MORE RANDOMNESS

This week will be one of those weeks where I write about nothing in general, just a few thoughts about names in the news, or at least my news!

• THE ROYAL WEDDING 2011------I was in the store recently, and saw about eight to ten different magazines about William and Kate. Sometimes, I wonder what all the fuss is about. Did England go crazy back in 2008 when Jenna Bush was married? Now, I understand it's different, but I'm just sayin. Still, it's hard not to be a little interested in the Royals. I read someone saying that Kate was "ordinary." OK....and television and those McDonald's hamburger joints were just fads, right?

• THE KENNEDYS------In America, I guess the closest thing we have to royalty is the Kennedy family. There have been numerous movies made about them, but I found myself engrossed last week in the Reelz miniseries based on their story. Historians have many good points in disputing the authenticity of the film (NO MENTION OF TED?), but Greg Kinnear and Barry Pepper were remarkable as the brothers John and Bobby. In fact, Pepper will likely be nominated for an Emmy, as he gave one of the best portrayals of RFK I have ever seen---and that includes Martin Sheen and William Devane. But, I missed the finale, and won't get to see it until next week...so don't tell me how it ends!

• BACK TO THE FUTURE----This week, I have made the trip back to Tennessee to do a week of morning drive at Kix 96 in Centerville. It's strange, and unless you have worked mornings in radio, you will think I'm crazy....but getting up at 4 in the morning.....I have missed it....even though I like to sleep.

• TESTING-------Say a prayer and cross your fingers for a lot of kids this week. In Georgia and Tennessee both this week, the annual profiency tests are taking place. The children are taking them all this week, and I know (even though it has to be done) it's going to be a long one. I do have a question, though. Do you stil have to color in the circle on the sheet, or has that gone the way of the card catalog?

• I SAW KENNY ROGERS-----Well, actually, it was my father. I got back to Tennessee Saturday night tired and very much out of it. I sat down in a recliner at Dad and Marcia's house, when he looked at me for a second. As out of it as I was, I knew that Kenny Rogers had stopped by for a visit. Nope, my father has grown a beard. In all seriousness, it looks good, Dad. I have had success with goatees, but me growing a beard is a joke....If only my name were Tidwell! Well, that's about it for this week...Have a great Monday!

ACM AWARDS 2011 BLOG

• 9:47AM EST "ACM AWARDS BLOG" LIVE TONIGHT AT 8PM / EST

7:25PM EST Ok...Just sat down in front of TV for GAC Red Carpet. Thought I would give you my thoughts on who just might win in these categories

Vocal Event: Zac Brown Band & Alan Jackson, though if Loretta Lynn and Co. won this one, I wouldn't be too sad.

Video: "The House That Built Me"

Song of the Year: "The House That Built Me"

Single of the Year: "The House That Built Me"

Album of the Year: THE GUITAR SONG, Jamey Johnson

Top New Artist: The Band Perry

Top Vocal Group: Lady Antebellum

Top Vocal Duo: Sugarland

Female Vocalist: Miranda Lambert

Male Vocalist: Blake Shelton

Entertainer: Going out on a limb....Taylor Swift

While I was writing this entry, it was announced that the ZBB and Alan Jackson won the Vocal Event crown. Since I didn't know it at the time....does that count as a win?

7:42PM.....Comments are welcome. Leave them here, or e-mail me at spinthehitz74@gmail.com....First time I've ever done anything like this, so bear with me....

8:00 PM.....Here we go!

8:01 PM....Blake singing to Miranda....Where will this go? Is that Miranda? LOL...Didn't think so!

8:02 PM.....I have been excited about this one. I love the new Paisley song better than anything he's done in a while. It could be his night as far as Entertainer, but I still feel Taylor Swift. I hope this is a number one hit....You know, the years might have changed....but they are still Alabama! Was that Marg Helgenberger from C.S.I. in the audience? I'm impressed! Love it....A country award show with no pop or rock stars in the opening. We're pretty dang cool without them!

8:07pm.....And the pop world comes....Hey, I love pop music. But, Country stars are cool by themselves....But Celine is the musical ambassador of Vegas now, so it works. I really think Blake is going to do well as host tonight, and Reba is....Reba.....This guy is going to continue to see his star rise in 2011....Nice joke about the age....Miley joke not so much.....Cool timing on Brokeback Mountain.....So so joke on Brad....

8:14pm......Toby on stage.....Really liked the new album. Hard to believe he's going to be 50 this year. Pretty decent song.....

8:18pm......I love Brad Garrett, but that was kind of lame.

8:23pm......Here comes Carrie.....OK....You know what I said about pop / rock stars earlier? As gorgeous and talented as Carrie is.....I think more people are looking at Steven Tyler right now......Carrie is handling herself pretty good for the most part.....But, i can hear Nashville groaning.....I still stand by what I said, but this is Steven Tyler.....

8:30pm.......I understand this is a party....but this is the ACM AWARDS, right? You know, Jennifer Nettles is someone that my mind goes back and forth on. I think looks-wise, she's having a good night.....but this current album is a little too different. It has its' moments, but if I wanted to hear Heart, they're on tour this summer.....My daughter just asked me what the name of this song was? I said "Tonight." At least, that's what I think it is....My daughter is not impressed....

8:36PM.....Still no awards, but I like this new Dierks Bentley song kicks butt. No big statement, just fun! Cool chorus....8:40PM and no awards handed out yet?

8:40pm....I will take some flak for this, but should fans be allowed to vote in the ACM's or CMA's....I have my feelings about this....Plus, isn't that what the CMT Video Awards are for? Just my two cents....

8:45pm.....I know that Keith loves Nicole, but George Strait has been married for forty years, and some of his biggest songs are heartbreak-laden....Just a thought.....

8:49pm.....One of my cats just hit the channel button on the satellite....Interesting!

8:50pm....Jennifer looks like Alison Krauss.....I really liked Eric Church's first disc.....but he's country. If you don't believe him, he'll tell you,.....But, at least they mentioned the word "award." That's a first....

8:53pm.....Dan Patrick talks about Brooklyn Decker all the time on his radio show. I understand why. An award? OMG! Miranda, get ready!

8:54pm.....Two for two!

9:00pm.....I know she's everywhere, but Taylor Swift keeps getting better and better. "Mine," "Back To December," and "Mean"....a pretty cool 1-2-3 punch...Is that The Walton's house? In all seriousness, this might be the best performance since the opener...She deserves the ovation

9:05pm.....Little Big Town should be winning instead of presenting....With that said, The Band Perry is going to keep getting bigger and bigger. "You Lie" is a cool song, and Kimberly Perry is a star!

9:08pm.....The Band Perry

9:08pm......Three for Three....I should be rolling the dice tonight....

9:10pm...The Bing commercial is pretty cool.....

9:15pm...I thought the Luke Bryan joke was funny. I know I'm about five years late, but I am starting to get Jason Aldean. Holding your own with Kelly Clarkson....wait a minute...A rap? It might sell units, but radio play is going to be interesting......

9:18pm.....Nancy O'Dell is one of the prettiest people on the planet Earth......and she's about to be joined on stage by....Miranda Lambert and Frank Liddell....

9:19pm....Four of Four!

9:25pm.....Really interested to hear Blake's new one....Nice beat.....I like it......Perfect for summer. There is no doubt in my mind that Blake Shelton is the next major star of the format....I guess he's already there....but he's got it all. Nice Conway and Loretts reference.......He knows exactly what he's doing....

9:29pm.....Miranda looks stunning......The only award she's not up for, I think......Where is Jamey Johnson?....Paging Jamey Johnson....

9:32pm.....OK....I missed one....Happens to the best of us, but Jamey did have the best album...IMHO...4 of 5...Still a good night so far.....An "Arthur" remake? Really????

