More Random Ruminations

It has been a very busy past couple of weeks......There's a lot of things to talk about......So in honor of Joe Biddle, here's my Random Ruminations of the week....

The NFL / Well, it’s over. The lockout has come to an end. Now, we can concentrate on the truly important things about the league – Where will Brett Favre play? This time, I think he is actually…..well, maybe, retired. After last season, why would he put himself through that again? He is familiar with Andy Reid’s scheme, having played under him in Green Bay. But, I don’t see “Favre-watch” being Ed Werder’s assignment in August. I hope he doesn’t come back to play for the Eagles, though. I rooted for him as a Viking for a lot of reasons, but if it came down to the Philadelphia Eagles winning a Super Bowl, or the lockout continuing….I would choose the latter. In other NFL news, the Tennessee Titans have signed Matt Hasselbeck to a 3-year, $21M deal. Seven million a year? To Hasselbeck? I have a feeling before it’s all said and done, some fans in Middle Tennessee are going to wish that Jeff Fisher was back in town. Nothing against Mike Munchak, but the Titans seem to me as exciting as a cardboard dinner!

Country Music Hall Of Fame: Nobody has asked my opinion on this, but I will offer it. 2012 is just a few months away, and if any voters for the Hall are reading this, I know that the revolving category for induction next year is Musician. So, with that said, if 2012 is the year of the Picker? What about Ricky Skaggs in the post-1980 category? Strait, Reba, and Alabama are all in – so should he. Jerry Reed in the pre-1980 category, as he was one of the most dazzling talents of all time, and was much more than a comedy actor. And, in the Musician category….Donald Eugene Ulrich, better known as Don Rich, leader of Buck Owens’ Buckaroos. Was there any musical performer that was so much a key part of another’s sound? I don’t think so. Reed and Skaggs are fairly good bets, but I hope the Hall realizes that there was some great musicianship that took place away from Music City. Nothing against Buck, but I don’t know if Don Rich doesn’t have as many admirers in the business as the Boss Buckaroo.

BACK TO SCHOOL: It’s been twenty years since I have went “Back To School,” but is it weird that I am looking forward to hopefully going to Wal-Mart this weekend to get my daughter’s Back To School stuff? Maybe it’s just getting it out of the way, so I’m not running around in too many circles the week after next……but, I can’t wait to hit the store this weekend!

CONGRATULATIONS – Two of my good friends, Sheila Wooten and Tommy Vann, from Kix 96 in Centerville tied the knot in a lavish ceremony in Hickman County last week. OK, maybe it wasn’t so lavish, but they couldn’t have made better choices. Best wishes for a long and happy life together.

PASSAGES: On the other side of that fence, Burns Church of Christ lost two longtime members this past week with the passing of Elsie Crumpler and Christine Alheit. I was proud to say that I knew them both. My sympathy to their families.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS: Though this appears to be the first year since 1994 that I won’t be behind a microphone for High School Football on Friday nights, I will still have my pen and keyboard in hand. I will be covering Bacon County High School football for the NEWS COURIER in Alma, GA. They’ve got a new head football coach named Bobby Johns who lives and breathes football. I’ll have more updates as the season goes along.

WASHINGTON DEBT CEILING: Who knows how this debt situation will end up. What amazes me is how stubborn both political parties are being about this. I have never seen a situation where the Democrats or the Republicans were totally right or totally wrong on an issue. Boehner seems like he won’t cooperate with anyone, and President Obama looks like he won’t budge either. A compromise needs to be had. Who will be the first to blink?

AMY WINEHOUSE: I won’t tell you that I was her biggest fan. Had nothing against her, but “Rehab” was the only song that I was familiar with. I just found it sad that I saw a lot of conversations this past week with a lot of “Better than thous” condemning anyone who had a self-destructive life. I doubt very seriously that any of the “27 Club,” as they are now being referred to as, set out to die. But, one thing to remember. Before Amy Winehouse was a star, sex symbol, addict, or whatever….she was someone’s daughter. And, for those who want to point the finger, were it not for the grace of God, she could have been yours.

JORDAN HILL HAS LEFT THE BUILDING – Though I continue to work for various publications in Tennessee, since last October, I have been one of the contributing writers for THE NEWS COURIER. Tuesday was a sad day as Jordan Hill left the paper to embark on her college career at Valdosta State. Write the name down, folks. She’s just eighteen, but you know how you have a feeling about certain people. She’s going places. I might end up working for her one day! The best of luck to you Jordan, and remember….”Where’ve You Been!”

A Bucket List, Part 3!

This week, work-wise, has been a very interesting week. From an interview standpoint, the cup runneth over. I was beginning to wonder where my next round of interviews for stories were going to come from. Now, with ten this week, and one already lined up for next, I'm in good shape.

As I've often written, if I could pick out one of the things I do that I love more than anything else, it would be the interview process. First of all, as unprofessional that it might be for me to say, I'm a fan--of a lot of people. I truly look at it as a blessing to have gotten to talk to as many people that I admire that I have. Secondly, I love asking an artist a question that they're not expecting. That pause you get when you've asked Kenny Rogers about a 1978 album cut rather than "How did you feel the first time you heard 'The Gambler'...is one of the greatest feelings in the world....

My theme this month has been "Bucket Lists." So, I thought I would apply that to interviews. Who would I like to sit down and talk to that I haven't? Some of these, I never will...but it doesn't hurt to dream! I broke this down into four categories, because I didn't want to turn it into "Ten Musical Acts I've Never Interviewed," but that's where I'll start.

MUSIC: Reba McEntire: She's one of the top performers that I've never talked to. I would love that opportunity sometime in the future. An actress, a singer, and a businesswoman, there's so many angles.

Dolly Parton: Speaking of angles...You know, even if she didn't have a massive amount of sex appeal and charisma, she still would be the greatest female songwriter in Country Music history. Between those songs, Dollywood, and the fact that she keeps creating great new music like her latest, Better Day, the possibilities are endless.

