Friday, October 11, 2024
Sunday, September 3, 2023
Warner Bros. Records and Reprise: The Sinatra Touch That Heavily Influenced Country Music
The merger was an act of saving grace. Sinatra's Reprise was knee-deep in financial woes, and Warner Bros. came as the knight in shining armor, albeit in a "rescue takeover". With a whopping deal valued at around US $10 million, the transaction was more than just a business arrangement. It brought Sinatra on board as a recording artist and an actor for Warner Bros. Pictures, making him not just an artist but a significant stakeholder with a one-third share in the combined record entity.
However, the merger did come with its set of challenges. Reprise's financial turbulence posed a considerable threat to Warner Bros., potentially dragging its ledger back into the dreaded red zone. It was a decision not taken lightly, and the initial reception was a mixed bag of dismay and reluctance. Ben Kalmenson, a close aide to Jack Warner, had to explicitly communicate the importance and expectation of this merger, leaving little room for disagreement.
The initial misgivings would soon be overshadowed by the massive successes the partnership would bring. The latter part of the 1960s saw Reprise blooming with Sinatra's iconic comeback and chart-toppers from both him and his daughter, Nancy. Furthermore, the label landed the lucrative US distribution rights for titans of rock - The Kinks and Jimi Hendrix.
The biggest takeaway from the merger, however, wasn't just the soaring numbers or hits. It was Mo Ostin, the Reprise manager. His integration into the Warner clan was more than just an addition of a manager; it was the acquisition of a visionary. Ostin's unparalleled business acumen combined with his innate musical instincts and an uncanny ability to connect with artists made him an invaluable asset for Warner. His influence in the decades following the merger would prove to be monumental, establishing Warner's reputation in the music industry.
But the legacy of this merger was not limited to rock and pop. Warner-Reprise's decision to branch out into country music proved to be a game-changer. This venture introduced the world to a plethora of country legends such as Donna Fargo, Faith Hill, Dwight Yoakam, Blake Shelton, Randy Travis, and Emmylou Harris. Sinatra's influence, albeit indirectly, played a part in launching these iconic country artists, adding another feather to his legendary cap.
Looking back, it's evident that the Warner Bros. and Reprise merger wasn't just about numbers and balance sheets. It was about vision, passion, and the ability to see beyond the immediate challenges. It was about Frank Sinatra, the music icon, playing a pivotal role in shaping the music industry's landscape and being instrumental (pun intended) in the rise of numerous artists across genres.
In conclusion, the merger is a testament to the power of collaboration, vision, and the undeniable influence of Frank Sinatra. It stands as a beacon, highlighting the importance of embracing change, even if it comes with initial challenges. Because, in the end, it's not just about the music—it's about the legacy.
Sunday, June 18, 2023
The Reverberating Influence of Bakersfield and the Bakersfield Sound on Country Music
The Bakersfield Sound emerged in the 1950s as a response to the prevailing Nashville Sound, which often incorporated orchestral arrangements and smoother tones. Bakersfield, with its honky-tonk bars and vibrant music scene, fostered a raw, energetic sound that resonated with a different set of audiences. The signature elements of the Bakersfield Sound included a twangy, amplified electric guitar, a driving rhythm section, and heartfelt lyrics that often reflected the working-class struggles and life in the Central Valley.
Influential Artists:
Buck Owens, born Alvis Edgar Owens Jr. in 1929, was a legendary figure in the Bakersfield Sound movement. He rose to fame with his band, The Buckaroos, and became one of the most influential artists in country music history. Owens brought a fresh, energetic sound to the genre, blending traditional honky-tonk with a rock and roll edge. His hits like "Act Naturally" and "I've Got a Tiger by the Tail" propelled him to the top of the charts and solidified his status as a country music icon. Buck Owens' contributions to the Bakersfield Sound continue to resonate with musicians and fans alike.
Merle Haggard, born in 1937, is often regarded as the cornerstone of the Bakersfield Sound. His life experiences, including a troubled past and time spent in prison, deeply influenced his music. Haggard's songwriting captured the struggles and sentiments of the working class, resonating with audiences across the nation. Songs such as "Mama Tried," "Okie from Muskogee," and "The Fightin' Side of Me" not only became chart-topping hits but also became anthems for blue-collar America. Merle Haggard's honest and relatable music continues to shape the country music landscape.
