The Boot

Glen Campbell Collection Celebrates Grammy Legend

Stephen L. Betts — 2012-02-10T13:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Albums, Country News, Grammy Awards

Cataldi PR

In 1962, the first album by accomplished session guitarist and future pop-country superstar Glen Campbell was released. 'Big Bluegrass Special,' credited to the Green River Boys and Glen Campbell, featured 'Kentucky Means Paradise' and introduced the musician to a wider audience, although his real breakthrough would come five years later with the Grammy-winning album and single, 'Gentle on My Mind.'

Those cuts are just two of 60 tracks on the new three-disc collection, 'The Legendary Glen Campbell,' from Reader's Digest Music. Spanning his entire recording career from 1962 to 2008, and featuring the No. 1 smashes 'Galveston,' 'Wichita Lineman,' 'Southern Nights' and 'Rhinestone Cowboy,' the collection also includes long out-of-print rarities recorded by the iconic entertainer, who would literally become a household name when he hosted his own CBS variety series from 1969 to 1972.

Eric Church Learns Ups + Downs of Blood, Sweat & Beers Tour

Erin Duvall — 2012-02-10T12:25:00 00:00

Filed under: Concert News

Ed Rode, AP

Since launching his first headlining tour Jan. 19, Eric Church has learned that it isn't all adult beverages and signing autographs. The North Carolina native may have paid his dues with Blood, Sweat & Beers, as reflected in the tour's title, but he probably didn't expect the bumps that come along with being top dog. For instance, on the second night of the trek, he was trapped under the stage when attempting to make his entrance.

"Everybody sat in the dark for seven minutes wondering, 'What in the hell was going on?'" Eric tells the Nashville Tennessean. "It's such a big thing that every night you have to cross your fingers and go, 'I hope it works.'"

Johnny Cash Museum Planned for Nashville

Erin Duvall — 2012-02-10T11:15:00 00:00

Filed under: Country News

Jeffrey Mayer, Wire Image/Getty Images

Johnny Cash fans may soon have another destination to add to their travel plans. The Tennessean reports that Cash biographer, William W. Miller Jr., is spearheading an effort to open a Johnny Cash Museum in a former warehouse in downtown Nashville.

"He's been an incredible supporter of my dad and one of the largest collectors of memorabilia," Johnny's daughter Rosanne Cash says of Miller. "If anybody has the whole structure to put up a museum, he does. So I have a lot of trust in him, and I think it's great at this point. I think he'll do something with dignity and class that's historically important, not some kitschy thing. I'm very interested in seeing what he does."

Jessie James 'When You Say My Name' Video Set in Familiar 'House'

Erin Duvall — 2012-02-10T10:15:00 00:00

Filed under: Exclusive, New Video

David Livingston, Getty Images

Straight out of high school, Jessie James had the opportunity to do what many only dream about, to release an album. The catch was that the country singer was signed to a pop record label. Nearly five years later, Jessie has landed a country record deal, released her first single, 'When You Say My Name,' and is now debuting the tune's music video, which she filmed in Nashville. (Watch below.)

"It was the same house that Miranda Lambert shot her video for 'The House That Built Me,'" Jessie reveals to The Boot. "It's me running around the house being silly, doing laundry. I'm in my pajamas the whole time. I think it shows my personality more than any other video I've been in. The other videos were about being sexy, but this one is completely about me being goofy and showing my personality. It's a fun video."

The Civil Wars See Positive Side of Music Piracy

Gayle Thompson — 2012-02-10T09:40:00 00:00

Filed under: Country News

Fred Hayes, Getty Images

In an age when the internet's social media sites allow songs, videos and concert footage to be readily shared all over the world, many artists are concerned about the amount of music that is being spread around for free. But the Civil Wars aren't in that group. The duo, comprised of Joy Williams and John Paul White, insist they are happy to have their music shared with the masses, even if they aren't getting paid for their hard work.

"Sure, piracy has its drawbacks, but it also has positives," Joy tells Forbes magazine. "We've had people admit to us before that they were given a burned CD of our record from a friend. They'd go on to say that, once they heard the music, they bought tickets to the nearest show. And there, standing in line afterward to say hi -- wearing a band shirt they bought that night -- they recounted how many friends they'd turned on to our music. In short, we try not to be curmudgeons about piracy, but to embrace this shift in culture."