SPORTS: Jimmy Johnson: OK, I am a Dallas Cowboys fan. You all know that one. But, I don't think I have any more admiration for a public figure than Johnson. Simply put, I think he's an absolute genius. Cocky? Sure. Maybe a little over-the-top at times? Sure. But, having observed his coaching and television work, I would love to sit down and talk to this man and see what makes him tick.

Joe Gibbs: OK, Cowboys fans, I'm sorry. No, I'm really not. While I could never root for Gibbs' Redskins when they were playing "America's Team," how could you have anything against this man. He's one of the nicest guys that has ever coached in the NFL, and talking to him about character, I think would be a great conversation. He definitely knows a lot about it!

POLITICS: Lamar Alexander: As a Tennessean, I was a child during his term as Governor. I've always admired the work that he did, but also he was the link between the "Good Ole Boy" days of old in Tennessee and the modern-day era. Those old days weren't so bad. He could agree with a Democrat like the late Ned McWherter, and disagree with someone in his own party. That's bi-partisan!

Bill Clinton: No matter what one thinks of the 42nd President's personal life, I don't think that anyone could disagree with him being one of the greatest politicians of all time. He knows people, and it shows. The man seems equally at home at the U.N. or a Hickman County Football game, and you don't see that every day---from either party.

MEDIA: Dan Rather: I was seven when Walter Cronkite retired, and with CBS being the most-watched network during most of my TV addict years, Rather was the newsman of my youth. JFK. Chicago '68. So many events, and he was the one transmitting the news to the people. It would be neat to hear his thoughts as he watched history unravel.

Bill O'Reilly: Some of you aren't going to like this one, but it's my list. The man fascinates me. I don't always agree with the FOX nighttime host, but I love watching him. I guess my favorite part of his show is the mailbag at the end. Is he smug or just confident? So are the mysteries of life!

Well, I've got to think about a couple more of these lists....So I will do that now. Have a good week, everyone!

A Bucket List, Part 2!

This month has become the one of the “Bucket Lists.” Last week, I gave you twelve of the twenty-four states that I have not been to yet that I would like to the most. With that said, here are twelve cities that I would love to visit. A few of them I’ve been to, but some leave the impact on you…..

Places I Have Been

Los Angeles, CA – I will say that while I could never live in L.A., I would love to have reason to go there three-four times a year. I love landing at LAX (The small-town boy in me is coming out), and the Pacific Coast Highway is one of the best trips I have ever taken. Throw in Hollywood and Disneyland, and I will forever be hooked. Just leave me a day to drive to Bakersfield and have the “Don Rich Steak” at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace.

Savannah, TN / Iuka, MS – As a Christian, I wonder what Heaven might be like. I can’t imagine it being any more beautiful than this area down in Southwest Tennessee / Northern Mississippi. You haven’t ate catfish till you got to Pickwick Landing (a.k.a., “Paradise”) and Iuka is a gorgeous retro-looking town that has what I believe to be as the only old-time Wal-Mart in the area. Would love to live there one day!

Mackinaw City, MI – I’ve been there twice, but the last time was 1986. One of Northern Michigan’s treasures, it has one of the longest bridges in the world, and is adjacent to tourist attraction Mackinaw Island, where you will find some of the best fudge that has ever been made!

Western Kentucky – I have always loved this area. From the gorgeous shimmer of Kentucky Lake to the delicious food of restaurants like Patti’s 1880’s Settlement (http://www.pattis-settlement.com/) and the Brass Lantern, it’s an area that I miss a lot. There’s also some great antique spots, including one with a Hee Haw and Grizzly Adams lunch box. I would still love to have those.

Fayetteville, AR – I love SEC Football, and I would love to hit all the SEC cities before my time is up. I have a few close friends in “Hog Country,” and would love to see it. Heck, Jimmy and Jerry went there, and that’s enough for me!

Dallas / Fort Worth, TX – I’ve been there twice, and was there for an hour last week, but there’s something magical about the land of the Dallas Cowboys and Southfork Ranch. Some of the best Mexican food you’d ever want to eat, and just one of America’s most beautiful cities! I would also have to drive into Fort Worth to see the Stockyards and Billy Bob’s.

Green Bay, WI – While my blood runs Cowboys blue and white, with a little bit of Vikings, Titans, and Jets thrown in, unless you’ve been to Green Bay, it’s one of those towns that will make an impact on you. People there don’t just love their team—they own it. I’m not going to compare a football stadium to a religious experience, but there is something very special about Lambeau Field.

Four That I Haven’t

Phoenix, AZ – It’s one of the biggest cities that I have yet to visit, plus the area is beautiful, and I’ve got a standing dinner invitation from a good friend there that I would love to take him up on, even if I were to ask a ton of questions about his former boss---the one with the Red, White, and Blue guitar!

Key West, FL – I can count on my finger the number of alcoholic beverages I consume per year, but who wouldn’t want to go to “Margaritaville.” Don’t we all want to be like Jimmy Buffett?

Chicago, IL – While my father is from the other end of the northern part of the state, I have only spent about 90 minutes in the state’s biggest city---at O’Hare. I would love to see so many things in this city, Soldier Field, Wrigley Field, and the Sears Tower? Oprah, can you make it happen?

Las Vegas, NV – It would be neat to see one of the cities that never sleeps. The music, the food, and…the shopping. I will throw money away, (a bad habit when I have it), but you won’t see me doing any more than quarters in the casinos…Hear the outlet shopping there is incredible. (Yes, I am a man!) And, would love to see that guy named Garth that plays there from time to time!

Next week, I have been very fortunate and blessed to have interviewed a lot of people, but who have I not talked to that I would love to? I’ll give you that “Bucket List” next week!

On The Other Side Of The Hill: A Bucket List, Volume 1

As I write this, I sit in the boarding area at Houston, Texas. I was very blessed to have gotten a chance to do some work in Oklahoma over the weekend. With this trip, I now have went over the halfway mark in states that I have visited. Seeing the beautiful ranches and prairies here has made me realize again how much I love to travel. I haven’t gotten a chance to do much of that lately, but would love that to change. With that in mind, I am 26 states down, 24 to go……Here is my bucket list of states I would love to visit before I go to that big airport in the sky…..