Wynn Stewart, born in 1934, was a pioneering artist in the Bakersfield Sound movement. Known for his smooth vocals and honky-tonk style, Stewart's contributions were instrumental in shaping the sound of Bakersfield country music. He had a string of hits in the 1960s, including "Wishful Thinking" and "It's Such a Pretty World Today." Stewart's music reflected the struggles and joys of everyday life, and his distinctive sound influenced subsequent generations of country artists.
Dwight Yoakam, born in 1956, emerged in the 1980s as a prominent artist carrying the torch of the Bakersfield Sound. Influenced by the traditional honky-tonk style of his predecessors, Yoakam brought a contemporary twist to the genre. His blend of country, rock, and pop sensibilities appealed to a wide audience. Hits like "Guitars, Cadillacs" and "Honky Tonk Man" showcased his distinctive twangy vocals and solidified his place in country music history. Dwight Yoakam's music bridged the gap between traditional and modern country, ensuring the continued legacy of the Bakersfield Sound.
Jean Shepard, born in 1933, was not only a trailblazing female artist in the Bakersfield Sound era but also one of the most prominent women in country music history. With her powerful voice and emotionally charged performances, Shepard gained recognition for hits like "A Dear John Letter" and "Second Fiddle (To an Old Guitar)." She became one of the first female members of the Grand Ole Opry and played a crucial role in paving the way for future generations of women in country music.
Bonnie Owens, born in 1929, was a talented singer and songwriter who made significant contributions to the Bakersfield Sound. She was married to Buck Owens and collaborated with him on several duets, including the popular "Together Again." Owens' distinctive voice and heartfelt performances added depth and emotion to their music. As a solo artist, she also achieved success with songs like "Don't Take Advantage of Me" and "That Little Boy of Mine." Bonnie Owens' contributions to the Bakersfield Sound were highly influential, both as a collaborator and as an individual artist.
Rose Maddox, born in 1925, was a dynamic and charismatic performer known for her energetic stage presence and soulful voice. She was a member of the Maddox Brothers and Rose, a popular sibling band that blended country, rockabilly, and boogie-woogie sounds. Maddox's powerful vocals shone through on hits like "Philadelphia Lawyer" and "Sally Let Your Bangs Hang Down." Her impact extended beyond the Bakersfield Sound, as she became a prominent figure in West Coast country music and a source of inspiration for female artists in the genre.
Kay Adams, born in 1941, was a notable female artist in the Bakersfield Sound movement. Her rich, distinctive voice and versatile singing style allowed her to tackle various subgenres of country music. Adams gained recognition for her hits like "Little Pink Mack," which showcased her ability to infuse humor into her music, and "Six Days a Waiting," which displayed her soulful and emotive delivery. Kay Adams' contributions as a female artist added diversity and depth to the Bakersfield Sound.
Liz Anderson, born in 1927, was a singer, songwriter, and matriarch of the Anderson family, which included her daughter, Lynn Anderson. Known for her clever and introspective songwriting, Anderson penned hits such as "Mama Spank" and "The Fugitive." Her music often delved into personal experiences and tackled topics that resonated with listeners. Anderson's talents as a songwriter and her distinct voice left an indelible mark on the Bakersfield Sound and influenced subsequent generations of female artists.
Impact on Country Music:
The Bakersfield Sound's influence on country music cannot be overstated. It revitalized the genre at a time when it was moving towards a more polished and orchestrated sound. Bakersfield's raw, stripped-down approach represented a return to the roots of country music, resonating with listeners seeking a more authentic musical experience.
Moreover, the Bakersfield Sound introduced a new generation of artists who challenged the status quo and pushed the boundaries of country music. It inspired countless musicians to embrace their individuality, infusing their music with regional influences and personal stories. Artists like Dwight Yoakam, who emerged in the 1980s, carried forward the Bakersfield Sound tradition, adding their own contemporary twists to the style.