The singer-songwriters actually encourage their loyal followers to share video of their energy-packed performances on several social media sites, including Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Jason Aldean and George Jones Bond Over 'Anthem'

Vernell Hackett — 2012-02-10T09:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Exclusive, Grammy Awards

WireImage for NARAS

Jason Aldean got to spend some with his mother's favorite singer recently. Jason and George Jones were both at the Nashville party celebrating this year's Grammy awards, and the young singer just had to go up and say hello.

"I had met him a few years back and got to do show with him," Jason tells The Boot. "He's my mom's favorite singer of all time. That was before we name-checked him in 'Dirt Road Anthem' So this time I was curious to know what he thought about the song."

Obviously, George must have enjoyed it since Jason was able to get him to do a few dance steps with him down the Grammy party red carpet.

Grammy Awards' Best Acceptance Speeches

Lorie Hollabaugh — 2012-02-09T17:15:00 00:00

Filed under: Grammy Awards

"I'd like to thank God, my manager, the fans, country radio and members of the Recording Academy ..." Sure, all those people are deserving of thanks when it comes to Grammy awards, but we like it when the winners are a bit more creative! The Boot presents some of our favorite Grammy Awards acceptance speeches from country stars over the years. Click the 'Launch Gallery' link below to browse through photos and quotes from past Grammy Awards ceremonies.

See All The Boot Galleries »

Jessi Colter and Friends Celebrate Waylon Jennings' Legacy

Vernell Hackett — 2012-02-09T16:30:00 00:00

Filed under: Exclusive, Interviews

Ebet Roberts, Redferns / Getty Images

Waylon Jennings never considered himself an outlaw when it came to his music. But the singer, who together with his wife Jessi Colter, Willie Nelson and Tompall Glaser, made history in 1976 with 'Wanted! The Outlaws,' country music's first million-selling album, did always have the desire to do his music his way.

Jessi, who married Waylon in 1969, says the final straw for her late husband came in a session when a producer insisted on adding instruments to a song Waylon had written -- and therefore knew the sound he wanted it to have. When the producer persisted, Waylon looked at him and said, "You're fired." Waylon's widow believes that may have been the first time a producer assigned to an artist by a record label had ever been fired from a project by the artist.

Waylon would no doubt have approved of the group of artists honoring him on 'Waylon: The Music Inside Vol. II,' the latest tribute to the legendary singer-songwriter who died in 2002. Most are independent thinkers who have control of their careers, including Jack Ingram, Pat Green, Dierks Bentley, Montgomery Gentry and Hank Williams Jr., all of whom have carved their own niche in country music.

Johnny Cash's 'Bootleg IV' Gospel Album Set for April Release

Gayle Thompson — 2012-02-09T15:45:00 00:00

Filed under: Albums, Legends, Country News

Mark Humphrey, AP

Johnny Cash passed away eight years ago, but his spirit continues to live on through his music. Columbia/Legacy will release a new set of tunes, 'Bootleg Vol. IV: The Soul of Truth,' a two-disc, 51-song collection of out-of-print and seldom-heard gospel recordings on April 3. The collection includes collaborations with some of the Man in Black's family members and close friends.

The first disc includes every song on his 1979 record, 'A Believer Sings the Truth,' plus five outtakes, which were produced by Cowboy Jack Clement and Jack Routh (who was at one time married to Johnny's stepdaughter, Carlene Carter). Also included in the set is an entire ten-song album from 1975, currently out of print, 'Johnny Cash-Gospel Singer,' plus four never-heard outtakes, which was produced by Marty Stuart.

Miranda Lambert's Cause for the Paws Postponed

Erin Duvall — 2012-02-09T15:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Concert News

Rick Diamond, Getty Images for CMT

Due to its growing size, Miranda Lambert's annual Cause for the Paws concert benefiting the Humane Society of East Texas is being postponed. The news came from Miranda's mother, Bev Lambert, in a recent fan newsletter.