9:35pm....Thoughts? Comments? E-mail me at spinthehitz74@gmail.com or comment!

9:38pm...."A Little Bit Stronger" by Sara Evans has really grown on me. I hated it at first, but it's a great showcase for her voice....

9:42pm......Dang! Marie Osmond is timeless....One of my first crushes from way back when....I used to have a Donny Osmond microphone years ago.....Lady Antebellum, get ready!

9:44pm.....Five of Six......No surprise....They keep growing with the sky still being the limit!

9:52pm.....Funny intro....There's a reason Miranda Lambert is so highly regarded......She's doing the best work right now!

9:56pm.....The moment that people have been waiting for....Rihanna and Jennifer Nettles....Is that Wilma Flintstone?.....Does Jennifer ever sing with anybody Country? The song itself doesn't sound so bad.....but is it Country? Oh, the debate rolls on!

10:04pm....Ronnie Dunn....Enough said! Take notes, folks!

10:10pm....Sugarland.....Six of Seven

10:13pm....To quote her album from 2005, Martina McBride is TIMELESS.....The best dressed....the most beautiful woman there.....and I love this song.....In a way, it reminds me of a 1976 Loretta Lynn song...Here's to you Mrs. Rob...I mean, McBride...

10:21pm....Marg Helgenberger hasn't aged a bit in ten years. And Blake Shelton gets to accept an award from her? Cool!

10:24pm....Well...maybe not.....But Blake will win next year. Book it!...Six of Eight...

10:25pm....Still recovering from Martina and Marg back to back....This is going to be a highlight, and one of the more touching moments of the night. Darius Rucker and his "choir" define the word SOUL.

10:32pm....All these food commercials are making me hungry. I've got to be strong....Lost about 30 pounds since October....Hello to my good friends Jim and Bobbie Anderson out in the city of Burns, TN tonight!

10:35pm....I think next year, Jennifer Nettles should duet with Marilyn Manson.......I remember being a thirteen year old kid with a crush on Reba....and now, I'm....older. That's all that has changed!

10:39pm....Reese Witherspoon is class times ten.....Female Vocalist.....Miranda get ready!....Blake will help you carry the awards home.....Seven of Nine....and whoever I pick to win the NCAA will lose by 20....I don't get it!

10:41pm.....C'mon that was automatic.....I had that one marked when the nominations came out!

10:44pm.....It just dawned on me....Where is George Strait?

10:46pm.....I'll probably get stoned for saying this....but James Taylor has had some great songs, but I would rather listen to the Zac Brown Band.....It wasn't announced on the show.....but, Miranda won Video of the Year for "The House That Built Me." Make that eight of ten......

10:48pm....How do some men grow beards like Zac Brown's? I've tried, but all I can get is a goatee....Just a question...Well, who's the Entertainer Of The Year? I might be leaning with Brad a little more.....but I'm sticking with Taylor.......

10:50pm....This just in....Zac Brown can sing!

10:52pm....James Taylor was a hippie in 1971....Now he looks like an Elder at a Baptist Church or Church of Christ.....

10:54pm....Well, what have you thought about tonight? I think it was a pretty good award show overall. No George Strait, but some great moments. Martina and Reba proving they are ageless.....Ronnie Dunn being Ronnie Dunn, Blake Shelton having a big night even without a win, and Steven Tyler. Pretty cool....I'll still be listening to WAJQ 104.3 in Alma, GA tomorrow----the best COUNTRY station in South Georgia, where you can here Buck and Merle.....but overall I liked what I saw....Well, my daughter wants Taylor to win, so Swift, pull it out for Bella!

10:56pm----Last call...The fans have spoken....Until this album, I've never idenitfied with Taylor's music, but I have always admired the way that she has handled herself with the utmost amount of class. She has patterned the way she treats people like a guy named Garth....and all I've got to say is ....You Go Girl! Well, the award show is in the books....Time to get back to work......Thanks for following tonight......Good-Night, John Boy!

11:02.....Nine of eleven......Cool....time to watch "Hee Haw"

RANDOM THOUGHTS FROM A RANDOM MIND

Sometimes, these blogs are about one main subject.....then there are days like today, where I just feel like rambling a bit.....

• MEL MCDANIEL-----Not every Country star becomes a legend or a Hall of Fame candidate. Still, there are many that work the one nighters constantly, and over the course of time, make a very nice catalog of music. Mel McDaniel was one of those. The Opry star, who died yesterday at 68, was best known for hits like "Louisiana Saturday Night" and "Baby's Got Her Blue Jeans On." He also had some of Country's more underrated moments in songs like "Hello Daddy, Good Morning Darlin," "I Call It Love," and "Old Man River." He had been in ill health for some time. I got a chance to interview him in 2006. Very nice guy.

• RIHANNA ON THE ACM AWARDS: Several are in an uproar about this one. It seems that Jennifer Nettles is going to be doing a duet with Rihanna on the ACM Awards Sunday night. I don't have a big problem with it, but can see where others might. Personally, I would much rather see Beyonce (who performed with Nettles on the AMA's a few years back) if you wanted to have somebody from the pop world. I'm sure it would be a highlight, but there are other artists who have worked hard for that slot. Then again, Country Music award shows have had pop / rock artists featured for years. The rumors are it makes us cool.

• I'M COUNTRY!: Chet Flippo had a great blog on CMT.COM this week where he talked about one of my personal pet peeves---Singing about "How Country" you are. Basically, if you have to say it.....then there's probably something a little mixed up somewhere.

• UT WOMEN: For a lot of reasons, I get into Women's Basketball in the NCAA a lot more than I do men's ball. I was hoping for another title run from Pat Summitt and Co. this year, but it turned out not to be. Still, you have to admire what this woman does year in and year out. She's a winner, and always has conducted herself as such. Maybe next season. Meanwhile...Go Butler and UK, with Butler taking it all!

• FONTANEL: I had a chance last week to visit the Fontanel Mansion, thanks to my good friend and Eric Lee Beddingfield publicist (among others) Craig Campbell. Of course, it was once home to Barbara Mandrell and family, and Barbara's daughter Jaimie can be seen there occasionally, popping in on tours. Between the house, the restaurant, the amphitheater, and the walking trails, there's a lot to see there, and a lot more to come. Many know this, but Barbara was one of my first celebrity crushes, and also one of the more underrated singers of the format's history. Thanks, Craig!

• BILL CODY: Since 2000, I have written about singers, songwriters, publicists, and a few football coaches or two. But one of my favorite interviews took place recently with WSM-AM morning man Bill Cody. I've long been a fan of "Coffee, Country, and Cody," and for the past few years, I have been very fortunate to call him friend. The article is up on the March issue of the DIRECT BUZZ, and I appreciate him for taking time to share stories about his 40-year career in the business. I've said it before, and I'll say it again. The ones that really are the giants in the business aren't the ones that proclaim their accomplishments the loudest. Greatness talks without saying anything....if that makes any sense! I know that you will be sitting on the edge of your seat for it...lol...but this Sunday night, I'm going to experiment with the web a little bit. Many of my friends and business associates have tried to get me to do the Facebook thing, and I very well might....but Sunday night during the ACM Awards, I am going to attempt to blog live some of my thoughts about what happens on the show. As I said, I know that's exciting news for many of you....but if you get bored, take a look!

TWENTY YEARS IS NOT AS LONG AS IT USED TO BE

Yesterday, about 4:30 in the afternoon, I remembered what day it was. So, I picked up the phone.

After a couple of rings, this deep voice answered. "Hello?"

Out of my mouth came the words 'Happy Birthday. How does it feel to be twenty?"

"Pretty good, I guess," said the person at the end of the line.

Good. Good? GOOD, you said. "You know what, it makes me feel old," I said half-mockingly. I stress the word half.