The Bakersfield Sound's legacy continues to reverberate through modern country music. Its impact is evident in the works of contemporary artists who draw inspiration from the raw honesty and independent spirit that defined the Bakersfield Sound. Its influence can be heard in the music of acts like Chris Stapleton, Sturgill Simpson, and many others who are reshaping the genre by blending traditional elements with their unique artistic visions.
Furthermore, Bakersfield's contribution to country music is celebrated through its museums, festivals, and annual tribute concerts, which honor the legacy of influential artists and preserve the Bakersfield Sound for future generations. These endeavors ensure that the sound and spirit of Bakersfield remain an integral part of country music's narrative.
Bakersfield's imprint on country music through the emergence of the Bakersfield Sound and the contributions of artists like Buck Owens and Merle Haggard is indelible. The Bakersfield Sound's rebelliousness and commitment to authenticity shook the country music landscape, inspiring countless musicians to find their own voices and redefine the genre. Its lasting impact on contemporary artists demonstrates that the raw and unfiltered spirit of Bakersfield continues to shape and evolve country music, ensuring its relevance and vitality for years to come.
Sunday, June 11, 2023
The Case for Dwight Yoakam's Induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame
Known for his twangy vocals and cool cowboy persona, Dwight Yoakam has, over the years, become an indelible part of the country music fabric. He represents a maverick within the genre, bringing a unique blend of country and rock that has reshaped the perception of country music itself. Here, we will delve into the reasons why Dwight Yoakam unquestionably deserves his spot among the immortals in the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Honkytonk Heritage and a Touch of Rock
In an era where country music was embracing a more polished sound, Yoakam fearlessly championed the raw, gritty feel of honky tonk and blended it with elements of rock and roll. His first album, "Guitars, Cadillacs, Etc., Etc.", released in 1986, was a statement of intent. It signaled the resurgence of honkytonk, while embracing the energy and spirit of rock music. It was a new sound that invigorated the genre and challenged the prevailing status quo.
The album went double-platinum, and with hit singles like "Honky Tonk Man," Yoakam affirmed that traditional country music and its honky-tonk roots had a secure place in the modern music landscape. This fusion of styles, which has become a hallmark of Yoakam's music, set the precedent for many country artists that followed, making him a significant and influential figure in the genre's evolution.
Additionally, songs like "Fast As You" and "A Thousand Miles from Nowhere," both of which peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, underline Yoakam's ability to blend lyrical depth with catchy rhythms, further enhancing his popularity among country music fans.
Musical Influence and Industry Impact
Yoakam's influence on country music and its artists is both expansive and profound. His distinctive style, encompassing both traditional and contemporary elements, has inspired generations of country musicians. Artists like Chris Stapleton and Eric Church have cited him as an influence, attesting to the enduring power of his music.
Furthermore, Yoakam's ability to seamlessly blend genres and push boundaries played a crucial role in the genre's expansion and development. He was instrumental in creating a bridge between the traditionalist and modernist wings of country music, fostering inclusivity within the industry.
Commercial Success and Enduring Popularity
Yoakam's commercial success is a testament to his music's appeal and longevity. Over his career, he has sold more than 25 million records worldwide, with five albums reaching the number one spot on Billboard's Country Albums chart, and twelve gold albums to his credit.
Furthermore, his popularity extends beyond the realm of country music, with his music garnering appreciable attention in the mainstream. Songs like "Fast as You" and "A Thousand Miles from Nowhere" have become staples on country and rock radio alike, further proving his appeal across musical boundaries.
The Bakersfield Sound
Dwight Yoakam is widely recognized for reinvigorating the Bakersfield sound, initially popularized by Buck Owens, and imbuing it with his unique style and sensibilities. This country subgenre, which emerged from Bakersfield, California, in the 1950s, is characterized by its raw, rock-and-roll-infused honky-tonk vibe, standing in sharp contrast to the slick, orchestrated Nashville sound of the era. Yoakam, a Kentucky native, moved to Los Angeles and found himself drawn to this distinctive Bakersfield sound. Embracing the genre's roots, he incorporated its signature twangy guitars and direct, unvarnished lyrics into his music.