Hawaii----For obvious reasons. Don’t know if the finances will ever be there for a trip like this one, because I hear that it is expensive. But, I love the ocean, and where better to experience it!

Minnesota-----You’re probably thinking that by first two choices are a contrast. They are, but I like it where it’s cold. Plus they have the Mall Of America, where I would love to go to once, and Brett Favre played there….What else is there to say!

Alaska-----Lobster, Crab, and some of the most beautiful scenery amywhere. I’ve seen pictures!

Maine----Everyone who has ever gone talks about the beauty of it, but would love to make the trip!~

Massachusetts-----Would love to see Boston, Kennedy Country, and have some Clam Chowder there before I die….

Vermot-----I worked for some great friends of mins a few years ago, who always talked about flying me up there for a weekend. I would still take them up on it…..I have heard the fall is majestic up there.

Connecticut------Would love to see at least one Men’s or Women’s College Hoops games from there, and if Pat Summitt and the Lady Vols were visiting, that would be fine with me!

Arizona----I have a couple friends out there that I would love to meet from my radio promotion days. I like it out west, and I bet they would have some great Southwest cuisine.

Pennyslvania-----Well, I don’t care for the Eagles or the Steelers, BUT….I do like Hershey’s, and would love to go to the Candy factory….but would I make it out alive?

Nebraska---I can’t say I have a huge fascination with the state, but in College Football, the Cornhuskers are legends…..If nothing else, to buy a Nebraska T-shirt…

South Carolina----Because of its’ location, it’s the only southern state I have never been to. One of my best friends and former co-workers lives in Charleston, and would love to see Myrtle Beach!

Kansas-----Again, like Nebraska. It’s a sports state, and if Kansas or K-State were playing hoops, I would love to be there. Plus, Pittsburg has the funniest radio guy in America….with 100,000 watts of humorous power! I bet he loves that pun!

-

FYI…..The other twelve states left would be

Delaware

Idaho

Montana

New Mexico

New Hampshire

North Dakota

Oregon

Rhode Island

South Dakota

Utah

Washington

Wyoming

WHAT A WEEK!

As many people know about me, I am huge Classic TV junkie. I grew up with it after all, and that provided me with a true form of escapism. One of the cool things about television back then was the great theme songs. And, you know…there was a lot more truth in some of those lyrics than you might think….Take for instance….

You take the good, you take the bad

You take it all, and then you have

The Facts of Life, The Facts of Life

So, this week was one of those weeks. I lost a dear friend of mine the same week that I scored one of the biggest interviews of my career---with someone who told me they were familiar with my work. I’m not going to drop names. Let’s just say…..considering the main source of work this person does….that was a huge compliment.

There's a time you got to go and show
You're growin' now you know about
The Facts of Life, the Facts of Life.

This past week was also a huge one because I let go of a stone that had been pulling me down for a while. For me to be the best Chuck Dauphin---husband, father, and whatever else I am---sometimes you have to leave the baggage at the door. And, I finally did that. Life takes us on some twists and turns at times. The road never is smooth and straight for a long period of time. How you handle it says a lot. Maybe, at age 37, I’m starting to figure out some things. Maybe not, since life is all about change….but I’m trying. As I said, hearing lyrics like these while watching TV this week spoke deep….

When the world never seems

To be livin up to your dreams

Suddenly, you realize the Facts of Life are all about you.

It takes a while to get them right.

When you’re learning the Facts Of Life.

And, yes….for the record, I seem to remember having a crush on Blair, but then again….who didn’t?

(Editor’s Note: The morning after writing this, one of those lemons zonked me on the head again! Rightfully or wrongfully, there was a pretty good pity party over the weekend about it…….I guess that goes to show you, God, that I’m still learning!)

RIP, MAYOR OF HALLVILLE, TN---POPULATION, 6

This week has been one of those where life just hits you in the face. I just found out tonight that Ernie Lee Hall, one of my good friends from Dickson County, passed away yesterday at the age of 59. I would be amiss if I didn't reflect on this, as he (and his wife Brenda) have been good friends of mine for quite some time.

It was 1995 when I first came into contact with Ernie Lee Hall. At that time, I was just beginning to work with his childhood buddy, Donnie Craig, at WDKN. Ernie became known to me because of a health situation that was arisen in his life that Donnie---also his Pastor, kept the audiences up to date on. Through this I got to know Ernie, as he would call the station to talk to his friend----or, as was often the case, to give him some good-natured grief!

And, when it came to that, Ernie was good. Real good. With the exception of Sam Brown, or a Church of Christ member that Donnie knows well, nobody could fire a zinger at Donnie Craig any better than Ernie Lee Hall. I would repeat some of them, but well....let's just say I won't...except for a period where he referred to Donnie as "Chia-Head" because of the novelty toy that was out at the time....and the fact that once upon a time----Donnie had long curly locks. He also would misspeak the name of Donnie's show. Instead of Daybreak, he would refer to it as "Daylight."

Ernie and I developed a strong friendship, as well. Based on his love of Classic Country, he would call and request songs by the greats---namely Merle Haggard, as well as truck driving songs. Ernie was a former big rig driver, and nothing would make him more happier than me playing Jimmy Martin's heavy-twangy "Widow Maker" leading into to the Southern Gospel that Donnie played. Somewhere along the line, we developed the nickname of "Mayor Hall," and dubbed a part of Sylvia, TN as "Hallville." That led to us giving very unofficial Mayor titles to many listeners, but Hall was the main one. In fact, I know since 1995, there has been one person who has sent Christmas Cards to "Mayor and Mrs. Ernie Lee Hall." I just wonder what the postperson (not a word, but I'm sure ELH would have loved the political correctness!) thought of that!

