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What’s Been Up with Brad Paisley?

December 22, 2014 By NashStar

Brad Paisley released his latest album “Moonshine in the Trunk” on 25 August to the great anticipation of his fans. Apart from his reputation as a country star, the first single, “River Bank”, paved the way for a successful release. Along with the album came the second single and power ballad “Perfect Storm”. Billboard describes the latter song as the words every woman wants to hear and every man wish he could say. In the first week of the album release it sold 53 000 copies. At this point Brad has 22 No. 1 singles and 19 of those songs he either wrote or co-wrote.

Brad has also been collaborating with America’s largest western and work wear store, Boot Barn. According to Jim Conroy, the chief executive officer for Boot Barn, it’s Brad’s authenticity that inspired them to come up with a clothing line in his style. In addition, Brad’s values are in the same place as those who purchase their clothes at Boot barn. The launch is called “Moonlight Spirit” and it includes boots and accessories. Brad will be in charge of the designs.

At the beginning of November Brad participated in the Emmy Award winning show “College GameDay Built by the Home Depot” where he was joined by host Chris Fowler. He is an avid Mountaineers fan and ESPN’s senior coordinating producer, Lee Fitting, related to the press that getting a celebrity guest such as Brad did wonders for the show.

http://youtu.be/eVXqNw8pTrY

Along with Carrie Underwood, Brad just finished hosting the “48th Annual CMA Awards” that took place on the 5th of November. For the last seven years these two have been a hosting duet for this special occasion and their chemistry on stage has been praised by the fans and media alike. Leading up to the awards ceremony, they headed off to New York where they appeared on “The View” and “Late Night with Seth Meyers”. The monologue they performed is regarded as the most edgy in the time they have hosted the ceremony. They didn’t pull any punches and targeted politics, the Ebola virus and last but not least, Taylor Swift’s road to stardom.

Brad is currently busy with his “Country Nation World Tour”, which was original scheduled until the end of fall. But fans will be glad to know that he decided to extend the tour. Tickets are already available and some special guests will be joining him, such as Parmalee and Arista from the Stoney Creek Records family band in addition to the “Swon Brothers” duo.

On a silly note, Brad took part in a funny segment with Jimmy Kimmel soon after the CMA awards, reinforcing his known attribute for being funny. In the segment Brad was asked three very silly questions regarding his fear of certain appliances, the imaginary bunny he would like to have and why he doesn’t have a Wi-Fi password. Both Brad and Jimmy made it through the segment without so much as cracking a smile.

http://youtu.be/HtD1TGLznJY

Throughout the year Brad was an expert on “Rising Star”, a hit show for the ABC network, and he also contributed to the Disney movie entitled “Planes: Fire & Rescue”. His voice was used for a pick-up truck called “Bubba” and he recorded two songs for the soundtrack, namely “All In” and “Runaway Romance”.

Missed the CMA 2014 Show? Here it is! or Watch it again!

http://youtu.be/r6fL2yI7qaM

Laura Bell Bundy – Two Step ft. Colt Ford

December 21, 2014 By NashStar

When we first saw Laura Bell Bundy’s “Giddy On Up” video, it was hard to watch without thinking about it being a strange Dolly Parton rip off. Fortunately, Laura has moved on and with “Two Step” is now one of our favorites! She sings, dances, looks great, and yeah maybe it’s a little Britney Spearsy/Jessica Simpsony, but we can take it!

Laura Bell Bundy is definitely one of the most delightful country singers around and her “Two Step” video is a testimony to this. The song is a duet with Colt Ford and despite the fact that it didn’t make big waves on the charts, fans appreciate her signature sound. As for the video, it’s just as much fun as the song and Laura looks absolutely amazing.

It starts off with a group of women, including Laura, finishing up their usual work day. However, their typical work day consists of handling heavy machinery. While listening to the lyrics it’s obvious why they are in this particular setting, which is typically reserved for men. They are proud, confident ladies who don’t need a man to get things done and in this case, they don’t need men to have fun.