A little backstory is required here. Twenty years and one day ago, Blake was born in Tennessee. His grandparents and I went to the same Church, and after a little while, I ended up toting him around, putting him on my shoulders, and being big brother / uncle. It was a role that I truly cherished. I had been around babies before, but this was the first time that I can say that I was around one from the beginning. I even got to announce his playing in a couple high school football games, and referred to him as his nickname, "Bacon." But, it was really a neat experience. I'm not trying to claim myself as a father figure---his grandpa, Kenny Gibbs does quite well in that regard----both to him and me,as a second or third father. But it was with mixed emotions that I recognized that milestone yesterday. Being 20 is better than not being, but does that mean I am (doing the math) 37 instead of 17 now? I guess that it does!

Time is an interesting thing. Growing up a fan of TV, I was always amazed by the 20-year run of Gunsmoke, which ran on CBS from 1955-1975. My mother was barely a teenager, and my father only ten when the show debuted, and when Matt Dillon knocked off the last villian in Dodge City, they had a child of their own----who's typing these words now......I used to think two decades was a very long time......Now, I am rethinking that process. In a couple months from now, Blake--the 20 year old---will walk down the aisle. Big Brother, Uncle Chuck, whatever I am......I hope that I'm there on May 14 to see it. But you know what, time will catch up. Before he knows it, he'll be celebrating twenty years as a husband, And, by that time I'll be 5.....Well, friends and neighbors, it's about time to wrap this one up!

R.I.P. ELIZABETH TAYLOR

Unless you live in a cave, then you know that Elizabeth Taylor, one of Hollywood's greatest stars of all time passed away early Wednesday morning at the age of 79.Much has been made of both her beauty and her legend in the days since. Her beauty? Well, that speaks for itself. Though I have only seen one of her movies all the way through, that was apparent enough. Those eyes and that dark hair...I can understand why many feel she was the most beautiful movie star of all time, even surpassing Marilyn Monroe.

Because of my being born in 1974, I grew up not really thinking of Elizabeth Taylor as a movie star, but more of a pop culture icon---more famous for her marriages than her acting. In reality, though she made movies until the early part of this decade off and on, she cut back considerably on acting in major films during her marriages to Richard Burton and John Warner. So, her better films were made before I was born, and though I do like a lot of classic films,I just never really got into the mainstream Hollywood classics.

But, then....about ten years ago or so, my good friend and long-time co-worker Ken Loggains were discussing major news of the day while at work----like 'What's on TV tonight.' And I mentioned that TBS or TNT or TCM....one of the Turner channels was showing "Giant" that night. One of the first things that Ken and I bonded over was the fact that we were fans of the TV show "Dallas." He seemed shocked that I had never seen "Giant." I remember him telling me 'If you love 'Dallas,' you will love "Giant."

So, that night, I went back to 1955, and watched the story of former friends Rock Hudson and James Dean, and how it came to a bitter end over.....Elizabeth Taylor. Sound familiar, "Dallas" fans......Jock...Digger....Ellie....Well, though it takes a lot to get me to not change the channel, I didn't through any of "Giant." And along with it, I fully understood why Elizabeth Taylor was revered so much. She had one of those dynamic presences that you only see once in a while. Now, I won't claim to say that I have seen all her movies since then, as I haven't.....and though her beauty was legendary.....among starlets of that era....Ann-Margret was more my cup of tea.......but after seeing "Giant," I understood why Elizabeth Taylor was a star. May she rest in peace....

Maybe I will get around to watching "Butterfield 8," "Cat On A Hot Tin Roof," and "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf," but I definitely want to see some of the Taylor-Burton collaborations. I had never really gotten the infatuation with the two of them as a couple, until now. Looking at all the photo galleries of the two that have been online the past few days, I get it. Some have called them the "Brangelina" of their time. I don't think Pitt and Jolie have half the chemistry of these two. That takes nothing away from them, as Angelina Jolie is one of the most beautiful women in the world......but Richard Burton (who was one of the most uniquely handsome men I have ever seen) and Elizabeth Taylor were one of the most dynamic couples Tinseltown has ever seen....on screen and off!

A SALUTE TO A GOOD MAN...MAKE THAT TWO!

There is some degree of truth in this statement...lol....Radio engineers have a mindset all their own. So do radio station owners. They simply think different than on-air talent or Music Directors. However, in my twenty years of doing radio.....there are a few exceptions to the rule.


Steve Turner is one such person. He's been involved in radio at Centerville, TN since Marconi delivered the first radio to Hickman County some time ago.....But, seriously...whether on-air, sales, management, or ownership....he's one of the nicest guys you'd ever want to meet.....and he "gets" radio. If you have to ask if an owner "gets" it, you've got your answer to what that means!

I've known Steve for about twenty years. I actually interviewed with him for a job back in 1993. As it turned out, I didn't get it. But that's ok.....a few years later I ended up working for him at Kix 96, and I can honestly say that I have had few better work experiences in my career. Well, this weekend is going to be a big one for that radio voice formerly known as "Little Stevie Turner." He's going to be roasted by several in Centerville to benefit the Charlie Garner Foundation. It should be fun, because Hickman County has some legendary smart alecks----I mean that with the utmost of sincerity, as I myself am a smart aleck!


I had been planning to make the trip up this weekend to be at the roast for Steve. But, last week, I was washing dishes, and the phone rang. It was Steve, and he asked me not to come......Ok, I had to say it like that.....Actually, there's a big remote going on in Linden Saturday, and with the full-time staff at the station all being tied up, he asked me to work....which I gladly consented to. In any case, I will say to my fellow Hickman Countians to not burn him too bad. He's too good a man for it!. Plus, he had the sense to marry Wanda, and that shows his smarts, as well!


There's another good man that I have to bring up right now...He turns 76....Oops...getting ahead of myself...another number with a 6 in it on Sunday....Happy Birthday, Dad! I love you.....Hey, I'm preparing early!

FROM SCHUYLER TO FACEBOOK

I hadn't planned on blogging today. But, something caught my eye that I just had to comment on. As anyone who knows me can attest, I have a deep love for pop culture from the 70s and 80s. OK, maybe Country culture more so than Pop, but this has nothing to do with music. A lot of my favorite memories growing up centered around the television. I was blessed to grow up in the days of three networks and PBS----long before cable, satellite, and DVR. In the late 70s, you actually had to watch the show when it came on.

I've written before of my love of CBS Friday night staples The Dukes of Hazzard and Dallas. But, Thursday nights were also special on the network. I'm sure that many of you remember the classic series The Waltons. Many a Thursday night at 7pm central, one would find me in front of the 19" TV at the Dauphin home in Burns watching the warm and tender stories of a family pulling together during the Great Depression. Through DVD, it's still one of my favorites, and my children have gotten in on it,as well. I've been to Schuyler, Va (The real life Waltons' Mountain) on several occasions, and hope to take the kids there at the end of the school year. I've got a Waltons Lunch Box, the Waltons' Christmas Record, and even interviewed Jon Walmsley (Jason) and Earl Hamner, Jr. (the creator, narrator, and of course, the real life "John Boy) before. As far as interviews go, the two times I have interviewed Mr. Hamner might be my favorite ones ever.

It's due to Mr. Hamner that I am writing this blog tonight. Every now and then, I check out the great website dedicated to the series, www.the-waltons.com, and there is a link to a fan forum. I look at this from time to time, and saw a subject heaading that caught my eye---EARL HAMNER, JR. LOOKING FOR FRIENDS ON FACEBOOK......Wow....That one threw me for a loop.

Mr. Hamner, now 87 years young, is still writing and living in California. So, the fact that he is still active didn't surprise me. But, I thought it was kind of cool that the man who grew up in the 1930s, served his country in WW2, gave his family life in books and on the screen, is out there on the web. I mean, there's not many from that era on Facebook. You know, I just wonder what his TV prototype, John-Boy Walton, who published the first newspaper in Jefferson County---THE BLUE RIDGE CHRONICLE would think.....I bet he'd be impressed as well! Here's the link.......