Ernie was also part of a group of important people (in our own minds) dubbed the "Dickson County Rat Pack" (There was a lot of time on our hands.....) Larry Petty, Donnie Craig, "Big John" Hamilton, Gary Kimbro, Ken Loggains, and yours truly were part of a group of highly esteemed individuals who celebrated each others' birthday with a dinner---that often got loud---at Cracker Barrel. (And I do have to say, Linda Frazier and Gail Adams were also honorary members of that club!)

I knew he hadn't been doing well, and was having surgery at the end of last week. Sadly, he didn't make it. Death is something that hits us all, and this one hits me hard. I want to send out my thoughts and prayers to all his family and friend, especially the angel that loved him for years....Miss Brenda. I also want to ask you to pray for Donnie Craig, as well, 1969 was the year the two graduated from High School, and they were lifelong friends....In fact, as the story goes, the parents of the future Debbie Craig would not let their daughter go on her first date with Donnie---unless Ernie Lee drove them. Ernie Lee Hall as your chaperone? If that car could talk! Donnie, who works for Dickson Funeral Home part-time now, was the one who drove Ernie back to Dickson one last time.....I can only imagine how hard that would be.

Services are Friday morning at Dickson Funeral Home. I won't be able to make it, but I think I'll pop in "Widow Maker" one more time and remember the man I was proud to call a friend! Rest In Peace, Ernie Lee, we're going to miss you......

DEEP THOUGHTS FROM A SHALLOW MIND, VOLUME....34?

Well, once again, I am in ramble mode tonight. For a lot of reasons, I am feeling a bit restless tonight, a bit befuddled, a bit scattered. So, the blog this week will reflect that. Do you ever wonder what your place in the world is? Not trying to go too deep on you, but I am a bit reflective of that tonight. I guess we all have those moments where we wonder who we are, what we were meant to do, and so on and so forth. Who truly has that answer? I guess, we find it out as we go........lol......So, here's what else is on my mind this week.

I AM A CHARACTER------No, that's not an egotistical statement. My good friend, and one-time boss, Lisa Wysocky, is about to release a new book titled THE OPIUM EQUATION. In the book, which is a murder-mystery set in Middle Tennessee, there is a reporter / journalist from Dickson, Tennessee by the name of Chuck Dauphin. You can go to www.LisaWysocky.com for more information....

CMA FEST------The 40th Annual CMA Music Festival is being held in Nashville this week, and i am feeling a little bit of withdrawl, I think. It's the first year that I can remember where I haven't been there covering something in some form or fashion. No major reason for absence this year, just the way it worked out. I went to my first "Fan Fair" back in 1987 when it was at the Tennessee State Fairgrounds. I remember meeting Barbara Mandrell and Reba McEntire that year. As big as the current stars are, though, I urge people to continue to seek out the legends. I remember that year walking past the "Hee Haw" booth on my way to get a glimpse of Randy Travis signing. Meeting fans at the "Hee Haw" booth was Archie Campbell. I remember thinking I could always get his autograph next year. He died in August. You never know. My gosh, that was twenty-four years old.....I'm still thirteen, aren't I. (Don't answer that one!)

THE LOVE OF MUSIC-----Every now and then, you have a day at work that stands out. Today was one of those. One of the stories I am working on here in Georgia is on the local Funeral Home owner, Roy Crosby, who also used to be a DJ in Alma and Waycross. He has a recording studio behind his house. No, let me re-phrase that. He has another house behind his house that serves as a recording / video studio. I appreciate him giving me a tour of the house. On the way there, he talked about booking the likes of B.J. Thomas and Billy Joe Royal in Waycross in the 60s, and also bringing in the great Otis Redding ---not too long before his tragic airplane accident that took his life. Mr. Roy, I appreciate the tour, and next time you have a session there, call me!

SUMMER TIME ON TV----Well, it's rerun season, and there's not much on TV. Not that I've seen a lot of network stuff lately, but what about the season finale of "The Mentalist?" I might have already talked about it, but that was a season-ender to talk about. For a show heading into it's twelth season, "C.S.I." had quite the powerful season cliffhanger as well. As big of a "House" fan as I am, I thought the finale for it was kind of weak, but next season without Cuddy is going to be even weaker.....I have heard that they are cutting Wilson's appearances as well....Not a good sign. With the TV season over, I have found myself watching "The Waltons" as much as anything. It's on The Hallmark Channel and the Inspiration Network....and unlike most of the shows I grew up on, it's still as good as it was in 1979.

AND FINALLY, GO BUY THIS ALBUM....NOW-----I have a habit sometimes of getting so pumped up for an album release, and it not being what I thought it was. That didn't happen with the Randy Travis 25th Anniversary Collection album that I was telling you about last week. There is not a bad cut on the album, with "Can't Hurt A Man" with Tim McGraw being one of the better cuts. Not sure if it's a single or not, but Sirius / XM has played it a lot. And, until you have heard Randy duet with Shelby Lynne on "Promises,".....well, you haven't lived.....OK, a little bit heavy on the dramatic flair, but it is good....really good...I mean Grammy good. Buy it now...

Well, that's all for this week. I will continue to ponder life's questions this week. I'll get back to you on what or if I find out. Just remember...."Wherever you go, there you are!"

A LEGEND TURNS......"25?"

I have written a lot as of late about how quickly time is passing by. Well, that fits neatly into my blog this week...Twenty years is a long time......or so I once thought. As a pop culture fan growing up, one of my earliest rememberances was Saturday nights, and sitting up with my late grandmother watching "Gunsmoke." The run of that series was incredible. 1955-1975. My parents were 13 and 10 when the show debuted, and were parents when it went off in first-run. Of course, reruns kept the show alive forever. I, like a lot of people my generation and older, feel a touch of nostalgia for the show upon hearing that James Arness, the 6'7 actor that Matt Dillon seem larger than life, passed away at the age of 88. TV keeps doing the remake thing, Hawaii Five-0, Charlie's Angels, and so forth. There's even an updated Dallas pilot coming soon to TNT, but Hollywood needs to think twice if they ever consider remaking that one. You can't find anybody to fill those shoes....

