracing the red carpet were International vocalist and hit songwriter from the UK, Abigail Zsiga, the amazing songwriter and pianist Jim Brickman, Reggie Hamm who wrote American Idol’s #1 Smash Hit “Time Of My Life” for David Cook, Kimberly Locke, Plumb and HLN’s “Morning Express” News Anchor Robin Meade who all made a grand entrance at this star studded event.

Delilah also brought along her favorite beauty brand philosophy as one of the event sponsors. philosophy saw this partnership as a natural fit - Delilah is a true philosophy girl, and the charitable beauty brand shares Point Hope’s dedication to improving and inspiring the lives of others, and will be on hand throughout the evening. Lucky guests also enjoyed cocktails and refreshments from co-sponsor Vitamin Water while they admired the artwork and enjoyed the evening.

For more photos of the event visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/momentsbymoser/sets/72157622557436104/

2009 Nashville Music Awards

Taylor Swift was the big winner at the Nashville Music Awards tonight, collecting three trophies during a reception at the Cannery Ballroom. The 19-year old Big Machine recording artist was named Artist of the Year and Songwriter/Artist of the Year, with her album Fearless earning Country Album of the Year honors.

Presented by Leadership Music in partnership with music festival and conference Next Big Nashville (NBN), the Nashville Music Awards were established to recognize outstanding contributions in all genres of music and to celebrate the diversity and quality of artists and music professionals who call Nashville their home.

After a welcome from Mayor Karl Dean, Leadership Music executive director Kira Florita and board member Robert K. Oermann, winners were announced in 19 categories by NMA nominating committee co-chairs Jason Moon Wilkins, Director and Owner of Next Big Nashville, Tracy Gershon and Oermann.

New Artist of the Year honors went to Lady Antebellum, with Brooke Waggoner claiming the Next Big Nashville Award for best emerging artist and Jack White named top instrumentalist.

Liz Rose was voted Songwriter of the Year on the strength of recent cuts by artists such as Jewel, Jypsi and frequent co-writer Taylor Swift. "The Time of My Life," written by Regie Hamm and sung by American Idol winner David Cook, was named Song of the Year.

In addition to Swift's Country album victory, genre album winners were the Steeldrivers (Bluegrass), Sarah Siskind (Americana), April Rucker (Urban), Jars of Clay (Gospel/Contemporary Christian), Take 6 (Jazz/Blues) and Kings of Leon (Pop/Rock).

(Photo: Alison Krauss and Sarah Siskind)

The Made in Music City award for a Nashville recording made by a non-resident went to Elvis Costello's Secret, Profane and Sugarcane, produced by T Bone Burnett and recorded at Sound Emporium Studio.

Landmark Digital Services, LLC was recognized as Innovator of the Year for its BlueArrow Audio Recognition.

The evening's final honor, the Heritage Award, was given by the Leadership Music Board of Directors to the Fisk Jubilee Singers; FJS musical director Paul Kwami accepted. (Photo: L-R Tracy Gershon, Robert Oermann, Paul Kwami, Jason Moon Wilkins, Mayor Karl Dean & Kira Florita)

This year marks the first partnership between Leadership Music and Next Big Nashville for this awards presentation, held on the opening night of the NBN festival. The NMAs previously were produced from 1995 through 2000 by Leadership Music. The 2009 winners were chosen by popular vote via online balloting. Eligible recordings or projects must have been active in the marketplace between January 1, 2008 and June 30, 2009 and NMA awards are limited to persons and organizations residing in Davidson County and surrounding counties.

The Nashville Music Award trophy was designed and donated by George P. Johnson, one of the foremost experience marketing agencies in the world, now with a facility in Nashville. It is crafted from translucent acrylic to reflect the spirit and creativity that the winners represented.

Sponsors for the Nashville Music Awards were The Nashville Scene, George P. Johnson, Lindemans Wine, Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka, Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Fireball Cinnamon Whisky.