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/group.php?gid=5532659077

I'm not even on Facebook yet, but have heard from several in the past few weeks that have suggested it. But, you know, if it's good enough for "John-Boy," it's good enough for the rest of us. Good night, Grandpa!

LINE BY LINE, IT'S STILL THE GREATEST ONE EVER!

With CRS going on, I haven't had a chance to comment yet on the recent 2011 Hall of Fame class. Well done, CMA! Jean Shepard is a choice that has been overlooked for way too long, and with both Alabama and George Strait in, you had to figure that Reba would attain her rightful induction. But the one that I wanted to comment on was Bobby Braddock. As part of the "Songwriter" class that will be inducted every three years, Braddock has written some classics over the years..."D-I-V-O-R-C-E," and "I Wanna Talk About Me" among them. But there's one that probably outshines the rest among his compositions. It was a song that Johnny Russell recorded in the late 1970s, but couldn't get played, so a guy by the name of George Jones recorded it. The legend has it that Jones bet Billy Sherrill, his producer, $100 that nobody would (quote) "buy that morbid son of a bitch." Needless to say, the Possum was wrong.....You know the song I'm talking about....but imagine for a minute that it was March of 1980 and you heard the song for the first time----which was what I tried to do the other day. There is a reason why 95% of Country artists and fans recognize this as the greatest Country song of all time. This is going to be different for me blog-wise, but I'm gonna give you my thoughts on this song---line by line---as if I were a listener for the first time....

"He Said I'll Love You Till I Die"---(What a sweet thought.)
"She Told Him 'You'll Forget In Time'---(How cold of her.)
"As The Years Went Slowly By, She Still Preyed Upon His Mind"
(Some people you never forget. I wonder if he's singing about Tammy.)

"He Kept Her Picture By His Bed"---(This guy never gives up.)
"Went Half Crazy Now And Then"-----(We all have, so don't judge.)
"He Still Loved Her Through It All"----(Tammy?)
"Hoping She'd Come Back Again"-----(If you have faith, it can happen.)

"Kept Some Letters By His Bed, Dated 1962"---(He's a sentimental one.)
"He had underlined in red, every single 'I Love You"---(Well, there's always one.....but shouldn't you move on?)
"I Went To See Him Just Today"---(Good for you. You gotta get him out of the house)
"Oh, But I Didn't See No Tears"---(He's finally able to talk about her without breaking down)
"All Dressed Up To Go Away"----(A date, perhaps?)
"First Time I'd Seen Him Smile In Years" (Finally, after all this time!)

"He Stopped Loving Her Today"----(As well he should!)
"They Placed A Wreath Upon His Door"----(Placed a wreath...Uh.)
"And Soon They'll Carry Him Away"----(No...you don't mean that...)
"He Stopped Loving Her Today"----(In my best Lewis Grizzard. 'Oh, my Gawd!"

"You Know She Came To See Him One Last Time" (I bet she did, that...)
"We All Wondered If She Would"----(I bet the funeral home fell in.)
"And It Kept Running Through My Mind"----(What? Tell me!)
"This Time, He's Over Her For Good"-----(Silence...What can you say?)

"He Stopped Loving Her Today"----(Wow! What a line!)
"They Placed A Wreath Upon His Door"----(Rest that poor man's soul.)
"And Soon, They'll Carry Him Away"----(George Jones is the greatest)
"He Stopped Loving Her Today"------(Where's the Kleenex, and can you play that one again?)

Throw in Sherrill's amazing production, with the strings and the haunting background singers, and folks, it's no cliche. This is the greatest Country song of all time. Congratulations, Mr. Braddock. You and Curley Putnam wrote a classic! Now, next year a picker goes in....Who votes for Don Rich?

TEN THINGS I LEARNED AT CRS 2011

If you are in the Country Music industry, last week was a pretty big deal. The Country Radio Seminar was held in Nashville at the Nashville Convention Center. Over 2,000 industry professionals converged upon downtown to mix and mingle with the stars, and take advantage of some very informational seminars that deal with all facets of radio. During quite a bit of the week, I was in the CRS Media Room for the most part, doing a record (for me) 62 interviews during the week.....but just like the groundhog, I did stick my head outside a little.....Here are ten things I came away with from CRS WEEK....

1. I know that the scheduling of CRS is usually set years in advance, but with the SEC Tournament taking place at the same time, did it seem to anyone that the parking prices were a little much? Granted, most stayed in hotels, but if you were paying to park....that was about $100 for the week...right there.

2. There was a lot of great musical talent at CRS this year, but three names to watch out for include Lucy Angel, Due West, and Eric Lee Beddingfield. Each of these acts possesses the coveted "it" factor.

3. It's a known fact, but Ronnie Dunn can outsing most anyone in the business....Not bad for a "new act."

4. I always wondered what it would feel like to be atop the Sheraton's spinning Pinnacle Restaurant....which used to be the Hyatt Regency....and it was cool finding out!

5. You get older and your appetite changes. I ate more salads at CRS this year than just about anything else....except for the night of Eric Lee Beddingfield's showcase, where his promotion team took a few radio / records people out to the luxurious Arby's of West End......You had to be there....Drive-through service and all!

6. Of all of the people in the industry that I have been blessed to meet, the one I that I have yet to is former Sony chief Joe Galante. I wrote him a letter when I was a ninth-grade General Business student when we were assigned to write a letter to someone whose job we wanted to have when we grew up.....I've interviewed him on the phone a few times, but have always gotten a little intimidated when I had a chance to meet him, and chickened out....One day, I will.

7. It's often said that the people who are the real big shots in the business are the ones that you could never tell by their attitude. That being said, people like Larry Daniels, Mike Borchetta, and his wife Martha shine a little brighter than most!

8. Good things happen to good people....who do good things,like the Grascals' Jamie Johnson, who has written one of the best songs out there right now with "I Am Strong."

9. I'm going to take some shots for this opinion, but....Aren't you tired of songs that proclaim how "Country" one is? Several of the performers at CRS filled their stage show with them. Time for some new ideas.....

10. After 62 interviews (and only asking once the crutch question "Where are you from?") one tends to long for a never-ending Pepsi Maz machine to be my constant friend....that, and a plate of Jack's BBQ Ribs. As Grandpa Jones would say, Yum! Yum!

A TRIBUTE RECORD THAT NEEDS TO BE MADE

In the past few decades, we usually see at least one tribute record a year. George Jones. Merle Haggard. Buck Owens---they all have been the subject of a multi-artist tribute to their songs. In November, Sony released an excellent tribute to Loretta Lynn, and just in the past few weeks, there has been a great tribute album to Waylon Jennings--the third to pay well-deserved homage to Jennings. There is one artist from Country's golden era, however, that has not been the subject of a tribute record----yet. Conway Twitty (until George Strait passed him) topped the chart more than any other artist of his era. But, for some reason Universal has never really given him his proper due, aside from several best of compilations that feature the same songs. I have no idea why there hasn't been a tribute record to Twitty---unless there's some legal protocol due to all the fighting that has taken place inside his family since his tragic passing in 1993. But, in case that door ever gets opened.....here's my thoughts on a twelve-cut Twitty retrospective. See what you think....

1. "Darling, You Know I Wouldn't Lie," One of his first chart-toppers, this one was a Twitty rarity----nominated for Song Of Thw Year by the CMA back in 1969. Conway showed his range with this spine-tingling ballad, that I think Ronnie Dunn could work magic with!

2. "Hello, Darlin," Of course, his calling card to Country stardom has withstood the test of time. I would love to hear a female vocalist tackle this one, but not one from the mainstream. I have always loved Allison Moorer's voice, and think she could knock this one out of the ballpark.