However, Yoakam didn't simply replicate Owens' sound; instead, he injected it with his unique blend of rock, country, and punk influences, creating a grittier, more rhythmic, and modern Bakersfield sound. This is particularly evident in songs like "Guitars, Cadillacs" and "Streets of Bakersfield" (a duet with Owens himself), where Yoakam's interpretations resonate with the old spirit of the Bakersfield sound while distinctly echoing his own musical identity.
Contributions Beyond Music
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Yoakam's impact is felt in other areas of the entertainment industry. A prolific actor, he has appeared in over 35 films, working with esteemed directors like David Fincher and Billy Bob Thornton. His film and TV work underscores his versatility and his ability to connect with audiences on different levels.
Recognition and Awards
Yoakam's accolades reflect his significant contributions to country music. He's a 21-time nominated, 2-time GRAMMY Award winner, has 12 gold albums, and nine platinum or multi-platinum albums. He was also the recipient of the Artist of the Year award from the Americana Music Association in 2013.
Despite these numerous awards and recognitions, his induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame remains noticeably absent. This oversight becomes even more glaring when one considers his influence, reach, and the depth of his contributions to the genre.
Dwight Yoakam's unique blend of honkytonk and rock, his influence on the industry and its artists, his commercial success, and his contributions beyond music make a compelling case for his induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame. His induction would not only recognize his contributions to the genre but also serve as a reminder of the diverse and innovative nature of country music.
Country music is about storytelling, passion, and breaking boundaries, and few have embodied these traits as consistently and as powerfully as Dwight Yoakam. To leave such a transformative figure outside the hall would be a significant oversight. It's time to hang Yoakam's cowboy hat in the hallowed halls of Nashville's Country Music Hall of Fame, where it rightly belongs.
Sunday, September 12, 2021
Thursday, May 3, 2018
Friday, September 15, 2017
Lorrie Morgan and Pam Tillis Team Up Again For Upcoming Come See Me & Come Lonely
Album: Come See Me & Come Lonely
Label: Goldenlane
Release date: November 10, 2017
Two female legends of contemporary country music have combined forces on a new album, combining voices, vision and talents again after their critically-acclaimed 2013 project Dos Divas. Altogether, these two artists have sold well over 10 million albums worldwide, not to mention they both come from country royalty - Pam is the daughter of icon Mel Tillis and Lorrie, the daughter of hitmaker George Morgan. The two of have chosen some of their favorite country songs including those originally made famous by Dottie West, Billie Jo Spears' "Blanket On The Ground," and Dwight Yoakam's "Guitars, Cadillacs" plus early rock favorites such as Roy Orbison's "It's Over" and The Everly Brothers' "Walk Right Back." The project includes special guest appearances by Joe Diffie & Darryl Worley as well.
Track listing:
1. Do Ya
2. Walk Right Back
3. It's Over
4. Guitars, Cadillacs
5. Summer Wine Feat. Joe Diffie & Darryl Worley
6. Saunders Ferry Lane
7. Rose in Paradise
8. Blanket on the Ground
9. Tennessee Waltz
10. It Doesn't Matter Anymore
11. The End of the World
12. Come See Me and Come Lonely
Thursday, September 14, 2017
That Nashville Sound Thursday Newsbyte- New Music Videos & Americana Music Award-Winners
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| Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives Took Home Group of the Year at the Americana Music Honors Last Night |
- New music video from the Randy Rogers Band - "Meet Me Tonight"
- Mickey Guyton covered Patsy Cline's "I Fall To Pieces" backstage at the Grand Ole Opry.
- Michael Logen did an acoustic version of "Time Time Time" for Naked Sessions.
- The lovely Miss Hannah Blaylock (formerly of Eden's Edge) covered Dwight Yoakam's "Fast As You" at Eddie's Attic.
- Entertainment Weekly premiered Nikki Lane's new video for "Send the Sun."