In unison the group pulls out their flasks and toast to their bold independent statement. They are planning on doing the “two step” tonight and nobody is going to stop them. After punching out they all head to the ladies room where they transform from everyday workers into smoking hot girls, ready to take the night and turn it on its head.

As the girls start to do their thing they are joined by a large crowd including Colt Ford. At first the girls do the routine alone and then they are joined by everybody. Ultimately everyone ends up dancing and having a really good time to Laura Bundy’s “Two Step”.

The first impression viewers get is girl power and confidence. Laura and the rest of the girls are in control of the situation, they know what they are doing and they know how to celebrate their independence. But another thing that stands out is the fun factor. Their attitude in addition to the clear message that men won’t limit their fun is all in good spirit.

As expected Laura really tears up the dance floor. She had been dancing since she was a little girl and this is evident in the video. She looks comfortable, sexy and energized. That’s another thing about the video which makes it a winner, the energy from the ladies. While watching you’ll probably feel like breaking out your party clothes and start dancing with them.

Overall the video isn’t the most original. It’s a winning theme that has been done quite a few times by several pop stars, but it is still very entertaining. Laura never fails to keep the attention of her audience and this performance is no exception. It’s also obvious that the director placed a lot of focus on the dance moves, probably because it can be imitated rather quickly by fans. Chances are Laura started a new dance craze with her “two step” move.

Laura Bell Bundy is not afraid to use the sexy moves.

Some people may not appreciate her mixture of country and pop, but she is trying something new. Laura is one of the most daring artists on the scene today, which gives her a certain edge. She doesn’t fear the choices she makes. Instead she embraces them with both hands and she enjoys the fact that life is about living, not hiding in a comfort zone.

Best Country Music Christmas Songs

December 19, 2014 By NashStar

Many holidays are celebrated throughout the year, but the one with the most magic so-to-speak is Christmas. Even though it comes with a sense of tradition, every year families implement their own little traditions whether intentional or by accident. As long as there is love, family and friends then it will remain a special occasion. However, there is one thing that just makes it more special and for country music fans, it is Christmas country songs. The collection has grown considerably over the decades. Here are some of our top pics:

Pretty Paper – Willie Nelson

http://youtu.be/MqNFdFbo8cA

Written by Willie in the 1960’s, the song speaks to the importance of Christmas in terms of good will instead of rushing to the shops and buying presents. Roy Orbison was the first artist to record the song and it became a hit in 1963. After Willie decided to use it on his 1978 Christmas album a series of artists started covering the song. These include Carly Simon and Chris Isaak.

Please Come Home for Christmas – The Eagles

http://youtu.be/J1AaMe1KbwE

Despite the fact that The Eagles has never fallen under the country genre, they made a lot of fans there. This 1978 release is proof of this, because country radio stations couldn’t stop playing it. Filled with sincerity and a sound unique to The Eagles, more versions of the song by other artists were inevitable.

It wasn’t His Child – Skip Ewing/Trisha Yearwood

Skip Ewing is the man behind this deep song and it explores the emotions Joseph must have gone through when Jesus was born in terms of being a good father. Several artists have recorded great versions of the song, but ultimately it was Trisha Yearwood that did it the most justice.

The Christmas Guest – Johnny Cash

Few people could tell a story like Johnny and this one is no exception. A shopkeeper eagerly awaits a special visitor, namely the Lord. But instead of the Lord knocking at his door he finds a bunch of strangers in need of help. Finally the man comes to the realization that God visited him in the form of those strangers.

Let there be Peace on Earth – Vince Gill

http://youtu.be/5Keo-A0z4jI

Gill recorded this cover and he used it as the title track for his Christmas album in 1993. Some might speculate that his version of “Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas” is better, but this particular song was recorded with his daughter, making it so much more special.