3. "You've Never Been This Far Before," One of his more suggestive songs, everyone and their preacher had an opinion on this one back in 1973. Just like "Hello Darlin," I would love to hear this from a female perspective. Sara Evans, perhaps, could work wonders with those bom-bom-boms.

4. "Don't Cry Joni," Conway's collaboration with his daughter is one that I think could sell a ton of Kleenex if Vince Gill and Alison Krauss ever collaborated on a remake.

5. "I've Already Loved You In My Mind," A 1977 # 1 (what from that era wasn't), this one stands as a pure honky-tonk classic, and when I think honky tonk angels, nobody does it better than Lee Ann Womack.

6. "Don't Take It Away," A soulful stretch for Twitty in 1979, who better for this Bluesy plea for forgiveness than Darius Rucker?

7. "I'd Love To Lay You Down," Ask any Kenny Chesney fan about some of their favorite cover moments from a Chesney fan, and they'll mention this one every time!

8. "Feelins," A mid 1970s chart-topper for Twitty and Lynn, this one gets a great live treatment from Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert, and I think it could be a major radio hit for them, as well.

9. "Somebody's Needin' Somebody," A number one hit in 1984, this showed better than any other single of the era how effective Twitty was at changing with the times. You've got to be a singer to pull this one off, and I think that an Oklahoma girl named Carrie Underwood could do just that.

10. "That's My Job," A song that many think was a number one, but it only made it to # 6. But, the song was so much bigger than its' chart position, as it affected many lives. What about the man who surpassed Twitty in terms of number ones---George Strait? That could be a great combination!

11. "I Wish I Was Still In Your Dreams," One of the highlights of Twitty's later years, this was also one of his more contemporary releases. Add some strings, and maybe some Memphis horns, and a long tall drink of water named Trace Adkins, and I think you would have a record to remember!

12. "Crazy In Love," His next-to-last number one, this was once again another nice example of how his sound evolved over the years. There was a female vocalist who once opened for Twitty who could nail some of those high notes in the song...or a song by Beyonce?......That's right, Reba McEntire would do a fabulous job on this hit from one of her mentors..

Well, that's it before CRS.....It's just around the corner. 52 interviews lined up as of 10:51 EST on Saturday night, but I can always do more, right? Hope to see a lot of you next week!

50 FEET---A GIANT LEAP FOR ONE MANKIND

Yesterday was one of those days that was pretty cool. It’s not every day that you get to see your child through a rite of passage, but yesterday was special. We were across from the airport in Jacksonville waiting to pick Mom up when my son asked me that four word sentence that parents know is coming…..”Dad, Can I drive?”

Now, it wasn’t the first time that he had been behind the wheel. Father # 1 saw him during that moment, but I’ve got to say it was pretty cool. Don’t get the idea that I turned him loose on I-95 during rush hour. It was a thinly packed parking lot off to the side of a motel. My first inclination was to say “No.” After all, he is twelve years old. But, once upon a time, I remember a certain person taking their child for his first drive down Goatshed Road in Burns, TN. So, I figured why not? It wasn’t the longest ride, because I didn’t know how he would do….but some 50 feet later, I was still breathing, and he was ready to drive to Daytona….Well, maybe St. Augustine. I have a feeling that more of these days are going to come up over the next few years, and I’m sure that I will have the same temper flare-ups (“He doesn’t remember anything I tell him,”) from time to time. But he got to be in the drivers’ seat.

I have to say, as a Dad that isn’t going to be confused with trendy or cool----Play Station Games, and most toys such as Super Nerf Militia are too fast paced for me. (OK, I'm not even sure there is such a game, but I digress.) What happened to Atari? If it’s just me in the car, you’ll hear anything from J-Lo to Roy Acuff…..but when it all comes down to it, give me a station with a healthy balanced diet of Twitty and Owens, and I’m a happy camper. Hipness is something that I know little about, admittedly, but for about five to ten minutes yesterday, I was “Cool Dad.” It didn’t last. This afternoon, he was grounded from going to a friends’ house, so my batting average is down a few points, but it should rebound once again. I’ve got confidence. I just hope the daughter waits a while for her time behind the wheel. Time is going by………a little too fast......

TWO WOMEN

I hope you all enjoyed the "Sad Songs" list from over the weekend. As many of you who know me well can attest, I love sharing things with you when they are good, and I feel you need to know about them. I don't know whether anyone who reads this or not has ever bought an album or saw a movie or TV show based on my recommendation, but when something strikes me as good, I love to tell people about it.

This week's blog is about two women who are in entertainment at different ends of the age spectrum---but yet in 2011 are making their mark and doing it quite well. The first is from the world of music. Back in September, I got a copy of Kenny Chesney's latest CD HEMINGWAY'S WHISKEY. While I will stop just shy of saying it's his best CD of his career, the good on the album is some of the most amazing stuff he has recorded. One of those songs is "You and Tequila," a duet with a female vocalist by the name of Grace Potter. While I do listen to many different styles of music, I wasn't familiar with the Vermont native until Chesney's album. The track features one of the more haunting melodies that I have heard in some time. I decided to do a little bit of research, and found out that Potter has quite the following. Upon talking about her with one of the people that I write for, I decided to give her music a listen, and picked up a copy of GRACE POTTER & THE NOCTURNALS. I can honestly tell you that it is one of the best rock albums I have heard in a long time. Aside from one track, the album has no political statement to make (and that one ,"Colors," is one where you're going to have to think about it as she doesn't wear you down with it), and is just fun songs about life, love, and....things that go bump in the night....It is Rock & Roll after all.....If you like that genre, you owe it to yourself to pick up a copy of this disc. The current single and opening cut, "Paris," will have you singing along with the windows down.....loudly, just like I was doing the other day. Look for some big things from this talented lady.

While Potter is just in her 20s, there's another female entertainer who has been at her craft for many years----and doing it as good as ever. A recent discussion among one of my friends and I turned to pop culture and who our favorite actors and actresses of the time were. Male-wise, Jeff Bridges would be high on my list, but probably (though he has been quiet as of late), Billy Bob Thornton would get my vote. On the female side of things, I had to think for a minute. What actress in the past few months had demonstrated the most versatile range? There was only one answer----and she just celebrated her 90th birthday.

I'm talking, of course, about Betty White. Whether playing the goody-goody Rose on "The Golden Girls," or the saucy Sue Ann Nivens on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," she has been one of America's favorite actresses for years. And so it goes, last year, White teamed up with sitcom stars Jane Leeves, Wendie Malick, and Valerie Bertinelli for the TV LAND series "Hot In Cleveland." While her co-stars are very good in their roles, and fun to watch, White steals the scenes time and again. It is one of the funniest shows that I have seen in a long time, and makes Wednesday nights worth looking forward to. But, there's another side to White besides her classic humor. Did anyone catch a CBS movie a few weeks ago called "The Lost Valentine?" In it, White played a woman whose husband was missing in action from World War II, and with the help of a reporter, played by Jennifer Love Hewitt, she finally finds out what happened to her husband, and is reunited with his remains. A part of the "Hallmark Hall of Fame" series, these movies are designed to stir up emotions, but in a rare dramatic turn for the actress---she showed why she is so loved in America and has enjoyed a career resurgence since last year's Snickers' TV commercial. Whether making us laugh....or cry, the last of TV's "Golden Girls" still has it....even at age 90!

Maybe you're familiar with the recent works of these two women, but if you're not, you need to be. Potter's work is available where music is sold, and Hot In Cleveland airs Wednesday nights on TV Land. Check them out. You'll thank me later!

A TRIBUTE TO CHARLENE DARLING....THESE ONES WILL MAKE YOU CRY!