- Album of the Year: A Sailor’s Guide to Earth, Sturgill Simpson (Simpson, producer)
- Artist of the Year: John Prine
- Group/Duo of the Year: Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives
- Song of the Year: “It Ain’t Over Yet” Rodney Crowell feat. Rosanne Cash and John Paul White Crowell, songwriter)
- Emerging Artist of the Year: Amanda Shires
- Instrumentalist of the Year: Charlie Sexton
- Spirit of Americana/Free Speech in Music Award: Graham Nash
- Lifetime Achievement Award, Trailblazer: Iris Dement
- Lifetime Achievement Award, Songwriting: Van Morrison
- Lifetime Achievement Award, Performance: Robert Cray
- Lifetime Achievement Award, Instrumentalist: Hi Rhythm Section
- Lifetime Achievement Award, Executive: Larry Sloven and Bruce Bromberg
Thursday, June 29, 2017
That Nashville Sound Thursday Newsbytes
- CMT has released all their music video performances of their CMT Crossroads concert featuring Earth, Wind and Fire and several country music stars including:
- Dan + Shay - "That's The Way Of The World"
- Martina McBride - "Sing a Song"
- Darius Rucker - "Shining Star"
- Drake White - "Let's Groove"
- Sara Evans - "Boogie Wonderland"
- Rascal Flatts - "After the Love has Gone"
- Lady Antebellum - "September"
- The Josh Abbott Band will be releasing Until My Voice Goes Out on their own Pretty Damn Tough Records label on August 18. You can hear "Texas Women, Tennessee Whiskey," their first released song of the LP, here.
- David Rawlings is releasing his third album, Poor David’s Almanack, on August 11 via Acony Records. The 10-song project was crafted by Ken Scott (Beatles, David Bowie) and Matt Andrews on analog during a week of sessions at Nashville’s legendary Woodland Sound Studios.
- Rory Feek will be returning to the stage for the first time since the death of his wife Joey. On September 8 and 9 on his properties concert hall/barn, he will perform as a benefit concert for Music Health Alliance, a group that provides health care for musicians.
- August 11th will mark the release date of a double CD of Dwight Yoakam's Austin City Limits Live album with companion DVD.
Friday, November 18, 2016
Friday, August 12, 2016
That Nashville Sound Friday Newsbytes
- Darryl Worley has signed with Daywind Records and will be releasing his first gospel album.
- On 9/23, Bruce Springsteen will release a new autobiography along with a companion album called Chapter and Verse.
- Garth Brooks has two album releases planned on his own Pearl Records before the end of the year.
- Bakersfield native Dwight Yoakam will be releasing his first bluegrass album on 9/23 called Swimmin' Pools, Movie Stars.
- The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band will be releasing a combo CD/DVD on 9/30 entitled Circlin' Back - Celebrating 50 Years- believe this is the recording from the PBS special that features Vince Gill, Alison Krauss and more.
- Songwriter Bradley Walker, friend and television guest to Joey+Rory, will release his first album on Gaither Records called Call Me Old-Fashioned. If you missed the tragic/inspiring story behind the making of this album, read it here.
- Speaking of Joey+Rory, Rory has a book planned about his late bride, Joey. It is scheduled for a Valentine's Day release next year.
- Lera Lynn released a killer sparse live video of her playing "The Only Thing Worth Fighting For."
- The alternative song "Cut the Heartstrings" from the band Unsecret features the vocals of Mindy Smith- it's great to hear her voice on a new project no matter what the genre.
Thursday, June 2, 2016
That Nashville Sound Thursday Newsbytes
- David Nail unveiled his artwork and track listing for his upcoming July 15 MCA Nashville release, Fighter. The project includes 11 tracks including Nail’s current hit single “Night’s On Fire” written by Jonathan Singleton and Deric Ruttan. Guests on the album include Vince Gill, Lori McKenna, Brothers Osborne, Logan Brill and members of NEEDTOBREATHE.
- Kacey Musgraves is in the studio recording a Christmas album that will be out this holiday.
- Dwight Yoakam is teaming up with Jack White to release a 7″ vinyl single. White's Blue Series will release Yoakam’s recordings of two songs: “Tomorrow’s Gonna Be Another Day” (Boyce/Venet, popularized by The Monkees) and “High On The Mountain of Love” (Dorman, popularized by Kenny Lynch, then Johnny Rivers, then the Beach Boys).- Hits Daily Double has listed Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler's debut solo country album release date of July 15 and is entitled We're All Somebody From Somewhere. A little hunting around the internet finds possible cover art for the Big Machine Records project.