All I want for Christmas is You – Vince Vance and the Valiants

http://youtu.be/I1VkMBi9vvw

It’s unfortunate that Vince and the band only managed to record one song that made it into the charts. However, they did a great job with this 1989 hit, because it’s the most played Christmas country song on country radio. In essence, Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without this song getting played somewhere.

Jingle Bell Rock – Bobby Helms

The song is more than 50 years old and yet it finds its way to the airways every Christmas. So many artists have recorded their own version, but the honor still goes to the late Bobby Helms, the original singer and writer. There is a very good chance that it will still be played over the next 50 years.

If we make it through December – Merle Haggard

http://youtu.be/Z-IJxTd8dCo

For the most part people regard Christmas as a happy time, but there are families out there that see things differently. For them it seems like Christmas only makes their financial hardships worse and Merle Haggard reminds us of what the holiday should be about in the first place, which is to extend a helping hand.

Merry Christmas from the Family – Robert Earl Keen

There are more than enough happy Christmas songs, so it’s only fair to add some alternative tunes to the list. In this case we look at Keen’s idea of Christmas and how heavy drinking is the only way of surviving extended family members. It might sound a bit rough, but many can relate to the song.

Blue Christmas – Elvis Presley

http://youtu.be/oW3DnN2zLKQ

Another classic song that has been covered more time than can be counted, but the King’s version has outdone them all. Some regard this song as the reason why Elvis was able to become the record holder for the highest selling holiday album of all time. It can be found on his 1957 “Elvis’ Christmas Album”.

Born on Christmas Day – Brad Paisley

On this recording you will hear something a little different. More specifically, you will hear the voice of a 13 year old Brad adding his own lyrics and style, together with the adult Brad. The result is a great sentimental spin on a classic song.

Where are you Christmas? – Faith Hill

Trust one of the greatest female country singers to record a Christmas hit. Part of the soundtrack for “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and originally set aside for Mariah Carey to sing, fate would land it in the hands of Mrs. Hill. As a true master she sang it as if she wrote it herself.

Grandma got run over by Reindeer – Elmo & Patsy

Yes, it’s a novelty song, but it doesn’t make it any less worthy of Christmas. Randy Brooks was the creator of the song and in 1978 the married duo recorded it. For the last 30 years it has remained popular regardless of its nature.

Santa Baby – Kellie Pickler

A lot of variations concerning this classic song has been recorded and released, but Kellie’s 2007 take on asking St. Nick for extravagant gifts is probably the sultriest of them all. It is sexy and sweet all at the same time.

White Christmas – Martina McBride

In 1998 Martina decided to put her own spin on a classic Christmas tune and it made the whole album a huge success. In fact, it was so successful that it was re-released no less than 3 times over the course of 11 years. In conclusion, the song and album is a perfect fit for Christmas day.

Till Santa’s Gone (Milk and Cookies) – Clint Black

Christmas country songs don’t get more authentic than this. With pure country music to back pure country vocals, Black reveals the trick of getting Santa to come back every year. The secret of course is milk and cookies.

Christmas Cookies – George Strait

For some reason or another Strait never added this song to any of his albums. It can only be found on collaborative releases and it pays tribute to the importance of cookies on Christmas. It is such a rare subject matter for holiday songs, making it an instant classic.

Let it be Christmas – Alan Jackson

http://youtu.be/f9oe_HTT4A8

Every artist knows that an original Christmas song is hard to sell compared to all the cover versions, but Jackson did the “almost impossible”. The single has a great sense of sentimentality in addition to providing a moral lesson. In this regard it has to be part of any Christmas soundtrack.

Christmas in Dixie – Alabama

It’s a general outlook on everything that makes Christmas so eventful, but the execution of the song in addition to the poetical way it is sung are the reasons why it’s still popular. It first reached the airwaves in 1982 and never stopped.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer – Gene Autry

Is there anyone who doesn’t know this song? Coming all the way from 1949, it actually came to life in 1939 in the form of a children’s coloring book. Robert L. May wrote the story for the book and Autry made it into a song 10 years later. As it stands the original recording has sold more than 25 million copies.