Most people---when they talk about their favorite TV series of all time, will mention The Andy Griffith Show. One of the more popular group of episodes of the show featured The Darlings---a group of mountain folk who didn’t talk (except once), but they could sing. Their sister, Charlene---the pretty one of the family, would always have a few songs that would make her cry. If you think about it, there’s always a few songs that will bring that emotion out. I thought this week, I’d tell you about ten songs that have that effect on me. Maybe some of these affect you the same way, or perhaps it will make you want to search some of these out….

“I’ll Be True To You,” The Oak Ridge Boys
Tim McGraw has cited this as one of his all-time favorites, and I have to agree with him. Duane Allen’s lead brings out the anguished story of a couple that should have been together, but the male character didn’t realize it until it was much too late.

“Jeannie’s Afraid Of The Dark,” Porter & Dolly
This 1968 classic is one of the saddest songs of all time. Both vocalists are dead on in their approach to this sad tale of a young daughter who has a fear of the dark. Chilling—even 43 years later.

“Looking For The Light,” Rick Trevino
This Tim Mensy-written masterpiece might very well be the most heart-wrenching song ever recorded about mothers. I cried when it came out in 1994, and even more when the words rang true eleven years later.

“Maybe,” Thom Pace
You might not know this by the title. However, there was a TV show back in the late 70s called The Life And Times Of Grizzly Adams. I remember sitting on the couch as a three and four year old watching this with my mother. When I hear it today, it’s happy memories…..but I need to make sure I have some Kleenex out.

“Old Violin,” Johnny Paycheck
The final major hit of Paycheck’s career, this song sums up the feelings of many who love doing what they do, and spend their life doing it to the end.

“She’s With Me,” Collin Raye
This was an album cut from a Raye project for Time-Life a few years back. The song details the relationship between Collin and his grand-daughter (who has since passed away), and it is one of his better performances----but you’ve got to listen all the way, until the final verse. “Wow” is about all I can say!

“The Flower That Shattered The Stone,” Steve Wariner
Steve has recorded several powerful ballads over the years, but this one (from 1989’s I Got Dreams) is about as powerful as it gets.

“The Very Last Country Song,” Sugarland
Sugarland has made a career of songs that showcase the pyrotechnics of Jennifer Nettles’ voice, but I think this might be the best she has ever sounded. It’s very simple and understated, but if you love Country Music, this song will move you undoubtedly.

“To Me,” Barbara Mandrell & Lee Greenwood
Love songs shouldn’t make one cry per se, but this duet of 80s superstars is how a love ballad should be. Simply stunning from start to finish.

“Wayfaring Stranger,” Emmylou Harris
As a child, I slept with the radio on. I remember hearing this on WSM late at night, and though some might say Bill Monroe might have had the definitive version, I disagree. It’s one of the more stark recordings of Emmylou Harris’ Hall of Fame career, and also one of her best.

25 FOR THE HALL

There hasn't been an official date set yet, but the Country Music Hall of Fame will soon announce their class of inductees for 2011. This is one of the biggest debates in Nashville, as there are plenty of acts from the pre-1970s who deserve induction, and as time goes on.....the 80s and 90s, as well.....Typically, four inductees go in each year. Three artists, and one industry insider / sideman. Here, in my opinion, are 20 artists....and 5 others that I think deserve it. Ten years ago, when the Hall of Fame opened, they inducted twelve....It might be time to play a little catch-up once again.....

JIM ED BROWN----A toss-up between him and the Browns trio of which he sang lead. He developed one of the more under-rated solo careers in the history of the format, and also became one of the major TV stars in Country Music of the 60s through the 80s.

ARCHIE CAMPBELL----It’s been a while since a comedian was inducted, and Campbell deserves the slot. His style of comedy was very unique and cutting edge when he joined the Opry in 1958, his RCA albums are legendary, and of course, as one of the head writers of Hee Haw, he helped to define Country Comedy long before the “Blue Collar Boys.”

JUNE CARTER CASH----You might be surprised to know that June is not a member, but even if she hadn’t married Johnny, her place as a performer was set. With Johnny, they became Mr. and Mrs. Country Music---on a larger scale than George & Tammy or Tim & Faith.

RAY CHARLES------People get emotional, and rightly so, about who is not in the Hall----but in my opinion---none of the names on this list did as much to expose Country Music to the masses than Charles’ frequent forays into the genre’s classics.

COWBOY COPAS----A favorite of the 40s and 50s, he is wrongly known sometimes as a footnote to being a passenger in the Piper Comanche that killed Patsy Cline, but his King Records of the 40s, and Starday Records of the 60s made him famous on his own merits.

JOHNNIE AND JACK----Just like the Louvin Brothers, this duo inspired many including Waylon and the Desert Rose Band. I hope the voters get this oversight taken care of soon so Johnnie Wright can enjoy it.

JOHNNY HORTON-----You think Dwight and Marty have swagger? They definitely stole a few tricks off Horton’s sleeve. He wasn’t active long-----due to his tragic passing in a 1960 automobile accident after a show----but “The Battle Of New Orleans” and “North To Alaska” speak for themselves!

JERRY LEE LEWIS----Strangely, he is not in the Hall just yet. But, it’s an obvious choice at some point. Whether his Sun classics of the 50s or his traditional Mercury sides in the 60s and 70s, the “Killer” deserves to be in this group.

REBA McENTIRE-----Dolly? Check. Loretta? Check. Tammy? Check. Aside from those three, has any other female country singer opened more doors since? I don’t think so. This one is going to happen, and it might be soon.

RONNIE MILSAP----George Strait, Conway Twitty, Merle Haggard, and Alabama are four of the five acts with 40 or more number one records. They’re in. Guess who the fifth is? Only one of the most revered performers of the past forty years.

OAK RIDGE BOYS----Their story has been ongoing since the 1940s. But, the foursome known as Duane, Joe, William Lee, and Richard have carved out their own legacy and keep on ticking.

JERRY REED-----Yeah, he was a great sidekick to Burt Reynolds. And, while those movies made Jerry Reed a household name in the late 70s, his guitar licks influenced a generation of pickers, and his records were incredible---all of them. Plus, to my knowledge, he was the only Country singer featured on Scooby Doo! Now, that’s saying something!

KENNY ROGERS-----This one has been an oversight for a while. Whether you like pop-oriented Country or not….from 1977-1985, there was no Country singer more popular than Kenny Rogers. As my favorite singer, I may be a little biased, but along with Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Dolly Parton, there may not be a more recognized Country performer in the world.

JEAN SHEPARD----She wasn’t the first (Patsy Montana) or the most successful, but Shepard paved the way for female vocalists in the 50s with her classic output for Capitol Records. She influenced many out west in California, and has been the matriarch of female vocalists at the Opry for years.

RICKY SKAGGS----We’re getting to the point that the 80’s have to be looked at as closely as any decade now, and that’s created a log jam with some of these artists. But he not only brought traditional Country back to prominence in the 80s, but his return to Bluegrass in the 1990s helped to spark new interest in the format.

CONNIE SMITH----Poll most Country acts about their favorite female vocalist, and they will tell you Connie Smith. Dolly Parton will, and that’s good enough for me. But, a listen to her RCA and Monument works prove she was one of the best of all time----and still is.

RANDY TRAVIS-----Travis deserves to get in soon before the class of the 90s make their way into the Hall. He took what Skaggs and Strait were doing, and kicked the door down for traditional Country in the late 1980s. Pre-Garth, he was everywhere, and released some of the 80s and 90s more timeless recordings to come out of Music City.

DOTTIE WEST-------She looked the part of a Country singer, and lived the life of a Country song. Her stage sass and upbeat persona helped to inspire a new generation of Country female vocalists who were a little more saucy in their approach. But, as is the case with all of the above, he recordings---whether RCA Nashville Sound or 80s’ Liberty Country Pop---speak for themselves.