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Thursday, February 5, 2015
New Albums Announced From Dwight Yoakam and Ray Wylie Hubbard
Second Hand Heart
Release Date: 4/17/15
Warner Brothers
Track Listing:
1.) In Another World
2.) She
3.) Dreams Of Clay
4.) Second Hand Heart
5.) Off Your Mind
6.) Believe
7.) Man Of Constant Sorrow
8.) Liar
9.) The Big Time
10.) V's Of Birds
The Ruffian's Misfortune
Release Date: 4/7/15
Bordello Records
“I really liked ‘The Grifter’s Hymnal,’ and I think ‘The Ruffian’s Misfortune’ is still kind of a part of that,” Hubbard says about the album. “This record is pretty much where I am as far as trying to make records that work on a couple of different levels, by laying down a groove with cool guitar tones and vicious nasty licks with lyrics that have a little depth and weight and even a little humor thrown in, too, as life is pretty much like that.”
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Hear It Here- Dwight Yoakam's New Single "Who'll Stop the Rain"
Monday, December 23, 2013
That Nashville Sound’s Top Ten Best Duets and Music Collaborations of 2013
1. Will Hoge with Wade Bowen - "Another Song Nobody Will Hear"- Hoge and Bowen are songwriting legends, especially around the Lone Star State of Texas. They've just recently collaborated on a new track called "Another Song Nobody Will Hear" that is Hoge's most recent release on the Texas radio scene. For anyone that's found themselves at the mercy of having to create a piece of art that's not a vehicle for wealth development, but a personal validation, it's the perfect message.
2. Dean Brody with Lindi Ortega - "Bounty"- While most in the lower 48 states aren't going to know about Brody and this terrific album, Canadian country fans know him well. Brody has won nearly every available award up north and this makes his fourth release. "Bounty" is a terrific story told and sung with Lindi Ortega" about a man who saves his love from a predator and has to move to Mexico.
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3. Kelly Willis and Bruce Robison - "Leavin'" - She is carrying the torch for female honkytonk singers. He is the singer/songwriter with #1 records cut by the Dixie Chicks, George Strait, and Tim McGraw. Married and singing together, they have put together an incredible album that truly belongs in the echelon of Tammy and George. Together they are the first couple of Texas music, and, they have finally recorded together. Each song is a polaroid of life, none more stripped down and revealing than "Leavin." That song is a snapshot of the album, showing the ups and downs of married life can be truth and inspiration in songwriting.
4. Willie Nelson and Alison Krauss - "No Mas Amor"- Willie cut an entire album of duets with some of country and non-country music's best vocalists. But there were none better than the beautifully haunting and ethereal voice of Alison Krauss. Together, they sing about there not being any more love in Spanish. It's magic. And not the magic that happens when you sit on Willie's bus too long either.
5. Dierks Bentley and Kacey Musgraves - "Bourbon in Kentucky"- Dierks released this single to radio off of his yet-to-be-announced album next spring. And despite having the current "it" girl when it comes to singing and songwriting, it stalled high on the charts, unfortunately. They both deliver a great performance on vocals and the songwriting chops on this one are as strong as they are classic. This could go down as one of 2013's more underrated radio singles.
6. Justin Moore and Miranda Lambert - "Old Habits" While too much of Moore's Off the Beaten Path album talks about hanging out on dirt roads off the beaten path, this piano driven duet with Miranda Lambert is a shining star on the album. Lambert's powerhouse twangy vocals are allowed to be the focus through the production and the lyrics about longing over a lost love will resonate forever.
7. Neal McCoy and Trace Adkins - "Roll On Mississippi"- This year, Neal McCoy released a much-too-under-the-radar dedication album to Charley Pride and this was certainly a highlight. If you missed it, check out this live and heartfelt performance that they did together on the Grand Ole Opry stage.