The other marking of time consists of something that will be released on Tuesday, June 7. Warner Brothers is celebrating 25 years since the release of Randy Travis's first album with a CD that features many collaborations with artists such as Carrie Underwood, Don Henley, Tim McGraw, and George Jones. Twenty-Five years? Really......Well, let me set the scene. I was twelve years old at the time, and had won tickets to see Hank Williams, Jr taping a TNN special at the Opry House. (TNN? Man, I am dating myself!) My father took my brother and I to the show. As excited as we were about seeing Hank, it was one of his opening acts that I had just became a fan of----Randy Travis. His "1982" single had just started flying up the charts, and I remember going to Sound Shop in the Dickson Plaza Shopping Center and buying the single for $1.79. It was a record that you couldn't get away from.....and why would you want to. That steel intro, the cold opening 'Operator Please Connect Me...." It was a classic then, as much as it was now. I still remember the flip side...(Man, I'm old!)...."Can't Stop Now," which was later covered by New Grass Revival.

There was nowhere to run. Randy Travis mania had swept the nation. Then, for his follow-up to the # 1 "1982," he does the unthinkable. WB re-released "On The Other Hand," and it went a long way past its' initial peak of # 67.....all the way to the top. Then, it was time for the release of the album----STORMS OF LIFE. I make out like it was monumental, because....it was. Ricky Skaggs, Reba, and George Strait had all kept traditional sounds alive, but the album was so "Retro" even before that was a term. The cover? Shot in front of an old country store, and the music? Even twenty-five years later, I still sing the album tracks as much as I do the singles. It was, and still is....that good. I remember spending a few weeks in the summer of 1986 trying to win a copy through Charlie Douglas and Kyle Cantrell at the old Music Country Radio Network......the phone lines jammed from Oregon to Florida! So, a few weeks later, while we were at Wal-Mart, I took my allowance, and used $5.96 of it to buy that album....which I still have....but also on CD and Cassette......But you know what, I still think it sounds better when you hear those pops and cracks, when Randy begins his plea "Operator, Please Connect Me."....Those were the days!.....Congratulations, Randy Travis on a quarter-century of hits, and making one of the best albums of my childhood!

THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO MAKE THE NOISE...

In thinking about this week's blog, I decided (even though it has been one of the most varied and busy weeks I have had in a while) to do another of my "Top Ten" lists. But, rather than take a look at artists, I wanted to give you my thoughts on ten of the best songwriters in Country Music history. Doing a list like this can be tough. You're going to leave out somebody.....and I'm sure that I did. I did have one set rule: If a writer had undeniable success as an artist, I left them off. Also, out of fairness...lol....I omitted the names of Harlan Howard, Hank Cochran, and Cindy Walker. They are obvious no-brainers, and if you throw in names like Hank Williams, Don Gibson, Dolly Parton, and Bill Anderson, the list would almost be taken.....So, here's my tribute to the "Boys and Girls who make the noise on 16th Avenue! All but my number one choice are in alphabetical order......

1. MATRACA BERG-----Yes, she did notch a pair of top-40 records (and should have had many more), but Berg has preferred to remain one of Nashville's most successful female writers of all time, earning induction into the NSAI Songwriters' Hall Of Fame. She's written so many for so many, it's hard to pick one....so I'll pick two!

BEST BERG SONG YOU KNOW: "Strawberry Wine," 1996----Though I think her current "You And Tequila," as recorded by Kenny Chesney & Grace Potter might eventually become my favorite, there's no denying that this song struck a chord with many.....and helped to make Deana Carter a star!

BEST BERG SONG YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW: "Dickson County," 1998----Sure, go ahead and call me biased because of my birthplace, but this cut from Deana Carter's EVERYTHING'S GONNA BE ALRIGHT disc is one that someone needs to recut!

2. BOBBY BRADDOCK-----The most recent writer to gain admission into the Country Music Hall Of Fame, he's written so many classics---including the song that many consider to be the greatest song of all time, "He Stopped Loving Her Today." So.....

BOBBY BRADDOCK'S BEST SONG....BESIDES, YOU KNOW....THAT ONE: "Time Marches On," 1996----The moment I first heard this song from Tracy Lawrence in 1996, I knew this was something special.....and each listen later over the past 15 years, it still is!

3. GARY BURR----Conway Twitty helped to cement Burr as a Nashville tunesmith with his 1987 hit "That's My Job," and he has continued to excel since, with cuts like "Watch Me," "What Mattered Most," and "More Love." Still, not every song he wrote became a huge hit....sadly,,,,which leads me to....

BEST BURR HIT THAT WASN'T: "I Already Do," 1998----Depending on what radio station you were listening to in '98, you might have heard this Chely Wright ballad a lot.....And, if you didn't....you should have!

4. DEAN DILLON-----Name 70 percent of George Strait's hits, and they probably at least share the name of Dean Dillon as a writer......but he has written for other acts.

BEST DILLON SONG CUT BY SOMEBODY NOT NAMED GEORGE: "By Now," 1981--The song was one of Steve Wariner's earliest hits....and thirty years later, it's still one of his best.

5. WAYNE KEMP----A journeyman as a recording artist, Kemp never got his due as a singer. But, his writing fared much better, with such hits as Ricky Van Shelton's 1988 chart-topper, "I'll Leave This World Loving You."

BEST KEMP SONG WORTH SEARCHING FOR: You won't have to look far for George Strait's 1984 CMA-winning DOES FORT WORTH EVER CROSS YOUR MIND
album. On it, you will find a honky-tonker called "I Should Have Watched That First Step" that will blow you out of your mind!

6. JOHN D. LOUDERMILK----A relative of the Louvin Brothers, Loudermilk wrote some of the 60s biggest hits, including "Break My Mind" and "Tobacco Road." But, perhaps his best song IMHO was a 1967 hit for the Casinos that was upstaged by a sharecropper's son.