WILBURN BROTHERS-----Brothers Doyle and Teddy has success with their records, their TV show, and built Sure-Fire music into one of the powerhouse publishing companies in town. Along the way, they helped countless future stars, including Loretta Lynn, Johnny Russell, and the Osborne Brothers.

HANK WILLIAMS, JR.----For close to five decades, he’s been a part of the Country Music landscape in so many ways. Yes, he’s brash, cocky, and very much outspoken about what he thinks. But his omission from the Hall is as ridiculous as his one-time duet partner, Ray Charles. Voters, the career speaks volumes for this one!

MAE BOREN AXTON-----She gave so many Nashville songwriters and performers a helping hand----from a Tupelo, MS cat named Elvis to current CMA Male Vocalist of the Year Blake Shelton. One of the more unsung heroes in the business.

JOE GALANTE----You could make a case for Fred Foster or Jimmy Bowen, I guess. But, stepping into some legendary shoes at RCA, Galante made the company bigger than ever. Yes, he had the talent, but with acts like The Judds, KT Oslin, Keith Whitley, and others, he also proved he had the ears. Country Music wouldn’t be the same without his guidance.

BUDDY KILLEN----From an industry standpoint, the fact that the man who co-owned and ran Nashville’s biggest publishing company of all time is not in the Hall aside Dolly, Bill Anderson, and Roger Miller---all people who are in the Hall is complete and utter B.S., and I don’t mean Blake Shelton. This has to get taken care of---soon.

SAM LOVULLO-----Most people don’t know the name. However, from 1969-1992, he was the producer of Hee Haw. Yes, that might have not been the most glamorous image for Country….Could you imagine Rascal Flatts in Kornfield Kounty? But, it was THE vehicle for exposure for Country artists during that time period. And, how many of today’s biggest stars cite the show as an early example of “Must See TV?”

DON RICH-----While I don’t think any band leader of a star has ever merited Hall induction, Donald Eugene Ulrich was no ordinary band leader. As a Buck Owens fan, Buck might have made it without Don…..but he wouldn’t have made it as far. His harmony and guitar playing WERE the Bakersfield sound, and though he wasn’t known as much as a fiddler than a guitarist-----there’s never been a fiddler in Country Music any better, and you can quote me on that!

I would love to hear your thoughts on this, as I know many have passionate feelings about this,,,,,Who would I induct this year, based on the Hall's usual criteria?

PRE-1950 Johnnie & Jack

PRE-1970 Hank Williams, Jr,

POST 1970 Reba McEntire

INDUSTRY Buddy Killen

Plus a special slot for Ray Charles......You've gotta have him in there!

A CONFESSION

Before I start this blog, I have to admit to you three things. One, I am 36 (for one more week) years old. Two, I am a father of two soon-to-be (even though they would disagree) teen-agers. And third, I think that every series that is broadcast on the Disney Channel is the same (The Wizards of Waverly Place Go To Hannah Montana’s to find Zack and Cody Playing With iCarly)……..even though they are really no different than Saved By The Bell from my generation…….With all of that said, I have a major confession……I’m Chuck Dauphin, and I am a…….Glee-a-holic!

OK….That felt good to get it out. I know the FOX-TV series has a huge appeal to teens and pre-teens, but over the past month or so, I have become a huge fan of the show. While I know it is a major network version of High School Musical, aside from The Mentalist or House, M.D., there are few series that I watch any more as of late.

Now, I will say that I may not get into every scene, but the show is very well-written, and the young actors and actresses on the show are the real deal. It’s always entertaining to see what songs they are going to pull out of their hats. I loved the Madonna episode, and the recent guest spot from Gwyneth Paltrow was incredible…..but the show is worth watching from week to week for one reason-----well, make that two……I will say that I think Lea Michele is going to be a breakout star in music and TV / movies in the future. She’s got that magic potion known as “it,” a combination of talent, looks, and charisma. But, she is upstaged by one of the best TV characters I have seen in a while----Sue Sylvester, who is played to perfection by Jane Lynch. Is she evil, or just borderline psycho? I don’t know, but she seems like she is having the time of her life. Actors have always said that it’s much more fun to play a character that is off-kilter a little bit, and if that’s true….there’s nobody any more off-kilter than Sue Sylvester!

The hot rumor is that a Country episode might soon be in the works. I have to admit that more than likely, I’ll be right there watching. Well, this wraps it up for me until the weekend…….I’m going to go listen to The Best Of Debbie Gibson right now…..Twenty-two years since she sang “Lost In Your Eyes” about me…..seriously?

CHARLIE LOUVIN: A MORNING I'LL NEVER FORGET

I have been a little absent from this blog the past couple of weeks, but there were two events this past week that I just had to comment on.

First of all, I just received word this morning that Charlie Louvin had passed away at the age of 83. What a legendary career that he had as both a member of the Louvin Brothers and as a solo artist. Running the gamut of recorded history from acetates to MP3’s, Louvin transcended all musical genres and styles. The past ten years or so had seen a resurgence in his career in the Americana format. He was one of a kind, without a doubt.

Back in May 2002, I was very fortunate to have Charlie as a guest during my days at WDKN in Dickson, TN. He was very gracious to drive all the way from Manchester at 7:30 in the morning to share stories from his career with our listeners. It was one of the most memorable mornings of my radio career. After all, it’s not every day that you have a member of the Country Music Hall Of Fame on your show---but also in your studio. We did about two and a half hours live that morning, and then afterwards we drove out to Cracker Barrel for a late breakfast. Our conversations---both on and off the air—were very interesting. I learned a lot during both. Of course, there were a few things that weren’t told on the radio that I won’t divulge, but it was truly an honor to get to hear inside talk about Country’s true golden age from one of its’ participants. For those that aren’t familiar with Middle Tennessee, it’s about 110 miles from Manchester to Dickson, and I am very humbled that he took time to drive all the way for an on-air interview. Moments like that were priceless then….and even more so now. I had a few other chances to interview Charlie, and he was just as nice as he was that first time. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this time. He had suffered from Pancreatic Cancer for a while now, and thankfully his suffering is over. Don’t you know that the Hillbilly section up in Heaven today sounds just a little sweeter with Charlie and Ira reunited?

On to another note. Every now and then, I love to bring a song to people’s attention. It might be a current single, or a “Deep Catalog” cut from 1973, but it’s a song that people need to hear. This time, it’s from a current artist. I don’t think it was a major hit single, but if you ever run across it, take a few minutes and listen. It’s called “A Million Ways To Run” from Terri Clark, and though she’s had songs that have enjoyed higher chart success or more airplay, but I don’t know if she’s recorded any song more powerful. It’s from her CD THE LONG WAY HOME, and it’s just an amazing track. Rather than tell you about it, I’ll just include a link and let the music speak for itself. But, you’ve got to hear it….

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2tIK1j1gLA

ACCESS....SHOULD IT CHANGE?

Over the past few days, the news has been filled with the tragedy that happened in Tuscon, Arizona. As you know, a mass shooting took place that left several dead, and a rising member of Congress fighting for her life. Since then, there has been much made about two differing parts to this horrific event.

One, we live in the greatest country on Earth----the United States Of America. With that privilege comes one of the greatest freedoms of all ---freedom of speech. However, do we take that a little too far? Before you hurl a few expletives my way, let me explain. Over the years, I have been involved in discussions with various family members and friends about what that freedom entails. Remember the 2 Live Crew? Back in the early 1990s, Luther Campbell made quite a splash in the music world with his rather explicit sexual lyrics. Let it be known, I have spent more time listening to Roy Acuff than Campbell, but it was the source of great debate among some. My argument in Campbell’s defense was he has the right to say whatever he wants as a musician…..but we as a people have the same right to turn the dial or the off switch.