"After much consideration and coordination effort, we have come to the realization that we will no longer be able to host Miranda's annual Cause for the Paws concert in East Texas," Bev wrote (quote via MirandaLambert.com). "Due to the enormous turnout with Miranda's growing popularity, we regrettably do not have a venue in East Texas that is suitable for the attendance numbers. We are currently in talks regarding the relocation of the event, which will most likely take place in the latter part of 2012."

Kellie Pickler Takes Fans 'Behind the Sessions'

The Boot Staff — 2012-02-09T14:15:00 00:00

Filed under: Exclusive, New Video, Sessions

Gino DePinto, AOL

Just like her latest hit single, Kellie Pickler is 'Tough.' She's also pretty hilarious! Never has so much laughter filled our AOL Music Sessions studio in New York City as when the country sweetheart visited on Jan. 24, the same day her third studio album, '100 Proof' hit stores.

After performing four tunes from the new project, plus a quick photo shoot and interview, Kellie hung around to bond with our staff over everything from shoe shopping to her own American idols. Go behind-the-scenes of Kellie's Sessions taping below, and come back to The Boot tomorrow (Feb. 10) for the singer's full Sessions performance!

Merle Haggard Plans Return to the Stage After Illness

Erin Duvall — 2012-02-09T13:30:00 00:00

Filed under: Country News

Noel Vasquez, Getty Images

Merle Haggard is on the mend following his hospitalization last month. The country legend will resume his tour schedule Feb. 28 in Tucson, Ariz.

"I'm feeling good and ready to get back on the bus," he said in a statement. "Thanks to all for their powerful prayers that led to my speedy recovery. I'm rehearsing with the band and looking forward to playin' and singin' again."

2012 ACM Awards New Artist Finalists Revealed

The Boot Staff — 2012-02-09T12:45:00 00:00

Filed under: ACMs

Getty Images / AP

And then there were three ... The eight semi-finalists for ACM New Artist of the Year have now been narrowed down to three finalists: Brantley Gilbert, Hunter Hayes and Scotty McCreery.

The three guys who made it in the coveted category were determined by both ACM members and online fan voting. It's now up to you again to help determine who wins. Cast your vote for Brantley, Hunter or Scotty at VoteACM.com starting March 19. Voting ends April 1, just before the live broadcast begins.

Sugarland & Matt Nathanson, 'Run' -- Video Premiere

The Boot Staff — 2012-02-09T12:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Exclusive, New Video

Mark Humphrey, AP

Artists: Sugarland & Matt Nathanson

Video Premiere: 'Run'

Why We Love It: Let's face it, who wouldn't have great chemistry with Sugarland's Jennifer Nettles? But there's just something particularly electric in the air when her voice combines with Matt Nathanson's in this tune from the pop/rocker's 'Modern Love' album.

"A dash of Matt and a spoon full of Sugar: sounds like a recipe for a sexy song," Jennifer tells The Boot. "Excited to share this with our fans!"

Jason Aldean Hopes to Return from Grammys With a New 'Tag'

Gayle Thompson — 2012-02-09T11:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Country News, Grammy Awards

Michael Loccisano, Getty Images

Jason Aldean is getting ready for what might be one of the biggest nights of his life, or at least his career. The 'Tattoos on This Town' singer will head to Los Angeles on Sunday (Feb. 12) for the Grammy Awards, where he'll perform his hit 'Don't You Wanna Stay' with Kelly Clarkson. He's also nominated for three trophies and warns that a win may affect how well he travels the next day!

"I've got somewhat of an early flight the next morning, so I may have to keep my celebrating in check until I get back home," he acknowledges (quote via Country Weekly). "That's easier said than done, though. I imagine if we do happen to win one, it will be a very long day the next day for me flying home. [I'll] be finding the little barf bag in the console in front of my seat."

Faith Hill, Tim McGraw Duets Album Likely Inevitable

Gayle Thompson — 2012-02-09T09:45:00 00:00

Filed under: Country News

Getty Images for Coty Inc

Faith Hill and Tim McGraw are getting ready to reprise their successful Soul 2 Soul tour in Australia next month, and the superstar couple couldn't be more excited about their upcoming trek.