BEST CUT OF A LOUDERMILK SONG: A tough call, but Eddy Arnold wrapped his voice around his 1968 cover of "Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye" like nobody else could!

7. HUGH PRESTWOOD: Getting one of his first breaks in the Country format with Randy Travis's 1990 hit "Hard Rock Bottom Of Your Heart," he notched one of his biggest successes with a song that could very well wind up in a songwriting textbook one day.

IF YOU WANT TO DO IT, DO IT LIKE THIS: Trisha Yearwood made Prestwood's "The Song Remembers When" an instant classic upon recording it in 1993. It could be the perfect example in craftsmanship and performance.

8. DON SCHLITZ: He looked like no other songwriter when he took home all the awards for "The Gambler" in 1978-79, and his writing has definitely been in a class all by itself.

BEST SCHLITZ SONG NOT HEARD BY MASSES: One of the best parts of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band's CIRCLE 2 album was the top-20 masterpiece "And So It Goes," a song that gave John Denver one of his last hits as an artist as well, in 1989.

9. SHEL SILVERSTEIN: Like Schlitz, he didn't look like a Country songwriter, and technically wasn't per se, but his songs received so much attention from Country artists that he has to be included on this list. Like with Berg, I could not just choose one.

BEST OF SHEL'S HITS: Many people thought that "One's On The Way" had to be written by Loretta Lynn. It wasn't. I don't know if Silverstein wrote it for her or not, but it sounds like he got right into her brain on that one.

BEST OF THE ALBUM CUTS: Bobby Bare recorded so many of Shel's songs, with my personal favorite being the eight-minute song "Rosalie's Good Eats Cafe." Artists are called that for a reason!

And.....who is my choice for # 1? Well, it's not one, but it's two!

DENNIS MORGAN / KYE FLEMING: While each has had separate successes, together these two were absolute magic in the late 1970s and early 1980s, writing what became in many ways the soundtrack of my childhood. Picking one from this duo is tough, but....

IF I HAD TO PICK A FAVORITE: It would be (by a nose) Barbara Mandrell's 1980 recording of a song called "Years." I don't know whether the two did it on purpose, but the song is one of those that can have different meanings to different people...and I know what it means to me.....but I could also say "The Best Of Strangers"....or "Wish You Were Here" or "I Was Country When Country Wasn't Cool." To say that these two were on a roll would have been the understatement of the century!

SOFTBALL, FACEBOOK, AND THE END OF THE WORLD

This is one of those weeks where there is too much going on to just write about one little thing. So, I am going to offer my thoughts (which will get you a dollar soda...if you have the dollar) on a few different subjects this week.....Joe Biddle from the TENNESSEAN calls these "Random Ruminations." I call them "Scattered Thoughts"..........

THE KIDS-----I have to start off by saying that our kids have achieved some wonderful things as of late. Our daughter just won an award for academic excellence that resulted in her winning a bike.....and my son has just been appointed as a historian for his local Boy Scout troop. We love you both!

CREEK WOOD SOFTBALL-----Congratulations to the Creek Wood Lady Red Hawks. Coach Nancy Jackson's squad won 5-1 tonight over White House to advance on to the TSSAA Spring Fling. They've got an impressive team and a D1 pitcher who is a junior. Hopefully, the Lady Red Hawks can bring a state title to Jones Creek. In all my years covering sports, this is my first state tournament. Thanks to Grace Broadcasting for letting me be a part of it.

FACEBOOK----I tried to avoid it for as long as I could. But, around the time of CRS this year, people started asking me if I "Facebooked." I told them no, but I gave in to the pressure!....LOL....I'm still trying to understand the fuss, but it gives me another alley to promote radio broadcasts and articles that I am a part of. I think people put too much info (Do you really want to see a picture of what I had for dinner or know that I have gone to Dollar General?), but it can be fun. Just don't tell me everything......because I don't want to know.,.....LOL....

THE END OF THE WORLD----Apparently, Jesus is coming back tomorrow. Whether this comes to pass or not, Anderson Cooper brought up a question tonight on CNN----What time zone will he come back in? I don't mean to make light of it, because he could come back then......or June 25, or September 22....but I recall in October 1987 he was slated to come through during Study Hall at Dickson Junior High School.....We even had a countdown......Simply put, all kidding aside, nobody knows when the day is......but it's good to be ready!

TV END OF SEASON-----With my assignment here in Tennessee the past few weeks, I have not watched any TV. Seriously, except for CNN tonight for a few minutes, I haven't even turned it on. I do know via the Net that Langston killed the psycho guy on CSI, Patrick Jane killed somebody.....maybe Red John, maybe not on THE MENTALIST, and Cuddy is leaving HOUSE. The TV world has gone crazy. I will miss Cuddy more than I will miss Charlie Sheen. I have a feeling the DVR is going to be full once I get home. Oops....did you not know any of the above information? I'm sorry!

COMPUTERS------I have taken on a job for one of my editors over the next few weeks. It has made me realize just how little I actually know about this thing I am typing on. Seriously, I can tell you what Reba had on the radio in 1995, or who played drums for Buck Owens in 1973 (Jerry Wiggins), but HTML, HTTP, and FTD....I have absolutely no idea about.....But I am learning....enough to do what I am supposed to be doing.....

MUSIC-----Two things I wanted to close with......Actually, make that three. I got a chance to interview Ronnie Dunn a couple of weeks ago. That was a biggie. His new solo album is incredible. Brad Paisley has a new album coming out on Tuesday. It's pretty good, but remember that I told you about a song called "Remind Me," which is a duet with Carrie Underwood. If the song is not a monster, well...I don't know what I'll do....But it's a powerful, well-written song that just might bring a tear to your eye.......and lastly, check out an album called THE DREAMING FIELDS from Matraca Berg. She's a member of the NSAI Hall of Fame, and with good reason. But the only reason I can think of that she never became a huge star in mainstream Country was that she wanted to do the writing, and leave the being a "star" to others. She looks like a star, sounds like a star, and Heaven knows, she writes like one too.......The disc contains her version of "You And Tequila," the new single from Kenny Chesney and Grace Potter, that is as good as anything Chesney has cut!