During the past few years, the political debates that this country has gone through have ventured far beyond the word “passionate.” That goes for both sides of the coin. Whether you are Democrat or Republican, saying what you think has taken a turn beyond philosophical and has taken a lethal turn. It’s not enough to disagree with your opponent, one must make it personal, as well. It hasn’t always been quite that way.

Growing up in Tennessee, we were blessed to have great politicians on both sides. Frank Clement. Howard Baker. Lamar Alexander. Ned McWherter. All four of these men---and others like them---served their state with class. Now, I am sure that there were times during Governor Alexander’s 1979-1987 term that Speaker of the House McWherter strongly disagreed with him, but it never turned quite as personal as it has today.

Was this shooting fueled by political disagreements? It’s a little too early to discern that, but speculation has run rampant that it might have been the case. What we need to remember is that if we as families are going to have disagreements within the house, then it’s only fair to assume that Washington is full of them. Still, to take it personal is wrong. I remember a time that a Democrat could agree with a Republican (or vice versa) without being attacked. Now, you can’t. It’s politics, and I understand that……but I think the events of January 8 show that the personal attacks need to be toned down a bit---for our future’s sake.

Also, many have noted that Congresswoman Giffords had heavily promoted the meeting via social networking sites such as Twitter. That has led many to talk about the accessability that people should have to their political leaders. While I don’t see that going away, for the first time I see the other side of that argument. My wife and I have disagreed for a while about the relationship between fans and celebrities. I grew up in a climate where it was not uncommon for musical artists such as Bill Anderson or Loretta Lynn to receive baked goods at their shows from fans-----and they actually ate them. The security you have at concerts and events such as the CMA Music Festival is so intense that I have thought it takes away from the human touch that has made that relationship so special. Maybe there is a reason for that. The times’ not only are a’changing…..but they have been changed for many years, and possibly---just possibly----the word “access” needs to have a different definition. That’s my thoughts….I’d love to hear yours!

WHERE IT BEGAN....

The next three blogs are going to be probably among my most personal that I have ever written. I do so, knowing that I may be sharing probably a few things that many of you who know me know about. But, my purpose in writing them is to hopefully to help someone out there who has gone through or is going through a rough time in their lives. We don’t always handle things the way that we should, and I am as guilty of this as anyone.

When I was seventeen, I began working at…..the radio station. Let’s just call it that, as everyone knows where I am referring to. As someone who made up his own imaginary radio station----WBRQ in beautiful and growing Burns, TN---and made recordings of it on an old boom box my grandmother gave me when I was nine, I was in heaven when I began training. Hank Walker was the disc jockey who taught me. The first lesson I ever received in radio etiquette was the art of saying the call letters……W is not pronounced the way you might think…..It’s Double-U-B-R-Q….There I go, back into my imaginary world again…LOL. I soon began a regular shift when I was junior in high school, and did afternoons before moving to the mornings four years later.

There’s something about turning on a microphone. Some get scared about it, and to be honest, when I first back-announced a song (“Bop” by Dan Seals), I was very much apprehensive. But, the idea that people were out there listening quickly evaporated when I came to the thought process that it’s just one microphone. Maybe that’s how everyone deals with it, I don’t know, but it worked for me.

And, I loved it. As someone who was very much a loner growing up, radio was a perfect outlet for me. I recall that Ralph Emery once said he got into the trade because he wanted people to listen to him. That’s exactly how it was for me. I made so many great friendships that I still treasure to this day. I’ve been guests at Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, pallbearers at funerals, and even best man at weddings all because of the relationships I made.

Then, there are the people I worked with over the years. So many great and talented people. It’s almost like a fraternity, and if you actually ran a radio station with someone…..kind of like war. Sales, Sports, On-Air, you go through it all. I shouldn’t single anyone out, but there’s a gentleman out there named Ken Loggains that I worked with for eleven years….that is kind of my Hawkeye to my B.J….or vice versa, I don’t know. But working with people like him, Warren Medley, Randy Tidwell, and Marcia Campbell (who I worked for on the Interstate Radio Network…which put me on overnights at THE country station that mattered the most---WSM-AM) is something I will always treasure. Being associated with WNKX Radio in Centerville, TN and the people there was also a delight.

Then, as a music fan (what led me to radio in the first place), getting to meet many of the artists and performers I grew up with was something that I cherish to this day……George Jones, Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, I have been blessed enough to interview them all, and am thankful for it. Possibly the biggest thrill for me as an interviewer was getting to talk with Earl Hamner, Jr. (The real-life “John-Boy,” who was the creator of The Waltons.) Imagine, if you will, sitting in a studio, and you hear this voice that you have heard since childhood coming out from over the phone line. That was a great moment, to say the least.

Working at “the radio station” was flying by the seat of the pants. It also qualifies as my on the job training. I had a little bit of direction from my program director, Gordon Rhodes, but the main thing he taught me was to “not sweat the small stuff.” Truthfully, he had another phrase for it, but we won’t go there. Radio has been called a “theater of the mind,” and that may be true…..but what goes on behind the scenes might actually be more funny than what comes out on the air. I guess what I am trying to say is that WKRP was “reality television” before there was such a thing.

From 1991 until 2009, I went through my last two years of high school, my not-so-roaring 20’s, deaths of those close to me, marriage to the love of my life, and fatherhood. I made more friendships and music business contacts there than I could have imagined. You might have thought it would have lasted forever-----but it didn’t, and I’ll pick up the story there next week…..

THEY HAVE EDITED PERFECTION!

And the last month of the year has began. I am in no way, shape, or form ready for the upcoming Christmas holidays. By this point, all the presents are wrapped and under the tree. Well, the tree is up but not decorated, and the presents basically aren't bought yet......Between both my wife and my schedules, there isn't enough time these days.

Still, tonight was cool. I got a popcorn tin at Wal-Mart, and the kids and I sat down in front of the television to watch a movie that I truly think is the best ever made....Coal Miners' Daughter.

Of course, the 1980 film is the true life story of Loretta Lynn, and I guess it's the movie that I have watched more than any other in my life---with 1998's Primary Colors being a close second. I was excited that the kids wanted to watch it with me, as I have the DVD, but the movie was on the TV Guide Channel the other night, so I had DVR'd it.

As we were watching the movie, there were a few things different. Trust me, I am an expert on this. A few years ago, my wife's best friend and her daughter were over visiting, and she and I traded script lines from the movie all throughout. Rather than things being different, there were things missing. Like the part where Mooney takes a bite into Loretta's pie that had salt rather than sugar.....Like the part where Loretta has just had twins......Like one of my favorite parts (for some reason), where Mooney answers the phone late at night and talks to one of Loretta's fans who somehow got the phone number to their house....all edited.

You might ask, "Why didn't you just watch the DVD?" Well, believe it or not, the DVD player still isn't hooked up to the TV.....As I said, we've been busy. Still, it was a fun night. The kids asked me several questions about the way things were portrayed in the film, including if I was as mean as the first disc jockey that the Lynns met on their 1960 radio tour. I told them I didn't think so, but we all have bad days.

At the end of the night, it was fun revisiting most of this classic film. Sissy Spacek and Tommy Lee Jones were incredible in the lead roles, but everyone involved made for a classic film. Levon (The Band) Helm and Phyllis Bowens were excellently cast as Ted and Clara Webb, and Beverly D' Angelo was great as Patsy Cline. In fact, I'll take D'Angelo's portrayal over that of Jessica Lange in 1985's Sweet Dreams any day of the week. (Though Ed Harris was excellent in that film) It doesn't get any better. But, I hope the folks at the TV Guide Channel don't get the rights to Walk The Line anytime soon.....They might omit the scenes that Johnny and June (Joaquin and Reese, respectively) shared together, and that would be kind of pointless, wouldn't it?