Larry Henley Passes away at Age 77

December 18, 2014 By NashStar

Larry Henley, songwriter for “Wind Beneath My Wings”, was born on June 30, 1937 in Arp, Texas. It might not be common knowledge, but Larry really wanted to be an actor. More specifically, he wanted to be like James Dean. When he participated in a talent competition because the prize was an appearance on television, his singing brought him more than just a television appearance. It brought him a recording contract.

Larry was the lead vocalist for the pop band “The Newbeats” and their signature song was entitled “Bread and Butter”. They had two singles hit the Billboard charts with “Bread and Butter” making it all the way to number. 2.

Larry not only could write a hit song, but he could hear one as well. The singer Bobby Goldsboro got a lot of encouragement from Larry to record the song “Honey” in 1968. Goldsboro initially didn’t want to sing it, but after Larry heard songwriter Bobby Russell perform it, he didn’t let Goldsboro off the hook. His encouragement finally sunk in and Goldsboro had a no. 1 spot on the Billboard charts for 5 consecutive weeks.

In 1973 Larry wrote a no. 1 hit single for Tammy Wynette entitled “Till I get it Right” (later covered by Barbara Streisand and Kenny Rogers). He released his solo album called “Piece of Cake” in 1975.

His talent of writing songs that would skyrocket in the voices of the right artists made him a very sought after songwriter. Numerous other singers made their way on his songwriting abilities, like Randy Travis with “Is it Still Over?”, Tanya Tucker with “Lizzie and the Rainman”, Janie Fricke with “He’s a Heartache (Looking for a Place to Happen), Delbert McClinton with “Shotgun Rider”, and Lynn Anderson and Gary Morris with “You’re Welcome to Tonight”, which was co-written with Nashville StarVision player Grant Boatwright.

Wind Beneath My Wings: The pinnacle of his career came when he co-wrote the hit song “Wind Beneath My Wings” with Jeff Silbar in 1981.

In 1982 Larry received a call from his publisher saying that Roger Wittaker was cutting his song “Wind Beneath My Wings”. Even though Larry didn’t know who Roger Wittaker was, like every songwriter, he was happy to hear the news of another cut.

Then in 1983, country music star Gary Morris took the song to number 4 on the country charts, only to be followed up 5 years later in 1989 by Bette Midler who rode with it up to number 1 on the pop charts, achieving multi-Platinum status and wining Midler her third Grammy. That year Larry and Silbar were called to the stage to accept the Song of the Year Award for “Wind Beneath My Wings” while Midler received the Album of the Year Award.

“Wind Beneath My Wings” has been covered by more than 300 artists including Perry Como, Vic Damone, Peggy Lee, Sheena Easton, Lou Rawls, Judy Collins, and Gladys Knight.

http://youtu.be/GTxjP1ZajeI

Larry Henley liked to call himself a singer up until the point somebody stopped him in the street and asked, “Aren’t you the guy who wrote Wind Beneath My Wings?” From then on Larry confesses he started referring to himself as a songwriter. He might not have been the best known singer in country music, but his songs are some of the best known in both country and pop.

The highest accolade for any songwriter was bestowed upon Larry In 2012 when he was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame.

On December 18, 2014, the mild-mannered, brilliant “songwriter”, Larry Henley, passed away at the age of 77 in Nashville, Tennessee. He was suffering from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Larry’s footprint on music cannot be substituted. His laid-back personality and his appearance didn’t exactly fit the profile of a person who could write songs like “Wind Beneath My Wings”, but his ability to surprise himself and others was a characteristic trait that made him so unique, so special, and now so missed…

Larry Henley: June, 30 1937 – December 18, 2014

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