Well, to quote Cathy Baker (Do you know who that is?)......That's All!

WHAT IF?.........

Happy Weekend, Everyone!

Between broadcasting Creek Wood Red Hawks District 11-AA Tournament action, interviews, and a day of being a D.J., it has been a busy week. I have had a few conversations with some of my friends this week concerning "What If" some of the more legendary acts in Country Music hadn't met an untimely death at a young age....That got me thinking back to last year, when I wrote this article. I'll be the first to admit it is a little bit fictional, when dealing with the question of "What If?".......I would love to hear your thoughts on these....

March 5 marks the 47th anniversary of “the day the music died” for country music fans. On that evening, a Piper Comanche airplane carrying Patsy Cline, Hawkshaw Hawkins, Cowboy Copas, and the pilot, Randy Hughes crashed not more than two hours from Music City on the way back from a benefit concert for a Kansas City air personality, killing all aboard. With that sad date in mind, let's look back on ten of the most tragic dates in country music history. In each of these cases, I will offer my thought on what would have happened had these events not occurred, in an attempt to answer the never-ending question “What If?”

• January 1, 1953----Somewhere between Knoxville, TN and Oak Hill, WV---nobody knows for sure---Hank Williams passed away in the backseat of a Cadillac while on his way to a New Years’ Show in Canton, OH. Though his personal life had been erratic during the past few years, a new marriage and huge success on the charts in 1952 offered hope that things would improve in the New Year. With radio being more prevalent than during the time of the death of Jimmie Rodgers some two decades ago, the death of Hank Williams is one of those moments that fans who were alive then remember. While it did cut short his life, it also froze him in time, captivating audiences almost six decades later.
WHAT IF?----Williams arrived in Canton safe, and performed a show that kick-started a strong year for him. After a couple of years away, he rejoined the Opry in 1954, and though the rock and roll crowd took away some of his traditional-based audiences, he remained a chart and crowd favorite through the 70s and 80s, before turning over the spotlight to his son, Hank, Jr. His songwriting still became the gold standard in the format.

• November 4, 1960----Johnny Horton’s ultra-cool voice and matinee-idol looks made him a natural for cross-over stardom, and he did just that. Horton recorded some of the biggest story songs of the era, such as “North To Alaska,” and “The Battle Of New Orleans.” However, after a concert date in Austin, TX, he was killed on his way back to his home in Shreveport. Incidentally, his widow—Billie Jean was no stranger to tragic ends. Her first husband died on the road, as well. His name? Hank Williams.

WHAT IF?----Horton returned from his concert date, and kept recording for Columbia with much success. His rockabilly style made him a natural to record many songs from pop star Roy Orbison---the biggest being 1966’s “Oh, Pretty Woman.”

• March 5, 1963---Never before, and never since, have three giants in country all died in the same crash. While Cline’s name gets the most attention now, some argue that Cowboy Copas was the biggest name at the time of the crash. Maybe, but Cline was developing a name as the pre-eminent female vocalist of the day, and there was nowhere to go but up. Copas and Hawkins were both in the middle of career comebacks, with the latter’s “Lonesome-77203” hitting the airwaves just a few days before the tragic accident.

WHAT IF?---The plane arrived safely that evening at Nashville, and Cline continued her career climb. She recorded a long string of hits with Owen Bradley and Decca that kept her on the charts through the mid-70s. Her biggest musical risk paid off as well, a 1969 album entitled Moods---recorded in Memphis, which inspired countless female singers in pop, soul, and country. The careers of Hawkins and Copas also stayed steady, with Copas becoming a semi-regular on Hee Haw in the mid-70s. A switch to Capitol in the late 60s saw Hawkins record frequently with his wife, Jean Shepard

• July 31, 1964-----Flying back from business trip to Arkansas, Jim Reeves was at the controls of his Beechcraft plane when he entered into rain upon approaching Nashville. The storm proved to be too much for Reeves to overcome, and the plane crashed a few miles south of Nashville. At the time of his passing, Reeves was one of the biggest stars in Nashville---and he stayed that way afterwards---due to an amazing supply of unreleased recordings that kept him on the charts until 1984.

WHAT IF?---Reeves made it home that fateful Friday? He had just released his first film, Kimberley Jim, and with his popularity here and abroad, there was no reason to think more acting wasn’t in the cards. He would have still been a giant on record, and his duet with Dottie West, “Love Is No Excuse,” hinted at a successful recording partnership with the newcomer. As long as he stayed on the charts posthumously, it’s intriguing to wonder if his run of hits would have lasted longer had he survived. One thing is for sure, he was one of the smoothest singers Music City had ever seen.

• November 10, 1973----David Akeman, better known as “Stringbean,” had a reputation for being one of the top comedians and banjo players in the business. His joining the cast of “Hee Haw” in 1969 helped to make him a household name. He also had a reputation for carrying a large sum of money as he reportedly didn’t believe in banks. After an Opry performance one Saturday night, he and wife Estelle returned home---only to find two robbers waiting. The two were gunned down in what was definitely one of Nashville’s more dark moments.

WHAT IF?----As Stringbean was never a fixture on the charts, one can safely assume that he would have stayed on “Hee Haw,” and became a prominent fixture on the roots music circuit in the 70s. He probably would have kept up what he was doing----but only for many more years!

• July 17, 1974----Don Rich was the leader of perhaps the best back-up band in country music history, the Buckaroos. He could sing harmony, play guitar, and the fiddle like few before or since. He also had a love for motorcycles, which led to his death on a warm summer California evening. After his passing, Buck Owens—as a person or a recording artist---was never the same. Though his chart numbers in the 70s were not what he was used to in the 60s, after Rich’s death, he never hit the top as a solo artist again. Owens attributed the death of his “right arm” as one of the main reasons for his 1980 retirement from the stage. As a musician and a singer, Rich had few peers, and influenced so many that came after him, including Rodney Crowell and Vince Gill.