8. Dwight Yoakam and Michelle Branch - "Long Goodbye" - This was originally supposed to be on a Michelle Branch album, but Dwight Yoakam released it on his album this past year. According to Branch, "One of my favorite artists is Dwight Yoakam. When I was in the studio in Nashville, we met and I told him it would be a dream come true if he sang on my record. Next thing you know, he was in the studio singing "Long Goodbye" with me. I couldn't imagine this song without his voice on it. This song was meant to be the follow up single to "Sooner Or Later" (off the album that never was, Everything Comes and Goes.)"
9. Randy Houser and Kristy Lee Cook- "Wherever Love Goes" - It turns out that Mississippi soul and American Idol pipes make a pretty good match. This duet from these two label-mates was the best track off of Houser's album this year and they trade powerhouse vocals on this terrific universal love-themed song.
10. Gord Bamford and Joe Diffie- "Country Junkie"- In a year in which Jason Aldean "paid tribute" to Joe Diffie with a rap song of all things, Canadian country star Gord Bamford does it the right way: Getting his legendary hero into the recording studio and putting together a honkytonk driven song. THAT'S that right way to honor Diffie and Bamford makes it sound like they had one hell of a good time.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
New Best Of Dwight Yoakam Album To Highlight Career Works In The New Century
Now word comes out that New West Records will release the new Yoakam compilation, 21st Century Hits: Best of 2000-12, on October 1. The album chronicles for the first time the key singles, hits and beloved songs Yoakam recorded while on New West Records, Warner Brothers and Koch between 2000-12. The collection picks up where the multiple Grammy Award winner's last greatest hits compilation left off and will bring the listener right up to his latest album, 2012's 3 Pears. It will be available digitally, on CD and as a deluxe CD+DVD combo featuring five music videos: "Close Up The Honky Tonks, "Intentional Heartache," Blame The Vain," "Back Of Your Hand" and "Late Great Golden State." The bonus DVD will also contain hi-res 24/96 audio playback of the album.
The 14-track LP is compiled of essential singles from five albums including Tomorrow's Sound Today, Population Me, Blame The Vain, Dwight Sings Buck and 3 Pears as well as the smash hit "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" as featured in the film "The Break-Up," and the never before commercially released duet with Michelle Branch, "Long Goodbye." Also included is the Willie Nelson duet "If Teardrops Were Diamonds" and the rollicking "A Heart Like Mine" produced by Beck.
Opening the album is "The Sad Side Of Town," a torchy Buck Owens-Yoakam co-write delivered with aching restraint. Yoakam's homage to former mentor Owens, Dwight Sings Buck, is represented here with three tracks including Yoakam's take on The Baron of Bakersfield's perennial favorite, "Act Naturally." His 2005 New West debut, Blame The Vain, which saw Yoakam taking the reins for his first-ever self- produced album, is highlighted here with four tracks including the rocking, uproarious "Intentional Heartache," the twangy, boot-stomping "I Wanna Love Again" and the Hammond organ-laced country-rock title track.
Few entertainers have attained the iconic status of Yoakam. In his illustrious three-decade career he has sold more than 25 million albums worldwide, has amassed 12 gold albums and nine platinum or multi-platinum albums and is a 21-time nominated Grammy award winner. 21st Century Hits shines the spotlight on this country pioneer's second act, which showcases him embracing rock, Americana, pop and soul with aplomb and the same fiery passion first displayed on his trail blazing 1986 debut.