"It will be my first time," Faith acknowledges to 'Good Morning America' host Robin Roberts. "Tim's performed there before. We're going to cross the ocean -- way across the ocean."

"It's like next year in Australia," Tim jokes.

Danny Gokey Wedding Video: 'Idol' Alum Shares Special Day

The Boot Staff — 2012-02-09T08:30:00 00:00

Filed under: Country News

YouTube

Danny Gokey has been notoriously accessible to his fans since his days on 'American Idol.' Now, he's taking that one step further by giving all of us an intimate look at one of the most special days of his life, Jan. 29, 2012 -- the day he married Leyicet Peralta.

"Take a look!" Danny tweeted Wednesday (Feb. 8), directing fans to a YouTube video with clips from the nuptials, done in the style of a movie trailer. (Watch the video below.)

"I can hold my emotions together, and I sometimes don't tell you how much I love and adore you, but I constantly think it inside my heart," Danny says to his bride in the video. "I hope that through our marriage, not only through words but through actions, I'll be able to really express to you how much I care for you."

Dierks Bentley, 'Live on Letterman' (VIDEO)

The Boot Staff — 2012-02-08T19:50:00 00:00

Filed under: Concert News, New Video

Ethan Miller, Getty Images

Country takes over the city, as Dierks Bentley is set to perform on 'Live With Letterman' tonight (Feb. 8) from midtown New York City. Watch the live broadcast below, starting at 8:00 PM ET. If you miss the live show, don't worry -- we'll re-run it continuously right here.

The Arizona-bred singer is celebrating the release this week of his new album, 'Home.' The critically-acclaimed project's title track is up for an ACM Award for Song of the Year.

Grammy Awards: Country Music's Biggest Triumphs

Erin Duvall — 2012-02-08T17:00:00 00:00

Filed under: Grammy Awards

You don't have to be a country fan to know that country is cool. Some of the genre's biggest superstars continue to outshine other genres on music's biggest night. The Boot counts down country music's greatest triumphs in Grammy Awards history.

Robyn Beck, AFP/Getty Images

10. Carrie Underwood, 2007 Grammy Awards

Wins: Best New Artist (all-genre) and Country Female Performance

The Competition: Carrie may have been coming off of her 2005 'American Idol' win, but that didn't mean she was shoo-in for either of these honors. James Blunt's double-platinum-selling 'You're Beautiful' landed him the Best New Artist nod, while Chris Brown's two platinum singles 'Run It' and 'Yo (Excuse Me Miss),' Imogen Heap's film-friendly 'Speak for Yourself' and Corinne Bailey Rae's chart-topping debut album garnered their respective nominations. In the country category, the Oklahoma native's 'Jesus, Take the Wheel' faced songs from Martina McBride and LeAnn Rimes, who come in third and sixth, respectively, for the most nominations in the category. Not only did Carrie beat the odds, she came back and took the Country Female Performance category the next two years with 'Before He Cheats' and 'Last Name.'

Eric Church, 'Springsteen' Lyrics: Story Behind the Song

The Boot Staff — 2012-02-08T16:15:00 00:00

Filed under: Exclusive, Story Behind the Song, Sessions

Gino DePinto, AOL

Back in December, we posted our picks for the songs we hope will be singles in 2012. And now, our No. 1 wish has come true! Eric Church has officially released 'Springsteen' as the third single from his Grammy-nominated 'Chief' album.

The country superstar sang 'Springsteen,' along with several other hits, live in our Sessions studio last summer. (Watch the video below.) He explained to us after his performance that the real-life story behind the tune didn't actually start with The Boss.

"The interesting part is it's a love affair that takes place in an amphitheater between two people," Eric told The Boot. "It didn't happen with Springsteen, ironically, it happened with another artist. I went to a concert when I was younger with a girl, and to this day when I hear that artist, it's the soundtrack to that girl. I never think about her any other time, except when that song is on. That's where the 'Springsteen' came from, and he seemed to be the perfect guy to craft that story around because of my love for him ... I have such a reverence for Bruce Springsteen's career and how he's built it."