For more information visit www.nashvillemusicawards.com

Additional photos can be seen at http://www.flickr.com/photos/momentsbymoser/sets/72157622539574290/

ARTICLE: Kim Copeland BELIEVE IN DREAMS

Nashville is known around the world as a city that makes dreams come true and where amazing music is made; however, for several young adults, this city will forever be a part of a once-in-a-lifetime event that could very well have changed their lives and permanently engraved the word “believe” in their soul. Kim Copeland is a key player who played a major role in fulfilling the dreams of some very special guests during their visit in Nashville.

The event was a prize package that was awarded to winners of an international movie launch promotion for a film which was centered around Nashville. Each of the winners was flown to Nashville for the prize of a lifetime experience which included recording a song at a famous Nashville recording studio on Music Row; written by a hit song writer specifically for this promotion and produced by one of Nashville’s most respected and sought after music producers. Several youngsters were chosen as winners from the UK, Slovakia, Denmark and Brazil; aging from seven years old to seventeen who were allowed to choose three family members or friends to accompany them.

Kellie Maltagliati, a representative from the film promotion company accompanied the winners during the visit to Nashville, whose prize package also included time on a movie set, horseback riding and eating at some of Nashville’s finest restaurants “where the stars eat” as well as taking in the sights and sounds around Nashville to make their visit complete.
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The winners, given the opportunity to be treated like a star in Music City included:

UK WINNER: Mollie Husbands (7 yrs. old)
Val Franck (Grandmother/Hayley's mom)
Hayley Husbands (Mollie's mom)
Elise Gathergood (8 yrs. old)

SLOVAKIA WINNER: Natalia Rybarikova (10 yrs. old)
Jana Rybarikova (mom)
Ivan Rybarikova (dad)
Margareta Rybarikova (turned 14 on the recording day)

DENMARK WINNER: Sofie Amalie Edlev (17 yrs. old)
Pia Edlev (mom)
Roland Tomek Wagon (19 yrs. old)
Linnea Jakobsen (17 yrs. old)

BRAZIL WINNER: Heloisa Martignago Alves de Lima (10 yrs. old)
Regina Aparecida Martigango Alves de Lima (mom)
Guillherme Martignago Alves de Lima (12 yrs. old)
Barbara Martignago Alves de Limva (14 yrs. old)

When asked how Nashville and the record producer where chosen, Andrea Standley, a key representative for the movie promotion team stated “I’ve been coming to Nashville for a long time and have known about Kim Copeland’s reputation for a while. She puts a lot of time into working with songwriters and artists, especially through NSAI. I could think of no one better for this promotion.” Andrea is the owner of songsinc (www.songsinc.com) and she wrote the original material recorded by the winners of the special promotion.

Kim chose The Tracking Room as the location and asked Kelly Schoenfield to engineer the project along with Mark Gohl as his assistant. They also invited me to spend the day with them at the studio documenting the special event with photographs and interviewing the winners, their family and friends.

With more than 20 years in the business, not only a successful songwriter, but as a much sought after independent producer, Kim has become one of the music industry’s most diverse and valued leaders. The fact that Kim works independently allows for even more creative flexibility. She can customize each step of the recording process to fit each individual artist – even down to selecting the perfect studio for the project. In the case of this very special event, one of Nashville’s premier studios, The Tracking Room, was a perfect choice.

At The Tracking Room, Kim was able to coach and coax the best performance possible from the contest winners. Kim’s production skills enabled her to focus on and capture the magic of the day. Not only is she a pro producer, but she has had plenty of experience working with children, by volunteering her mentoring talents to organizations for children’s music, including – the Country Music Foundation’s Words and Music Program, and the Camp Summersong program.

For more information on Kim Copeland visit http://www.kimcopelandproductions.com

For additional photos of the event visit http://flickr.com/gp/momentsbymoser/6u6Qw6