DWIGHT YOAKAM'S 21ST CENTURY HITS: BEST OF 2000-12 TRACK LIST
1. The Sad Side Of Town (Tomorrow's Sounds Today)
2. Late Great Golden State (Population Me)
3. The Back Of Your Hand (Population Me)
4. If Teardrops Were Diamonds (with Willie Nelson) (Population Me)
5. Long Goodbye (with Michelle Branch) (Previously Unreleased)
6. Intentional Heartache (Blame The Vain)
7. Blame The Vain (Blame The Vain)
8. I Wanna Love Again (Blame The Vain)
9. Just Passin' Time (Blame The Vain)
10. Crazy Little Thing Called Love (The Break-Up Soundtrack)
11. Close Up The Honky Tonks (Dwight Sings Buck)
12. My Heart Skips A Beat (Dwight Sings Buck)
13. Act Naturally (Dwight Sings Buck)
14. A Heart Like Mine (3 Pears)
Bonus DVD
1. Close Up The Honky Tonks
2. Intentional Heartache
3. Blame The Vain
4. Back of Your Hand
5. Late Great Golden State
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Emmylou Harris Leads 2013 Americana Music Award Nominations
Shovels & Rope, with four nominations, followed by Emmylou Harris and Miller, with three each, lead the nominee slate while many other notable artists were recognized including: Rodney Crowell, John Fullbright, Lauderdale, The Lumineers, JD McPherson, the aforementioned Milk Carton Kids, Bruce Robison & Kelly Willis, Richard Thompson, and Dwight Yoakam. Winners will be announced live at the annual Americana Honors and Awards, presented by Nissan, on September 18th Live on AXS TV from the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN.
Today’s celebration in Los Angeles kicked off with an Americana tribute to George Jones featuring Buddy Miller and Jim Lauderdale leading their all-star band comprised of Fats Kaplin, Brian Owings and Jay Weaver. The music continued with performances by Lisa Marie Presley with special guest T Bone Burnett, Elizabeth Cook and the Milk Carton Kids.
Burnett, who produced Americana masterpieces ranging from “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” to the Americana and Grammy award winning “Raising Sand” by Alison Krauss and Robert Plant, spoke to the Clive Davis Theatre audience about the genre that honors the roots of American music that has grown to prominence in recent years.This year, the nominees reflect the diverse and artistic breadth of the genre; where legends and the next generation of stars share the stage.
The Americana Honors & Awards, presented by Nissan, returns to the historically cool Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN on September 18, 2013 (as part of the Americana Music Festival - September 18-22, 2013 at venues throughout Music City).
ALBUM OF THE YEARBuddy & Jim, Buddy Miller & Jim Lauderdale
Cheaters Game, Kelly Willis & Bruce Robison
From The Ground Up, John Fullbright
O Be Joyful, Shovels and Rope
Old Yellow Moon, Emmylou Harris & Rodney Crowell
ARTIST OF THE YEARBuddy Miller
Dwight Yoakam
Emmylou Harris
Richard Thompson
EMERGING ARTIST OF THE YEAR
JD McPherson
John Fullbright
Milk Carton Kids
Shovels and Rope
SONG OF THE YEAR
Birmingham - Shovels & Rope
Good Things Happen to Bad People - Richard Thompson
Ho Hey - The Lumineers
North Side Gal - JD McPherson
DUO/GROUP OF THE YEAR
Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis
Buddy Miller and Jim Lauderdale
Emmylou Harris and Rodney Crowell
Shovels & Rope
INSTRUMENTALIST OF THE YEAR
Doug Lancio
Greg Leisz
Jay Bellerose
Larry Campbell
Mike Bub
Monday, November 26, 2012
Unheard Buck Owens Album To Be Released In January
The 18 tracks on Buck Owens’ Honky Tonk Man were culled from the vast trove of material he recorded at his Bakersfield studio for the rural hit comedy TV series Hee Haw in the early ’70s. The set is a concise tutorial on the history of country music — from “In the Jailhouse Now,” a song first popularized by Jimmie Rodgers in 1928, to “Rednecks, White Socks and Blue Ribbon Beer,” a hit for Johnny Russell in 1973. Many of the songs Owens did for Hee Haw were originally recorded by his biggest and earliest influences: Bob Willis & His Texas Playboys’ “Stay a Little Longer”; Hank Williams’ “My Bucket’s Got a Hole in It,” “Jambalaya” and “Hey Good Lookin’”; Hank Snow’s “I’m Moving On”; and Jack Guthrie’s “Oklahoma Hills.” Owens also nodded to fellow Bakersfield Sound stalwart Merle Haggard on “Swinging Doors.”
The CD’s title track, “Honky Tonk Man,” is a song first popularized by Johnny Horton in 1956. Thirty years later it became an even bigger hit for Dwight Yoakam, an avowed Bakersfield Sound disciple.