WHAT IF?---Though Owens had not crested the top of the charts in a couple of years, one can assume that he would have stayed in the game a bit longer. I think with Rich’s influence, Owens might have experimented a little bit more musically in the latter part of the decade---perhaps recording an album of Eagles cover songs. After all, he did record “Hollywood Waltz” for his 1977 Buck Em’ album on Warner Brothers, and with Rich backing him on songs like “Take It Easy” and “Lyin’ Eyes,” who knows? I think it could have been a hit!

• August 16, 1977----Of course, the importance of this date cannot be underestimated. About 4:00 CST that afternoon, the world stopped when it was announced that Elvis Presley had died. His importance to American music is obvious, but he had his first hits on the country charts, and his last hits on the country charts, a fact that many may not realize.

WHAT IF?---Since I haven’t delved into what happened to anyone’s personal life had they survived, I’m not going to start here. I think that Presley’s role in country music would have been as big as he wanted it to be. He would always have had an audience for whatever he desired to perform. I think he might have tried acting one more time, having been forced by Col. Parker to turn down A Star Is Born.

• October 21, 1978------Things were looking up for Mel Street. The much-revered singer had just signed a huge deal with Mercury Records, and there were plenty of show dates on the books. Everybody in Nashville considered him a singers’ singer---including his hero, George Jones. That being said, it was a shock when news broke the singer committed suicide on his 45th birthday, for reasons that he only knew. As a singer, he was one of few that could rival “The Possum,” who showed up at his funeral to sing “Amazing Grace.”

WHAT IF?----In Street’s case, I think the die was being set. His deal with Mercury should have carried him into the big time, and even though Nashville entered the “Urban Cowboy” era in the 80s, it wouldn’t have deterred Street, who would have had his hand on many of the top songs of the early 80s---giving Jones a run for his money!

• May 9, 1989----In an era where the media wasn’t aware of every move a country star made, the news that Keith Whitley had died from alcohol poisoning at the age of 33 shocked many fans. Most had no idea of the demons the singer dealt with---or how deeply they ran. His death froze him in time as a tragic hero, a la Williams or Street, and cut short what could have been one of the most successful careers of all time.

WHAT IF?----Whitley’s traditional style would have kept him on the radio through the mid 90s, at least. The pop sounds of the latter part of the decade would stifle some of his success, but he would rebound---first by recording a duet album with his former Stanley Brothers band member, Ricky Skaggs, then with a stunning tribute album to Buck Owens in 1998 that included a Grammy-winning cover of “Together Again” with his wife, Lorrie Morgan. The album would be dedicated to the manager of Whitley and Owens, Jack McFadden.

• March 16, 1991-----Reba McEntire had just been back on the road for a few months following the birth of her son Shelby. She and her band took different flights out of San Diego for the next flight. Not too long after take-off, the plane carrying her band crashed, killing all. She dedicated her next album, For My Broken Heart to her fallen band members, which included the poignant album closer, “If I Had Only Known.” Though she didn’t write the track, many consider the song to be a tribute to those she lost.

WHAT IF?----All of the musicians on the plane were talented artists in their own right, but Chris Austin was something special. He had recorded for Warner Brothers prior to joining Reba’s band, and I think that success would have been awaiting him---either in country or bluegrass.

THE NEXT THIRTY-SEVEN YEARS

I was reading a report the other day----you know, the kind they use to fill newspaper pages---that the average life expectancy for men was 73.4 years. Well, as I just turned 37 a few months ago, that means I am on the downhill slope....It, along with some other things, has got me thinking about the decisions you make over the course of your life. It's a scientific fact that novody ever sets out to make mistakes----at least no one I have ever met. However, it's a given that over the course of time, we all screw up. I'm not going to make any mid-life resolutions, but here's a few things that I hope I do better on during the second half.....

HEALTH------I am taking somewhat better care of myself than I have in a while. I have lost 40-50 (depending on scale) pounds over the past few months, am making an effort to eat more salads and things of that nature, though I do slip up and turn the wrong way into a Dairy Queen sometimes. At 37, I know I feel different than I did at 27......and I really don't want the trend to continue at 47......It's all about motivation. If you order the hamburger, throw away the bread. That's not that hard for me, but go into a Dollar General or a Wal-Mart, and the cheapest food is the kind you don't need.....Kind of ironic, isn't it!

FINANCES-----Dave Ramsey I will never be, but it is apparent that I need to do a better job on this. Of course, everyone says "Don't Spend." But, that it easier said than done......I'm aiming to do better, but this one is tough....but I've got to.

RELATIONSHIPS-----Over the past two years, I have been in somewhat of a funk----depression-----whatever you want to call it. That caused me to pull away from some of my friendships a little. I had a true scare about one of those friends a couple of weeks ago, so that's something that I am going to work on. Thankfully, the scare looks like it was a false alarm...but let's just say it was a wake-up call to do things differently.

GOD-------Being 37 is a little more intricate than it was at 17. Back then, you tend to think of your spirituality in terms of black and white.....As you get older, other colors / factors tend to coem into view.I don't know if that is right or wrong, or maybe I do.......But, I want.....I need to get closer to who I used to be in that area than I am now.

CAREER-----This is one huge hurdle for me right now. I have been extremely blessed to do what I do for a living for two decades now. My love for music and journalism has always been the one thing that has set me apart and made me different. I don't have hobbies, and sitting by the pool for six-seven hours a day doesn't attract me too much. I'd rather be interviewing, covering a concert / soccer game / two men playing checkers on the front porch than anything. But, I need to steo my career up a notch financially if I am going to make it work as my sole career focus. I am open to any ideas about this, because while I don't think I'm Robert K. Oermann or Peter Cooper.......I think I'm pretty good at it, and I don't know if there's anyone out there who is writing as much as I am.....(You know, you get the e-mails!....LOL)

Well, that's what is on my mind this morning. Again, any ideas about these topics would be considered. Have a good week!

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"